Restoring muscle function after nerve injury
Official title: Restoration of Muscular Function Following Direct Muscle Neurotization
Funded at Renerva, LLC · NIH-10699345 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new way to help people recover muscle function after nerve injuries by connecting nerves directly to muscles, and it aims to make this method even better with a special support system, so patients can heal and regain strength more effectively.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Renerva, LLC NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $494,955 |
| NIH project number | 1R41NS132734-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10699345 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced peripheral nerve injuries and are seeking options for restoring muscle function.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with intact nerve function or those who do not have muscle atrophy due to nerve injury may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on improving recovery of muscle function following peripheral nerve injuries, which affect millions of Americans. It explores a novel technique called direct muscle neurotization (DMN), where a nerve is directly connected to a muscle to promote healing without relying on existing nerve pathways. The study aims to enhance the effectiveness of this approach by developing a specialized Peripheral Nerve Matrix (PNM) that supports nerve regeneration and muscle reinnervation. Patients may benefit from improved surgical outcomes and functional recovery.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better recovery of muscle function for patients with nerve injuries.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in nerve regeneration techniques, but the specific approach of direct muscle neurotization is still being explored and is considered innovative.
Where this research is happening
-
Renerva, LLC
Pittsburgh, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Soletti, Lorenzo — Renerva, LLC
- Study coordinator: Soletti, Lorenzo
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Improving recovery from nerve injuries using a new hydrogel treatment
This study is testing a new gel that helps heal serious nerve injuries, especially for those with big gaps, to see if it can make recovery easier and improve how well patients can use their nerves again.
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.