Using stem cells to treat chronic pancreatitis and its pain
Safety and Efficacy of Mesenchymal Stem Cells in the Treatment of Chronic Pancreatitis and Its Associated Pain
This study is looking at whether mesenchymal stem cells can help people with chronic pancreatitis by reducing pain and inflammation, and if you join, you might receive these stem cell infusions to see if they can improve your comfort and overall well-being.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Medical University of South Carolina NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charleston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11066700 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) as a potential treatment for chronic pancreatitis, a condition that causes severe abdominal pain and often leads to opioid dependence. The study aims to explore how MSCs can reduce inflammation and pain by releasing beneficial factors that promote healing and reduce stress in the pancreas. Patients participating in this research may receive MSC infusions, which have shown promise in previous studies for alleviating chronic pain and improving quality of life.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from chronic pancreatitis who experience persistent abdominal pain and are seeking alternative treatment options.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have chronic pancreatitis or those with acute pancreatitis may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a safer, non-addictive alternative to opioids for managing chronic pain associated with pancreatitis.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with MSC therapy in reducing pain and inflammation in various conditions, indicating a potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
Charleston, United States
- Medical University of South Carolina — Charleston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wang, Hongjun — Medical University of South Carolina
- Study coordinator: Wang, Hongjun
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.