A multi-layered poroelastic slab model under cyclic loading for a single osteon.

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Cellular Mechanobiology
• Materials Science

Background:

• Osteons feature a layered matrix and interstitial fluid flow within the lacunar-canalicular system.
• Loading-induced fluid flow is vital for osteocyte mechanotransduction and bone remodeling.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze how osteon lamellar structure and heterogeneous material properties affect interstitial fluid flow and seepage velocity distributions.
• To investigate the role of poroelasticity in fluid dynamics within the osteon.

Main Methods:

• A hollow, two-dimensional, poroelastic, multi-layered slab model of an osteon was developed.
• Analytical solutions for interstitial fluid pressure and seepage velocity were derived using poroelastic theory under cyclic loading.

Main Results:

• Strain magnitude impacts fluid pressure more than loading frequency.
• Heterogeneous permeability distributions cause significant variations in fluid pressure and seepage velocity.
• Osteocyte fluid flow stimuli are primarily governed by surface permeability, not inner wall permeability.

Conclusions:

• Osteocyte fluid flow stimuli depend on strain, frequency, and spatial permeability gradients.
• This model enhances understanding of fluid flow dynamics influencing osteocytes during bone remodeling.