Understanding how certain molecules affect the health of spinal discs as we age
Official title: Role of Shh/Brachyury axis in the maintenance of the postnatal intervertebral disc
Funded at Hospital for Special Surgery · NIH-11051202 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain molecules help keep the discs in your spine healthy and how their decline as we age might lead to back pain, with the goal of finding new ways to treat these issues for adults dealing with chronic lower back pain.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Hospital for Special Surgery NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | June 17, 2021 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $535,177 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AR077145-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11051202 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults experiencing chronic lower back pain, particularly those over the age of 21.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute back injuries or those without any disc-related issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of specific developmental molecules in the growth and maintenance of intervertebral discs, which are crucial for spinal health. It focuses on how the decline of these molecules with age can lead to degenerative changes in the discs, resulting in chronic lower back pain, a common issue affecting many adults. The study employs advanced genetic mouse models and injury simulations to explore the functions of a key regulator, Brachyury, in maintaining disc health. By understanding these mechanisms, the research aims to uncover potential therapeutic targets for treating disc-related conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for chronic lower back pain by targeting the underlying causes of disc degeneration.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the molecular mechanisms of disc degeneration, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Hospital for Special Surgery
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dahia, Chitra L — Hospital for Special Surgery
- Study coordinator: Dahia, Chitra L
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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.