Sex and race differences in jaw joint ligament structure and function
Tissue structure and mechanical function relationships of the human temporomandibular lateral capsule-ligament: Investigation of sexual and racial dimorphisms
This project looks at how the ligaments that support the jaw joint differ by sex and race to better understand risk for temporomandibular disorders in adults.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Rochester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rochester, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11199015 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
You would be part of research that examines the lateral capsule–ligament around the jaw joint using tissue samples from adults of different sexes and racial backgrounds. Researchers will measure tissue structure, mechanical stiffness, and biochemical properties such as fixed charge density in a lab. They will compare these measurements across sex and racial groups to see whether a "loose ligament" pattern links to disc derangement risk. The team uses mechanical testing and biochemical assays to build risk information that could make TMJ risk estimates more personalized.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates would be adults (21+) who can provide clinical information or tissue samples, including people across sexes and racial groups such as African American participants.
Not a fit: People looking for immediate relief from TMJ pain are unlikely to get direct benefit because this is laboratory research on tissue properties, not a treatment trial.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could help identify who is more likely to develop TMJ disc problems and support more personalized prevention or early-care approaches.
How similar studies have performed: Previous lab studies have reported sex differences in TMJ disc properties, but comparing ligament properties across racial groups is novel.
Where this research is happening
Rochester, United States
- University of Rochester — Rochester, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hill, Cherice Natasha — University of Rochester
- Study coordinator: Hill, Cherice Natasha
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.