Research Strategy
Collaboration fuels discovery-together, we can transform the future of bone health.
Research usually moves from lab to clinic…
Basic research discovers how things work, translational research turns those discoveries into possible treatments & clinical research tests them in people. Then in health systems research we figure out how to deliver those proven interventions effectively in real-world healthcare settings.
Our research platforms reflect the natural flow of research. We have structured the network to organize bone health experts across three research platforms with a goal to generate new knowledge, foster collaborations and link research done with children to research done with adults, so we can learn from both and improve care for all ages. We then have three strategic platforms to support our research platforms.
Research Platforms Breakdown
Basic Science (Laboratory research)
This is the research done in labs to understand how things work at the most basic level-like cells, genes and molecules. Example: Researchers study how bone cells grow and break down or how calcium and Vitamin D affect bones. They might use test tubes or animal models to see what happens when a bone-related gene is turned on or off. Basic research aims to understand the molecular mechanisms that drive life.
Translational Research (from lab to patient)
This is the “bridge” between lab research and people. It’s about turning scientific discoveries into new treatments, tools, or tests. Example: suppose lab findings uncover that a certain protein helps strengthen bones. Scientists then develop a drug to boost this protein and test it on mice to see if it improves their bone health.
Clinical Research (with patients)
This research involves studies with real people (clinical trials) to test new treatments, drugs, or health practices to see if they work and are safe. Example: A new osteoporosis drug developed in translational research is tested in people. Researchers look at whether it helps reduce bone fractures, and whether it has any side effects.
A team could take a new drug discovered in a lab (basic research) & test it on animal models & then in humans (clinical research) to see if it’s safe & effective for treating a specific condition, ultimately aiming to bring the drug to patients.
Health Systems, Drug and Device Safety & Effectiveness
This focuses on how healthcare is delivered. It asks questions like: How do we make sure adults and children get the best bone care? How do hospitals, clinics, and policies support patient bone health? Example: Researchers study how often older adults are screened for osteoporosis in clinics, or whether a fracture prevention program at hospitals helps reduce repeat fractures and costs.
For each platform, we identified a number of core research areas and annual priorities that would lead to the most impactful research.
How They Work Together
Example with Calcium.
| Platform | Focus | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Science | Understanding bone biology | Discover that if dietary calcium is low, the body draws it from bones. |
| Translational Research | Applying lab findings to people | Study how well the body absorbs calcium from different sources. (i.e., dairy foods, fortified foods and calcium supplements). |
| Clinical Research | Testing treatments in patients | Run tests to see if older adults who have adequate calcium intake and vitamin D have fewer fractures than those who do not. |
| Health Systems | Improve care delivery | Provide doctors with guidance on recommended calcium intake and calcium-rich foods for patient care. |
