Fiber-Reinforced Soft Tissue Mechanics
We propose a design paradigm for the annulus fibrosus and nucleus pulposus tissue engineering that integrates sophisticated mechanical testing, non-invasive tissue architectural measurements, and mathematical models of structure-function relationships. Our experiments and mathematical modeling of anisotropy, nonlinearity, and viscoelasticity of fibrous soft tissues are at the forefront of the field and are providing breakthrough findings necessary to understand structural mechanisms of function for tissue engineering applications.When combined with other biotechnologies, this work will advance the design and clinical application of disc tissue-engineered constructs.
- AF mechanics and fiber structure
- AF modeling
- NP mechanics
- MR Imaging to non-destructively evaluate disc function
- Tendon mechanics and modeling