Investigating pain and abnormal bone growth after injuries
Official title: ACVR1 sensory neuron-specific signaling in neuropathic pain and injury-induced heterotopic ossification
Funded at University of California, San Francisco · NIH-11061715 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain nerve cells cause pain and unusual bone growth after injuries or surgeries, especially in people with a genetic condition called Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva (FOP), to find better ways to help manage pain and stop this unwanted bone growth.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project start | September 20, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $106,611 |
| NIH project number | 3R01AR081964-02S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11061715 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
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.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without a history of musculoskeletal injuries or those not experiencing chronic pain may not benefit from this research.
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 models that mimic the pain response and bone changes seen in HO. Through this work, the researchers hope to identify new treatment strategies for managing pain and preventing unwanted bone growth.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that effectively alleviate pain and prevent abnormal bone growth in patients with musculoskeletal injuries.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research on the genetic mechanisms of Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva has shown promise in understanding pain and bone growth, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Francisco
San Francisco, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yu, Xiaobing — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Yu, Xiaobing
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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.