Understanding the genetics of osteoporosis and bone health
Official title: Informing Osteoporosis GWAS Using Networks
Funded at University of Virginia · NIH-11077680 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our genes might affect bone health and the risk of osteoporosis, so if you’re curious about what makes bones strong or weak, this research could help uncover important information!
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project start | July 15, 2020 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $511,420 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AR077992-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11077680 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for osteoporosis, particularly those with a family history of bone diseases or low bone mineral density.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with osteoporosis who are already receiving effective treatment may not see additional benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the genetic factors contributing to osteoporosis, a condition that leads to weak bones and increased fracture risk. By analyzing genetic data from previous studies, the researchers aim to identify specific genes that influence bone mineral density and overall bone health. They utilize advanced analytical techniques, including co-expression networks from mouse bone data, to connect genetic variants to their biological effects. This approach seeks to fill the gaps in knowledge about how these genes function in the context of bone biology.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights and treatments for osteoporosis, improving bone health and reducing fracture risks for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies using genetic analysis in bone health have shown promise, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Farber, Charles R — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Farber, Charles R
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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.