NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Improving bone health and healing after spinal cord injury

Official title: The Blockade of Siglec-15 as a Novel Approach to Improve Skeletal Integrity and Fracture Healing in Chronic SCI

Funded at James J Peters VA Medical Center · NIH-11071958 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is testing a new treatment to help people with chronic spinal cord injuries keep their bones strong and heal better after fractures by using a special antibody that targets specific bone cells, and it aims to make life easier and safer for those affected.

More Fracture research and trials

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJames J Peters VA Medical Center
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Bronx, United States)
Project startApril 1, 2024
Project endMarch 31, 2028
Funding year2025
NIH project number5I01RX004553-02
Project IDNIH-11071958 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with chronic spinal cord injuries who are at risk for bone loss and fractures.

Less likely to help

Patients who do not have spinal cord injuries or those with acute injuries may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates a new treatment approach to prevent bone loss and improve fracture healing in individuals with chronic spinal cord injury (SCI). It focuses on using an anti-Siglec-15 antibody to selectively inhibit the activity of certain bone cells involved in bone resorption, while preserving the cells that promote bone formation. By targeting this specific pathway, the research aims to enhance skeletal integrity and reduce the risk of fractures, which can significantly impact the quality of life for patients. The study will involve evaluating the safety and effectiveness of this treatment in a clinical setting.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a novel therapy that significantly reduces fracture risk and improves bone health in patients with spinal cord injuries.

How similar studies have gone: While the approach of targeting Siglec-15 is relatively novel, similar strategies in bone health management have shown promise in other contexts, suggesting potential for success.

Where this research is happening

  • James J Peters VA Medical Center
    Bronx, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Qin, Weiping — James J Peters VA Medical Center
  • Study coordinator: Qin, Weiping

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.