Understanding how bone and cartilage work together in osteoarthritis
Official title: Osteocyte-dependent mechanisms of bone cartilage crosstalk in osteoarthritis
Funded at University of California, San Francisco · NIH-10727267 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the cartilage and the bone underneath it work together in people with osteoarthritis and joint pain, hoping to find new ways to diagnose and treat the condition, while also figuring out if focusing on certain bone cells can help protect your joints and make you feel better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $408,669 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AR083065-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10727267 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals at risk for osteoarthritis, particularly those experiencing joint pain or with genetic predispositions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced osteoarthritis or those who do not have joint pain may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the interaction between cartilage and subchondral bone in the context of osteoarthritis (OA) and joint pain. It aims to uncover the cellular and molecular mechanisms that govern this interaction, which could lead to new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. By utilizing advanced imaging techniques and genetic analysis, the study seeks to identify biomarkers that can predict OA progression and pain. The research team will also explore how targeting osteocytes may help prevent joint damage and improve patient outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new ways to diagnose and treat osteoarthritis, potentially reducing pain and improving joint function for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using imaging and genetic markers to understand osteoarthritis, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Francisco
San Francisco, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Akbas Kaya, Ayse Serra — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Akbas Kaya, Ayse Serra
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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.