Using 3D-printed scaffolds to help heal bone and soft tissue injuries

Multi-Tissue Craniofacial Engineering using 3D-BMP9-Notch-Synergized Graphene Citrate Composite Scaffolds

NIH-funded research University of Chicago · NIH-11018525

This study is exploring a new way to help heal serious bone and skin injuries by using special 3D-printed structures filled with stem cells from urine, aiming to create better treatments for people with major facial injuries.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Chicago NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, United States)
Project IDNIH-11018525 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the use of advanced 3D-printed scaffolds combined with stem cells to regenerate bone and soft tissue, particularly in cases of severe injuries. The approach involves using human adult-derived urine stem cells that are stimulated to differentiate into bone and skin cells, which are then delivered within customized scaffolds designed to fit specific defects. The goal is to develop effective treatments for critical-sized craniofacial defects, which could be particularly beneficial for patients with traumatic injuries.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with critical-sized craniofacial defects, including those resulting from trauma or battlefield injuries.

Not a fit: Patients with non-critical injuries or those who do not have craniofacial defects may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments that significantly improve healing outcomes for patients with severe craniofacial injuries.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using 3D-printed scaffolds and stem cells for tissue regeneration, indicating a potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, 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.