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Gottwald E, Grün C, Nies C, Liebsch G. Physiological oxygen measurements in vitro-Schrödinger's cat in 3D cell biology. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1218957. [PMID: 37885450 PMCID: PMC10598749 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1218957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
After the development of 3D cell culture methods in the middle of the last century and the plethora of data generated with this culture configuration up to date, it could be shown that a three-dimensional arrangement of cells in most of the cases leads to a more physiological behavior of the generated tissue. However, a major determinant for an organotypic function, namely, the dissolved oxygen concentration in the used in vitro-system, has been neglected in most of the studies. This is due to the fact that the oxygen measurement in the beginning was simply not feasible and, if so, disturbed the measurement and/or the in vitro-system itself. This is especially true for the meanwhile more widespread use of 3D culture systems. Therefore, the tissues analyzed by these techniques can be considered as the Schrödinger's cat in 3D cell biology. In this perspective paper we will outline how the measurement and, moreover, the regulation of the dissolved oxygen concentration in vitro-3D culture systems could be established at all and how it may be possible to determine the oxygen concentration in organoid cultures and the respiratory capacity via mito stress tests, especially in spheroids in the size range of a few hundred micrometers, under physiological culture conditions, without disturbances or stress induction in the system and in a high-throughput fashion. By this, such systems will help to more efficiently translate tissue engineering approaches into new in vitro-platforms for fundamental and applied research as well as preclinical safety testing and clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Gottwald
- Institute of Functional Interfaces, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - Christoph Grün
- Institute of Functional Interfaces, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - Cordula Nies
- Institute of Functional Interfaces, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Karlsruhe, Germany
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2
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Achenbach P, Hillerbrand L, Gerardo-Nava JL, Dievernich A, Hodde D, Sechi AS, Dalton PD, Pich A, Weis J, Altinova H, Brook GA. Function Follows Form: Oriented Substrate Nanotopography Overrides Neurite-Repulsive Schwann Cell-Astrocyte Barrier Formation in an In Vitro Model of Glial Scarring. NANO LETTERS 2023; 23:6337-6346. [PMID: 37459449 DOI: 10.1021/acs.nanolett.3c00873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/27/2023]
Abstract
Schwann cell (SC) transplantation represents a promising therapeutic approach for traumatic spinal cord injury but is frustrated by barrier formation, preventing cell migration, and axonal regeneration at the interface between grafted SCs and reactive resident astrocytes (ACs). Although regenerating axons successfully extend into SC grafts, only a few cross the SC-AC interface to re-enter lesioned neuropil. To date, research has focused on identifying and modifying the molecular mechanisms underlying such scarring cell-cell interactions, while the influence of substrate topography remains largely unexplored. Using a recently modified cell confrontation assay to model SC-AC barrier formation in vitro, highly oriented poly(ε-caprolactone) nanofibers were observed to reduce AC reactivity, induce extensive oriented intermingling between SCs and ACs, and ultimately enable substantial neurite outgrowth from the SC compartment into the AC territory. It is anticipated that these findings will have important implications for the future design of biomaterial-based scaffolds for nervous tissue repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pascal Achenbach
- Department of Neurology, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, 52074 Aachen, Germany
- Institute of Neuropathology, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Laura Hillerbrand
- Department of Functional Materials in Medicine and Dentistry, University Hospital Würzburg, 97070 Würzburg, Germany
| | - José L Gerardo-Nava
- DWI - Leibniz Institute for Interactive Materials, 52074 Aachen, Germany
- Advanced Materials for Biomedicine (AMB), Institute of Applied Medical Engineering (AME), RWTH Aachen University Hospital, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Axel Dievernich
- FEG Textiltechnik Forschungs- und Entwicklungsgesellschaft mbH, 52070 Aachen, Germany
| | - Dorothee Hodde
- Institute of Neuropathology, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, 52074 Aachen, Germany
- University Hospital, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Antonio S Sechi
- Department of Cell and Tumor Biology, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Paul D Dalton
- Phil and Penny Knight Campus for Accelerating Scientific Impact, University of Oregon, Eugene, Oregon 97403, United States
| | - Andrij Pich
- DWI - Leibniz Institute for Interactive Materials, 52074 Aachen, Germany
- Institute of Technical and Macromolecular Chemistry, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Joachim Weis
- Institute of Neuropathology, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Haktan Altinova
- Institute of Neuropathology, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, 52074 Aachen, Germany
- Department of Neurosurgery, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Gary A Brook
- Institute of Neuropathology, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, 52074 Aachen, Germany
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3
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Millet LJ, Jain A, Gillette MU. Less Is More: Oligomer Extraction and Hydrothermal Annealing Increase PDMS Adhesion Forces for Materials Studies and for Biology-Focused Microfluidic Applications. MICROMACHINES 2023; 14:214. [PMID: 36677275 PMCID: PMC9866318 DOI: 10.3390/mi14010214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Cues in the micro-environment are key determinants in the emergence of complex cellular morphologies and functions. Primary among these is the presence of neighboring cells that form networks. For high-resolution analysis, it is crucial to develop micro-environments that permit exquisite control of network formation. This is especially true in cell science, tissue engineering, and clinical biology. We introduce a new approach for assembling polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)-based microfluidic environments that enhances cell network formation and analyses. We report that the combined processes of PDMS solvent-extraction and hydrothermal annealing create unique conditions that produce high-strength bonds between solvent-extracted PDMS (E-PDMS) and glass-properties not associated with conventional PDMS. Extraction followed by hydrothermal annealing removes unbound oligomers, promotes polymer cross-linking, facilitates covalent bond formation with glass, and retains the highest biocompatibility. Herein, our extraction protocol accelerates oligomer removal from 5 to 2 days. Resulting microfluidic platforms are uniquely suited for cell-network studies owing to high adhesion forces, effectively corralling cellular extensions and eliminating harmful oligomers. We demonstrate the simple, simultaneous actuation of multiple microfluidic domains for invoking ATP- and glutamate-induced Ca2+ signaling in glial-cell networks. These E-PDMS modifications and flow manipulations further enable microfluidic technologies for cell-signaling and network studies as well as novel applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larry J. Millet
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
- The Micro and Nanotechnology Laboratory, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
- Biosciences Division, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, One Bethel Valley Road, Oak Ridge, TN 37831, USA
- The Center for Environmental Biotechnology, University of Tennessee Knoxville, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Anika Jain
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
- The Micro and Nanotechnology Laboratory, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Martha U. Gillette
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
- The Micro and Nanotechnology Laboratory, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
- Neuroscience Program, Beckman Institute for Advanced Science & Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
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4
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Nanotopography and Microconfinement Impact on Primary Hippocampal Astrocyte Morphology, Cytoskeleton and Spontaneous Calcium Wave Signalling. Cells 2023; 12:cells12020293. [PMID: 36672231 PMCID: PMC9856934 DOI: 10.3390/cells12020293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes' organisation affects the functioning and the fine morphology of the brain, both in physiological and pathological contexts. Although many aspects of their role have been characterised, their complex functions remain, to a certain extent, unclear with respect to their contribution to brain cell communication. Here, we studied the effects of nanotopography and microconfinement on primary hippocampal rat astrocytes. For this purpose, we fabricated nanostructured zirconia surfaces as homogenous substrates and as micrometric patterns, the latter produced by a combination of an additive nanofabrication and micropatterning technique. These engineered substrates reproduce both nanotopographical features and microscale geometries that astrocytes encounter in their natural environment, such as basement membrane topography, as well as blood vessels and axonal fibre topology. The impact of restrictive adhesion manifests in the modulation of several cellular properties of single cells (morphological and actin cytoskeletal changes) and the network organisation and functioning. Calcium wave signalling was observed only in astrocytes grown in confined geometries, with an activity enhancement in cells forming elongated agglomerates with dimensions typical of blood vessels or axon fibres. Our results suggest that calcium oscillation and wave propagation are closely related to astrocytic morphology and actin cytoskeleton organisation.
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5
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Effect of 3D Synthetic Microscaffold Nichoid on the Morphology of Cultured Hippocampal Neurons and Astrocytes. Cells 2022; 11:cells11132008. [PMID: 35805092 PMCID: PMC9265925 DOI: 10.3390/cells11132008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Revised: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
The human brain is the most complex organ in biology. This complexity is due to the number and the intricate connections of brain cells and has so far limited the development of in vitro models for basic and applied brain research. We decided to create a new, reliable, and cost-effective in vitro system based on the Nichoid, a 3D microscaffold microfabricated by two-photon laser polymerization technology. We investigated whether these 3D microscaffold devices can create an environment allowing the manipulation, monitoring, and functional assessment of a mixed population of brain cells in vitro. With this aim, we set up a new model of hippocampal neurons and astrocytes co-cultured in the Nichoid microscaffold to generate brain micro-tissues of 30 μm thickness. After 21 days in culture, we morphologically characterized the 3D spatial organization of the hippocampal astrocytes and neurons within the microscaffold, and we compared our observations to those made using the classical 2D co-culture system. We found that the co-cultured cells colonized the entire volume of the 3D devices. Using confocal microscopy, we observed that within this period the different cell types had become well-differentiated. This was further elaborated with the use of drebrin, PSD-95, and synaptophysin antibodies that labeled the majority of neurons, both in the 2D as well as in the 3D co-cultures. Using scanning electron microscopy, we found that neurons in the 3D co-culture displayed a significantly larger amount of dendritic protrusions compared to neurons in the 2D co-culture. This latter observation indicates that neurons growing in a 3D environment may be more prone to form connections than those co-cultured in a 2D condition. Our results show that the Nichoid can be used as a 3D device to investigate the structure and morphology of neurons and astrocytes in vitro. In the future, this model can be used as a tool to study brain cell interactions in the discovery of important mechanisms governing neuronal plasticity and to determine the factors that form the basis of different human brain diseases. This system may potentially be further used for drug screening in the context of various brain diseases.
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6
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Lazic A, Balint V, Stanisavljevic Ninkovic D, Peric M, Stevanovic M. Reactive and Senescent Astroglial Phenotypes as Hallmarks of Brain Pathologies. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23094995. [PMID: 35563385 PMCID: PMC9100382 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23094995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 04/23/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes, as the most abundant glial cells in the central nervous system, are tightly integrated into neural networks and participate in numerous aspects of brain physiology and pathology. They are the main homeostatic cells in the central nervous system, and the loss of astrocyte physiological functions and/or gain of pro-inflammatory functions, due to their reactivation or cellular senescence, can have profound impacts on the surrounding microenvironment with pathological outcomes. Although the importance of astrocytes is generally recognized, and both senescence and reactive astrogliosis have been extensively reviewed independently, there are only a few comparative overviews of these complex processes. In this review, we summarize the latest data regarding astrocyte reactivation and senescence, and outline similarities and differences between these phenotypes from morphological, functional, and molecular points of view. A special focus has been given to neurodegenerative diseases, where these phenotypic alternations of astrocytes are significantly implicated. We also summarize current perspectives regarding new advances in model systems based on astrocytes as well as data pointing to these glial cells as potential therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrijana Lazic
- Laboratory for Human Molecular Genetics, Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Vojvode Stepe 444a, 11042 Belgrade, Serbia; (V.B.); (D.S.N.); (M.P.); (M.S.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Vanda Balint
- Laboratory for Human Molecular Genetics, Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Vojvode Stepe 444a, 11042 Belgrade, Serbia; (V.B.); (D.S.N.); (M.P.); (M.S.)
| | - Danijela Stanisavljevic Ninkovic
- Laboratory for Human Molecular Genetics, Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Vojvode Stepe 444a, 11042 Belgrade, Serbia; (V.B.); (D.S.N.); (M.P.); (M.S.)
| | - Mina Peric
- Laboratory for Human Molecular Genetics, Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Vojvode Stepe 444a, 11042 Belgrade, Serbia; (V.B.); (D.S.N.); (M.P.); (M.S.)
| | - Milena Stevanovic
- Laboratory for Human Molecular Genetics, Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Vojvode Stepe 444a, 11042 Belgrade, Serbia; (V.B.); (D.S.N.); (M.P.); (M.S.)
- Faculty of Biology, University of Belgrade, Studentski trg 16, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
- Serbian Academy of Sciences and Arts, Kneza Mihaila 35, 11001 Belgrade, Serbia
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7
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Neurons Induce Tiled Astrocytes with Branches That Avoid Each Other. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23084161. [PMID: 35456979 PMCID: PMC9028504 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23084161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2022] [Revised: 04/02/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurons induce astrocyte branches that approach synapses. Each astrocyte tiles by expanding branches in an exclusive territory, with limited entries for the neighboring astrocyte branches. However, how astrocytes form exclusive territories is not known. For example, the extensive branching of astrocytes may sterically interfere with the penetration of other astrocyte branches. Alternatively, astrocyte branches may actively avoid each other or remove overlapped branches to establish a territory. Here, we show time-lapse imaging of the multi-order branching process of GFP-labeled astrocytes. Astrocyte branches grow in the direction where other astrocyte branches do not exist. Neurons that had just started to grow dendrites were able to induce astrocyte branching and tiling. Upon neuronal loss by glutamate excitotoxicity, astrocytes’ terminal processes retracted and more branches went over other branches. Our results indicate that neurons induce astrocyte branches and make them avoid each other.
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8
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Caleffi JT, Aal MCE, Gallindo HDOM, Caxali GH, Crulhas BP, Ribeiro AO, Souza GR, Delella FK. Magnetic 3D cell culture: State of the art and current advances. Life Sci 2021; 286:120028. [PMID: 34627776 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.120028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Revised: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Cell culture is an important tool for the understanding of cell biology and behavior. In vitro cultivation has been increasingly indispensable for biomedical, pharmaceutical, and biotechnology research. Nevertheless, with the demand for in vitro experimentation strategies more representative of in vivo conditions, tridimensional (3D) cell culture models have been successfully developed. Although these 3D models are efficient and address critical questions from different research areas, there are considerable differences between the existing techniques regarding both elaboration and cost. In light of this, this review describes the construction of 3D spheroids using magnetization while bringing the most recent updates in this field. Magnetic 3D cell culture consists of magnetizing cells using an assembly of gold and iron oxide nanoparticles cross-linked with poly-l-lysine nanoparticles. Then, 3D culture formation in special plates with the assistance of magnets for levitation or bioprinting. Here, we discuss magnetic 3D cell culture advancements, including tumor microenvironment, tissue reconstruction, blood vessel engineering, toxicology, cytotoxicity, and 3D culture of cardiomyocytes, bronchial and pancreatic cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana Trindade Caleffi
- São Paulo State University (UNESP), Institute of Biosciences, Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mirian Carolini Esgoti Aal
- São Paulo State University (UNESP), Institute of Biosciences, Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Gabriel Henrique Caxali
- São Paulo State University (UNESP), Institute of Biosciences, Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Amanda Oliveira Ribeiro
- São Paulo State University (UNESP), Institute of Biosciences, Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Glauco R Souza
- University of Texas Health Sciences Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Flávia Karina Delella
- São Paulo State University (UNESP), Institute of Biosciences, Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil.
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9
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Pirnat S, Božić M, Dolanc D, Horvat A, Tavčar P, Vardjan N, Verkhratsky A, Zorec R, Stenovec M. Astrocyte arborization enhances Ca 2+ but not cAMP signaling plasticity. Glia 2021; 69:2899-2916. [PMID: 34406698 PMCID: PMC9290837 DOI: 10.1002/glia.24076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Revised: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The plasticity of astrocytes is fundamental for their principal function, maintaining homeostasis of the central nervous system throughout life, and is associated with diverse exposomal challenges. Here, we used cultured astrocytes to investigate at subcellular level basic cell processes under controlled environmental conditions. We compared astroglial functional and signaling plasticity in standard serum‐containing growth medium, a condition mimicking pathologic conditions, and in medium without serum, favoring the acquisition of arborized morphology. Using opto−/electrophysiologic techniques, we examined cell viability, expression of astroglial markers, vesicle dynamics, and cytosolic Ca2+ and cAMP signaling. The results revealed altered vesicle dynamics in arborized astrocytes that was associated with increased resting [Ca2+]i and increased subcellular heterogeneity in [Ca2+]i, whereas [cAMP]i subcellular dynamics remained stable in both cultures, indicating that cAMP signaling is less prone to plastic remodeling than Ca2+ signaling, possibly also in in vivo contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samo Pirnat
- Laboratory of Cell Engineering, Celica BIOMEDICAL, Ljubljana, Slovenia.,Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology-Molecular Cell Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Pathophysiology, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Mićo Božić
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology-Molecular Cell Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Pathophysiology, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Dorian Dolanc
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology-Molecular Cell Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Pathophysiology, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Anemari Horvat
- Laboratory of Cell Engineering, Celica BIOMEDICAL, Ljubljana, Slovenia.,Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology-Molecular Cell Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Pathophysiology, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Petra Tavčar
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology-Molecular Cell Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Pathophysiology, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Nina Vardjan
- Laboratory of Cell Engineering, Celica BIOMEDICAL, Ljubljana, Slovenia.,Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology-Molecular Cell Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Pathophysiology, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Alexei Verkhratsky
- Laboratory of Cell Engineering, Celica BIOMEDICAL, Ljubljana, Slovenia.,Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.,Achucarro Center for Neuroscience, IKERBASQUE, Bilbao, Spain
| | - Robert Zorec
- Laboratory of Cell Engineering, Celica BIOMEDICAL, Ljubljana, Slovenia.,Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology-Molecular Cell Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Pathophysiology, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Matjaž Stenovec
- Laboratory of Cell Engineering, Celica BIOMEDICAL, Ljubljana, Slovenia.,Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology-Molecular Cell Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Pathophysiology, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
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10
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Yoon JK, Kim J, Shah Z, Awasthi A, Mahajan A, Kim Y. Advanced Human BBB-on-a-Chip: A New Platform for Alzheimer's Disease Studies. Adv Healthc Mater 2021; 10:e2002285. [PMID: 34075728 PMCID: PMC8349886 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202002285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Revised: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a unique vascular structure that serves as a molecular transport gateway for the maintenance of brain homeostasis. Chronic disruption or breakdown of the BBB reportedly leads to neurodegenerative diseases. Nonetheless, research on human BBB pathophysiology and drug development remains highly dependent on studies using inherently different animals. Moreover, more studies have shown that animal models are not appropriate in modeling Alzheimer's disease (AD), underlining the importance of in vitro models of the human BBB with physiological relevance. In this review, recent advances in human BBB-on-a-chip technologies are highlighted and their potential for pathogenesis studies and drug prescreening for AD treatment are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeong-Kee Yoon
- George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA
| | - Jaehoon Kim
- Mepsgen Co. Ltd., Seoul, 05836, Republic of Korea
| | - Zachary Shah
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA
| | - Ashi Awasthi
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA
| | - Advay Mahajan
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA
| | - YongTae Kim
- George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA
- Mepsgen Co. Ltd., Seoul, 05836, Republic of Korea
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA
- Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA
- Institute for Electronics and Nanotechnology, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA
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11
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Oyefeso FA, Muotri AR, Wilson CG, Pecaut MJ. Brain organoids: A promising model to assess oxidative stress-induced central nervous system damage. Dev Neurobiol 2021; 81:653-670. [PMID: 33942547 DOI: 10.1002/dneu.22828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Revised: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Oxidative stress (OS) is one of the most significant propagators of systemic damage with implications for widespread pathologies such as vascular disease, accelerated aging, degenerative disease, inflammation, and traumatic injury. OS can be induced by numerous factors such as environmental conditions, lifestyle choices, disease states, and genetic susceptibility. It is tied to the accumulation of free radicals, mitochondrial dysfunction, and insufficient antioxidant protection, which leads to cell aging and tissue degeneration over time. Unregulated systemic increase in reactive species, which contain harmful free radicals, can lead to diverse tissue-specific OS responses and disease. Studies of OS in the brain, for example, have demonstrated how this state contributes to neurodegeneration and altered neural plasticity. As the worldwide life expectancy has increased over the last few decades, the prevalence of OS-related diseases resulting from age-associated progressive tissue degeneration. Unfortunately, vital translational research studies designed to identify and target disease biomarkers in human patients have been impeded by many factors (e.g., limited access to human brain tissue for research purposes and poor translation of experimental models). In recent years, stem cell-derived three-dimensional tissue cultures known as "brain organoids" have taken the spotlight as a novel model for studying central nervous system (CNS) diseases. In this review, we discuss the potential of brain organoids to model the responses of human neural cells to OS, noting current and prospective limitations. Overall, brain organoids show promise as an innovative translational model to study CNS susceptibility to OS and elucidate the pathophysiology of the aging brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Foluwasomi A Oyefeso
- Department of Biomedical Engineering Sciences, School of Medicine, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, USA
| | - Alysson R Muotri
- Department of Pediatrics/Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Christopher G Wilson
- Lawrence D. Longo, MD, Center for Perinatal Biology, School of Medicine, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, USA
| | - Michael J Pecaut
- Department of Biomedical Engineering Sciences, School of Medicine, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, USA
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12
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Maiolo L, Guarino V, Saracino E, Convertino A, Melucci M, Muccini M, Ambrosio L, Zamboni R, Benfenati V. Glial Interfaces: Advanced Materials and Devices to Uncover the Role of Astroglial Cells in Brain Function and Dysfunction. Adv Healthc Mater 2021; 10:e2001268. [PMID: 33103375 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202001268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2020] [Revised: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Research over the past four decades has highlighted the importance of certain brain cells, called glial cells, and has moved the neurocentric vision of structure, function, and pathology of the nervous system toward a more holistic perspective. In this view, the demand for technologies that are able to target and both selectively monitor and control glial cells is emerging as a challenge across neuroscience, engineering, chemistry, and material science. Frequently neglected or marginally considered as a barrier to be overcome between neural implants and neuronal targets, glial cells, and in particular astrocytes, are increasingly considered as active players in determining the outcomes of device implantation. This review provides a concise overview not only of the previously established but also of the emerging physiological and pathological roles of astrocytes. It also critically discusses the most recent advances in biomaterial interfaces and devices that interact with glial cells and thus have enabled scientists to reach unprecedented insights into the role of astroglial cells in brain function and dysfunction. This work proposes glial interfaces and glial engineering as multidisciplinary fields that have the potential to enable significant advancement of knowledge surrounding cognitive function and acute and chronic neuropathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Maiolo
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche Istituto per la Microelettronica e i Microsistemi Via del Fosso del Cavaliere n.100 Roma 00133 Italy
| | - Vincenzo Guarino
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche Istituto per i Polimeri Compositi e Biomateriali Viale J.F. Kennedy 54, Mostra d'Oltremare, Pad 20 Napoli 80125 Italy
| | - Emanuela Saracino
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche Istituto per la Sintesi Organica e la Fotoreattività via P. Gobetti 101 Bologna 40129 Italy
| | - Annalisa Convertino
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche Istituto per la Microelettronica e i Microsistemi Via del Fosso del Cavaliere n.100 Roma 00133 Italy
| | - Manuela Melucci
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche Istituto per la Sintesi Organica e la Fotoreattività via P. Gobetti 101 Bologna 40129 Italy
| | - Michele Muccini
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche Istituto per la Studio dei Materiali Nanostrutturati via P. Gobetti 101 Bologna 40129 Italy
| | - Luigi Ambrosio
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche Istituto per i Polimeri Compositi e Biomateriali Viale J.F. Kennedy 54, Mostra d'Oltremare, Pad 20 Napoli 80125 Italy
| | - Roberto Zamboni
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche Istituto per la Sintesi Organica e la Fotoreattività via P. Gobetti 101 Bologna 40129 Italy
| | - Valentina Benfenati
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche Istituto per la Sintesi Organica e la Fotoreattività via P. Gobetti 101 Bologna 40129 Italy
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13
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Puhl DL, Funnell JL, Nelson DW, Gottipati MK, Gilbert RJ. Electrospun Fiber Scaffolds for Engineering Glial Cell Behavior to Promote Neural Regeneration. Bioengineering (Basel) 2020; 8:4. [PMID: 33383759 PMCID: PMC7823609 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering8010004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Revised: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Electrospinning is a fabrication technique used to produce nano- or micro- diameter fibers to generate biocompatible, biodegradable scaffolds for tissue engineering applications. Electrospun fiber scaffolds are advantageous for neural regeneration because they mimic the structure of the nervous system extracellular matrix and provide contact guidance for regenerating axons. Glia are non-neuronal regulatory cells that maintain homeostasis in the healthy nervous system and regulate regeneration in the injured nervous system. Electrospun fiber scaffolds offer a wide range of characteristics, such as fiber alignment, diameter, surface nanotopography, and surface chemistry that can be engineered to achieve a desired glial cell response to injury. Further, electrospun fibers can be loaded with drugs, nucleic acids, or proteins to provide the local, sustained release of such therapeutics to alter glial cell phenotype to better support regeneration. This review provides the first comprehensive overview of how electrospun fiber alignment, diameter, surface nanotopography, surface functionalization, and therapeutic delivery affect Schwann cells in the peripheral nervous system and astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and microglia in the central nervous system both in vitro and in vivo. The information presented can be used to design and optimize electrospun fiber scaffolds to target glial cell response to mitigate nervous system injury and improve regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devan L. Puhl
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 8th Street, Troy, NY 12180, USA; (D.L.P.); (J.L.F.); (D.W.N.); (M.K.G.)
- Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 8th Street, Troy, NY 12180, USA
| | - Jessica L. Funnell
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 8th Street, Troy, NY 12180, USA; (D.L.P.); (J.L.F.); (D.W.N.); (M.K.G.)
- Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 8th Street, Troy, NY 12180, USA
| | - Derek W. Nelson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 8th Street, Troy, NY 12180, USA; (D.L.P.); (J.L.F.); (D.W.N.); (M.K.G.)
- Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 8th Street, Troy, NY 12180, USA
| | - Manoj K. Gottipati
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 8th Street, Troy, NY 12180, USA; (D.L.P.); (J.L.F.); (D.W.N.); (M.K.G.)
- Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 8th Street, Troy, NY 12180, USA
- Center for Brain and Spinal Cord Repair, Department of Neuroscience, The Ohio State University, 460 W. 12th Avenue, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Ryan J. Gilbert
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 8th Street, Troy, NY 12180, USA; (D.L.P.); (J.L.F.); (D.W.N.); (M.K.G.)
- Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 8th Street, Troy, NY 12180, USA
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14
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Franklin H, Clarke BE, Patani R. Astrocytes and microglia in neurodegenerative diseases: Lessons from human in vitro models. Prog Neurobiol 2020; 200:101973. [PMID: 33309801 PMCID: PMC8052192 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2020.101973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Revised: 11/06/2020] [Accepted: 12/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Astrocytes and microglia key fulfil homeostatic and immune functions in the CNS. Dysfunction of these cell types is implicated in neurodegenerative diseases. Understanding cellular autonomy and early pathogenic changes is a key goal. New human iPSC models will inform on disease mechanisms and therapy development.
Both astrocytes and microglia fulfil homeostatic and immune functions in the healthy CNS. Dysfunction of these cell types have been implicated in the pathomechanisms of several neurodegenerative diseases. Understanding the cellular autonomy and early pathological changes in these cell types may inform drug screening and therapy development. While animal models and post-mortem tissue have been invaluable in understanding disease processes, the advent of human in vitro models provides a unique insight into disease biology as a manipulable model system obtained directly from patients. Here, we discuss the different human in vitro models of astrocytes and microglia and outline the phenotypes that have been recapitulated in these systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Franklin
- The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London, NW1 1AT, UK; Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, UK
| | - Benjamin E Clarke
- The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London, NW1 1AT, UK; Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, UK
| | - Rickie Patani
- The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London, NW1 1AT, UK; Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, UK.
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15
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Balouch B, Funnell JL, Ziemba AM, Puhl DL, Lin K, Gottipati MK, Gilbert RJ. Conventional immunomarkers stain a fraction of astrocytes in vitro: A comparison of rat cortical and spinal cord astrocytes in naïve and stimulated cultures. J Neurosci Res 2020; 99:806-826. [PMID: 33295039 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.24759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 11/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Astrocytes are responsible for a wide variety of essential functions throughout the central nervous system. The protein markers glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), glutamate aspartate transporter (GLAST), glutamate transporter-1 (GLT-1), glutamine synthetase (GS), 10-formyltetrahydrofolate dehydrogenase (ALDH1L1), and the transcription factor SOX9 are routinely used to label astrocytes in primary rodent cultures. However, GLAST, GLT-1, GS, and SOX9 are also produced by microglia and oligodendrocytes and GFAP, GLAST, GLT-1, and GS production levels are affected by astrocyte phenotypic changes associated with reactive astrogliosis. No group has performed a comprehensive immunocytochemical evaluation to quantify the percentage of cells labeled by these markers in vitro, nor compared changes in staining between cortex- and spinal cord-derived cells in naïve and stimulated cultures. Here, we quantified the percentage of cells positively stained for these six markers in astrocyte, microglia, and oligodendrocyte cultures isolated from neonatal rat cortices and spinal cords. Additionally, we incubated the astrocytes with transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 or TGF-β3 to determine if the labeling of these markers is altered by these stimuli. We found that only SOX9 in cortical cultures and ALDH1L1 in spinal cord cultures labeled more than 75% of the cells in naïve and stimulated astrocyte cultures and stained less than 5% of the cells in microglia and oligodendrocyte cultures. Furthermore, significantly more cortical than spinal cord astrocytes stained for GFAP, GLAST, and ALDH1L1 in naïve cultures, whereas significantly more spinal cord than cortical astrocytes stained for GLAST and GS in TGF-β1-treated cultures. These findings are important as variability in marker staining may lead to misinterpretation of the astrocyte response in cocultures, migration assays, or engineered disease models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bailey Balouch
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA.,Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA.,Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Jessica L Funnell
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA.,Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA
| | - Alexis M Ziemba
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA.,Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA.,Neuroscience Program, Smith College, Northampton, MA, USA
| | - Devan L Puhl
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA.,Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA
| | - Kathy Lin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA.,Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA
| | - Manoj K Gottipati
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA.,Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA.,Center for Brain and Spinal Cord Repair, Department of Neuroscience, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Ryan J Gilbert
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA.,Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA
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16
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Arnaldi P, Carosio F, Di Lisa D, Muzzi L, Monticelli O, Pastorino L. Assembly of chitosan-graphite oxide nanoplatelets core shell microparticles for advanced 3D scaffolds supporting neuronal networks growth. Colloids Surf B Biointerfaces 2020; 196:111295. [DOI: 10.1016/j.colsurfb.2020.111295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Revised: 07/17/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
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17
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Vernekar VN, LaPlaca MC. 3-D multi-electrode arrays detect early spontaneous electrophysiological activity in 3-D neuronal-astrocytic co-cultures. Biomed Eng Lett 2020; 10:579-591. [PMID: 33194249 DOI: 10.1007/s13534-020-00166-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Revised: 06/20/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Three-dimensional (3-D) neural cultures represent a promising platform for studying disease and drug screening. Tools and methodologies for measuring the electrophysiological function in these cultures are needed. Therefore, the purpose of this work was primarily to develop a methodology to interface engineered 3-D dissociated neural cultures with commercially available 3-D multi-electrode arrays (MEAs) reliably over 3 weeks to enable the recording of their electrophysiological activity. We further compared the functional output of these cultures to their structural and synaptic network development over time. We reliably interfaced a primary rodent neuron-astrocyte (2:1) 3-D co-culture (2500 cells/mm3 plating cell density) in Matrigel™ (7.5 mg/mL) that was up to 750 µm thick (30-40 cell-layers) with spiked 3-D MEAs while maintaining high viability. Using these MEAs we successfully recorded the spontaneous development of neural network-level electrophysiological activity and measured the development of putative synapses and neuronal maturation in these co-cultures using immunocytochemistry over 3 weeks in vitro. Planar (2-D) MEAs interfaced with these cultures served as recording controls. Neurons within this interfaced 3-D culture-MEA system exhibited considerable neurite outgrowth, networking, neuronal maturation, synaptogenesis, and culture-wide spontaneous firing of synchronized spikes and bursts of action potentials. Network-wide spikes and synchronized bursts increased rapidly (first detected at 2 days) during the first week in culture, plateaued during the second week, and reduced slightly in the third week, while maintaining high viability throughout the 3-week culturing period. Early electrophysiology activity occurred prior to neuronal process maturation and significant synaptic density increases in the second week. We successfully interfaced 3-D neural co-cultures with 3-D MEAs and recorded the electrophysiological activity of these cultures over 3 weeks. The initial period of rapid increase in electrophysiological activity, followed by a period of neuronal maturation and high-level of synapse formation in these cultures suggests a developmental homeostatic process. This methodology can enable future applications both in fundamental investigations of neural network behavior and in translational studies involving drug testing and neural interfacing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Varadraj N Vernekar
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering at Georgia Tech and Emory, Institute of Bioengineering and Bioscience, Georgia Institute of Technology, 313 Ferst Dr., Atlanta, GA 30332-0535 USA
| | - Michelle C LaPlaca
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering at Georgia Tech and Emory, Institute of Bioengineering and Bioscience, Georgia Institute of Technology, 313 Ferst Dr., Atlanta, GA 30332-0535 USA
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18
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Gottipati MK, D'Amato AR, Ziemba AM, Popovich PG, Gilbert RJ. TGFβ3 is neuroprotective and alleviates the neurotoxic response induced by aligned poly-l-lactic acid fibers on naïve and activated primary astrocytes. Acta Biomater 2020; 117:273-282. [PMID: 33035696 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2020.09.057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2020] [Revised: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Following spinal cord injury, astrocytes at the site of injury become reactive and exhibit a neurotoxic (A1) phenotype, which leads to neuronal death. In addition, the glial scar, which is composed of reactive astrocytes, acts as a chemical and physical barrier to subsequent axonal regeneration. Biomaterials, specifically electrospun fibers, induce a migratory phenotype of astrocytes and promote regeneration of axons following acute spinal cord injury in preclinical models. However, no study has examined the potential of electrospun fibers or biomaterials in general to modulate neurotoxic (A1) or neuroprotective (A2) astrocytic phenotypes. To assess astrocyte reactivity in response to aligned poly-l-lactic acid microfibers, naïve spinal cord astrocytes or spinal cord astrocytes primed towards the neurotoxic phenotype (A1) were cultured on fibrous scaffolds. Gene expression analysis of the pan-reactive astrocyte makers (GFAP, Lcn2, SerpinA3), A1 specific markers (H2-D1, SerpinG1), and A2 specific makers (Emp1, S100a10) was done using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Electrospun fibers mildly increased the expression of the pan-reactive and A1-specific markers, showing the ability of fibrous materials to induce a more reactive, A1 phenotype. However, when naïve or activated astrocytes were cultured on fibers in the presence of transforming growth factor β3 (TGFβ3), the expression of A1-specific markers was greatly reduced, which in turn improved neuronal survival in culture.
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19
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Leclech C, Villard C. Cellular and Subcellular Contact Guidance on Microfabricated Substrates. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2020; 8:551505. [PMID: 33195116 PMCID: PMC7642591 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2020.551505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Topography of the extracellular environment is now recognized as a major biophysical regulator of cell behavior and function. The study of the influence of patterned substrates on cells, named contact guidance, has greatly benefited from the development of micro and nano-fabrication techniques, allowing the emergence of increasingly diverse and elaborate engineered platforms. The purpose of this review is to provide a comprehensive view of the process of contact guidance from cellular to subcellular scales. We first classify and illustrate the large diversity of topographies reported in the literature by focusing on generic cellular responses to diverse topographical cues. Subsequently, and in a complementary fashion, we adopt the opposite approach and highlight cell type-specific responses to classically used topographies (arrays of pillars or grooves). Finally, we discuss recent advances on the key subcellular and molecular players involved in topographical sensing. Throughout the review, we focus particularly on neuronal cells, whose unique morphology and behavior have inspired a large body of studies in the field of topographical sensing and revealed fascinating cellular mechanisms. We conclude by using the current understanding of the cell-topography interactions at different scales as a springboard for identifying future challenges in the field of contact guidance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire Leclech
- Hydrodynamics Laboratory, CNRS UMR 7646, Ecole Polytechnique, Palaiseau, France
| | - Catherine Villard
- Physico-Chimie Curie, CNRS UMR 168, Université PSL, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
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20
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Kumar H, Sakthivel K, Mohamed MGA, Boras E, Shin SR, Kim K. Designing Gelatin Methacryloyl (GelMA)-Based Bioinks for Visible Light Stereolithographic 3D Biofabrication. Macromol Biosci 2020; 21:e2000317. [PMID: 33043610 DOI: 10.1002/mabi.202000317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Bioinks play a key role in determining the capability of the biofabricatoin processes and the resolution of the printed constructs. Excellent biocompatibility, tunable physical properties, and ease of chemical or biological modifications of gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) have made it an attractive choice as bioinks for biomanufacturing of various tissues or organs. However, the current preparation methods for GelMA-based bioinks lack the ability to tailor their physical properties for desired bioprinting methods. Inherently, GelMA prepolymer solution exhibits a fast sol-gel transition at room temperature, which is a hurdle for its use in stereolithography (SLA) bioprinting. Here, synthesis parameters are optimized such as solvents, pH, and reaction time to develop GelMA bioinks which have a slow sol-gel transition at room temperature and visible light crosslinkable functions. A total of eight GelMA combinations are identified as suitable for digital light processing (DLP)-based SLA (DLP-SLA) bioprinting through systematic characterizations of their physical and rheological properties. Out of various types of GelMA, those synthesized in reverse osmosis (RO) purified water (referred to as RO-GelMA) are regarded as most suitable to achieve high DLP-SLA printing resolution. RO-GelMA-based bioinks are also found to be biocompatible showing high survival rates of encapsulated cells in the photocrosslinked gels. Additionally, the astrocytes and fibroblasts are observed to grow and integrate well within the bioprinted constructs. The bioink's superior physical and photocrosslinking properties offer pathways of tuning the scaffold microenvironment and highlight the applicability of developed GelMA bioinks in various tissue engineering and regenerative medicine applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hitendra Kumar
- School of Engineering, The University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC, V1V 1V7, Canada.,Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Kabilan Sakthivel
- School of Engineering, The University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC, V1V 1V7, Canada
| | - Mohamed G A Mohamed
- School of Engineering, The University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC, V1V 1V7, Canada
| | - Emilie Boras
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Su Ryon Shin
- Division of Engineering in Medicine, Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Keekyoung Kim
- School of Engineering, The University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC, V1V 1V7, Canada.,Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 1N4, Canada
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21
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McCrary MW, Bousalis D, Mobini S, Song YH, Schmidt CE. Decellularized tissues as platforms for in vitro modeling of healthy and diseased tissues. Acta Biomater 2020; 111:1-19. [PMID: 32464269 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2020.05.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2020] [Revised: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Biomedical engineers are at the forefront of developing novel treatments to improve human health, however, many products fail to translate to clinical implementation. In vivo pre-clinical animal models, although the current best approximation of complex disease conditions, are limited by reproducibility, ethical concerns, and poor accurate prediction of human response. Hence, there is a need to develop physiologically relevant, low cost, scalable, and reproducible in vitro platforms to provide reliable means for testing drugs, biomaterials, and tissue engineered products for successful clinical translation. One emerging approach of developing physiologically relevant in vitro models utilizes decellularized tissues/organs as biomaterial platforms for 2D and 3D models of healthy and diseased tissue. Decellularization is a process that removes cellular content and produces tissue-specific extracellular matrix scaffolds that can more accurately recapitulate an organ/tissue's native microenvironment compared to other natural or synthetic materials. Decellularized tissues hold enormous potential for in vitro modeling of various disease phenotypes and tissue responses to drugs or external conditions such as aging, toxin exposure, or even implantation. In this review, we highlight the need for in vitro models, the advantages and limitations of implementing decellularized tissues, and considerations of the decellularization process. We discuss current research efforts towards applying decellularized tissues as platforms to generate in vitro models of healthy and diseased tissues, and where we foresee the field progressing. A variety of organs/tissues are discussed, including brain, heart, kidney, large intestine, liver, lung, skeletal muscle, skin, and tongue. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Many biomedical products fail to reach clinical translation due to animal model limitations. Development of physiologically relevant in vitro models can provide a more economic, scalable, and reproducible means of testing drugs/therapeutics for successful clinical translation. The use of decellularized tissues as platforms for in vitro models holds promise, as these scaffolds can effectively replicate native tissue complexity, but is not widely explored. This review discusses the need for in vitro models, the promise of decellularized tissues as biomaterial substrates, and the current research applying decellularized tissues towards the creation of in vitro models. Further, this review provides insights into the current limitations and future of such in vitro models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michaela W McCrary
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, 1275 Center Dr. BMS J257, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States.
| | - Deanna Bousalis
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, 1275 Center Dr. BMS J257, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States.
| | - Sahba Mobini
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, 1275 Center Dr. BMS J257, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States; Instituto de Micro y Nanotechnología, IMN-CNM, CSIC (CEI UAM+CSIC), Calle Isaac Newton 8, 28760 Madrid, Tres Cantos, Spain; Departamento de Biología Molecular and Centro de Biología Molecular, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Calle Nicolás Cabrera, 28049 Madrid, Spain.
| | - Young Hye Song
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, 1275 Center Dr. BMS J257, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States; Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Arkansas, 134 White Hall, Fayetteville, AR 72701, United States.
| | - Christine E Schmidt
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, 1275 Center Dr. BMS J257, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States.
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22
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Hosseinzadeh S, Lindsay SL, Gallagher AG, Wellings DA, Riehle MO, Riddell JS, Barnett SC. A novel poly-ε-lysine based implant, Proliferate®, for promotion of CNS repair following spinal cord injury. Biomater Sci 2020; 8:3611-3627. [PMID: 32515439 DOI: 10.1039/d0bm00097c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
The limited regenerative capacity of the CNS poses formidable challenges to the repair of spinal cord injury (SCI). Two key barriers to repair are (i) the physical gap left by the injury, and (ii) the inhibitory milieu surrounding the injury, the glial scar. Biomaterial implantation into the injury site can fill the cavity, provide a substrate for cell migration, and potentially attenuate the glial scar. We investigated the biological viability of a biocompatible and biodegradable poly-ε-lysine based biomaterial, Proliferate®, in low and high cross-linked forms and when coated with IKVAV peptide, for SCI implantation. We demonstrate altered astrocyte morphology and nestin expression on Proliferate® compared to conventional glass cell coverslips suggesting a less reactive phenotype. Moreover Proliferate® supported myelination in vitro, with myelination observed sooner on IKVAV-coated constructs compared with uncoated Proliferate®, and delayed overall compared with maintenance on glass coverslips. For in vivo implantation, parallel-aligned channels were fabricated into Proliferate® to provide cell guidance cues. Extensive vascularisation and cellular infiltration were observed in constructs implanted in vivo, along with an astrocyte border and microglial response. Axonal ingrowth was observed at the construct border and inside implants in intact channels. We conclude that Proliferate® is a promising biomaterial for implantation following SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Hosseinzadeh
- Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, Sir Graeme Davies Building, 120 University Place, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8TA, UK.
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23
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Gottipati MK, Zuidema JM, Gilbert RJ. Biomaterial strategies for creating in vitro astrocyte cultures resembling in vivo astrocyte morphologies and phenotypes. CURRENT OPINION IN BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING 2020; 14:67-74. [PMID: 34296048 DOI: 10.1016/j.cobme.2020.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Astrocytes are dynamic cells residing in the central nervous system exhibiting many diverse functions. Astrocytes quickly change and present unique phenotypes in response to injury or disease. Here, we briefly summarize recent information regarding astrocyte morphology and function and provide brief insight into their phenotypic changes following injury or disease. We also present the utility of in vitro astrocyte cultures and present recent advances in biomaterial development that enable better recapitulation of their in vivo behavior and morphology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manoj K Gottipati
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 8 Street, Troy, NY. 12180.,Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 8 Street, Troy, NY. 12180.,Center for Brain and Spinal Cord Repair, Department of Neuroscience, The Ohio State University, 460 W. 12 Avenue, Columbus, OH. 43210
| | - Jonathan M Zuidema
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA. 92093
| | - Ryan J Gilbert
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 8 Street, Troy, NY. 12180.,Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 8 Street, Troy, NY. 12180
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24
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Marquis K, Chasse B, Regan DP, Boutiette AL, Khalil A, Howell C. Vascularized Polymers Spatially Control Bacterial Cells on Surfaces. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 4:e1900216. [PMID: 32293124 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.201900216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2019] [Revised: 11/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Nature uses vascular systems to permit large-area control over the functionality of surfaces that lie above them. In this work, the application of this concept to the control of a hybrid living-nonliving system is demonstrated. Defined arrangements of vascular channels are created in agar using a fugitive ink printing method. The antibiotic gentamicin is then introduced into the vascular network where it diffuses to the surface and interacts with a model system of Escherichia coli cells. The cells either live or die depending on their distance from the underlying channels, permitting spatial control over the biological system. Using single-channel systems to define critical parameters, a theoretical model is developed to define the final surface pattern based solely on the arrangement of the underlying vascular channels. The model is then successfully used to create more complex arrangements of cells at the surface. Finally, by introducing different types of active compounds into separate vascular channels, a mixture of bacterial species is separated and localized at defined points. This work demonstrates the ability of bioinspired embedded vascular systems to predictably control a biological system at a surface, laying the groundwork for future spatially and temporally controlled biointerfaces in both industry and medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kayla Marquis
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, University of Maine, 5737 Jenness Hall, Orono, ME, 04469, USA
| | - Benjamin Chasse
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, University of Maine, 5737 Jenness Hall, Orono, ME, 04469, USA
| | - Daniel P Regan
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, University of Maine, 5737 Jenness Hall, Orono, ME, 04469, USA.,Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, University of Maine, 5775 Stodder Hall, Orono, ME, 04469, USA
| | - Amber L Boutiette
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, University of Maine, 5737 Jenness Hall, Orono, ME, 04469, USA
| | - Andre Khalil
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, University of Maine, 5737 Jenness Hall, Orono, ME, 04469, USA.,Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, University of Maine, 5775 Stodder Hall, Orono, ME, 04469, USA
| | - Caitlin Howell
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, University of Maine, 5737 Jenness Hall, Orono, ME, 04469, USA.,Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, University of Maine, 5775 Stodder Hall, Orono, ME, 04469, USA
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25
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Nie J, Gao Q, Fu J, He Y. Grafting of 3D Bioprinting to In Vitro Drug Screening: A Review. Adv Healthc Mater 2020; 9:e1901773. [PMID: 32125787 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.201901773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2019] [Revised: 02/13/2020] [Accepted: 02/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The inadequacy of conventional cell-monolayer planar cultures and animal experiments in predicting the toxicity and clinical efficacy of drug candidates has led to an imminent need for in vitro methods with the ability to better represent in vivo conditions and facilitate the systematic investigation of drug candidates. Recent advances in 3D bioprinting have prompted the precise manipulation of cells and biomaterials, rendering it a promising technology for the construction of in vitro tissue/organ models and drug screening devices. This review presents state-of-the-art in vitro methods used for preclinical drug screening and discusses the limitations of these methods. In particular, the significance of constructing 3D in vitro tissue/organ models and microfluidic analysis devices for drug screening is emphasized, and a focus is placed on the grafting process of 3D bioprinting technology to the construction of such models and devices. The in vitro methods for drug screening are generalized into three types: mini-tissue, organ-on-a-chip, and tissue/organ construct. The revolutionary process of the in vitro methods is demonstrated in detail, and relevant studies are listed as examples. Specifically, the tumor model is adopted as a precedent to illustrate the possible grafting of 3D bioprinting to antitumor drug screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Nie
- State Key Laboratory of Fluid Power and Mechatronic SystemsSchool of Mechanical EngineeringZhejiang University Hangzhou 310027 China
- Key Laboratory of 3D Printing Process and Equipment of Zhejiang ProvinceSchool of Mechanical EngineeringZhejiang University Hangzhou 310027 China
| | - Qing Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Fluid Power and Mechatronic SystemsSchool of Mechanical EngineeringZhejiang University Hangzhou 310027 China
- Key Laboratory of 3D Printing Process and Equipment of Zhejiang ProvinceSchool of Mechanical EngineeringZhejiang University Hangzhou 310027 China
| | - Jianzhong Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Fluid Power and Mechatronic SystemsSchool of Mechanical EngineeringZhejiang University Hangzhou 310027 China
- Key Laboratory of 3D Printing Process and Equipment of Zhejiang ProvinceSchool of Mechanical EngineeringZhejiang University Hangzhou 310027 China
| | - Yong He
- State Key Laboratory of Fluid Power and Mechatronic SystemsSchool of Mechanical EngineeringZhejiang University Hangzhou 310027 China
- Key Laboratory of 3D Printing Process and Equipment of Zhejiang ProvinceSchool of Mechanical EngineeringZhejiang University Hangzhou 310027 China
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26
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Galarza S, Crosby AJ, Pak C, Peyton SR. Control of Astrocyte Quiescence and Activation in a Synthetic Brain Hydrogel. Adv Healthc Mater 2020; 9:e1901419. [PMID: 31943839 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.201901419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2019] [Revised: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Bioengineers have designed numerous instructive brain extracellular matrix (ECM) environments with tailored and tunable protein compositions and biomechanical properties in vitro to study astrocyte reactivity during trauma and inflammation. However, a major limitation of both protein-based and synthetic model microenvironments is that astrocytes within fail to retain their characteristic stellate morphology and quiescent state without becoming activated under "normal" culture conditions. Here, a synthetic hydrogel is introduced, which for the first time demonstrates maintenance of astrocyte quiescence and activation on demand. With this synthetic brain hydrogel, the brain-specific integrin-binding and matrix metalloprotease-degradable domains of proteins are shown to control astrocyte star-shaped morphologies, and an ECM condition that maintains astrocyte quiescence with minimal activation can be achieved. In addition, activation can be induced in a dose-dependent manner via both defined cytokine cocktails and low molecular weight hyaluronic acid. This synthetic brain hydrogel is envisioned as a new tool to study the physiological role of astrocytes in health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sualyneth Galarza
- Department of Chemical Engineering University of Massachusetts Amherst MA 01003 USA
| | - Alfred J. Crosby
- Department of Polymer Science and Engineering University of Massachusetts Amherst MA 01003 USA
| | - ChangHui Pak
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology University of Massachusetts Amherst MA 01003 USA
| | - Shelly R. Peyton
- Department of Chemical Engineering University of Massachusetts Amherst MA 01003 USA
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27
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Ko KR, Tam NW, Teixeira AG, Frampton JP. SH-SY5Y and LUHMES cells display differential sensitivity to MPP+, tunicamycin, and epoxomicin in 2D and 3D cell culture. Biotechnol Prog 2019; 36:e2942. [PMID: 31756288 DOI: 10.1002/btpr.2942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2019] [Revised: 10/25/2019] [Accepted: 11/15/2019] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
SH-SY5Y and LUHMES cell lines are widely used as model systems for studying neurotoxicity. Most of the existing data regarding the sensitivity of these cell lines to neurotoxicants have been recorded from cells growing as two-dimensional (2D) cultures on the surface of glass or plastic. With the emergence of 3D culture platforms designed to better represent native tissue, there is a growing need to compare the toxicology of neurons grown in 3D environments to those grown in 2D to better understand the impact that culture environment has on toxicant sensitivity. Here, a simple 3D culture method was used to assess the impact of growth environment on the sensitivity of SH-SY5Y cells and LUHMES cells to MPP+, tunicamycin, and epoxomicin, three neurotoxicants that have been previously used to generate experimental models for studying Parkinson's disease pathogenesis. SH-SY5Y cell viability following treatment with these three toxicants was significantly lower in 2D cultures as compared to 3D cultures. On the contrary, LUHMES cells did not show significant differences between growth conditions for any of the toxicants examined. However, LUHMES cells were more sensitive to MPP+, tunicamycin, and epoxomicin than SH-SY5Y cells. Thus, both the choice of cell line and the choice of growth environment must be considered when interpreting in vitro neurotoxicity data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin Robin Ko
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Nicky W Tam
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Alyne G Teixeira
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - John P Frampton
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
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28
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Motallebnejad P, Thomas A, Swisher SL, Azarin SM. An isogenic hiPSC-derived BBB-on-a-chip. BIOMICROFLUIDICS 2019; 13:064119. [PMID: 31768205 PMCID: PMC6874510 DOI: 10.1063/1.5123476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2019] [Accepted: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is composed of brain microvascular endothelial cells (BMECs) that regulate brain homeostasis, and astrocytes within the brain are involved in the maintenance of the BBB or modulation of its integrity in disease states via secreted factors. A major challenge in modeling the normal or diseased BBB is that conventional in vitro models lack either the physiological complexity of the BBB or key functional features such as formation of a sufficiently tight barrier. In this study, we utilized human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)-derived BMECs in a BBB-on-a-chip device that supports flow and coculture with an astrocyte-laden 3D hydrogel. The BMECs are separated from the hydrogel by a porous membrane with either 0.4 or 8.0 μm pore size, making the device suitable for studying the transport of molecules or cells, respectively, across the BBB. In addition, all cells seeded in the device are differentiated from the same hiPSC line, which could enable genetic and rare disease modeling. Formation of a confluent BMEC barrier was confirmed by immunocytochemistry of tight junction proteins and measurement of fluorescein permeability. Integrity of the barrier was further assessed by performing impedance spectroscopy in the device. Finally, the ability of this device to recapitulate a disease model of BBB disruption was demonstrated, with apical addition of TGF-β1 leading to transendothelial electrical resistance reduction and indicators of astrocyte activation. These results demonstrate the utility of the fabricated device for a broad range of applications such as drug screening and mechanistic studies of BBB disruption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedram Motallebnejad
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, USA
| | - Andrew Thomas
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, USA
| | - Sarah L. Swisher
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, USA
| | - Samira M. Azarin
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, USA
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed:
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29
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Kim HN, Choi N. Consideration of the Mechanical Properties of Hydrogels for Brain Tissue Engineering and Brain-on-a-chip. BIOCHIP JOURNAL 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s13206-018-3101-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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30
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Wilhelmsson U, Lebkuechner I, Leke R, Marasek P, Yang X, Antfolk D, Chen M, Mohseni P, Lasič E, Bobnar ST, Stenovec M, Zorec R, Nagy A, Sahlgren C, Pekna M, Pekny M. Nestin Regulates Neurogenesis in Mice Through Notch Signaling From Astrocytes to Neural Stem Cells. Cereb Cortex 2019; 29:4050-4066. [DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhy284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2018] [Revised: 10/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
The intermediate filament (nanofilament) protein nestin is a marker of neural stem cells, but its role in neurogenesis, including adult neurogenesis, remains unclear. Here, we investigated the role of nestin in neurogenesis in adult nestin-deficient (Nes–/–) mice. We found that the proliferation of Nes–/– neural stem cells was not altered, but neurogenesis in the hippocampal dentate gyrus of Nes–/– mice was increased. Surprisingly, the proneurogenic effect of nestin deficiency was mediated by its function in the astrocyte niche. Through its role in Notch signaling from astrocytes to neural stem cells, nestin negatively regulates neuronal differentiation and survival; however, its expression in neural stem cells is not required for normal neurogenesis. In behavioral studies, nestin deficiency in mice did not affect associative learning but was associated with impaired long-term memory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrika Wilhelmsson
- Laboratory of Astrocyte Biology and CNS Regeneration, Center for Brain Repair, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Isabell Lebkuechner
- Laboratory of Astrocyte Biology and CNS Regeneration, Center for Brain Repair, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Renata Leke
- Laboratory of Astrocyte Biology and CNS Regeneration, Center for Brain Repair, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Pavel Marasek
- Laboratory of Astrocyte Biology and CNS Regeneration, Center for Brain Repair, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Xiaoguang Yang
- Laboratory of Astrocyte Biology and CNS Regeneration, Center for Brain Repair, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Daniel Antfolk
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, Biosciences, Åbo Akademi University, Turku, Finland
| | - Meng Chen
- Laboratory of Astrocyte Biology and CNS Regeneration, Center for Brain Repair, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Paria Mohseni
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Sinai Health System, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Eva Lasič
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology–Molecular Cell Physiology, Institute of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Saša Trkov Bobnar
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology–Molecular Cell Physiology, Institute of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Celica BIOMEDICAL, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Matjaž Stenovec
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology–Molecular Cell Physiology, Institute of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Celica BIOMEDICAL, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | | | - Andras Nagy
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Sinai Health System, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Cecilia Sahlgren
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, Biosciences, Åbo Akademi University, Turku, Finland
| | - Marcela Pekna
- Laboratory of Regenerative Neuroimmunology, Center for Brain Repair, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
| | - Milos Pekny
- Laboratory of Astrocyte Biology and CNS Regeneration, Center for Brain Repair, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
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31
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Pacitti D, Privolizzi R, Bax BE. Organs to Cells and Cells to Organoids: The Evolution of in vitro Central Nervous System Modelling. Front Cell Neurosci 2019; 13:129. [PMID: 31024259 PMCID: PMC6465581 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2019.00129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2018] [Accepted: 03/14/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
With 100 billion neurons and 100 trillion synapses, the human brain is not just the most complex organ in the human body, but has also been described as "the most complex thing in the universe." The limited availability of human living brain tissue for the study of neurogenesis, neural processes and neurological disorders has resulted in more than a century-long strive from researchers worldwide to model the central nervous system (CNS) and dissect both its striking physiology and enigmatic pathophysiology. The invaluable knowledge gained with the use of animal models and post mortem human tissue remains limited to cross-species similarities and structural features, respectively. The advent of human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) and 3-D organoid technologies has revolutionised the approach to the study of human brain and CNS in vitro, presenting great potential for disease modelling and translational adoption in drug screening and regenerative medicine, also contributing beneficially to clinical research. We have surveyed more than 100 years of research in CNS modelling and provide in this review an historical excursus of its evolution, from early neural tissue explants and organotypic cultures, to 2-D patient-derived cell monolayers, to the latest development of 3-D cerebral organoids. We have generated a comprehensive summary of CNS modelling techniques and approaches, protocol refinements throughout the course of decades and developments in the study of specific neuropathologies. Current limitations and caveats such as clonal variation, developmental stage, validation of pluripotency and chromosomal stability, functional assessment, reproducibility, accuracy and scalability of these models are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dario Pacitti
- Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St George’s, University of London, London, United Kingdom
- College of Medicine and Health, St Luke’s Campus, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Riccardo Privolizzi
- Gene Transfer Technology Group, Institute for Women’s Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Bridget E. Bax
- Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St George’s, University of London, London, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Bridget E. Bax,
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32
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Ma Y, Xie L, Yang B, Tian W. Three-dimensional printing biotechnology for the regeneration of the tooth and tooth-supporting tissues. Biotechnol Bioeng 2018; 116:452-468. [PMID: 30475386 DOI: 10.1002/bit.26882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2018] [Revised: 11/09/2018] [Accepted: 11/21/2018] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The tooth and its supporting tissues are organized with complex three-dimensional (3D) architecture, including the dental pulp with a blood supply and nerve tissues, complex multilayer periodontium, and highly aligned periodontal ligament (PDL). Mimicking such 3D complexity and the multicellular interactions naturally existing in dental structures represents great challenges in dental regeneration. Attempts to construct the complex system of the tooth and tooth-supporting apparatus (i.e., the PDL, alveolar bone, and cementum) have made certain progress owing to 3D printing biotechnology. Recent advances have enabled the 3D printing of biocompatible materials, seed cells, and supporting components into complex 3D functional living tissue. Furthermore, 3D bioprinting is driving major innovations in regenerative medicine, giving the field of regenerative dentistry a boost. The fabrication of scaffolds via 3D printing is already being performed extensively at the laboratory bench and in clinical trials; however, printing living cells and matrix materials together to produce tissue constructs by 3D bioprinting remains limited to the regeneration of dental pulp and the tooth germ. This review summarizes the application of scaffolds for cell seeding and biofabricated tissues via 3D printing and bioprinting, respectively, in the tooth and its supporting tissues. Additionally, the key advantages and prospects of 3D bioprinting in regenerative dentistry are highlighted, providing new ideas for dental regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, West China School of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People's Republic of China.,National Engineering Laboratory for Oral Regenerative Medicine, West China School of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People's Republic of China.,Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People's Republic of China
| | - Li Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, West China School of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People's Republic of China.,National Engineering Laboratory for Oral Regenerative Medicine, West China School of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People's Republic of China
| | - Bo Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, West China School of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People's Republic of China.,National Engineering Laboratory for Oral Regenerative Medicine, West China School of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People's Republic of China.,Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People's Republic of China
| | - Weidong Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, West China School of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People's Republic of China.,National Engineering Laboratory for Oral Regenerative Medicine, West China School of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People's Republic of China.,Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People's Republic of China
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33
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Zuidema JM, Gilbert RJ, Gottipati MK. Biomaterial Approaches to Modulate Reactive Astroglial Response. Cells Tissues Organs 2018; 205:372-395. [PMID: 30517922 PMCID: PMC6397084 DOI: 10.1159/000494667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2018] [Accepted: 10/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Over several decades, biomaterial scientists have developed materials to spur axonal regeneration and limit secondary injury and tested these materials within preclinical animal models. Rarely, though, are astrocytes examined comprehensively when biomaterials are placed into the injury site. Astrocytes support neuronal function in the central nervous system. Following an injury, astrocytes undergo reactive gliosis and create a glial scar. The astrocytic glial scar forms a dense barrier which restricts the extension of regenerating axons through the injury site. However, there are several beneficial effects of the glial scar, including helping to reform the blood-brain barrier, limiting the extent of secondary injury, and supporting the health of regenerating axons near the injury site. This review provides a brief introduction to the role of astrocytes in the spinal cord, discusses astrocyte phenotypic changes that occur following injury, and highlights studies that explored astrocyte changes in response to biomaterials tested within in vitro or in vivo environments. Overall, we suggest that in order to improve biomaterial designs for spinal cord injury applications, investigators should more thoroughly consider the astrocyte response to such designs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan M Zuidema
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Ryan J Gilbert
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York, USA
- Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York, USA
| | - Manoj K Gottipati
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York, USA,
- Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York, USA,
- Center for Brain and Spinal Cord Repair, Department of Neuroscience, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA,
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34
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DeStefano JG, Jamieson JJ, Linville RM, Searson PC. Benchmarking in vitro tissue-engineered blood-brain barrier models. Fluids Barriers CNS 2018; 15:32. [PMID: 30514389 PMCID: PMC6280508 DOI: 10.1186/s12987-018-0117-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2018] [Accepted: 11/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The blood–brain barrier (BBB) plays a key role in regulating transport into and out of the brain. With increasing interest in the role of the BBB in health and disease, there have been significant advances in the development of in vitro models. The value of these models to the research community is critically dependent on recapitulating characteristics of the BBB in humans or animal models. However, benchmarking in vitro models is surprisingly difficult since much of our knowledge of the structure and function of the BBB comes from in vitro studies. Here we describe a set of parameters that we consider a starting point for benchmarking and validation. These parameters are associated with structure (ultrastructure, wall shear stress, geometry), microenvironment (basement membrane and extracellular matrix), barrier function (transendothelial electrical resistance, permeability, efflux transport), cell function (expression of BBB markers, turnover), and co-culture with other cell types (astrocytes and pericytes). In suggesting benchmarks, we rely primarily on imaging or direct measurements in humans and animal models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jackson G DeStefano
- Institute for Nanobiotechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - John J Jamieson
- Institute for Nanobiotechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Raleigh M Linville
- Institute for Nanobiotechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Peter C Searson
- Institute for Nanobiotechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA. .,Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA. .,120 Croft Hall, Johns Hopkins University, 3400 North Charles Street, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA.
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35
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Johnson CDL, Zuidema JM, Kearns KR, Maguire AB, Desmond GP, Thompson DM, Gilbert RJ. The Effect of Electrospun Fiber Diameter on Astrocyte-Mediated Neurite Guidance and Protection. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2018; 2:104-117. [PMID: 31061987 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.8b00432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The topography of electrospun fiber scaffolds modifies astrocytes toward in vivo-like morphologies and behaviors. However, little is known about how electrospun fiber diameter influences astrocyte behavior. In this work, aligned fibers with two distinct nanoscale fiber diameters (808 and 386 nm) were prepared, and the astrocyte response was measured over time. Astrocytes on the large diameter fibers showed significantly increased elongation as early as 2 h after seeding and remained significantly more elongated for up to 4 days compared to those on small diameter fibers. Astrocytes extending along larger diameter fibers were better equipped to support long neurite outgrowth from dorsal root ganglia neurons, and neurite outgrowth along these astrocytes was less branched than outgrowth along astrocytes cultured on small diameter fibers. The differences in astrocyte shape observed on the small or large diameter fibers did not translate into differences in GLT-1, GFAP, or GLAST protein expression. Thus, different fiber diameters were unable to influence astrocyte protein expression uniquely. Nevertheless, astrocytes cultured in either small or large fibers significantly increased their expression of GLT-1 compared to astrocytes cultured on nonfiber (film) controls. Fibrous-induced increases in astrocyte GLT-1 expression protected astrocyte/neuron cocultures from toxicity generated by high extracellular glutamate. Alternatively, astrocytes/neurons cultured on films were less able to protect these cells from culture conditions consisting of high glutamate levels. Biomaterials, such as the fibrous materials presented here, may help stimulate astrocytes to increase GLT-1 expression and uptake more glutamate, since astrocytes are less likely to uptake glutamate in neurodegenerative pathologies or following central nervous system injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher D L Johnson
- Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 Eighth Street, Troy, New York 12180-3590, United States.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 Eighth Street, Troy, New York 12180-3590, United States
| | - Jonathan M Zuidema
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Dr., La Jolla, California 92093, United States
| | - Kathryn R Kearns
- Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 Eighth Street, Troy, New York 12180-3590, United States.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 Eighth Street, Troy, New York 12180-3590, United States
| | - Alianna B Maguire
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 Eighth Street, Troy, New York 12180-3590, United States
| | - Gregory P Desmond
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 Eighth Street, Troy, New York 12180-3590, United States
| | - Deanna M Thompson
- Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 Eighth Street, Troy, New York 12180-3590, United States.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 Eighth Street, Troy, New York 12180-3590, United States
| | - Ryan J Gilbert
- Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 Eighth Street, Troy, New York 12180-3590, United States.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 Eighth Street, Troy, New York 12180-3590, United States
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36
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Maclean FL, Ims GM, Horne MK, Williams RJ, Nisbet DR. A Programmed Anti-Inflammatory Nanoscaffold (PAIN) as a 3D Tool to Understand the Brain Injury Response. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2018; 30:e1805209. [PMID: 30285286 DOI: 10.1002/adma.201805209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2018] [Revised: 09/09/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Immunology is the next frontier of nano/biomaterial science research, with the immune system determining the degree of tissue repair. However, the complexity of the inflammatory response represents a significant challenge that is essential to understand for the development of future therapies. Cell-instructive 3D culture environments are critical to improve our understanding of the link between the behavior and morphology of inflammatory cells and to remodel their response to injury. This study has taken two recent high-profile innovations-functional peptide-based hydrogels, and the inclusion of anti-inflammatory agents via coassembly-to make a programmed anti-inflammatory nanoscaffold (PAIN) with unusual and valuable properties that allows tissue-independent switching of the inflammatory cascade. Here, extraordinary durability of the anti-inflammatory agent allows, for the first time, the development of a 3D culture system that maintains the growth and cytoskeletal reorganization of brain tissue, while also facilitating the trophic behavior of brain cells for 22 d in vitro. Notably, this behavior was confirmed within an active scar site due to the unprecedented resilience to the presence of inflammatory cells and enzymes in the brain. Efficacy of the culture system is demonstrated via novel insights about inflammatory cell behavior, which would be impossible to obtain via in vivo experimentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca L Maclean
- Laboratory of Advanced Biomaterials, Research School of Engineering, The Australian National University, Canberra, 2601, Australia
| | - Georgina M Ims
- Laboratory of Advanced Biomaterials, Research School of Engineering, The Australian National University, Canberra, 2601, Australia
| | - Malcolm K Horne
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, 3052, Australia
- Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, St Vincent's Hospital, Fitzroy, 3065, Australia
| | - Richard J Williams
- School of Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne, 3000, Australia
- BioFab3D, St Vincent's Hospital, Fitzroy, 3065, Australia
| | - David R Nisbet
- Laboratory of Advanced Biomaterials, Research School of Engineering, The Australian National University, Canberra, 2601, Australia
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, 3052, Australia
- BioFab3D, St Vincent's Hospital, Fitzroy, 3065, Australia
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37
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Ko KR, Tsai MC, Frampton JP. Fabrication of thin-layer matrigel-based constructs for three-dimensional cell culture. Biotechnol Prog 2018; 35:e2733. [PMID: 30315732 DOI: 10.1002/btpr.2733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2018] [Revised: 08/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Extracellular matrix-based hydrogels such as Matrigel are easy-to-use, commercially available, and offer environments for three-dimensional (3-D) cell culture that mimic native tissue. However, manipulating small volumes of these materials to produce thin-layer 3-D culture systems suitable for analysis is difficult because of air-liquid-substrate interfacial tension effects and evaporation. Here, we demonstrate two simple techniques that use standard liquid-handling tools and nontreated 96-well plates to produce uniform, thin-layer constructs for 3-D culture of cells in Matrigel. The first technique, the floating 3-D cell culture method, uses phase-separating polymers to form a barrier between the dispensed Matrigel, air, and cultureware surface to generate consistently thin hydrogels from volumes as low as 5 μL. These unanchored gels provide a useful assay for investigating airway smooth muscle cell contraction and may have future applications in studying asthma pathophysiology. The second technique, the fixed 3-D cell culture method, provides an anchored gel system for culturing noncontractile cells (e.g., neurons) where 20 μL of Matrigel is dispensed into the bottom of a well filled with culture medium to form a thin gel containing embedded cells. This technique has potential widespread applications as an accessible 3-D culture platform for high-throughput production of disease models for evaluation of novel drug therapies. © 2018 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 35: e2733, 2019.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin Robin Ko
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Meng-Chiao Tsai
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - John P Frampton
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
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38
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Sato J, Horibe S, Kawauchi S, Sasaki N, Hirata KI, Rikitake Y. Involvement of aquaporin-4 in laminin-enhanced process formation of mouse astrocytes in 2D culture: Roles of dystroglycan and α-syntrophin in aquaporin-4 expression. J Neurochem 2018; 147:495-513. [PMID: 29981530 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.14548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2018] [Revised: 05/27/2018] [Accepted: 06/27/2018] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
In the central nervous system, astrocytes extend endfoot processes to ensheath synapses and microvessels. However, the mechanisms underlying this astrocytic process extension remain unclear. A limitation of the use of 2D cultured astrocytes for such studies is that they display a flat, epithelioid morphology, with no or very few processes, which is markedly different from the stellate morphology observed in vivo. In this study, we obtained 2D cultured astrocytes with a rich complexity of processes using differentiation of neurospheres in vitro. Using these process-bearing astrocytes, we showed that laminin, an extracellular matrix molecule abundant in perivascular sites, efficiently induced process formation and branching. Specifically, the numbers of the first- and second-order branch processes and the maximal process length of astrocytes were increased when cultured on laminin, compared with when they were cultured on poly-L-ornithine or type IV collagen. Knockdown of dystroglycan or α-syntrophin, constituent proteins of the dystrophin-glycoprotein complex that provides a link between laminin and the cytoskeleton, using small interference RNAs inhibited astrocyte process formation and branching, and down-regulated expression of the water channel aquaporin-4 (AQP4). Direct knockdown and a specific inhibitor of AQP4 also inhibited, whereas over-expression of AQP4 enhanced astrocyte process formation and branching. Knockdown of AQP4 decreased phosphorylation of focal adhesion kinase (FAK) that is critically implicated in actin remodeling. Collectively, these results indicate that the laminin-dystroglycan-α-syntrophin-AQP4 axis is important for process formation and branching of 2D cultured astrocytes. OPEN PRACTICES: This article has received a badge for *Open Materials* because it provided all relevant information to reproduce the study in the manuscript. The complete Open Science Disclosure form for this article can be found at the end of the article. More information about the Open Practices badges can be found at https://cos.io/our-services/open-science-badges/. Read the Editorial Highlight for this article on page 436.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junya Sato
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Japan.,Laboratory of Medical Pharmaceutics, Kobe Pharmaceutical University, Higashinada-ku, Kobe, Japan
| | - Sayo Horibe
- Laboratory of Medical Pharmaceutics, Kobe Pharmaceutical University, Higashinada-ku, Kobe, Japan
| | - Shoji Kawauchi
- Educational Center for Clinical Pharmacy, Kobe Pharmaceutical University, Higashinada-ku, Kobe, Japan
| | - Naoto Sasaki
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Japan.,Laboratory of Medical Pharmaceutics, Kobe Pharmaceutical University, Higashinada-ku, Kobe, Japan
| | - Ken-Ichi Hirata
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Japan
| | - Yoshiyuki Rikitake
- Laboratory of Medical Pharmaceutics, Kobe Pharmaceutical University, Higashinada-ku, Kobe, Japan.,Division of Signal Transduction, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Japan
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39
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Regional variations in stiffness in live mouse brain tissue determined by depth-controlled indentation mapping. Sci Rep 2018; 8:12517. [PMID: 30131608 PMCID: PMC6104037 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-31035-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2017] [Accepted: 08/10/2018] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
The mechanical properties of brain tissue play a pivotal role in neurodevelopment and neurological disorders. Yet, at present, there is no consensus on how the different structural parts of the tissue contribute to its stiffness variations. Here, we have gathered depth-controlled indentation viscoelasticity maps of the hippocampus of acute horizontal live mouse brain slices. Our results confirm the highly viscoelestic nature of brain tissue. We further show that the mechanical properties are non-uniform and at least related to differences in morphological composition. Interestingly, areas with higher nuclear density appear to be softer than areas with lower nuclear density.
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40
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Chen M, Puschmann TB, Wilhelmsson U, Örndal C, Pekna M, Malmgren K, Rydenhag B, Pekny M. Neural Progenitor Cells in Cerebral Cortex of Epilepsy Patients do not Originate from Astrocytes Expressing GLAST. Cereb Cortex 2018; 27:5672-5682. [PMID: 27979877 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhw338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2016] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Adult neurogenesis in human brain is known to occur in the hippocampus, the subventricular zone, and the striatum. Neural progenitor cells (NPCs) were reported in the cortex of epilepsy patients; however, their identity is not known. Since astrocytes were proposed as the source of neural progenitors in both healthy and diseased brain, we tested the hypothesis that NPCs in the epileptic cortex originate from reactive, alternatively, de-differentiated astrocytes that express glutamate aspartate transporter (GLAST). We assessed the capacity to form neurospheres and the differentiation potential of cells dissociated from fresh cortical tissue from patients who underwent surgical treatment for pharmacologically intractable epilepsy. Neurospheres were generated from 57% of cases (8/14). Upon differentiation, the neurosphere cells gave rise to neurons, oligodendrocytes, and astrocytes. Sorting of dissociated cells showed that only cells negative for GLAST formed neurospheres. In conclusion, we show that cells with neural stem cell properties are present in brain cortex of epilepsy patients, and that these cells are not GLAST-positive astrocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Chen
- Center for Brain Repair and Rehabilitation, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg 405 30, Sweden
| | - Till B Puschmann
- Center for Brain Repair and Rehabilitation, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg 405 30, Sweden
| | - Ulrika Wilhelmsson
- Center for Brain Repair and Rehabilitation, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg 405 30, Sweden
| | - Charlotte Örndal
- Department of Pathology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg 405 30, Sweden
| | - Marcela Pekna
- Center for Brain Repair and Rehabilitation, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg 405 30, Sweden.,Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Parkville 3052, Victoria, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, University of Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Kristina Malmgren
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg 405 30, Sweden
| | - Bertil Rydenhag
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg 405 30, Sweden
| | - Milos Pekny
- Center for Brain Repair and Rehabilitation, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg 405 30, Sweden.,Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Parkville 3052, Victoria, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, University of Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
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41
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Deficiency of unc-51 like kinase 1 (Ulk1) protects against mice traumatic brain injury (TBI) by suppression of p38 and JNK pathway. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2018; 503:467-473. [PMID: 29680658 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2018.04.154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2018] [Accepted: 04/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Unc-51 like autophagy activating kinase 1 (Ulk1) is a serine/threonine kinase that plays a key role in regulating autophagy processes. We attempted to investigate the effects of Ulk1 on traumatic brain injury (TBI) progression by using wild type (WT) mice and Ulk1-knockout (KO) mice suffered with or not TBI. The results were verified using LPS-treated primary astrocyte (AST). Here, Ulk1 was over-expressed in hippocampus of WT mice after TBI, as well as in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated AST. Ulk1-deletion improved cognitive ability and hippocampus histological changes in TBI mice. Nissl and neuronal nuclei (NeuN) staining indicated that Ulk1-deletion increased the number of surviving neurons in hippocampus of TBI mice. Ulk1-ablation alleviated neuroinflammation, as evidenced by the reduced expression of hippocampus pro-inflammatory cytokines in TBI mice. TBI-induced apoptosis was also ameliorated by Ulk1-ablation, as proved by the reduced number of TUNEL-staining cells, and cleaved Caspase-3 and poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) expressions. Moreover, Ulk1-knockout suppressed TBI-stimulated activation of astrocytes and microglia cells. Additionally, hippocampus autophagy induced by TBI was attenuated by Ulk1-knockout. Further, TBI-activated p38/c-Jun N-terminal Kinase (JNK) pathway was repressed by Ulk1-deletion in hippocampus of mice. The findings above were confirmed in LPS-stimulated AST with or without Ulk1 siRNA transfection. Intriguingly, pre-treatment of p38 or JNK activator markedly abolished the anti-inflammation, anti-apoptosis and anti-autophagy effects of Ulk1-knockdown on LPS-incubated AST. In conclusion, our results demonstrated that Ulk1 might be a potential target for developing therapeutic strategy against TBI in future.
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42
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Sankar SB, Donegan RK, Shah KJ, Reddi AR, Wood LB. Heme and hemoglobin suppress amyloid β-mediated inflammatory activation of mouse astrocytes. J Biol Chem 2018; 293:11358-11373. [PMID: 29871926 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra117.001050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2017] [Revised: 05/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Glial immune activity is a key feature of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Given that the blood factors heme and hemoglobin (Hb) are both elevated in AD tissues and have immunomodulatory roles, here we sought to interrogate their roles in modulating β-amyloid (Aβ)-mediated inflammatory activation of astrocytes. We discovered that heme and Hb suppress immune activity of primary mouse astrocytes by reducing expression of several proinflammatory cytokines (e.g. RANTES (regulated on activation normal T cell expressed and secreted)) and the scavenger receptor CD36 and reducing internalization of Aβ(1-42) by astrocytes. Moreover, we found that certain soluble (>75-kDa) Aβ(1-42) oligomers are primarily responsible for astrocyte activation and that heme or Hb association with these oligomers reverses inflammation. We further found that heme up-regulates phosphoprotein signaling in the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt pathway, which regulates a number of immune functions, including cytokine expression and phagocytosis. The findings in this work suggest that dysregulation of Hb and heme levels in AD brains may contribute to impaired amyloid clearance and that targeting heme homeostasis may reduce amyloid pathogenesis. Altogether, we propose heme as a critical molecular link between amyloid pathology and AD risk factors, such as aging, brain injury, and stroke, which increase Hb and heme levels in the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sitara B Sankar
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30332
| | - Rebecca K Donegan
- School of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30332
| | - Kajol J Shah
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30332
| | - Amit R Reddi
- School of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30332; Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30332.
| | - Levi B Wood
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30332; Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30332; George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30332.
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43
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Johnson CD, D'Amato AR, Puhl DL, Wich DM, Vesperman A, Gilbert RJ. Electrospun fiber surface nanotopography influences astrocyte-mediated neurite outgrowth. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 13:054101. [PMID: 29762127 DOI: 10.1088/1748-605x/aac4de] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Aligned, electrospun fiber scaffolds provide topographical guidance for regenerating neurons and glia after central nervous system injury. To date, no study has explored how fiber surface nanotopography affects astrocyte response to fibrous scaffolds. Astrocytes play important roles in the glial scar, the blood brain barrier, and in maintaining homeostasis in the central nervous system. In this study, electrospun poly L-lactic acid fibers were engineered with smooth, pitted, or divoted surface nanotopography. Cortical or spinal cord primary rat astrocytes were cultured on the surfaces for either 1 or 3 d to examine the astrocyte response over time. The results showed that cortical astrocytes were significantly shorter and broader on the pitted and divoted fibers compared to those on smooth fibers. However, spinal cord astrocyte morphology was not significantly altered by the surface features. These findings indicate that astrocytes from unique anatomical locations respond differently to the presence of nanotopography. Western blot results show that the differences in morphology were not associated with significant changes in glial fibrillary acidicprotein (GFAP) or vinculin in either astrocyte population, suggesting that surface pits and divots do not induce a reactive phenotype in either cortical or spinal cord astrocytes. Finally, astrocytes were co-cultured with dorsal root ganglia to determine how the surfaces affected astrocyte-mediated neurite outgrowth. Astrocytes cultured on the fibers for shorter periods of time (1 d) generally supported longer neurite outgrowth. Pitted and divoted fibers restricted spinal cord astrocyte-mediated neurite outgrowth, while smooth fibers increased 3 d spinal cord astrocyte-mediated neurite outgrowth. In total, fiber surface nanotopography can influence astrocyte elongation and influence the capability of astrocytes to direct neurites. Therefore, fiber surface characteristics should be carefully controlled to optimize astrocyte-mediated axonal regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher D Johnson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 8th Street, Troy, NY, 12180-3590, United States of America. Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 8th Street, Troy, NY, 12180-3590, United States of America
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44
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Maclean FL, Horne MK, Williams RJ, Nisbet DR. Review: Biomaterial systems to resolve brain inflammation after traumatic injury. APL Bioeng 2018; 2:021502. [PMID: 31069296 PMCID: PMC6481708 DOI: 10.1063/1.5023709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2018] [Accepted: 04/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The inflammatory response within the central nervous system (CNS) is a tightly regulated cascade of events which is a balance of both cytotoxic and cytotrophic effects which determine the outcome of an injury. The two effects are inextricably linked, particularly in traumatic brain injury or stroke, where permanent dysfunction is often observed. Chronic brain inflammation is a key barrier to regeneration. This is considered a toxic, growth inhibitory mechanism; yet, the inflammatory response must also be considered as a mechanism that can be exploited as protective and reparative. Repurposing this complex response is the challenge for tissue engineers: to design treatments to repair and regenerate damaged tissue after brain insult. Astrocytes are important cells within the CNS which play a key role after traumatic brain injury. A comprehensive understanding of their functions-both cytotrophic and cytotoxic-will enable designed materials and drug delivery approaches for improved treatment options post traumatic injury. Understanding, evaluating, and designing biomaterials that match the healthy neural environment to temporally alter the inflammatory cascade represent a promise neural tissue engineering strategy to optimise repair and regeneration after injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca L. Maclean
- Laboratory of Advanced Biomaterials, Research School of Engineering, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
| | | | - Richard J. Williams
- R. J. Williams and D. R. Nisbet contributed equally to this work. Electronic addresses: and
| | - David R. Nisbet
- R. J. Williams and D. R. Nisbet contributed equally to this work. Electronic addresses: and
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45
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Aebersold MJ, Thompson-Steckel G, Joutang A, Schneider M, Burchert C, Forró C, Weydert S, Han H, Vörös J. Simple and Inexpensive Paper-Based Astrocyte Co-culture to Improve Survival of Low-Density Neuronal Networks. Front Neurosci 2018. [PMID: 29535595 PMCID: PMC5835045 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2018.00094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Bottom-up neuroscience aims to engineer well-defined networks of neurons to investigate the functions of the brain. By reducing the complexity of the brain to achievable target questions, such in vitro bioassays better control experimental variables and can serve as a versatile tool for fundamental and pharmacological research. Astrocytes are a cell type critical to neuronal function, and the addition of astrocytes to neuron cultures can improve the quality of in vitro assays. Here, we present cellulose as an astrocyte culture substrate. Astrocytes cultured on the cellulose fiber matrix thrived and formed a dense 3D network. We devised a novel co-culture platform by suspending the easy-to-handle astrocytic paper cultures above neuronal networks of low densities typically needed for bottom-up neuroscience. There was significant improvement in neuronal viability after 5 days in vitro at densities ranging from 50,000 cells/cm2 down to isolated cells at 1,000 cells/cm2. Cultures exhibited spontaneous spiking even at the very low densities, with a significantly greater spike frequency per cell compared to control mono-cultures. Applying the co-culture platform to an engineered network of neurons on a patterned substrate resulted in significantly improved viability and almost doubled the density of live cells. Lastly, the shape of the cellulose substrate can easily be customized to a wide range of culture vessels, making the platform versatile for different applications that will further enable research in bottom-up neuroscience and drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathias J Aebersold
- Laboratory of Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Institute for Biomedical Engineering, ETH Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Greta Thompson-Steckel
- Laboratory of Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Institute for Biomedical Engineering, ETH Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Adriane Joutang
- Laboratory of Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Institute for Biomedical Engineering, ETH Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Moritz Schneider
- Laboratory of Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Institute for Biomedical Engineering, ETH Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Conrad Burchert
- Laboratory of Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Institute for Biomedical Engineering, ETH Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Csaba Forró
- Laboratory of Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Institute for Biomedical Engineering, ETH Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Serge Weydert
- Laboratory of Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Institute for Biomedical Engineering, ETH Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Hana Han
- Laboratory of Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Institute for Biomedical Engineering, ETH Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - János Vörös
- Laboratory of Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Institute for Biomedical Engineering, ETH Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland
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46
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Abstract
Understanding the mechanical behavior of human brain is critical to interpret the role of physical stimuli in both normal and pathological processes that occur in CNS tissue, such as development, inflammation, neurodegeneration, aging, and most common brain tumors. Despite clear evidence that mechanical cues influence both normal and transformed brain tissue activity as well as normal and transformed brain cell behavior, little is known about the links between mechanical signals and their biochemical and medical consequences. A multi-level approach from whole organ rheology to single cell mechanics is needed to understand the physical aspects of human brain function and its pathologies. This review summarizes the latest achievements in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Pogoda
- Department of Physiology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States.,Institute of Nuclear Physics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Krakow, Poland
| | - Paul A Janmey
- Department of Physiology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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47
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Soft chitosan microbeads scaffold for 3D functional neuronal networks. Biomaterials 2018; 156:159-171. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2017.11.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2017] [Revised: 11/15/2017] [Accepted: 11/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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48
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Wolfes AC, Dean C. Culturing In Vivo-like Murine Astrocytes Using the Fast, Simple, and Inexpensive AWESAM Protocol. J Vis Exp 2018. [PMID: 29364267 DOI: 10.3791/56092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The AWESAM (a low-cost easy stellate astrocyte method) protocol entails a fast, simple, and inexpensive way to generate large quantities of in vivo-like mouse and rat astrocyte monocultures: Brain cells can be isolated from different brain regions, and after a week of cell culture, non-astrocytic cells are shaken off by placing the culture dishes on a shaker for 6 h in the incubator. The remaining astrocytes are then passaged into new plates with an astrocyte-specific medium (termed NB+H). NB+H contains low concentrations of heparin-binding EGF-like growth factor (HBEGF), which is used in place of serum in medium. After growing in NB+H, AWESAM astrocytes have a stellate morphology and feature fine processes. Moreover, these astrocytes have more in vivo-like gene expression than astrocytes generated by previously published methods. Ca2+ imaging, vesicle dynamics, and other events close to the membrane can thus be studied in the fine astrocytic processes in vitro, e.g., using live cell confocal or TIRF microscopy. Notably, AWESAM astrocytes also exhibit spontaneous Ca2+ signaling similar to astrocytes in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne C Wolfes
- Chemical Biology, Chemistry Research Laboratory, University of Oxford; Department of Physiology, Anatomy, and Genetics, University of Oxford; Trans-synaptic signaling, European Neuroscience Institute
| | - Camin Dean
- Trans-synaptic signaling, European Neuroscience Institute;
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49
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de Pablo Y, Chen M, Möllerström E, Pekna M, Pekny M. Drugs targeting intermediate filaments can improve neurosupportive properties of astrocytes. Brain Res Bull 2018; 136:130-138. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2017.01.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2016] [Revised: 01/15/2017] [Accepted: 01/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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Hybrid-spheroids incorporating ECM like engineered fragmented fibers potentiate stem cell function by improved cell/cell and cell/ECM interactions. Acta Biomater 2017; 64:161-175. [PMID: 29037892 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2017.10.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2017] [Revised: 09/13/2017] [Accepted: 10/11/2017] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Extracellular matrix (ECM) microenvironment is critical for the viability, stemness, and differentiation of stem cells. In this study, we developed hybrid-spheroids of human turbinate mesenchymal stem cells (hTMSCs) by using extracellular matrix (ECM) mimicking fragmented fibers (FFs) for improvement of the viability and functions of hTMSCs. We prepared FFs with average size of 68.26 µm by partial aminolysis of poly L-lactide (PLLA) fibrous sheet (FS), which was coated with polydopamine for improved cell adhesion. The proliferation of hTMSCs within the hybrid-spheroids mixed with fragmented fibers was significantly increased as compared to that from the cell-only group. Cells and fragmented fibers were homogenously distributed with the presence of pore like empty spaces in the structure. LOX-1 staining revealed that the hybrid-spheroids improved the cell viability, which was potentially due to enhanced transport of oxygen through void space generated by engineered ECM. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis confirmed that cells within the hybrid-spheroid formed strong cell junctions and contacts with fragmented fibers. The expression of cell junction proteins including connexin 43 and E-cadherin was significantly upregulated in hybrid-spheroids by 16.53 ± 0.04 and 28.26 ± 0.11-fold greater than that from cell-only group. Similarly, expression of integrin α2, α5, and β1 was significantly enhanced at the same group by 25.72 ± 0.13, 27.48 ± 0.49, and 592.78 ± 0.06-fold, respectively. In addition, stemness markers including Oct-4, Nanog, and Sox2 were significantly upregulated in hybrid-spheroids by 96.56 ± 0.06, 158.95 ± 0.06, and 115.46 ± 0.47-fold, respectively, relative to the cell-only group. Additionally, hTMSCs within the hybrid-spheroids showed significantly greater osteogenic differentiation under osteogenic media conditions. Taken together, our hybrid-spheroids can be an ideal approach for stem cell expansion and serve as a potential carrier for bone regeneration. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE Cells are spatially arranged within extracellular matrix (ECM) and cell/ECM interactions are crucial for cellular functions. Here, we developed a hybrid-spheroid system incorporating engineered ECM prepared from fragmented electrospun fibers to tune stem cell functions. Conventionally prepared cell spheroids with large diameters (>200 µm) is often prone to hypoxia. In contrast, the hybrid-spheroids significantly enhanced viability and proliferation of human turbinate mesenchymal stem cells (hTMSCs) as compared to spheroid prepared from cell only. Under these conditions, the presence of fragmented fibers also improved maintenance of stemness of hTMSCs for longer time cultured in growth media and demonstrated significantly greater osteogenic differentiation under osteogenic media conditions. Thus, the hybrid-spheroids can be used as a delivery carrier for stem cell based therapy or a 3D culture model for in vitro assay.
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