Codice QDD 109 Titolo In vitro tissue growth: a multiscale computational model of the dynamically evolving biophysical environment Data 2011-10-19 Autore/i Causin, P.; Sacco, R.; Verri, M. Link Download full text Abstract Tissue Engineering (TE) is a field at the crossroad between Medicine, Life Sciences and Engineering, aimed at understanding the principles of tissue growth, and applying them to produce biologically functional replacements for clinical use. To achieve such an ambitious goal, complex biophysical phenomena must be mastered and related to the appropriate environment (nutrient delivery, fluid-mechanical loading and structural support) to be provided to cells. The TE problem is inherently multiphysics/multiscale, as it is characterized by material heterogeneities and interplaying processes occurring within a wide range of temporal and spatial scales. The concept we pursue in this paper is to use computational modelling of the TE problem to gain a quantitative and comprehensive understanding of phenomena often difficult to be accessed experimentally. The present model represents, to our knowledge, the first example of a self-consistent high-resolution description of coupled nutrient mass transport, fluid-dynamics and biomass production in TE constructs. We specifically focus on articular cartilage regeneration based on dynamically perfused bioreactors and we investigate three issues critical in this application. First, we study oxygen distribution in the construct, since achieving an optimal level throughout the construct is a main tool to improve tissue quality. Second, we provide a quantitative evaluation on how interstitial perfusion can enhance nutrient delivery and, ultimately, biomass production, compared to static culture. Third, we perform a sensitivity analysis with respect to biophysical parameters related to matrix production, assessing their rolein tissue regeneration.