Improving the preservation of TMJ disc allografts for better surgical options
Official title: Optimizing Ice-free Cryopreservation for Efficient Banking of Fresh TMJ Disc Allografts
Funded at Medical University of South Carolina · NIH-10998159 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a way to better preserve tissue used in surgeries for people with jaw joint problems, so that it stays safe and effective for longer, which could help improve recovery for patients needing surgery.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Medical University of South Carolina NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charleston, United States) |
| Project start | January 31, 2025 |
| Project end | January 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $57,774 |
| NIH project number | 1F30DE033914-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10998159 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from TMJ disorders, particularly those experiencing disc degeneration who may require surgical intervention.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with TMJ disorders who do not require surgical treatment or those who are not candidates for allograft procedures may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the preservation of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disc allografts, which are crucial for patients suffering from TMJ disorders. The study aims to optimize a method called vitrification, which prevents ice crystal formation during the freezing process, thereby maintaining the integrity of the allografts. By using a special cocktail of cryoprotectants, the research seeks to extend the storage life of these allografts, making them a viable option for surgical replacement. This could lead to improved outcomes for patients requiring TMJ surgery.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide patients with safer and more effective surgical options for TMJ disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success with similar approaches in other joint allografts, indicating potential for this method to be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
Medical University of South Carolina
Charleston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mueller, Dustin — Medical University of South Carolina
- Study coordinator: Mueller, Dustin
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.