Sex dimorphism in articular cartilage nanomechanics
We investigate differences in the extracellular matrix (ECM), pericellular matrix (PCM) and chondrocyte nanomechanics in articular cartilage across the lifespan. We use human cartilage from various ages and techniques such as fluorescence-guided atomic force microscopy (AFM) and confocal microscopy to unveil structural and nanomechanical risks that can explain sex disparities in osteoarthritis later in life.
Effect of sex hormones in chondrocyte mechanotransduction
We study how estrogen and progesterone affect chondrocytes biology and their response to mechanical stimulation. We aim to understand the hormonal modulation of the calcium mechanosensitive channels TRPV4 and PIEZO1, ECM and PCM synthesis, and cell nanomechanical adaptations. For this, chondrocytes are grown in 3D microenvironments and exposed to cyclic compression. We measure calcium transients after stimulation, changes in gene expression, and protein synthesis.
