Improving artificial blood vessels using stem cells

Preclinical Optimization and Design for Manufacturability of Immunoregulatory TEVGs

NIH-funded research University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-11040123

This study is working on creating new artificial blood vessels that use special cells to help them heal better and fit into your body, with the hope of offering a safer option for people who need surgery to bypass blocked arteries.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Pittsburgh, United States)
Project IDNIH-11040123 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing advanced artificial blood vessels, known as tissue-engineered vascular grafts (TEVGs), that utilize the regenerative properties of stem cells. The team aims to enhance these grafts by incorporating factors secreted by mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) to improve healing and integration within the body. Through a series of laboratory tests, they will evaluate the effectiveness of these grafts in promoting new blood vessel formation and reducing complications. The ultimate goal is to prepare these grafts for clinical use, potentially offering a new option for patients needing arterial bypass surgery.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals requiring arterial bypass surgery who may benefit from improved graft options.

Not a fit: Patients who do not require arterial bypass surgery or have contraindications for vascular grafts may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide patients with safer and more effective alternatives to traditional vein or artery grafts for bypass surgeries.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using stem cells for vascular grafts, indicating potential for success in this innovative approach.

Where this research is happening

Pittsburgh, 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 2026-06-15 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.