Drug delivery carriers can alter cartilage biomechanics

Article Chemistry, Multidisciplinary

Molecular Engineering of Pericellular Microniche via Biomimetic Proteoglycans Modulates Cell Mechanobiology

Elizabeth R. Kahle et al.

Summary: Molecular engineering using synthetic mimics of native matrix molecules can modulate the mechanical properties of cellular microenvironment and influence cell mechanobiology. This study demonstrated the use of biomimetic proteoglycans (BPGs) to engineer the micromechanics of the pericellular matrix (PCM) in cartilage, leading to enhanced cellular mechanotransduction. The interactions between BPGs and the native PCM were facilitated by the biomimetic ultrastructure of BPGs, and showed potential for improving tissue regeneration and disease modification in various cell types.

ACS NANO (2022)

Add to Collection

Article Biophysics

Effects of polycationic drug carriers on the electromechanical and swelling properties of cartilage

Matthew R. Warren et al.

Summary: Cationic peptide carriers (CPCs) with varying net charges can affect the mechanical properties of cartilage by altering compressive modulus and tissue stiffness. The mechanisms of CPC-induced changes in tissue properties involve both charge shielding and novel stiffening effects mediated by physical linkages, which are dependent on the physical properties of the drug carrier such as net charge, size, and spatial charge distribution.

BIOPHYSICAL JOURNAL (2022)

Add to Collection

Article Engineering, Biomedical