Computational biomechanical modelling to predict musculoskeletal dynamics: application for 3Rs and changing muscle-bone dynamics

Abstracts are not currently available in GtR for all funded research. This is normally because the abstract was not required at the time of proposal submission, but may be because it included sensitive information such as personal details.

This project has three primary goals: 1) provide quantitative data of musculoskeletal adaptations in response to altered biomechanical loads; 2) create and validate computational biomechanical models which can accurately predict these musculoskeletal adaptations; 3) determine the quantity of experimental inputs required to achieve specific levels of replacement/reduction of animal experiments. We will use mastication in rabbits as our model system because it is experimentally tractable and will generate data relevant to basic biological science fields and the health and welfare of rabbits. We will collect in vivo and in vitro experimental data of adaptations of the rabbit masticatory system due to myectomy of a single muscle. Biplanar x-ray videography will be synchronized with strain gauges, muscle EMG and sonomicrometry to simultaneously record 3D motions, muscle dynamics and bone strains during feeding. We will also perform in vitro physiology experiments to quantify muscle mechanics and key contractile properties, and measure bone properties and structure through the skull. This will provide an insight into the compensatory role muscles play in the event of musculoskeletal dysfunction, along with how this affects bone remodelling. This data will also allow us to build and drive computational models that can replicate, and thus, predict the outcomes of temporal changes in musculoskeletal function. Predictions of how the compensatory muscles and bone adapt will be validated against the experimental data collected. We will then incrementally reduce or average-out the resolution of experimental input data to determine the effects on the model accuracy. This develops our understanding of musculoskeletal adaptation to disruption to "normal" physiological functioning, and also provides validated computational models that can replicate biomedical experiments, thus aiding the replacement, refinement and reduction of animal experiments.