NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Using 3D printed scaffolds to repair spinal cord injuries in primates

Official title: SCI Consortium Study: 3D Printed Scaffolds for Primate Spinal Cord Injury Repair

Funded at VA San Diego Healthcare System · NIH-11309542 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is exploring how 3D printed structures can help heal spinal cord injuries in monkeys, with the hope that what we learn will lead to better treatments for people with similar injuries.

More Spinal Cord Injury research and trials

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVA San Diego Healthcare System
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Diego, United States)
Project startApril 1, 2021
Project endDecember 31, 2025
Funding year2025
NIH project number5I01RX003405-05
Project IDNIH-11309542 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with spinal cord injuries, particularly those who have experienced severe injuries.

Less likely to help

Patients with mild spinal cord injuries or those who do not meet the criteria for severe injury may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the use of 3D printed biomimetic scaffolds to repair spinal cord injuries in a non-human primate model. The approach involves creating a tissue substitute that can replace damaged spinal cord areas and promote the growth of new nerve connections. Researchers will assess both the anatomical integration of the scaffolds and the functional recovery of motor skills in the primates after implantation. The study aims to provide insights into how these scaffolds can support recovery and improve outcomes for spinal cord injury patients.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments that significantly enhance recovery from spinal cord injuries.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research with 3D printed scaffolds in rodent models has shown promising results, indicating potential for success in this primate study.

Where this research is happening

  • VA San Diego Healthcare System
    San Diego, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Koffler, Yacov — VA San Diego Healthcare System
  • Study coordinator: Koffler, Yacov

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.