Musculoskeletal diseases are a leading cause of disability in children and are frequently associated with genetic abnormalities that alter the normal growth and development of the musculoskeletal system. Recent advances have led to the discovery of some genetic defects involved in musculoskeletal diseases, including those that cause scoliosis and clubfoot.
The Center for Musculoskeletal Diseases will accelerate research through the development of an international DNA databank for pediatric musculoskeletal disorders that will enable scientists to isolate the genes responsible for various musculoskeletal diseases and develop appropriate therapies and preventive measures within the next decade. Additional work will be focused on the basic cell biology on bone and muscle growth and development that can lead to novel approaches for regenerative medicine and progenitor cell therapy.
Learn more about Currently Funded Research.
Featured Research:
Seeking New Culprits in Inflammatory Diseases - Anthony French, M.D., Ph.D.
Neuroprosthetic Solutions for Children with Musculoskeletal Disease - William Smart, Ph.D.
Institute Scholar Probes Genetics of Neuromuscular Disease - Robert Baloh, M.D., Ph.D.
Deciphering the Mechanisms of Abnormal Skeletal Growth - Fanxin Long, Ph.D.
Members
| Louis J. Muglia, M.D., Ph.D. |
Professor of Pediatrics, Interim Director |
| John P. Atkinson, M.D. |
Grant Professor of Internal Medicine |
| Anne M. Bowcock, Ph.D. |
Professor of Genetics |
| Matthew B. Dobbs, M.D. |
Assistant Professor of Orthopedic Surgery |
| Anthony R. French, M.D., Ph.D. |
Assistant Professor of Pediatrics |
| Matthew I. Goldsmith, M.D. |
Assistant Professor of Pediatrics |
| Christina A. Gurnett, M.D., Ph.D. |
Assistant Professor of Neurology |
| Fanxin Long, Ph.D. |
Assistant Professor of Medicine |
| Linda J. Sandell, Ph.D. |
Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery |
| Fei F. Shih, M.D., Ph.D. |
Assistant Professor of Pediatrics |
| Dwight A. Towler, M.D., Ph.D. |
Associate Professor of Medicine |
| Zsolt Urban, Ph.D. |
Assistant Professor of Pediatrics |
| Michael P. Whyte, M.D. |
Professor of Medicine |