Investigating pain and abnormal bone growth after injuries

ACVR1 sensory neuron-specific signaling in neuropathic pain and injury-induced heterotopic ossification

NIH-funded research University of California, San Francisco · NIH-10914940

This study is looking at how certain nerve cells might cause pain and unusual bone growth after injuries or surgeries, especially in people with a rare condition called Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva (FOP), to find better ways to help manage these issues.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Francisco NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Francisco, United States)
Project IDNIH-10914940 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the mechanisms behind debilitating pain and abnormal bone growth, known as heterotopic ossification (HO), that can occur after injuries or surgeries. By studying sensory neurons and their signaling pathways, particularly in patients with a genetic condition called Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva (FOP), the research aims to uncover how these neurons contribute to pain and bone formation. The approach involves using patient-derived stem cells to create sensory neurons in the lab, allowing researchers to explore their behavior and interactions in detail. This could lead to new insights into treating pain and HO effectively.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include adults with a history of traumatic injuries or orthopedic surgeries, particularly those experiencing chronic pain or abnormal bone growth.

Not a fit: Patients without a history of musculoskeletal injuries or those not experiencing chronic pain may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for managing pain and preventing abnormal bone growth in patients with musculoskeletal injuries.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research on genetic conditions like FOP has provided valuable insights, suggesting that this approach could yield significant findings in understanding pain and bone growth.

Where this research is happening

San Francisco, 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.