Bone tissue is a dynamic endocrine organ that consists of several different cell types, the bone cells (osteoblasts, osteocytes and osteoclasts), the hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) and their off spring, as well as bone marrow adipocytes. The complex interplay between these different cell types within the bone marrow microenvironment is essential for normal bone metabolism and bone strength and for the regulatory functions of bone tissue. Loss of normal control of the differentiation process of skeletal cells may lead to the development of osteo- or chondrosarcomas that are the most common primary malignant tumors of bone. Despite advances in the surgical treatment of skeletal sarcomas, there has been very little progress in other treatment options for these tumors.

Our research group is interested in the molecular mechanisms of these abundant cellular interactions. Moreover, we focus to unravel the essential signaling pathways that control bone cell differentiation and their mechanisms of action both on the broader chromatin landscape as well as at the promoter level. We are also working to characterize the functions and metabolic roles of bone marrow adipocytes.

Currently we have two specific areas of interest: the role of Wnt signaling and its mechanisms of action in regulating bone remodeling and the role of epigenetic regulation in the control of osteoblast differentiation and in the development of skeletal sarcomas. In both of these projects we combine clinical data and samples with modern cell and molecular biologic approaches in vitro and in genetically modified animal models.

Ultimately, our goal is to identify novel therapeutic targets  and approaches for metabolic and malignant bone diseases.