Mechanisms of joint damage in osteoarthritis
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Mechanisms of joint damage in osteoarthritis
IRAS ID
230469
Contact name
Mohammed Sharif
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Bristol
Duration of Study in the UK
10 years, 0 months, 0 days
Research summary
Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common chronic joint disease causing substantial pain and disability and it is becoming increasingly more prevalent as the population ages. Early diagnosis and new drugs to halt/slow down progression of OA remains critical unmet need in OA research. We propose to analyse structural, biochemical and histological differences between joint tissues from patients with OA and healthy controls to determine the precise mechanisms of joint tissue damage in OA. The results of these studies will be used to develop biochemical and histological signatures for OA, and identify new targets for development of OA specific markers and drugs. The OA signatures will be used to develop a human cartilage on bone ex vivo model which will overcome many of the fundamental limitations of currently available animal and in vitro models. The new model of OA will advance the field by providing a human tissue-based model that closely reflect the joint structure biomechanics and, physiological and pathological response. Moreover, the model will enhance our ability to test a wide range of pre-clinical therapeutics directly in human tissue so that the best candidate therapies can be identified for subsequent clinical study. We will also use the new model for validation and discovery of biomarkers specific for OA to help with early diagnosis and more effective management of the condition.
REC name
West of Scotland REC 5
REC reference
17/WS/0217
Date of REC Opinion
19 Oct 2017
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion