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Jeong S, Fuwad A, Yoon S, Jeon TJ, Kim SM. A Microphysiological Model to Mimic the Placental Remodeling during Early Stage of Pregnancy under Hypoxia-Induced Trophoblast Invasion. Biomimetics (Basel) 2024; 9:289. [PMID: 38786499 DOI: 10.3390/biomimetics9050289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2024] [Revised: 05/05/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Placental trophoblast invasion is critical for establishing the maternal-fetal interface, yet the mechanisms driving trophoblast-induced maternal arterial remodeling remain elusive. To address this gap, we developed a three-dimensional microfluidic placenta-on-chip model that mimics early pregnancy placentation in a hypoxic environment. By studying human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) under oxygen-deprived conditions upon trophoblast invasion, we observed significant HUVEC artery remodeling, suggesting the critical role of hypoxia in placentation. In particular, we found that trophoblasts secrete matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) proteins under hypoxic conditions, which contribute to arterial remodeling by the degradation of extracellular matrix components. This MMP-mediated remodeling is critical for facilitating trophoblast invasion and proper establishment of the maternal-fetal interface. In addition, our platform allows real-time monitoring of HUVEC vessel contraction during trophoblast interaction, providing valuable insights into the dynamic interplay between trophoblasts and maternal vasculature. Collectively, our findings highlight the importance of MMP-mediated arterial remodeling in placental development and underscore the potential of our platform to study pregnancy-related complications and evaluate therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seorin Jeong
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Inha University, 100, Inha-ro, Michuhol-gu, Incheon 22212, Republic of Korea
| | - Ahmed Fuwad
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Inha University, 100, Inha-ro, Michuhol-gu, Incheon 22212, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Mechanical & Manufacturing Engineering (SMME), National University of Science and Technology (NUST), Islamabad 44000, Pakistan
| | - Sunhee Yoon
- Department of Biological Sciences and Bioengineering, Inha University, 100, Inha-ro, Michuhol-gu, Incheon 22212, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae-Joon Jeon
- Department of Biological Sciences and Bioengineering, Inha University, 100, Inha-ro, Michuhol-gu, Incheon 22212, Republic of Korea
- Biohybrid Systems Research Center, Inha University, 100, Inha-ro, Michuhol-gu, Incheon 22212, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biological Engineering, Inha University, 100, Inha-ro, Michuhol-gu, Incheon 22212, Republic of Korea
| | - Sun Min Kim
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Inha University, 100, Inha-ro, Michuhol-gu, Incheon 22212, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biological Sciences and Bioengineering, Inha University, 100, Inha-ro, Michuhol-gu, Incheon 22212, Republic of Korea
- Biohybrid Systems Research Center, Inha University, 100, Inha-ro, Michuhol-gu, Incheon 22212, Republic of Korea
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2
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Ouedraogo LJ, Trznadel MJ, Kling M, Nasirian V, Borst AG, Shirsavar MA, Makowski A, McNamara MC, Montazami R, Hashemi NN. Hydrodynamic Assembly of Astrocyte Cells in Conductive Hollow Microfibers. Adv Biol (Weinh) 2024; 8:e2300455. [PMID: 37953458 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.202300455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
The manufacturing of 3D cell scaffoldings provides advantages for modeling diseases and injuries as it enables the creation of physiologically relevant platforms. A triple-flow microfluidic device is developed to rapidly fabricate alginate/graphene hollow microfibers based on the gelation of alginate induced with CaCl2 . This five-channel microdevice actualizes continuous mild fabrication of hollow fibers under an optimized flow rate ratio of 300:200:100 µL min-1 . The polymer solution is 2.5% alginate in 0.1% graphene and a 30% polyethylene glycol solution is used as the sheath and core solutions. The biocompatibility of these conductive microfibers by encapsulating mouse astrocyte cells (C8D1A) within the scaffolds is investigated. The cells can successfully survive both the manufacturing process and prolonged encapsulation for up to 8 days, where there is between 18-53% of live cells on both the alginate microfibers and alginate/graphene microfibers. These unique 3D hollow scaffolds can significantly enhance the available surface area for nutrient transport to the cells. In addition, these conductive hollow scaffolds illustrate unique advantages such as 0.728 cm3 gr-1 porosity and two times more electrical conductivity in comparison to alginate scaffolds. The results confirm the potential of these scaffolds as a microenvironment that supports cell growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lionel J Ouedraogo
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, 50011, USA
| | - Mychal J Trznadel
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, 50011, USA
| | - McKayla Kling
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, 50011, USA
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, 50011, USA
| | - Vahid Nasirian
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, 50011, USA
| | - Alexandra G Borst
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, 50011, USA
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, 50011, USA
| | | | - Andrew Makowski
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, 50011, USA
| | - Marilyn C McNamara
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, 50011, USA
| | - Reza Montazami
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, 50011, USA
| | - Nicole N Hashemi
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, 50011, USA
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, 50011, USA
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Nasirian V, Niaraki-Asli AE, Aykar SS, Taghavimehr M, Montazami R, Hashemi NN. Capacitance of Flexible Polymer/Graphene Microstructures with High Mechanical Strength. 3D Print Addit Manuf 2024; 11:242-250. [PMID: 38389687 PMCID: PMC10880642 DOI: 10.1089/3dp.2022.0026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
Carbon-modified fibrous structures with high biocompatibility have attracted much attention due to their low cost, sustainability, abundance, and excellent electrical properties. However, some carbon-based materials possess low specific capacitance and electrochemical performance, which pose significant challenges in developing electronic microdevices. In this study, we report a microfluidic-based technique of manufacturing alginate hollow microfibers incorporated by water dispersed modified graphene (bovine serum albumin-graphene). These architectures successfully exhibited enhanced conductivity ∼20 times higher than alginate hollow microfibers without any significant change in the inner dimension of the hollow region (220.0 ± 10.0 μm) compared with pure alginate hollow microfibers. In the presence of graphene, higher specific surface permeability, active ion adsorption sites, and shorter pathways were created. These continuous ion transport networks resulted in improved electrochemical performance. The desired electrochemical properties of the microfibers make alginate/graphene hollow fibers an excellent choice for further use in the development of flexible capacitors with the potential to be used in smart health electronics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vahid Nasirian
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, USA
| | | | - Saurabh S. Aykar
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, USA
| | | | - Reza Montazami
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, USA
| | - Nicole N. Hashemi
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, USA
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
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Rahman S, Kwee B, Li M, Chidambaram M, He X, Bryant M, Mehta D, Nakamura N, Phanavanh B, Fisher J, Sung K. Evaluation of a microphysiological human placental barrier model for studying placental drug transfer. Reprod Toxicol 2024; 123:108523. [PMID: 38092131 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2023.108523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Understanding drug transport across the placental barrier is important for assessing the potential fetal drug toxicity and birth defect risks. Current in vivo and in vitro models have structural and functional limitations in evaluating placental drug transfer and toxicity. Microphysiological systems (MPSs) offer more accurate and relevant physiological models of human tissues and organs on a miniature scale for drug development and toxicology testing. MPSs for the placental barrier have been recently explored to study placental drug transfer. We utilized a multilayered hydrogel membrane-based microphysiological model composed of human placental epithelial and endothelial cells to replicate the key structure and function of the human placental barrier. A macroscale human placental barrier model was created using a transwell to compare the results with the microphysiological model. Placental barrier models were characterized by assessing monolayer formation, intercellular junctions, barrier permeability, and their structural integrity. Three small-molecule drugs (glyburide, rifaximin, and caffeine) that are prescribed or taken during pregnancy were studied for their placental transfer. The results showed that all three drugs crossed the placental barrier, with transfer rates in the following order: glyburide (molecular weight, MW = 494 Da) < rifaximin (MW = 785.9 Da) < caffeine (MW = 194.19 Da). Using non-compartmental analysis, we estimated human pharmacokinetic characteristics based on in vitro data from both MPS and transwell models. While further research is needed, our findings suggest that MPS holds potential as an in vitro tool for studying placental drug transfer and predicting fetal exposure, offering insights into pharmacokinetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shekh Rahman
- Division of Systems Biology, National Center for Toxicological Research, Food and Drug Administration, Jefferson, AR 72079, United States; Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MD 20993, United States.
| | - Brian Kwee
- Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MD 20993, United States
| | - Miao Li
- Division of Biochemical Toxicology, National Center for Toxicological Research, Food and Drug Administration, Jefferson, AR 72079, United States
| | - Mani Chidambaram
- Office of Scientific Coordination, National Center for Toxicological Research, Food and Drug Administration, Jefferson, AR 72079, United States
| | - Xiaobo He
- Office of Scientific Coordination, National Center for Toxicological Research, Food and Drug Administration, Jefferson, AR 72079, United States
| | - Matthew Bryant
- Office of Scientific Coordination, National Center for Toxicological Research, Food and Drug Administration, Jefferson, AR 72079, United States
| | - Darshan Mehta
- Division of Biochemical Toxicology, National Center for Toxicological Research, Food and Drug Administration, Jefferson, AR 72079, United States
| | - Noriko Nakamura
- Division of Systems Biology, National Center for Toxicological Research, Food and Drug Administration, Jefferson, AR 72079, United States
| | - Bounleut Phanavanh
- Division of Systems Biology, National Center for Toxicological Research, Food and Drug Administration, Jefferson, AR 72079, United States
| | - Jeffery Fisher
- Division of Biochemical Toxicology, National Center for Toxicological Research, Food and Drug Administration, Jefferson, AR 72079, United States
| | - Kyung Sung
- Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MD 20993, United States
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Cosi Bento GF, Guimarães da Silva M, Menon R, Richardson LS. Feto-Maternal Interface Organ-on-Chip: A New Technology to Study Ascending Infection. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2781:105-117. [PMID: 38502447 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3746-3_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
Modeling human pregnancy is challenging as two subjects, the mother and fetus, must be evaluated in tandem. To understand pregnancy, parturition, and adverse pregnancy outcomes, the two feto-maternal interfaces (FMi) that form during gestation (i.e., the placenta and fetal membrane) need to be investigated to understand their biological roles, and organ dysfunction can lead to adverse outcomes. Adverse pregnancy outcomes such as preterm rupture of the membranes, spontaneous preterm birth, preeclampsia, intra-uterine growth restriction, and gestational diabetes rates are on the rise worldwide, highlighting the need for future studies and a better understanding of molecular and cellular pathways that contribute to disease onset. Current in vivo animal models nor in vitro cell culture systems can answer these questions as they do not model the function or structure of human FMis. Utilizing microfabrication and soft-lithography techniques, microfluidic organ-on-chip (OOC) devices have been adapted by many fields to model the anatomy and biological function of complex organs and organ systems within small in vitro platforms.These techniques have been adapted to recreate the fetal membrane FMi (FMi-OOC) using immortalized cells and collagen derived from patient samples. The FMi-OOC is a four-cell culture chamber, concentric circle system, that contains both fetal (amniochorion) and maternal (decidua) cellular layers and has been validated to model physiological and pathological states of pregnancy (i.e., ascending infection, systemic oxidative stress, and maternal toxicant exposure). This platform is fully compatible with various analytical methods such as microscopy and biochemical analysis. This protocol will outline this device's fabrication, cell loading, and utility to model ascending infection-related adverse pregnancy outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovana Fernanda Cosi Bento
- Department of Pathology, Botucatu Medical School, São Paulo State University, São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Basic Science and Translational Medicine , The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, USA
| | | | - Ramkumar Menon
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Basic Science and Translational Medicine , The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Lauren S Richardson
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Basic Science and Translational Medicine , The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, USA.
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Yan J, Wu T, Zhang J, Gao Y, Wu JM, Wang S. Revolutionizing the female reproductive system research using microfluidic chip platform. J Nanobiotechnology 2023; 21:490. [PMID: 38111049 PMCID: PMC10729361 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-023-02258-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Comprehensively understanding the female reproductive system is crucial for safeguarding fertility and preventing diseases concerning women's health. With the capacity to simulate the intricate physio- and patho-conditions, and provide diagnostic platforms, microfluidic chips have fundamentally transformed the knowledge and management of female reproductive health, which will ultimately promote the development of more effective assisted reproductive technologies, treatments, and drug screening approaches. This review elucidates diverse microfluidic systems in mimicking the ovary, fallopian tube, uterus, placenta and cervix, and we delve into the culture of follicles and oocytes, gametes' manipulation, cryopreservation, and permeability especially. We investigate the role of microfluidics in endometriosis and hysteromyoma, and explore their applications in ovarian cancer, endometrial cancer and cervical cancer. At last, the current status of assisted reproductive technology and integrated microfluidic devices are introduced briefly. Through delineating the multifarious advantages and challenges of the microfluidic technology, we chart a definitive course for future research in the woman health field. As the microfluidic technology continues to evolve and advance, it holds great promise for revolutionizing the diagnosis and treatment of female reproductive health issues, thus propelling us into a future where we can ultimately optimize the overall wellbeing and health of women everywhere.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinfeng Yan
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1095, Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
- State Key Laboratory of Materials Processing and Die & Mould Technology, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
- Engineering Research Center of Ceramic Materials for Additive Manufacturing, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Tong Wu
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1095, Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Jinjin Zhang
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1095, Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Yueyue Gao
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1095, Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Jia-Min Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Materials Processing and Die & Mould Technology, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China.
- Engineering Research Center of Ceramic Materials for Additive Manufacturing, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, 430074, China.
| | - Shixuan Wang
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1095, Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China.
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Menon R, Muglia LJ, Levin LH. Review on new approach methods to gain insight into the feto-maternal interface physiology. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1304002. [PMID: 38098843 PMCID: PMC10720461 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1304002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-human animals represent a large and important feature in the history of biomedical research. The validity of their use, in terms of reproducible outcomes and translational confidence to the human situation, as well as ethical concerns surrounding that use, have been and remain controversial topics. Over the last 10 years, the communities developing microphysiological systems (MPS) have produced new approach method (NAMs) such as organoids and organs-on-a-chip. These alternative methodologies have shown indications of greater reliability and translatability than animal use in some areas, represent more humane substitutions for animals in these settings, and - with continued scientific effort - may change the conduct of basic research, clinical studies, safety testing, and drug development. Here, we present an introduction to these more human-relevant methodologies and suggest how a suite of pregnancy associated feto-maternal interface system-oriented NAMs may be integrated as reliable partial-/full animal replacements for investigators, significantly aid animal-/environmental welfare, and improve healthcare outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramkumar Menon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Louis J. Muglia
- The Burroughs Wellcome Fund, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States
- Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, United States
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Saorin G, Caligiuri I, Rizzolio F. Microfluidic organoids-on-a-chip: The future of human models. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2023; 144:41-54. [PMID: 36241560 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2022.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Microfluidics opened the possibility to model the physiological environment by controlling fluids flows, and therefore nutrients supply. It allows to integrate external stimuli such as electricals or mechanicals and in situ monitoring important parameters such as pH, oxygen and metabolite concentrations. Organoids are self-organized 3D organ-like clusters, which allow to closely model original organ functionalities. Applying microfluidics to organoids allows to generate powerful human models for studying organ development, diseases, and drug testing. In this review, after a brief introduction on microfluidics, organoids and organoids-on-a-chip are described by organs (brain, heart, gastrointestinal tract, liver, pancreas) highlighting the microfluidic approaches since this point of view was overlooked in previously published reviews. Indeed, the review aims to discuss from a different point of view, primary microfluidics, the available literature on organoids-on-a-chip, standing out from the published literature by focusing on each specific organ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gloria Saorin
- Department of Molecular Sciences and Nanosystems, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, 30123 Venezia, Italy
| | - Isabella Caligiuri
- Pathology Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO) IRCCS, 33081 Aviano, Italy
| | - Flavio Rizzolio
- Department of Molecular Sciences and Nanosystems, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, 30123 Venezia, Italy; Pathology Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO) IRCCS, 33081 Aviano, Italy.
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Lermant A, Rabussier G, Lanz HL, Davidson L, Porter IM, Murdoch CE. Development of a human iPSC-derived placental barrier-on-chip model. iScience 2023; 26:107240. [PMID: 37534160 PMCID: PMC10392097 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.107240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Although recently developed placenta-on-chip systems opened promising perspectives for placental barrier modeling, they still lack physiologically relevant trophoblasts and are poorly amenable to high-throughput studies. We aimed to implement human-induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSC)-derived trophoblasts into a multi-well microfluidic device to develop a physiologically relevant and scalable placental barrier model. When cultured in a perfused micro-channel against a collagen-based matrix, hiPSC-derived trophoblasts self-arranged into a 3D structure showing invasive behavior, fusogenic and endocrine activities, structural integrity, and expressing placental transporters. RNA-seq analysis revealed that the microfluidic 3D environment boosted expression of genes related to early placental structural development, mainly involved in mechanosensing and cell surface receptor signaling. These results demonstrated the feasibility of generating a differentiated primitive syncytium from hiPSC in a microfluidic platform. Besides expanding hiPSC-derived trophoblast scope of applications, this study constitutes an important resource to improve placental barrier models and boost research and therapeutics evaluation in pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agathe Lermant
- Systems Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 9SY, UK
| | | | | | - Lindsay Davidson
- Human Pluripotent Stem Cell Facility, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 5EH, UK
| | - Iain M. Porter
- Dundee Imaging Facility, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, DD1 5EH, UK
| | - Colin E. Murdoch
- Systems Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 9SY, UK
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Stapleton PA. The Application of Engineered Nanomaterials in Perinatal Therapeutics. Small 2023:e2303072. [PMID: 37438678 PMCID: PMC10784409 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202303072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
Pregnancy is a vulnerable life stage for the mother and developing fetus. Because of this dual concern, approved therapeutic options for pre-existing conditions or pregnancy-induced pathologies, placental deformities, or fetal concerns are extremely limited. These cases often leave patients and clinicians having to choose between maternal health and fetal development. Recent advancements in nanomedicine and nanotherapeutic devices have made the development of perinatal therapeutics an attractive objective. However, perinatal medicine requires a multifaceted approach given the interactions between maternal, placental, and fetal physiology. Maternal-fetal interactions are centralized to the placenta, a specialized transient barrier organ, to allow for nutrient and waste exchange. Perinatal nanotherapeutics must be designed for placental avoidance or uptake. In this review, pregnancy-related conditions, experimental models, and modes of drug delivery during pregnancy are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phoebe A Stapleton
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, 160 Frelinghuysen Rd., Piscataway, NJ, 08854, USA
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, 170 Frelinghuysen Rd., Piscataway, NJ, 08854, USA
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Elzinga FA, Khalili B, Touw DJ, Prins JR, Olinga P, Leuvenink HGD, van Goor H, Gordijn SJ, Nagelkerke A, Mian P. Placenta-on-a-Chip as an In Vitro Approach to Evaluate the Physiological and Structural Characteristics of the Human Placental Barrier upon Drug Exposure: A Systematic Review. J Clin Med 2023; 12:4315. [PMID: 37445348 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12134315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Quantification of fetal drug exposure remains challenging since sampling from the placenta or fetus during pregnancy is too invasive. Currently existing in vivo (e.g., cord blood sampling) and ex vivo (e.g., placenta perfusion) models have inherent limitations. A placenta-on-a-chip model is a promising alternative. A systematic search was performed in PubMed on 2 February 2023, and Embase on 14 March 2023. Studies were included where placenta-on-a-chip was used to investigate placental physiology, placenta in different obstetric conditions, and/or fetal exposure to maternally administered drugs. Seventeen articles were included that used comparable approaches but different microfluidic devices and/or different cultured maternal and fetal cell lines. Of these studies, four quantified glucose transfer, four studies evaluated drug transport, three studies investigated nanoparticles, one study analyzed bacterial infection and five studies investigated preeclampsia. It was demonstrated that placenta-on-a-chip has the capacity to recapitulate the key characteristics of the human placental barrier. We aimed to identify knowledge gaps and provide the first steps towards an overview of current protocols for developing a placenta-on-a-chip, that facilitates comparison of results from different studies. Although models differ, they offer a promising approach for in vitro human placental and fetal drug studies under healthy and pathological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Femke A Elzinga
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Behrad Khalili
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Daan J Touw
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy, University of Groningen, Antonius Deunsinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Jelmer R Prins
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Peter Olinga
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy, Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy, University of Groningen, Antonius Deunsinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Henri G D Leuvenink
- Department of Surgery, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Harry van Goor
- Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, Pathology Section, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Sanne J Gordijn
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Anika Nagelkerke
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy, University of Groningen, Antonius Deunsinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Paola Mian
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
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12
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Williford EM, Howley MM, Fisher SC, Conway KM, Romitti PA, Reeder MR, Olshan AF, Reefhuis J, Browne ML. Maternal dietary caffeine consumption and risk of birth defects in the National Birth Defects Prevention Study, 1997-2011. Birth Defects Res 2023; 115:921-932. [PMID: 36942611 DOI: 10.1002/bdr2.2171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Caffeine consumption is common during pregnancy, but published associations with birth defects are mixed. We updated estimates of associations between prepregnancy caffeine consumption and 48 specific birth defects from the National Birth Defects Prevention Study (NBDPS) for deliveries from 1997 to 2011. METHODS NBDPS was a large population-based case-control study conducted in 10 U.S. states. We categorized self-reported total dietary caffeine consumption (mg/day) from coffee, tea, soda, and chocolate as: <10, 10 to <100, 100 to <200, 200 to <300, and ≥ 300. We used logistic regression to estimate adjusted odds ratios (aORs [95% confidence intervals]). Analyses for defects with ≥5 exposed case children were adjusted for maternal race/ethnicity, age at delivery, body mass index, early pregnancy cigarette smoking and alcohol use, and study site. RESULTS Our analysis included 30,285 case and 11,502 control children, with mothers of 52% and 54%, respectively, reporting consuming <100 mg caffeine, and 11% of mothers of both cases and controls reported consuming ≥300 mg per day. Low (10 to <100 mg/day) levels of prepregnancy caffeine consumption were associated with statistically significant increases in aORs (1.2-1.7) for 10 defects. Associations with high (≥300 mg/day) levels of caffeine were generally weaker, except for craniosynostosis and aortic stenosis (aORs = 1.3 [1.1-1.6], 1.6 [1.1-2.3]). CONCLUSIONS Given the large number of estimates generated, some of the statistically significant results may be due to chance and thus the weakly increased aORs should be interpreted cautiously. This study supports previous observations suggesting lack of evidence for meaningful associations between caffeine consumption and the studied birth defects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva M Williford
- Birth Defects Registry, New York State Department of Health, Albany, New York, USA
| | - Meredith M Howley
- Birth Defects Registry, New York State Department of Health, Albany, New York, USA
| | - Sarah C Fisher
- Birth Defects Registry, New York State Department of Health, Albany, New York, USA
| | - Kristin M Conway
- Department of Epidemiology, College of Public Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Paul A Romitti
- Department of Epidemiology, College of Public Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Matthew R Reeder
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Medical Genetics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Andrew F Olshan
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Jennita Reefhuis
- National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Marilyn L Browne
- Birth Defects Registry, New York State Department of Health, Albany, New York, USA
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University at Albany, Rensselaer, New York, USA
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13
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Zhou Z, Luo D, Li M, Lao G, Zhou Z, Dinnyés A, Xu W, Sun Q. A Novel Multicellular Placental Barrier Model to Investigate the Effect of Maternal Aflatoxin B 1 Exposure on Fetal-Side Neural Stem Cells. Toxins (Basel) 2023; 15:toxins15050312. [PMID: 37235346 DOI: 10.3390/toxins15050312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Ingestion of food toxins such as aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) during pregnancy may impair fetal neurodevelopment. However, animal model results may not be accurate due to the species' differences, and testing on humans is ethically impermissible. Here, we developed an in vitro human maternal-fetal multicellular model composed of a human hepatic compartment, a bilayer placental barrier, and a human fetal central nervous system compartment using neural stem cells (NSCs) to investigate the effect of AFB1 on fetal-side NSCs. AFB1 passed through the HepG2 hepatocellular carcinoma cells to mimic the maternal metabolic effects. Importantly, even at the limited concentration (0.0641 ± 0.0046 μM) of AFB1, close to the national safety level standard of China (GB-2761-2011), the mixture of AFB1 crossing the placental barrier induced NSC apoptosis. The level of reactive oxygen species in NSCs was significantly elevated and the cell membrane was damaged, causing the release of intracellular lactate dehydrogenase (p < 0.05). The comet experiment and γ-H2AX immunofluorescence assay showed that AFB1 caused significant DNA damage to NSCs (p < 0.05). This study provided a new model for the toxicological evaluation of the effect of food mycotoxin exposure during pregnancy on fetal neurodevelopment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiwei Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resources and Eco-Environment Ministry of the Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
| | - Dongmei Luo
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resources and Eco-Environment Ministry of the Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
| | - Mengxue Li
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resources and Eco-Environment Ministry of the Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
| | - Guangjie Lao
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resources and Eco-Environment Ministry of the Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
| | - Zhiqiang Zhou
- Department of Food Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
| | - András Dinnyés
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resources and Eco-Environment Ministry of the Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
- BioTalentum Ltd., Aulich Lajos Str. 26, 2100 Godollo, Hungary
- Department of Cell Biology and Molecular Medicine, University of Szeged, 6720 Szeged, Hungary
| | - Wenming Xu
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Regulation Laboratory West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
| | - Qun Sun
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resources and Eco-Environment Ministry of the Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
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14
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Hudson RE, Metz TD, Ward RM, McKnite AM, Enioutina EY, Sherwin CM, Watt KM, Job KM. Drug exposure during pregnancy: Current understanding and approaches to measure maternal-fetal drug exposure. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1111601. [PMID: 37033628 PMCID: PMC10076747 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1111601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Prescription drug use is prevalent during pregnancy, yet there is limited knowledge about maternal-fetal safety and efficacy of this drug use because pregnant individuals have historically been excluded from clinical trials. Underrepresentation has resulted in a lack of data available to estimate or predict fetal drug exposure. Approaches to study fetal drug pharmacology are limited and must be evaluated for feasibility and accuracy. Anatomic and physiological changes throughout pregnancy fluctuate based on gestational age and can affect drug pharmacokinetics (PK) for both mother and fetus. Drug concentrations have been studied throughout different stages of gestation and at or following delivery in tissue and fluid biospecimens. Sampling amniotic fluid, umbilical cord blood, placental tissue, meconium, umbilical cord tissue, and neonatal hair present surrogate options to quantify and characterize fetal drug exposure. These sampling methods can be applied to all therapeutics including small molecule drugs, large molecule drugs, conjugated nanoparticles, and chemical exposures. Alternative approaches to determine PK have been explored, including physiologically based PK modeling, in vitro methods, and traditional animal models. These alternative approaches along with convenience sampling of tissue or fluid biospecimens can address challenges in studying maternal-fetal pharmacology. In this narrative review, we 1) present an overview of the current understanding of maternal-fetal drug exposure; 2) discuss biospecimen-guided sampling design and methods for measuring fetal drug concentrations throughout gestation; and 3) propose methods for advancing pharmacology research in the maternal-fetal population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel E. Hudson
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, The University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Torri D. Metz
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, The University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Robert M. Ward
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, The University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Autumn M. McKnite
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Elena Y. Enioutina
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, The University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Catherine M. Sherwin
- Department of Pediatrics, Boonshoft School of Medicine, Wright State University, Dayton, OH, United States
| | - Kevin M. Watt
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, The University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Kathleen M. Job
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, The University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
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15
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Branco MA, Nunes TC, Cabral JMS, Diogo MM. Developmental Toxicity Studies: The Path towards Humanized 3D Stem Cell-Based Models. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24054857. [PMID: 36902285 PMCID: PMC10002991 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24054857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Today, it is recognized that medicines will eventually be needed during pregnancy to help prevent to, ameliorate or treat an illness, either due to gestation-related medical conditions or pre-existing diseases. Adding to that, the rate of drug prescription to pregnant women has increased over the past few years, in accordance with the increasing trend to postpone childbirth to a later age. However, in spite of these trends, information regarding teratogenic risk in humans is often missing for most of the purchased drugs. So far, animal models have been the gold standard to obtain teratogenic data, but inter-species differences have limited the suitability of those models to predict human-specific outcomes, contributing to misidentified human teratogenicity. Therefore, the development of physiologically relevant in vitro humanized models can be the key to surpassing this limitation. In this context, this review describes the pathway towards the introduction of human pluripotent stem cell-derived models in developmental toxicity studies. Moreover, as an illustration of their relevance, a particular emphasis will be placed on those models that recapitulate two very important early developmental stages, namely gastrulation and cardiac specification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana A. Branco
- Collaborative Laboratory to Foster Translation and Drug Discovery, Accelbio, 3030-197 Cantanhede, Portugal
- IBB—Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Department of Bioengineering Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory i4HB—Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Tiago C. Nunes
- IBB—Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Department of Bioengineering Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory i4HB—Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Joaquim M. S. Cabral
- IBB—Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Department of Bioengineering Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory i4HB—Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Maria Margarida Diogo
- IBB—Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Department of Bioengineering Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory i4HB—Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal
- Correspondence:
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16
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Rahimnejad M, Rasouli F, Jahangiri S, Ahmadi S, Rabiee N, Ramezani Farani M, Akhavan O, Asadnia M, Fatahi Y, Hong S, Lee J, Lee J, Hahn SK. Engineered Biomimetic Membranes for Organ-on-a-Chip. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2022; 8:5038-5059. [PMID: 36347501 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.2c00531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Organ-on-a-chip (OOC) systems are engineered nanobiosystems to mimic the physiochemical environment of a specific organ in the body. Among various components of OOC systems, biomimetic membranes have been regarded as one of the most important key components to develop controllable biomimetic bioanalysis systems. Here, we review the preparation and characterization of biomimetic membranes in comparison with the features of the extracellular matrix. After that, we review and discuss the latest applications of engineered biomimetic membranes to fabricate various organs on a chip, such as liver, kidney, intestine, lung, skin, heart, vasculature and blood vessels, brain, and multiorgans with perspectives for further biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maedeh Rahimnejad
- Biomedical Engineering Institute, School of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec H3T 1J4, Canada.,Research Centre, Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montreal, Quebec H2X 0A9, Canada
| | - Fariba Rasouli
- Bioceramics and Implants Laboratory, Faculty of New Sciences and Technologies, University of Tehran, Tehran 14174-66191, Iran
| | - Sepideh Jahangiri
- Research Centre, Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montreal, Quebec H2X 0A9, Canada.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - Sepideh Ahmadi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 19839-63113, Iran.,Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 19839-63113, Iran
| | - Navid Rabiee
- Department of Physics, Sharif University of Technology, Tehran 11155-9161, Iran.,School of Engineering, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales 2109, Australia.,Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), 77 Cheongam-ro, Nam-gu, Pohang, Gyeongbuk 37673, Korea
| | - Marzieh Ramezani Farani
- Toxicology and Diseases Group (TDG), Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center (PSRC), the Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences (TIPS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 14176-14411, Iran
| | - Omid Akhavan
- Department of Physics, Sharif University of Technology, Tehran 11155-9161, Iran
| | - Mohsen Asadnia
- School of Engineering, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales 2109, Australia
| | - Yousef Fatahi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 14176-14411, Iran
| | - Sanghoon Hong
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), 77 Cheongam-ro, Nam-gu, Pohang, Gyeongbuk 37673, Korea
| | - Jungho Lee
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), 77 Cheongam-ro, Nam-gu, Pohang, Gyeongbuk 37673, Korea
| | - Junmin Lee
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), 77 Cheongam-ro, Nam-gu, Pohang, Gyeongbuk 37673, Korea
| | - Sei Kwang Hahn
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), 77 Cheongam-ro, Nam-gu, Pohang, Gyeongbuk 37673, Korea
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17
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Oyen ML. Biomaterials science and engineering to address unmet needs in women's health. MRS Bull 2022; 47:864-871. [PMID: 36196217 PMCID: PMC9521852 DOI: 10.1557/s43577-022-00389-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Medical conditions that primarily or disproportionately affect women have historically been poorly studied. In contrast to the musculoskeletal and cardiovascular systems, there is no lengthy record of biomaterials research addressing women's health needs. In this article, the historical reasons for this discrepancy are examined. The anatomy of both the nonpregnant and pregnant reproductive tissues is reviewed, including the ovaries, uterus, and (fetal) placenta. Examples of biomaterials-related women's health research are described, including tissue engineering, organoids, and microphysiological systems. The future of the field is considered with dual focuses. First, there is a significant need for novel approaches to advance women's health through materials and biomaterials, particularly in complex biomimetic hydrogels. Second, there is an exciting opportunity to enlarge the community of biomaterials scientists and engineers working in women's health to encourage more contributions to its rapidly emerging product development pipeline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle L. Oyen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO USA
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18
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Tahmasbpour Marzouni E, Stern C, Henrik Sinclair A, Tucker EJ. Stem Cells and Organs-on-chips: New Promising Technologies for Human Infertility Treatment. Endocr Rev 2022; 43:878-906. [PMID: 34967858 DOI: 10.1210/endrev/bnab047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Having biological children remains an unattainable dream for most couples with reproductive failure or gonadal dysgenesis. The combination of stem cells with gene editing technology and organ-on-a-chip models provides a unique opportunity for infertile patients with impaired gametogenesis caused by congenital disorders in sex development or cancer survivors. But how will these technologies overcome human infertility? This review discusses the regenerative mechanisms, applications, and advantages of different types of stem cells for restoring gametogenesis in infertile patients, as well as major challenges that must be overcome before clinical application. The importance and limitations of in vitro generation of gametes from patient-specific human-induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) will be discussed in the context of human reproduction. The potential role of organ-on-a-chip models that can direct differentiation of hiPSC-derived primordial germ cell-like cells to gametes and other reproductive organoids is also explored. These rapidly evolving technologies provide prospects for improving fertility to individuals and couples who experience reproductive failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eisa Tahmasbpour Marzouni
- Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine & Biomedical Innovations, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Catharyn Stern
- Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville and Melbourne IVF, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Andrew Henrik Sinclair
- Reproductive Development, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Elena Jane Tucker
- Reproductive Development, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
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19
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Tantengco OAG, Richardson LS, Radnaa E, Kammala AK, Kim S, Medina PMB, Han A, Menon R. Exosomes from Ureaplasma parvum-infected ectocervical epithelial cells promote feto-maternal interface inflammation but are insufficient to cause preterm delivery. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:931609. [PMID: 36046342 PMCID: PMC9420848 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.931609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
This study determined if exosomes from ectocervical epithelial (ECTO) cells infected with Ureaplasma parvum (U. parvum) can carry bacterial antigens and cause inflammation at the feto-maternal interface using two organ-on-chip devices, one representing the vagina-cervix-decidua and another one mimicking the feto-maternal interface, and whether such inflammation can lead to preterm birth (PTB). Exosomes from U. parvum-infected ECTO cells were characterized using cryo-electron microscopy, nanoparticle tracking analysis, Western blot, and Exoview analysis. The antigenicity of the exosomes from U. parvum-infected ECTO cells was also tested using THP-1 cells and our newly developed vagina-cervix-decidua organ-on-a-chip (VCD-OOC) having six microchannel-interconnected cell culture chambers containing cells from the vagina, ectocervical, endocervical, transformation zone epithelia, cervical stroma, and decidua. The VCD-OOC was linked to the maternal side of our previously developed feto-maternal interface organ-on-a-chip (FMi-OOC). Cell culture media were collected after 48 h to determine the cytokine levels from each cell line via ELISA. For physiological validation of our in vitro data, high-dose exosomes from U. parvum-infected ECTO cells were delivered to the vagina of pregnant CD-1 mice on E15. Mice were monitored for preterm birth (PTB, < E18.5 days). Exosomes from ECTO cells infected with U. parvum (UP ECTO) showed significant downregulation of exosome markers CD9, CD63, and CD81, but contained multiple banded antigen (MBA), a U. parvum virulence factor. Monoculture experiments showed that exosomes from UP ECTO cells delivered MBA from the host cell to uninfected endocervical epithelial cells (ENDO). Moreover, exposure of THP-1 cells to exosomes from UP ECTO cells resulted in increased IL-8 and TNFα and reduced IL-10. The OOC experiments showed that low and high doses of exosomes from UP ECTO cells produced a cell type-specific inflammatory response in the VCD-OOC and FMi-OOC. Specifically, exosomes from UP ECTO cells increased pro-inflammatory cytokines such as GM-CSF, IL-6, and IL-8 in cervical, decidual, chorion trophoblast, and amnion mesenchymal cells. The results from our OOC models were validated in our in vivo mice model. The inflammatory response was insufficient to promote PTB. These results showed the potential use of the VCD-OOC and FMi-OOC in simulating the pathophysiological processes in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ourlad Alzeus G. Tantengco
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
- Biological Models Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Lauren S. Richardson
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Enkhtuya Radnaa
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Ananth Kumar Kammala
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Sungjin Kim
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
| | - Paul Mark B. Medina
- Biological Models Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Arum Han
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
| | - Ramkumar Menon
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
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20
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Parameshwar PK, Sagrillo-Fagundes L, Azevedo Portilho N, Pastor WA, Vaillancourt C, Moraes C. Engineered models for placental toxicology: Emerging approaches based on tissue decellularization. Reprod Toxicol 2022; 112:148-159. [PMID: 35840119 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2022.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2022] [Revised: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Recent increases in prescriptions and illegal drug use as well as exposure to environmental contaminants during pregnancy have highlighted the critical importance of placental toxicology in understanding and identifying risks to both mother and fetus. Although advantageous for basic science, current in vitro models often fail to capture the complexity of placental response, likely due to their inability to recreate and monitor aspects of the microenvironment including physical properties, mechanical forces and stiffness, protein composition, cell-cell interactions, soluble and physicochemical factors, and other exogenous cues. Tissue engineering holds great promise in addressing these challenges and provides an avenue to better understand basic biology, effects of toxic compounds and potential therapeutics. The key to success lies in effectively recreating the microenvironment. One strategy to do this would be to recreate individual components and then combine them. However, this becomes challenging due to variables present according to conditions such as tissue location, age, health status and lifestyle. The extracellular matrix (ECM) is known to influence cellular fate by working as a storage of factors. Decellularized ECM (dECM) is a recent tool that allows usage of the original ECM in a refurbished form, providing a relatively reliable representation of the microenvironment. This review focuses on using dECM in modified forms such as whole organs, scaffold sheets, electrospun nanofibers, hydrogels, 3D printing, and combinations as building blocks to recreate aspects of the microenvironment to address general tissue engineering and toxicology challenges, thus illustrating their potential as tools for future placental toxicology studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Nathalia Azevedo Portilho
- Department of Chemical Engineering, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada; Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - William A Pastor
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada; Rosalind & Morris Goodman Cancer Institute, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Cathy Vaillancourt
- INRS-Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, Laval, Québec, Canada; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Christopher Moraes
- Department of Biological and Biomedical Engineering, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada; Department of Chemical Engineering, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada; Rosalind & Morris Goodman Cancer Institute, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada; Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada.
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21
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Richardson L, Menon R. Fetal membrane at the feto-maternal interface: An underappreciated and understudied intrauterine tissue. Placenta Reprod Med 2022; 1:10.54844/prm.2022.0104. [PMID: 37502422 PMCID: PMC10373051 DOI: 10.54844/prm.2022.0104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Richardson
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston 77555, TX, USA
| | - Ramkumar Menon
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston 77555, TX, USA
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22
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Menon R, Richardson L. Organ-on-a-chip for perinatal biology experiments. Placenta Reprod Med 2022; 1:98. [PMID: 36530581 PMCID: PMC9757604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Cell culture and organ explant systems have traditionally been used by scientists in the reproductive biology and perinatal medicine area to address various research questions. Although most are unrelated to human pregnancy, animal models were also extensively used to study various mechanisms associated with pregnancy and parturition. However, limitations of traditional approaches have shifted the attention to the use of organ on a chip (OOC) technology. OOC platform simulates an organ using cells, and OOCs are biomimetic microfluidic systems comprising multiple cell types from an organ that mimic the environment of a physiological organ. OOC maintains intercellular interactions and helps to recreate organ physiology as expected for utero in perinatal medicine research. This short review introduces some basic concepts of OOC, and its utility based on some published reports.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramkumar Menon
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston 77555 TX, USA
| | - Lauren Richardson
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston 77555 TX, USA
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23
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Deng P, Cui K, Shi Y, Zhu Y, Wang Y, Shao X, Qin J. Fluidic Flow Enhances the Differentiation of Placental Trophoblast-Like 3D Tissue from hiPSCs in a Perfused Macrofluidic Device. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:907104. [PMID: 35845423 PMCID: PMC9280037 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.907104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The human placenta serves as a multifunctional organ to maintain the proper development of a fetus. However, our knowledge of the human placenta is limited due to the lack of appropriate experimental models. In this work, we created an in vitro placental trophoblast-like model via self-organization of human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) in a perfused 3D culture macrofluidic device. This device allowed cell seeding, in situ trophoblast lineage differentiation, and formation of trophoblast-like tissues from hiPSCs in a biomimetic microenvironment. It incorporated extracellular matrix (ECM) and fluid flow in a single device. After trophoblast lineage differentiation, we were able to generate the 3D clusters with major cell types of the human placenta, including trophoblast progenitor cytotrophoblasts (CTBs), differentiated subtypes, syncytiotrophoblasts (STBs), and extravillous trophoblasts (EVTs) under long-term 3D culture (∼23 days). Moreover, the formed tissues exhibited enhanced expressions of CTB-, STB-, and EVT-related markers at the level of genes and proteins under a dynamic culture compared with static conditions. RNA-seq analysis revealed the higher expression of trophoblast-specific genes in 3D tissues, indicating the essential role of fluid flow to promote the trophoblast differentiation of hiPSCs. The established placental 3D model combined a bioengineering strategy with developmental principles, providing a promising platform for the study of placental biology in a biomimetic microenvironment in health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengwei Deng
- Division of Biotechnology, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, China
- Division of Biotechnology, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Kangli Cui
- Division of Biotechnology, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, China
- Division of Biotechnology, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yang Shi
- Dalian Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Mother-child Genetics, Dalian Women and Children’s Medical Group, Dalian, China
| | - Yujuan Zhu
- Division of Biotechnology, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, China
- Division of Biotechnology, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yaqing Wang
- Division of Biotechnology, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, China
| | - Xiaoguang Shao
- Dalian Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Mother-child Genetics, Dalian Women and Children’s Medical Group, Dalian, China
| | - Jianhua Qin
- Division of Biotechnology, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, China
- Division of Biotechnology, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Jianhua Qin,
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24
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Aykar SS, Alimoradi N, Taghavimehr M, Montazami R, Hashemi NN. Microfluidic Seeding of Cells on the Inner Surface of Alginate Hollow Microfibers. Adv Healthc Mater 2022; 11:e2102701. [PMID: 35142451 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202102701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Mimicking microvascular tissue microenvironment in vitro calls for a cytocompatible technique of manufacturing biocompatible hollow microfibers suitable for cell-encapsulation/seeding in and around them. The techniques reported to date either have a limit on the microfiber dimensions or undergo a complex manufacturing process. Here, a microfluidic-based method for cell seeding inside alginate hollow microfibers is designed whereby mouse astrocytes (C8-D1A) are passively seeded on the inner surface of these hollow microfibers. Collagen I and poly-d-lysine, as cell attachment additives, are tested to assess cell adhesion and viability; the results are compared with nonadditive-based hollow microfibers (BARE). The BARE furnishes better cell attachment and higher cell viability immediately after manufacturing, and an increasing trend in the cell viability is observed between Day 0 and Day 2. Swelling analysis using percentage initial weight and width is performed on BARE microfibers furnishing a maximum of 124.1% and 106.1%, respectively. Degradation analysis using weight observed a 62% loss after 3 days, with 46% occurring in the first 12 h. In the frequency sweep test performed, the storage modulus (G') remains comparatively higher than the loss modulus (G″) in the frequency range 0-20 Hz, indicating high elastic behavior of the hollow microfibers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saurabh S. Aykar
- Department of Mechanical Engineering Iowa State University Ames IA 50011 USA
| | - Nima Alimoradi
- Department of Mechanical Engineering Iowa State University Ames IA 50011 USA
| | | | - Reza Montazami
- Department of Mechanical Engineering Iowa State University Ames IA 50011 USA
| | - Nicole N. Hashemi
- Department of Mechanical Engineering Iowa State University Ames IA 50011 USA
- Department of Mechanical Engineering Stanford University Stanford CA 94305 USA
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25
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Chandrasekar V, Singh AV, Maharjan RS, Dakua SP, Balakrishnan S, Dash S, Laux P, Luch A, Singh S, Pradhan M. Perspectives on the Technological Aspects and Biomedical Applications of Virus‐Like Particles/Nanoparticles in Reproductive Biology: Insights on the Medicinal and Toxicological Outlook. Advanced NanoBiomed Research 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/anbr.202200010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ajay Vikram Singh
- German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) Department of Chemical and Product Safety Max-Dohrn-Straße 8-10 10589 Berlin Germany
| | - Romi Singh Maharjan
- German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) Department of Chemical and Product Safety Max-Dohrn-Straße 8-10 10589 Berlin Germany
| | | | | | - Sagnika Dash
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Apollo Clinic Qatar 23656 Doha Qatar
| | - Peter Laux
- German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) Department of Chemical and Product Safety Max-Dohrn-Straße 8-10 10589 Berlin Germany
| | - Andreas Luch
- German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) Department of Chemical and Product Safety Max-Dohrn-Straße 8-10 10589 Berlin Germany
| | - Suyash Singh
- Department of Neurosurgery All India Institute of Medical Sciences Raebareli UP 226001 India
| | - Mandakini Pradhan
- Department of Fetal Medicine Sanjay Gandhi Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences Reabareli Road Lucknow UP 226014 India
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26
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Shuchat S, Yossifon G, Huleihel M. Perfusion in Organ-on-Chip Models and Its Applicability to the Replication of Spermatogenesis In Vitro. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:5402. [PMID: 35628214 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23105402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Organ/organoid-on-a-chip (OoC) technologies aim to replicate aspects of the in vivo environment in vitro, at the scale of microns. Mimicking the spatial in vivo structure is important and can provide a deeper understanding of the cell–cell interactions and the mechanisms that lead to normal/abnormal function of a given organ. It is also important for disease models and drug/toxin testing. Incorporating active fluid flow in chip models enables many more possibilities. Active flow can provide physical cues, improve intercellular communication, and allow for the dynamic control of the environment, by enabling the efficient introduction of biological factors, drugs, or toxins. All of this is in addition to the fundamental role of flow in supplying nutrition and removing waste metabolites. This review presents an overview of the different types of fluid flow and how they are incorporated in various OoC models. The review then describes various methods and techniques of incorporating perfusion networks into OoC models, including self-assembly, bioprinting techniques, and utilizing sacrificial gels. The second part of the review focuses on the replication of spermatogenesis in vitro; the complex process whereby spermatogonial stem cells differentiate into mature sperm. A general overview is given of the various approaches that have been used. The few studies that incorporated microfluidics or vasculature are also described. Finally, a future perspective is given on elements from perfusion-based models that are currently used in models of other organs and can be applied to the field of in vitro spermatogenesis. For example, adopting tubular blood vessel models to mimic the morphology of the seminiferous tubules and incorporating vasculature in testis-on-a-chip models. Improving these models would improve our understanding of the process of spermatogenesis. It may also potentially provide novel therapeutic strategies for pre-pubertal cancer patients who need aggressive chemotherapy that can render them sterile, as well asfor a subset of non-obstructive azoospermic patients with maturation arrest, whose testes do not produce sperm but still contain some of the progenitor cells.
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27
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Li Q, Wu H, Wang Y, Wang H. Current understanding in deciphering trophoblast cell differentiation during human placentation. Biol Reprod 2022; 107:317-326. [PMID: 35478014 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The placenta is a unique organ that forms during gestation and supports fetus survival and communication with the mother. However, of such an arguably essential organ for a successful pregnancy, our knowledge is limited. New progress has been made for human placenta study in recent years. We herein summarize the current understanding of human placental trophoblast differentiation and the molecules that govern trophoblast cell lineage specification. More importantly, the powerful tools for placental studies are also explained, such as human trophoblast stem cells (hTSCs), 3-dimensional (3D) trophoblast organoids, engineering-based placental devices, and single-cell RNA sequencing (sc-RNAseq). These advances have brought us new insights into placental development and provided multiple investigation strategies for deciphering molecular mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Li
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.,Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.,Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Hao Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.,Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.,Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Yue Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.,Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.,Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Hongmei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.,Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.,Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing 100101, China
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28
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Fliedel L, Alhareth K, Mignet N, Fournier T, Andrieux K. Placental Models for Evaluation of Nanocarriers as Drug Delivery Systems for Pregnancy Associated Disorders. Biomedicines 2022; 10:936. [PMID: 35625672 PMCID: PMC9138319 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10050936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Pregnancy-associated disorders affect around 20% of pregnancies each year around the world. The risk associated with pregnancy therapeutic management categorizes pregnant women as “drug orphan” patients. In the last few decades, nanocarriers have demonstrated relevant properties for controlled drug delivery, which have been studied for pregnancy-associated disorders. To develop new drug dosage forms it is mandatory to have access to the right evaluation models to ensure their usage safety and efficacy. This review exposes the various placental-based models suitable for nanocarrier evaluation for pregnancy-associated therapies. We first review the current knowledge about nanocarriers as drug delivery systems and how placenta can be used as an evaluation model. Models are divided into three categories: in vivo, in vitro, and ex vivo placental models. We then examine the recent studies using those models to evaluate nanocarriers behavior towards the placental barrier and which information can be gathered from these results. Finally, we propose a flow chart on the usage and the combination of models regarding the nanocarriers and nanoparticles studied and the intended therapeutic strategy.
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29
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Pemathilaka RL, Alimoradi N, Reynolds DE, Hashemi NN. Transport of Maternally Administered Pharmaceutical Agents Across the Placental Barrier In Vitro. ACS Appl Bio Mater 2022; 5:2273-2284. [PMID: 35380796 PMCID: PMC9116385 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.2c00121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
To understand the transport of pharmaceutical agents and their effects on developing fetus, we have created a placental microsystem that mimics structural phenotypes and physiological characteristic of a placental barrier. We have shown the formation of a continuous network of epithelial adherens junctions and endothelial cell-cell junctions confirming the integrity of the placental barrier. More importantly, the formation of elongated microvilli under dynamic flow condition is demonstrated. Fluid shear stress acts as a mechanical cue triggering the microvilli formation. Pharmaceutical agents were administered to the maternal channel, and the concentration of pharmaceutical agents in fetal channel for coculture and control models were evaluated. In fetal channel, the coculture model exhibited about 2.5 and 2.2% of the maternal initial concentration for naltrexone and 6β-naltrexol, respectively. In acellular model, fetal channel showed about 10.5 and 10.3% of the maternal initial concentration for naltrexone and 6β-naltrexol, respectively. Gene expressions of epithelial cells after direct administration of naltrexone and 6β-naltrexol to the maternal channel and endothelial cells after exposure due to transport through placental barrier are also reported.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajeendra L Pemathilaka
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa 50011, United States
| | - Nima Alimoradi
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa 50011, United States
| | - David E Reynolds
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa 50011, United States
| | - Nicole N Hashemi
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa 50011, United States.,Department of Mechanical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
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30
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Popovic M, Chuva de Sousa Lopes SM. Emerging in vitro platforms and omics technologies for studying the endometrium and early embryo-maternal interface in humans. Placenta 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2022.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2021] [Revised: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 01/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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31
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Burton GJ, Turco MY. Joan Hunt Senior award lecture: New tools to shed light on the 'black box' of pregnancy. Placenta 2021; 125:54-60. [PMID: 34952691 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2021.12.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Correct establishment of the placenta is critical to the success of a pregnancy, but many of the key events take place during or shortly after implantation and are inaccessible for study. This inaccessibility, coupled with the lack of a suitable preclinical animal model, means that knowledge of human early placental development and function is extremely limited. Hence, the first trimester is often referred to as the 'black box' of pregnancy. However, recent advances in the derivation of trophoblast stem cells and organoid cultures of the trophoblast and endometrium are opening new opportunities for basic and translational research, providing for the first time cells that faithfully replicate their tissue of origin and proliferate and differentiate in culture in a stable and reproducible manner. These cells are valuable new tools for investigating cell-lineage differentiation and maternal-fetal interactions, but become even more powerful when combined with advances in bioengineering, microfabrication and microfluidic technologies. Assembloids of the endometrium comprising various cell types as model systems to investigate events at implantation, and placentas-on-a-chip for the study of nutrient transfer or drug screening are just two examples. This is a rapidly advancing field that may usher in more personalised approaches to infertility and pregnancy complications. Many of the developments are still at the proof-of-principle phase, but with continued refinement they are likely to shed important light on events that are fundamental to our reproduction as individuals and as a species, yet for ethical reasons are hidden from view.
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Affiliation(s)
- Graham J Burton
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
| | - Margherita Y Turco
- Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research, Basel, Switzerland
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32
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Zhang P, Shao N, Qin L. Recent Advances in Microfluidic Platforms for Programming Cell-Based Living Materials. Adv Mater 2021; 33:e2005944. [PMID: 34270839 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202005944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Revised: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Cell-based living materials, including single cells, cell-laden fibers, cell sheets, organoids, and organs, have attracted intensive interests owing to their widespread applications in cancer therapy, regenerative medicine, drug development, and so on. Significant progress in materials, microfabrication, and cell biology have promoted the development of numerous promising microfluidic platforms for programming these cell-based living materials with a high-throughput, scalable, and efficient manner. In this review, the recent progress of novel microfluidic platforms for programming cell-based living materials is presented. First, the unique features, categories, and materials and related fabrication methods of microfluidic platforms are briefly introduced. From the viewpoint of the design principles of the microfluidic platforms, the recent significant advances of programming single cells, cell-laden fibers, cell sheets, organoids, and organs in turns are then highlighted. Last, by providing personal perspectives on challenges and future trends, this review aims to motivate researchers from the fields of materials and engineering to work together with biologists and physicians to promote the development of cell-based living materials for human healthcare-related applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengchao Zhang
- Department of Nanomedicine, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Ning Shao
- Department of Nanomedicine, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Lidong Qin
- Department of Nanomedicine, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY, 10065, USA
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33
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Schmidt A, Schmidt A, Markert UR. The road (not) taken - Placental transfer and interspecies differences. Placenta 2021; 115:70-77. [PMID: 34562829 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2021.09.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Species differences are among the main reasons for the high failure rate of preclinical studies. A better awareness and understanding of these differences might help to improve the outcome of preclinical research. In reproduction, the placenta is the central organ regulating fetal exposure to a substance circulating in the maternal organism. Exact information about placental transfer can help to better estimate the toxic potential of a substance. From an evolutionary point of view, the chorioallantoic placenta is the organ with the highest anatomical diversity among species. Moreover, frequently used animal models in reproduction belong to rodents and lagomorphs, two groups that are characterized by the generation of an additional type of placenta, which is crucial for fetal development, but absent from humans: the inverted yolk sac placenta. Taken together, the translatability of placental transfer studies from laboratory animals to humans is challenging, which is supported by the fact that numerous species-dependent toxic effects are described in literature. Thus, reliable human-relevant data are frequently lacking and the toxic potential of chemicals and pharmaceuticals for humans can hardly be estimated, often resulting in recommendations that medical treatments or exposure to chemicals should be avoided for safety reasons. Although species differences of placental anatomy have been described frequently and the need for human-relevant research models has been emphasized, analyses of substances with species-dependent placental transfer have been performed only sporadically. Here, we present examples for species-specific placental transfer, including that of nanoparticles and pharmaceuticals, and discuss potential underlying mechanisms. With respect to the COVID 19-pandemic it might be of interest that some antiviral drugs are reported to feature species-specific placental transfer. Further, differences in placental structure and antibody transfer may affect placental transfer of ZIKA virus.
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Affiliation(s)
- André Schmidt
- Placenta Lab, Department of Obstetrics, University Hospital Jena, Am Klinikum 1, 07747, Jena, Germany.
| | - Astrid Schmidt
- Placenta Lab, Department of Obstetrics, University Hospital Jena, Am Klinikum 1, 07747, Jena, Germany
| | - Udo R Markert
- Placenta Lab, Department of Obstetrics, University Hospital Jena, Am Klinikum 1, 07747, Jena, Germany
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34
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Costa J, Mackay R, de Aguiar Greca SC, Corti A, Silva E, Karteris E, Ahluwalia A. The Role of the 3Rs for Understanding and Modeling the Human Placenta. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10153444. [PMID: 34362227 PMCID: PMC8347836 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10153444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Revised: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Modeling the physiology of the human placenta is still a challenge, despite the great number of scientific advancements made in the field. Animal models cannot fully replicate the structure and function of the human placenta and pose ethical and financial hurdles. In addition, increasingly stricter animal welfare legislation worldwide is incentivizing the use of 3R (reduction, refinement, replacement) practices. What efforts have been made to develop alternative models for the placenta so far? How effective are they? How can we improve them to make them more predictive of human pathophysiology? To address these questions, this review aims at presenting and discussing the current models used to study phenomena at the placenta level: in vivo, ex vivo, in vitro and in silico. We describe the main achievements and opportunities for improvement of each type of model and critically assess their individual and collective impact on the pursuit of predictive studies of the placenta in line with the 3Rs and European legislation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana Costa
- Centro di Ricerca E.Piaggio, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (J.C.); (A.C.)
| | - Ruth Mackay
- Centre for Genome Engineering and Maintenance, Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Brunel University London, Uxbridge UB8 3PH, UK;
| | | | - Alessandro Corti
- Centro di Ricerca E.Piaggio, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (J.C.); (A.C.)
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Elisabete Silva
- College of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Brunel University London, Uxbridge UB8 3PH, UK; (S.-C.d.A.G.); (E.S.); (E.K.)
| | - Emmanouil Karteris
- College of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Brunel University London, Uxbridge UB8 3PH, UK; (S.-C.d.A.G.); (E.S.); (E.K.)
| | - Arti Ahluwalia
- Centro di Ricerca E.Piaggio, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (J.C.); (A.C.)
- Department of Information Engineering, University of Pisa, 56122 Pisa, Italy
- Interuniversity Centro for the Promotion of 3Rs Principles in Teaching and Research (Centro3R), Italy
- Correspondence:
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Cherubini M, Erickson S, Haase K. Modelling the Human Placental Interface In Vitro-A Review. Micromachines (Basel) 2021; 12:884. [PMID: 34442506 PMCID: PMC8398961 DOI: 10.3390/mi12080884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2021] [Revised: 07/17/2021] [Accepted: 07/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Acting as the primary link between mother and fetus, the placenta is involved in regulating nutrient, oxygen, and waste exchange; thus, healthy placental development is crucial for a successful pregnancy. In line with the increasing demands of the fetus, the placenta evolves throughout pregnancy, making it a particularly difficult organ to study. Research into placental development and dysfunction poses a unique scientific challenge due to ethical constraints and the differences in morphology and function that exist between species. Recently, there have been increased efforts towards generating in vitro models of the human placenta. Advancements in the differentiation of human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs), microfluidics, and bioprinting have each contributed to the development of new models, which can be designed to closely match physiological in vivo conditions. By including relevant placental cell types and control over the microenvironment, these new in vitro models promise to reveal clues to the pathogenesis of placental dysfunction and facilitate drug testing across the maternal-fetal interface. In this minireview, we aim to highlight current in vitro placental models and their applications in the study of disease and discuss future avenues for these in vitro models.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Kristina Haase
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), 08003 Barcelona, Spain; (M.C.); (S.E.)
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36
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Magnani JS, Montazami R, Hashemi NN. Recent Advances in Microfluidically Spun Microfibers for Tissue Engineering and Drug Delivery Applications. Annu Rev Anal Chem (Palo Alto Calif) 2021; 14:185-205. [PMID: 33940929 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-anchem-090420-101138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, the unique and tunable properties of microfluidically spun microfibers have led to tremendous advancements for the field of biomedical engineering, which have been applied to areas such as tissue engineering, wound dressing, and drug delivery, as well as cell encapsulation and cell seeding. In this article, we analyze the most recent advances in microfluidics and microfluidically spun microfibers, with an emphasis on biomedical applications. We explore in detail these new and innovative experiments, how microfibers are made, the experimental purpose of making microfibers, and the future work that can be done as a result of these new types of microfibers. We also focus on the applications of various materials used to fabricate microfibers, as well as their many promises and limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Scott Magnani
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa 50011, USA;
| | - Reza Montazami
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa 50011, USA;
| | - Nicole N Hashemi
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa 50011, USA;
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa 50011, USA
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Wong MK, Li EW, Adam M, Selvaganapathy PR, Raha S. Establishment of an in vitro placental barrier model cultured under physiologically relevant oxygen levels. Mol Hum Reprod 2021; 26:353-365. [PMID: 32159799 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaaa018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2019] [Revised: 02/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The human placental barrier facilitates many key functions during pregnancy, most notably the exchange of all substances between the mother and fetus. However, preclinical models of the placental barrier often lacked the multiple cell layers, syncytialization of the trophoblast cells and the low oxygen levels that are present within the body. Therefore, we aimed to design and develop an in vitro model of the placental barrier that would reinstate these factors and enable improved investigations of barrier function. BeWo placental trophoblastic cells and human umbilical vein endothelial cells were co-cultured on contralateral sides of an extracellular matrix-coated transwell insert to establish a multilayered barrier. Epidermal growth factor and forskolin led to significantly increased multi-nucleation of the BeWo cell layer and increased biochemical markers of syncytial fusion, for example syncytin-1 and hCGβ. Our in vitro placental barrier possessed size-specific permeability, with 4000-Da molecules experiencing greater transport and a lower apparent permeability coefficient than 70 000-Da molecules. We further demonstrated that the BeWo layer had greater resistance to smaller molecules compared to the endothelial layer. Chronic, physiologically low oxygen exposure (3-8%) increased the expression of hypoxia-inducible factor 1α and syncytin-1, further increased multi-nucleation of the BeWo cell layer and decreased barrier permeability only against smaller molecules (457 Da/4000 Da). In conclusion, we built a novel in vitro co-culture model of the placental barrier that possessed size-specific permeability and could function under physiologically low oxygen levels. Importantly, this will enable future researchers to better study the maternal-fetal transport of nutrients and drugs during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael K Wong
- Graduate Program of Medical Science, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.,Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Edward W Li
- Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mohamed Adam
- Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Sandeep Raha
- Graduate Program of Medical Science, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.,Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Pediatrics, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, L8N 3Z5
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38
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Boos JA, Misun PM, Brunoldi G, Furer LA, Aengenheister L, Modena M, Rousset N, Buerki-Thurnherr T, Hierlemann A. Microfluidic Co-Culture Platform to Recapitulate the Maternal-Placental-Embryonic Axis. Adv Biol (Weinh) 2021; 5:e2100609. [PMID: 34145989 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.202100609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Revised: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Safety assessment of the effects of developmental toxicants on pregnant women is challenging, and systemic effects in embryo-maternal interactions are largely unknown. However, most developmental toxicity studies rely on animal trials, while in vitro platforms that recapitulate the maternal-placental-embryonic axis are missing. Here, the development of a dedicated microfluidic device for co-cultivation of a placental barrier and 3D embryoid bodies to enable systemic toxicity testing at the embryo-maternal interface is reported. The microfluidic platform features simple handling and recuperation of both tissue models, which facilitates post-hoc in-depth analysis at the tissue and single-cell level. Gravity-driven flow enables inter-tissue communication through the liquid phase as well as simple and robust operation and renders the platform parallelizable. As a proof of concept and to demonstrate platform use for systemic embryotoxicity testing in vitro, maternal exposure to plastic microparticles is emulated, and microparticle effects on the embryo-placental co-culture are investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia A Boos
- Bioengineering Laboratory, Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zürich, Mattenstrasse 26, Basel, 4058, Switzerland
| | - Patrick M Misun
- Bioengineering Laboratory, Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zürich, Mattenstrasse 26, Basel, 4058, Switzerland
| | - Giulia Brunoldi
- Bioengineering Laboratory, Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zürich, Mattenstrasse 26, Basel, 4058, Switzerland
| | - Lea A Furer
- Particles@Barriers Group, Particles-Biology Interactions, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Lerchenfeldstrasse 5, St. Gallen, 9014, Switzerland
| | - Leonie Aengenheister
- Particles@Barriers Group, Particles-Biology Interactions, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Lerchenfeldstrasse 5, St. Gallen, 9014, Switzerland
| | - Mario Modena
- Bioengineering Laboratory, Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zürich, Mattenstrasse 26, Basel, 4058, Switzerland
| | - Nassim Rousset
- Bioengineering Laboratory, Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zürich, Mattenstrasse 26, Basel, 4058, Switzerland
| | - Tina Buerki-Thurnherr
- Particles@Barriers Group, Particles-Biology Interactions, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Lerchenfeldstrasse 5, St. Gallen, 9014, Switzerland
| | - Andreas Hierlemann
- Bioengineering Laboratory, Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zürich, Mattenstrasse 26, Basel, 4058, Switzerland
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McNamara MC, Aykar SS, Montazami R, Hashemi NN. Targeted Microfluidic Manufacturing to Mimic Biological Microenvironments: Cell-Encapsulated Hollow Fibers. ACS Macro Lett 2021; 10:732-736. [PMID: 35549107 DOI: 10.1021/acsmacrolett.1c00159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
At present, the blood-brain barrier (BBB) poses a challenge for treating a wide range of central nervous system disorders; reliable BBB models are still needed to understand and manipulate the transfer of molecules into the brain, thereby improving the efficiency of treatments. In this study, hollow, cell-laden microfibers are fabricated and investigated as a starting point for generating BBB models. The genetic effects of the manufacturing process are analyzed to understand the implications of encapsulating cells in this manner. These fibers are created using different manufacturing parameters to understand the effects on wall thickness and overall diameter. Then, dopaminergic rat cells are encapsulated into hollow fibers, which maintained at least 60% live cells throughout the three-day observation period. Lastly, genetic changes tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) and tubulin beta 3 class III (TUBB-3) are investigated to elucidate the effects on cell health and behavior; while the TH levels in encapsulated cells were similar to control cells, showing similar levels of TH synthesis, TUBB-3 was downregulated, indicating lower amounts of cellular neurogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marilyn C McNamara
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa 50011, United States
| | - Saurabh S Aykar
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa 50011, United States
| | - Reza Montazami
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa 50011, United States
| | - Nicole N Hashemi
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa 50011, United States
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa 50011, United States
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40
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Young RE, Huh DD. Organ-on-a-chip technology for the study of the female reproductive system. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2021; 173:461-78. [PMID: 33831478 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2021.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Revised: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Over the past decade, organs-on-a-chip and microphysiological systems have emerged as a disruptive in vitro technology for biopharmaceutical applications. By enabling new capabilities to engineer physiological living tissues and organ units in the precisely controlled environment of microfabricated devices, these systems offer great promise to advance the frontiers of basic and translational research in biomedical sciences. Here, we review an emerging body of interdisciplinary work directed towards harnessing the power of organ-on-a-chip technology for reproductive biology and medicine. The focus of this topical review is to provide an overview of recent progress in the development of microengineered female reproductive organ models with relevance to drug delivery and discovery. We introduce the engineering design of these advanced in vitro systems and examine their applications in the study of pregnancy, infertility, and reproductive diseases. We also present two case studies that use organ-on-a-chip design principles to model placental drug transport and hormonally regulated crosstalk between multiple female reproductive organs. Finally, we discuss challenges and opportunities for the advancement of reproductive organ-on-a-chip technology.
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41
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Shankar V, van Blitterswijk C, Vrij E, Giselbrecht S. From Snapshots to Development: Identifying the Gaps in the Development of Stem Cell-based Embryo Models along the Embryonic Timeline. Adv Sci (Weinh) 2021; 8:2004250. [PMID: 33898195 PMCID: PMC8061376 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202004250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Revised: 12/20/2020] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, stem cell-based models that reconstruct mouse and human embryogenesis have gained significant traction due to their near-physiological similarity to natural embryos. Embryo models can be generated in large numbers, provide accessibility to a variety of experimental tools such as genetic and chemical manipulation, and confer compatibility with automated readouts, which permits exciting experimental avenues for exploring the genetic and molecular principles of self-organization, development, and disease. However, the current embryo models recapitulate only snapshots within the continuum of embryonic development, allowing the progression of the embryonic tissues along a specific direction. Hence, to fully exploit the potential of stem cell-based embryo models, multiple important gaps in the developmental landscape need to be covered. These include recapitulating the lesser-explored interactions between embryonic and extraembryonic tissues such as the yolk sac, placenta, and the umbilical cord; spatial and temporal organization of tissues; and the anterior patterning of embryonic development. Here, it is detailed how combinations of stem cells and versatile bioengineering technologies can help in addressing these gaps and thereby extend the implications of embryo models in the fields of cell biology, development, and regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinidhra Shankar
- Maastricht UniversityUniversiteitssingel 40Maastricht6229 ERThe Netherlands
| | | | - Erik Vrij
- Maastricht UniversityUniversiteitssingel 40Maastricht6229 ERThe Netherlands
| | - Stefan Giselbrecht
- Maastricht UniversityUniversiteitssingel 40Maastricht6229 ERThe Netherlands
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Shojaei S, Ali MS, Suresh M, Upreti T, Mogourian V, Helewa M, Labouta HI. Dynamic placenta-on-a-chip model for fetal risk assessment of nanoparticles intended to treat pregnancy-associated diseases. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2021; 1867:166131. [PMID: 33766738 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2021.166131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Revised: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Pregnant women often have to take medication either for pregnancy-related diseases or for previously existing medical conditions. Current maternal medications pose fetal risks due to off target accumulation in the fetus. Nanoparticles, engineered particles in the nanometer scale, have been used for targeted drug delivery to the site of action without off-target effects. This has opened new avenues for treatment of pregnancy-associated diseases while minimizing risks on the fetus. It is therefore instrumental to study the potential transfer of nanoparticles from the mother to the fetus. Due to limitations of in vivo and ex vivo models, an in vitro model mimicking the in vivo situation is essential. Placenta-on-a-chip provides a microphysiological recapitulation of the human placenta. Here, we reviewed the fetal risks associated with current therapeutic approaches during pregnancy, analyzed the advantages and limitations of current models used for nanoparticle assessment, and highlighted the current need for using dynamic placenta-on-a-chip models for assessing the safety of novel nanoparticle-based therapies during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahla Shojaei
- College of Pharmacy, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada.
| | - Moustafa S Ali
- College of Pharmacy, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada; Children's Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada.
| | - Madhumita Suresh
- College of Pharmacy, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada.
| | - Tushar Upreti
- College of Pharmacy, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada.
| | - Victoria Mogourian
- College of Pharmacy, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada.
| | - Michael Helewa
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada.
| | - Hagar I Labouta
- College of Pharmacy, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada; Children's Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada; Biomedical Engineering, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada; Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt.
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Tutar R, Çelebi-Saltik B. Modeling of Artificial 3D Human Placenta. Cells Tissues Organs 2021; 211:527-536. [PMID: 33691312 DOI: 10.1159/000511571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The placenta is the main organ that allows the fertilized oocyte to develop and mature. It allows the fetus to grow in the prenatal period by transferring oxygen and nutrients between the mother and the fetus. It acts as a basic endocrine organ which creates the physiological changes related to pregnancy and birth in the mother. Removal of wastes and carbon dioxide from the fetus is also achieved by the placenta. It prevents the rejection of the fetus and protects the fetus from harmful effects. Research on the human placenta focuses on understanding the placental structure and function to illuminate the complex structure of this important organ with technological advances. The structure and function of the placental barrier have been investigated with in vitro studies in 2D/3D, and various results have been published comparatively. In this review, we introduce the nature of the placenta with its 3D composition which has been called niche. Different cell types and placental structures are presented. We describe the systems and approaches used in the creation of current 3D placenta, placental transfer models as 3D placental barriers, and micro-engineered 3D placenta on-a-chip to explore complicated placental responses to nanoparticle exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rumeysa Tutar
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Engineering, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Betül Çelebi-Saltik
- Department of Stem Cell Sciences, Graduate School of Health Sciences, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey, .,Center for Stem Cell Research and Development, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey,
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Clarke GA, Hartse BX, Niaraki Asli AE, Taghavimehr M, Hashemi N, Abbasi Shirsavar M, Montazami R, Alimoradi N, Nasirian V, Ouedraogo LJ, Hashemi NN. Advancement of Sensor Integrated Organ-on-Chip Devices. Sensors (Basel) 2021; 21:1367. [PMID: 33671996 PMCID: PMC7922590 DOI: 10.3390/s21041367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2021] [Revised: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 02/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Organ-on-chip devices have provided the pharmaceutical and tissue engineering worlds much hope since they arrived and began to grow in sophistication. However, limitations for their applicability were soon realized as they lacked real-time monitoring and sensing capabilities. The users of these devices relied solely on endpoint analysis for the results of their tests, which created a chasm in the understanding of life between the lab the natural world. However, this gap is being bridged with sensors that are integrated into organ-on-chip devices. This review goes in-depth on different sensing methods, giving examples for various research on mechanical, electrical resistance, and bead-based sensors, and the prospects of each. Furthermore, the review covers works conducted that use specific sensors for oxygen, and various metabolites to characterize cellular behavior and response in real-time. Together, the outline of these works gives a thorough analysis of the design methodology and sophistication of the current sensor integrated organ-on-chips.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel A. Clarke
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA; (G.A.C.); (B.X.H.); (A.E.N.A.); (M.T.); (M.A.S.); (R.M.); (N.A.); (V.N.); (L.J.O.)
| | - Brenna X. Hartse
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA; (G.A.C.); (B.X.H.); (A.E.N.A.); (M.T.); (M.A.S.); (R.M.); (N.A.); (V.N.); (L.J.O.)
| | - Amir Ehsan Niaraki Asli
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA; (G.A.C.); (B.X.H.); (A.E.N.A.); (M.T.); (M.A.S.); (R.M.); (N.A.); (V.N.); (L.J.O.)
| | - Mehrnoosh Taghavimehr
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA; (G.A.C.); (B.X.H.); (A.E.N.A.); (M.T.); (M.A.S.); (R.M.); (N.A.); (V.N.); (L.J.O.)
| | - Niloofar Hashemi
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Sharif University of Technology, Tehran 11365, Iran;
| | - Mehran Abbasi Shirsavar
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA; (G.A.C.); (B.X.H.); (A.E.N.A.); (M.T.); (M.A.S.); (R.M.); (N.A.); (V.N.); (L.J.O.)
| | - Reza Montazami
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA; (G.A.C.); (B.X.H.); (A.E.N.A.); (M.T.); (M.A.S.); (R.M.); (N.A.); (V.N.); (L.J.O.)
| | - Nima Alimoradi
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA; (G.A.C.); (B.X.H.); (A.E.N.A.); (M.T.); (M.A.S.); (R.M.); (N.A.); (V.N.); (L.J.O.)
| | - Vahid Nasirian
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA; (G.A.C.); (B.X.H.); (A.E.N.A.); (M.T.); (M.A.S.); (R.M.); (N.A.); (V.N.); (L.J.O.)
| | - Lionel J. Ouedraogo
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA; (G.A.C.); (B.X.H.); (A.E.N.A.); (M.T.); (M.A.S.); (R.M.); (N.A.); (V.N.); (L.J.O.)
| | - Nicole N. Hashemi
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA; (G.A.C.); (B.X.H.); (A.E.N.A.); (M.T.); (M.A.S.); (R.M.); (N.A.); (V.N.); (L.J.O.)
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
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Abstract
Research into the human placenta's complex functioning is complicated by a lack of suitable physiological in vivo models. Two complementary approaches have emerged recently to address these gaps in understanding, computational in silico techniques, including multi-scale modeling of placental blood flow and oxygen transport, and cellular in vitro approaches, including organoids, tissue engineering, and organ-on-a-chip models. Following a brief introduction to the placenta's structure and function and its influence on the substantial clinical problem of preterm birth, these different bioengineering approaches are reviewed. The cellular techniques allow for investigation of early first-trimester implantation and placental development, including critical biological processes such as trophoblast invasion and trophoblast fusion, that are otherwise very difficult to study. Similarly, computational models of the placenta and the pregnant pelvis at later-term gestation allow for investigations relevant to complications that occur when the placenta has fully developed. To fully understand clinical conditions associated with the placenta, including those with roots in early processes but that only manifest clinically at full-term, a holistic approach to the study of this fascinating, temporary but critical organ is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mackenzie L Wheeler
- Department of Engineering, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, 27834, USA
| | - Michelle L Oyen
- Department of Engineering, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, 27834, USA.
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Abstract
Maternal infection (i.e., ascending infection) and the resulting host inflammatory response are risk factors associated with spontaneous preterm birth (PTB), a major pregnancy complication. However, the path of infection and its propagation from the maternal side to the fetal side have been difficult to study due to the lack of appropriate in vitro models and limitations of animal models. A better understanding of the propagation kinetics of infectious agents and development of the host inflammatory response at the feto-maternal (amniochorion-decidua, respectively) interface (FMi) is critical in curtailing host inflammatory responses that can lead to PTB. To model ascending infection and determine inflammatory responses at the FMi, we developed a microfluidic organ-on-chip (OOC) device containing primary cells from the FMi (decidua, chorion, and amnion [mesenchyme and epithelium]) and collagen matrix harvested from primary tissue. The FMi-OOC is composed of four concentric circular cell/collagen chambers designed to mimic the thickness and cell density of the FMi in vivo. Each layer is connected by arrays of microchannels filled with type IV collagen to recreate the basement membrane of the amniochorion. Cellular characteristics (viability, morphology, production of nascent collagen, cellular transitions, and migration) in the OOC were similar to those seen in utero, validating the physiological relevance and utility of the developed FMi-OOC. The ascending infection model of the FMi-OOC, triggered by exposing the maternal (decidua) side of the OOC to lipopolysaccharide (LPS, 100 ng mL-1), shows that LPS propagated through the chorion, amnion mesenchyme, and reached the fetal amnion within 72 h. LPS induced time-dependent and cell-type-specific pro-inflammatory cytokine production (24 h decidua: IL-6, 48 h chorion: GM-CSF and IL-6, and 72 h amnion mesenchyme and epithelium: GM-CSF and IL-6). Collectively, this OOC model and study successfully modeled ascending infection, its propagation, and distinct inflammatory response at the FMi indicative of pathologic pathways of PTB. This OOC model provides a novel platform to study physiological and pathological cell status at the FMi, and is expected to have broad utility in the field of obstetrics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Richardson
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine & Perinatal Research, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, 301 University Blvd., Galveston, TX 77555-1062, USA
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Sungjin Kim
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Arum Han
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Ramkumar Menon
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine & Perinatal Research, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, 301 University Blvd., Galveston, TX 77555-1062, USA
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Mosavati B, Oleinikov AV, Du E. Development of an Organ-on-a-Chip-Device for Study of Placental Pathologies. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E8755. [PMID: 33228194 PMCID: PMC7699553 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21228755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Revised: 11/01/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The human placenta plays a key role in reproduction and serves as a major interface for maternofetal exchange of nutrients. Study of human placenta pathology presents a great experimental challenge because it is not easily accessible. In this paper, a 3D placenta-on-a-chip model is developed by bioengineering techniques to simulate the placental interface between maternal and fetal blood in vitro. In this model, trophoblasts cells and human umbilical vein endothelial cells are cultured on the opposite sides of a porous polycarbonate membrane, which is sandwiched between two microfluidic channels. Glucose diffusion across this barrier is analyzed under shear flow conditions. Meanwhile, a numerical model of the 3D placenta-on-a-chip model is developed. Numerical results of concentration distributions and the convection-diffusion mass transport is compared to the results obtained from the experiments for validation. Finally, effects of flow rate and membrane porosity on glucose diffusion across the placental barrier are studied using the validated numerical model. The placental model developed here provides a potentially helpful tool to study a variety of other processes at the maternal-fetal interface, for example, effects of drugs or infections like malaria on transport of various substances across the placental barrier.
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Affiliation(s)
- Babak Mosavati
- Department of Ocean and Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering and Computer Science, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL 33431, USA;
| | - Andrew V. Oleinikov
- Department of Biomedical Science, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL 33431, USA;
| | - E. Du
- Department of Ocean and Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering and Computer Science, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL 33431, USA;
- Department of Biological Sciences, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL 33431, USA
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Parker EL, Silverstein RB, Verma S, Mysorekar IU. Viral-Immune Cell Interactions at the Maternal-Fetal Interface in Human Pregnancy. Front Immunol 2020; 11:522047. [PMID: 33117336 PMCID: PMC7576479 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.522047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The human decidua and placenta form a distinct environment distinguished for its promotion of immunotolerance to infiltrating semiallogeneic trophoblast cells to enable successful pregnancy. The maternal-fetal interface also successfully precludes transmission of most pathogens. This barrier function occurs in conjunction with a diverse influx of decidual immune cells including natural killer cells, macrophages and T cells. However, several viruses, among other microorganisms, manage to escape destruction by the host adaptive and innate immune system, leading to congenital infection and adverse pregnancy outcomes. In this review, we describe mechanisms of pathogenicity of two such viral pathogens, Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) and Zika virus (ZIKV) at the maternal-fetal interface. Host decidual immune cell responses to these specific pathogens will be considered, along with their interactions with other cell types and the ways in which these immune cells may both facilitate and limit infection at different stages of pregnancy. Neither HCMV nor ZIKV naturally infect commonly used animal models [e.g., mice] which makes it challenging to understand disease pathogenesis. Here, we will highlight new approaches using placenta-on-a-chip and organoids models that are providing functional and physiologically relevant ways to study viral-host interaction at the maternal-fetal interface.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elaine L. Parker
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Rachel B. Silverstein
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Sonam Verma
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Indira U. Mysorekar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
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Vargas Medina DA, Maciel EVS, Lanças FM. Miniaturization of liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry. 3. Achievements on chip-based LC–MS devices. Trends Analyt Chem 2020; 131:116003. [DOI: 10.1016/j.trac.2020.116003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Abstract
The placenta and fetal membrane act as a protective barrier throughout pregnancy while maintaining communication and nutrient exchange between the baby and the mother. Disruption of this barrier leads to various pregnancy complications, including preterm birth, which can have lasting negative consequences. Thus, understanding the role of the feto-maternal interface during pregnancy and parturition is vital to advancing basic and clinical research in the field of obstetrics. However, human subject studies are inherently difficult, and appropriate animal models are lacking. Due to these challenges, in vitro cell culture-based studies are most commonly utilized. However, the structure and functions of conventionally used in vitro 2D and 3D models are vastly different from the in vivo environment, making it difficult to fully understand the various factors affecting pregnancy as well as pathways and mechanisms contributing to term and preterm births. This limitation also makes it difficult to develop new therapeutics. The emergence of in vivo-like in vitro models such as organ-on-chip (OOC) platforms can better recapitulate in vivo functions and responses and has the potential to move this field forward significantly. OOC technology brings together two distinct fields, microfluidic engineering and cell/tissue biology, through which diverse human organ structures and functionalities can be built into a laboratory model that better mimics functions and responses of in vivo tissues and organs. In this review, we first provide an overview of the OOC technology, highlight two major designs commonly used in achieving multi-layer co-cultivation of cells, and introduce recently developed OOC models of the feto-maternal interface. As a vital component of this review, we aim to outline progress on the practicality and effectiveness of feto-maternal interface OOC (FM-OOC) models currently used and the advances they have fostered in obstetrics research. Lastly, we provide a perspective on the future basic research and clinical applications of FM-OOC models, and even those that integrate multiple organ systems into a single OOC system that may recreate intrauterine architecture in its entirety, which will accelerate our understanding of feto-maternal communication, induction of preterm labor, drug or toxicant permeability at this vital interface, and development of new therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Richardson
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Perinatal Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States.,Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, College of Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
| | - Sungjin Kim
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, College of Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
| | - Ramkumar Menon
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Perinatal Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Arum Han
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, College of Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
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