The fist aim of this research line is to increase the understanding of failure and repair mechanisms of the musculo-skeletal system, with a strong link to clinical relevant surgical questions.

The second aim of this research line is to develop preclinical test procedures for tissue engineered constructs or, if degeneration has proceeded to far, for new implants to replace the degenerated structures.

Examples of questions addressed are:

• What are the mechanisms controlling skeletal adaptation?
• What are the mechanisms controlling the incorporation of bone allografts and bone substitutes into new bone?
• What are the factors that determine the success of a meniscus implant based on biomaterials?
• What is the effect of different implant designs on the probability of loosening?
• What are the prerequisites of scaffold properties for bone, cartilage and meniscus tissue engineering?
• Can we discriminate between good and bad performing implants with functional tests?