Research
The BBDG is a research unit in the Department of Radiology at the University of California, San Francisco. It is comprised of approximately 10 members, drawn from diverse fields such as medicine, engineering, physics, computer science, biology, and biostatistics, and from countries around the globe. BBDG members are recognized worldwide as experts in their field and lecture frequently at international conferences. The BBDG maintains a high profile in the international scientific community as a diverse center of technical innovations and clinical research endeavors in the diagnosis of metabolic bone disorders and orthopedic imaging. 
The BBDG is engaged in a number of research projects that apply the most advanced technological tools to the prevention and treatment of musculoskeletal disorders. BBDG researchers work with state-of-the-art bone densitometry equipment, employing such techniques as dual X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), quantitative computed tomography (QCT), micro computed tomography, quantitative ultrasound (QUS), and high-resolution radiographic digitization. The group has at its disposal an extensive array of state-of-the-art bone densitometry equipment, which is used to diagnose, assess, and monitor bone density and to predict fracture risk. BBDG researchers work closely with equipment manufacturers regarding research and development as well as the clinical testing of these devices. Our laboratories use the latest prototypes from the major manufacturers. The BBDG has been a valuable resource on densitometry and osteoporosis for government, industry and professional societies. Members of the BBDG have advised the State of California, the American College of Radiology and the American Society of Radiologic Technologists, the International Atomic Energy Commission (IAEA), the International Committee for Standardization of Units (ICRU), the National Institute for Standards and Technology (NIST), and the International Society for Clinical Densitometry (ISCD) on guidelines for the proper use of densitometry equipment, the creation of standards for the certification of densitometry technologists and reimbursement policies for bone mineral density (BMD) tests. Dr. Shepherd currently serves on several committees including the ISCD’s Committee on Standards of Bone Measure.
We have advised and assisted many companies in the development of new densitometry equipment, adding value to the final product. Several devices for measuring bone mineral density have been evaluated by the BBDG and the resulting data presented to the FDA as part of the pre-market approval process.
The following are some background materials on the two diseases we research.
The BBDG specific research areas are the following.
Breast Density as a risk factor for Breast Cancer
The following are our groups resouces.
The following are collaborative research services our group offers
Research Services
More on our group