Understanding how bone cells respond to bacterial infections
Mechanisms of osteocyte induction and regulation of pathogen-induced osteolysis
This study is looking at how a special type of bone cell called osteocytes helps the body react to bacterial infections that can cause bone loss, like osteomyelitis and periodontitis, and it aims to find new ways to prevent this bone loss.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Indiana University Indianapolis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Indianapolis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10890641 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of osteocytes, a type of bone cell, in the body's response to bacterial infections that can lead to bone loss, such as osteomyelitis and periodontitis. By studying mice with specific genetic modifications, researchers aim to uncover the molecular mechanisms that trigger inflammation and bone resorption in response to bacterial signals. The approach includes analyzing the secretion of inflammatory factors from osteocytes and their impact on immune cell behavior. This could lead to new therapeutic strategies targeting these pathways to prevent bone loss.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from osteomyelitis or periodontitis, particularly those experiencing significant bone loss.
Not a fit: Patients with bone loss not related to bacterial infections or those with other underlying conditions affecting bone health may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments that prevent or reduce bone loss associated with bacterial infections.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeting specific pathways in bone cells can lead to significant improvements in bone health, suggesting a promising avenue for this investigation.
Where this research is happening
Indianapolis, United States
- Indiana University Indianapolis — Indianapolis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ueki, Yasuyoshi — Indiana University Indianapolis
- Study coordinator: Ueki, Yasuyoshi
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.