Musculoskeletal Research
Queensland University of Technology
Osteoarthritis (OA) impacts 1 in 4 Australians, and there are currently no treatments to stop the disease, and its prevalence will continue to rise in the coming decades. Joint replacement surgeries are highly invasive, expensive and not a permanent solution. Dr Prasadam’s research work will accelerate delivery of an innovative synthetic, injectable material for healing cartilage, allowing resurfacing and regeneration of articular cartilage rather than replacement. Patients will be able to use their knee immediately after the operation and recovery time will be rapid. The broader impact of this technology will significantly reduce the costs associated with OA and will enhance the quality of life for patients burdened by this condition. Her research is also focussed on identifying few risk factors associated with osteoarthritis focusing on growth, diet, physical activity and body size during a lifetime. This information then can be used to develop interventions to prevent the OA disease.
Indira ran an interactive biotechnology and biomedical engineering forum called BioFutures for Australian and New Zealand school students in their final two years of secondary education. She was also chosen as a young ambassador for the GirlSTEM Power program.