Basic research for Leonardo and pQCT

The measurement of apparent trabecular density using pQCT allows the determination of changes in bone metabolism at a very early stage. Various diseases or drugs act on different bone surfaces (trabecular, endosteal, periosteal and haversian surfaces). The measurement of cross-sectional geometry by pQCT allows to determine exactly at which site the changes take place. The combination with Leonardo for the additional analysis of muscle function completes the diagnostic concept for basic research.

Why Leonardo and pQCT?

Bone density and geometry with pQCT.

The measurement using pQCT contributes to a better understanding of the causes of bone diseases. In several studies a significantly higher sensitivity is observed with pQCT in comparison to conventional methods. Both bone resorption as well as bone accrual can be detected earlier pQCT.

Because of the possibility of follow up measurements in vivo, the results can be determined faster and with a significantly lower number of laboratory animals.

Muscle density and cross-section. 

pQCT is able to assess muscle specific sites (e.g. 66% distal tibia) it allows to compare muscle cross-sectional area, msucel density and bone parameters to quantify the mechanism of bone adaptation ("Mechanostat"). These muscle specific parameters are also essential for the assessement of Sarcopenia and Dynapenia. 

Additional analysis of muscle function with Leonardo mechanography.

For the adaptation of bone, muscle function, especially the voluntary maximum muscle force is the crucial factor. Muscle function is also essential for assessment of sarcopenia and dynapenia. Therefore in addition to bone density measurements with pQCT the objective determination and analysis of muscle function is decisive for basic research. For this purpose the technique of Leonardo mechanography was specially adapted for rodents. In this way, the diagnostic approach of the functional muscle-bone unit, which is already used in clinical research and practice, can also be applied for basic research. 

Product overview and background Information

• Product overview Leonardo Mechanograph
• Product overview pQCT bone density & bone geometr (Stratec xCT)
• Background information for Leonardo Mechanography
• Background information for pQCT bone density & bone geometry

Continuative information

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