This study shows that fibroblast activation is influenced by matrix viscoelasticity in 3D fibrillar microenvironments, with slow stress relaxation and stiffness promoting activation and ECM remodeling.

Cellular and Molecular Bioengineering · Jun 27, 2026Peer-reviewedBioengineering

Matrix stiffness and stress relaxation regulate matrix-bound nanovesicle release from alginate hydrogels

Renata Dos Reis Marques, Jane A. Baude, Gianna M. Gathman, Ava I Salami, Ryan S. Stowers, Marley J. Dewey

This study shows that alginate hydrogel stiffness and stress relaxation rates control the release of matrix-bound nanovesicles (MBVs) over time, offering a method to improve their therapeutic delivery.

Biomaterials Science · Jan 1, 2026Peer-reviewedBioengineering

Stress relaxation rates of myocardium from failing and non-failing hearts

Marissa Gionet‐Gonzales, Gianna M. Gathman, Jonah M. Rosas, Kyle Y. Kunisaki, Dominique Gabriele P. Inocencio, Niki Hakami, Gregory N. Milburn, Angela A. Pitenis, Kenneth S. Campbell, Beth L. Pruitt, Ryan S. Stowers

This study measures stress relaxation in myocardial tissue from failing and non-failing hearts, finding differences linked to fibrosis and fat accumulation.

Biomechanics and Modeling in Mechanobiology · Dec 31, 2024Peer-reviewedBioengineering