RecruitingOBSERVATIONAL

OSTEOMICS: Identifying Regulators of Bone Homeostasis

The OSTEOMICS study aims to better understand common bone diseases such as osteoporosis and osteoarthritis, which reduce bone strength and joint health. Current treatments often have side effects and don't cure the disease. This study collects small bone samples from patients undergoing orthopaedic surgery, including those with bone conditions and those without. By studying these samples, along with genetic and lifestyle factors, researchers hope to discover new ways to keep bones healthy and develop more effective treatments. They will use advanced technology to look closely at bone cells, which is difficult but crucial for finding better therapies in the next decade.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

Relation Therapeutics

Enrolment target

2,000

Start

12 Jan 2023

Estimated completion

01 Dec 2032

Osteoporosis Osteoarthritis Bone Diseases Bone Fracture Bone Marrow Disease

What is this study about?

Bone diseases like osteoporosis (which makes bones weak and brittle) and osteoarthritis (which affects joints) are very common, especially as we get older. These conditions can cause pain, reduce mobility, and lead to fractures. Unfortunately, many current treatments have side effects or don't fully address the underlying problems, meaning they don't truly cure the disease or improve bone quality in the long term. This is why it's so important to find new and better ways to prevent and treat them.

The OSTEOMICS study aims to get a deeper understanding of how our bones stay healthy, or 'bone homeostasis'. We want to look closely at the different types of cells in bone tissue and understand what controls their behaviour. We'll be collecting small pieces of bone, which are usually removed and discarded during planned orthopaedic surgeries, such as hip or knee replacements. This allows us to study bone from people with conditions like osteoporosis or osteoarthritis, as well as from people with generally healthy bones.

Our research involves using cutting-edge techniques to analyse these bone samples at a very detailed level. By looking at the cells, their genetic material (DNA), and how they interact with each other, we hope to identify specific factors that go wrong in bone diseases. We'll also consider wider influences like genetics and lifestyle. This detailed understanding will help us pinpoint new potential targets for medicines, leading to the development of more effective and kinder treatments for bone diseases in the future.

Key takeaways

The study aims to understand common bone diseases like osteoporosis and osteoarthritis.
It uses small bone samples from patients undergoing orthopaedic surgery.
The goal is to find new ways to prevent and treat bone conditions.
Participation involves donating tissue that would otherwise be discarded.
No extra tests, visits, or medicines are required for participants.
Your contribution could help develop future treatments for bone diseases.

Who may be eligible?

This study is open to both men and women aged 18 to 110 years old who are having certain orthopaedic operations. This includes people having a hip, knee, shoulder, wrist, elbow, or ankle joint replacement or other surgery for osteoarthritis.

We are also looking for people having surgery for a broken hip (femur neck fracture) or other broken bones from a mild bump or fragility fracture. The study is particularly interested in older adults because bone conditions are mostly seen in this age group. However, suitability for surgery, which considers many factors like age, other health conditions, and mobility, also plays a role.

There are certain situations where you wouldn't be able to join the study. This includes if you can't give your clear agreement (consent), if you have cancer, a bone infection (osteomyelitis), a bloodborne disease, or if you're already taking part in another clinical trial that involves a new medicine.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you aged between 18 and 110 years old?
Are you having surgery for osteoarthritis (e.g., joint replacement)?
Are you having surgery for a broken hip or other fragility fracture?
Can you provide your clear agreement to take part?
Do you *not* have cancer, a bone infection, or a bloodborne disease?
Are you *not* currently in another clinical trial for a new medicine?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part in this study, it's quite straightforward for you. There are no additional hospital visits or tests required beyond your planned surgery. The main thing involved is that a small sample of bone, which would normally be discarded during your orthopaedic operation, will be collected by the surgical team. This sample will then be used for analysis by the research team. You won't need to take any new medication or have any extra follow-up appointments related to the study. Your participation will last for the period of your surgery and the subsequent analysis of your bone sample by our researchers.

Potential risks and benefits

Participating in this study will not directly benefit your health, as it involves analysing tissue that would otherwise be discarded during your surgery. However, by donating your bone tissue, you will be contributing valuable information that could lead to significant advancements in understanding and treating bone diseases like osteoporosis and osteoarthritis for future generations. There are no direct risks to you from taking part, as the bone sample is taken during your routine surgery procedure and does not involve any additional steps or interventions. You are free to withdraw from the study at any time without giving a reason, and this will not affect your medical care.

Locations (8)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

Harley Street Specialist Hospital
Verified postcode
London, United Kingdom· Active not recruiting
Barts Health NHS Trust
Verified postcode
London, United Kingdom· Recruiting
Chase Farm Hospital
Verified postcode
London, United Kingdom· Recruiting
Fitzrovia Hospital/QASMC
Verified postcode
London, United Kingdom· Recruiting
King's College Hospital
Verified postcode
London, United Kingdom· Not yet recruiting
Luton & Dunstable University Hospital
Verified postcode
London, United Kingdom· Active not recruiting
Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital NHS Trust
Verified postcode
London, United Kingdom· Not yet recruiting
West Middlesex University Hospital
Verified postcode
London, United Kingdom· Recruiting

Common questions

What is osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a condition that causes bones to become weak and brittle, increasing the risk of fractures.

What is osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is a common type of arthritis where the protective cartilage on the ends of your bones wears down over time, causing pain and stiffness.

What exactly will you do with my bone sample?

We will carefully study the cells, genes (DNA), and structure of your bone sample using advanced lab techniques to understand what makes bones healthy or unhealthy.

Will taking part affect my surgery?

No, taking part in the study will not affect your planned surgery or recovery in any way. The bone sample is collected during a procedure that is already happening.

Will my information be kept private?

Yes, all your personal information and details will be kept strictly confidential and anonymous throughout the study.

How to find out more

Jake Taylor-King, DPhil

jake@relationrx.com 447387227904 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.