Understanding Jaw Joint Pain in Men and Women
Integrating craniofacial morphology, oral function, temporomandibular biomechanics and mechanobiology to determine sex-specific TMJ pathophysiology in humans
This research explores why temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, which cause jaw pain and dysfunction, affect more women than men.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Clemson University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Clemson, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11012349 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
We are looking into how the shape of the face and jaw, how the jaw moves, and the biology of the jaw joint disc contribute to TMJ disorders. Our goal is to understand the specific reasons why these conditions develop differently in men and women. We believe that differences in facial structure lead to different stresses on the jaw joint, which then affects the health of the joint's disc tissue. This work builds on previous findings in animal models that showed how mechanical forces influence the disc's health, and includes preliminary data from human subjects.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients experiencing temporomandibular disorders, particularly those with mechanical dysfunction of the jaw joint disc, are the focus of this research.
Not a fit: Patients whose jaw pain is not related to the temporomandibular joint or its disc may not directly benefit from this specific line of inquiry.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: This work could lead to a better understanding of the causes of TMJ disorders, especially why they affect women more, potentially guiding new and more effective treatments tailored to individuals.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research in animal models has shown that mechanical forces significantly impact the health of the jaw joint disc, providing a strong foundation for this human-focused work.
Where this research is happening
Clemson, United States
- Clemson University — Clemson, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yao, Hai — Clemson University
- Study coordinator: Yao, Hai
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.