Improving nerve repair with controlled release of growth factors
Official title: Controlled Gradient Release of Biologics: Enhanced Nerve Conduit for Long‐Gap Injury Repair
Funded at Pioneer Neurotech INC. · NIH-10891347 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to help heal nerve injuries by using a special device that slowly releases helpful growth factors, which could lead to better recovery for people with damaged nerves.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Pioneer Neurotech INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Sudbury, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $214,532 |
| NIH project number | 5R41NS130907-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10891347 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research would be individuals with peripheral nerve injuries that require surgical intervention, particularly those with long gaps between nerve ends.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with nerve injuries that can be repaired without the need for grafts or those with conditions that do not involve nerve damage may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the repair of nerve injuries by using a novel method that releases growth factors over time. When nerves are damaged, traditional repair methods may not be sufficient, especially if there is a significant gap between the nerve ends. The researchers are developing a new type of nerve conduit that incorporates these growth factors in a controlled manner, which could promote better axon growth and recovery. The approach has shown promising results in animal models, suggesting it could lead to improved outcomes for patients with nerve injuries.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for patients suffering from nerve injuries, potentially restoring function and reducing long-term disability.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success with similar approaches using growth factors for nerve repair, indicating a promising avenue for further exploration.
Where this research is happening
-
Pioneer Neurotech INC.
Sudbury, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Romero-Ortega, Mario Ignacio — Pioneer Neurotech INC.
- Study coordinator: Romero-Ortega, Mario Ignacio
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.