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McGreevy O, Bosakhar M, Gilbert T, Quinn M, Fenwick S, Malik H, Goldring C, Randle L. The importance of preclinical models in cholangiocarcinoma. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF SURGICAL ONCOLOGY 2024:108304. [PMID: 38653585 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejso.2024.108304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is an adenocarcinoma of the hepatobiliary system with a grim prognosis. Incidence is rising globally and surgery is currently the only curative treatment, but is only available for patients who are fit and diagnosed in an early-stage of disease progression. Great importance has been placed on developing preclinical models to help further our understanding of CCA and potential treatments to improve therapeutic outcomes. Preclinical models of varying complexity and cost have been established, ranging from more simplistic in vitro 2D CCA cell lines in culture, to more complex in vivo genetically engineered mouse models. Currently there is no single model that faithfully recaptures the complexities of human CCA and the in vivo tumour microenvironment. Instead a multi-model approach should be used when designing preclinical trials to study CCA and potential therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Owen McGreevy
- The Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, The University of Liverpool, Sherrington Building, Ashton Street, Liverpool, L69 3GE, UK
| | - Mohammed Bosakhar
- The Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, The University of Liverpool, Sherrington Building, Ashton Street, Liverpool, L69 3GE, UK
| | - Timothy Gilbert
- The Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, The University of Liverpool, Sherrington Building, Ashton Street, Liverpool, L69 3GE, UK; Hepatobiliary Surgery, Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Royal Liverpool University Hospital, Prescot Street, L7 8XP, Liverpool, UK
| | - Marc Quinn
- The Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, The University of Liverpool, Sherrington Building, Ashton Street, Liverpool, L69 3GE, UK; Hepatobiliary Surgery, Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Royal Liverpool University Hospital, Prescot Street, L7 8XP, Liverpool, UK
| | - Stephen Fenwick
- Hepatobiliary Surgery, Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Royal Liverpool University Hospital, Prescot Street, L7 8XP, Liverpool, UK
| | - Hassan Malik
- Hepatobiliary Surgery, Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Royal Liverpool University Hospital, Prescot Street, L7 8XP, Liverpool, UK
| | - Christopher Goldring
- The Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, The University of Liverpool, Sherrington Building, Ashton Street, Liverpool, L69 3GE, UK
| | - Laura Randle
- The Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, The University of Liverpool, Sherrington Building, Ashton Street, Liverpool, L69 3GE, UK.
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Brüll M, Geese N, Celardo I, Laumann M, Leist M. Preparation of Viable Human Neurites for Neurobiological and Neurodegeneration Studies. Cells 2024; 13:242. [PMID: 38334634 PMCID: PMC10854604 DOI: 10.3390/cells13030242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Few models allow the study of neurite damage in the human central nervous system. We used here dopaminergic LUHMES neurons to establish a culture system that allows for (i) the observation of highly enriched neurites, (ii) the preparation of the neurite fraction for biochemical studies, and (iii) the measurement of neurite markers and metabolites after axotomy. LUHMES-based spheroids, plated in culture dishes, extended neurites of several thousand µm length, while all somata remained aggregated. These cultures allowed an easy microscopic observation of live or fixed neurites. Neurite-only cultures (NOC) were produced by cutting out the still-aggregated somata. The potential application of such cultures was exemplified by determinations of their protein and RNA contents. For instance, the mitochondrial TOM20 protein was highly abundant, while nuclear histone H3 was absent. Similarly, mitochondrial-encoded RNAs were found at relatively high levels, while the mRNA for a histone or the neuronal nuclear marker NeuN (RBFOX3) were relatively depleted in NOC. Another potential use of NOC is the study of neurite degeneration. For this purpose, an algorithm to quantify neurite integrity was developed. Using this tool, we found that the addition of nicotinamide drastically reduced neurite degeneration. Also, the chelation of Ca2+ in NOC delayed the degeneration, while inhibitors of calpains had no effect. Thus, NOC proved to be suitable for biochemical analysis and for studying degeneration processes after a defined cut injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markus Brüll
- In Vitro Toxicology and Biomedicine, Department Inaugurated by the Doerenkamp-Zbinden Foundation, University of Konstanz, 78457 Konstanz, Germany; (M.B.); (N.G.); (I.C.)
| | - Nils Geese
- In Vitro Toxicology and Biomedicine, Department Inaugurated by the Doerenkamp-Zbinden Foundation, University of Konstanz, 78457 Konstanz, Germany; (M.B.); (N.G.); (I.C.)
| | - Ivana Celardo
- In Vitro Toxicology and Biomedicine, Department Inaugurated by the Doerenkamp-Zbinden Foundation, University of Konstanz, 78457 Konstanz, Germany; (M.B.); (N.G.); (I.C.)
| | - Michael Laumann
- Electron Microscopy Centre, University of Konstanz, 78457 Konstanz, Germany;
| | - Marcel Leist
- In Vitro Toxicology and Biomedicine, Department Inaugurated by the Doerenkamp-Zbinden Foundation, University of Konstanz, 78457 Konstanz, Germany; (M.B.); (N.G.); (I.C.)
- Center for Alternatives to Animal Testing in Europe (CAAT-Europe), University of Konstanz, 78457 Konstanz, Germany
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Suciu I, Delp J, Gutbier S, Suess J, Henschke L, Celardo I, Mayer TU, Amelio I, Leist M. Definition of the Neurotoxicity-Associated Metabolic Signature Triggered by Berberine and Other Respiratory Chain Inhibitors. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 13:49. [PMID: 38247474 PMCID: PMC10812665 DOI: 10.3390/antiox13010049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
To characterize the hits from a phenotypic neurotoxicity screen, we obtained transcriptomics data for valinomycin, diethylstilbestrol, colchicine, rotenone, 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP), carbaryl and berberine (Ber). For all compounds, the concentration triggering neurite degeneration correlated with the onset of gene expression changes. The mechanistically diverse toxicants caused similar patterns of gene regulation: the responses were dominated by cell de-differentiation and a triggering of canonical stress response pathways driven by ATF4 and NRF2. To obtain more detailed and specific information on the modes-of-action, the effects on energy metabolism (respiration and glycolysis) were measured. Ber, rotenone and MPP inhibited the mitochondrial respiratory chain and they shared complex I as the target. This group of toxicants was further evaluated by metabolomics under experimental conditions that did not deplete ATP. Ber (204 changed metabolites) showed similar effects as MPP and rotenone. The overall metabolic situation was characterized by oxidative stress, an over-abundance of NADH (>1000% increase) and a re-routing of metabolism in order to dispose of the nitrogen resulting from increased amino acid turnover. This unique overall pattern led to the accumulation of metabolites known as biomarkers of neurodegeneration (saccharopine, aminoadipate and branched-chain ketoacids). These findings suggest that neurotoxicity of mitochondrial inhibitors may result from an ensemble of metabolic changes rather than from a simple ATP depletion. The combi-omics approach used here provided richer and more specific MoA data than the more common transcriptomics analysis alone. As Ber, a human drug and food supplement, mimicked closely the mode-of-action of known neurotoxicants, its potential hazard requires further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilinca Suciu
- In Vitro Toxicology and Biomedicine, Department Inaugurated by the Doerenkamp-Zbinden Foundation, University of Konstanz, 78464 Konstanz, Germany
- Graduate School of Chemical Biology, University of Konstanz, 78464 Konstanz, Germany
| | - Johannes Delp
- In Vitro Toxicology and Biomedicine, Department Inaugurated by the Doerenkamp-Zbinden Foundation, University of Konstanz, 78464 Konstanz, Germany
| | - Simon Gutbier
- In Vitro Toxicology and Biomedicine, Department Inaugurated by the Doerenkamp-Zbinden Foundation, University of Konstanz, 78464 Konstanz, Germany
| | - Julian Suess
- In Vitro Toxicology and Biomedicine, Department Inaugurated by the Doerenkamp-Zbinden Foundation, University of Konstanz, 78464 Konstanz, Germany
| | - Lars Henschke
- Graduate School of Chemical Biology, University of Konstanz, 78464 Konstanz, Germany
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Konstanz, 78464 Konstanz, Germany
| | - Ivana Celardo
- In Vitro Toxicology and Biomedicine, Department Inaugurated by the Doerenkamp-Zbinden Foundation, University of Konstanz, 78464 Konstanz, Germany
| | - Thomas U. Mayer
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Konstanz, 78464 Konstanz, Germany
| | - Ivano Amelio
- Division for Systems Toxicology, Department of Biology, University of Konstanz, 78464 Konstanz, Germany
| | - Marcel Leist
- In Vitro Toxicology and Biomedicine, Department Inaugurated by the Doerenkamp-Zbinden Foundation, University of Konstanz, 78464 Konstanz, Germany
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Osten F, Löscher W, Gericke B. Human brain microvascular endothelial cells release different types of P-glycoprotein-containing extracellular vesicles upon exposure to doxorubicin. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2023; 479:116712. [PMID: 37820772 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2023.116712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
In the brain, the efflux transporter P-glycoprotein (Pgp) is predominantly located on the luminal membrane of microvascular endothelial cells (BMECs) that form the blood-brain barrier. In addition, Pgp is localized in intracellular organelles involved in Pgp traffic and cycling and, by the release of extracellular vesicles (EVs), in intercellular Pgp transfer to cells with low Pgp expression. We recently described that drug exposure of a human BMEC line (hCMEC/D3) induces the release of Pgp-EGFP-containing EVs; however, the nature of the Pgp-enriched vesicles was not characterized. The two main categories of EVs are exosomes and microvesicles, which differ in origin, size, and molecular cargo. In the present study, we performed similar experiments with hCMEC/D3 cells in the absence and presence of doxorubicin and isolated and characterized the EVs released by the cells during the experiments by differential ultracentrifugation with/without subsequent sucrose gradient fractionation of EV pellets, proteomic profiling, EV size analysis, and confocal fluorescence microscopy. Using cocultures of hCMEC/D3 wildtype cells and cells transduced with MDR1-EGFP or monocultures of hCMEC/D3-MDR1-EGFP cells, we found release of both Pgp-enriched exosomes and microvesicles but analysis of the exosomal marker protein Rab7 indicated that doxorubicin increased particularly the release of exosomes. Transfer experiments with isolated EVs demonstrated EV endocytosis by recipient cells. EV release from BMECs in response to anticancer drugs such as doxorubicin likely serves different functions, including non-genetic intercellular transfer of a resistance phenotype to neighboring BMECs and a mechanism of drug extrusion that contributes to brain protection against potentially toxic chemotherapeutic drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix Osten
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Pharmacy, University of Veterinary Medicine, Hannover, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Löscher
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Pharmacy, University of Veterinary Medicine, Hannover, Germany; Center for Systems Neuroscience, Hannover, Germany; Translational Neuropharmacology Lab, NIFE, Department of Experimental Otology of the ENT Clinics, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany.
| | - Birthe Gericke
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Pharmacy, University of Veterinary Medicine, Hannover, Germany; Center for Systems Neuroscience, Hannover, Germany.
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Ückert AK, Rütschlin S, Gutbier S, Wörz NC, Miah MR, Martins AC, Hauer I, Holzer AK, Meyburg B, Mix AK, Hauck C, Aschner M, Böttcher T, Leist M. Identification of the bacterial metabolite aerugine as potential trigger of human dopaminergic neurodegeneration. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2023; 180:108229. [PMID: 37797477 PMCID: PMC10666548 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2023.108229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
The causes of nigrostriatal cell death in idiopathic Parkinson's disease are unknown, but exposure to toxic chemicals may play some role. We followed up here on suggestions that bacterial secondary metabolites might be selectively cytotoxic to dopaminergic neurons. Extracts from Streptomyces venezuelae were found to kill human dopaminergic neurons (LUHMES cells). Utilizing this model system as a bioassay, we identified a bacterial metabolite known as aerugine (C10H11NO2S; 2-[4-(hydroxymethyl)-4,5-dihydro-1,3-thiazol-2-yl]phenol) and confirmed this finding by chemical re-synthesis. This 2-hydroxyphenyl-thiazoline compound was previously shown to be a product of a wide-spread biosynthetic cluster also found in the human microbiome and in several pathogens. Aerugine triggered half-maximal dopaminergic neurotoxicity at 3-4 µM. It was less toxic for other neurons (10-20 µM), and non-toxic (at <100 µM) for common human cell lines. Neurotoxicity was completely prevented by several iron chelators, by distinct anti-oxidants and by a caspase inhibitor. In the Caenorhabditis elegans model organism, general survival was not affected by aerugine concentrations up to 100 µM. When transgenic worms, expressing green fluorescent protein only in their dopamine neurons, were exposed to aerugine, specific neurodegeneration was observed. The toxicant also exerted functional dopaminergic toxicity in nematodes as determined by the "basal slowing response" assay. Thus, our research has unveiled a bacterial metabolite with a remarkably selective toxicity toward human dopaminergic neurons in vitro and for the dopaminergic nervous system of Caenorhabditis elegans in vivo. These findings suggest that microbe-derived environmental chemicals should be further investigated for their role in the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna-Katharina Ückert
- In vitro Toxicology and Biomedicine, Dept inaugurated by the Doerenkamp-Zbinden foundation, University of Konstanz, 78457 Konstanz, Germany
| | - Sina Rütschlin
- Department of Chemistry, Konstanz Research School Chemical Biology, Zukunftskolleg, University of Konstanz, 78457 Konstanz, Germany
| | - Simon Gutbier
- In vitro Toxicology and Biomedicine, Dept inaugurated by the Doerenkamp-Zbinden foundation, University of Konstanz, 78457 Konstanz, Germany
| | - Nathalie Christine Wörz
- Faculty of Chemistry, Institute for Biological Chemistry & Centre for Microbiology and Environmental Systems Science, Department of Microbiology and Ecosystems Science, University of Vienna, Josef-Holaubek-Platz 2 (UZA II), 1090 Vienna, Austria; Doctoral School in Chemistry (DoSChem), University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Mahfuzur R Miah
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 10641 Bronx, NY, United States
| | - Airton C Martins
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 10641 Bronx, NY, United States; Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 10641 Bronx, NY, United States
| | - Isa Hauer
- In vitro Toxicology and Biomedicine, Dept inaugurated by the Doerenkamp-Zbinden foundation, University of Konstanz, 78457 Konstanz, Germany
| | - Anna-Katharina Holzer
- In vitro Toxicology and Biomedicine, Dept inaugurated by the Doerenkamp-Zbinden foundation, University of Konstanz, 78457 Konstanz, Germany
| | - Birthe Meyburg
- In vitro Toxicology and Biomedicine, Dept inaugurated by the Doerenkamp-Zbinden foundation, University of Konstanz, 78457 Konstanz, Germany
| | - Ann-Kathrin Mix
- Lehrstuhl Zellbiologie, Universität Konstanz, Universitätsstraße 10, Postablage 621, 78457 Konstanz, Germany
| | - Christof Hauck
- Lehrstuhl Zellbiologie, Universität Konstanz, Universitätsstraße 10, Postablage 621, 78457 Konstanz, Germany
| | - Michael Aschner
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 10641 Bronx, NY, United States; Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 10641 Bronx, NY, United States
| | - Thomas Böttcher
- Department of Chemistry, Konstanz Research School Chemical Biology, Zukunftskolleg, University of Konstanz, 78457 Konstanz, Germany; Faculty of Chemistry, Institute for Biological Chemistry & Centre for Microbiology and Environmental Systems Science, Department of Microbiology and Ecosystems Science, University of Vienna, Josef-Holaubek-Platz 2 (UZA II), 1090 Vienna, Austria.
| | - Marcel Leist
- In vitro Toxicology and Biomedicine, Dept inaugurated by the Doerenkamp-Zbinden foundation, University of Konstanz, 78457 Konstanz, Germany
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Jaime-Rodríguez M, Cadena-Hernández AL, Rosales-Valencia LD, Padilla-Sánchez JM, Chavez-Santoscoy RA. Are genetic drift and stem cell adherence in laboratory culture issues for cultivated meat production? Front Nutr 2023; 10:1189664. [PMID: 37701376 PMCID: PMC10493286 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2023.1189664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cell-based cultivated meat is a promising solution to the ecological and ethical problems posed by traditional meat production, since it exhibits a protein content and composition that is more comparable to original meat proteins than any other source of cultivated meat products, including plants, bacteria, and fungi. Nonetheless, the nature and laboratory behavior of mesenchymal stem cells pose two significant challenges for large-scale production: genetic drift and adherent growth in culture. Culture conditions used in the laboratory expose the cells to a selective pressure that causes genetic drift, which may give rise to oncogene activation and the loss of "stemness." This is why genetic and functional analysis of the cells during culture is required to determine the maximum number of passages within the laboratory where no significant mutations or loss of function are detected. Moreover, the adherent growth of mesenchymal stem cells can be an obstacle for their large-scale production since volume to surface ratio is limited for high volume containers. Multi-tray systems, roller bottles, and microcarriers have been proposed as potential solutions to scale-up the production of adherent cells required for cultivated meat. The most promising solutions for the safety problems and large-scale obstacles for cultivated meat production are the determination of a limit number of passages based on a genetic analysis and the use of microcarriers from edible materials to maximize the volume to surface proportion and decrease the downstream operations needed for cultivated meat production.
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Suciu I, Pamies D, Peruzzo R, Wirtz PH, Smirnova L, Pallocca G, Hauck C, Cronin MTD, Hengstler JG, Brunner T, Hartung T, Amelio I, Leist M. G × E interactions as a basis for toxicological uncertainty. Arch Toxicol 2023; 97:2035-2049. [PMID: 37258688 PMCID: PMC10256652 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-023-03500-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
To transfer toxicological findings from model systems, e.g. animals, to humans, standardized safety factors are applied to account for intra-species and inter-species variabilities. An alternative approach would be to measure and model the actual compound-specific uncertainties. This biological concept assumes that all observed toxicities depend not only on the exposure situation (environment = E), but also on the genetic (G) background of the model (G × E). As a quantitative discipline, toxicology needs to move beyond merely qualitative G × E concepts. Research programs are required that determine the major biological variabilities affecting toxicity and categorize their relative weights and contributions. In a complementary approach, detailed case studies need to explore the role of genetic backgrounds in the adverse effects of defined chemicals. In addition, current understanding of the selection and propagation of adverse outcome pathways (AOP) in different biological environments is very limited. To improve understanding, a particular focus is required on modulatory and counter-regulatory steps. For quantitative approaches to address uncertainties, the concept of "genetic" influence needs a more precise definition. What is usually meant by this term in the context of G × E are the protein functions encoded by the genes. Besides the gene sequence, the regulation of the gene expression and function should also be accounted for. The widened concept of past and present "gene expression" influences is summarized here as Ge. Also, the concept of "environment" needs some re-consideration in situations where exposure timing (Et) is pivotal: prolonged or repeated exposure to the insult (chemical, physical, life style) affects Ge. This implies that it changes the model system. The interaction of Ge with Et might be denoted as Ge × Et. We provide here general explanations and specific examples for this concept and show how it could be applied in the context of New Approach Methodologies (NAM).
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilinca Suciu
- In Vitro Toxicology and Biomedicine, Department Inaugurated By the Doerenkamp-Zbinden Foundation, University of Konstanz, Universitaetsstr. 10, 78457, Constance, Germany
| | - David Pamies
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Lausanne, 1005, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Roberta Peruzzo
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | - Petra H Wirtz
- Centre for the Advanced Study of Collective Behaviour, University of Konstanz, 78457, Constance, Germany
- Biological Work and Health Psychology, Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, 78457, Constance, Germany
| | - Lena Smirnova
- Center for Alternatives to Animal Testing (CAAT), Johns Hopkins University, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | | | - Christof Hauck
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Konstanz, 78457, Constance, Germany
| | - Mark T D Cronin
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Byrom Street, Liverpool, L3 3AF, UK
| | - Jan G Hengstler
- Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors, Technical University Dortmund, 44139, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Thomas Brunner
- Biochemical Pharmacology, Department of Biology, University of Konstanz, 78457, Constance, Germany
| | - Thomas Hartung
- Center for Alternatives to Animal Testing (CAAT), Johns Hopkins University, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
- CAAT Europe, University of Konstanz, 78457, Constance, Germany
| | - Ivano Amelio
- Division for Systems Toxicology, Department of Biology, University of Konstanz, 78457, Constance, Germany
| | - Marcel Leist
- In Vitro Toxicology and Biomedicine, Department Inaugurated By the Doerenkamp-Zbinden Foundation, University of Konstanz, Universitaetsstr. 10, 78457, Constance, Germany.
- CAAT Europe, University of Konstanz, 78457, Constance, Germany.
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Dynamic Metabolic and Transcriptional Responses of Proteasome-Inhibited Neurons. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:antiox12010164. [PMID: 36671027 PMCID: PMC9854434 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12010164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Proteasome inhibition is associated with parkinsonian pathology in vivo and degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in vitro. We explored here the metabolome (386 metabolites) and transcriptome (3257 transcripts) regulations of human LUHMES neurons, following exposure to MG-132 [100 nM]. This proteasome inhibitor killed cells within 24 h but did not reduce viability for 12 h. Overall, 206 metabolites were changed in live neurons. The early (3 h) metabolome changes suggested a compromised energy metabolism. For instance, AMP, NADH and lactate were up-regulated, while glycolytic and citric acid cycle intermediates were down-regulated. At later time points, glutathione-related metabolites were up-regulated, most likely by an early oxidative stress response and activation of NRF2/ATF4 target genes. The transcriptome pattern confirmed proteostatic stress (fast up-regulation of proteasome subunits) and also suggested the progressive activation of additional stress response pathways. The early ones (e.g., HIF-1, NF-kB, HSF-1) can be considered a cytoprotective cellular counter-regulation, which maintained cell viability. For instance, a very strong up-regulation of AIFM2 (=FSP1) may have prevented fast ferroptotic death. For most of the initial period, a definite life-death decision was not taken, as neurons could be rescued for at least 10 h after the start of proteasome inhibition. Late responses involved p53 activation and catabolic processes such as a loss of pyrimidine synthesis intermediates. We interpret this as a phase of co-occurrence of protective and maladaptive cellular changes. Altogether, this combined metabolomics-transcriptomics analysis informs on responses triggered in neurons by proteasome dysfunction that may be targeted by novel therapeutic intervention in Parkinson's disease.
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LUHMES Cells: Phenotype Refinement and Development of an MPP +-Based Test System for Screening Antiparkinsonian Drugs. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24010733. [PMID: 36614176 PMCID: PMC9821222 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010733] [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: 10/27/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The low effectiveness of symptomatic pharmacotherapy for Parkinson's disease (PD), which compensates for dopamine (DA) deficiency under degeneration of nigrostriatal dopaminergic (DAergic) neurons, could apparently be improved with neuroprotective therapy, which slows down neurodegeneration and PD progression. For this, it is necessary to have a DAergic cell line for the development of a PD model to screen neuroprotectors. We used immortalized human embryonic mesencephalon LUHMES cells (LCs) differentiated into DAergic neurons. The aim of this study was to characterize the phenotype of differentiated LCs and develop an 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium iodide (MPP+)-based test system for screening neuroprotectors. Using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and immunocytochemistry, it has been shown that all differentiated LCs express genes and synthesize proteins characteristic of all neurons (microtubule-associated protein 2, bIII-tubulin, synaptotagmin 1) and specifically of DAergic neurons (tyrosine hydroxylase, aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase, DA transporter, vesicular monoamine transporter 2). Furthermore, LCs are able to produce a small amount of DA, but under special conditions. To assess the mechanisms of neurodegeneration and neuroplasticity under the influence of toxins and antiparkinsonian drugs, including neuroprotectors, we have developed an LCs-based MPP+ PD model and proposed an original panel of markers for testing functional and structural cell disorders.
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Blum J, Masjosthusmann S, Bartmann K, Bendt F, Dolde X, Dönmez A, Förster N, Holzer AK, Hübenthal U, Keßel HE, Kilic S, Klose J, Pahl M, Stürzl LC, Mangas I, Terron A, Crofton KM, Scholze M, Mosig A, Leist M, Fritsche E. Establishment of a human cell-based in vitro battery to assess developmental neurotoxicity hazard of chemicals. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 311:137035. [PMID: 36328314 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.137035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Developmental neurotoxicity (DNT) is a major safety concern for all chemicals of the human exposome. However, DNT data from animal studies are available for only a small percentage of manufactured compounds. Test methods with a higher throughput than current regulatory guideline methods, and with improved human relevance are urgently needed. We therefore explored the feasibility of DNT hazard assessment based on new approach methods (NAMs). An in vitro battery (IVB) was assembled from ten individual NAMs that had been developed during the past years to probe effects of chemicals on various fundamental neurodevelopmental processes. All assays used human neural cells at different developmental stages. This allowed us to assess disturbances of: (i) proliferation of neural progenitor cells (NPC); (ii) migration of neural crest cells, radial glia cells, neurons and oligodendrocytes; (iii) differentiation of NPC into neurons and oligodendrocytes; and (iv) neurite outgrowth of peripheral and central neurons. In parallel, cytotoxicity measures were obtained. The feasibility of concentration-dependent screening and of a reliable biostatistical processing of the complex multi-dimensional data was explored with a set of 120 test compounds, containing subsets of pre-defined positive and negative DNT compounds. The battery provided alerts (hit or borderline) for 24 of 28 known toxicants (82% sensitivity), and for none of the 17 negative controls. Based on the results from this screen project, strategies were developed on how IVB data may be used in the context of risk assessment scenarios employing integrated approaches for testing and assessment (IATA).
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Blum
- In Vitro Toxicology and Biomedicine, Dept Inaugurated By the Doerenkamp-Zbinden Foundation, University of Konstanz, 78457, Konstanz, Germany.
| | - Stefan Masjosthusmann
- IUF - Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Kristina Bartmann
- IUF - Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Farina Bendt
- IUF - Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Xenia Dolde
- In Vitro Toxicology and Biomedicine, Dept Inaugurated By the Doerenkamp-Zbinden Foundation, University of Konstanz, 78457, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Arif Dönmez
- IUF - Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Nils Förster
- Bioinformatics Group, Ruhr University Bochum, 44801, Bochum, Germany
| | - Anna-Katharina Holzer
- In Vitro Toxicology and Biomedicine, Dept Inaugurated By the Doerenkamp-Zbinden Foundation, University of Konstanz, 78457, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Ulrike Hübenthal
- IUF - Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Hagen Eike Keßel
- IUF - Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Sadiye Kilic
- In Vitro Toxicology and Biomedicine, Dept Inaugurated By the Doerenkamp-Zbinden Foundation, University of Konstanz, 78457, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Jördis Klose
- IUF - Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Melanie Pahl
- IUF - Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Lynn-Christin Stürzl
- IUF - Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Iris Mangas
- European Food Safety Authority, PREV Unit, 43126, Parma, Italy
| | - Andrea Terron
- European Food Safety Authority, PREV Unit, 43126, Parma, Italy
| | | | - Martin Scholze
- Institute of Environment Health and Societies, Brunel University London, UK
| | - Axel Mosig
- Bioinformatics Group, Ruhr University Bochum, 44801, Bochum, Germany
| | - Marcel Leist
- In Vitro Toxicology and Biomedicine, Dept Inaugurated By the Doerenkamp-Zbinden Foundation, University of Konstanz, 78457, Konstanz, Germany.
| | - Ellen Fritsche
- IUF - Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany; Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany.
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Corcoran JA, Han X. Improved cryopreservation media formulation reduces costs of maintenance while preserving function of genetically modified insect cells. In Vitro Cell Dev Biol Anim 2022; 58:867-876. [PMID: 36515806 DOI: 10.1007/s11626-022-00741-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Insect cell lines are an invaluable resource that facilitate various fundamental and applied research programs. Genetically engineered insect cell lines, in particular, serve as a platform through which the function of heterologously expressed proteins can be studied. However, a barrier to more widespread utilization and distribution of insect cell lines, genetically modified or not, is the technical and operational challenge associated with traditional cryopreservation methods, including their dependence on the use of liquid nitrogen facilities, animal or human serum products, and relatively high concentrations of permeating cryoprotectants (e.g., DMSO). Recent innovations in cryopreservation technologies have produced reagents with improved abilities to effectively preserve mammalian cell lines for long periods in regular laboratory deep freezers without using serum products, but their effectiveness in preserving genetically engineered insect cell lines has not yet been evaluated. In this study, we engineered Sf9 cells to express a dopamine receptor and used them as a model for evaluating the efficacy of a novel cryopreservation medium product, C80EZ®-INSECT, in not only preserving cell viability and proliferation efficiency but also maintaining the insect cell line's "functionality" after storage at -80°C. We found that the engineered Sf9 cells frozen using C80EZ®-INSECT with 5% DMSO alone and stored at -80°C for 6 mo displayed higher viability and growth rates than cells frozen using traditional fetal bovine serum (FBS)-based cryopreservation media with 10% DMSO that were stored at -80°C or in liquid nitrogen for the same period of time. We also found that after 6 mo of storage at -80°C or in liquid nitrogen the cells retained a responsiveness to dopamine comparable to that of the initial cell line, regardless of the cryopreservation reagent used. These results suggest that, due to the unique characteristics of C80EZ®-INSECT in preventing ice recrystallization and reducing ice crystal size and cellular apoptosis during cryostorage procedures, it is an effective cryopreservation reagent for genetically engineered Sf9 cells, and it practically eliminates the need for liquid nitrogen-based storage facilities and FBS-based cryopreservation formulations, as well as reduces the use of permeating cryoprotectants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob A Corcoran
- Biological Control of Insects Research Laboratory, USDA - Agricultural Research Service, 1503 S. Providence Rd, Columbia, MO, 65203, USA.
| | - Xu Han
- School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA
- CryoCrate LLC, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA
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A human stem cell-derived test system for agents modifying neuronal N-methyl-D-aspartate-type glutamate receptor Ca 2+-signalling. Arch Toxicol 2021; 95:1703-1722. [PMID: 33713149 PMCID: PMC8113295 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-021-03024-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Methods to assess neuronal receptor functions are needed in toxicology and for drug development. Human-based test systems that allow studies on glutamate signalling are still scarce. To address this issue, we developed and characterized pluripotent stem cell (PSC)-based neural cultures capable of forming a functional network. Starting from a stably proliferating neuroepithelial stem cell (NESC) population, we generate “mixed cortical cultures” (MCC) within 24 days. Characterization by immunocytochemistry, gene expression profiling and functional tests (multi-electrode arrays) showed that MCC contain various functional neurotransmitter receptors, and in particular, the N-methyl-d-aspartate subtype of ionotropic glutamate receptors (NMDA-R). As this important receptor is found neither on conventional neural cell lines nor on most stem cell-derived neurons, we focused here on the characterization of rapid glutamate-triggered Ca2+ signalling. Changes of the intracellular free calcium ion concentration ([Ca2+]i) were measured by fluorescent imaging as the main endpoint, and a method to evaluate and quantify signals in hundreds of cells at the same time was developed. We observed responses to glutamate in the low µM range. MCC responded to kainate and α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA), and a subpopulation of 50% had functional NMDA-R. The receptor was modulated by Mg2+, Zn2+ and Pb2+ in the expected ways, and various toxicologically relevant agonists (quinolinic acid, ibotenic acid, domoic acid) triggered [Ca2+]i responses in MCC. Antagonists, such as phencyclidine, ketamine and dextromethorphan, were also readily identified. Thus, the MCC developed here may fill an important gap in the panel of test systems available to characterize the effects of chemicals on neurotransmitter receptors.
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Neurotoxicity and underlying cellular changes of 21 mitochondrial respiratory chain inhibitors. Arch Toxicol 2021; 95:591-615. [PMID: 33512557 PMCID: PMC7870626 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-020-02970-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Inhibition of complex I of the mitochondrial respiratory chain (cI) by rotenone and methyl-phenylpyridinium (MPP +) leads to the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in man and rodents. To formally describe this mechanism of toxicity, an adverse outcome pathway (AOP:3) has been developed that implies that any inhibitor of cI, or possibly of other parts of the respiratory chain, would have the potential to trigger parkinsonian motor deficits. We used here 21 pesticides, all of which are described in the literature as mitochondrial inhibitors, to study the general applicability of AOP:3 or of in vitro assays that are assessing its activation. Five cI, three complex II (cII), and five complex III (cIII) inhibitors were characterized in detail in human dopaminergic neuronal cell cultures. The NeuriTox assay, examining neurite damage in LUHMES cells, was used as in vitro proxy of the adverse outcome (AO), i.e., of dopaminergic neurodegeneration. This test provided data on whether test compounds were unspecific cytotoxicants or specifically neurotoxic, and it yielded potency data with respect to neurite degeneration. The pesticide panel was also examined in assays for the sequential key events (KE) leading to the AO, i.e., mitochondrial respiratory chain inhibition, mitochondrial dysfunction, and disturbed proteostasis. Data from KE assays were compared to the NeuriTox data (AO). The cII-inhibitory pesticides tested here did not appear to trigger the AOP:3 at all. Some of the cI/cIII inhibitors showed a consistent AOP activation response in all assays, while others did not. In general, there was a clear hierarchy of assay sensitivity: changes of gene expression (biomarker of neuronal stress) correlated well with NeuriTox data; mitochondrial failure (measured both by a mitochondrial membrane potential-sensitive dye and a respirometric assay) was about 10–260 times more sensitive than neurite damage (AO); cI/cIII activity was sometimes affected at > 1000 times lower concentrations than the neurites. These data suggest that the use of AOP:3 for hazard assessment has a number of caveats: (i) specific parkinsonian neurodegeneration cannot be easily predicted from assays of mitochondrial dysfunction; (ii) deriving a point-of-departure for risk assessment from early KE assays may overestimate toxicant potency. Comparison of 21 data-rich mitochondrial toxicants for neurotoxicity Quantitative comparison of key event triggering thresholds for AOP:3 Comparison of two cell models and two exposure times for neurotoxicity Comparison of transcriptome changes and classical key event measures for sensitivity
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Antibody Identification for Antigen Detection in Formalin-Fixed Paraffin-Embedded Tissue Using Phage Display and Naïve Libraries. Antibodies (Basel) 2021; 10:antib10010004. [PMID: 33466676 PMCID: PMC7839037 DOI: 10.3390/antib10010004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Revised: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Immunohistochemistry is a widely used technique for research and diagnostic purposes that relies on the recognition by antibodies of antigens expressed in tissues. However, tissue processing and particularly formalin fixation affect the conformation of these antigens through the formation of methylene bridges. Although antigen retrieval techniques can partially restore antigen immunoreactivity, it is difficult to identify antibodies that can recognize their target especially in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissues. Most of the antibodies currently used in immunohistochemistry have been obtained by animal immunization; however, in vitro display techniques represent alternative strategies that have not been fully explored yet. This review provides an overview of phage display-based antibody selections using naïve antibody libraries on various supports (fixed cells, dissociated tissues, tissue fragments, and tissue sections) that have led to the identification of antibodies suitable for immunohistochemistry.
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Gwam C, Mohammed N, Ma X. Stem cell secretome, regeneration, and clinical translation: a narrative review. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2021; 9:70. [PMID: 33553363 PMCID: PMC7859812 DOI: 10.21037/atm-20-5030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Regenerative medicine is a field growing in popularity due to high hopes for stimulating in situ tissue restoration. Stem cell therapy remain at the center of regenerative medicine, due to early reports on its pluripotent differentiating capability. However, more recent reports suggest the paracrine activity of stem cells, and not direct differentiation, as the cause of its therapeutic effects. This paracrine activity can be harnessed in the form of conditioned media. Despite these capabilities, the clinical translation of stem cell conditioned media (i.e., secretome) is precluded by a variety of factors. These limitations include standardization of stem cell-conditioned media formulation, characterization of bioactive factors in conditioned media and dosing, optimizing modes of delivery, and uncovering of mechanisms of action of stem cell conditioned media. The purpose of this review is to provide a focused narration on the aforementioned preclusions pertaining to the clinical translation of stem cell conditioned media. Specifically, we will report on commonly use methodologies for the development of stem cell conditioned media, modalities for conditioned media characterization, modes of delivery, and postulated mechanisms of action for stem cell conditioned media in regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chukwuweike Gwam
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Nequesha Mohammed
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Xue Ma
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
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16
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Loser D, Schaefer J, Danker T, Möller C, Brüll M, Suciu I, Ückert AK, Klima S, Leist M, Kraushaar U. Human neuronal signaling and communication assays to assess functional neurotoxicity. Arch Toxicol 2021; 95:229-252. [PMID: 33269408 PMCID: PMC7811517 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-020-02956-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Prediction of drug toxicity on the human nervous system still relies mainly on animal experiments. Here, we developed an alternative system allowing assessment of complex signaling in both individual human neurons and on the network level. The LUHMES cultures used for our approach can be cultured in 384-well plates with high reproducibility. We established here high-throughput quantification of free intracellular Ca2+ concentrations [Ca2+]i as broadly applicable surrogate of neuronal activity and verified the main processes by patch clamp recordings. Initially, we characterized the expression pattern of many neuronal signaling components and selected the purinergic receptors to demonstrate the applicability of the [Ca2+]i signals for quantitative characterization of agonist and antagonist responses on classical ionotropic neurotransmitter receptors. This included receptor sub-typing and the characterization of the anti-parasitic drug suramin as modulator of the cellular response to ATP. To exemplify potential studies on ion channels, we characterized voltage-gated sodium channels and their inhibition by tetrodotoxin, saxitoxin and lidocaine, as well as their opening by the plant alkaloid veratridine and the food-relevant marine biotoxin ciguatoxin. Even broader applicability of [Ca2+]i quantification as an end point was demonstrated by measurements of dopamine transporter activity based on the membrane potential-changing activity of this neurotransmitter carrier. The substrates dopamine or amphetamine triggered [Ca2+]i oscillations that were synchronized over the entire culture dish. We identified compounds that modified these oscillations by interfering with various ion channels. Thus, this new test system allows multiple types of neuronal signaling, within and between cells, to be assessed, quantified and characterized for their potential disturbance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominik Loser
- NMI Natural and Medical Sciences Institute at the University of Tuebingen, 72770, Reutlingen, Germany
- NMI TT GmbH, 72770, Reutlingen, Germany
- Life Sciences Faculty, Albstadt-Sigmaringen University, 72488, Sigmaringen, Germany
| | - Jasmin Schaefer
- NMI Natural and Medical Sciences Institute at the University of Tuebingen, 72770, Reutlingen, Germany
- NMI TT GmbH, 72770, Reutlingen, Germany
| | | | - Clemens Möller
- Life Sciences Faculty, Albstadt-Sigmaringen University, 72488, Sigmaringen, Germany
| | - Markus Brüll
- In Vitro Toxicology and Biomedicine, Department Inaugurated by the Doerenkamp-Zbinden Foundation, University of Konstanz, Universitaetsstr. 10, 78457, Constance, Germany
| | - Ilinca Suciu
- In Vitro Toxicology and Biomedicine, Department Inaugurated by the Doerenkamp-Zbinden Foundation, University of Konstanz, Universitaetsstr. 10, 78457, Constance, Germany
| | - Anna-Katharina Ückert
- In Vitro Toxicology and Biomedicine, Department Inaugurated by the Doerenkamp-Zbinden Foundation, University of Konstanz, Universitaetsstr. 10, 78457, Constance, Germany
| | - Stefanie Klima
- In Vitro Toxicology and Biomedicine, Department Inaugurated by the Doerenkamp-Zbinden Foundation, University of Konstanz, Universitaetsstr. 10, 78457, Constance, Germany
| | - Marcel Leist
- In Vitro Toxicology and Biomedicine, Department Inaugurated by the Doerenkamp-Zbinden Foundation, University of Konstanz, Universitaetsstr. 10, 78457, Constance, Germany.
| | - Udo Kraushaar
- NMI Natural and Medical Sciences Institute at the University of Tuebingen, 72770, Reutlingen, Germany
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Jaklin M, Zhang JD, Barrow P, Ebeling M, Clemann N, Leist M, Kustermann S. Focus on germ-layer markers: A human stem cell-based model for in vitro teratogenicity testing. Reprod Toxicol 2020; 98:286-298. [DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2020.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Revised: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 10/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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Design and evaluation of bi-functional iron chelators for protection of dopaminergic neurons from toxicants. Arch Toxicol 2020; 94:3105-3123. [PMID: 32607613 PMCID: PMC7415766 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-020-02826-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2020] [Accepted: 06/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
While the etiology of non-familial Parkinson’s disease (PD) remains unclear, there is evidence that increased levels of tissue iron may be a contributing factor. Moreover, exposure to some environmental toxicants is considered an additional risk factor. Therefore, brain-targeted iron chelators are of interest as antidotes for poisoning with dopaminergic toxicants, and as potential treatment of PD. We, therefore, designed a series of small molecules with high affinity for ferric iron and containing structural elements to allow their transport to the brain via the neutral amino acid transporter, LAT1 (SLC7A5). Five candidate molecules were synthesized and initially characterized for protection from ferroptosis in human neurons. The promising hydroxypyridinone SK4 was characterized further. Selective iron chelation within the physiological range of pH values and uptake by LAT1 were confirmed. Concentrations of 10–20 µM blocked neurite loss and cell demise triggered by the parkinsonian neurotoxicants, methyl-phenyl-pyridinium (MPP+) and 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) in human dopaminergic neuronal cultures (LUHMES cells). Rescue was also observed when chelators were given after the toxicant. SK4 derivatives that either lacked LAT1 affinity or had reduced iron chelation potency showed altered activity in our assay panel, as expected. Thus, an iron chelator was developed that revealed neuroprotective properties, as assessed in several models. The data strongly support the role of iron in dopaminergic neurotoxicity and suggests further exploration of the proposed design strategy for improving brain iron chelation.
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Hirsch C, Schildknecht S. In Vitro Research Reproducibility: Keeping Up High Standards. Front Pharmacol 2019; 10:1484. [PMID: 31920667 PMCID: PMC6916005 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.01484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2019] [Accepted: 11/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Concern regarding the reproducibility of observations in life science research has emerged in recent years, particularly in view of unfavorable experiences with preclinical in vivo research. The use of cell-based systems has increasingly replaced in vivo research and the application of in vitro models enjoys an ever-growing popularity. To avoid repeating past mistakes, high standards of reproducibility and reliability must be established and maintained in the field of in vitro biomedical research. Detailed guidance documenting the appropriate handling of cells has been authored, but was received with quite disparate perception by different branches in biomedical research. In that regard, we intend to raise awareness of the reproducibility issue among scientists in all branches of contemporary life science research and their individual responsibility in this matter. We have herein compiled a selection of the most susceptible steps of everyday in vitro cell culture routines that have the potential to influence cell quality and recommend practices to minimize the likelihood of poor cell quality impairing reproducibility with modest investment of time and resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cordula Hirsch
- Particles-Biology Interactions Laboratory, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (Empa), St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Stefan Schildknecht
- In vitro Toxicology and Biomedicine, Department of Biology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
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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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21
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Estevez AY, Ganesana M, Trentini JF, Olson JE, Li G, Boateng YO, Lipps JM, Yablonski SER, Donnelly WT, Leiter JC, Erlichman JS. Antioxidant Enzyme-Mimetic Activity and Neuroprotective Effects of Cerium Oxide Nanoparticles Stabilized with Various Ratios of Citric Acid and EDTA. Biomolecules 2019; 9:E562. [PMID: 31623336 PMCID: PMC6843313 DOI: 10.3390/biom9100562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2019] [Revised: 09/25/2019] [Accepted: 09/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Cerium oxide (CeO2) nanoparticles (CeNPs) are potent antioxidants that are being explored as potential therapies for diseases in which oxidative stress plays an important pathological role. However, both beneficial and toxic effects of CeNPs have been reported, and the method of synthesis as well as physico-chemical, biological, and environmental factors can impact the ultimate biological effects of CeNPs. In the present study, we explored the effect of different ratios of citric acid (CA) and EDTA (CA/EDTA), which are used as stabilizers during synthesis of CeNPs, on the antioxidant enzyme-mimetic and biological activity of the CeNPs. We separated the CeNPs into supernatant and pellet fractions and used commercially available enzymatic assays to measure the catalase-, superoxide dismutase (SOD)-, and oxidase-mimetic activity of each fraction. We tested the effects of these CeNPs in a mouse hippocampal brain slice model of ischemia to induce oxidative stress where the fluorescence indicator SYTOX green was used to assess cell death. Our results demonstrate that CeNPs stabilized with various ratios of CA/EDTA display different enzyme-mimetic activities. CeNPs with intermediate CA/EDTA stabilization ratios demonstrated greater neuroprotection in ischemic mouse brain slices, and the neuroprotective activity resides in the pellet fraction of the CeNPs. The neuroprotective effects of CeNPs stabilized with equal proportions of CA/EDTA (50/50) were also demonstrated in two other models of ischemia/reperfusion in mice and rats. Thus, CeNPs merit further development as a neuroprotective therapy for use in diseases associated with oxidative stress in the nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Y Estevez
- Biology Department, St. Lawrence University, Canton, NY 13617, USA.
- Psychology Department, St. Lawrence University, Canton, NY 13617, USA.
| | - Mallikarjunarao Ganesana
- Department of Molecular and Systems Biology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH 03755, USA.
| | - John F Trentini
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Wright State University, Boonshoft School of Medicine, Dayton, OH 45435, USA.
| | - James E Olson
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Wright State University, Boonshoft School of Medicine, Dayton, OH 45435, USA.
- Department of Neuroscience, Cell Biology, and Physiology, Wright State University, Boonshoft School of Medicine, Dayton, OH 45435, USA.
| | - Guangze Li
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Wright State University, Boonshoft School of Medicine, Dayton, OH 45435, USA.
| | - Yvonne O Boateng
- Biology Department, St. Lawrence University, Canton, NY 13617, USA.
| | - Jennifer M Lipps
- Biology Department, St. Lawrence University, Canton, NY 13617, USA.
| | | | - William T Donnelly
- Department of Molecular and Systems Biology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH 03755, USA.
| | - James C Leiter
- Department of Molecular and Systems Biology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH 03755, USA.
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Feutz AC, De Geyter C. Accuracy, discriminative properties and reliability of a human ESC-based in vitro toxicity assay to distinguish teratogens responsible for neural tube defects. Arch Toxicol 2019; 93:2375-2384. [PMID: 31401662 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-019-02512-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2019] [Accepted: 07/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The poor correlation of developmental toxicity studies in animals with human outcome data has emphasized the need for complementary assays based on human cells and tissues. As neural tube defects represent an important proportion of congenital malformations, we evaluated here the accuracy of a human embryonic stem cell (hESC)-based assay to predict chemically induced disruption of neural tube formation. As teratogenic compounds, we used cyclopamine (CPA), valproic acid (VPA), ochratoxin A (OTA) and mycophenolic acid (MMF), all suspected or known inducers of human neural tube defects, as well as theophylline and saccharin as negative control compounds. We analyzed their effects on the ability of hES cells to give rise to neural precursors (expressing specific marker Nestin), to form neural tube-like structures (rosettes), and to express specific markers (Sox1, Otx2, Lix1, EvI1, Rspo3) during rosette formation. The results showed that various effects of the selected compounds on early neural development could be specifically revealed in vitro through related alterations of neurogenic differentiation of hESC. Furthermore, it was possible to discriminate toxicants acting at different time points during embryonic development and, therefore, responsible for distinct adverse effects on neural tube formation. By comparing four different hESC lines, we observed a significant (up to fivefold) variability of the line-dependent response to toxicants. We highlight at least two sources of variability: one related to the heterogeneity of hESC lines in culture (stemness/commitment profiles); the second to possible genetically determined differences in individual sensitivity to teratogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne-Catherine Feutz
- Reproductive Medicine and Gynaecological Endocrinology (RME), University Hospital, University of Basel, Vogesenstrasse 134, 4031, Basel, Switzerland.,Department of Biomedicine (DBM), University Hospital, University of Basel, Hebelstrasse 20, 4031, Basel, Switzerland.,SCAHT-Swiss Centre for Applied Human Toxicology, University of Basel, Missionsstrasse 64, 4055, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Christian De Geyter
- Reproductive Medicine and Gynaecological Endocrinology (RME), University Hospital, University of Basel, Vogesenstrasse 134, 4031, Basel, Switzerland. .,SCAHT-Swiss Centre for Applied Human Toxicology, University of Basel, Missionsstrasse 64, 4055, Basel, Switzerland.
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Delp J, Funke M, Rudolf F, Cediel A, Bennekou SH, van der Stel W, Carta G, Jennings P, Toma C, Gardner I, van de Water B, Forsby A, Leist M. Development of a neurotoxicity assay that is tuned to detect mitochondrial toxicants. Arch Toxicol 2019; 93:1585-1608. [PMID: 31190196 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-019-02473-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2019] [Accepted: 05/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Many neurotoxicants affect energy metabolism in man, but currently available test methods may still fail to predict mito- and neurotoxicity. We addressed this issue using LUHMES cells, i.e., human neuronal precursors that easily differentiate into mature neurons. Within the NeuriTox assay, they have been used to screen for neurotoxicants. Our new approach is based on culturing the cells in either glucose or galactose (Glc-Gal-NeuriTox) as the main carbohydrate source during toxicity testing. Using this Glc-Gal-NeuriTox assay, 52 mitochondrial and non-mitochondrial toxicants were tested. The panel of chemicals comprised 11 inhibitors of mitochondrial respiratory chain complex I (cI), 4 inhibitors of cII, 8 of cIII, and 2 of cIV; 8 toxicants were included as they are assumed to be mitochondrial uncouplers. In galactose, cells became more dependent on mitochondrial function, which made them 2-3 orders of magnitude more sensitive to various mitotoxicants. Moreover, galactose enhanced the specific neurotoxicity (destruction of neurites) compared to a general cytotoxicity (plasma membrane lysis) of the toxicants. The Glc-Gal-NeuriTox assay worked particularly well for inhibitors of cI and cIII, while the toxicity of uncouplers and non-mitochondrial toxicants did not differ significantly upon glucose ↔ galactose exchange. As a secondary assay, we developed a method to quantify the inhibition of all mitochondrial respiratory chain functions/complexes in LUHMES cells. The combination of the Glc-Gal-NeuriTox neurotoxicity screening assay with the mechanistic follow up of target site identification allowed both, a more sensitive detection of neurotoxicants and a sharper definition of the mode of action of mitochondrial toxicants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Delp
- Chair for In Vitro Toxicology and Biomedicine, Department of Inaugurated by the Doerenkamp-Zbinden Foundation, University of Konstanz, Universitaetsstr. 10, 78457, Constance, Germany
- Cooperative Doctorate College InViTe, University of Konstanz, Constance, Germany
| | - Melina Funke
- Chair for In Vitro Toxicology and Biomedicine, Department of Inaugurated by the Doerenkamp-Zbinden Foundation, University of Konstanz, Universitaetsstr. 10, 78457, Constance, Germany
| | - Franziska Rudolf
- Chair for In Vitro Toxicology and Biomedicine, Department of Inaugurated by the Doerenkamp-Zbinden Foundation, University of Konstanz, Universitaetsstr. 10, 78457, Constance, Germany
| | - Andrea Cediel
- Swetox Unit for Toxicological Sciences, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Wanda van der Stel
- Division of Drug Discovery and Safety, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden University, Einsteinweg 55, 2333 CC, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Giada Carta
- Division of Molecular and Computational Toxicology, Amsterdam Institute for Molecules, Medicines and Systems, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Paul Jennings
- Division of Molecular and Computational Toxicology, Amsterdam Institute for Molecules, Medicines and Systems, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Cosimo Toma
- Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Toxicology, Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Via la Masa 19, 20156, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Bob van de Water
- Division of Drug Discovery and Safety, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden University, Einsteinweg 55, 2333 CC, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Anna Forsby
- Swetox Unit for Toxicological Sciences, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Marcel Leist
- Chair for In Vitro Toxicology and Biomedicine, Department of Inaugurated by the Doerenkamp-Zbinden Foundation, University of Konstanz, Universitaetsstr. 10, 78457, Constance, Germany.
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24
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Letter to the editor. Arch Toxicol 2019; 93:1771. [DOI: 10.1007/s00204-019-02472-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2019] [Accepted: 05/06/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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25
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Highlight report: the need of 'fit-for-purpose' controls for cell lines used in toxicity assays. Arch Toxicol 2018; 92:3605-3606. [PMID: 30430188 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-018-2348-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2018] [Accepted: 11/08/2018] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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