Mapping the nerve connections in the knee joint
Mapping the joint-nerve interactome of the knee
This study is looking at how the nerves in your knee work and change as you get older or if you have injuries or arthritis, using special imaging tools and samples from both mice and people, to help find better ways to relieve knee pain.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rush University Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10607479 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the sensory nerve connections in the knee joint using advanced imaging techniques and molecular profiling. By creating detailed 3D models of the knee's sensory innervation, the team aims to understand how these connections change with age, injury, and conditions like osteoarthritis. The study involves both mouse models and human samples to provide a comprehensive view of joint pain mechanisms. This information could lead to new strategies for pain relief and improved treatments for knee-related conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing knee pain due to aging, injury, or osteoarthritis.
Not a fit: Patients with knee conditions unrelated to sensory innervation or those who do not experience pain may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative pain management strategies for patients suffering from knee joint issues.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in mapping sensory innervation in other joints, suggesting potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, United States
- Rush University Medical Center — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Malfait, Anne-Marie — Rush University Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Malfait, Anne-Marie
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 below.