Effects of COVID-19 on bone health in different age groups

Impacts of SARS-CoV-2 Infection and Age on Musculoskeletal Health

NIH-funded research Indiana University Indianapolis · NIH-10891659

This study is looking at how COVID-19 affects bone health, especially in older adults, to find out if the virus causes bone loss and to help create ways to protect bones after infection.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionIndiana University Indianapolis NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Indianapolis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10891659 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how SARS-CoV-2 infection impacts musculoskeletal health, particularly focusing on bone metabolism and homeostasis. It aims to understand the long-term effects of COVID-19 on bone mass, especially in older adults who may be more vulnerable to severe infections. By studying animal models, the researchers will assess changes in bone density and the activity of bone-resorbing cells following infection. The ultimate goal is to develop treatment strategies to mitigate bone loss associated with COVID-19.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who have had a confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection, particularly older adults who may be at higher risk for bone health issues.

Not a fit: Patients who have not been infected with SARS-CoV-2 or those with pre-existing severe bone health conditions unrelated to COVID-19 may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that help prevent or reduce bone loss in patients who have recovered from COVID-19.

How similar studies have performed: Preliminary studies in animal models have shown significant changes in bone health following SARS-CoV-2 infection, indicating that this area of research is both relevant and potentially impactful.

Where this research is happening

Indianapolis, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.