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Other Research Initiatives
- Nanotech (BoNT-A nanodetector)
- Collaborative research with the Center for Nanotechnology at Wake Forest University led to the submission of an SBIR proposal in conjunction with NanoTechLabs, Inc. and Foster-Miller, Inc. (Boston, MA) to develop and test a nanotubule field effect transistor (FET) toxin detector. This device would allow the use of functionalized nanotubules in a field effect transistor configuration to produce a highly specific, ultra-sensitive micro-scale detection device for botulinum neurotoxin, the most lethal toxin known.
- Animal Model Development
- Several unique animal models relevant to orthopaedic pathologies have been developed within the Orthopaedic Research Laboratory. Funding received from the Orthopaedic Research and Education Foundation and the NIH has been used to develop a rabbit ear model (a model for the human digit) to study peripheral microvascular control mechanisms and to study the role of granulocytes in reperfusion injury. The AO-Stiftung ASIF foundation provided funding to develop a rabbit knee model to study post-traumatic osteoarthritis and the stages of cartilage healing. Funding from the Orthopaedic Research and Education Foundation has been used to develop a rat model of skeletal muscle microcirculation to study the effect of contusion and cryotherapy on the microcirculation. A dog model and a rabbit model have been used to study the effect of extramedullary porous coating on the prevention of periprosthetic osteolysis. The American Society of Surgery of the Hand has provided funding to develop a rabbit ear model to study recovery of thermoregulatory control following peripheral nerve injury. Sheep have been used to study the process of graft regeneration following removal of the anterior cruciate ligament with replacement of various types of grafts.
- Genetic Model of Aging
- As a result of collaborations with William Sonntag, PhD, professor of physiology at Wake Forest University School of Medicine, the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery has access to a unique genetic model of aging. This rat model involves the dwarf rat that exhibit signs of accelerated aging because of their lack of growth hormone. This animal model currently is being used to study the effects of the aging process on extremity nerve repair and its effects on function.
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