Why Knee Arthritis Affects Men and Women Differently with Age
Sex Dimorphism in Age-Related Knee Osteoarthritis
['FUNDING_R01'] · SPAULDING REHABILITATION HOSPITAL · NIH-11191563
This research explores why knee arthritis often affects older women more severely than men, looking at genetic and hormonal factors.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | SPAULDING REHABILITATION HOSPITAL (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (CHARLESTOWN, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11191563 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
We know that knee arthritis, or osteoarthritis, often gets worse for women as they get older, but we don't fully understand why. This project aims to uncover if these differences are due to genetics, hormones, or a combination of both. Researchers will look closely at the tiny environment around cartilage cells, including fluids and the stiffness of surrounding tissues, to see how these factors contribute to arthritis development. They will use innovative lab models and advanced computer analysis to understand these complex interactions in both men and women.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research focuses on understanding the underlying causes of age-related knee osteoarthritis, particularly the differences between sexes.
Not a fit: Patients whose knee pain is not related to age-related osteoarthritis or sex-specific factors may not directly benefit from this specific line of inquiry.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could lead to new ways to prevent or treat knee osteoarthritis, especially for women.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific mechanisms of sex- and age-dependent KOA pathogenesis are still being clarified, previous research has highlighted sex differences in osteoarthritis prevalence and severity.
Where this research is happening
CHARLESTOWN, UNITED STATES
- SPAULDING REHABILITATION HOSPITAL — CHARLESTOWN, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: AMBROSIO, FABRISIA — SPAULDING REHABILITATION HOSPITAL
- Study coordinator: AMBROSIO, FABRISIA
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.