Identifying microbial markers to improve wound healing in diabetic foot ulcers

Microbiome Based Biomarkers of Wound Healing

NIH-funded research University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-11159353

This study is looking at the germs in diabetic foot ulcers to find clues that can help predict how well these wounds will heal, aiming to improve care for people with diabetes.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Madison, United States)
Project IDNIH-11159353 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of the wound microbiome in diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) to identify microbial biomarkers that can predict healing outcomes. By analyzing the RNA of bacteria present in the wounds, the study aims to provide a more accurate understanding of the wound environment compared to traditional DNA analysis. The researchers will focus on the activity of anaerobic bacteria, which have shown to be significant in wounds that do not heal properly. This approach could lead to better monitoring tools for patients with DFUs, ultimately improving treatment strategies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from diabetic foot ulcers, particularly those with wounds that have not healed within 12 weeks.

Not a fit: Patients with foot ulcers not related to diabetes or those with acute wounds may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for diabetic foot ulcers, reducing the risk of amputations and improving patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using microbial community analysis to predict healing outcomes, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Madison, 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 2026-06-14 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.