Investigating how menopause affects gut health and bone density

Menopause-related increase in gut leak and its relation to immune activation, bone density decline and fractures

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES · NIH-10767899

This study is looking at how menopause might affect gut health and bone strength in women, specifically to see if a condition called 'leaky gut' during menopause could lead to weaker bones, and it aims to help find ways to prevent bone loss and fractures for women going through this change.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES (nih funded)
Locations1 site (LOS ANGELES, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10767899 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research explores the relationship between menopause, gut health, and bone density in women. It aims to determine if an increase in gut permeability, known as 'leaky gut', occurs during menopause and whether this condition leads to immune system activation and a decline in bone mineral density. The study will utilize biomarkers to assess gut barrier integrity and the presence of microbial antigens in the bloodstream, comparing data from premenopausal and postmenopausal women. By understanding these connections, the research seeks to identify potential pathways for preventing bone loss and fractures in menopausal women.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women undergoing the menopause transition who may be experiencing changes in gut health and bone density.

Not a fit: Patients who are not in the menopause transition or those with pre-existing severe gastrointestinal disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing bone loss and fractures in menopausal women.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results regarding the relationship between gut health and bone density, suggesting that this research could build on established findings.

Where this research is happening

LOS ANGELES, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.