Musculoskeletal Diseases

Novartis has a long history in the treatment of disorders of bone metabolism, such as osteoporosis. Currently available therapies for osteoporosis do not effectively prevent bone fractures. The Musculoskeletal Disease (MSD) Group focuses on discovering innovative therapies for bone disorders and muscle wasting.

In the area of bone disorders, MSD’s strategy is to discover and develop novel anabolic agents that stimulate bone formation rather than slowing down bone loss.

In the area of muscle weakness the group’s approach is focused on developing compounds that stimulate anabolic pathways and that inhibit catabolic pathways in muscle.

The MSD Group concentrates on osteoporosis and muscle atrophy associated with cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, aging and genetic defects.