Understanding recovery pathways of the urethral sphincter and a new treatment approach

Pathways underlying recovery of injured urethral sphincter and a novel regenerative biomaterial intervention

NIH-funded research University of California, San Diego · NIH-10839447

This study is looking at how childbirth can affect the muscles that help control urination in women and aims to create a new material that could help these muscles heal better after injury, making it easier for women to manage stress urinary incontinence.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Diego NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (La Jolla, United States)
Project IDNIH-10839447 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms behind the recovery of the urethral sphincter after injury, particularly focusing on how childbirth can lead to stress urinary incontinence in women. The team aims to develop a novel regenerative biomaterial that could enhance recovery and restore function. By using a relevant animal model, the research seeks to uncover the biological processes involved in sphincter dysfunction and explore innovative treatment options that directly address the underlying causes of this condition.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women who have experienced childbirth and are suffering from stress urinary incontinence.

Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced childbirth or do not have stress urinary incontinence may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for women suffering from stress urinary incontinence, enhancing their quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in similar approaches to treating urinary incontinence, but this specific biomaterial intervention is novel.

Where this research is happening

La Jolla, 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.