Molecular Endocrinology and Musculoskeletal Research Group

Lead: Professor Rachel Davey

The Molecular Endocrinology and Musculoskeletal Research Group, led by Professor Rachel Davey at Austin Health, focusses on understanding the physiological actions of hormones to regulate the musculoskeletal system and fat metabolism with a particular focus on the sex steroids and calcitonin. Our research uses the combination of physiology and novel cutting-edge genetically modified pre-clinical models to provide insight into the cellular and molecular pathways through which hormones act with the goal to identify new pathways for the treatment of the highly prevalent musculoskeletal and metabolic diseases, osteoporosis and obesity respectively. In addition, we are investigating the effects of gender affirming hormone therapy administered during puberty and in adulthood on bone cell metabolism, structure and strength which has important implications for maintaining the bone health of transgender people.

Our laboratory uses a range of techniques including microcomputed tomography (microCT), bone histomorphometry, histology and immunohistochemistry, in addition to a wide range of biochemical and molecular analyses. Our laboratory is responsible for management of a state-of-the-art high resolution 1272 Bruker micro-CT scanner, which is available for use by Austin Health, The University of Melbourne and external users.

• Dr Varun Venkatesh
• Ms Suzanne Golub
• Ms Ellen Davies
• Ms Bronte Green