The major focus of Matthew R. Allen’s research laboratory is to understand the tissue-level mechanisms responsible for bone integrity in health and disease. We use numerous in vivo model systems to study how disease and pharmaceutical intervention influence bone structure, cellular activity, tissue-level properties (such as mineralization, microdamage, collagen, hydration), and biomechanical properties.
The laboratory studies a range of diseases/conditions, including osteoporosis, chronic kidney disease, and disuse using techniques that include imaging (CT, DXA, X-ray), histology (static and dynamic histomorphometry, microdamage), and mechanical testing (bending, compression, fatigue loading).
The laboratory work closely with faculty in biomedical engineering (Joseph Wallace) and nephrology (Sharon Moe), forming an interdisciplinary and translational research team.
The laboratory values wellness, individuality, professional development, and mentoring.
