How a specific gene affects bone health in women
Official title: Sexually dimorphic regulation of bone mass by the X-linked histone modifier KDM5C
Funded at Van Andel Research Institute · NIH-11170675 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific gene on the X chromosome affects bone health in women, especially in relation to osteoporosis, to help find better treatments for improving bone strength.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Van Andel Research Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Grand Rapids, United States) |
| Project start | August 19, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $633,147 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AR084693-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11170675 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are women who are at risk for osteoporosis or have experienced bone loss.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not female or those who do not have concerns related to bone health may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the KDM5C gene, which is linked to the X chromosome, in regulating bone mass specifically in females. The study aims to understand how the loss of this gene influences the function of bone cells called osteoclasts and their interaction with other bone cells. By exploring the genetic and epigenetic mechanisms involved, the researchers hope to uncover new insights into why women are more susceptible to osteoporosis and poorer treatment outcomes. The findings could lead to the development of targeted therapies to improve bone health in women.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve bone health and reduce the risk of osteoporosis in women.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding genetic factors can lead to significant advancements in treatment for conditions like osteoporosis, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Van Andel Research Institute
Grand Rapids, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yang, Tao — Van Andel Research Institute
- Study coordinator: Yang, Tao
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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.