Examining the influence of mechanical loading on articular cartilage adaptation

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There is a common misconception that high volumes of weight-bearing exercise negatively influence cartilage within joints. However, mechanical loading from weight-bearing activities is essential to promote cartilage nutrition and joint function. Both under- and over- loading can negatively influence the cartilage structure, and optimal loading strategies remain unclear and likely vary across populations and conditions. A barrier to studying the influence of mechanical loading on cartilage in vivo is the lack of accessible imaging methods, and reliance on animal studies that do not necessarily mimic human anatomy or realistic physiologic conditions. The objective of this research proposal is to evaluate how the human body responds to habitual loading, and how biomechanical function can be optimized for function and longevity. The aims of this proposal are to (1) develop novel ultrasound imaging methods for femoral cartilage that assess both structure, composition, and function (2) explore the relationship between habitual and lifelong weight-bearing activities on cartilage characteristics and (3) to evaluate the effects of various mechanical loading paradigms on cartilage characteristics in vivo. My interdisciplinary approach integrates ultrasound imaging and robust biomechanical analyses to further elucidate biomechanical mechanisms for cartilage development and adaptation in human models. These data will assist in informing biomechanically appropriate and evidence-based exercise prescriptions that promote cartilage development. The short-term goals outlined in this proposal will contribute to the broader goal of my research program, which seeks to understand how to optimize biomechanical function for mobility across the lifespan. Proper function of articular cartilage is essential to mobility and longevity. Imaging is useful because it assists our understanding of cartilage development under normal and stressful conditions. By incorporating biomechanical assessments, my research also elucidates biomechanical mechanisms for cartilage adaptation in vivo, which will assist in developing biomechanically appropriate exercise-based prescriptions that manipulate the quantity and quality of mechanical loading. Finally, my research may provide a method to identify individuals at high risk for joint disease. Consistent with past research, the proposed program will offer exceptional training opportunities for HQP development that will prepare them for positions in industry, research, and clinical pathways.