Deep (musculo) skeletal phenotyping
Bone mineral density (BMD) is a measurement of the mineral content, primarily calcium and phosphorus, present in a specific region of bone tissue. It is crucial for assessing bone strength, diagnosing osteoporosis and osteopenia, predicting fracture risk, and monitoring bone health over time. Low BMD indicates weaker bones, increasing the risk of fractures, especially in the hip, spine, and wrist. Research focuses on understanding the genetic and environmental factors influencing BMD, developing new diagnostic tools and treatments for osteoporosis, and investigating the relationship between BMD and fracture risk.
Body composition refers to the proportion of lean mass (muscle, organs, bone) and fat mass in the body. It is assessed to evaluate overall health, monitor changes during interventions like diet and exercise, and evaluate risk factors for chronic diseases. Imbalances in body composition, such as excess fat mass or low lean mass, are associated with increased risk of metabolic disorders, cardiovascular disease, and musculoskeletal problems. Research aims to understand the mechanisms underlying changes in body composition, develop interventions to promote healthy body composition, and explore the relationship between body composition and disease outcomes.
Trabecular Bone Score (TBS) is a measure of bone microarchitecture, providing information about the quality of trabecular bone. It is used to assess fracture risk independently of BMD, especially in individuals with normal or near-normal BMD values. Low TBS indicates deteriorated bone microarchitecture, increasing fracture risk even in individuals with normal BMD. Research focuses on validating TBS as a tool for fracture risk assessment and understanding the factors influencing bone microarchitecture.
Bone material strength index (BMSi) is a measure of bone material properties, reflecting the mechanical strength and quality of bone tissue. It is assessed to predict fracture risk independently of BMD and bone microarchitecture. Low BMSi indicates compromised bone material properties, increasing fracture risk even in individuals with normal BMD and bone microarchitecture. Our research aims to understand the relationship between BMSi and fracture risk.
Sagittal alignment refers to the curvature and alignment of the spine in the sagittal plane. It is assessed to identify spinal deformities (such as kyphosis or lordosis) and evaluate the risk of musculoskeletal problems. Abnormal sagittal alignment can lead to back pain, spinal deformities, and functional impairment. Research focuses on understanding the biomechanics of spinal alignment and assessing the impact of sagittal alignment on overall health and musculoskeletal disease.
Cobb’s angle is a measure of spinal curvature used to diagnose and monitor scoliosis. It quantifies the severity of scoliosis and monitors changes over time. Our research aims to understand the underlying causes of spinal deformities.
Muscle strength refers to the force generated by muscles during voluntary contractions. It is assessed to identify weaknesses or imbalances and evaluate the effectiveness of interventions such as exercise programs or rehabilitation. Muscle weakness can lead to functional limitations, mobility problems, and increased risk of falls and injuries. Our research focuses on understanding the mechanisms of muscle strength and fatigue and assessing the impact of muscle strength on overall health and musculoskeletal disease.
Jumping force measures the force exerted by the lower limbs during dynamic movements like jumping or hopping. It is assessed to evaluate lower limb function, neuromuscular control, and athletic performance. Jumping force is a marker of lower limb strength, power, and coordination, with implications for sports performance, injury prevention, and rehabilitation. Our research aims to understand the biomechanics of jumping force and its relation to fracture risk.
