The Bone Biopsy Research Program is a multidisciplinary research resource within the Division of Bone and Mineral Diseases, bringing together physicians, researchers, nurses, and clinical coordinators to support the full bone biopsy process. The team oversees every stage—from participant recruitment and preparation to performing precise, minimally invasive techniques to obtain bone tissue from the iliac crest (hip), and collecting high-quality specimens for bone histomorphometry, pathology, and other research analysis. All procedures are conducted under rigorous ethical and safety standards, with careful attention to specimen quality and the scientific needs of investigators.
About the ONEBone Initiative
ONEBone is the Division of Bone and Mineral Diseases’ institutional integration strategy—a single point of entry that connects investigators to the Division’s full network of specialized expertise, core resources, and collaborative partnerships.
The Bone Biopsy Research Program is one of the specialized resources connected through ONEBone, reflecting the Division’s role as a hub for bone-focused clinical and translational research across WashU.
Where to Start?
Our Team
Program Leadership & Specialized Expertise
Tom Nickolas, MD
Chief, Division of Bone and Mineral Diseases
Principal Investigator, Nickolas Lab
Leads the Division and directs research in the Nickolas Lab, including studies that incorporate bone biopsy and bone histomorphometry.
Theo Vander Velde, MD
Assistant Professor of Radiology
Bone Biopsy Expertise
Provides specialized expertise in image-guided, minimally invasive tetracycline labeling bone biopsy procedures and procedural training.
Maria Alejandra Aponte, MD
Program Lead, Bone Biopsy Research Program
Instructor in Medicine – Research Track
Division of Bone and Mineral Diseases | ONEBone Initiative
Leads program development and research operations, integrating investigators, clinical teams, pathology, and procedural expertise to support research bone biopsy studies.
Deborah J. Veis, MD, PhD
Professor, Division of Bone and Mineral Diseases, Department of Medicine and Department of pathology and Immunology
Director, Histology and Morphometry Core
Provides research pathology and histology expertise, including evaluation and processing of bone biopsy specimens for
histomorphometry and other research analyses.
Research Coordination & Training
Mariam M. Balogun, MPH
Senior Research Coordinator | Nickolas Lab
Division of Bone and Mineral Diseases
Washington University School of Medicine
Supports research study coordination, participant preparation, and implementation of bone biopsy protocols.
Nico Zaharias
Visiting Trainee
Division of Bone and Mineral Diseases
Supports research activities and receives training in bone biopsy research procedures and study implementation.
Gallery
Procedure Overview
Team & Facility
