Understanding how tendon-bone connections grow and respond to movement
FGF signaling during growth and mechanical adaptation of tendon-bone interfaces
This research explores how a specific growth factor helps tendon-bone connections develop and stay strong, especially when muscles are used.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11116931 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies rely on strong connections where tendons meet bones to transfer muscle power to the skeleton. When muscles aren't used enough, these connections can weaken, leading to problems with growth and even deformities. We are looking at a natural substance called FGF9, which seems to play a key role in how these tendon-bone connections form and grow. By studying this in special mouse models, we hope to learn exactly how FGF9 influences these connections and how they respond to mechanical forces.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Future patients who experience issues with tendon-bone growth, healing, or skeletal deformities due to muscle loading problems might ultimately benefit from this foundational knowledge.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment or direct clinical intervention will not directly benefit from this basic science research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to prevent or treat skeletal deformities and improve the strength of tendon-bone connections in people.
How similar studies have performed: Preliminary findings from this team have already shown strong indications that FGF9 negatively regulates the size of tendon-bone interfaces in embryonic mice.
Where this research is happening
Ann Arbor, United States
- University of Michigan at Ann Arbor — Ann Arbor, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Killian, Megan L. — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Killian, Megan L.
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 below.