Creating DNA-based materials to mimic natural tissue environments
Official title: Using DNA hydrogels to mimic, exploit, and fundamentally investigate extracellular matrices
Funded at University of New Hampshire · NIH-11112367 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring how to create special materials from DNA that can mimic the natural support structures in our bodies, which could help doctors grow healthy cells for treatments in regenerative medicine.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of New Hampshire NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | June 15, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $378,941 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM154998-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11112367 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals needing regenerative therapies, such as those with injuries or degenerative diseases affecting tissues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions that do not involve tissue regeneration or repair may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing synthetic hydrogels made from DNA that can replicate the complex structures of natural extracellular matrices (ECMs). By manipulating the properties of DNA, the researchers aim to create a biocompatible material that can support cell growth and behavior in a controlled manner. The project seeks to enhance applications in regenerative medicine and improve our understanding of how cells interact with their surrounding environments. The team is leveraging recent advancements in DNA production to make these materials more accessible for clinical use.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for tissue regeneration and repair.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using biomaterials for tissue engineering, indicating that this approach could be a significant advancement in the field.
Where this research is happening
-
University of New Hampshire
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Oldenhuis, Nathan John — University of New Hampshire
- Study coordinator: Oldenhuis, Nathan John
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.