MRC Arthritis UK Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research
How and why we lose muscle, bone and cartilage as we age
Both the MRC and the charity recognise that musculoskeletal ageing presents significant challenges to individuals, their families/ carers and the whole of the UK (socially and economically). It is considered such an important problem that both funders chose to invest in two complementary centres (CIMA and CMAR).
The MRC Arthritis UK Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research (CMAR) was awarded to the Universities of Birmingham and Nottingham.
Research at this centre focussed on understanding how and why we lose muscle, bone and cartilage as we age, and the role played by factors such as inflammation, metabolism, altered hormones and obesity in this process.
Centre researchers hope to find the key factors which drive ageing of the cells and tissues that make up the musculoskeletal system. This will allow them to identify new drugs and lifestyle changes, such as exercise and diet, that maintain a healthy musculoskeletal system, keeping individuals healthy and active for longer.
This centre first opened in 2012 and was renewed for a second term in 2017. The centre completed its ‘Impact’ phase in 2025.
Arthritis UK Biomechanics and Bioengineering Research Centre Impact Report
For many years, we’ve known that mechanical loading and inflammation contribute to osteoarthritis but the biological processes that link these factors were unknown. The impact of joint injury and joint surgery on our biomechanics and biology, and subtleties in gait or alignment that could contribute to long-term disease, was also unclear. Until now.
Our research centres of excellence
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Biomechanics and Bioengineering Research Centre at Cardiff University
Under the leadership of Professors Duance, Caterson and Sparkes, the Arthritis UK Biomechanics and Bioengineering Research Centre has led a unique, interdisciplinary programme of research and translation aimed at helping people with musculoskeletal conditions live better.
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Centre for Sport, Exercise and Osteoarthritis
This centre brings together experts in sports medicine and osteoarthritis, to understand the relationship between exercise, sport, injury, rehabilitation and osteoarthritis.