Using special cells and materials to improve blood flow in patients with critical limb ischemia
Official title: Biomaterials for delivery and maintenance of tip endothelial cells
Funded at University of California, Merced · NIH-10999410 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to help people with critical limb ischemia by using special cells that can boost blood vessel growth, hoping to improve blood flow and quality of life for those affected.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, Merced NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Merced, United States) |
| Project start | December 15, 2023 |
| Project end | November 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $181,976 |
| NIH project number | 5R21HL172096-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10999410 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with critical limb ischemia who are experiencing severe blood flow issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-ischemic conditions or those who do not have critical limb ischemia may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of specific types of endothelial cells, known as tip endothelial cells, to enhance blood vessel growth in patients suffering from critical limb ischemia (CLI). The approach involves deriving these cells from human induced pluripotent stem cells and testing their effectiveness in a mouse model of limb ischemia. The researchers will also utilize advanced biomaterial scaffolds to improve the survival of these cells after they are transplanted into the affected area. By focusing on the unique properties of tip endothelial cells, the study aims to find a more effective treatment for restoring blood flow and improving the quality of life for patients with CLI.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for restoring blood flow in patients with critical limb ischemia, potentially saving limbs and improving quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: While the use of stem cells in treating ischemic conditions has shown promise, the specific approach of using tip endothelial cells in this context is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, Merced
Merced, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mccloskey, Kara E — University of California, Merced
- Study coordinator: Mccloskey, Kara E
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.