Using iron nanoparticles to enhance stem cell function for tissue regeneration

Repurposing Ferumoxytol Nanoparticles to Promote Orofacial Stem Cell Function for Autotherapies

['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA · NIH-10988797

This study is looking at how a special iron-based treatment called ferumoxytol can help improve the healing abilities of certain stem cells in your face and jaw, which could lead to better ways to fix bone problems in those areas.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10988797 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the use of ferumoxytol, an FDA-approved iron oxide nanoparticle, to enhance the function of orofacial mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) for regenerative medicine. The study aims to understand how ferumoxytol can activate these stem cells, promoting their ability to differentiate and regenerate hard tissues, particularly in the context of craniofacial bone defects. Through advanced techniques like RNA sequencing and in vitro characterization, the researchers will explore the mechanisms by which ferumoxytol influences stem cell behavior, potentially leading to new therapies for tissue regeneration.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who have conditions related to craniofacial bone defects or chronic kidney failure.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to craniofacial bone defects or those under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments for craniofacial bone defects, improving healing and regeneration in affected patients.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of ferumoxytol in this specific context is novel, similar approaches using nanoparticles for stem cell enhancement have shown promise in other studies.

Where this research is happening

PHILADELPHIA, 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.