Molecular patterns behind TMJ pain and dysfunction
Local and Systemic Multi-Omics of TMJ Disorders
This project looks at blood and jaw-tissue molecular patterns to tell different types of TMJ pain apart and help guide better diagnosis and treatment for people with jaw pain.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11194523 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers will collect blood and local jaw joint samples and use single-cell and multi-omic tests to map cells and molecular signals both in the joint and throughout the body. They will enroll people with different TMJ problems—such as disc displacement, degenerative changes, and joint pain—and compare those who also have related conditions like headaches or fibromyalgia. By linking these molecular patterns with symptoms and imaging, the team aims to define clearer subtypes of TMJ disorders. The work focuses on finding biomarkers and cell networks that could point to more precise treatment approaches.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults with diagnosed TMJ disorders (disc problems, degenerative changes, or TMJ arthralgia), including those who also have headaches or fibromyalgia.
Not a fit: People without TMJ symptoms, those whose jaw problems are due to recent trauma or unrelated dental issues, or anyone unable to provide biosamples or attend clinic visits are unlikely to benefit directly.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could produce biomarkers and clearer diagnostic categories that enable more personalized and effective treatments for TMJ pain.
How similar studies have performed: Multi-omic and single-cell approaches have shown promise in related joint and pain conditions, but applying them to TMJ disorders at both local and systemic levels is relatively new.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, United States
- University of California Los Angeles — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kapila, Sunil D — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Kapila, Sunil D
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.