A PhD student supported by National Rehabilitation Centre (NRC) funding has successfully completed his doctorate at Loughborough University and has helped to create a new research organisation using 3D muscle models.
Dr Pablo Marco Garrido recognised that whilst 2D lab grown tissue cultures have provided insights into myogenic differentiation, they fail to replicate the complex architecture and contractile behaviour of native muscle.
In contrast, 3D models better mimic in vivo conditions, promoting alignment, extracellular matrix integration, and functional maturation. However, the relationship between structural development and contractile performance in these models is not well understood.
Therefore Dr Garrido developed a 3D skeletal muscle tissue model to investigate the temporal interplay between morphological maturation and functional output.
Generation of contractile force upon electrical stimulation was assessed and correlated with tissue structure.
The key findings highlighted that while myosin heavy chain (the key protein within skeletal muscle) reflects structural maturation, it is not a direct predictor of contractile strength. Instead, functional maturation appeared more tightly linked to the efficiency of excitation-contraction coupling.
The project supported the creation of Myomaker Bio – a contract research organisation at Loughborough University that develops in vitro tissue assays that accurately model human musculoskeletal injury and disease.
This provides an animal-free alternative to preclinical drug and therapy developers.
More information can be found at: www.myomakers.com.