Understanding how exercise affects bone quality
Official title: Osteocytic mechanisms required for spatiotemporal control of bone quality
Funded at University of California, San Francisco · NIH-10891148 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how exercise helps make bones stronger and healthier, not just denser, by exploring how it affects special bone cells in mice, which could lead to better ways to prevent weak bones in older adults and others at risk.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project start | September 5, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $734,931 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AR082565-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10891148 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk of bone fragility, such as older adults or those with conditions affecting bone density.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with stable bone health and no risk factors for bone fragility may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which exercise influences the quality of bone, beyond just its density. By using a mouse model, the study aims to uncover how exercise triggers changes in the bone matrix that improve its material properties. The focus is on understanding the role of osteocytes, the cells responsible for bone maintenance, in this process. The findings could lead to new diagnostics and therapies for bone fragility, which is a significant concern for aging populations and those with certain medical conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for improving bone health and preventing fractures in patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the relationship between exercise and bone health, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Francisco
San Francisco, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Alliston, Tamara N — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Alliston, Tamara N
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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.