Using stem cells from growth plate cartilage to heal injuries
Official title: Growth plate cartilage stem cells for skeletal repair after injury
Funded at Northeastern University · NIH-11000843 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how we can use special stem cells in the growth plate of bones to help heal injuries in kids and teens, especially for those with conditions like Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis (SCFE), to prevent future problems like arthritis.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northeastern University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | December 15, 2023 |
| Project end | November 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $495,173 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AR082426-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11000843 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include children and adolescents who have experienced growth plate injuries or conditions like SCFE.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with fully healed growth plates or those who do not have growth plate injuries may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how stem cells located in the growth plate cartilage can be mobilized to repair injuries, particularly in children and adolescents. The focus is on conditions like Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis (SCFE), which can lead to serious complications such as arthritis. By understanding the behavior of specific stem cell populations, the research aims to develop new therapies that promote cartilage regeneration and prevent further bone deformities. Patients may be involved in trials that explore these innovative treatment strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved healing of growth plate injuries, reducing the risk of long-term complications like arthritis in young patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using stem cells for cartilage repair, indicating that this approach may lead to significant advancements in treatment.
Where this research is happening
-
Northeastern University
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ionescu, Andreia M. — Northeastern University
- Study coordinator: Ionescu, Andreia M.
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.