# Stem cell therapy trials for osteoporosis

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/stem-cell-therapy-trials-for-osteoporosis
> Updated: 2026-09-18T06:45:00.000Z. Sources: 4. Developments: 2.

Researchers at the University of Murcia have conducted a Phase 1 clinical trial testing a ‘living medication’ to treat advanced osteoporosis. The treatment involves extracting mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) from a patient’s own bone marrow and using fucose to modify the cells’ surface glycocalyx, which helps the cells navigate to and enter bone tissue.

The study, published in the journal Cell, involved 10 women aged 51 to 72. Following a single intravenous infusion, a six-year follow-up indicated improvements in bone density and size. Most notably, the frequency of fractures decreased significantly; participants who previously averaged between one and eight fractures per year saw a reduction to approximately 0.5 fractures per year.

While the results show potential for bone regeneration, researchers noted the study was limited by a small sample size and the absence of a control or placebo group. Further clinical trials are necessary to confirm long-term safety and efficacy.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-18: Stem cell trial shows potential to rebuild bone in osteoporosis patients

A small Phase 1 trial suggests that modified stem cells from a patient’s own bone marrow may help rebuild bone and significantly reduce fracture rates in women with advanced osteoporosis.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/stem-cell-trial-shows-potential-to-rebuild-bone-in-osteoporosis-patients

### 2026-09-15: University of Murcia researchers test stem cell therapy for osteoporosis

A small clinical trial suggests that specially treated mesenchymal stem cells may reduce fracture frequency in women with severe osteoporosis by improving the cells' ability to reach bone tissue.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/university-of-murcia-researchers-test-stem-cell-therapy-for-osteoporosis

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Cite as: Stem cell therapy trials for osteoporosis. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/stem-cell-therapy-trials-for-osteoporosis
