Using cell therapy to repair damaged spinal discs
Anti-inflammatory Cell Based Repair of Intervertebral Disc Degeneration
This study is looking at how to use special cells called mesenchymal stem cells to help heal back pain caused by worn-out discs, and it's for anyone dealing with this common issue, as it aims to make these treatments work better in tough conditions.
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-11194142 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on treating discogenic back pain, a common cause of disability, by exploring the use of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) to repair degenerative changes in intervertebral discs. The approach involves understanding how to enhance the anti-inflammatory responses of these cells in a challenging environment characterized by inflammation and biomechanical instability. By investigating the interactions between MSCs, macrophages, and mechanical loading, the research aims to improve the effectiveness of cell-based therapies for spinal disc repair.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing chronic back pain related to intervertebral disc degeneration who have not responded well to conventional treatments.
Not a fit: Patients with acute back pain or those whose conditions are not related to intervertebral disc degeneration may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for patients suffering from debilitating back pain due to disc degeneration.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using stem cell therapies for tissue repair, suggesting that this approach could yield beneficial results.
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.