Understanding how the ACL behaves during movement and what increases injury risk
Official title: In vivo ACL mechanics and risk factors for injury
Funded at Duke University · NIH-11078244 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how the ACL behaves during activities like jumping and cutting to understand why injuries happen, especially for women and those who have hurt their ACL before, so we can find better ways to prevent and treat these injuries.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | April 23, 2024 |
| Project end | March 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $637,452 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AR082665-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11078244 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include athletes, particularly females and individuals with a history of ACL injuries, who are at higher risk for non-contact ACL injuries.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have already undergone ACL reconstruction and are not involved in high-risk activities may not benefit directly from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanics of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) during dynamic activities like jumping and cutting, which are common causes of ACL injuries. By using advanced 3-D modeling techniques, the study aims to identify specific risk factors that contribute to non-contact ACL injuries, particularly in populations at higher risk, such as females and individuals with previous ACL injuries. The research will analyze how the ACL elongates under tension during these movements, providing insights into injury vulnerability. This information could lead to better prevention strategies and rehabilitation protocols for those at risk of ACL injuries.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention and treatment strategies for ACL injuries, potentially reducing the incidence of these injuries and associated long-term complications like osteoarthritis.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding ACL mechanics and injury risk factors, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Duke University
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Defrate, Louis E. — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Defrate, Louis E.
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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.