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Suong DNA, Imamura K, Kato Y, Inoue H. Design of neural organoids engineered by mechanical forces. IBRO Neurosci Rep 2024; 16:190-195. [PMID: 38328799 PMCID: PMC10847990 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibneur.2024.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Neural organoids consist of three-dimensional tissue derived from pluripotent stem cells that could recapitulate key features of the human brain. During the past decade, organoid technology has evolved in the field of human brain science by increasing the quality and applicability of its products. Among them, a novel approach involving the design of neural organoids engineered by mechanical forces has emerged. This review describes previous approaches for the generation of neural organoids, the engineering of neural organoids by mechanical forces, and future challenges for the application of mechanical forces in the design of neural organoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dang Ngoc Anh Suong
- iPSC‑Based Drug Discovery and Development Team, RIKEN BioResource Research Center (BRC), Kyoto, Japan
- Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA), Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Keiko Imamura
- iPSC‑Based Drug Discovery and Development Team, RIKEN BioResource Research Center (BRC), Kyoto, Japan
- Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA), Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
- Medical‑Risk Avoidance Based On iPS Cells Team, RIKEN Center for Advanced Intelligence Project (AIP), Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yoshikazu Kato
- Mixing Technology Laboratory, SATAKE MultiMix Corporation, Saitama, Japan
| | - Haruhisa Inoue
- iPSC‑Based Drug Discovery and Development Team, RIKEN BioResource Research Center (BRC), Kyoto, Japan
- Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA), Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
- Medical‑Risk Avoidance Based On iPS Cells Team, RIKEN Center for Advanced Intelligence Project (AIP), Kyoto, Japan
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2
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Boylin K, Aquino GV, Purdon M, Abedi K, Kasendra M, Barrile R. Basic models to advanced systems: harnessing the power of organoids-based microphysiological models of the human brain. Biofabrication 2024; 16:032007. [PMID: 38749420 DOI: 10.1088/1758-5090/ad4c08] [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: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Understanding the complexities of the human brain's function in health and disease is a formidable challenge in neuroscience. While traditional models like animals offer valuable insights, they often fall short in accurately mirroring human biology and drug responses. Moreover, recent legislation has underscored the need for more predictive models that more accurately represent human physiology. To address this requirement, human-derived cell cultures have emerged as a crucial alternative for biomedical research. However, traditional static cell culture models lack the dynamic tissue microenvironment that governs human tissue function. Advancedin vitrosystems, such as organoids and microphysiological systems (MPSs), bridge this gap by offering more accurate representations of human biology. Organoids, which are three-dimensional miniaturized organ-like structures derived from stem cells, exhibit physiological responses akin to native tissues, but lack essential tissue-specific components such as functional vascular structures and immune cells. Recent endeavors have focused on incorporating endothelial cells and immune cells into organoids to enhance vascularization, maturation, and disease modeling. MPS, including organ-on-chip technologies, integrate diverse cell types and vascularization under dynamic culture conditions, revolutionizing brain research by bridging the gap betweenin vitroandin vivomodels. In this review, we delve into the evolution of MPS, with a particular focus on highlighting the significance of vascularization in enhancing the viability, functionality, and disease modeling potential of organoids. By examining the interplay of vasculature and neuronal cells within organoids, we can uncover novel therapeutic targets and gain valuable insights into disease mechanisms, offering the promise of significant advancements in neuroscience and improved patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Boylin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
- Center for Stem Cells and Organoid Medicine (CuSTOM), Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
| | - Grace V Aquino
- Center for Stem Cells and Organoid Medicine (CuSTOM), Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
| | - Michael Purdon
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
- Center for Stem Cells and Organoid Medicine (CuSTOM), Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
| | - Kimia Abedi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
- Center for Stem Cells and Organoid Medicine (CuSTOM), Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
| | - Magdalena Kasendra
- Center for Stem Cells and Organoid Medicine (CuSTOM), Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
| | - Riccardo Barrile
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
- Center for Stem Cells and Organoid Medicine (CuSTOM), Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States of America
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3
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Xu C, Alameri A, Leong W, Johnson E, Chen Z, Xu B, Leong KW. Multiscale engineering of brain organoids for disease modeling. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2024; 210:115344. [PMID: 38810702 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2024.115344] [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: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
Brain organoids hold great potential for modeling human brain development and pathogenesis. They recapitulate certain aspects of the transcriptional trajectory, cellular diversity, tissue architecture and functions of the developing brain. In this review, we explore the engineering strategies to control the molecular-, cellular- and tissue-level inputs to achieve high-fidelity brain organoids. We review the application of brain organoids in neural disorder modeling and emerging bioengineering methods to improve data collection and feature extraction at multiscale. The integration of multiscale engineering strategies and analytical methods has significant potential to advance insight into neurological disorders and accelerate drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cong Xu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027, USA
| | - Alia Alameri
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027, USA
| | - Wei Leong
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027, USA
| | - Emily Johnson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027, USA
| | - Zaozao Chen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027, USA
| | - Bin Xu
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Kam W Leong
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027, USA
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Dwivedi I, Haddad GG. Investigating the neurobiology of maternal opioid use disorder and prenatal opioid exposure using brain organoid technology. Front Cell Neurosci 2024; 18:1403326. [PMID: 38812788 PMCID: PMC11133580 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2024.1403326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Over the past two decades, Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) among pregnant women has become a major global public health concern. OUD has been characterized as a problematic pattern of opioid use despite adverse physical, psychological, behavioral, and or social consequences. Due to the relapsing-remitting nature of this disorder, pregnant mothers are chronically exposed to exogenous opioids, resulting in adverse neurological and neuropsychiatric outcomes. Collateral fetal exposure to opioids also precipitates severe neurodevelopmental and neurocognitive sequelae. At present, much of what is known regarding the neurobiological consequences of OUD and prenatal opioid exposure (POE) has been derived from preclinical studies in animal models and postnatal or postmortem investigations in humans. However, species-specific differences in brain development, variations in subject age/health/background, and disparities in sample collection or storage have complicated the interpretation of findings produced by these explorations. The ethical or logistical inaccessibility of human fetal brain tissue has also limited direct examinations of prenatal drug effects. To circumvent these confounding factors, recent groups have begun employing induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived brain organoid technology, which provides access to key aspects of cellular and molecular brain development, structure, and function in vitro. In this review, we endeavor to encapsulate the advancements in brain organoid culture that have enabled scientists to model and dissect the neural underpinnings and effects of OUD and POE. We hope not only to emphasize the utility of brain organoids for investigating these conditions, but also to highlight opportunities for further technical and conceptual progress. Although the application of brain organoids to this critical field of research is still in its nascent stages, understanding the neurobiology of OUD and POE via this modality will provide critical insights for improving maternal and fetal outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ila Dwivedi
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Gabriel G. Haddad
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
- Department of Neurosciences, School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
- Rady Children’s Hospital, San Diego, CA, United States
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5
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Wang Z, Liu R, Liu Y, Zhao Y, Wang Y, Lu B, Li H, Ju C, Wu W, Gao X, Xu H, Cheng S, Cao Y, Jia S, Hu C, Zhu L, Hao D. Human Placenta Decellularized Extracellular Matrix Hydrogel Promotes the Generation of Human Spinal Cord Organoids with Dorsoventral Organization from Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2024; 10:3218-3231. [PMID: 38593429 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.4c00067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Spinal cord organoids are of significant value in the research of spinal cord-related diseases by simulating disease states, thereby facilitating the development of novel therapies. However, the complexity of spinal cord structure and physiological functions, along with the lack of human-derived inducing components, presents challenges in the in vitro construction of human spinal cord organoids. Here, we introduce a novel human decellularized placenta-derived extracellular matrix hydrogel (DPECMH) and, combined with a new induction protocol, successfully construct human spinal cord organoids. The human placenta-sourced decellularized extracellular matrix (dECM), verified through hematoxylin and eosin staining, DNA quantification, and immunofluorescence staining, retained essential ECM components such as elastin, fibronectin, type I collagen, laminin, and so forth. The temperature-sensitive hydrogel made from human placenta dECM demonstrated good biocompatibility and promoted the differentiation of human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSCs)-derived spinal cord organoids into neurons. It displayed enhanced expression of laminar markers in comparison to Matrigel and showed higher expression of laminar markers compared to Matrigel, accelerating the maturation process of spinal cord organoids and demonstrating its potential as an organoid culture substrate. DPECMH has the potential to replace Matrigel as the standard additive for human spinal cord organoids, thus advancing the development of spinal cord organoid culture protocols and their application in the in vitro modeling of spinal cord-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiyuan Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, China
- Department of Spine Surgery, Honghui Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Youyi East Road No.555, Beilin District, Xi'an 710001, Shaanxi, China
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Spine Bionic Treatment, Youyi East Road No.555, Beilin District, Xi'an 710001, Shaanxi, China
| | - Renfeng Liu
- Department of Spine Surgery, Honghui Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Youyi East Road No.555, Beilin District, Xi'an 710001, Shaanxi, China
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Spine Bionic Treatment, Youyi East Road No.555, Beilin District, Xi'an 710001, Shaanxi, China
| | - Youjun Liu
- Department of Spine Surgery, Honghui Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Youyi East Road No.555, Beilin District, Xi'an 710001, Shaanxi, China
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Spine Bionic Treatment, Youyi East Road No.555, Beilin District, Xi'an 710001, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yuqi Zhao
- Department of Spine Surgery, Honghui Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Youyi East Road No.555, Beilin District, Xi'an 710001, Shaanxi, China
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Spine Bionic Treatment, Youyi East Road No.555, Beilin District, Xi'an 710001, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yuhao Wang
- Department of Spine Surgery, Honghui Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Youyi East Road No.555, Beilin District, Xi'an 710001, Shaanxi, China
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Spine Bionic Treatment, Youyi East Road No.555, Beilin District, Xi'an 710001, Shaanxi, China
| | - Botao Lu
- Department of Spine Surgery, Honghui Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Youyi East Road No.555, Beilin District, Xi'an 710001, Shaanxi, China
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Spine Bionic Treatment, Youyi East Road No.555, Beilin District, Xi'an 710001, Shaanxi, China
| | - Hui Li
- Department of Spine Surgery, Honghui Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Youyi East Road No.555, Beilin District, Xi'an 710001, Shaanxi, China
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Spine Bionic Treatment, Youyi East Road No.555, Beilin District, Xi'an 710001, Shaanxi, China
| | - Cheng Ju
- Department of Spine Surgery, Honghui Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Youyi East Road No.555, Beilin District, Xi'an 710001, Shaanxi, China
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Spine Bionic Treatment, Youyi East Road No.555, Beilin District, Xi'an 710001, Shaanxi, China
| | - Weidong Wu
- Department of Spine Surgery, Honghui Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Youyi East Road No.555, Beilin District, Xi'an 710001, Shaanxi, China
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Spine Bionic Treatment, Youyi East Road No.555, Beilin District, Xi'an 710001, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xinlin Gao
- Department of Spine Surgery, Honghui Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Youyi East Road No.555, Beilin District, Xi'an 710001, Shaanxi, China
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Spine Bionic Treatment, Youyi East Road No.555, Beilin District, Xi'an 710001, Shaanxi, China
| | - Hailiang Xu
- Department of Spine Surgery, Honghui Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Youyi East Road No.555, Beilin District, Xi'an 710001, Shaanxi, China
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Spine Bionic Treatment, Youyi East Road No.555, Beilin District, Xi'an 710001, Shaanxi, China
| | - Shixiang Cheng
- Healthina Academy of Cellular Intelligence Manufacturing & Neurotrauma Repair of Tianjin Economic-Technological Development Area, No. 220 DongTing Road, TEDA District, Tianjin 300457, China
- TANGYI Biomedicine (Tianjin) Co. Ltd (TBMed), No. 286 Anshan West Road, Nankai District, Tianjin 300190, China
| | - Yulin Cao
- Healthina Academy of Cellular Intelligence Manufacturing & Neurotrauma Repair of Tianjin Economic-Technological Development Area, No. 220 DongTing Road, TEDA District, Tianjin 300457, China
- TANGYI Biomedicine (Tianjin) Co. Ltd (TBMed), No. 286 Anshan West Road, Nankai District, Tianjin 300190, China
| | - Shuaijun Jia
- Department of Spine Surgery, Honghui Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Youyi East Road No.555, Beilin District, Xi'an 710001, Shaanxi, China
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Spine Bionic Treatment, Youyi East Road No.555, Beilin District, Xi'an 710001, Shaanxi, China
| | - Chunping Hu
- Department of Spine Surgery, Honghui Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Youyi East Road No.555, Beilin District, Xi'an 710001, Shaanxi, China
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Spine Bionic Treatment, Youyi East Road No.555, Beilin District, Xi'an 710001, Shaanxi, China
| | - Lei Zhu
- Department of Spine Surgery, Honghui Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Youyi East Road No.555, Beilin District, Xi'an 710001, Shaanxi, China
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Spine Bionic Treatment, Youyi East Road No.555, Beilin District, Xi'an 710001, Shaanxi, China
| | - Dingjun Hao
- Department of Orthopedics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, China
- Department of Spine Surgery, Honghui Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Youyi East Road No.555, Beilin District, Xi'an 710001, Shaanxi, China
- Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Spine Bionic Treatment, Youyi East Road No.555, Beilin District, Xi'an 710001, Shaanxi, China
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Sandoval SO, Cappuccio G, Kruth K, Osenberg S, Khalil SM, Méndez-Albelo NM, Padmanabhan K, Wang D, Niciu MJ, Bhattacharyya A, Stein JL, Sousa AMM, Waxman EA, Buttermore ED, Whye D, Sirois CL, Williams A, Maletic-Savatic M, Zhao X. Rigor and reproducibility in human brain organoid research: Where we are and where we need to go. Stem Cell Reports 2024:S2213-6711(24)00114-0. [PMID: 38759644 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2024.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Human brain organoid models have emerged as a promising tool for studying human brain development and function. These models preserve human genetics and recapitulate some aspects of human brain development, while facilitating manipulation in an in vitro setting. Despite their potential to transform biology and medicine, concerns persist about their fidelity. To fully harness their potential, it is imperative to establish reliable analytic methods, ensuring rigor and reproducibility. Here, we review current analytical platforms used to characterize human forebrain cortical organoids, highlight challenges, and propose recommendations for future studies to achieve greater precision and uniformity across laboratories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soraya O Sandoval
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA; Department of Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA; Neuroscience Training Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Gerarda Cappuccio
- Department of Pediatrics-Neurology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA; Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Karina Kruth
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Iowa Health Care, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA; Iowa Neuroscience Institute, University of Iowa Health Care, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Sivan Osenberg
- Department of Pediatrics-Neurology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA; Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Saleh M Khalil
- Department of Pediatrics-Neurology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA; Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Natasha M Méndez-Albelo
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA; Department of Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA; Molecular Cellular Pharmacology Training Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Krishnan Padmanabhan
- Department of Neuroscience, Center for Visual Science, Del Monte Institute for Neuroscience, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester NY 14642, USA
| | - Daifeng Wang
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA; Departments of Biostatistics and Medical Informatics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Mark J Niciu
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Iowa Health Care, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA; Iowa Neuroscience Institute, University of Iowa Health Care, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Anita Bhattacharyya
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA; Department of Cell and Regenerative Biology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Jason L Stein
- Department of Genetics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; Neuroscience Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - André M M Sousa
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA; Department of Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Elisa A Waxman
- Center for Cellular and Molecular Therapeutics, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Center for Epilepsy and NeuroDevelopmental Disorders (ENDD), The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Elizabeth D Buttermore
- Human Neuron Core, Rosamund Stone Zander Translational Neuroscience Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Department, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Dosh Whye
- Human Neuron Core, Rosamund Stone Zander Translational Neuroscience Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Department, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Carissa L Sirois
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA; Department of Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Aislinn Williams
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Iowa Health Care, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA; Iowa Neuroscience Institute, University of Iowa Health Care, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA.
| | - Mirjana Maletic-Savatic
- Department of Pediatrics-Neurology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA; Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA; Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.
| | - Xinyu Zhao
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA; Department of Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA.
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Fitzgerald MQ, Chu T, Puppo F, Blanch R, Chillón M, Subramaniam S, Muotri AR. Generation of 'semi-guided' cortical organoids with complex neural oscillations. Nat Protoc 2024:10.1038/s41596-024-00994-0. [PMID: 38702386 DOI: 10.1038/s41596-024-00994-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
Temporal development of neural electrophysiology follows genetic programming, similar to cellular maturation and organization during development. The emergent properties of this electrophysiological development, namely neural oscillations, can be used to characterize brain development. Recently, we utilized the innate programming encoded in the human genome to generate functionally mature cortical organoids. In brief, stem cells are suspended in culture via continuous shaking and naturally aggregate into embryoid bodies before being exposed to media formulations for neural induction, differentiation and maturation. The specific culture format, media composition and duration of exposure to these media distinguish organoid protocols and determine whether a protocol is guided or unguided toward specific neural fate. The 'semi-guided' protocol presented here has shorter induction and differentiation steps with less-specific patterning molecules than most guided protocols but maintains the use of neurotrophic factors such as brain-derived growth factor and neurotrophin-3, unlike unguided approaches. This approach yields the cell type diversity of unguided approaches while maintaining reproducibility for disease modeling. Importantly, we characterized the electrophysiology of these organoids and found that they recapitulate the maturation of neural oscillations observed in the developing human brain, a feature not shown with other approaches. This protocol represents the potential first steps toward bridging molecular and cellular biology to human cognition, and it has already been used to discover underlying features of human brain development, evolution and neurological conditions. Experienced cell culture technicians can expect the protocol to take 1 month, with extended maturation, electrophysiology recording, and adeno-associated virus transduction procedure options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Q Fitzgerald
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Tiffany Chu
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Francesca Puppo
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Rebeca Blanch
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
- Institut de Recerca Vall d'Hebron and Institut de Neurociències, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Miguel Chillón
- Institut de Recerca Vall d'Hebron and Institut de Neurociències, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Shankar Subramaniam
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Alysson R Muotri
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA.
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA.
- Center for Academic Research and Training in Anthropogeny and Archealization, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
- Sanford Stem Cell Education and Integrated Space Stem Cell Orbital Research Center, Sanford Stem Cell Institute, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
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8
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Mabry SA, Pavon N. Exploring the prospects, advancements, and challenges of in vitro modeling of the heart-brain axis. Front Cell Neurosci 2024; 18:1386355. [PMID: 38766369 PMCID: PMC11099243 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2024.1386355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Research on bidirectional communication between the heart and brain has often relied on studies involving nonhuman animals. Dependance on animal models offer limited applicability to humans and a lack of high-throughput screening. Recently, the field of 3D cell biology, specifically organoid technology, has rapidly emerged as a valuable tool for studying interactions across organ systems, i.e., gut-brain axis. The initial success of organoid models indicates the usefulness of 3D cultures for elucidating the intricate interactivity of the autonomic nervous system and overall health. This perspective aims to explore the potential of advancing in vitro modeling of the heart-brain axis by discussing the benefits, applications, and adaptability of organoid technologies. We closely examine the current state of brain organoids in conjunction with the advancements of cardiac organoids. Moreover, we explore the use of combined organoid systems to investigate pathophysiology and provide a platform for treatment discovery. Finally, we address the challenges that accompany the use of 3D models for studying the heart-brain axis with an emphasis on generating tailored engineering strategies for further refinement of dynamic organ system modeling in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Senegal Alfred Mabry
- Affect and Cognition Laboratory, Department of Psychology and Human Development, College of Human Ecology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States
| | - Narciso Pavon
- ChangHui Pak Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Natural Sciences, University of Massachusetts-Amherst, Amherst, MA, United States
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Zhou G, Pang S, Li Y, Gao J. Progress in the generation of spinal cord organoids over the past decade and future perspectives. Neural Regen Res 2024; 19:1013-1019. [PMID: 37862203 PMCID: PMC10749595 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.385280] [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: 04/16/2023] [Revised: 06/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord organoids are three-dimensional tissues derived from stem cells that recapitulate the primary morphological and functional characteristics of the spinal cord in vivo. As emerging bioengineering methods have led to the optimization of cell culture protocols, spinal cord organoids technology has made remarkable advancements in the past decade. Our literature search found that current spinal cord organoids do not only dynamically simulate neural tube formation but also exhibit diverse cytoarchitecture along the dorsal-ventral and rostral-caudal axes. Moreover, fused organoids that integrate motor neurons and other regionally specific organoids exhibit intricate neural circuits that allows for functional assessment. These qualities make spinal cord organoids valuable tools for disease modeling, drug screening, and tissue regeneration. By utilizing this emergent technology, researchers have made significant progress in investigating the pathogenesis and potential therapeutic targets of spinal cord diseases. However, at present, spinal cord organoid technology remains in its infancy and has not been widely applied in translational medicine. Establishment of the next generation of spinal cord organoids will depend on good manufacturing practice standards and needs to focus on diverse cell phenotypes and electrophysiological functionality evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gang Zhou
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Siyuan Pang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yongning Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Department of International Medical Service, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jun Gao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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10
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Cerneckis J, Cai H, Shi Y. Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs): molecular mechanisms of induction and applications. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:112. [PMID: 38670977 PMCID: PMC11053163 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-024-01809-0] [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: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 03/09/2024] [Accepted: 03/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) technology has transformed in vitro research and holds great promise to advance regenerative medicine. iPSCs have the capacity for an almost unlimited expansion, are amenable to genetic engineering, and can be differentiated into most somatic cell types. iPSCs have been widely applied to model human development and diseases, perform drug screening, and develop cell therapies. In this review, we outline key developments in the iPSC field and highlight the immense versatility of the iPSC technology for in vitro modeling and therapeutic applications. We begin by discussing the pivotal discoveries that revealed the potential of a somatic cell nucleus for reprogramming and led to successful generation of iPSCs. We consider the molecular mechanisms and dynamics of somatic cell reprogramming as well as the numerous methods available to induce pluripotency. Subsequently, we discuss various iPSC-based cellular models, from mono-cultures of a single cell type to complex three-dimensional organoids, and how these models can be applied to elucidate the mechanisms of human development and diseases. We use examples of neurological disorders, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), and cancer to highlight the diversity of disease-specific phenotypes that can be modeled using iPSC-derived cells. We also consider how iPSC-derived cellular models can be used in high-throughput drug screening and drug toxicity studies. Finally, we discuss the process of developing autologous and allogeneic iPSC-based cell therapies and their potential to alleviate human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonas Cerneckis
- Department of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, CA, 91010, USA
- Irell & Manella Graduate School of Biological Sciences, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, CA, 91010, USA
| | - Hongxia Cai
- Department of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, CA, 91010, USA
| | - Yanhong Shi
- Department of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, CA, 91010, USA.
- Irell & Manella Graduate School of Biological Sciences, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, CA, 91010, USA.
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11
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Osaki T, Duenki T, Chow SYA, Ikegami Y, Beaubois R, Levi T, Nakagawa-Tamagawa N, Hirano Y, Ikeuchi Y. Complex activity and short-term plasticity of human cerebral organoids reciprocally connected with axons. Nat Commun 2024; 15:2945. [PMID: 38600094 PMCID: PMC11006899 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-46787-7] [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: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
An inter-regional cortical tract is one of the most fundamental architectural motifs that integrates neural circuits to orchestrate and generate complex functions of the human brain. To understand the mechanistic significance of inter-regional projections on development of neural circuits, we investigated an in vitro neural tissue model for inter-regional connections, in which two cerebral organoids are connected with a bundle of reciprocally extended axons. The connected organoids produced more complex and intense oscillatory activity than conventional or directly fused cerebral organoids, suggesting the inter-organoid axonal connections enhance and support the complex network activity. In addition, optogenetic stimulation of the inter-organoid axon bundles could entrain the activity of the organoids and induce robust short-term plasticity of the macroscopic circuit. These results demonstrated that the projection axons could serve as a structural hub that boosts functionality of the organoid-circuits. This model could contribute to further investigation on development and functions of macroscopic neuronal circuits in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatsuya Osaki
- Institute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo, Meguro, Tokyo, 153-8505, Japan
- Institute for AI and Beyond, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - Tomoya Duenki
- Institute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo, Meguro, Tokyo, 153-8505, Japan
- Institute for AI and Beyond, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
- LIMMS/CNRS, Institute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Siu Yu A Chow
- Institute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo, Meguro, Tokyo, 153-8505, Japan
- Institute for AI and Beyond, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Ikegami
- Institute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo, Meguro, Tokyo, 153-8505, Japan
- Institute for AI and Beyond, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - Romain Beaubois
- Institute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo, Meguro, Tokyo, 153-8505, Japan
- LIMMS/CNRS, Institute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- IMS Laboratory, UMR5218, University of Bordeaux, Talence, France
| | - Timothée Levi
- Institute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo, Meguro, Tokyo, 153-8505, Japan
- LIMMS/CNRS, Institute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- IMS Laboratory, UMR5218, University of Bordeaux, Talence, France
| | - Nao Nakagawa-Tamagawa
- Institute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo, Meguro, Tokyo, 153-8505, Japan
- Department of Physiology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima, Japan
| | - Yoji Hirano
- Institute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo, Meguro, Tokyo, 153-8505, Japan
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
- Department of Psychiatry, Division of Clinical Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, Japan
| | - Yoshiho Ikeuchi
- Institute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo, Meguro, Tokyo, 153-8505, Japan.
- Institute for AI and Beyond, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan.
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan.
- LIMMS/CNRS, Institute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.
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12
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Ko J, Hyung S, Cheong S, Chung Y, Li Jeon N. Revealing the clinical potential of high-resolution organoids. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2024; 207:115202. [PMID: 38336091 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2024.115202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 01/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
The symbiotic interplay of organoid technology and advanced imaging strategies yields innovative breakthroughs in research and clinical applications. Organoids, intricate three-dimensional cell cultures derived from pluripotent or adult stem/progenitor cells, have emerged as potent tools for in vitro modeling, reflecting in vivo organs and advancing our grasp of tissue physiology and disease. Concurrently, advanced imaging technologies such as confocal, light-sheet, and two-photon microscopy ignite fresh explorations, uncovering rich organoid information. Combined with advanced imaging technologies and the power of artificial intelligence, organoids provide new insights that bridge experimental models and real-world clinical scenarios. This review explores exemplary research that embodies this technological synergy and how organoids reshape personalized medicine and therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jihoon Ko
- Department of BioNano Technology, Gachon University, Gyeonggi 13120, Republic of Korea
| | - Sujin Hyung
- Precision Medicine Research Institute, Samsung Medical Center, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea; Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Sungkyunkwan University, Samsung Medical Center, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Sunghun Cheong
- Interdisciplinary Program in Bioengineering, Seoul National University, 1 Gwanak-ro, Gwanak-gu, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoojin Chung
- Division of Computer Engineering, Hankuk University of Foreign Studies, Yongin 17035, Republic of Korea
| | - Noo Li Jeon
- Interdisciplinary Program in Bioengineering, Seoul National University, 1 Gwanak-ro, Gwanak-gu, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea; Department of Mechanical Engineering, Seoul National University, 1 Gwanak-ro, Gwanak-gu, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea; Institute of Advanced Machines and Design, Seoul National University, 1 Gwanak-ro, Gwanak-gu, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea; Qureator, Inc., San Diego, CA, USA.
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13
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Wang Z, Tang X, Khutsishvili D, Sang G, Galan EA, Wang J, Ma S. Protocol to encapsulate cerebral organoids with alginate hydrogel shell to induce volumetric compression. STAR Protoc 2024; 5:102952. [PMID: 38555589 PMCID: PMC10998242 DOI: 10.1016/j.xpro.2024.102952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024] Open
Abstract
In vitro organoids, including cerebral organoids, are usually developed without mechanical compression, which may contribute to a delay in maturation. Here, we present a protocol for encapsulating cerebral organoids with a thin shell of low-concentration alginate hydrogel. We describe steps for organoid generation, microfluidic chip culture, Matrigel coating, expansion culture, and alginate encapsulation. We then detail procedures for maturation culture and organoid characterization. The moderate compressive stimulation that the shell provides promotes cell proliferation and neuronal maturation. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Tang et al.1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zitian Wang
- Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School (SIGS), Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China; Tsinghua-Berkeley Shenzhen Institute, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Xiaowei Tang
- Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School (SIGS), Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China; Tsinghua-Berkeley Shenzhen Institute, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Davit Khutsishvili
- Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School (SIGS), Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China; Tsinghua-Berkeley Shenzhen Institute, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Gan Sang
- Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School (SIGS), Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China; Tsinghua-Berkeley Shenzhen Institute, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Edgar A Galan
- Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School (SIGS), Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China; Tsinghua-Berkeley Shenzhen Institute, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Jie Wang
- Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School (SIGS), Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China; Tsinghua-Berkeley Shenzhen Institute, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Shaohua Ma
- Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School (SIGS), Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China; Tsinghua-Berkeley Shenzhen Institute, Shenzhen 518055, China; Key Laboratory of Industrial Biocatalysis, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100084, China.
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14
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Fan C, Cai H, Zhang L, Wu X, Yan J, Jin L, Hu B, He J, Chen Y, Zhao Y, Dai J. Constructing Linear-Oriented Pre-Vascularized Human Spinal Cord Tissues for Spinal Cord Injury Repair. Adv Healthc Mater 2024:e2303388. [PMID: 38537119 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202303388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
Repairing spinal cord injury (SCI) is a global medical challenge lacking effective clinical treatment. Developing human-engineered spinal cord tissues that can replenish lost cells and restore a regenerative microenvironment offers promising potential for SCI therapy. However, creating vascularized human spinal cord-like tissues (VSCT) that mimic the diverse cell types and longitudinal parallel structural features of spinal cord tissues remains a significant hurdle. In the present study, VSCTs are engineered using embryonic human spinal cord-derived neural and endothelial cells on linear-ordered collagen scaffolds (LOCS). Studies have shown that astrocytes and endothelial cells align along the scaffolds in VSCT, supporting axon extension from various human neurons myelinated by oligodendrocytes. After transplantation into SCI rats, VSCT survives at the injury sites and promotes endogenous neural regeneration and vascularization, ultimately reducing scarring and enhancing behavioral functional recovery. It suggests that pre-vascularization of engineered spinal cord tissues is beneficial for SCI treatment and highlights the important role of exogenous endothelial cells in tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caixia Fan
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Shaoxing University, Shaoxing, 312000, China
| | - Hui Cai
- Division of Nanobiomedicine, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Lulu Zhang
- Division of Nanobiomedicine, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Xianming Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100080, China
| | - Junyan Yan
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Shaoxing University, Shaoxing, 312000, China
| | - Lifang Jin
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Shaoxing University, Shaoxing, 312000, China
| | - Baowei Hu
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Shaoxing University, Shaoxing, 312000, China
| | - Jiaxiong He
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Shaoxing University, Shaoxing, 312000, China
| | - Yanyan Chen
- Division of Nanobiomedicine, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Yannan Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100080, China
| | - Jianwu Dai
- Division of Nanobiomedicine, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou, 215123, China
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100080, China
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15
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Giorgi C, Lombardozzi G, Ammannito F, Scenna MS, Maceroni E, Quintiliani M, d’Angelo M, Cimini A, Castelli V. Brain Organoids: A Game-Changer for Drug Testing. Pharmaceutics 2024; 16:443. [PMID: 38675104 PMCID: PMC11054008 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16040443] [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: 02/07/2024] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Neurological disorders are the second cause of death and the leading cause of disability worldwide. Unfortunately, no cure exists for these disorders, but the actual therapies are only able to ameliorate people's quality of life. Thus, there is an urgent need to test potential therapeutic approaches. Brain organoids are a possible valuable tool in the study of the brain, due to their ability to reproduce different brain regions and maturation stages; they can be used also as a tool for disease modelling and target identification of neurological disorders. Recently, brain organoids have been used in drug-screening processes, even if there are several limitations to overcome. This review focuses on the description of brain organoid development and drug-screening processes, discussing the advantages, challenges, and limitations of the use of organoids in modeling neurological diseases. We also highlighted the potential of testing novel therapeutic approaches. Finally, we examine the challenges and future directions to improve the drug-screening process.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Annamaria Cimini
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Science, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (C.G.); (G.L.); (F.A.); (M.S.S.); (E.M.); (M.Q.); (M.d.)
| | - Vanessa Castelli
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Science, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (C.G.); (G.L.); (F.A.); (M.S.S.); (E.M.); (M.Q.); (M.d.)
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16
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de Luzy IR, Lee MK, Mobley WC, Studer L. Lessons from inducible pluripotent stem cell models on neuronal senescence in aging and neurodegeneration. NATURE AGING 2024; 4:309-318. [PMID: 38429379 DOI: 10.1038/s43587-024-00586-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
Age remains the central risk factor for many neurodegenerative diseases including Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Although the mechanisms of aging are complex, the age-related accumulation of senescent cells in neurodegeneration is well documented and their clearance can alleviate disease-related features in preclinical models. Senescence-like characteristics are observed in both neuronal and glial lineages, but their relative contribution to aging and neurodegeneration remains unclear. Human pluripotent stem cell-derived neurons provide an experimental model system to induce neuronal senescence. However, the extensive heterogeneity in the profile of senescent neurons and the methods to assess senescence remain major challenges. Here, we review the evidence of cellular senescence in neuronal aging and disease, discuss human pluripotent stem cell-based model systems used to investigate neuronal senescence and propose a panel of cellular and molecular hallmarks to characterize senescent neurons. Understanding the role of neuronal senescence may yield novel therapeutic opportunities in neurodegenerative disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabelle R de Luzy
- The Center for Stem Cell Biology and Developmental Biology Program, Sloan-Kettering Institute for Cancer Research, New York, NY, USA.
- Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, USA.
| | - Michael K Lee
- Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Institute for Translational Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - William C Mobley
- Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, USA
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Lorenz Studer
- The Center for Stem Cell Biology and Developmental Biology Program, Sloan-Kettering Institute for Cancer Research, New York, NY, USA.
- Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, USA.
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17
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Li Y, Wang J, Song SR, Lv SQ, Qin JH, Yu SC. Models for evaluating glioblastoma invasion along white matter tracts. Trends Biotechnol 2024; 42:293-309. [PMID: 37806896 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2023.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
White matter tracts (WMs) are one of the main invasion paths of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). The lack of ideal research models hinders our understanding of the details and mechanisms of GBM invasion along WMs. To date, many potential in vitro models have been reported; nerve fiber culture models and nanomaterial models are biocompatible, and the former have electrically active neurons. Brain slice culture models, organoid models, and microfluidic chip models can simulate the real brain and tumor microenvironment (TME), which contains a variety of cell types. These models are closer to the real in vivo environment and are helpful for further studying not only invasion along WMs by GBM, but also perineural invasion and brain metastasis by solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Li
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Pathology and Southwest Cancer Center, Southwest Hospital, Chongqing 400038, China; International Joint Research Center for Precision Biotherapy, Ministry of Science and Technology, Chongqing 400038, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunopathology, Ministry of Education, Chongqing 400038, China; Department of Neurosurgery, Xinqiao Hospital, Chongqing 400037, China
| | - Jun Wang
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Pathology and Southwest Cancer Center, Southwest Hospital, Chongqing 400038, China; International Joint Research Center for Precision Biotherapy, Ministry of Science and Technology, Chongqing 400038, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunopathology, Ministry of Education, Chongqing 400038, China; Jin-feng Laboratory, Chongqing 401329, China
| | - Si-Rong Song
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Pathology and Southwest Cancer Center, Southwest Hospital, Chongqing 400038, China; International Joint Research Center for Precision Biotherapy, Ministry of Science and Technology, Chongqing 400038, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunopathology, Ministry of Education, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Sheng-Qing Lv
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xinqiao Hospital, Chongqing 400037, China
| | - Jian-Hua Qin
- Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, Niaoning 116023, China.
| | - Shi-Cang Yu
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Pathology and Southwest Cancer Center, Southwest Hospital, Chongqing 400038, China; International Joint Research Center for Precision Biotherapy, Ministry of Science and Technology, Chongqing 400038, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunopathology, Ministry of Education, Chongqing 400038, China; Jin-feng Laboratory, Chongqing 401329, China.
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18
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Adams L, Song MK, Yuen S, Tanaka Y, Kim YS. A single-nuclei paired multiomic analysis of the human midbrain reveals age- and Parkinson's disease-associated glial changes. NATURE AGING 2024; 4:364-378. [PMID: 38491288 DOI: 10.1038/s43587-024-00583-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
Age is the primary risk factor for Parkinson's disease (PD), but how aging changes the expression and regulatory landscape of the brain remains unclear. Here we present a single-nuclei multiomic study profiling shared gene expression and chromatin accessibility of young, aged and PD postmortem midbrain samples. Combined multiomic analysis along a pseudopathogenesis trajectory reveals that all glial cell types are affected by age, but microglia and oligodendrocytes are further altered in PD. We present evidence for a disease-associated oligodendrocyte subtype and identify genes lost over the aging and disease process, including CARNS1, that may predispose healthy cells to develop a disease-associated phenotype. Surprisingly, we found that chromatin accessibility changed little over aging or PD within the same cell types. Peak-gene association patterns, however, are substantially altered during aging and PD, identifying cell-type-specific chromosomal loci that contain PD-associated single-nucleotide polymorphisms. Our study suggests a previously undescribed role for oligodendrocytes in aging and PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Levi Adams
- RWJMS Institute for Neurological Therapeutics, Rutgers-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Piscataway, NJ, USA
- Department of Biology, Bates College, Lewiston, ME, USA
| | - Min Kyung Song
- RWJMS Institute for Neurological Therapeutics, Rutgers-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Piscataway, NJ, USA
- College of Nursing Science, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Samantha Yuen
- Department of Medicine, Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital Research Center (CRHMR), University of Montreal, Quebec, QC, Canada
| | - Yoshiaki Tanaka
- Department of Medicine, Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital Research Center (CRHMR), University of Montreal, Quebec, QC, Canada.
| | - Yoon-Seong Kim
- RWJMS Institute for Neurological Therapeutics, Rutgers-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Piscataway, NJ, USA.
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19
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Niu W, Siciliano B, Wen Z. Modeling tuberous sclerosis complex with human induced pluripotent stem cells. World J Pediatr 2024; 20:208-218. [PMID: 35759110 DOI: 10.1007/s12519-022-00576-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is an autosomal dominant genetic disorder with a birth incidence of 1:6000 in the United States that is characterized by the growth of non-cancerous tumors in multiple organ systems including the brain, kidneys, lungs, and skin. Importantly, TSC is also associated with significant neurological manifestations including epilepsy, TSC-associated neuropsychiatric disorders, intellectual disabilities, and autism spectrum disorder. Mutations in the TSC1 or TSC2 genes are well-established causes of TSC, which lead to TSC1/TSC2 deficiency in organs and hyper-activation of the mammalian target of rapamycin signaling pathway. Animal models have been widely used to study the effect of TSC1/2 genes on the development and function of the brain. Despite considerable progress in understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying TSC in animal models, a human-specific model is urgently needed to investigate the effects of TSC1/2 mutations that are unique to human neurodevelopment. DATA SOURCES Literature reviews and research articles were published in PubMed-indexed journals. RESULTS Human-induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), which capture risk alleles that are identical to their donors and have the capacity to differentiate into virtually any cell type in the human body, pave the way for the empirical study of previously inaccessible biological systems such as the developing human brain. CONCLUSIONS In this review, we present an overview of the recent progress in modeling TSC with human iPSC models, the existing limitations, and potential directions for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weibo Niu
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Whitehead Research Building 447, 615 Michael Street, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Benjamin Siciliano
- The Graduate Program in Molecular and Systems Pharmacology, Laney Graduate School, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Zhexing Wen
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Whitehead Research Building 447, 615 Michael Street, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA.
- Department of Cell Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Whitehead Research Building 447, 615 Michael Street, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA.
- Department of Neurology, Emory University School of Medicine, Whitehead Research Building 447, 615 Michael Street, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA.
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20
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Acharya P, Choi NY, Shrestha S, Jeong S, Lee MY. Brain organoids: A revolutionary tool for modeling neurological disorders and development of therapeutics. Biotechnol Bioeng 2024; 121:489-506. [PMID: 38013504 PMCID: PMC10842775 DOI: 10.1002/bit.28606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Revised: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
Brain organoids are self-organized, three-dimensional (3D) aggregates derived from pluripotent stem cells that have cell types and cellular architectures resembling those of the developing human brain. The current understanding of human brain developmental processes and neurological disorders has advanced significantly with the introduction of this in vitro model. Brain organoids serve as a translational link between two-dimensional (2D) cultures and in vivo models which imitate the neural tube formation at the early and late stages and the differentiation of neuroepithelium with whole-brain regionalization. In addition, the generation of region-specific brain organoids made it possible to investigate the pathogenic and etiological aspects of acquired and inherited brain disease along with drug discovery and drug toxicity testing. In this review article, we first summarize an overview of the existing methods and platforms used for generating brain organoids and their limitations and then discuss the recent advancement in brain organoid technology. In addition, we discuss how brain organoids have been used to model aspects of neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative diseases, including autism spectrum disorder (ASD), Rett syndrome, Zika virus-related microcephaly, Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), and Huntington's disease (HD).
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Affiliation(s)
- Prabha Acharya
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Texas, Denton, Texas, USA
| | - Na Young Choi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Texas, Denton, Texas, USA
- Department of Healthcare Information Technology, Inje University, Gimhae, Republic of Korea
| | - Sunil Shrestha
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Texas, Denton, Texas, USA
| | - Sehoon Jeong
- Department of Healthcare Information Technology, Inje University, Gimhae, Republic of Korea
| | - Moo-Yeal Lee
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Texas, Denton, Texas, USA
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21
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Hendriks D, Pagliaro A, Andreatta F, Ma Z, van Giessen J, Massalini S, López-Iglesias C, van Son GJF, DeMartino J, Damen JMA, Zoutendijk I, Staliarova N, Bredenoord AL, Holstege FCP, Peters PJ, Margaritis T, Chuva de Sousa Lopes S, Wu W, Clevers H, Artegiani B. Human fetal brain self-organizes into long-term expanding organoids. Cell 2024; 187:712-732.e38. [PMID: 38194967 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2023.12.012] [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: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
Human brain development involves an orchestrated, massive neural progenitor expansion while a multi-cellular tissue architecture is established. Continuously expanding organoids can be grown directly from multiple somatic tissues, yet to date, brain organoids can solely be established from pluripotent stem cells. Here, we show that healthy human fetal brain in vitro self-organizes into organoids (FeBOs), phenocopying aspects of in vivo cellular heterogeneity and complex organization. FeBOs can be expanded over long time periods. FeBO growth requires maintenance of tissue integrity, which ensures production of a tissue-like extracellular matrix (ECM) niche, ultimately endowing FeBO expansion. FeBO lines derived from different areas of the central nervous system (CNS), including dorsal and ventral forebrain, preserve their regional identity and allow to probe aspects of positional identity. Using CRISPR-Cas9, we showcase the generation of syngeneic mutant FeBO lines for the study of brain cancer. Taken together, FeBOs constitute a complementary CNS organoid platform.
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Affiliation(s)
- Delilah Hendriks
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Hubrecht Institute, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW), Utrecht, the Netherlands; Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| | - Anna Pagliaro
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | | | - Ziliang Ma
- Biomolecular Mass Spectrometry and Proteomics, Bijvoet Center for Biomolecular Research and Utrecht Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Singapore Immunology Network (SIgN), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A(∗)STAR), Immunos, Singapore 138648, Singapore; Department of Pharmacy, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117543, Singapore
| | - Joey van Giessen
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Simone Massalini
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Carmen López-Iglesias
- The Maastricht Multimodal Molecular Imaging Institute, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Gijs J F van Son
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Jeff DeMartino
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - J Mirjam A Damen
- Biomolecular Mass Spectrometry and Proteomics, Bijvoet Center for Biomolecular Research and Utrecht Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Iris Zoutendijk
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Nadzeya Staliarova
- Biomolecular Mass Spectrometry and Proteomics, Bijvoet Center for Biomolecular Research and Utrecht Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Annelien L Bredenoord
- Erasmus School of Philosophy, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Frank C P Holstege
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Center for Molecular Medicine, University Medical Center Utrecht and Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Peter J Peters
- The Maastricht Multimodal Molecular Imaging Institute, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | | | | | - Wei Wu
- Biomolecular Mass Spectrometry and Proteomics, Bijvoet Center for Biomolecular Research and Utrecht Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Singapore Immunology Network (SIgN), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A(∗)STAR), Immunos, Singapore 138648, Singapore; Department of Pharmacy, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117543, Singapore
| | - Hans Clevers
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Hubrecht Institute, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW), Utrecht, the Netherlands; Oncode Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
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22
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Yan Y, Li X, Gao Y, Mathivanan S, Kong L, Tao Y, Dong Y, Li X, Bhattacharyya A, Zhao X, Zhang SC. 3D bioprinting of human neural tissues with functional connectivity. Cell Stem Cell 2024; 31:260-274.e7. [PMID: 38306994 PMCID: PMC10883639 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2023.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Revised: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2024]
Abstract
Probing how human neural networks operate is hindered by the lack of reliable human neural tissues amenable to the dynamic functional assessment of neural circuits. We developed a 3D bioprinting platform to assemble tissues with defined human neural cell types in a desired dimension using a commercial bioprinter. The printed neuronal progenitors differentiate into neurons and form functional neural circuits within and between tissue layers with specificity within weeks, evidenced by the cortical-to-striatal projection, spontaneous synaptic currents, and synaptic response to neuronal excitation. Printed astrocyte progenitors develop into mature astrocytes with elaborated processes and form functional neuron-astrocyte networks, indicated by calcium flux and glutamate uptake in response to neuronal excitation under physiological and pathological conditions. These designed human neural tissues will likely be useful for understanding the wiring of human neural networks, modeling pathological processes, and serving as platforms for drug testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanwei Yan
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Xueyan Li
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Yu Gao
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Sakthikumar Mathivanan
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA; Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, 20815
| | - Linghai Kong
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Yunlong Tao
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA; State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center (ChemBIC), Nanjing University, Nanjing, China; Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, 20815
| | - Yi Dong
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Xiang Li
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Anita Bhattacharyya
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA; Department of Cell and Regenerative Biology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Xinyu Zhao
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA; Department of Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Su-Chun Zhang
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA; Department of Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA; Department of Neurology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA; Program in Neuroscience and Behavioral Disorders, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore; GK Goh Centre for Neuroscience, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore; Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, 20815.
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23
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Furnari FB, Anastasaki C, Bian S, Fine HA, Koga T, Le LQ, Rodriguez FJ, Gutmann DH. Stem cell modeling of nervous system tumors. Dis Model Mech 2024; 17:dmm050533. [PMID: 38353122 PMCID: PMC10886724 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.050533] [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: 10/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Nervous system tumors, particularly brain tumors, represent the most common tumors in children and one of the most lethal tumors in adults. Despite decades of research, there are few effective therapies for these cancers. Although human nervous system tumor cells and genetically engineered mouse models have served as excellent platforms for drug discovery and preclinical testing, they have limitations with respect to accurately recapitulating important aspects of the pathobiology of spontaneously arising human tumors. For this reason, attention has turned to the deployment of human stem cell engineering involving human embryonic or induced pluripotent stem cells, in which genetic alterations associated with nervous system cancers can be introduced. These stem cells can be used to create self-assembling three-dimensional cerebral organoids that preserve key features of the developing human brain. Moreover, stem cell-engineered lines are amenable to xenotransplantation into mice as a platform to investigate the tumor cell of origin, discover cancer evolutionary trajectories and identify therapeutic vulnerabilities. In this article, we review the current state of human stem cell models of nervous system tumors, discuss their advantages and disadvantages, and provide consensus recommendations for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank B Furnari
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA 92037, USA
| | - Corina Anastasaki
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Shan Bian
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, 200070 Shanghai, China
| | - Howard A Fine
- Department of Neurology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Tomoyuki Koga
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Lu Q Le
- Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Fausto J Rodriguez
- Division of Neuropathology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - David H Gutmann
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
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24
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Han H, Zhan T, Guo N, Cui M, Xu Y. Cryopreservation of organoids: Strategies, innovation, and future prospects. Biotechnol J 2024; 19:e2300543. [PMID: 38403430 DOI: 10.1002/biot.202300543] [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: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
Organoid technology has demonstrated unique advantages in multidisciplinary fields such as disease research, tumor drug sensitivity, clinical immunity, drug toxicology, and regenerative medicine. It will become the most promising research tool in translational research. However, the long preparation time of organoids and the lack of high-quality cryopreservation methods limit the further application of organoids. Although the high-quality cryopreservation of small-volume biological samples such as cells and embryos has been successfully achieved, the existing cryopreservation methods for organoids still face many bottlenecks. In recent years, with the development of materials science, cryobiology, and interdisciplinary research, many new materials and methods have been applied to cryopreservation. Several new cryopreservation methods have emerged, such as cryoprotectants (CPAs) of natural origin, ice-controlled biomaterials, and rapid rewarming methods. The introduction of these technologies has expanded the research scope of cryopreservation of organoids, provided new approaches and methods for cryopreservation of organoids, and is expected to break through the current technical bottleneck of cryopreservation of organoids. This paper reviews the progress of cryopreservation of organoids in recent years from three aspects: damage factors of cryopreservation of organoids, new protective agents and loading methods, and new technologies of cryopreservation and rewarming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hengxin Han
- Institute of Biothermal Science & Technology, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Co-innovation Center for Energy Therapy of Tumors, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Technical Service Platform for Cryopreservation of Biological Resources, Shanghai, China
| | - Taijie Zhan
- Institute of Biothermal Science & Technology, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Co-innovation Center for Energy Therapy of Tumors, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Technical Service Platform for Cryopreservation of Biological Resources, Shanghai, China
| | - Ning Guo
- Institute of Biothermal Science & Technology, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Co-innovation Center for Energy Therapy of Tumors, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Technical Service Platform for Cryopreservation of Biological Resources, Shanghai, China
| | - Mengdong Cui
- Institute of Biothermal Science & Technology, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Co-innovation Center for Energy Therapy of Tumors, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Technical Service Platform for Cryopreservation of Biological Resources, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi Xu
- Institute of Biothermal Science & Technology, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Co-innovation Center for Energy Therapy of Tumors, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Technical Service Platform for Cryopreservation of Biological Resources, Shanghai, China
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25
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Sun J, Noss S, Banerjee D, Das M, Girirajan S. Strategies for dissecting the complexity of neurodevelopmental disorders. Trends Genet 2024; 40:187-202. [PMID: 37949722 PMCID: PMC10872993 DOI: 10.1016/j.tig.2023.10.009] [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: 05/27/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) are associated with a wide range of clinical features, affecting multiple pathways involved in brain development and function. Recent advances in high-throughput sequencing have unveiled numerous genetic variants associated with NDDs, which further contribute to disease complexity and make it challenging to infer disease causation and underlying mechanisms. Herein, we review current strategies for dissecting the complexity of NDDs using model organisms, induced pluripotent stem cells, single-cell sequencing technologies, and massively parallel reporter assays. We further highlight single-cell CRISPR-based screening techniques that allow genomic investigation of cellular transcriptomes with high efficiency, accuracy, and throughput. Overall, we provide an integrated review of experimental approaches that can be applicable for investigating a broad range of complex disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiawan Sun
- Molecular, Cellular, and Integrative Biosciences Graduate Program, The Huck Institutes of Life Sciences, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Serena Noss
- Molecular, Cellular, and Integrative Biosciences Graduate Program, The Huck Institutes of Life Sciences, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Deepro Banerjee
- Bioinformatics and Genomics Graduate Program, The Huck Institutes of Life Sciences, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Maitreya Das
- Molecular, Cellular, and Integrative Biosciences Graduate Program, The Huck Institutes of Life Sciences, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Santhosh Girirajan
- Molecular, Cellular, and Integrative Biosciences Graduate Program, The Huck Institutes of Life Sciences, University Park, PA 16802, USA; Bioinformatics and Genomics Graduate Program, The Huck Institutes of Life Sciences, University Park, PA 16802, USA; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA; Department of Anthropology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA.
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26
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Yan Y, Li X, Gao Y, Mathivanan S, Kong L, Tao Y, Dong Y, Li X, Bhattacharyya A, Zhao X, Zhang SC. 3D Bioprinting of Human Neural Tissues with Functional Connectivity. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.01.18.576289. [PMID: 38328181 PMCID: PMC10849546 DOI: 10.1101/2024.01.18.576289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
Probing how the human neural networks operate is hindered by the lack of reliable human neural tissues amenable for dynamic functional assessment of neural circuits. We developed a 3D bioprinting platform to assemble tissues with defined human neural cell types in a desired dimension using a commercial bioprinter. The printed neuronal progenitors differentiate to neurons and form functional neural circuits in and between tissue layers with specificity within weeks, evidenced by the cortical-to-striatal projection, spontaneous synaptic currents and synaptic response to neuronal excitation. Printed astrocyte progenitors develop into mature astrocytes with elaborated processes and form functional neuron-astrocyte networks, indicated by calcium flux and glutamate uptake in response to neuronal excitation under physiological and pathological conditions. These designed human neural tissues will likely be useful for understanding the wiring of human neural networks, modeling pathological processes, and serving as platforms for drug testing.
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27
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Pavon N, Diep K, Yang F, Sebastian R, Martinez-Martin B, Ranjan R, Sun Y, Pak C. Patterning ganglionic eminences in developing human brain organoids using a morphogen-gradient-inducing device. CELL REPORTS METHODS 2024; 4:100689. [PMID: 38228151 PMCID: PMC10831957 DOI: 10.1016/j.crmeth.2023.100689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 10/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
In early neurodevelopment, the central nervous system is established through the coordination of various neural organizers directing tissue patterning and cell differentiation. Better recapitulation of morphogen gradient production and signaling will be crucial for establishing improved developmental models of the brain in vitro. Here, we developed a method by assembling polydimethylsiloxane devices capable of generating a sustained chemical gradient to produce patterned brain organoids, which we termed morphogen-gradient-induced brain organoids (MIBOs). At 3.5 weeks, MIBOs replicated dorsal-ventral patterning observed in the ganglionic eminences (GE). Analysis of mature MIBOs through single-cell RNA sequencing revealed distinct dorsal GE-derived CALB2+ interneurons, medium spiny neurons, and medial GE-derived cell types. Finally, we demonstrate long-term culturing capabilities with MIBOs maintaining stable neural activity in cultures grown up to 5.5 months. MIBOs demonstrate a versatile approach for generating spatially patterned brain organoids for embryonic development and disease modeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Narciso Pavon
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience and Behavior, UMass Amherst, Amherst, MA 01003, USA; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, UMass Amherst, Amherst, MA 01003, USA
| | - Karmen Diep
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, UMass Amherst, Amherst, MA 01003, USA
| | - Feiyu Yang
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, UMass Amherst, Amherst, MA 01003, USA
| | - Rebecca Sebastian
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience and Behavior, UMass Amherst, Amherst, MA 01003, USA; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, UMass Amherst, Amherst, MA 01003, USA
| | - Beatriz Martinez-Martin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, UMass Amherst, Amherst, MA 01003, USA; Graduate Program in Molecular and Cellular Biology, UMass Amherst, Amherst, MA 01003, USA
| | - Ravi Ranjan
- Genomics Core, Institute of Applied Life Sciences, UMass Amherst, Amherst, MA 01003, USA
| | - Yubing Sun
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, UMass Amherst, Amherst, MA 01003, USA.
| | - ChangHui Pak
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, UMass Amherst, Amherst, MA 01003, USA.
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28
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Park SB, Lim B, Kim KY, Koh B. Long and Short-Term Effect of mTOR Regulation on Cerebral Organoid Growth and Differentiations. Tissue Eng Regen Med 2024; 21:159-169. [PMID: 38153672 PMCID: PMC10764682 DOI: 10.1007/s13770-023-00611-3] [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: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling is critical for the maintenance and differentiation of neurogenesis, and conceivably for many other brain developmental processes. However, in vivo studies of mTOR functions in the brain are often hampered due to the essential role of the associated signaling in brain development. METHODS We monitored the long- and short-term effects of mTOR signaling regulation on cerebral organoids growth, differentiation and function using an mTOR inhibitor (everolimus) and an mTOR activator (MHY1485). RESULTS Short-term treatment with MHY1485 induced faster organoid growth and differentiation, while long-term treatment induced the maturation of cerebral organoids. CONCLUSION These data suggest that the optimal activity of mTOR is crucial in maintaining normal brain development, and its role is not confined to the early neurogenic phase of brain development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sung Bum Park
- Therapeutics and Biotechnology Division, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, 141 Gajeong-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, 34114, Republic of Korea
| | - Byungho Lim
- Therapeutics and Biotechnology Division, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, 141 Gajeong-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, 34114, Republic of Korea
| | - Ki Young Kim
- Therapeutics and Biotechnology Division, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, 141 Gajeong-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, 34114, Republic of Korea.
| | - Byumseok Koh
- Therapeutics and Biotechnology Division, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, 141 Gajeong-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, 34114, Republic of Korea.
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29
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Liu H, Gan Z, Qin X, Wang Y, Qin J. Advances in Microfluidic Technologies in Organoid Research. Adv Healthc Mater 2023:e2302686. [PMID: 38134345 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202302686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
Organoids have emerged as major technological breakthroughs and novel organ models that have revolutionized biomedical research by recapitulating the key structural and functional complexities of their in vivo counterparts. The combination of organoid systems and microfluidic technologies has opened new frontiers in organoid engineering and offers great opportunities to address the current challenges of existing organoid systems and broaden their biomedical applications. In this review, the key features of the existing organoids, including their origins, development, design principles, and limitations, are described. Then the recent progress in integrating organoids into microfluidic systems is highlighted, involving microarrays for high-throughput organoid manipulation, microreactors for organoid hydrogel scaffold fabrication, and microfluidic chips for functional organoid culture. The opportunities in the nascent combination of organoids and microfluidics that lie ahead to accelerate research in organ development, disease studies, drug screening, and regenerative medicine are also discussed. Finally, the challenges and future perspectives in the development of advanced microfluidic platforms and modified technologies for building organoids with higher fidelity and standardization are envisioned.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haitao Liu
- Division of Biotechnology, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, 116023, China
| | - Zhongqiao Gan
- Division of Biotechnology, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, 116023, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Xinyuan Qin
- Division of Biotechnology, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, 116023, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Yaqing Wang
- University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, China
- Suzhou Institute for Advanced Research, University of Science and Technology of China, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Jianhua Qin
- Division of Biotechnology, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, 116023, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
- University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, China
- Suzhou Institute for Advanced Research, University of Science and Technology of China, Suzhou, 215123, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
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30
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Ni P, Fan L, Jiang Y, Zhou C, Chung S. From cells to insights: the power of human pluripotent stem cell-derived cortical interneurons in psychiatric disorder modeling. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1336085. [PMID: 38188058 PMCID: PMC10768008 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1336085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Psychiatric disorders, such as schizophrenia (SCZ) and autism spectrum disorders (ASD), represent a global health challenge with their poorly understood and complex etiologies. Cortical interneurons (cINs) are the primary inhibitory neurons in the cortex and their subtypes, especially those that are generated from the medial ganglionic emission (MGE) region, have been shown to play an important role in the pathogenesis of these psychiatric disorders. Recent advances in induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) technologies provide exciting opportunities to model and study these disorders using human iPSC-derived cINs. In this review, we present a comprehensive overview of various methods employed to generate MGE-type cINs from human iPSCs, which are mainly categorized into induction by signaling molecules vs. direct genetic manipulation. We discuss their advantages, limitations, and potential applications in psychiatric disorder modeling to aid researchers in choosing the appropriate methods based on their research goals. We also provide examples of how these methods have been applied to study the pathogenesis of psychiatric disorders. In addition, we discuss ongoing challenges and future directions in the field. Overall, iPSC-derived cINs provide a powerful tool to model the developmental pathogenesis of psychiatric disorders, thus aiding in uncovering disease mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets. This review article will provide valuable resources for researchers seeking to navigate the complexities of cIN generation methods and their applications in the study of psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peiyan Ni
- Department of Neurobiology, Affiliated Mental Health Center and Hangzhou Seventh People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Liangzhu Laboratory, State Key Laboratory of Brain-Machine Intelligence, MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Science and Brain-Machine Integration, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lingyi Fan
- The Mental Health Center and Psychiatric Laboratory, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Youhui Jiang
- The Mental Health Center and Psychiatric Laboratory, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Chuqing Zhou
- The Mental Health Center and Psychiatric Laboratory, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Sangmi Chung
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, United States
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31
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Kiral FR, Choe M, Park IH. Diencephalic organoids - A key to unraveling development, connectivity, and pathology of the human diencephalon. Front Cell Neurosci 2023; 17:1308479. [PMID: 38130869 PMCID: PMC10733522 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2023.1308479] [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: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The diencephalon, an integral component of the forebrain, governs a spectrum of crucial functions, ranging from sensory processing to emotional regulation. Yet, unraveling its unique development, intricate connectivity, and its role in neurodevelopmental disorders has long been hampered by the scarcity of human brain tissue and ethical constraints. Recent advancements in stem cell technology, particularly the emergence of brain organoids, have heralded a new era in neuroscience research. Although most brain organoid methodologies have hitherto concentrated on directing stem cells toward telencephalic fates, novel techniques now permit the generation of region-specific brain organoids that faithfully replicate precise diencephalic identities. These models mirror the complexity of the human diencephalon, providing unprecedented opportunities for investigating diencephalic development, functionality, connectivity, and pathophysiology in vitro. This review summarizes the development, function, and connectivity of diencephalic structures and touches upon developmental brain disorders linked to diencephalic abnormalities. Furthermore, it presents current diencephalic organoid models and their applications in unraveling the intricacies of diencephalic development, function, and pathology in humans. Lastly, it highlights thalamocortical assembloid models, adept at capturing human-specific aspects of thalamocortical connections, along with their relevance in neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - In-Hyun Park
- Interdepartmental Neuroscience Program, Department of Genetics, Yale Stem Cell Center, Yale Child Study Center, Wu Tsai Institute, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
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32
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Pan D, Zhang X, Jin K, Jin ZB. CRX haploinsufficiency compromises photoreceptor precursor translocation and differentiation in human retinal organoids. Stem Cell Res Ther 2023; 14:346. [PMID: 38049871 PMCID: PMC10696917 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-023-03590-3] [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: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The CRX-associated autosomal dominant retinopathies suggest a possible pathogenic mechanism of gene haploinsufficiency. However, based on reported human patient cases and studies with mouse models, it is hard to confirm the specific weight of haploinsufficiency in pathogenesis due to the interspecies gaps between gene expression and function. METHODS We created monoallelic CRX by replacing one allele with tdTomato in human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) and subsequently dissect pathogenesis in hESCs-derived retinal organoids. We used transcriptome and immunofluorescence analyses to dissect phenotypic differences between CRX-monoallelic knockout and control wildtype organoids. For location analysis of CRX+ cells, a CRX-expression-tracing system was constructed in control hESCs. We implemented long-term live-cell imaging to describe the translocation of CRX+ cells between two groups in early organoid differentiation. The expression pattern of these dynamic differences was validated using RNA-seq and immunofluorescence assays. RESULTS We identified delayed differentiation of outer nuclear layer (ONL) stratification along with thinner ONL, serious loss of photoreceptor outer segments, as well as downregulated expression of gene for phototransduction and inner/outer segment formation. By live-cell imaging and immunostaining, we observed the overtension of actomyosin network and the arrested translocation of monoallelic CRX+ cells in the early stage of retinal differentiation. CONCLUSIONS We confirmed that gene haploinsufficiency is the mechanism for the dominant pathogenicity of CRX and discovered that CRX regulated postmitotic photoreceptor precursor translocation in addition to its specification of photoreceptor cell fates during human retinal development. These findings revealed a new underlying mechanism of CRX dominant pathogenesis and provided a new clue for the treatment of CRX-associated human retinopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deng Pan
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100730, China.
| | - Xiao Zhang
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Kangxin Jin
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Zi-Bing Jin
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100730, China.
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33
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Wang Z, Zhang Y, Li Z, Wang H, Li N, Deng Y. Microfluidic Brain-on-a-Chip: From Key Technology to System Integration and Application. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2023; 19:e2304427. [PMID: 37653590 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202304427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
As an ideal in vitro model, brain-on-chip (BoC) is an important tool to comprehensively elucidate brain characteristics. However, the in vitro model for the definition scope of BoC has not been universally recognized. In this review, BoC is divided into brain cells-on-a- chip, brain slices-on-a-chip, and brain organoids-on-a-chip according to the type of culture on the chip. Although these three microfluidic BoCs are constructed in different ways, they all use microfluidic chips as carrier tools. This method can better meet the needs of maintaining high culture activity on a chip for a long time. Moreover, BoC has successfully integrated cell biology, the biological material platform technology of microenvironment on a chip, manufacturing technology, online detection technology on a chip, and so on, enabling the chip to present structural diversity and high compatibility to meet different experimental needs and expand the scope of applications. Here, the relevant core technologies, challenges, and future development trends of BoC are summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaohe Wang
- School of Medical Technology, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Yongqian Zhang
- School of Medical Technology, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Zhe Li
- School of Medical Technology, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Hao Wang
- School of Medical Technology, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Nuomin Li
- School of Medical Technology, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Yulin Deng
- School of Medical Technology, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, 100081, China
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34
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McKay TB, Khawaja ZQ, Freedman IG, Turco I, Wiredu K, Colecchi T, Akeju O. Exploring the Pathophysiology of Delirium: An Overview of Biomarker Studies, Animal Models, and Tissue-Engineered Models. Anesth Analg 2023; 137:1186-1197. [PMID: 37851904 PMCID: PMC10840625 DOI: 10.1213/ane.0000000000006715] [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] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
Delirium is an acute brain disorder associated with disorganized thinking, difficulty focusing, and confusion that commonly follows major surgery, severe infection, and illness. Older patients are at high risk for developing delirium during hospitalization, which may contribute to increased morbidity, longer hospitalization, and increased risk of institutionalization following discharge. The pathophysiology underlying delirium remains poorly studied. This review delves into the findings from biomarker studies and animal models, and highlights the potential for tissue-engineered models of the brain in studying this condition. The aim is to bring together the existing knowledge in the field and provide insight into the future direction of delirium research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tina B. McKay
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Zain Q. Khawaja
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Isaac G. Freedman
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Isabella Turco
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Kwame Wiredu
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Talia Colecchi
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Oluwaseun Akeju
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
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35
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Luo B, Liu K, Fan J. Bibliometric analysis of cerebral organoids and diseases in the last 10 years. IBRAIN 2023; 9:431-445. [PMID: 38680505 PMCID: PMC11045186 DOI: 10.1002/ibra.12139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
Cerebral organoids have emerged as a powerful tool for mirroring the brain developmental processes and replicating its unique physiology. This bibliometric analysis aims to delineate the burgeoning trends in the application of cerebral organoids in disease research and offer insights for future investigations. We screened all relevant literature from the Web of Science on cerebral organoids in disease research during the period 2013-2022 and analyzed the research trends in the field using VOSviewer, CiteSpace, and Scimago Graphica software. According to the search strategy, 592 articles were screened out. The United States of America (USA) was the most productive, followed by China and Germany. The top nine institutions in terms of the number of publications include Canada and the United States, with the University of California, San Diego (USA), having the highest number of publications. The International Journal of Molecular Sciences was the most productive journal. Knoblich, Juergen A., and Lancaster, Madeline A. published the highest number of articles. Keyword cluster analysis showed that current research trends focused more on induced pluripotent stem cells to construct organoid models of cerebral diseases and the exploration of their mechanisms and therapeutic modalities. This study provides a comprehensive summary and analysis of global research trends in the field of cerebral organoids in diseases. In the past decade, the number of high-quality papers in this field has increased significantly, and cerebral organoids provide hope for simulating nervous system diseases (such as Alzheimer's disease).
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo‐Yan Luo
- Interdisciplinary Research Center on Biology and Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Organic ChemistryChinese Academy of ScienceShanghaiChina
| | - Ke‐Qian Liu
- Interdisciplinary Research Center on Biology and Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Organic ChemistryChinese Academy of ScienceShanghaiChina
| | - Ji‐Sheng Fan
- ScienceComputer and Engineering of University of South AustraliaAdelaideSouth AustraliaAustralia
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36
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Harary PM, Jgamadze D, Kim J, Wolf JA, Song H, Ming GL, Cullen DK, Chen HI. Cell Replacement Therapy for Brain Repair: Recent Progress and Remaining Challenges for Treating Parkinson's Disease and Cortical Injury. Brain Sci 2023; 13:1654. [PMID: 38137103 PMCID: PMC10741697 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13121654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Neural transplantation represents a promising approach to repairing damaged brain circuitry. Cellular grafts have been shown to promote functional recovery through "bystander effects" and other indirect mechanisms. However, extensive brain lesions may require direct neuronal replacement to achieve meaningful restoration of function. While fetal cortical grafts have been shown to integrate with the host brain and appear to develop appropriate functional attributes, the significant ethical concerns and limited availability of this tissue severely hamper clinical translation. Induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cells and tissues represent a more readily scalable alternative. Significant progress has recently been made in developing protocols for generating a wide range of neural cell types in vitro. Here, we discuss recent progress in neural transplantation approaches for two conditions with distinct design needs: Parkinson's disease and cortical injury. We discuss the current status and future application of injections of dopaminergic cells for the treatment of Parkinson's disease as well as the use of structured grafts such as brain organoids for cortical repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul M. Harary
- Department of Neurosurgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; (P.M.H.)
| | - Dennis Jgamadze
- Department of Neurosurgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; (P.M.H.)
| | - Jaeha Kim
- Department of Neurosurgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; (P.M.H.)
| | - John A. Wolf
- Department of Neurosurgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; (P.M.H.)
- Corporal Michael J. Crescenz Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Hongjun Song
- Department of Neuroscience and Mahoney Institute for Neurosciences, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- The Epigenetics Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Guo-li Ming
- Department of Neuroscience and Mahoney Institute for Neurosciences, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - D. Kacy Cullen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; (P.M.H.)
- Corporal Michael J. Crescenz Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - H. Isaac Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; (P.M.H.)
- Corporal Michael J. Crescenz Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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37
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Pagliaro A, Finger R, Zoutendijk I, Bunschuh S, Clevers H, Hendriks D, Artegiani B. Temporal morphogen gradient-driven neural induction shapes single expanded neuroepithelium brain organoids with enhanced cortical identity. Nat Commun 2023; 14:7361. [PMID: 38016960 PMCID: PMC10684874 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-43141-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Pluripotent stem cell (PSC)-derived human brain organoids enable the study of human brain development in vitro. Typically, the fate of PSCs is guided into subsequent specification steps through static medium switches. In vivo, morphogen gradients are critical for proper brain development and determine cell specification, and associated defects result in neurodevelopmental disorders. Here, we show that initiating neural induction in a temporal stepwise gradient guides the generation of brain organoids composed of a single, self-organized apical-out neuroepithelium, termed ENOs (expanded neuroepithelium organoids). This is at odds with standard brain organoid protocols in which multiple and independent neuroepithelium units (rosettes) are formed. We find that a prolonged, decreasing gradient of TGF-β signaling is a determining factor in ENO formation and allows for an extended phase of neuroepithelium expansion. In-depth characterization reveals that ENOs display improved cellular morphology and tissue architectural features that resemble in vivo human brain development, including expanded germinal zones. Consequently, cortical specification is enhanced in ENOs. ENOs constitute a platform to study the early events of human cortical development and allow interrogation of the complex relationship between tissue architecture and cellular states in shaping the developing human brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Pagliaro
- The Princess Maxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Roxy Finger
- The Princess Maxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Iris Zoutendijk
- The Princess Maxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Saskia Bunschuh
- The Princess Maxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Hans Clevers
- The Princess Maxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Hubrecht Institute, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Pharma, Research and Early Development (pRED) of F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Delilah Hendriks
- The Princess Maxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
- Hubrecht Institute, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | - Benedetta Artegiani
- The Princess Maxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
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38
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Rudibaugh TT, Stuppy SR, Keung AJ. Reactive Oxygen Species Mediate Transcriptional Responses to Dopamine and Cocaine in Human Cerebral Organoids. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16474. [PMID: 38003664 PMCID: PMC10671319 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242216474] [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: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Dopamine signaling in the adult ventral forebrain regulates behavior, stress response, and memory formation and in neurodevelopment regulates neural differentiation and cell migration. Excessive dopamine levels, including those due to cocaine use in utero and in adults, could lead to long-term adverse consequences. The mechanisms underlying both homeostatic and pathological changes remain unclear, in part due to the diverse cellular responses elicited by dopamine and the reliance on animal models that exhibit species-specific differences in dopamine signaling. In this study, we use the human-derived ventral forebrain organoid model of Xiang-Tanaka and characterize their response to cocaine or dopamine. We explore dosing regimens of dopamine or cocaine to simulate acute or chronic exposure. We then use calcium imaging, cAMP imaging, and bulk RNA-sequencing to measure responses to cocaine or dopamine exposure. We observe an upregulation of inflammatory pathways in addition to indicators of oxidative stress following exposure. Using inhibitors of reactive oxygen species (ROS), we then show ROS to be necessary for multiple transcriptional responses of cocaine exposure. These results highlight novel response pathways and validate the potential of cerebral organoids as in vitro human models for studying complex biological processes in the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Albert J. Keung
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27606, USA; (T.T.R.); (S.R.S.)
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39
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Iqbal W, Wang Y, Sun P, Zhou X. Modeling Liver Development and Disease in a Dish. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15921. [PMID: 37958904 PMCID: PMC10650907 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242115921] [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: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Historically, biological research has relied primarily on animal models. While this led to the understanding of numerous human biological processes, inherent species-specific differences make it difficult to answer certain liver-related developmental and disease-specific questions. The advent of 3D organoid models that are either derived from pluripotent stem cells or generated from healthy or diseased tissue-derived stem cells have made it possible to recapitulate the biological aspects of human organs. Organoid technology has been instrumental in understanding the disease mechanism and complements animal models. This review underscores the advances in organoid technology and specifically how liver organoids are used to better understand human-specific biological processes in development and disease. We also discuss advances made in the application of organoid models in drug screening and personalized medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Waqas Iqbal
- Stem Cell Research Center, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China; (W.I.); (Y.W.); (P.S.)
- Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
| | - Yaru Wang
- Stem Cell Research Center, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China; (W.I.); (Y.W.); (P.S.)
- Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
| | - Pingnan Sun
- Stem Cell Research Center, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China; (W.I.); (Y.W.); (P.S.)
- Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
| | - Xiaoling Zhou
- Stem Cell Research Center, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China; (W.I.); (Y.W.); (P.S.)
- Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
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40
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Li Y, Zeng PM, Wu J, Luo ZG. Advances and Applications of Brain Organoids. Neurosci Bull 2023; 39:1703-1716. [PMID: 37222855 PMCID: PMC10603019 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-023-01065-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Understanding the fundamental processes of human brain development and diseases is of great importance for our health. However, existing research models such as non-human primate and mouse models remain limited due to their developmental discrepancies compared with humans. Over the past years, an emerging model, the "brain organoid" integrated from human pluripotent stem cells, has been developed to mimic developmental processes of the human brain and disease-associated phenotypes to some extent, making it possible to better understand the complex structures and functions of the human brain. In this review, we summarize recent advances in brain organoid technologies and their applications in brain development and diseases, including neurodevelopmental, neurodegenerative, psychiatric diseases, and brain tumors. Finally, we also discuss current limitations and the potential of brain organoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Li
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Peng-Ming Zeng
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Jian Wu
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Zhen-Ge Luo
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, China.
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41
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Park SB, Koh B, Kwon HS, Kim YE, Kim SS, Cho SH, Kim TY, Bae MA, Kang D, Kim CH, Kim KY. Quantitative and Qualitative Analysis of Neurotransmitter and Neurosteroid Production in Cerebral Organoids during Differentiation. ACS Chem Neurosci 2023; 14:3761-3771. [PMID: 37796021 PMCID: PMC10587864 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.3c00246] [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: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In the human brain, neurophysiological activity is modulated by the movement of neurotransmitters and neurosteroids. To date, the similarity between cerebral organoids and actual human brains has been evaluated using comprehensive multiomics approaches. However, a systematic analysis of both neurotransmitters and neurosteroids from cerebral organoids has not yet been reported. Here, we performed quantitative and qualitative assessments of neurotransmitters and neurosteroids over the course of cerebral organoid differentiation. Our multiomics approaches revealed that the expression levels of neurotransmitter-related proteins and RNA, including neurosteroids, increase as cerebral organoids mature. We also found that the electrophysiological activity of human cerebral organoids increases in tandem with the expression levels of both neurotransmitters and neurosteroids. Our study demonstrates that the expression levels of neurotransmitters and neurosteroids can serve as key factors in evaluating the maturity and functionality of human cerebral organoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sung Bum Park
- Therapeutics
and Biotechnology Division, Korea Research
Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), 141 Gajeong-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34114, Republic of Korea
| | - Byumseok Koh
- Therapeutics
and Biotechnology Division, Korea Research
Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), 141 Gajeong-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34114, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun Soo Kwon
- Group
for Biometrology, Korea Research Institute
of Standards and Science (KRISS), 267 Gajeong-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34113, Republic
of Korea
- School
of Earth Sciences & Environmental Engineering, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST), 123 Cheomdangwagi-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61005, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Eun Kim
- Group
for Biometrology, Korea Research Institute
of Standards and Science (KRISS), 267 Gajeong-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34113, Republic
of Korea
- School
of Earth Sciences & Environmental Engineering, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST), 123 Cheomdangwagi-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61005, Republic of Korea
| | - Seong Soon Kim
- Therapeutics
and Biotechnology Division, Korea Research
Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), 141 Gajeong-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34114, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung-Hee Cho
- Chemical
Platform Technology Division, Korea Research
Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), 141 Gajeong-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34114, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae-Young Kim
- School
of Earth Sciences & Environmental Engineering, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST), 123 Cheomdangwagi-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61005, Republic of Korea
| | - Myung Ae Bae
- Therapeutics
and Biotechnology Division, Korea Research
Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), 141 Gajeong-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34114, Republic of Korea
| | - Dukjin Kang
- Group
for Biometrology, Korea Research Institute
of Standards and Science (KRISS), 267 Gajeong-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34113, Republic
of Korea
| | - Chul Hoon Kim
- Department
of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Yonsei
University, 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03722, Republic
of Korea
| | - Ki Young Kim
- Therapeutics
and Biotechnology Division, Korea Research
Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), 141 Gajeong-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34114, Republic of Korea
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42
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Werner JM, Gillis J. Preservation of co-expression defines the primary tissue fidelity of human neural organoids. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.03.31.535112. [PMID: 37034757 PMCID: PMC10081321 DOI: 10.1101/2023.03.31.535112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Human neural organoid models offer an exciting opportunity for studying often inaccessible human-specific brain development; however, it remains unclear how precisely organoids recapitulate fetal/primary tissue biology. Here, we characterize field-wide replicability and biological fidelity through a meta-analysis of single-cell RNA-sequencing data for first and second trimester human primary brain (2.95 million cells, 51 datasets) and neural organoids (1.63 million cells, 130 datasets). We quantify the degree to which primary tissue cell-type marker expression and co-expression are recapitulated in organoids across 12 different protocol types. By quantifying gene-level preservation of primary tissue co-expression, we show neural organoids lie on a spectrum ranging from virtually no signal to co-expression near indistinguishable from primary tissue data, demonstrating high fidelity is within the scope of current methods. Additionally, we show neural organoids preserve the cell-type specific co-expression of developing rather than adult cells, confirming organoids are an appropriate model for primary tissue development. Overall, quantifying the preservation of primary tissue co-expression is a powerful tool for uncovering unifying axes of variation across heterogeneous neural organoid experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan M Werner
- The Stanley Institute for Cognitive Genomics, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY 11724, USA
| | - Jesse Gillis
- The Stanley Institute for Cognitive Genomics, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY 11724, USA
- Physiology Department and Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Micali N, Ma S, Li M, Kim SK, Mato-Blanco X, Sindhu SK, Arellano JI, Gao T, Shibata M, Gobeske KT, Duque A, Santpere G, Sestan N, Rakic P. Molecular programs of regional specification and neural stem cell fate progression in macaque telencephalon. Science 2023; 382:eadf3786. [PMID: 37824652 DOI: 10.1126/science.adf3786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 07/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
During early telencephalic development, intricate processes of regional patterning and neural stem cell (NSC) fate specification take place. However, our understanding of these processes in primates, including both conserved and species-specific features, remains limited. Here, we profiled 761,529 single-cell transcriptomes from multiple regions of the prenatal macaque telencephalon. We deciphered the molecular programs of the early organizing centers and their cross-talk with NSCs, revealing primate-biased galanin-like peptide (GALP) signaling in the anteroventral telencephalon. Regional transcriptomic variations were observed along the frontotemporal axis during early stages of neocortical NSC progression and in neurons and astrocytes. Additionally, we found that genes associated with neuropsychiatric disorders and brain cancer risk might play critical roles in the early telencephalic organizers and during NSC progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Micali
- Department of Neuroscience, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Shaojie Ma
- Department of Neuroscience, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Mingfeng Li
- Department of Neuroscience, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 430030, Wuhan, China
| | - Suel-Kee Kim
- Department of Neuroscience, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Xoel Mato-Blanco
- Hospital del Mar Research Institute, Parc de Recerca Biomèdica de Barcelona (PRBB), 08003 Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | | | - Jon I Arellano
- Department of Neuroscience, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Tianliuyun Gao
- Department of Neuroscience, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Mikihito Shibata
- Department of Neuroscience, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Kevin T Gobeske
- Department of Neuroscience, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Alvaro Duque
- Department of Neuroscience, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Gabriel Santpere
- Hospital del Mar Research Institute, Parc de Recerca Biomèdica de Barcelona (PRBB), 08003 Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Nenad Sestan
- Department of Neuroscience, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
- Departments of Psychiatry, Genetics and Comparative Medicine, Wu Tsai Institute, Program in Cellular Neuroscience, Neurodegeneration and Repair, and Yale Child Study Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
- Kavli Institute for Neuroscience, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Pasko Rakic
- Department of Neuroscience, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
- Kavli Institute for Neuroscience, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
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Chiaradia I, Imaz-Rosshandler I, Nilges BS, Boulanger J, Pellegrini L, Das R, Kashikar ND, Lancaster MA. Tissue morphology influences the temporal program of human brain organoid development. Cell Stem Cell 2023; 30:1351-1367.e10. [PMID: 37802039 PMCID: PMC10765088 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2023.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/08/2023]
Abstract
Progression through fate decisions determines cellular composition and tissue architecture, but how that same architecture may impact cell fate is less clear. We took advantage of organoids as a tractable model to interrogate this interaction of form and fate. Screening methodological variations revealed that common protocol adjustments impacted various aspects of morphology, from macrostructure to tissue architecture. We examined the impact of morphological perturbations on cell fate through integrated single nuclear RNA sequencing (snRNA-seq) and spatial transcriptomics. Regardless of the specific protocol, organoids with more complex morphology better mimicked in vivo human fetal brain development. Organoids with perturbed tissue architecture displayed aberrant temporal progression, with cells being intermingled in both space and time. Finally, encapsulation to impart a simplified morphology led to disrupted tissue cytoarchitecture and a similar abnormal maturational timing. These data demonstrate that cells of the developing brain require proper spatial coordinates to undergo correct temporal progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Chiaradia
- MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK
| | | | - Benedikt S Nilges
- Resolve Biosciences GmbH, Alfred-Nobel-Strasse 10, 40789 Monheim am Rhein, Germany
| | - Jerome Boulanger
- MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK
| | - Laura Pellegrini
- MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK
| | - Richa Das
- Resolve Biosciences GmbH, Alfred-Nobel-Strasse 10, 40789 Monheim am Rhein, Germany
| | - Nachiket D Kashikar
- Resolve Biosciences GmbH, Alfred-Nobel-Strasse 10, 40789 Monheim am Rhein, Germany
| | - Madeline A Lancaster
- MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK; Wellcome-MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
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45
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Meng X, Yao D, Imaizumi K, Chen X, Kelley KW, Reis N, Thete MV, Arjun McKinney A, Kulkarni S, Panagiotakos G, Bassik MC, Pașca SP. Assembloid CRISPR screens reveal impact of disease genes in human neurodevelopment. Nature 2023; 622:359-366. [PMID: 37758944 PMCID: PMC10567561 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-023-06564-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
The assembly of cortical circuits involves the generation and migration of interneurons from the ventral to the dorsal forebrain1-3, which has been challenging to study at inaccessible stages of late gestation and early postnatal human development4. Autism spectrum disorder and other neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) have been associated with abnormal cortical interneuron development5, but which of these NDD genes affect interneuron generation and migration, and how they mediate these effects remains unknown. We previously developed a platform to study interneuron development and migration in subpallial organoids and forebrain assembloids6. Here we integrate assembloids with CRISPR screening to investigate the involvement of 425 NDD genes in human interneuron development. The first screen aimed at interneuron generation revealed 13 candidate genes, including CSDE1 and SMAD4. We subsequently conducted an interneuron migration screen in more than 1,000 forebrain assembloids that identified 33 candidate genes, including cytoskeleton-related genes and the endoplasmic reticulum-related gene LNPK. We discovered that, during interneuron migration, the endoplasmic reticulum is displaced along the leading neuronal branch before nuclear translocation. LNPK deletion interfered with this endoplasmic reticulum displacement and resulted in abnormal migration. These results highlight the power of this CRISPR-assembloid platform to systematically map NDD genes onto human development and reveal disease mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangling Meng
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Stanford Brain Organogenesis Program, Wu Tsai Neurosciences Institute and Bio-X, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - David Yao
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Kent Imaizumi
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Stanford Brain Organogenesis Program, Wu Tsai Neurosciences Institute and Bio-X, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Xiaoyu Chen
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Stanford Brain Organogenesis Program, Wu Tsai Neurosciences Institute and Bio-X, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Kevin W Kelley
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Stanford Brain Organogenesis Program, Wu Tsai Neurosciences Institute and Bio-X, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Noah Reis
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Stanford Brain Organogenesis Program, Wu Tsai Neurosciences Institute and Bio-X, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Mayuri Vijay Thete
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Stanford Brain Organogenesis Program, Wu Tsai Neurosciences Institute and Bio-X, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Arpana Arjun McKinney
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Departments of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Black Family Stem Cell Institute, Seaver Autism Center for Research and Treatment, Alper Center for Neural Development and Regeneration, Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Shravanti Kulkarni
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Stanford Brain Organogenesis Program, Wu Tsai Neurosciences Institute and Bio-X, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Georgia Panagiotakos
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Departments of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Black Family Stem Cell Institute, Seaver Autism Center for Research and Treatment, Alper Center for Neural Development and Regeneration, Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Sergiu P Pașca
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
- Stanford Brain Organogenesis Program, Wu Tsai Neurosciences Institute and Bio-X, Stanford, CA, USA.
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46
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Tsai YC, Ozaki H, Morikawa A, Shiraiwa K, Pin AP, Salem AG, Phommahasay KA, Sugita BK, Vu CH, Mamoun Hammad S, Kamei KI, Watanabe M. Brain organoid-on-a-chip to create multiple domains in forebrain organoids. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.09.18.558278. [PMID: 37781620 PMCID: PMC10541131 DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.18.558278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
Brain organoids are three-dimensionally reconstructed brain tissue derived from pluripotent stem cells in vitro. 3D tissue cultures have opened new avenues for exploring development and disease modeling. However, some physiological conditions, including signaling gradients in 3D cultures, have not yet been easily achieved. Here, we introduce Brain Organoid-on-a-Chip platforms that generate signaling gradients that in turn enable the induction of topographic forebrain organoids. This creates a more continuous spectrum of brain regions and provides a more complete mimic of the human brain for evaluating neurodevelopment and disease in unprecedented detail.
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47
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Zhang XS, Xie G, Ma H, Ding S, Wu YX, Fei Y, Cheng Q, Huang Y, Wang Y. Highly reproducible and cost-effective one-pot organoid differentiation using a novel platform based on PF-127 triggered spheroid assembly. Biofabrication 2023; 15:045014. [PMID: 37552975 DOI: 10.1088/1758-5090/acee21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023]
Abstract
Organoid technology offers sophisticatedin vitrohuman models for basic research and drug development. However, low batch-to-batch reproducibility and high cost due to laborious procedures and materials prevent organoid culture standardization for automation and high-throughput applications. Here, using a novel platform based on the findings that Pluronic F-127 (PF-127) could trigger highly uniform spheroid assembly through a mechanism different from plate coating, we develop a one-pot organoid differentiation strategy. Using our strategy, we successfully generate cortical, nephron, hepatic, and lung organoids with improved reproducibility compared to previous methods while reducing the original costs by 80%-95%. In addition, we adapt our platform to microfluidic chips allowing automated culture. We showcase that our platform can be applied to tissue-specific screening, such as drug toxicity and transfection reagents testing. Finally, we generateNEAT1knockout tissue-specific organoids and showNEAT1modulates multiple signaling pathways fine-tuning the differentiation of nephron and hepatic organoids and suppresses immune responses in cortical organoids. In summary, our strategy provides a powerful platform for advancing organoid research and studying human development and diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Shan Zhang
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, College of Future Technology, Peking University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Gang Xie
- Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, Peking University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Honghao Ma
- Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Biomedical Pioneering Innovation Center, Peking University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuangjin Ding
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, College of Future Technology, Peking University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi-Xia Wu
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, College of Future Technology, Peking University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuan Fei
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Future Technology, Peking University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiang Cheng
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Future Technology, Peking University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yanyi Huang
- Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Biomedical Pioneering Innovation Center, Peking University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Institute for Cell Analysis, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, People's Republic of China
| | - Yangming Wang
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, College of Future Technology, Peking University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
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48
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Guang S, O'Brien BM, Fine AS, Ying M, Fatemi A, Nemeth CL. Mutations in DARS2 result in global dysregulation of mRNA metabolism and splicing. Sci Rep 2023; 13:13042. [PMID: 37563224 PMCID: PMC10415389 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-40107-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Leukoencephalopathy with brainstem and spinal cord involvement and lactate elevation (LBSL) is a rare neurological disorder caused by the mutations in the DARS2 gene, which encodes the mitochondrial aspartyl-tRNA synthetase. The objective of this study was to understand the impact of DARS2 mutations on cell processes through evaluation of LBSL patient stem cell derived cerebral organoids and neurons. We generated human cerebral organoids (hCOs) from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) of seven LBSL patients and three healthy controls using an unguided protocol. Single cells from 70-day-old hCOs were subjected to SMART-seq2 sequencing and bioinformatic analysis to acquire high-resolution gene and transcript expression datasets. Global gene expression analysis demonstrated dysregulation of a number of genes involved in mRNA metabolism and splicing processes within LBSL hCOs. Importantly, there were distinct and divergent gene expression profiles based on the nature of the DARS2 mutation. At the transcript level, pervasive differential transcript usage and differential spliced exon events that are involved in protein translation and metabolism were identified in LBSL hCOs. Single-cell analysis of DARS2 (exon 3) showed that some LBSL cells exclusively express transcripts lacking exon 3, indicating that not all LBSL cells can benefit from the "leaky" nature common to splice site mutations. At the gene- and transcript-level, we uncovered that dysregulated RNA splicing, protein translation and metabolism may underlie at least some of the pathophysiological mechanisms in LBSL. To confirm hCO findings, iPSC-derived neurons (iNs) were generated by overexpressing Neurogenin 2 using lentiviral vector to study neuronal growth, splicing of DARS2 exon 3 and DARS2 protein expression. Live cell imaging revealed neuronal growth defects of LBSL iNs, which was consistent with the finding of downregulated expression of genes related to neuronal differentiation in LBSL hCOs. DARS2 protein was downregulated in iNs compared to iPSCs, caused by increased exclusion of exon 3. The scope and complexity of our data imply that DARS2 is potentially involved in transcription regulation beyond its canonical role of aminoacylation. Nevertheless, our work highlights transcript-level dysregulation as a critical, and relatively unexplored, mechanism linking genetic data with neurodegenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Guang
- Moser Center for Leukodystrophies at Kennedy Krieger, Kennedy Krieger Institute, 707 N Broadway, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - B M O'Brien
- Moser Center for Leukodystrophies at Kennedy Krieger, Kennedy Krieger Institute, 707 N Broadway, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - A S Fine
- Department of Neurology and Developmental Medicine, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - M Ying
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Neurology, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - A Fatemi
- Moser Center for Leukodystrophies at Kennedy Krieger, Kennedy Krieger Institute, 707 N Broadway, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - C L Nemeth
- Moser Center for Leukodystrophies at Kennedy Krieger, Kennedy Krieger Institute, 707 N Broadway, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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49
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Zhang Z, Bao X, Lin CP. Progress and Prospects of Gene Editing in Pluripotent Stem Cells. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2168. [PMID: 37626665 PMCID: PMC10452926 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11082168] [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: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 07/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Applying programmable nucleases in gene editing has greatly shaped current research in basic biology and clinical translation. Gene editing in human pluripotent stem cells (PSCs), including embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), is highly relevant to clinical cell therapy and thus should be examined with particular caution. First, since all mutations in PSCs will be carried to all their progenies, off-target edits of editors will be amplified. Second, due to the hypersensitivity of PSCs to DNA damage, double-strand breaks (DSBs) made by gene editing could lead to low editing efficiency and the enrichment of cell populations with defective genomic safeguards. In this regard, DSB-independent gene editing tools, such as base editors and prime editors, are favored due to their nature to avoid these consequences. With more understanding of the microbial world, new systems, such as Cas-related nucleases, transposons, and recombinases, are also expanding the toolbox for gene editing. In this review, we discuss current applications of programmable nucleases in PSCs for gene editing, the efforts researchers have made to optimize these systems, as well as new tools that can be potentially employed for differentiation modeling and therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Chao-Po Lin
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China; (Z.Z.); (X.B.)
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50
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Jeziorski J, Brandt R, Evans JH, Campana W, Kalichman M, Thompson E, Goldstein L, Koch C, Muotri AR. Brain organoids, consciousness, ethics and moral status. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2023; 144:97-102. [PMID: 35339359 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2022.03.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Revised: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Advances in the field of human stem cells are often a source of public and ethical controversy. Researchers must frequently balance diverse societal perspectives on questions of morality with the pursuit of medical therapeutics and innovation. Recent developments in brain organoids make this challenge even more acute. Brain organoids are a new class of brain surrogate generated from human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs). They have gained traction as a model for studying the intricacies of the human brain by using advancements in stem cell biology to recapitulate aspects of the developing human brain in vitro. However, recent observation of neural oscillations spontaneously emerging from these organoids raises the question of whether brain organoids are or could become conscious. At the same time, brain organoids offer a potentially unique opportunity to scientifically understand consciousness. To address these issues, experimental biologists, philosophers, and ethicists united to discuss the possibility of consciousness in human brain organoids and the consequent ethical and moral implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob Jeziorski
- Departments of Pediatrics and Cellular & Molecular Medicine, University of California San Diego, School of Medicine, Center for Academic Research and Training in Anthropogeny (CARTA), Kavli Institute for Brain and Mind, Archealization Center (ArchC), La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Reuven Brandt
- Department of Philosophy, University of California, La Jolla, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
| | - John H Evans
- Institute for Practical Ethics, University of California, La Jolla, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
| | - Wendy Campana
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of California, La Jolla, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
| | - Michael Kalichman
- Research Ethics Program, University of California, La Jolla, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
| | - Evan Thompson
- Department of Philosophy, University of British Columbia, Canada
| | - Lawrence Goldstein
- Departments of Medicine and Cellular & Molecular Medicine, University of California, La Jolla, San Diego, CA 92037, USA
| | | | - Alysson R Muotri
- Departments of Pediatrics and Cellular & Molecular Medicine, University of California San Diego, School of Medicine, Center for Academic Research and Training in Anthropogeny (CARTA), Kavli Institute for Brain and Mind, Archealization Center (ArchC), La Jolla, CA 92037, USA.
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