Understanding how heparan sulfate affects bone formation through sclerostin interactions
Official title: Demystify Heparan Sulfate–Sclerostin Interactions in Bone Formation
Funded at Ohio State University · NIH-11199400 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a substance called heparan sulfate interacts with a protein named sclerostin, which stops bones from growing, to help find new ways to treat osteoporosis and improve bone health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ohio State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Columbus, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | October 1, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $64,066 |
| NIH project number | 7R03DE031838-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11199400 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk of osteoporosis or those with conditions affecting bone density.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to bone formation or those who are not at risk for osteoporosis may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the interactions between heparan sulfate and sclerostin, a protein that inhibits bone formation. By exploring how these interactions occur, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms that regulate sclerostin's activity in bone cells. The researchers will conduct experiments in the lab to determine how heparan sulfate influences the binding of sclerostin to its receptor, which could provide insights into new treatments for conditions like osteoporosis. The ultimate goal is to clarify the role of heparan sulfate in bone biology and its potential as a therapeutic target.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for enhancing bone formation and treating osteoporosis.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific interactions of heparan sulfate and sclerostin have not been extensively studied, related research has shown promise in targeting sclerostin for osteoporosis treatment.
Where this research is happening
-
Ohio State University
Columbus, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Li, Miaomiao — Ohio State University
- Study coordinator: Li, Miaomiao
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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.