Using nanoparticles to improve healing of chronic wounds in older adults

Protease Resistant Growth Factor Nanoparticles for Chronic Wound Healing

NIH-funded research University of South Florida · NIH-11301475

This study is looking at tiny particles that can help deliver healing substances to stubborn wounds, especially for older adults dealing with issues like diabetic foot ulcers and pressure sores, to make it easier for them to heal.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of South Florida NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Tampa, United States)
Project IDNIH-11301475 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing nanoparticles that deliver growth factors to chronic wounds, particularly in older adults who are prone to conditions like diabetic foot ulcers and pressure ulcers. The approach aims to protect these growth factors from being degraded by proteases found in chronic wound environments, which often hinder effective treatment. By testing these nanoparticles in preclinical models, the research seeks to enhance the healing process and improve outcomes for patients suffering from difficult-to-treat wounds.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults suffering from chronic wounds such as venous leg ulcers, diabetic foot ulcers, or pressure ulcers.

Not a fit: Patients with acute wounds or those not experiencing chronic wound conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for chronic wounds, reducing the need for drastic surgical interventions.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using growth factors for wound healing, but this approach with nanoparticles is innovative and aims to address specific challenges in translating these therapies to humans.

Where this research is happening

Tampa, 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.