Using apoptotic neutrophils to enhance blood vessel formation in wound healing

Delivery of apoptotic neutrophils to improve angiogenesis during wound healing

['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA-IRVINE · NIH-10989559

This study is looking at a new way to help wounds heal faster by using special cells in a gel that can boost the healing process, especially for people with diabetes or larger wounds that usually take longer to heal.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA-IRVINE (nih funded)
Locations1 site (IRVINE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10989559 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on improving wound healing by delivering apoptotic neutrophils within a special hydrogel scaffold. The approach aims to enhance the natural healing process by promoting the uptake of these cells by macrophages, which can then stimulate the growth of new blood vessels. By investigating this method, the researchers hope to find a way to accelerate healing, especially in patients with diabetes or larger wounds where healing is often impaired. The study builds on promising preliminary results that showed increased angiogenesis in animal models.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include patients with chronic wounds, such as those with diabetes or large surgical wounds.

Not a fit: Patients with wounds that heal normally or those with conditions unrelated to impaired angiogenesis may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for patients with slow-healing wounds, reducing complications and improving recovery times.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in using similar approaches to enhance wound healing, indicating potential for this novel method.

Where this research is happening

IRVINE, 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.