Using stem cells to improve blood flow in patients with severe leg ischemia
Applying induced pluripotent stem cell derived endothelial cells to regenerative therapy in chronic limb threatening ischemia
This study is testing a new way to help veterans with chronic limb threatening ischemia, a serious condition that can lead to losing a limb, by using special cells to improve blood flow and heal damaged blood vessels.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Veterans Health Administration NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Decatur, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11091415 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a new treatment for chronic limb threatening ischemia (CLTI), a severe form of peripheral arterial disease that affects many veterans. The approach involves using induced pluripotent stem cells to create endothelial cells, which are crucial for forming healthy blood vessels. By applying these stem cells, the research aims to enhance blood flow and potentially prevent limb loss in patients who currently have limited treatment options. The study will explore how these stem cells can be effectively used to regenerate damaged blood vessels and improve overall limb health.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are veterans suffering from chronic limb threatening ischemia who are not suitable for traditional surgical interventions.
Not a fit: Patients with mild peripheral arterial disease or those who are candidates for standard revascularization procedures may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a novel therapy that significantly improves blood flow and reduces the risk of limb loss for patients with severe ischemia.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using stem cell therapies for vascular diseases, indicating potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
Decatur, UNITED STATES
- Veterans Health Administration — Decatur, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hekman, Katherine Elizabeth — Veterans Health Administration
- Study coordinator: Hekman, Katherine Elizabeth
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.