BBRCVA

The Centre has had a number of significant successes so far, including three patent applications for possible new treatments for arthritis, and has also established a unique foundation for further research and started several longer term studies which will yield results during the next five years. The funding requested is primarily to provide a platform for future research, most of which will be funded from other sources. The Centre has a unique aim of linking biomechanics, biology and pain through cross – disciplinary studies involving engineers, biologists, clinicians, imaging specialists, pharmacists and others. Coordinating patient visits and sample collection and processing requires a manager and dedicated research nurses as well as technicians to help with measurements and sample processing. Funding is also requested for some key projects, which will also be supported by the University through PhD scholarships. These focus on three important questions:- Can we slow, stop or reverse degenerative joint disease by altering joint biomechanics? Can we identify specific indicators of rapid onset of degenerative joint disease after acute injury and develop interventions to prevent the development of osteoarthritis? Can we develop multivariate interdisciplinary tools to predict total knee replacement outcomes and better direct appropriate interventions?