Improving bone healing in older adults by adjusting the mechanical environment of bone cells
Official title: Tailoring of cellular mechanical microenvironments to rescue age-related impairments in bone regeneration
Funded at Boston University (Charles River Campus) · NIH-11080919 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the surroundings of bone cells can help them heal better, especially in older people, by creating special scaffolds that support bone growth and respond to movement, so we can find the best ways to help bones heal as we age.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston University (Charles River Campus) NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2022 |
| Project end | May 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $605,631 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG073671-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11080919 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing age-related bone healing impairments or injuries.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are younger or do not have age-related bone healing issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the mechanical environment around bone cells affects their ability to heal and regenerate bone, particularly in older individuals. It focuses on customizing the design of bioceramic scaffolds to enhance the responsiveness of bone cells to mechanical stimuli, which is crucial for effective healing. By comparing the responses of bone cells from young and older mice, the study aims to identify optimal conditions that can improve bone regeneration in aging populations. The approach involves advanced manufacturing techniques to create scaffolds that mimic the natural mechanical environment needed for bone healing.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for bone injuries in older adults, enhancing their recovery and quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in using mechanical cues to enhance bone healing, suggesting that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
Boston University (Charles River Campus)
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Morgan, Elise F — Boston University (Charles River Campus)
- Study coordinator: Morgan, Elise F
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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.