Skeletal Genetics Research
We are currently mapping genes that affect bone density and strength in rats and mice. We use second filial offspring from inbred rodent strains to identify quantitative trait loci (QTLs) that contains genes influencing skeletal traits. After QTLs are identified, they are transferred onto a background inbred strain using a series of backcrosses and we use the growing arsenal of genetics data and new bioinformatics techniques to identify genes that regulate skeletal biology. For more about skeletal genetics and the genetics of osteoporosis, please download our review article.
