| About this Abstract |
| Meeting |
2024 TMS Annual Meeting & Exhibition
|
| Symposium
|
Mechanics and Physiological Adaptation of Hard and Soft Biomaterials and Biological Tissues
|
| Presentation Title |
Exploring the Intricacies of Fibrillar Collagen in the Human Aorta: A Window into Ultrastructural Attributes and Nanomechanical Properties |
| Author(s) |
Meisam Asgari |
| On-Site Speaker (Planned) |
Meisam Asgari |
| Abstract Scope |
Soft tissues are natural biomaterials evolved to fulfill vital physiological functions, exemplified by their elasticity in maintaining arterial mechanical integrity. The mechanical characteristics of the extracellular matrix (ECM) in these tissues profoundly influence cellular behavior and organ functionality, with collagen networks playing a key role in determining ECM mechanical properties. We investigate the nanoscale and ultrastructural properties of arterial tissues, focusing specifically on the stiffness of different layers within the aorta: the tunica intima, media, and adventitia. Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) with large and ultra-sharp tips is utilized to probe tissue stiffness at multiple scales, complemented by quasi-static tensile tests to explore correlations between small-scale mechanical properties and tissue behavior under various strains. The investigation considers stiffness gradients across tissue layers and the effects of deformation rate. This methodology serves as a tool for studying ECM remodeling associated with vascular diseases like aneurysms and arterial stiffening, both linked to hypertension. |
| Proceedings Inclusion? |
Planned: |
| Keywords |
Mechanical Properties, Biomaterials, Characterization |