Summary
This K01 award provides training and protected research time for Dr. Alexandra Armstrong to become an independently-funded investigator in animal models of developmental orthopedic diseases, focusing on Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease using spatialomics and quantitative MRI.
What they want
Dr. Armstrong will use a well-validated piglet model of Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease (LCPD) to identify differentially expressed genes within growth cartilage associated with growth disturbances (Aim 1) and the response of the growth plate and epiphyseal cartilage to transphyseal drilling (Aim 2). The patterns and pathways identified by spatialomics profiling will be correlated with histological features and compared to quantitative MRI features of the epiphyseal cartilage, with the potential to identify translational biomarkers of growth cartilage injury. The five-year training period will include gaining knowledge in clinical management of developmental orthopedic disorders, developing expertise in novel spatialomics methods and analysis, developing a strong knowledge base in cutting-edge musculoskeletal MRI techniques, gaining experience in grantwriting, and undergoing professional development in diversity, mentoring, teaching, and leadership. The training aims to culminate in Dr. Armstrong achieving R01 or equivalent funding.
Deliverables
- Identification of differentially expressed genes within growth cartilage associated with growth disturbances
- Identification of patterns and pathways by spatialomics profiling correlated with histological and quantitative MRI features
- Identification of translational biomarkers of growth cartilage injury
- Achievement of R01 or equivalent funding
Technical requirements
- Spatialomic profiling methods and analysis
- Quantitative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques
- Use of a piglet model of Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease (LCPD)
- Histological analysis
- Analysis of genomic data
Key personnel
- Alexandra Armstrong, DVM, DACVP, PhD
- Mentors in animal models, orthopaedic surgery, musculoskeletal imaging, rheumatology, and pathology
