Understanding heparan sulfate and cathepsin K in bone health
The role of heparan sulfate in cathepsin K biology
This research explores how a specific protein, cathepsin K, and a sugar molecule, heparan sulfate, work together in bone diseases like osteoporosis.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11115739 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Many bone diseases, such as osteoporosis and rheumatoid arthritis, happen when bone is broken down too much. This breakdown is caused by cells called osteoclasts, which use a powerful protein called cathepsin K to dissolve bone. We know that cathepsin K binds strongly to another molecule called heparan sulfate, which is found on cell surfaces and in the spaces between cells. This project aims to discover exactly how heparan sulfate controls cathepsin K's actions and location. By understanding this interaction, we hope to find new ways to manage or treat bone diseases.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with bone diseases like osteoporosis, periodontitis, rheumatoid arthritis, or Paget’s disease could potentially benefit from future treatments developed from this fundamental understanding.
Not a fit: Patients without bone diseases or those whose conditions are not related to excessive bone breakdown by osteoclasts may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new strategies for developing medicines that target cathepsin K to better treat bone diseases.
How similar studies have performed: While cathepsin K is a known target, the specific role of heparan sulfate in regulating its function is a critical knowledge gap this research aims to fill.
Where this research is happening
Atlanta, United States
- Emory University — Atlanta, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Xu, Ding — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Xu, Ding
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.