How sensory nerves affect the healing of growth plate injuries in children

Sensory nerve regulation of growth plate repair

NIH-funded research Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11061326

This study is looking at how nerves help kids heal from growth plate injuries, which can cause problems with bone growth, and aims to find ways to make that healing better.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJohns Hopkins University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project IDNIH-11061326 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how sensory nerves influence the healing process of growth plate injuries in children, which are common and can lead to serious complications like impaired bone growth. The study aims to understand the molecular mechanisms behind this interaction by using advanced techniques such as single-cell RNA sequencing to analyze how sensory neurons communicate with skeletal tissues after an injury. By uncovering these mechanisms, the research seeks to identify potential therapeutic targets that could improve healing outcomes for affected children.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years who have experienced growth plate injuries.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have growth plate injuries or are older than 11 years may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance the healing of growth plate injuries, preventing long-term complications in children.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in understanding the role of sensory nerves in bone healing, suggesting that this approach could lead to significant advancements in treatment.

Where this research is happening

Baltimore, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.