Forschungsprogramm

PL PATHOJOINT

The research focuses on molecular and cellular mechanisms in osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). In OA, studies investigate the role of ion channels in chondrocytes (mechanosensitive, acid- and volume-regulated) and their contribution to disease progression, pain, and apoptosis. A second line of work explores OA glycobiology, particularly the role of galectins in extracellular matrix degradation and their interactions across different joint tissues.

In parallel, the biological effects of hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) and persulfide donors are analyzed, with emphasis on anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory mechanisms in chondrocytes and macrophages. Promising data have been obtained in this area, highlighting the therapeutic potential of sulfur-donating molecules as modulators of joint inflammation and tissue protection.

Additionally, epigenetic modulation is studied in RA, where a library of inhibitors targeting histone acetylation and related pathways is systematically screened in immune cells from patients and healthy donors.

Overall, the research combines basic mechanistic studies (ion channels, glycobiology, H₂S signaling, epigenetics) with experimental models (chondrocytes, synoviocytes, macrophages, and patient-derived cells) and advanced screening approaches (glycomics, molecular assays, flow cytometry, RNA sequencing). The overarching goal is to elucidate disease mechanisms in OA and RA and to identify novel molecular targets for therapeutic intervention.

PL CLINICAL RESEARCH

The BLOAR initiative unites a diverse spectrum of clinical research projects in osteoarthritis (OA), with the overarching goal of strengthening a national registry that integrates clinical data, patient-reported outcomes, and biobank samples—while ensuring multi-center recruitment and active patient involvement in study design.

Within this framework, cutting-edge methods are being applied to better understand patient needs and to create scalable, digital health solutions. Conjoint experiments are used to explore OA patients’ preferences regarding digital applications, while advanced analyses of sensor data—including activity tracking, vital parameters, and wearable-based mobility assessments—enable more precise monitoring in daily life and during rehabilitation aftercare. In parallel, researchers are developing and validating novel functional assessments, such as remote hand function tests and lower extremity performance measures, that reduce the need for patients to attend in-clinic visits.

Digital innovations are also being co-created with patients, including self-registration apps, tele-rehabilitation pathways, and digital interventions designed to enhance adherence to exercise and education programs. Together, these approaches aim not only to enrich clinical registries but also to transform OA care into a more personalized, accessible, and patient-centered experience.

Another important focus lies in predictive modeling, where clinical and patient-reported data, together with comorbidity profiles such as depression, are analyzed using statistical methods and machine learning to enable earlier detection of disease, better stratification of responders and non-responders, and more targeted rehabilitation strategies. A dedicated pre-OA study using advanced MRI imaging further supports this goal by identifying early structural and metabolic changes before clinical manifestation, thereby creating opportunities for prevention and timely intervention.

Imaging and biomarker research complements these efforts by refining and validating deep-learning approaches for quantitative MRI, studying the impact of metabolic factors such as diabetes on OA progression, and investigating tendon and joint involvement in hand OA through multimodal imaging and AI-supported diagnostics. Beyond biological markers, the initiative also emphasizes patient-centered outcomes: quality of life and daily activity balance are addressed by validating the German version of the Occupational Balance Questionnaire (OBQ-11) and by evaluating the effectiveness of home-based tele-rehabilitation programs.

PL SERVICE LINE

This Service Line includes projects commissioned by collaboration partners. These are in the areas of rehabilitation research, registries and real-world data, innovative therapeutic approaches, health resort medicine, occupational rehabilitation, and rehab aftercare while also exploring digital and technological innovations such as app-based self-registration and virtual reality–supported therapy. By systematically assessing outcomes such as pain, quality of life, functional performance, work ability, and long-term participation, it creates a solid evidence base for evaluating both treatment and rehabilitation success.

A particular focus lies on linking registry data with social security and occupational information to understand work-related challenges, identifying high-risk groups such as elderly amputees or patients with chronic wounds, and developing predictive models that enable earlier detection and tailored interventions. The Service Line also prioritizes patient involvement and co-creation to ensure relevance and uptake of new approaches. By integrating registry research, digital innovation, and patient-centered strategies, it aims to advance individualized rehabilitation, support sustainable participation in work and society, and provide actionable insights for clinical practice and health policy.