Understanding joint degeneration and pain in the jaw
Official title: Mapping temporomandibular joint (TMJ) degeneration and pain
Funded at University of Southern California · NIH-11127779 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at the causes of pain and damage in the jaw joint (TMJ) by examining its tiny structures in detail, which could help find new ways to treat TMJ pain for people who suffer from it.
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 start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $571,329 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DE033511-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11127779 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing TMJ pain or degeneration, particularly those with osteoarthritis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without TMJ issues or those with other unrelated joint conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the degeneration and pain associated with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) by creating detailed maps of the joint's molecular and cellular structures. Using advanced imaging and single-cell technologies, the study aims to identify the underlying mechanisms of TMJ osteoarthritis (TMJOA) in mouse models that closely resemble human conditions. The findings could lead to the identification of new therapeutic targets for managing TMJ pain and degeneration.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for patients suffering from TMJ pain and degeneration.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using advanced imaging techniques to understand joint degeneration, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
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.