In the Department of Molecular Medicine, directed by Univ.-Prof. Dr. med. Thomas Pap, we are primarily concerned with the mechanisms that lead to the activation of mesenchymal cells in inflammatory, degenerative and malignant diseases of the musculoskeletal system and determine their ability to regenerate after injuries and in old age. Our main research focuses on the stable activation of synovial fibroblasts in rheumatoid arthritis, the modulation of inflammation and phenotypic differentiation signals in chondrocytes and on the maturation of osteoblasts. In addition, we investigate matrix destruction processes in rheumatic diseases and tumors of the musculoskeletal system and aseptic endoprosthesis loosening.

Within the department, the focal points and research fields are structured within specialised working groups. Please see the links below for more details:

Cartilage Biology Group (Dr. Joanna Sherwood)

Osteoimmunology Group (Dr. Berno Dankbar)

Synovial Pathology of RA Group (Dr. Adelheid Korb-Pap)

Bone & tumor biology Group (Dr. Corinna Wehmeyer)