Assessing viscoelastic properties of skeletal muscle using shear wave elasticity imaging
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Lee, Jeehyun
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Abstract
Understanding muscle mechanics is critical for studying the progression of neuromuscular disorders such as Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) and recovery from acute muscle injuries. Despite advancements in diagnostic and therapeutic techniques, noninvasive quantification of mechanical changes remains a challenge. Ultrasound shear wave elastography (SWE) offers a real-time, quantitative method to assess tissue viscoelastic properties, addressing this critical need. This dissertation applies SWE to preclinical models to investigate muscle mechanics, focusing on respiratory and limb muscles in the contexts of DMD and cryo-injury. In the diaphragm, longitudinal assessments uncovered viscoelastic changes across early- and late-stage DMD, highlighting disease progression. Additionally, microneedle applications were examined as a preliminary investigation into potential therapeutic interventions. In limb muscles, a cryo-injury model revealed distinct recovery dynamics, with dystrophic mice showing delayed and incomplete healing compared to wild-type mice. By combining SWE with histological and functional evaluations, this research establishes SWE as a valuable tool for advancing muscle research. The findings bridge gaps between preclinical studies and potential clinical applications, laying the groundwork for translational advancements in the diagnosis and management of muscle-related pathologies.
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2024-12-08
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Dissertation