Our Mission
Our laboratory is dedicated to advancing the understanding of musculoskeletal biology, particularly in the context of aging and disease. Our research focuses on uncovering the mechanisms that govern the maintenance and regeneration of bone structure, biomechanical strength, and the intricate interactions between the skeletal system and other body systems. We explore the influence of hormonal, epigenetic, and mechanobiological factors within skeletal niches, investigate the mechanical competence of orthopedic tissues, and study the pathways that facilitate skeletal communication. Our work has led to the publication of over 100 peer-reviewed research articles in leading scientific journals.
The PI
Dr. Meghan McGee-Lawrence, Professor
Dr. Meghan McGee-Lawrence is the Chair of the Department of Cellular Biology and Anatomy at the Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University. She earned her PhD in Biomedical Engineering from Michigan Technological University and completed her postdoctoral training in the Department of Orthopedic Surgery(studying cellular and molecular biology) at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN. Dr. McGee-Lawrence joined the Department of Cellular Biology and Anatomy at MCG in 2014.
She is currently a Principal Investigator on research funded by the NIH National Institute on Aging (NIA), the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS), and NASA, with previous support from the National Science Foundation and the American Diabetes Association. Dr. McGee-Lawrence plays an active role in leadership and service within the Orthopaedic Research Society (ORS), the American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR), and NIH study sections such as the Skeletal Biology Development and Disease panel. Additionally, she is heavily involved in teaching, contributing to the education of medical and graduate students across the Medical College of Georgia (MCG) and The Graduate School at Augusta University (TGS).