Understanding how collagen XII affects the structure and healing of Achilles tendons.
Official title: Regulatory Mechanisms of Collagen XII in Establishing Achilles Tendon Hierarchical Structure and Function in Postnatal Development and Healing
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10910875 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called collagen XII helps our Achilles tendons grow and heal, which could lead to better treatments for tendon injuries that people might face.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $48,974 |
| NIH project number | 5F31AR083255-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10910875 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with Achilles tendon injuries or conditions affecting tendon health.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with tendon injuries unrelated to collagen XII or those with chronic tendon conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of collagen XII in the development and healing of Achilles tendons. It focuses on how collagen XII interacts with other collagen types and the extracellular matrix to form the hierarchical structure of tendons. By studying knockout mice, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms by which collagen XII deficiency impacts tendon formation and recovery after injury. Patients may benefit from insights into tendon healing processes and potential therapeutic targets for tendon injuries.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for tendon injuries and enhance recovery strategies.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding collagen interactions can lead to advancements in tendon healing, indicating potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Distefano, Michael Steven — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Distefano, Michael Steven
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.