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Li M, Freeman S, Franco-Barraza J, Cai KQ, Kim A, Jin S, Cukierman E, Ye K. A bioprinted sea-and-island multicellular model for dissecting human pancreatic tumor-stroma reciprocity and adaptive metabolism. Biomaterials 2024; 310:122631. [PMID: 38815457 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2024.122631] [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: 01/11/2024] [Revised: 05/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) presents a formidable clinical challenge due to its intricate microenvironment characterized by desmoplasia and complex tumor-stroma interactions. Conventional models hinder studying cellular crosstalk for therapeutic development. To recapitulate key features of PDAC masses, this study creates a novel sea-and-island PDAC tumor construct (s&i PTC). The s&i PTC consists of 3D-printed islands of human PDAC cells positioned within an interstitial extracellular matrix (ECM) populated by human cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs). This design closely mimics the in vivo desmoplastic architecture and nutrient-poor conditions. The model enables studying dynamic tumor-stroma crosstalk and signaling reciprocity, revealing both known and yet-to-be-discovered multicellular metabolic adaptations. Using the model, we discovered the orchestrated dynamic alterations of CAFs under nutrient stress, resembling critical in vivo human tumor niches, such as the secretion of pro-tumoral inflammatory factors. Additionally, nutrient scarcity induces dynamic alterations in the ECM composition and exacerbates poor cancer cell differentiation-features well-established in PDAC progression. Proteomic analysis unveiled the enrichment of proteins associated with aggressive tumor behavior and ECM remodeling in response to poor nutritional conditions, mimicking the metabolic stresses experienced by avascular pancreatic tumor cores. Importantly, the model's relevance to patient outcomes is evident through an inverse correlation between biomarker expression patterns in the s&i PTCs and PDAC patient survival rates. Key findings include upregulated MMPs and key ECM proteins (such as collagen 11 and TGFβ) under nutrient-avid conditions, known to be regulated by CAFs, alongside the concomitant reduction in E-cadherin expression associated with a poorly differentiated PDAC state under nutrient deprivation. Furthermore, elevated levels of hyaluronic acid (HA) and integrins in response to nutrient deprivation underscore the model's fidelity to the PDAC microenvironment. We also observed increased IL-6 and reduced α-SMA expression under poor nutritional conditions, suggesting a transition of CAFs from myofibroblastic to inflammatory phenotypes under a nutrient stress akin to in vivo niches. In conclusion, the s&i PTC represents a significant advancement in engineering clinically relevant 3D models of PDAC masses. It offers a promising platform for elucidating tumor-stroma interactions and guiding future therapeutic strategies to improve patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Li
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Center of Biomanufacturing for Regenerative Medicine, Binghamton University, SUNY, Binghamton, NY, USA
| | - Sebastian Freeman
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Center of Biomanufacturing for Regenerative Medicine, Binghamton University, SUNY, Binghamton, NY, USA
| | - Janusz Franco-Barraza
- Cancer Signaling and Microenvironment Program, Marvin and Concetta Greenberg Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Lewis Katz Temple School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Kathy Q Cai
- Cancer Signaling and Microenvironment Program, Marvin and Concetta Greenberg Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Lewis Katz Temple School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Amy Kim
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Center of Biomanufacturing for Regenerative Medicine, Binghamton University, SUNY, Binghamton, NY, USA
| | - Sha Jin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Center of Biomanufacturing for Regenerative Medicine, Binghamton University, SUNY, Binghamton, NY, USA
| | - Edna Cukierman
- Cancer Signaling and Microenvironment Program, Marvin and Concetta Greenberg Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Lewis Katz Temple School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | - Kaiming Ye
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Center of Biomanufacturing for Regenerative Medicine, Binghamton University, SUNY, Binghamton, NY, USA.
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2
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Golo M, Newman PLH, Kempe D, Biro M. Mechanoimmunology in the solid tumor microenvironment. Biochem Soc Trans 2024:BST20231427. [PMID: 38856041 DOI: 10.1042/bst20231427] [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: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a complex and dynamic ecosystem that adjoins the cancer cells within solid tumors and comprises distinct components such as extracellular matrix, stromal and immune cells, blood vessels, and an abundance of signaling molecules. In recent years, the mechanical properties of the TME have emerged as critical determinants of tumor progression and therapeutic response. Aberrant mechanical cues, including altered tissue architecture and stiffness, contribute to tumor progression, metastasis, and resistance to treatment. Moreover, burgeoning immunotherapies hold great promise for harnessing the immune system to target and eliminate solid malignancies; however, their success is hindered by the hostile mechanical landscape of the TME, which can impede immune cell infiltration, function, and persistence. Consequently, understanding TME mechanoimmunology - the interplay between mechanical forces and immune cell behavior - is essential for developing effective solid cancer therapies. Here, we review the role of TME mechanics in tumor immunology, focusing on recent therapeutic interventions aimed at modulating the mechanical properties of the TME to potentiate T cell immunotherapies, and innovative assays tailored to evaluate their clinical efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Golo
- EMBL Australia, Single Molecule Science node, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Peter L H Newman
- EMBL Australia, Single Molecule Science node, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Daryan Kempe
- EMBL Australia, Single Molecule Science node, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Maté Biro
- EMBL Australia, Single Molecule Science node, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
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3
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Sadiq A, Fert-Bober J. DCM-Spheroid Morphs Express PADs and Citrullinated Cytoskeletal Proteins. J Histochem Cytochem 2024; 72:387-397. [PMID: 38752478 DOI: 10.1369/00221554241252862] [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] [Indexed: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
During investigating the role of peptidylarginine deiminase (PAD) enzymes in dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), we observed unique spheroid formation in DCM-myofibroblasts that distinguished them from normal cardiac myofibroblasts. The present study aimed to assess the presence of PADs, the extracellular matrix (ECM), and citrullination in DCM spheroids using immunofluorescence staining and imaging techniques. The results revealed that spheroids derived from DCM-myofibroblasts displayed a more distinctive, tightly packed structure compared with those derived from human cardiac fibroblasts. DCM spheroids showed abundant protein expression of the PAD 2, 3, and 4 enzymes. Notably, increased Ki67 protein expression was associated with increased proliferation in DCM spheroids. Cytoskeletal proteins such as Col-1A, vimentin, α-SMA, and F-actin were highly abundant in DCM spheroids. Furthermore, DCM spheroids contained citrullinated cytoskeletal proteins, mainly citrullinated vimentin and citrullinated fibronectin. These observations supported the occurrence of PAD-mediated citrullination of ECM proteins in DCM spheroids. Collectively, these findings describe the distinctive features of DCM spheroids, representing the cellular characteristics of DCM myofibroblasts. Therefore, DCM spheroids can serve as an in vitro model for further investigations of disease morphology and therapeutic efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alia Sadiq
- Advanced Clinical Biosystems Research Institute, Smidt Heart Institute
| | - Justyna Fert-Bober
- Advanced Clinical Biosystems Research Institute, Smidt Heart Institute
- Precision Biomarker Laboratories, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
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4
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Gu A, Li J, Qiu S, Hao S, Yue ZY, Zhai S, Li MY, Liu Y. Pancreatic cancer environment: from patient-derived models to single-cell omics. Mol Omics 2024; 20:220-233. [PMID: 38414408 DOI: 10.1039/d3mo00250k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PC) is a highly malignant cancer characterized by poor prognosis, high heterogeneity, and intricate heterocellular systems. Selecting an appropriate experimental model for studying its progression and treatment is crucial. Patient-derived models provide a more accurate representation of tumor heterogeneity and complexity compared to cell line-derived models. This review initially presents relevant patient-derived models, including patient-derived xenografts (PDXs), patient-derived organoids (PDOs), and patient-derived explants (PDEs), which are essential for studying cell communication and pancreatic cancer progression. We have emphasized the utilization of these models in comprehending intricate intercellular communication, drug responsiveness, mechanisms underlying tumor growth, expediting drug discovery, and enabling personalized medical approaches. Additionally, we have comprehensively summarized single-cell analyses of these models to enhance comprehension of intercellular communication among tumor cells, drug response mechanisms, and individual patient sensitivities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ao Gu
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Renji Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200127, P. R. China.
| | - Jiatong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Renji Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200127, P. R. China.
| | - Shimei Qiu
- School of Health Science and Engineering, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai 200093, P. R. China
| | - Shenglin Hao
- Department of Functional Neurosurgery, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Medical School Affiliated Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhu-Ying Yue
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Renji Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200127, P. R. China.
| | - Shuyang Zhai
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Renji Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200127, P. R. China.
| | - Meng-Yao Li
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Renji Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200127, P. R. China.
| | - Yingbin Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Renji Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200127, P. R. China.
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5
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Zhu Z, Li M, Weng J, Li S, Guo T, Guo Y, Xu Y. LncRNA GAS6-AS1 contributes to 5-fluorouracil resistance in colorectal cancer by facilitating the binding of PCBP1 with MCM3. Cancer Lett 2024; 589:216828. [PMID: 38521199 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.216828] [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: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) resistance has always been a formidable obstacle in the adjuvant treatment of advanced colorectal cancer (CRC). In recent years, long non-coding RNAs have emerged as key regulators in various pathophysiological processes including 5-FU resistance. TRG is a postoperative pathological score of the chemotherapy effectiveness for CRC, of which TRG 0-1 is classified as chemotherapy sensitivity and TRG 3 as chemotherapy resistance. Here, RNA-seq combined with weighted gene correlation network analysis confirmed the close association of GAS6-AS1 with TRG. GAS6-AS1 expression was positively correlated with advanced clinicopathological features and poor prognosis in CRC. GAS6-AS1 increased the 50% inhibiting concentration of 5-FU, enhanced cell proliferation and accelerated G1/S transition, both with and without 5-FU, both in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, GAS6-AS1 enhanced the stability of MCM3 mRNA by recruiting PCBP1, consequently increasing MCM3 expression. Furthermore, PCBP1 and MCM3 counteracted the effects of GAS6-AS1 on 5-FU resistance. Notably, the PDX model indicated that combining chemotherapeutic drugs with GAS6-AS1 knockdown yielded superior outcomes in vivo. Together, our findings elucidate that GAS6-AS1 directly binds to PCBP1, enhancing MCM3 expression and thereby promoting 5-FU resistance. GAS6-AS1 may serve as a robust biomarker and potential therapeutic target for combination therapy in CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhonglin Zhu
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, PR China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, PR China
| | - Minghan Li
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, PR China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, PR China
| | - Junyong Weng
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, PR China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, PR China
| | - Shanbao Li
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200080, PR China
| | - Tianan Guo
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, PR China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, PR China
| | - Yang Guo
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, PR China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, PR China
| | - Ye Xu
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, PR China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, PR China.
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6
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Connaughton M, Dabagh M. Modeling Physical Forces Experienced by Cancer and Stromal Cells Within Different Organ-Specific Tumor Tissue. IEEE JOURNAL OF TRANSLATIONAL ENGINEERING IN HEALTH AND MEDICINE 2024; 12:413-434. [PMID: 38765886 PMCID: PMC11100865 DOI: 10.1109/jtehm.2024.3388561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Mechanical force exerted on cancer cells by their microenvironment have been reported to drive cells toward invasive phenotypes by altering cells' motility, proliferation, and apoptosis. These mechanical forces include compressive, tensile, hydrostatic, and shear forces. The importance of forces is then hypothesized to be an alteration of cancer cells' and their microenvironment's biophysical properties as the indicator of a tumor's malignancy state. Our objective is to investigate and quantify the correlation between a tumor's malignancy state and forces experienced by the cancer cells and components of the microenvironment. In this study, we have developed a multicomponent, three-dimensional model of tumor tissue consisting of a cancer cell surrounded by fibroblasts and extracellular matrix (ECM). Our results on three different organs including breast, kidney, and pancreas show that: A) the stresses within tumor tissue are impacted by the organ specific ECM's biophysical properties, B) more invasive cancer cells experience higher stresses, C) in pancreas which has a softer ECM (Young modulus of 1.0 kPa) and stiffer cancer cells (Young modulus of 2.4 kPa and 1.7 kPa) than breast and kidney, cancer cells experienced significantly higher stresses, D) cancer cells in contact with ECM experienced higher stresses compared to cells surrounded by fibroblasts but the area of tumor stroma experiencing high stresses has a maximum length of 40 μm when the cancer cell is surrounded by fibroblasts and 12 μm for when the cancer cell is in vicinity of ECM. This study serves as an important first step in understanding of how the stresses experienced by cancer cells, fibroblasts, and ECM are associated with malignancy states of cancer cells in different organs. The quantification of forces exerted on cancer cells by different organ-specific ECM and at different stages of malignancy will help, first to develop theranostic strategies, second to predict accurately which tumors will become highly malignant, and third to establish accurate criteria controlling the progression of cancer cells malignancy. Furthermore, our in silico model of tumor tissue can yield critical, useful information for guiding ex vivo or in vitro experiments, narrowing down variables to be investigated, understanding what factors could be impacting cancer treatments or even biomarkers to be looking for.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morgan Connaughton
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringUniversity of Wisconsin-MilwaukeeMilwaukeeWI53211USA
| | - Mahsa Dabagh
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringUniversity of Wisconsin-MilwaukeeMilwaukeeWI53211USA
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7
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Shah D, Dave B, Chorawala MR, Prajapati BG, Singh S, M. Elossaily G, Ansari MN, Ali N. An Insight on Microfluidic Organ-on-a-Chip Models for PM 2.5-Induced Pulmonary Complications. ACS OMEGA 2024; 9:13534-13555. [PMID: 38559954 PMCID: PMC10976395 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c10271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Pulmonary diseases like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder, lung fibrosis, and lung cancer pose a significant burden to global human health. Many of these complications arise as a result of exposure to particulate matter (PM), which has been examined in several preclinical and clinical trials for its effect on several respiratory diseases. Particulate matter of size less than 2.5 μm (PM2.5) has been known to inflict unforeseen repercussions, although data from epidemiological studies to back this are pending. Conventionally utilized two-dimensional (2D) cell culture and preclinical animal models have provided insufficient benefits in emulating the in vivo physiological and pathological pulmonary conditions. Three-dimensional (3D) structural models, including organ-on-a-chip models, have experienced a developmental upsurge in recent times. Lung-on-a-chip models have the potential to simulate the specific features of the lungs. With the advancement of technology, an emerging and advanced technique termed microfluidic organ-on-a-chip has been developed with the aim of identifying the complexity of the respiratory cellular microenvironment of the body. In the present Review, the role of lung-on-a-chip modeling in reproducing pulmonary complications has been explored, with a specific emphasis on PM2.5-induced pulmonary complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Disha Shah
- Department
of Pharmacology and Pharmacy Practice, L.
M. College of Pharmacy Navrangpura, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 380009, India
| | - Bhavarth Dave
- Department
of Pharmacology and Pharmacy Practice, L.
M. College of Pharmacy Navrangpura, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 380009, India
| | - Mehul R. Chorawala
- Department
of Pharmacology and Pharmacy Practice, L.
M. College of Pharmacy Navrangpura, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 380009, India
| | - Bhupendra G. Prajapati
- Department
of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, Shree S. K. Patel College of Pharmaceutical Education and Research,
Ganpat University, Mehsana, Gujarat 384012, India
| | - Sudarshan Singh
- Office
of Research Administration, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Chiang Mai University, Chiang
Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Gehan M. Elossaily
- Department
of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, AlMaarefa University, P.O. Box 71666, Riyadh 11597, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohd Nazam Ansari
- Department
of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Alkharj 11942, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nemat Ali
- Department
of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2457, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
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8
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Wei X, Han R, Gao Y, Song P, Guo Z, Hou Y, Yu J, Tang K. Boosting Energy Deprivation by Synchronous Interventions of Glycolysis and Oxidative Phosphorylation for Bioenergetic Therapy Synergetic with Chemodynamic/Photothermal Therapy. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024:e2401738. [PMID: 38489668 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202401738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
Bioenergetic therapy is emerging as a promising therapeutic approach. However, its therapeutic effectiveness is restricted by metabolic plasticity, as tumor cells switch metabolic phenotypes between glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) to compensate for energy. Herein, Metformin (MET) and BAY-876 (BAY) co-loaded CuFe2 O4 (CF) nanoplatform (CFMB) is developed to boost energy deprivation by synchronous interventions of glycolysis and OXPHOS for bioenergetic therapy synergetic with chemodynamic/photothermal therapy (CDT/PTT). The MET can simultaneously restrain glycolysis and OXPHOS by inhibiting hexokinase 2 (HK2) activity and damaging mitochondrial function to deprive energy, respectively. Besides, BAY blocks glucose uptake by inhibiting glucose transporter 1 (GLUT1) expression, further potentiating the glycolysis repression and thus achieving much more depletion of tumorigenic energy sources. Interestingly, the upregulated antioxidant glutathione (GSH) in cancer cells triggers CFMB degradation to release Cu+ /Fe2+ catalyzing tumor-overexpressed H2 O2 to hydroxyl radical (∙OH), both impairing OXPHOS and achieving GSH-depletion amplified CDT. Furthermore, upon near-infrared (NIR) light irradiation, CFMB has a photothermal conversion capacity to kill cancer cells for PTT and improve ∙OH production for enhanced CDT. In vivo experiments have manifested that CFMB remarkably suppressed tumor growth in mice without systemic toxicity. This study provides a new therapeutic modality paradigm to boost bioenergetic-related therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangjun Wei
- Institute of Mass Spectrometry, School of Materials Science & Chemical Engineering, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315211, China
- Zhejiang Engineering Research Center of Advanced Mass Spectrometry and Clinical Application, Zhenhai Institute of Mass Spectrometry, Ningbo, 315211, China
| | - Renlu Han
- Institute of Mass Spectrometry, School of Materials Science & Chemical Engineering, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315211, China
- Zhejiang Engineering Research Center of Advanced Mass Spectrometry and Clinical Application, Zhenhai Institute of Mass Spectrometry, Ningbo, 315211, China
| | - Yun Gao
- Institute of Mass Spectrometry, School of Materials Science & Chemical Engineering, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315211, China
- Zhejiang Engineering Research Center of Advanced Mass Spectrometry and Clinical Application, Zhenhai Institute of Mass Spectrometry, Ningbo, 315211, China
| | - Pengxin Song
- Institute of Mass Spectrometry, School of Materials Science & Chemical Engineering, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315211, China
- Zhejiang Engineering Research Center of Advanced Mass Spectrometry and Clinical Application, Zhenhai Institute of Mass Spectrometry, Ningbo, 315211, China
| | - Zhen Guo
- Institute of Mass Spectrometry, School of Materials Science & Chemical Engineering, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315211, China
- Zhejiang Engineering Research Center of Advanced Mass Spectrometry and Clinical Application, Zhenhai Institute of Mass Spectrometry, Ningbo, 315211, China
| | - Yafei Hou
- Department of Microelectronics Science and Engineering, School of Physical Science and Technology, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315211, China
| | - Jiancheng Yu
- Zhejiang Engineering Research Center of Advanced Mass Spectrometry and Clinical Application, Zhenhai Institute of Mass Spectrometry, Ningbo, 315211, China
- Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315211, China
| | - Keqi Tang
- Institute of Mass Spectrometry, School of Materials Science & Chemical Engineering, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315211, China
- Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315211, China
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9
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Liu Y, Okesola BO, Osuna de la Peña D, Li W, Lin ML, Trabulo S, Tatari M, Lawlor RT, Scarpa A, Wang W, Knight M, Loessner D, Heeschen C, Mata A, Pearce OMT. A Self-Assembled 3D Model Demonstrates How Stiffness Educates Tumor Cell Phenotypes and Therapy Resistance in Pancreatic Cancer. Adv Healthc Mater 2024:e2301941. [PMID: 38471128 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202301941] [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: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is characterized by a dense and stiff extracellular matrix (ECM) associated with tumor progression and therapy resistance. To further the understanding of how stiffening of the tumor microenvironment (TME) contributes to aggressiveness, a three-dimensional (3D) self-assembling hydrogel disease model is developed based on peptide amphiphiles (PAs, PA-E3Y) designed to tailor stiffness. The model displays nanofibrous architectures reminiscent of native TME and enables the study of the invasive behavior of PDAC cells. Enhanced tuneability of stiffness is demonstrated by interacting thermally annealed aqueous solutions of PA-E3Y (PA-E3Yh) with divalent cations to create hydrogels with mechanical properties and ultrastructure similar to native tumor ECM. It is shown that stiffening of PA-E3Yh hydrogels to levels found in PDAC induces ECM deposition, promotes epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), enriches CD133+/CXCR4+ cancer stem cells (CSCs), and subsequently enhances drug resistance. The findings reveal how a stiff 3D environment renders PDAC cells more aggressive and therefore more faithfully recapitulates in vivo tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Liu
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, EC1M 6BQ, UK
- School of Engineering and Materials Science, Queen Mary University of London, London, E1 4NS, UK
| | - Babatunde O Okesola
- School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK
| | - David Osuna de la Peña
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, EC1M 6BQ, UK
- School of Engineering and Materials Science, Queen Mary University of London, London, E1 4NS, UK
| | - Weiqi Li
- School of Engineering and Materials Science, Queen Mary University of London, London, E1 4NS, UK
| | - Meng-Lay Lin
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, EC1M 6BQ, UK
| | - Sara Trabulo
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, EC1M 6BQ, UK
| | - Marianthi Tatari
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, EC1M 6BQ, UK
| | - Rita T Lawlor
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Section of Pathology, University of Verona, Verona, 37134, Italy
- ARC-Net, Applied Research on Cancer Centre, University of Verona, Verona, 37134, Italy
| | - Aldo Scarpa
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Section of Pathology, University of Verona, Verona, 37134, Italy
- ARC-Net, Applied Research on Cancer Centre, University of Verona, Verona, 37134, Italy
| | - Wen Wang
- School of Engineering and Materials Science, Queen Mary University of London, London, E1 4NS, UK
| | - Martin Knight
- Centre for Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Materials Science, Queen Mary University of London, London, E1 4NS, UK
- Centre for Predictive in vitro Models, Queen Mary University of London, London, E1 4NS, UK
| | - Daniela Loessner
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, EC1M 6BQ, UK
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Christopher Heeschen
- Pancreatic Cancer Heterogeneity, Candiolo Cancer Institute - FPO - IRCCS, Candiolo (TO), 10060, Italy
| | - Alvaro Mata
- School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK
- Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Oliver M T Pearce
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, EC1M 6BQ, UK
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10
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Yoon H, Sabaté Del Río J, Cho SW, Park TE. Recent advances in micro-physiological systems for investigating tumor metastasis and organotropism. LAB ON A CHIP 2024; 24:1351-1366. [PMID: 38303676 DOI: 10.1039/d3lc01033c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
Tumor metastasis involves complex processes that traditional 2D cultures and animal models struggle to fully replicate. Metastatic tumors undergo a multitude of transformations, including genetic diversification, adaptation to diverse microenvironments, and modified drug responses, contributing significantly to cancer-related mortality. Micro-physiological systems (MPS) technology emerges as a promising approach to emulate the metastatic process by integrating critical biochemical, biomechanical, and geometrical cues at a microscale. These systems are particularly advantageous simulating metastasis organotropism, the phenomenon where tumors exhibit a preference for metastasizing to particular organs. Organotropism is influenced by various factors, such as tumor cell characteristics, unique organ microenvironments, and organ-specific vascular conditions, all of which can be effectively examined using MPS. This review surveys the recent developments in MPS research from the past five years, with a specific focus on their applications in replicating tumor metastasis and organotropism. Furthermore, we discuss the current limitations in MPS-based studies of organotropism and propose strategies for more accurately replicating and analyzing the intricate aspects of organ-specific metastasis, which is pivotal in the development of targeted therapeutic approaches against metastatic cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heejeong Yoon
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Information and Biotechnology, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), Ulsan 44919, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jonathan Sabaté Del Río
- Center for Algorithmic and Robotized Synthesis (CARS), Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Ulsan 44919, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung Woo Cho
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Information and Biotechnology, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), Ulsan 44919, Republic of Korea.
| | - Tae-Eun Park
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Information and Biotechnology, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), Ulsan 44919, Republic of Korea.
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11
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Wei X, Wu Y, Chen K, Wang L, Xu M. Embedded bioprinted multicellular spheroids modeling pancreatic cancer bioarchitecture towards advanced drug therapy. J Mater Chem B 2024; 12:1788-1797. [PMID: 38268422 DOI: 10.1039/d3tb02913a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
The desmoplastic bioarchitecture and microenvironment caused by fibroblasts have been confirmed to be closely related to the drug response behavior of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Despite the extensive progress in developing PDAC models as in vitro drug screening platforms, developing efficient and controllable approaches for the construction of physiologically relevant models remains challenging. In the current study, multicellular spheroid models that emulate pancreatic cancer bioarchitecture and the desmoplastic microenvironment are bioengineered. An extrusion-based embedded dot bioprinting strategy was established to fabricate PDAC spheroids in a one-step process. Cell-laden hydrogel beads were directly deposited into a methacrylated gelatin (GelMA) suspension bath to generate spherical multicellular aggregates (SMAs), which further progressed into dense spheroids through in situ self assembly. By modulating the printing parameters, SMAs, even from multiple cell components, could be manipulated with tunable size and flexible location, achieving tunable spheroid patterns within the hydrogel bath with reproducible morphological features. To demonstrate the feasibility of this printing strategy, we fabricated desmoplastic PDAC spheroids by printing SMAs consisting of tumor cells and fibroblasts within the GelMA matrix bath. The produced hybrid spheroids were further exposed to different concentrations of the drug gemcitabine to verify their potential for use in cell therapy. Beyond providing a robust and facile bioprinting system that enables desmoplastic PDAC bioarchitecture bioengineering, this work introduces an approach for the scalable, flexible and rapid fabrication of cell spheroids or multi-cell-type spheroid patterns as platforms for advanced drug therapy or disease mechanism exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyun Wei
- School of Automation, Hangzhou Dianzi University, Hangzhou 310018, China.
- Key Laboratory of Medical Information and 3D Bioprinting of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Dianzi University, Hangzhou 310018, China
| | - Yiwen Wu
- School of Automation, Hangzhou Dianzi University, Hangzhou 310018, China.
| | - Keke Chen
- School of Automation, Hangzhou Dianzi University, Hangzhou 310018, China.
- Key Laboratory of Medical Information and 3D Bioprinting of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Dianzi University, Hangzhou 310018, China
| | - Ling Wang
- School of Automation, Hangzhou Dianzi University, Hangzhou 310018, China.
- Key Laboratory of Medical Information and 3D Bioprinting of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Dianzi University, Hangzhou 310018, China
| | - Mingen Xu
- School of Automation, Hangzhou Dianzi University, Hangzhou 310018, China.
- Key Laboratory of Medical Information and 3D Bioprinting of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Dianzi University, Hangzhou 310018, China
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12
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Xiu Z, Yang Q, Xie F, Han F, He W, Liao W. Revolutionizing digestive system tumor organoids research: Exploring the potential of tumor organoids. J Tissue Eng 2024; 15:20417314241255470. [PMID: 38808253 PMCID: PMC11131411 DOI: 10.1177/20417314241255470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Digestive system tumors are the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Despite ongoing research, our understanding of their mechanisms and treatment remain inadequate. One promising tool for clinical applications is the use of gastrointestinal tract tumor organoids, which serve as an important in vitro model. Tumor organoids exhibit a genotype similar to the patient's tumor and effectively mimic various biological processes, including tissue renewal, stem cell, and ecological niche functions, and tissue response to drugs, mutations, or injury. As such, they are valuable for drug screening, developing novel drugs, assessing patient outcomes, and supporting immunotherapy. In addition, innovative materials and techniques can be used to optimize tumor organoid culture systems. Several applications of digestive system tumor organoids have been described and have shown promising results in related aspects. In this review, we discuss the current progress, limitations, and prospects of this model for digestive system tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhian Xiu
- Department of Medical Laboratory, Clinical Medical College, Affiliated Hospital of Jiujiang University, Jiujiang, Jiangxi, China
- Jiujiang Clinical Precision Medicine Research Center, Jiujiang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Qian Yang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Fusheng Xie
- Department of Medical Laboratory, Clinical Medical College, Affiliated Hospital of Jiujiang University, Jiujiang, Jiangxi, China
- Jiujiang Clinical Precision Medicine Research Center, Jiujiang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Feng Han
- Department of Medical Laboratory, Clinical Medical College, Affiliated Hospital of Jiujiang University, Jiujiang, Jiangxi, China
- Jiujiang Clinical Precision Medicine Research Center, Jiujiang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Weiwei He
- Department of Medical Laboratory, Clinical Medical College, Affiliated Hospital of Jiujiang University, Jiujiang, Jiangxi, China
- Jiujiang Clinical Precision Medicine Research Center, Jiujiang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Weifang Liao
- Department of Medical Laboratory, Clinical Medical College, Affiliated Hospital of Jiujiang University, Jiujiang, Jiangxi, China
- Jiujiang Clinical Precision Medicine Research Center, Jiujiang, Jiangxi, China
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13
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Lomphithak T, Sae-Fung A, Sprio S, Tampieri A, Jitkaew S, Fadeel B. Exploiting the ferroaddiction of pancreatic cancer cells using Fe-doped nanoparticles. NANOMEDICINE : NANOTECHNOLOGY, BIOLOGY, AND MEDICINE 2024; 55:102714. [PMID: 38738528 DOI: 10.1016/j.nano.2023.102714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2023] [Revised: 09/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a devastating disease with poor survival rates. Here, we evaluated iron-doped hydroxyapatite (FeHA) as a potential nanomedicine-based approach to combat PDAC. FeHA, in combination with a sublethal dose of the glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) inhibitor RSL3, was found to trigger ferroptosis in KRAS mutant PANC-1 cells, but not in BxPC3 cells, while sparing normal human cells (fibroblasts and peripheral blood mononuclear cells). These findings were recapitulated in 3D spheroids generated using PDAC cells harboring wild-type versus mutant KRAS. Moreover, ferroptosis induction by FeHA plus RSL3 was reversed by the knockdown of STEAP3, a metalloreductase responsible for converting Fe3+ to Fe2+. Taken together, our data show that FeHA is capable of triggering cancer cell death in a KRAS-selective, STEAP3-dependent manner in PDAC cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thanpisit Lomphithak
- Division of Molecular Toxicology, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Apiwit Sae-Fung
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Simone Sprio
- Institute of Science, Technology and Sustainability for Ceramics-National Research Council (ISSMC-CNR), Faenza, Italy
| | - Anna Tampieri
- Institute of Science, Technology and Sustainability for Ceramics-National Research Council (ISSMC-CNR), Faenza, Italy
| | - Siriporn Jitkaew
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.
| | - Bengt Fadeel
- Division of Molecular Toxicology, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
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Wu L, Li J, Wang Y, Zhao X, He Y, Mao H, Tang W, Liu R, Luo K, Gu Z. Engineered Hierarchical Microdevices Enable Pre-Programmed Controlled Release for Postsurgical and Unresectable Cancer Treatment. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023; 35:e2305529. [PMID: 37549042 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202305529] [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: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023]
Abstract
Drug treatment is required for both resectable and unresectable cancers to strive for any meaningful improvement in patient outcomes. However, the clinical benefit of receiving conventional systemic administrations is often less than satisfactory. Drug delivery systems are preferable substitutes but still fail to meet diverse clinical demands due to the difficulty in programming drug release profiles. Herein, a microfabrication concept, termed "Hierarchical Multiple Polymers Immobilization" (HMPI), is introduced and biodegradable-polymer-based hierarchical microdevices (HMDs) that can pre-program any desired controlled release profiles are engineered. Based on the first-line medication of pancreatic and breast cancer, controlled release of single gemcitabine and the doxorubicin/paclitaxel combination in situ for multiple courses is implemented, respectively. Preclinical models of postsurgical pancreatic, postsurgical breast, and unresectable breast cancer are established, and the designed HMDs are demonstrated as well-tolerable and effective treatments for inhibiting tumor growth, recurrence, and metastasis. The proposed HMPI strategy allows the creation of tailorable and high-resolution hierarchical microstructures for pre-programming controlled release according to clinical medication schedules, which may provide promising alternative treatments for postsurgical and unresectable tumor control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lihuang Wu
- Research Institute for Biomaterials, Tech Institute for Advanced Materials Bioinspired Biomedical Materials & Devices Center, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center for Advanced Inorganic Function Composites, Suqian Advanced Materials Industry Technology Innovation Center, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 211816, China
| | - Junhua Li
- Research Institute for Biomaterials, Tech Institute for Advanced Materials Bioinspired Biomedical Materials & Devices Center, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center for Advanced Inorganic Function Composites, Suqian Advanced Materials Industry Technology Innovation Center, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 211816, China
| | - Yuqi Wang
- Research Institute for Biomaterials, Tech Institute for Advanced Materials Bioinspired Biomedical Materials & Devices Center, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center for Advanced Inorganic Function Composites, Suqian Advanced Materials Industry Technology Innovation Center, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 211816, China
| | - Xinyue Zhao
- Research Institute for Biomaterials, Tech Institute for Advanced Materials Bioinspired Biomedical Materials & Devices Center, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center for Advanced Inorganic Function Composites, Suqian Advanced Materials Industry Technology Innovation Center, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 211816, China
| | - Yiyan He
- Research Institute for Biomaterials, Tech Institute for Advanced Materials Bioinspired Biomedical Materials & Devices Center, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center for Advanced Inorganic Function Composites, Suqian Advanced Materials Industry Technology Innovation Center, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 211816, China
| | - Hongli Mao
- Research Institute for Biomaterials, Tech Institute for Advanced Materials Bioinspired Biomedical Materials & Devices Center, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center for Advanced Inorganic Function Composites, Suqian Advanced Materials Industry Technology Innovation Center, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 211816, China
- NJTech-BARTY Joint Research Center for Innovative Medical Technology, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Wenbo Tang
- Faculty of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, the First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Rong Liu
- Faculty of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, the First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Kui Luo
- Department of Radiology, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Zhongwei Gu
- Research Institute for Biomaterials, Tech Institute for Advanced Materials Bioinspired Biomedical Materials & Devices Center, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center for Advanced Inorganic Function Composites, Suqian Advanced Materials Industry Technology Innovation Center, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 211816, China
- Faculty of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, the First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
- Department of Radiology, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
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15
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Gil JF, Moura CS, Silverio V, Gonçalves G, Santos HA. Cancer Models on Chip: Paving the Way to Large-Scale Trial Applications. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023; 35:e2300692. [PMID: 37103886 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202300692] [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: 01/21/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Cancer kills millions of individuals every year all over the world (Global Cancer Observatory). The physiological and biomechanical processes underlying the tumor are still poorly understood, hindering researchers from creating new, effective therapies. Inconsistent results of preclinical research, in vivo testing, and clinical trials decrease drug approval rates. 3D tumor-on-a-chip (ToC) models integrate biomaterials, tissue engineering, fabrication of microarchitectures, and sensory and actuation systems in a single device, enabling reliable studies in fundamental oncology and pharmacology. This review includes a critical discussion about their ability to reproduce the tumor microenvironment (TME), the advantages and drawbacks of existing tumor models and architectures, major components and fabrication techniques. The focus is on current materials and micro/nanofabrication techniques used to manufacture reliable and reproducible microfluidic ToC models for large-scale trial applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- João Ferreira Gil
- Centre for Rapid and Sustainable Product Development, Polytechnic of Leiria, Marinha Grande, 2430-028, Portugal
- INESC Microsistemas e Nanotecnologias (INESC MN), Rua Alves Redol 9, Lisbon, 1000-029, Portugal
- TEMA, Mechanical Engineering Department, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, 3810-193, Portugal
| | - Carla Sofia Moura
- Centre for Rapid and Sustainable Product Development, Polytechnic of Leiria, Marinha Grande, 2430-028, Portugal
- Polytechnic Institute of Coimbra, Applied Research Institute, Coimbra, 3045-093, Portugal
| | - Vania Silverio
- INESC Microsistemas e Nanotecnologias (INESC MN), Rua Alves Redol 9, Lisbon, 1000-029, Portugal
- Department of Physics, Instituto Superior Técnico, Lisbon, 1049-001, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory Institute for Health and Bioeconomy - i4HB, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Gil Gonçalves
- TEMA, Mechanical Engineering Department, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, 3810-193, Portugal
- Intelligent Systems Associate Laboratory (LASI), Aveiro, 3810-193, Portugal
| | - Hélder A Santos
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, 9713 AV, The Netherlands
- W.J. Korf Institute for Biomedical Engineering and Materials Science, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, 9713 AV, The Netherlands
- Drug Research Program, Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, 00014, Finland
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16
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Jin J, Yoshimura K, Sewastjanow-Silva M, Song S, Ajani JA. Challenges and Prospects of Patient-Derived Xenografts for Cancer Research. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4352. [PMID: 37686627 PMCID: PMC10486659 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15174352] [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: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
We discuss the importance of the in vivo models in elucidating cancer biology, focusing on the patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models, which are classic and standard functional in vivo platforms for preclinical evaluation. We provide an overview of the most representative models, including cell-derived xenografts (CDX), tumor and metastatic cell-derived xenografts, and PDX models utilizing humanized mice (HM). The orthotopic models, which could reproduce the cancer environment and its progression, similar to human tumors, are particularly common. The standard procedures and rationales of gastric adenocarcinoma (GAC) orthotopic models are addressed. Despite the significant advantages of the PDX models, such as recapitulating key features of human tumors and enabling drug testing in the in vivo context, some challenges must be acknowledged, including loss of heterogeneity, selection bias, clonal evolution, stroma replacement, tumor micro-environment (TME) changes, host cell carryover and contaminations, human-to-host cell oncogenic transformation, human and host viral infections, as well as limitations for immunologic research. To compensate for these limitations, other mouse models, such as syngeneic and humanized mouse models, are currently utilized. Overall, the PDX models represent a powerful tool in cancer research, providing critical insights into tumor biology and potential therapeutic targets, but their limitations and challenges must be carefully considered for their effective use. Lastly, we present an intronic quantitative PCR (qPCR) method to authenticate, detect, and quantify human/murine cells in cell lines and PDX samples.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Shumei Song
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (J.J.); (K.Y.); (M.S.-S.)
| | - Jaffer A. Ajani
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (J.J.); (K.Y.); (M.S.-S.)
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17
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Cauli E, Polidoro MA, Marzorati S, Bernardi C, Rasponi M, Lleo A. Cancer-on-chip: a 3D model for the study of the tumor microenvironment. J Biol Eng 2023; 17:53. [PMID: 37592292 PMCID: PMC10436436 DOI: 10.1186/s13036-023-00372-6] [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: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The approval of anticancer therapeutic strategies is still slowed down by the lack of models able to faithfully reproduce in vivo cancer physiology. On one hand, the conventional in vitro models fail to recapitulate the organ and tissue structures, the fluid flows, and the mechanical stimuli characterizing the human body compartments. On the other hand, in vivo animal models cannot reproduce the typical human tumor microenvironment, essential to study cancer behavior and progression. This study reviews the cancer-on-chips as one of the most promising tools to model and investigate the tumor microenvironment and metastasis. We also described how cancer-on-chip devices have been developed and implemented to study the most common primary cancers and their metastatic sites. Pros and cons of this technology are then discussed highlighting the future challenges to close the gap between the pre-clinical and clinical studies and accelerate the approval of new anticancer therapies in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Cauli
- Department of Electronics, Information and Bioengineering, Politecnico Di Milano, Milan, Italy.
- Accelera Srl, Nerviano, Milan, Italy.
| | - Michela Anna Polidoro
- Hepatobiliary Immunopathology Laboratory, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Simona Marzorati
- Hepatobiliary Immunopathology Laboratory, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Marco Rasponi
- Department of Electronics, Information and Bioengineering, Politecnico Di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Ana Lleo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy
- Division of Internal Medicine and Hepatology, Department of Gastroenterology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
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18
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Tunable hybrid hydrogels with multicellular spheroids for modeling desmoplastic pancreatic cancer. Bioact Mater 2023; 25:360-373. [PMID: 36879666 PMCID: PMC9984297 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2023.02.005] [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: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment consists of diverse, complex etiological factors. The matrix component of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) plays an important role not only in physical properties such as tissue rigidity but also in cancer progression and therapeutic responsiveness. Although significant efforts have been made to model desmoplastic PDAC, existing models could not fully recapitulate the etiology to mimic and understand the progression of PDAC. Here, two major components in desmoplastic pancreatic matrices, hyaluronic acid- and gelatin-based hydrogels, are engineered to provide matrices for tumor spheroids composed of PDAC and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF). Shape analysis profiles reveals that incorporating CAF contributes to a more compact tissue formation. Higher expression levels of markers associated with proliferation, epithelial to mesenchymal transition, mechanotransduction, and progression are observed for cancer-CAF spheroids cultured in hyper desmoplastic matrix-mimicking hydrogels, while the trend can be observed when those are cultured in desmoplastic matrix-mimicking hydrogels with the presence of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1). The proposed multicellular pancreatic tumor model, in combination with proper mechanical properties and TGF-β1 supplement, makes strides in developing advanced pancreatic models for resembling and monitoring the progression of pancreatic tumors, which could be potentially applicable for realizing personalized medicine and drug testing applications.
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19
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Tofani LB, Luiz MT, Paes Dutra JA, Abriata JP, Chorilli M. Three-dimensional culture models: emerging platforms for screening the antitumoral efficacy of nanomedicines. Nanomedicine (Lond) 2023; 18:633-647. [PMID: 37183804 DOI: 10.2217/nnm-2022-0205] [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] [Indexed: 05/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Nanomedicines have been investigated for delivering drugs to tumors due to their ability to accumulate in the tumor tissues. 2D in vitro cell culture has been used to investigate the antitumoral potential of nanomedicines. However, a 2D model cannot adequately mimic the in vivo tissue conditions because of the lack of cell-cell interaction, a gradient of nutrients and the expression of genes. To overcome this limitation, 3D cell culture models have emerged as promising platforms that better replicate the complexity of native tumors. For this purpose, different techniques can be used to produce 3D models, including scaffold-free, scaffold-based and microfluidic-based models. This review addresses the principles, advantages and limitations of these culture methods for evaluating the antitumoral efficacy of nanomedicines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larissa Bueno Tofani
- School of Pharmaceutical Science of Ribeirao Preto, University of Sao Paulo (USP), Ribeirao Preto, Sao Paulo, 14040-903, Brazil
| | - Marcela Tavares Luiz
- School of Pharmaceutical Science of Sao Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara, Sao Paulo, 14800-903, Brazil
| | - Jessyca Aparecida Paes Dutra
- School of Pharmaceutical Science of Sao Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara, Sao Paulo, 14800-903, Brazil
| | - Juliana Palma Abriata
- School of Pharmaceutical Science of Ribeirao Preto, University of Sao Paulo (USP), Ribeirao Preto, Sao Paulo, 14040-903, Brazil
| | - Marlus Chorilli
- School of Pharmaceutical Science of Sao Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara, Sao Paulo, 14800-903, Brazil
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20
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Shie MY, Fang HY, Kan KW, Ho CC, Tu CY, Lee PC, Hsueh PR, Chen CH, Lee AKX, Tien N, Chen JX, Shen YC, Chang JG, Shen YF, Lin TJ, Wang B, Hung MC, Cho DY, Chen YW. Highly Mimetic Ex Vivo Lung-Cancer Spheroid-Based Physiological Model for Clinical Precision Therapeutics. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023:e2206603. [PMID: 37085943 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202206603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Lung cancer remains a major health problem despite the considerable research into prevention and treatment methods. Through a deeper understanding of tumors, patient-specific ex vivo spheroid models with high specificity can be used to accurately investigate the cause, metastasis, and treatment strategies for lung cancer. Biofabricate lung tumors are presented, consisting of patient-derived tumor spheroids, endothelial cells, and lung decellularized extracellular matrix, which maintain a radial oxygen gradient, as well as biophysicochemical behaviors of the native tumors for precision medicine. It is also demonstrated that the developed lung-cancer spheroid model reproduces patient responses to chemotherapeutics and targeted therapy in a co-clinical trial, with 85% accuracy, 86.7% sensitivity, and 80% specificity. RNA sequencing analysis validates that the gene expression in the spheroids replicates that in the patient's primary tumor. This model can be used as an ex vivo predictive model for personalized cancer therapy and to improve the quality of clinical care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming-You Shie
- School of Dentistry, China Medical University, Taichung, 406040, Taiwan
- x-Dimension Center for Medical Research and Translation, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, 404332, Taiwan
- Department of Bioinformatics and Medical Engineering, Asia University, Taichung, 41354, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Yuan Fang
- x-Dimension Center for Medical Research and Translation, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, 404332, Taiwan
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung City, 40447, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung City, 40447, Taiwan
| | - Kai-Wen Kan
- x-Dimension Center for Medical Research and Translation, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, 404332, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Che Ho
- Department of Bioinformatics and Medical Engineering, Asia University, Taichung, 41354, Taiwan
- High Performance Materials Institute for x-Dimensional Printing, Asia University, Taichung City, 41354, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Yen Tu
- School of Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung City, 40447, Taiwan
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, 40447, Taiwan
| | - Pei-Chih Lee
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung City, 406040, Taiwan
| | - Po-Ren Hsueh
- School of Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung City, 40447, Taiwan
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung City, 404332, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Hung Chen
- School of Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung City, 40447, Taiwan
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, 40447, Taiwan
| | - Alvin Kai-Xing Lee
- School of Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung City, 40447, Taiwan
| | - Ni Tien
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung City, 404332, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, China Medical University, Taichung City, 406040, Taiwan
| | - Jian-Xun Chen
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung City, 40447, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung City, 40447, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Cheng Shen
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung City, 40447, Taiwan
| | - Jan-Gowth Chang
- Center for Precision Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung City, 404332, Taiwan
- Epigenome Research Center, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung City, 404332, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Fang Shen
- Department of Bioinformatics and Medical Engineering, Asia University, Taichung, 41354, Taiwan
- High Performance Materials Institute for x-Dimensional Printing, Asia University, Taichung City, 41354, Taiwan
| | - Ting-Ju Lin
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung City, 406040, Taiwan
| | - Ben Wang
- H. Milton Stewart School of Industrial and System Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, 755 Ferst Dr NW, Atlanta, GA, 30332, USA
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, 771 Ferst Dr NW, Atlanta, GA, 30332, USA
| | - Mien-Chie Hung
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung City, 406040, Taiwan
- Center for Molecular Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung City, 404332, Taiwan
- Research Center for Cancer Biology, China Medical University, Taichung City, 406040, Taiwan
| | - Der-Yang Cho
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung City, 406040, Taiwan
- Department of Neurosurgery, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung City, 404332, Taiwan
- Translational Cell Therapy Center, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung City, 404332, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Wen Chen
- x-Dimension Center for Medical Research and Translation, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, 404332, Taiwan
- Department of Bioinformatics and Medical Engineering, Asia University, Taichung, 41354, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung City, 406040, Taiwan
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21
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Heinrich MA, Uboldi I, Kuninty PR, Ankone MJ, van Baarlen J, Zhang YS, Jain K, Prakash J. Microarchitectural mimicking of stroma-induced vasculature compression in pancreatic tumors using a 3D engineered model. Bioact Mater 2023; 22:18-33. [PMID: 36203956 PMCID: PMC9516389 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2022.09.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Revised: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
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22
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Tosca EM, Ronchi D, Facciolo D, Magni P. Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement of Animal Experiments in Anticancer Drug Development: The Contribution of 3D In Vitro Cancer Models in the Drug Efficacy Assessment. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11041058. [PMID: 37189676 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11041058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Revised: 03/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
In the last decades three-dimensional (3D) in vitro cancer models have been proposed as a bridge between bidimensional (2D) cell cultures and in vivo animal models, the gold standards in the preclinical assessment of anticancer drug efficacy. 3D in vitro cancer models can be generated through a multitude of techniques, from both immortalized cancer cell lines and primary patient-derived tumor tissue. Among them, spheroids and organoids represent the most versatile and promising models, as they faithfully recapitulate the complexity and heterogeneity of human cancers. Although their recent applications include drug screening programs and personalized medicine, 3D in vitro cancer models have not yet been established as preclinical tools for studying anticancer drug efficacy and supporting preclinical-to-clinical translation, which remains mainly based on animal experimentation. In this review, we describe the state-of-the-art of 3D in vitro cancer models for the efficacy evaluation of anticancer agents, focusing on their potential contribution to replace, reduce and refine animal experimentations, highlighting their strength and weakness, and discussing possible perspectives to overcome current challenges.
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23
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Liao H, Zhou S, Chen S, Li J, Zhang Z, Meng L, Liu Q, Wu Y, He Y, Li M. Establishment and Characterization of Patient-Derived Xenograft Model of Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer Derived from Malignant Pleural Effusions. Cancer Manag Res 2023; 15:165-174. [PMID: 36824151 PMCID: PMC9942510 DOI: 10.2147/cmar.s389339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) comprises approximately 80% of all lung malignancies. The 5-year survival rate of patients with advanced lung cancer who lost their chances of surgery is approximately 15%. Suitable animal models are important in screening individualized treatment plans for patients with lung cancer, evaluating the pre-clinical efficacy of new drugs, and conducting basic research. Patients and Methods In this study, we collected malignant pleural effusion (MPE) samples from 31 patients with NSCLC, successfully constructed 11 NSCLC patient-derived xenografts (PDXs), and analyzed the factors affecting their successful establishment. Primary PDX tumors were characterized using histological analysis, immunohistochemistry, short tandem repeat (STR) profiling, and cytogenetic analysis. Results The PDXs preserved the histopathology and protein expression pattern of parental tumors. STR analysis revealed the PDX tissue and a tumor tissue of the same individual origin. Statistical analysis showed that the survival time of patients reflected the malignant degree of MPEs to a certain extent, thus affecting the establishment of PDXs. However, the age, gender, and clinical and biochemical indicators of the patients did not affect the establishment of PDX models. Conclusion These data suggest that the established NSCLC PDXs preserved the molecular characteristics of primary lung cancer and can serve as a new tool to elucidate the pathogenesis of tumors, explore new treatment methods, and conduct the research and development of new drugs for tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Liao
- Department of Medicine, The Eighth Hospital of Wuhan, Wuhan, Hubei, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shixin Zhou
- School of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, People’s Republic of China
| | - Si Chen
- Department of Oncology, Wuhan Pulmonary Hospital, Wuhan, Hubei, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jun Li
- Department of Oncology, Wuhan Pulmonary Hospital, Wuhan, Hubei, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zongqi Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Wuhan Pulmonary Hospital, Wuhan, Hubei, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ling Meng
- Department of Oncology, Wuhan Pulmonary Hospital, Wuhan, Hubei, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qiliang Liu
- Department of Pathology, Wuhan Pulmonary Hospital, Wuhan, Hubei, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yuan Wu
- Department of Oncology, Wuhan Pulmonary Hospital, Wuhan, Hubei, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yuanqiao He
- Department of Laboratory Animal Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, People’s Republic of China,Jiangxi Province Key Laboratory of Laboratory Animal, Nanchang, People’s Republic of China,Nanchang Royo Biotech Co, Ltd, Nanchang, People’s Republic of China,Yuanqiao He, Department of Laboratory Animal Science, Nanchang University, No. 999, Xuefu Road, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330031, People’s Republic of China, Tel +791-83968063, Email
| | - Ming Li
- Department of Oncology, Wuhan Pulmonary Hospital, Wuhan, Hubei, People’s Republic of China,Correspondence: Ming Li, Department of Oncology, Wuhan Pulmonary Hospital, No. 28 Baofeng Road, Qiaokou District, Wuhan City, Hubei Province, 430030, People’s Republic of China, Tel +86-13971222216, Email
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Liu Y, Li N, Zhu Y. Pancreatic Organoids: A Frontier Method for Investigating Pancreatic-Related Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24044027. [PMID: 36835437 PMCID: PMC9959977 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24044027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The pancreas represents an important organ that has not been comprehensively studied in many fields. To fill this gap, many models have been generated, and traditional models have shown good performance in addressing pancreatic-related diseases, but are increasingly struggling to keep up with the need for further research due to ethical issues, genetic heterogeneity and difficult clinical translation. The new era calls for new and more reliable research models. Therefore, organoids have been proposed as a novel model for the evaluation of pancreatic-related diseases such as pancreatic malignancy, diabetes, and pancreatic cystic fibrosis. Compared with common traditional models, including 2D cell culture and gene editing mice, organoids derived from living humans or mice cause minimal harm to the donor, raise fewer ethical concerns, and reasonably address the claims of heterogeneity, which allows for the further development of pathogenesis studies and clinical trial analysis. In this review, we analyse studies on the use of pancreatic organoids in research on pancreatic-related diseases, discuss the advantages and disadvantages, and hypothesize future trends.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxiang Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330209, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, Digestive Disease Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330209, China
| | - Nianshuang Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330209, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, Digestive Disease Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330209, China
- Jiangxi Institute of Digestive Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330209, China
| | - Yin Zhu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330209, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, Digestive Disease Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330209, China
- Correspondence:
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25
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Tanaka HY, Nakazawa T, Enomoto A, Masamune A, Kano MR. Therapeutic Strategies to Overcome Fibrotic Barriers to Nanomedicine in the Pancreatic Tumor Microenvironment. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15030724. [PMID: 36765684 PMCID: PMC9913712 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15030724] [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: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is notorious for its dismal prognosis. The enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect theory posits that nanomedicines (therapeutics in the size range of approximately 10-200 nm) selectively accumulate in tumors. Nanomedicine has thus been suggested to be the "magic bullet"-both effective and safe-to treat pancreatic cancer. However, the densely fibrotic tumor microenvironment of pancreatic cancer impedes nanomedicine delivery. The EPR effect is thus insufficient to achieve a significant therapeutic effect. Intratumoral fibrosis is chiefly driven by aberrantly activated fibroblasts and the extracellular matrix (ECM) components secreted. Fibroblast and ECM abnormalities offer various potential targets for therapeutic intervention. In this review, we detail the diverse strategies being tested to overcome the fibrotic barriers to nanomedicine in pancreatic cancer. Strategies that target the fibrotic tissue/process are discussed first, which are followed by strategies to optimize nanomedicine design. We provide an overview of how a deeper understanding, increasingly at single-cell resolution, of fibroblast biology is revealing the complex role of the fibrotic stroma in pancreatic cancer pathogenesis and consider the therapeutic implications. Finally, we discuss critical gaps in our understanding and how we might better formulate strategies to successfully overcome the fibrotic barriers in pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroyoshi Y. Tanaka
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biomedicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, 1-1-1 Tsushima-naka, Kita-ku, Okayama-shi 700-8530, Okayama, Japan
| | - Takuya Nakazawa
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biomedicine, Graduate School of Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering in Health Systems, Okayama University, 1-1-1 Tsushima-naka, Kita-ku, Okayama-shi 700-8530, Okayama, Japan
| | - Atsushi Enomoto
- Department of Pathology, Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya University, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya-shi 466-8550, Aichi, Japan
| | - Atsushi Masamune
- Division of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, Tohoku University, 1-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai-shi 980-8574, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Mitsunobu R. Kano
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biomedicine, Graduate School of Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering in Health Systems, Okayama University, 1-1-1 Tsushima-naka, Kita-ku, Okayama-shi 700-8530, Okayama, Japan
- Correspondence:
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Song J, Bang S, Choi N, Kim HN. Brain organoid-on-a-chip: A next-generation human brain avatar for recapitulating human brain physiology and pathology. BIOMICROFLUIDICS 2022; 16:061301. [PMID: 36438549 PMCID: PMC9691285 DOI: 10.1063/5.0121476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases and neurodevelopmental disorders have become increasingly prevalent; however, the development of new pharmaceuticals to treat these diseases has lagged. Animal models have been extensively utilized to identify underlying mechanisms and to validate drug efficacies, but they possess inherent limitations including genetic heterogeneity with humans. To overcome these limitations, human cell-based in vitro brain models including brain-on-a-chip and brain organoids have been developed. Each technique has distinct advantages and disadvantages in terms of the mimicry of structure and microenvironment, but each technique could not fully mimic the structure and functional aspects of the brain tissue. Recently, a brain organoid-on-a-chip (BOoC) platform has emerged, which merges brain-on-a-chip and brain organoids. BOoC can potentially reflect the detailed structure of the brain tissue, vascular structure, and circulation of fluid. Hence, we summarize recent advances in BOoC as a human brain avatar and discuss future perspectives. BOoC platform can pave the way for mechanistic studies and the development of pharmaceuticals to treat brain diseases in future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiyoung Song
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Seokyoung Bang
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Dongguk University, Goyang 10326, Republic of Korea
| | - Nakwon Choi
- Authors to whom correspondence should be addressed:; ; and
| | - Hong Nam Kim
- Authors to whom correspondence should be addressed:; ; and
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Endotoxin contamination alters macrophage-cancer cell interaction and therapeutic efficacy in pre-clinical 3D in vitro models. BIOMATERIALS ADVANCES 2022; 144:213220. [PMID: 36476713 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioadv.2022.213220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Revised: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The rapid developments in biofabrication, in particular 3D bioprinting, in the recent years have facilitated the need for novel biomaterials that aim to replicate the target tissue in great detail. The presence of endotoxins in these biomaterials is often an overlooked problem. In pre-clinical 3D in vitro models, endotoxins can have significant influence on cell behavior and credibility of the model. In this study we demonstrate the effects of high levels of endotoxins in commercially-available gelatin on the macrophage-cancer cell crosstalk in a 3D bioprinted co-culture model. First, it is demonstrated that, while presenting the same mechanical and structural stimuli, high levels of endotoxin can have significant influence on the metabolic activity of macrophages and cancer cells. Furthermore, this study shows that high endotoxin contamination causes a strong inflammatory reaction in macrophages and significantly inhibits the effects of a paracrine macrophage-cancer cell co-culture. At last, it is demonstrated that the differences in endotoxin levels can drastically alter the efficacy of novel macrophage modulating immunotherapies, AS1517499 and 3-methyladenine. Altogether, this study shows that endotoxin contamination in biomaterials can significantly alter intra- and intercellular communication and thereby drug efficacy, which might lead to misinterpretation of the potency and safety of the tested compounds.
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28
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Kfoury S, Michl P, Roth L. Modeling Obesity-Driven Pancreatic Carcinogenesis-A Review of Current In Vivo and In Vitro Models of Obesity and Pancreatic Carcinogenesis. Cells 2022; 11:cells11193170. [PMID: 36231132 PMCID: PMC9563584 DOI: 10.3390/cells11193170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Revised: 10/01/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is the most common pancreatic malignancy with a 5-year survival rate below 10%, thereby exhibiting the worst prognosis of all solid tumors. Increasing incidence together with a continued lack of targeted treatment options will cause PDAC to be the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the western world by 2030. Obesity belongs to the predominant risk factors for pancreatic cancer. To improve our understanding of the impact of obesity on pancreatic cancer development and progression, novel laboratory techniques have been developed. In this review, we summarize current in vitro and in vivo models of PDAC and obesity as well as an overview of a variety of models to investigate obesity-driven pancreatic carcinogenesis. We start by giving an overview on different methods to cultivate adipocytes in vitro as well as various in vivo mouse models of obesity. Moreover, established murine and human PDAC cell lines as well as organoids are summarized and the genetically engineered models of PCAC compared to xenograft models are introduced. Finally, we review published in vitro and in vivo models studying the impact of obesity on PDAC, enabling us to decipher the molecular basis of obesity-driven pancreatic carcinogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sally Kfoury
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Martin-Luther University Halle/Wittenberg, Ernst-Grube-Strasse 40, D-06120 Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Patrick Michl
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Martin-Luther University Halle/Wittenberg, Ernst-Grube-Strasse 40, D-06120 Halle (Saale), Germany
- Department of Medicine, Internal Medicine IV, University Hospital Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 410, D-69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- Correspondence:
| | - Laura Roth
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Martin-Luther University Halle/Wittenberg, Ernst-Grube-Strasse 40, D-06120 Halle (Saale), Germany
- Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
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29
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Sung B. In silico modeling of endocrine organ-on-a-chip systems. Math Biosci 2022; 352:108900. [PMID: 36075288 DOI: 10.1016/j.mbs.2022.108900] [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: 05/11/2022] [Revised: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
The organ-on-a-chip (OoC) is an artificially reconstructed microphysiological system that is implemented using tissue mimics integrated into miniaturized perfusion devices. OoCs emulate dynamic and physiologically relevant features of the body, which are not available in standard in vitro methods. Furthermore, OoCs provide highly sophisticated multi-organ connectivity and biomechanical cues based on microfluidic platforms. Consequently, they are often considered ideal in vitro systems for mimicking self-regulating biophysical and biochemical networks in vivo where multiple tissues and organs crosstalk through the blood flow, similar to the human endocrine system. Therefore, OoCs have been extensively applied to simulate complex hormone dynamics and endocrine signaling pathways in a mechanistic and fully controlled manner. Mathematical and computational modeling approaches are critical for quantitatively analyzing an OoC and predicting its complex responses. In this review article, recently developed in silico modeling concepts of endocrine OoC systems are summarized, including the mathematical models of tissue-level transport phenomena, microscale fluid dynamics, distant hormone signaling, and heterogeneous cell-cell communication. From this background, whole chip-level analytic approaches in pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics will be described with a focus on the spatial and temporal behaviors of absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion in endocrine biochips. Finally, quantitative design frameworks for endocrine OoCs are reviewed with respect to support parameter calibration/scaling and enable predictive in vitro-in vivo extrapolations. In particular, we highlight the analytical and numerical modeling strategies of the nonlinear phenomena in endocrine systems on-chip, which are of particular importance in drug screening and environmental health applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baeckkyoung Sung
- Biosensor Group, KIST Europe Forschungsgesellschaft mbH, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany; Division of Energy & Environment Technology, University of Science & Technology, 34113 Daejeon, Republic of Korea.
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Zhang J, Yang H, Wu J, Zhang D, Wang Y, Zhai J. Recent progresses in novel in vitro models of primary neurons: A biomaterial perspective. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:953031. [PMID: 36061442 PMCID: PMC9428288 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.953031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Central nervous system (CNS) diseases have been a growing threat to the health of humanity, emphasizing the urgent need of exploring the pathogenesis and therapeutic approaches of various CNS diseases. Primary neurons are directly obtained from animals or humans, which have wide applications including disease modeling, mechanism exploration and drug development. However, traditional two-dimensional (2D) monoculture cannot resemble the native microenvironment of CNS. With the increasing understanding of the complexity of the CNS and the remarkable development of novel biomaterials, in vitro models have experienced great innovation from 2D monoculture toward three-dimensional (3D) multicellular culture. The scope of this review includes the progress of various in vitro models of primary neurons in recent years to provide a holistic view of the modalities and applications of primary neuron models and how they have been connected with the revolution of biofabrication techniques. Special attention has been paid to the interaction between primary neurons and biomaterials. First, a brief introduction on the history of CNS modeling and primary neuron culture was conducted. Next, detailed progress in novel in vitro models were discussed ranging from 2D culture, ex vivo model, spheroid, scaffold-based model, 3D bioprinting model, and microfluidic chip. Modalities, applications, advantages, and limitations of the aforementioned models were described separately. Finally, we explored future prospects, providing new insights into how basic science research methodologies have advanced our understanding of the CNS, and highlighted some future directions of primary neuron culture in the next few decades.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiangang Zhang
- Department of Liver Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Huiyu Yang
- Departments of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jiaming Wu
- Departments of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Dingyue Zhang
- Department of Liver Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yu Wang
- Departments of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jiliang Zhai
- Departments of Orthopedics Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Jiliang Zhai,
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Monico DA, Calori IR, Souza C, Espreafico EM, Bi H, Tedesco AC. Melanoma spheroid-containing artificial dermis as an alternative approach to in vivo models. Exp Cell Res 2022; 417:113207. [PMID: 35580698 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2022.113207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Revised: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Melanoma spheroid-loaded 3D skin models allow for the study of crucial tumor characteristics and factors at a superior level because the neoplastic cells are integrated into essential human skin components, permitting tumor-skin model communication. Herein, we designed a melanoma-containing artificial dermis by inserting multicellular tumor spheroids from the metastatic phase of WM 1617 melanoma cells into an artificial dermis. We cultured multicellular melanoma spheroids by hanging drop method (250 cells per drop) with a size of 420 μm in diameter after incubation for 14 days. These spheroids were integrated into the dermal equivalents that had been previously preparedwith a type-I collagen matrix and healthy fibroblasts. The melanoma spheroid cells invaded and proliferated in the artificial dermis. Spheroids treated with a 1.0 μmol/L aluminum chloride phthalocyanine nanoemulsion in the absence of light showed high cell viability. In contrast, under irradiation with visible red light (660 nm) at 25 J/cm2, melanoma cells were killed and the healthy tissue was preserved, indicating that photodynamic therapy is effective in such a model. Therefore, the 3D skin melanoma model has potential to promote research in full-thickness skin model targeting optimized preclinical assays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielli Azevedo Monico
- Department of Chemistry, Center of Nanotechnology and Tissue Engineering -Photobiology and Photomedicine Research Group, Faculty of Philosophy, Sciences and Letters of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, 14040-901, Brazil
| | - Italo Rodrigo Calori
- Department of Chemistry, Center of Nanotechnology and Tissue Engineering -Photobiology and Photomedicine Research Group, Faculty of Philosophy, Sciences and Letters of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, 14040-901, Brazil
| | - Carla Souza
- Department of Chemistry, Center of Nanotechnology and Tissue Engineering -Photobiology and Photomedicine Research Group, Faculty of Philosophy, Sciences and Letters of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, 14040-901, Brazil
| | - Enilza Maria Espreafico
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, 14049-900, Brazil
| | - Hong Bi
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Anhui University, Hefei, 230601, China
| | - Antonio Claudio Tedesco
- Department of Chemistry, Center of Nanotechnology and Tissue Engineering -Photobiology and Photomedicine Research Group, Faculty of Philosophy, Sciences and Letters of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, 14040-901, Brazil; School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Anhui Key Laboratory of Modern Biomanufacturing, Anhui University, Hefei, 230601, China.
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32
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In vitro 2D and 3D cancer models to evaluate compounds that modulate macrophage polarization. Cell Immunol 2022; 378:104574. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cellimm.2022.104574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Pion E, Karnosky J, Boscheck S, Wagner BJ, Schmidt KM, Brunner SM, Schlitt HJ, Aung T, Hackl C, Haerteis S. 3D In Vivo Models for Translational Research on Pancreatic Cancer: The Chorioallantoic Membrane (CAM) Model. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14153733. [PMID: 35954398 PMCID: PMC9367548 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14153733] [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: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The 5-year overall survival rate for all stages of pancreatic cancer is relatively low at about only 6%. As a result of this exceedingly poor prognosis, new research models are necessary to investigate this highly malignant cancer. One model that has been used extensively for a vast variety of different cancers is the chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) model. It is based on an exceptionally vascularized membrane that develops within fertilized chicken eggs and can be used for the grafting and analysis of tumor tissue. The aim of the study was to summarize already existing works on pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) and the CAM model. The results were subdivided into different categories that include drug testing, angiogenesis, personalized medicine, modifications of the model, and further developments to help improve the unfavorable prognosis of this disease. Abstract Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a highly aggressive cancer with adverse outcomes that have barely improved over the last decade. About half of all patients present with metastasis at the time of diagnosis, and the 5-year overall survival rate across all stages is only 6%. Innovative in vivo research models are necessary to combat this cancer and to discover novel treatment strategies. The chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) model represents one 3D in vivo methodology that has been used in a large number of studies on different cancer types for over a century. This model is based on a membrane formed within fertilized chicken eggs that contain a dense network of blood vessels. Because of its high cost-efficiency, simplicity, and versatility, the CAM model appears to be a highly valuable research tool in the pursuit of gaining more in-depth insights into PDAC. A summary of the current literature on the usage of the CAM model for the investigation of PDAC was conducted and subdivided into angiogenesis, drug testing, modifications, personalized medicine, and further developments. On this comprehensive basis, further research should be conducted on PDAC in order to improve the abysmal prognosis of this malignant disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Pion
- Institute for Molecular and Cellular Anatomy, University of Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (E.P.); (S.B.); (T.A.)
| | - Julia Karnosky
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (J.K.); (B.J.W.); (K.M.S.); (S.M.B.); (H.J.S.); (C.H.)
| | - Sofie Boscheck
- Institute for Molecular and Cellular Anatomy, University of Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (E.P.); (S.B.); (T.A.)
| | - Benedikt J. Wagner
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (J.K.); (B.J.W.); (K.M.S.); (S.M.B.); (H.J.S.); (C.H.)
| | - Katharina M. Schmidt
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (J.K.); (B.J.W.); (K.M.S.); (S.M.B.); (H.J.S.); (C.H.)
| | - Stefan M. Brunner
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (J.K.); (B.J.W.); (K.M.S.); (S.M.B.); (H.J.S.); (C.H.)
| | - Hans J. Schlitt
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (J.K.); (B.J.W.); (K.M.S.); (S.M.B.); (H.J.S.); (C.H.)
| | - Thiha Aung
- Institute for Molecular and Cellular Anatomy, University of Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (E.P.); (S.B.); (T.A.)
- Faculty of Applied Healthcare Science, Deggendorf Institute of Technology, 94469 Deggendorf, Germany
| | - Christina Hackl
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (J.K.); (B.J.W.); (K.M.S.); (S.M.B.); (H.J.S.); (C.H.)
| | - Silke Haerteis
- Institute for Molecular and Cellular Anatomy, University of Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (E.P.); (S.B.); (T.A.)
- Correspondence:
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Monteiro MV, Rocha M, Gaspar VM, Mano JF. Programmable Living Units for Emulating Pancreatic Tumor-Stroma Interplay. Adv Healthc Mater 2022; 11:e2102574. [PMID: 35426253 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202102574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Revised: 04/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Bioengineering close-to-native in vitro models that emulate tumors bioarchitecture and microenvironment is highly appreciable for improving disease modeling toolboxes. Herein, pancreatic cancer living units-so termed cancer-on-a-bead models-are generated. Such user-programmable in vitro platforms exhibit biomimetic multicompartmentalization and tunable integration of cancer associated stromal elements. These stratified units can be rapidly assembled in-air, exhibit reproducible morphological features, tunable size, and recapitulate spatially resolved tumor-stroma extracellular matrix (ECM) niches. Compartmentalization of pancreatic cancer and stromal cells in well-defined ECM microenvironments stimulates the secretion of key biomolecular effectors including transforming growth factor β and Interleukin 1-β, closely emulating the signatures of human pancreatic tumors. Cancer-on-a-bead models also display increased drug resistance to chemotherapeutics when compared to their reductionistic counterparts, reinforcing the importance to differentially model ECM components inclusion and their spatial stratification as observed in vivo. Beyond providing a universal technology that enables spatial modularity in tumor-stroma elements bioengineering, a scalable, in-air fabrication of ECM-tunable 3D platforms that can be leveraged for recapitulating differential matrix composition occurring in other human neoplasias is provided here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria V Monteiro
- Department of Chemistry, CICECO - Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, Aveiro, 3810-193, Portugal
| | - Marta Rocha
- Department of Chemistry, CICECO - Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, Aveiro, 3810-193, Portugal
| | - Vítor M Gaspar
- Department of Chemistry, CICECO - Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, Aveiro, 3810-193, Portugal
| | - João F Mano
- Department of Chemistry, CICECO - Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, Aveiro, 3810-193, Portugal
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35
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Zhao T, Zhang R, He Q, Zhou H, Song X, Gong T, Zhang Z. Partial ligand shielding nanoparticles improve pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma treatment via a multifunctional paradigm for tumor stroma reprogramming. Acta Biomater 2022; 145:122-134. [PMID: 35381402 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2022.03.050] [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: 01/22/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
The dense stroma that acts as a physical and biological barrier in the tumor microenvironment (TME) of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) leads to the failure of chemotherapeutic drug delivery. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and extracellular matrix (ECM) mainly constitute the refuge for cancer cells in PDAC. Herein, a CAF targeting drug delivery system (TDDS) based on RBC vesicles partial protection (RBC-Fn-NP) was established and investigated for reprogramming stroma, as well as enhancing tumor penetration and antitumor efficacy in PDAC. RBC vesicles were firstly used for partial protection of peptide from external influences. The exposed FnBPA5 peptide showed high affinity with both CAFs and the major components as collagen I and relaxed-fibronectin of ECM. Retinoic acid (RA) could disturb Golgi of CAFs, resulting in the reduction of protein secretion from the headstream. As expected, the strategy of RBC vesicles protected FnBPA5 targeting and RA-induced protein reduction was confirmed to reprogram the dense stroma and improve the penetration of Doxorubicin (Dox) in PDAC. RBC-Fn-NP inhibited tumor growth in both Pan02-orthotopic bearing model and Pan02-subcutaneous mice model. Hence, these partial ligand shielding nanoparticles offer a multifunctional and efficient approach to overcome penetration barriers and enhance the antitumor efficacy of chemotherapy in PDAC. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: A partial ligand shielding nanoparticle platform (RBC-Fn-NP), which has the function of an RBC vesicle "shell" and thetargeting properties of a "core" to achieve superior therapeutic effects against PDAC, was established. The targeted ligand was modified on the surface of the nanoparticles instead of the RBC membranes. Three-dimensional PDAC stroma-rich spheroids were established to evaluate the penetration and tumor stroma remodeling. The targeting properties of FnBPA5 peptide, the effect of RA-induced Golgi disruption on the reduction of protein secretion, and the incomplete "camouflage" of the RBC vesicles were confirmed both in vitro and in vivo. As expected, our nanoplatform may provide a promising strategy for remolding dense stroma and enhancing the permeability in PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Drug Targeting and Drug Delivery Systems, Ministry of Education, Sichuan University, No.17, Block 3, Southern Renmin Road, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Rongping Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Drug Targeting and Drug Delivery Systems, Ministry of Education, Sichuan University, No.17, Block 3, Southern Renmin Road, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Qin He
- Key Laboratory of Drug Targeting and Drug Delivery Systems, Ministry of Education, Sichuan University, No.17, Block 3, Southern Renmin Road, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Hongli Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Drug Targeting and Drug Delivery Systems, Ministry of Education, Sichuan University, No.17, Block 3, Southern Renmin Road, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Xu Song
- Key Laboratory of Drug Targeting and Drug Delivery Systems, Ministry of Education, Sichuan University, No.17, Block 3, Southern Renmin Road, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China; NMPA Key Laboratory for Quality Research and Control of Tissue Regenerative Biomaterial & Institute of Regulatory Science for Medical Devices & NMPA Research Base of Regulatory Science for Medical Devices, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; National Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials & College of Biomedical Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
| | - Tao Gong
- Key Laboratory of Drug Targeting and Drug Delivery Systems, Ministry of Education, Sichuan University, No.17, Block 3, Southern Renmin Road, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China.
| | - Zhirong Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Drug Targeting and Drug Delivery Systems, Ministry of Education, Sichuan University, No.17, Block 3, Southern Renmin Road, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
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Satchi-Fainaro R, Florindo HF, Vicent MJ. Clinically-relevant and predictive cancer models for nanomedicine evaluation. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2022; 183:114140. [PMID: 35134434 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2022.114140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ronit Satchi-Fainaro
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, 6997801 Tel Aviv, Israel.
| | - Helena F Florindo
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - María J Vicent
- Centro de Investigación Príncipe Felipe, Polymer Therapeutics Laboratory, Av. Eduardo Primo Yúfera 3, E-46012 Valencia, Spain.
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37
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Monteiro MV, Zhang YS, Gaspar VM, Mano JF. 3D-bioprinted cancer-on-a-chip: level-up organotypic in vitro models. Trends Biotechnol 2022; 40:432-447. [PMID: 34556340 PMCID: PMC8916962 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2021.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Revised: 08/22/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Combinatorial conjugation of organ-on-a-chip platforms with additive manufacturing technologies is rapidly emerging as a disruptive approach for upgrading cancer-on-a-chip systems towards anatomic-sized dynamic in vitro models. This valuable technological synergy has potential for giving rise to truly physiomimetic 3D models that better emulate tumor microenvironment elements, bioarchitecture, and response to multidimensional flow dynamics. Herein, we showcase the most recent advances in bioengineering 3D-bioprinted cancer-on-a-chip platforms and provide a comprehensive discussion on design guidelines and possibilities for high-throughput analysis. Such hybrid platforms represent a new generation of highly sophisticated 3D tumor models with improved biomimicry and predictability of therapeutics performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria V Monteiro
- Department of Chemistry, CICECO - Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Yu Shrike Zhang
- Division of Engineering in Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Vítor M Gaspar
- Department of Chemistry, CICECO - Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal.
| | - João F Mano
- Department of Chemistry, CICECO - Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal.
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38
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Li N, Sun Y, Fu Y, Sun K. RNA Drug Delivery Using Biogenic Nanovehicles for Cancer Therapy. Front Pharmacol 2022; 12:734443. [PMID: 35002692 PMCID: PMC8740118 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.734443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA-based therapies have been promising method for treating all kinds of diseases, and four siRNA-based drugs and two mRNA-based drugs have been approved and are on the market now. However, none of them is applied for cancer treatment. This is not only because of the complexity of the tumor microenvironment, but also due to the intrinsic obstacles of RNAs. Until now, all kinds of strategies have been developed to improve the performance of RNAs for cancer therapy, especially the nanoparticle-based ones using biogenic materials. They are much more compatible with less toxicity compared to the ones using synthetic polymers, and the most widely studied biogenic materials are oligonucleotides, exosomes, and cell membranes. Particular characteristics make them show different capacities in internalization and endosomal escape as well as specific targeting. In this paper, we systematically summarize the RNA-based nano-delivery systems using biogenic materials for cancer therapy, and we believe this review will provide a valuable reference for researchers involved in the field of biogenic delivery and RNA-based therapies for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuannuan Li
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology and Drug Evaluation (Yantai University), School of Pharmacy, Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Drug Delivery System and Biotech Drugs in Universities of Shandong, Ministry of Education, Yantai University, Yantai, China
| | - Yiying Sun
- Shandong International Biotechnonlogy Park Development Co. Ltd, Yantai, China
| | - Yuanlei Fu
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology and Drug Evaluation (Yantai University), School of Pharmacy, Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Drug Delivery System and Biotech Drugs in Universities of Shandong, Ministry of Education, Yantai University, Yantai, China.,Key Laboratory of Nanomedicine and Advanced Preparations, Yantai Institute of Materia Medica, China, Yantai, China
| | - Kaoxiang Sun
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology and Drug Evaluation (Yantai University), School of Pharmacy, Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Drug Delivery System and Biotech Drugs in Universities of Shandong, Ministry of Education, Yantai University, Yantai, China
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39
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Advancing Tumor Microenvironment Research by Combining Organs-on-Chips and Biosensors. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2022; 1379:171-203. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-04039-9_7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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40
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Narayanan S, Vicent S, Ponz-Sarvisé M. PDAC as an Immune Evasive Disease: Can 3D Model Systems Aid to Tackle This Clinical Problem? Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:787249. [PMID: 34957115 PMCID: PMC8703167 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.787249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is an aggressive cancer with a high mortality rate. The presence of a dense desmoplastic stroma rich in fibroblasts, extracellular matrix, and immune cells plays a critical role in disease progression, therapy response and is a distinguishing feature of PDAC. PDAC is currently treated with a combination of surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy in selected cases which results in long-term survival only in a small percentage of patients. Cancer therapies that incorporate immunotherapy-based techniques have become increasingly common in recent years. While such a strategy has been shown to be effective for immunogenic, “hot” tumors like melanoma and lung cancer, thus far PDAC patients display poor responses to this therapeutic approach. Various factors, such as low tumor mutational burden, increased infiltration of immunosuppressive cells, like MDSCs and Treg cells promote tolerance and immune deviation, further aggravating adaptive immunity in PDAC. In this review we will elaborate on the ability of PDAC tumors to evade immune detection. We will also discuss various 3D model system that can be used as a platform in preclinical research to investigate rational combinations of immunotherapy with chemotherapy or targeted therapy, to prime the immune microenvironment to enhance antitumor activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shruthi Narayanan
- Clinica Universidad de Navarra, Medical Oncology Department, Pamplona, Spain
- Program in Solid Tumors, Center for Applied Medical Research, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Silve Vicent
- Program in Solid Tumors, Center for Applied Medical Research, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- IdiSNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research, Pamplona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Madrid, Spain
- Department of Pathology, Anatomy and Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- *Correspondence: Silve Vicent, ; Mariano Ponz-Sarvisé,
| | - Mariano Ponz-Sarvisé
- Clinica Universidad de Navarra, Medical Oncology Department, Pamplona, Spain
- Program in Solid Tumors, Center for Applied Medical Research, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- IdiSNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research, Pamplona, Spain
- Department of Pathology, Anatomy and Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- *Correspondence: Silve Vicent, ; Mariano Ponz-Sarvisé,
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Maneshi P, Mason J, Dongre M, Öhlund D. Targeting Tumor-Stromal Interactions in Pancreatic Cancer: Impact of Collagens and Mechanical Traits. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:787485. [PMID: 34901028 PMCID: PMC8656238 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.787485] [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: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has one of the worst outcomes among cancers with a 5-years survival rate of below 10%. This is a result of late diagnosis and the lack of effective treatments. The tumor is characterized by a highly fibrotic stroma containing distinct cellular components, embedded within an extracellular matrix (ECM). This ECM-abundant tumor microenvironment (TME) in PDAC plays a pivotal role in tumor progression and resistance to treatment. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), being a dominant cell type of the stroma, are in fact functionally heterogeneous populations of cells within the TME. Certain subtypes of CAFs are the main producer of the ECM components of the stroma, with the most abundant one being the collagen family of proteins. Collagens are large macromolecules that upon deposition into the ECM form supramolecular fibrillar structures which provide a mechanical framework to the TME. They not only bring structure to the tissue by being the main structural proteins but also contain binding domains that interact with surface receptors on the cancer cells. These interactions can induce various responses in the cancer cells and activate signaling pathways leading to epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and ultimately metastasis. In addition, collagens are one of the main contributors to building up mechanical forces in the tumor. These forces influence the signaling pathways that are involved in cell motility and tumor progression and affect tumor microstructure and tissue stiffness by exerting solid stress and interstitial fluid pressure on the cells. Taken together, the TME is subjected to various types of mechanical forces and interactions that affect tumor progression, metastasis, and drug response. In this review article, we aim to summarize and contextualize the recent knowledge of components of the PDAC stroma, especially the role of different collagens and mechanical traits on tumor progression. We furthermore discuss different experimental models available for studying tumor-stromal interactions and finally discuss potential therapeutic targets within the stroma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parniyan Maneshi
- Department of Radiation Sciences, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
- Wallenberg Centre for Molecular Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - James Mason
- Department of Radiation Sciences, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
- Wallenberg Centre for Molecular Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Mitesh Dongre
- Department of Radiation Sciences, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
- Wallenberg Centre for Molecular Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Daniel Öhlund
- Department of Radiation Sciences, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
- Wallenberg Centre for Molecular Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
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Curvello R, Kast V, Abuwarwar MH, Fletcher AL, Garnier G, Loessner D. 3D Collagen-Nanocellulose Matrices Model the Tumour Microenvironment of Pancreatic Cancer. Front Digit Health 2021; 3:704584. [PMID: 34713176 PMCID: PMC8521838 DOI: 10.3389/fdgth.2021.704584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Three-dimensional (3D) cancer models are invaluable tools designed to study tumour biology and new treatments. Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), one of the deadliest types of cancer, has been progressively explored with bioengineered 3D approaches by deconstructing elements of its tumour microenvironment. Here, we investigated the suitability of collagen-nanocellulose hydrogels to mimic the extracellular matrix of PDAC and to promote the formation of tumour spheroids and multicellular 3D cultures with stromal cells. Blending of type I collagen fibrils and cellulose nanofibres formed a matrix of controllable stiffness, which resembled the lower profile of pancreatic tumour tissues. Collagen-nanocellulose hydrogels supported the growth of tumour spheroids and multicellular 3D cultures, with increased metabolic activity and matrix stiffness. To validate our 3D cancer model, we tested the individual and combined effects of the anti-cancer compound triptolide and the chemotherapeutics gemcitabine and paclitaxel, resulting in differential cell responses. Our blended 3D matrices with tuneable mechanical properties consistently maintain the growth of PDAC cells and its cellular microenvironment and allow the screening of anti-cancer treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo Curvello
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Verena Kast
- Max Bergmann Center of Biomaterials Dresden, Leibniz Institute of Polymer Research Dresden E.V., Dresden, Germany
| | - Mohammed H Abuwarwar
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Anne L Fletcher
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Gil Garnier
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia.,Department of Chemical Engineering, Bioresource Processing Research Institute of Australia (BioPRIA), Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Daniela Loessner
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia.,Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia.,Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Science, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
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Novel 3D µtissues Mimicking the Fibrotic Stroma in Pancreatic Cancer to Study Cellular Interactions and Stroma-Modulating Therapeutics. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13195006. [PMID: 34638490 PMCID: PMC8508009 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13195006] [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: 08/13/2021] [Revised: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is the most prevalent and aggressive type of pancreatic cancer with a low 5-year survival rate of only 8%. The cellular arrangement plays a crucial role in PDAC, which is characterized by a highly fibrotic environment around the tumor cells, preventing treatments from reaching their target. For the development of novel drug candidates, it is crucial to mimic this cellular arrangement in a laboratory environment. We successfully developed a reproducible three-dimensional cell culture model that demonstrates the PDAC characteristic arrangement and showed a PDAC relevant gene profile when comparing with the genetic profile of PDAC patients. We finally demonstrated the use of the model for the evaluation of novel anti-fibrotic therapy against PDAC by studying drug-induced reduction of fibrosis in PDAC enabling nanoparticles to penetrate and reach the tumor cells. This model is useful for the evaluation of novel treatments against PDAC in a biologically relevant manner. Abstract Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a highly aggressive tumor type with low patient survival due to the low efficacy of current treatment options. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in the tumor microenvironment (TME) create a dense fibrotic environment around the tumor cells, preventing therapies from reaching their target. Novel 3D in vitro models are needed that mimic this fibrotic barrier for the development of therapies in a biologically relevant environment. Here, novel PDAC microtissues (µtissues) consisting of pancreatic cancer cell core surrounded by a CAF-laden collagen gel are presented, that is based on the cells own contractility to form a hard-to-penetrate barrier. The contraction of CAFs is demonstrated facilitating the embedding of tumor cells in the center of the µtissue as observed in patients. The µtissues displayed a PDAC-relevant gene expression by comparing their gene profile with transcriptomic patient data. Furthermore, the CAF-dependent proliferation of cancer cells is presented, as well as the suitability of the µtissues to serve as a platform for the screening of CAF-modulating therapies in combination with other (nano)therapies. It is envisioned that these PDAC µtissues can serve as a high-throughput platform for studying cellular interactions in PDAC and for evaluating different treatment strategies in the future.
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