Improving blood flow and muscle regeneration in diabetic patients with limb ischemia

Targeted delivery of a proangiogenic and promyogenic protein for regeneration of diabetic ischemic limbs

['FUNDING_R01'] · WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY · NIH-11080907

This study is testing a new treatment for people with diabetes who have serious blood flow problems in their legs, using a special protein to help grow new blood vessels and muscle tissue, which could improve leg health and lower the chance of needing an amputation.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorWASHINGTON UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11080907 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a new treatment for diabetic patients suffering from critical limb ischemia, a condition characterized by poor blood flow and muscle degeneration. The approach involves using a specially engineered protein called TRIM72, which promotes the growth of blood vessels and muscle tissue. This protein will be delivered through nanoparticles that target the affected limbs, ensuring that it remains in the tissue longer for a more effective treatment. By enhancing the survival and function of cells in the ischemic environment, the research aims to improve limb health and reduce the risk of amputation.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are diabetic patients diagnosed with critical limb ischemia who are at risk of limb amputation.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have diabetes or those without critical limb ischemia may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve blood flow and muscle regeneration in patients with critical limb ischemia, potentially reducing the need for amputations.

How similar studies have performed: While growth factor therapies have shown promise, this specific approach using engineered TRIM72 protein and targeted nanoparticles is novel and has not been extensively tested in clinical settings.

Where this research is happening

SAINT LOUIS, 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.