Osteoarthritis and the human knee - linking structural degradation to mechanical performance

Degenerative joint diseases, specifically osteoarthritis (OA), are one of our most rapidly growing threats to healthy ageing.

This proposal aims to systematically examine microstructural, compositional and biomechanical changes within human knee joint tissues with focus on identifying signs of early OA.

Articular cartilage and mensicus tissues from a novel biobank are examined with high resolution 3D imaging using synchrotron phase contrast X-ray tomography concurrently with time resolved mechanical loading. The tissues progressive response to compression and shear are analysed with advanced image correlation methods.

The outcome is implemented into computational finite element models to better understand how the structural features affect the biomechanical parameters across the adult life span, in health and disease.The results will provide fundamental insights into how the microstructures, primarily the collagen network and cells, behave during mechanical loading, extending our knowledge of how load contribute to drive OA.

We expect to improve the current understanding on collagen degradation and the intricate timing of degenerative events in the cartilage and meniscus.

This multidisciplinary venture to elucidate the mechanisms of joint tissue function will lead to a breakthrough in our understanding of joint health and OA.

This knowledge will lay the foundation for future development of preventative and regenerative therapies to enable physically active and healthy ageing.