Brain signals that help bones stay strong as we age
Official title: Determining the Role of Brain-Derived CCN3 in Bone and Marrow Fat Metabolism
Funded at Stanford University · NIH-11583166 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A doctor-scientist at Stanford is studying a brain-made chemical called CCN3 and how it helps bones stay healthy and bone marrow fat change as we age and during menopause.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project start | July 15, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $169,992 |
| NIH project number | 7K08DK133674-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11583166 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates are adults, especially older individuals and those undergoing menopause or metabolic challenges, who may benefit from therapies targeting brain-bone communication.
✕Less likely to help
Individuals without risk of osteoporosis or bone density loss may see indirect benefits but may not be the primary target of this research.
What this research studies
This project looks at how CCN3 produced in the brain may influence bone formation and marrow fat, especially during aging and when metabolism changes. The research combines lab experiments with studies in animals to understand how brain signals affect bones and fat in the marrow. The goal is to lay the groundwork for therapies that boost bone strength and_reduce fracture risk by targeting brain-bone communication. The study also supports Dr. Babey’s career development as an independent clinician-scientist focused on neuroendocrine control of skeletal health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new brain-based strategies to improve bone density and reduce fractures in aging and menopausal populations.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work has shown brain-derived factors can influence bone formation, suggesting this approach is promising but still exploratory.
Where this research is happening
-
Stanford University
Stanford, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Babey, Muriel — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Babey, Muriel
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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.