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Differential effect of steady versus oscillating flow on bone cells
C R Jacobs1, C E Yellowley, B R Davis
1Department of Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation, Penn State University, Hershey 17033, USA. cjacobs@ortho.nmc.psu.edu
Journal of Biomechanics
|January 8, 1999
Summary
Dynamic fluid flow stimulates bone cells differently than steady flow. Oscillating flow is less effective, and responsiveness decreases with higher frequencies, suggesting chemotransport influences bone cell response to fluid flow.
Area of Science:
- Biophysics
- Cell Biology
- Orthopedics
Background:
- Bone mechanotransduction relies on biophysical signals like fluid flow.
- Physiological loading generates dynamic fluid flow, unlike static or pulsing flows used in prior in vitro studies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate osteoblast-like cell responses to dynamic fluid flow profiles.
- To compare the effects of steady, oscillating, and pulsing fluid flows on intracellular calcium.
- To determine the influence of flow frequency on cellular responsiveness.
Main Methods:
- Osteoblast-like hFOB 1.19 cells were exposed to controlled fluid flow profiles.
- Intracellular calcium concentration was monitored using fura-2 fluorescence.
- Applied flows included steady, oscillating, and pulsing profiles at varying frequencies (0.5-2.0 Hz).
Main Results:
- Oscillating flow was a weaker stimulator of bone cells compared to steady or pulsing flow.
- Cellular responsiveness to dynamic flows decreased as frequency increased.
- Reduced responsiveness correlated with decreased net fluid transport.
Conclusions:
- Bone cell response to fluid flow is dependent on chemotransport effects.
- Dynamic fluid flow characteristics significantly impact cellular mechanotransduction.
- In vitro models should incorporate dynamic flow profiles for greater physiological relevance.