We study early responses to joint injury to learn about the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis and to identify intervention strategies.  We study chondrocyte mechanobiology to understand how mechanical forces are translated into biochemical responses.  We study cartilage matricellular proteins to gain insight into how cells interact with growth factors and the extracellular matrix.

We use animal models of joint injury and bone formation, explant models of osteochondral injuries,  stem-cell based tissue engineering, and 3-axis bioreactors to mechanically stimulate hydrogel-embedded chondrocytes and stem cells.

We apply the knowledge to translational studies. Example: Intervene with inflammatory gene expression upon joint injury to prevent or delay OA. Example: Enhance BMP-mediated bone regeneration by presenting the growth factor in a biologically relevant context on matricellular proteins.