1
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Irwin RM, Brown M, Koff MF, Lee CH, Lemmon E, Jeong HJ, Simmonds SP, Robinson JL, Seitz AM, Tanska P, Trujillo RJ, Patel JM, Jayasuriya CT, Pacicca D. Generating New Meniscus Therapies via Recent Breakthroughs in Development, Model Systems, and Clinical Diagnostics. J Orthop Res 2025; 43:1073-1089. [PMID: 40068999 DOI: 10.1002/jor.26066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2025] [Revised: 02/17/2025] [Accepted: 02/24/2025] [Indexed: 05/13/2025]
Abstract
Over 850,000 surgeries are performed to treat meniscal injuries each year in the United States. Even with repair, patients are likely to develop osteoarthritis (OA) within the next two decades. There is a pressing clinical need to improve meniscal repair procedures to restore tissue function and prevent joint degeneration later in life. Here we present a review of recently published articles (2020-2024) spanning basic science, translational, and clinical studies to highlight new advances in meniscus research across development, animal models, finite element models, and clinical interventions. Key progenitor cell populations and vascularity changes have been identified in human meniscus tissue development, aging, and degeneration with implications for novel tissue repair strategies. The use of animal and finite element models has expanded our understanding of meniscus tissue function and evaluated new therapies in preclinical studies. Further, advances in clinical diagnostics with machine learning models and surgical techniques have shed light on evidence-based practices for improving patient outcomes. We discuss across multiple length scales (micro-, meso-, macro-) the structure-function relationship of the meniscus in development and disease, recent advances in models and tools to study the meniscus, knowledge gaps in the field, persisting challenges in clinical treatments and assessments, and the translation of basic science therapies into the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca M Irwin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Matthew Brown
- Division of Sports Medicine, Connecticut Children's Medical Center, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
| | - Matthew F Koff
- Department of Radiology and Imaging, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York City, New York, USA
| | - Chang H Lee
- College of Dental Medicine, Columbia University, New York City, New York, USA
| | - Elisabeth Lemmon
- McKay Orthopaedic Research Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Hun Jin Jeong
- College of Dental Medicine, Columbia University, New York City, New York, USA
| | - Susana P Simmonds
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Jennifer L Robinson
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Andreas M Seitz
- Institute of Orthopaedic Research and Biomechanics, Ulm University Medical Centre, Ulm, Germany
| | - Petri Tanska
- Department of Technical Physics, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Ruben J Trujillo
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Jay M Patel
- Department of Orthopaedics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Chathuraka T Jayasuriya
- Department of Orthopaedics, Rhode Island Hospital & The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Donna Pacicca
- Division of Sports Medicine, Connecticut Children's Medical Center, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
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2
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Guilak F, Detamore M, Espinosa G, Hu J. Editorial: K. A. Athanasiou Special Issue. Tissue Eng Part A 2025. [PMID: 39905928 DOI: 10.1089/ten.tea.2025.0011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2025] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Farshid Guilak
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Washington University in St. Louis, Louis, Missouri, USA
- Shriners Hospital for Children, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
- Cytex Therapeutics, Inc, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Michael Detamore
- Department of Engineering, University of Oklahoma, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | - Gabriela Espinosa
- Department of Engineering, Concordia University Irvine, Irvine, California, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Jerry Hu
- University of California, Irvine, California, USA
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3
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Ramos R, Pham KT, Prince RC, Leiser-Miller LB, Prasad MS, Wang X, Nordberg RC, Bielajew BJ, Hu JC, Yamaga K, Oh JW, Peng T, Datta R, Astrowskaja A, Almet AA, Burns JT, Liu Y, Guerrero-Juarez CF, Tran BQ, Chu YL, Nguyen AM, Hsi TC, Lim NTL, Schoeniger S, Liu R, Pai YL, Vadivel CK, Ingleby S, McKechnie AE, van Breukelen F, Hoehn KL, Rasweiler JJ, Kohara M, Loughry WJ, Weldy SH, Cosper R, Yang CC, Lin SJ, Cooper KL, Santana SE, Bradley JE, Kiebish MA, Digman M, James DE, Merrill AE, Nie Q, Schilling TF, Astrowski AA, Potma EO, García-Castro MI, Athanasiou KA, Behringer RR, Plikus MV. Superstable lipid vacuoles endow cartilage with its shape and biomechanics. Science 2025; 387:eads9960. [PMID: 39787221 DOI: 10.1126/science.ads9960] [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: 09/06/2024] [Accepted: 11/13/2024] [Indexed: 01/12/2025]
Abstract
Conventionally, the size, shape, and biomechanics of cartilages are determined by their voluminous extracellular matrix. By contrast, we found that multiple murine cartilages consist of lipid-filled cells called lipochondrocytes. Despite resembling adipocytes, lipochondrocytes were molecularly distinct and produced lipids exclusively through de novo lipogenesis. Consequently, lipochondrocytes grew uniform lipid droplets that resisted systemic lipid surges and did not enlarge upon obesity. Lipochondrocytes also lacked lipid mobilization factors, which enabled exceptional vacuole stability and protected cartilage from shrinking upon starvation. Lipid droplets modulated lipocartilage biomechanics by decreasing the tissue's stiffness, strength, and resilience. Lipochondrocytes were found in multiple mammals, including humans, but not in nonmammalian tetrapods. Thus, analogous to bubble wrap, superstable lipid vacuoles confer skeletal tissue with cartilage-like properties without "packing foam-like" extracellular matrix.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raul Ramos
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
- Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Kim T Pham
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
- Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Richard C Prince
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | | | - Maneeshi S Prasad
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Xiaojie Wang
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
- Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Rachel C Nordberg
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Benjamin J Bielajew
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Jerry C Hu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Kosuke Yamaga
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
- Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Ji Won Oh
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
- Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
- Biomedical Research Institute, Kyungpook National University Hospital, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Tao Peng
- Department of Mathematics, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
- Center for Complex Biological Systems, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Rupsa Datta
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Aksana Astrowskaja
- Scientific Research Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Grodna State Medical University, Grodna, Belarus
| | - Axel A Almet
- Department of Mathematics, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
- NSF-Simons Center for Multiscale Cell Fate Research, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - John T Burns
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
- Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Yuchen Liu
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
- Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Christian Fernando Guerrero-Juarez
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
- Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
- Department of Mathematics, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
- Center for Complex Biological Systems, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Bryant Q Tran
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
- Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Yi-Lin Chu
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
- Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Anh M Nguyen
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
- Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Tsai-Ching Hsi
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
- Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Norman T-L Lim
- National Institute of Education, Singapore, Republic of Singapore
| | - Sandra Schoeniger
- Institute of Veterinary Pathology, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
- Discovery Life Sciences Biomarker Services GmbH, Kassel, Germany
| | - Ruiqi Liu
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
- Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Yun-Ling Pai
- Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, College of Medicine and College of Engineering, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chella K Vadivel
- Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
- LEO Foundation Skin Immunology Research Center, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Andrew E McKechnie
- Mammal Research Institute, Department of Zoology and Entomology, University of Pretoria, Hatfield, South Africa
- South African National Biodiversity Institute, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Frank van Breukelen
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Las Vegas, NV, USA
| | - Kyle L Hoehn
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - John J Rasweiler
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, SUNY Downstate Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Michinori Kohara
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Scott H Weldy
- Serrano Animal and Bird Hospital, Lake Forest, CA, USA
| | | | - Chao-Chun Yang
- Department of Dermatology, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
- International Center for Wound Repair and Regeneration, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Sung-Jan Lin
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, College of Medicine and College of Engineering, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Kimberly L Cooper
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Sharlene E Santana
- Department of Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Mammalogy, Burke Museum, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Jeffrey E Bradley
- Department of Mammalogy, Burke Museum, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | - Michelle Digman
- Center for Complex Biological Systems, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - David E James
- Charles Perkins Centre, School of Life and Environmental Sciences and School of Medical Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Amy E Merrill
- Center for Craniofacial Molecular Biology, Ostrow School of Dentistry, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Qing Nie
- Department of Mathematics, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
- Center for Complex Biological Systems, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
- NSF-Simons Center for Multiscale Cell Fate Research, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Thomas F Schilling
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
- Center for Complex Biological Systems, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
- NSF-Simons Center for Multiscale Cell Fate Research, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | | | - Eric O Potma
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Martín I García-Castro
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, USA
| | - Kyriacos A Athanasiou
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Richard R Behringer
- Department of Genetics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Maksim V Plikus
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
- Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
- Center for Complex Biological Systems, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
- NSF-Simons Center for Multiscale Cell Fate Research, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
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4
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Peng X, Wu F, Hu Y, Chen Y, Wei Y, Xu W. Current advances in animal model of meniscal injury: From meniscal injury to osteoarthritis. J Orthop Translat 2025; 50:388-402. [PMID: 40171109 PMCID: PMC11960540 DOI: 10.1016/j.jot.2024.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2024] [Revised: 10/14/2024] [Accepted: 11/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/03/2025] Open
Abstract
Meniscal injury is a prevalent orthopedic practice that causes articular cartilage wear and degeneration due to tissue damage or loss, and may eventually result in the occurrence of knee osteoarthritis (KOA). Hence, investigating the structural regeneration and mechanical function restoration of the meniscus after injury is pivotal research topic for preventing KOA. Animal models are essential for investigating therapeutic strategies for meniscal injuries and their clinical translation, yet no current model can fully recapitulate the complexity of human meniscal injuries. This review aims to categorize the prevalent animal models of meniscal injury by their establishment methods, elucidate their principles and procedures, and discuss the suitability and limitations of each model. We delineate the pros and cons of different models in simulating the pathology and biomechanics of human meniscal injury. We also analyze different animal species regarding their meniscal structure, function, and repair potential, and their implications for model selection. We conclude that selecting an appropriate animal model requires a comprehensive consideration of various factors, such as research aims, anticipated outcomes, and feasibility. Furthermore, to translate novel therapeutic approaches to clinical applications more safely and effectively, future model development should emphasize aspects such as choosing animals of suitable age. The Translational Potential of this Article: This review aims to categorize and discuss current animal models of meniscal injury by establishment methods and provides a comprehensive overview of the routinely employed experimental animals in each model to facilitate the clinical translation of OA-related research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyao Peng
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Fashuai Wu
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Yuxiang Hu
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Yangyang Chen
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Yulong Wei
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Weihua Xu
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
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5
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Long T, Vemaganti K, Hawes JE, Lin CY. An experimental study of the heterogeneity and anisotropy of porcine meniscal ultimate tensile strength. J Mech Behav Biomed Mater 2024; 157:106649. [PMID: 39024732 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2024.106649] [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: 03/25/2024] [Revised: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
Characterizing the ultimate tensile strength (UTS) of the meniscus is critical in studying knee damage and pathology. This study aims to determine the UTS of the meniscus with an emphasis on its heterogeneity and anisotropy. We performed tensile tests to failure on the menisci of six month old Yorkshire pigs at a low strain rate. Specimens from the anterior, middle and posterior regions of the meniscus were tested in the radial and circumferential directions. Then the UTS was obtained for each specimen and the data were analyzed statistically, leading to a comprehensive view of the variations in porcine meniscal strength. The middle region has the highest average strength in the circumferential (43.3 ± 4.7 MPa) and radial (12.6 ± 2.2 MPa) directions. This is followed by the anterior and posterior regions, which present similar average values (about 34.0MPa) in circumferential direction. The average strength of each region in the radial direction is approximately one-fourth to one-third of the value in the circumferential direction. This study is novel as it is the first work to focus on the experimental methods to investigate the heterogeneity and anisotropy only for porcine meniscus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teng Long
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, College of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Cincinnati, 2901 Woodside Drive, Cincinnati, 45221-0072, OH, USA
| | - Kumar Vemaganti
- Sandia National Laboratories, 1515 Eubank Blvd. SE, Albuquerque, 87123, NM, USA
| | - James Edward Hawes
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Cincinnati, 2901 Woodside Drive, Cincinnati, 45221-0012, OH, USA
| | - Chia-Ying Lin
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, 231 Albert Sabin Way, Cincinnati, 45267-0212, OH, USA.
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Wang S, Mueller D, Chen P, Pan G, Wilson M, Sun S, Chen Z, Lee T, Damon B, Hepfer RG, Hill C, Kern MJ, Pullen WM, Wu Y, Brockbank KGM, Yao H. Viable Vitreous Grafts of Whole Porcine Menisci for Transplant in the Knee and Temporomandibular Joints. Adv Healthc Mater 2024; 13:e2303706. [PMID: 38523366 PMCID: PMC11368656 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202303706] [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: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024]
Abstract
The shortage of suitable donor meniscus grafts from the knee and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) impedes treatments for millions of patients. Vitrification offers a promising solution by transitioning these tissues into a vitreous state at cryogenic temperatures, protecting them from ice crystal damage using high concentrations of cryoprotectant agents (CPAs). However, vitrification's success is hindered for larger tissues (>3 mL) due to challenges in CPA penetration. Dense avascular meniscus tissues require extended CPA exposure for adequate penetration; however, prolonged exposure becomes cytotoxic. Balancing penetration and reducing cell toxicity is required. To overcome this hurdle, a simulation-based optimization approach is developed by combining computational modeling with microcomputed tomography (µCT) imaging to predict 3D CPA distributions within tissues over time accurately. This approach minimizes CPA exposure time, resulting in 85% viability in 4-mL meniscal specimens, 70% in 10-mL whole knee menisci, and 85% in 15-mL whole TMJ menisci (i.e., TMJ disc) post-vitrification, outperforming slow-freezing methods (20%-40%), in a pig model. The extracellular matrix (ECM) structure and biomechanical strength of vitreous tissues remain largely intact. Vitreous meniscus grafts demonstrate clinical-level viability (≥70%), closely resembling the material properties of native tissues, with long-term availability for transplantation. The enhanced vitrification technology opens new possibilities for other avascular grafts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shangping Wang
- Department of Bioengineering, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, 29634, USA
| | - Dustin Mueller
- Department of Bioengineering, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, 29634, USA
- Department of Oral Health Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - Peng Chen
- Department of Bioengineering, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, 29634, USA
| | - Ge Pan
- Department of Bioengineering, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, 29634, USA
| | - Marshall Wilson
- Department of Bioengineering, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, 29634, USA
| | - Shuchun Sun
- Department of Bioengineering, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, 29634, USA
| | - Zhenzhen Chen
- Tissue Testing Technologies LLC, North Charleston, SC, 29406, USA
| | - Thomas Lee
- Department of Bioengineering, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, 29634, USA
| | - Brooke Damon
- Department of Bioengineering, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, 29634, USA
| | - R Glenn Hepfer
- Department of Oral Health Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - Cherice Hill
- Department of Bioengineering, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, 29634, USA
- Department of Oral Health Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - Michael J Kern
- Department of Regenerative Medicine and Cell Biology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - William M Pullen
- Department of Orthopaedics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - Yongren Wu
- Department of Bioengineering, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, 29634, USA
- Department of Orthopaedics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - Kelvin G M Brockbank
- Department of Bioengineering, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, 29634, USA
- Tissue Testing Technologies LLC, North Charleston, SC, 29406, USA
| | - Hai Yao
- Department of Bioengineering, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, 29634, USA
- Department of Oral Health Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
- Department of Regenerative Medicine and Cell Biology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
- Department of Orthopaedics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
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7
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Nordberg RC, Hight JM, Kim AN, Meka RS, Elder BD, Hu JC, Athanasiou KA. Biomechanical, biochemical, and histological characterization of sacroiliac joint cartilage in the Yucatan minipig. J Mech Behav Biomed Mater 2024; 157:106658. [PMID: 39018919 PMCID: PMC11516651 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2024.106658] [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: 02/12/2024] [Revised: 06/24/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/19/2024]
Abstract
Although the sacroiliac (SI) joint can be a source of lower back and buttock pain, no comprehensive characterization studies on SI cartilage have been conducted. Using the minipig as a large animal model, this study conducted the first biomechanical, biochemical, and histological characterization of SI joint cartilage. Because previous literature has reported that sacral cartilage and iliac cartilage within the SI joint are histologically distinct, concomitantly it was expected that functional properties of the sacral cartilage would differ from those of the iliac cartilage. Creep indentation, uniaxial tension, biochemical, and histological analyses were conducted on the sacral and iliac cartilage of skeletally mature female Yucatan minipigs (n = 6-8 for all quantitative tests). Concurring with prior literature, the iliac cartilage appeared to be more fibrous than the sacral cartilage. Glycosaminoglycan content was 2.2 times higher in the sacral cartilage. The aggregate modulus of the sacral cartilage was 133 ± 62 kPa, significantly higher than iliac cartilage, which only had an aggregate modulus of 51 ± 61 kPa. Tensile testing was conducted in both cranial-caudal and ventral-dorsal axes, and Young's modulus values ranged from 2.5 ± 1.5 MPa to 13.6 ± 1.5 MPa, depending on anatomical structure (i.e., sacral vs. iliac) and orientation of the tensile test. The Young's modulus of sacral cartilage was 5.5 times higher in the cranial-caudal axis and 2.0 times higher in the ventral-dorsal axis than the iliac cartilage. The results indicate that the sacral and iliac cartilages are functionally distinct from each other. Understanding the distinct differences between sacral and iliac cartilage provides insight into the structure and function of the SI joint, which may inform future research aimed at repairing SI joint cartilage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel C Nordberg
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, 3131 Engineering Hall, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92617, USA
| | - Justin M Hight
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, 3131 Engineering Hall, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92617, USA
| | - Andrew N Kim
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, 3131 Engineering Hall, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92617, USA
| | - Rithika S Meka
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, 3131 Engineering Hall, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92617, USA
| | - Benjamin D Elder
- Department of Neurosurgery, Orthopedics, and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic School of Medicine, 200 1st St. SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Jerry C Hu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, 3131 Engineering Hall, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92617, USA
| | - Kyriacos A Athanasiou
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, 3131 Engineering Hall, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92617, USA.
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8
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Quizon MJ, Deppen JN, Barber GF, Kalelkar PP, Coronel MM, Levit RD, García AJ. VEGF-delivering PEG hydrogels promote vascularization in the porcine subcutaneous space. J Biomed Mater Res A 2024; 112:866-880. [PMID: 38189109 PMCID: PMC10984793 DOI: 10.1002/jbm.a.37666] [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: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
For cell therapies, the subcutaneous space is an attractive transplant site due to its large surface area and accessibility for implantation, monitoring, biopsy, and retrieval. However, its poor vascularization has catalyzed research to induce blood vessel formation within the site to enhance cell revascularization and survival. Most studies focus on the subcutaneous space of rodents, which does not recapitulate important anatomical features and vascularization responses of humans. Herein, we evaluate biomaterial-driven vascularization in the porcine subcutaneous space. Additionally, we report the first use of cost-effective fluorescent microspheres to quantify perfusion in the porcine subcutaneous space. We investigate the vascularization-inducing efficacy of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-delivering synthetic hydrogels based on 4-arm poly(ethylene) glycol macromers with terminal maleimides (PEG-4MAL). We compare three groups: a non-degradable hydrogel with a VEGF-releasing PEG-4MAL gel coating (Core+VEGF gel); an uncoated, non-degradable hydrogel (Core-only); and naïve tissue. After 2 weeks, Core+VEGF gel has significantly higher tissue perfusion, blood vessel area, blood vessel density, and number of vessels compared to both Core-only and naïve tissue. Furthermore, healthy vital signs during surgery and post-procedure metrics demonstrate the safety of hydrogel delivery. We demonstrate that VEGF-delivering synthetic hydrogels induce robust vascularization and perfusion in the porcine subcutaneous space.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle J. Quizon
- Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering and Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience, Georgia Institute of Technology, 315 Ferst Dr. NW, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA
| | - Juline N. Deppen
- Division of Cardiology, Emory University School of Medicine, 1440 Clifton Rd, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Graham F. Barber
- Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering and Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience, Georgia Institute of Technology, 315 Ferst Dr. NW, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA
| | - Pranav P. Kalelkar
- Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering and Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience, Georgia Institute of Technology, 315 Ferst Dr. NW, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA
| | - María M. Coronel
- Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering and Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience, Georgia Institute of Technology, 315 Ferst Dr. NW, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA
| | - Rebecca D. Levit
- Division of Cardiology, Emory University School of Medicine, 1440 Clifton Rd, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Andrés J. García
- Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering and Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience, Georgia Institute of Technology, 315 Ferst Dr. NW, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA
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Noh S, Jin YJ, Shin DI, Kwon HJ, Yun HW, Kim KM, Park JY, Chung JY, Park DY. Selective Extracellular Matrix Guided Mesenchymal Stem Cell Self-Aggregate Engineering for Replication of Meniscal Zonal Tissue Gradient in a Porcine Meniscectomy Model. Adv Healthc Mater 2023; 12:e2301180. [PMID: 37463568 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202301180] [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: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023]
Abstract
Degenerative meniscus tears (DMTs) are prevalent findings in osteoarthritic knees, yet current treatment is mostly limited to arthroscopic partial meniscectomy rather than regeneration, which further exacerbates arthritic changes. Translational research regarding meniscus regeneration is hindered by the complex, composite nature of the meniscus which exhibit a gradient from inner cartilage-like tissue to outer fibrous tissue, as well as engineering hurdles often requiring growth factors and cross-linking agents. Here, a meniscus zonal tissue gradient is proposed using zone-specific decellularized meniscus extracellular matrix (DMECM) and autologous synovial mesenchymal stem cells (SMSC) via self-aggregation without the use of growth factors or cross-linking agents. Combination with zone-specific DMECM during self-aggregation of MSCs forms zone-specific meniscus tissue that reflects the respective DMECM harvest site. The implantation of these constructs leads to the regeneration of meniscus tissue resembling the native meniscus, demonstrating inner cartilaginous and outer fibrous characteristics as well as recovery of native meniscal microarchitecture in a porcine partial meniscectomy model at 6 months. In all, the findings offer a potential regenerative therapy for DMTs that may improve current partial meniscectomy-based patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sujin Noh
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Graduate School of Ajou University, Suwon, 16499, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong Jun Jin
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, School of Medicine, Ajou University, Suwon, 16499, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong Il Shin
- Department of Molecular Science and Technology, Ajou University, Suwon, 16499, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyeon Jae Kwon
- Department of Molecular Science and Technology, Ajou University, Suwon, 16499, Republic of Korea
| | - Hee-Woong Yun
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, School of Medicine, Ajou University, Suwon, 16499, Republic of Korea
- Cell Therapy Center, Ajou Medical Center, Suwon, 16499, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyu Min Kim
- Cell Therapy Center, Ajou Medical Center, Suwon, 16499, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Young Park
- Department of Orthopedics Surgery, CHA University Bundang Medical Center, Bundang-gu, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do, 13496, Republic of Korea
| | - Jun Young Chung
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, School of Medicine, Ajou University, Suwon, 16499, Republic of Korea
| | - Do Young Park
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Graduate School of Ajou University, Suwon, 16499, Republic of Korea
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, School of Medicine, Ajou University, Suwon, 16499, Republic of Korea
- Cell Therapy Center, Ajou Medical Center, Suwon, 16499, Republic of Korea
- Ajou University, Leading Convergence of Healthcare and Medicine, Institute of Science & Technology (ALCHeMIST), Suwon, 16499, Republic of Korea
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10
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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: 0.5] [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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