An integrated approach towards understanding and treating soft tissue mineralization, with pseudoxanthoma elasticum as a model.

We aim to advance the understanding of soft tissue mineralization pathophysiology and treatment using pseudoxanthoma elasticum as a model. First, we aim to clarify cellular mechanisms underlying calcification. Second, we will address phenotypic variability in mineralization disorders by identifying modifier genes using Next Generation Sequencing. Third, we will identify human biomarkers and perform screening of therapeutic compounds in zebrafish models.