Understanding how bone cells affect metabolism in obesity

Unraveling the role of osteocytes in metabolic dysfunction associated with obesity

NIH-funded research Univ of Arkansas for Med Scis · NIH-10890615

This study is looking at how certain bone cells called osteocytes are involved in energy use in the body and how obesity can mess with that, with the hope of finding new ways to help people manage their weight and keep their bones healthy.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniv of Arkansas for Med Scis NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Little Rock, United States)
Project IDNIH-10890615 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of osteocytes, the most abundant cells in bone, in regulating energy metabolism affected by obesity. It aims to uncover how obesity disrupts the metabolic functions of bone, particularly focusing on TGFβ signaling pathways in osteocytes. By exploring these mechanisms, the research seeks to identify potential therapeutic targets that could restore healthy energy metabolism while preserving bone health. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new treatments for obesity-related metabolic dysfunction.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are obese and experiencing metabolic dysfunction.

Not a fit: Patients who are not obese or do not have metabolic dysfunction may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that improve metabolic health in individuals with obesity.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the relationship between bone health and metabolism, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights.

Where this research is happening

Little Rock, 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.