A Novel, Open-Source, Low-Cost Bioreactor for Load-Controlled Cyclic Loading of Tendon Explants

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Musculoskeletal Research
• Tissue Mechanics

Background:

• Tendon overuse (fatigue loading) is a major risk factor for tendinopathy, causing extracellular matrix damage and degeneration.
• Existing explant models often use displacement/strain-controlled bioreactors, which are less physiologically relevant than load/stress-controlled systems.
• The complexity and cost of load-controlled bioreactors have limited their widespread use in studying tendon fatigue.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a novel, low-cost, load-controlled bioreactor for studying tendon fatigue loading.
• To enable more physiologically relevant mechanical testing of tendon explants.
• To facilitate research into the mechanisms of fatigue-induced tendon degeneration.

Main Methods:

• Developed a novel bioreactor using an offloading weight system from a single motorized stage for cyclic loading.
• Validated load control and tissue viability using optional load cells with mouse and rat tendon explants.
• Made all design files, bill of materials, and software available as open-source.

Main Results:

• The bioreactor successfully applied controlled cyclic loading to multiple tendon explants.
• Tissue viability was maintained during load-controlled fatigue testing.
• The system offers a cost-effective and accessible solution for tendon fatigue research.

Conclusions:

• The novel open-source bioreactor provides a cost-effective and physiologically relevant method for tendon fatigue testing.
• This tool will empower researchers to investigate the mechanisms underlying fatigue-induced tendon degeneration.
• Facilitates a deeper understanding of tendinopathy development and potential interventions.