Understanding the causes and mechanisms of joint scarring after injury or surgery
Official title: Cellular origins and molecular mechanisms of arthrofibrosis
Funded at University of Southern California · NIH-11106056 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into why some people develop painful stiffness in their joints after ACL surgery, with the goal of finding new ways to help prevent or ease this condition without needing more surgery.
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 | May 2, 2025 |
| Project end | March 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $628,174 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AR085642-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11106056 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have undergone ACL reconstruction or similar knee surgeries and are experiencing persistent joint stiffness and pain.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not had knee surgery or do not suffer from joint stiffness or pain related to arthrofibrosis may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates arthrofibrosis, a condition characterized by excessive scar tissue formation in joints following injuries or surgeries, particularly focusing on anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) procedures. The study aims to uncover the cellular and molecular processes that lead to this debilitating condition, which causes painful limitations in joint movement. By examining the role of specific cells and inflammatory signals involved in scar tissue development, the research seeks to identify potential non-surgical treatments to prevent or alleviate arthrofibrosis. Patients suffering from joint stiffness and pain after ACL surgery may find this research particularly relevant.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that prevent or reduce painful joint scarring, improving recovery outcomes for patients.
How similar studies have gone: While there is ongoing research into joint scarring, this specific investigation into the cellular mechanisms of arthrofibrosis is relatively novel and aims to fill significant gaps in current knowledge.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Evseenko, Denis — University of Southern California
- Study coordinator: Evseenko, Denis
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.