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The Scissors Model of Microcrack Detection in Bone: Work in Progress

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Abstract

We have proposed a new model for microcrack detection by osteocytes in bone. According to this model, cell signalling is initiated by the cutting of cellular processes which span the crack. We show that shear displacements of the crack faces are needed to rupture these processes, in an action similar to that of a pair of scissors. Current work involves a combination of cell biology experiments, theoretical and experimental fracture mechanics and system modelling using control theory approaches. The approach will be useful for understanding effects of extreme loading, aging, disease states and drug treatments on bone damage and repair; the present paper presents recent results from experiments and simulations as part of current, ongoing research.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Trinity Centre for Bioengineering, Trinity College, Dublin 2, Ireland

    David Taylor, Lauren Mulcahy, Gerardo Presbitero, Pietro Tisbo & Clodagh Dooley

  2. Department of Anatomy, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland

    Lauren Mulcahy, Garry Duffy & T. Clive Lee

Authors
  1. David Taylor
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  2. Lauren Mulcahy
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  3. Gerardo Presbitero
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  4. Pietro Tisbo
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  5. Clodagh Dooley
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  6. Garry Duffy
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  7. T. Clive Lee
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Taylor, D., Mulcahy, L., Presbitero, G. et al. The Scissors Model of Microcrack Detection in Bone: Work in Progress. MRS Online Proceedings Library 1274, 801 (2010). https://doi.org/10.1557/PROC-1274-QQ08-01

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1557/PROC-1274-QQ08-01

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