How gut bacteria and prunes can help prevent bone loss from steroid use
Official title: Critical Role of the Gut Microbiota in Prunes’ Prevention of Glucocorticoid Induced Osteoporosis
Funded at Michigan State University · NIH-10885923 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how eating prunes might help keep your bones strong and support healthy gut bacteria for people taking glucocorticoids, which are often used to treat different health issues and can lead to osteoporosis.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Michigan State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (East Lansing, United States) |
| Project start | July 6, 2023 |
| Project end | July 5, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $52,637 |
| NIH project number | 5F30AT012416-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10885923 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are prescribed glucocorticoids and are at risk for osteoporosis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not using glucocorticoids or those with pre-existing severe osteoporosis may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of gut microbiota in preventing osteoporosis caused by glucocorticoids, a common treatment for various conditions. It explores how prunes, a natural fruit, can positively influence gut bacteria and promote bone health. By studying the effects of prunes on bone density and the gut microbiome, the research aims to identify a cost-effective and low-side-effect alternative to current osteoporosis treatments. Patients may be involved in trials assessing the impact of prunes on bone health and gut bacteria composition.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a natural and effective way to prevent bone loss in patients using glucocorticoids.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in using dietary interventions like prunes to improve bone health, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Michigan State University
East Lansing, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chargo, Nicholas — Michigan State University
- Study coordinator: Chargo, Nicholas
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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.