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BMEBT MS Thesis Proposal Presentation by Jacob Burrer

Friday, September 04, 2026 at 12:00pm to 1:00pm

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TEX 011
Lamya Karim
5089998560
lkarim@umassd.edu

Biomedical Engineering & Biotechnology

BMEBT MS Thesis Proposal Presentation by Jacob Burrer
Date: September 4, 2026
Time: 12 PM
Location: TEX 011

Title: Location Based Impacts of Glycation on The Mechanical Properties of Human Cortical Bone

Abstract: Understanding bone composition and structure, as well as the processes involved in bone formation, is essential for predicting fracture risk and morphology in a wide variety of patient groups. Some of the factors that contribute to an increased risk of bone fracture include the propensity to fall, changes in bone mineral density, and reduced bone quality. One of the ways in which bone matrix quality can be significantly altered is through a process called non-enzymatic glycation. This process leads to the formation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs), which can negatively impact bone matrix quality in a variety of ways. Although the effect that AGE accumulation has on bone matrix quality is well documented, there is less information on how AGE content affects specific regions of bone based on anatomical position. To assess how glycation affects specific regions of bone tissue, bone samples will be collected and incubated to simulate in vivo hyperglycemic conditions. These samples will then be mechanically tested to determine how the mechanical properties of specific bone regions change after accumulating AGEs. The total amount of AGE accumulation will also be quantified using a spectrophotometric assay to determine which regions of bone have the highest concentration of AGEs after glycation. Results from this project could lead to the development of diagnostic tools that can predict future fractures based on AGE content and medical interventions that can prevent or reduce the risk of fractures for certain patient groups.

Advisor: Dr. Lamya Karim, Dept. of Bioengineering (lkarim@umassd.edu)

Committee Members:

  • Dr. Tracie Ferreira, Dept. of Bioengineering
  • Dr. Laura Hanzly, Dept. of Bioengineering

All BMEBT graduate students are encouraged to attend, and all interested parties are invited.