Understanding jaw joint (TMJ) damage and pain
Mapping temporomandibular joint (TMJ) degeneration and pain
Researchers are using advanced imaging and single-cell methods in models of TMJ osteoarthritis to map what causes jaw pain and to explore Netrin‑1/Dcc as a possible treatment target for people with TMJ OA.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Southern California NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11324001 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project uses mouse models that mimic human TMJ osteoarthritis to study how the joint and its nerves change with disease. Scientists will use single-cell RNA and ATAC sequencing to identify which cells and genes change, and high-resolution 3‑D volume imaging to map nerve connections in the joint. They will trace nerve pathways and use chemogenetic tools to test how those nerves control pain-like behaviors. The team aims to validate the Netrin‑1/Dcc pathway as a potential target that could be used to develop future treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with TMJ osteoarthritis or chronic TMJ-related jaw pain are the population most likely to benefit from findings and could be future candidates for related clinical trials.
Not a fit: Because this is preclinical research done mainly in mice, individuals will not receive direct treatment now and people with jaw pain from unrelated causes may not benefit.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new targets for drugs or nerve-directed therapies to reduce TMJ pain and slow joint degeneration.
How similar studies have performed: Related single-cell and high-resolution imaging studies in other joints have revealed cell types and pathways linked to osteoarthritis pain, but applying these methods to TMJ and validating Netrin‑1/Dcc is relatively new.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, UNITED STATES
- University of Southern California — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chen, Jianfu — University of Southern California
- Study coordinator: Chen, Jianfu
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.