Growing New Lymphatic Vessels to Treat Lymphedema
Lymphatic Regeneration by Direct Cellular Reprogramming
This project explores a new way to create healthy lymphatic cells directly from other body cells to help people with lymphedema.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11116844 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Lymphedema happens when lymphatic vessels don't work well, causing fluid buildup and swelling, and current treatments are limited. This research aims to develop a new method called 'direct reprogramming,' which involves changing one type of body cell into another, specifically into new lymphatic cells. By introducing certain factors, we hope to guide existing cells to become the healthy lymphatic cells needed to repair damaged vessels. This approach could offer a simpler and safer way to generate the cells required to restore proper fluid drainage and immune function.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is for individuals interested in the future development of regenerative therapies for lymphedema caused by impaired lymphatic function.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment options or those with lymphedema not related to lymphatic vessel damage may not directly benefit from this specific early-stage research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could provide a new and more effective treatment option for lymphedema by regenerating damaged lymphatic vessels.
How similar studies have performed: While direct reprogramming has shown promise in generating other cell types, its application to regenerating lymphatic vessels for lymphedema treatment is a novel area this project aims to develop.
Where this research is happening
Atlanta, United States
- Emory University — Atlanta, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yoon, Young-Sup — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Yoon, Young-Sup
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.