Preventing pelvic floor muscle problems after childbirth using a special gel
Prevention of pelvic floor muscle dysfunction with extracellular matrix hydrogel
This study is testing a new gel made from pig muscle that could help prevent problems like incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse after childbirth by promoting muscle healing right when it's needed.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10886712 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on preventing pelvic floor muscle dysfunction that can occur after childbirth, which often leads to conditions like pelvic organ prolapse and incontinence. The approach involves using a novel injectable hydrogel made from decellularized porcine skeletal muscles, which aims to promote muscle regeneration. By delivering this gel at the time of birth injury or during recovery, the researchers hope to directly address the underlying issues that lead to pelvic floor disorders. This innovative method seeks to provide a preventative solution rather than relying on delayed treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women who are expecting to give birth, particularly those at risk for pelvic floor muscle dysfunction.
Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced childbirth or those with pre-existing severe pelvic floor disorders may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the incidence of pelvic floor disorders in women after childbirth.
How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using tissue-specific hydrogels is innovative, similar strategies in tissue engineering have shown promise in other areas of regenerative medicine.
Where this research is happening
La Jolla, United States
- University of California, San Diego — La Jolla, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Alperin, Marianna — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Alperin, Marianna
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.