Investigating the role of a sodium channel in osteoarthritis

The Role of Sodium Channel Nav1.7 in Osteoarthritis

NIH-funded research Yale University · NIH-10928452

This study is looking at how a specific protein called Nav1.7 affects pain in people with osteoarthritis, and it hopes to find new ways to help manage joint pain and slow down the damage to cartilage.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionYale University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New Haven, United States)
Project IDNIH-10928452 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how the sodium channel Nav1.7 is involved in osteoarthritis, a common joint disease. By analyzing gene expression in osteoarthritis patients, researchers have identified Nav1.7 as a key molecule associated with pain sensitivity in this condition. The study aims to explore how blocking Nav1.7 can affect chondrocytes, the cells in cartilage, potentially leading to new therapeutic targets for managing osteoarthritis. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to innovative treatments aimed at slowing joint degeneration.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from osteoarthritis, particularly those experiencing significant joint pain.

Not a fit: Patients with osteoarthritis who do not experience pain or have other underlying conditions unrelated to Nav1.7 may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that effectively manage pain and slow the progression of osteoarthritis.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in targeting sodium channels for pain management, suggesting that this approach could be beneficial for osteoarthritis treatment.

Where this research is happening

New Haven, 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 2026-06-10 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.