Bioreactor and biomaterial platforms for investigation of mitral valve biomechanics and mechanobiology

Abstract

Understanding the biomechanics of mitral valves (MVs) has significance for both surgical treatment and regenerative medicine. The biomechanics and mechanobiology of MVs is influenced by their complex anatomy, together with their extracellular matrix (ECM) composition and organization. Valve cells are mechanoresponsive, both to the hemodynamically active environment which the valve tissue is constantly exposed, as well as the altered hemodynamics of valve disease. This chapter will discuss the various tissue and cell level culture techniques and biomechanical approaches to date for examining MV biomechanics and mechanobiology, as well as directions for future studies.