Understanding how bone cells communicate to keep bones strong
Role of Ca2+ Signaling by 3D Osteocyte Networks in Mechanoadaptive Response of the Bone Multicellular Unit
['FUNDING_R01'] · SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11170601
This work explores how the most common bone cells, called osteocytes, sense movement and send signals to other cells to help bones adapt and stay healthy.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SYRACUSE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11170601 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Our bones are constantly changing, a process called remodeling, which is coordinated by special cells called osteocytes. These cells act like tiny sensors, detecting mechanical forces and communicating across a complex 3D network within the bone. This project uses a new 'bone multicellular unit' chip to watch how these osteocytes send calcium signals when they sense movement. We want to understand how these signals influence other bone cells, osteoblasts (which build bone) and osteoclasts (which break down bone), to keep our bones strong and healthy, especially after an injury.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patients, but future applications could benefit individuals with bone diseases or those at risk for fractures.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment or direct clinical intervention would not find direct benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to treat bone diseases by targeting how bone cells communicate and adapt to stress.
How similar studies have performed: While the concept of osteocyte signaling is known, this project uses a novel 3D chip model to observe these processes in a more integrated way than previously possible.
Where this research is happening
SYRACUSE, UNITED STATES
- SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY — SYRACUSE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SOMAN, PRANAV — SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: SOMAN, PRANAV
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.
Conditions: Bone Diseases