Under the framework of bone functional adaptation, bone structure is predicted to reflect the loads experienced during an animal’s lifetime. To determine the precise relationship between skeletal loading and bone structure, three groups of guinea fowl (Numidia meleagris) were implemented as an experimental model to manipulate skeletal load stimuli. Ongoing work in this area focuses on increasing our understanding of the complexities underpinning bone functional adaptation, which may be informative in relation to interpretations based on extant and extinct hominoids.
Collaborating Researchers
Jonas Rubenson, Penn State University, Kinesiology
Steve Piazza, Penn State University, Kinesiology
Publications
2020
Katugam, K., Cox, S. M., Salzano, M. Q., De Boef, A., Hast, M. W., Neuberger, T., … & Rubenson, J. Altering the Mechanical Load Environment During Growth Does Not Affect Adult Achilles Tendon Properties in an Avian Bipedal Model. Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology, 8.
2019
Guerra AM, Stephens NB, Cox SM, Salzano MQ, Piazza SJ, Rubenson J, Ryan TM. Trabecular bone in the ankle of a rapid-growing avian bipedal model in response to locomotor inactivity. Poster Presentation at Society for Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science conference, Honolulu, HI