Biomechanics and mechanobiology of ligaments and tendons

The International Symposium on Ligaments and Tendons (ISL&T) was inaugurated in 2000 in Orlando, Florida, USA. The primary purpose of the ISL&T was to call attention to the importance of ligament and tendon (L&T) research and to bring together bioengineers, biologists, and clinician-scientists in a forum where the most current research findings could be shared, critiqued and discussed. In each symposium since 2000, there have been a number of stimulating, thought-provoking discussions on current hot topics and future challenges. The ISL&T has taken place for 15 years now, and as a result, the L&T field has significantly expanded in quantity while the quality of research has also been greatly improved. In commemoration of the 30^th anniversary of the Journal of Medical Biomechanics, this article will highlight some of the major advances in L&T research over the past three decades. Topics to be covered include tissue mechanics, mechanobiology, injury and healing mechanisms, and tissue repair and regeneration.