Investigating how bones grow in children using advanced imaging techniques

Understanding Skeletal Growth Using Diffusion Tensor Imaging of the Physis and Metaphysis

NIH-funded research Columbia University Health Sciences · NIH-11061327

This study is looking at how children's bones grow, especially in the knee, using a special imaging technique to help doctors better understand which kids might need treatment for growth issues.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionColumbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-11061327 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding skeletal growth in children by using a novel imaging technique called diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) to assess the growth plate in the knee. By serially evaluating changes in the growth plate, the study aims to improve clinical decision-making for children with conditions that may lead to short stature. The approach allows for more accurate predictions of growth potential and responses to growth hormone therapy, which is crucial for identifying which children may benefit from treatment. The research seeks to fill existing gaps in knowledge regarding bone growth and the effectiveness of current treatment methods.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years who are experiencing growth-related issues or conditions that may lead to short stature.

Not a fit: Patients who are older than 11 years or do not have any growth-related concerns may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate assessments of growth potential in children, enabling better-targeted treatments for those with growth deficiencies.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise with advanced imaging techniques in assessing bone growth, but this specific approach using DTI is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

New York, 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 2026-06-09 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.