Image-based biomechanics of collagen-based tissue equivalents

In this study, we compared experimentally measured fiber network kinematics and the macroscopic mechanical response from cell-compacted, cross-shaped collagen gels (cruciforms), with the predictions from our multiscale modeling technique. The macroscopic finite element model matched the physical dimensions and boundary conditions of the experimental cruciform to be modeled. Different microscale network models were constructed for each finite element that matched fiber microstructure described by maps of the local direction and strength of alignment obtained from polarimetric alignment imaging. The outputs of the multiscale model included the macroscopic load-deformation response and the microscopic (fiber) kinematics.