New adhesive gels for healing aging and injured tendons
Multifunctional tough adhesive hydrogels to recruit, expand, and deliver tendoncells during aging and injury
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · BETH ISRAEL DEACONESS MEDICAL CENTER · NIH-11099871
This project is creating special sticky gels to help repair and strengthen tendons that are damaged or weakened by age or injury.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | BETH ISRAEL DEACONESS MEDICAL CENTER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11099871 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
We are developing unique, strong, and sticky gel materials, inspired by natural slug mucus, that can attach firmly to injured tendons. These gels are designed to provide support for the tendon, help new cells grow and move into the area, and deliver helpful substances to promote healing. The goal is to create a platform that can actively attract, grow, and release tendon cells right where they are needed to repair damage. This approach aims to improve how tendons heal after injury and as we get older.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients experiencing tendon injuries or age-related tendon weakness, particularly those seeking advanced regenerative solutions, might eventually benefit from this research.
Not a fit: Patients whose tendon issues are not related to injury or aging, or those who do not require regenerative approaches, may not directly benefit from this specific biomaterial development.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments that significantly improve the healing and strength of injured or aging tendons, potentially reducing pain and improving mobility.
How similar studies have performed: While the concept of using biomaterials for tissue repair is established, this specific approach of using tough adhesive hydrogels inspired by slug mucus for dynamic cell recruitment and delivery in tendons is novel.
Where this research is happening
BOSTON, UNITED STATES
- BETH ISRAEL DEACONESS MEDICAL CENTER — BOSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: FREEDMAN, BENJAMIN ROSS — BETH ISRAEL DEACONESS MEDICAL CENTER
- Study coordinator: FREEDMAN, BENJAMIN ROSS
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.