Amber Clausi (Spring 2003)  <br>

Measuring Bulk Collagen Gel Contraction by Human Fibroblasts <br>
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The main goal of this research is quantify the changes in collagen gel structure and size caused by traction forces of 3T3 fibroblast cells.  Three methods were utilized to measure the physical properties of collagen.  The overall changes in collagen gel dimensions caused by the syneresis can be determined through measurements of the gel area.  When grown in a Petri dish stretched between two wire mesh pieces, the gel curves inward, decreasing the surface area of the gel.  The changes in gel area may be amplified by numerous growth factors, two of which will be studied: Platelet Derived Growth Factor-BB (PDGF-BB) and Transforming Growth Factor- (TGF-).  Rheological properties of collagen were measured on a rheometer to determine whether silica (are they silica) particles affect rheological properties of the gel.  Finally, images of collagen were taken by scanning electron microscopy on an unmodified gel and on a gel that had been contracted to see the spatial differences in fibril spacing and arrangement that occur during the contraction.