Creating new materials to help repair damaged peripheral nerves
Official title: Developing multi-cue piezoelectric PVDF-TrFE biomaterials for peripheral nerve repair
Funded at University of Cincinnati · NIH-11004155 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new type of material that could help people with nerve injuries heal better by using special signals to guide the repair process, making it easier for nerves to grow back and improve recovery.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Cincinnati NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cincinnati, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $410,896 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS134804-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11004155 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced severe peripheral nerve injuries and are seeking new treatment options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with minor nerve injuries or those whose injuries are not amenable to surgical intervention may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing innovative biomaterials designed to aid in the repair of peripheral nerve injuries, which affect millions of people. The approach involves creating a bioactive scaffold that can provide electrical and chemical signals to guide nerve regeneration. By integrating piezoelectric materials with decellularized extracellular matrix, the scaffold aims to enhance the healing process by improving cell communication and alignment. Patients may benefit from improved recovery outcomes through enhanced nerve regeneration facilitated by this advanced material.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for patients suffering from peripheral nerve injuries, potentially restoring function and reducing disability.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using bioactive scaffolds for nerve repair, suggesting that this approach could yield significant advancements in treatment.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Cincinnati
Cincinnati, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Harris, Greg M — University of Cincinnati
- Study coordinator: Harris, Greg M
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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.