Kurt Hankenson

Kurt Hankenson is a Professor in the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery at the University of Michigan, leading the Hankenson Laboratory. His research focuses on bone formation mechanisms, utilizing genetically modified mice and mesenchymal stem cells to uncover novel regulators of osteoblastogenesis and fracture healing.

• Academic Rank: Professor
• Email: kdhank@umich.edu
• Location: 2001 Biomedical Sciences Research Building, Ann Arbor, MI

Research Interests:
The Hankenson Laboratory investigates molecular pathways governing skeletal repair and regeneration, emphasizing Notch signaling, immunometabolism, and extracellular matrix interactions. Current projects explore thrombospondin regulation in wound healing, genetic determinants of bone density, and biomaterials for tissue engineering.

Recent Publications (2025-2024):
Studies span osteoblast differentiation, GWAS-informed bone genetics, immunometabolic cues in implant response, and R-spondin 2's role in tissue regeneration. The lab also develops advanced scaffolds for bone repair and examines CD47's role in progenitor cell proliferation.