Developing new cell-based therapies to treat inflammatory diseases

Bioengineering of Enucleated Cell Therapeutics for Treating Inflammatory Diseases

NIH-funded research University of California, San Diego · NIH-11098903

This study is exploring a new way to help people with inflammatory diseases by using specially modified stem cells that can find and deliver treatments right where they are needed most, making the healing process safer and more effective.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Diego NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (La Jolla, United States)
Project IDNIH-11098903 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on creating innovative cell-based therapeutics that can precisely deliver treatments to inflamed and damaged tissues in patients with inflammatory diseases. The approach involves using genetically engineered mesenchymal stem cells, which are modified to enhance their ability to target specific areas of inflammation. These modified cells, called Cargocytes, are designed to respond to signals from diseased tissues, allowing for more effective and safer delivery of therapeutic agents. By improving drug delivery mechanisms, this research aims to enhance treatment outcomes for patients suffering from chronic inflammatory conditions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from chronic inflammatory diseases, such as chronic pancreatitis.

Not a fit: Patients with acute inflammatory conditions or those not responding to conventional therapies may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and safer treatments for patients with inflammatory diseases, reducing side effects and improving recovery.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using engineered cell therapies for targeted drug delivery, indicating potential success for this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

La Jolla, 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 2026-06-15 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.