<i>In vitro</i> models of soft tissue damage by implant-associated frictional shear stresses

Silicone elastomer medical implants are ubiquitous in medicine, particularly for breast augmentation. However, when these devices placed within the body, disruption of natural biological interfaces occurs, which significantly changes native energy-dissipation mechanisms living systems. These new can introduce non-physiological contact pressures and tribological conditions that provoke inflammation soft tissue damage. Despite their significance, biotribological properties implant-tissue implant-extracellular matrix (ECM) remain poorly understood. Here, we developed an vitro model damage using a custom-built situ biotribometer mounted onto confocal microscope. Sections commercially-available silicone with distinct clinically relevant surface roughness ([Formula: see text]m, [Formula: text]m) were to spherically-capped hydrogel probes slid against collagen-coated surfaces as well healthy epithelial (MCF10A) cell monolayers implant-ECM interfaces. In contrast “smooth” text]m), demonstrate “microtextured” implant induced higher frictional shear stress text] Pa), led greater collagen removal rupture/delamination. Our studies may provide insights into post-implantation interactions between tissues.