How immune cells help skin heal after nerve injuries

Role of immune cells in skin reinnervation by collateral sprouting after peripheral nerve injury

['FUNDING_R01'] · JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY · NIH-11061823

This study is looking at how certain immune cells in your skin help it heal and grow back after nerve injuries, and it’s for anyone interested in understanding how our bodies repair themselves.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorJOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11061823 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of immune cells, specifically macrophages, in the healing process of skin following peripheral nerve injuries. It aims to understand how these immune cells contribute to the reinnervation of skin by promoting the growth of nerve fibers from uninjured neurons. The study will involve examining the behavior and characteristics of macrophages in the skin over time after nerve injury, as well as their relationship with nerve fibers that are sprouting. By using advanced techniques, the research seeks to uncover the mechanisms behind this healing process.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced peripheral nerve injuries and are dealing with sensory dysfunction or neuropathic pain.

Not a fit: Patients with nerve injuries that are not peripheral or those who do not experience sensory loss may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for patients suffering from sensory loss and chronic pain due to nerve injuries.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding nerve regeneration mechanisms, but the specific role of macrophages in collateral sprouting is still being explored.

Where this research is happening

BALTIMORE, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.