New treatments for abnormal bone growth after injuries

Small RNA Targeting Approaches to Advance Treatments for Heterotopic Ossification

NIH-funded research Washington University · NIH-10997647

This study is looking at a condition called heterotopic ossification, where bone grows in places it shouldn't after injuries or surgeries, and it aims to find new treatments using tiny molecules to help people who are dealing with this painful issue.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWashington University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Saint Louis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10997647 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on heterotopic ossification (HO), a condition where bone forms in soft tissues after injuries or surgeries. The team will investigate small RNA molecules, such as microRNA and siRNA, to develop nanoparticle-based therapies that could effectively treat HO. By using a mouse model that mimics trauma-induced HO, they aim to understand the underlying mechanisms and identify new therapeutic targets. This approach could lead to innovative treatments for patients suffering from this debilitating condition.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced high-impact trauma or orthopedic surgeries that may lead to heterotopic ossification.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of trauma or orthopedic surgeries are unlikely to benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide new, effective therapies for patients with heterotopic ossification, improving their recovery and quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using small RNA targeting approaches for various conditions, suggesting potential success for this novel application in treating heterotopic ossification.

Where this research is happening

Saint Louis, 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.
Conditions Burn injury
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.