Principles of Bone and Joint Research

Abstract

Bone and joint diseases (such as osteoporosis or osteoarthritis) are among the leading causes of morbidity and confer a significant burden on individuals and societies. Inspired by the «Bone and Joint Decade 2000–2010,» the Medical University of Vienna estab- lished the doctoral program «Regeneration of Bones and Joints.» The objective of this program is to train doctoral students to become the next generation of advanced researchers in musculoskeletal and oral sciences. In a translational and multidisciplinary approach, pathophysiologic mechanisms and novel therapeutic strategies for bone, joint, and dental diseases are investigated. The curriculum also includes lectures, seminars, and practical trainings. This book is intended as an accompanying book for the program «Regeneration of Bones and Joints» of the Medical University of Vienna and similar doctoral or master’s pro- grams. It describes basic principles and methods of bone and joint research. In addition, the pathophysiology of selected musculoskeletal and oral diseases is presented. I am very thankful to the authors of this book for their effort, time, and expertise. I would also like to acknowledge the important help and dedication of the Springer Nature staff, in particular Dr. Silvia Herold. Finally I, wish to thank Birgit Schwarz for her con- tinuous support of this book project. I am convinced that this book will contribute to advance our knowledge in musculoskel- etal