Primary Chondrocyte Cilium Strains Increase with Depth Within the Growth Plate Reserve Zone and Reflect Loading Direction Across the Growth Plate

Background. It is known that reserve zone (RZ) chondrocytes regulate the organization of physis and chondrocyte primary cilia (PC) act as mechanotransducers. Objective. To explore if physeal loading-induced strains in RZ PC can enable cells to sense whether subjected increasing or decreasing levels compression. Methods. Finite element models within were created examine developed when either 10% compression tension. The oriented toward epiphysis metaphysis. Findings. basal body axial transverse negative was compressed positive Axial cilium transition also followed applied loading amplified up 4X, whereas membrane tensile under compression, possibly stretching integrin receptors. Tension stretched direction. Conclusion. perceive ways may explain regulatory function their role modulating bone growth.