Linking tissue mechanics with imaging

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Medical imaging techniques such as Computed Tomography may be used to estimate the mechanical properties (such as strength) of bone and cartilage in human joints. These imaging techniques can help us to better understand the cause of osteoarthritis, a 'wear and tear' disease on the cartilage of joints affecting over 3 million Canadians. At joints, such as the knee, bone ends are covered by a thin layer of cartilage which allows pain-free movement. Osteoarthritis is characterized by breakdown of this cartilage. It is not known what causes osteoarthritis but changes in the mechanical properties of (subchondral) bone underlying cartilage may influence cartilage breakdown. The goal of this research is to develop and validate imaging tools that can be used to assess mechanical properties of subchondral bone and cartilage. This will be accomplished using Computed Tomography together with (1) a calibration system to measure bone density, and (2) contrast agents to measure cartilage biochemistry (cartilage health). We will assess how well imaged bone density and cartilage biochemistry predict the mechanical properties of bone and cartilage, respectively, using a unique combination of material-testing and computer modeling. This research will support the training of students in several scientific research areas including mechanical and biomedical engineering, medicine and kinesiology. This research will provide new imaging tools capable of reliably estimating bone and cartilage strength, and computer models that can be used to better understand joint diseases. Knowledge gained from the proposed research can be used to develop better diagnostic tools for assessing joint health and disease, and to improve our understanding of osteoarthritis.