My research focuses on the role of
nerves in controlling joint inflammation and pain using models of
rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and joint injury. Joints
possess an extensive nerve supply whose function is to sense joint
position and control movement. Less known, is that these nerves also
serve other physiological functions such as the control of joint
blood flow and maintaining joint health.
Following injury, articular nerves
release a cocktail of mediators into the joint which cause
inflammatory changes such as an alteration in blood flow, increased
vascular permeability, and angiogenesis. These same agents can also
sensitise the sensory nerves of the joint leading to a heightened
feeling of pain. My laboratory examines the effects of various
neurotransmitters on knee joint physiology by measuring each of
these different parameters. For joint blood flow experiments, for
example, I use state-of-the-art laser Doppler technology to map out
areas of inflammation and administer various drugs to help modulate
these inflammatory changes.
With the pain research, I employ
classic electrophysiological techniques to record the electrical
activity of joint sensory nerves in response to trauma or arthritis.
Drugs are again administered to the joint to test their
effectiveness in reducing pain activity and hence be potential
analgesics. This uniquely integrative approach to arthritis research
in my lab will provide us with a better picture of the
pathophysiological changes associated with arthritis and hopefully
lead to the development of better and more meaningful drug
therapies.