Dynamic nanofiber hydrogels to boost stem cell potency
Official title: Dynamic Nanofibrous Hydrogels for Enhancing Stem Cells' Therapeutic Potency
Funded at University of Miami Coral Gables · NIH-11361087 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A research project tests a new, soft, dynamic material to grow human mesenchymal stem cells so they become more effective for allogeneic therapies.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Miami Coral Gables NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Coral Gables, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $248,999 |
| NIH project number | 5R00GM151459-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11361087 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Patients who could benefit are those needing allogeneic hMSC therapies for diverse diseases and immune-mediated conditions.
✕Less likely to help
The study is focused on cell manufacturing; direct patient benefit will depend on future clinical applications and trials.
What this research studies
This project will explore how a dynamic, fiber-rich hydrogel influences the growth and engineering of human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) to enhance their therapeutic power. Researchers will compare traditional flat culture methods with a scaffold that mimics the natural tissue environment and adapts mechanically as cells grow. The goal is to understand how substrate mechanics and nano-scale cues affect cell behavior and immune-modulating properties, with an emphasis on reproducible, scalable production. Findings could inform manufacturing approaches to produce potent hMSCs for diverse patient populations.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could improve the potency and consistency of stem cell therapies for many conditions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work shows that scaffold mechanics and nano-topography can influence stem cell function, but dynamic, ECM-mimicking hydrogels are still being optimized.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Miami Coral Gables
Coral Gables, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Castilla-Casadiego, David — University of Miami Coral Gables
- Study coordinator: Castilla-Casadiego, David
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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.