1
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Maes L, Szabó A, Van Haevermaete J, Geurs I, Dewettinck K, Vandenbroucke RE, Van Vlierberghe S, Laukens D. Digital light processing of photo-crosslinkable gelatin to create biomimetic 3D constructs serving small intestinal tissue regeneration. BIOMATERIALS ADVANCES 2025; 171:214232. [PMID: 39983500 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioadv.2025.214232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2024] [Revised: 01/27/2025] [Accepted: 02/13/2025] [Indexed: 02/23/2025]
Abstract
Regeneration of small intestinal mucosal tissue could offer a promising strategy for Crohn's disease patients suffering from chronic inflammatory damage. Here, we aimed to develop hydrogels that mirror the villi and crypts of the small intestine and exhibit a physiological stiffness of G' ~ 1.52 kPa. For this purpose, we developed gelatin-methacryloyl-aminoethyl-methacrylate (gel-MA-AEMA)-, and gelatin-methacryloyl-norbornene (gel-MA-NB)-based biomaterial inks to fabricate 3D hydrogels ("villi only" versus "crypts and villi") with digital light processing (DLP) and co-cultured Caco-2/HT29-MTX cells. Gel-MA-AEMA was selected for its higher amount of methacrylates which was hypothesized to provide superior photo-crosslinking kinetics and hence superior DLP fabrication potential while gel-MA-NB was evaluated for its selective functionalization potential with thiolated bioactive compounds following DLP processing, resulting from its incorporated NB moieties which remain unreacted during the DLP process. Both gel-MA-AEMA-, and gel-MA-NB-based hydrogels exhibited a physiologically relevant stiffness, but only the gel-MA-AEMA-based biomaterial ink could be successfully utilized for printing hydrogels encompassing villi and crypts. Paracellular permeability of small sized marker molecules in combination with transepithelial electrical resistance measurements showed the formation of a functional barrier over time on all hydrogel constructs. Transmission electron microscopy and enterocyte differentiation marker genes' expression levels revealed the superior differentiation of Caco-2 on the 3D constructs compared to 2D hydrogel sheets. In summary, while both hydrogels enhanced functional barrier formation and enterocyte differentiation, gel-MA-AEMA proved more conducive to DLP compared to gel-MA-NB. Furthermore, our study underscored the benefits of cultivating intestinal cells on soft 3D constructs, enhancing cell barrier properties and differentiation, thus providing added value over traditional 2D supports.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laure Maes
- IBD Research Unit, Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Ghent University, Ghent 9000, Belgium; Barriers in Inflammation Lab, Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, Ghent 9000, Belgium; VIB-UGent Center for Inflammation Research, VIB, Ghent 9000, Belgium
| | - Anna Szabó
- Polymer Chemistry and Biomaterials Group, Centre of Macromolecular Chemistry (CMaC), Department of Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry, Ghent University, Ghent 9000, Belgium
| | - Jens Van Haevermaete
- IBD Research Unit, Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Ghent University, Ghent 9000, Belgium; Polymer Chemistry and Biomaterials Group, Centre of Macromolecular Chemistry (CMaC), Department of Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry, Ghent University, Ghent 9000, Belgium
| | - Indi Geurs
- Food Structure & Function Research Group, Department of Food Technology, Safety and Health, Ghent University, Ghent 9000, Belgium
| | - Koen Dewettinck
- Food Structure & Function Research Group, Department of Food Technology, Safety and Health, Ghent University, Ghent 9000, Belgium
| | - Roosmarijn E Vandenbroucke
- Barriers in Inflammation Lab, Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, Ghent 9000, Belgium; VIB-UGent Center for Inflammation Research, VIB, Ghent 9000, Belgium
| | - Sandra Van Vlierberghe
- Polymer Chemistry and Biomaterials Group, Centre of Macromolecular Chemistry (CMaC), Department of Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry, Ghent University, Ghent 9000, Belgium.
| | - Debby Laukens
- IBD Research Unit, Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Ghent University, Ghent 9000, Belgium.
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2
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Dash P, Yadav V, Das B, Satapathy SR. Experimental toolkit to study the oncogenic role of WNT signaling in colorectal cancer. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2025:189354. [PMID: 40414319 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2025.189354] [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: 10/28/2024] [Revised: 05/19/2025] [Accepted: 05/19/2025] [Indexed: 05/27/2025]
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is linked to the WNT/β-catenin signaling as its primary driver. Aberrant activation of WNT/β-catenin signaling is closely correlated with increased incidence, malignancy, poorer prognosis, and even higher cancer-related death. Research over the years has postulated various experimental models that have facilitated an understanding of the complex mechanisms underlying WNT signaling in CRC. In the present review, we have comprehensively summarized the in vitro, in vivo, patient-derived, and computational models used to study the role of WNT signaling in CRC. We discuss the use of CRC cell lines and organoids in capturing the molecular intricacies of WNT signaling and implementing xenograft and genetically engineered mouse models to mimic the tumor microenvironment. Patient-derived models, including xenografts and organoids, provide valuable insights into personalized medicine approaches. Additionally, we elaborated on the role of computational models in simulating WNT signaling dynamics and predicting therapeutic outcomes. By evaluating the advantages and limitations of each model, this review highlights the critical contributions of these systems to our understanding of WNT signaling in CRC. We emphasize the need to integrate diverse model systems to enhance translational research and clinical applications, which is the primary goal of this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pujarini Dash
- Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela, Odisha, India
| | - Vikas Yadav
- Department of Translational Medicine, Clinical Research Centre, Skåne University Hospital, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Biswajit Das
- Department of Molecular Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, Santa Cruz, USA
| | - Shakti Ranjan Satapathy
- Department of Translational Medicine, Clinical Research Centre, Skåne University Hospital, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden
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3
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Rea M, Lisa LD, Pagnotta G, Gallo N, Salvatore L, D’Amico F, Campilio N, Baena JM, Marchal JA, Cicero AF, Borghi C, Focarete ML. Establishing a Bioink Assessment Protocol: GelMA and Collagen in the Bioprinting of a Potential In Vitro Intestinal Model. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2025; 11:2456-2467. [PMID: 40131228 PMCID: PMC12001187 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.5c00034] [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: 01/05/2025] [Revised: 03/16/2025] [Accepted: 03/17/2025] [Indexed: 03/26/2025]
Abstract
Collagen and gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) are widely studied biomaterials for extrusion-based bioprinting (EBB) due to their excellent biological properties and ability to mimic the extracellular matrix of native tissues. This study aims to establish a preliminary workflow for approaching EBB by assessing collagen and GelMA printability and biological performance. GelMA was selected for its cost-effectiveness and ease of synthesis, while our collagen formulation was specifically optimized for printability, which is a challenging aspect of bioprinting. A parallel evaluation of their printability and biological performance is provided to develop a preliminary 3D intestinal model replicating the submucosa, lamina propria, and epithelial layer. Rheological analyses demonstrated that both materials exhibit a shear-thinning behavior. Collagen (u-CI) displayed a shear-thinning parameter p = 0.1 and a consistency index C = 80.62 Pa·s, while GelMA (u-GI) exhibited a more pronounced shear-thinning effect and enhanced shape retention (p = 0.06, C = 286.6 Pa·s). Post-extrusion recovery was higher for collagen (85%), compared to GelMA (45%), indicating its greater mechanical resilience. Photo-crosslinking improved hydrogel stability, with an increase in storage modulus G' for both materials. Printing tests confirmed the suitability of both hydrogels for bioprinting, with GelMA demonstrating higher print fidelity than collagen. Dimensional stability assessments under incubating conditions revealed that collagen constructs maintained their shape for 14 days before degradation, whereas GelMA constructs exhibited a gradual decrease in diameter over 21 days. Cell culture studies showed that human skin fibroblasts (HSFs) and human colon adenocarcinoma cells (HCT-8) could be successfully cocultured in an optimized RPMI 1640-based medium. AlamarBlue assays and Live/Dead staining confirmed high cell viability and proliferation within both hydrogel matrices. Notably, HSFs in GelMA exhibited more elongated morphologies, likely due to the material's lower stiffness (380 Pa) compared to collagen (585 Pa). HCT-8 cells adhered more rapidly to GelMA constructs, forming colonies within 7 days, whereas on collagen, colony formation was delayed to 14 days. Finally, a layered intestinal model was fabricated, and immunostaining confirmed the expression of tight junction (ZO-1) and adhesion (E-cadherin) proteins, validating the epithelial monolayer integrity. These findings highlight the potential of collagen and GelMA in 3D bioprinting applications for gut tissue engineering and pave the way for future developments of in vitro intestinal models.
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Grants
- National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP), Mission 04 Component 2 Investment 1.5 â NextGenerationEU, Call for tender n. 3277 dated 30/12/2021,
- European Union - NextGenerationEU through the Italian Ministry of University and Research under PNRR âMission 4 Component 2, Investment 3.3 ââPartnerships extended to universities, research centers, companies and funding of basic research projectsââ D.M. 352/2021 â CUP J33C22001330009
- ConsejerÃa de EconomÃa, Conocimiento, Empresas y Universidad de la Junta de AndalucÃa (FEDER Funds, Projects B-CTS-230-UGR18, A-CTS-180-UGR20 and PYC20 RE 015 UGR)
- Chair ''Doctors Galera-Requena in cancer stem cell research'' (CMC-CTS963)
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariangela Rea
- Department
of Chemistry ‘Giacomo Ciamician’ and INSTM UdR of Bologna, University of Bologna, 40129 Bologna, Italy
| | - Luana Di Lisa
- Department
of Chemistry ‘Giacomo Ciamician’ and INSTM UdR of Bologna, University of Bologna, 40129 Bologna, Italy
| | - Giorgia Pagnotta
- Department
of Chemistry ‘Giacomo Ciamician’ and INSTM UdR of Bologna, University of Bologna, 40129 Bologna, Italy
| | - Nunzia Gallo
- Department
of Engineering for Innovation, University
of Salento, 73100 Lecce, Italy
- Typeone
Biomaterials S.r.l., Via Europa 167, 73021 Calimera, Lecce, Italy
| | - Luca Salvatore
- Typeone
Biomaterials S.r.l., Via Europa 167, 73021 Calimera, Lecce, Italy
| | - Federica D’Amico
- Department
of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University
of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | | | - José Manuel Baena
- REGEMAT
3D S.L., 18016 Granada, Spain
- BRECA
Health Care S.L., 18016 Granada, Spain
- Biofabrication
group, Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, Universidad
Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, 46115 Alfara
de Patriarca, Valencia, Spain
| | - Juan Antonio Marchal
- Department
of Human Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain
- BioFab
i3D Lab, Centre for Biomedical Research (CIBM), University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain
- Instituto
de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, 18016 Granada, Spain
- Excellence Research Unit “Modeling
Nature” (MNat),
University of Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain
| | - Arrigo F.G. Cicero
- Medical
and Surgery Sciences Department, University
of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
- Cardiovascular
Medicine Unit, IRCCS AOU di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Claudio Borghi
- Medical
and Surgery Sciences Department, University
of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
- Cardiovascular
Medicine Unit, IRCCS AOU di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Maria Letizia Focarete
- Department
of Chemistry ‘Giacomo Ciamician’ and INSTM UdR of Bologna, University of Bologna, 40129 Bologna, Italy
- Interdepartmental
Center for Industrial Research in Health Sciences and Technologies, University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra, 41/E, 40064 Ozzano Emilia, Bologna, Italy
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4
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Wang K, Wang Y, Han J, Liang Z, Zhang W, Li X, Chen J, Wang L. Biofabrication and simulation techniques for gut-on-a-chip. Biofabrication 2025; 17:022011. [PMID: 39965538 DOI: 10.1088/1758-5090/adb7c1] [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: 08/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/18/2025] [Indexed: 02/20/2025]
Abstract
Biomimetic gut models show promise for enhancing our understanding of intestinal disorder pathogenesis and accelerating therapeutic strategy development. Currentin vitromodels predominantly comprise traditional static cell culture and animal models. Static cell culture lacks the precise control of the complex microenvironment governing human intestinal function. Animal models provide greater microenvironment complexity but fail to accurately replicate human physiological conditions due to interspecies differences. As the available models do not accurately reflect the microphysiological environment and functions of the human intestine, their applications are limited. An optimal approach to intestinal modeling is yet to be developed, but the field will probably benefit from advances in biofabrication techniques. This review highlights biofabrication strategies for constructing biomimetic intestinal models and research approaches for simulating key intestinal physiological features. We also discuss potential biomedical applications of these models and provide an outlook on multi-scale intestinal modeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Wang
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan 250353, People's Republic of China
- Shandong Institute of Mechanical Design and Research, Jinan 250353, People's Republic of China
| | - Yushen Wang
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan 250353, People's Republic of China
- Shandong Institute of Mechanical Design and Research, Jinan 250353, People's Republic of China
| | - Junlei Han
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan 250353, People's Republic of China
- Shandong Institute of Mechanical Design and Research, Jinan 250353, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhixiang Liang
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan 250353, People's Republic of China
- Shandong Institute of Mechanical Design and Research, Jinan 250353, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenhong Zhang
- College of Mechanical Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, People's Republic of China
| | - Xinyu Li
- Department of Minimally Invasive Comprehensive Treatment of Cancer, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong 250021, People's Republic of China
| | - Jun Chen
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan 250353, People's Republic of China
- Shandong Institute of Mechanical Design and Research, Jinan 250353, People's Republic of China
| | - Li Wang
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan 250353, People's Republic of China
- Shandong Institute of Mechanical Design and Research, Jinan 250353, People's Republic of China
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5
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Jeon Y, Kim M, Song KH. Development of Hydrogels Fabricated via Stereolithography for Bioengineering Applications. Polymers (Basel) 2025; 17:765. [PMID: 40292646 PMCID: PMC11945500 DOI: 10.3390/polym17060765] [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: 02/19/2025] [Revised: 03/02/2025] [Accepted: 03/11/2025] [Indexed: 04/30/2025] Open
Abstract
The architectures of hydrogels fabricated with stereolithography (SLA) 3D printing systems have played various roles in bioengineering applications. Typically, the SLA systems successively illuminated light to a layer of photo-crosslinkable hydrogel precursors for the fabrication of hydrogels. These SLA systems can be classified into point-scanning types and digital micromirror device (DMD) types. The point-scanning types form layers of hydrogels by scanning the precursors with a focused light, while DMD types illuminate 2D light patterns to the precursors to form each hydrogel layer at once. Overall, SLA systems were cost-effective and allowed the fabrication of hydrogels with good shape fidelity and uniform mechanical properties. As a result, hydrogel constructs fabricated with the SLA 3D printing systems were used to regenerate tissues and develop lab-on-a-chip devices and native tissue-like models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youngjin Jeon
- Department of Nano-Bioengineering, Incheon National University, 119, Academy-ro, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon 22012, Republic of Korea; (Y.J.); (M.K.)
| | - Minji Kim
- Department of Nano-Bioengineering, Incheon National University, 119, Academy-ro, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon 22012, Republic of Korea; (Y.J.); (M.K.)
| | - Kwang Hoon Song
- Department of Nano-Bioengineering, Incheon National University, 119, Academy-ro, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon 22012, Republic of Korea; (Y.J.); (M.K.)
- Research Center of Brain-Machine Interface, Incheon National University, 119, Academy-ro, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon 22012, Republic of Korea
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6
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Derman ID, Moses JC, Rivera T, Ozbolat IT. Understanding the cellular dynamics, engineering perspectives and translation prospects in bioprinting epithelial tissues. Bioact Mater 2025; 43:195-224. [PMID: 39386221 PMCID: PMC11462153 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2024.09.025] [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: 07/15/2024] [Revised: 09/04/2024] [Accepted: 09/18/2024] [Indexed: 10/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The epithelium is one of the important tissues in the body as it plays a crucial barrier role serving as a gateway into and out of the body. Most organs in the body contain an epithelial tissue component, where the tightly connected, organ-specific epithelial cells organize into cysts, invaginations, or tubules, thereby performing distinct to endocrine or exocrine secretory functions. Despite the significance of epithelium, engineering functional epithelium in vitro has remained a challenge due to it is special architecture, heterotypic composition of epithelial tissues, and most importantly, difficulty in attaining the apico-basal and planar polarity of epithelial cells. Bioprinting has brought a paradigm shift in fabricating such apico-basal polarized tissues. In this review, we provide an overview of epithelial tissues and provide insights on recapitulating their cellular arrangement and polarization to achieve epithelial function. We describe the different bioprinting techniques that have been successful in engineering polarized epithelium, which can serve as in vitro models for understanding homeostasis and studying diseased conditions. We also discuss the different attempts that have been investigated to study these 3D bioprinted engineered epithelium for preclinical use. Finally, we highlight the challenges and the opportunities that need to be addressed for translation of 3D bioprinted epithelial tissues towards paving way for personalized healthcare in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irem Deniz Derman
- Engineering Science and Mechanics Department, Penn State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
- The Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, Penn State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
| | - Joseph Christakiran Moses
- Engineering Science and Mechanics Department, Penn State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
- The Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, Penn State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
| | - Taino Rivera
- Biomedical Engineering Department, Penn State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
| | - Ibrahim T. Ozbolat
- Engineering Science and Mechanics Department, Penn State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
- The Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, Penn State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
- Biomedical Engineering Department, Penn State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
- Materials Research Institute, Penn State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
- Cancer Institute, Penn State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
- Neurosurgery Department, Penn State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cukurova University, Adana, 01330, Turkey
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7
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Park J, Lee G, Park JK. Functional Assessment of a Bioprinted Immuno-Mimetic Peyer's Patch Recapitulating Gut-Associated Lymphoid Tissue. Adv Healthc Mater 2025; 14:e2402722. [PMID: 39487612 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202402722] [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: 07/24/2024] [Revised: 10/11/2024] [Indexed: 11/04/2024]
Abstract
Gut immune models have attracted much interest in better understanding the microbiome in the human gastrointestinal tract. The gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT) has complex structures that interact with microorganisms, including the intestinal monolayer as a physiological barrier and the Peyer's patch (PP) involved in the immune system. Although essential for studying GALT and microbiome interactions, current research often uses simplified models that only recapitulate some components. In this study, GALT is recapitulated to consider the morphology and function of lymphocyte-containing PP beneath the intestinal monolayer and to analyze microbiome interaction. Using the bioprinting technique, a dome-shaped structure array for the PP is fabricated, and epithelial cells are cocultured to form the intestinal monolayer. The developed GALT model shows stable cell differentiation on the hydrogel while exhibiting durability against lipopolysaccharides. It also exhibits increased responsiveness to Escherichia coli, as indicated by elevated nitric oxide levels. In addition, the model underscores the critical role of GALT in maintaining bacterial coexistence and in facilitating immune defense against foreign antigens through the secretion of immunoglobulin A by lymphocyte spheroids. The proposed GALT model is expected to provide significant insights into studying the gut-immune system complexity and microbiome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jongho Park
- Department of Bio and Brain Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), 291 Daehak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Gihyun Lee
- Department of Bio and Brain Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), 291 Daehak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Je-Kyun Park
- Department of Bio and Brain Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), 291 Daehak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
- KI for Health Science and Technology, KAIST Institutes (KI), 291 Daehak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
- KI for NanoCentury, KAIST Institutes (KI), 291 Daehak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
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8
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Micati D, Hlavca S, Chan WH, Abud HE. Harnessing 3D models to uncover the mechanisms driving infectious and inflammatory disease in the intestine. BMC Biol 2024; 22:300. [PMID: 39736603 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-024-02092-9] [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: 06/16/2024] [Accepted: 12/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/01/2025] Open
Abstract
Representative models of intestinal diseases are transforming our knowledge of the molecular mechanisms of disease, facilitating effective drug screening and avenues for personalised medicine. Despite the emergence of 3D in vitro intestinal organoid culture systems that replicate the genetic and functional characteristics of the epithelial tissue of origin, there are still challenges in reproducing the human physiological tissue environment in a format that enables functional readouts. Here, we describe the latest platforms engineered to investigate environmental tissue impacts, host-microbe interactions and enable drug discovery. This highlights the potential to revolutionise knowledge on the impact of intestinal infection and inflammation and enable personalised disease modelling and clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Micati
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
- Development and Stem Cells Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Sara Hlavca
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
- Development and Stem Cells Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Wing Hei Chan
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
- Development and Stem Cells Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Helen E Abud
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia.
- Development and Stem Cells Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia.
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9
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Singh A, Cho YK, Cohen DJ. Rapid Whole-Plate Cell and Tissue Micropatterning Using a Budget 3D Resin Printer. ACS OMEGA 2024; 9:43808-43816. [PMID: 39494000 PMCID: PMC11525498 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.4c06539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2024] [Revised: 09/26/2024] [Accepted: 10/02/2024] [Indexed: 11/05/2024]
Abstract
The ability to precisely pattern cells and proteins is crucial in various scientific disciplines, including cell biology, bioengineering, and materials chemistry. Current techniques, such as microcontact stamping, 3D bioprinting, and direct photopatterning, have limitations in terms of cost, versatility, and throughput. In this Article, we present an accessible approach that combines the throughput of photomask systems with the versatility of programmable light patterning using a low-cost consumer LCD resin printer. The method involves utilizing a bioinert hydrogel, poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA), and a 405 nm sensitive photoinitiator (LAP) that are selectively cross-linked to form a hydrogel upon light exposure, creating specific regions that are protein and cell-repellent. Our result highlights that a low-cost LCD resin printer can project virtual photomasks onto the hydrogel, allowing for reasonable resolution and large-area printing at a fraction of the cost of traditional systems. The study demonstrates the calibration of exposure times for optimal resolution and accuracy and shape corrections to overcome the inherent challenges of wide-field resin printing. The potential of this approach is validated through widely studied 2D and 3D stem cell applications, showcasing its biocompatibility and ability to replicate complex tissue engineering patterns. We also validate the method with a cell-adhesive polymer (gelatin methacrylate; GelMA). The combination of low cost, high throughput, and accessibility makes this method broadly applicable across fields for enabling rapid and precise fabrication of cells and tissues in standard laboratory culture vessels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anamika Singh
- Department
of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey 08544, United States
| | - Youn Kyoung Cho
- Department
of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey 08544, United States
| | - Daniel J. Cohen
- Department
of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey 08544, United States
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10
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Miklosic G, Ferguson SJ, D'Este M. Engineering complex tissue-like microenvironments with biomaterials and biofabrication. Trends Biotechnol 2024; 42:1241-1257. [PMID: 38658198 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2024.03.008] [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: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Advances in tissue engineering for both system modeling and organ regeneration depend on embracing and recapitulating the target tissue's functional and structural complexity. Microenvironmental features such as anisotropy, heterogeneity, and other biochemical and mechanical spatiotemporal cues are essential in regulating tissue development and function. Novel biofabrication strategies and innovative biomaterial design have emerged as promising tools to better reproduce such features. These facilitate a transition towards high-fidelity biomimetic structures, offering opportunities for a deeper understanding of tissue function and the development of superior therapies. In this review, we explore some of the key structural and compositional aspects of tissues, lay out how to achieve similar outcomes with current fabrication strategies, and identify the main challenges and promising avenues for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregor Miklosic
- AO Research Institute Davos, Davos, Switzerland; Institute for Biomechanics, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Garcia-Gonzalez A, Jaquez-Sanchez M, Maya-Morales A, Flores-Jimenez MS, Perfecto-Avalos Y, Chairez-Oria I, Gutierrez-Vilchis A, Garcia-Gamboa R. 3D-Printed Scaffold Mimicking IBD Gut Microenvironments: An In Vitro Model for Bacterial Bioink Growth. ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE OF THE IEEE ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY SOCIETY. IEEE ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY SOCIETY. ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE 2024; 2024:1-4. [PMID: 40039600 DOI: 10.1109/embc53108.2024.10782731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/06/2025]
Abstract
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), a chronic inflammatory condition of the gastrointestinal tract, affects millions worldwide and is linked to altered gut microbiota. This study explored the feasibility of a 3D-bioprinting scaffold containing Lactococcus lactis using an alginate-agar-soy trypticase bioink. The bioink exhibited high water absorption and adequate rheology, enabling successful bioprinting of scaffolds with robust structures. The scaffolds remained stable for 24 hours, allowing prolonged bacterial growth. L. lactis viability was confirmed by confocal microscopy, which revealed green fluorescence indicative of live bacteria even after 8 hours of culture within the scaffold. This suggests a supportive microenvironment for bacterial survival and potential proliferation. Compared to a 2D model, the 3D scaffold increased the number of colony-forming units (CFUs), indicating a more supportive environment for L. lactis growth. Overall, this study emphasizes the potential of 3D-printed bacterial scaffolds as a platform culture to assess the factors influencing the microbiota in various diseases.
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Vera D, García-Díaz M, Torras N, Castillo Ó, Illa X, Villa R, Alvarez M, Martinez E. A 3D bioprinted hydrogel gut-on-chip with integrated electrodes for transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) measurements. Biofabrication 2024; 16:035008. [PMID: 38574551 DOI: 10.1088/1758-5090/ad3aa4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
Conventional gut-on-chip (GOC) models typically represent the epithelial layer of the gut tissue, neglecting other important components such as the stromal compartment and the extracellular matrix (ECM) that play crucial roles in maintaining intestinal barrier integrity and function. These models often employ hard, flat porous membranes for cell culture, thus failing to recapitulate the soft environment and complex 3D architecture of the intestinal mucosa. Alternatively, hydrogels have been recently introduced in GOCs as ECM analogs to support the co-culture of intestinal cells inin vivo-like configurations, and thus opening new opportunities in the organ-on-chip field. In this work, we present an innovative GOC device that includes a 3D bioprinted hydrogel channel replicating the intestinal villi architecture containing both the epithelial and stromal compartments of the gut mucosa. The bioprinted hydrogels successfully support both the encapsulation of fibroblasts and their co-culture with intestinal epithelial cells under physiological flow conditions. Moreover, we successfully integrated electrodes into the microfluidic system to monitor the barrier formation in real time via transepithelial electrical resistance measurements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Vera
- Instituto de Microelectrónica de Barcelona, IMB-CNM (CSIC), Bellaterra, Barcelona 08193, Spain
| | - María García-Díaz
- Biomimetic Systems for Cell Engineering, Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona 08028, Spain
| | - Núria Torras
- Biomimetic Systems for Cell Engineering, Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona 08028, Spain
| | - Óscar Castillo
- Biomimetic Systems for Cell Engineering, Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona 08028, Spain
| | - Xavi Illa
- Instituto de Microelectrónica de Barcelona, IMB-CNM (CSIC), Bellaterra, Barcelona 08193, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Barcelona 08193, Spain
| | - Rosa Villa
- Instituto de Microelectrónica de Barcelona, IMB-CNM (CSIC), Bellaterra, Barcelona 08193, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Barcelona 08193, Spain
| | - Mar Alvarez
- Instituto de Microelectrónica de Barcelona, IMB-CNM (CSIC), Bellaterra, Barcelona 08193, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Barcelona 08193, Spain
| | - Elena Martinez
- Biomimetic Systems for Cell Engineering, Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona 08028, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Barcelona 08193, Spain
- Department of Electronics and Biomedical Engineering, University of Barcelona (UB), Barcelona 08028, Spain
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Cui Z, Xu L, Zhao M, Zhou L. Akkermansia muciniphila MucT attenuates sodium valproate-induced hepatotoxicity and upregulation of Akkermansia muciniphila in rats. J Cell Mol Med 2024; 28:e18026. [PMID: 37961985 PMCID: PMC10805509 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.18026] [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: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
In the previous study, we found that the oral sodium valproate (SVP) increased the relative abundance of Akkermansia muciniphila (A. muciniphila) in rats, and plasma aspartate transaminase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) activities were positively correlated with A. muciniphila levels. This study aimed to further investigate the role of A. muciniphila in SVP-induced hepatotoxicity by orally supplementing rats with the representative strain of A. muciniphila, A. muciniphila MucT. Additionally, the fresh faeces were incubated anaerobically with SVP to investigate the effect of SVP on faecal A. muciniphila in the absence of host influence. Results showed that A. muciniphila MucT ameliorated the hepatotoxicity and upregulation of A. muciniphila induced by SVP. SVP also induced a noteworthy elevation of A. muciniphila level in vitro, supporting the observation in vivo. Therefore, we speculate that A. muciniphila MucT may be a potential therapeutic strategy for SVP-induced hepatotoxicity. In addition, the increased A. muciniphila induced by SVP may differ from A. muciniphila MucT, but further evidence is needed. These findings provide new insights into the relationships between A. muciniphila and SVP-induced hepatotoxicity, highlighting the potential for different A. muciniphila strains to have distinct or even opposing effects on SVP-induced hepatotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi Cui
- Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM)Chinese Academy of SciencesHangzhouChina
- Department of Orthopaedics of the 3rd Xiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaChina
| | - Liang Xu
- Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM)Chinese Academy of SciencesHangzhouChina
| | - Ming Zhao
- Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM)Chinese Academy of SciencesHangzhouChina
| | - Luping Zhou
- Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM)Chinese Academy of SciencesHangzhouChina
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Macedo MH, Dias Neto M, Pastrana L, Gonçalves C, Xavier M. Recent Advances in Cell-Based In Vitro Models to Recreate Human Intestinal Inflammation. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2301391. [PMID: 37736674 PMCID: PMC10625086 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202301391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
Inflammatory bowel disease causes a major burden to patients and healthcare systems, raising the need to develop effective therapies. Technological advances in cell culture, allied with ethical issues, have propelled in vitro models as essential tools to study disease aetiology, its progression, and possible therapies. Several cell-based in vitro models of intestinal inflammation have been used, varying in their complexity and methodology to induce inflammation. Immortalized cell lines are extensively used due to their long-term survival, in contrast to primary cultures that are short-lived but patient-specific. Recently, organoids and organ-chips have demonstrated great potential by being physiologically more relevant. This review aims to shed light on the intricate nature of intestinal inflammation and cover recent works that report cell-based in vitro models of human intestinal inflammation, encompassing diverse approaches and outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Helena Macedo
- INL – International Iberian Nanotechnology LaboratoryAvenida Mestre José VeigaBraga4715‐330Portugal
| | - Mafalda Dias Neto
- INL – International Iberian Nanotechnology LaboratoryAvenida Mestre José VeigaBraga4715‐330Portugal
| | - Lorenzo Pastrana
- INL – International Iberian Nanotechnology LaboratoryAvenida Mestre José VeigaBraga4715‐330Portugal
| | - Catarina Gonçalves
- INL – International Iberian Nanotechnology LaboratoryAvenida Mestre José VeigaBraga4715‐330Portugal
| | - Miguel Xavier
- INL – International Iberian Nanotechnology LaboratoryAvenida Mestre José VeigaBraga4715‐330Portugal
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Macedo MH, Torras N, García-Díaz M, Barrias C, Sarmento B, Martínez E. The shape of our gut: Dissecting its impact on drug absorption in a 3D bioprinted intestinal model. BIOMATERIALS ADVANCES 2023; 153:213564. [PMID: 37482042 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioadv.2023.213564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
The small intestine is a complex organ with a characteristic architecture and a major site for drug and nutrient absorption. The three-dimensional (3D) topography organized in finger-like protrusions called villi increases surface area remarkably, granting a more efficient absorption process. The intestinal mucosa, where this process occurs, is a multilayered and multicell-type tissue barrier. In vitro intestinal models are routinely used to study different physiological and pathological processes in the gut, including compound absorption. Still, standard models are typically two-dimensional (2D) and represent only the epithelial barrier, lacking the cues offered by the 3D architecture and the stromal components present in vivo, often leading to inaccurate results. In this work, we studied the impact of the 3D architecture of the gut on drug transport using a bioprinted 3D model of the intestinal mucosa containing both the epithelial and the stromal compartments. Human intestinal fibroblasts were embedded in a previously optimized hydrogel bioink, and enterocytes and goblet cells were seeded on top to mimic the intestinal mucosa. The embedded fibroblasts thrived inside the hydrogel, remodeling the surrounding extracellular matrix. The epithelial cells fully covered the hydrogel scaffolds and formed a uniform cell layer with barrier properties close to in vivo. In particular, the villus-like model revealed overall increased permeability compared to a flat counterpart composed by the same hydrogel and cells. In addition, the efflux activity of the P-glycoprotein (P-gp) transporter was significantly reduced in the villus-like scaffold compared to a flat model, and the genetic expression of other drugs transporters was, in general, more relevant in the villus-like model. Globally, this study corroborates that the presence of the 3D architecture promotes a more physiological differentiation of the epithelial barrier, providing more accurate data on drug absorbance measurements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Helena Macedo
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Rua Alfredo, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen 208, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; INEB - Instituto Nacional de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen 208, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; ICBAS - Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Núria Torras
- IBEC - Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia, BIST - The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Baldiri Reixac 10-12, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - María García-Díaz
- IBEC - Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia, BIST - The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Baldiri Reixac 10-12, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Cristina Barrias
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Rua Alfredo, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen 208, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; INEB - Instituto Nacional de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen 208, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; ICBAS - Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Bruno Sarmento
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Rua Alfredo, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen 208, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; INEB - Instituto Nacional de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen 208, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; CESPU - Instituto de Investigação e Formação Avançada em Ciências e Tecnologias da Saúde, Rua Central de Gandra 1317, 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal
| | - Elena Martínez
- IBEC - Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia, BIST - The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Baldiri Reixac 10-12, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; CIBER-BBN - Consorcio Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina, Avenida Monforte de Lemos 3-5, 28029 Madrid, Spain; Electronics and Biomedical Engineering Department, Universitat de Barcelona, Martí I Franquès 1, 08028 Barcelona, Spain.
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