1
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Lee JWN, Holle AW. Engineering approaches for understanding mechanical memory in cancer metastasis. APL Bioeng 2024; 8:021503. [PMID: 38605886 PMCID: PMC11008915 DOI: 10.1063/5.0194539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Understanding cancer metastasis is crucial for advancing therapeutic strategies and improving clinical outcomes. Cancer cells face dynamic changes in their mechanical microenvironment that occur on timescales ranging from minutes to years and exhibit a spectrum of cellular transformations in response to these mechanical cues. A crucial facet of this adaptive response is the concept of mechanical memory, in which mechanosensitive cell behavior and function persists even when mechanical cues are altered. This review explores the evolving mechanical landscape during metastasis, emphasizing the significance of mechanical memory and its influence on cell behavior. We then focus on engineering techniques that are being utilized to probe mechanical memory of cancer cells. Finally, we highlight promising translational approaches poised to harness mechanical memory for new therapies, thereby advancing the frontiers of bioengineering applications in cancer research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Wen Nicole Lee
- Mechanobiology Institute, National University of Singapore, 117411 Singapore, Singapore
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2
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Kumari J, Paul O, Verdellen L, Berking B, Chen W, Gerrits L, Postma J, Wagener FADTG, Kouwer PHJ. Conductive Polyisocyanide Hydrogels Inhibit Fibrosis and Promote Myogenesis. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2024; 7:3258-3270. [PMID: 38593039 PMCID: PMC11110048 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.4c00210] [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: 02/15/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Reliable in vitro models closely resembling native tissue are urgently needed for disease modeling and drug screening applications. Recently, conductive biomaterials have received increasing attention in the development of in vitro models as they permit exogenous electrical signals to guide cells toward a desired cellular response. Interestingly, they have demonstrated that they promote cellular proliferation and adhesion even without external electrical stimulation. This paper describes the development of a conductive, fully synthetic hydrogel based on hybrids of the peptide-modified polyisocyanide (PIC-RGD) and the relatively conductive poly(aniline-co-N-(4-sulfophenyl)aniline) (PASA) and its suitability as the in vitro matrix. We demonstrate that incorporating PASA enhances the PIC-RGD hydrogel's electroactive nature without significantly altering the fibrous architecture and nonlinear mechanics of the PIC-RGD network. The biocompatibility of our model was assessed through phenotyping cultured human foreskin fibroblasts (HFF) and murine C2C12 myoblasts. Immunofluorescence analysis revealed that PIC-PASA hydrogels inhibit the fibrotic behavior of HFFs while promoting myogenesis in C2C12 cells without electrical stimulation. The composite PIC-PASA hydrogel can actively change the cell fate of different cell types, providing an attractive tool to improve skin and muscle repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jyoti Kumari
- Institute
for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department
of Dentistry—Orthodontics and Craniofacial Biology, Radboud University Medical Centre, 6525 EX Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Odile Paul
- Institute
for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Lisa Verdellen
- Institute
for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Bela Berking
- Institute
for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Wen Chen
- Institute
for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Lotte Gerrits
- Institute
for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Jelle Postma
- Department
of General Instrumentation, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Frank A. D. T. G. Wagener
- Department
of Dentistry—Orthodontics and Craniofacial Biology, Radboud University Medical Centre, 6525 EX Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Paul H. J. Kouwer
- Institute
for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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3
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Kumari J, Hammink R, Baaij J, Wagener FADTG, Kouwer PHJ. Antifibrotic properties of hyaluronic acid crosslinked polyisocyanide hydrogels. BIOMATERIALS ADVANCES 2024; 156:213705. [PMID: 38006784 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioadv.2023.213705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 11/27/2023]
Abstract
Fibrosis is characterized by the formation of fibrous connective tissue in response to primary injury. As a result, an affected organ may lose part of its functionality due to chronic, organ-specific tissue damage. Since fibrosis is a leading cause of death worldwide, targeting fibrotic diseases with antifibrotic hydrogels can be a lifesaving therapeutic strategy. This study developed a novel hybrid antifibrotic hydrogel by combining the synthetic polyisocyanide (PIC) with hyaluronic acid (HA). Gels of PIC are highly tailorable, thermosensitive, and strongly biomimetic in architecture and mechanical properties, whereas HA is known to promote non-fibrotic fetal wound healing and inhibits inflammatory signaling. The developed HA-PIC hybrids were biocompatible with physical properties comparable to those of the PIC gels. The antifibrotic nature of the gels was assessed by 3D cultures of human foreskin fibroblasts in the presence (or absence as control) of TGFβ1 that promotes differentiation into myofibroblasts, a critical step in fibrosis. Proliferation and macroscopic contraction assays and studies on the formation of stress fibers and characteristic fibrosis markers all indicate a strong antifibrotic nature of HA-PIC hydrogel. We showed that these effects originate from both the lightly crosslinked architecture and the presence of HA itself. The hybrid displaying both these effects shows the strongest antifibrotic nature and is a promising candidate for use as in vivo treatment for skin fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jyoti Kumari
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, the Netherlands; Department of Dentistry - Orthodontics and Craniofacial Biology, Radboud University Medical Centre, 6525 EX Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Roel Hammink
- Department of Tumor Immunology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, the Netherlands; Division of Immunotherapy, Oncode Institute, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Jochem Baaij
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Frank A D T G Wagener
- Department of Dentistry - Orthodontics and Craniofacial Biology, Radboud University Medical Centre, 6525 EX Nijmegen, the Netherlands.
| | - Paul H J Kouwer
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, the Netherlands.
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4
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Madl CM. Accelerating aging with dynamic biomaterials: Recapitulating aged tissue phenotypes in engineered platforms. iScience 2023; 26:106825. [PMID: 37250776 PMCID: PMC10213044 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.106825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Aging is characterized by progressive decline in tissue function and represents the greatest risk factor for many diseases. Nevertheless, many fundamental mechanisms driving human aging remain poorly understood. Aging studies using model organisms are often limited in their applicability to humans. Mechanistic studies of human aging rely on relatively simple cell culture models that fail to replicate mature tissue function, making them poor surrogates for aged tissues. These culture systems generally lack well-controlled cellular microenvironments that capture the changes in tissue mechanics and microstructure that occur during aging. Biomaterial platforms presenting dynamic, physiologically relevant mechanical, structural, and biochemical cues can capture the complex changes in the cellular microenvironment in a well-defined manner, accelerating the process of cellular aging in model laboratory systems. By enabling selective tuning of relevant microenvironmental parameters, these biomaterials systems may enable identification of new therapeutic approaches to slow or reverse the detrimental effects of aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher M. Madl
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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Shou Y, Teo XY, Wu KZ, Bai B, Kumar ARK, Low J, Le Z, Tay A. Dynamic Stimulations with Bioengineered Extracellular Matrix-Mimicking Hydrogels for Mechano Cell Reprogramming and Therapy. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023:e2300670. [PMID: 37119518 PMCID: PMC10375194 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202300670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Cells interact with their surrounding environment through a combination of static and dynamic mechanical signals that vary over stimulus types, intensity, space, and time. Compared to static mechanical signals such as stiffness, porosity, and topography, the current understanding on the effects of dynamic mechanical stimulations on cells remains limited, attributing to a lack of access to devices, the complexity of experimental set-up, and data interpretation. Yet, in the pursuit of emerging translational applications (e.g., cell manufacturing for clinical treatment), it is crucial to understand how cells respond to a variety of dynamic forces that are omnipresent in vivo so that they can be exploited to enhance manufacturing and therapeutic outcomes. With a rising appreciation of the extracellular matrix (ECM) as a key regulator of biofunctions, researchers have bioengineered a suite of ECM-mimicking hydrogels, which can be fine-tuned with spatiotemporal mechanical cues to model complex static and dynamic mechanical profiles. This review first discusses how mechanical stimuli may impact different cellular components and the various mechanobiology pathways involved. Then, how hydrogels can be designed to incorporate static and dynamic mechanical parameters to influence cell behaviors are described. The Scopus database is also used to analyze the relative strength in evidence, ranging from strong to weak, based on number of published literatures, associated citations, and treatment significance. Additionally, the impacts of static and dynamic mechanical stimulations on clinically relevant cell types including mesenchymal stem cells, fibroblasts, and immune cells, are evaluated. The aim is to draw attention to the paucity of studies on the effects of dynamic mechanical stimuli on cells, as well as to highlight the potential of using a cocktail of various types and intensities of mechanical stimulations to influence cell fates (similar to the concept of biochemical cocktail to direct cell fate). It is envisioned that this progress report will inspire more exciting translational development of mechanoresponsive hydrogels for biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yufeng Shou
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117583, Singapore
- Institute for Health Innovation and Technology, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117599, Singapore
| | - Xin Yong Teo
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117583, Singapore
| | - Kenny Zhuoran Wu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117583, Singapore
| | - Bingyu Bai
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117583, Singapore
| | - Arun R K Kumar
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117583, Singapore
- Institute for Health Innovation and Technology, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117599, Singapore
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117597, Singapore
| | - Jessalyn Low
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117583, Singapore
| | - Zhicheng Le
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117583, Singapore
- Institute for Health Innovation and Technology, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117599, Singapore
| | - Andy Tay
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117583, Singapore
- Institute for Health Innovation and Technology, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117599, Singapore
- NUS Tissue Engineering Program, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117510, Singapore
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Shou Y, Teo XY, Li X, Zhicheng L, Liu L, Sun X, Jonhson W, Ding J, Lim CT, Tay A. Dynamic Magneto-Softening of 3D Hydrogel Reverses Malignant Transformation of Cancer Cells and Enhances Drug Efficacy. ACS NANO 2023; 17:2851-2867. [PMID: 36633150 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.2c11278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
High extracellular matrix stiffness is a prominent feature of malignant tumors associated with poor clinical prognosis. To elucidate mechanistic connections between increased matrix stiffness and tumor progression, a variety of hydrogel scaffolds with dynamic changes in stiffness have been developed. These approaches, however, are not biocompatible at high temperature, strong irradiation, and acidic/basic pH, often lack reversibility (can only stiffen and not soften), and do not allow study on the same cell population longitudinally. In this work, we develop a dynamic 3D magnetic hydrogel whose matrix stiffness can be wirelessly and reversibly stiffened and softened multiple times with different rates of change using an external magnet. With this platform, we found that matrix stiffness increased tumor malignancy including denser cell organization, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and hypoxia. More interestingly, these malignant transformations could be halted or reversed with matrix softening (i.e., mechanical rescue), to potentiate drug efficacy attributing to reduced solid stress from matrix and downregulation of cell mechano-transductors including YAP1. We propose that our platform can be used to deepen understanding of the impact of matrix softening on cancer biology, an important but rarely studied phenomenon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yufeng Shou
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, 117583, Singapore
- Institute for Health Innovation & Technology, National University of Singapore, 117599, Singapore
| | - Xin Yong Teo
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, 117583, Singapore
| | - Xianlei Li
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, 117583, Singapore
- Institute for Health Innovation & Technology, National University of Singapore, 117599, Singapore
| | - Le Zhicheng
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, 117583, Singapore
- Institute for Health Innovation & Technology, National University of Singapore, 117599, Singapore
| | - Ling Liu
- Institute for Health Innovation & Technology, National University of Singapore, 117599, Singapore
- NUS Tissue Engineering Program, National University of Singapore, 117510, Singapore
| | - Xinhong Sun
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, 117583, Singapore
| | - Win Jonhson
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, National University of Singapore, 117575, Singapore
| | - Jun Ding
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, National University of Singapore, 117575, Singapore
| | - Chwee Teck Lim
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, 117583, Singapore
- Institute for Health Innovation & Technology, National University of Singapore, 117599, Singapore
- Mechanobiology Institute, National University of Singapore, 117411, Singapore
| | - Andy Tay
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, 117583, Singapore
- Institute for Health Innovation & Technology, National University of Singapore, 117599, Singapore
- NUS Tissue Engineering Program, National University of Singapore, 117510, Singapore
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7
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Nanocomposite Hydrogels as Functional Extracellular Matrices. Gels 2023; 9:gels9020153. [PMID: 36826323 PMCID: PMC9957407 DOI: 10.3390/gels9020153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Over recent years, nano-engineered materials have become an important component of artificial extracellular matrices. On one hand, these materials enable static enhancement of the bulk properties of cell scaffolds, for instance, they can alter mechanical properties or electrical conductivity, in order to better mimic the in vivo cell environment. Yet, many nanomaterials also exhibit dynamic, remotely tunable optical, electrical, magnetic, or acoustic properties, and therefore, can be used to non-invasively deliver localized, dynamic stimuli to cells cultured in artificial ECMs in three dimensions. Vice versa, the same, functional nanomaterials, can also report changing environmental conditions-whether or not, as a result of a dynamically applied stimulus-and as such provide means for wireless, long-term monitoring of the cell status inside the culture. In this review article, we present an overview of the technological advances regarding the incorporation of functional nanomaterials in artificial extracellular matrices, highlighting both passive and dynamically tunable nano-engineered components.
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8
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Sun MC, Chen YF, Liu D, Xu XL, You YC, Lu W, Shi YJ, Ren MY, Fan YB, Du YZ, Tao XH. Effective decolonization strategy for mupirocin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus by TPGS-modified mupirocin-silver complex. Mater Today Bio 2023; 18:100534. [PMID: 36686036 PMCID: PMC9850068 DOI: 10.1016/j.mtbio.2022.100534] [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: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 12/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
The widespread utilization of mupirocin to treat methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)-caused infectious diseases has led to the emergence of mupirocin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MuRSA), posing a serious global medical threat. In order to counteract MuRSA, we develop a d-α-tocopherol polyethylene glycol 1000 succinate (TPGS) modified mupirocin and silver complex (TPGS/Mup-Ag) to combat MuRSA. The surfactivity of TPGS endows Mup-Ag with a homogeneous and small particle size (∼16 nm), which significantly enhances bacterial internalization. Silver ions are released from the mupirocin-Ag complex (Mup-Ag) to exert a synergistic antibacterial activity with mupirocin. Results manifest that our strategy reduces the concentration of mupirocin that induces 50% bacterial death from about 1000 μmol/mL to about 16 μmol/mL. In vitro bacterial infection model suggests that TPGS/Mup-Ag can not only eliminate both intracellular and inhibit bacterial adhesion, but also living cells are not affected. Results of in vivo experiments demonstrate that TPGS/Mup-Ag can effectively inhibit the progression of skin infection and accelerate wound healing, as well as alleviate systemic inflammation in both the subcutaneous infection model and the wound infection model. Furthermore, this study may contribute to the development of therapeutic agents for antibiotic-resistant bacteria and offer ideas for silver-based bactericides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming-Chen Sun
- Center for Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Dermatology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, 310014, China,Institute of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Ying-Fang Chen
- HangZhou Xiaoshan District Skin Disease Hospital, Hangzhou, 311200, China
| | - Di Liu
- Institute of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Xiao-Ling Xu
- Shulan International Medical College, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou, 310015, China
| | - Yu-Chan You
- Institute of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Wei Lu
- Center for Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Dermatology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, 310014, China
| | - Yun-Juan Shi
- Department of Graduate School, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, 233030, China
| | - Ming-Yang Ren
- Department of Graduate School, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, 233030, China
| | - Yi-Bin Fan
- Center for Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Dermatology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, 310014, China
| | - Yong-Zhong Du
- Institute of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China,Corresponding author. Institute of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, 866 Yu-Hang-Tang Road, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
| | - Xiao-Hua Tao
- Center for Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Dermatology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, 310014, China,Corresponding author. Center for Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Dermatology, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, 158 Shangtang Road, Hangzhou, 310014, China.
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9
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Shou Y, Liu L, Liu Q, Le Z, Lee KL, Li H, Li X, Koh DZ, Wang Y, Liu TM, Yang Z, Lim CT, Cheung C, Tay A. Mechano-responsive hydrogel for direct stem cell manufacturing to therapy. Bioact Mater 2023; 24:387-400. [PMID: 36632503 PMCID: PMC9817177 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2022.12.019] [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: 10/09/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) is one of the most actively studied cell types due to its regenerative potential and immunomodulatory properties. Conventional cell expansion methods using 2D tissue culture plates and 2.5D microcarriers in bioreactors can generate large cell numbers, but they compromise stem cell potency and lack mechanical preconditioning to prepare MSC for physiological loading expected in vivo. To overcome these challenges, in this work, we describe a 3D dynamic hydrogel using magneto-stimulation for direct MSC manufacturing to therapy. With our technology, we found that dynamic mechanical stimulation (DMS) enhanced matrix-integrin β1 interactions which induced MSCs spreading and proliferation. In addition, DMS could modulate MSC biofunctions including directing MSC differentiation into specific lineages and boosting paracrine activities (e.g., growth factor secretion) through YAP nuclear localization and FAK-ERK pathway. With our magnetic hydrogel, complex procedures from MSC manufacturing to final clinical use, can be integrated into one single platform, and we believe this 'all-in-one' technology could offer a paradigm shift to existing standards in MSC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yufeng Shou
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, 117583, Singapore
- Institute for Health Innovation & Technology, National University of Singapore, 117599, Singapore
| | - Ling Liu
- Institute for Health Innovation & Technology, National University of Singapore, 117599, Singapore
- NUS Tissue Engineering Program, National University of Singapore, 117510, Singapore
| | - Qimin Liu
- School of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Wuhan University of Technology, 430070, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhicheng Le
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, 117583, Singapore
- Institute for Health Innovation & Technology, National University of Singapore, 117599, Singapore
| | - Khang Leng Lee
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, 636921, Singapore
| | - Hua Li
- School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 639798, Singapore
| | - Xianlei Li
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, 117583, Singapore
- Institute for Health Innovation & Technology, National University of Singapore, 117599, Singapore
| | - Dion Zhanyun Koh
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, 117583, Singapore
| | - Yuwen Wang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, 117583, Singapore
| | - Tong Ming Liu
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 138648, Singapore
| | - Zheng Yang
- NUS Tissue Engineering Program, National University of Singapore, 117510, Singapore
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 119288, Singapore
| | - Chwee Teck Lim
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, 117583, Singapore
- Institute for Health Innovation & Technology, National University of Singapore, 117599, Singapore
- Mechanobiology Institute, National University of Singapore, 117411, Singapore
| | - Christine Cheung
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, 636921, Singapore
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 138648, Singapore
| | - Andy Tay
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, 117583, Singapore
- Institute for Health Innovation & Technology, National University of Singapore, 117599, Singapore
- NUS Tissue Engineering Program, National University of Singapore, 117510, Singapore
- Corresponding author. Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, 117583, Singapore.
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10
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Del Bianco L, Spizzo F, Yang Y, Greco G, Gatto ML, Barucca G, Pugno NM, Motta A. Silk fibroin films with embedded magnetic nanoparticles: evaluation of the magneto-mechanical stimulation effect on osteogenic differentiation of stem cells. NANOSCALE 2022; 14:14558-14574. [PMID: 36149382 DOI: 10.1039/d2nr03167a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
We report about a biomaterial in the form of film ∼10 μm thick, consisting of a silk fibroin matrix with embedded iron oxide superparamagnetic nanoparticles, for prospective applications as bioactive coating in regenerative medicine. Films with different load of magnetic nanoparticles are produced (nanoparticles/silk fibroin nominal ratio = 5, 0.5 and 0 wt%) and the structural, mechanical and magnetic properties are studied. The nanoparticles form aggregates in the silk fibroin matrix and the film stiffness, as tested by nanoindentation, is spatially inhomogeneous, but the protein structure is not altered. In vitro biological tests are carried out on human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells cultured on the films up to 21 days, with and without an applied static uniform magnetic field. The sample with the highest nanoparticles/silk fibroin ratio shows the best performance in terms of cell proliferation and adhesion. Moreover, it promotes a faster and better osteogenic differentiation, particularly under magnetic field, as indicated by the gene expression level of typical osteogenic markers. These findings are explained in light of the results of the physical characterization, combined with numerical calculations. It is established that the applied magnetic field triggers a virtuous magneto-mechanical mechanism in which dipolar magnetic forces between the nanoparticle aggregates give rise to a spatial distribution of mechanical stresses in the silk fibroin matrix. The film with the largest nanoparticle load, under cell culture conditions (i.e. in aqueous environment), undergoes matrix deformations large enough to be sensed by the seeded cells as mechanical stimuli favoring the osteogenic differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Del Bianco
- Department of Physics and Earth Science, University of Ferrara, I-44122 Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Federico Spizzo
- Department of Physics and Earth Science, University of Ferrara, I-44122 Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Yuejiao Yang
- BIOtech Research Center, Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Trento, I-38123 Trento, Italy.
| | - Gabriele Greco
- Laboratory for Bioinspired, Bionic, Nano, Meta, Materials & Mechanics, Department of Civil, Environmental and Mechanical Engineering, University of Trento, I-38123 Trento, Italy
| | - Maria Laura Gatto
- Department SIMAU, Università Politecnica delle Marche, I-60131 Ancona, Italy
| | - Gianni Barucca
- Department SIMAU, Università Politecnica delle Marche, I-60131 Ancona, Italy
| | - Nicola M Pugno
- Laboratory for Bioinspired, Bionic, Nano, Meta, Materials & Mechanics, Department of Civil, Environmental and Mechanical Engineering, University of Trento, I-38123 Trento, Italy
- School of Engineering and Materials Science, Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Road, London E1 4NS, UK
| | - Antonella Motta
- BIOtech Research Center, Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Trento, I-38123 Trento, Italy.
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11
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Schueler J, Borenstein J, Buti L, Dong M, Masmoudi F, Hribar K, Anderson E, Sommergruber W. How to build a tumor: An industry perspective. Drug Discov Today 2022; 27:103329. [PMID: 35908685 PMCID: PMC9585375 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2022.07.014] [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: 03/23/2022] [Revised: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
During the past 15 years, a plethora of innovative 3D in vitro systems has been developed. They offer the possibility of identifying crucial cellular and molecular contributors to the disease by permitting manipulation of each in isolation. However, improvements are needed particularly with respect to the predictivity and validity of those models. The major challenge now is to identify which assay and readout combination(s) best suits the current scientific question(s). A deep understanding of the different platforms along with their pros and cons is a prerequisite to make this decision. This review aims to give an overview of the most prominent systems with a focus on applications, translational relevance and adoption drivers from an industry perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Schueler
- Charles River Discovery Research Services Germany GmbH, Freiburg, Germany,Corresponding author.
| | | | | | - Meng Dong
- Dr Margarete Fischer-Bosch Institute of Clinical Pharmacology and University of Tuebingen, Stuttgart, Germany
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12
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Chen W, Kumari J, Yuan H, Yang F, Kouwer PHJ. Toward Tissue-Like Material Properties: Inducing In Situ Adaptive Behavior in Fibrous Hydrogels. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2022; 34:e2202057. [PMID: 35792703 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202202057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Revised: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The materials properties of biological tissues are unique. Nature is able to spatially and temporally manipulate (mechanical) properties while maintaining responsiveness toward a variety of cues; all without majorly changing the material's composition. Artificial mimics, synthetic or biomaterial-based are far less advanced and poorly reproduce the natural cell microenvironment. A viable strategy to generate materials with advanced properties combines different materials into nanocomposites. This work describes nanocomposites of a synthetic fibrous hydrogel, based on polyisocyanide (PIC), that is noncovalently linked to a responsive cross-linker. The introduction of the cross-linker transforms the PIC gel from a static fibrous extracellular matrix mimic to a highly dynamic material that maintains biocompatibility, as demonstrated by in situ modification of the (non)linear mechanical properties and efficient self-healing properties. Key in the material design is cross-linking at the fibrillar level using nanoparticles, which, simultaneously may be used to introduce more advanced properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Chen
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, Nijmegen, AJ 6525, The Netherlands
| | - Jyoti Kumari
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, Nijmegen, AJ 6525, The Netherlands
| | - Hongbo Yuan
- Molecular Imaging and Photonics, Chemistry Department, KU Leuven, Celestijnenlaan 200F, Heverlee, 3001, Belgium
- Institute of Biophysics, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin, 300401, P. R. China
| | - Fan Yang
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, Nijmegen, AJ 6525, The Netherlands
| | - Paul H J Kouwer
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, Nijmegen, AJ 6525, The Netherlands
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13
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Bertsch P, Diba M, Mooney DJ, Leeuwenburgh SCG. Self-Healing Injectable Hydrogels for Tissue Regeneration. Chem Rev 2022; 123:834-873. [PMID: 35930422 PMCID: PMC9881015 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.2c00179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 155] [Impact Index Per Article: 77.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Biomaterials with the ability to self-heal and recover their structural integrity offer many advantages for applications in biomedicine. The past decade has witnessed the rapid emergence of a new class of self-healing biomaterials commonly termed injectable, or printable in the context of 3D printing. These self-healing injectable biomaterials, mostly hydrogels and other soft condensed matter based on reversible chemistry, are able to temporarily fluidize under shear stress and subsequently recover their original mechanical properties. Self-healing injectable hydrogels offer distinct advantages compared to traditional biomaterials. Most notably, they can be administered in a locally targeted and minimally invasive manner through a narrow syringe without the need for invasive surgery. Their moldability allows for a patient-specific intervention and shows great prospects for personalized medicine. Injected hydrogels can facilitate tissue regeneration in multiple ways owing to their viscoelastic and diffusive nature, ranging from simple mechanical support, spatiotemporally controlled delivery of cells or therapeutics, to local recruitment and modulation of host cells to promote tissue regeneration. Consequently, self-healing injectable hydrogels have been at the forefront of many cutting-edge tissue regeneration strategies. This study provides a critical review of the current state of self-healing injectable hydrogels for tissue regeneration. As key challenges toward further maturation of this exciting research field, we identify (i) the trade-off between the self-healing and injectability of hydrogels vs their physical stability, (ii) the lack of consensus on rheological characterization and quantitative benchmarks for self-healing injectable hydrogels, particularly regarding the capillary flow in syringes, and (iii) practical limitations regarding translation toward therapeutically effective formulations for regeneration of specific tissues. Hence, here we (i) review chemical and physical design strategies for self-healing injectable hydrogels, (ii) provide a practical guide for their rheological analysis, and (iii) showcase their applicability for regeneration of various tissues and 3D printing of complex tissues and organoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pascal Bertsch
- Department
of Dentistry-Regenerative Biomaterials, Radboud Institute for Molecular
Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical
Center, 6525 EX Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Mani Diba
- Department
of Dentistry-Regenerative Biomaterials, Radboud Institute for Molecular
Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical
Center, 6525 EX Nijmegen, The Netherlands,John
A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02138, United States,Wyss
Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - David J. Mooney
- John
A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02138, United States,Wyss
Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Sander C. G. Leeuwenburgh
- Department
of Dentistry-Regenerative Biomaterials, Radboud Institute for Molecular
Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical
Center, 6525 EX Nijmegen, The Netherlands,
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14
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Chen W, Zhang Z, Kouwer PHJ. Magnetically Driven Hierarchical Alignment in Biomimetic Fibrous Hydrogels. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2022; 18:e2203033. [PMID: 35665598 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202203033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
In vivo, natural biomaterials are frequently anisotropic, exhibiting directional microstructures and mechanical properties. It remains challenging to develop such anisotropy in synthetic materials. Here, a facile one-step approach for in situ fabrication of hydrogels with hierarchically anisotropic architectures and direction-dependent mechanical properties is proposed. The anisotropic hydrogels, composed of a fibrous gel network (0.1 wt%), cross-linked with magnetic nanoparticles (spheres, rods, and wires, <0.1 wt%) are readily formed in the presence of very low magnetic fields (<20 mT). The anisotropy of the nanoparticles is transduced to the polymer network, leading to macroscopic anisotropy, for instance, in mechanical properties. Electrostatic repulsion by the negatively charged nanoparticles induces an additional layer of order in the material, perpendicular to the magnetic field direction. The straightforward fabrication strategy allows for stepwise deposition of layers with different degrees or directions of anisotropy, which enables the formation of complex structures that are able to mimic some of the complex hierarchical architectures found in biology. It is anticipated that this approach of hydrogel alignment may serve as a guide for designing advanced biomaterials in tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Chen
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, Nijmegen, 6525 AJ, The Netherlands
| | - Zhaobao Zhang
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, Nijmegen, 6525 AJ, The Netherlands
| | - Paul H J Kouwer
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, Nijmegen, 6525 AJ, The Netherlands
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15
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Zhang Z, Chen W, Tiemessen DM, Oosterwijk E, Kouwer PHJ. A Temperature-Based Easy-Separable (TempEasy) 3D Hydrogel Coculture System. Adv Healthc Mater 2022; 11:e2102389. [PMID: 35029325 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202102389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Revised: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Interactions between different cell types are crucial for their behavior in tissues, but are rarely considered in 3D in vitro cell culture experiments. One reason is that such coculture experiments are sometimes difficult to perform in 3D or require specialized equipment or know-how. Here, a new 3D cell coculture system is introduced, TempEasy, which is readily applied in any cell culture lab. The matrix material is based on polyisocyanide hydrogels, which closely resemble the mechanical characteristics of the natural extracellular matrix. Gels with different gelation temperatures, seeded with different cells, are placed on top of each other to form an indirect coculture. Cooling reverses gelation, allowing cell harvesting from each layer separately, which benefits downstream analysis. To demonstrate the potential of TempEasy , human adipose stem cells (hADSCs) with vaginal epithelial fibroblasts are cocultured. The analysis of a 7-day coculture shows that hADSCs promote cell-cell interaction of fibroblasts, while fibroblasts promote proliferation and differentiation of hADSCs. TempEasy provides a straightforward operational platform for indirect cocultures of cells of different lineages in well-defined microenvironments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaobao Zhang
- Institute for Molecules and Materials Radboud University Nijmegen Heyendaalseweg 135 Nijmegen 6525 AJ The Netherlands
| | - Wen Chen
- Institute for Molecules and Materials Radboud University Nijmegen Heyendaalseweg 135 Nijmegen 6525 AJ The Netherlands
| | - Dorien M. Tiemessen
- Department of Urology Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences Radboud University Medical Center Geert Grooteplein Zuid 28 Nijmegen 6525 GA The Netherlands
| | - Egbert Oosterwijk
- Department of Urology Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences Radboud University Medical Center Geert Grooteplein Zuid 28 Nijmegen 6525 GA The Netherlands
| | - Paul H. J. Kouwer
- Institute for Molecules and Materials Radboud University Nijmegen Heyendaalseweg 135 Nijmegen 6525 AJ The Netherlands
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16
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Magnetic field-assisted aligned patterning in an alginate-silk fibroin/nanocellulose composite for guided wound healing. Carbohydr Polym 2022; 287:119321. [DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2022.119321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Revised: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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17
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Mierke CT. Viscoelasticity Acts as a Marker for Tumor Extracellular Matrix Characteristics. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:785138. [PMID: 34950661 PMCID: PMC8691700 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.785138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Biological materials such as extracellular matrix scaffolds, cancer cells, and tissues are often assumed to respond elastically for simplicity; the viscoelastic response is quite commonly ignored. Extracellular matrix mechanics including the viscoelasticity has turned out to be a key feature of cellular behavior and the entire shape and function of healthy and diseased tissues, such as cancer. The interference of cells with their local microenvironment and the interaction among different cell types relies both on the mechanical phenotype of each involved element. However, there is still not yet clearly understood how viscoelasticity alters the functional phenotype of the tumor extracellular matrix environment. Especially the biophysical technologies are still under ongoing improvement and further development. In addition, the effect of matrix mechanics in the progression of cancer is the subject of discussion. Hence, the topic of this review is especially attractive to collect the existing endeavors to characterize the viscoelastic features of tumor extracellular matrices and to briefly highlight the present frontiers in cancer progression and escape of cancers from therapy. Finally, this review article illustrates the importance of the tumor extracellular matrix mechano-phenotype, including the phenomenon viscoelasticity in identifying, characterizing, and treating specific cancer types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Tanja Mierke
- Faculty of Physics and Earth Science, Peter Debye Institute of Soft Matter Physics, Biological Physics Division, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
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