The McNulty Lab The McNulty Lab

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At the McNulty Lab, our mission is to advance innovative strategies that prevent osteoarthritis and promote tissue repair and regeneration following joint injury. Our multidisciplinary research spans several key areas:

Mechanotransduction in Joint Tissues
We investigate how mechanical loading—both regular and injurious—activates signaling pathways in cartilage and meniscus. Our goal is to understand how these mechanotransduction mechanisms change with aging, injury, and tissue degeneration. By identifying alterations in mechanosensitive signaling, we aim to uncover therapeutic targets that can enhance tissue repair and prevent the onset of osteoarthritis.
Meniscus Tissue Engineering
We are developing bioengineered meniscus constructs designed to repair or replace damaged tissue resulting from injury or surgical resection. These constructs hold promise for restoring joint function and preventing long-term degeneration.
Joint Biomechanics and Osteoarthritis Progression
Our team studies the biological and biomechanical changes that occur in the joint following meniscus injury. Understanding these changes is critical to identifying how they contribute to the development and progression of osteoarthritis.
Impact of Blood and Blood-Derived Components
We explore how exposure to blood and its components affects meniscus tissue homeostasis and repair, with a particular focus on their role in post-traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA) development.

Through these research initiatives, the McNulty Lab is committed to improving musculoskeletal health and developing novel interventions that enhance joint healing and prevent degenerative diseases.