Poroelasticity of Fibrocartilage is Governed by the Collagen Fibrillar Structure

Friday, August 20, 2021

10:00 AM-12:00 PM

BIOMED Master's Thesis Defense
 
Title:
Poroelasticity of Fibrocartilage is Governed by the Collagen Fibrillar Structure and Proteoglycan Content of the Extracellular Matrix

Speaker:
Kevt’her Hoxha, Master's Candidate
School of Biomedical Engineering, Science and Health Systems
Drexel University

Advisor:
Lin Han, PhD
Associate Professor
School of Biomedical Engineering, Science and Health Systems
Drexel University

Details:
The synovial joint of the knee is essential for shock absorption and joint lubrication during locomotion. For high frequency activities, such as running and jumping, the shock absorption function is governed by the fluid flow-induced poroelasticity of cartilage, in which, the interstitial fluid pressurization arises due to the densely packed, highly negatively charged aggrecan in the cartilage extracellular matrix (ECM). The meniscus acts as a key functional unit of the knee joint, enhancing congruency, providing direct load transmission to cartilage, and increasing joint stability.

Our recent studies suggested that the structure and mechanical behavior of the meniscus ECM is highly heterogeneous and anisotropic. It is unclear, however, if or how, the meniscus contributes to the poroelastic energy dissipation of the joint in a region- and orientation-specific manner. Such knowledge is important, given that meniscus injury often occurs during high frequency activities, and is a common cause of post-traumatic osteoarthritis.

Contact Information

Natalia Broz
njb33@drexel.edu