Identifying genes that influence bone density and strength in children
Official title: Genomics of bone and body composition traits in children
Funded at Children's Hosp of Philadelphia · NIH-10889956 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our genes influence bone health in kids, helping us understand how to keep their bones strong and healthy as they grow up, which could prevent problems like osteoporosis later in life.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Children's Hosp of Philadelphia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | August 7, 2020 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $645,621 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HD100406-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10889956 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include children and adolescents who are in the critical stages of bone development.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are already experiencing significant bone health issues or are adults may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to uncover the genetic factors that affect bone density, quality, and strength during childhood, a crucial period for establishing lifelong musculoskeletal health. By using advanced techniques like dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and genome-wide genotyping, the study will analyze how genetics and body composition interact to influence bone accrual. The findings could lead to better understanding and prevention of bone-related issues later in life, such as osteoporosis.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing bone fragility and osteoporosis in later life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding genetic influences on bone health, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.
Where this research is happening
-
Children's Hosp of Philadelphia
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zemel, Babette S — Children's Hosp of Philadelphia
- Study coordinator: Zemel, Babette S
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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.