Old (senescent) cells that harm aging bones
Characterization of senescent cell populations in skeletal aging
['FUNDING_R01'] · MAYO CLINIC ROCHESTER · NIH-11311377
This research looks at different types of old cells in bone to help people with age-related bone loss.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | MAYO CLINIC ROCHESTER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (ROCHESTER, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11311377 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
From a patient's perspective, scientists will map and profile individual senescent cells in the bone using advanced single-cell protein methods (CyTOF) to understand which cell types drive bone aging. The team builds on mouse work that found p16+ cells that stop dividing, resist cell death, and release inflammatory signals that harm bone. They will characterize the heterogeneity of these p16+ populations, including a subgroup that also makes the anti‑death protein BCL‑2, to find targets that could be safely removed. The goal is to identify precise cell markers that could guide future treatments to reduce age-related bone loss.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with age-related bone loss or osteoporosis would be the most relevant group for the eventual benefits of this research.
Not a fit: Young people without bone loss or patients whose bone problems are caused by non‑aging conditions (for example, certain genetic disorders or active cancer therapy) may not directly benefit.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to therapies that remove or neutralize harmful senescent bone cells and lessen age-related bone loss.
How similar studies have performed: Previous mouse studies showed removing p16+ senescent cells can improve bone health, but translating those findings into safe and effective human treatments remains unproven.
Where this research is happening
ROCHESTER, UNITED STATES
- MAYO CLINIC ROCHESTER — ROCHESTER, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: KHOSLA, SUNDEEP — MAYO CLINIC ROCHESTER
- Study coordinator: KHOSLA, SUNDEEP
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 below.