Bone Biology Laboratory
Professor Markus Seibel
The Bone Research Program pursues research in Basic Bone Biology, Applied Bone Metabolism and Clinical Research into Metabolic Bone Disease.
Our goal is to welcome honours and postgraduate students to a comprehensive research program that makes use of the many opportunities provided by a multidisciplinary institution such as the ANZAC Research Institute (ARI), including transgenic animal models, molecular biology, histology, surrogate marker measurements and clinical research.
Project 1: Preventing The Spread Of Malignant Tumours To Bone
Breast cancer has a particular preference to form cancer metastases in bone. Breast cancer in bone is associated with bone destruction that frequently results in significant pain and disability. We will study mice with breast cancer to understand what makes the bone marrow a receptive site for breast cancer metastasis. We will use one of the body's own bone protecting proteins, called osteoprotegerin, to block bone destruction and evaluate how this inhibits the ability of cancer cells to invade and grow in bone.
Contact: Dr Colin Dunstan
Phone +612 9767 9163
Email: cdunstan@anzac.edu.au
Project 2: Hormonal and genetic determinants of fracture risk in elderly men
Fractures resulting from osteoporosis are a major cause of hospital admission, loss of independence, and reduced life expectancy in elderly men as well as in women.
In this study in men we aim 1) to identify the driving forces behind age-related changes in bone metabolism and bone strength, and identify best predictors of fracture risk and 2) to evaluate the association between variations in different genes with bone loss and fracture risk. While the role of estrogen in regulating bone metabolism in women is well established, the relative contributions of estrogen and androgens in regulating bone turnover in men remain unclear. We will assess the impact of sex hormones on bone metabolism in men.
Contact: Prof. Markus J Seibel
Phone +612 9767 6109
Email: mjs@anzac.edu.au
Project 3: Glucocorticoid-Induced Changes in Bone Metabolism
Our laboratory has a strong interest in transgenic models of bone disease and this new area is presently being developed. A new project looks at the mechanism governing normal and abnormal bone metabolism, particularly in regards to the effects of glucocorticoids (GC) on bone. A transgenic model will be used to elucidate the role of GC metabolism in the pathogenesis of GC-induced bone loss.
Contact: Prof. Markus J Seibel
Tel: +612 9767 6109
Email:
Dr Colin Dunstan
Tel: +612 9767 9163
Email: cdunstan@anzac.edu.au
Project 4: Studies on Biochemical Markers of Bone Metabolism
All metabolic bone diseases are characterised by changes in bone formation and in bone resorption, the two major processes that keep bone alive, healthy and strong. Measurement of specific ‘bone markers’ in serum and urine determines the activity of these processes and the results of these simple tests can help the clinician assess the severity, and monitor the treatment of bone diseases such as osteoporosis.
This project aims to support the development and experimental and/ or clinical validation of novel improved markers of bone turnover.
Contact: Prof. Markus J Seibel
Tel: +612 9767 6109
Email: