Investigating the genetic factors behind rotator cuff tears

The Genetic Epidemiology of Rotator Cuff Tears: The cuffGEN Study

NIH-funded research University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11142023

This study is looking at how our genes might affect the chances of getting rotator cuff tears in the shoulder and how well different treatments, like surgery or physical therapy, work for people with this condition. If you have a rotator cuff tear and are interested in how genetics and other factors like weight might play a role in your recovery, this research could be for you!

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Ann Arbor, United States)
Project IDNIH-11142023 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the genetic predisposition to rotator cuff tears, a common cause of shoulder pain and disability. It aims to identify genetic variants associated with these tears and their impact on treatment outcomes. The study will involve a clinical trial with 700 patients, comparing the effectiveness of arthroscopic surgery versus physical therapy for treating atraumatic rotator cuff tears. By analyzing genetic data alongside patient outcomes, the research seeks to uncover the relationship between genetics, obesity, and fatty infiltration in rotator cuff muscles.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing shoulder pain due to atraumatic rotator cuff tears.

Not a fit: Patients with traumatic rotator cuff tears or those who do not have shoulder pain may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to personalized treatment strategies for patients with rotator cuff tears based on their genetic profiles.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in understanding genetic factors in other musculoskeletal conditions, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

Ann Arbor, 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.