Developing new materials to help nerves heal after injury
Official title: Ionically Conductive Polymeric Biomaterials and Grafts for Nerve Regeneration
Funded at University of Connecticut Sch of Med/dnt · NIH-11004162 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring new ways to help people with serious nerve injuries heal better after surgery by using special materials that can deliver helpful treatments, which could lead to improved recovery and nerve function.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Connecticut Sch of Med/dnt NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Farmington, United States) |
| Project start | December 27, 2023 |
| Project end | December 31, 2024 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $1 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS134604-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11004162 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced significant peripheral nerve injuries requiring surgical intervention.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with minor nerve injuries that do not require surgical repair may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on improving the healing process for patients with peripheral nerve injuries (PNI) that require surgical repair, particularly when there are large gaps in the nerve. The team is working on creating innovative grafts that combine electrical and chemical stimulation to enhance nerve regeneration. By using a biodegradable scaffold that can deliver a drug called 4-aminopyridine, the research aims to improve the effectiveness of nerve repair and recovery. Patients may benefit from these advanced materials that could lead to better outcomes in nerve function and healing.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve recovery and function for patients with severe nerve injuries.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using electrical and chemical stimulation for nerve repair, indicating potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Connecticut Sch of Med/dnt
Farmington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kumbar, Sangamesh Gurappa — University of Connecticut Sch of Med/dnt
- Study coordinator: Kumbar, Sangamesh Gurappa
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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.