Using cell therapy to improve bone health in children with Osteogenesis Imperfecta
Cellular Therapy for Osteogenesis Imperfecta
This study is exploring a new way to help kids with Osteogenesis Imperfecta by using stem cell therapy to strengthen their bones and reduce the chance of fractures.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Connecticut Sch of Med/dnt NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Farmington, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11165801 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel approach to treating Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI), a genetic condition that leads to fragile bones in children. The study focuses on using cell therapy, specifically transplanting stem cells that can develop into bone-forming cells, to address the underlying collagen defect causing the disease. By directly transplanting these cells into the bones after total body irradiation, the researchers aim to enhance bone mass and strength. This method could potentially lead to long-term improvements in bone health and reduce the risk of fractures.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children under 11 years old diagnosed with Osteogenesis Imperfecta.
Not a fit: Patients with Osteogenesis Imperfecta who are older than 11 years or have other complicating health conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve bone strength and reduce fractures in children with Osteogenesis Imperfecta.
How similar studies have performed: While previous studies on systemic transplantation of stem cells in OI have shown limited success, this targeted approach is novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
Farmington, United States
- University of Connecticut Sch of Med/dnt — Farmington, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kalajzic, Ivo — University of Connecticut Sch of Med/dnt
- Study coordinator: Kalajzic, Ivo
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 below.