PhD Student in Biomedical Engineering
University of Delaware

EDUCATION

BS Biomedical Engineering
University of Virginia, 2020

Multiscale Structure and Mechanics in Tendon Overload Model of Synergistic Ablation 

My research focuses on understanding the role of tendon overload in the initiation and progression of tendon degeneration.  Our lab has previously developed an in vivo rat model using synergistic ablation (SynAb) of the Achilles tendon to overload the plantaris tendon. The SynAb surgery involves transecting the Achilles tendon overloading the synergist plantaris tendon. The SynAb model will allow for investigation of the initiation and accumulation of damage with biological remodeling that occurs in response to micro-scale damage. Currently, at the tissue-scale I am investigating how overload induces structural changes of the tendon and surrounding structures in the SynAb model using various imaging modalities such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and micro-computed tomography (microCT). I am also investigating changes in material properties due to tendon overload by performing both quasi-static and fatigue mechanics of the tendon. At the micro-scale, I am using histology and immunohistochemistry to evaluate changes in collagen organization, cell density/shape, ECM degradation/remodeling, and inflammation.

Journal Publications

Bloom ET, Lin LM, Locke RC, Giordani A, Krassan E, Silbernagel KG, Parreno J, Santare MH, Killian M, Elliott DM. “Overload in a Rat in vivo Model of Synergist Ablation Induces Tendon Multi-scale Structural and Functional Degeneration”. ASME. J Biomech Eng. August 2023; 145(8): 081003