To explore the mechanisms behind degenerative diseases of the musculoskeletal system with aging, especially those related to bone and arthritis, with the aim of developing both prevention and treatment strategies for these diseases.

The goal of the research core is to provide mechanism and treatment regimens for degenerative diseases of the musculoskeletal system utilizing in-vivo animal models for bone diseases, biochemistry, densitometry, histomorphometry, and molecular biology techniques.

Bone histomorphometric services (PDF/581K; click the link for more details)
Our bone histomorphometric service includes:

• Pre-analysis consulting including study design and instruction for sample collection
• Sample preparation including fixation, dyhydration and embed in Methyl Methacrylate
• Sectioing with microtome or diamond bone saw
• Complete bone histomorphometric analysis with Bioquant imaging software
• Final calculation for all parameters
• Interpretation of the results
• Materials & Methods for publications

MicroCT Services (PDF/550K; click the link for more details)

• Pre-analysis consulting including study design and instruction for sample collection
• In Vivo scanning including anesthetizing animals and performing microCT scans
• Ex-vivo scanning for any skeleton sites
• Complete evaluations of the 2 and 3 D measurements
• Final calculation for all parameters
• 3D images for representative animals
• Interpretation of the results