Understanding bone health issues in people with type 1 diabetes

Origins of Skeletal Fragility in Type 1 Diabetes

NIH-funded research University of Kentucky · NIH-11092256

This study is looking at how type 1 diabetes can impact bone health, especially by making bones weaker and more likely to break, and it's for people with type 1 diabetes who want to learn more about how their condition affects their bones and what can be done to help.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Kentucky NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Lexington, United States)
Project IDNIH-11092256 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how type 1 diabetes affects bone health, particularly focusing on decreased bone mineral density and increased risk of fractures. It explores the role of insulin and insulin-like growth factor-1 in bone formation and how their deficiencies contribute to diabetic bone disease. The study uses pre-clinical mouse models and human observational studies to identify the mechanisms behind these skeletal issues. By understanding these pathways, the research aims to find better treatments to improve bone health in individuals with type 1 diabetes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with type 1 diabetes who are experiencing bone health issues.

Not a fit: Patients without type 1 diabetes or those who do not have any skeletal health concerns may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments that enhance bone health and reduce fracture risk for patients with type 1 diabetes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in understanding the relationship between insulin therapy and bone health in diabetic models, indicating potential for success in this research.

Where this research is happening

Lexington, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.