Investigating how environmental chemicals affect the development of hand osteoarthritis

Environmental Factors Associated with the Development of Osteoarthritis

NIH-funded research Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester · NIH-11055476

This study is looking at how certain chemicals found in everyday products might affect the development of hand osteoarthritis, with the goal of helping people understand who might be more at risk and finding better ways to manage the condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniv of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Worcester, United States)
Project IDNIH-11055476 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the role of per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which are chemicals found in many everyday products, in the development of hand osteoarthritis. The study aims to explore how these substances may contribute to inflammation and changes in bone metabolism that lead to this painful condition. By examining the long-term effects of PFAS exposure, the research seeks to identify populations that may be more susceptible to developing osteoarthritis. This could help inform public health policies and lead to new therapeutic strategies for managing the disease.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing symptoms of hand osteoarthritis, particularly those with known exposure to PFAS.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have hand osteoarthritis or have not been exposed to PFAS may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better prevention and treatment options for patients suffering from hand osteoarthritis.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have indicated a potential link between PFAS exposure and osteoarthritis, suggesting that this research could build on existing findings.

Where this research is happening

Worcester, 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 2026-06-13 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.