2005 was a time of significant growth at the Center as we complete our transition to the Bone and Joint Center and continue to build our reputation, research funding, and scientific and clinical impact in skeletal rehabilitation R&D. Center PIs received nine new investigator-initiated grants focused on topics from the molecular basis of disease to a multi-center clinical trial to improve upper extremity function in tetraplegia. Attracting extra-center research funding is a critical goal and is fundamental for us to reach our objective of translating research findings from the bench to the clinic. Our new Clinical Studies Coordinator and Trial Design Specialist has been central to the initiation of a number of new clinical studies. One hundred and twenty-two subjects participated in six different studies at the Center in 2005. In these studies subjects were evaluated in a number of different modalities such as gait analysis, MRI for cartilage degeneration, quality of life surveys, surgical outcomes, etc. Interventions included body weight supported treadmill training, specialized orthotic athletic shoes, and arthroscopic knee surgery. Basic science research into the cell and molecular function of skeletal tissues in health and disease is another important focus of the Center. By understanding the biological and mechanical basis of disease, the Center is well positioned to implement the most promising new clinical approaches as well as to guide basic research into areas of the most significant clinical need. In the past year, we have made new investments aimed at enhancing the research pipeline by adding in vivo small animal research to the Center's investigative armamentarium. We have built a new bone histology lab as well as purchased equipment to study small animal bone overuse and disuse protocols. These facilities have allowed us to begin an experiment to validate a novel molecular mechanism that we identified in cell culture and may ultimately prove to be responsible for the response of bone to mechanical loading. In terms of major construction initiatives, we continue to plan for a seismic building upgrade and improvements, which will add 8,000 square feet and a second floor to the original Building 51 floor plan in 2007. We also have begun work with an architect and interior design team to renovate one of the Center labs to allow for exercise studies and to add locker and shower facilities for experimental subjects. Center PIs generally each have an individual research group made up of students and staff. Capacity building through the training and mentoring of students and new RR&D investigators is another critical objective. In 2005, Center PIs served as mentors to 18 Bioengineering PhD students, 11 post-graduate MDs, and 12 post-graduate PhDs. |
