Understanding strain-induced collagen matrix development in engineered cardiovascular tissues from gene expression
Daphne van Geemen1, Anita Driessen-Mol, Frank P T Baaijens
1Soft Tissue Biomechanics & Engineering, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, GEM-Z 4.110, PO Box 513, 5600 MB, Eindhoven, The Netherlands.
Cell and Tissue Research
|February 23, 2013
Summary
Intermittent mechanical strain enhances tissue engineering by promoting collagen synthesis and remodeling. A switch to continuous cyclic strain later in the process further improves collagen maturation for better tissue properties.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Engineering
- Tissue Engineering
- Cardiovascular Tissue Engineering
Background:
- Mechanical conditioning is crucial for enhancing collagen synthesis, remodeling, and maturation in engineered cardiovascular tissues.
- Intermittent straining (alternating cyclic and static strain) yields more mature tissue than continuous cyclic straining, but the mechanism remains unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the short-term effects of continuous cyclic strain versus cyclic strain followed by static strain on gene expression.
- To elucidate the mechano-regulatory mechanisms underlying intermittent conditioning's impact on collagen synthesis, remodeling, and maturation.
Main Methods:
- Tissue-engineered constructs (human vascular cells on PGA/P4HB scaffolds) were subjected to 4% strain at 1 Hz for 3 hours.
- Subsequent conditioning involved either ongoing cyclic strain or static strain for up to 24 hours.
- Gene expression analysis focused on collagen synthesis, remodeling, and maturation pathways.
Main Results:
- Static strain following cyclic strain promoted collagen synthesis and remodeling.
- Continuous cyclic strain shifted the balance towards collagen remodeling and maturation.
- Gene expression patterns differed significantly between the two conditioning protocols.
Conclusions:
- The findings suggest that an initial period of static strain after cyclic strain benefits collagen synthesis and remodeling.
- For prolonged culture, transitioning to continuous cyclic strain is recommended to enhance collagen maturation and improve final tissue mechanical properties.
