M3 - Multiscale Muscle Mechanics Lab at UVA




	We integrate a variety of computational and experimental approaches to characterizing structure-function relationships in muscle. Below are descriptions of the types of studies currently being performed in the lab. Please also see our publications page for more information about our research.

3D Finite-Element Muscle Modeling We have developed an image-based computational framework for characcterizing the complex three-dimensional architecture and geometry of skeletal muscles (for example, a model of the gluteus maximus muscle is shown on the left). We have gained an number of insights regarding the structure-function relationships of skeletal muscle using 3D muscle models. For example, analyses of 3D models identified the effects of aponeurosis morphology on muscle tissue strains and the effects of complex fiber trajectories on fiber excursions. We are now using these tools to create models of the hamstrings to investigate the mechanisms for strain injury and of the triceps surae muscle to investigate the mechanics of muscle contractures in cerebral palsy.

			Muscle Imaging We are using a variety of imaging techniques to characterize the structure and behavior of muscle in vivo. These measurements provide valuable data to build and validate 3D models of muscle. Shown on the left is sagittal image of the arm and a corresponding map showing the principal strains (color coding) and principal strain directiosn (lines) throughout the muscle during active elbow flexion.

		Modeling muscle microstructure We are creating finite-element models that describe the morphology and mechanics of muscle fibers and the extracellular matrix. Our goal is to understand how the micro-scale structure influences the overall function and behavior of muscle.

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