Investigating how a specific protein affects bone loss as we age
Official title: Role of Hypoxia-inducible factor-2α signaling in age-induced bone loss
Funded at University of California at Davis · NIH-11037775 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific protein called HIF-2α affects bone loss as we age, with the goal of finding new ways to help older adults keep their bones strong and healthy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California at Davis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Davis, United States) |
| Project start | December 15, 2024 |
| Project end | November 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $55,496 |
| NIH project number | 1R36AG090801-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11037775 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing or at risk of osteoporosis and related bone health issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are younger than 21 or those without age-related bone loss may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of hypoxia-inducible factor-2α (HIF-2α) in the process of bone loss associated with aging. It aims to identify the mechanisms that lead to osteoporosis, a condition where bones become weak and brittle, particularly in older adults. By understanding how HIF-2α signaling changes with age, the researchers hope to develop new therapies that can reverse bone loss and improve overall bone health. The study will involve examining the cellular processes that contribute to bone deterioration and how they can be targeted for treatment.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that prevent or reverse age-related bone loss, improving quality of life for older adults.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting similar pathways for improving bone health, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California at Davis
Davis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mendoza, Sarah Vanessa — University of California at Davis
- Study coordinator: Mendoza, Sarah Vanessa
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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.