A system for hemodynamic simulation comprises a vessel having properties of a blood vessel, a reservoir containing a quantity of fluid, tubing connecting the vessel and reservoir, and at least one pump for circulating the fluid within the system. Fluid can be tissue culture medium or blood analog fluid, and the vessel may include mammalian cells attached to its inside. A drive system, comprising two reciprocating drive shafts that are coupled by a cam, enables the uncoupling of pulsatile flow and pulsatile pressure to provide independent control over wall shear stress and circumferential strain. The shaft drives two pumps that are 180 degrees out-of-phase and are connected upstream and downstream of the vessel, and effect this uncoupling.
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application claims the benefit, under 35 U.S.C. .sctn.119(e), of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/239,015, filed Oct. 6, 2000 by the applicant, and which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.
