Tissue-level definition of the inflammatory osteoclastogenic niche (B04)

• Subject Area: Immunology ; Rheumatology ; Dentistry, Oral Surgery
• Term: since 2024
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 501752319

Project B04 will examine how inflammation induces and maintains a particular stromal microenvironment that specifically promotes osteoclast development, thus providing an osteoclastogenic niche. By applying quantitative volumetric in-situ imaging together with niche-specific transcriptional profiling, we will define this niche and resolve the tissue-level determinants that facilitate osteoclast effector functions in experimental arthritis or periodontitis on a quantitative and functional level. Our goal is to develop novel interventional strategies to target pathological osteoclasts specifically via the cellular environment that supports them.

• DFG Programme: CRC/Transregios
• Subproject of: TRR 369: DIONE Degeneration of bone induced by inflammation
• Applicant Institution: Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg
• Project Heads: Professorin Dr. Lina Gölz; Professor Dr. Stefan Uderhardt