Using a special gel with relaxin to treat hypertrophic scars
Official title: A Relaxin-loaded Hydrogel for the Treatment of Hypertrophic Scars
Funded at Boston University (Charles River Campus) · NIH-10883040 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new way to treat thick, raised scars by using a special gel with a hormone that helps soften the scars, making them look better and heal more effectively, and it's designed for people who have these types of scars from skin injuries.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston University (Charles River Campus) NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $526,041 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AR083161-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10883040 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who have developed hypertrophic scars following surgery or burn injuries.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with scars that are not hypertrophic or those who do not have a history of skin injuries may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a new treatment for hypertrophic scars, which are thick, raised scars that can develop after skin injuries. The approach involves using a hydrogel that contains relaxin, a hormone that helps reduce fibrosis, to deliver this treatment directly to the scar tissue. By targeting the underlying causes of scar formation, this method aims to improve healing and reduce the appearance of scars more effectively than current treatments. Patients will be monitored to assess the effectiveness of this localized delivery system in preventing and treating these scars.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a more effective and less painful treatment option for patients suffering from hypertrophic scars.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using similar approaches for scar treatment, but this specific method utilizing relaxin in a hydrogel is novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Boston University (Charles River Campus)
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Grinstaff, Mark W. — Boston University (Charles River Campus)
- Study coordinator: Grinstaff, Mark W.
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.