Van C. Mow

Professor Van C. Mow's Portait for Wiki

Van C. Mow is a prominent biomedical engineer and a pioneer in the field of biomechanics. He is widely recognized for his contributions to the understanding of the mechanical properties of biological tissues, particularly cartilage and intervertebral discs.

Early Life and Education

Van C. Mow was born in China and later moved to the United States. He received his B.S. degree in Aeronautical Engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) in 1962. He then went on to earn his M.S. and Ph.D. degrees in Applied Mechanics from RPI in 1964 and 1966, respectively.

Career

Mow began his academic career as an assistant professor at Columbia University in 1967. He later became the Stanley Dicker Professor of Biomedical Engineering and Chair of the Department of Biomedical Engineering at Columbia University. His research has significantly advanced the understanding of the biomechanics of soft tissues and joints.

Research Contributions

Van C. Mow's research has focused on the mechanical behavior of biological tissues, particularly articular cartilage and intervertebral discs. He has developed theoretical models to describe the poroelastic and viscoelastic properties of these tissues. His work has provided insights into the mechanobiology of osteoarthritis and other degenerative joint diseases.

Articular Cartilage

Mow's studies on articular cartilage have elucidated the complex biomechanical environment within joints. His research has shown how the extracellular matrix and chondrocytes interact to maintain the mechanical integrity of cartilage.

Intervertebral Discs

In the area of intervertebral discs, Mow has investigated the mechanical properties and degeneration of these structures. His work has contributed to the understanding of disc biomechanics and the development of treatments for degenerative disc disease.

Awards and Honors

Van C. Mow has received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to biomedical engineering and biomechanics. These include the H.R. Lissner Medal from the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) and the O. Donnell Award from the American Society of Biomechanics (ASB).

Professional Memberships

Mow is a member of several professional organizations, including the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), the Biomedical Engineering Society (BMES), and the American Society of Biomechanics (ASB).

See Also

• Biomechanics
• Biomedical Engineering
• Articular Cartilage
• Intervertebral Disc
• Osteoarthritis
• Degenerative Disc Disease

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