Improving fracture healing in patients with diabetes

Treatment and Mechanisms of Diabetic Fracture Healing

NIH-funded research University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11018585

This study is looking at how diabetes can slow down the healing of broken bones and is testing a new way to help improve healing by using a special gel that releases a growth factor, focusing on a protein called FOXO1 and tiny structures in bone cells that are important for recovery.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pennsylvania NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-11018585 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how diabetes affects the healing of bone fractures and explores new strategies to enhance this process. The study focuses on the role of a specific protein, FOXO1, and the presence of cellular structures called cilia in bone cells, which are crucial for proper healing. By using a specially designed hydrogel that releases a growth factor, the researchers aim to improve the healing outcomes for diabetic patients with fractures. The approach includes both laboratory testing and advanced imaging techniques to assess healing progress.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults with diabetes who have experienced bone fractures.

Not a fit: Patients without diabetes or those who have not sustained bone fractures may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for fracture healing in diabetic patients, reducing complications and enhancing recovery.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in enhancing fracture healing through targeted molecular approaches, suggesting potential for success in this novel investigation.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, 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.
Conditions adult onset diabetesAdult-Onset Diabetes Mellitus
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.