NIH-funded research R15 grant

How aging affects bone cell responses to mechanical stress

Official title: Aging Effects on Mechanoregulation of Osteocytes using Multiscale Multiphysics

Funded at University of Missouri Kansas City · NIH-10795452 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how getting older affects bone cells and their ability to handle physical stress, and it's designed for students and researchers who want to learn more about keeping our bones healthy as we age.

Quick facts

Grant typeR15 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Missouri Kansas City
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Kansas City, United States)
Project startJune 15, 2024
Project endMay 31, 2027
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$456,085
NIH project number1R15AG080524-01A1
Project IDNIH-10795452 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are older adults who are at risk for bone density loss or osteoporosis.

Less likely to help

Patients who are younger and have no risk factors for bone health issues may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates how aging impacts the ability of bone cells, specifically osteocytes, to respond to mechanical loading. By using advanced computer modeling and 3D printing techniques, the study aims to create detailed models that simulate how these cells react to physical stress over time. The research will involve both undergraduate and graduate students working alongside experienced researchers to explore the biological pathways activated in osteocytes due to mechanical strain. The ultimate goal is to understand the mechanisms behind bone health and formation as we age.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for maintaining bone health and preventing osteoporosis in aging populations.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding bone mechanobiology, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Missouri Kansas City
    Kansas City, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Ganesh, Thiagarajan — University of Missouri Kansas City
  • Study coordinator: Ganesh, Thiagarajan

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.