Healing of bowel wounds using special cells from the anal region

Colonic epithelial wound healing by anal transitional cells

NIH-funded research University of Chicago · NIH-11085153

This study is looking at special cells in the anal area that might help heal bowel wounds for people with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), with the hope of finding new ways to improve treatments for better healing.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Chicago NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, United States)
Project IDNIH-11085153 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how specific cells located at the anal transitional zone can aid in the healing of wounds in the bowel, particularly for patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The study focuses on understanding the unique properties of these cells, which can migrate into the colon and form new epithelial structures that promote healing. By exploring the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved, the research aims to identify new therapeutic pathways for enhancing bowel mucosal healing. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to innovative treatments for IBD.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from inflammatory bowel disease, particularly those experiencing bowel epithelial wounds.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to bowel wound healing or those who do not have inflammatory bowel disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that directly promote bowel wound healing for patients with inflammatory bowel disease.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of using anal transitional zone cells for bowel healing is novel, similar research has shown promise in understanding wound healing mechanisms in other contexts.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, 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 2026-06-13 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.