College of Engineering

Daniel Thompson

School of Biomedical Engineering, Science, & Health Systems

Biomedical Engineering

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Michele Marcolongo

Materials Science & Engineering

Dr. Katsiaryna Prudnikova

Co-Mentor

Molecular Interactions Between BPGs and Matrix Molecules

Proteoglycans (PG) are biomacromolecules that are found in all tissue throughout the body. They help with hydrating tissue as well as keeping the structural integrity. Over time, the properties of the tissue are compromised due to enzymatic degradation of the PGs. This results in diseases such as osteoarthritis. To counter this, a process has been made to synthesize biomimetic proteoglycans (BPGs). The BPGs are made up of a synthetic poly(acrylic acid) backbone and natural chondroitin sulfate bristles to create a 3D bottlebrush architecture. The BPGs have been shown to diffuse into rabbit articular cartilage in vivo after an intra-articular injection and localize in the PCM.

In this study, we explore the mechanical interactions between BPGs and the tissue matrix molecules using atomic force microscopy (AFM). Firstly, BPGs will be functionalized at different primary amine:BPG ratios for AFM analysis. Secondly, affinity of BPGs to major matrix molecules will be explored by quantifying the adhesion force and energy between the BPGs and natural molecules.

As a result, we will first develop a working protocol for BPGs functionalization. Then, we will get an insight into BPG affinity, localization in PCM and effect on PCM biomechanics.