The objectives of this research are to perform pilot experiments to begin to test the validity of recently developed theoretical models of bone fluid flow and electrical signal transduction in the lacunar-canalicular porosity of bone. These experiments include exploring novel methods to: (1) measure the microstructural electrical potentials and bone fluid flow produced in loaded bone tissue samples as a function of loading frequency, and (2) quantify the resulting transmembrane and intracellular potentials that pass down the processes of the osteocytic bone cells. This research is appropriate for the POWRE program because it will permit the principal investigator to become established in a new area of research which will further her career advancement. ***
