How stiffness and surface texture affect cell behavior in intervertebral discs
Substrate Stiffness, Topography, and TRPV4 in AF Mechanotransduction
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · ROCHESTER INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY · NIH-11034644
This study is looking at how the hardness and texture of materials affect the cells in the part of your spine that helps with movement, which could help us understand how changes in this area might lead to back pain or disc problems.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | ROCHESTER INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (ROCHESTER, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11034644 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the stiffness and surface texture of materials influence the behavior of cells in the annulus fibrosus, which is part of the intervertebral disc. It focuses on a specific ion channel, TRPV4, that responds to these mechanical cues and plays a role in the synthesis and remodeling of the extracellular matrix. By understanding these interactions, the research aims to uncover how changes in the disc environment can affect cell function and contribute to conditions like low back pain and disc herniation. The study employs various experimental techniques to analyze cell responses to different substrate conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing low back pain or those at risk of intervertebral disc degeneration.
Not a fit: Patients with non-mechanical back pain or those without any intervertebral disc issues may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating low back pain and intervertebral disc disorders.
How similar studies have performed: While there has been limited research on TRPV4 in the context of intervertebral discs, studies on mechanotransduction in other tissues have shown promising results, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
ROCHESTER, UNITED STATES
- ROCHESTER INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY — ROCHESTER, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: WUERTZ-KOZAK, KARIN — ROCHESTER INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
- Study coordinator: WUERTZ-KOZAK, KARIN
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.