Cellular alignment studies have shown that cell orientation has a large effect on the expression and behavior of cells. Cyclic strain and substrate microtopography have each been shown to regulate cellular alignment. This study examined the combined effects of these two stimuli on the alignment of bovine vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). Cells were cultured on substrates with microgrooves of varying widths oriented either parallel or perpendicular to the direction of an applied cyclic tensile strain. We found that microgrooves oriented parallel to the direction of the applied strain limited the orientation response of VSMCs to the mechanical stimulus, while grooves perpendicular to the applied strain enhanced cellular alignment. Further, the extent to which parallel grooves limited cell alignment was found to be dependent on the groove width. It was found that for both a small (15microm) and a large (70microm) groove width, cells were better able to reorient in response to the applied strain than for an intermediate groove width (40microm). This study indicates that microtopographical cues modulate the orientation response of VSMCs to cyclic strain. The results suggest that there is a range of microgroove dimensions that is most effective at maintaining the orientation of the cells in the presence of an opposing stimulus induced by cyclic strain.

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Synovial chondromatosis (SC) is a pathologic condition in which mesenchymal tissue rests in a given synovial membrane undergo a metaplastic process, ultimately producing and secreting cartilaginous bodies into the joint space. It is more commonly discussed in the orthopedic literature, since the axial skeleton is the most frequently affected. Although rare, it does occur within the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), with approximately 100 cases previously being described. Within the TMJ, its presentation can be variable, though most cases will show it to be unilateral with fixed and/or loose cartilaginous bodies confined to the superior joint space. Clinically, patients may present with symptoms similar to that of an internal derangement disorder, including pain, clicking, tenderness, functional limitations, and swelling. A thorough history and physical examination, along with proper radiographic examination, are paramount in properly diagnosing SC. Treatment options consist of arthroscopy, arthrotomy with synovectomy, excision of cartilaginous bodies, and possible discectomy. In the current paper, the authors describe the presentation, diagnosis, and surgical management of a SC case involving the right TMJ in a 31-year-old Caucasian female.

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