Understanding how DNA damage and aging contribute to osteoarthritis

Role of DNA damage and cellular senescence in osteoarthritis pathophysiology

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIV OF NORTH CAROLINA CHAPEL HILL · NIH-11077817

This study is looking at how damage to DNA and aging cells in your joints might lead to osteoarthritis, especially as we get older, and it aims to find ways to fix this damage and improve treatments for the condition.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIV OF NORTH CAROLINA CHAPEL HILL (nih funded)
Locations1 site (CHAPEL HILL, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11077817 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of DNA damage and cellular aging in the development of osteoarthritis (OA), a common joint condition that worsens with age. It focuses on how senescent cells in joint tissues contribute to OA and aims to identify the triggers that lead to cellular senescence over decades. The study employs various methodologies, including assays to measure DNA damage in joint cells from both young and older donors, and explores potential treatments that could enhance DNA repair mechanisms. By understanding these processes, the research seeks to uncover new therapeutic targets for OA.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing symptoms of osteoarthritis or those at risk due to age-related factors.

Not a fit: Patients who are younger and do not have any signs of osteoarthritis or related joint issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that slow down or prevent the progression of osteoarthritis in aging populations.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of DNA damage in aging and related diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

CHAPEL HILL, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.