Research Programs

The J.D. Wheat Veterinary Orthopedic Research Laboratory is the leader in advancing knowledge of equine musculoskeletal problems. It houses state-of-the-art equipment and fosters a creative environment for basic and clinically applied equine musculoskeletal research. Under the directorship of Dr. Susan Stover, a former trainee of Dr. Wheat, faculty work in collaboration with other clinicians and scientists to continue improving our understanding of equine musculoskeletal diseases.

The small animal component of the J.D. Wheat Veterinary Laboratory draws from many established leaders in the field of canine orthopedics, whose work has raised the standard of care in the management of musculoskeletal injury and diseasese. This body of work has addressed surgical management of hip dysplasia with total joint prosthetics, repair of ruptured CCLs (cranial cruciate ligament), and extensive investigations into categorizing, understanding and clinically managing chronic and acute lameness.

The cellular and molecular biology component of the J.D. Wheat Veterinary Laboratory conducts a wide variety of research projects, ranging from the study of the immunogenicity of cartilage, discovering the mechanisms behind cellular mechanosensors and mechanotransduction, the studies of the trauma bone cells experience due to injury as a result of fracture or disease, to the study of bone tissue regeneration using stem cells.

Musculoskeletal regeneration, once considered a futuristic concept, is now a reality. We often don't fully appreciate our pain-free movement until we face the need for repairing bones, cartilage, muscles, ligaments, or tendons. While surgical progress has achieved remarkable feats, most repaired tissues still fall short of the original function. At VORL, our mission is to advance musculoskeletal regenerative treatments. We employ tiny biologically active molecules, either alone or enclosed in nanoparticles, along with stem cells and primary cells. As dedicated veterinarians, we extend these therapies to improve the health of our beloved pets and their caring owners.