Currently, little is known about what nerve properties influence nerve function in humans, and even less is known about how this influence arises. This is primarily due to the spatial limitations of non-invasive techniques,  and lack of precision in nerve function tests. Preliminary work in our laboratory using a novel in vivo imaging technique, shear wave ultrasound elastography, has revealed that shear wave velocity, a surrogate measure of stiffness, is increased in degenerating nerves where there is likely a relative increase in the proportion of connective tissue to healthy axons.

We aim to improve our basic understanding of nerve mechanical properties, specifically stiffness, and determine the relationship between nerve architectural, compositional, stiffness, and function. This knowledge about nerves properties  will eventually allow for more accurate, pain free and repeatable assessment of peripheral neuropathies. In addition, the use of ultrasound shear wave elastography would improve upon clinical assessments of nerve health since it a non-invasive in vivo technique that has greater spatial accuracy than the current clinical measures of nerve function.

Collaborators

• Colin Franz