Mitochondrial Dysfunction as a Link Between Cartilage Injury and Osteoarthritis

Principal Investigator: Michelle Lee Delco, DVM

Department of Clinical Sciences
Sponsor: NIH-National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS)
Grant Number: 3K08AR068470-03S1
Title: Mitochondrial Dysfunction as a Link Between Cartilage Injury and Osteoarthritis
Project Amount: $1,000
Project Period: December 2018 to May 2019

DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): 

After joint injury, clinical signs of arthritis (pain and dysfunction) often lag years or decades behind irreversible cartilage destruction, at which time only palliative treatment can be offered. In this project, we will study the role of mitochondria in the initiation of injury-induced arthritis and test mitoprotective drugs to restore mitochondrial function and prevent cartilage loss. The goal is to develop new strategies to target and stabilize mitochondria after traumatic  joint injury, halt disease progression, and prevent chronic pain and disability.

This supplement will enable Dr. Delco to attend the NIAMS Forum for Clinical Mentored K Awardees.