Using immune-fibroblast interactions to improve skin healing

Leveraging immune-fibroblast interactions for biomaterial induced skin regeneration

NIH-funded research University of California Los Angeles · NIH-10918116

This study is looking at how certain immune cells and skin-supporting cells can work together to help heal wounds better, using a special gel that might encourage your skin to regenerate instead of just forming scars, which could lead to nicer healing results for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California Los Angeles NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, United States)
Project IDNIH-10918116 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how interactions between immune cells and fibroblasts can enhance the regeneration of skin elements like hair follicles and adipose tissue in wound healing. The approach involves using a novel biomaterial called Microporous Annealed Particle (MAP) hydrogel, which contains specific immune triggers that may promote better healing responses. By studying these interactions in both mouse models and human wounds, the research aims to shift the healing process from forming scars to regenerating healthy skin. Patients may benefit from improved healing outcomes and reduced scarring.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults with skin wounds that are healing poorly or resulting in significant scarring.

Not a fit: Patients with non-healing wounds due to underlying conditions that are not addressed by this research may not receive benefit.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to advanced treatments that promote natural skin regeneration and minimize scarring in patients with wounds.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using biomaterials and immune modulation for enhancing wound healing, suggesting this approach may be effective.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.