How gut bacteria affect bone strength

The Microbiome and Bone Strength

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO · NIH-11041137

This study is looking at how the bacteria in your gut might affect the strength of your bones, and it’s for people of all ages who want to learn more about how their gut health can influence their bone quality.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11041137 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between the gut microbiome and bone strength, focusing on how changes in gut bacteria can influence bone tissue quality. The study aims to identify specific microbial taxa that affect bone strength and understand the mechanisms linking gut health to bone quality. By examining different age groups and stages of skeletal maturity, the research seeks to uncover how these factors interact to impact bone health. Patients may be involved in assessments that explore their microbiome and bone health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who are interested in understanding the impact of their gut health on bone strength.

Not a fit: Patients with pre-existing severe bone diseases or those who are not able to provide microbiome samples may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new microbiome-based therapies that improve bone strength and reduce the risk of fractures.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results linking the microbiome to bone health, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights.

Where this research is happening

SAN FRANCISCO, 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.