Creating new muscle tissue for the face using 3-D printing
Official title: Skeletal Muscle Engineering for the Craniofacial Region
Funded at Indiana University Indianapolis · NIH-11178119 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a new way to help people with facial defects by using 3-D printed structures filled with their own muscle cells to grow new muscle tissue, which could lead to better and longer-lasting results after surgery.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Indiana University Indianapolis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Indianapolis, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $344,917 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DE030490-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11178119 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with congenital or acquired craniofacial defects requiring reconstructive surgery.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with minor facial injuries or those who do not require significant tissue reconstruction may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a method to create craniofacial muscle tissue using 3-D printed scaffolds seeded with the patient's own muscle-derived cells. The approach aims to address the challenges faced by patients with craniofacial defects who often undergo multiple reconstructive surgeries due to tissue rejection or failure. By utilizing biomimetic scaffolds, the project seeks to enhance the formation and integration of muscle tissue, potentially leading to more successful and lasting outcomes for patients. The research will generate new knowledge about cell populations and their role in muscle development, ultimately aiming for successful implantation of engineered tissue.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a reliable and effective treatment option for patients with craniofacial defects, significantly improving their quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using bioengineered tissues for similar applications, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Indiana University Indianapolis
Indianapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shah, Rishma — Indiana University Indianapolis
- Study coordinator: Shah, Rishma
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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.