Improving the function of stem cells in diabetic patients with leg problems
Official title: Molecular Repair of Diabetic Mesenchymal Stem Cells (dMSC) for Peripheral Arterial Disease
Funded at Veterans Health Administration · NIH-11052120 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at ways to help improve the healing power of special cells in people with diabetes who have trouble with blood flow in their legs, so they can walk better and get back to their daily activities.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Veterans Health Administration NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Decatur, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | January 1, 2020 |
| Project end | September 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 2I01BX004707-06 |
| Project ID | NIH-11052120 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are diabetic patients, particularly veterans, who are experiencing peripheral arterial disease and related mobility issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have diabetes or peripheral arterial disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how to enhance the healing capabilities of diabetic mesenchymal stem cells in patients suffering from peripheral arterial disease (PAD). The approach focuses on understanding the genetic and cellular mechanisms that affect these stem cells and their ability to regenerate damaged muscle and improve blood flow. By exploring the role of immune cells in muscle repair, the research aims to develop cell therapies that can restore function and mobility in affected individuals. The ultimate goal is to help diabetic patients regain their ability to walk and perform daily activities more effectively.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that significantly improve mobility and quality of life for diabetic patients with peripheral arterial disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using stem cell therapies for similar conditions, indicating potential for success in this innovative approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Veterans Health Administration
Decatur, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Brewster, Luke Packard — Veterans Health Administration
- Study coordinator: Brewster, Luke Packard
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Contrast-free ultrasound to measure tiny blood flow in legs to help PAD
A noninvasive ultrasound approach uses new metrics to quantify microvascular blood flow in the lower leg to aid in diagnosing and managing peripheral arterial disease.
-
Understanding Spp1+ Macrophages and Muscle Healing in Peripheral Artery Disease
This grant supports a physician-scientist in Duke's vascular surgery program to study how a specific macrophage type called Spp1+ macrophages affect muscle healing in people with peripheral artery disease.
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Reprogrammed Monocytes for improved blood vessel growth in leg PAD
A study to see if reprogramming a patient’s own monocytes can boost new blood vessel growth and improve limb health in people with peripheral artery disease.
-
Targeting Dhcr24 in monocytes to boost blood vessel growth in critical limb ischemia
This grant explores a new way to help people with severe leg artery disease by making certain immune cells grow more blood vessels to improve blood flow.
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Carnosine and improved leg function in peripheral artery disease
This grant tests whether taking carnosine can improve leg function for people with peripheral artery disease.
-
Understanding how CKD worsens leg artery disease at the cellular level
This grant explores why people with chronic kidney disease have faster, more severe peripheral artery disease and how specific cellular pathways contribute to worse blood flow and limb risk.
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.