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Lohasammakul S, Lee SJ, Suppasilp C, Sirivongs N, Koedpuech K, Numwong T, Ratanalekha R, Han HH. A clinical application for arterial coupling and histomorphometric comparison of internal mammary and thoracodorsal arteries for safe use. Microsurgery 2024; 44:e31214. [PMID: 39031998 DOI: 10.1002/micr.31214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2024] [Revised: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/22/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In breast reconstruction, arterial coupling has been reported to be more favorable in the thoracodorsal artery (TDA) than the internal mammary artery (IMA). This technique may help overcome anastomosis in a small, deep space. Understanding the arteries' mechanical properties is crucial for breast reconstruction's safety and success. METHODS Abdominal-based free flap breast reconstructions performed by a single surgeon between 2020 and 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. The patients were classified by microanastomosis technique (handsewn and coupler device) to compare the rate of vascular revision. Histomorphometric analysis of arterial coupling in TDA and IMA was performed in 10 fresh cadavers for comparing wall thickness and composition, including densities of elastic fiber, smooth muscle, and collagen. RESULTS A total of 309 patients (339 reconstructed breasts) were included. There were 29 patients in the TDA handsewn group (A), 38 patients in the TDA coupler group (B), and 242 patients in the IMA handsewn group (C). The rates of arterial revision in groups A, B, and C were 0.00% (95%CI: 0.00%-11.03%), 2.5% (95%CI: 0.44%-12.88%), and 1.49% (95%CI: 0.58%-3.77%), respectively, with no statistically significant differences (p-value = .694). Histologically, the thickness of the tunica media and adventitia between IMA and TDA showed no significant difference. The density of elastic fiber was significantly higher in IMA (16.70%) than in TDA (0.79%) (p-value <.001). CONCLUSION The histologic characteristics of TDA are more favorable for arterial coupling than those of IMA. Arterial coupling is a safe option in situations where TDA anastomosis must be performed through a narrow and deep incision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suphalerk Lohasammakul
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan, College of Medicine, Ulsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Seok Joon Lee
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan, College of Medicine, Ulsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Chaiyawat Suppasilp
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Natawan Sirivongs
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Kasem Koedpuech
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Terasut Numwong
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Rosarin Ratanalekha
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Hyun Ho Han
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan, College of Medicine, Ulsan, Republic of Korea
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Wang X, Li K, Yuan Y, Zhang N, Zou Z, Wang Y, Yan S, Li X, Zhao P, Li Q. Nonlinear Elasticity of Blood Vessels and Vascular Grafts. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2024; 10:3631-3654. [PMID: 38815169 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.4c00326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
The transplantation of vascular grafts has emerged as a prevailing approach to address vascular disorders. However, the development of small-diameter vascular grafts is still in progress, as they serve in a more complicated mechanical environment than their counterparts with larger diameters. The biocompatibility and functional characteristics of small-diameter vascular grafts have been well developed; however, mismatch in mechanical properties between the vascular grafts and native arteries has not been accomplished, which might facilitate the long-term patency of small-diameter vascular grafts. From a point of view in mechanics, mimicking the nonlinear elastic mechanical behavior exhibited by natural blood vessels might be the state-of-the-art in designing vascular grafts. This review centers on elucidating the nonlinear elastic behavior of natural blood vessels and vascular grafts. The biological functionality and limitations associated with as-reported vascular grafts are meticulously reviewed and the future trajectory for fabricating biomimetic small-diameter grafts is discussed. This review might provide a different insight from the traditional design and fabrication of artificial vascular grafts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaofeng Wang
- School of Mechanics and Safety Engineering, National Center for International Research of Micro-nano Molding Technology, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
- The State Key Laboratory of Fluid Power and Mechatronic Systems, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
| | - Kecheng Li
- School of Mechanics and Safety Engineering, National Center for International Research of Micro-nano Molding Technology, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Yuan Yuan
- School of Mechanics and Safety Engineering, National Center for International Research of Micro-nano Molding Technology, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Ning Zhang
- School of Mechanics and Safety Engineering, National Center for International Research of Micro-nano Molding Technology, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Zifan Zou
- School of Mechanics and Safety Engineering, National Center for International Research of Micro-nano Molding Technology, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Yun Wang
- School of Mechanics and Safety Engineering, National Center for International Research of Micro-nano Molding Technology, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Shujie Yan
- School of Mechanics and Safety Engineering, National Center for International Research of Micro-nano Molding Technology, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Xiaomeng Li
- School of Mechanics and Safety Engineering, National Center for International Research of Micro-nano Molding Technology, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Peng Zhao
- The State Key Laboratory of Fluid Power and Mechatronic Systems, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
| | - Qian Li
- School of Mechanics and Safety Engineering, National Center for International Research of Micro-nano Molding Technology, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
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Trębacz H, Barzycka A. Mechanical Properties and Functions of Elastin: An Overview. Biomolecules 2023; 13:biom13030574. [PMID: 36979509 PMCID: PMC10046833 DOI: 10.3390/biom13030574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Human tissues must be elastic, much like other materials that work under continuous loads without losing functionality. The elasticity of tissues is provided by elastin, a unique protein of the extracellular matrix (ECM) of mammals. Its function is to endow soft tissues with low stiffness, high and fully reversible extensibility, and efficient elastic-energy storage. Depending on the mechanical functions, the amount and distribution of elastin-rich elastic fibers vary between and within tissues and organs. The article presents a concise overview of the mechanical properties of elastin and its role in the elasticity of soft tissues. Both the occurrence of elastin and the relationship between its spatial arrangement and mechanical functions in a given tissue or organ are overviewed. As elastin in tissues occurs only in the form of elastic fibers, the current state of knowledge about their mechanical characteristics, as well as certain aspects of degradation of these fibers and their mechanical performance, is presented. The overview also outlines the latest understanding of the molecular basis of unique physical characteristics of elastin and, in particular, the origin of the driving force of elastic recoil after stretching.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanna Trębacz
- Department of Biophysics, Medical University of Lublin, Al. Racławickie 1, 20-059 Lublin, Poland
| | - Angelika Barzycka
- Department of Biophysics, Medical University of Lublin, Al. Racławickie 1, 20-059 Lublin, Poland
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4
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Wang Z, Mithieux SM, Vindin H, Wang Y, Zhang M, Liu L, Zbinden J, Blum KM, Yi T, Matsuzaki Y, Oveissi F, Akdemir R, Lockley KM, Zhang L, Ma K, Guan J, Waterhouse A, Pham NTH, Hawkett BS, Shinoka T, Breuer CK, Weiss AS. Rapid Regeneration of a Neoartery with Elastic Lamellae. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2022; 34:e2205614. [PMID: 36120809 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202205614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Native arteries contain a distinctive intima-media composed of organized elastin and an adventitia containing mature collagen fibrils. In contrast, implanted biodegradable small-diameter vascular grafts do not present spatially regenerated, organized elastin. The elastin-containing structures within the intima-media region encompass the elastic lamellae (EL) and internal elastic lamina (IEL) and are crucial for normal arterial function. Here, the development of a novel electrospun small-diameter vascular graft that facilitates de novo formation of a structurally appropriate elastin-containing intima-media region following implantation is described. The graft comprises a non-porous microstructure characterized by tropoelastin fibers that are embedded in a PGS matrix. After implantation in mouse abdominal aorta, the graft develops distinct cell and extracellular matrix profiles that approximate the native adventitia and intima-media by 8 weeks. Within the newly formed intima-media region there are circumferentially aligned smooth muscle cell layers that alternate with multiple EL similar to that found in the arterial wall. By 8 months, the developed adventitia region contains mature collagen fibrils and the neoartery presents a distinct IEL with thickness comparable to that in mouse abdominal aorta. It is proposed that this new class of material can generate the critically required, organized elastin needed for arterial regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyu Wang
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
- Charles Perkins Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Suzanne M Mithieux
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
- Charles Perkins Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Howard Vindin
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
- Charles Perkins Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Yiwei Wang
- Burns Research and Reconstructive Surgery, Anzac Research Institute, Sydney, NSW, 2139, Australia
- Jiangsu Provincial Engineering Research Centre of TCM External Medication Development and Application, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210023, China
| | - Miao Zhang
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
- Charles Perkins Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Linyang Liu
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
- Charles Perkins Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Jacob Zbinden
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, 43215, USA
| | - Kevin M Blum
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, 43215, USA
| | - Tai Yi
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, 43215, USA
| | - Yuichi Matsuzaki
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, 43215, USA
| | - Farshad Oveissi
- School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Reyda Akdemir
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University Rovira i Virgili, Tarragona, E-43007, Spain
| | - Karen M Lockley
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
- Charles Perkins Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Lingyue Zhang
- International Research Center for Advanced Structural and Biomaterials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Ke Ma
- International Research Center for Advanced Structural and Biomaterials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Juan Guan
- International Research Center for Advanced Structural and Biomaterials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Anna Waterhouse
- Charles Perkins Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
- School of Medical Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
- The Heart Research Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 204206, Australia
- The University of Sydney Nano Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Nguyen T H Pham
- Key Centre for Polymers and Colloids, School of Chemistry, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Brian S Hawkett
- The University of Sydney Nano Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
- Key Centre for Polymers and Colloids, School of Chemistry, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Toshiharu Shinoka
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, 43215, USA
| | - Christopher K Breuer
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, 43215, USA
| | - Anthony S Weiss
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
- Charles Perkins Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
- The University of Sydney Nano Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
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5
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Massaro MS, Kochová P, Pálek R, Rosendorf J, Červenková L, Dahmen U, Liška V, Moulisová V. Decellularization of Porcine Carotid Arteries: From the Vessel to the High-Quality Scaffold in Five Hours. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:833244. [PMID: 35651544 PMCID: PMC9150822 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.833244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of biologically derived vessels as small-diameter vascular grafts in vascular diseases is currently intensely studied. Vessel decellularization provides a biocompatible scaffold with very low immunogenicity that avoids immunosuppression after transplantation. Good scaffold preservation is important as it facilitates successful cell repopulation. In addition, mechanical characteristics have to be carefully evaluated when the graft is intended to be used as an artery due to the high pressures the vessel is subjected to. Here, we present a new and fast decellularization protocol for porcine carotid arteries, followed by investigation of the quality of obtained vessel scaffolds in terms of maintenance of important extracellular matrix components, mechanical resistance, and compatibility with human endothelial cells. Our results evidence that our decellularization protocol minimally alters both the presence of scaffold proteins and their mechanical behavior and human endothelial cells could adhere to the scaffold in vitro. We conclude that if a suitable protocol is used, a high-quality decellularized arterial scaffold of non-human origin can be promptly obtained, having a great potential to be recellularized and used as an arterial graft in transplantation medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Petra Kochová
- New Technologies for Information Society-NTIS, University of West Bohemia, Pilsen, Czechia
| | - Richard Pálek
- Biomedical Center, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Pilsen, Czechia
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Pilsen, Czechia
| | - Jáchym Rosendorf
- Biomedical Center, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Pilsen, Czechia
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Pilsen, Czechia
| | - Lenka Červenková
- Biomedical Center, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Pilsen, Czechia
| | - Uta Dahmen
- Experimental Transplantation Surgery, Department of General, Visceral and Vascular Surgery, University Hospital Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Václav Liška
- Biomedical Center, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Pilsen, Czechia
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Pilsen, Czechia
| | - Vladimíra Moulisová
- Biomedical Center, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Pilsen, Czechia
- *Correspondence: Vladimíra Moulisová,
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6
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Into the Tissues: Extracellular Matrix and Its Artificial Substitutes: Cell Signalling Mechanisms. Cells 2022; 11:cells11050914. [PMID: 35269536 PMCID: PMC8909573 DOI: 10.3390/cells11050914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Revised: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The existence of orderly structures, such as tissues and organs is made possible by cell adhesion, i.e., the process by which cells attach to neighbouring cells and a supporting substance in the form of the extracellular matrix. The extracellular matrix is a three-dimensional structure composed of collagens, elastin, and various proteoglycans and glycoproteins. It is a storehouse for multiple signalling factors. Cells are informed of their correct connection to the matrix via receptors. Tissue disruption often prevents the natural reconstitution of the matrix. The use of appropriate implants is then required. This review is a compilation of crucial information on the structural and functional features of the extracellular matrix and the complex mechanisms of cell–cell connectivity. The possibilities of regenerating damaged tissues using an artificial matrix substitute are described, detailing the host response to the implant. An important issue is the surface properties of such an implant and the possibilities of their modification.
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7
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Zebrafish as a Model to Study Vascular Elastic Fibers and Associated Pathologies. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23042102. [PMID: 35216218 PMCID: PMC8875079 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23042102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Many extensible tissues such as skin, lungs, and blood vessels require elasticity to function properly. The recoil of elastic energy stored during a stretching phase is provided by elastic fibers, which are mostly composed of elastin and fibrillin-rich microfibrils. In arteries, the lack of elastic fibers leads to a weakening of the vessel wall with an increased risk to develop cardiovascular defects such as stenosis, aneurysms, and dissections. The development of new therapeutic molecules involves preliminary tests in animal models that recapitulate the disease and whose response to drugs should be as close as possible to that of humans. Due to its superior in vivo imaging possibilities and the broad tool kit for forward and reverse genetics, the zebrafish has become an important model organism to study human pathologies. Moreover, it is particularly adapted to large scale studies, making it an attractive model in particular for the first steps of investigations. In this review, we discuss the relevance of the zebrafish model for the study of elastic fiber-related vascular pathologies. We evidence zebrafish as a compelling alternative to conventional mouse models.
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Cook BL, Chao CJ, Alford PW. Architecture-Dependent Mechano-Adaptation in Single Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells. J Biomech Eng 2021; 143:101002. [PMID: 33972987 DOI: 10.1115/1.4051117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Arteries grow and remodel following mechanical perturbation. Vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) within the artery undergo hyperplasia, hypertrophy, or change their contractility following sustained changes in loading. Experimental evidence in vivo and in vitro suggests that VSMCs grow and remodel to maintain a constant transmural stress, or "target" stress. This behavior is often described using a stress-dependent finite growth framework. Typically, computational models of arterial growth and remodeling account for VSMC behavior in a constrained mixture formulation that incorporates behavior of each component of the artery. However, these models do not account for differential VSMC architecture observed in situ, which may significantly influence growth and remodeling behavior. Here, we used cellular microbiaxial stretching (CμBS) to characterize how VSMCs with different cytoskeletal architectures respond to a sustained step change in strain. We find that VSMC F-actin architecture becomes more aligned following stretch and retains this alignment after 24 h. Further, we find that VSMC stress magnitude depends on cellular architecture. Qualitatively, however, stress behavior following stretch is consistent across cell architectures-stress increases following stretch and returns to prestretch magnitudes after 24 h. Finally, we formulated an architecture-dependent targeted growth law that accounts for experimentally measured cytoskeletal alignment and attributes stress evolution to individual fiber growth and find that this model robustly captures long-term stress evolution in single VSMCs. These results suggest that VSMC mechano-adaptation depends on cellular architecture, which has implications for growth and remodeling in regions of arteries with differential architecture, such as at bifurcations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernard L Cook
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Minnesota, Nils Hasselmo Hall, Room 7-105 312 Church Street SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455
| | - Christina J Chao
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Minnesota, Nils Hasselmo Hall, Room 7-105 312 Church Street SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455
| | - Patrick W Alford
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Minnesota, Nils Hasselmo Hall, Room 7-105 312 Church Street SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455
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Mechanobiology of the arterial tissue from the aortic root to the diaphragm. Med Eng Phys 2021; 96:64-70. [PMID: 34565554 DOI: 10.1016/j.medengphy.2021.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Revised: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Arterial tissue microstructure and its mechanical properties directly correlate with cardiovascular diseases such as atherosclerosis and aneurysm. Experienced hemodynamic loads are the primary factor of arterial tissue remodeling. By virtue of altering hemodynamic loads along the arterial tree, respective structure-function relations will be region-dependent. Since, there is limited experimental evidence on these structure-function homeostases, the current study, aims to report microstructural and mechanical alterations along the aorta from the aortic root up to the diaphragm, where intense hemodynamic alterations take place. The ascending, arch, and descending parts of the same cadaveric aortas were investigated by histomechanical examinations. Anatomical landmarks were labeled on the specimens, and then biaxial tensile tests were conducted on samples from each region. Furthermore, area fractions of elastin and collagen were measured on stained sections of the tissue. Also, a fragmentation index of elastin tissue is proposed for quantitative measurement of ECM integrity, which correlates with the nature of experienced hemodynamic loads. For the ascending aorta and the aortic arch, different values for mechanical properties and fragmentation index are observed even in a specific cross-section of the artery. It is primarily due to the complex loading regimes and curved geometry. Conversely, microstructural and mechanical features along the descending aorta exhibited minimal variations, and hence, smooth blood flow and pressure waves are expected in this region, which is well-documented in the literature. Both of the microstructural and mechanical features of the aorta vary along the arterial tree depending on the hemodynamic and geometric complexities they incur and may shed light on the initiation of cardiovascular diseases.
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Cellular Crosstalk between Endothelial and Smooth Muscle Cells in Vascular Wall Remodeling. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22147284. [PMID: 34298897 PMCID: PMC8306829 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22147284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Revised: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Pathological vascular wall remodeling refers to the structural and functional changes of the vessel wall that occur in response to injury that eventually leads to cardiovascular disease (CVD). Vessel wall are composed of two major primary cells types, endothelial cells (EC) and vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). The physiological communications between these two cell types (EC–VSMCs) are crucial in the development of the vasculature and in the homeostasis of mature vessels. Moreover, aberrant EC–VSMCs communication has been associated to the promotor of various disease states including vascular wall remodeling. Paracrine regulations by bioactive molecules, communication via direct contact (junctions) or information transfer via extracellular vesicles or extracellular matrix are main crosstalk mechanisms. Identification of the nature of this EC–VSMCs crosstalk may offer strategies to develop new insights for prevention and treatment of disease that curse with vascular remodeling. Here, we will review the molecular mechanisms underlying the interplay between EC and VSMCs. Additionally, we highlight the potential applicable methodologies of the co-culture systems to identify cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in pathological vascular wall remodeling, opening questions about the future research directions.
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11
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Development of an FEA framework for analysis of subject-specific aortic compliance based on 4D flow MRI. Acta Biomater 2021; 125:154-171. [PMID: 33639309 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2021.02.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Revised: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
This paper presents a subject-specific in-silico framework in which we uncover the relationship between the spatially varying constituents of the aorta and the non-linear compliance of the vessel during the cardiac cycle uncovered through our MRI investigations. A microstructurally motivated constitutive model is developed, and simulations reveal that internal vessel contractility, due to pre-stretched elastin and actively generated smooth muscle cell stress, must be incorporated, along with collagen strain stiffening, in order to accurately predict the non-linear pressure-area relationship observed in-vivo. Modelling of elastin and smooth muscle cell contractility allows for the identification of the reference vessel configuration at zero-lumen pressure, in addition to accurately predicting high- and low-compliance regimes under a physiological range of pressures. This modelling approach is also shown to capture the key features of elastin digestion and SMC activation experiments. The volume fractions of the constituent components of the aortic material model were computed so that the in-silico pressure-area curves accurately predict the corresponding MRI data at each location. Simulations reveal that collagen and smooth muscle volume fractions increase distally, while elastin volume fraction decreases distally, consistent with reported histological data. Furthermore, the strain at which collagen transitions from low to high stiffness is lower in the abdominal aorta, again supporting the histological finding that collagen waviness is lower distally. The analyses presented in this paper provide new insights into the heterogeneous structure-function relationship that underlies aortic biomechanics. Furthermore, this subject-specific MRI/FEA methodology provides a foundation for personalised in-silico clinical analysis and tailored aortic device development. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: This study provides a significant advance in in-silico medicine by capturing the structure/function relationship of the subject-specific human aorta presented in our previous MRI analyses. A physiologically based aortic constitutive model is developed, and simulations reveal that internal vessel contractility must be incorporated, along with collagen strain stiffening, to accurately predict the in-vivo non-linear pressure-area relationship. Furthermore, this is the first subject-specific model to predict spatial variation in the volume fractions of aortic wall constituents. Previous studies perform phenomenological hyperelastic curve fits to medical imaging data and ignore the prestress contribution of elastin, collagen, and SMCs and the associated zero-pressure reference state of the vessel. This novel MRI/FEA framework can be used as an in-silico diagnostic tool for the early stage detection of aortic pathologies.
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12
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Pavey SN, Cocciolone AJ, Marty AG, Ismail HN, Hawes JZ, Wagenseil JE. Pentagalloyl glucose (PGG) partially prevents arterial mechanical changes due to elastin degradation. EXPERIMENTAL MECHANICS 2021; 61:41-51. [PMID: 33746235 PMCID: PMC7968080 DOI: 10.1007/s11340-020-00625-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Elastic fibers are composed primarily of the protein elastin and they provide reversible elasticity to the large arteries. Degradation of elastic fibers is a common histopathology in aortic aneurysms. Pentagalloyl glucose (PGG) has been shown to bind elastin and stabilize elastic fibers in some in vitro studies and in vivo models of abdominal aortic aneurysms, however its effects on native arteries are not well described. OBJECTIVE Perform detailed studies of the biomechanical effects of PGG on native arteries and the preventative capabilities of PGG for elastin degraded arteries. METHODS We treated mouse carotid arteries with PGG, elastase (ELA), and PGG+ELA and compared the wall structure, solid mechanics, and fluid transport properties to untreated (UNT) arteries. RESULTS We found that PGG alone decreased compliance compared to UNT arteries, but did not affect any other structural or biomechanical measures. Mild (30 sec) ELA treatment caused collapse and fragmentation of the elastic lamellae, plastic deformation, decreased compliance, increased modulus, and increased hydraulic conductance of the arterial wall compared to UNT. PGG+ELA treatment partially protected from all of these changes, in particular the plastic deformation. PGG mechanical protection varied considerably across PGG+ELA samples and appeared to correlate with the structural changes. CONCLUSIONS Our results provide important considerations for the effects of PGG on native arteries and a baseline for further biomechanical studies on preventative elastic fiber stabilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- S N Pavey
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO
| | - A J Cocciolone
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO
| | - A Gutierrez Marty
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO
| | - H N Ismail
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO
| | - J Z Hawes
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO
| | - J E Wagenseil
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO
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13
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Wang Z, Liu L, Mithieux SM, Weiss AS. Fabricating Organized Elastin in Vascular Grafts. Trends Biotechnol 2020; 39:505-518. [PMID: 33019966 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2020.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Revised: 09/07/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Surgically bypassing or replacing a severely damaged artery using a biodegradable synthetic vascular graft is a promising treatment that allows for the remodeling and regeneration of the graft to form a neoartery. Elastin-based structures, such as elastic fibers, elastic lamellae, and laminae, are key functional components in the arterial extracellular matrix. In this review, we identify the lack of elastin in vascular grafts as a key factor that prevents their long-term success. We further summarize advances in vascular tissue engineering that are focused on either de novo production of organized elastin or incorporation of elastin-based biomaterials within vascular grafts to mitigate failure and enhance enduring in vivo performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyu Wang
- Charles Perkins Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia; School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Linyang Liu
- Charles Perkins Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia; School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Suzanne M Mithieux
- Charles Perkins Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia; School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Anthony S Weiss
- Charles Perkins Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia; School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia; Sydney Nano Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia.
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14
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Li G, Schmitt H, Johnson WM, Lee C, Navarro I, Cui J, Fleming T, Gomez-Caraballo M, Elliott MH, Sherwood JM, Hauser MA, Farsiu S, Ethier CR, Stamer WD. Integral role for lysyl oxidase-like-1 in conventional outflow tissue function and behavior. FASEB J 2020; 34:10762-10777. [PMID: 32623782 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202000702rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2020] [Revised: 06/02/2020] [Accepted: 06/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Lysyl oxidase-like-1 (LOXL1), a vital crosslinking enzyme in elastin fiber maintenance, is essential for the stability and strength of elastic vessels and tissues. Variants in the LOXL1 locus associate with a dramatic increase in risk of exfoliation syndrome (XFS), a systemic fibrillopathy, which often presents with ocular hypertension and exfoliation glaucoma (XFG). We examined the role of LOXL1 in conventional outflow function, the prime regulator of intraocular pressure (IOP). Using Loxl1-/- , Loxl1+/- , and Loxl1+/+ mice, we observed an inverse relationship between LOXL1 expression and IOP, which worsened with age. Elevated IOP in Loxl1-/- mice was associated with a larger globe, decreased ocular compliance, increased outflow facility, extracellular matrix (ECM) abnormalities, and dilated intrascleral veins, yet, no dilation of arteries or capillaries. Interestingly, in living Loxl1-/- mouse eyes, Schlemm's canal (SC) was less susceptible to collapse when challenged with acute elevations in IOP, suggesting elevated episcleral venous pressure (EVP). Thus, LOXL1 expression is required for normal IOP control, while ablation results in altered ECM repair/homeostasis and conventional outflow physiology. Dilation of SC and distal veins, but not arteries, is consistent with key structural and functional roles for elastin in low-pressure vessels subjected to cyclical mechanical stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guorong Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Heather Schmitt
- Department of Ophthalmology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | | | - Chanyoung Lee
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology/Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Iris Navarro
- Department of Ophthalmology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Jenny Cui
- East Chapel Hill School, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Todd Fleming
- Department of Ophthalmology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | | | - Michael H Elliott
- Department of Ophthalmology and Physiology, University of Oklahoma Health, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | | | - Michael A Hauser
- Department of Ophthalmology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA.,Molecular Physiology Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Sina Farsiu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - C Ross Ethier
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology/Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - W Daniel Stamer
- Department of Ophthalmology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
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15
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Abstract
Despite the wide recognition of larger artery stiffness as a highly clinically relevant and independent prognostic biomarker, it has yet be incorporated into routine clinical practice and to take a more prominent position in clinical guidelines. An important reason may be the plethora of methods and devices claiming to measure arterial stiffness in humans. This brief review provides a concise overview of methods in use, indicating strengths and weaknesses. We classified and graded methods, highly weighing their scrutiny and purity in quantifying arterial stiffness, rather than focusing on their ease of application or the level at which methods have demonstrated their prognostic and diagnostic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Segers
- From the Biofluid, Tissue, and Solid Mechanics for Medical Applications, IBiTech Ghent (P.S.), University of Ghent, Belgium
| | - Ernst R Rietzschel
- Departments of Cardiology, Biobanking, and Cardiovascular Epidemiology (E.R.R.), University of Ghent, Belgium
- Ghent University Hospital, Belgium (E.R.R.)
| | - Julio A Chirinos
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, PA (J.A.C.)
- University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, PA (J.A.C.)
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16
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Venous Mechanical Properties After Arteriovenous Fistulae in Mice. J Surg Res 2020; 248:129-136. [PMID: 31901639 DOI: 10.1016/j.jss.2019.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2019] [Revised: 10/14/2019] [Accepted: 12/03/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND An arteriovenous fistula (AVF) exposes the outflow vein to arterial magnitudes and frequencies of blood pressure and flow, triggering molecular pathways that result in venous remodeling and AVF maturation. It is unknown, however, how venous remodeling, that is lumen dilation and wall thickening, affects venous mechanical properties. We hypothesized that a fistula is more compliant compared with a vein because of altered contributions of collagen and elastin to the mechanical properties. METHODS Ephb4+/- and littermate wild-type (WT) male mice were treated with sham surgery or needle puncture to create an abdominal aortocaval fistulae. The thoracic inferior vena cava was harvested 3 wk postoperatively for mechanical testing and histological analyses of collagen and elastin. RESULTS Mechanical testing of the thoracic inferior vena cava from Ephb4+/- and WT mice showed increased distensibility and increased compliance of downstream veins after AVF compared with sham. Although Ephb4+/- veins were thicker than WT veins at the baseline, after AVF, both Ephb4+/- and WT veins showed similar wall thickness as well as similar collagen and elastin area fractions, but increased collagen undulation compared with sham. CONCLUSIONS Fistula-induced remodeling of the outflow vein results in circumferentially increased distensibility and compliance, likely due to post-translational modifications to collagen.
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17
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Vindin H, Mithieux SM, Weiss AS. Elastin architecture. Matrix Biol 2019; 84:4-16. [DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2019.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2019] [Revised: 07/08/2019] [Accepted: 07/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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18
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Fhayli W, Boëté Q, Harki O, Briançon-Marjollet A, Jacob MP, Faury G. Rise and fall of elastic fibers from development to aging. Consequences on arterial structure-function and therapeutical perspectives. Matrix Biol 2019; 84:41-56. [PMID: 31493460 DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2019.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2019] [Revised: 08/03/2019] [Accepted: 08/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
In the arteries of vertebrates, evolution has given rise to resilient macromolecular structures, elastin and elastic fibers, capable of sustaining an elevated blood pressure and smoothening the discontinuous blood flow and pressure generated by the heart. Elastic fibers are produced only during development and childhood, before being progressively degraded by mechanical stress and enzymatic activities during adulthood and aging. During this period, arterial elastic fiber calcification and loading of lipids also occur, all of these events conducting to arteriosclerosis. This leads to a progressive dysfunction of the large elastic arteries inducing elevated blood pressure as well as altered hemodynamics and organ perfusion, which induce more global malfunctions of the body during normal aging. Additionally, some arterial conditions occur more frequently with advancing age, such as atherosclerosis or aneurysms, which are called age-related diseases or pathological aging. The physiological or pathological degradation of elastic fibers and function of elastic arteries seemed to be rather inevitable over time. However, during the recent years, different molecules - including several ATP-dependent potassium channel openers, such as minoxidil - have been shown to re-induce elastin production and elastic fiber assembly, leading to improvements in the arterial structure and function or in organ perfusion. This review summarizes the changes in the arterial elastic fibers and structure from development until aging, and presents some of the potential pharmacotherapies leading to elastic fiber neosynthesis and arterial function improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wassim Fhayli
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, Inserm U1042, CHU Grenoble Alpes, HP2, 38000 Grenoble, France
| | - Quentin Boëté
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, Inserm U1042, CHU Grenoble Alpes, HP2, 38000 Grenoble, France
| | - Olfa Harki
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, Inserm U1042, CHU Grenoble Alpes, HP2, 38000 Grenoble, France
| | | | - Marie-Paule Jacob
- INSERM, U1148, and Hopital Bichat-Claude Bernard, 46 rue Henri Huchard, 75877 Paris, France
| | - Gilles Faury
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, Inserm U1042, CHU Grenoble Alpes, HP2, 38000 Grenoble, France.
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19
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Barocas VH, Winkelstein BA. Editors' Choice Papers for 2018. J Biomech Eng 2019; 141:2728069. [PMID: 30840049 DOI: 10.1115/1.4043072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2018] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
No abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor H Barocas
- 7-105 Nils Hasselmo Hall 312 Church Street SE Minneapolis, MN 55455
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20
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Espinosa MG, Taber LA, Wagenseil JE. Reduced embryonic blood flow impacts extracellular matrix deposition in the maturing aorta. Dev Dyn 2018; 247:914-923. [PMID: 29696727 DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.24635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2018] [Revised: 04/15/2018] [Accepted: 04/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Perturbations to embryonic hemodynamics are known to adversely affect cardiovascular development. Vitelline vein ligation (VVL) is a model of reduced placental blood flow used to induce cardiac defects in early chick embryo development. The effect of these hemodynamic interventions on maturing elastic arteries is largely unknown. We hypothesize that hemodynamic changes impact maturation of the dorsal aorta (DA). RESULTS We examined the effects of VVL on hemodynamic properties well into the maturation process and the corresponding changes in aortic dimensions, wall composition, and gene expression. In chick embryos, we found that DA blood velocity was reduced immediately postsurgery at Hamburger-Hamilton (HH) stage 18 and later at HH36, but not in the interim. Throughout this period, DA diameter adapted to maintain a constant shear stress. At HH36, we found that VVL DAs showed a substantial decrease in elastin and a modest increase in collagen protein content. In VVL DAs, up-regulation of elastic fiber-related genes followed the down-regulation of flow-dependent genes. Together, these suggest the existence of a compensatory mechanism in response to shear-induced delays in maturation. CONCLUSIONS The DA's response to hemodynamic perturbations invokes coupled mechanisms for shear regulation and matrix maturation, potentially impacting the course of vascular development. Developmental Dynamics 247:914-923, 2018. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Gabriela Espinosa
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University, Saint Louis, Missouri
| | - Larry A Taber
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University, Saint Louis, Missouri
| | - Jessica E Wagenseil
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, Washington University, Saint Louis, Missouri
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