Depth-dependent patterns in shear modulus of temporomandibular joint cartilage correspond to tissue structure and anatomic location.

To fully understand TMJ cartilage degeneration and appropriate repair mechanisms, it is critical to understand the native structure-mechanics relationships of TMJ cartilage and any local variation that may occur in the tissue. Here, we used confocal elastography and digital image correlation to measure the depth-dependent shear properties as well as the structural properties of TMJ cartilage at different anatomic locations on the condyle to identify depth-dependent changes in shear mechanics and structure. We found that samples at every anatomic location showed qualitatively similar shear modulus profiles as a function of depth.