HSS Research Institute

HSS scientists conducting research in this area are uncovering the nature of bone – how it thrives, how it degenerates, and how it interacts with soft tissues like cartilage, ligaments, and tendons, as well as orthopaedic devices such as implants. Understanding the mechanisms that regulate bone structure and function is critical for determining how and why skeletal disorders occur and for developing new treatments for these disorders. Scientists in this area are performing cutting-edge research to enhance mobility and improve quality of life for patients affected by bone disorders such as spine instability, fractures, developmental deformities, arthritis, and osteoporosis.

Arthritis and Tissue Degeneration Program
- Carl Blobel, MD, PhD, Director

The mission of the Arthritis and Tissue Degeneration Program is to define cellular and molecular mechanisms important in musculoskeletal tissue destruction and to develop novel approaches to preventing tissue destruction in patients with arthritis and related diseases.

Program Overview

Musculoskeletal Integrity Program

The Musculoskeletal Integrity Program's mission is to determine the biological, biochemical, and biomechanical mechanisms involved in musculoskeletal tissue development, degeneration, and repair, and to use that information to develop therapies to prevent or correct conditions in which these processes are impaired.

Program Overview

The cells of the immune system function together in a highly complex network to protect the body against infections. When control of the immune system is impaired, autoimmunity and tissue damage due to inflammation can result. Scientists in this area are focused on understanding the disease-causing mechanisms and developing more effective therapies. With millions of patients worldwide suffering from rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and other chronic autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, these scientists are working hard to develop better treatments and, ultimately, cures.

Autoimmunity and Inflammation Program
- Mary K. Crow, MD, Director

The investigators of the Autoimmunity and Inflammation Research Program at Hospital for Special Surgery study the basic mechanisms of immune system function and the role of altered immune system activation, regulation, and effector function in the pathogenesis of the systemic autoimmune and inflammatory diseases.

Program Overview

Arthritis and Tissue Degeneration Program
- Carl Blobel, MD, PhD, Director

The mission of the Arthritis and Tissue Degeneration Program is to define cellular and molecular mechanisms important in musculoskeletal tissue destruction and to develop novel approaches to preventing tissue destruction in patients with arthritis and related diseases.

Program Overview

In response to the great promise that precision medicine holds, HSS has created a Precision Medicine Laboratory that will enable the study of disease mechanisms, surgical outcomes, and responses to therapy in specific patient populations. The Laboratory catalyzes the formation of multidisciplinary teams of scientists, physicians, and orthopaedic surgeons, linking clinical research with exciting basic science research. HSS will use the precision medicine approach to pinpoint the most personalized treatment plan for the patient – ultimately allowing physicians to select the right treatment the first time and improving outcomes.

Precision Medicine Laboratory
- Laura Donlin, PhD and Miguel Otero, PhD, Directors

Through the HSS Precision Medicine Laboratory, multidisciplinary clinician-scientist teams comprehensively study orthopedic and autoimmune disorders. Through integrative and cutting-edge approaches, we aim to discover the best treatment for each patient.

Program Overview