This subproject is one of many research subprojects utilizing theresources provided by a Center grant funded by NIH/NCRR. The subproject andinvestigator (PI) may have received primary funding from another NIH source,and thus could be represented in other CRISP entries. The institution listed isfor the Center, which is not necessarily the institution for the investigator.It is critical to know the effect of laser dosimetry on cartilage tissue, as this information is key with respect to developing future clinical applications. We have used excess septal cartilage tissue left-over from nasal surgery operations for this research. The specimens are laser irradiated using different dosimetry parameters. Then the tissue is examined using LSCM in combination with calcein and ethidium homodimer stains. This staining regimen allows for differential analysis of 'live' and 'dead' cell populations within a specimen. We have established the dependence of chondrocyte viability on dosimetry using this approach. The next step focuses on the development of a three layer Monte Carlo algorithm to model photothermal heating in an intact septum, and then to use rate process analysis to estiamte thermal injury/damage. We will compare these results with those obtained in intact specimens with mucosa attached, albeit from porcine or rabbit sources. These studies will provide key information that will allow development of human studies.
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