Fundamental theoretical and experimental investigation of cartilage mechanics

关节炎和慢性关节症状是社区中导致残疾的主要原因之一，但对关节力学的基本理解尚未实现。这个项目的目的是开发一种新的最先进的数学模型来描述人类的软骨行为。该模型将解释像走路这样的活动如何通过组织转移生长因子来维持健康的软骨，并定量解释如何通过渗出的润滑剂将软骨的磨损降至最低。这个模型将促进我们对健康和疾病中软骨力学的理解，从而帮助澳大利亚人更好地和更有成效地衰老。

Arthritis and chronic joint symptoms are one of the leading causes of disability in the community, yet a fundamental understanding of joint mechanics has yet to be realised. The aim of this project is to develop a new state-of-the-art mathematical model describing cartilage behaviour in humans. The model will explain how activities like walking maintain healthy cartilage by transferring growth factors through the tissue, and quantitatively explain how wear is minimised in cartilage through weeping lubrication. This model will progress our understanding of cartilage mechanics in health and disease, and so help Australians age well and productively.