Welcome to the blog of the Musculoskeletal Genetics (Pirog group) lab at Newcastle University.

We are a vibrant group researching molecular mechanisms involved in rare and common musculoskeletal diseases and in a broader range of connective tissues. In our projects, we use cellular, tissue engineered, and animal models to gain understanding of pathobiology of connective tissue diseases, and learn more about healthy tissue development and ageing. We are specifically interested in the abnormalities in the extracellular matrix (ECM) production and ultrastructure, in how the cells sense and react to such changes, and how this in turn impacts on the biomechanical properties of tissues. Our research primarily focuses on skeletal dysplasias and the musculoskeletal complications associated with rare and common skeletal diseases, such as myopathy and tendinopathy, aiming to perceive the joint as a system of interconnected tissues and through this approach to gain a broader understanding of musculoskeletal complications and health.

We are members of

3 Newcastle University Research Themes:

• Cells, Genes and Molecules research theme
• Regenerative Medicine, Stem Cells, Transplantation research theme
• Ageing and Geroscience research theme

3 Newcastle University Centres for Research Excellence (NUCore):

• Newcastle Centre for Rare Disease
• Newcastle Centre for Biomedical Engineering
• NIHR Newcastle Biomedical Research Centre

3 Special Interest Groups:

• Biology of Ageing Special interest Group
• Small Animal Model & Imaging (SAMI)
• Histology and Pathology Interest Group

2 Research Networks:

• The UK Stem Cell Network (UKSCN)
• EU Horizon Europe MSCA DN CHANGE