Light-Activated Immunomodulation and In Situ Scaffolding to Boost MSC Therapy
Official title: Light Activated Immunomodulation and in situ Scaffolding to Enhance MSC Therapy
Funded at University of Maryland Eastern Shore · NIH-11424577 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A study to help stem cells from fat tissue survive and work better after being transplanted, using a light-activated gel to guide their immune environment.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Maryland Eastern Shore NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Princess Anne, United States) |
| Project start | July 15, 2026 |
| Project end | May 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $143,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R16GM165751-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11424577 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Adults with conditions that could benefit from MSC therapies, or those eligible for MSC-based treatment trials, may be considered for future participation.
✕Less likely to help
People with conditions not responsive to MSC therapy or with contraindications to cell-based treatments may not benefit.
What this research studies
This project focuses on mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) sourced from adult tissues like adipose tissue and explores making their transplant more effective. Researchers will create a light-activated hydrogel that both shapes the tissue environment and tunes the immune response at the site of delivery. The approach aims to keep the transplanted cells longer and better integrated by combining immunomodulation with scaffolding in a controlled, localized way. Preclinical tests will examine how well this platform supports cell retention, engraftment, and therapeutic effects in relevant models. The work involves designing materials, characterizing them, and evaluating biological outcomes to move toward safer, more effective cell therapies for tissue repair and immune-related conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, patients could experience improved outcomes from MSC-based therapies due to better cell survival and tissue integration.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research shows that combining immunomodulation with scaffolds can enhance cell survival, but the light-activated approach is innovative and still being explored.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Maryland Eastern Shore
Princess Anne, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fan, Jiabing — University of Maryland Eastern Shore
- Study coordinator: Fan, Jiabing
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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.