Investigating how stem cells help ligaments heal and regenerate
Official title: Role of Perivascular Stem Cells in Ligament Healing and Regeneration
Funded at Baltimore VA Medical Center · NIH-11237024 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how special cells around blood vessels can help heal ligament injuries, like ACL tears, especially in veterans who often face these kinds of injuries, with the goal of finding better treatments to improve recovery after surgery.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baltimore VA Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2020 |
| Project end | December 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 5IK2BX004879-06 |
| Project ID | NIH-11237024 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include veterans who have experienced ligament injuries, particularly those involving the ACL.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with ligament injuries that are not related to vascular supply issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of perivascular stem cells in the healing process of ligaments, particularly in veterans who often suffer from ligament injuries due to physical demands. The study aims to explore how these stem cells, which are associated with blood vessels, can enhance the healing of injuries like anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears. By examining the differences in healing between well-vascularized and poorly-vascularized ligaments, the researchers hope to develop new treatment options that could improve surgical outcomes. The approach is inspired by the body's natural healing mechanisms and aims to leverage these insights for better clinical applications.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved healing and recovery options for patients with ligament injuries, enhancing their quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of using perivascular stem cells is novel, similar research has shown promise in enhancing healing in other types of injuries.
Where this research is happening
-
Baltimore VA Medical Center
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Leong, Natalie L — Baltimore VA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Leong, Natalie L
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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.