Finite element model of mechanically induced collagen fiber synthesis and degradation in the aortic valve.
Tissue-engineered trileaflet aortic valves are a promising alternative to current valve replacements. However, the mechanical properties of these valves are insufficient for implantation at the aortic position. To simulate the effect of collagen remodeling on the mechanical properties of the aortic valve, a finite element model is presented. In this study collagen remodeling is assumed to be the net result of collagen synthesis and degradation. A limited number of fibers with low initial fiber volume fraction is defined, and depending on the loading condition, the fibers are either synthesized or degraded. The synthesis and degradation of collagen fibers are both assumed to be functions of individual fiber stretch and fiber volume fraction. Simulations are performed for closed aortic valve configurations and the open aortic valve configuration. The predicted fiber directions for the closed configurations are close to the fiber directions as measured in the native aortic valve. The model predicts the evolution in collagen fiber content and the effect of remodeling on the mechanical properties.
Laboratory for Biomechanics and Tissue-Engineering, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, P.O. Box 513, 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands. r.a.boerboom@tue.nl
Ralf A
RA
Boerboom
Niels J B
NJ
Driessen
Carlijn V C
CV
Bouten
Jacques M
JM
Huyghe
Frank P T
FP
Baaijens
D016880:Anisotropy; D001021:Aortic Valve / Q000166:cytology / Q000502:physiology* / Q000503:physiopathology; D001705:Bioprosthesis; D003094:Collagen / Q000502:physiology* / Q000648:ultrastructure; D003198:Computer Simulation; D004548:Elasticity; D005109:Extracellular Matrix / Q000502:physiology* / Q000648:ultrastructure; D020342:Finite Element Analysis; D006350:Heart Valve Prosthesis; D006801:Humans; D040542:Mechanotransduction, Cellular / Q000502:physiology; D008955:Models, Cardiovascular; D012038:Regeneration / Q000502:physiology; D013314:Stress, Mechanical; D023822:Tissue Engineering / Q000379:methods*; D016474:Weight-Bearing / Q000502:physiology
D003094:Collagen