Improving bone health by targeting specific receptors in bone cells
Official title: Modifying the mechanotransduction of bone by targeting purinergic receptors
Funded at Henry Ford Health System · NIH-10900816 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how bone cells react to physical stress and how we can improve this response to help prevent osteoporosis and fractures in older adults by focusing on a specific receptor in the cells.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Henry Ford Health System NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Detroit, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2020 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $321,167 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AR076378-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10900816 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old, particularly those at risk for osteoporosis or age-related bone loss.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not experiencing bone health issues or are under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how bone cells, specifically osteocytes, respond to mechanical stress and how this response can be enhanced by targeting purinergic receptors, particularly the P2Y2 receptor. By understanding the role of purinergic signaling in bone formation, the study aims to identify new therapeutic strategies to prevent osteoporosis and reduce fracture risk in aging individuals. The research employs advanced techniques, including CRISPR, to manipulate these signaling pathways and assess their impact on bone health. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to innovative treatments for age-related bone loss.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that significantly improve bone formation and reduce the risk of fractures in older adults.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting purinergic signaling pathways for bone health, suggesting that this approach may lead to significant advancements.
Where this research is happening
-
Henry Ford Health System
Detroit, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gardinier, Joseph Daniel — Henry Ford Health System
- Study coordinator: Gardinier, Joseph Daniel
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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.