Using a painless nerve growth factor to speed up bone healing

Therapeutic Application of Painless Nerve Growth Factor to Accelerate Endochondral Fracture Repair

NIH-funded research University of California, San Francisco · NIH-11221100

This study is testing a new way to help broken bones heal faster and without pain by using tiny wires that slowly release a special healing factor right where the fracture is, making it a safer option for people whose bones are taking longer to mend.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Francisco NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Francisco, United States)
Project IDNIH-11221100 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to develop a new method for delivering a painless nerve growth factor that can help accelerate the healing of fractures, particularly in cases where healing is delayed. The approach involves using a biodegradable nanowire platform that allows for the local and sustained release of this growth factor directly at the fracture site. By targeting the healing process without the need for invasive surgical procedures, this research seeks to provide a safer and more effective treatment option for patients with fractures that are slow to heal.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with fractures that are at risk of delayed healing, such as those with diabetes, older adults, or patients with other health complications.

Not a fit: Patients with fractures that are healing normally or those who do not have any risk factors for delayed healing may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to faster and more effective healing of fractures, reducing the need for surgical interventions.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with similar biologic approaches for enhancing fracture healing, indicating potential for success in this novel application.

Where this research is happening

San Francisco, 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.
Conditions Alzheimer disease dementiaAlzheimer syndrome
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.