Scientists test injecting skin cells to create tougher skin

NCT ID NCT01964859

Recruiting now Knowledge-focused Sponsor: Johns Hopkins University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study explores whether injecting special skin cells (fibroblasts) can change normal skin into the thicker skin found on palms and soles. Researchers will take a small skin sample, grow the cells in a lab, and inject them back into the skin. They will measure changes in cell size and firmness. The goal is to learn if this approach could help heal wounds or improve skin quality.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: autologous skin fibroblasts (with or without Bellafill filler)
What this could lead to: If successful, this could point toward a way to grow thicker, tougher skin for wound healing or skin repair.
What could go wrong: This is an early feasibility study with only 80 participants. It focuses on lab measurements, not clinical outcomes, so real-world benefits are uncertain.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

injury

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

WOUNDS AND INJURIES

Contacts and locations

Locations

Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Dermatology Department
RECRUITING

Baltimore, Maryland, 21287, United States

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