Molecular Traumatology

One of our main focuses is to understand the systemic and local mechanisms that influence bone health and bone regeneration, with a particular focus on the interaction of the nervous system with bone. We are investigating the influence of the central nervous system, especially the “internal clock”, which regulates the day-night rhythm of our metabolism and bone remodeling. By understanding the effects of injuries to the central nervous system, e.g. traumatic brain or spinal injuries, we identify strategies against post-traumatic bone loss and mechanisms to improve bone healing. We are particularly interested in the effect of neuropeptides such as CGRP (calcitonin gene related peptide), which also play a major role in the pathomechanism of osteoarthritis.