Predicting cell viability within tissue scaffolds under equiaxial strain: multi-scale finite element model of collagen–cardiomyocytes constructs

摘要: Successful tissue engineering and regenerative therapy necessitate having extensive knowledge about mechanical milieu in engineered tissues the resident cells. In this study, we have merged two powerful analysis tools, namely finite element stochastic analysis, to understand strain within scaffold residing cells predict cell viability upon applying strains. A continuum-based multi-length scale model (FEM) was created simulate physiologically relevant equiaxial exposure on cell-embedded calculate transferred (macro-scale) (micro-scale) various The data from FEM were used under magnitudes using damage criterion analysis. validation conducted through mechanically straining cardiomyocyte-encapsulated collagen constructs a custom-built loading platform (EQUicycler). quantified gradients over radial longitudinal direction of scaffolds different areas interest. With use experimental data, criterion, average cellular strains obtained models, predicted successfully validated. This methodology can provide great tool characterize stimulation bioreactors applications providing quantification predicting variations due applied strain.