The effect of hormone treatment on the material properties of ligaments has been extensively studied for the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). However, there have been very few studies on the effects of hormones on the material properties of the shoulder. These shoulder ligaments contribute to overall shoulder stability, and a change in ligament properties could contribute to a change in overall shoulder laxity. This study uses female cynomologus macaque (Macaca fascicularis) monkeys as an animal model of the human shoulder to determine if estrogen has an effect on the viscoelastic properties of the anterior pouch of the inferior glenohumeral ligament (IGHL). Cynomolgus monkeys have served as nonhuman primate models in several studies, including monkey models of menopause, the effects of hormone replacement therapy on the cardiovascular system, reproductive support organs, and the knee joint. The cynomolgus macaques are commonly used for studies involving hormone replacement therapy because they have 28-day menstrual cycles with very similar hormonal patterns to that of women.

Volume Subject Area:
Connective Soft Tissue Mechanics
Topics:
Glenohumeral ligaments, Viscoelasticity, Anterior cruciate ligament, Materials properties, Patient treatment, Cardiovascular system, Cycles, Knee, Stability
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