Research summary
People of all ages can suffer from bone disorders, including common ones like arthritis and osteoporosis. Bone health is critical for structural support, mobility, blood cell production and calcium regulation. To improve diagnostic tools and treatments, we need to better understand the complex demands and responses that guide different bone functions.
Dr. Svetlana Komarova, Canada Research Chair in Digital Twins for Bone Health, is using computational models of biological processes to shed light on the complex interactions among different bone functions. To do this, she and her research team are developing “digital twins”: computational representations of physiological systems. For example, they aim to create an artificial intelligence (AI)-assisted digital twin to identify key differences between healthy and arthritic joints in terms of their connective tissues. These digital twins will support the development of personalized approaches to diagnosing, treating and supporting patients of all ages who suffer from osteoporosis, arthritis and rare musculoskeletal disorders.