NIH-funded research R01 grant

How the structure of tendon tissue affects inflammation

Official title: Extracellular Matrix Regulation of Inflammatory Signaling in Tendon

Funded at University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11067850 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how the structure of tendon tissue affects inflammation in people with tendon pain, using special lab techniques to better understand how these changes might help improve treatments for tendon injuries.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Michigan at Ann Arbor
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Ann Arbor, United States)
Project startApril 5, 2024
Project endJanuary 31, 2029
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$332,904
NIH project number5R01AR083343-02
Project IDNIH-11067850 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing tendinopathy or related musculoskeletal issues.

Less likely to help

Patients with acute tendon injuries or those not experiencing any tendon-related symptoms may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between the extracellular matrix (ECM) of tendon tissue and inflammatory signaling in tendinopathy. By using advanced 3D cell culture techniques, the study aims to understand how the stiffness of the ECM influences the inflammatory response of tendon cells. The researchers will analyze patient-derived fibroblasts to observe their behavior in a more realistic environment that mimics the conditions in the body. This approach could provide insights into the mechanisms behind tendon injuries and chronic pain, potentially leading to improved treatment strategies.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and treatment options for patients suffering from tendon injuries and related inflammatory conditions.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding tendon behavior through 3D culture models, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
    Ann Arbor, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Abraham, Adam Christopher — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
  • Study coordinator: Abraham, Adam Christopher

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.