Mechano-control of tissue properties in cardiovascular engineered constructs

Mechanical characterization of anisotropic planar biological soft tissues using finite indentation: Experimental feasibility

“…Histology and 2-photon microscopy of comparable TE constructs (Boerboom et al, 2007) revealed that both collagen content and collagen organization are higher in the top layer of the construct. The effect of this on the indentation force and in-plane strains remains unclear.…”

“…The tissue constructs were cultured for 20 days (5% CO 2 , 37 C). More details on the tissue culture may be found in Boerboom et al (2007). Prior to testing, the samples were stained overnight with a fluorescent CNA35-OG488 probe to enable visualization of the collagen fibers (Nash-Krahn et al, 2006;Boerboom et al, 2007).…”

“…More details on the tissue culture may be found in Boerboom et al (2007). Prior to testing, the samples were stained overnight with a fluorescent CNA35-OG488 probe to enable visualization of the collagen fibers (Nash-Krahn et al, 2006;Boerboom et al, 2007). Samples were detached from the supporting membrane and placed upside down onto the glass plate of the inverted CLSM to enable visualization of the top layer of the construct.…”

“…This method will provide more insight into the (development of) mechanical properties of TEHV. Furthermore, the effect of multiaxial, dynamic straining protocols during tissue culture will be investigated (Boerboom et al, 2007). These results will be used to optimize straining protocols, ultimately leading to a TEHV that is able to withstand the high pressures and strains that occur in the in vivo environment.…”