How bone marrow cells help clear dead cells and affect aging bones

Efferocytosis by Bone Marrow Stromal Cells and Bone Aging

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER · NIH-11032003

This study is looking at how special stem cells from bone marrow help clean up dead cells and how this affects bone health as we get older, with the goal of finding ways to keep our bones strong and healthy in later life.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER (nih funded)
Locations1 site (ROCHESTER, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11032003 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of bone marrow-derived stem cells in clearing dead cells and how this process affects bone health as we age. The study focuses on understanding how these cells, known as mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs), contribute to age-related bone loss and dysfunction. By examining the mechanisms of efferocytosis, where MSCs engulf and digest apoptotic cells, the research aims to uncover potential therapeutic strategies to improve bone maintenance and health in older adults.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who are experiencing age-related bone health issues.

Not a fit: Patients with acute bone injuries or conditions unrelated to aging may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance bone health and prevent age-related bone loss.

How similar studies have performed: While some preliminary studies have shown promise in understanding MSC functions, this specific approach to efferocytosis and its impact on bone aging is relatively novel.

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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.