Date of Award

Spring 5-25-2024

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Biomedical Engineering

First Advisor

Mark DeCoster

Abstract

Cartilage is the padding in joints that protects the bones and aids in motion. Problems with the cartilage in the knee can be caused by mechanical damage or diseases like osteoarthritis. Chondrocytes make cartilage. The objective of this study is to determine the doubling time of chondrocytes per passage. I also want to determine the base amount of collagen-II created by chondrocytes as they age. I also want to determine how long it takes CuHARS to break down in different cell medias. Chondrocytes, human dermal fibroblasts, and CRL 2303 cells were grown and cultured for over a year. During that time, media was collected for a collagen assay, and the cells were imaged mid-passage to determine the doubling time. Also, CuHARS were mixed with cell media to determine the time required for the material to break down in the media. Cell growth rates were inconsistent. CRLs make less collagen as they age. Results on collagen production by HDFs were inconclusive. Treated chondrocytes may make more collagen than untreated chondrocytes, but more testing is necessary. Ultimately, much more experimentation is necessary. CRL 2303 cells appear to make less collagen as they age. Human dermal fibroblasts need much more experimentation. Treated chondrocytes initially make more collagen than untreated ones.

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