Our research utilizes molecular biological and cutting-edge proteomic techniques to investigate clinically relevant diseases pertaining to bone. We focus our efforts to evaluate:

1. Bone cancer metastasis to lung
2. Breast cancer metastasis to bone
3. Hormonal regulation of bone formation

Proteomic technologies, including tissue profiling by MALDI mass spectrometry, imaging mass spectrometry, and 2D-DIGE affords us the ability to identify, characterize and localize molecules regulated by disease or any stimuli. “Hits” are then confirmed and further investigated by traditional and advanced molecular biological experiments.

A quick review of some of the proteomic technologies routinely used in our group can be found at http://bonecenter.mc.vanderbilt.edu/caldwell.

Such approaches reveal molecules that potentially serve as disease biomarkers, novel therapeutic targets, or elucidate mechanisms driving disease. In this light, our research typically addresses topics pertaining to both basic science and translational medicine.

Our collaborators span a range of specialties and technologies, including basic scientists, imaging scientists, clinicians, clinician-scientists and biostatisticians.

Projects:

• Proteomics of Breast to Bone Metastasis and the Role of TGFß
• Protein Profiling and Imaging by MALDI Mass Spectrometry Distinguishes Sarcoma Subtypes and Tumor Margins
• Proteomic Evaluation of Osteosarcoma Metastasis to Lung

The VUMC Center for Bone Biology is a member of the VUMC Department of Medicine in the Division of Clinical Pharmacology.