Degenerative bone diseases, like osteoarthritis, and genetically induced skeletal malformations represent major challenges of modern medicine. Both may result in severe pain and mobility restrictions significantly impairing the quality of human life. To understand the molecular basis of skeletal disorders and to identify molecular therapeutic targets, our group is investigating the mechanisms regulating differentiation and growth of skeletal elements during embryonic and postnatal development. Our research is focused on the differentiation of chondrocytes in the growth plate of endochondral bones, the formation of bone tumors, and the development and maintenance of articular cartilage in the joints. 

We are particularly interested in:

• Signaling pathways regulating chondrocyte differentiation
• Genetic and epigenetic mechanisms controlling gene expression in transient and permanent cartilage
• The role of extracellular heparan sulfate as a regulator of growth factor signaling and tissue homeostasis
• The molecular mechanisms leading to the degeneration of articular cartilage during osteoarthritis