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Chen S, Wang H, Yang P, Chen S, Ho C, Yang P, Kao Y, Liu S, Chiu H, Lin Y, Chuang E, Huang J, Kao H, Huang C. Schwann cells acquire a repair phenotype after assembling into spheroids and show enhanced in vivo therapeutic potential for promoting peripheral nerve repair. Bioeng Transl Med 2024; 9:e10635. [PMID: 38435829 PMCID: PMC10905550 DOI: 10.1002/btm2.10635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
The prognosis for postinjury peripheral nerve regeneration remains suboptimal. Although transplantation of exogenous Schwann cells (SCs) has been considered a promising treatment to promote nerve repair, this strategy has been hampered in practice by the limited availability of SC sources and an insufficient postengraftment cell retention rate. In this study, to address these challenges, SCs were aggregated into spheroids before being delivered to an injured rat sciatic nerve. We found that the three-dimensional aggregation of SCs induced their acquisition of a repair phenotype, as indicated by enhanced levels of c-Jun expression/activation and decreased expression of myelin sheath protein. Furthermore, our in vitro results demonstrated the superior potential of the SC spheroid-derived secretome in promoting neurite outgrowth of dorsal root ganglion neurons, enhancing the proliferation and migration of endogenous SCs, and recruiting macrophages. Moreover, transplantation of SC spheroids into rats after sciatic nerve transection effectively increased the postinjury nerve structure restoration and motor functional recovery rates, demonstrating the therapeutic potential of SC spheroids. In summary, transplantation of preassembled SC spheroids may hold great potential for enhancing the cell delivery efficiency and the resultant therapeutic outcome, thereby improving SC-based transplantation approaches for promoting peripheral nerve regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shih‐Heng Chen
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive SurgeryLinkou Chang Gung Memorial HospitalTaoyuanTaiwan
- School of MedicineCollege of Medicine, Chang Gung UniversityTaoyuanTaiwan
| | - Hsin‐Wen Wang
- Institute of Biomedical EngineeringNational Tsing Hua UniversityHsinchuTaiwan
| | - Pei‐Ching Yang
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive SurgeryLinkou Chang Gung Memorial HospitalTaoyuanTaiwan
| | - Shih‐Shien Chen
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive SurgeryLinkou Chang Gung Memorial HospitalTaoyuanTaiwan
| | - Chia‐Hsin Ho
- Institute of Biomedical EngineeringNational Tsing Hua UniversityHsinchuTaiwan
| | - Pei‐Ching Yang
- Institute of Biomedical EngineeringNational Tsing Hua UniversityHsinchuTaiwan
| | - Ying‐Chi Kao
- Institute of Biomedical EngineeringNational Tsing Hua UniversityHsinchuTaiwan
| | - Shao‐Wen Liu
- Institute of Biomedical EngineeringNational Tsing Hua UniversityHsinchuTaiwan
| | - Han Chiu
- Institute of Biomedical EngineeringNational Tsing Hua UniversityHsinchuTaiwan
| | - Yu‐Jie Lin
- Institute of Biomedical EngineeringNational Tsing Hua UniversityHsinchuTaiwan
| | - Er‐Yuan Chuang
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Materials and Tissue Engineering, College of Biomedical Engineering, International Ph.D. Program in Biomedical Engineering, Taipei Medical UniversityTaipeiTaiwan
- Cell Physiology and Molecular Image Research CenterTaipei Medical University–Wan Fang HospitalTaipeiTaiwan
| | - Jen‐Huang Huang
- Department of Chemical EngineeringNational Tsing Hua UniversityHsinchuTaiwan
| | - Huang‐Kai Kao
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive SurgeryLinkou Chang Gung Memorial HospitalTaoyuanTaiwan
- School of MedicineCollege of Medicine, Chang Gung UniversityTaoyuanTaiwan
| | - Chieh‐Cheng Huang
- Institute of Biomedical EngineeringNational Tsing Hua UniversityHsinchuTaiwan
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Hasturk O, Smiley JA, Arnett M, Sahoo JK, Staii C, Kaplan DL. Cytoprotection of Human Progenitor and Stem Cells through Encapsulation in Alginate Templated, Dual Crosslinked Silk and Silk-Gelatin Composite Hydrogel Microbeads. Adv Healthc Mater 2022; 11:e2200293. [PMID: 35686928 PMCID: PMC9463115 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202200293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Susceptibility of mammalian cells against harsh processing conditions limit their use in cell transplantation and tissue engineering applications. Besides modulation of the cell microenvironment, encapsulation of mammalian cells within hydrogel microbeads attract attention for cytoprotection through physical isolation of the encapsulated cells. The hydrogel formulations used for cell microencapsulation are largely dominated by ionically crosslinked alginate (Alg), which suffer from low structural stability under physiological culture conditions and poor cell-matrix interactions. Here the fabrication of Alg templated silk and silk/gelatin composite hydrogel microspheres with permanent or on-demand cleavable enzymatic crosslinks using simple and cost-effective centrifugation-based droplet processing are demonstrated. The composite microbeads display structural stability under ion exchange conditions with improved mechanical properties compared to ionically crosslinked Alg microspheres. Human mesenchymal stem and neural progenitor cells are successfully encapsulated in the composite beads and protected against environmental factors, including exposure to polycations, extracellular acidosis, apoptotic cytokines, ultraviolet (UV) irradiation, anoikis, immune recognition, and particularly mechanical stress. The microbeads preserve viability, growth, and differentiation of encapsulated stem and progenitor cells after extrusion in viscous polyethylene oxide solution through a 27-gauge fine needle, suggesting potential applications in injection-based delivery and three-dimensional bioprinting of mammalian cells with higher success rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Onur Hasturk
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, 4 Colby Street, Medford, MA 02155, USA
| | - Jordan A. Smiley
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, 4 Colby Street, Medford, MA 02155, USA
| | - Miles Arnett
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, 4 Colby Street, Medford, MA 02155, USA
| | - Jugal Kishore Sahoo
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, 4 Colby Street, Medford, MA 02155, USA
| | - Cristian Staii
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Tufts University, Medford, MA 02155, USA
| | - David L. Kaplan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, 4 Colby Street, Medford, MA 02155, USA
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3
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Ikeda T, Nakamura K, Sato T, Kida T, Oku H. Involvement of Anoikis in Dissociated Optic Nerve Fiber Layer Appearance. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22041724. [PMID: 33572210 PMCID: PMC7914697 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22041724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Revised: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Dissociated optic nerve fiber layer (DONFL) appearance is characterized by dimpling of the fundus when observed after vitrectomy with the internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling in macular diseases. However, the cause of DONFL remains largely unknown. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) findings have indicated that the nerve fiber layer (NFL) and ganglion cells are likely to have been damaged in patients with DONFL appearance. Since DONFL appearance occurs at a certain postoperative period, it is unlikely to be retinal damage directly caused by ILM peeling because apoptosis occurs at a certain period after tissue damage and/or injury. However, it may be due to ILM peeling-induced apoptosis in the retinal tissue. Anoikis is a type of apoptosis that occurs in anchorage-dependent cells upon detachment of those cells from the surrounding extracellular matrix (i.e., the loss of cell anchorage). The anoikis-related proteins βA3/A1 crystallin and E-cadherin are reportedly expressed in retinal ganglion cells. Thus, we theorize that one possible cause of DONFL appearance is ILM peeling-induced anoikis in retinal ganglion cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsunehiko Ikeda
- Department of Ophthalmology, Osaka Medical College, Takatsuki-City 569-8686, Osaka, Japan; (T.S.); (T.K.); (H.O.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-72-684-6434
| | | | - Takaki Sato
- Department of Ophthalmology, Osaka Medical College, Takatsuki-City 569-8686, Osaka, Japan; (T.S.); (T.K.); (H.O.)
| | - Teruyo Kida
- Department of Ophthalmology, Osaka Medical College, Takatsuki-City 569-8686, Osaka, Japan; (T.S.); (T.K.); (H.O.)
| | - Hidehiro Oku
- Department of Ophthalmology, Osaka Medical College, Takatsuki-City 569-8686, Osaka, Japan; (T.S.); (T.K.); (H.O.)
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4
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Lin YJ, Lee YW, Chang CW, Huang CC. 3D Spheroids of Umbilical Cord Blood MSC-Derived Schwann Cells Promote Peripheral Nerve Regeneration. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:604946. [PMID: 33392194 PMCID: PMC7773632 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.604946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Schwann cells (SCs) are promising candidates for cell therapy due to their ability to promote peripheral nerve regeneration. However, SC-based therapies are hindered by the lack of a clinically renewable source of SCs. In this study, using a well-defined non-genetic approach, umbilical cord blood mesenchymal stem cells (cbMSCs), a clinically applicable cell type, were phenotypically, epigenetically, and functionally converted into SC-like cells (SCLCs) that stimulated effective sprouting of neuritic processes from neuronal cells. To further enhance their therapeutic capability, the cbMSC-derived SCLCs were assembled into three-dimensional (3D) cell spheroids by using a methylcellulose hydrogel system. The cell-cell and cell-extracellular matrix interactions were well-preserved within the formed 3D SCLC spheroids, and marked increases in neurotrophic, proangiogenic and anti-apoptotic factors were detected compared with cells that were harvested using conventional trypsin-based methods, demonstrating the superior advantage of SCLCs assembled into 3D spheroids. Transplantation of 3D SCLC spheroids into crush-injured rat sciatic nerves effectively promoted the recovery of motor function and enhanced nerve structure regeneration. In summary, by simply assembling cells into a 3D-spheroid conformation, the therapeutic potential of SCLCs derived from clinically available cbMSCs for promoting nerve regeneration was enhanced significantly. Thus, these cells hold great potential for translation to clinical applications for treating peripheral nerve injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Jie Lin
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Yun-Wei Lee
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Che-Wei Chang
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan.,Department of Medical Science, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Chieh-Cheng Huang
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
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5
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Marquardt LM, Doulames VM, Wang AT, Dubbin K, Suhar RA, Kratochvil MJ, Medress ZA, Plant GW, Heilshorn SC. Designer, injectable gels to prevent transplanted Schwann cell loss during spinal cord injury therapy. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2020; 6:eaaz1039. [PMID: 32270042 PMCID: PMC7112763 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.aaz1039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2019] [Accepted: 01/08/2020] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Transplantation of patient-derived Schwann cells is a promising regenerative medicine therapy for spinal cord injuries; however, therapeutic efficacy is compromised by inefficient cell delivery. We present a materials-based strategy that addresses three common causes of transplanted cell death: (i) membrane damage during injection, (ii) cell leakage from the injection site, and (iii) apoptosis due to loss of endogenous matrix. Using protein engineering and peptide-based assembly, we designed injectable hydrogels with modular cell-adhesive and mechanical properties. In a cervical contusion model, our hydrogel matrix resulted in a greater than 700% improvement in successful Schwann cell transplantation. The combination therapy of cells and gel significantly improved the spatial distribution of transplanted cells within the endogenous tissue. A reduction in cystic cavitation and neuronal loss were also observed with substantial increases in forelimb strength and coordination. Using an injectable hydrogel matrix, therefore, can markedly improve the outcomes of cellular transplantation therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura M. Marquardt
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Vanessa M. Doulames
- Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Alice T. Wang
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Karen Dubbin
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Riley A. Suhar
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Michael J. Kratochvil
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford CA 94305, USA
| | - Zachary A. Medress
- Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Giles W. Plant
- Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
- Corresponding author. (G.W.P.); (S.C.H.)
| | - Sarah C. Heilshorn
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
- Corresponding author. (G.W.P.); (S.C.H.)
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6
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Fang Q, Zhai M, Wu S, Hu X, Hua Z, Sun H, Guo J, Zhang W, Wang Z. Adipocyte-derived stem cell-based gene therapy upon adipogenic differentiation on microcarriers attenuates type 1 diabetes in mice. Stem Cell Res Ther 2019; 10:36. [PMID: 30670068 PMCID: PMC6341531 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-019-1135-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2018] [Revised: 12/13/2018] [Accepted: 01/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Insulin replenishment is critical for patients with type 1 diabetes; however, current treatments such as pancreatic islet transplantation and insulin injection are not ideal. In addition to stem cell or gene therapy alone, stem cell combined with gene therapy may provide a new route for insulin replenishment, which could avoid an autoimmune reaction against differentiated β cells or systematic viral vector injection. METHODS In this study, human adipocyte-derived stem cells (ADSCs) were transducted with lentiviral vectors expressing a furin-cleavable insulin gene. The expression levels of insulin were measured before and after adipogenic differentiation in the presence or absence of an adipocyte-specific promoter AP2. In vitro proliferation and in vivo survival of cells were examined on cytodex and cytopore microcarriers. The effect of ADSC-based gene therapy upon adipogenic differentiation on microcarriers was evaluated in the streptozotocin-induced type 1 diabetic mouse model. RESULTS We found that differentiation of ADSCs into adipocytes increased insulin expression under the EF1 promoter, while adipocyte-specific AP2 promoter further increased insulin expression upon differentiation. The microcarriers supported cell attachment and proliferation during in vitro culture and facilitate cell survival after transplantation. Functional cells on the cytopore 1 microcarrier formed tissue-like structures and alleviated hyperglycemia in the type 1 diabetic mice after subcutaneous injection. CONCLUSIONS Our results indicated that differentiation of ADSC and tissue-specific promotors may enhance the expression of therapeutic genes. The use of microcarriers may facilitate cell survival after transplantation and hold potential for long-term cell therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Fang
- Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, 100029, People's Republic of China
| | - Min Zhai
- Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, 100029, People's Republic of China
| | - Shan Wu
- College of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Hebei University of Science and Technology, Shijiazhuang, 050018, People's Republic of China.,Research Center for Translational Medicine, Cancer Stem Cell Institute, East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200120, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaogen Hu
- Department of Plastic Surgery, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, 100029, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhan Hua
- Department of General Surgery, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, 100029, People's Republic of China
| | - Huizhuo Sun
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, People's Republic of China.,The 2nd Department of Pulmonary Disease in TCM, The Key Unit of SATCM Pneumonopathy Chronic Cough and Dyspnea, Beijing Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Allergic Diseases with TCM (No. BZ0321), Center of Respiratory Medicine, China-Japan Friendship Hospital; National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Diseases, Beijing, 100029, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Guo
- Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, 100029, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenjian Zhang
- Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, 100029, People's Republic of China
| | - Zai Wang
- Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, 100029, People's Republic of China.
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7
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Duru LN, Quan Z, Qazi TJ, Qing H. Stem cells technology: a powerful tool behind new brain treatments. Drug Deliv Transl Res 2018; 8:1564-1591. [PMID: 29916013 DOI: 10.1007/s13346-018-0548-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Stem cell research has recently become a hot research topic in biomedical research due to the foreseen unlimited potential of stem cells in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. For many years, medicine has been facing intense challenges, such as an insufficient number of organ donations that is preventing clinicians to fulfill the increasing needs. To try and overcome this regrettable matter, research has been aiming at developing strategies to facilitate the in vitro culture and study of stem cells as a tool for tissue regeneration. Meanwhile, new developments in the microfluidics technology brought forward emerging cell culture applications that are currently allowing for a better chemical and physical control of cellular microenvironment. This review presents the latest developments in stem cell research that brought new therapies to the clinics and how the convergence of the microfluidics technology with stem cell research can have positive outcomes on the fields of regenerative medicine and high-throughput screening. These advances will bring new translational solutions for drug discovery and will upgrade in vitro cell culture to a new level of accuracy and performance. We hope this review will provide new insights into the understanding of new brain treatments from the perspective of stem cell technology especially regarding regenerative medicine and tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucienne N Duru
- School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Zhenzhen Quan
- School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Talal Jamil Qazi
- School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Hong Qing
- School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China. .,Beijing Key Laboratory of Separation and Analysis in Biomedical and Pharmaceuticals, Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, 5 South Zhongguancun Street, Haidian District, Beijing, 100081, China.
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8
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Cerqueira SR, Lee YS, Cornelison RC, Mertz MW, Wachs RA, Schmidt CE, Bunge MB. Decellularized peripheral nerve supports Schwann cell transplants and axon growth following spinal cord injury. Biomaterials 2018; 177:176-185. [PMID: 29929081 PMCID: PMC6034707 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2018.05.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2018] [Revised: 05/25/2018] [Accepted: 05/28/2018] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Schwann cell (SC) transplantation has been comprehensively studied as a strategy for spinal cord injury (SCI) repair. SCs are neuroprotective and promote axon regeneration and myelination. Nonetheless, substantial SC death occurs post-implantation, which limits therapeutic efficacy. The use of extracellular matrix (ECM)-derived matrices, such as Matrigel, supports transplanted SC survival and axon growth, resulting in improved motor function. Because appropriate matrices are needed for clinical translation, we test here the use of an acellular injectable peripheral nerve (iPN) matrix. Implantation of SCs in iPN into a contusion lesion did not alter immune cell infiltration compared to injury only controls. iPN implants were larger and contained twice as many SC-myelinated axons as Matrigel grafts. SC/iPN animals performed as well as the SC/Matrigel group in the BBB locomotor test, and made fewer errors on the grid walk at 4 weeks, equalizing at 8 weeks. The fact that this clinically relevant iPN matrix is immunologically tolerated and supports SC survival and axon growth within the graft offers a highly translational possibility for improving efficacy of SC treatment after SCI. To our knowledge, it is the first time that an injectable PN matrix is being evaluated to improve the efficacy of SC transplantation in SCI repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susana R Cerqueira
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.
| | - Yee-Shuan Lee
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Robert C Cornelison
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Michaela W Mertz
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Rebecca A Wachs
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Christine E Schmidt
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Mary Bartlett Bunge
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA; Department of Cell Biology, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA; Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.
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9
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May Z, Kumar R, Fuehrmann T, Tam R, Vulic K, Forero J, Lucas Osma A, Fenrich K, Assinck P, Lee MJ, Moulson A, Shoichet MS, Tetzlaff W, Biernaskie J, Fouad K. Adult skin-derived precursor Schwann cell grafts form growths in the injured spinal cord of Fischer rats. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 13:034101. [PMID: 29068322 DOI: 10.1088/1748-605x/aa95f8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
In this study, GFP+ skin-derived precursor Schwann cells (SKP-SCs) from adult rats were grafted into the injured spinal cord of immunosuppressed rats. Our goal was to improve grafted cell survival in the injured spinal cord, which is typically low. Cells were grafted in hyaluronan-methylcellulose hydrogel (HAMC) or hyaluronan-methylcellulose modified with laminin- and fibronectin-derived peptide sequences (eHAMC). The criteria for selection of hyaluronan was for its shear-thinning properties, making the hydrogel easy to inject, methylcellulose for its inverse thermal gelation, helping to keep grafted cells in situ, and fibronectin and laminin to improve cell attachment and, thus, prevent cell death due to dissociation from substrate molecules (i.e., anoikis). Post-mortem examination revealed large masses of GFP+ SKP-SCs in the spinal cords of rats that received cells in HAMC (5 out of n = 8) and eHAMC (6 out of n = 8). Cell transplantation in eHAMC caused significantly greater spinal lesions compared to lesion and eHAMC only control groups. A parallel study showed similar masses in the contused spinal cord of rats after transplantation of adult GFP+ SKP-SCs without a hydrogel or immunosuppression. These findings suggest that adult GFP+ SKP-SCs, cultured/transplanted under the conditions described here, have a capacity for uncontrolled proliferation. Growth-formation in pre-clinical research has also been documented after transplantation of: human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived neural stem cells (Itakura et al 2015 PLoS One 10 e0116413), embryonic stem cells and embryonic stem cell-derived neurons (Brederlau et al 2006 Stem Cells 24 1433-40; Dressel et al 2008 PLoS One 3 e2622), bone marrow derived mesenchymal stem cells (Jeong et al 2011 Circ. Res. 108 1340-47) and rat nerve-derived SCs following in vitro expansion for >11 passages (Funk et al 2007 Eur. J. Cell Biol. 86 207-19; Langford et al 1988 J. Neurocytology 17 521-9; Morrissey et al 1991 J. Neurosci. 11 2433-42). It is of upmost importance to define the precise culture/transplantation parameters for maintenance of normal cell function and safe and effective use of cell therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zacnicte May
- Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine, and Neuroscience and Mental Health Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, T6G 2E1, Canada
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10
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Cyclosporine-immunosuppression does not affect survival of transplanted skin-derived precursor Schwann cells in the injured rat spinal cord. Neurosci Lett 2017; 658:67-72. [PMID: 28843345 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2017.08.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2017] [Revised: 08/01/2017] [Accepted: 08/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
A major goal of Schwann cell (SC) transplantation for spinal cord injury (SCI) is to fill the injury site to create a bridge for regenerating axons. However, transplantation of peripheral nerve SCs requires an invasive biopsy, which may result in nerve damage and donor site morbidity. SCs derived from multipotent stem cells found in skin dermis (SKP-SCs) are a promising alternative. Regardless of source, loss of grafted SCs post-grafting is an issue in studies of regeneration, with survival rates ranging from ∼1 to 20% after ≥6 weeks in rodent models of SCI. Immune rejection has been implicated in these low survival rates. Therefore, our aim was to explore the role of the immune response on grafted SKP-SC survival in Fischer rats with a spinal hemisection injury. We compared SKP-SC survival 6 weeks post-transplantation in: (I) cyclosporine-immunosuppressed rats (n=8), (II) immunocompetent rats (n=9), and (III) rats of a different sub-strain than the SKP-SC donor rats (n=7). SKP-SC survival was similar in all groups, suggesting immune rejection was not a main factor in SKP-SC loss observed in this study. SKP-SCs were consistently found on laminin expressed at the injury site, indicating detachment-mediated apoptosis (i.e., anoikis) might play a major role in grafted cell loss.
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11
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Sun CY, Chu ZB, Huang J, Chen L, Xu J, Xu AS, Li JY, Hu Y. siRNA-mediated inhibition of endogenous brain‑derived neurotrophic factor gene modulates the biological behavior of HeLa cells. Oncol Rep 2017; 37:2751-2760. [PMID: 28405685 DOI: 10.3892/or.2017.5569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2016] [Accepted: 11/16/2016] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is expressed in a number of neural and non-neuronal tumors. The present study investigated the effect of endogenous BDNF on the biological behavior of cervix cancer cells using small interfering RNA (siRNA). HeLa, a cervix cancer cell line with high expression of BDNF, was used as a living model to screen out the effective sequences of short hairpin RNA of the BDNF gene, and the effects of RNA interference on proliferation, apoptosis, migration and invasion of these cells were evaluated. Among the 4 siRNAs examined, siRNA1 caused a 99% reduction in the relative BDNF mRNA level, while a 58% decrease in the relative BDNF protein level (p<0.01) was noted, and thus this siRNA was selected as the most efficient for use in the present study. In subsequent experiments, MTT assay revealed that BDNF silencing caused marked inhibition of HeLa cell proliferation while Hoechst 33258 staining assay demonstrated apoptosis-related changes in cell morphology. Downregulation of BDNF expression induced cell cycle arrest in the G1 phase as shown by flow cytometry. As indicated by Transwell migration and invasion assays, downregulation of BDNF expression suppressed the migratory and invasive capabilities of the HeLa cells. Together, our data revealed that BDNF modulates the proliferation, apoptosis, migratory and invasive capabilities of HeLa cells. BDNF siRNA may represent a novel therapy or drug target for preventing the tumorigenesis of cervical cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Yan Sun
- Institute of Hematology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, P.R. China
| | - Zhang-Bo Chu
- Institute of Hematology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, P.R. China
| | - Jing Huang
- Department of Hematology, Hongkong University-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, P.R. China
| | - Lei Chen
- Institute of Hematology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, P.R. China
| | - Jian Xu
- Institute of Hematology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, P.R. China
| | - Ao-Shuang Xu
- Institute of Hematology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, P.R. China
| | - Jun-Ying Li
- Institute of Hematology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, P.R. China
| | - Yu Hu
- Institute of Hematology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, P.R. China
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12
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Zhang Y, Huang J, Huang L, Liu Q, Shao H, Hu X, Song L. Silk Fibroin-Based Scaffolds with Controlled Delivery Order of VEGF and BDNF for Cavernous Nerve Regeneration. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2016; 2:2018-2025. [DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.6b00436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Yaopeng Zhang
- State
Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials,
College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, P. R. China
| | - Jianwen Huang
- Department
of Urology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People’s Hospital, Shanghai 200233, P. R. China
| | - Li Huang
- State
Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials,
College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, P. R. China
| | - Qiangqiang Liu
- State
Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials,
College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, P. R. China
| | - Huili Shao
- State
Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials,
College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, P. R. China
| | - Xuechao Hu
- State
Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials,
College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, P. R. China
| | - Lujie Song
- Department
of Urology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People’s Hospital, Shanghai 200233, P. R. China
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13
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Wang B, Yuan J, Chen X, Xu J, Li Y, Dong P. Functional regeneration of the transected recurrent laryngeal nerve using a collagen scaffold loaded with laminin and laminin-binding BDNF and GDNF. Sci Rep 2016; 6:32292. [PMID: 27558932 PMCID: PMC4997630 DOI: 10.1038/srep32292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2016] [Accepted: 08/05/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) injury remains a challenge due to the lack of effective treatments. In this study, we established a new drug delivery system consisting of a tube of Heal-All Oral Cavity Repair Membrane loaded with laminin and neurotrophic factors and tested its ability to promote functional recovery following RLN injury. We created recombinant fusion proteins consisting of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) fused to laminin-binding domains (LBDs) in order to prevent neurotrophin diffusion. LBD-BDNF, LBD-GDNF, and laminin were injected into a collagen tube that was fitted to the ends of the transected RLN in rats. Functional recovery was assessed 4, 8, and 12 weeks after injury. Although vocal fold movement was not restored until 12 weeks after injury, animals treated with the collagen tube loaded with laminin, LBD-BDNF and LBD-GDNF showed improved recovery in vocalisation, arytenoid cartilage angles, compound muscle action potentials and regenerated fibre area compared to animals treated by autologous nerve grafting (p < 0.05). These results demonstrate the drug delivery system induced nerve regeneration following RLN transection that was superior to that induced by autologus nerve grafting. It may have potential applications in nerve regeneration of RLN transection injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baoxin Wang
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 201620, P.R. China
| | - Junjie Yuan
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai Fengxian District Central Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital South Campus, Shanghai 201499, P.R. China
| | - Xinwei Chen
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 201620, P.R. China
| | - Jiafeng Xu
- School of Economics and Finance, Shanghai International Studies University, Shanghai 200083, P.R. China
| | - Yu Li
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 201620, P.R. China
| | - Pin Dong
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 201620, P.R. China
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14
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Newland B, Welzel PB, Newland H, Renneberg C, Kolar P, Tsurkan M, Rosser A, Freudenberg U, Werner C. Tackling Cell Transplantation Anoikis: An Injectable, Shape Memory Cryogel Microcarrier Platform Material for Stem Cell and Neuronal Cell Growth. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2015; 11:5047-53. [PMID: 26237446 PMCID: PMC5656175 DOI: 10.1002/smll.201500898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2015] [Revised: 06/03/2015] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Highly macroporous semisynthetic cryogel microcarriers can be synthesized for culturing stem cells and neuronal type cells. Growth factors loaded to heparin-containing microcarriers show near zero-order release kinetics and cell-loaded microcarriers can be injected through a fine gauge cannula without negative effect on the cells. These carriers can be applied for cell transplantation applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben Newland
- Leibniz Institute of Polymer Research Dresden (IPF), Max Bergmann Center of Biomaterials Dresden (MBC) and Technische Universität Dresden (TUD), Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden (CRTD) Hohe Str. 6, 01069 Dresden, Germany; Brain Repair Group, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF10 3AX, Wales, UK
| | - Petra B. Welzel
- Leibniz Institute of Polymer Research Dresden (IPF), Max Bergmann Center of Biomaterials Dresden (MBC) and Technische Universität Dresden (TUD), Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden (CRTD) Hohe Str. 6, 01069 Dresden, Germany
| | - Heike Newland
- Leibniz Institute of Polymer Research Dresden (IPF), Max Bergmann Center of Biomaterials Dresden (MBC) and Technische Universität Dresden (TUD), Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden (CRTD) Hohe Str. 6, 01069 Dresden, Germany
| | - Claudia Renneberg
- Leibniz Institute of Polymer Research Dresden (IPF), Max Bergmann Center of Biomaterials Dresden (MBC) and Technische Universität Dresden (TUD), Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden (CRTD) Hohe Str. 6, 01069 Dresden, Germany
| | - Petr Kolar
- Leibniz Institute of Polymer Research Dresden (IPF), Max Bergmann Center of Biomaterials Dresden (MBC) and Technische Universität Dresden (TUD), Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden (CRTD) Hohe Str. 6, 01069 Dresden, Germany
| | - Mikhail Tsurkan
- Leibniz Institute of Polymer Research Dresden (IPF), Max Bergmann Center of Biomaterials Dresden (MBC) and Technische Universität Dresden (TUD), Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden (CRTD) Hohe Str. 6, 01069 Dresden, Germany
| | - Anne Rosser
- Brain Repair Group, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF10 3AX, Wales, UK
| | - Uwe Freudenberg
- Leibniz Institute of Polymer Research Dresden (IPF), Max Bergmann Center of Biomaterials Dresden (MBC) and Technische Universität Dresden (TUD), Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden (CRTD) Hohe Str. 6, 01069 Dresden, Germany
| | - Carsten Werner
- Leibniz Institute of Polymer Research Dresden (IPF), Max Bergmann Center of Biomaterials Dresden (MBC) and Technische Universität Dresden (TUD), Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden (CRTD) Hohe Str. 6, 01069 Dresden, Germany
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15
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Liu J, Zhang SQ, Wu MF, Piao Z, Yao J, Li JH, Wang XG. Edaravone combined with Schwann cell transplantation may repair spinal cord injury in rats. Neural Regen Res 2015; 10:230-6. [PMID: 25883621 PMCID: PMC4392670 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.152376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/13/2014] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
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16
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Hou X, Liang Q, Wu Y. Transplantation of Schwann cells co-cultured with brain-derived neurotrophic factor for the treatment of experimental autoimmune neuritis. J Neuroimmunol 2013; 263:83-90. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2013.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2013] [Revised: 08/03/2013] [Accepted: 08/06/2013] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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17
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Vaquero J, Otero L, Bonilla C, Aguayo C, Rico MA, Rodriguez A, Zurita M. Cell therapy with bone marrow stromal cells after intracerebral hemorrhage: impact of platelet-rich plasma scaffolds. Cytotherapy 2013; 15:33-43. [PMID: 23260084 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcyt.2012.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2012] [Accepted: 07/19/2012] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AIMS Cell therapy using bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) has been considered a promising strategy for neurologic sequelae after intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). However, after intracerebral administration of BMSCs, most of the cells die, partly because of the absence of extracellular matrix. Intracerebral transplantation of BMSCs, supported in a platelet-rich plasma (PRP) scaffold, optimizes this type of cell therapy. METHODS ICH was induced by stereotactic injection of 0.5 IU of collagenase type IV in the striatum of adult Wistar rats (n = 40). Two months later, the rats were subjected to intracerebral administration of 5 × 10(6) allogeneic BMSCs embedded in a PRP scaffold (n = 10), 5 × 10(6) allogeneic BMSCs in saline (n = 10), PRP-derived scaffold only (n = 10) or saline only (n = 10). Functional improvements in each group over the next 6 months were assessed using Rotarod and Video-Tracking-Box tests. Endogenous neurogenesis and survival of transplanted BMSCs were examined at the end of follow-up. RESULTS Our study demonstrated neurologic improvement after BMSC transplantation and significantly better functional improvement for the group of animals that received BMSCs in the PRP-derived scaffold compared with the group that received BMSCs in saline. Histologic results showed that better functional outcome was associated with strong activation of endogenous neurogenesis. After intracerebral administration of BMSCs, donor cells were integrated in the injured tissue and showed phenotypic expression of glial fibrillary acidic protein and neuronal nucleus. CONCLUSIONS PRP-derived scaffolds increase the viability and biologic activity of BMSCs and optimize functional recovery when this type of cell therapy is applied after ICH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesus Vaquero
- Neuroscience Research Unit, Neuroscience Rafael del Pino Chair, and Neurosurgical Service, Hospital Puerta de Hierro-Majadahonda, Autonomous University, Madrid, Spain.
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18
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Fabrication of growth factor- and extracellular matrix-loaded, gelatin-based scaffolds and their biocompatibility with Schwann cells and dorsal root ganglia. Biomaterials 2012; 33:8529-39. [PMID: 22906605 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2012.07.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2012] [Accepted: 07/15/2012] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
One of the most exciting new avenues of research to repair the injured spinal cord is to combine cells for implantation with scaffolds that protect the cells and release growth factors to improve their survival and promote host axonal regeneration. To realize this goal, we fabricated biodegradable, photocurable gelatin tubes and membranes for exploratory in vitro studies. Detailed methods are described for their fabrication with a high gelatin concentration. Gelatin membranes fabricated in the same way as tubes and photo-co-immobilized with rhBDNF or rhNT-3, with or without Schwann cells (SCs), showed an initial burst of neurotrophin release within 24 h, with release diminishing progressively for 21 days thereafter. SCs attained their typical bipolar conformation on membranes without neurotrophins but adhesion, alignment and proliferation were improved with neurotrophins, particularly rhBDNF. When dorsal root ganglion explants were cultured on membranes containing laminin and fibronectin plus both neurotrophins, neurite outgrowth was lengthier compared to combining one neurotrophin with laminin and fibronectin. Thus, these gelatin membranes allow SC survival and effectively release growth factors and harbor extracellular matrix components to improve cell survival and neurite growth. These scaffolds, based on the combination of cross-linked gelatin technology and incorporation of neurotrophins and extracellular matrix components, are promising candidates for spinal cord repair.
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19
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Hill CE, Guller Y, Raffa SJ, Hurtado A, Bunge MB. A calpain inhibitor enhances the survival of Schwann cells in vitro and after transplantation into the injured spinal cord. J Neurotrauma 2011; 27:1685-95. [PMID: 20568964 DOI: 10.1089/neu.2010.1272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the diversity of cells available for transplantation into sites of spinal cord injury (SCI), and the known ability of transplanted cells to integrate into host tissue, functional improvement associated with cellular transplantation has been limited. One factor potentially limiting the efficacy of transplanted cells is poor cell survival. Recently we demonstrated rapid and early death of Schwann cells (SCs) within the first 24 h after transplantation, by both necrosis and apoptosis, which results in fewer than 20% of the cells surviving beyond 1 week. To enhance SC transplant survival, in vitro and in vivo models to rapidly screen compounds for their ability to promote SC survival are needed. The current study utilized in vitro models of apoptosis and necrosis, and based on withdrawal of serum and mitogens and the application of hydrogen peroxide, we screened several inhibitors of apoptosis and necrosis. Of the compounds tested, the calpain inhibitor MDL28170 enhanced SC survival both in vitro in response to oxidative stress induced by application of H2O2, and in vivo following delayed transplantation into the moderately contused spinal cord. The results support the use of calpain inhibitors as a promising new treatment for promoting the survival of transplanted cells. They also suggest that in vitro assays for cell survival may be useful for establishing new compounds that can then be tested in vivo for their ability to promote transplanted SC survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin E Hill
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA.
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20
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Saberi H, Firouzi M, Habibi Z, Moshayedi P, Aghayan HR, Arjmand B, Hosseini K, Razavi HE, Yekaninejad MS. Safety of intramedullary Schwann cell transplantation for postrehabilitation spinal cord injuries: 2-year follow-up of 33 cases. J Neurosurg Spine 2011; 15:515-25. [PMID: 21800956 DOI: 10.3171/2011.6.spine10917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECT Many experimental studies on spinal cord injuries (SCIs) support behavioral improvement after Schwann cell treatment. This study was conducted to evaluate safety issues 2 years after intramedullary Schwann cell transplantation in 33 consecutively selected patients with SCI. METHODS Of 356 patients with SCIs who had completed at least 6 months of a conventional rehabilitation program and who were screened for the study criteria, 33 were enrolled. After giving their informed consent, they volunteered for participation. They underwent sural nerve harvesting and intramedullary injection of a processed Schwann cell solution. Outcome assessments included a general health questionnaire, neurological examination, and functional recordings in terms of American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) and Functional Independence Measure scoring, which were documented by independent observers. There were 24 patients with thoracic and 9 with cervical injuries. Sixteen patients were categorized in ASIA Grade A, and the 17 remaining participants had ASIA Grade B. RESULTS There were no cases of deep infection, and the follow-up MR imaging studies obtained at 2 years did not reveal any deformity related to the procedure. There was no case of permanent neurological worsening or any infectious or viral complications. No new increment in syrinx size or abnormal tissue and/or tumor formation were observed on contrast-enhanced MR imaging studies performed 2 years after the treatment. CONCLUSIONS Preliminary results, especially in terms of safety, seem to be promising, paving the way for future cell therapy trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hooshang Saberi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Imam Khomeini Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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21
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Zurita M, Otero L, Aguayo C, Bonilla C, Ferreira E, Parajón A, Vaquero J. Cell therapy for spinal cord repair: optimization of biologic scaffolds for survival and neural differentiation of human bone marrow stromal cells. Cytotherapy 2011; 12:522-37. [PMID: 20465485 DOI: 10.3109/14653241003615164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AIMS The suppression of cell apoptosis using a biodegradable scaffold to replace the missing or altered extracellular matrix (ECM) could increase the survival of transplanted cells and thus increase the effectiveness of cell therapy. METHODS We studied the best conditions for the proliferation and differentiation of human bone marrow stromal cells (hBMSC) when cultured on different biologic scaffolds derived from fibrin and blood plasma, and analyzed the best concentrations of fibrinogen, thrombin and calcium chloride for favoring cell survival. The induction of neural differentiation of hBMSC was done by adding to these scaffolds different growth factors, such as nerve growth factor (NGF), brain-derived-neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and retinoic acid (RA), at concentrations of 100 ng/mL (NGF and BDNF) and 1 micro/mL (RA), over 7 days. RESULTS Although both types of scaffold allowed survival and neural differentiation of hBMSC, the results showed a clear superiority of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) scaffolds, mainly after BDNF administration, allowing most of the hBMSC to survive and differentiate into a neural phenotype. CONCLUSIONS Given that clinical trials for spinal cord injury using hBMSC are starting, these findings may have important clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mercedes Zurita
- Neuroscience Research Unit of Surgical Research Service, Hospital Puerta de Hierro-Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
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