Using mRNA-based materials to help repair damaged nerves
Official title: mRNA-containing fibrous conduits for repair of long-gap peripheral nerve injury
Funded at Stratton Veterans Admin Medical Center · NIH-11249111 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to help heal serious nerve injuries, especially for veterans, by using special materials that support nerve cell growth without needing traditional grafts, making recovery easier and more effective.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stratton Veterans Admin Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Albany, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2023 |
| Project end | September 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 5I21RX004406-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11249111 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from long-gap peripheral nerve injuries, particularly veterans who may have limited options for traditional nerve repair.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with short-gap nerve injuries or those who do not have peripheral nerve damage may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing innovative fibrous conduits made from mRNA-containing materials to repair long-gap peripheral nerve injuries, which are common among veterans and others. The approach involves creating biodegradable scaffolds that can support the growth of nerve cells and promote healing without the need for traditional nerve grafts, which can cause additional complications. By utilizing electrospun fibers, the study aims to enhance axonal regeneration and improve recovery outcomes for patients with severe nerve damage.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for nerve injuries, reducing recovery time and improving functional outcomes for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using biomaterial conduits for nerve repair, but this specific approach utilizing mRNA-based materials is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Stratton Veterans Admin Medical Center
Albany, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gilbert, Ryan J. — Stratton Veterans Admin Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Gilbert, Ryan J.
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Creating new coatings to make brain implants safer and more effective
This study is testing a new type of coating for brain implants that helps reduce inflammation and scarring, making them safer and more effective for recording brain activity over time.
-
Training the brain to reduce phantom limb pain
This study is testing a new, gentle therapy to help people who have lost a limb feel less phantom limb pain by training their brains to better process sensations.
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.