Dr. Joseph Petruccelli, MD (He/Him)
Dr. Joseph Petruccelli is a physician-scientist and fast-tracked PhD candidate in Surgical Innovation at McGill University. He completed his medical training at the Université de Sherbrooke and now conducts research at Shriners Hospitals for Children – Canada under the mentorship of Dr. Reggie Hamdy and Dr. Farida Cheriet. Recognized nationally for his work at the intersection of artificial intelligence and orthopedic surgery, Joseph is committed to advancing patient-centered innovation in pediatric musculoskeletal care. He is starting his orthopedic surgery residency in July 2025 at the University of Montreal.
Summary of Research
Supported by the Francis Glorieux Fellowship, my research focuses on developing predictive tools to optimize surgical care in children with Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI). By combining 3D reconstruction of X-rays with machine learning algorithms, I aim to identify early signs of failure in Fassier-Duval rods—elongating implants commonly used to stabilize long bones in OI patients. This project seeks to equip surgeons with actionable insights at follow-up visits, enabling earlier, safer interventions and reducing the need for emergency revision surgeries. Ultimately, the goal is to improve outcomes, reduce complications, and extend the lifespan of surgical implants in growing children.
Donor Acknowledgement
I am sincerely grateful to the donors who make the Francis Glorieux Fellowship possible. Your generosity is directly enabling research that strives to safeguard the health and mobility of children living with OI. Thank you for believing in the power of innovation and for helping us carry forward Dr. Glorieux’s legacy with purpose and impact.
Dr. Ezgi Aydin, MD
Dr. Ezgi Aydin is a physician-scientist. She obtained her medical degree from Acibadem MAA University School of Medicine in Istanbul, Türkiye. She currently conducts research at Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) -USA under the mentorship of Dr. Ugur Ayturk. Dr. Aydin is recognized for her work at investigating the contribution of skeletal stem cells in fracture healing and nonunion. Her work is dedicated to uncovering the molecular mechanisms underlying impaired bone repair.
Summary of Research
Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) is associated not only with skeletal fragility but also with muscle weakness and impaired fracture healing. My research aims to uncover the mechanisms driving abnormal muscle function and defective bone repair in OI. Using a novel mouse model in which OI-causing mutations are induced specifically in muscle cells, but not in bone, this study will investigate whether muscle abnormalities in OI are intrinsic to the muscle tissue or secondary to skeletal pathology. This is the first time such a model is being used in the literature, and it holds promise for clarifying the role of muscle in OI-related morbidity.
Donor Acknowledgment
I am deeply honored to be the recipient of Francis Glorieux Fellowship Grant and thankful to the donors who help us continue Dr. Francis Glorieux’s legacy. Your contribution is not only a tribute to Dr. Glorieux’s remarkable legacy but also a catalyst for meaningful scientific progress in research that will be impactful for children living with OI. Thank you for your invaluable support in helping us turn scientific vision into tangible hope for patients and families.