Investigating a protein's role in preventing abdominal scar tissue after surgery

Modulation of S100a4 in post-operative abdominal adhesion complications

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER · NIH-11065094

This study is looking at how a protein called S100a4 affects the development of scar tissue in the abdomen after surgery, with the hope of finding new ways to prevent painful complications like bowel obstructions and infertility for patients.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER (nih funded)
Locations1 site (ROCHESTER, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11065094 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how the S100a4 protein contributes to the formation of abdominal adhesions, which are scar tissues that can develop after surgeries involving the abdomen. By studying a mouse model with reduced S100a4 levels, the researchers aim to uncover the biological processes that lead to adhesion formation and persistence. The goal is to identify new therapeutic strategies to prevent these complications, which can cause pain, bowel obstructions, and infertility in patients. The findings could lead to innovative treatments that improve patient outcomes after abdominal surgeries.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have undergone abdominal or pelvic surgeries and are at risk for developing adhesions.

Not a fit: Patients who have not had abdominal or pelvic surgeries are unlikely to benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that significantly reduce the incidence of painful and debilitating abdominal adhesions after surgery.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting similar biological pathways to reduce adhesion formation, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Where this research is happening

ROCHESTER, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.