(Equine) in vitro Tendinopathy Model

Overuse tendon injuries are a major cause of musculoskeletal morbidity in both human and equine athletes. Despite the big burden, there is no effective treatment to restore tendon’s natural composition, due to a lack of understanding of fundamental cell biology. Additionally, translation of novel regenerative therapies from basic research findings into clinical therapies has been hampered. In this in vitro tendinopathy model, primary isolated equine cells (tendon and endothelial cells), chemically modified gelatin, additive manufacturing techniques (such as 3D bioprinting and electrospinning), and mechanical stimulation are combined to generate new fundamental insights in tendon pathophysiology and to study novel therapies in a controlled and representative environment. Protocols for isolation of the cells and generation of gelatin derivatives are established and the best manufacturing technique is currently investigated. As the horse is recognized as animal model for orthopedic research, both human and equine veterinary medicine will benefit from the gained insights.