Meniscus Tissue Mechanics
Contrast Effects on Joint Mechanics
We assessed how nonionic CT contrast agents alter the mechanical response of cartilage and meniscus tissues. Exposure rapidly modified stiffness and viscoelastic behavior, highlighting osmotic and compositional effects at short timescales. These findings emphasize the need for caution when interpreting contrast-enhanced imaging data in load-bearing soft tissues.
Swelling Behavior of Cartilage Tissues
We characterized osmotic swelling behavior across multiple cartilaginous tissues with differing proteoglycan concentrations. Despite compositional variability, the tissues exhibited conserved swelling kinetics, suggesting robust electrochemical regulation. These results strengthen mechanistic understanding of how cartilage maintains hydration and mechanical resilience across anatomical sites.
Fat Pad–Driven Matrix Stimulation
We investigated how coculture with infrapatellar fat pad tissue influences proteoglycan synthesis in cartilage and meniscus explants. This interaction stimulated anabolic matrix production in a tissue-specific manner. The work highlights biochemical crosstalk within the joint environment and its potential role in regeneration and homeostasis.