Understanding how bone marrow fat affects blood cell formation and bone health
Official title: Metabolism and functions of bone marrow adipose tissue in the marrow niche
Funded at University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11051812 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how fat cells in the bone marrow affect the production of blood cells and the health of bones, especially when the body doesn't have enough energy, to help us understand how to keep our blood and bones healthy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project start | March 7, 2024 |
| Project end | February 28, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $455,065 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK137798-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11051812 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions affecting blood cell production or bone density, such as anemia or osteoporosis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with no underlying issues related to blood or bone health may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of bone marrow adipocytes, a type of fat cell found in the bone marrow, and their interactions with blood-forming cells and bone cells. Using a specially designed mouse model, the study aims to uncover how these fat cells influence blood cell production and bone remodeling, particularly during energy deficits. By examining the metabolic functions of these cells, the research seeks to clarify their importance in maintaining healthy blood and bone systems.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into treating conditions related to blood and bone health, potentially improving outcomes for patients with hematological disorders or osteoporosis.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific focus on bone marrow adipocytes is relatively novel, related research has shown promising results in understanding the roles of adipose tissue in other areas of health.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Macdougald, Ormond a — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Macdougald, Ormond a
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.