Research Overview
Dr. Maria Vogiatzi's current research centers on bone accrual in children with chronic illness. Bone metabolism is a tightly regulated process involving the coupling between bone formation and bone resorption. An imbalance between bone formation and resorption can result in low bone density and subsequent fractures. A variety of hormonal and paracrine-autocrine factors regulate this process. Childhood and adolescence are critical periods for skeletal growth. Peak bone mass is achieved in early adult life. Patients who do not reach optimal peak bone mass are at risk for osteoporosis in adult life and frequent fractures. Determining the factors that may affect of bone accrual is particularly relevant to our understanding of low bone mass. Abnormalities of bone metabolism in childhood and adolescence may adversely effect the achievement of optimal peak bone mass. CURRENT RESEARCH PROJECTS
- Study of bone disease in thalassemia using a mouse model: This project wants to determine the etiology of low bone mass in thalassemia and develop new therapies.
- Clinical studies of low bone mass and fractures in thalassemia: These studies involve screening of children and adults with all thalassemia syndromes from North America for low bone mass (i.e. osteoporosis). The goal is to identify associations with increased risk for fractures and to better understand the causes of low bone mass in this disease.
- Bone mass accrual in children with chronic illness
- Management of frequent fractures in children
- Studies of growth in children with hyperandrogenemia, such as Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia.
