Dynamics and apparent permeability of the glycocalyx layer: Start-up and pulsating shear experiments in silico

Abstract

We present a detailed study of the three-dimensional two-way fluid-structure interactions between viscous blood plasma and the hyperelastic solid nanofibers comprising the Endothelial Glycocalyx Layer, along with a simple analytical model. Examining the elasto-hydrodynamics under startup shear and pulsatile flow conditions, we shed light on mesoscopic events close to microvessel walls under physiologic conditions. Our findings impact the efficiency of paracellular and transcellular transport of biological molecules, plasma ions, and viruses. We correlate macroscopic properties like permeability to dimensionless terms, which can expand possible uses to similarly structured hairy networks.