Injectable cell-free piezoelectric scaffold to treat OA in large animals
Official title: Injectable cell-free piezoelectric scaffold to treat osteoarthritis in large animal models
Funded at University of Connecticut Storrs · NIH-11332635 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A new scaffold that generates electrical signals when it’s pressed could help repair knee cartilage in advanced osteoarthritis, tested in large animal models.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Connecticut Storrs NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Storrs-Mansfield, United States) |
| Project start | May 6, 2025 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $566,039 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EB036924-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11332635 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates are individuals with severe OA or large cartilage defects who need advanced regeneration strategies; later translational steps would involve patients undergoing cartilage repair procedures.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with OA not suitable for scaffold therapy or with contraindications to implantation may not benefit.
What this research studies
This project aims to use a piezoelectric, cell-free scaffold that can be injected to support cartilage regeneration in osteoarthritis. By generating electrical stimulation from natural joint movement, the scaffold may encourage tissue growth without added cells or growth factors. The study will test safety and effectiveness in large animal models to model severe OA and assess potential benefits for patients who struggle with current treatments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could offer a minimally invasive option to improve cartilage repair and reduce OA symptoms.
How similar studies have gone: Electrical stimulation and piezoelectric approaches have shown promise in promoting tissue regeneration in preclinical models, supporting further exploration.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Connecticut Storrs
Storrs-Mansfield, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Nguyen, Thanh — University of Connecticut Storrs
- Study coordinator: Nguyen, Thanh
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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.