Biomolecular Medicine
This component of the WFU Bone and Joint Center focuses on basic cellular and molecular mechanisms of repair and remodeling in the tissues of the musculoskeletal system. This program is designed to develop and test innovative strategies for repairing damaged musculoskeletal tissue and preventing further damage and loss. Research capabilities include in vitro cell and organ culture models, detailed molecular and biochemical analysis of tissues, and the development and testing of serum, urine, and synovial biomarkers of musculoskeletal disease activity. The laboratories in the Biomolecular Medicine Program will be fully equipped for cell culture and biochemical, radiochemical, and molecular biological analysis. Other institutional core labs will be utilized for immunohistochemistry, confocal microscopy, oligonucleotide and peptide synthesis, and DNA and protein sequencing. The Biomolecular Medicine Program will work in conjunction with the Bioengineering Program on studies to determine the influence of biomechanics on the repair process and for biomechanical testing of repair tissues. Close collaboration with the Comparative Medicine Program and the Clinical Evaluation Program will ensure rapid translation of discoveries into clinical trials in animals and humans. Molecular medicine and molecular genetics are support by substantial federal grants at Wake Forest University School of Medicine.