Microscale Frictional Strains Determine Chondrocyte Fate in Loaded Cartilage

Mounting evidence suggests that altered lubricant levels within synovial fluid have acute biological consequences on chondrocyte homeostasis. While these responses have been connected to increased friction, the mechanisms behind this response remain unknown. Here, we combine a frictional bioreactor with confocal elastography and image-based cellular assays to establish the link between cartilage friction, microscale shear strain, and acute, adverse cellular responses. Our incorporation of cell-scale strain measurements reveals that elevated friction generates high shear strains localized near the tissue surface, and that these elevated strains are closely associated with mitochondrial dysfunction, apoptosis, and cell death.

Source: Journal of Biomechanics - April 24, 2018 Category: Biomedical Science Authors: Edward D. Bonnevie, Michelle L. Delco, Lena R. Bartell, Naveen Jasty, Itai Cohen, Lisa A. Fortier, Lawrence J. Bonassar Source Type: research