Investigating how a specific enzyme affects joint aging and osteoarthritis.
Official title: Role of Desumoylase SENP6 in Joint Aging and Osteoarthritis Development
Funded at Van Andel Research Institute · NIH-10609825 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific enzyme called SENP6 affects the aging of cartilage in our joints and contributes to osteoarthritis, with the goal of finding new ways to prevent or treat this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Van Andel Research Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Grand Rapids, United States) |
| Project start | July 15, 2019 |
| Project end | September 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $498,490 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG061086-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10609825 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are experiencing symptoms of osteoarthritis or are at risk for developing the condition.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are under 21 years old or those without any signs of joint aging or osteoarthritis may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of the enzyme SENP6 in the aging of joint cartilage and the development of osteoarthritis (OA). It aims to identify the mechanisms that lead to the senescence of articular chondrocytes, which are cells in the cartilage that contribute to inflammation and degeneration in OA. By exploring the pathways that cause these cells to age, the research seeks to develop new strategies for preventing or treating OA. The study utilizes data from genome-wide association studies to investigate the connections between SENP6 and OA.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that prevent or slow the progression of osteoarthritis, improving joint health for many patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting senescent cells to alleviate osteoarthritis symptoms, indicating that this approach may be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
Van Andel Research Institute
Grand Rapids, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yang, Tao — Van Andel Research Institute
- Study coordinator: Yang, Tao
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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.