Funding outcome

Calcium (Ca2+) is essential for building strong bones and maintaining various bodily functions. Our research focuses on understanding how the body regulates Ca2+ levels, which is crucial for overall health, especially bone integrity. We are studying how specific proteins in the body help regulate Ca2+, specifically, Claudin-2, Claudin-12, and TRPV6, which are key players in managing Ca2+ in the kidneys and intestines. Disruptions in these pathways can impair Ca2+ homeostasis, potentially leading to weaker bones and metabolic imbalances. Using mice genetically modified to lack these three proteins, we aim to understand what happens when the body's Ca2+ management is disrupted, particularly under the stress of a high inorganic phosphate diet for 10 weeks, which is known to influence bone remodelling and mineralization. We hypothesize that the absence of these proteins, the mice will result in lower blood Ca2+ levels, leading to weaker bones, and increased hormone levels in compensation. To assess bone health, we will use micro-CT analysis which allows us to visualize bone structure in great detail. Additionally, we will conduct molecular analysis of bone tissue to see how it compensates for changes in calcium and phosphate levels under these conditions. Our goals are to observe how these changes affect bone strength and to explore potential ways to prevent bone diseases like osteoporosis. The outcomes of this study could provide novel insights into the interplay between Ca2+ and phosphate transport pathways. leading to better treatments for bone health issues, particularly in women with osteoporosis or children developing mineralized bones.