Genes that affect bone density and strength
Causal Genes at BMD Loci
Researchers will use fast experiments in zebrafish to find genes that change bone density and that could help adults with brittle bones.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11384223 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project combines human genetic findings with rapid lab experiments in zebrafish to figure out which genes control bone mass and quality. Scientists start with regions of the human genome tied to low bone mineral density and use CRISPR-based methods in zebrafish to test many candidate genes quickly. The goal is to map which genes alter bone development or strength and understand how they work. Results may point to new targets for drugs that build bone and prevent fractures.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults with osteoporosis or low bone density, especially those willing to share genetic data or join bone-health research cohorts, are the most relevant people for this work.
Not a fit: People seeking immediate treatment, children, pregnant women, or those whose fractures are due to acute injury rather than weakened bone are unlikely to get direct benefit from this gene-discovery project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new drug targets that increase bone mass and reduce fracture risk for people with osteoporosis.
How similar studies have performed: Large human genetics studies have found many bone-density signals and some animal studies confirmed specific genes, but wide-scale zebrafish CRISPR screening of many BMD candidates is a relatively new, high-throughput approach.
Where this research is happening
Seattle, United States
- University of Washington — Seattle, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kwon, Ronald Y — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Kwon, Ronald Y
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.