Understanding how a protein called MMP-13 causes bone damage and weakens the immune system in multiple myeloma

Binding of MMP13 to Immune Checkpoint Receptor PD-1H links Bone Disease with Immune Suppression in Multiple Myeloma

NIH-funded research Columbia University Health Sciences · NIH-11136544

This research explores how a specific protein called MMP-13 contributes to bone damage and immune system problems in people with multiple myeloma.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionColumbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-11136544 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

Multiple myeloma often leads to severe bone damage and a weakened immune system, which are difficult to treat. We've found that a protein called MMP-13, produced by myeloma cells, plays a key role in destroying bone. This protein also interacts with an immune checkpoint protein, PD-1H, which might link bone damage to immune suppression. Our work aims to uncover how MMP-13 and PD-1H work together to cause these complications, hoping to find new ways to help patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: This foundational research is for patients with multiple myeloma who experience bone disease and immune system challenges.

Not a fit: Patients without multiple myeloma or those whose disease does not involve significant bone complications or immune suppression may not directly benefit from this specific line of research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments that protect bones and strengthen the immune system for patients living with multiple myeloma.

How similar studies have performed: While the role of MMP-13 in bone destruction is known, its specific interaction with PD-1H as a signaling receptor is a novel discovery, building on existing knowledge of immune checkpoints.

Where this research is happening

New York, 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.
Conditions Bone DiseasesCancers
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.