McIntire, Larry V.2014-08-082014-08-081998Jen, Anna Hsiao-Chieh. "Effects of mechanical loading on osteoblast function using a three dimensional celijpolymer model." (1998) Master’s Thesis, Rice University. <a href="https://hdl.handle.net/1911/76500">https://hdl.handle.net/1911/76500</a>.https://hdl.handle.net/1911/76500Mechanisms which trigger bone modeling/remodeling in response to changes in the mechanical environment are still unclear. In a three part study, effects of loading on osteoblast function were investigated using a three dimensional (3-D) ceWpolymer model. The 3-D model has advantages of cell culture while maintaining the natural matrix architecture of bone. Such celVpolymer constructs have been shown to form bone in vitro. Osteoblasts in 3-D ceWpolymer constructs were cyclically loaded (5% ). After five days, compressed constructs decreased in alkaline phosphatase activity, a marker of osteoblast maturation. After three weeks, loaded constructs showed lower alkaline phosphatase activity but higher RNA level of L-type calcium channels, involved in calcium signaling cascades. No difference was detected after twelve weeks. Results suggest osteoblasts sensed loading and altered functional activities in response. Use of the 3-D model to study other osteoblast functions under mechanical loading may increase understanding of regulated functional adaptation by bone.108 ppapplication/pdfengCopyright is held by the author, unless otherwise indicated. Permission to reuse, publish, or reproduce the work beyond the bounds of fair use or other exemptions to copyright law must be obtained from the copyright holder.Chemical engineeringThesisJenA