Creating 3D muscle tissue to treat muscle loss

Suturable bioprinted vascularized muscle constructs for treatment of skeletal muscle loss

NIH-funded research Brigham and Women's Hospital · NIH-11014364

This study is exploring a new way to grow 3D muscle tissue from your own cells to help heal serious muscle injuries, making it easier for patients with muscle loss to recover better.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBrigham and Women's Hospital NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11014364 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a new method to create three-dimensional (3D) muscle tissue using patient-specific cells to treat volumetric muscle loss (VML) caused by traumatic injuries. The approach involves using human pluripotent stem cells that can be directed to become muscle cells, which are then bioprinted into a structured tissue that mimics natural muscle. The goal is to overcome current limitations in muscle regeneration and improve healing outcomes for patients suffering from severe muscle injuries.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced traumatic injuries resulting in significant muscle loss.

Not a fit: Patients with muscle loss due to non-traumatic causes or those who are not candidates for surgical intervention may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly enhance the healing process and functional recovery for patients with severe muscle loss.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using bioprinting and stem cell technology for tissue engineering, indicating potential success for this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Boston, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.