# Musculoskeletal Structure and Strength Core

> **NIH NIH P30** · WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY · 2021 · $149,940

## Abstract

Summary – Resource Core B
Measures of structure and strength are essential when assessing functional outcomes in animal models
related to musculoskeletal biology and medicine. Evaluating these outcomes requires specialized
equipment and expertise, which is impractical and inefficient to recreate in multiple labs. In response to this
need, we established the Musculoskeletal Structure and Strength Core. This multifaceted resource supports
our Research Community in understanding and implementing techniques to evaluate structure and
mechanical properties of musculoskeletal tissues (bone, cartilage, disc, muscle, tendon) derived from
animal models. We have had a strong impact. Since 2009, we have provided billable services to 94 unique
investigators, who have reported structure or strength data in 176 manuscripts which have been cited 3266
times. The need for these services remains high, with 57 current and projected future users. In order to
sustain and extend this resource going forward, we propose two Specific Aims. Aim 1 – Imaging: Maintain
protocols and equipment, provide training and technical support, and perform imaging of musculoskeletal
structures and tissues from animal models generated by Research Community investigators. Routine
techniques include plane radiography, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), and micro-computed
tomography (microCT), each available post mortem or in vivo. We have recently developed methods for
contrast-enhanced imaging; we will make these available to our users and will continue to develop new
approaches for imaging non-mineralized tissues (cartilage, disc, muscle, tendon). We will present regular
seminars on imaging and strengthen our partnership with the Center for Cellular Imaging. Aim 2 –
Mechanical Testing: Perform mechanical testing to assess the functional properties of musculoskeletal
structures and tissues from animal models generated by Research Community investigators. Standard
testing methods include long-bone bending, vertebral compression, tendon and tendon-to-bone tensile
testing, and bone microindentation. Newly established methods include passive and active muscle tension
testing and notched bending for fracture toughness. We will present seminars and provide training and
enrichment to enhance understanding of biomechanics among Center investigators. In summary, Core B
will provide critical support to members of our large Research Community to enable cost-effective utilization
of methods to quantify morphology and mechanical properties from musculoskeletal tissues (bone, tendon,
muscle, cartilage, disc). Through our efforts we will enhance research productivity and rigor, and provide
access to state-of-the-art and emerging techniques.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10136444
- **Project number:** 5P30AR074992-03
- **Recipient organization:** WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY
- **Principal Investigator:** MATTHEW J SILVA
- **Activity code:** P30 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2021
- **Award amount:** $149,940
- **Award type:** 5
- **Project period:** 2019-04-15 → 2024-03-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10136444

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10136444, Musculoskeletal Structure and Strength Core (5P30AR074992-03). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-26 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10136444. Licensed CC0.

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