Working Under Pressure: From Cardiovascular to Neural Health

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In her lecture, Dr. Chiara Bellini presents a new research perspective on Chiari malformation by applying concepts from biomechanics and mechanobiology to the dura and myodural bridges. Drawing on her background in cardiovascular bioengineering, she explains how tissues respond and adapt to mechanical forces over time through processes of growth and remodeling. She proposes that altered cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) dynamics in Chiari may influence the structure, mechanical properties, and collagen organization of the dura and myodural bridges. To investigate this relationship, her team combines patient-specific MRI-based fluid-dynamics modeling, biaxial mechanical testing of dural tissue, and multiphoton microscopy of collagen microstructure. The ultimate goal is to determine whether maladaptive tissue remodeling may be an important and previously under-appreciated component of Chiari malformation, potentially helping explain differences in symptoms and surgical outcomes among patients with similar anatomical features.

The lecture also examines intradural pathology, including tonsillar scarring, gliosis, tethering, and PICA vascular abnormalities, and their potential effects on cerebellar blood flow, cognition, and surgical outcomes. Preliminary findings suggest that Chiari decompression may improve cognitive function and neurological outcomes, particularly in younger patients, and that certain vascular and tonsillar abnormalities may be associated with better postoperative outcomes. Overall, the lecture emphasizes the importance of considering anchoring, vascular function, CSF dynamics, and cerebellar health in understanding and treating Chiari malformation.

This lecture was presented on August 8th at Northeastern University. (2026)

This lecture was presented at the Chiari Research Open House at Northeastern University on August 8th. (2026)

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