The hydraulic conductivity of Matrigel.
In this study, we measured the specific hydraulic conductivity (K) of Matrigel at 1% and 2% concentrations as a function of perfusion pressure (0 to 100 mmHg) and compared the results to predictions from two models: a fiber matrix model that predicted K of the gel based upon its composition, and a biphasic model that predicted changes in K caused by pressure induced compaction of the gels. The extent of gel compaction as a function of perfusion pressure was also assessed, allowing us to estimate the stiffness of the gels. As expected, 2% Matrigel had a lower K and a higher stiffness than did 1% Matrigel. Measured values of K of both 1% and 2% Matrigel samples showed good agreement with the predictions of the fiber matrix model. Pressure-induced changes in K were better described by the biphasic model than a model in which uniform compression of the gel was assumed. We conclude that K of multi-component gels, such as Matrigel can be well characterized by fiber matrix models, and that pressure-induced changes in K of such gels can be well characterized by biphasic models.
McCarty
William J
WJ
Department of Biomedical Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA.
Johnson
Mark
M
D000818:Animals; D001485:Basement Membrane / Q000502:physiology; D003094:Collagen / Q000737:chemistry*; D004338:Drug Combinations; D007797:Laminin / Q000737:chemistry*; D008954:Models, Biological; D011312:Pressure; D011509:Proteoglycans / Q000737:chemistry*; D012212:Rheology
D004338:Drug Combinations; D007797:Laminin; D011509:Proteoglycans; C059485:matrigel; D003094:Collagen