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Finite Element Simulation of Opening Angle Response of Porcine Aortas Using Layer Specific GAG Distributions in One
Noor M Ghadie1, Jean-Philippe St-Pierre2, Michel R Labrosse3,4
1Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, K1N 6N5, Canada.
Cardiovascular Engineering and Technology
|October 2, 2024
Summary
Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) partially influence aortic residual stress by regulating swelling, impacting the opening angle. Their role extends beyond swelling, interacting with extracellular matrix fibers.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Cardiovascular Biomechanics
- Tissue Engineering
Background:
- Recent research highlights the influence of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) on aortic residual stresses.
- Understanding the biomechanical roles of GAGs in the aorta is crucial for cardiovascular health.
- Residual stresses in the aorta are critical for its proper function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the biomechanical role of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) in regulating residual stresses within the aorta.
- To quantify the contribution of GAGs to the aortic opening angle using computational modeling.
- To explore the relationship between GAG distribution, tissue mechanics, and aortic residual stress.
Main Methods:
- Developed finite element models of porcine thoracic aortic rings (ascending, arch, descending) incorporating Donnan osmotic swelling.
- Prescribed fixed charge density distributions based on experimentally quantified GAG content.
- Optimized material parameters using biaxial tensile test data and explored one- and two-layered solid matrix models.
Main Results:
- Increased adventitia stiffness relative to media enhanced the simulated opening angle.
- Opening angle decreased from ascending to descending thoracic regions in both one- and two-layered models.
- Two-layered models showed improved accuracy, with errors as low as 5% in the arch region.
Conclusions:
- Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) partially contribute to circumferential residual stress in the aorta.
- GAG-induced swelling is a significant regulator of the aortic opening angle.
- Discrepancies suggest GAGs interact with extracellular matrix fibers, influencing aortic mechanics beyond swelling.
