Our group is actively devoted to the search of the molecular defects underlying some pediatric endocrine disorders. The knowledge of the molecular alterations is important for a better understanding of the causes leading to disease, and for the definition of therapeutical targets for the cure of such diseases. Another important field of research is the understanding of the physiologic mechanisms governing bone mass acquisition during growth. This research is particularly important because optimal bone mass acquisition is considered as the main preventative measure against senile osteoporosis.