How aging affects bone-resorbing cells and bone health

The impact of age-related changes in osteoclast function on the skeleton

NIH-funded research Mayo Clinic Rochester · NIH-11078811

This study is looking at how aging affects the cells that break down bone, to help find new ways to prevent bone loss and encourage new bone growth, which could be really helpful for people with osteoporosis.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMayo Clinic Rochester NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Rochester, United States)
Project IDNIH-11078811 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how age-related changes in osteoclast function impact bone health, particularly focusing on the balance between bone resorption and formation. The study aims to understand the functional diversity of osteoclasts, which are cells responsible for breaking down bone, and how their activity shifts with age. By exploring the mechanisms behind these changes, the research seeks to identify new treatment strategies that can reduce bone loss while promoting new bone formation, potentially leading to better management of osteoporosis.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing age-related bone loss or those at risk for osteoporosis.

Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 21 or those without age-related bone health issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments that prevent osteoporosis-related fractures and improve bone health in older adults.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding osteoclast function and its implications for bone health, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Rochester, 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 2026-06-13 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.