Finite Element Simulation of Opening Angle Response of Porcine Aortas Using Layer Specific GAG Distributions in One and Two Layered Solid Matrices

Overall, this study demonstrates that GAG partially contribute to circumferential residual stress, and that GAG swelling is one of several regulators of the opening angle. The minor discrepancies between simulated and experimental opening angles imply that the contribution of GAG extends beyond mere swelling, aligning with previous experimental indications of their interaction with ECM fibers in determining the opening angle.