Using 3D printed spinal cord cells to help heal spinal cord injuries
3D Bioprinted Spinal Cord Organoids as a Relay System for Spinal Cord Injury
This study is exploring a new way to help people with spinal cord injuries by using 3D-printed cells and special materials to create a system that could support healing and restore movement, and it's being tested in rats to see how well it works before considering it for patients like you.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10879075 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of 3D bioprinted spinal neural progenitor cells combined with a specially designed scaffold to create a relay system for spinal cord injuries. The approach involves optimizing the materials and cell configurations to promote the formation of functional neuronal networks in the injured spinal cord. By testing this method in a rat model, the researchers aim to understand how these bioprinted cells can facilitate recovery and restore function across injury sites. The ultimate goal is to translate these findings into potential treatments for patients with chronic spinal cord injuries.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with chronic spinal cord injuries who are seeking innovative treatment options.
Not a fit: Patients with acute spinal cord injuries or those who do not meet specific eligibility criteria for the study may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that significantly improve recovery for patients with spinal cord injuries.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of bioprinted tissues is a novel approach, similar studies have shown promise in regenerative medicine, indicating potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Minneapolis, United States
- University of Minnesota — Minneapolis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Parr, Ann M — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Parr, Ann M
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.