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Updated: Mar 11, 2026
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Biomechanical Testing of Murine Tendons
Published on: October 15, 2019
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Experimental evaluation of multiscale tendon mechanics
Fei Fang1, Spencer P Lake1,2,3
1Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, Washington University in St. Louis, 1 Brookings Drive, Campus Box 1185, St. Louis, Missouri, 63130.
Summary
This review explores multiscale tendon mechanics, focusing on structural characteristics and the role of constituents. Understanding these factors is crucial for tendon health and healing.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanical Engineering
- Orthopaedic Research
- Cellular and Molecular Biomechanics
Background:
- Tendons are vital mechanical links between muscles and bones.
- Tendon structure and composition are critical for mechanical function.
- Recent advances enable deeper study of tendon mechanics.
Purpose of the Study:
- Summarize experimental approaches for studying multiscale tendon mechanics.
- Review the role of specific tendon constituents in mechanical function.
- Identify challenges and opportunities in tendon research.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent experimental studies on tendon mechanics.
- Analysis of structural characteristics (hierarchy, crimp, helix).
- Evaluation of mechanical properties (non-linearity, anisotropy, viscoelasticity).
Main Results:
- Tendon mechanics are governed by uncrimping, fiber sliding, and collagen reorganization.
- Specific constituents influence tendon mechanics, though findings can be conflicting.
- Multiscale analysis is essential for understanding stress transfer and mechanotransduction.
Conclusions:
- Further research is needed to clarify the interplay of mechanical properties across hierarchical levels.
- Understanding multiscale mechanics aids in interpreting functional diversity and disease processes.
- This knowledge is fundamental for tendon degeneration, disease, and healing research.
