Extended Data Fig. 8: FEM functions as both a descriptive and predictive tool: Values of LF stress calculated using FEM for clinical conditions associated with higher SMAα cell densities predicted optimal stresses at which to apply cyclic strain to LF fascicles in the bioreactor to increase SMAα cells. | Nature Biomedical Engineering

Extended Data Fig. 8: FEM functions as both a descriptive and predictive tool: Values of LF stress calculated using FEM for clinical conditions associated with higher SMAα cell densities predicted optimal stresses at which to apply cyclic strain to LF fascicles in the bioreactor to increase SMAα cells.

From: ROCK-dependent mechanotransduction of macroscale forces drives fibrosis in degenerative spinal disease

Extended Data Fig. 8

A, The range of LF degrees of hypertrophy seen among all patients, as measured by LF area on axial cross section on MRI. B, FEMs with predicted stress at maximum spine flexion: 50 kPa when fused across the LF, 206 kPa with no fusion, 271 kPa when fused a vertebral level below the LF. C, LF areas plotted in (A), color-coded in accordance with FEM-predicted force experienced by the measured LF. D, Fold increase in SMAα cells compared to paired, unpulled fascicles (n = 24 pairs), binned by stress in kPa. Below, FEM models are aligned by maximum stress experienced by LF at maximum spine flexion.

Source data

Back to article page