Effect of mechanical load on matrix synthesis in scaffold free, de novo cartilage -like tissue

INTRODUCTION: The development of autologous de novo cartilage in vitro requires chondrocyte isolation and a period of preculture before reimplantation. Implantation of an immature three dimensional implant may lead to premature failure. With this in mind we investigated whether the application of cyclical load and shear would increase the matrix synthesis within scaffold free, de novo cartilage-like constructs.