Investigating gene markers that affect healing in diabetic foot ulcers

Inflammation-related gene biomarkers in human diabetic foot ulcer healing

NIH-funded research Drexel University · NIH-11090049

This study is looking at how inflammation affects the healing of foot ulcers in people with diabetes, and it aims to find specific genes that can help predict how well these wounds will heal, so that doctors can better manage treatment for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionDrexel University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-11090049 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how inflammation impacts the healing of diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs), which affect many diabetic patients. It aims to identify specific gene biomarkers that can predict how well these wounds will heal over time. By analyzing the balance between early-stage inflammatory genes and late-stage resolution genes, the study seeks to develop a composite biomarker known as the Inflammation Index. This index will help determine the responsiveness to treatment and guide better management of DFUs.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are diabetic patients suffering from foot ulcers who are experiencing impaired healing.

Not a fit: Patients without diabetic foot ulcers or those with other unrelated conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved healing outcomes for patients with diabetic foot ulcers, potentially reducing the need for amputations.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in using gene expression profiles to predict healing outcomes, indicating that this approach may be effective.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, 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.
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.