Using leaf-based scaffolds to help heal skin wounds
Official title: Leaf-Derived Vascular Scaffolds (LeaVS): A multifunctional platform for skin regeneration
Funded at Worcester Polytechnic Institute · NIH-10579706 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new treatment made from decellularized leaves to help heal severe skin injuries like burns and traumatic wounds by encouraging faster healing and reducing swelling, giving patients a better option for recovery.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Worcester Polytechnic Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Worcester, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $447,877 |
| NIH project number | 1R15AR080988-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10579706 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates include individuals suffering from full thickness burns, traumatic wounds, or chronic skin conditions requiring advanced treatment.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with superficial skin injuries or those who do not require advanced wound healing solutions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a new type of skin regeneration scaffold made from decellularized leaves, which contain natural vascular networks. These scaffolds aim to improve healing for patients with severe skin injuries, such as burns and traumatic wounds, by promoting faster blood vessel growth and reducing inflammation. The approach involves engineering these leaf-derived scaffolds to support the growth of skin cells and enhance tissue regeneration. Patients may benefit from a more effective treatment option compared to current methods.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a more effective and faster healing solution for patients with severe skin injuries.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using bioengineered scaffolds for skin regeneration, indicating potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Worcester, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pins, George D. — Worcester Polytechnic Institute
- Study coordinator: Pins, George D.
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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.