Stem-cell activated sponge-like scaffold to support transplanted insulin-producing cells
A stem cell activated cryogel bioscaffold that restores islet bioenergetics while providing oxygen and nutrients at extravascular sites of transplantation
A special sponge-like scaffold aims to keep transplanted insulin-producing cells alive and working for people with diabetes who need beta-cell replacement.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11322670 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project builds a 3D collagen "cryogel" scaffold that includes an oxygen generator and is activated by stem-cell signals to supply oxygen and essential nutrients to transplanted islets outside the liver. The scaffold is designed to protect islets from low oxygen, inflammatory reactions, and toxic liver factors that kill many transplanted cells. Researchers will test and refine the scaffold in the lab and in animal models as a step toward use at extravascular transplantation sites. The ultimate aim is a clinically translatable device that helps islets survive the vulnerable first weeks after transplant while they re-establish a blood supply.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates would be people with severe insulin-dependent diabetes (for example type 1 diabetes) who are eligible for islet transplantation and willing to undergo the necessary procedures and immunosuppression.
Not a fit: People who do not need beta-cell replacement, those managed successfully with other diabetes treatments, or those ineligible for transplant or immunosuppression are unlikely to benefit.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could increase survival and function of transplanted islets and improve blood sugar control or reduce insulin needs.
How similar studies have performed: Related oxygen-generating and scaffold approaches have shown promise in animal studies and improved islet survival, but clinical evidence in humans remains limited.
Where this research is happening
Stanford, United States
- Stanford University — Stanford, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Thakor, Avnesh Sinh — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Thakor, Avnesh Sinh
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.