Bone cell signals in 3D networks and how bones adapt to use
Official title: Role of Ca2+ Signaling by 3D Osteocyte Networks in Mechanoadaptive Response of the Bone Multicellular Unit
Funded at Syracuse University · NIH-11377639 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A study using a new bone-on-a-chip to see how bone cells communicate in 3D and drive bone remodeling after mechanical forces.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Syracuse University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Syracuse, United States) |
| Project start | August 15, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $329,708 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AR083466-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11377639 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates are individuals with or at risk for bone diseases where remodeling is disrupted, such as osteoporosis or fracture healing disorders.
✕Less likely to help
People without bone remodeling issues may not directly benefit from this basic mechanobiology study.
What this research studies
Researchers will use a novel BMU-chip to watch calcium signaling spread through 3D networks of osteocytes as bones feel fluid flow. They will test how this signaling changes with different flow patterns and how it influences the activity of bone-forming cells (osteoblasts) and bone-resorbing cells (osteoclasts). The project also examines what happens when 3D networks are disrupted and how that affects long-term bone remodeling. Findings could illuminate targets to improve bone healing after injury and to prevent bone loss.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: This work could lead to better strategies for enhancing bone repair and preventing osteoporosis by clarifying how mechanical signals guide bone remodeling.
How similar studies have gone: Preclinical models showing calcium signaling influences remodeling provide a basis for this approach, and the 3D BMU-chip represents a novel, more integrated system.
Where this research is happening
-
Syracuse University
Syracuse, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Soman, Pranav — Syracuse University
- Study coordinator: Soman, Pranav
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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.