Small molecules to tweak the parathyroid hormone receptor for bone and mineral health
Allosteric modulators of the PTH/PTHrP receptor
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · VETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION · NIH-11257248
Researchers are developing small, non-peptide drugs that change how the parathyroid hormone receptor works to help people with osteoporosis or overactive parathyroid glands.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | VETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11257248 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This project focuses on lab-discovered 'Pitt' molecules that bind a regulatory site on the parathyroid hormone type 1 receptor (PTH1R) and alter its signaling. Scientists will screen 22 candidate molecules in living cells that carry PTH1R using advanced optical assays to find compounds that increase or decrease receptor activity. The most promising compounds will be refined by medicinal chemistry to improve affinity and efficacy and then tested in bone cells and likely animal models to check effects on bone-forming cells. The long-term aim is to develop new medicines that strengthen bone and correct mineral balance for people with osteoporosis or hyperparathyroidism.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with osteoporosis—especially those who respond poorly to current PTH-based treatments—or patients with hyperparathyroidism affecting calcium and bone health.
Not a fit: People without bone or parathyroid disorders and those seeking immediate treatment will not benefit directly from this early-stage laboratory research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new medicines that improve bone density and mineral balance with different properties than current PTH drugs.
How similar studies have performed: Protein-based PTH treatments like teriparatide help some patients, but small-molecule allosteric regulators of the PTH receptor are largely untested in humans and represent a new approach.
Where this research is happening
PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES
- VETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION — PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: VILARDAGA, JEAN-PIERRE — VETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION
- Study coordinator: VILARDAGA, JEAN-PIERRE
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.