Promoting regenerative healing for chronic wounds
Defining translational mechanisms to promote regenerative healing of chronic wounds
Using new knowledge about skin cells and signals to help older adults and people with diabetes heal chronic wounds more fully and durably.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | VA Connecticut Healthcare System NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (West Haven, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11212824 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research looks at the different cell types in human skin and how they communicate during wound repair, with a focus on cells like fibroblasts and macrophages. Scientists will use advanced cell-profiling methods (including CITE-seq) and biochemical studies to map the signals that drive healthy versus non-healing wounds. Findings from human tissue and complementary models will be used to identify targets that can be turned into treatments to restore regenerative healing. The long-term aim is to move promising targets toward therapies that reduce chronic wound complications common in older and diabetic patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with chronic, non-healing skin wounds—especially older adults and patients with diabetes (including veterans)—who are willing to receive care and follow-up at the treating site.
Not a fit: Patients with normal acute wounds that heal quickly or with wound problems unrelated to impaired skin repair mechanisms may not benefit directly from this work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could lead to new treatments that encourage durable, regenerative healing of chronic wounds, lowering infection risk and improving quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: Prior animal and lab studies have shown key roles for fibroblast subtypes, macrophages, and cytokines in healing, but translating those findings into human therapies is still largely experimental.
Where this research is happening
West Haven, United States
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System — West Haven, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hsia, Henry C — VA Connecticut Healthcare System
- Study coordinator: Hsia, Henry C
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.