Skeleton and Bone Physiology

• Molecular Biology of the Skeletal System
• Mechanisms of Arthritis
• Regulation of Bone Formation

Research in skeletal physiology will investigate the normal processes of bone formation, bone resorption, growth plate cartilage metabolism, development of skeletal elements, and the endocrine and paracrine factors controlling these processes. All of the investigators participating in these areas are working at the frontiers of their field. They utilize the most modern of molecular methods along with cell and animal models for these studies.

Krieger, Nancy S.
Mechanisms of regulation of bone calcium metabolism, with an emphasis on signal transduction pathways involved in hormonal and acid-mediated effects on bone-cell function.

O'Keefe, Regis J.
Growth plate chondrocyte differentiation and maturation; biochemical mechanisms of prosthetic implant loosening; mechanisms of tumor mediated bone loss.

Plessinger, Mark
Plasticity and cellular functions of amniotic epithelial cells and fibroblasts: cytokine production and collagen regulation in human fetal membranes.

Puzas, Edward J.
Molecular and cellular biology of the skeletal system.

Rosier, Randy N.
Regulation of endochondral ossification.

Welle, Stephen L.
Regulation of skeletal muscle growth and atrophy.