Injectable hydrogel to help regenerate damaged neural tissues
Official title: Bioelectronics-embedded injectable hydrogel for neural regeneration
Funded at University of New Hampshire · NIH-10647492 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new gel that can help deliver special cells to heal damaged nerves, like those hurt in spinal cord injuries, and it aims to improve recovery and restore movement for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of New Hampshire NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | September 21, 2023 |
| Project end | September 20, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $426,509 |
| NIH project number | 1R21EB034527-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10647492 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from spinal cord injuries or other neural damage who are seeking innovative treatment options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-neural injuries or those who do not have the capacity for neural regeneration may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a new type of injectable hydrogel designed to deliver neural stem cells (NSCs) for the regeneration of damaged neural tissues, such as those affected by spinal cord injuries. The hydrogel is made from composite microgels that allow for better cell viability and promote essential cell-to-cell interactions necessary for the differentiation of NSCs into neurons. By using a dual crosslinking mechanism, the hydrogel creates a microporous structure that supports the growth and integration of these cells into the host tissue, potentially leading to improved recovery of neural function. Patients receiving this treatment could benefit from enhanced healing and restoration of neural pathways.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve recovery outcomes for patients with neural injuries by enhancing the regeneration of damaged tissues.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of using injectable hydrogels for cell delivery is being explored, this specific microporous formulation represents a novel advancement in the field.
Where this research is happening
-
University of New Hampshire
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jeong, Kyung Jae — University of New Hampshire
- Study coordinator: Jeong, Kyung Jae
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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.