Research Projects
Endocannabinoids
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The understanding of the therapeutic benefits of specific endocannabinoids is rapidly growing; however, the characterization of the CB2 receptor in this regard is quite diametric so far. We are currently investigating the skeletal and immunomodulatory roles of the CB2 receptor. We also study the therapeutic potential of cannabinoid molecules in many diseases including osteoporosis, fracture healing, fibrosis, cancer and cytokine storm syndrome.
Osteoimmunology
Osteoimmunology is a central topic in our lab. Our fields of interest include:
- Mechanism of action and prevention of inflammation-induced osteolysis with emphasis on the bone resorption induced by bacteria and titanium particles
- The therapeutic potential of immunotherapy in skeletal diseases
- The role of signals emitted by osteoblasts on immune cells
Osteohematology
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Erythropoietin (Epo) is the main hormone that regulates red blood cells production via its receoptor (EpoR). Together with Prof Drorit Neumann’s group, we reported the role of Epo in bone remodeling and are currently investigating the mechanism of action of the Epo-Epo-R axis.
Gut Microbiota
The number of bacteria in our gastro-intestinal tract is greater than our cells in our entire body and their genetic load is greater than ours. Studying their roles in regulating physiological and pathological processes is in the forefront of biomedical research. In a collaboration with the Weizmann Institute of Science, we are conducting a large-scale study aimed at identifying the bacterial strains that affect or benefit our bone density.
