Professor Dr. Thorsten Kirsch

Biography

Thorsten Kirsch is a Professor in the Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Department of Cell Biology. His primary research focus is on understanding the mechanisms regulating differentiation events of precursor cells into mature skeletal tissue cells. Kirsch specifically investigates the role of annexins, particularly the progressive ankylosis gene (Ank), in differentiation. His work suggests that annexins, which are Ca2+ channel-forming proteins, interact with extracellular matrix proteins, mediating Ca2+ influx in growth plate chondrocytes and stimulating terminal differentiation and mineralization. Moreover, Kirsch's laboratory has shown that articular chondrocytes in osteoarthritis undergo similar terminal differentiation events as growth plate chondrocytes. His research indicates that annexins are expressed in osteoarthritic chondrocytes, providing novel therapeutic targets for slowing or preventing the progression of osteoarthritis. Kirsch's ongoing projects further investigate the role of Ank in skeletal tissue cell differentiation, contributing valuable insights to the field of orthopedics.

Research Interests

Experience