Using special collagen scaffolds to help repair muscle-tendon injuries.
Aligned and electrically conductive collagen scaffolds for guiding innervated muscle-tendon junction repair of volumetric muscle loss injuries
This study is testing a new type of support structure that looks like the natural connections between muscles and tendons to help heal serious muscle injuries, and it could be a great option for people dealing with muscle loss.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11041128 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a tissue engineering scaffold that mimics the structure of muscle-tendon junctions to aid in the repair of volumetric muscle loss (VML) injuries. The approach involves creating a 3D aligned and electrically conductive collagen scaffold that supports the regeneration of both muscle and nerve tissues, which are often damaged in these injuries. By using bioreactor preconditioning of myogenic and neuronal cells, the study aims to enhance the healing process and restore muscle function more effectively. Patients with VML injuries may benefit from this innovative treatment that addresses both muscle and nerve damage.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced volumetric muscle loss injuries, particularly those involving damage to the muscle-tendon junction.
Not a fit: Patients with minor muscle injuries or those whose injuries do not involve the muscle-tendon junction may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve recovery and restore function for patients suffering from severe muscle injuries.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using biomaterials for muscle regeneration, indicating that this approach could lead to meaningful advancements in treatment.
Where this research is happening
Charlottesville, United States
- University of Virginia — Charlottesville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Caliari, Steven — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Caliari, Steven
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 below.