Understanding how lipids affect bone growth in the growth plate

Lipid metabolism in the growth plate

NIH-funded research University of Maryland Baltimore · NIH-11009974

This study is looking at how fat helps bone growth in kids and teens, especially during puberty, by checking how bone-building cells use fat for energy when they're growing fast.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Maryland Baltimore NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project IDNIH-11009974 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of lipid metabolism in the growth plate, which is crucial for bone growth. It focuses on how chondrocytes, the cells responsible for bone formation, utilize lipids for energy during periods of rapid growth, such as puberty. The study aims to explore the relationship between lipid availability and bone growth, particularly in conditions where lipid metabolism is disrupted. By examining the lipid content in different zones of the growth plate, the research seeks to uncover new insights into how energy supply affects bone development.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include children and adolescents experiencing growth issues, particularly those with conditions affecting lipid metabolism.

Not a fit: Patients with normal growth patterns and no underlying metabolic disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for growth disorders related to lipid metabolism.

How similar studies have performed: While lipid metabolism in the growth plate is not extensively studied, related research has shown that understanding metabolic pathways can lead to significant advancements in treating growth disorders.

Where this research is happening

Baltimore, 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.