Volkhard Lindner, M.D., Ph.D.

We have discovered the gene Collagen Triple Helix Repeat Containing-1 (Cthrc1) in a screen for novel genes associated with vascular injury and repair and recently found that it functions as a hormone regulating metabolism and inflammatory responses. CTHRC1 blood levels are below detection in 70% of healthy human subjects, whereas levels >75ng/ml are observed in some people. Our laboratory is interested in i) determining the functions of CTHRC1 induced as a result of tissue injury, ii) the functions of circulating CTHRC1 originating from brain and bone, and iii) defining the factors and stimuli that determine circulating CTHRC1 levels and their consequences for inflammatory conditions and metabolism. Mouse genetic models for Cthrc1 gain-of-function and loss-of-function, as well as unique antibody tools have been developed by the lab to determine the mechanism of action for CTHRC1.