Faculty Directory
Daniel Perrien, PhD
Associate Professor of Medicine
Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Lipids
Emory University School of Medicine
EMAIL: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Research
Dr. Perrien’s research interests broadly include interactions of endocrine, inflammatory, and osteo-chondrogenic pathways contributing to musculoskeletal development, diseases, and bone repair. Since 2012, this laboratory has been focused on understanding the roles of innate immune cells and inflammation in the pathogenesis of heterotopic ossification (HO), especially in the rare disease fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP). Using complex genetically engineered mouse models, various in vitro systems, and patient samples, Dr. Perrien’s lab aims to unravel interactions of inflammatory and BMP signaling pathways that drive HO in FOP. The mechanisms they are uncovering likely will have broad impact in acquired (non-genetic) HO, bone and muscle regeneration, and fundamental musculoskeletal physiology. Recently, the Perrien lab has delved into the influence of the microbiome on flare severity in FOP which may lead to the identification of numerous novel therapeutic targets. Dr. Perrien’s prior academic research includes understanding the role of inflammatory cytokines in delayed bone repair, endocrine regulation of bone turnover by Inhibin A, and age-related differences in disuse-induced osteopenia. He led the early development of growth factor enhanced products to improve joint fusion while working for a small biotech company, and has leveraged that experience to collaborate with pharmaceutical on a variety of projects. By focusing on the unique pathophysiologies of rare bone diseases like FOP, the Perrien lab aims to continue discovering mechanisms that will support disease-specific therapeutic development and provide novel insights into fundamental processes of musculoskeletal biology.