The roles of various cytokines, peptides and steroid hormones are explored using cellular and molecular biology techniques. Work is often translated into clinical protocols which are run through the General Clinical Research Center. We have discovered that a transgenic mouse that overexpresses IL-5 spontaneously forms trabecular plates of bone within spleen tissue. The bone has many qualities consistent with normal bone in that it contains bone matrix proteins and cells with properties characteristic of osteoblasts and osteoclasts. Further exploration into this unique model will provide insights into mechanisms of new bone formation.
Calcification is also an important component of vascular tissue.
We have found calcified lesions in coronary arteries composed of hydroxyapaptite, identical to the calcium-phosphate mineral that comprises bone. Within the coronary arteries, bone-related matrix proteins are present as well as the estrogen receptors alpha and beta. In one project, we are exploring the mechanisms responsible for calcification associated with atherosclerosis and evaluating the differentiation of cells at the molecular level. In another model, we have placed several of the bone matrix proteins into adenoviral vectors and will transvect vascular smooth muscle cells to evaluate at the effect of overexpression of these proteins in coronary arteries. Our work in vivo and in vitro assesses the factors responsible for the development of calcific plaque in coronary arteries.