Projects

LEGENDARE

LEGENDARE is an ERC Advanced Grant aiming at developing personalized & targeted approaches to improve bone health. Making use of genomic, imaging and machine learning applications, the project seeks to provide insights into early diagnosis, risk prediction, and the development of more effective therapeutic strategies.

SINTER

The Erasmus MC SINTER Study explores the factors influencing skeletal fragility in individuals with predisposing conditions. The study recruits 5,650 participants from eight outpatient clinics, including Bone Center, Diabetology, and Nephrology. It compares bone strength in people with genetically predicted low and high bone density, combining genetic, physical, and nutritional data. The goal is to understand the biological reasons behind bone strength differences and develop personalized treatments for skeletal fragility. Participants undergo blood tests and, if selected, advanced imaging to better understand bone health and fracture risk. The study lasts up to 18 months and aims to improve bone health.

GEMSTONE

The GEnomics of MusculoSkeletal traits TranslatiOnal Network (GEMSTONE) COST Action, is a European research network funded by COST Association. This network fosters collaboration among experts in genetics, epidemiology, bioinformatics, and clinical medicine across Europe, to enhance the translation of genomic discoveries in the musculoskeletal field, into clinical applications. Participants include researchers and clinicians from various academic and medical institutions, chosen for their relevant expertise.

FIDELIO

The FIDELIO project, supported by a Horizon 2020 grant, focuses on understanding bone fragility in type 2 diabetes (T2D) to develop biomarkers for detection and treatment. Running from 2019 to 2024, it involves over 14 European institutions, offering Early Stage Researchers (ESRs) a multidisciplinary training program. The study explores the biological mechanisms of bone fragility in T2D, using genetic data and advanced imaging. The research aims to identify predictive markers and innovative treatments, addressing the increasing global burden of diabetes-related fractures and improving bone health through personalized interventions.

GEFOS

The GEFOS study is a project aimed at identifying genetic determinants of musculoskeletal and aging-related traits. It focuses on genetic risk factors for osteoporosis, novel bone phenotypes, and gene-environment interactions, and translating findings into clinical practice. Since 2008, GEFOS has made numerous genomic discoveries in bone and muscle phenotypes, including BMD, lean mass, and grip strength, through large-scale GWAS meta-analyses.

THE ROTTERDAM STUDY

The Rotterdam Study (Erasmus Rotterdam Gezondheid Onderzoek) is a large-scale, ongoing cohort study launched in 1990 in Rotterdam, Netherlands. It investigates the determinants of chronic diseases in the elderly, focusing on aging and prevalent conditions. With over 18,000 participants, the study covers cardiovascular, neurological, ophthalmological, and musculoskeletal disorders, including osteoporosis and osteoarthritis. Through long-term follow-up and extensive biobanking, it provides valuable data for research on multimorbidity, risk factors, and interventions aimed at improving elderly health and quality of life. The findings help shape preventive strategies and treatments for chronic diseases.

GENERATION R

The Generation R Study follows a multi-ethnic cohort from fetal life to young adulthood, aiming to uncover environmental and genetic factors influencing growth, development, and health. It focuses on areas like growth, cognitive development, asthma, childhood diseases, and healthcare. The study also investigates musculoskeletal traits in children, combining genetic data with advanced measurements.

MenoPause Consortium

The MenoPause Consortium promotes a healthy menopause transition, addressing physical and psychological challenges while raising awareness of related health risks. Collaborating with Erasmus MC and its Genomics Department, the consortium integrates clinical and genomic research to develop personalized strategies, ensuring women remain active in society during and after menopause.