Understanding specific cells in bone marrow that can become fat or bone cells

Illuminating adipo-osteoprogenitors in the bone marrow

NIH-funded research Children's Hosp of Philadelphia · NIH-11030741

This study is looking at special cells in your bone marrow that can turn into either fat or bone cells, and it aims to understand how these cells change as we age, which could help us learn more about bone health and conditions like diabetes.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionChildren's Hosp of Philadelphia NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-11030741 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates a unique group of cells in the bone marrow that can develop into either fat or bone cells, which may play a crucial role in maintaining bone health. Using advanced techniques like single-cell RNA sequencing, the study aims to identify and track these cells, known as adipo-osteoprogenitors, across different ages. By examining how these cells change with age, the research seeks to uncover their potential impact on conditions like diabetes and bone diseases. Patients may benefit from insights into how these cells function and contribute to overall health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old, particularly those experiencing age-related health issues.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to bone health or metabolic disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating age-related bone and metabolic diseases.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of studying adipo-osteoprogenitors is relatively novel, similar research has shown promise in understanding the roles of different cell types in bone and metabolic health.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, 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.
Conditions adult onset diabetesAdult-Onset Diabetes Mellitus
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.