In vivo assessment of human tendon biomechanics

This PhD project aims to explore how different types of mechanical loading alter tendon structure and biomechanics to inform exercise rehabilitation programs. 

Human tendon is a metabolically active, force-transmitting, and energy-storing tissue, adaptable to the mechanical loading it experiences1,2. Although there is a plethora of studies on human tendons and their characteristics, the exact causal link between specific loading conditions and adaptive responses is still poorly understood1. This is partly due to our inability to accurately measure tendon loading or mechanical properties3. 

Preliminary results indicate that studying changes in the 3D shape of the tendon during loading could help address this limitations3. In this context, the proposed research will combine 4D ultrasound imaging, non-invasive mechanical testing4 and finite element modelling to:

1. Develop a method for the operator-independent 3D imaging of tendons in different loaded states.
2. Develop a computational method to estimate how external loading is distributed across the tissue.
3. Map the effect of loading on tendon stiffness.

This project will be delivered through a combination of computational and laboratory work. It will lead to high impact scientific publications and support the successful candidate to develop unique computational skills and expertise for in vivo mechanical testing. The methods and new knowledge that will be produced will have direct significant implications for the prevention and rehabilitation of tendon injury. 

References:

1. Reeves et al.J Physiol. 2003;548(Pt 3):971-981. doi:10.1113/jphysiol.2002.0355762002.035576

2. Tsitsilonis et al.Foot Ankle Surg.2014;20(2):94-96. doi:10.1016/j.fas.2013.12.001

3. Maganaris et al.Front Physiol.2017;8:91. doi:10.3389/fphys.2017.00091

4. Mifsud et al.J Biomech.2023;152(March):111558. doi:10.1016/j.jbiomech.2023.111558

Diversity statement

Our research community thrives on the diversity of students and staff which helps to make the University of Dundee a UK university of choice for postgraduate research.  We welcome applications from all talented individuals and are committed to widening access to those who have the ability and potential to benefit from higher education.