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Romo-Valera C, Appel EA, Etxebarria J, Arluzea J, Andollo N. In Vitro Evaluation of Gelatin-Based Hydrogels as Potential Fillers for Corneal Wounds. Biomacromolecules 2025. [PMID: 40079491 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.4c01759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/15/2025]
Abstract
Corneal persistent epithelial defects are common ophthalmic injuries that can cause significant visual and structural damage. While diagnosis is straightforward, treatment remains challenging. Noninvasive therapies like eye drops are preferred, but severe neurotrophic keratopathy may require surgical interventions. This study explores gelatin-based hydrogels as noninvasive alternatives for corneal repair. Four photo-cross-linkable hydrogels with gelatin and riboflavin phosphate (RFP) were evaluated: a control and variants incorporating 2.5% dextran (D), 0.4% hyaluronic acid (HA), or 1% methylcellulose (MC). In vitro assessments included physicochemical properties, biocompatibility, and release kinetics alongside ex vivo wound healing assays. The gelatin-RFP hydrogel maintained corneal transparency, while additives reduced it. Dextran slowed compound release, and HA and MC reduced the release rate of larger molecules. All hydrogels showed excellent biocompatibility, and ex vivo models confirmed re-epithelialization, though slower than controls. The unmodified gelatin-RFP hydrogel demonstrated the best potential for corneal tissue engineering, supporting its future clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Romo-Valera
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, School of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Sarriena s/n, Leioa 48940, Spain
- BEGIKER Ophthalmology Research Group, Biobizkaia Health Research Institute, Plaza Cruces S/N, Barakaldo 48903, Spain
| | - Eric A Appel
- Department of Bioengineering and Department of Pediatrics (Endocrinology), Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
- Department of Materials Science & Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
- Sarafan ChEM-H, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
- Wood Institute for the Environment, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| | - Jaime Etxebarria
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, School of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Sarriena s/n, Leioa 48940, Spain
- BEGIKER Ophthalmology Research Group, Biobizkaia Health Research Institute, Plaza Cruces S/N, Barakaldo 48903, Spain
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital of Cruces, Plaza Cruces S/N, Barakaldo 48903, Spain
| | - Jon Arluzea
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, School of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Sarriena s/n, Leioa 48940, Spain
- BEGIKER Ophthalmology Research Group, Biobizkaia Health Research Institute, Plaza Cruces S/N, Barakaldo 48903, Spain
| | - Noelia Andollo
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, School of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Sarriena s/n, Leioa 48940, Spain
- BEGIKER Ophthalmology Research Group, Biobizkaia Health Research Institute, Plaza Cruces S/N, Barakaldo 48903, Spain
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2
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Singh RP, Sharma A, Selim A, Kundu PP, Jayamurugan G. Gelation and post-gelation mechanism of methylcellulose in an aqueous medium: 1H NMR and dynamic compressive rheological studies. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 283:137725. [PMID: 39566752 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.137725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2024] [Revised: 10/15/2024] [Accepted: 11/14/2024] [Indexed: 11/22/2024]
Abstract
Methylcellulose (MC) has become crucial in 3D bioprinting in the last decade. Researchers investigated MC aqueous solutions blended with biopolymers at room temperature, focusing on rheological studies. Even at low concentrations, the gel state of MC, which provides structural strength through hydrophilic and hydrophobic associations, was explored for injection-based 3D printability. Post-gelation phenomena were examined at 80 °C using a dynamic mechanical analyzer (DMA), revealing increased storage and loss moduli with frequency, indicating a robust gel network structure. Optical microscopy reveals that upon heating from 40 to 80 °C, the structural strength is enhanced via the formation of hydrophobic confirmations, starting from the micro-helical structure to the associated microarray. These microarrays are further synchronized to withstand the high frequency of the DMA probe. Compressive rheology outcomes allow us to elaborate on the possibility of injection-based 3D printability of aqueous MC gel at 80 °C. 1H and 13C NMR studies probed hydrophobic interactions among MC chains, showing evidence of H-bonding through temperature-dependent shifts. UV/Vis experiments traced gel formation, depicting a time-dependent network formation process. Overall experiments indicated that adjusting temperature could control gelation time, allowing precise tuning of the printing process and achieving fine layers (10 μm) in the printed membrane with maximum hydrophobic clusters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ratan Pal Singh
- Institute of Nano Science and Technology, Knowledge City, Sector 81, Mohali 140306, Punjab, India; Department of Chemistry, GSSDGS Khalsa College, Patiala 1477001, India.
| | - Ashish Sharma
- Institute of Nano Science and Technology, Knowledge City, Sector 81, Mohali 140306, Punjab, India
| | - Abdul Selim
- Institute of Nano Science and Technology, Knowledge City, Sector 81, Mohali 140306, Punjab, India
| | - Patit Paban Kundu
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee 247667, India
| | - Govindasamy Jayamurugan
- Institute of Nano Science and Technology, Knowledge City, Sector 81, Mohali 140306, Punjab, India.
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3
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Dorn S, Schütte F, Konieczny R, Mayr SG. "Inverse" shape memory effect in energetic electron crosslinked methylcellulose hydrogels: Programming, demonstration and quantification. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 285:138078. [PMID: 39617222 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.138078] [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: 08/01/2024] [Revised: 11/06/2024] [Accepted: 11/24/2024] [Indexed: 12/10/2024]
Abstract
Shape memory hydrogels constitute a highly attractive materials class that bears enormous potential within a broad range of areas - from engineering to medicine. Within the present contribution we demonstrate that energetic electron crosslinked methylcellulose-only hydrogels exhibit an "inverse" shape memory effect that transforms from a secondary shape to its primary shape upon cooling. The primary shape can conveniently be "programmed" by application of energetic electrons. This intrinsically sterilizing processing approach promises to preserve the excellent FDA-approved biocompatibility of methylcellulose, particularly as it does not involve potentially hazardous crosslinkers or other reagents with medically adverse effects. While we observe the transformation behavior in a systematic study as function of synthesis parameters, we also address functional fatigue and quantify fixity, strain recovery as well as attainable actuator forces. With the latter being in the range of 0.1 N, our actuator elements might prove useful for biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Svenja Dorn
- Division of Surface Physics, Department of Physics and Earth System Sciences, University of Leipzig, Linnéstr. 5, 04103 Leipzig, Germany; Leibniz Institute of Surface Engineering (IOM), Permoserstr. 15, 04318 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Friedrich Schütte
- Division of Surface Physics, Department of Physics and Earth System Sciences, University of Leipzig, Linnéstr. 5, 04103 Leipzig, Germany; Leibniz Institute of Surface Engineering (IOM), Permoserstr. 15, 04318 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Robert Konieczny
- Leibniz Institute of Surface Engineering (IOM), Permoserstr. 15, 04318 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Stefan G Mayr
- Division of Surface Physics, Department of Physics and Earth System Sciences, University of Leipzig, Linnéstr. 5, 04103 Leipzig, Germany; Leibniz Institute of Surface Engineering (IOM), Permoserstr. 15, 04318 Leipzig, Germany.
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4
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Gholamali I, Vu TT, Jo SH, Park SH, Lim KT. Exploring the Progress of Hyaluronic Acid Hydrogels: Synthesis, Characteristics, and Wide-Ranging Applications. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 17:2439. [PMID: 38793505 PMCID: PMC11123044 DOI: 10.3390/ma17102439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2024] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
This comprehensive review delves into the world of hyaluronic acid (HA) hydrogels, exploring their creation, characteristics, research methodologies, and uses. HA hydrogels stand out among natural polysaccharides due to their distinct features. Their exceptional biocompatibility makes them a top choice for diverse biomedical purposes, with a great ability to coexist harmoniously with living cells and tissues. Furthermore, their biodegradability permits their gradual breakdown by bodily enzymes, enabling the creation of temporary frameworks for tissue engineering endeavors. Additionally, since HA is a vital component of the extracellular matrix (ECM) in numerous tissues, HA hydrogels can replicate the ECM's structure and functions. This mimicry is pivotal in tissue engineering applications by providing an ideal setting for cellular growth and maturation. Various cross-linking techniques like chemical, physical, enzymatic, and hybrid methods impact the mechanical strength, swelling capacity, and degradation speed of the hydrogels. Assessment tools such as rheological analysis, electron microscopy, spectroscopy, swelling tests, and degradation studies are employed to examine their attributes. HA-based hydrogels feature prominently in tissue engineering, drug distribution, wound recovery, ophthalmology, and cartilage mending. Crafting HA hydrogels enables the production of biomaterials with sought-after qualities, offering avenues for advancements in the realm of biomedicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iman Gholamali
- Industry 4.0 Convergence Bionics Engineering, Pukyong National University, Busan 48513, Republic of Korea; (I.G.); (S.-H.J.)
| | - Trung Thang Vu
- Department of Smart Green Technology Engineering, Pukyong National University, Busan 48513, Republic of Korea;
| | - Sung-Han Jo
- Industry 4.0 Convergence Bionics Engineering, Pukyong National University, Busan 48513, Republic of Korea; (I.G.); (S.-H.J.)
| | - Sang-Hyug Park
- Industry 4.0 Convergence Bionics Engineering, Pukyong National University, Busan 48513, Republic of Korea; (I.G.); (S.-H.J.)
- Major of Biomedical Engineering, Division of Smart Healthcare, College of Information Technology and Convergence, Pukyong National University, Busan 48513, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwon Taek Lim
- Institute of Display Semiconductor Technology, Pukyong National University, Busan 48513, Republic of Korea
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Xu SQ, Du YN, Zhang ZJ, Yan JN, Sun JJ, Zhang LC, Wang C, Lai B, Wu HT. Gel properties and interactions of hydrogels constructed with low acyl gellan gum and puerarin. Carbohydr Polym 2024; 326:121594. [PMID: 38142069 DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2023.121594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/25/2023]
Abstract
To develop composite hydrogels based on low acyl gellan gum (GG), the effect of puerarin (PUE) on the gel properties of GG was investigated. The results showed that the maximum storage modulus (G') of the 1.2 % GG/0.8 % PUE composite hydrogel was 377.4 Pa at 0.1 Hz, which was enhanced by 4.7-fold compared with that of 1.2 % GG. The melting temperature of this composite hydrogel increased from 74.1 °C to >80.0 °C. LF-NMR results showed that a significant amount of free water was present in the hydrogel matrix. The surface structure aggregation and the shrinkage of the honeycomb meshes in the composite hydrogel proved the cross-linking of PUE and GG. XRD, FTIR and molecular simulation results illustrated that hydrogen bonds were the most important factor controlling the interaction between GG and PUE. Thus, the GG/PUE composite hydrogel has good elasticity, thermal stability and water retention, which lays a good foundation for further application in the food industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shi-Qi Xu
- SKL of Marine Food Processing & Safety Control, National Engineering Research Center of Seafood, Collaborative Innovation Center of Seafood Deep Processing, School of Food Science and Technology, Dalian Polytechnic University, Dalian 116034, China
| | - Yi-Nan Du
- SKL of Marine Food Processing & Safety Control, National Engineering Research Center of Seafood, Collaborative Innovation Center of Seafood Deep Processing, School of Food Science and Technology, Dalian Polytechnic University, Dalian 116034, China
| | - Zhu-Jun Zhang
- SKL of Marine Food Processing & Safety Control, National Engineering Research Center of Seafood, Collaborative Innovation Center of Seafood Deep Processing, School of Food Science and Technology, Dalian Polytechnic University, Dalian 116034, China
| | - Jia-Nan Yan
- SKL of Marine Food Processing & Safety Control, National Engineering Research Center of Seafood, Collaborative Innovation Center of Seafood Deep Processing, School of Food Science and Technology, Dalian Polytechnic University, Dalian 116034, China
| | - Jin-Jian Sun
- Dalian Center for Food and Drug Control and Certification, Dalian 116037, China
| | - Li-Chao Zhang
- Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China
| | - Ce Wang
- SKL of Marine Food Processing & Safety Control, National Engineering Research Center of Seafood, Collaborative Innovation Center of Seafood Deep Processing, School of Food Science and Technology, Dalian Polytechnic University, Dalian 116034, China
| | - Bin Lai
- SKL of Marine Food Processing & Safety Control, National Engineering Research Center of Seafood, Collaborative Innovation Center of Seafood Deep Processing, School of Food Science and Technology, Dalian Polytechnic University, Dalian 116034, China
| | - Hai-Tao Wu
- SKL of Marine Food Processing & Safety Control, National Engineering Research Center of Seafood, Collaborative Innovation Center of Seafood Deep Processing, School of Food Science and Technology, Dalian Polytechnic University, Dalian 116034, China.
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Gialouri A, Saravanou SF, Loukelis K, Chatzinikolaidou M, Pasparakis G, Bouropoulos N. Thermoresponsive Alginate-Graft-pNIPAM/Methyl Cellulose 3D-Printed Scaffolds Promote Osteogenesis In Vitro. Gels 2023; 9:984. [PMID: 38131970 PMCID: PMC10743144 DOI: 10.3390/gels9120984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
In this work, a sodium alginate-based copolymer grafted by thermoresponsive poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM) chains was used as gelator (Alg-g-PNIPAM) in combination with methylcellulose (MC). It was found that the mechanical properties of the resulting gel could be enhanced by the addition of MC and calcium ions (Ca2+). The proposed network is formed via a dual crosslinking mechanism including ionic interactions among Ca2+ and carboxyl groups and secondary hydrophobic associations of PNIPAM chains. MC was found to further reinforce the dynamic moduli of the resulting gels (i.e., a storage modulus of ca. 1500 Pa at physiological body and post-printing temperature), rendering them suitable for 3D printing in biomedical applications. The polymer networks were stable and retained their printed fidelity with minimum erosion as low as 6% for up to seven days. Furthermore, adhered pre-osteoblastic cells on Alg-g-PNIPAM/MC printed scaffolds presented 80% viability compared to tissue culture polystyrene control, and more importantly, they promoted the osteogenic potential, as indicated by the increased alkaline phosphatase activity, calcium, and collagen production relative to the Alg-g-PNIPAM control scaffolds. Specifically, ALP activity and collagen secreted by cells were significantly enhanced in Alg-g-PNIPAM/MC scaffolds compared to the Alg-g-PNIPAM counterparts, demonstrating their potential in bone tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aikaterini Gialouri
- Department of Materials Science, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece;
| | | | - Konstantinos Loukelis
- Department of Materials Science and Technology, University of Crete, 70013 Heraklion, Greece;
| | - Maria Chatzinikolaidou
- Department of Materials Science and Technology, University of Crete, 70013 Heraklion, Greece;
- Foundation for Research and Technology Hellas (FORTH), Institute of Electronic Structure and Laser (IESL), 70013 Heraklion, Greece
| | - George Pasparakis
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Patras, 26500 Patras, Greece;
| | - Nikolaos Bouropoulos
- Department of Materials Science, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece;
- Foundation for Research and Technology Hellas, Institute of Chemical Engineering and High Temperature Chemical Processes, 26504 Patras, Greece
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7
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Roberge CL, Miceli RT, Murphy LR, Kingsley DM, Gross RA, Corr DT. Sophorolipid Candidates Demonstrate Cytotoxic Efficacy against 2D and 3D Breast Cancer Models. JOURNAL OF NATURAL PRODUCTS 2023; 86:1159-1170. [PMID: 37104545 PMCID: PMC10760934 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jnatprod.2c00804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Sophorolipids are biosurfactants derived from the nonpathogenic yeasts such as Starmerella bombicola with potential efficacy in anticancer applications. Simple and cost-effective synthesis of these drugs makes them a promising alternative to traditional chemotherapeutics, pending their success in preliminary drug-screening. Drug-screening typically utilizes 2D cell monolayers due to their simplicity and ease of high-throughput assessment. However, 2D assays fail to capture the complexity and 3D context of the tumor microenvironment and have consequently been implicated in the high percentage of drugs investigated in vitro that later fail in clinical trials. Herein, we screened two sophorolipid candidates and a clinically-used chemotherapeutic, doxorubicin, on in vitro breast cancer models ranging from 2D monolayers to 3D spheroids, employing optical coherence tomography to confirm these morphologies. We calculated corresponding IC50 values for these drugs and found one of the sophorolipids to have comparable toxicities to the chemotherapeutic control. Our findings show increased drug resistance associated with model dimensionality, such that all drugs tested showed that 3D spheroids exhibited higher IC50 values than their 2D counterparts. These findings demonstrate promising preliminary data to support the use of sophorolipids as a more affordable alternative to traditional clinical interventions and demonstrate the importance of 3D tumor models in assessing drug response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cassandra L Roberge
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York 12180, United States
| | - Rebecca T Miceli
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York 12180, United States
- Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Sciences, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York 12180, United States
| | - Lillian R Murphy
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York 12180, United States
| | - David M Kingsley
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York 12180, United States
| | - Richard A Gross
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York 12180, United States
- Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Sciences, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York 12180, United States
| | - David T Corr
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York 12180, United States
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Application of Hydrogels as Sustained-Release Drug Carriers in Bone Defect Repair. Polymers (Basel) 2022; 14:polym14224906. [PMID: 36433033 PMCID: PMC9695274 DOI: 10.3390/polym14224906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Large bone defects resulting from trauma, infection and tumors are usually difficult for the body's repair mechanisms to heal spontaneously. Generally, various types of bones and orthopedic implants are adopted to enhance bone repair and regeneration in the clinic. Due to the limitations of traditional treatments, bone defect repair is still a compelling challenge for orthopedic surgeons. In recent years, bone tissue engineering has become a potential option for bone repair and regeneration. Amidst the various scaffolds for bone tissue engineering applications, hydrogels are considered a new type of non-toxic, non-irritating and biocompatible materials, which are widely used in the biomedicine field currently. Some studies have demonstrated that hydrogels can provide a three-dimensional network structure similar to a natural extracellular matrix for tissue regeneration and can be used to transport cells, biofactors, nutrients and drugs. Therefore, hydrogels may have the potential to be multifunctional sustained-release drug carriers in the treatment of bone defects. The recent applications of different types of hydrogels in bone defect repair were briefly reviewed in this paper.
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Yang J, Chen Y, Zhao L, Zhang J, Luo H. Constructions and Properties of Physically Cross-Linked Hydrogels Based on Natural Polymers. POLYM REV 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/15583724.2022.2137525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jueying Yang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Yu Chen
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
- Institute of Engineering Medicine, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
- Sports & Medicine Integration Research Center (SMIRC), Capital University of Physical Education and Sports, Beijing, China
| | - Lin Zhao
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Jinghua Zhang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Hang Luo
- Institute of Engineering Medicine, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
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Wei Y, Wang K, Luo S, Li F, Zuo X, Fan C, Li Q. Programmable DNA Hydrogels as Artificial Extracellular Matrix. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2022; 18:e2107640. [PMID: 35119201 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202107640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Revised: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The cell microenvironment plays a crucial role in regulating cell behavior and fate in physiological and pathological processes. As the fundamental component of the cell microenvironment, extracellular matrix (ECM) typically possesses complex ordered structures and provides essential physical and chemical cues to the cells. Hydrogels have attracted much attention in recapitulating the ECM. Compared to natural and synthetic polymer hydrogels, DNA hydrogels have unique programmable capability, which endows the material precise structural customization and tunable properties. This review focuses on recent advances in programmable DNA hydrogels as artificial extracellular matrix, particularly the pure DNA hydrogels. It introduces the classification, design, and assembly of DNA hydrogels, and then summarizes the state-of-the-art achievements in cell encapsulation, cell culture, and tissue engineering with DNA hydrogels. Ultimately, the challenges and prospects for cellular applications of DNA hydrogels are delivered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuhan Wei
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules and National Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, P. R. China
| | - Kaizhe Wang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules and National Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, P. R. China
| | - Shihua Luo
- Department of Traumatology, Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200025, P. R. China
| | - Fan Li
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Nucleic Acids Chemistry and Nanomedicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, P. R. China
| | - Xiaolei Zuo
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Nucleic Acids Chemistry and Nanomedicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, P. R. China
| | - Chunhai Fan
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules and National Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, P. R. China
| | - Qian Li
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules and National Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, P. R. China
- WLA Laboratories, Shanghai, 201203, P. R. China
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Multitasking smart hydrogels based on the combination of alginate and poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) properties: A review. Int J Biol Macromol 2022; 219:312-332. [PMID: 35934076 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2022.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Revised: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT), a very stable and biocompatible conducting polymer, and alginate (Alg), a natural water-soluble polysaccharide mainly found in the cell wall of various species of brown algae, exhibit very different but at the same complementary properties. In the last few years, the remarkable capacity of Alg to form hydrogels and the electro-responsive properties of PEDOT have been combined to form not only layered composites (PEDOT-Alg) but also interpenetrated multi-responsive PEDOT/Alg hydrogels. These materials have been found to display outstanding properties, such as electrical conductivity, piezoelectricity, biocompatibility, self-healing and re-usability properties, pH and thermoelectric responsiveness, among others. Consequently, a wide number of applications are being proposed for PEDOT-Alg composites and, especially, PEDOT/Alg hydrogels, which should be considered as a new kind of hybrid material because of the very different chemical nature of the two polymeric components. This review summarizes the applications of PEDOT-Alg and PEDOT/Alg in tissue interfaces and regeneration, drug delivery, sensors, microfluidics, energy storage and evaporators for desalination. Special attention has been given to the discussion of multi-tasking applications, while the new challenges to be tackled based on aspects not yet considered in either of the two polymers have also been highlighted.
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12
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A thermo-sensitive hydrogel composed of methylcellulose/hyaluronic acid/silk fibrin as a biomimetic extracellular matrix to simulate breast cancer malignancy. Eur Polym J 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eurpolymj.2022.111421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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13
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Sponge-like Scaffolds for Colorectal Cancer 3D Models: Substrate-Driven Difference in Micro-Tumors Morphology. Biomimetics (Basel) 2022; 7:biomimetics7020056. [PMID: 35645183 PMCID: PMC9149916 DOI: 10.3390/biomimetics7020056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Revised: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Macroporous scaffolds (cryogels) for the 3D cell culturing of colorectal cancer micro-tumors have been fabricated by cross-linking chitosan and carboxymethyl chitosan (CMC) with 1,4-butandiol diglycidyl ether (BDDGE) under subzero temperature. Due to the different intrinsic properties and reactivity of CMC and chitosan under the same cross-linking conditions, Young′s moduli and swelling of the permeable for HCT 116 cells cryogels varied in the broad range 3–41 kPa and 3500–6000%, respectively. We have demonstrated that the morphology of micro-tumors can be controlled via selection of the polymer for the scaffold fabrication. Although both types of the cryogels had low cytotoxicity and supported fast cell proliferation, round-shaped tightly packed HCT 116 spheroids with an average size of 104 ± 30 µm were formed in CMC cryogels (Young′s moduli 3–6 kPa), while epithelia-like continuous sheets with thickness up to 150 µm grew in chitosan cryogel (Young′s modulus 41 kPa). There was an explicit similarity between HCT 116 micro-tumor morphology in soft (CMC cryogel) or stiff (chitosan cryogel) and in ultra-low attachment or adhesive culture plates, respectively, but cryogels provided the better control of the micro-tumor’s size distribution and the possibility to perform long-term investigations of drug–response, cell–cell and cell–matrix interactions in vitro.
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Morello G, Quarta A, Gaballo A, Moroni L, Gigli G, Polini A, Gervaso F. A thermo-sensitive chitosan/pectin hydrogel for long-term tumor spheroid culture. Carbohydr Polym 2021; 274:118633. [PMID: 34702456 DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2021.118633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Revised: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Hydrogels represent a key element in the development of in vitro tumor models, by mimicking the typical 3D tumor architecture in a physicochemical manner and allowing the study of tumor mechanisms. Here we developed a thermo-sensitive, natural polymer-based hydrogel, where chitosan and pectin were mixed and, after a weak base-induced chitosan gelation, a stable semi-Interpenetrating Polymer Network formed. This resulted thermo-responsive at 37 °C, injectable at room temperature, stable up to 6 weeks in vitro, permeable to small/medium-sized molecules (3 to 70 kDa) and suitable for cell-encapsulation. Tunable mechanical and permeability properties were obtained by varying the polymer content. Optimized formulations successfully supported the formation and growth of human colorectal cancer spheroids up to 44 days of culture. The spheroid dimension and density were influenced by the semi-IPN stiffness and permeability. These encouraging results would allow the implementation of faithful tumor models for the study and development of personalized oncological treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Morello
- Institute of Nanotechnology, CNR, Lecce 73100, Italy; Dipartimento di Matematica e Fisica E. de Giorgi, Università Del Salento, Lecce 73100, Italy
| | | | | | - Lorenzo Moroni
- Institute of Nanotechnology, CNR, Lecce 73100, Italy; Department of Complex Tissue Regeneration, MERLN Institute for Technology-Inspired Regenerative Medicine, Maastricht University, Maastricht 6229ER, the Netherlands
| | - Giuseppe Gigli
- Institute of Nanotechnology, CNR, Lecce 73100, Italy; Dipartimento di Matematica e Fisica E. de Giorgi, Università Del Salento, Lecce 73100, Italy
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Ewald ML, Chen YH, Lee AP, Hughes CCW. The vascular niche in next generation microphysiological systems. LAB ON A CHIP 2021; 21:3244-3262. [PMID: 34396383 PMCID: PMC8635227 DOI: 10.1039/d1lc00530h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, microphysiological system (MPS, also known as, organ-on-a-chip or tissue chip) platforms have emerged with great promise to improve the predictive capacity of preclinical modeling thereby reducing the high attrition rates when drugs move into trials. While their designs can vary quite significantly, in general MPS are bioengineered in vitro microenvironments that recapitulate key functional units of human organs, and that have broad applications in human physiology, pathophysiology, and clinical pharmacology. A critical next step in the evolution of MPS devices is the widespread incorporation of functional vasculature within tissues. The vasculature itself is a major organ that carries nutrients, immune cells, signaling molecules and therapeutics to all other organs. It also plays critical roles in inducing and maintaining tissue identity through expression of angiocrine factors, and in providing tissue-specific milieus (i.e., the vascular niche) that can support the survival and function of stem cells. Thus, organs are patterned, maintained and supported by the vasculature, which in turn receives signals that drive tissue specific gene expression. In this review, we will discuss published vascularized MPS platforms and present considerations for next-generation devices looking to incorporate this critical constituent. Finally, we will highlight the organ-patterning processes governed by the vasculature, and how the incorporation of a vascular niche within MPS platforms will establish a unique opportunity to study stem cell development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Makena L Ewald
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA.
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16
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Dang LH, Doan P, Nhi TTY, Nguyen DT, Nguyen BT, Nguyen TP, Tran NQ. Multifunctional injectable pluronic-cystamine-alginate-based hydrogel as a novel cellular delivery system towards tissue regeneration. Int J Biol Macromol 2021; 185:592-603. [PMID: 34216661 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2021.06.183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Revised: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/26/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
This paper presents a new thermal sensitive hydrogel system based on cystamine-functionalised sodium alginate-g-pluronic F127 (ACP). The introduction of cystamine to the alginate backbone not only creates a covalent bond with pluronic F127 but also provides intrinsic anti-bacterial activity for the resultant hydrogel. The amount of water uptake inside the hydrogel remained ~200% for 6 days and the degradation was completed in 12 days in physiological media. The ACP copolymer solution could form a hydrogel at body temperature (~37 °C) and could return to the solution phase if the temperature decreased below 25o °C. Fibroblast encapsulated in situ in the ACP hydrogel maintained their viability (≥90% based on the live/dead assay) for 7 days, demonstrating the good biocompatibility of the ACP hydrogel for long-term cell cultivation. In addition, three-dimensional (3D) culture showed that fibroblast attached to the hydrogels and successfully mimicked the porous structure of the ACP hydrogel after 5 days of culture. Fibroblast cells could migrate from the cell-ACP clusters and form a confluent cell layer on the surface of the culture dish. Altogether, the obtained results indicate that the thermal-responsive ACP hydrogel synthesised in this study may serve as a cellular delivery platform for diverse tissue engineering applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Le Hang Dang
- Graduate University of Science and Technology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, HCMC, Viet Nam; Institute of Applied Materials Science, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, HCMC, Viet Nam.
| | - Phuong Doan
- Institute of Applied Materials Science, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, HCMC, Viet Nam
| | - Tran Thi Yen Nhi
- Graduate University of Science and Technology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, HCMC, Viet Nam; NTT Hi-Tech Institute, Nguyen Tat Thanh University, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam
| | - Dinh Trung Nguyen
- Graduate University of Science and Technology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, HCMC, Viet Nam; Institute of Applied Materials Science, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, HCMC, Viet Nam
| | - Bich Tram Nguyen
- Department of Natural Science, Thu Dau Mot University, Thu Dau Mot City, Viet Nam
| | - Thi Phuong Nguyen
- Faculty of Chemical Technology, HCMC University of Food Industry, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam
| | - Ngoc Quyen Tran
- Graduate University of Science and Technology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, HCMC, Viet Nam; Institute of Applied Materials Science, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, HCMC, Viet Nam.
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Chiang CW, Hsiao YC, Jheng PR, Chen CH, Manga YB, Lekha R, Chao KM, Ho YC, Chuang EY. Strontium ranelate-laden near-infrared photothermal-inspired methylcellulose hydrogel for arthritis treatment. MATERIALS SCIENCE & ENGINEERING. C, MATERIALS FOR BIOLOGICAL APPLICATIONS 2021; 123:111980. [PMID: 33812608 DOI: 10.1016/j.msec.2021.111980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Revised: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is of foremost concern among long-term autoimmune disorders, as it leads to inflammation, exudates, chondral degeneration, and painful joints. Because RA severity often fluctuates over time, a local drug delivery method that titrates release of therapeutics to arthritis bioactivity should represent a promising paradigm of RA therapy. Given the local nature of RA chronic illnesses, polysaccharide-drug delivering systems have the promise to augment therapeutic outcomes by offering controlled release of bioactive materials, diminishing the required frequency of administration, and preserving therapeutic levels in affected pathological regions. Herein, an intra-articular photothermal-laden injectable methylcellulose (MC) polymeric hydrogel carrier incorporating strontium ranelate (SrR) and sodium chloride was investigated to resolve these issues. Physicochemical and cellular characteristics of the MC carrier system were thoroughly evaluated. The slow release of SrR, enhancement of the material mechanical strength, and the potential of the non-invasive near-infrared photothermal gel to improve blood circulation and suppress inflammation in a mini-surgical model of RA were examined. Biocompatibility and suppression of intracellular ROS-induced inflammation were observed. This multifunctional photothermal MC hydrogel carrier is anticipated to be an alternative approach for future orthopedic disease treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chih-Wei Chiang
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Electronics and Bioinformatics, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 10617, Taiwan; Department of Orthopedics, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Cheng Hsiao
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Optomechatronics, Graduate Institute of Biomedical Materials and Tissue Engineering, International PhD Program in Biomedical Engineering, School of Biomedical Engineering, College of Biomedical Engineering, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Research Center of Biomedical Device, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Pei-Ru Jheng
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Optomechatronics, Graduate Institute of Biomedical Materials and Tissue Engineering, International PhD Program in Biomedical Engineering, School of Biomedical Engineering, College of Biomedical Engineering, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Research Center of Biomedical Device, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Hwa Chen
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Optomechatronics, Graduate Institute of Biomedical Materials and Tissue Engineering, International PhD Program in Biomedical Engineering, School of Biomedical Engineering, College of Biomedical Engineering, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Research Center of Biomedical Device, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan; Department of Orthopedics, , Taipei Medical University-Shuang Ho Hospital, Zhonghe District, New Taipei City, 23561, Taiwan
| | - Yankuba B Manga
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Optomechatronics, Graduate Institute of Biomedical Materials and Tissue Engineering, International PhD Program in Biomedical Engineering, School of Biomedical Engineering, College of Biomedical Engineering, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Research Center of Biomedical Device, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - R Lekha
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Optomechatronics, Graduate Institute of Biomedical Materials and Tissue Engineering, International PhD Program in Biomedical Engineering, School of Biomedical Engineering, College of Biomedical Engineering, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Research Center of Biomedical Device, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Kun-Mao Chao
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Electronics and Bioinformatics, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 10617, Taiwan; Department of Computer Science and Information Engineering, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 10617, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Cheng Ho
- Department of Bioagriculture Science, National Chiayi University, Chiayi, 60004, Taiwan
| | - Er-Yuan Chuang
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Optomechatronics, Graduate Institute of Biomedical Materials and Tissue Engineering, International PhD Program in Biomedical Engineering, School of Biomedical Engineering, College of Biomedical Engineering, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Research Center of Biomedical Device, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan; Cell Physiology and Molecular Image Research Center, , Taipei Medical University-Wan Fang Hospital, Wenshan District, Taipei, 11696, Taiwan.
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