McNary Lab

As a basic science investigator, the overall goal of my research program is to develop and advance therapies for post-traumatic and primary osteoarthritis, for tomorrow's patient. This long-term ambition is built upon investigations utilizing advanced tools and techniques in tissue engineering, biomechanics, and biotribology. First, the gold standard for measuring the durability of tissue engineered cartilage is animal models. The development of in vitro methods to evaluate the biomechanical endurance of native and engineered cartilage could reduce the usage of animal models, and advance the progress of engineered cartilage toward the clinic. Second, current methods for treating joint pain via articular cartilage lubrication, such as viscosupplementation, have a mixed record of efficacy. My laboratory is also intent on discovering new approaches for enhancing lubrication at the articular surface to relieve pain, and potentially slow the process of cartilage degeneration.