How jaw shape affects TMJ health in adults with Class II or Class III bite differences
ATTRACT: Assessment of Temporomandibular JoinT MoRphology, Mechanics, And Mechanobiology in Class II and III Target and Surgical Phenotypes
['FUNDING_U01'] · CLEMSON UNIVERSITY · NIH-11249563
This project looks at how differences in jaw shape change joint forces and tissue biology in adults with Class II or Class III bite differences to help explain TMJ pain and degeneration.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_U01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | CLEMSON UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (CLEMSON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11249563 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
If you join, the team will use 3-D imaging and measurements of jaw movement to see how bone shape changes the way forces are born by the temporomandibular joint. They will combine those mechanical measurements with laboratory studies of joint tissues and cells to understand how loading affects joint biology. The work includes people with Class II (retrognathism) and Class III (prognathism) jaw patterns and follows surgical patients to see how changing jaw shape alters joint mechanics and biology. Results will compare men and women and aim to explain why TMJ degeneration is more common in some groups.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults (21+) with Class II or Class III craniofacial/jaw skeletal differences, including those considering or having had orthognathic surgery, are ideal candidates.
Not a fit: People without jaw skeletal deformities (Class I occlusion), children under 21, or those unwilling/unable to attend imaging and clinic visits are unlikely to benefit directly from participation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could help predict who is at higher risk for TMJ degeneration and guide surgical planning or other treatments to protect joint health.
How similar studies have performed: Previous imaging and biomechanical studies have linked jaw shape to TMJ problems, but combining detailed mechanics with tissue-level biology in surgical patients is relatively new.
Where this research is happening
CLEMSON, UNITED STATES
- CLEMSON UNIVERSITY — CLEMSON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: YAO, HAI — CLEMSON UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: YAO, HAI
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.