Translational Imaging and Phenotyping Core

The proposed Translational Imaging and Phenotyping Core (TIPC) will enhance and accelerate the research of Center investigators by providing equitable access to efficient, cost-effective, rigorous, state-of- the-art technologies for musculoskeletal phenotyping that are generally not available in any single investigator’s laboratory. Services are available for studies using animal models as well as clinical investigations, and include histology & histomorphometry, microcomputed tomography, biomechanical testing, quantitative MRI, high-resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography, as well as innovative analysis of genotype-phenotype associations using the Boston Children’s Hospital biobank and image repository. The proposed core leadership brings together experienced investigators, Drs. Bouxsein, Liu, and Kiapour, with complementary expertise. The proposed services are based on prior usage of the Core, on input from Center investigators as well as from the recommendations of the the Innovation (New Directions) Committee. Thus, the core will offer a mix of ‘tried and true’ services, in addition to cutting-edge approaches designed to catalyze scientific advances by Center investigators, increase the impact of their investigations and foster collaborations. Each service provided by the Core will be rigorously controlled for quality performance and reliability. The Core will also lead efforts in education and training, by conducting hands-on workshops in which investigators can be mentored and taught how to perform analyses on their own. The Core will also conduct a seminar series to introduce new methodologies, approaches, and related scientific progress to Center investigators.