Using cell membrane-coated scaffolds to improve bone healing in older adults
Official title: Cell membrane-coated macroporous scaffolds for enhancing bone regeneration in aging
Funded at Stanford University · NIH-11111456 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to help older people heal their bones better by using special materials coated with young cell membranes, and it aims to see how these coatings can improve the healing process that often slows down with age.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project start | June 11, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $619,172 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI180049-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11111456 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing bone healing issues, such as fractures or osteoporosis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are younger or do not have age-related bone healing problems may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel approach to enhance bone regeneration in aging individuals by using scaffolds coated with cell membranes from young stem cells. The study aims to understand how these coatings can modulate the immune response and improve healing processes that are often impaired in older patients. By focusing on the interaction between the coated scaffolds and immune cells, the researchers hope to develop a more effective treatment for age-related bone healing issues. The research will utilize animal models to test the effectiveness of these coated scaffolds in promoting bone regeneration.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for bone healing in older adults, potentially reducing recovery times and enhancing quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promise in using cell membrane coatings for tissue regeneration, but this specific approach targeting aging is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Stanford University
Stanford, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yang, Fan — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Yang, Fan
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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.