Examination of the dynantic mechanical properties of tissue engineering scaffolds

Scaffolds of both natural and synthetic materials have been widely utilized to provide a three dimensional environment for cell growth. The characteristics of these scaffolds play a vital, but sometimes ambiguous, role in tissue engineering constructs. Collagen-glycosaminoglycan matrices have been used clinically as artificial skin implants. Previous research in our laboratory on this model has shown that gene expression is regulated by mechanical stress applied to the matrix. In this work we begin the process of quantifying the effects of mechanical stress and preparation technique on a matrix comprised of type I collagen and chondroitin-6-sulfate. Compressive loads were applied to the matrices using a dynamic mechanical analyzer at 37 degrees Celsius and retrofitted with 5% carbon dioxide gas flow. All samples were tested hydrated in either simulated body fluid or PBS. Storage and loss modulus data are presented. Mechanical tests were performed on collagen-GAG meshes both seeded with human dermal fibroblasts and not seeded with cells. Continuing work includes gene expression analysis of the cells on the seeded matrices in order to identify differential gene expression induced by mechanical loading.