Understanding the structure and development of the human knee and pelvis at a cellular level
Official title: Molecular architecture of the human knee joint and pelvis at single cell resolution
Funded at Harvard University · NIH-11057513 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the knee and pelvis form in our bodies by exploring the tiny building blocks of these bones, which could help improve treatments for joint issues and developmental problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Harvard University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cambridge, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $666,865 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AR081274-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11057513 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with joint disorders or those interested in regenerative medicine related to the knee and pelvis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with fully developed and healthy knee and pelvic joints may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the complex three-dimensional structures of the human knee and pelvis, focusing on how these skeletal components develop at the cellular level. By examining the differentiation and proliferation of cells during the early stages of development, the study aims to uncover the relationships between various tissue types and their spatial arrangements. Utilizing advanced techniques such as ATAC sequencing, researchers will analyze the genetic and molecular factors that guide the formation of these critical joints, which are essential for human movement. This work is particularly relevant for advancing regenerative therapies and understanding developmental disorders affecting the skeleton.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for joint disorders and enhanced regenerative therapies for knee and pelvic injuries.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding joint development and function through similar genomic approaches, indicating a promising avenue for this investigation.
Where this research is happening
-
Harvard University
Cambridge, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Capellini, Terence D — Harvard University
- Study coordinator: Capellini, Terence 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.