Biophysical and biomechanical properties of cartilage

TL;DR

This paper reviews the biophysical and biomechanical properties of cartilage, emphasizing its structure-function relationship, modeling approaches, and implications for understanding joint diseases like osteoarthritis.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive overview of cartilage modeling principles, underlying physics, and recent developments aligning models with observed tissue complexities.

Findings

Cartilage's extracellular matrix determines its mechanical properties.

Multiphase models help simulate cartilage behavior accurately.

Understanding cartilage biomechanics aids in developing therapies for joint diseases.

Abstract

Cartilage is a connective tissue that covers the surfaces of bones in joints and provides a smooth gliding surface for movement. It is characterized by specific biophysical properties that allow it to withstand compressive loads, distribute mechanical forces, and maintain tissue integrity. The bi-ophysical properties of cartilage are primarily determined by its extracellular matrix, which is composed of collagen fibers, proteoglycans, and water. The collagen fibers provide tensile strength, the proteoglycans provide compressive resistance, and the water content provides lubrication and shock absorption. The potential for greater knowledge of cartilage function through refinement and engineering-level understanding could inform the design of interventions for cartilage dysfunction and pathology. The aim is to assist to present basic principles of cartilage modeling and discussing the underlying physics and assumptions with relatively simple settings, and also it presents the derivation of multiphase cartilage models that are consistent with the discussions. Furthermore, modern developments align the structure captured in the models with observed complexities. The interactions between these components and the surrounding tissues regulate cartilage biomechanics and contribute to its ability to resist damage and repair itself. Alterations in the biophysical prop-erties of cartilage can lead to degenerative joint diseases such as osteoarthritis, highlighting the importance of understanding cartilage structure and function for the development of effective therapeutic strategies.