A method for visualization and isolation of elastic fibres in annulus fibrosus of the disc
Javad Tavakoli1, John J Costi1
1Biomechanics and Implants Research Group, The Medical Device Research Institute, College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, GPO Box 2100, Adelaide, South Australia 5001, Australia.
Abstract:
A simple and cost effective protocol for visualization and isolation of the elastic fibres network in the annulus fibrosus (AF) of the disc is explained, to provide other researchers a method that can be applied in disc ultra-structural analysis, biomechanical assessment of elastic fibre and tissue engineered scaffold fabrication. This protocol is developed based on simultaneous sonication and alkali digestion of tissue that eliminates all matrix constituents except for elastic fibres, which is applicable for different species including human. Thin samples harvested from ovine, bovine, porcine and human, which are commonly used in disc research, were exposed to 0.5 M sodium hydroxide solution along with sonication (25 kHz) in distilled water for defined periods of time at room temperature. Post heat treatment removed collagen fibres via the gelatinization process, for visualization of elastic fibres.
Related Concept Videos
Elasticity
The elasticity of an object can be described by a stress-strain curve, which represents the relationship between stress...
Elasticity in Concrete
Elastic Potential Energy
Potential energy is also associated with the elastic force exerted by an ideal spring. The work done by this force can be represented as a change in the elastic potential energy of the spring. Thus, the work done by a perfectly elastic spring, in one dimension, depends...
Strain and Elastic Modulus
Elastic Collisions: Introduction
Elastic Collisions: Case Study


