Orthopedic Translational Research Program

Researchers in the Translational Research Program in Pediatric Orthopedics at The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia are investigating the mechanisms that control skeletal development and growth in fetal and postnatal life. They focus on how different bones and joints acquire their distinct shapes and structures, how bones and joints connect and interact with muscles, tendons and ligaments to sustain normal motion and function, how the skeleton grows, and how all these mechanisms and processes are maintained to sustain quality of life over age.

Data and insights gained from those basic fundamental studies help us to envision what may be the pathogenic mechanisms of musculoskeletal diseases and trauma including hereditary multiple exostoses (HME), heterotopic ossification (HO), muscular dystrophies, joint disease and tendon-ligaments defects. Those predictions are tested in animal models of disease. The ultimate goal is to create novel and effective biologic treatments that could be used solely or in combination with surgical interventions.

Our 21-member team includes four faculty members, one senior scientist, 8 post-doctoral fellows, 7 research technicians, and a program manager.

Read more about some of our current projects by clicking on the links below.