Long-lasting injectable protein therapy to help repair injured peripheral nerves
Long-acting Injectable Protein Delivery System for Functional Repair of Peripheral Nerve Injury
['FUNDING_R01'] · JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY · NIH-11238949
A long-lasting injectable that slowly releases proteins (IGF-1 and agrin) to help people with peripheral nerve injuries regain nerve and muscle function.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11238949 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Researchers are developing biodegradable nanoparticles that can be injected into injured nerves or nearby muscle to release therapeutic proteins over weeks to months. The nanoparticles are loaded with IGF-1 and agrin to support nerve regrowth, maintain neuromuscular junctions, and prevent muscle atrophy. The team will optimize dosing and release timing and test functional recovery in rat and non-human primate models before any human testing. Outcomes will include measures of nerve connectivity, muscle strength, and how long the proteins remain at the injury site.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with recent peripheral nerve injuries causing loss of motor function or muscle wasting who might benefit from treatments that support nerve regrowth and preserve muscle.
Not a fit: Patients with very long-standing nerve injuries where muscles are irreversibly atrophied, or those with central nervous system disorders rather than peripheral nerve damage, may not benefit.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could deliver sustained local therapy to improve nerve regeneration and preserve muscle, reducing the need for frequent injections and improving functional recovery after peripheral nerve injury.
How similar studies have performed: Related animal studies have shown improved recovery in rats using these nanoparticles, but testing in larger animals and humans is still new.
Where this research is happening
BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES
- JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY — BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: MAO, HAI-QUAN — JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: MAO, HAI-QUAN
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 below.