Understanding how fetal immobility changes tendon properties to prevent limb deformities
Official title: Abnormal Tendon Mechanics Induced by Fetal Immobility
Funded at Univ of Maryland, College Park · NIH-11627989 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Researchers are studying why tendons in babies born with limited or no movement develop abnormally, aiming to improve treatments for limb deformities like arthrogryposis and clubfoot.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of Maryland, College Park NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (College Park, United States) |
| Project start | September 11, 2026 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $546,394 |
| NIH project number | 1R56AR086275-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11627989 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates are individuals with congenital limb deformities such as arthrogryposis or clubfoot, including those treated in childhood, who could contribute tissue samples or participate in related clinical studies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with limb deformities not related to fetal immobility or those without access to the related care pathways may see limited direct benefit.
What this research studies
This project looks at the way lack of fetal movement affects tendon material properties and contributes to congenital limb deformities. By focusing on energy storing and positional tendons and their collagen crosslinking, the study aims to uncover mechanisms that lead to persistent deformities and high relapse after bracing or surgery. The team at the University of Maryland will analyze how LOX-mediated crosslinks influence tendon development and respond to potential interventions. Findings could guide future therapies to improve outcomes for affected individuals across the lifespan.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the research could inform new treatments that better correct tendon properties and reduce relapse of limb deformities in affected children and adults.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work has shown the importance of tendon crosslinking in development, but this project targets a mechanistic gap specific to fetal immobility and LOX-mediated changes.
Where this research is happening
-
Univ of Maryland, College Park
College Park, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kuo, Catherine K. — Univ of Maryland, College Park
- Study coordinator: Kuo, Catherine K.
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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.