Targeting specific cells to improve jaw joint health in older adults
Official title: Targeting P21 positive senescent cells for alleviating TMJ degeneration
Funded at University of Nebraska Medical Center · NIH-10892710 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain aging cells might be causing problems in the jaw joint, which affects many people, especially older adults and those who are overweight, and it hopes to find new ways to get rid of these cells to help reduce pain and improve jaw movement.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Nebraska Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Omaha, United States) |
| Project start | August 11, 2023 |
| Project end | August 10, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $307,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R56DE033004-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10892710 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults, particularly those who are obese and experiencing TMJ degeneration.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have TMJ degeneration or are not affected by obesity or advanced age may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of p21 positive senescent cells in the degeneration of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), a condition that affects millions of people, particularly the elderly and those with obesity. The study aims to understand how these cells contribute to joint deterioration and seeks to develop innovative therapies to eliminate them, potentially alleviating pain and improving joint function. By using advanced genetic techniques in animal models, researchers will explore the impact of these cells on joint health and the overall quality of life for affected individuals.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that significantly reduce pain and improve the quality of life for patients suffering from TMJ degeneration.
How similar studies have gone: While targeting senescent cells is a novel approach, preliminary research in related areas has shown promise in improving outcomes for age-related conditions.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Nebraska Medical Center
Omaha, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yadav, Sumit — University of Nebraska Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Yadav, Sumit
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.