Figure 3.

AFM indentation was performed in the (A) RING and (B) FLAT (the bottom media in gray and top intima in red) configurations for determining the elastic modulus of the medial layer of the vessel wall. (C) The thickness of the aortic intima and media were obtained by histological staining for building a tissue-specific FEM model for HED analysis. (D) A representative AFM indentation response of a FLAT section of mouse aorta shows the probe deflection versus z-sensor position relationship (i.e., force curve); the AFM probe approaches the sample from right to left on the z-position axis, makes contact with the sample, and indents the sample (red extension curve). The probe then withdraws from the sample (blue retraction curve). To see this figure in color, go online.