Improving the longevity of devices that connect to the body through the skin
Official title: Surface Induced Epithelial Differentiation Improves Percutaneous Device Longevity
Funded at VA Salt Lake City Healthcare System · NIH-11055334 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a special coating can help dental implants and hearing aids heal better in your body, making them last longer and reducing the chances of problems like infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | VA Salt Lake City Healthcare System NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salt Lake City, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2021 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 5I01RX003359-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11055334 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who require percutaneous devices, such as amputees needing osseointegrated prosthetics or patients receiving dental implants.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not require or are not candidates for percutaneous devices may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the healing process around percutaneous devices, such as dental implants and bone-anchored hearing aids, which connect the internal body to the external environment. The study investigates how a special coating made from fluorapatite can improve the attachment of skin cells to these devices, potentially preventing common complications like infection and device failure. By examining how these coatings affect skin and bone cell behavior, the research aims to develop better materials that promote healing and integration with the body. Patients may benefit from improved device longevity and reduced complications.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to longer-lasting and more reliable percutaneous devices for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results with similar approaches using specialized coatings to enhance tissue integration, indicating potential for success in this research.
Where this research is happening
-
VA Salt Lake City Healthcare System
Salt Lake City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jeyapalina, Sujee — VA Salt Lake City Healthcare System
- Study coordinator: Jeyapalina, Sujee
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.