Investigating how kynurenine affects bone mass and kidney function in aging
Official title: Kynurenine: a potential link between age-related decreases in bone mass and kidney function
Funded at Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center · NIH-11042695 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a substance called kynurenine might affect bone health and kidney function in older adults, helping us understand how aging impacts these important areas and potentially leading to better ways to support bone and kidney health as we get older.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Augusta, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2020 |
| Project end | September 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| NIH project number | 5IK2BX004997-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11042695 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing bone density loss or kidney function decline.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are younger or do not have issues related to bone density or kidney function may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the relationship between kynurenine levels and bone loss as well as kidney dysfunction in older adults. It focuses on understanding how aging impacts kidney function, which is crucial for maintaining bone health through Vitamin D synthesis and calcium regulation. The study will involve experiments that assess the effects of kynurenine on bone marrow stem cell proliferation and its potential role in inducing age-related changes in bone and kidney health. By examining these mechanisms, the research aims to uncover new insights into osteoporosis and kidney health in the elderly.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing bone loss and improving kidney function in older adults.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated that understanding the interplay between kidney function and bone health can lead to significant advancements in treating osteoporosis, suggesting this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center
Augusta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Irsik, Debra — Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Irsik, Debra
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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.