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El Kommos A, Jackson AR, Andreopoulos F, Travascio F. Development of Improved Confined Compression Testing Setups for Use in Stress Relaxation Testing of Viscoelastic Biomaterials. Gels 2024; 10:329. [PMID: 38786246 PMCID: PMC11121465 DOI: 10.3390/gels10050329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2024] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The development of cell-based biomaterial alternatives holds significant promise in tissue engineering applications, but it requires accurate mechanical assessment. Herein, we present the development of a novel 3D-printed confined compression apparatus, fabricated using clear resin, designed to cater to the unique demands of biomaterial developers. Our objective was to enhance the precision of force measurements and improve sample visibility during compression testing. We compared the performance of our innovative 3D-printed confined compression setup to a conventional setup by performing stress relaxation testing on hydrogels with variable degrees of crosslinking. We assessed equilibrium force, aggregate modulus, and peak force. This study demonstrates that our revised setup can capture a larger range of force values while simultaneously improving accuracy. We were able to detect significant differences in force and aggregate modulus measurements of hydrogels with variable degrees of crosslinking using our revised setup, whereas these were indistinguishable with the convectional apparatus. Further, by incorporating a clear resin in the fabrication of the compression chamber, we improved sample visibility, thus enabling real-time monitoring and informed assessment of biomaterial behavior under compressive testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony El Kommos
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA; (A.E.K.); (A.R.J.)
| | - Alicia R. Jackson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA; (A.E.K.); (A.R.J.)
| | - Fotios Andreopoulos
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA; (A.E.K.); (A.R.J.)
| | - Francesco Travascio
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
- Max Biedermann Institute for Biomechanics, Mount Sinai Medical Center, Miami Beach, FL 33140, USA
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Bandyopadhyay A, Ghibhela B, Shome S, Hoque S, Nandi SK, Mandal BB. Photo-Polymerizable Autologous Growth-Factor Loaded Silk-Based Biomaterial-Inks toward 3D Printing-Based Regeneration of Meniscus Tears. Adv Biol (Weinh) 2024; 8:e2300710. [PMID: 38402426 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.202300710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Abstract
Meniscus tears in the avascular region undergoing partial or full meniscectomy lead to knee osteoarthritis and concurrent lifestyle hindrances in the young and aged alike. Here they reported ingenious photo-polymerizable autologous growth factor loaded 3D printed scaffolds to potentially treat meniscal defects . A shear-thinning photo-crosslinkable silk fibroin methacrylate-gelatin methacrylate-polyethylene glycol dimethacrylate biomaterial-ink is formulated and loaded with freeze-dried growth factor rich plasma (GFRP) . The biomaterial-ink exhibits optimal rheological properties and shape fidelity for 3D printing. Initial evaluation revealed that the 3D printed scaffolds mimic mechanical characteristics of meniscus, possess favourable porosity and swelling characteristics, and demonstrate sustained GFRP release. GFRP laden 3D scaffolds are screened with human neo-natal stem cells in vitro and biomaterial-ink comprising of 25 mg mL-1 of GFRP (GFRP25) is found to be amicable for meniscus tissue engineering. GFRP25 ink demonstrated rigorous rheological compliance, and printed constructs demonstrated long term degradability (>6 weeks), GFRP release (>5 weeks), and mechanical durability (3 weeks). GFRP25 scaffolds aided in proliferation of seeded human neo-natal stem cellsand their meniscus-specific fibrochondrogenic differentiation . GFRP25 constructs show amenable inflammatory response in vitro and in vivo. GFRP25 biomaterial-ink and printed GFRP25 scaffolds could be potential patient-specific treatment modalities for meniscal defects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashutosh Bandyopadhyay
- Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam, 781039, India
| | - Baishali Ghibhela
- Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam, 781039, India
| | - Sayanti Shome
- Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam, 781039, India
| | - Samsamul Hoque
- Department of Veterinary Surgery and Radiology, West Bengal University of Animal and Fishery Sciences, Kolkata, West Bengal, 700037, India
| | - Samit K Nandi
- Department of Veterinary Surgery and Radiology, West Bengal University of Animal and Fishery Sciences, Kolkata, West Bengal, 700037, India
| | - Biman B Mandal
- Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam, 781039, India
- Centre for Nanotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam, 781039, India
- Jyoti and Bhupat Mehta School of Health Sciences and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam, 781039, India
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Schwartz G, Best TM, Chen CB, Travascio F, Jackson AR. Assessing the role of surface layer and molecular probe size in diffusion within meniscus tissue. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0301432. [PMID: 38626169 PMCID: PMC11020779 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0301432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Diffusion within extracellular matrix is essential to deliver nutrients and larger metabolites to the avascular region of the meniscus. It is well known that both structure and composition of the meniscus vary across its regions; therefore, it is crucial to fully understand how the heterogenous meniscal architecture affects its diffusive properties. The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of meniscal region (core tissue, femoral, and tibial surface layers) and molecular weight on the diffusivity of several molecules in porcine meniscus. Tissue samples were harvested from the central area of porcine lateral menisci. Diffusivity of fluorescein (MW 332 Da) and three fluorescence-labeled dextrans (MW 3k, 40k, and 150k Da) was measured via fluorescence recovery after photobleaching. Diffusivity was affected by molecular size, decreasing as the Stokes' radius of the solute increased. There was no significant effect of meniscal region on diffusivity for fluorescein, 3k and 40k dextrans (p>0.05). However, region did significantly affect the diffusivity of 150k Dextran, with that in the tibial surface layer being larger than in the core region (p = 0.001). Our findings contribute novel knowledge concerning the transport properties of the meniscus fibrocartilage. This data can be used to advance the understanding of tissue pathophysiology and explore effective approaches for tissue restoration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabi Schwartz
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, United States of America
| | - Thomas M. Best
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Miami, Miami, FL, United States of America
- UHealth Sports Medicine Institute, Coral Gables, FL, United States of America
| | - Cheng-Bang Chen
- Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, United States of America
| | - Francesco Travascio
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Miami, Miami, FL, United States of America
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, United States of America
- Max Biedermann Institute for Biomechanics at Mount Sinai Medical Center, Miami Beach, FL, United States of America
| | - Alicia R. Jackson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, United States of America
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Bandyopadhyay A, Ghibhela B, Mandal BB. Current advances in engineering meniscal tissues: insights into 3D printing, injectable hydrogels and physical stimulation based strategies. Biofabrication 2024; 16:022006. [PMID: 38277686 DOI: 10.1088/1758-5090/ad22f0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 01/28/2024]
Abstract
The knee meniscus is the cushioning fibro-cartilage tissue present in between the femoral condyles and tibial plateau of the knee joint. It is largely avascular in nature and suffers from a wide range of tears and injuries caused by accidents, trauma, active lifestyle of the populace and old age of individuals. Healing of the meniscus is especially difficult due to its avascularity and hence requires invasive arthroscopic approaches such as surgical resection, suturing or implantation. Though various tissue engineering approaches are proposed for the treatment of meniscus tears, three-dimensional (3D) printing/bioprinting, injectable hydrogels and physical stimulation involving modalities are gaining forefront in the past decade. A plethora of new printing approaches such as direct light photopolymerization and volumetric printing, injectable biomaterials loaded with growth factors and physical stimulation such as low-intensity ultrasound approaches are being added to the treatment portfolio along with the contemporary tear mitigation measures. This review discusses on the necessary design considerations, approaches for 3D modeling and design practices for meniscal tear treatments within the scope of tissue engineering and regeneration. Also, the suitable materials, cell sources, growth factors, fixation and lubrication strategies, mechanical stimulation approaches, 3D printing strategies and injectable hydrogels for meniscal tear management have been elaborated. We have also summarized potential technologies and the potential framework that could be the herald of the future of meniscus tissue engineering and repair approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashutosh Bandyopadhyay
- Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam, 781039, India
| | - Baishali Ghibhela
- Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam, 781039, India
| | - Biman B Mandal
- Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam, 781039, India
- Centre for Nanotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam 781039, India
- Jyoti and Bhupat Mehta School of Health Sciences and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam 781039, India
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Lian L, Xie M, Luo Z, Zhang Z, Maharjan S, Mu X, Garciamendez-Mijares CE, Kuang X, Sahoo JK, Tang G, Li G, Wang D, Guo J, González FZ, Abril Manjarrez Rivera V, Cai L, Mei X, Kaplan DL, Zhang YS. Rapid Volumetric Bioprinting of Decellularized Extracellular Matrix Bioinks. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024:e2304846. [PMID: 38252896 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202304846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
Decellularized extracellular matrix (dECM)-based hydrogels are widely applied to additive biomanufacturing strategies for relevant applications. The extracellular matrix components and growth factors of dECM play crucial roles in cell adhesion, growth, and differentiation. However, the generally poor mechanical properties and printability have remained as major limitations for dECM-based materials. In this study, heart-derived dECM (h-dECM) and meniscus-derived dECM (Ms-dECM) bioinks in their pristine, unmodified state supplemented with the photoinitiator system of tris(2,2-bipyridyl) dichlororuthenium(II) hexahydrate and sodium persulfate, demonstrate cytocompatibility with volumetric bioprinting processes. This recently developed bioprinting modality illuminates a dynamically evolving light pattern into a rotating volume of the bioink, and thus decouples the requirement of mechanical strengths of bioprinted hydrogel constructs with printability, allowing for the fabrication of sophisticated shapes and architectures with low-concentration dECM materials that set within tens of seconds. As exemplary applications, cardiac tissues are volumetrically bioprinted using the cardiomyocyte-laden h-dECM bioink showing favorable cell proliferation, expansion, spreading, biomarker expressions, and synchronized contractions; whereas the volumetrically bioprinted Ms-dECM meniscus structures embedded with human mesenchymal stem cells present appropriate chondrogenic differentiation outcomes. This study supplies expanded bioink libraries for volumetric bioprinting and broadens utilities of dECM toward tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liming Lian
- Division of Engineering in Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Maobin Xie
- Division of Engineering in Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Zeyu Luo
- Division of Engineering in Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Zhenrui Zhang
- Division of Engineering in Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
- Ragon Institute of Mass General, MIT, and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Sushila Maharjan
- Division of Engineering in Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Xuan Mu
- Division of Engineering in Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Carlos Ezio Garciamendez-Mijares
- Division of Engineering in Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Xiao Kuang
- Division of Engineering in Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Jugal Kishore Sahoo
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, MA, 02155, USA
| | - Guosheng Tang
- Division of Engineering in Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Gang Li
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, MA, 02155, USA
| | - Di Wang
- Division of Engineering in Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Jie Guo
- Division of Engineering in Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Federico Zertuche González
- Division of Engineering in Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Victoria Abril Manjarrez Rivera
- Division of Engineering in Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Ling Cai
- Division of Engineering in Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Xuan Mei
- Division of Engineering in Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - David L Kaplan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, MA, 02155, USA
| | - Yu Shrike Zhang
- Division of Engineering in Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
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Burkey K, Castillo K, Elrod P, Suekuni MT, Aikman E, Gehrke S, Allgeier A, Robinson JL. Modulating pentenoate-functionalized hyaluronic acid hydrogel network properties for meniscal fibrochondrocyte mechanotransduction. J Biomed Mater Res A 2023; 111:1525-1537. [PMID: 37103006 PMCID: PMC10524304 DOI: 10.1002/jbm.a.37551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023]
Abstract
Knee meniscus tears are one of the most common musculoskeletal injuries. While meniscus replacements using allografts or biomaterial-based scaffolds are available, these treatments rarely result in integrated, functional tissue. Understanding mechanotransducive signaling cues that promote a meniscal cell regenerative phenotype is critical to developing therapies that promote tissue regeneration rather than fibrosis after injury. The purpose of this study was to develop a hyaluronic acid (HA) hydrogel system with tunable crosslinked network properties by modulating the degree of substitution (DoS) of reactive-ene groups to investigate mechanotransducive cues received by meniscal fibrochondrocytes (MFCs) from their microenvironment. A thiol-ene step-growth polymerization crosslinking mechanism was employed using pentenoate-functionalized hyaluronic acid (PHA) and dithiothreitol to achieve tunability of the chemical crosslinks and resulting network properties. Increased crosslink density, reduced swelling, and increased compressive modulus (60-1020 kPa) were observed with increasing DoS. Osmotic deswelling effects were apparent in PBS and DMEM+ compared to water; swelling ratios and compressive moduli were decreased in the ionic buffers. Frequency sweep studies showed storage and loss moduli of hydrogels at 1 Hz approach reported meniscus values and showed increasing viscous response with increasing DoS. The degradation rate increased with decreasing DoS. Lastly, modulating PHA hydrogel surface modulus resulted in control of MFC morphology, suggesting relatively soft hydrogels (E = 60 ± 35 kPa) promote more inner meniscus phenotype compared to rigid hydrogels (E = 610 ± 66 kPa). Overall, these results highlight the use of -ene DoS modulation in PHA hydrogels to tune crosslink density and physical properties to understand mechanotransduction mechanisms required to promote meniscus regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyley Burkey
- Bioengineering Graduate Program, University of Kansas
| | - Kayla Castillo
- Department of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering, University of Kansas
| | - Philip Elrod
- Bioengineering Graduate Program, University of Kansas
| | - Murilo T. Suekuni
- Department of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering, University of Kansas
| | - Elizabeth Aikman
- Department of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering, University of Kansas
| | - Stevin Gehrke
- Bioengineering Graduate Program, University of Kansas
- Department of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering, University of Kansas
| | - Alan Allgeier
- Department of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering, University of Kansas
| | - Jennifer L. Robinson
- Bioengineering Graduate Program, University of Kansas
- Department of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering, University of Kansas
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Schwartz G, Morejon A, Gracia J, Best TM, Jackson AR, Travascio F. Heterogeneity of dynamic shear properties of the meniscus: A comparison between tissue core and surface layers. J Orthop Res 2023; 41:1607-1617. [PMID: 36448086 PMCID: PMC10225479 DOI: 10.1002/jor.25495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Damage to the meniscus has been associated with excessive shear loads. Aimed at elucidating meniscus pathophysiology, previous studies have investigated the shear properties of the meniscus fibrocartilaginous core. However, the meniscus is structurally inhomogeneous, with an external cartilaginous envelope (tibial and femoral surface layers) wrapping the tissue core. To date, little is known about the shear behavior of the surface layers. The objective of this study was to measure the dynamic shear properties of the surface layers and derive empirical relations with their composition. Specimens were harvested from tibial and femoral surface layers and core of porcine menisci (medial and lateral, n = 10 each). Frequency sweep tests yielded complex shear modulus (G*) and phase shifts (δ). Mechanical behavior of regions was described by a generalized Maxwell model. Correlations between shear moduli with water and glycosaminoglycans content of the tissue regions were investigated. The femoral surface had the lowest shear modulus, when compared to core and tibial regions. A 3-relaxation times Maxwell model satisfactorily interpreted the shear behavior of all tissue regions. Inhomogeneous tissue composition was also observed, with water content in the surface layers being higher when compared with tissue core. Water content negatively correlated with shear properties in all regions. The lower measured shear properties in the femoral layer may explain the higher prevalence of meniscal tears on the superior surface of the tissue. The heterogenous behavior of the tissue in shear provides insight into meniscus pathology and has important implications for efforts to tissue engineer replacement tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabi Schwartz
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL
| | - Andy Morejon
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL
| | - Julissa Gracia
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL
| | - Thomas M. Best
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Miami, Miami, FL
- UHealth Sports Medicine Institute, Coral Gables, FL
| | - Alicia R. Jackson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL
| | - Francesco Travascio
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Miami, Miami, FL
- Max Biedermann Institute for Biomechanics at Mount Sinai Medical Center, Miami Beach, FL
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Morejon A, Schwartz G, Best TM, Travascio F, Jackson AR. Effect of molecular weight and tissue layer on solute partitioning in the knee meniscus. OSTEOARTHRITIS AND CARTILAGE OPEN 2023; 5:100360. [PMID: 37122844 PMCID: PMC10133802 DOI: 10.1016/j.ocarto.2023.100360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Knee meniscus tissue is partly vascularized, meaning that nutrients must be transported through the extracellular matrix of the avascular portion to reach resident cells. Similarly, drugs used as therapeutic agents to treat meniscal pathologies rely on transport through the tissue. The driving force of diffusive transport is the gradient of concentration, which depends on molecular solubility. The meniscus is organized into a core region sandwiched between the tibial and femoral superficial layers. Structural differences exist across meniscal regions; therefore, regional differences in solubility are also hypothesized. Methods Samples from the core, tibial and femoral layers were obtained from 5 medial and 5 lateral porcine menisci. The partition coefficient (K) of fluorescein, 3 kDa and 40 kDa dextrans in the layers of the meniscus was measured using an equilibration experiment. The effect of meniscal compartment, layer, and solute molecular weight on K was analyzed using a three-way ANOVA. Results K ranged from a high of ∼2.9 in fluorescein to a low of ∼0.1 in 40 kDa dextran and was inversely related to the solute molecular weight across all tissue regions. Tissue layer only had a significant effect on partitioning of 40k Dex solute, which was lower in the tibial surface layer relative to the core (p = 0.032). Conclusion This study provides insight into depth-dependent partitioning in the meniscus, indicating the limiting effect of the meniscus superficial layer on solubility increases with solute molecular size. This illustrates how the surface layers could potentially reduce the effectiveness of drug delivery therapies incorporating large molecules (>40 kDa).
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Affiliation(s)
- Andy Morejon
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | - Gabi Schwartz
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | - Thomas M. Best
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
- UHealth Sports Medicine Institute, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | - Francesco Travascio
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
- Max Biedermann Institute for Biomechanics at Mount Sinai Medical Center, Miami Beach, FL, USA
- Corresponding author. College of Engineering, University of Miami, 1251 Memorial Drive, MEB 276, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA.
| | - Alicia R. Jackson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
- Corresponding author. College of Engineering, University of Miami, 1251 Memorial Drive, MEA 219, Coral Gables, FL 33146 USA.
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Morejon A, Dalbo PL, Best TM, Jackson AR, Travascio F. Tensile energy dissipation and mechanical properties of the knee meniscus: relationship with fiber orientation, tissue layer, and water content. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1205512. [PMID: 37324417 PMCID: PMC10264653 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1205512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: The knee meniscus distributes and dampens mechanical loads. It is composed of water (∼70%) and a porous fibrous matrix (∼30%) with a central core that is reinforced by circumferential collagen fibers enclosed by mesh-like superficial tibial and femoral layers. Daily loading activities produce mechanical tensile loads which are transferred through and dissipated by the meniscus. Therefore, the objective of this study was to measure how tensile mechanical properties and extent of energy dissipation vary by tension direction, meniscal layer, and water content. Methods: The central regions of porcine meniscal pairs (n = 8) were cut into tensile samples (4.7 mm length, 2.1 mm width, and 0.356 mm thickness) from core, femoral and tibial components. Core samples were prepared parallel (circumferential) and perpendicular (radial) to the fibers. Tensile testing consisted of frequency sweeps (0.01-1Hz) followed by quasi-static loading to failure. Dynamic testing yielded energy dissipation (ED), complex modulus (E*), and phase shift (δ) while quasi-static tests yielded Young's Modulus (E), ultimate tensile strength (UTS), and strain at UTS (εUTS). To investigate how ED is influenced by the specific mechanical parameters, linear regressions were performed. Correlations between sample water content (φw) and mechanical properties were investigated. A total of 64 samples were evaluated. Results: Dynamic tests showed that increasing loading frequency significantly reduced ED (p < 0.05). Circumferential samples had higher ED, E*, E, and UTS than radial ones (p < 0.001). Stiffness was highly correlated with ED (R2 > 0.75, p < 0.01). No differences were found between superficial and circumferential core layers. ED, E*, E, and UTS trended negatively with φw (p < 0.05). Discussion: Energy dissipation, stiffness, and strength are highly dependent on loading direction. A significant amount of energy dissipation may be associated with time-dependent reorganization of matrix fibers. This is the first study to analyze the tensile dynamic properties and energy dissipation of the meniscus surface layers. Results provide new insights on the mechanics and function of meniscal tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andy Morejon
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, United States
| | - Pedro L. Dalbo
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Thomas M. Best
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, United States
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, United States
- UHealth Sports Medicine Institute, Coral Gables, FL, United States
| | - Alicia R. Jackson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, United States
| | - Francesco Travascio
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, United States
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, United States
- Max Biedermann Institute for Biomechanics at Mount Sinai Medical Center, Miami Beach, FL, United States
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She Y, Tang S, Zhu Z, Sun Y, Deng W, Wang S, Jiang N. Comparison of temporomandibular joint disc, meniscus, and intervertebral disc in fundamental characteristics and tissue engineering. J Biomed Mater Res B Appl Biomater 2023; 111:717-729. [PMID: 36221912 DOI: 10.1002/jbm.b.35178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Revised: 09/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disc, meniscus and intervertebral disc (IVD) are three fibrocartilage discs, which play critical roles in our daily life. Their degeneration contributes to diseases such as TMJ disorders, osteoarthritis and degenerative disc disease, affecting patients' quality of life and causing substantial morbidity and mortality. Interestingly, similar in some aspects of fundamental characteristics, they exhibit differences in other aspects such as biomechanical properties. Highlighting these similarities and differences can not only benefit a comprehensive understanding of them and their pathology but also assist in future research of tissue engineering. Likewise, comparing their tissue engineering in cell sources, scaffold and stimuli can guide imitation and improvement of their engineered discs. However, the anatomical structure, function, and biomechanical characteristics of the IVD, TMJ, and Meniscus have not been compared in any meaningful depth needed to advance current tissue engineering research on these joints, resulting in incomplete understanding of them and their pathology and ultimately limiting future research of tissue engineering. This review, for the first time, comprehensively compares three fibrocartilage discs in those aspects to cast light on their similarities and differences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yilin She
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and National Clinical Research Center for Oral Disease and West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Shiyi Tang
- West China Medical School, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Zilin Zhu
- College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yixin Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and National Clinical Research Center for Oral Disease and West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Wanyu Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and National Clinical Research Center for Oral Disease and West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Sicheng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and National Clinical Research Center for Oral Disease and West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Nan Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and National Clinical Research Center for Oral Disease and West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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11
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Orton K, Batchelor W, Ziebarth NM, Best TM, Travascio F, Jackson AR. Biomechanical properties of porcine meniscus as determined via AFM: Effect of region, compartment and anisotropy. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0280616. [PMID: 36662701 PMCID: PMC9858324 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0280616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The meniscus is a fibrocartilaginous tissue that plays an essential role in load transmission, lubrication, and stabilization of the knee. Loss of meniscus function, through degeneration or trauma, can lead to osteoarthritis in the underlying articular cartilage. To perform its crucial function, the meniscus extracellular matrix has a particular organization, including collagen fiber bundles running circumferentially, allowing the tissue to withstand tensile hoop stresses developed during axial loading. Given its critical role in preserving the health of the knee, better understanding structure-function relations of the biomechanical properties of the meniscus is critical. The main objective of this study was to measure the compressive modulus of porcine meniscus using Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM); the effects of three key factors were investigated: direction (axial, circumferential), compartment (medial, lateral) and region (inner, outer). Porcine menisci were prepared in 8 groups (= 2 directions x 2 compartments x 2 regions) with n = 9 per group. A custom AFM was used to obtain force-indentation curves, which were then curve-fit with the Hertz model to determine the tissue's compressive modulus. The compressive modulus ranged from 0.75 to 4.00 MPa across the 8 groups, with an averaged value of 2.04±0.86MPa. Only direction had a significant effect on meniscus compressive modulus (circumferential > axial, p = 0.024), in agreement with earlier studies demonstrating that mechanical properties in the tissue are anisotropic. This behavior is likely the result of the particular collagen fiber arrangement in the tissue and plays a key role in load transmission capability. This study provides important information on the micromechanical properties of the meniscus, which is crucial for understanding tissue pathophysiology, as well as for developing novel treatments for tissue repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Orton
- Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, United States of America
| | - Wyndham Batchelor
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida, United States of America
| | - Noel M. Ziebarth
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida, United States of America
| | - Thomas M. Best
- Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, United States of America
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida, United States of America
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Miami Sports Medicine Institute, Coral Gables, Florida, United States of America
| | - Francesco Travascio
- Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, United States of America
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida, United States of America
- Max Biedermann Institute for Biomechanics at Mount Sinai Medical Center, Miami Beach, Florida, United States of America
| | - Alicia R. Jackson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida, United States of America
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12
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Li W, Li T, Xi X, Zhang R, Sun W, Zhang D, Gong W. Does higher knee hyperextension in patients with hemiplegia affect lateral and medial meniscus volume in the paretic leg? A cross-sectional study. BMC Sports Sci Med Rehabil 2023; 15:4. [PMID: 36600322 DOI: 10.1186/s13102-022-00611-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND After stroke, an abnormal gait pattern gradually leads to knee pain and joint lesions, resulting the gait instability. However, the correlation between the knee hyperextension and gait pattern, the meniscus volume, and the water content of meniscus in paretic and non-paretic legs has not been fully investigated. Moreover, most of physicians tend to ignore this knee hyperextension. This study attempted to emphasize the importance of knee hyperextension using gait analysis and Magnetic resonance imaging (Trial registration number ChiCTR2000039641, date of registration 04/11/2020). METHODS Eight patients with chronic hemiplegic (6 male, 2 female) volunteered to participate in this study. Participants was recruited if they had a hemiplegia following a stroke occurring more than 6 months, had an ability to walk 10 m without aids, had a Function Ambulation Category level at least 3 and above, and had a hemiplegic lower extremity identified as Brunnstrom state III or above identification. The spatial-temporal gait parameters and kinematic parameters in the paretic and the non-paretic legs and the percentage of free water content in deep and shallow layers. RESULTS Longer time since hemiplegia led to larger angles of knee hyperextension (R = 0.56, p = 0.016), larger angles of knee hyperextension led to more tears in meniscus (R = - 0.53, - 0,57 and - 0.70), and larger angles of knee hyperextension decreased water content of the lateral meniscus in the non-paretic leg (R = - 0.91) but increased water content of the medial meniscus (R = 0.53 and 0.63). CONCLUSIONS The knee hyperextension could not be ignored by physicians and needed to be diagnosed and treated as early as possible, the time since hemiplegia could be an indicator of sign of knee hyperextension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenshan Li
- Beijing Rehabilitation Medicine Academy, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100144, China
| | - Tiancong Li
- Beijing Rehabilitation Medicine Academy, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100144, China
| | - Xiaoshuang Xi
- Beijing Rehabilitation Medicine Academy, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100144, China
| | - Rong Zhang
- Second Clinical Medical Academy, Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, Kunming, Yunnan, 650500, China
| | - Weishuang Sun
- Rehabilitation Medicine Academy, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, 261053, China
| | - Dan Zhang
- Rehabilitation Medicine Academy, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, 261053, China
| | - Weijun Gong
- Department of Neurological Rehabilitation, Beijing Rehabilitation Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100144, China.
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13
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Spierings J, Velthuijs W, Mansoor A, Bertrand ME, Uquillas JA, Ito K, Janssen RPA, Foolen J. A decellularized and sterilized human meniscus allograft for off-the-shelf meniscus replacement. J Exp Orthop 2022; 9:116. [PMID: 36464727 PMCID: PMC9719875 DOI: 10.1186/s40634-022-00555-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Meniscus tears are one of the most frequent orthopedic knee injuries, which are currently often treated performing meniscectomy. Clinical concerns comprise progressive degeneration of the meniscus tissue, a change in knee biomechanics, and an early onset of osteoarthritis. To overcome these problems, meniscal transplant surgery can be performed. However, adequate meniscal replacements remain to be a great challenge. In this research, we propose the use of a decellularized and sterilized human meniscus allograft as meniscal replacement. METHODS Human menisci were subjected to a decellularization protocol combined with sterilization using supercritical carbon dioxide (scCO2). The decellularization efficiency of human meniscus tissue was evaluated via DNA quantification and Hematoxylin & Eosin (H&E) and DAPI staining. The mechanical properties of native, decellularized, and decellularized + sterilized meniscus tissue were evaluated, and its composition was determined via collagen and glycosaminoglycan (GAG) quantification, and a collagen and GAG stain. Additionally, cytocompatibility was determined in vitro. RESULTS Human menisci were decellularized to DNA levels of ~ 20 ng/mg of tissue dry weight. The mechanical properties and composition of human meniscus were not significantly affected by decellularization and sterilization. Histologically, the decellularized and sterilized meniscus tissue had maintained its collagen and glycosaminoglycan structure and distribution. Besides, the processed tissues were not cytotoxic to seeded human dermal fibroblasts in vitro. CONCLUSIONS Human meniscus tissue was successfully decellularized, while maintaining biomechanical, structural, and compositional properties, without signs of in vitro cytotoxicity. The ease at which human meniscus tissue can be efficiently decellularized, while maintaining its native properties, paves the way towards clinical use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janne Spierings
- grid.6852.90000 0004 0398 8763Orthopaedic Biomechanics, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, PO Box 513, 5600 MB Eindhoven, the Netherlands ,grid.6852.90000 0004 0398 8763Institute of Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Wietske Velthuijs
- grid.6852.90000 0004 0398 8763Orthopaedic Biomechanics, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, PO Box 513, 5600 MB Eindhoven, the Netherlands
| | - Amal Mansoor
- grid.6852.90000 0004 0398 8763Orthopaedic Biomechanics, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, PO Box 513, 5600 MB Eindhoven, the Netherlands ,grid.6852.90000 0004 0398 8763Institute of Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | | | - Jorge Alfredo Uquillas
- grid.6852.90000 0004 0398 8763Orthopaedic Biomechanics, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, PO Box 513, 5600 MB Eindhoven, the Netherlands ,grid.6852.90000 0004 0398 8763Institute of Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Keita Ito
- grid.6852.90000 0004 0398 8763Orthopaedic Biomechanics, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, PO Box 513, 5600 MB Eindhoven, the Netherlands ,grid.6852.90000 0004 0398 8763Institute of Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Rob P. A. Janssen
- grid.6852.90000 0004 0398 8763Orthopaedic Biomechanics, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, PO Box 513, 5600 MB Eindhoven, the Netherlands ,grid.414711.60000 0004 0477 4812Maxima Medical Centre Eindhoven/Veldhoven, Eindhoven, The Netherlands ,grid.448801.10000 0001 0669 4689Health Innovations and Technology, Department of Paramedical Sciences, Fontys University of Applied Sciences, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Jasper Foolen
- grid.6852.90000 0004 0398 8763Orthopaedic Biomechanics, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, PO Box 513, 5600 MB Eindhoven, the Netherlands ,grid.6852.90000 0004 0398 8763Institute of Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
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Zihna G, Topuz B, Günal G, Aydin HM. Preparation of hybrid meniscal constructs using hydrogels and acellular matrices. JOURNAL OF BIOMATERIALS SCIENCE, POLYMER EDITION 2022; 34:587-611. [PMID: 36219154 DOI: 10.1080/09205063.2022.2135078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
To search for a suitable meniscus repair material, acellular hybrid scaffolds consisting of in situ cross-linkable 3-D interpenetrating network structures were obtained by decellularization of the meniscus tissues followed by integration of the gel system. Decellularization efficiency was confirmed using a DNA quantification assay (82% decrease in DNA content) and histological stainings. In the second part of the study, the gelatin molecule was functionalized by adding methacrylic anhydride and the degree of functionalization was found to be 75% by (Proton-Nuclear Magnetic Resonance) 1H-NMR. Using this, a series of hybrid constructs named GelMA-Hybrid (G-Hybrid), GELMA/PEGDMA-Hybrid (PG-Hybrid), and GelMA/PEGDMA/HAMA-Hybrid (PGH-Hybrid) were prepared by cross-linking with UVA. Changes in the chemical structure were determined with Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrophotometer (FTIR). Water uptake capacities of cross-linked hybrid structures were measured in swelling studies, and it was found that hybrid scaffolds showed similar swelling properties compared to native counterparts. By compressive mechanical tests, enhanced mechanical properties were revealed in cross-linked scaffolds with PGH-Hybrid having the highest cross-link density. Protein denaturation and decomposition transition temperatures were improved by adding hydrogels to acellular scaffolds according to thermal gravimetric analyses (TGA). Cross-linked acellular scaffolds have exhibited a behavior close to native tissues with below 25% mass loss in phosphate buffer saline (PBS) and enzymatic solution. Cell viability was examined through Alamar Blue on the first day and cell viability in hybrid constructs was found to be above 80% while it was closer to the control group on the 7th day. It was concluded that the developed biomaterials could be used in meniscus tissue engineering with their tunable physicochemical and mechanical properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gizem Zihna
- Bioengineering Division, Institute of Science, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Bengisu Topuz
- Bioengineering Division, Institute of Science, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Gülçin Günal
- Bioengineering Division, Institute of Science, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Halil Murat Aydin
- Bioengineering Division, Institute of Science, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
- Centre for Bioengineering, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
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15
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Sun J, Westover L, Wu K, Laouar L, Jomha NM, Adeeb S, Thornton GM. Tensile mechanical properties of vitrified porcine menisci are superior to frozen and similar to fresh porcine menisci. J Biomech 2022; 143:111277. [PMID: 36063771 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2022.111277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Vitrification inhibits crystallization of ice and may allow the mechanical properties of menisci to be preserved for transplantation without the damaging consequences of ice crystals formed during freezing. The primary objective of this study was to investigate the differences between fresh, frozen, and vitrified porcine lateral menisci examining tensile mechanical properties along the circumferential-peripheral, circumferential-central, longitudinal, and radial orientations. The secondary objective was to investigate the variations in the tensile mechanical properties of menisci comparing the circumferential-peripheral orientation to the three other orientations: circumferential-central, longitudinal, and radial. Quasi-static tensile testing was conducted to quantify the tensile mechanical properties of fresh, frozen and vitrified menisci. Ultimate tensile strength of frozen menisci were significantly decreased compared with fresh and vitrified menisci along three orientations: circumferential-peripheral, longitudinal, and radial. Along the circumferential-central orientation, tensile modulus of frozen menisci was significantly decreased compared with fresh menisci. The mechanical properties of vitrified menisci were comparable to fresh menisci along all four orientations. For all menisci (fresh, frozen and vitrified), ultimate tensile strength and failure strain along the circumferential-peripheral orientation were significantly increased compared with the three other orientations. Freezing was detrimental to the mechanical properties of menisci but vitrification likely avoided the negative effects of freezing thereby preserving mechanical properties that were comparable to fresh menisci. The findings of this study revealed that vitrification was superior to freezing for preserving mechanical properties of meniscal tissue; hence, vitrification is likely to be a competitive alternative to freezing for meniscal transplantation in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junran Sun
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Alberta, Canada
| | - Lindsey Westover
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Alberta, Canada
| | - Kezhou Wu
- Department of Surgery, University of Alberta, Canada; Department of Orthopedic Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, China
| | - Leila Laouar
- Department of Surgery, University of Alberta, Canada
| | - Nadr M Jomha
- Department of Surgery, University of Alberta, Canada
| | - Samer Adeeb
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Alberta, Canada
| | - Gail M Thornton
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Alberta, Canada.
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16
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Experiments and hyperelastic modeling of porcine meniscus show heterogeneity at high strains. Biomech Model Mechanobiol 2022; 21:1641-1658. [PMID: 35882676 DOI: 10.1007/s10237-022-01611-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Constitutive modeling of the meniscus is critical in areas like knee surgery and tissue engineering. At low strain rates, the meniscus can be described using a hyperelastic model. Calibration of hyperelastic material models of the meniscus is challenging on many fronts due to material variability and friction. In this study, we present a framework to determine the hyperelastic material parameters of porcine meniscus (and similar soft tissues) using no-slip uniaxial compression experiments. Because of the nonhomogeneous deformation in the specimens, a finite element solution is required at each step of the iterative calibration process. We employ a Bayesian calibration approach to account for the inherent material variability and a Bayesian optimization approach to minimize the resulting cost function in the material parameter space. Cylindrical specimens of porcine meniscus from the anterior, middle and posterior regions are tested up to 30% compressive strain and the Yeoh form of hyperelastic strain energy density function is used to describe the material response. The results show that the Yeoh form is able to accurately describe the compressive response of porcine meniscus and that the Bayesian calibration and optimization approaches are able to calibrate the model in a computationally efficient manner while taking into account the inherent material variability. The results also show that the shear modulus or the initial stiffness is roughly uniform across the different areas of the meniscus, but there is significant spatial heterogeneity in the response at high strains. In particular, the middle region is considerably stiffer at high strains. This heterogeneity is important to consider in modeling the response of the meniscus for clinical applications.
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Nowak J, Kerns A, Patel P, Batzinger K, Tong X, Samuel J. The Construction of Biologically Relevant Fiber-Reinforced Hydrogel Geometries Using Air-Assisted Dual-Polarity Electrospinning. J Biomech Eng 2022; 145:1143326. [PMID: 35864787 DOI: 10.1115/1.4055038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Fiber-reinforced hydrogels are a class of soft composite materials that has seen increased use across a wide variety of biomedical applications. However, existing fabrication techniques for these hydrogels are unable to realize biologically relevant macro/meso-scale geometries. To address this limitation, this paper presents a novel air-assisted, dual-polarity electrospinning printhead that converges high-strength electric fields, with low velocity air flow to remove the collector dependency seen with traditional far-field electrospinning setups. The use of this printhead, in conjunction with different configurations of deformable collection templates has resulted in the production of three classes of fiber-reinforced hydrogel prototype geometries, viz. (i) tubular geometries with bifurcations and meso-scale texturing; (ii) hollow, non-tubular geometries with single and dual-entrances; and (iii) 3D printed flat geometries with varying fiber density. All three classes of prototype geometries were mechanically characterized to have properties that were in line with those observed in living soft tissues. With the realization of this printhead, biologically relevant macro/meso-scale geometries can be realized using fiber-reinforced hydrogels to aid a wide array of biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Nowak
- Department of Mechanical, Aerospace, and Nuclear Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY 12180, USA
| | - Andrew Kerns
- Department of Mechanical, Aerospace, and Nuclear Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY 12180, USA
| | - Priyank Patel
- Department of Mechanical, Aerospace, and Nuclear Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY 12180, USA
| | - Kate Batzinger
- Department of Mechanical, Aerospace, and Nuclear Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY 12180, USA
| | - Xing Tong
- Department of Electrical, Computer, and Systems Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY 12180, USA
| | - Johnson Samuel
- Department of Mechanical, Aerospace, and Nuclear Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY 12180, USA
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Gonzalez-Leon EA, Hu JC, Athanasiou KA. Yucatan Minipig Knee Meniscus Regional Biomechanics and Biochemical Structure Support its Suitability as a Large Animal Model for Translational Research. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:844416. [PMID: 35265605 PMCID: PMC8899164 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.844416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Knee meniscus injuries are the most frequent causes of orthopedic surgical procedures in the U.S., motivating tissue engineering attempts and the need for suitable animal models. Despite extensive use in cardiovascular research and the existence of characterization data for the menisci of farm pigs, the farm pig may not be a desirable preclinical model for the meniscus due to rapid weight gain. Minipigs are conducive to in vivo experiments due to their slower growth rate than farm pigs and similarity in weight to humans. However, characterization of minipig knee menisci is lacking. The objective of this study was to extensively characterize structural and functional properties within different regions of both medial and lateral Yucatan minipig knee menisci to inform this model’s suitability as a preclinical model for meniscal therapies. Menisci measured 23.2–24.8 mm in anteroposterior length (33–40 mm for human), 7.7–11.4 mm in width (8.3–14.8 mm for human), and 6.4–8.4 mm in peripheral height (5–7 mm for human). Per wet weight, biochemical evaluation revealed 23.9–31.3% collagen (COL; 22% for human) and 1.20–2.57% glycosaminoglycans (GAG; 0.8% for human). Also, per dry weight, pyridinoline crosslinks (PYR) were 0.12–0.16% (0.12% for human) and, when normalized to collagen content, reached as high as 1.45–1.96 ng/µg. Biomechanical testing revealed circumferential Young’s modulus of 78.4–116.2 MPa (100–300 MPa for human), circumferential ultimate tensile strength (UTS) of 18.2–25.9 MPa (12–18 MPa for human), radial Young’s modulus of 2.5–10.9 MPa (10–30 MPa for human), radial UTS of 2.5–4.2 MPa (1–4 MPa for human), aggregate modulus of 157–287 kPa (100–150 kPa for human), and shear modulus of 91–147 kPa (120 kPa for human). Anisotropy indices ranged from 11.2–49.4 and 6.3–11.2 for tensile stiffness and strength (approximately 10 for human), respectively. Regional differences in mechanical and biochemical properties within the minipig medial meniscus were observed; specifically, GAG, PYR, PYR/COL, radial stiffness, and Young’s modulus anisotropy varied by region. The posterior region of the medial meniscus exhibited the lowest radial stiffness, which is also seen in humans and corresponds to the most prevalent location for meniscal lesions. Overall, similarities between minipig and human menisci support the use of minipigs for meniscus translational research.
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Zhou YF, Zhang D, Yan WT, Lian K, Zhang ZZ. Meniscus Regeneration With Multipotent Stromal Cell Therapies. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:796408. [PMID: 35237572 PMCID: PMC8883323 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.796408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Meniscus is a semilunar wedge-shaped structure with fibrocartilaginous tissue, which plays an essential role in preventing the deterioration and degeneration of articular cartilage. Lesions or degenerations of it can lead to the change of biomechanical properties in the joints, which ultimately accelerate the degeneration of articular cartilage. Even with the manual intervention, lesions in the avascular region are difficult to be healed. Recent development in regenerative medicine of multipotent stromal cells (MSCs) has been investigated for the significant therapeutic potential in the repair of meniscal injuries. In this review, we provide a summary of the sources of MSCs involved in repairing and regenerative techniques, as well as the discussion of the avenues to utilizing these cells in MSC therapies. Finally, current progress on biomaterial implants was reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun-Feng Zhou
- Department of Orthopedics, Xiangyang No.1 People’s Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Xiangyang, China
- Department of Orthopedics, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Di Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics-Gynecology, Xiangyang No.1 People’s Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Xiangyang, China
| | - Wan-Ting Yan
- Department of Orthopedics, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Kai Lian
- Department of Orthopedics, Xiangyang No.1 People’s Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Xiangyang, China
- *Correspondence: Zheng-Zheng Zhang, ; Kai Lian,
| | - Zheng-Zheng Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Zheng-Zheng Zhang, ; Kai Lian,
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20
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De Rosa M, Filippone G, Best TM, Jackson AR, Travascio F. Mechanical properties of meniscal circumferential fibers using an inverse finite element analysis approach. J Mech Behav Biomed Mater 2022; 126:105073. [PMID: 34999488 PMCID: PMC9162054 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2022.105073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
The extracellular matrix (ECM) of the meniscus is a gel-like water solution of proteoglycans embedding bundles of collagen fibers mainly oriented circumferentially. Collagen fibers significantly contribute to meniscal mechanics, however little is known about their mechanical properties. The objective of this study was to propose a constitutive model for collagen fibers embedded in the ECM of the meniscus and to characterize the tissue's pertinent mechanical properties. It was hypothesized that a linear fiber reinforced viscoelastic constitutive model is suitable to describe meniscal mechanical behavior in shear. It was further hypothesized that the mechanical properties governing the model depend on the tissue's composition. Frequency sweep tests were conducted on eight porcine meniscal specimens. A first cohort of experimental data resulted from tissue specimens where collagen fibers oriented parallel with respect to the shear plane were used. This was done to eliminate the contribution of collagen fibers from the mechanical response and characterize the mechanical properties of the ECM. A second cohort with fibers orthogonally oriented with respect to the shear plane that were used to determine the elastic properties of the collagen fibers via inverse finite element analysis. Our testing protocol revealed that tissue ECM mechanical behavior could be described by a generalized Maxwell model with 3 relaxation times. The inverse finite element analysis suggested that collagen fibers can be modeled as linear elastic elements having an average elastic modulus of 287.5 ± 62.6 MPa. Magnitudes of the mechanical parameters governing the ECM and fibers were negatively related to tissue water content.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimiliano De Rosa
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL
| | - Giovanni Filippone
- Department of Materials Engineering, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Thomas M. Best
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL,UHealth Sports Medicine Institute, Coral Gables, FL,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Miami, Miami, FL
| | - Alicia R. Jackson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL,Corresponding authors: Dr. Francesco Travascio, Associate Professor, College of Engineering, University of Miami, 1251 Memorial Drive, MEB 276, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA, Telephone: +1-(305)-284-2371, , Dr. Alicia R. Jackson, Associate Professor, College of Engineering, University of Miami, 1251 Memorial Drive, MEA 219, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA, Telephone: +1-(305)-284-2135,
| | - Francesco Travascio
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Miami, Miami, FL,Max Biedermann Institute for Biomechanics at Mount Sinai Medical Center, Miami Beach, FL,Corresponding authors: Dr. Francesco Travascio, Associate Professor, College of Engineering, University of Miami, 1251 Memorial Drive, MEB 276, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA, Telephone: +1-(305)-284-2371, , Dr. Alicia R. Jackson, Associate Professor, College of Engineering, University of Miami, 1251 Memorial Drive, MEA 219, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA, Telephone: +1-(305)-284-2135,
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21
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Berni M, Marchiori G, Cassiolas G, Grassi A, Zaffagnini S, Fini M, Lopomo NF, Maglio M. Anisotropy and inhomogeneity of permeability and fibrous network response in the pars intermedia of the human lateral meniscus. Acta Biomater 2021; 135:393-402. [PMID: 34411754 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2021.08.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Revised: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Within the human tibiofemoral joint, meniscus plays a key role due to its peculiar time-dependent mechanical characteristics, inhomogeneous structure and compositional features. To better understand the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying this essential component, it is mandatory to analyze in depth the relationship between its structure and the function it performs in the joint. Accordingly, the aim of this study was to evaluate the behavior of both solid and fluid phases of human meniscus in response to compressive loads, by integrating mechanical assessment and histological analysis. Cubic specimens were harvested from seven knee lateral menisci, specifically from anterior horn, pars intermedia and posterior horn; unconfined compressive tests were then performed according to three main loading directions (i.e., radial, circumferential and vertical). Fibril modulus, matrix modulus and hydraulic permeability of the tissue were thence estimated through a fibril-network-reinforced biphasic model. Tissue porosity and collagen fibers arrangement were assessed through histology for each region and related to the loading directions adopted during mechanical tests. Regional and strain-dependent constitutive parameters were finally proposed for the human lateral meniscus, suggesting an isotropic behavior of both the horns, and a transversely isotropic response of the pars intermedia. Furthermore, the histological findings supported the evidences highlighted by the compressive tests. Indeed, this study provided novel insights concerning the functional behavior of human menisci by integrating mechanical and histological characterizations and thus highlighting the key role of this component in knee contact mechanics and presenting fundamental information that can be used in the development of tissue-engineered substitutes. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: This work presents an integration to the approaches currently used to model the mechanical behavior of the meniscal tissue. This study assessed in detail the regional and directional contributions of both the meniscal solid and fluid phases during compressive response, providing also complementary histological evidence. Within this updated perspective, both knee computational modeling and meniscal tissue engineering can be improved to have an effective impact on the clinical practice.
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22
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Seitz AM, Osthaus F, Schwer J, Warnecke D, Faschingbauer M, Sgroi M, Ignatius A, Dürselen L. Osteoarthritis-Related Degeneration Alters the Biomechanical Properties of Human Menisci Before the Articular Cartilage. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2021; 9:659989. [PMID: 34026741 PMCID: PMC8134692 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2021.659989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
An exact understanding of the interplay between the articulating tissues of the knee joint in relation to the osteoarthritis (OA)-related degeneration process is of considerable interest. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to characterize the biomechanical properties of mildly and severely degenerated human knee joints, including their menisci and tibial and femoral articular cartilage (AC) surfaces. A spatial biomechanical mapping of the articulating knee joint surfaces of 12 mildly and 12 severely degenerated human cadaveric knee joints was assessed using a multiaxial mechanical testing machine. To do so, indentation stress relaxation tests were combined with thickness and water content measurements at the lateral and medial menisci and the AC of the tibial plateau and femoral condyles to calculate the instantaneous modulus (IM), relaxation modulus, relaxation percentage, maximum applied force during the indentation, and the water content. With progressing joint degeneration, we found an increase in the lateral and the medial meniscal instantaneous moduli (p < 0.02), relaxation moduli (p < 0.01), and maximum applied forces (p < 0.01), while for the underlying tibial AC, the IM (p = 0.01) and maximum applied force (p < 0.01) decreased only at the medial compartment. Degeneration had no influence on the relaxation percentage of the soft tissues. While the water content of the menisci did not change with progressing degeneration, the severely degenerated tibial AC contained more water (p < 0.04) compared to the mildly degenerated tibial cartilage. The results of this study indicate that degeneration-related (bio-)mechanical changes seem likely to be first detectable in the menisci before the articular knee joint cartilage is affected. Should these findings be further reinforced by structural and imaging analyses, the treatment and diagnostic paradigms of OA might be modified, focusing on the early detection of meniscal degeneration and its respective treatment, with the final aim to delay osteoarthritis onset.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas M Seitz
- Institute of Orthopedic Research and Biomechanics, Center of Trauma Research Ulm, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
| | - Felix Osthaus
- Institute of Orthopedic Research and Biomechanics, Center of Trauma Research Ulm, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
| | - Jonas Schwer
- Institute of Orthopedic Research and Biomechanics, Center of Trauma Research Ulm, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
| | - Daniela Warnecke
- Institute of Orthopedic Research and Biomechanics, Center of Trauma Research Ulm, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
| | - Martin Faschingbauer
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Universitäts- und Rehabilitationskliniken Ulm (RKU), Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
| | - Mirco Sgroi
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Universitäts- und Rehabilitationskliniken Ulm (RKU), Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
| | - Anita Ignatius
- Institute of Orthopedic Research and Biomechanics, Center of Trauma Research Ulm, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
| | - Lutz Dürselen
- Institute of Orthopedic Research and Biomechanics, Center of Trauma Research Ulm, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
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