1
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Asimakidou E, Tan JKS, Zeng J, Lo CH. Blood-Brain Barrier-Targeting Nanoparticles: Biomaterial Properties and Biomedical Applications in Translational Neuroscience. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:612. [PMID: 38794182 PMCID: PMC11123901 DOI: 10.3390/ph17050612] [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: 03/26/2024] [Revised: 05/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Overcoming the blood-brain barrier (BBB) remains a significant hurdle in effective drug delivery to the brain. While the BBB serves as a crucial protective barrier, it poses challenges in delivering therapeutic agents to their intended targets within the brain parenchyma. To enhance drug delivery for the treatment of neurological diseases, several delivery technologies to circumvent the BBB have been developed in the last few years. Among them, nanoparticles (NPs) are one of the most versatile and promising tools. Here, we summarize the characteristics of NPs that facilitate BBB penetration, including their size, shape, chemical composition, surface charge, and importantly, their conjugation with various biological or synthetic molecules such as glucose, transferrin, insulin, polyethylene glycol, peptides, and aptamers. Additionally, we discuss the coating of NPs with surfactants. A comprehensive overview of the common in vitro and in vivo models of the BBB for NP penetration studies is also provided. The discussion extends to discussing BBB impairment under pathological conditions and leveraging BBB alterations under pathological conditions to enhance drug delivery. Emphasizing the need for future studies to uncover the inherent therapeutic properties of NPs, the review advocates for their role beyond delivery systems and calls for efforts translating NPs to the clinic as therapeutics. Overall, NPs stand out as a highly promising therapeutic strategy for precise BBB targeting and drug delivery in neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evridiki Asimakidou
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK;
| | - Justin Kok Soon Tan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117575, Singapore;
- The N.1 Institute for Health, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117456, Singapore
| | - Jialiu Zeng
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 308232, Singapore
| | - Chih Hung Lo
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 308232, Singapore
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2
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Amartumur S, Nguyen H, Huynh T, Kim TS, Woo RS, Oh E, Kim KK, Lee LP, Heo C. Neuropathogenesis-on-chips for neurodegenerative diseases. Nat Commun 2024; 15:2219. [PMID: 38472255 PMCID: PMC10933492 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-46554-8] [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: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Developing diagnostics and treatments for neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) is challenging due to multifactorial pathogenesis that progresses gradually. Advanced in vitro systems that recapitulate patient-like pathophysiology are emerging as alternatives to conventional animal-based models. In this review, we explore the interconnected pathogenic features of different types of ND, discuss the general strategy to modelling NDs using a microfluidic chip, and introduce the organoid-on-a-chip as the next advanced relevant model. Lastly, we overview how these models are being applied in academic and industrial drug development. The integration of microfluidic chips, stem cells, and biotechnological devices promises to provide valuable insights for biomedical research and developing diagnostic and therapeutic solutions for NDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarnai Amartumur
- Department of Biophysics, Institute of Quantum Biophysics, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Korea
| | - Huong Nguyen
- Department of Biophysics, Institute of Quantum Biophysics, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Korea
| | - Thuy Huynh
- Department of Biophysics, Institute of Quantum Biophysics, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Korea
| | - Testaverde S Kim
- Center for Integrated Nanostructure Physics (CINAP), Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Suwon, 16419, Korea
| | - Ran-Sook Woo
- Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, College of Medicine, Eulji University, Daejeon, 34824, Korea
| | - Eungseok Oh
- Department of Neurology, Chungnam National University Hospital, Daejeon, 35015, Korea
| | - Kyeong Kyu Kim
- Department of Precision Medicine, Graduate School of Basic Medical Science (GSBMS), Institute for Anti-microbial Resistance Research and Therapeutics, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Suwon, 16419, Korea
| | - Luke P Lee
- Department of Biophysics, Institute of Quantum Biophysics, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Korea.
- Harvard Medical School, Division of Engineering in Medicine and Renal Division, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
- Department of Bioengineering, Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, University of California, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA.
| | - Chaejeong Heo
- Department of Biophysics, Institute of Quantum Biophysics, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Korea.
- Center for Integrated Nanostructure Physics (CINAP), Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Suwon, 16419, Korea.
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3
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Mulay AR, Hwang J, Kim DH. Microphysiological Blood-Brain Barrier Systems for Disease Modeling and Drug Development. Adv Healthc Mater 2024:e2303180. [PMID: 38430211 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202303180] [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: 09/20/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a highly controlled microenvironment that regulates the interactions between cerebral blood and brain tissue. Due to its selectivity, many therapeutics targeting various neurological disorders are not able to penetrate into brain tissue. Pre-clinical studies using animals and other in vitro platforms have not shown the ability to fully replicate the human BBB leading to the failure of a majority of therapeutics in clinical trials. However, recent innovations in vitro and ex vivo modeling called organs-on-chips have shown the potential to create more accurate disease models for improved drug development. These microfluidic platforms induce physiological stressors on cultured cells and are able to generate more physiologically accurate BBBs compared to previous in vitro models. In this review, different approaches to create BBBs-on-chips are explored alongside their application in modeling various neurological disorders and potential therapeutic efficacy. Additionally, organs-on-chips use in BBB drug delivery studies is discussed, and advances in linking brain organs-on-chips onto multiorgan platforms to mimic organ crosstalk are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atharva R Mulay
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
| | - Jihyun Hwang
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Deok-Ho Kim
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
- Center for Microphysiological Systems, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
- Institute for NanoBioTechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, 21218, USA
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, 21205, USA
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4
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Zhang J, Cui B, He T, Hei R, Yang L, Liu C, Wu X, Wang X, Gao Z, Lin F, Zhang H, Dong K. Enhancing Neuroprotection in Mouse Model of Parkinson's Disease through Protein Nanosystem Conjugation with ApoE Peptide for miR-124 Delivery. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024; 16:8199-8212. [PMID: 38345297 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c13849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) affects millions of people's lives worldwide. The main pathogenesis of PD is dopaminergic neuron necrosis and neuroinflammation mediated by activated microglia cells. In recent years, the anti-inflammatory ability and neuroprotective effects of miR-124 in PD models were well proved, but the in vivo delivery of miR-124 remains challenging. Herein, we report a protein nanosystem modified with a brain-targeting peptide ApoE that could efficiently deliver miR-124 across the blood-brain barrier (BBB). This nanosystem showed good cell viability on brain endothelial cells and microglia cells, and administration of this nanosystem significantly decreased the neuroinflammation and dopaminergic neuron loss, as well as recovered parts of neurobehavioral deficits. This ApoE peptide-based protein nanosystem holds great promise for the delivery of RNA therapeutics to the brain and for realizing neuron protection in PD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710038, China
| | - Bozhou Cui
- Department of Experimental Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710038, China
| | - Ting He
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710038, China
| | - Ruoxuan Hei
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710038, China
| | - Lan Yang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710038, China
| | - Chong Liu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710038, China
| | - Xianan Wu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710038, China
| | - Xi Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710038, China
| | - Zhaowei Gao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710038, China
| | - Fang Lin
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710038, China
| | - Huizhong Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710038, China
| | - Ke Dong
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710038, China
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5
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Zha S, Liu H, Li H, Li H, Wong KL, All AH. Functionalized Nanomaterials Capable of Crossing the Blood-Brain Barrier. ACS NANO 2024; 18:1820-1845. [PMID: 38193927 PMCID: PMC10811692 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c10674] [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: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a specialized semipermeable structure that highly regulates exchanges between the central nervous system parenchyma and blood vessels. Thus, the BBB also prevents the passage of various forms of therapeutic agents, nanocarriers, and their cargos. Recently, many multidisciplinary studies focus on developing cargo-loaded nanoparticles (NPs) to overcome these challenges, which are emerging as safe and effective vehicles in neurotheranostics. In this Review, first we introduce the anatomical structure and physiological functions of the BBB. Second, we present the endogenous and exogenous transport mechanisms by which NPs cross the BBB. We report various forms of nanomaterials, carriers, and their cargos, with their detailed BBB uptake and permeability characteristics. Third, we describe the effect of regulating the size, shape, charge, and surface ligands of NPs that affect their BBB permeability, which can be exploited to enhance and promote neurotheranostics. We classify typical functionalized nanomaterials developed for BBB crossing. Fourth, we provide a comprehensive review of the recent progress in developing functional polymeric nanomaterials for applications in multimodal bioimaging, therapeutics, and drug delivery. Finally, we conclude by discussing existing challenges, directions, and future perspectives in employing functionalized nanomaterials for BBB crossing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Zha
- Hubei
University of Chinese Medicine, School of
Laboratory Medicine, 16
Huangjia Lake West Road, Wuhan 430065, China
- Hubei
Shizhen Laboratory, Wuhan 430061, China
| | - Haitao Liu
- Hong
Kong Baptist University, Department of Chemistry, Ho Sin Hang Campus, 224 Waterloo
Road, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Hengde Li
- Hong
Kong Baptist University, Department of Chemistry, Ho Sin Hang Campus, 224 Waterloo
Road, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Haolan Li
- Dalian
University of Technology School of Chemical
Engineering, Lingshui
Street, Ganjingzi District, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Ka-Leung Wong
- The
Hong Kong Polytechnic University Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, Building Y815, 11 Yuk Choi Road, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Angelo Homayoun All
- Hong
Kong Baptist University, Department of Chemistry, Ho Sin Hang Campus, 224 Waterloo
Road, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
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6
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Balestri W, Sharma R, da Silva VA, Bobotis BC, Curle AJ, Kothakota V, Kalantarnia F, Hangad MV, Hoorfar M, Jones JL, Tremblay MÈ, El-Jawhari JJ, Willerth SM, Reinwald Y. Modeling the neuroimmune system in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. J Neuroinflammation 2024; 21:32. [PMID: 38263227 PMCID: PMC10807115 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-024-03024-8] [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: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 01/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) and Alzheimer's disease (AD) are neurodegenerative disorders caused by the interaction of genetic, environmental, and familial factors. These diseases have distinct pathologies and symptoms that are linked to specific cell populations in the brain. Notably, the immune system has been implicated in both diseases, with a particular focus on the dysfunction of microglia, the brain's resident immune cells, contributing to neuronal loss and exacerbating symptoms. Researchers use models of the neuroimmune system to gain a deeper understanding of the physiological and biological aspects of these neurodegenerative diseases and how they progress. Several in vitro and in vivo models, including 2D cultures and animal models, have been utilized. Recently, advancements have been made in optimizing these existing models and developing 3D models and organ-on-a-chip systems, holding tremendous promise in accurately mimicking the intricate intracellular environment. As a result, these models represent a crucial breakthrough in the transformation of current treatments for PD and AD by offering potential for conducting long-term disease-based modeling for therapeutic testing, reducing reliance on animal models, and significantly improving cell viability compared to conventional 2D models. The application of 3D and organ-on-a-chip models in neurodegenerative disease research marks a prosperous step forward, providing a more realistic representation of the complex interactions within the neuroimmune system. Ultimately, these refined models of the neuroimmune system aim to aid in the quest to combat and mitigate the impact of debilitating neuroimmune diseases on patients and their families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wendy Balestri
- Department of Engineering, School of Science and Technology, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK
- Medical Technologies Innovation Facility, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK
| | - Ruchi Sharma
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Victoria, Victoria, Canada
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
- Centre for Advanced Materials and Related Technology (CAMTEC), University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - Victor A da Silva
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Victoria, Victoria, Canada
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
- Centre for Advanced Materials and Related Technology (CAMTEC), University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - Bianca C Bobotis
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
- Centre for Advanced Materials and Related Technology (CAMTEC), University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - Annabel J Curle
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Vandana Kothakota
- Department of Biosciences, School of Science and Technology, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK
| | | | - Maria V Hangad
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
- Centre for Advanced Materials and Related Technology (CAMTEC), University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
- Department of Chemistry, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - Mina Hoorfar
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Victoria, Victoria, Canada
| | - Joanne L Jones
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Marie-Ève Tremblay
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
- Centre for Advanced Materials and Related Technology (CAMTEC), University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
- Neurosciences Axis, Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Institute On Aging and Lifelong Health, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - Jehan J El-Jawhari
- Department of Biosciences, School of Science and Technology, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Stephanie M Willerth
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Victoria, Victoria, Canada.
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada.
- Centre for Advanced Materials and Related Technology (CAMTEC), University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada.
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
| | - Yvonne Reinwald
- Department of Engineering, School of Science and Technology, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK.
- Medical Technologies Innovation Facility, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK.
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7
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Schiera G, Di Liegro CM, Schirò G, Sorbello G, Di Liegro I. Involvement of Astrocytes in the Formation, Maintenance, and Function of the Blood-Brain Barrier. Cells 2024; 13:150. [PMID: 38247841 PMCID: PMC10813980 DOI: 10.3390/cells13020150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a fundamental structure that protects the composition of the brain by determining which ions, metabolites, and nutrients are allowed to enter the brain from the blood or to leave it towards the circulation. The BBB is structurally composed of a layer of brain capillary endothelial cells (BCECs) bound to each other through tight junctions (TJs). However, its development as well as maintenance and properties are controlled by the other brain cells that contact the BCECs: pericytes, glial cells, and even neurons themselves. Astrocytes seem, in particular, to have a very important role in determining and controlling most properties of the BBB. Here, we will focus on these latter cells, since the comprehension of their roles in brain physiology has been continuously expanding, even including the ability to participate in neurotransmission and in complex functions such as learning and memory. Accordingly, pathological conditions that alter astrocytic functions can alter the BBB's integrity, thus compromising many brain activities. In this review, we will also refer to different kinds of in vitro BBB models used to study the BBB's properties, evidencing its modifications under pathological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriella Schiera
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (Dipartimento di Scienzee Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche) (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, 90128 Palermo, Italy; (G.S.); (C.M.D.L.)
| | - Carlo Maria Di Liegro
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (Dipartimento di Scienzee Tecnologie Biologiche, Chimiche e Farmaceutiche) (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, 90128 Palermo, Italy; (G.S.); (C.M.D.L.)
| | - Giuseppe Schirò
- Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostics, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (G.S.); (G.S.)
- Neurology and Multiple Sclerosis Center, Unità Operativa Complessa (UOC), Foundation Institute “G. Giglio”, 90015 Cefalù, Italy
| | - Gabriele Sorbello
- Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostics, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (G.S.); (G.S.)
| | - Italia Di Liegro
- Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostics, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (G.S.); (G.S.)
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8
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Li L, Lei T, Xing C, Du H. Advances in microfluidic chips targeting toxic aggregation proteins for neurodegenerative diseases. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 256:128308. [PMID: 37992921 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.128308] [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: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) are characterized by nervous system damage, often influenced by genetic and aging factors. Pathological analysis frequently reveals the presence of aggregated toxic proteins. The intricate and poorly understood origins of these diseases have hindered progress in early diagnosis and drug development. The development of novel in-vitro and in-vivo models could enhance our comprehension of ND mechanisms and facilitate clinical treatment advancements. Microfluidic chips are employed to establish three-dimensional culture conditions, replicating the human ecological niche and creating a microenvironment conducive to neuronal cell survival. The incorporation of mechatronic controls unifies the chip, cells, and culture medium optimizing living conditions for the cells. This study provides a comprehensive overview of microfluidic chip applications in drug and biomarker screening for neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, multiple sclerosis, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Our Lab-on-a-Chip system releases toxic proteins to simulate the pathological characteristics of neurodegenerative diseases, encompassing β-amyloid, α-synuclein, huntingtin, TAR DNA-binding protein 43, and Myelin Basic Protein. Investigating molecular and cellular interactions in vitro can enhance our understanding of disease mechanisms while minimizing harmful protein levels and can aid in screening potential therapeutic agents. We anticipate that our research will promote the utilization of microfluidic chips in both fundamental research and clinical applications for neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Li
- School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China; Daxing Research Institute, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Tong Lei
- School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China; Daxing Research Institute, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Cencan Xing
- School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China; Daxing Research Institute, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China.
| | - Hongwu Du
- School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China; Daxing Research Institute, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China.
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9
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Wevers NR, De Vries HE. Microfluidic models of the neurovascular unit: a translational view. Fluids Barriers CNS 2023; 20:86. [PMID: 38008744 PMCID: PMC10680291 DOI: 10.1186/s12987-023-00490-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The vasculature of the brain consists of specialized endothelial cells that form a blood-brain barrier (BBB). This barrier, in conjunction with supporting cell types, forms the neurovascular unit (NVU). The NVU restricts the passage of certain substances from the bloodstream while selectively permitting essential nutrients and molecules to enter the brain. This protective role is crucial for optimal brain function, but presents a significant obstacle in treating neurological conditions, necessitating chemical modifications or advanced drug delivery methods for most drugs to cross the NVU. A deeper understanding of NVU in health and disease will aid in the identification of new therapeutic targets and drug delivery strategies for improved treatment of neurological disorders.To achieve this goal, we need models that reflect the human BBB and NVU in health and disease. Although animal models of the brain's vasculature have proven valuable, they are often of limited translational relevance due to interspecies differences or inability to faithfully mimic human disease conditions. For this reason, human in vitro models are essential to improve our understanding of the brain's vasculature under healthy and diseased conditions. This review delves into the advancements in in vitro modeling of the BBB and NVU, with a particular focus on microfluidic models. After providing a historical overview of the field, we shift our focus to recent developments, offering insights into the latest achievements and their associated constraints. We briefly examine the importance of chip materials and methods to facilitate fluid flow, emphasizing their critical roles in achieving the necessary throughput for the integration of microfluidic models into routine experimentation. Subsequently, we highlight the recent strides made in enhancing the biological complexity of microfluidic NVU models and propose recommendations for elevating the biological relevance of future iterations.Importantly, the NVU is an intricate structure and it is improbable that any model will fully encompass all its aspects. Fit-for-purpose models offer a valuable compromise between physiological relevance and ease-of-use and hold the future of NVU modeling: as simple as possible, as complex as needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nienke R Wevers
- MIMETAS BV, De Limes 7, Oegstgeest, 2342 DH, The Netherlands.
| | - Helga E De Vries
- Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience - Neuroinfection and Neuroinflammation, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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10
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Cossu D, Hatano T, Hattori N. The Role of Immune Dysfunction in Parkinson's Disease Development. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16766. [PMID: 38069088 PMCID: PMC10706591 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242316766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent research has unveiled intriguing insights suggesting that the body's immune system may be implicated in Parkinson's disease (PD) development. Studies have observed disparities in pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory markers between PD patients and healthy individuals. This finding underscores the potential influence of immune system dysfunction in the genesis of this condition. A dysfunctional immune system can serve as a primary catalyst for systemic inflammation in the body, which may contribute to the emergence of various brain disorders. The identification of several genes associated with PD, as well as their connection to neuroinflammation, raises the likelihood of disease susceptibility. Moreover, advancing age and mitochondrial dysfunction can weaken the immune system, potentially implicating them in the onset of the disease, particularly among older individuals. Compromised integrity of the blood-brain barrier could facilitate the immune system's access to brain tissue. This exposure may lead to encounters with native antigens or infections, potentially triggering an autoimmune response. Furthermore, there is mounting evidence supporting the notion that gut dysbiosis might represent an initial trigger for brain inflammation, ultimately promoting neurodegeneration. In this comprehensive review, we will delve into the numerous hypotheses surrounding the role of both innate and adaptive immunity in PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davide Cossu
- Department of Neurology, Juntendo University, Tokyo 1138431, Japan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Sassari University, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Taku Hatano
- Department of Neurology, Juntendo University, Tokyo 1138431, Japan
| | - Nobutaka Hattori
- Department of Neurology, Juntendo University, Tokyo 1138431, Japan
- Neurodegenerative Disorders Collaborative Laboratory, RIKEN Center for Brain Science, Saitama 3510918, Japan
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11
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de Rus Jacquet A, Layé S, Calon F. How nutrients and natural products act on the brain: Beyond pharmacology. Cell Rep Med 2023; 4:101243. [PMID: 37852184 PMCID: PMC10591063 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2023.101243] [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: 05/13/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
Understanding how natural products promote brain health is key to designing diverse strategies to improve the lives of people with, or at risk of developing, neurodegenerative disorders. The mechanisms of action involved and recent technological progress are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurelie de Rus Jacquet
- Neurosciences Axis, Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec - Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 4G2, Canada; Institute of Nutrition and Functional Foods, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada; Department of Psychiatry and Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada.
| | - Sophie Layé
- Université de Bordeaux, INRAE, Bordeaux INP, NutriNeuro, UMR 1286, Bordeaux, France; OptiNutriBrain - Laboratoire International Associé, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Frédéric Calon
- Neurosciences Axis, Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec - Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 4G2, Canada; Institute of Nutrition and Functional Foods, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada; OptiNutriBrain - Laboratoire International Associé, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada; Faculty of Pharmacy, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
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