Main interests

Molecular determinants and regulatory mechanisms (transcription and post transcription regulation, alternative and trans-splicing events, RNA editing, epigenetics) affecting gene expression during onset of skeletogenesis and maintenance of bone and cartilage integrity throughout life.

Special interests

Skeleton-associated vitamin K-dependent proteins (osteocalcin, matrix Gla protein, Gla-rich protein/UCMA) known to affect tissue mineralization in normal and pathological conditions, and also involved in cell differentiation, transformation and tissue integrity; Vitamin K metabolism and its recently identified transcription network of target genes and novel functions; Use of fish as models for human diseases with skeletal phenotype.

Others

Molecular evolution of skeletal proteins; Osteo-adaptation and osteotoxicity associated with environmental conditions; Regeneration of calcified tissues; Nutritional requirements associated to normal and pathological skeletal development; Identification of molecules of marine origin with pro/anti-osteogenic properties; Osteo-immunology and musculoskeletal crosstalk.

SEE ALSO THE BIOSKEL WEBPAGE AT http://bioskel.ccmar.ualg.pt