Research Interests

Primary cilia, mechanobiology, cartilage biology, endocytosis, Matrix

The laboratory principal interest is mechanobiology, with a focus on the musculoskeletal system during development and disease. Through this we have explored primary cilia in articular cartilage and chondrocytes and osteoarthritis, and in growth plate cartilage, where we are focussed on role in integrating mechanical forces within cell fate decisions during growth.  

We have done alot of work in pre-clinical models, but are now developing complex in vitro systems and experimental medicine approaches using clinical imaging. We work from single molecule (IFT/TTBK2) to physiological systems (limb).  

Projects: 

Intergration of mechanical forces in the growing limb 

Growth plate closure in OA 

Mechanobiology of cartilage, integration of skeletal shape

Primary cilia genes and regulation of extracellular matrix proteases through endocytosis

The primary cilia pocket

Bioenegineering approaches to biological questions

Modelling limb and hand cartilage