Programmable mechanical stimulation influences tendon homeostasis in a bioreactor system

Tao Wang, Zhen Lin, Robert E. Day, Bruce Gardiner, Euphemie Landao-Bassonga, Jonas Rubenson, Thomas B. Kirk, David W. Smith, David G. Lloyd, Gerard Hardisty, Allan Wang, Qiujian Zheng, Ming H. Zheng

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

110 Scopus citations

Abstract

Identification of functional programmable mechanical stimulation (PMS) on tendon not only provides the insight of the tendon homeostasis under physical/pathological condition, but also guides a better engineering strategy for tendon regeneration. The aims of the study are to design a bioreactor system with PMS to mimic the in vivo loading conditions, and to define the impact of different cyclic tensile strain on tendon. Rabbit Achilles tendons were loaded in the bioreactor with/without cyclic tensile loading (0.25Hz for 8h/day, 0-9% for 6 days). Tendons without loading lost its structure integrity as evidenced by disorientated collagen fiber, increased type III collagen expression, and increased cell apoptosis. Tendons with 3% of cyclic tensile loading had moderate matrix deterioration and elevated expression levels of MMP-1, 3, and 12, whilst exceeded loading regime of 9% caused massive rupture of collagen bundle. However, 6% of cyclic tensile strain was able to maintain the structural integrity and cellular function. Our data indicated that an optimal PMS is required to maintain the tendon homeostasis and there is only a narrow range of tensile strain that can induce the anabolic action. The clinical impact of this study is that optimized eccentric training program is needed to achieve maximum beneficial effects on chronic tendinopathy management. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2013; 110: 1495-1507.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)1495-1507
Number of pages13
JournalBiotechnology and bioengineering
Volume110
Issue number5
DOIs
StatePublished - May 2013

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Biotechnology
  • Bioengineering
  • Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology

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