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Characterization of statically loaded tissue-engineered mitral valve chordae tendineae
1Department of Biomedical Engineering, ND20, Lerner Research Institute, The Cleveland Clinic Foundation, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44195, USA.
Journal of Biomedical Materials Research. Part A
|March 5, 2004
Summary
Tissue-engineered mitral valve chordae were created using directed collagen gel shrinkage. These constructs successfully mimicked native chordae microstructure and material properties, showing aligned collagen and an elastin sheath.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Tissue Engineering
- Cardiovascular Research
Background:
- Chordae tendineae are vital for mitral valve function, featuring a collagen core and elastin sheath.
- Current tissue engineering approaches aim to replicate native chordae microstructure for mechanical integrity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the morphology of tissue-engineered chordae with native mitral valve chordae.
- To assess the development of collagen and elastin organization in engineered constructs.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of aligned collagen constructs via directed shrinkage in culture wells.
- 8-week culture period with mechanical, histological, and biochemical characterization.
- Microscopic analysis (light, scanning electron, transmission electron) and immunostaining.
Main Results:
- Constructs exhibited aligned collagen fibers parallel to the long axis, with varying waviness.
- An elastin sheath formed around the collagen core, similar to native chordae.
- Smooth muscle cell differentiation and apoptosis in construct interiors were observed.
Conclusions:
- Static culture of collagen-cell constructs can yield tissue-engineered mitral valve chordae with microstructure and material properties resembling native tissues.
- This method offers a promising approach for developing functional cardiac valve components.