Dr. Monzur Murshed

Monzur Murshed, PhD, is a professor at McGill University with joint appointments in the Department of Medicine (Endocrinology) and the Faculty of Dental Medicine and Oral Health Sciences. He received his doctoral training in genetics and has dedicated over two decades to investigating the molecular and cellular mechanisms governing extracellular matrix mineralization in skeletal and vascular tissues.

Dr. Murshed’s research focuses on the regulation of physiological and pathological mineralization, with particular emphasis on the role of Matrix Gla Protein (MGP) as a key local inhibitor of tissue mineralization. His work has significantly advanced the understanding of how post-translational modifications, including γ-carboxylation and phosphorylation, regulate the function of mineralization-associated proteins. His laboratory employs a multidisciplinary approach, combining genetically engineered mouse models, human induced pluripotent stem cells, and advanced biochemical and imaging techniques to study disorders such as vascular calcification, X-linked hypophosphatemia, and rare skeletal dysplasias.

He has made influential contributions to the field, including highly cited studies elucidating the mechanisms of extracellular matrix mineralization and identifying disease-causing mutations affecting MGP function. His current research program aims to uncover therapeutic targets for rare skeletal disorders.