Priorities for research into musculoskeletal ageing

The Arthritis Research UK and Research into Ageing charities held a research strategy workshop on June 1st/2nd 2009 with the aim of identifying priorities for research in musculoskeletal ageing.

Over 50 clinicians and scientists attended with expertise in clinical bone, joint and muscle disease, physical activity and nutrition as well as experts in the molecular, cellular and tissue response to ageing. 

musculoskeletal ageing research strategy meeting report

Arthritis Research UK and MRC Call for Applications for a Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research

Arthritis Research UK and the MRC propose to establish a jointly funded Collaborative Centre in Musculoskeletal Ageing which will become an international centre of excellence in research into the causes and mechanisms of musculoskeletal ageing, aiming at development of interventions which enhance musculoskeletal health.

Support of up to £2.5 million (on the basis of full economic costs (FEC) paid at approximately 67.5% to reflect 50/50 collaborative funding between a research council and a charity) is available through this Call, and the award will be made over 5 years to the successful team of applicants.

This will support the bringing together of a multidisciplinary team of biologists and clinical scientists with an interest in musculoskeletal tissues including muscle, bone and cartilage, physiologists with specific expertise in nutrition and physical activity together with other scientists and clinical professionals including those involved in functional assessment and rehabilitation.

The Centre should aim to coordinate an ambitious programme of research leading to the development of interventions appropriate for large scale implementation for the enhancement of musculoskeletal health in an ageing population.

The Centre award will support the costs of establishing, developing and maintaining the Centre, including facilities, training, methodology development and pilot work, but will not support substantive research projects. The Centre award should establish a platform on which other grant applications can be based.