Microstructure analysis of the developing skeleton

Description: Patterns in the development of the juvenile skeleton are emerging with expanding research. Early skeletal form appears to be dictated by the progression of ossification whilst biomechanical loading associated with the attainment of motor milestones, such as the bipedal gait, influences the postnatal skeleton. Other factors such as vascularisation and growth patterns also appear to influence skeletal development. Most of the previous juvenile research focuses upon weight-bearing bones associated with bipedal location. This project will explore areas of the skeleton which experiences very different loading regimes using microcomputed tomography. Investigating such areas of the skeleton may provide further insight into development of the juvenile skeleton and facilitate a greater understanding of biomechanical influences. Understanding the factors that influence the developing skeleton may also be useful for the treatment and analysis of paediatric trauma and pathology.

The project aim is to investigate changes in the bone microarchitecture of the juvenile skeleton. This will be investigated through various imaging modalities, such as microcomputed tomography (μCT). The study will focus on analysis of the Scheuer Juvenile Collection.

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