# Musculoskeletal Histology and Morphometry Core

> **NIH NIH P30** · WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY · 2021 · $150,499

## Abstract

Evaluation of animal models through utilization of histological approaches leads to insights at the cellular and
molecular levels. However, analysis of tissues in the musculoskeletal system is technically challenging due to
the nature of the tissues involved, which requires specialized embedding approaches and anatomical
knowledge to obtain the necessary sections, and the use of multiple staining techniques to visualize various
matrix and cellular components. In 2009, we established the Musculoskeletal Histology and Morphometry Core
to provide comprehensive technical and consultative services for our Research Community to optimize and
take greatest advantage of their animal models for musculoskeletal biology and disease, including bone,
cartilage, tendon, disc, and muscle. Since our inception, we have provided billable services for 88 unique
investigators who have reported histological data in 192 manuscripts, which have been cited 3266 times (see
Exhibit II.C and Bibiolography). In addition, we have presented seminars/workshops and developed online
resources to promote appropriate qualitative and quantitative assessment of musculoskeletal histology and
promote best practices, to support rigor and reproducibility. We have adapted to the needs of our Research
Community by implementing non-decalcified frozen sections/tape transfer methods, commonly used with
lineage tracing mouse models, and recently (in late 2017) acquiring a Leica confocal microscope system to aid
in downstream analysis. We have also formed a collaborative interaction with Dr. James Fitzpatrick in the
Washingotn University Center for Cellular Imaging (WUCCI) to take advantage of other cutting-edge
microscopic techniques available on campus. We are currently implementing new techniques for histologic
analysis of muscle, forming a new collaboration with Dr. Gretchen Meyer, a junior faculty member bringing this
expertise into our Center. Going forward, we aim to sustain and extend these components of the Core with 5
objectives: 1) provide high quality, efficient histology services across the range of techniques required for
musculoskeletal research; 2) support rigorous and reproducible approaches that contribute to research
proposals and publications with high impact; 3) provide training and enrichment opportunities (in concert with
the T32 Skeletal Disorders Training Program); 4) enhance and adapt Core services in response to the needs
of our Research Community; 5) foster interactions among existing and new members of the Research
Community through sharing of techniques and approaches for histology and microscopy. We have 2 Aims:
Aim 1. Histology services: Perform processing, embedding, sectioning and staining, along with maintenance
of protocols and targeted training for users, for the range of tissues and techniques required in musculoskeletal
research. Aim 2. Resources for Histological Imaging and Analysis: Core will maintain and provide training
for use of Leica Confocal micros...

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10136445
- **Project number:** 5P30AR074992-03
- **Recipient organization:** WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY
- **Principal Investigator:** DEBORAH J VEIS
- **Activity code:** P30 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2021
- **Award amount:** $150,499
- **Award type:** 5
- **Project period:** 2019-04-15 → 2024-03-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10136445

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10136445, Musculoskeletal Histology and Morphometry Core (5P30AR074992-03). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-24 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10136445. Licensed CC0.

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