Advances in tendon mechanobiology

Tendons are vital components for the functioning of human musculoskeletal system. Yet, they are frequently subjected to injuries, such as chronic tendon injury or tendinopathy. Excessive mechanical loading is considered to be a major factor responsible for tendinopathy, which is prevalent in athletic settings. Additionally, aging is also known to induce tendon degeneration. Tendon stem/progenitor cells (TSCs) are a newly identified cell type in the tendon, and TSC mechanobiology is an interesting field where TSCs' role in tendon mechanobiology in general and mechanical loading and aging-induced tendinopathy in particular is being actively explored. This chapter highlights the recent developments in tendon mechanobiology related to TSC and tendon aging research.