This week we speak to David Hunter about his recently published research on imaging bone biomarkers of knee osteoarthritis progression.

What’s the issue your research is trying to solve?

The development of disease modifying agents in osteoarthritis has stalled in part because of the inadequate responsiveness and validity of biomarkers of treatment response. The purpose of the FNIH Osteoarthritis Biomarkers consortium is to identify the most valid and responsive treatment efficacy markers.

What have you discovered so far? 

Thus far we have identified a number of imaging and biochemical markers that provide important prognostic information about clinical outcomes

What’s been your biggest hurdle? 

The administrative and bureaucratic nature of conducting research that seems dedicated to stalling progress and pursuing mediocrity.

How far is your work from impacting patient care? 

We do a lot of health services research that directly impacts patient care. For this particular study we will be deploying these methods in clinical trials starting in 2016.

If you could discover one thing in your research, what would it be? (e.g. what’s your holy grail?)

If I could discover one thing in my research it would be an effective disease modifying agent that pivotally change the course of osteoarthritis management.

What does your perfect day look like?

My perfect day consists of a relaxing day at the beach with the family and catching some waves out the back to brush out my cobwebs. Followed by a night drinking wheat beer watching the All Blacks beat the Wallabies.

If you could keep three possessions what would they be? 

My kayak, my bike and our dog.

What would you like your epitaph to say? 

Not ready to go anywhere any time soon-I have a lot left to do.