Investigating ways to prevent muscle dysfunction in the anal sphincter due to aging and injury.
Official title: Targeting Novel Fibrogenic Signaling Pathways to Prevent Injury and Age-Related External Anal Sphincter Muscle Dysfunction
Funded at VA San Diego Healthcare System · NIH-11061820 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how injuries to a muscle that helps control bowel movements can cause problems for women, especially as they get older, and it aims to find ways to help that muscle heal better so they can feel more comfortable and confident.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | VA San Diego Healthcare System NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Diego, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 5I01BX006370-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11061820 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older women, particularly those who have experienced childbirth-related injuries to the anal sphincter or have symptoms of fecal incontinence.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are younger and have not experienced childbirth-related injuries or do not have symptoms of fecal incontinence may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how injuries to the external anal sphincter muscle, particularly in women, can lead to fecal incontinence, especially as they age. It examines the biological mechanisms behind muscle regeneration and fibrosis, using animal models to explore how certain signaling pathways contribute to muscle dysfunction. By identifying these pathways, the research aims to develop strategies to improve muscle healing and function in affected individuals.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that prevent or reduce fecal incontinence in aging women, significantly improving their quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding muscle regeneration and fibrosis, suggesting that this approach could lead to significant advancements in treatment.
Where this research is happening
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VA San Diego Healthcare System
San Diego, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mittal, Ravinder K. — VA San Diego Healthcare System
- Study coordinator: Mittal, Ravinder K.
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.