UNE’s Kathleen Becker Leads International Bone Imaging Group
Background on the International Society of Bone Morphometry
The International Society of Bone Morphometry (ISBM) is a global organization that develops and refines quantitative imaging techniques for bone research. By establishing standardized protocols, the ISBM enables researchers worldwide to compare data, accelerate discoveries, and translate findings into clinical practice. The society’s Image Analysis of Nerves in Bone working group focuses on a critical, yet under‑studied, aspect of bone biology: the innervation of bone tissue.
Becker’s Appointment and Research Focus
Dr. Kathleen Becker, an assistant professor in UNE’s Department of Biomedical Sciences, has been appointed chair of the ISBM working group. Her laboratory investigates how peripheral nerves influence bone formation and how disruptions in these pathways contribute to osteoporosis and fracture risk. Becker’s work builds on collaborations with the UNE Center for Pain Research and the Center for Cell Signaling Research, both funded by the National Institutes of Health.
As chair, Becker will coordinate international efforts to develop imaging protocols that accurately quantify nerve density and distribution within bone. These protocols will help researchers assess how nerve health correlates with bone density, fracture susceptibility, and overall skeletal integrity.
Impact on Bone Health and Patient Outcomes
Standardized imaging of bone innervation has the potential to transform how clinicians diagnose and treat bone density disorders. By providing reliable, reproducible data, the ISBM working group’s protocols will enable earlier detection of nerve‑related bone deterioration, inform targeted therapies, and improve patient outcomes for those at high risk of fractures.
Dr. Becker’s leadership positions UNE at the forefront of this emerging field, showcasing the university’s commitment to translational research that directly benefits public health.
Collaborative Efforts and Funding
The initiative is supported by a combination of pilot funding from the Center for Pain Research and a recent R16 SuRE‑First grant awarded to Dr. Becker. Key collaborators include Peter Caradonna, manager of the UNE Histology and Imaging Core, and Tamara King, director of the UNE Behavior Core. Together, they bring expertise in histology, imaging, and behavioral science to the project.
These partnerships exemplify the interdisciplinary approach that UNE encourages, bringing together scientists from diverse backgrounds to tackle complex biomedical challenges.
Future Directions in Bone Imaging
Looking ahead, the working group plans to expand its protocols to include advanced imaging modalities such as high‑resolution micro‑CT and MRI. The goal is to create a comprehensive toolkit that researchers can apply across species and disease models, ultimately accelerating the translation of basic science into clinical interventions.
By fostering global collaboration, the ISBM working group will continue to set the standard for bone imaging research, ensuring that findings are comparable, reproducible, and clinically relevant.
Explore UNE’s research programs in biomedical sciences and discover how you can contribute to cutting‑edge bone imaging studies. Learn more about the Department of Biomedical Sciences.
Interested in the Center for Pain Research’s initiatives? Visit the Center’s website to see current projects and funding opportunities.
Have questions about bone imaging research or potential collaborations? Contact the Office of Communications for more information.
Share your thoughts on this development in the comments below and join the conversation about the future of bone health research.
