Standort Salzburg

Paracelsus Medizinische Privatuniversität Salzburg
Strubergasse 21
5020 Salzburg

In our work at the Research program for Imaging and Functional Musculoskeletal Research at the Center of Anatomy and Cell Biology at Paracelsus Medical University in Salzburg, our primary focus is on Quantitative Imaging in Osteoarthritis. We are developing sophisticated segmentation and analysis tools tailored for various joint tissues, with a particular emphasis on studying articular cartilage morphology and matrix composition. The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Deep Learning (DL) techniques enables us to transition from manual segmentation to fully automated tissue analysis. This cutting-edge approach relies heavily on the availability of comprehensive training and validation datasets, meticulously segmented by experts. Our goal is to create precise quantitative imaging biomarkers that hold promise as reliable indicators for clinical outcomes (surrogates) in observational studies and interventional trials, assessing disease and structure modifying pharmacological agents. Additionally, we are exploring the metabolic phenotype of osteoarthritis, particularly focusing on the influence of diabetes mellitus. Our analysis encompasses parameters such as muscle strength, specific strength, patient-reported outcomes of lower limb function, physical performance, cartilage thickness loss (progression), and changes in cartilage composition (collagen orientation and hydration via MRI T2 relaxation time). The goal of these developments is their application at patients undergoing studies within the LBIAR. We have devised and tested a refined and very efficient MRI image acquisition protocol specifically tailored for clinical research in osteoarthritis. Overall, our research strives to advance the scientific understanding of osteoarthritis imaging, and enhance patient care strategies. We aim to equip clinicians and researchers with effective tools for improved diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment of this condition.