Ischemic Factors and Deformation Influence Metabolism of Engineered Skeletal Muscle

Tissue compression may induce collapse of blood vessels resulting in tissue ischemia (insufficient blood flow). In addition, cellular deformation due to tissue compression may initiate tissue degeneration. These are two of the hypotheses that have been proposed to explain the development of (deep) pressure ulcers. Skeletal muscle tissue, in particular, is susceptible to compression induced breakdown. A model system was developed to investigate the relative contributions of deformation and ischemic factors to compromising tissue viability or metabolism. A theoretical model, describing the relationship between glucose consumption, lactate production and cell death was developed.