Finding genes that control bone-building and bone-resorbing cells to protect bone strength
Discovery of osteoblast and osteoclast bone mass effector genes using advanced genomics
Using advanced gene-mapping tools, researchers will find genes that control the bone-forming and bone-breaking cells to help people with low bone density or osteoporosis.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11326198 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
We combine large human genetic studies with lab experiments to learn which genes matter in osteoblasts (bone-making cells) and osteoclasts (bone-resorbing cells). The team will use techniques like ATAC-seq to find open DNA regions, 3C-based methods to map DNA interactions, and RNA-seq plus bioinformatics to link genetic signals to candidate genes. Promising genes will be tested in cells or model systems to see whether they change bone cell behavior. The aim is to identify targets that could guide future tests or treatments to prevent fractures and strengthen bone.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with low bone density, diagnosed osteoporosis, or a history of fragility fractures are the most relevant candidates to follow this research or join future related studies.
Not a fit: Those seeking an immediate new therapy should not expect direct medical benefit from this discovery-focused project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal new targets for medicines or tests to better prevent and treat osteoporosis and reduce fracture risk.
How similar studies have performed: Previous GWAS and genomic studies have linked many DNA regions to bone density, and this project applies newer sequencing and 3C-based methods to more directly connect those signals to specific genes.
Where this research is happening
Ann Arbor, United States
- University of Michigan at Ann Arbor — Ann Arbor, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hankenson, Kurt David — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Hankenson, Kurt David
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 below.