Improving Healing by Managing Fat Cell Interactions

Controlling Adipocyte-Myofibroblast Interactions to Improve Healing

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF IOWA · NIH-11140336

This project looks at how fat cells communicate with other cells to help wounds heal better and reduce scarring.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF IOWA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (IOWA CITY, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11140336 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

Scarring and fibrosis after injuries or diseases can greatly affect a person's quality of life. We are exploring how fat cells, also known as adipocytes, interact with other cells called fibroblasts, which are key players in wound healing and scar formation. Our goal is to understand how signals from fat cells can influence the development of scar tissue and the way wounds repair themselves. By understanding this communication, we hope to develop new and more effective treatments to improve wound healing and minimize scarring.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: This foundational research is for anyone interested in the future of wound healing and scar reduction therapies.

Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate new treatments for existing scars or wounds will not directly benefit from this early-stage research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments that reduce scarring and improve the quality of life for people recovering from injuries or surgeries.

How similar studies have performed: The use of fat grafts in reconstructive surgeries has shown promise in reducing scars, suggesting that fat cells play a beneficial role in healing.

Where this research is happening

IOWA CITY, 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.