Sprayable hydrogel sealant to prevent gut bleeding
Official title: Production of a Hydrogel-based Mucosal Sealant for Gastrointestinal Bleeding Prevention
Funded at Biodevek INC · NIH-11092336 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This project is developing a sprayable, biodegradable glue doctors could use during endoscopy to seal mucosal wounds and lower the chance of bleeding after procedures like polyp removal.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 2 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Biodevek INC NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cambridge, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | June 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $1,094,074 |
| NIH project number | 5R44DK139828-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11092336 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
People undergoing endoscopic procedures that create mucosal wounds (for example polypectomy) who are at risk for delayed gastrointestinal bleeding would be the most likely candidates.
✕Less likely to help
Those with active massive GI bleeding needing immediate surgery, or people with known allergy to the product materials, are unlikely to benefit from this sealant.
What this research studies
If you need an endoscopic procedure, this team is creating GastroShield, a sprayable gel that sticks to the wet lining of your gut to cover and protect small wounds. The gel is made from biodegradable polymers that cross-link to form a strong seal intended to last longer than clips or powder products. Researchers have optimized the formula for better adhesion and plan laboratory and animal testing now, with the goal of moving to clinical testing at hospitals later. It is designed to be quick and easier for doctors to apply so it could reduce bleeding without relying on complex clipping skills.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could reduce delayed bleeding after endoscopic procedures, lowering hospital stays, repeat interventions, and the need for blood transfusions.
How similar studies have gone: Traditional clips and powder hemostats have long been used but have clear limits, and sprayable adhesive approaches for GI mucosa are relatively new with promising early lab and animal data but limited clinical proof so far.
Where this research is happening
-
Biodevek INC
Cambridge, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Munoz Taboada, Gonzalo — Biodevek INC
- Study coordinator: Munoz Taboada, Gonzalo
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
EpiMAX: a new injectable gel that stops GI bleeding quickly and for days
A new injectable hydrogel with epinephrine-loaded microparticles is designed to plug GI bleeds and provide immediate and lasting hemostasis for about 72 hours.
-
Using AI to improve risk assessment for patients with acute gastrointestinal bleeding
This study is working on a new tool that uses advanced technology to help doctors better understand the risk of patients having sudden stomach bleeding, so they can make smarter decisions about who needs to be hospitalized and when.
-
Understanding differences in care and outcomes for patients with gastrointestinal bleeding
This study is looking at how different hospitals treat patients with gastrointestinal bleeding to find ways to improve care and outcomes, so that everyone gets the best help possible no matter where they go.
-
Direct measurement of RhD sensitization after early-pregnancy bleeding
This study tests how often Rh immunoglobulin given after bleeding in early pregnancy prevents RhD sensitization in pregnant people.
-
Dynamic risk tools to prevent blood clots and bleeding in cancer patients
A new AI-based approach will predict who among people with cancer starting treatment is at higher risk for blood clots or dangerous bleeding, helping doctors tailor preventive care.
-
Bleeding and Platelet Problems in Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome
This NIH grant looks at why people with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome bleed more and how platelet function is involved, with goals that could lead to better care during surgery or emergencies.
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.