How different types of mast cells affect osteoarthritis
Official title: Impact of mast cell heterogeneity on Osteoarthritis
Funded at Tufts University Boston · NIH-10995974 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain immune cells called mast cells affect inflammation and joint damage in osteoarthritis, with the goal of finding new ways to treat this painful condition and help people feel better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Tufts University Boston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | August 15, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $452,437 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AG089881-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10995974 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with osteoarthritis, particularly those experiencing significant joint pain and inflammation.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with osteoarthritis who are not experiencing inflammation or those with other types of arthritis may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of mast cells in osteoarthritis (OA), a common and painful joint condition affecting millions. The study aims to understand how these immune cells contribute to inflammation and joint damage in OA. By examining the unique inflammatory environment in OA, the researchers hope to identify new treatment strategies that specifically target mast cell activity. This approach could lead to more effective therapies for managing OA symptoms and slowing disease progression.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that significantly improve the quality of life for patients with osteoarthritis.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that targeting specific immune cells can lead to improvements in other inflammatory conditions, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach to osteoarthritis.
Where this research is happening
-
Tufts University Boston
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zeng, Li — Tufts University Boston
- Study coordinator: Zeng, Li
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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.