Promoting nerve regeneration to improve erectile function after injury

Targeting the microtubule cytoskeleton to promote cavernous nerve regeneration and erectile function after injury

NIH-funded research Albert Einstein College of Medicine · NIH-10915052

This study is looking at how a protein called Fidgetin-like 2 (FL2) affects the healing of nerves that are important for erections, and it's testing whether lowering FL2 can help these nerves grow back faster and improve blood flow after surgery.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionAlbert Einstein College of Medicine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Bronx, United States)
Project IDNIH-10915052 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how targeting a specific protein, Fidgetin-like 2 (FL2), can enhance the regeneration of cavernous nerves, which are crucial for erectile function. By using rodent models, the study aims to understand how reducing FL2 can accelerate nerve growth and improve blood flow to the penis after surgical injuries. The approach involves both laboratory experiments and animal testing to explore the mechanisms behind nerve regeneration and the role of various supporting cells in this process.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced erectile dysfunction due to cavernous nerve injury, particularly following prostate surgery.

Not a fit: Patients with erectile dysfunction not related to nerve injury or those with other underlying health conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for erectile dysfunction resulting from nerve damage.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in nerve regeneration using similar approaches, indicating potential for success in this research.

Where this research is happening

Bronx, United States

Researchers

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 below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.