Injectable hydrogel to improve healing of chronic wounds

MMP-deactivating injectable hydrogel for chronic wounds

NIH-funded research University of New Hampshire · NIH-10672433

This study is testing a special gel that can be injected into chronic wounds, like those caused by diabetes, to help them heal better by targeting harmful proteins, so if you have a slow-healing wound, this treatment might make a big difference for you!

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of New Hampshire NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Durham, United States)
Project IDNIH-10672433 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing an injectable hydrogel designed to enhance the healing process of chronic wounds, particularly those affected by conditions like diabetes. The hydrogel works by deactivating matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), which are known to impede healing. By using melanin nanoparticles within the hydrogel, the treatment aims to target MMPs directly at the wound site, minimizing systemic side effects that can occur with traditional therapies. Patients receiving this treatment may experience improved wound healing and reduced risk of complications such as infections or amputations.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from chronic wounds, particularly those related to diabetes or other conditions that impair healing.

Not a fit: Patients with acute wounds or those not suffering from chronic conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a more effective and safer treatment option for patients with chronic wounds.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in using localized MMP inhibitors for wound healing, indicating that this approach may be effective.

Where this research is happening

Durham, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Cancers
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.