Using cell therapy to repair damaged spinal discs
Anti-inflammatory Cell Based Repair of Intervertebral Disc Degeneration
This study is exploring a new way to help people with back pain caused by worn-out discs by using special cells from bone marrow to help heal those discs, aiming to provide a lasting solution instead of just masking the pain.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10901996 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates a new approach to treating discogenic back pain, which is caused by degeneration of the intervertebral discs. The study focuses on using bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) to restore the structure and function of these discs. By understanding how to reduce inflammation and enhance the healing environment for these cells, the research aims to improve the effectiveness of MSC transplantation in repairing damaged discs. Patients may benefit from a potential regenerative therapy that addresses the underlying cause of their back pain rather than just alleviating symptoms.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from chronic back pain due to intervertebral disc degeneration.
Not a fit: Patients with back pain not related to disc degeneration or those who have already undergone extensive surgical interventions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments that restore disc health and significantly reduce back pain for patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in using stem cell therapies for disc repair, indicating that this approach may be viable.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Columbia University Health Sciences — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chahine, Nadeen O. — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Chahine, Nadeen O.
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.