NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Multimodal bioelectroceutical approach to bone regeneration in diabetes and aging

Official title: Multimodal Bioelectroceutical Strategies for Alveolar Bone Regeneration in Diabetes and Aging

Funded at University of Nebraska Medical Center · NIH-11591547 · Data updated 2026-11-12

A new approach uses electrical signals and tiny drugs inside special scaffolds to help jawbone heal in people with diabetes or aging-related bone problems.

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Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Nebraska Medical Center
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Omaha, United States)
Project startAugust 26, 2026
Project endAugust 25, 2027
Funding year2026
Award (this year)$383,750
NIH project number1R56DE036161-01
Project IDNIH-11591547 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Adults with diabetes or age-related bone impairment who require dental implants or are at risk for poor bone healing.

Less likely to help

Patients without inflammatory bone issues or those not considering implants may see limited direct benefit.

What this research studies

This project aims to improve alveolar bone healing in patients with diabetes or aging-related bone decline by combining electrical stimulation, small-molecule drugs, and ionically conductive scaffolds. The method is designed to boost bone formation, blood vessel growth, and nerve repair while reducing chronic inflammation. Localized delivery within a biodegradable scaffold minimizes systemic side effects and supports sustained regenerative cues. The work builds on preliminary results in soft tissue repair to pursue bone regeneration in compromised hosts. If successful, it could lead to better implant success and long-term oral health for at-risk patients.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, patients could experience stronger, healthier jawbone that improves implant stability and longevity.

How similar studies have gone: Previous work showed proof-of-concept in soft tissue repair; this project extends the concept to bone regeneration.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Nebraska Medical Center
    Omaha, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Abdulmalik, Sama Abdulaziz — University of Nebraska Medical Center
  • Study coordinator: Abdulmalik, Sama Abdulaziz

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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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.