How the nerve enzyme Sarm1 affects bone strength
Sarm1 and neural regulation of bone
This work looks at whether blocking a nerve enzyme called Sarm1 can help bones stay stronger in people with diabetes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11232291 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project studies how a nerve enzyme called Sarm1 influences bone formation and strength, with a focus on diabetes-related bone fragility. Researchers use laboratory models and molecular tests to examine nerve signaling (including MAPK pathways) and metabolite changes linked to Sarm1 activity. They will compare genetic removal of Sarm1 and targeted Sarm1 inhibition to see if these approaches improve bone mass and mechanical strength in settings of chronic nerve stress. The team uses imaging, biochemical markers, and bone strength testing to connect nerve activity to bone health.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with diabetes who have low bone density, recent fractures, or signs of nerve damage would be the most relevant candidates for related clinical efforts.
Not a fit: People without diabetes or whose bone loss is driven solely by unrelated causes (for example, some hormonal or purely genetic conditions) may not benefit from Sarm1-focused approaches.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments that protect both nerve and bone health in people with diabetes and reduce fracture risk.
How similar studies have performed: Prior animal work showed that knocking out Sarm1 prevents bone fragility in diabetic mice and Sarm1 inhibitors are now in development, but human benefits have not yet been established.
Where this research is happening
Saint Louis, United States
- Washington University — Saint Louis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Scheller, Erica Lynn — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Scheller, Erica Lynn
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 below.