Understanding how brain signals can improve bone health

Rejuvenating Skeletal Health Through A Novel Brain-Bone Axis

NIH-funded research University of California, San Francisco · NIH-11116884

This study is looking at how the brain talks to our bones to find new ways to keep bones healthy as we age, which could help people with age-related bone loss.

Quick facts

Grant typeU01 cooperative agreement
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Francisco NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Francisco, United States)
Project IDNIH-11116884 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the communication between the brain and bones to find ways to enhance bone health, particularly in aging individuals. By studying specific neurons in the brain that influence bone mass and fat, the researchers aim to identify factors that can promote bone growth while reducing fat in the bones. The approach involves advanced genetic techniques and animal models to uncover the mechanisms behind these interactions. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new treatments for age-related bone loss.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing age-related bone loss or those at risk for osteoporosis.

Not a fit: Patients with acute bone injuries or those with conditions unrelated to bone health may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative therapies that improve bone density and reduce the risk of fractures in older adults.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in understanding brain-bone interactions, but this specific approach is novel and untested.

Where this research is happening

San Francisco, 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.