Investigating calcium balance and bone health in rats that form kidney stones

Hypercalciuria and Abnormal Bone in the Genetic Hypercalciuric Stone-Forming Rats

NIH-funded research Thomas Jefferson University · NIH-11058491

This study is looking at how too much calcium in urine affects bone health and kidney stones in special rats that are prone to these issues, with the hope of finding better treatments for people who struggle with kidney stones and want to keep their bones strong.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionThomas Jefferson University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-11058491 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how excessive calcium in urine affects bone health in a specific strain of rats that are prone to forming kidney stones. By studying these Genetic Hypercalciuric Stone-forming (GHS) rats, researchers aim to uncover the relationship between calcium absorption, bone density, and the formation of kidney stones. The study utilizes advanced animal models to simulate conditions that are difficult to replicate in humans, allowing for a deeper understanding of the underlying mechanisms. The ultimate goal is to identify potential treatments that can reduce kidney stone recurrence while also improving bone health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who experience recurrent calcium-containing kidney stones and have been diagnosed with hypercalciuria.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of kidney stones or those with different types of kidney stone formation may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing kidney stones and enhancing bone health in patients with hypercalciuria.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding calcium metabolism and bone health in animal models, indicating that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, United States

Researchers

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 below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.