Combining existing drugs to treat a rare bone disease

Small molecules combination therapy using polypharmacology approach as a novel treatment paradigm for rare bone disease

NIH-funded research Nostopharma, LLC · NIH-10759694

This study is looking at a new way to treat Progressive osseous heteroplasia (POH), a rare bone disease, by using existing medications in a new combination to help reduce side effects and improve how your body forms bone, which could lead to a better quality of life for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeSbir 1 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNostopharma, LLC NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Potomac, United States)
Project IDNIH-10759694 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a new treatment for Progressive osseous heteroplasia (POH), a rare genetic bone disease with no current effective therapies. The approach involves repurposing existing small molecules and combining them to create a synergistic effect that can reduce dosage and toxicity. By targeting the Hedgehog signaling pathway, the research aims to alter the differentiation of mesenchymal progenitor cells, which are responsible for abnormal bone formation in soft tissues. Patients may benefit from a novel therapeutic option that could improve their quality of life.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Progressive osseous heteroplasia or similar rare bone disorders.

Not a fit: Patients with common bone diseases or those not diagnosed with Progressive osseous heteroplasia may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new, effective treatment option for patients suffering from Progressive osseous heteroplasia.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of repurposing drugs for rare diseases is gaining traction, this specific combination therapy targeting the Hedgehog pathway is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.

Where this research is happening

Potomac, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Bone Diseases
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.