Understanding nerve connections in knee and jaw pain
Innervation of the knee and TMJ
This study is looking at how certain nerve cells that cause long-lasting joint pain connect to different parts of the knee and jaw, with the hope of finding new ways to help people manage their pain as they age or deal with health issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gainesville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10608403 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how specific neurons that cause chronic joint pain connect to different tissues in the knee and temporomandibular joint (TMJ). By using advanced techniques like neural tracing and 3D imaging, the team aims to uncover how these nerve connections change with age and disease. The goal is to develop new therapies that can alleviate chronic joint pain by better understanding the relationship between nerve function and pain. Patients may benefit from innovative treatments that arise from this research.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing chronic pain in the knee or TMJ, particularly those affected by age-related changes or specific joint disorders.
Not a fit: Patients with acute joint injuries or those without chronic pain conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that significantly reduce chronic joint pain for patients.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in understanding nerve connections related to pain, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Gainesville, United States
- University of Florida — Gainesville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Allen, Kyle D — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Allen, Kyle D
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.