Investigating how uremic toxins affect bone health in chronic kidney disease
Official title: Uremic toxins and osteocyte dysfunction in CKD
Funded at Indiana University Indianapolis · NIH-10993611 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a harmful substance that builds up when your kidneys aren't working well affects bone health, especially the risk of hip fractures, in people with chronic kidney disease, and it’s testing whether changing your diet can help improve bone strength.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Indiana University Indianapolis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Indianapolis, United States) |
| Project start | December 1, 2023 |
| Project end | November 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $550,066 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK138021-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10993611 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are diagnosed with chronic kidney disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with normal kidney function or those who do not have chronic kidney disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the impact of uremic toxins, specifically indoxyl sulfate, on bone health in individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD). It explores how these toxins accumulate due to reduced kidney function and their role in bone fragility, particularly in relation to hip fractures. The study employs a combination of dietary interventions, such as the administration of inulin, to modify gut microbiota and reduce toxin levels, alongside laboratory models to assess changes in bone cell behavior and function. By examining these relationships, the research aims to identify new therapeutic strategies to improve bone health in CKD patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments that enhance bone health and reduce fracture risk in patients with chronic kidney disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results in modifying gut microbiota to reduce uremic toxins and improve bone health, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Indiana University Indianapolis
Indianapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Moe, Sharon M — Indiana University Indianapolis
- Study coordinator: Moe, Sharon M
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.