Using engineered nanoparticles to improve recovery after spinal cord injury
Official title: Harnessing engineered drug-free polymeric nanoformulations to reprogram innate immune cells for spinal trauma
Funded at University of Kentucky · NIH-11059133 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new way to help people recover from spinal cord injuries by using tiny particles that can change how immune cells work in the body, with the hope of reducing inflammation and helping nerves heal better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Kentucky NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Lexington, United States) |
| Project start | March 20, 2024 |
| Project end | February 28, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $293,936 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS136272-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11059133 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have recently experienced a spinal cord injury and are facing challenges related to inflammation and tissue regeneration.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with chronic spinal cord injuries or those who do not have an inflammatory response may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing innovative polymer-based nanoparticles that can help reprogram immune cells in the body following a spinal cord injury. By targeting and modifying the behavior of these immune cells, the goal is to reduce inflammation and promote a healing environment that supports nerve regeneration. The approach involves administering these nanoparticles intravenously to influence immune responses before they reach the injury site, potentially leading to better recovery outcomes for patients. The study aims to understand how the physical properties of these nanoparticles can be tailored to achieve the desired immunomodulatory effects.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that significantly enhance recovery and regeneration after spinal cord injuries.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using nanoparticles for immune modulation, suggesting that this approach could be effective, although the specific application for spinal cord injury is still being explored.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Kentucky
Lexington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Park, Jonghyuck — University of Kentucky
- Study coordinator: Park, Jonghyuck
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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.