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Xu C, Alameri A, Leong W, Johnson E, Chen Z, Xu B, Leong KW. Multiscale engineering of brain organoids for disease modeling. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2024; 210:115344. [PMID: 38810702 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2024.115344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
Brain organoids hold great potential for modeling human brain development and pathogenesis. They recapitulate certain aspects of the transcriptional trajectory, cellular diversity, tissue architecture and functions of the developing brain. In this review, we explore the engineering strategies to control the molecular-, cellular- and tissue-level inputs to achieve high-fidelity brain organoids. We review the application of brain organoids in neural disorder modeling and emerging bioengineering methods to improve data collection and feature extraction at multiscale. The integration of multiscale engineering strategies and analytical methods has significant potential to advance insight into neurological disorders and accelerate drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cong Xu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027, USA
| | - Alia Alameri
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027, USA
| | - Wei Leong
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027, USA
| | - Emily Johnson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027, USA
| | - Zaozao Chen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027, USA
| | - Bin Xu
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA.
| | - Kam W Leong
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027, USA.
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2
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Salimpour Y, Anderson WS, Dastgheyb R, Liu S, Ming GL, Song H, Maragakis NJ, Habela CW. Phase-amplitude coupling detection and analysis of human 2-dimensional neural cultures in multi-well microelectrode array in vitro. J Neurosci Methods 2024; 407:110127. [PMID: 38615721 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneumeth.2024.110127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)- derived neurons offer the possibility of studying human-specific neuronal behaviors in physiologic and pathologic states in vitro. It is unclear whether cultured neurons can achieve the fundamental network behaviors required to process information in the brain. Investigating neuronal oscillations and their interactions, as occurs in cross-frequency coupling (CFC), addresses this question. NEW METHODS We examined whether networks of two-dimensional (2D) cultured hiPSC-derived cortical neurons grown with hiPSC-derived astrocytes on microelectrode array plates recapitulate the CFC that is present in vivo. We employed the modulation index method for detecting phase-amplitude coupling (PAC) and used offline spike sorting to analyze the contribution of single neuron spiking to network behavior. RESULTS We found that PAC is present, the degree of PAC is specific to network structure, and it is modulated by external stimulation with bicuculline administration. Modulation of PAC is not driven by single neurons, but by network-level interactions. COMPARISON WITH EXISTING METHODS PAC has been demonstrated in multiple regions of the human cortex as well as in organoids. This is the first report of analysis demonstrating the presence of coupling in 2D cultures. CONCLUSION CFC in the form of PAC analysis explores communication and integration between groups of neurons and dynamical changes across networks. In vitro PAC analysis has the potential to elucidate the underlying mechanisms as well as capture the effects of chemical, electrical, or ultrasound stimulation; providing insight into modulation of neural networks to treat nervous system disorders in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yousef Salimpour
- Functional Neurosurgery Laboratory, Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - William S Anderson
- Functional Neurosurgery Laboratory, Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Raha Dastgheyb
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore MD, USA
| | - Shiyu Liu
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore MD, USA
| | - Guo-Li Ming
- 1Department of Neuroscience and Mahoney Institute for Neurosciences, Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Hongjun Song
- 1Department of Neuroscience and Mahoney Institute for Neurosciences, Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | - Christa W Habela
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore MD, USA.
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3
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Sandoval SO, Cappuccio G, Kruth K, Osenberg S, Khalil SM, Méndez-Albelo NM, Padmanabhan K, Wang D, Niciu MJ, Bhattacharyya A, Stein JL, Sousa AMM, Waxman EA, Buttermore ED, Whye D, Sirois CL, Williams A, Maletic-Savatic M, Zhao X. Rigor and reproducibility in human brain organoid research: Where we are and where we need to go. Stem Cell Reports 2024; 19:796-816. [PMID: 38759644 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2024.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Human brain organoid models have emerged as a promising tool for studying human brain development and function. These models preserve human genetics and recapitulate some aspects of human brain development, while facilitating manipulation in an in vitro setting. Despite their potential to transform biology and medicine, concerns persist about their fidelity. To fully harness their potential, it is imperative to establish reliable analytic methods, ensuring rigor and reproducibility. Here, we review current analytical platforms used to characterize human forebrain cortical organoids, highlight challenges, and propose recommendations for future studies to achieve greater precision and uniformity across laboratories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soraya O Sandoval
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA; Department of Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA; Neuroscience Training Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Gerarda Cappuccio
- Department of Pediatrics-Neurology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA; Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Karina Kruth
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Iowa Health Care, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA; Iowa Neuroscience Institute, University of Iowa Health Care, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Sivan Osenberg
- Department of Pediatrics-Neurology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA; Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Saleh M Khalil
- Department of Pediatrics-Neurology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA; Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Natasha M Méndez-Albelo
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA; Department of Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA; Molecular Cellular Pharmacology Training Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Krishnan Padmanabhan
- Department of Neuroscience, Center for Visual Science, Del Monte Institute for Neuroscience, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester NY 14642, USA
| | - Daifeng Wang
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA; Departments of Biostatistics and Medical Informatics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Mark J Niciu
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Iowa Health Care, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA; Iowa Neuroscience Institute, University of Iowa Health Care, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Anita Bhattacharyya
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA; Department of Cell and Regenerative Biology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Jason L Stein
- Department of Genetics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; Neuroscience Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - André M M Sousa
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA; Department of Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Elisa A Waxman
- Center for Cellular and Molecular Therapeutics, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Center for Epilepsy and NeuroDevelopmental Disorders (ENDD), The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Elizabeth D Buttermore
- Human Neuron Core, Rosamund Stone Zander Translational Neuroscience Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Department, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Dosh Whye
- Human Neuron Core, Rosamund Stone Zander Translational Neuroscience Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Department, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Carissa L Sirois
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA; Department of Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Aislinn Williams
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Iowa Health Care, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA; Iowa Neuroscience Institute, University of Iowa Health Care, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA.
| | - Mirjana Maletic-Savatic
- Department of Pediatrics-Neurology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA; Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA; Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.
| | - Xinyu Zhao
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA; Department of Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA.
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4
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Liu Y, Xu S, Deng Y, Luo J, Zhang K, Yang Y, Sha L, Hu R, Xu Z, Yin E, Xu Q, Wu Y, Cai X. SWCNTs/PEDOT:PSS nanocomposites-modified microelectrode arrays for revealing locking relations between burst and local field potential in cultured cortical networks. Biosens Bioelectron 2024; 253:116168. [PMID: 38452571 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2024.116168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 02/04/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
Burst and local field potential (LFP) are fundamental components of brain activity, representing fast and slow rhythms, respectively. Understanding the intricate relationship between burst and LFP is crucial for deciphering the underlying mechanisms of brain dynamics. In this study, we fabricated high-performance microelectrode arrays (MEAs) using the SWCNTs/PEDOT:PSS nanocomposites, which exhibited favorable electrical properties (low impedance: 12.8 ± 2.44 kΩ) and minimal phase delay (-11.96 ± 1.64°). These MEAs enabled precise exploration of the burst-LFP interaction in cultured cortical networks. After a 14-day period of culture, we used the MEAs to monitor electrophysiological activities and revealed a time-locking relationship between burst and LFP, indicating the maturation of the neural network. To further investigate this relationship, we modulated burst firing patterns by treating the neural culture with increasing concentrations of glycine. The results indicated that glycine effectively altered burst firing patterns, with both duration and spike count increasing as the concentration rose. This was accompanied by an enhanced level of time-locking between burst and LFP but a decrease in synchrony among neurons. This study not only highlighted the pivotal role of SWCNTs/PEDOT:PSS-modified MEAs in elucidating the interaction between burst and LFP, bridging the gap between slow and fast brain rhythms in vitro but also provides valuable insights into the potential therapeutic strategies targeting neurological disorders associated with abnormal rhythm generation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaoyao Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer Technology, Aerospace Information Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing, 100190, China; School of Electronic, Electrical and Communication Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100149, China
| | - Shihong Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer Technology, Aerospace Information Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing, 100190, China; School of Electronic, Electrical and Communication Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100149, China
| | - Yu Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100005, China
| | - Jinping Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer Technology, Aerospace Information Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing, 100190, China; School of Electronic, Electrical and Communication Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100149, China
| | - Kui Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer Technology, Aerospace Information Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing, 100190, China; School of Electronic, Electrical and Communication Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100149, China
| | - Yan Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer Technology, Aerospace Information Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing, 100190, China; School of Electronic, Electrical and Communication Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100149, China
| | - Longze Sha
- State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100005, China
| | - Ruilin Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer Technology, Aerospace Information Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing, 100190, China; School of Electronic, Electrical and Communication Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100149, China
| | - Zhaojie Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer Technology, Aerospace Information Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing, 100190, China; School of Electronic, Electrical and Communication Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100149, China
| | - Erwei Yin
- Tianjin Artificial Intelligence Innovation Center (TAIIC), Tianjin, 300450, China
| | - Qi Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100005, China.
| | - Yirong Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer Technology, Aerospace Information Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing, 100190, China; School of Electronic, Electrical and Communication Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100149, China.
| | - Xinxia Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer Technology, Aerospace Information Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing, 100190, China; School of Electronic, Electrical and Communication Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100149, China.
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Choi MS, Park SM, Kim S, Jegal H, Lee HA, Han HY, Yoon S, Kim SK, Oh JH. Enhanced electrophysiological activity and neurotoxicity screening of environmental chemicals using 3D neurons from human neural precursor cells purified with PSA-NCAM. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 280:116516. [PMID: 38820819 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.116516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024]
Abstract
The assessment of neurotoxicity for environmental chemicals is of utmost importance in ensuring public health and environmental safety. Multielectrode array (MEA) technology has emerged as a powerful tool for assessing disturbances in the electrophysiological activity. Although human embryonic stem cell (hESC)-derived neurons have been used in MEA for neurotoxicity screening, obtaining a substantial and sufficiently active population of neurons from hESCs remains challenging. In this study, we successfully differentiated neurons from a large population of human neuronal precursor cells (hNPC) purified using a polysialylated neural cell adhesion molecule (PSA-NCAM), referred to as hNPCPSA-NCAM+. The functional characterization demonstrated that hNPCPSA-NCAM+-derived neurons improve functionality by enhancing electrophysiological activity compared to total hNPC-derived neurons. Furthermore, three-dimensional (3D) neurons derived from hNPCPSA-NCAM+ exhibited reduced maturation time and enhanced electrophysiological activity on MEA. We employed subdivided population analysis of active mean firing rate (MFR) based on electrophysiological intensity to characterize the electrophysiological properties of hNPCPSA-NCAM+-3D neurons. Based on electrophysiological activity including MFR and burst parameters, we evaluated the sensitivity of hNPCPSA-NCAM+-3D neurons on MEA to screen both inhibitory and excitatory neuroactive environmental chemicals. Intriguingly, electrophysiologically active hNPCPSA-NCAM+-3D neurons demonstrated good sensitivity to evaluate neuroactive chemicals, particularly in discriminating excitatory chemicals. Our findings highlight the effectiveness of MEA approaches using hNPCPSA-NCAM+-3D neurons in the assessment of neurotoxicity associated with environmental chemicals. Furthermore, we emphasize the importance of selecting appropriate signal intensity thresholds to enhance neurotoxicity prediction and screening of environmental chemicals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mi-Sun Choi
- Department of predictive toxicology, Korea Institute of Toxicology (KIT), Daejeon, the Republic of Korea; College of Pharmacy, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, the Republic of Korea
| | - Se-Myo Park
- Department of predictive toxicology, Korea Institute of Toxicology (KIT), Daejeon, the Republic of Korea
| | - Soojin Kim
- Department of predictive toxicology, Korea Institute of Toxicology (KIT), Daejeon, the Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun Jegal
- Department of predictive toxicology, Korea Institute of Toxicology (KIT), Daejeon, the Republic of Korea; Department of Human and Environmental Toxicology, University of Science & Technology, Daejeon, the Republic of Korea
| | - Hyang-Ae Lee
- Department of predictive toxicology, Korea Institute of Toxicology (KIT), Daejeon, the Republic of Korea
| | - Hyoung-Yun Han
- Department of predictive toxicology, Korea Institute of Toxicology (KIT), Daejeon, the Republic of Korea; Department of Human and Environmental Toxicology, University of Science & Technology, Daejeon, the Republic of Korea
| | - Seokjoo Yoon
- Department of predictive toxicology, Korea Institute of Toxicology (KIT), Daejeon, the Republic of Korea; Department of Human and Environmental Toxicology, University of Science & Technology, Daejeon, the Republic of Korea
| | - Sang-Kyum Kim
- College of Pharmacy, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, the Republic of Korea.
| | - Jung-Hwa Oh
- Department of predictive toxicology, Korea Institute of Toxicology (KIT), Daejeon, the Republic of Korea; Department of Human and Environmental Toxicology, University of Science & Technology, Daejeon, the Republic of Korea.
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6
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Chini M, Hnida M, Kostka JK, Chen YN, Hanganu-Opatz IL. Preconfigured architecture of the developing mouse brain. Cell Rep 2024; 43:114267. [PMID: 38795344 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.114267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/27/2024] Open
Abstract
In the adult brain, structural and functional parameters, such as synaptic sizes and neuronal firing rates, follow right-skewed and heavy-tailed distributions. While this organization is thought to have significant implications, its development is still largely unknown. Here, we address this knowledge gap by investigating a large-scale dataset recorded from the prefrontal cortex and the olfactory bulb of mice aged 4-60 postnatal days. We show that firing rates and spike train interactions have a largely stable distribution shape throughout the first 60 postnatal days and that the prefrontal cortex displays a functional small-world architecture. Moreover, early brain activity exhibits an oligarchical organization, where high-firing neurons have hub-like properties. In a neural network model, we show that analogously right-skewed and heavy-tailed synaptic parameters are instrumental to consistently recapitulate the experimental data. Thus, functional and structural parameters in the developing brain are already extremely distributed, suggesting that this organization is preconfigured and not experience dependent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mattia Chini
- Institute of Developmental Neurophysiology, Center for Molecular Neurobiology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Marilena Hnida
- Institute of Developmental Neurophysiology, Center for Molecular Neurobiology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Johanna K Kostka
- Institute of Developmental Neurophysiology, Center for Molecular Neurobiology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Yu-Nan Chen
- Institute of Developmental Neurophysiology, Center for Molecular Neurobiology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Ileana L Hanganu-Opatz
- Institute of Developmental Neurophysiology, Center for Molecular Neurobiology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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Wu MW, Kourdougli N, Portera-Cailliau C. Network state transitions during cortical development. Nat Rev Neurosci 2024:10.1038/s41583-024-00824-y. [PMID: 38783147 DOI: 10.1038/s41583-024-00824-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Mammalian cortical networks are active before synaptogenesis begins in earnest, before neuronal migration is complete, and well before an animal opens its eyes and begins to actively explore its surroundings. This early activity undergoes several transformations during development. The most important of these is a transition from episodic synchronous network events, which are necessary for patterning the neocortex into functionally related modules, to desynchronized activity that is computationally more powerful and efficient. Network desynchronization is perhaps the most dramatic and abrupt developmental event in an otherwise slow and gradual process of brain maturation. In this Review, we summarize what is known about the phenomenology of developmental synchronous activity in the rodent neocortex and speculate on the mechanisms that drive its eventual desynchronization. We argue that desynchronization of network activity is a fundamental step through which the cortex transitions from passive, bottom-up detection of sensory stimuli to active sensory processing with top-down modulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle W Wu
- Department of Neurology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Neuroscience Interdepartmental Graduate Program, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- UCLA-Caltech Medical Scientist Training Program, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Nazim Kourdougli
- Department of Neurology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Carlos Portera-Cailliau
- Department of Neurology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
- Department of Neurobiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
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Voitiuk K, Seiler ST, Pessoa de Melo M, Geng J, Hernandez S, Schweiger HE, Sevetson JL, Parks DF, Robbins A, Torres-Montoya S, Ehrlich D, Elliott MAT, Sharf T, Haussler D, Mostajo-Radji MA, Salama SR, Teodorescu M. A feedback-driven IoT microfluidic, electrophysiology, and imaging platform for brain organoid studies. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.03.15.585237. [PMID: 38559212 PMCID: PMC10979982 DOI: 10.1101/2024.03.15.585237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
The analysis of tissue cultures, particularly brain organoids, takes a high degree of coordination, measurement, and monitoring. We have developed an automated research platform enabling independent devices to achieve collaborative objectives for feedback-driven cell culture studies. Unified by an Internet of Things (IoT) architecture, our approach enables continuous, communicative interactions among various sensing and actuation devices, achieving precisely timed control of in vitro biological experiments. The framework integrates microfluidics, electrophysiology, and imaging devices to maintain cerebral cortex organoids and monitor their neuronal activity. The organoids are cultured in custom, 3D-printed chambers attached to commercial microelectrode arrays for electrophysiology monitoring. Periodic feeding is achieved using programmable microfluidic pumps. We developed computer vision fluid volume estimations of aspirated media, achieving high accuracy, and used feedback to rectify deviations in microfluidic perfusion during media feeding/aspiration cycles. We validated the system with a 7-day study of mouse cerebral cortex organoids, comparing manual and automated protocols. The automated experimental samples maintained robust neural activity throughout the experiment, comparable with the control samples. The automated system enabled hourly electrophysiology recordings that revealed dramatic temporal changes in neuron firing rates not observed in once-a-day recordings.
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Salerno JA, Rehen S. Human pluripotent stem cells as a translational toolkit in psychedelic research in vitro. iScience 2024; 27:109631. [PMID: 38628967 PMCID: PMC11019282 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.109631] [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] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Psychedelics, recognized for their impact on perception, are resurging as promising treatments with rapid onset for mood and substance use disorders. Despite increasing evidence from clinical trials, questions persist about the cellular and molecular mechanisms and their precise correlation with treatment outcomes. Murine neurons and immortalized non-neural cell lines harboring overexpressed constructs have shed light on neuroplastic changes mediated by the serotonin 2A receptor (5-HT2AR) as the primary mechanism. However, limitations exist in capturing human- and disease-specific traits. Here, we discuss current accomplishments and prospects for incorporating human pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) to complement these models. PSCs can differentiate into various brain cell types, mirroring endogenous expression patterns and cell identities to recreate disease phenotypes. Brain organoids derived from PSCs resemble cell diversity and patterning, while region-specific organoids simulate circuit-level phenotypes. PSC-based models hold significant promise to illuminate the cellular and molecular substrates of psychedelic-induced phenotypic recovery in neuropsychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Alexandre Salerno
- D'Or Institute for Research and Education (IDOR), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Graduate Program in Morphological Sciences, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Department of Morphological Sciences, Biomedical Institute, Federal University of the State of Rio de Janeiro (UNIRIO), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Stevens Rehen
- D'Or Institute for Research and Education (IDOR), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Department of Genetics, Institute of Biology, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Usona Institute, Fitchburg, WI, USA
- Promega Corporation, Madison, WI, USA
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Stoppini L, Heuschkel MO, Loussert-Fonta C, Gomez Baisac L, Roux A. Versatile micro-electrode array to monitor human iPSC derived 3D neural tissues at air-liquid interface. Front Cell Neurosci 2024; 18:1389580. [PMID: 38784710 PMCID: PMC11112036 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2024.1389580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Engineered 3D neural tissues made of neurons and glial cells derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSC) are among the most promising tools in drug discovery and neurotoxicology. They represent a cheaper, faster, and more ethical alternative to in vivo animal testing that will likely close the gap between in vitro animal models and human clinical trials. Micro-Electrode Array (MEA) technology is known to provide an assessment of compound effects on neural 2D cell cultures and acute tissue preparations by real-time, non-invasive, and long-lasting electrophysiological monitoring of spontaneous and evoked neuronal activity. Nevertheless, the use of engineered 3D neural tissues in combination with MEA biochips still involves series of constraints, such as drastically limited diffusion of oxygen and nutrients within tissues mainly due to the lack of vascularization. Therefore, 3D neural tissues are extremely sensitive to experimental conditions and require an adequately designed interface that provides optimal tissue survival conditions. A well-suited technique to overcome this issue is the combination of the Air-Liquid Interface (ALI) tissue culture method with the MEA technology. We have developed a full 3D neural tissue culture process and a data acquisition system composed of high-end electronics and novel MEA biochips based on porous, flexible, thin-film membranes integrating recording electrodes, named as "Strip-MEA," to allow the maintenance of an ALI around the 3D neural tissues. The main motivation of the porous MEA biochips development was the possibility to monitor and to study the electrical activity of 3D neural tissues under different recording configurations, (i) the Strip-MEA can be placed below a tissue, (ii) or by taking advantage of the ALI, be directly placed on top of the tissue, or finally, (iii) it can be embedded into a larger neural tissue generated by the fusion of two (or more) tissues placed on both sides of the Strip-MEA allowing the recording from its inner part. This paper presents the recording and analyses of spontaneous activity from the three positioning configurations of the Strip-MEAs. Obtained results are discussed with the perspective of developing in vitro models of brain diseases and/or impairment of neural network functioning.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Adrien Roux
- Tissue Engineering Laboratory, HEPIA HES-SO University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland, Geneva, Switzerland
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11
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Wenzel TJ, Mousseau DD. Brain organoids engineered to give rise to glia and neural networks after 90 days in culture exhibit human-specific proteoforms. Front Cell Neurosci 2024; 18:1383688. [PMID: 38784709 PMCID: PMC11111902 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2024.1383688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Human brain organoids are emerging as translationally relevant models for the study of human brain health and disease. However, it remains to be shown whether human-specific protein processing is conserved in human brain organoids. Herein, we demonstrate that cell fate and composition of unguided brain organoids are dictated by culture conditions during embryoid body formation, and that culture conditions at this stage can be optimized to result in the presence of glia-associated proteins and neural network activity as early as three-months in vitro. Under these optimized conditions, unguided brain organoids generated from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) derived from male-female siblings are similar in growth rate, size, and total protein content, and exhibit minimal batch-to-batch variability in cell composition and metabolism. A comparison of neuronal, microglial, and macroglial (astrocyte and oligodendrocyte) markers reveals that profiles in these brain organoids are more similar to autopsied human cortical and cerebellar profiles than to those in mouse cortical samples, providing the first demonstration that human-specific protein processing is largely conserved in unguided brain organoids. Thus, our organoid protocol provides four major cell types that appear to process proteins in a manner very similar to the human brain, and they do so in half the time required by other protocols. This unique copy of the human brain and basic characteristics lay the foundation for future studies aiming to investigate human brain-specific protein patterning (e.g., isoforms, splice variants) as well as modulate glial and neuronal processes in an in situ-like environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyler J. Wenzel
- Cell Signalling Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
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12
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Fitzgerald MQ, Chu T, Puppo F, Blanch R, Chillón M, Subramaniam S, Muotri AR. Generation of 'semi-guided' cortical organoids with complex neural oscillations. Nat Protoc 2024:10.1038/s41596-024-00994-0. [PMID: 38702386 DOI: 10.1038/s41596-024-00994-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
Temporal development of neural electrophysiology follows genetic programming, similar to cellular maturation and organization during development. The emergent properties of this electrophysiological development, namely neural oscillations, can be used to characterize brain development. Recently, we utilized the innate programming encoded in the human genome to generate functionally mature cortical organoids. In brief, stem cells are suspended in culture via continuous shaking and naturally aggregate into embryoid bodies before being exposed to media formulations for neural induction, differentiation and maturation. The specific culture format, media composition and duration of exposure to these media distinguish organoid protocols and determine whether a protocol is guided or unguided toward specific neural fate. The 'semi-guided' protocol presented here has shorter induction and differentiation steps with less-specific patterning molecules than most guided protocols but maintains the use of neurotrophic factors such as brain-derived growth factor and neurotrophin-3, unlike unguided approaches. This approach yields the cell type diversity of unguided approaches while maintaining reproducibility for disease modeling. Importantly, we characterized the electrophysiology of these organoids and found that they recapitulate the maturation of neural oscillations observed in the developing human brain, a feature not shown with other approaches. This protocol represents the potential first steps toward bridging molecular and cellular biology to human cognition, and it has already been used to discover underlying features of human brain development, evolution and neurological conditions. Experienced cell culture technicians can expect the protocol to take 1 month, with extended maturation, electrophysiology recording, and adeno-associated virus transduction procedure options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Q Fitzgerald
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Tiffany Chu
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Francesca Puppo
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Rebeca Blanch
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
- Institut de Recerca Vall d'Hebron and Institut de Neurociències, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Miguel Chillón
- Institut de Recerca Vall d'Hebron and Institut de Neurociències, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Shankar Subramaniam
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Alysson R Muotri
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA.
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA.
- Center for Academic Research and Training in Anthropogeny and Archealization, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
- Sanford Stem Cell Education and Integrated Space Stem Cell Orbital Research Center, Sanford Stem Cell Institute, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
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13
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Maharjan S, Ma C, Singh B, Kang H, Orive G, Yao J, Shrike Zhang Y. Advanced 3D imaging and organoid bioprinting for biomedical research and therapeutic applications. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2024; 208:115237. [PMID: 38447931 PMCID: PMC11031334 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2024.115237] [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: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
Organoid cultures offer a valuable platform for studying organ-level biology, allowing for a closer mimicry of human physiology compared to traditional two-dimensional cell culture systems or non-primate animal models. While many organoid cultures use cell aggregates or decellularized extracellular matrices as scaffolds, they often lack precise biochemical and biophysical microenvironments. In contrast, three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting allows precise placement of organoids or spheroids, providing enhanced spatial control and facilitating the direct fusion for the formation of large-scale functional tissues in vitro. In addition, 3D bioprinting enables fine tuning of biochemical and biophysical cues to support organoid development and maturation. With advances in the organoid technology and its potential applications across diverse research fields such as cell biology, developmental biology, disease pathology, precision medicine, drug toxicology, and tissue engineering, organoid imaging has become a crucial aspect of physiological and pathological studies. This review highlights the recent advancements in imaging technologies that have significantly contributed to organoid research. Additionally, we discuss various bioprinting techniques, emphasizing their applications in organoid bioprinting. Integrating 3D imaging tools into a bioprinting platform allows real-time visualization while facilitating quality control, optimization, and comprehensive bioprinting assessment. Similarly, combining imaging technologies with organoid bioprinting can provide valuable insights into tissue formation, maturation, functions, and therapeutic responses. This approach not only improves the reproducibility of physiologically relevant tissues but also enhances understanding of complex biological processes. Thus, careful selection of bioprinting modalities, coupled with appropriate imaging techniques, holds the potential to create a versatile platform capable of addressing existing challenges and harnessing opportunities in these rapidly evolving fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sushila Maharjan
- Division of Engineering in Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Chenshuo Ma
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA
| | - Bibhor Singh
- Winthrop L. Chenery Upper Elementary School, Belmont, MA 02478, USA
| | - Heemin Kang
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea; College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Gorka Orive
- NanoBioCel Research Group, School of Pharmacy, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; Bioaraba, NanoBioCel Research Group, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; Biomedical Research Networking Centre in Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN). Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; University Institute for Regenerative Medicine and Oral Implantology - UIRMI (UPV/EHU-Fundación Eduardo Anitua), Vitoria, 01007, Spain; Singapore Eye Research Institute, The Academia, 20 College Road, Discovery Tower, Singapore 169856, Singapore
| | - Junjie Yao
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA.
| | - Yu Shrike Zhang
- Division of Engineering in Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA.
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14
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Mencattini A, Daprati E, Della-Morte D, Guadagni F, Sangiuolo F, Martinelli E. Assembloid learning: opportunities and challenges for personalized approaches to brain functioning in health and disease. Front Artif Intell 2024; 7:1385871. [PMID: 38708094 PMCID: PMC11066156 DOI: 10.3389/frai.2024.1385871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Arianna Mencattini
- Department of Electronic Engineering, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
- Interdisciplinary Center of Advanced Study of Organ-on-Chip and Lab-on-Chip Applications (IC-LOC), University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Elena Daprati
- Department of System Medicine and Centro di Biomedicina Spaziale (CBMS), University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - David Della-Morte
- Interdisciplinary Center of Advanced Study of Organ-on-Chip and Lab-on-Chip Applications (IC-LOC), University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
- San Raffaele Rome University, Rome, Italy
| | - Fiorella Guadagni
- San Raffaele Rome University, Rome, Italy
- Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) San Raffaele, Rome, Italy
| | - Federica Sangiuolo
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Eugenio Martinelli
- Department of Electronic Engineering, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
- Interdisciplinary Center of Advanced Study of Organ-on-Chip and Lab-on-Chip Applications (IC-LOC), University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
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15
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Petersilie L, Heiduschka S, Nelson JS, Neu LA, Le S, Anand R, Kafitz KW, Prigione A, Rose CR. Cortical brain organoid slices (cBOS) for the study of human neural cells in minimal networks. iScience 2024; 27:109415. [PMID: 38523789 PMCID: PMC10957451 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.109415] [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: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Brain organoids derived from human pluripotent stem cells are a promising tool for studying human neurodevelopment and related disorders. Here, we generated long-term cultures of cortical brain organoid slices (cBOS) grown at the air-liquid interphase from regionalized cortical organoids. We show that cBOS host mature neurons and astrocytes organized in complex architecture. Whole-cell patch-clamp demonstrated subthreshold synaptic inputs and action potential firing of neurons. Spontaneous intracellular calcium signals turned into synchronous large-scale oscillations upon combined disinhibition of NMDA receptors and blocking of GABAA receptors. Brief metabolic inhibition to mimic transient energy restriction in the ischemic brain induced reversible intracellular calcium loading of cBOS. Moreover, metabolic inhibition induced a reversible decline in neuronal ATP as revealed by ATeam1.03YEMK. Overall, cBOS provide a powerful platform to assess morphological and functional aspects of human neural cells in intact minimal networks and to address the pathways that drive cellular damage during brain ischemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Petersilie
- Institute of Neurobiology, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Heinrich Heine University Duesseldorf, 40225 Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Sonja Heiduschka
- Department of General Pediatrics, Neonatology and Pediatric Cardiology, University Children’s Hospital and Heinrich Heine University Duesseldorf, 40225 Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Joel S.E. Nelson
- Institute of Neurobiology, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Heinrich Heine University Duesseldorf, 40225 Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Louis A. Neu
- Institute of Neurobiology, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Heinrich Heine University Duesseldorf, 40225 Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Stephanie Le
- Department of General Pediatrics, Neonatology and Pediatric Cardiology, University Children’s Hospital and Heinrich Heine University Duesseldorf, 40225 Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Ruchika Anand
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology I, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Duesseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Duesseldorf, 40225 Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Karl W. Kafitz
- Institute of Neurobiology, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Heinrich Heine University Duesseldorf, 40225 Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Alessandro Prigione
- Department of General Pediatrics, Neonatology and Pediatric Cardiology, University Children’s Hospital and Heinrich Heine University Duesseldorf, 40225 Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Christine R. Rose
- Institute of Neurobiology, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Heinrich Heine University Duesseldorf, 40225 Duesseldorf, Germany
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16
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Osaki T, Duenki T, Chow SYA, Ikegami Y, Beaubois R, Levi T, Nakagawa-Tamagawa N, Hirano Y, Ikeuchi Y. Complex activity and short-term plasticity of human cerebral organoids reciprocally connected with axons. Nat Commun 2024; 15:2945. [PMID: 38600094 PMCID: PMC11006899 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-46787-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
An inter-regional cortical tract is one of the most fundamental architectural motifs that integrates neural circuits to orchestrate and generate complex functions of the human brain. To understand the mechanistic significance of inter-regional projections on development of neural circuits, we investigated an in vitro neural tissue model for inter-regional connections, in which two cerebral organoids are connected with a bundle of reciprocally extended axons. The connected organoids produced more complex and intense oscillatory activity than conventional or directly fused cerebral organoids, suggesting the inter-organoid axonal connections enhance and support the complex network activity. In addition, optogenetic stimulation of the inter-organoid axon bundles could entrain the activity of the organoids and induce robust short-term plasticity of the macroscopic circuit. These results demonstrated that the projection axons could serve as a structural hub that boosts functionality of the organoid-circuits. This model could contribute to further investigation on development and functions of macroscopic neuronal circuits in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatsuya Osaki
- Institute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo, Meguro, Tokyo, 153-8505, Japan
- Institute for AI and Beyond, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - Tomoya Duenki
- Institute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo, Meguro, Tokyo, 153-8505, Japan
- Institute for AI and Beyond, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
- LIMMS/CNRS, Institute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Siu Yu A Chow
- Institute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo, Meguro, Tokyo, 153-8505, Japan
- Institute for AI and Beyond, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Ikegami
- Institute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo, Meguro, Tokyo, 153-8505, Japan
- Institute for AI and Beyond, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - Romain Beaubois
- Institute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo, Meguro, Tokyo, 153-8505, Japan
- LIMMS/CNRS, Institute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- IMS Laboratory, UMR5218, University of Bordeaux, Talence, France
| | - Timothée Levi
- Institute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo, Meguro, Tokyo, 153-8505, Japan
- LIMMS/CNRS, Institute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- IMS Laboratory, UMR5218, University of Bordeaux, Talence, France
| | - Nao Nakagawa-Tamagawa
- Institute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo, Meguro, Tokyo, 153-8505, Japan
- Department of Physiology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima, Japan
| | - Yoji Hirano
- Institute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo, Meguro, Tokyo, 153-8505, Japan
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
- Department of Psychiatry, Division of Clinical Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, Japan
| | - Yoshiho Ikeuchi
- Institute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo, Meguro, Tokyo, 153-8505, Japan.
- Institute for AI and Beyond, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan.
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan.
- LIMMS/CNRS, Institute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.
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17
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Boyd JL. Moral considerability of brain organoids from the perspective of computational architecture. OXFORD OPEN NEUROSCIENCE 2024; 3:kvae004. [PMID: 38595940 PMCID: PMC10995847 DOI: 10.1093/oons/kvae004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Human brain organoids equipped with complex cytoarchitecture and closed-loop feedback from virtual environments could provide insights into neural mechanisms underlying cognition. Yet organoids with certain cognitive capacities might also merit moral consideration. A precautionary approach has been proposed to address these ethical concerns by focusing on the epistemological question of whether organoids possess neural structures for morally-relevant capacities that bear resemblance to those found in human brains. Critics challenge this similarity approach on philosophical, scientific, and practical grounds but do so without a suitable alternative. Here, I introduce an architectural approach that infers the potential for cognitive-like processing in brain organoids based on the pattern of information flow through the system. The kind of computational architecture acquired by an organoid then informs the kind of cognitive capacities that could, theoretically, be supported and empirically investigated. The implications of this approach for the moral considerability of brain organoids are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Lomax Boyd
- Berman Institute of Bioethics, Johns Hopkins University, 1809 Ashland Ave, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
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18
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Soumier A, Lio G, Demily C. Current and future applications of light-sheet imaging for identifying molecular and developmental processes in autism spectrum disorders. Mol Psychiatry 2024:10.1038/s41380-024-02487-8. [PMID: 38443634 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-024-02487-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is identified by a set of neurodevelopmental divergences that typically affect the social communication domain. ASD is also characterized by heterogeneous cognitive impairments and is associated with cooccurring physical and medical conditions. As behaviors emerge as the brain matures, it is particularly essential to identify any gaps in neurodevelopmental trajectories during early perinatal life. Here, we introduce the potential of light-sheet imaging for studying developmental biology and cross-scale interactions among genetic, cellular, molecular and macroscale levels of circuitry and connectivity. We first report the core principles of light-sheet imaging and the recent progress in studying brain development in preclinical animal models and human organoids. We also present studies using light-sheet imaging to understand the development and function of other organs, such as the skin and gastrointestinal tract. We also provide information on the potential of light-sheet imaging in preclinical drug development. Finally, we speculate on the translational benefits of light-sheet imaging for studying individual brain-body interactions in advancing ASD research and creating personalized interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amelie Soumier
- Le Vinatier Hospital Center, 95 boulevard Pinel, 69675, Bron cedex, France.
- iMIND, Center of Excellence for Autism, 95 boulevard Pinel, 69675, Bron cedex, France.
- Institute of Cognitive Science Marc Jeannerod, CNRS, UMR 5229, 67 boulevard Pinel, 69675, Bron cedex, France.
- University Claude Bernard Lyon 1, 43 boulevard du 11 Novembre 1918, 69622, Villeurbanne cedex, France.
| | - Guillaume Lio
- Le Vinatier Hospital Center, 95 boulevard Pinel, 69675, Bron cedex, France
- iMIND, Center of Excellence for Autism, 95 boulevard Pinel, 69675, Bron cedex, France
- Institute of Cognitive Science Marc Jeannerod, CNRS, UMR 5229, 67 boulevard Pinel, 69675, Bron cedex, France
| | - Caroline Demily
- Le Vinatier Hospital Center, 95 boulevard Pinel, 69675, Bron cedex, France
- iMIND, Center of Excellence for Autism, 95 boulevard Pinel, 69675, Bron cedex, France
- Institute of Cognitive Science Marc Jeannerod, CNRS, UMR 5229, 67 boulevard Pinel, 69675, Bron cedex, France
- University Claude Bernard Lyon 1, 43 boulevard du 11 Novembre 1918, 69622, Villeurbanne cedex, France
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19
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Spaeth A, Haussler D, Teodorescu M. Model-Agnostic Neural Mean Field With The Refractory SoftPlus Transfer Function. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.02.05.579047. [PMID: 38370695 PMCID: PMC10871173 DOI: 10.1101/2024.02.05.579047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Due to the complexity of neuronal networks and the nonlinear dynamics of individual neurons, it is challenging to develop a systems-level model which is accurate enough to be useful yet tractable enough to apply. Mean-field models which extrapolate from single-neuron descriptions to large-scale models can be derived from the neuron's transfer function, which gives its firing rate as a function of its synaptic input. However, analytically derived transfer functions are applicable only to the neurons and noise models from which they were originally derived. In recent work, approximate transfer functions have been empirically derived by fitting a sigmoidal curve, which imposes a maximum firing rate and applies only in the diffusion limit, restricting applications. In this paper, we propose an approximate transfer function called Refractory SoftPlus, which is simple yet applicable to a broad variety of neuron types. Refractory SoftPlus activation functions allow the derivation of simple empirically approximated mean-field models using simulation results, which enables prediction of the response of a network of randomly connected neurons to a time-varying external stimulus with a high degree of accuracy. These models also support an accurate approximate bifurcation analysis as a function of the level of recurrent input. Finally, the model works without assuming large presynaptic rates or small postsynaptic potential size, allowing mean-field models to be developed even for populations with large interaction terms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex Spaeth
- Electrical and Computer Engineering Department, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, United States
- Genomics Institute, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, United States
| | - David Haussler
- Genomics Institute, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, United States
- Biomolecular Engineering Department, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, United States
| | - Mircea Teodorescu
- Electrical and Computer Engineering Department, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, United States
- Genomics Institute, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, United States
- Biomolecular Engineering Department, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, United States
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20
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Li M, Sun H, Hou Z, Hao S, Jin L, Wang B. Engineering the Physical Microenvironment into Neural Organoids for Neurogenesis and Neurodevelopment. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2306451. [PMID: 37771182 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202306451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023]
Abstract
Understanding the signals from the physical microenvironment is critical for deciphering the processes of neurogenesis and neurodevelopment. The discovery of how surrounding physical signals shape human developing neurons is hindered by the bottleneck of conventional cell culture and animal models. Notwithstanding neural organoids provide a promising platform for recapitulating human neurogenesis and neurodevelopment, building neuronal physical microenvironment that accurately mimics the native neurophysical features is largely ignored in current organoid technologies. Here, it is discussed how the physical microenvironment modulates critical events during the periods of neurogenesis and neurodevelopment, such as neural stem cell fates, neural tube closure, neuronal migration, axonal guidance, optic cup formation, and cortical folding. Although animal models are widely used to investigate the impacts of physical factors on neurodevelopment and neuropathy, the important roles of human stem cell-derived neural organoids in this field are particularly highlighted. Considering the great promise of human organoids, building neural organoid microenvironments with mechanical forces, electrophysiological microsystems, and light manipulation will help to fully understand the physical cues in neurodevelopmental processes. Neural organoids combined with cutting-edge techniques, such as advanced atomic force microscopes, microrobots, and structural color biomaterials might promote the development of neural organoid-based research and neuroscience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minghui Li
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400045, China
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Heng Sun
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400045, China
| | - Zongkun Hou
- Key Laboratory of Infectious Immune and Antibody Engineering of Guizhou Province, Engineering Research Center of Cellular Immunotherapy of Guizhou Province, School of Biology and Engineering/School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, China
| | - Shilei Hao
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400045, China
| | - Liang Jin
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400045, China
| | - Bochu Wang
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400045, China
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21
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Park Y, Hernandez S, Hernandez CO, Schweiger HE, Li H, Voitiuk K, Dechiraju H, Hawthorne N, Muzzy EM, Selberg JA, Sullivan FN, Urcuyo R, Salama SR, Aslankoohi E, Knight HJ, Teodorescu M, Mostajo-Radji MA, Rolandi M. Modulation of neuronal activity in cortical organoids with bioelectronic delivery of ions and neurotransmitters. CELL REPORTS METHODS 2024; 4:100686. [PMID: 38218190 PMCID: PMC10831944 DOI: 10.1016/j.crmeth.2023.100686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
Precise modulation of brain activity is fundamental for the proper establishment and maturation of the cerebral cortex. To this end, cortical organoids are promising tools to study circuit formation and the underpinnings of neurodevelopmental disease. However, the ability to manipulate neuronal activity with high temporal resolution in brain organoids remains limited. To overcome this challenge, we introduce a bioelectronic approach to control cortical organoid activity with the selective delivery of ions and neurotransmitters. Using this approach, we sequentially increased and decreased neuronal activity in brain organoids with the bioelectronic delivery of potassium ions (K+) and γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), respectively, while simultaneously monitoring network activity. This works highlights bioelectronic ion pumps as tools for high-resolution temporal control of brain organoid activity toward precise pharmacological studies that can improve our understanding of neuronal function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunjeong Park
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, USA
| | - Sebastian Hernandez
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, USA; Genomics Institute, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA; Live Cell Biotechnology Discovery Lab, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA; Centro de Electroquímica y Energía Química (CELEQ), Universidad de Costa Rica, San José 11501 2060, Costa Rica
| | - Cristian O Hernandez
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, USA
| | - Hunter E Schweiger
- Genomics Institute, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA; Live Cell Biotechnology Discovery Lab, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA; Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA
| | - Houpu Li
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, USA
| | - Kateryna Voitiuk
- Genomics Institute, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA; Department of Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA
| | - Harika Dechiraju
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, USA
| | - Nico Hawthorne
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, USA; Genomics Institute, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA
| | - Elana M Muzzy
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, USA
| | - John A Selberg
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, USA
| | - Frederika N Sullivan
- Genomics Institute, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA
| | - Roberto Urcuyo
- Centro de Electroquímica y Energía Química (CELEQ), Universidad de Costa Rica, San José 11501 2060, Costa Rica
| | - Sofie R Salama
- Genomics Institute, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA; Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA; Institute for the Biology of Stem Cells, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA
| | - Elham Aslankoohi
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, USA
| | - Heather J Knight
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, USA; Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA
| | - Mircea Teodorescu
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, USA; Genomics Institute, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA; Institute for the Biology of Stem Cells, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA.
| | - Mohammed A Mostajo-Radji
- Genomics Institute, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA; Live Cell Biotechnology Discovery Lab, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA; Institute for the Biology of Stem Cells, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA.
| | - Marco Rolandi
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, USA; Genomics Institute, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA; Institute for the Biology of Stem Cells, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA.
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22
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Yang X, Forró C, Li TL, Miura Y, Zaluska TJ, Tsai CT, Kanton S, McQueen JP, Chen X, Mollo V, Santoro F, Pașca SP, Cui B. Kirigami electronics for long-term electrophysiological recording of human neural organoids and assembloids. Nat Biotechnol 2024:10.1038/s41587-023-02081-3. [PMID: 38253880 DOI: 10.1038/s41587-023-02081-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
Realizing the full potential of organoids and assembloids to model neural development and disease will require improved methods for long-term, minimally invasive recording of electrical activity. Current technologies, such as patch clamp, penetrating microelectrodes, planar electrode arrays and substrate-attached flexible electrodes, do not allow chronic recording of organoids in suspension, which is necessary to preserve architecture. Inspired by kirigami art, we developed flexible electronics that transition from a two-dimensional to a three-dimensional basket-like configuration with either spiral or honeycomb patterns to accommodate the long-term culture of organoids in suspension. Here we show that this platform, named kirigami electronics (KiriE), integrates with and enables chronic recording of cortical organoids for up to 120 days while preserving their morphology, cytoarchitecture and cell composition. We demonstrate integration of KiriE with optogenetic and pharmacological manipulation and modeling phenotypes related to a genetic disease. Moreover, KiriE can capture corticostriatal connectivity in assembloids following optogenetic stimulation. Thus, KiriE will enable investigation of disease and activity patterns underlying nervous system assembly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Yang
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Stanford Brain Organogenesis, Wu Tsai Neurosciences Institute and Bio-X, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Csaba Forró
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Center for Advanced Biomaterials for Healthcare, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Naples, Italy
- Institute for Biological I nformation Processing-Bioelectronics, IBI-3, Forschungszentrum Jülich, Jülich, Germany
| | - Thomas L Li
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Stanford Brain Organogenesis, Wu Tsai Neurosciences Institute and Bio-X, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Yuki Miura
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Stanford Brain Organogenesis, Wu Tsai Neurosciences Institute and Bio-X, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | | | - Ching-Ting Tsai
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Sabina Kanton
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Stanford Brain Organogenesis, Wu Tsai Neurosciences Institute and Bio-X, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - James P McQueen
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Stanford Brain Organogenesis, Wu Tsai Neurosciences Institute and Bio-X, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Xiaoyu Chen
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Stanford Brain Organogenesis, Wu Tsai Neurosciences Institute and Bio-X, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Valentina Mollo
- Center for Advanced Biomaterials for Healthcare, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesca Santoro
- Center for Advanced Biomaterials for Healthcare, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Naples, Italy
- Institute for Biological I nformation Processing-Bioelectronics, IBI-3, Forschungszentrum Jülich, Jülich, Germany
- Neuroelectronic Interfaces, RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Sergiu P Pașca
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
- Stanford Brain Organogenesis, Wu Tsai Neurosciences Institute and Bio-X, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
| | - Bianxiao Cui
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
- Stanford Brain Organogenesis, Wu Tsai Neurosciences Institute and Bio-X, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
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23
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Patel D, Shetty S, Acha C, Pantoja IEM, Zhao A, George D, Gracias DH. Microinstrumentation for Brain Organoids. Adv Healthc Mater 2024:e2302456. [PMID: 38217546 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202302456] [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: 07/30/2023] [Revised: 12/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
Brain organoids are three-dimensional aggregates of self-organized differentiated stem cells that mimic the structure and function of human brain regions. Organoids bridge the gaps between conventional drug screening models such as planar mammalian cell culture, animal studies, and clinical trials. They can revolutionize the fields of developmental biology, neuroscience, toxicology, and computer engineering. Conventional microinstrumentation for conventional cellular engineering, such as planar microfluidic chips; microelectrode arrays (MEAs); and optical, magnetic, and acoustic techniques, has limitations when applied to three-dimensional (3D) organoids, primarily due to their limits with inherently two-dimensional geometry and interfacing. Hence, there is an urgent need to develop new instrumentation compatible with live cell culture techniques and with scalable 3D formats relevant to organoids. This review discusses conventional planar approaches and emerging 3D microinstrumentation necessary for advanced organoid-machine interfaces. Specifically, this article surveys recently developed microinstrumentation, including 3D printed and curved microfluidics, 3D and fast-scan optical techniques, buckling and self-folding MEAs, 3D interfaces for electrochemical measurements, and 3D spatially controllable magnetic and acoustic technologies relevant to two-way information transfer with brain organoids. This article highlights key challenges that must be addressed for robust organoid culture and reliable 3D spatiotemporal information transfer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devan Patel
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
| | - Saniya Shetty
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
| | - Chris Acha
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
| | - Itzy E Morales Pantoja
- Center for Alternatives to Animal Testing (CAAT), Department of Environmental Health and Engineering, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Alice Zhao
- Department of Biology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
| | - Derosh George
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
| | - David H Gracias
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
- Department of Chemistry, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
- Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
- Laboratory for Computational Sensing and Robotics (LCSR), Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center (SKCCC), Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
- Center for MicroPhysiological Systems (MPS), Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
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24
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Wallace JL, Pollen AA. Human neuronal maturation comes of age: cellular mechanisms and species differences. Nat Rev Neurosci 2024; 25:7-29. [PMID: 37996703 DOI: 10.1038/s41583-023-00760-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
The delayed and prolonged postmitotic maturation of human neurons, compared with neurons from other species, may contribute to human-specific cognitive abilities and neurological disorders. Here we review the mechanisms of neuronal maturation, applying lessons from model systems to understand the specific features of protracted human cortical maturation and species differences. We cover cell-intrinsic features of neuronal maturation, including transcriptional, epigenetic and metabolic mechanisms, as well as cell-extrinsic features, including the roles of activity and synapses, the actions of glial cells and the contribution of the extracellular matrix. We discuss evidence for species differences in biochemical reaction rates, the proposed existence of an epigenetic maturation clock and the contributions of both general and modular mechanisms to species-specific maturation timing. Finally, we suggest approaches to measure, improve and accelerate the maturation of human neurons in culture, examine crosstalk and interactions among these different aspects of maturation and propose conceptual models to guide future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenelle L Wallace
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
- Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Alex A Pollen
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
- Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
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25
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van der Molen T, Spaeth A, Chini M, Bartram J, Dendukuri A, Zhang Z, Bhaskaran-Nair K, Blauvelt LJ, Petzold LR, Hansma PK, Teodorescu M, Hierlemann A, Hengen KB, Hanganu-Opatz IL, Kosik KS, Sharf T. Protosequences in human cortical organoids model intrinsic states in the developing cortex. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.12.29.573646. [PMID: 38234832 PMCID: PMC10793448 DOI: 10.1101/2023.12.29.573646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
Neuronal firing sequences are thought to be the basic building blocks of neural coding and information broadcasting within the brain. However, when sequences emerge during neurodevelopment remains unknown. We demonstrate that structured firing sequences are present in spontaneous activity of human brain organoids and ex vivo neonatal brain slices from the murine somatosensory cortex. We observed a balance between temporally rigid and flexible firing patterns that are emergent phenomena in human brain organoids and early postnatal murine somatosensory cortex, but not in primary dissociated cortical cultures. Our findings suggest that temporal sequences do not arise in an experience-dependent manner, but are rather constrained by an innate preconfigured architecture established during neurogenesis. These findings highlight the potential for brain organoids to further explore how exogenous inputs can be used to refine neuronal circuits and enable new studies into the genetic mechanisms that govern assembly of functional circuitry during early human brain development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tjitse van der Molen
- Neuroscience Research Institute, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA
| | - Alex Spaeth
- UC Santa Cruz Genomics Institute, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, USA
| | - Mattia Chini
- Institute of Developmental Neurophysiology, Center for Molecular Neurobiology, Hamburg Center of Neuroscience, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20251 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Julian Bartram
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zürich, Klingelbergstrasse 48, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Aditya Dendukuri
- Department of Computer Science, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA
| | - Zongren Zhang
- Department of Physics, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA 93106
| | - Kiran Bhaskaran-Nair
- Department of Biology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
| | - Lon J. Blauvelt
- UC Santa Cruz Genomics Institute, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA
| | - Linda R. Petzold
- Department of Computer Science, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA
| | - Paul K. Hansma
- Neuroscience Research Institute, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA
- Department of Physics, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA 93106
| | - Mircea Teodorescu
- UC Santa Cruz Genomics Institute, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, USA
| | - Andreas Hierlemann
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zürich, Klingelbergstrasse 48, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Keith B. Hengen
- Department of Biology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
| | - Ileana L. Hanganu-Opatz
- Institute of Developmental Neurophysiology, Center for Molecular Neurobiology, Hamburg Center of Neuroscience, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20251 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Kenneth S. Kosik
- Neuroscience Research Institute, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA
| | - Tal Sharf
- UC Santa Cruz Genomics Institute, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA
- Department of Biomolecular Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, USA
- Institute for the Biology of Stem Cells, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, USA
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26
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Ni P, Fan L, Jiang Y, Zhou C, Chung S. From cells to insights: the power of human pluripotent stem cell-derived cortical interneurons in psychiatric disorder modeling. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1336085. [PMID: 38188058 PMCID: PMC10768008 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1336085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Psychiatric disorders, such as schizophrenia (SCZ) and autism spectrum disorders (ASD), represent a global health challenge with their poorly understood and complex etiologies. Cortical interneurons (cINs) are the primary inhibitory neurons in the cortex and their subtypes, especially those that are generated from the medial ganglionic emission (MGE) region, have been shown to play an important role in the pathogenesis of these psychiatric disorders. Recent advances in induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) technologies provide exciting opportunities to model and study these disorders using human iPSC-derived cINs. In this review, we present a comprehensive overview of various methods employed to generate MGE-type cINs from human iPSCs, which are mainly categorized into induction by signaling molecules vs. direct genetic manipulation. We discuss their advantages, limitations, and potential applications in psychiatric disorder modeling to aid researchers in choosing the appropriate methods based on their research goals. We also provide examples of how these methods have been applied to study the pathogenesis of psychiatric disorders. In addition, we discuss ongoing challenges and future directions in the field. Overall, iPSC-derived cINs provide a powerful tool to model the developmental pathogenesis of psychiatric disorders, thus aiding in uncovering disease mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets. This review article will provide valuable resources for researchers seeking to navigate the complexities of cIN generation methods and their applications in the study of psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peiyan Ni
- Department of Neurobiology, Affiliated Mental Health Center and Hangzhou Seventh People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Liangzhu Laboratory, State Key Laboratory of Brain-Machine Intelligence, MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Science and Brain-Machine Integration, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lingyi Fan
- The Mental Health Center and Psychiatric Laboratory, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Youhui Jiang
- The Mental Health Center and Psychiatric Laboratory, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Chuqing Zhou
- The Mental Health Center and Psychiatric Laboratory, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Sangmi Chung
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, United States
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27
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Gu Y, Zhang W, Wu X, Zhang Y, Xu K, Su J. Organoid assessment technologies. Clin Transl Med 2023; 13:e1499. [PMID: 38115706 PMCID: PMC10731122 DOI: 10.1002/ctm2.1499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite enormous advances in the generation of organoids, robust and stable protocols of organoids are still a major challenge to researchers. Research for assessing structures of organoids and the evaluations of their functions on in vitro or in vivo is often limited by precision strategies. A growing interest in assessing organoids has arisen, aimed at standardizing the process of obtaining organoids to accurately resemble human-derived tissue. The complex microenvironment of organoids, intricate cellular crosstalk, organ-specific architectures and further complicate functions urgently quest for high-through schemes. By utilizing multi-omics analysis and single-cell analysis, cell-cell interaction mechanisms can be deciphered, and their structures can be investigated in a detailed view by histological analysis. In this review, we will conclude the novel approaches to study the molecular mechanism and cell heterogeneity of organoids and discuss the histological and morphological similarity of organoids in comparison to the human body. Future perspectives on functional analysis will be developed and the organoids will become mature models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuyuan Gu
- Institute of Translational MedicineShanghai UniversityShanghaiChina
- Organoid Research CenterShanghai UniversityShanghaiChina
- School of MedicineShanghai UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Wencai Zhang
- Department of OrthopedicsFirst Affiliated HospitalJinan UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - Xianmin Wu
- Department of OrthopedicsShanghai Zhongye HospitalShanghaiChina
| | - Yuanwei Zhang
- Institute of Translational MedicineShanghai UniversityShanghaiChina
- Organoid Research CenterShanghai UniversityShanghaiChina
- Department of OrthopaedicsXinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai JiaoTong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Ke Xu
- Institute of Translational MedicineShanghai UniversityShanghaiChina
- Organoid Research CenterShanghai UniversityShanghaiChina
- Wenzhou Institute of Shanghai UniversityWenzhouChina
| | - Jiacan Su
- Institute of Translational MedicineShanghai UniversityShanghaiChina
- Organoid Research CenterShanghai UniversityShanghaiChina
- Department of OrthopaedicsXinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai JiaoTong University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
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28
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Ishibashi Y, Nagafuku N, Kanda Y, Suzuki I. Evaluation of neurotoxicity for pesticide-related compounds in human iPS cell-derived neurons using microelectrode array. Toxicol In Vitro 2023; 93:105668. [PMID: 37633473 DOI: 10.1016/j.tiv.2023.105668] [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: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 08/28/2023]
Abstract
In vivo evaluations of chemicals in neurotoxicity have certain limitations due to the considerable time and cost required, necessity of extrapolation from rodents to humans, and limited information on toxicity mechanisms. To address this issue, the development of in vitro test methods using new approach methodologies (NAMs) is important to evaluate the chemicals in neurotoxicity. Microelectrode array (MEA) allows the assessment of changes in neural network activity caused by compound administration. However, studies on compound evaluation criteria are scarce. In this study, we evaluated the impact of pesticides on neural activity using MEA measurements of human iPSC-derived neurons. A principal component analysis was performed on the electrical physiological parameters obtained by MEA measurements, and the influence of excessive neural activity due to compound addition was defined using the standard deviation of neural activity with solvent addition as the reference. By using known seizurogenic compounds as positive controls for neurotoxicity in MEA and evaluating pesticides with insufficient verification of their neurotoxicity in humans, we demonstrated that these pesticides exhibit neurotoxicity in humans. In conclusion, our data suggest that the neurotoxicity evaluation method in human iPSC neurons using MEA measurements could be one of the in vitro neurotoxicity test methods that could replace animal experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuto Ishibashi
- Department of Electronics, Graduate School of Engineering, Tohoku Institute of Technology, 35-1 Yagiyama Kasumicho, Taihaku-ku, Sendai, Miyagi 982-8577, Japan
| | - Nami Nagafuku
- Department of Electronics, Graduate School of Engineering, Tohoku Institute of Technology, 35-1 Yagiyama Kasumicho, Taihaku-ku, Sendai, Miyagi 982-8577, Japan
| | - Yasunari Kanda
- Division of Pharmacology, National Institute of Health Sciences, 3-25-26 Tonomachi, Kawasaki-ku, Kawasaki, Kanagawa 210-9501, Japan
| | - Ikuro Suzuki
- Department of Electronics, Graduate School of Engineering, Tohoku Institute of Technology, 35-1 Yagiyama Kasumicho, Taihaku-ku, Sendai, Miyagi 982-8577, Japan.
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29
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Elliott MAT, Schweiger HE, Robbins A, Vera-Choqqueccota S, Ehrlich D, Hernandez S, Voitiuk K, Geng J, Sevetson JL, Core C, Rosen YM, Teodorescu M, Wagner NO, Haussler D, Mostajo-Radji MA. Internet-Connected Cortical Organoids for Project-Based Stem Cell and Neuroscience Education. eNeuro 2023; 10:ENEURO.0308-23.2023. [PMID: 38016807 PMCID: PMC10755643 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0308-23.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The introduction of Internet-connected technologies to the classroom has the potential to revolutionize STEM education by allowing students to perform experiments in complex models that are unattainable in traditional teaching laboratories. By connecting laboratory equipment to the cloud, we introduce students to experimentation in pluripotent stem cell (PSC)-derived cortical organoids in two different settings: using microscopy to monitor organoid growth in an introductory tissue culture course and using high-density (HD) multielectrode arrays (MEAs) to perform neuronal stimulation and recording in an advanced neuroscience mathematics course. We demonstrate that this approach develops interest in stem cell and neuroscience in the students of both courses. All together, we propose cloud technologies as an effective and scalable approach for complex project-based university training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew A T Elliott
- Genomics Institute, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
- Live Cell Biotechnology Discovery Lab, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
- Department of Biomolecular Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
| | - Hunter E Schweiger
- Genomics Institute, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
- Live Cell Biotechnology Discovery Lab, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
| | - Ash Robbins
- Genomics Institute, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
- Live Cell Biotechnology Discovery Lab, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
| | - Samira Vera-Choqqueccota
- Genomics Institute, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
- Live Cell Biotechnology Discovery Lab, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
- Department of Biomolecular Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
| | - Drew Ehrlich
- Genomics Institute, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
- Live Cell Biotechnology Discovery Lab, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
- Department of Computational Media, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
| | - Sebastian Hernandez
- Genomics Institute, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
- Live Cell Biotechnology Discovery Lab, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
| | - Kateryna Voitiuk
- Genomics Institute, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
- Live Cell Biotechnology Discovery Lab, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
- Department of Biomolecular Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
| | - Jinghui Geng
- Genomics Institute, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
- Live Cell Biotechnology Discovery Lab, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
| | - Jess L Sevetson
- Genomics Institute, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
| | - Cordero Core
- Scientific Software Engineering Center, eScience Institute, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195
| | - Yohei M Rosen
- Genomics Institute, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
- Live Cell Biotechnology Discovery Lab, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
| | - Mircea Teodorescu
- Genomics Institute, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
- Live Cell Biotechnology Discovery Lab, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
- Department of Biomolecular Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
| | - Nico O Wagner
- College of Arts and Sciences, University of San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94117
| | - David Haussler
- Genomics Institute, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
- Live Cell Biotechnology Discovery Lab, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
- Department of Biomolecular Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
| | - Mohammed A Mostajo-Radji
- Genomics Institute, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
- Live Cell Biotechnology Discovery Lab, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
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Harary PM, Jgamadze D, Kim J, Wolf JA, Song H, Ming GL, Cullen DK, Chen HI. Cell Replacement Therapy for Brain Repair: Recent Progress and Remaining Challenges for Treating Parkinson's Disease and Cortical Injury. Brain Sci 2023; 13:1654. [PMID: 38137103 PMCID: PMC10741697 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13121654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Neural transplantation represents a promising approach to repairing damaged brain circuitry. Cellular grafts have been shown to promote functional recovery through "bystander effects" and other indirect mechanisms. However, extensive brain lesions may require direct neuronal replacement to achieve meaningful restoration of function. While fetal cortical grafts have been shown to integrate with the host brain and appear to develop appropriate functional attributes, the significant ethical concerns and limited availability of this tissue severely hamper clinical translation. Induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cells and tissues represent a more readily scalable alternative. Significant progress has recently been made in developing protocols for generating a wide range of neural cell types in vitro. Here, we discuss recent progress in neural transplantation approaches for two conditions with distinct design needs: Parkinson's disease and cortical injury. We discuss the current status and future application of injections of dopaminergic cells for the treatment of Parkinson's disease as well as the use of structured grafts such as brain organoids for cortical repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul M. Harary
- Department of Neurosurgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; (P.M.H.)
| | - Dennis Jgamadze
- Department of Neurosurgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; (P.M.H.)
| | - Jaeha Kim
- Department of Neurosurgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; (P.M.H.)
| | - John A. Wolf
- Department of Neurosurgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; (P.M.H.)
- Corporal Michael J. Crescenz Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Hongjun Song
- Department of Neuroscience and Mahoney Institute for Neurosciences, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- The Epigenetics Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Guo-li Ming
- Department of Neuroscience and Mahoney Institute for Neurosciences, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - D. Kacy Cullen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; (P.M.H.)
- Corporal Michael J. Crescenz Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - H. Isaac Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; (P.M.H.)
- Corporal Michael J. Crescenz Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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Lv S, He E, Luo J, Liu Y, Liang W, Xu S, Zhang K, Yang Y, Wang M, Song Y, Wu Y, Cai X. Using Human-Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell Derived Neurons on Microelectrode Arrays to Model Neurological Disease: A Review. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2301828. [PMID: 37863819 PMCID: PMC10667858 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202301828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
In situ physiological signals of in vitro neural disease models are essential for studying pathogenesis and drug screening. Currently, an increasing number of in vitro neural disease models are established using human-induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) derived neurons (hiPSC-DNs) to overcome interspecific gene expression differences. Microelectrode arrays (MEAs) can be readily interfaced with two-dimensional (2D), and more recently, three-dimensional (3D) neural stem cell-derived in vitro models of the human brain to monitor their physiological activity in real time. Therefore, MEAs are emerging and useful tools to model neurological disorders and disease in vitro using human iPSCs. This is enabling a real-time window into neuronal signaling at the network scale from patient derived. This paper provides a comprehensive review of MEA's role in analyzing neural disease models established by hiPSC-DNs. It covers the significance of MEA fabrication, surface structure and modification schemes for hiPSC-DNs culturing and signal detection. Additionally, this review discusses advances in the development and use of MEA technology to study in vitro neural disease models, including epilepsy, autism spectrum developmental disorder (ASD), and others established using hiPSC-DNs. The paper also highlights the application of MEAs combined with hiPSC-DNs in detecting in vitro neurotoxic substances. Finally, the future development and outlook of multifunctional and integrated devices for in vitro medical diagnostics and treatment are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiya Lv
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer TechnologyAerospace Information Research InstituteChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100190China
- University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100049China
| | - Enhui He
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer TechnologyAerospace Information Research InstituteChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100190China
- University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100049China
- The State Key Lab of Brain‐Machine IntelligenceZhejiang UniversityHangzhou321100China
| | - Jinping Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer TechnologyAerospace Information Research InstituteChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100190China
- University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100049China
| | - Yaoyao Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer TechnologyAerospace Information Research InstituteChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100190China
- University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100049China
| | - Wei Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer TechnologyAerospace Information Research InstituteChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100190China
- University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100049China
| | - Shihong Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer TechnologyAerospace Information Research InstituteChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100190China
- University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100049China
| | - Kui Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer TechnologyAerospace Information Research InstituteChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100190China
- University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100049China
| | - Yan Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer TechnologyAerospace Information Research InstituteChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100190China
- University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100049China
| | - Mixia Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer TechnologyAerospace Information Research InstituteChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100190China
- University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100049China
| | - Yilin Song
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer TechnologyAerospace Information Research InstituteChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100190China
- University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100049China
| | - Yirong Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer TechnologyAerospace Information Research InstituteChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100190China
- University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100049China
| | - Xinxia Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer TechnologyAerospace Information Research InstituteChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100190China
- University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100049China
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32
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Duru J, Maurer B, Giles Doran C, Jelitto R, Küchler J, Ihle SJ, Ruff T, John R, Genocchi B, Vörös J. Investigation of the input-output relationship of engineered neural networks using high-density microelectrode arrays. Biosens Bioelectron 2023; 239:115591. [PMID: 37634421 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2023.115591] [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: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023]
Abstract
Bottom-up neuroscience utilizes small, engineered biological neural networks to study neuronal activity in systems of reduced complexity. We present a platform that establishes up to six independent networks formed by primary rat neurons on planar complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) microelectrode arrays (MEAs). We introduce an approach that allows repetitive stimulation and recording of network activity at any of the over 700 electrodes underlying a network. We demonstrate that the continuous application of a repetitive super-threshold stimulus yields a reproducible network answer within a 15 ms post-stimulus window. This response can be tracked with high spatiotemporal resolution across the whole extent of the network. Moreover, we show that the location of the stimulation plays a significant role in the networks' early response to the stimulus. By applying a stimulation pattern to all network-underlying electrodes in sequence, the sensitivity of the whole network to the stimulus can be visualized. We demonstrate that microchannels reduce the voltage stimulation threshold and induce the strongest network response. By varying the stimulation amplitude and frequency we reveal discrete network transition points. Finally, we introduce vector fields to follow stimulation-induced spike propagation pathways within the network. Overall we show that our defined neural networks on CMOS MEAs enable us to elicit highly reproducible activity patterns that can be precisely modulated by stimulation amplitude, stimulation frequency and the site of stimulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jens Duru
- Laboratory of Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Institute for Biomedical Engineering, University and ETH Zurich, Gloriastrasse 35, Zurich, 8092, Switzerland.
| | - Benedikt Maurer
- Laboratory of Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Institute for Biomedical Engineering, University and ETH Zurich, Gloriastrasse 35, Zurich, 8092, Switzerland.
| | - Ciara Giles Doran
- Laboratory of Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Institute for Biomedical Engineering, University and ETH Zurich, Gloriastrasse 35, Zurich, 8092, Switzerland.
| | - Robert Jelitto
- Laboratory of Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Institute for Biomedical Engineering, University and ETH Zurich, Gloriastrasse 35, Zurich, 8092, Switzerland.
| | - Joël Küchler
- Laboratory of Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Institute for Biomedical Engineering, University and ETH Zurich, Gloriastrasse 35, Zurich, 8092, Switzerland.
| | - Stephan J Ihle
- Laboratory of Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Institute for Biomedical Engineering, University and ETH Zurich, Gloriastrasse 35, Zurich, 8092, Switzerland.
| | - Tobias Ruff
- Laboratory of Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Institute for Biomedical Engineering, University and ETH Zurich, Gloriastrasse 35, Zurich, 8092, Switzerland.
| | - Robert John
- Laboratory of Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Institute for Biomedical Engineering, University and ETH Zurich, Gloriastrasse 35, Zurich, 8092, Switzerland.
| | - Barbara Genocchi
- Computational Biophysics and Imaging Group, Tampere University, Arvo Ylpön katu 34, Tampere, 33520, Finland.
| | - János Vörös
- Laboratory of Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Institute for Biomedical Engineering, University and ETH Zurich, Gloriastrasse 35, Zurich, 8092, Switzerland.
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Owen M, Huang Z, Duclos C, Lavazza A, Grasso M, Hudetz AG. Theoretical Neurobiology of Consciousness Applied to Human Cerebral Organoids. Camb Q Healthc Ethics 2023:1-21. [PMID: 37850471 DOI: 10.1017/s0963180123000543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2023]
Abstract
Organoids and specifically human cerebral organoids (HCOs) are one of the most relevant novelties in the field of biomedical research. Grown either from embryonic or induced pluripotent stem cells, HCOs can be used as in vitro three-dimensional models, mimicking the developmental process and organization of the developing human brain. Based on that, and despite their current limitations, it cannot be assumed that they will never at any stage of development manifest some rudimentary form of consciousness. In the absence of behavioral indicators of consciousness, the theoretical neurobiology of consciousness being applied to unresponsive brain-injured patients can be considered with respect to HCOs. In clinical neurology, it is difficult to discern a capacity for consciousness in unresponsive brain-injured patients who provide no behavioral indicators of consciousness. In such scenarios, a validated neurobiological theory of consciousness, which tells us what the neural mechanisms of consciousness are, could be used to identify a capacity for consciousness. Like the unresponsive patients that provide a diagnostic difficulty for neurologists, HCOs provide no behavioral indicators of consciousness. Therefore, this article discusses how three prominent neurobiological theories of consciousness apply to human cerebral organoids. From the perspective of the Temporal Circuit Hypothesis, the Global Neuronal Workspace Theory, and the Integrated Information Theory, we discuss what neuronal structures and functions might indicate that cerebral organoids have a neurobiological capacity to be conscious.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Owen
- Philosophy Department, Yakima Valley College, Yakima, WA, USA
- Center for Consciousness Science, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Zirui Huang
- Center for Consciousness Science, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Catherine Duclos
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Department of Neuroscience, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Centre for Advanced Research in Sleep Medicine, Centre intégré universitaire de santé et de services sociaux (CIUSSS) du Nord-de-l'île-de-Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
- CIFAR Azrieli Global Scholars Program, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Andrea Lavazza
- Centro Universitario Internazionale, Arezzo, Italy
- University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Matteo Grasso
- Center for Sleep and Consciousness, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Anthony G Hudetz
- Center for Consciousness Science, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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34
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Yang X, Forró C, Li TL, Miura Y, Zaluska TJ, Tsai CT, Kanton S, McQueen JP, Chen X, Mollo V, Santoro F, Paşca SP, Cui B. Kirigami electronics for long-term electrophysiological recording of human neural organoids and assembloids. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.09.22.559050. [PMID: 37790529 PMCID: PMC10543001 DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.22.559050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
Organoids and assembloids have emerged as a promising platform to model aspects of nervous system development. Longterm, minimally-invasive recordings in these multi-cellular systems are essential for developing disease models. Current technologies, such as patch-clamp, penetrating microelectrodes, planar electrode arrays and substrate-attached flexible electrodes, do not, however, allow chronic recording of organoids in suspension, which is necessary to preserve their architecture. Inspired by the art of kirigami, we developed flexible electronics that transition from a 2D pattern to a 3D basketlike configuration to accommodate the long-term culture of organoids in suspension. This platform, named kirigami electronics (KiriE), integrates with and enables chronic recording of cortical organoids while preserving morphology, cytoarchitecture, and cell composition. KiriE can be integrated with optogenetic and pharmacological stimulation and model disease. Moreover, KiriE can capture activity in cortico-striatal assembloids. Moving forward, KiriE could reveal disease phenotypes and activity patterns underlying the assembly of the nervous system.
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Yang Y, Deng Y, Xu S, Liu Y, Liang W, Zhang K, Lv S, Sha L, Yin H, Wu Y, Luo J, Xu Q, Cai X. PPy/SWCNTs-Modified Microelectrode Array for Learning and Memory Model Construction through Electrical Stimulation and Detection of In Vitro Hippocampal Neuronal Network. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2023; 6:3414-3422. [PMID: 37071831 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.3c00105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/20/2023]
Abstract
The learning and memory functions of the brain remain unclear, which are in urgent need for the detection of both a single cell signal with high spatiotemporal resolution and network activities with high throughput. Here, an in vitro microelectrode array (MEA) was fabricated and further modified with polypyrrole/carboxylated single-walled carbon nanotubes (PPy/SWCNTs) nanocomposites as the interface between biological and electronic systems. The deposition of the nanocomposites significantly improved the performance of microelectrodes including low impedance (60.3 ± 28.8 k Ω), small phase delay (-32.8 ± 4.4°), and good biocompatibility. Then the modified MEA was used to apply learning training and test on hippocampal neuronal network cultured for 21 days through electrical stimulation, and multichannel electrophysiological signals were recorded simultaneously. During the process of learning training, the stimulus/response ratio of the hippocampal learning population gradually increased and the response time gradually decreased. After training, the mean spikes in burst, number of bursts, and mean burst duration increased by 53%, 191%, and 52%, respectively, and the correlation of neurons in the network was significantly enhanced from 0.45 ± 0.002 to 0.78 ± 0.002. In addition, the neuronal network basically retained these characteristics for at least 5 h. These results indicated that we have successfully constructed a learning and memory model of hippocampal neurons on the in vitro MEA, contributing to understanding learning and memory based on synaptic plasticity. The proposed PPy/SWCNTs-modified in vitro MEA will provide a promising platform for the exploration of learning and memory mechanism and their applications in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer Technology, Aerospace Information Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
- School of Electronic, Electrical and Communication Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, PR China
| | - Yu Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, PR China
| | - Shihong Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer Technology, Aerospace Information Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
- School of Electronic, Electrical and Communication Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, PR China
| | - Yaoyao Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer Technology, Aerospace Information Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
- School of Electronic, Electrical and Communication Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, PR China
| | - Wei Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer Technology, Aerospace Information Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
| | - Kui Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer Technology, Aerospace Information Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
- School of Electronic, Electrical and Communication Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, PR China
| | - Shiya Lv
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer Technology, Aerospace Information Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
- School of Electronic, Electrical and Communication Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, PR China
| | - Longze Sha
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, PR China
| | - Huabing Yin
- Division of Biomedical Engineering, James Watt School of Engineering, University of Glasgow, Oakfield Avenue, Glasgow G12 8LT, United Kingdom
| | - Yirong Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer Technology, Aerospace Information Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
- School of Electronic, Electrical and Communication Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, PR China
| | - Jinping Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer Technology, Aerospace Information Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
- School of Electronic, Electrical and Communication Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, PR China
| | - Qi Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, PR China
| | - Xinxia Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer Technology, Aerospace Information Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
- School of Electronic, Electrical and Communication Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, PR China
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Lin X, Sun L, Lu M, Zhao Y. Biomimetic Gland Models with Engineered Stratagems. RESEARCH (WASHINGTON, D.C.) 2023; 6:0232. [PMID: 37719047 PMCID: PMC10503994 DOI: 10.34133/research.0232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
As extensively distributed tissues throughout the human body, glands play a critical role in various physiological processes. Therefore, the construction of biomimetic gland models in vitro has aroused great interest in multiple disciplines. In the biological field, the researchers focus on optimizing the cell sources and culture techniques to reconstruct the specific structures and functions of glands, such as the emergence of organoid technology. From the perspective of biomedical engineering, the generation of biomimetic gland models depends on the combination of engineered scaffolds and microfluidics, to mimic the in vivo environment of glandular tissues. These engineered stratagems endowed gland models with more biomimetic features, as well as a wide range of application prospects. In this review, we first describe the biomimetic strategies for constructing different in vitro gland models, focusing on the role of microfluidics in promoting the structure and function development of biomimetic glands. After summarizing several common in vitro models of endocrine and exocrine glands, the applications of gland models in disease modelling, drug screening, regenerative medicine, and personalized medicine are enumerated. Finally, we conclude the current challenges and our perspective of these biomimetic gland models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Lin
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering,
Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China
- Oujiang Laboratory (Zhejiang Lab for Regenerative Medicine, Vision and Brain Health),
Wenzhou Institute, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325001, China
| | - Lingyu Sun
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering,
Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China
| | - Minhui Lu
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering,
Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China
| | - Yuanjin Zhao
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering,
Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China
- Oujiang Laboratory (Zhejiang Lab for Regenerative Medicine, Vision and Brain Health),
Wenzhou Institute, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325001, China
- Southeast University Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518071, China
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37
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Fernandes TG. Organoids as complex (bio)systems. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1268540. [PMID: 37691827 PMCID: PMC10485618 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1268540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Organoids are three-dimensional structures derived from stem cells that mimic the organization and function of specific organs, making them valuable tools for studying complex systems in biology. This paper explores the application of complex systems theory to understand and characterize organoids as exemplars of intricate biological systems. By identifying and analyzing common design principles observed across diverse natural, technological, and social complex systems, we can gain insights into the underlying mechanisms governing organoid behavior and function. This review outlines general design principles found in complex systems and demonstrates how these principles manifest within organoids. By acknowledging organoids as representations of complex systems, we can illuminate our understanding of their normal physiological behavior and gain valuable insights into the alterations that can lead to disease. Therefore, incorporating complex systems theory into the study of organoids may foster novel perspectives in biology and pave the way for new avenues of research and therapeutic interventions to improve human health and wellbeing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiago G. Fernandes
- Department of Bioengineering and iBB—Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory i4HB—Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
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38
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Phouphetlinthong O, Partiot E, Bernou C, Sebban A, Gaudin R, Charlot B. Protruding cantilever microelectrode array to monitor the inner electrical activity of cerebral organoids. LAB ON A CHIP 2023; 23:3603-3614. [PMID: 37489118 DOI: 10.1039/d3lc00294b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/26/2023]
Abstract
Stem cell-derived cerebral organoids are artificially grown miniature organ-like structures mimicking embryonic brain architecture. They are composed of multiple neural cell types with 3D cell layer organization exhibiting local field potential. Measuring the extracellular electrical activity by means of conventional planar microelectrode arrays is particularly challenging due to the 3D architecture of organoids. In order to monitor the intra-organoid electrical activity of thick spheroid-shaped samples, we developed long protruding microelectrode arrays able to penetrate the inner regions of cerebral organoids to measure the local potential of neurons within the organoids. A new microfabrication process has been developed which, thanks to the relaxation of internal stresses of a stack of materials deposited over a sacrificial layer, allows one to build a protruding cantilever microelectrode array placed at the apex of beams which rise vertically, over two hundred microns. These slender beams inserted deeply into the organoids give access to the recording of local field potential from neurons buried inside the organoid. This novel device shall provide valuable tools to study neural functions in greater detail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oramany Phouphetlinthong
- IES, Institut d'Electronique et des Systèmes, UMR 5214 CNRS, Montpellier, France
- University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France.
| | - Emma Partiot
- IRIM, Institut de Recherche en Infectiologie de Montpellier, UMR 9004 CNRS, Montpellier, France
- University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France.
| | - Corentin Bernou
- IRIM, Institut de Recherche en Infectiologie de Montpellier, UMR 9004 CNRS, Montpellier, France
- University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France.
| | - Audrey Sebban
- IES, Institut d'Electronique et des Systèmes, UMR 5214 CNRS, Montpellier, France
- University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France.
| | - Raphael Gaudin
- IRIM, Institut de Recherche en Infectiologie de Montpellier, UMR 9004 CNRS, Montpellier, France
- University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France.
| | - Benoit Charlot
- IES, Institut d'Electronique et des Systèmes, UMR 5214 CNRS, Montpellier, France
- University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France.
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Elliott MA, Schweiger HE, Robbins A, Vera-Choqqueccota S, Ehrlich D, Hernandez S, Voitiuk K, Geng J, Sevetson JL, Rosen YM, Teodorescu M, Wagner NO, Haussler D, Mostajo-Radji MA. Internet-connected cortical organoids for project-based stem cell and neuroscience education. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.07.13.546418. [PMID: 37503236 PMCID: PMC10369936 DOI: 10.1101/2023.07.13.546418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
The introduction of internet-connected technologies to the classroom has the potential to revolutionize STEM education by allowing students to perform experiments in complex models that are unattainable in traditional teaching laboratories. By connecting laboratory equipment to the cloud, we introduce students to experimentation in pluripotent stem cell-derived cortical organoids in two different settings: Using microscopy to monitor organoid growth in an introductory tissue culture course, and using high density multielectrode arrays to perform neuronal stimulation and recording in an advanced neuroscience mathematics course. We demonstrate that this approach develops interest in stem cell and neuroscience in the students of both courses. All together, we propose cloud technologies as an effective and scalable approach for complex project-based university training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew A.T. Elliott
- Genomics Institute, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA
- Live Cell Biotechnology Discovery Lab, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA
- Department of Biomolecular Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA
| | - Hunter E. Schweiger
- Genomics Institute, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA
- Live Cell Biotechnology Discovery Lab, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA
| | - Ash Robbins
- Genomics Institute, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA
- Live Cell Biotechnology Discovery Lab, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA
| | - Samira Vera-Choqqueccota
- Genomics Institute, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA
- Live Cell Biotechnology Discovery Lab, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA
- Department of Biomolecular Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA
| | - Drew Ehrlich
- Genomics Institute, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA
- Live Cell Biotechnology Discovery Lab, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA
- Department of Computational Media, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA
| | - Sebastian Hernandez
- Genomics Institute, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA
- Live Cell Biotechnology Discovery Lab, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA
| | - Kateryna Voitiuk
- Genomics Institute, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA
- Live Cell Biotechnology Discovery Lab, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA
- Department of Biomolecular Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA
| | - Jinghui Geng
- Genomics Institute, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA
- Live Cell Biotechnology Discovery Lab, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA
| | - Jess L. Sevetson
- Genomics Institute, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA
| | - Yohei M. Rosen
- Genomics Institute, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA
- Live Cell Biotechnology Discovery Lab, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA
| | - Mircea Teodorescu
- Genomics Institute, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA
- Live Cell Biotechnology Discovery Lab, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA
- Department of Biomolecular Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA
| | - Nico O. Wagner
- College of Arts and Sciences, University of San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, 94117, USA
| | - David Haussler
- Genomics Institute, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA
- Live Cell Biotechnology Discovery Lab, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA
- Department of Biomolecular Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA
| | - Mohammed A. Mostajo-Radji
- Genomics Institute, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA
- Live Cell Biotechnology Discovery Lab, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060, USA
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Salimpour Y, Anderson WS, Dastyeb R, Liu S, Ming GL, Song H, Maragakis NJ, Habela CW. Phase-Amplitude Coupling Detection and Analysis of Human 2-Dimensional Neural Cultures in Multi-well Microelectrode Array in Vitro. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.07.08.548227. [PMID: 37502955 PMCID: PMC10369896 DOI: 10.1101/2023.07.08.548227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) - derived neurons offer the possibility of studying human-specific neuronal behaviors in physiologic and pathologic states in vitro . However, it is unclear whether these cultured neurons can achieve the fundamental network behaviors that are required to process information in the human brain. Investigating neuronal oscillations and their interactions, as occurs in cross-frequency coupling (CFC), is potentially a relevant approach. Microelectrode array culture plates provide a controlled framework to study populations of hiPSC-derived cortical neurons (hiPSC-CNs) and their electrical activity. Here, we examined whether networks of two-dimensional cultured hiPSC-CNs recapitulate the CFC that is present in networks in vivo . We analyzed the electrical activity recorded from hiPSC-CNs grown in culture with hiPSC-derived astrocytes. We employed the modulation index method for detecting phase-amplitude coupling (PAC) and used an offline spike sorting method to analyze the contribution of a single neuron's spiking activities to network behavior. Our analysis demonstrates that the degree of PAC is specific to network structure and is modulated by external stimulation, such as bicuculine administration. Additionally, the shift in PAC is not driven by a single neuron's properties but by network-level interactions. CFC analysis in the form of PAC explores communication and integration between groups of nearby neurons and dynamical changes across the entire network. In vitro , it has the potential to capture the effects of chemical agents and electrical or ultrasound stimulation on these interactions and may provide valuable information for the modulation of neural networks to treat nervous system disorders in vivo . Significance Phase amplitude coupling (PAC) analysis demonstrates that the complex interactions that occur between neurons and network oscillations in the human brain, in vivo , are present in 2-dimensional human cultures. This coupling is implicated in normal cognitive function as well as disease states. Its presence in vitro suggests that PAC is a fundamental property of neural networks. These findings offer the possibility of a model to understand the mechanisms and of PAC more completely and ultimately allow us to understand how it can be modulated in vivo to treat neurologic disease.
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Hockney S, Parker J, Turner JE, Todd X, Todryk S, Gieling RG, Hilgen G, Simoes DCM, Pal D. Next generation organoid engineering to replace animals in cancer drug testing. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 213:115586. [PMID: 37164297 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Cancer therapies have several clinical challenges associated with them, namely treatment toxicity, treatment resistance and relapse. Due to factors ranging from patient profiles to the tumour microenvironment (TME), there are several hurdles to overcome in developing effective treatments that have low toxicity that can mitigate emergence of resistance and occurrence of relapse. De novo cancer development has the highest drug attrition rates with only 1 in 10,000 preclinical candidates reaching the market. To alleviate this high attrition rate, more mimetic and sustainable preclinical models that can capture the disease biology as in the patient, are required. Organoids and next generation 3D tissue engineering is an emerging area that aims to address this problem. Advancement of three-dimensional (3D) in vitro cultures into complex organoid models incorporating multiple cell types alongside acellular aspects of tissue microenvironments can provide a system for therapeutic testing. Development of microfluidic technologies have furthermore increased the biomimetic nature of these models. Additionally, 3D bio-printing facilitates generation of tractable ex vivo models in a controlled, scalable and reproducible manner. In this review we highlight some of the traditional preclinical models used in cancer drug testing and debate how next generation organoids are being used to replace not only animal models, but also some of the more elementary in vitro approaches, such as cell lines. Examples of applications of the various models will be appraised alongside the future challenges that still need to be overcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean Hockney
- Department of Applied Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 8ST, UK
| | - Jessica Parker
- Department of Applied Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 8ST, UK
| | - Jasmin E Turner
- Biosciences Institute, Newcastle University, International Centre for Life, Newcastle Upon Tyne NE1 4EP, UK
| | - Xanthea Todd
- Department of Applied Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 8ST, UK
| | - Stephen Todryk
- Department of Applied Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 8ST, UK
| | - Roben Ger Gieling
- Department of Applied Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 8ST, UK
| | - Gerrit Hilgen
- Department of Applied Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 8ST, UK; Biosciences Institute, Newcastle University, International Centre for Life, Newcastle Upon Tyne NE1 4EP, UK
| | - Davina Camargo Madeira Simoes
- Department of Applied Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 8ST, UK
| | - Deepali Pal
- Department of Applied Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 8ST, UK; Wolfson Childhood Cancer Research Centre, Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7RU, UK.
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Miyahara Y, Shimba K, Kotani K, Jimbo Y. Development of a Hypersensitivity Evaluation Method for Cultured Sensory Neurons Using Electrical Activity Recording. ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE OF THE IEEE ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY SOCIETY. IEEE ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY SOCIETY. ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE 2023; 2023:1-4. [PMID: 38083422 DOI: 10.1109/embc40787.2023.10340773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
Investigation of hypersensitivity caused by peripheral sensitization progression is important for developing novel pain treatments. Existing methods cannot record plastic changes in neuronal activity because they occur over a few days. We aimed to establish an efficient method to evaluate neuronal activity alterations caused by peripheral sensitization on high-density microelectrode arrays (HD-MEAs) which can record neuronal activity for a long time. Rat dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons were dissected from rat embryos and cultured on HD-MEAs. DRG neurons were labeled with NeuO, live staining dye. Neurons were detected with the fluorescence signal and electrodes were selected with the fluorescence images. The number of DRG neurons, whose activity were recorded, detected based on fluorescence observation was five times greater than that based on neuronal activity. Analysis of changes in neuronal activity observed in pharmacological stimulation experiments suggested that substance P induced peripheral sensitization and enhanced capsaicin sensitivity. In addition, results of immunofluorescence staining suggested that peripheral sensitization occurred mostly in neurons that co-expressed transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) and neurokinin 1 receptor (NK1R). In conclusion, we established an efficient method for assessing the effects of peripheral sensitization on DRG neurons cultured on HD-MEAs.
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Molloy CJ, Cooke J, Gatford NJF, Rivera-Olvera A, Avazzadeh S, Homberg JR, Grandjean J, Fernandes C, Shen S, Loth E, Srivastava DP, Gallagher L. Bridging the translational gap: what can synaptopathies tell us about autism? Front Mol Neurosci 2023; 16:1191323. [PMID: 37441676 PMCID: PMC10333541 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2023.1191323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Multiple molecular pathways and cellular processes have been implicated in the neurobiology of autism and other neurodevelopmental conditions. There is a current focus on synaptic gene conditions, or synaptopathies, which refer to clinical conditions associated with rare genetic variants disrupting genes involved in synaptic biology. Synaptopathies are commonly associated with autism and developmental delay and may be associated with a range of other neuropsychiatric outcomes. Altered synaptic biology is suggested by both preclinical and clinical studies in autism based on evidence of differences in early brain structural development and altered glutamatergic and GABAergic neurotransmission potentially perturbing excitatory and inhibitory balance. This review focusses on the NRXN-NLGN-SHANK pathway, which is implicated in the synaptic assembly, trans-synaptic signalling, and synaptic functioning. We provide an overview of the insights from preclinical molecular studies of the pathway. Concentrating on NRXN1 deletion and SHANK3 mutations, we discuss emerging understanding of cellular processes and electrophysiology from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) models derived from individuals with synaptopathies, neuroimaging and behavioural findings in animal models of Nrxn1 and Shank3 synaptic gene conditions, and key findings regarding autism features, brain and behavioural phenotypes from human clinical studies of synaptopathies. The identification of molecular-based biomarkers from preclinical models aims to advance the development of targeted therapeutic treatments. However, it remains challenging to translate preclinical animal models and iPSC studies to interpret human brain development and autism features. We discuss the existing challenges in preclinical and clinical synaptopathy research, and potential solutions to align methodologies across preclinical and clinical research. Bridging the translational gap between preclinical and clinical studies will be necessary to understand biological mechanisms, to identify targeted therapies, and ultimately to progress towards personalised approaches for complex neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ciara J. Molloy
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Jennifer Cooke
- Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Nicholas J. F. Gatford
- Kavli Institute for Nanoscience Discovery, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Medical Sciences Division, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Alejandro Rivera-Olvera
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition, and Behaviour, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Sahar Avazzadeh
- Physiology and Cellular Physiology Research Laboratory, CÚRAM SFI Centre for Research in Medical Devices, School of Medicine, Human Biology Building, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Judith R. Homberg
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition, and Behaviour, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Joanes Grandjean
- Physiology and Cellular Physiology Research Laboratory, CÚRAM SFI Centre for Research in Medical Devices, School of Medicine, Human Biology Building, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
- Department of Medical Imaging, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Cathy Fernandes
- Social, Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
- MRC Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sanbing Shen
- Regenerative Medicine Institute, School of Medicine, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
- FutureNeuro, The SFI Research Centre for Chronic and Rare Neurological Diseases, Royal College of Surgeons, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Eva Loth
- Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Deepak P. Srivastava
- MRC Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Louise Gallagher
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- The Hospital for SickKids, Toronto, ON, Canada
- The Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning, SickKids Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
- The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Cerneckis J, Bu G, Shi Y. Pushing the boundaries of brain organoids to study Alzheimer's disease. Trends Mol Med 2023:S1471-4914(23)00098-9. [PMID: 37353408 PMCID: PMC10374393 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2023.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/25/2023]
Abstract
Progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD) entails deterioration or aberrant function of multiple brain cell types, eventually leading to neurodegeneration and cognitive decline. Defining how complex cell-cell interactions become dysregulated in AD requires novel human cell-based in vitro platforms that could recapitulate the intricate cytoarchitecture and cell diversity of the human brain. Brain organoids (BOs) are 3D self-organizing tissues that partially resemble the human brain architecture and can recapitulate AD-relevant pathology. In this review, we highlight the versatile applications of different types of BOs to model AD pathogenesis, including amyloid-β and tau aggregation, neuroinflammation, myelin breakdown, vascular dysfunction, and other phenotypes, as well as to accelerate therapeutic development for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonas Cerneckis
- Department of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA; Irell and Manella Graduate School of Biological Sciences, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Guojun Bu
- SciNeuro Pharmaceuticals, Rockville, MD 20850, USA
| | - Yanhong Shi
- Department of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA; Irell and Manella Graduate School of Biological Sciences, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA.
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Park Y, Hernandez S, Hernandez CO, Schweiger HE, Li H, Voitiuk K, Dechiraju H, Hawthorne N, Muzzy EM, Selberg JA, Sullivan FN, Urcuyo R, Salama SR, Aslankoohi E, Teodorescu M, Mostajo-Radji MA, Rolandi M. Modulation of neuronal activity in cortical organoids with bioelectronic delivery of ions and neurotransmitters. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.06.10.544416. [PMID: 37333351 PMCID: PMC10274913 DOI: 10.1101/2023.06.10.544416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
Precise modulation of brain activity is fundamental for the proper establishment and maturation of the cerebral cortex. To this end, cortical organoids are promising tools to study circuit formation and the underpinnings of neurodevelopmental disease. However, the ability to manipulate neuronal activity with high temporal resolution in brain organoids remains limited. To overcome this challenge, we introduce a bioelectronic approach to control cortical organoid activity with the selective delivery of ions and neurotransmitters. Using this approach, we sequentially increased and decreased neuronal activity in brain organoids with the bioelectronic delivery of potassium ions (K+) and γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), respectively, while simultaneously monitoring network activity. This works highlights bioelectronic ion pumps as tools for high-resolution temporal control of brain organoid activity toward precise pharmacological studies that can improve our understanding of neuronal function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunjeong Park
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, USA
| | - Sebastian Hernandez
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, USA
- Genomics Institute, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA
- Live Cell Biotechnology Discovery Lab, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
- Centro de Electroquímica y Energía Química (CELEQ), Universidad de Costa Rica, San José, 11501 2060, Costa Rica
| | - Cristian O. Hernandez
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, USA
| | - Hunter E. Schweiger
- Genomics Institute, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA
- Live Cell Biotechnology Discovery Lab, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
| | - Houpu Li
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, USA
| | - Kateryna Voitiuk
- Genomics Institute, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
| | - Harika Dechiraju
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, USA
| | - Nico Hawthorne
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, USA
- Genomics Institute, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA
| | - Elana M. Muzzy
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, USA
| | - John A. Selberg
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, USA
| | | | - Roberto Urcuyo
- Centro de Electroquímica y Energía Química (CELEQ), Universidad de Costa Rica, San José, 11501 2060, Costa Rica
| | - Sofie R. Salama
- Genomics Institute, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA
- Live Cell Biotechnology Discovery Lab, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
| | - Elham Aslankoohi
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, USA
| | - Mircea Teodorescu
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, USA
- Genomics Institute, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA
| | - Mohammed A. Mostajo-Radji
- Genomics Institute, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA
- Live Cell Biotechnology Discovery Lab, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
| | - Marco Rolandi
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, USA
- Genomics Institute, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA
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McDonald M, Sebinger D, Brauns L, Gonzalez-Cano L, Menuchin-Lasowski Y, Mierzejewski M, Psathaki OE, Stumpf A, Wickham J, Rauen T, Schöler H, Jones PD. A mesh microelectrode array for non-invasive electrophysiology within neural organoids. Biosens Bioelectron 2023; 228:115223. [PMID: 36931193 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2023.115223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/13/2023]
Abstract
Organoids are emerging in vitro models of human physiology. Neural models require the evaluation of functional activity of single cells and networks, which is commonly measured by microelectrode arrays. The characteristics of organoids clash with existing in vitro or in vivo microelectrode arrays. With inspiration from implantable mesh electronics and growth of organoids on polymer scaffolds, we fabricated suspended hammock-like mesh microelectrode arrays for neural organoids. We have demonstrated the growth of organoids enveloping these meshes and the culture of organoids on meshes for up to one year. Furthermore, we present proof-of-principle recordings of spontaneous electrical activity across the volume of an organoid. Our concept enables a new class of microelectrode arrays for in vitro models of three-dimensional electrically active tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew McDonald
- NMI Natural and Medical Sciences Institute at the University of Tübingen, Markwiesenstr. 55, 72770, Reutlingen, Germany; Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Röntgenstr. 20, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - David Sebinger
- Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Röntgenstr. 20, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Lisa Brauns
- NMI Natural and Medical Sciences Institute at the University of Tübingen, Markwiesenstr. 55, 72770, Reutlingen, Germany; Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Röntgenstr. 20, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Laura Gonzalez-Cano
- Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Röntgenstr. 20, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | | | - Michael Mierzejewski
- NMI Natural and Medical Sciences Institute at the University of Tübingen, Markwiesenstr. 55, 72770, Reutlingen, Germany; Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Röntgenstr. 20, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Olympia-Ekaterini Psathaki
- Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Röntgenstr. 20, 48149, Münster, Germany; University of Osnabrück, CellNanOs (Center of Cellular Nanoanalytics), Integrated Bioimaging Facility iBiOs, Barbarastr. 11, 49076, Osnabrück, Germany
| | - Angelika Stumpf
- NMI Natural and Medical Sciences Institute at the University of Tübingen, Markwiesenstr. 55, 72770, Reutlingen, Germany
| | - Jenny Wickham
- NMI Natural and Medical Sciences Institute at the University of Tübingen, Markwiesenstr. 55, 72770, Reutlingen, Germany
| | - Thomas Rauen
- Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Röntgenstr. 20, 48149, Münster, Germany.
| | - Hans Schöler
- Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Röntgenstr. 20, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Peter D Jones
- NMI Natural and Medical Sciences Institute at the University of Tübingen, Markwiesenstr. 55, 72770, Reutlingen, Germany.
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Suzuki I, Matsuda N, Han X, Noji S, Shibata M, Nagafuku N, Ishibashi Y. Large-Area Field Potential Imaging Having Single Neuron Resolution Using 236 880 Electrodes CMOS-MEA Technology. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023:e2207732. [PMID: 37088859 PMCID: PMC10369302 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202207732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
The electrophysiological technology having a high spatiotemporal resolution at the single-cell level and noninvasive measurements of large areas provide insights on underlying neuronal function. Here, a complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS)-microelectrode array (MEA) is used that uses 236 880 electrodes each with an electrode size of 11.22 × 11.22 µm and 236 880 covering a wide area of 5.5 × 5.9 mm in presenting a detailed and single-cell-level neural activity analysis platform for brain slices, human iPS cell-derived cortical networks, peripheral neurons, and human brain organoids. Propagation pattern characteristics between brain regions changes the synaptic propagation into compounds based on single-cell time-series patterns, classification based on single DRG neuron firing patterns and compound responses, axonal conduction characteristics and changes to anticancer drugs, and network activities and transition to compounds in brain organoids are extracted. This detailed analysis of neural activity at the single-cell level using the CMOS-MEA provides a new understanding of the basic mechanisms of brain circuits in vitro and ex vivo, on human neurological diseases for drug discovery, and compound toxicity assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ikuro Suzuki
- Department of Electronics, Graduate School of Engineering, Tohoku Institute of Technology, 35-1 Yagiyama Kasumicho, Taihaku-ku, Sendai, Miyagi, 982-8577, Japan
| | - Naoki Matsuda
- Department of Electronics, Graduate School of Engineering, Tohoku Institute of Technology, 35-1 Yagiyama Kasumicho, Taihaku-ku, Sendai, Miyagi, 982-8577, Japan
| | - Xiaobo Han
- Department of Electronics, Graduate School of Engineering, Tohoku Institute of Technology, 35-1 Yagiyama Kasumicho, Taihaku-ku, Sendai, Miyagi, 982-8577, Japan
| | - Shuhei Noji
- Department of Electronics, Graduate School of Engineering, Tohoku Institute of Technology, 35-1 Yagiyama Kasumicho, Taihaku-ku, Sendai, Miyagi, 982-8577, Japan
| | - Mikako Shibata
- Department of Electronics, Graduate School of Engineering, Tohoku Institute of Technology, 35-1 Yagiyama Kasumicho, Taihaku-ku, Sendai, Miyagi, 982-8577, Japan
| | - Nami Nagafuku
- Department of Electronics, Graduate School of Engineering, Tohoku Institute of Technology, 35-1 Yagiyama Kasumicho, Taihaku-ku, Sendai, Miyagi, 982-8577, Japan
| | - Yuto Ishibashi
- Department of Electronics, Graduate School of Engineering, Tohoku Institute of Technology, 35-1 Yagiyama Kasumicho, Taihaku-ku, Sendai, Miyagi, 982-8577, Japan
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Muzzi L, Di Lisa D, Falappa M, Pepe S, Maccione A, Pastorino L, Martinoia S, Frega M. Human-Derived Cortical Neurospheroids Coupled to Passive, High-Density and 3D MEAs: A Valid Platform for Functional Tests. Bioengineering (Basel) 2023; 10:bioengineering10040449. [PMID: 37106636 PMCID: PMC10136157 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering10040449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
With the advent of human-induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) and differentiation protocols, methods to create in-vitro human-derived neuronal networks have been proposed. Although monolayer cultures represent a valid model, adding three-dimensionality (3D) would make them more representative of an in-vivo environment. Thus, human-derived 3D structures are becoming increasingly used for in-vitro disease modeling. Achieving control over the final cell composition and investigating the exhibited electrophysiological activity is still a challenge. Thence, methodologies to create 3D structures with controlled cellular density and composition and platforms capable of measuring and characterizing the functional aspects of these samples are needed. Here, we propose a method to rapidly generate neurospheroids of human origin with control over cell composition that can be used for functional investigations. We show a characterization of the electrophysiological activity exhibited by the neurospheroids by using micro-electrode arrays (MEAs) with different types (i.e., passive, C-MOS, and 3D) and number of electrodes. Neurospheroids grown in free culture and transferred on MEAs exhibited functional activity that can be chemically and electrically modulated. Our results indicate that this model holds great potential for an in-depth study of signal transmission to drug screening and disease modeling and offers a platform for in-vitro functional testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Muzzi
- Department of Informatics, Bioengineering, Robotics, and Systems Engineering (DIBRIS), University of Genoa, 16145 Genoa, Italy
| | - Donatella Di Lisa
- Department of Informatics, Bioengineering, Robotics, and Systems Engineering (DIBRIS), University of Genoa, 16145 Genoa, Italy
| | - Matteo Falappa
- 3Brain AG, 8808 Pfäffikon, Switzerland
- Corticale Srl., 16145 Genoa, Italy
| | - Sara Pepe
- Department of Experimental Medicine (DIMES), University of Genoa, 16132 Genoa, Italy
| | | | - Laura Pastorino
- Department of Informatics, Bioengineering, Robotics, and Systems Engineering (DIBRIS), University of Genoa, 16145 Genoa, Italy
| | - Sergio Martinoia
- Department of Informatics, Bioengineering, Robotics, and Systems Engineering (DIBRIS), University of Genoa, 16145 Genoa, Italy
| | - Monica Frega
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, University of Twente, 7522 NB Enschede, The Netherlands
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboudumc, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition, and Behaviour, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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49
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Spatio-temporal dynamics enhance cellular diversity, neuronal function and further maturation of human cerebral organoids. Commun Biol 2023; 6:173. [PMID: 36788328 PMCID: PMC9926461 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-023-04547-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The bioengineerined and whole matured human brain organoids stand as highly valuable three-dimensional in vitro brain-mimetic models to recapitulate in vivo brain development, neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative diseases. Various instructive signals affecting multiple biological processes including morphogenesis, developmental stages, cell fate transitions, cell migration, stem cell function and immune responses have been employed for generation of physiologically functional cerebral organoids. However, the current approaches for maturation require improvement for highly harvestable and functional cerebral organoids with reduced batch-to-batch variabilities. Here, we demonstrate two different engineering approaches, the rotating cell culture system (RCCS) microgravity bioreactor and a newly designed microfluidic platform (µ-platform) to improve harvestability, reproducibility and the survival of high-quality cerebral organoids and compare with those of traditional spinner and shaker systems. RCCS and µ-platform organoids have reached ideal sizes, approximately 95% harvestability, prolonged culture time with Ki-67 + /CD31 + /β-catenin+ proliferative, adhesive and endothelial-like cells and exhibited enriched cellular diversity (abundant neural/glial/ endothelial cell population), structural brain morphogenesis, further functional neuronal identities (glutamate secreting glutamatergic, GABAergic and hippocampal neurons) and synaptogenesis (presynaptic-postsynaptic interaction) during whole human brain development. Both organoids expressed CD11b + /IBA1 + microglia and MBP + /OLIG2 + oligodendrocytes at high levels as of day 60. RCCS and µ-platform organoids showing high levels of physiological fidelity a high level of physiological fidelity can serve as functional preclinical models to test new therapeutic regimens for neurological diseases and benefit from multiplexing.
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Castellanos-Montiel MJ, Chaineau M, Franco-Flores AK, Haghi G, Carrillo-Valenzuela D, Reintsch WE, Chen CXQ, Durcan TM. An Optimized Workflow to Generate and Characterize iPSC-Derived Motor Neuron (MN) Spheroids. Cells 2023; 12:cells12040545. [PMID: 36831212 PMCID: PMC9954647 DOI: 10.3390/cells12040545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
A multitude of in vitro models based on induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived motor neurons (MNs) have been developed to investigate the underlying causes of selective MN degeneration in motor neuron diseases (MNDs). For instance, spheroids are simple 3D models that have the potential to be generated in large numbers that can be used across different assays. In this study, we generated MN spheroids and developed a workflow to analyze them. To start, the morphological profiling of the spheroids was achieved by developing a pipeline to obtain measurements of their size and shape. Next, we confirmed the expression of different MN markers at the transcript and protein levels by qPCR and immunocytochemistry of tissue-cleared samples, respectively. Finally, we assessed the capacity of the MN spheroids to display functional activity in the form of action potentials and bursts using a microelectrode array approach. Although most of the cells displayed an MN identity, we also characterized the presence of other cell types, namely interneurons and oligodendrocytes, which share the same neural progenitor pool with MNs. In summary, we successfully developed an MN 3D model, and we optimized a workflow that can be applied to perform its morphological, gene expression, protein, and functional profiling over time.
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