Effect of shockwaves on the biomechanical and biochemical function of cells

The number of non-lethal cases of soldiers being exposed to blasts from improvised explosive devices (IED) has increased significantly over the last few years. Concurrently, the number of soft tissue injuries, including traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and heterotopic ossification (HO, i.e., abnormal formation of bone in soft tissue) have increased. Little is known, however, about the molecular and cellular level effects of high strain-rate loading of soft tissues. Here we report on the instrumentation and procedures we have developed to apply high strain-rate loading to cell-sheets in vitro and we will discuss the biomechanical and biochemical properties of cells that have been exposed to high strain rate loading conditions. © 2008 Society for Experimental Mechanics Inc.