Using a special gel with relaxin to treat hypertrophic scars

A Relaxin-loaded Hydrogel for the Treatment of Hypertrophic Scars

['FUNDING_R01'] · BOSTON UNIVERSITY (CHARLES RIVER CAMPUS) · NIH-10883040

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

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorBOSTON UNIVERSITY (CHARLES RIVER CAMPUS) (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10883040 on ClinicalTrials.gov

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.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who have developed hypertrophic scars following surgery or burn injuries.

Not a fit: Patients with scars that are not hypertrophic or those who do not have a history of skin injuries may not benefit from this research.

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 performed: 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, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.