Joseph Crutwell

• Bsc (Hons) Biomedical Genetics
• Functional analysis of the osteoarthritis susceptibility mapping to the gene CHST11

Osteoarthritis (OA) occurs when cartilage, the layer of protective tissue on the end of our bones, is degraded. OA runs in families and it therefore has a genetic, inherited component. Knowing more about the changes in our genes that lead to OA will help us to identify individuals at increased risk.  In the future it will also provide us with targets for novel therapies. In this study I will focus on one such gene, CHST11. This gene emerged from a large OA genetic study and its laboratory analysis is critical if we are to understand how it influences OA risk.

Funding Source: Wellcome Trust