Analyzing cells in the fluid of jaw joints to understand pain in disorders
Official title: Single cell analysis of healthy and diseased temporomandibular joint synovial fluid
Funded at Thomas Jefferson University · NIH-11014240 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at jaw joint pain (TMJDs) to find out more about the cells and genes involved, so we can develop better treatments for people who suffer from this condition, and we need volunteers to share samples of their joint fluid and blood to help us with this research.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Thomas Jefferson University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $584,995 |
| NIH project number | 4UH3DE032204-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11014240 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation include individuals of all ages experiencing symptoms of temporomandibular joint disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without symptoms of TMJ disorders or those who have already undergone extensive treatment without improvement may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJDs), which cause significant pain and affect the quality of life for many individuals. By using advanced single cell RNA sequencing technology, the study aims to identify specific cell populations and gene expressions in the synovial fluid of both healthy individuals and those suffering from TMJDs. The goal is to uncover unique cellular markers associated with pain, which could lead to better-targeted therapies for patients. Participants will provide samples of synovial fluid and blood to help in this analysis.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of more effective treatments for TMJ disorders, improving pain management and quality of life for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research utilizing single cell RNA sequencing has shown promise in identifying disease mechanisms, suggesting potential success for this novel approach in TMJ disorders.
Where this research is happening
-
Thomas Jefferson University
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tomlinson, Ryan — Thomas Jefferson University
- Study coordinator: Tomlinson, Ryan
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.