Creating artificial tracheas for children with airway defects

Tissue-engineered trachea composites for long-segment airway replacement

NIH-funded research Research Inst Nationwide Children's Hosp · NIH-10886531

This study is working on a new way to make artificial windpipes for kids who have breathing problems due to birth defects or injuries, using special materials to help the new windpipes heal better and work like normal ones.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionResearch Inst Nationwide Children's Hosp NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Columbus, United States)
Project IDNIH-10886531 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a new method to create artificial tracheas for children suffering from long-segment airway defects caused by congenital issues or trauma. The team is investigating the use of tissue engineering to create a living organ that can replace damaged airway tissue. They are testing a new composite graft that combines decellularized tissue with resorbable biomaterials to improve the stability and functionality of the grafts. The goal is to enhance the healing process and ensure that the grafts can support normal airway function.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are pediatric patients under 11 years old who have long-segment airway defects.

Not a fit: Patients with short-segment airway defects or those who do not require airway reconstruction may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a viable surgical option for children with severe airway defects, potentially saving lives and improving quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: While tissue engineering for airway replacement is a developing field, previous studies have shown promise in using similar approaches, though clinical outcomes have varied.

Where this research is happening

Columbus, 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.