Developing dissolvable zinc-based stents for children's heart conditions
Bioresorbable zinc-based drug-eluting stents for pediatric cardiovascular applications
This study is exploring a new kind of heart stent made from a special type of zinc that can safely dissolve in the body, designed specifically for kids with heart defects like coarctation of the aorta, to help them without interfering with their growth.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | State University New York Stony Brook NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stony Brook, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10904309 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on creating a new type of stent made from bioresorbable zinc that can be used in children with heart defects, specifically coarctation of the aorta. Traditional stents are not suitable for pediatric patients as they can interfere with the growth of arteries. The study will test different zinc-based alloys and their coatings to ensure they are strong, safe, and can dissolve in the body after serving their purpose. The research involves laboratory tests and animal studies to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of these new stents.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children diagnosed with coarctation of the aorta or other related cardiovascular conditions.
Not a fit: Patients who are adults or those with heart conditions that do not involve the aorta may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer and more effective heart treatments for children, reducing the need for additional surgeries.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using biodegradable materials for stents, but this specific approach with zinc-based stents is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Stony Brook, United States
- State University New York Stony Brook — Stony Brook, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhu, Donghui — State University New York Stony Brook
- Study coordinator: Zhu, Donghui
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 below.