INTEGRATION OF BIOMECHANICAL LOADING IN 3D TISSUE GRAFTS AND NOVEL MATERIALS DEVELOPMENT

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The universal mechanical testing system (Instron) as we know today has been an indispensable equipment across many fields of research. Since the first incarnation of Instron - Universal Testing Machines with strain gauge load cells in 1946 it has become the workhorse for biomechanical research providing the ability to inspect and measure biomechanical response forces, opening up a staggering number of new areas for researchers to explore and allowing them to better understand and quantify stress-strain relationship in biological and engineered systems. Among the impacts was the discovery of the relationship between structure and function in biological system and development of biomimetic biomaterials. Recent advances in these systems and approaches has enabled researchers to visualize and measure dynamic events. The requested Universal testing system will replace our decommissioned universal testing system, with the ElectroPulsr E1000. The decommission universal testing machine is an Instron 4301. It operational in the lab for more than 30 years and had to be decommissioned due to an irreplaceable part failure. The requested system will be compatible with our existing fixtures that have been designed over the last two decades for mounting samples appropriately to perform fatigue testing reliably on various biomaterials, especially dental implants. This system will be located adjacent to the Class II biosafety labs and integrated with the advanced microscopy/imaging facilities at the Faculty of Dentistry. This will be a unique facility to conduct biomechanical studies on in-vitro tissue grafts and in-situ hard tissues. The system will be supported by our current user base. This facility will allow the PIs and co-applicants to study static and dynamic biomechanical events to gain an improved understanding of hard tissues and synthetic biomaterials. Dr. Kishen investigates three-dimensional tissue grafts and dentin tissue, Dr. Bozec studies collagen structural and biomechanical properties, Dr. Changoor studies cartilage biomechanical in Osteoarthritis, Dr. Manolson investigates bone biomechanics in Osteoporosis, Dr. Santerre studies free radical generated polyurethane chemistry, which affords the chemical diversity of block copolymers, the ability to phase separate to form intermolecular domain structures to yield physical cues that influence cell function, to drive a program on innovative new polymeric biomaterials development. Dr. Carneiro explores DNA scaffolds in tissue regeneration, Dr. Prakki characterizes restorative dental materials. In each case improvements in understanding drive fundamental research, promoting highly engaging learning environment for our HQPs while supporting our interactions with industrial and research partners. 38 HQPs working with the applicants and additional numbers from other Faculty of Dentistry PIs and collaborating institutes require access to this equipment.