Understanding how cells create strong collagen fibers in tissues
Official title: Unraveling the Mechanism of Mechanotransduction in Hierarchical Collagen Fiber Formation
Funded at Virginia Commonwealth University · NIH-11007216 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how cells make collagen fibers, which are important for keeping your tendons and ligaments strong, and it wants to understand how physical forces from your body can help improve healing and repair after injuries.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Virginia Commonwealth University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Richmond, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2023 |
| Project end | February 28, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $323,418 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AR082365-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11007216 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with injuries to tendons, ligaments, or similar musculoskeletal tissues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to collagen fiber formation or those who do not have musculoskeletal injuries may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how cells form collagen fibers, which are crucial for the strength and function of tissues like tendons and ligaments. It focuses on how mechanical signals from the environment influence the development of these fibers, particularly in response to physical forces. By studying the roles of specific proteins and ion channels in this process, the research aims to uncover new ways to enhance tissue repair and regeneration after injuries. The ultimate goal is to develop engineered solutions that can restore function in damaged musculoskeletal tissues.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for injuries to tendons and ligaments, enhancing recovery and mobility for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding collagen formation, but this approach is exploring novel mechanisms that have not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
-
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Puetzer, Jennifer — Virginia Commonwealth University
- Study coordinator: Puetzer, Jennifer
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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.