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Wan S, Aregueta Robles U, Poole-Warren L, Esrafilzadeh D. Advances in 3D tissue models for neural engineering: self-assembled versus engineered tissue models. Biomater Sci 2024. [PMID: 38829222 DOI: 10.1039/d4bm00317a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
Neural tissue engineering has emerged as a promising field that aims to create functional neural tissue for therapeutic applications, drug screening, and disease modelling. It is becoming evident in the literature that this goal requires development of three-dimensional (3D) constructs that can mimic the complex microenvironment of native neural tissue, including its biochemical, mechanical, physical, and electrical properties. These 3D models can be broadly classified as self-assembled models, which include spheroids, organoids, and assembloids, and engineered models, such as those based on decellularized or polymeric scaffolds. Self-assembled models offer advantages such as the ability to recapitulate neural development and disease processes in vitro, and the capacity to study the behaviour and interactions of different cell types in a more realistic environment. However, self-assembled constructs have limitations such as lack of standardised protocols, inability to control the cellular microenvironment, difficulty in controlling structural characteristics, reproducibility, scalability, and lengthy developmental timeframes. Integrating biomimetic materials and advanced manufacturing approaches to present cells with relevant biochemical, mechanical, physical, and electrical cues in a controlled tissue architecture requires alternate engineering approaches. Engineered scaffolds, and specifically 3D hydrogel-based constructs, have desirable properties, lower cost, higher reproducibility, long-term stability, and they can be rapidly tailored to mimic the native microenvironment and structure. This review explores 3D models in neural tissue engineering, with a particular focus on analysing the benefits and limitations of self-assembled organoids compared with hydrogel-based engineered 3D models. Moreover, this paper will focus on hydrogel based engineered models and probe their biomaterial components, tuneable properties, and fabrication techniques that allow them to mimic native neural tissue structures and environment. Finally, the current challenges and future research prospects of 3D neural models for both self-assembled and engineered models in neural tissue engineering will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuqian Wan
- Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia.
| | - Ulises Aregueta Robles
- Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia.
| | - Laura Poole-Warren
- Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia.
- Tyree Foundation Institute of Health Engineering, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Dorna Esrafilzadeh
- Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia.
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2
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Zhou Z, Liu J, Xiong T, Liu Y, Tuan RS, Li ZA. Engineering Innervated Musculoskeletal Tissues for Regenerative Orthopedics and Disease Modeling. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2310614. [PMID: 38200684 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202310614] [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: 11/18/2023] [Revised: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Musculoskeletal (MSK) disorders significantly burden patients and society, resulting in high healthcare costs and productivity loss. These disorders are the leading cause of physical disability, and their prevalence is expected to increase as sedentary lifestyles become common and the global population of the elderly increases. Proper innervation is critical to maintaining MSK function, and nerve damage or dysfunction underlies various MSK disorders, underscoring the potential of restoring nerve function in MSK disorder treatment. However, most MSK tissue engineering strategies have overlooked the significance of innervation. This review first expounds upon innervation in the MSK system and its importance in maintaining MSK homeostasis and functions. This will be followed by strategies for engineering MSK tissues that induce post-implantation in situ innervation or are pre-innervated. Subsequently, research progress in modeling MSK disorders using innervated MSK organoids and organs-on-chips (OoCs) is analyzed. Finally, the future development of engineering innervated MSK tissues to treat MSK disorders and recapitulate disease mechanisms is discussed. This review provides valuable insights into the underlying principles, engineering methods, and applications of innervated MSK tissues, paving the way for the development of targeted, efficacious therapies for various MSK conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhilong Zhou
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China
| | - Jun Liu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China
- Center for Neuromusculoskeletal Restorative Medicine, Hong Kong Science Park, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China
| | - Tiandi Xiong
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China
- Center for Neuromusculoskeletal Restorative Medicine, Hong Kong Science Park, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China
| | - Yuwei Liu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China
- Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518000, P. R. China
| | - Rocky S Tuan
- Center for Neuromusculoskeletal Restorative Medicine, Hong Kong Science Park, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China
- Institute for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China
| | - Zhong Alan Li
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China
- Center for Neuromusculoskeletal Restorative Medicine, Hong Kong Science Park, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China
- Shenzhen Research Institute, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518057, P. R. China
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3
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Graham AJ, Partipilo G, Dundas CM, Miniel Mahfoud IE, Halwachs KN, Holwerda AJ, Simmons TR, FitzSimons TM, Coleman SM, Rinehart R, Chiu D, Tyndall AE, Sajbel KC, Rosales AM, Keitz BK. Transcriptional regulation of living materials via extracellular electron transfer. Nat Chem Biol 2024:10.1038/s41589-024-01628-y. [PMID: 38783133 DOI: 10.1038/s41589-024-01628-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Engineered living materials combine the advantages of biological and synthetic systems by leveraging genetic and metabolic programming to control material-wide properties. Here, we demonstrate that extracellular electron transfer (EET), a microbial respiration process, can serve as a tunable bridge between live cell metabolism and synthetic material properties. In this system, EET flux from Shewanella oneidensis to a copper catalyst controls hydrogel cross-linking via two distinct chemistries to form living synthetic polymer networks. We first demonstrate that synthetic biology-inspired design rules derived from fluorescence parameterization can be applied toward EET-based regulation of polymer network mechanics. We then program transcriptional Boolean logic gates to govern EET gene expression, which enables design of computational polymer networks that mechanically respond to combinations of molecular inputs. Finally, we control fibroblast morphology using EET as a bridge for programmed material properties. Our results demonstrate how rational genetic circuit design can emulate physiological behavior in engineered living materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Austin J Graham
- McKetta Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Gina Partipilo
- McKetta Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Christopher M Dundas
- McKetta Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Ismar E Miniel Mahfoud
- Interdisciplinary Life Sciences Graduate Program, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Kathleen N Halwachs
- McKetta Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Alexis J Holwerda
- Interdisciplinary Life Sciences Graduate Program, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Trevor R Simmons
- McKetta Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Thomas M FitzSimons
- McKetta Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Sarah M Coleman
- McKetta Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Rebecca Rinehart
- McKetta Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Darian Chiu
- McKetta Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Avery E Tyndall
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Colorado School of Mines, Golden, CO, USA
| | - Kenneth C Sajbel
- McKetta Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Adrianne M Rosales
- McKetta Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Benjamin K Keitz
- McKetta Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA.
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4
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Sun Y, Xiao Z, Chen B, Zhao Y, Dai J. Advances in Material-Assisted Electromagnetic Neural Stimulation. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024:e2400346. [PMID: 38594598 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202400346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2024] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Bioelectricity plays a crucial role in organisms, being closely connected to neural activity and physiological processes. Disruptions in the nervous system can lead to chaotic ionic currents at the injured site, causing disturbances in the local cellular microenvironment, impairing biological pathways, and resulting in a loss of neural functions. Electromagnetic stimulation has the ability to generate internal currents, which can be utilized to counter tissue damage and aid in the restoration of movement in paralyzed limbs. By incorporating implanted materials, electromagnetic stimulation can be targeted more accurately, thereby significantly improving the effectiveness and safety of such interventions. Currently, there have been significant advancements in the development of numerous promising electromagnetic stimulation strategies with diverse materials. This review provides a comprehensive summary of the fundamental theories, neural stimulation modulating materials, material application strategies, and pre-clinical therapeutic effects associated with electromagnetic stimulation for neural repair. It offers a thorough analysis of current techniques that employ materials to enhance electromagnetic stimulation, as well as potential therapeutic strategies for future applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuting Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Zhifeng Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Bing Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Yannan Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Jianwu Dai
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Biomedical Materials, Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, 300192, China
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5
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De Vitis E, Stanzione A, Romano A, Quattrini A, Gigli G, Moroni L, Gervaso F, Polini A. The Evolution of Technology-Driven In Vitro Models for Neurodegenerative Diseases. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2304989. [PMID: 38366798 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202304989] [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: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Abstract
The alteration in the neural circuits of both central and peripheral nervous systems is closely related to the onset of neurodegenerative disorders (NDDs). Despite significant research efforts, the knowledge regarding NDD pathological processes, and the development of efficacious drugs are still limited due to the inability to access and reproduce the components of the nervous system and its intricate microenvironment. 2D culture systems are too simplistic to accurately represent the more complex and dynamic situation of cells in vivo and have therefore been surpassed by 3D systems. However, both models suffer from various limitations that can be overcome by employing two innovative technologies: organ-on-chip and 3D printing. In this review, an overview of the advantages and shortcomings of both microfluidic platforms and extracellular matrix-like biomaterials will be given. Then, the combination of microfluidics and hydrogels as a new synergistic approach to study neural disorders by analyzing the latest advances in 3D brain-on-chip for neurodegenerative research will be explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleonora De Vitis
- CNR NANOTEC-Institute of Nanotechnology, Campus Ecotekn, via Monteroni, Lecce, 73100, Italy
| | - Antonella Stanzione
- CNR NANOTEC-Institute of Nanotechnology, Campus Ecotekn, via Monteroni, Lecce, 73100, Italy
| | - Alessandro Romano
- IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Division of Neuroscience, Institute of Experimental Neurology, Milan, 20132, Italy
| | - Angelo Quattrini
- IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Division of Neuroscience, Institute of Experimental Neurology, Milan, 20132, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Gigli
- CNR NANOTEC-Institute of Nanotechnology, Campus Ecotekn, via Monteroni, Lecce, 73100, Italy
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Università Del Salento, Campus Ecotekne, via Monteroni, Lecce, 73100, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Moroni
- CNR NANOTEC-Institute of Nanotechnology, Campus Ecotekn, via Monteroni, Lecce, 73100, Italy
- Complex Tissue Regeneration, Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 40, Maastricht, 6229 ER, Netherlands
| | - Francesca Gervaso
- CNR NANOTEC-Institute of Nanotechnology, Campus Ecotekn, via Monteroni, Lecce, 73100, Italy
| | - Alessandro Polini
- CNR NANOTEC-Institute of Nanotechnology, Campus Ecotekn, via Monteroni, Lecce, 73100, Italy
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Li Z, Yang B, Yang Z, Xie X, Guo Z, Zhao J, Wang R, Fu H, Zhao P, Zhao X, Chen G, Li G, Wei F, Bian L. Supramolecular Hydrogel with Ultra-Rapid Cell-Mediated Network Adaptation for Enhancing Cellular Metabolic Energetics and Tissue Regeneration. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2307176. [PMID: 38295393 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202307176] [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: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
Cellular energetics plays an important role in tissue regeneration, and the enhanced metabolic activity of delivered stem cells can accelerate tissue repair and regeneration. However, conventional hydrogels with limited network cell adaptability restrict cell-cell interactions and cell metabolic activities. In this work, it is shown that a cell-adaptable hydrogel with high network dynamics enhances the glucose uptake and fatty acid β-oxidation of encapsulated human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) compared with a hydrogel with low network dynamics. It is further shown that the hMSCs encapsulated in the high dynamic hydrogels exhibit increased tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle activity, oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS), and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) biosynthesis via an E-cadherin- and AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK)-dependent mechanism. The in vivo evaluation further showed that the delivery of MSCs by the dynamic hydrogel enhanced in situ bone regeneration in an animal model. It is believed that the findings provide critical insights into the impact of stem cell-biomaterial interactions on cellular metabolic energetics and the underlying mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuo Li
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, P. R. China
| | - Boguang Yang
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Laboratory, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Hong Kong, 999077, P. R. China
| | - Zhengmeng Yang
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Laboratory, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Hong Kong, 999077, P. R. China
| | - Xian Xie
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, P. R. China
| | - Zhengnan Guo
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 511442, P. R. China
| | - Jianyang Zhao
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 511442, P. R. China
| | - Ruinan Wang
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 511442, P. R. China
| | - Hao Fu
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 511442, P. R. China
| | - Pengchao Zhao
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 511442, P. R. China
| | - Xin Zhao
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, 999077, P. R. China
| | - Guosong Chen
- Department of Macromolecular Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, P. R. China
| | - Gang Li
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Laboratory, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Hong Kong, 999077, P. R. China
| | - Fuxin Wei
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, P. R. China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Bone Tissue Repair and Translational Research, Shenzhen, 518107, P. R. China
| | - Liming Bian
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 511442, P. R. China
- National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 511442, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Materials and Engineering of the Ministry of Education, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 511442, P. R. China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 511442, P. R. China
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7
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Smandri A, Al-Masawa ME, Hwei NM, Fauzi MB. ECM-derived biomaterials for regulating tissue multicellularity and maturation. iScience 2024; 27:109141. [PMID: 38405613 PMCID: PMC10884934 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.109141] [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] [Indexed: 02/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Recent breakthroughs in developing human-relevant organotypic models led to the building of highly resemblant tissue constructs that hold immense potential for transplantation, drug screening, and disease modeling. Despite the progress in fine-tuning stem cell multilineage differentiation in highly controlled spatiotemporal conditions and hosting microenvironments, 3D models still experience naive and incomplete morphogenesis. In particular, existing systems and induction protocols fail to maintain stem cell long-term potency, induce high tissue-level multicellularity, or drive the maturity of stem cell-derived 3D models to levels seen in their in vivo counterparts. In this review, we highlight the use of extracellular matrix (ECM)-derived biomaterials in providing stem cell niche-mimicking microenvironment capable of preserving stem cell long-term potency and inducing spatial and region-specific differentiation. We also examine the maturation of different 3D models, including organoids, encapsulated in ECM biomaterials and provide looking-forward perspectives on employing ECM biomaterials in building more innovative, transplantable, and functional organs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Smandri
- Centre for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia
| | - Maimonah Eissa Al-Masawa
- Centre for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia
| | - Ng Min Hwei
- Centre for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia
| | - Mh Busra Fauzi
- Centre for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia
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8
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Doulames VM, Marquardt LM, Hefferon ME, Baugh NJ, Suhar RA, Wang AT, Dubbin KR, Weimann JM, Palmer TD, Plant GW, Heilshorn SC. Custom-engineered hydrogels for delivery of human iPSC-derived neurons into the injured cervical spinal cord. Biomaterials 2024; 305:122400. [PMID: 38134472 PMCID: PMC10846596 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2023.122400] [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: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
Cervical damage is the most prevalent type of spinal cord injury clinically, although few preclinical research studies focus on this anatomical region of injury. Here we present a combinatorial therapy composed of a custom-engineered, injectable hydrogel and human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived deep cortical neurons. The biomimetic hydrogel has a modular design that includes a protein-engineered component to allow customization of the cell-adhesive peptide sequence and a synthetic polymer component to allow customization of the gel mechanical properties. In vitro studies with encapsulated iPSC-neurons were used to select a bespoke hydrogel formulation that maintains cell viability and promotes neurite extension. Following injection into the injured cervical spinal cord in a rat contusion model, the hydrogel biodegraded over six weeks without causing any adverse reaction. Compared to cell delivery using saline, the hydrogel significantly improved the reproducibility of cell transplantation and integration into the host tissue. Across three metrics of animal behavior, this combinatorial therapy significantly improved sensorimotor function by six weeks post transplantation. Taken together, these findings demonstrate that design of a combinatorial therapy that includes a gel customized for a specific fate-restricted cell type can induce regeneration in the injured cervical spinal cord.
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Affiliation(s)
- V M Doulames
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - L M Marquardt
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - M E Hefferon
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - N J Baugh
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - R A Suhar
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - A T Wang
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - K R Dubbin
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - J M Weimann
- Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - T D Palmer
- Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - G W Plant
- Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA.
| | - S C Heilshorn
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA.
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9
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Feng L, Li D, Tian Y, Zhao C, Sun Y, Kou X, Wu J, Wang L, Gu Q, Li W, Hao J, Hu B, Wang Y. One-step cell biomanufacturing platform: porous gelatin microcarrier beads promote human embryonic stem cell-derived midbrain dopaminergic progenitor cell differentiation in vitro and survival after transplantation in vivo. Neural Regen Res 2024; 19:458-464. [PMID: 37488911 PMCID: PMC10503631 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.377412] [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: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Numerous studies have shown that cell replacement therapy can replenish lost cells and rebuild neural circuitry in animal models of Parkinson's disease. Transplantation of midbrain dopaminergic progenitor cells is a promising treatment for Parkinson's disease. However, transplanted cells can be injured by mechanical damage during handling and by changes in the transplantation niche. Here, we developed a one-step biomanufacturing platform that uses small-aperture gelatin microcarriers to produce beads carrying midbrain dopaminergic progenitor cells. These beads allow midbrain dopaminergic progenitor cell differentiation and cryopreservation without digestion, effectively maintaining axonal integrity in vitro. Importantly, midbrain dopaminergic progenitor cell bead grafts showed increased survival and only mild immunoreactivity in vivo compared with suspended midbrain dopaminergic progenitor cell grafts. Overall, our findings show that these midbrain dopaminergic progenitor cell beads enhance the effectiveness of neuronal cell transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- National Stem Cell Resource Center, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Savaid Medical School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Da Li
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yao Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- National Stem Cell Resource Center, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Savaid Medical School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Chengshun Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- National Stem Cell Resource Center, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Savaid Medical School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yun Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaolong Kou
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jun Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- National Stem Cell Resource Center, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Liu Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Savaid Medical School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Qi Gu
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Li
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- National Stem Cell Resource Center, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Jie Hao
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- National Stem Cell Resource Center, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Baoyang Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- National Stem Cell Resource Center, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yukai Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- National Stem Cell Resource Center, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China
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10
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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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11
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Wang J, Zhang X, Chen H, Ren H, Zhou M, Zhao Y. Engineered stem cells by emerging biomedical stratagems. Sci Bull (Beijing) 2024; 69:248-279. [PMID: 38101962 DOI: 10.1016/j.scib.2023.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 09/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Stem cell therapy holds immense potential as a viable treatment for a widespread range of intractable disorders. As the safety of stem cell transplantation having been demonstrated in numerous clinical trials, various kinds of stem cells are currently utilized in medical applications. Despite the achievements, the therapeutic benefits of stem cells for diseases are limited, and the data of clinical researches are unstable. To optimize tthe effectiveness of stem cells, engineering approaches have been developed to enhance their inherent abilities and impart them with new functionalities, paving the way for the next generation of stem cell therapies. This review offers a detailed analysis of engineered stem cells, including their clinical applications and potential for future development. We begin by briefly introducing the recent advances in the production of stem cells (induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), embryonic stem cells (ESCs), mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs)). Furthermore, we present the latest developments of engineered strategies in stem cells, including engineered methods in molecular biology and biomaterial fields, and their application in biomedical research. Finally, we summarize the current obstacles and suggest future prospects for engineered stem cells in clinical translations and biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinglin Wang
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210008, China; Division of Hepatobiliary Surgery and Transplantation Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China
| | - Xiaoxuan Zhang
- Division of Hepatobiliary Surgery and Transplantation Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China
| | - Hanxu Chen
- Division of Hepatobiliary Surgery and Transplantation Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China
| | - Haozhen Ren
- Division of Hepatobiliary Surgery and Transplantation Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China.
| | - Min Zhou
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210008, China.
| | - Yuanjin Zhao
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210008, China; Division of Hepatobiliary Surgery and Transplantation Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China; Shenzhen Research Institute, Southeast University, Shenzhen 518038, China.
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12
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Hidalgo-Alvarez V, Madl CM. Leveraging Biomaterial Platforms to Study Aging-Related Neural and Muscular Degeneration. Biomolecules 2024; 14:69. [PMID: 38254669 PMCID: PMC10813704 DOI: 10.3390/biom14010069] [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: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Aging is a complex multifactorial process that results in tissue function impairment across the whole organism. One of the common consequences of this process is the loss of muscle mass and the associated decline in muscle function, known as sarcopenia. Aging also presents with an increased risk of developing other pathological conditions such as neurodegeneration. Muscular and neuronal degeneration cause mobility issues and cognitive impairment, hence having a major impact on the quality of life of the older population. The development of novel therapies that can ameliorate the effects of aging is currently hindered by our limited knowledge of the underlying mechanisms and the use of models that fail to recapitulate the structure and composition of the cell microenvironment. The emergence of bioengineering techniques based on the use of biomimetic materials and biofabrication methods has opened the possibility of generating 3D models of muscular and nervous tissues that better mimic the native extracellular matrix. These platforms are particularly advantageous for drug testing and mechanistic studies. In this review, we discuss the developments made in the creation of 3D models of aging-related neuronal and muscular degeneration and we provide a perspective on the future directions for the field.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Christopher M. Madl
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA;
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13
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Lomboni DJ, Ozgun A, de Medeiros TV, Staines W, Naccache R, Woulfe J, Variola F. Electroconductive Collagen-Carbon Nanodots Nanocomposite Elicits Neurite Outgrowth, Supports Neurogenic Differentiation and Accelerates Electrophysiological Maturation of Neural Progenitor Spheroids. Adv Healthc Mater 2024; 13:e2301894. [PMID: 37922888 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202301894] [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: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
Neuronal disorders are characterized by the loss of functional neurons and disrupted neuroanatomical connectivity, severely impacting the quality of life of patients. This study investigates a novel electroconductive nanocomposite consisting of glycine-derived carbon nanodots (GlyCNDs) incorporated into a collagen matrix and validates its beneficial physicochemical and electro-active cueing to relevant cells. To this end, this work employs mouse induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived neural progenitor (NP) spheroids. The findings reveal that the nanocomposite markedly augmented neuronal differentiation in NP spheroids and stimulate neuritogenesis. In addition, this work demonstrates that the biomaterial-driven enhancements of the cellular response ultimately contribute to the development of highly integrated and functional neural networks. Lastly, acute dizocilpine (MK-801) treatment provides new evidence for a direct interaction between collagen-bound GlyCNDs and postsynaptic N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors, thereby suggesting a potential mechanism underlying the observed cellular events. In summary, the findings establish a foundation for the development of a new nanocomposite resulting from the integration of carbon nanomaterials within a clinically approved hydrogel, toward an effective biomaterial-based strategy for addressing neuronal disorders by restoring damaged/lost neurons and supporting the reestablishment of neuroanatomical connectivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J Lomboni
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, K1N 6N5, Canada
- Ottawa-Carleton Institute for Biomedical Engineering (OCIBME), Ottawa, ON, K1N 6N5, Canada
| | - Alp Ozgun
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, K1N 6N5, Canada
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Tayline V de Medeiros
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry and the Centre for NanoScience Research, Concordia University, Montreal, QC, H4B 1R6, Canada
- Quebec Centre for Advanced Materials, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Concordia University, Montreal, QC, H4B 1R6, Canada
| | - William Staines
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Rafik Naccache
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry and the Centre for NanoScience Research, Concordia University, Montreal, QC, H4B 1R6, Canada
- Quebec Centre for Advanced Materials, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Concordia University, Montreal, QC, H4B 1R6, Canada
| | - John Woulfe
- The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, K1Y 4E9, Canada
| | - Fabio Variola
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, K1N 6N5, Canada
- Ottawa-Carleton Institute for Biomedical Engineering (OCIBME), Ottawa, ON, K1N 6N5, Canada
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, K1H 8M5, Canada
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14
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Ranjbar N, Bakhshandeh B, Pennisi CP. Electroconductive Nanofibrous Scaffolds Enable Neuronal Differentiation in Response to Electrical Stimulation without Exogenous Inducing Factors. Bioengineering (Basel) 2023; 10:1438. [PMID: 38136029 PMCID: PMC10740536 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering10121438] [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: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 12/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Among the various biochemical and biophysical inducers for neural regeneration, electrical stimulation (ES) has recently attracted considerable attention as an efficient means to induce neuronal differentiation in tissue engineering approaches. The aim of this in vitro study was to develop a nanofibrous scaffold that enables ES-mediated neuronal differentiation in the absence of exogenous soluble inducers. A nanofibrous scaffold composed of polycaprolactone (PCL), poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), and single-walled nanotubes (SWNTs) was fabricated via electrospinning and its physicochemical properties were investigated. The cytocompatibility of the electrospun composite with the PC12 cell line and bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) was investigated. The results showed that the PCL/PLLA/SWNT nanofibrous scaffold did not exhibit cytotoxicity and supported cell attachment, spreading, and proliferation. ES was applied to cells cultured on the nanofibrous scaffolds at different intensities and the expression of the three neural markers (Nestin, Microtubule-associated protein 2, and β tubulin-3) was evaluated using RT-qPCR analysis. The results showed that the highest expression of neural markers could be achieved at an electric field intensity of 200 mV/cm, suggesting that the scaffold in combination with ES can be an efficient tool to accelerate neural differentiation in the absence of exogenous soluble inducers. This has important implications for the regeneration of nerve injuries and may provide insights for further investigations of the mechanisms underlying ES-mediated neuronal commitment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nika Ranjbar
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Science, University of Tehran, Tehran 14155-6455, Iran
| | - Behnaz Bakhshandeh
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Science, University of Tehran, Tehran 14155-6455, Iran
| | - Cristian Pablo Pennisi
- Regenerative Medicine Group, Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, DK-9260 Gistrup, Denmark
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15
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Suhar RA, Huang MS, Navarro RS, Aviles Rodriguez G, Heilshorn SC. A Library of Elastin-like Proteins with Tunable Matrix Ligands for In Vitro 3D Neural Cell Culture. Biomacromolecules 2023; 24:5926-5939. [PMID: 37988588 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.3c00941] [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] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
Hydrogels with encapsulated cells have widespread biomedical applications, both as tissue-mimetic 3D cultures in vitro and as tissue-engineered therapies in vivo. Within these hydrogels, the presentation of cell-instructive extracellular matrix (ECM)-derived ligands and matrix stiffness are critical factors known to influence numerous cell behaviors. While individual ECM biopolymers can be blended together to alter the presentation of cell-instructive ligands, this typically results in hydrogels with a range of mechanical properties. Synthetic systems that allow for the facile incorporation and modulation of multiple ligands without modification of matrix mechanics are highly desirable. In the present work, we leverage protein engineering to design a family of xeno-free hydrogels (i.e., devoid of animal-derived components) consisting of recombinant hyaluronan and recombinant elastin-like proteins (ELPs), cross-linked together with dynamic covalent bonds. The ELP components incorporate cell-instructive peptide ligands derived from ECM proteins, including fibronectin (RGD), laminin (IKVAV and YIGSR), collagen (DGEA), and tenascin-C (PLAEIDGIELTY and VFDNFVL). By carefully designing the protein primary sequence, we form 3D hydrogels with defined and tunable concentrations of cell-instructive ligands that have similar matrix mechanics. Utilizing this system, we demonstrate that neurite outgrowth from encapsulated embryonic dorsal root ganglion (DRG) cultures is significantly modified by cell-instructive ligand content. Thus, this library of protein-engineered hydrogels is a cell-compatible system to systematically study cell responses to matrix-derived ligands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riley A Suhar
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| | - Michelle S Huang
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
- The Institute for Chemistry, Stanford University, Engineering & Medicine for Human Health (Sarafan ChEM-H), Stanford, California 94305, United States
| | - Renato S Navarro
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| | - Giselle Aviles Rodriguez
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| | - Sarah C Heilshorn
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
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16
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Martins‐Costa C, Pham VA, Sidhaye J, Novatchkova M, Wiegers A, Peer A, Möseneder P, Corsini NS, Knoblich JA. Morphogenesis and development of human telencephalic organoids in the absence and presence of exogenous extracellular matrix. EMBO J 2023; 42:e113213. [PMID: 37842725 PMCID: PMC10646563 DOI: 10.15252/embj.2022113213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The establishment and maintenance of apical-basal polarity is a fundamental step in brain development, instructing the organization of neural progenitor cells (NPCs) and the developing cerebral cortex. Particularly, basally located extracellular matrix (ECM) is crucial for this process. In vitro, epithelial polarization can be achieved via endogenous ECM production, or exogenous ECM supplementation. While neuroepithelial development is recapitulated in neural organoids, the effects of different ECM sources in tissue morphogenesis remain underexplored. Here, we show that exposure to a solubilized basement membrane matrix substrate, Matrigel, at early neuroepithelial stages causes rapid tissue polarization and rearrangement of neuroepithelial architecture. In cultures exposed to pure ECM components or unexposed to any exogenous ECM, polarity acquisition is slower and driven by endogenous ECM production. After the onset of neurogenesis, tissue architecture and neuronal differentiation are largely independent of the initial ECM source, but Matrigel exposure has long-lasting effects on tissue patterning. These results advance the knowledge on mechanisms of exogenously and endogenously guided morphogenesis, demonstrating the self-sustainability of neuroepithelial cultures by endogenous processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catarina Martins‐Costa
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences (IMBA), Vienna BioCenterViennaAustria
- Vienna BioCenter PhD ProgramDoctoral School of the University of Vienna and Medical University of ViennaViennaAustria
| | - Vincent A Pham
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences (IMBA), Vienna BioCenterViennaAustria
| | - Jaydeep Sidhaye
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences (IMBA), Vienna BioCenterViennaAustria
| | - Maria Novatchkova
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences (IMBA), Vienna BioCenterViennaAustria
| | - Andrea Wiegers
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences (IMBA), Vienna BioCenterViennaAustria
| | - Angela Peer
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences (IMBA), Vienna BioCenterViennaAustria
| | - Paul Möseneder
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences (IMBA), Vienna BioCenterViennaAustria
| | - Nina S Corsini
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences (IMBA), Vienna BioCenterViennaAustria
| | - Jürgen A Knoblich
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences (IMBA), Vienna BioCenterViennaAustria
- Department of NeurologyMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria
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17
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Roth JG, Huang MS, Navarro RS, Akram JT, LeSavage BL, Heilshorn SC. Tunable hydrogel viscoelasticity modulates human neural maturation. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2023; 9:eadh8313. [PMID: 37862423 PMCID: PMC10588948 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adh8313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
Human-induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) have emerged as a promising in vitro model system for studying neurodevelopment. However, current models remain limited in their ability to incorporate tunable biomechanical signaling cues imparted by the extracellular matrix (ECM). The native brain ECM is viscoelastic and stress-relaxing, exhibiting a time-dependent response to an applied force. To recapitulate the remodelability of the neural ECM, we developed a family of protein-engineered hydrogels that exhibit tunable stress relaxation rates. hiPSC-derived neural progenitor cells (NPCs) encapsulated within these gels underwent relaxation rate-dependent maturation. Specifically, NPCs within hydrogels with faster stress relaxation rates extended longer, more complex neuritic projections, exhibited decreased metabolic activity, and expressed higher levels of genes associated with neural maturation. By inhibiting actin polymerization, we observed decreased neuritic projections and a concomitant decrease in neural maturation gene expression. Together, these results suggest that microenvironmental viscoelasticity is sufficient to bias human NPC maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julien G. Roth
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Complex in Vitro Systems, Safety Assessment, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Michelle S. Huang
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Renato S. Navarro
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Jason T. Akram
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Bauer L. LeSavage
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Sarah C. Heilshorn
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
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18
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Tang X, Wang Z, Khutsishvili D, Cheng Y, Wang J, Tang J, Ma S. Volumetric compression by heterogeneous scaffold embedding promotes cerebral organoid maturation and does not impede growth. Cell Syst 2023; 14:872-882.e3. [PMID: 37820730 DOI: 10.1016/j.cels.2023.09.004] [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: 01/06/2023] [Revised: 05/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
Although biochemical regulation has been extensively studied in organoid modeling protocols, the role of mechanoregulation in directing stem cell fate and organoid development has been relatively unexplored. To accurately replicate the dynamic organoid development observed in nature, in this study, we present a method of heterogeneous embedding using an alginate-shell-Matrigel-core system. This approach allows for cell-Matrigel remodeling by the inner layer and provides short-term moderate-normal compression through the soft alginate outer layer. Our results show that the time-limited confinement contributes to increased expression of neuronal markers such as neurofilament (NF) and microtubule-associated protein 2 (MAP2). Compared with non-alginate embedding and alginate compression groups, volume growth remains unimpeded. Our findings demonstrate the temporary mechanical regulation of cerebral organoid growth, which exhibits a regular growth profile with enhanced maturation. These results highlight the importance and potential practical applications of mechanoregulation in the establishment of brain organoids. A record of this paper's transparent peer review process is included in the supplemental information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaowei Tang
- Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School (SIGS), Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China; Tsinghua-Berkeley Shenzhen Institute, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Zitian Wang
- Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School (SIGS), Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China; Tsinghua-Berkeley Shenzhen Institute, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Davit Khutsishvili
- Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School (SIGS), Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China; Tsinghua-Berkeley Shenzhen Institute, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Yifan Cheng
- Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School (SIGS), Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China; Tsinghua-Berkeley Shenzhen Institute, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Jiaqi Wang
- Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School (SIGS), Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China; Tsinghua-Berkeley Shenzhen Institute, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Jiyuan Tang
- Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School (SIGS), Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China; Tsinghua-Berkeley Shenzhen Institute, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Shaohua Ma
- Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School (SIGS), Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China; Tsinghua-Berkeley Shenzhen Institute, Shenzhen 518055, China.
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19
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Turan Sorhun D, Kuşoğlu A, Öztürk E. Developing Bovine Brain-Derived Extracellular Matrix Hydrogels: a Screen of Decellularization Methods for Their Impact on Biochemical and Mechanical Properties. ACS OMEGA 2023; 8:36933-36947. [PMID: 37841171 PMCID: PMC10569007 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c04064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
Tissue models that recapitulate the key biochemical and physical aspects of the brain have been highly pursued in neural tissue engineering. Decellularization of native organs offers the advantage of preserving the composition of native extracellular matrix (ECM). Brain ECM has distinct features which play a major role in neural cell behavior. Cell instructive ligands and mechanical properties take part in the regulation of cellular processes in homeostasis and diseases. One of the main challenges in decellularization is maintaining mechanical integrity in reconstituted hydrogels and achieving physiologically relevant stiffness. The effect of the decellularization process on different mechanical aspects, particularly the viscoelasticity of brain-derived hydrogels, has not been addressed. In this study, we developed bovine brain-derived hydrogels for the first time. We pursued seven protocols for decellularization and screened their effect on biochemical content, hydrogel formation, and mechanical characteristics. We show that bovine brain offers an easily accessible alternative for in vitro brain tissue modeling. Our data demonstrate that the choice of decellularization method strongly alters gelation as well as the stiffness and viscoelasticity of the resulting hydrogels. Lastly, we investigated the cytocompatibility of brain ECM hydrogels and the effect of modulated mechanical properties on the growth and morphological features of neuroblastoma cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Duygu Turan Sorhun
- Engineered
Cancer and Organ Models Laboratory, Koç
University, Istanbul 34450, Turkey
- Research
Center for Translational Medicine (KUTTAM), Koç University, Istanbul 34450, Turkey
| | - Alican Kuşoğlu
- Engineered
Cancer and Organ Models Laboratory, Koç
University, Istanbul 34450, Turkey
- Research
Center for Translational Medicine (KUTTAM), Koç University, Istanbul 34450, Turkey
| | - Ece Öztürk
- Engineered
Cancer and Organ Models Laboratory, Koç
University, Istanbul 34450, Turkey
- Research
Center for Translational Medicine (KUTTAM), Koç University, Istanbul 34450, Turkey
- Department
of Medical Biology, School of Medicine, Koç University, Istanbul 34450, Turkey
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20
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Marques BL, Maciel GF, Brito MR, Dias LD, Scalzo S, Santos AK, Kihara AH, da Costa Santiago H, Parreira RC, Birbrair A, Resende RR. Regulatory mechanisms of stem cell differentiation: Biotechnological applications for neurogenesis. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2023; 144:11-19. [PMID: 36202693 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2022.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Revised: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The world population's life expectancy is growing, and neurodegenerative disorders common in old age require more efficient therapies. In this context, neural stem cells (NSCs) are imperative for the development and maintenance of the functioning of the nervous system and have broad therapeutic applicability for neurodegenerative diseases. Therefore, knowing all the mechanisms that govern the self-renewal, differentiation, and cell signaling of NSC is necessary. This review will address some of these aspects, including the role of growth and transcription factors, epigenetic modulators, microRNAs, and extracellular matrix components. Furthermore, differentiation and transdifferentiation processes will be addressed as therapeutic strategies showing their significance for stem cell-based therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno L Marques
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil
| | | | - Marcello R Brito
- Centro Universitário de Mineiros - UNIFIMES, Campus Trindade, GO, Brazil
| | - Lucas D Dias
- Centro Universitário de Mineiros - UNIFIMES, Campus Trindade, GO, Brazil
| | - Sérgio Scalzo
- Departamento de Fisiologia e Biofísica, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Anderson K Santos
- Departamento de Fisiologia e Biofísica, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Alexandre Hiroaki Kihara
- Centro de Matemática, Computação e Cognição, Universidade Federal do ABC, São Bernardo do Campo, SP, Brazil
| | - Helton da Costa Santiago
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Ricardo C Parreira
- Centro Universitário de Mineiros - UNIFIMES, Campus Trindade, GO, Brazil
| | - Alexander Birbrair
- Departamento de Patologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo R Resende
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.
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21
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Roth JG, Brunel LG, Huang MS, Liu Y, Cai B, Sinha S, Yang F, Pașca SP, Shin S, Heilshorn SC. Spatially controlled construction of assembloids using bioprinting. Nat Commun 2023; 14:4346. [PMID: 37468483 PMCID: PMC10356773 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-40006-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The biofabrication of three-dimensional (3D) tissues that recapitulate organ-specific architecture and function would benefit from temporal and spatial control of cell-cell interactions. Bioprinting, while potentially capable of achieving such control, is poorly suited to organoids with conserved cytoarchitectures that are susceptible to plastic deformation. Here, we develop a platform, termed Spatially Patterned Organoid Transfer (SPOT), consisting of an iron-oxide nanoparticle laden hydrogel and magnetized 3D printer to enable the controlled lifting, transport, and deposition of organoids. We identify cellulose nanofibers as both an ideal biomaterial for encasing organoids with magnetic nanoparticles and a shear-thinning, self-healing support hydrogel for maintaining the spatial positioning of organoids to facilitate the generation of assembloids. We leverage SPOT to create precisely arranged assembloids composed of human pluripotent stem cell-derived neural organoids and patient-derived glioma organoids. In doing so, we demonstrate the potential for the SPOT platform to construct assembloids which recapitulate key developmental processes and disease etiologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julien G Roth
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Stanford Brain Organogenesis, Wu Tsai Neurosciences Institute & Bio-X, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Complex in Vitro Systems, Safety Assessment, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Lucia G Brunel
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Michelle S Huang
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Yueming Liu
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Betty Cai
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Sauradeep Sinha
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Fan Yang
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Sergiu P Pașca
- Stanford Brain Organogenesis, Wu Tsai Neurosciences Institute & Bio-X, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Sungchul Shin
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Sarah C Heilshorn
- Stanford Brain Organogenesis, Wu Tsai Neurosciences Institute & Bio-X, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
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22
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Urenda JP, Del Dosso A, Birtele M, Quadrato G. Present and Future Modeling of Human Psychiatric Connectopathies With Brain Organoids. Biol Psychiatry 2023; 93:606-615. [PMID: 36759258 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2022.12.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Brain organoids derived from human pluripotent stem cells are emerging as a powerful tool to model cellular aspects of neuropsychiatric disorders, including alterations in cell proliferation, differentiation, migration, and lineage trajectory. To date, most contributions in the field have focused on modeling cellular impairment of the cerebral cortex, with few studies probing dysfunction in local network connectivity. However, it is increasingly more apparent that these psychiatric disorders are connectopathies involving multiple brain structures and the connections between them. Therefore, the lack of reproducible anatomical features in these 3-dimensional cultures represents a major bottleneck for effectively modeling brain connectivity at the micro(cellular) level and at the macroscale level between brain regions. In this perspective, we review the use of current organoid protocols to model neuropsychiatric disorders with a specific emphasis on the potential and limitations of the current strategies to model impairments in functional connectivity. Finally, we discuss the importance of adopting interdisciplinary strategies to establish next-generation, multiregional organoids that can model, with higher fidelity, the dysfunction in the development and functionality of long-range connections within the brain of patients affected by psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Paul Urenda
- Department of Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California
| | - Ashley Del Dosso
- Department of Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California
| | - Marcella Birtele
- Department of Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California
| | - Giorgia Quadrato
- Department of Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California.
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23
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Karimi-Soflou R, Shabani I, Karkhaneh A. Enhanced neural differentiation by applying electrical stimulation utilizing conductive and antioxidant alginate-polypyrrole/poly-l-lysine hydrogels. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 237:124063. [PMID: 36933596 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.124063] [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: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
The challenge of restoration from neurodegenerative disorder requires effective solutions. To enhance the healing efficiencies, scaffolds with antioxidant activities, electroconductivity, and versatile features to encourage neuronal differentiation are potentially useful. Herein, polypyrrole-alginate (Alg-PPy) copolymer was used to design antioxidant and electroconductive hydrogels through the chemical oxidation radical polymerization method. The hydrogels have antioxidant effects to combat oxidative stress in nerve damage thanks to the introduction of PPy. Additionally, poly-l-lysine (PLL) provided these hydrogels with a great differentiation ability of stem cells. The morphology, porosity, swelling ratio, antioxidant activity, rheological behavior, and conductive characteristics of these hydrogels were precisely adjusted by altering the amount of PPy. Characterization of hydrogels showed appropriate electrical conductivity and antioxidant activity for neural tissue applications. Cytocompatibility, live/dead assays, and Annexin V/PI staining by flow cytometry using P19 cells confirmed the excellent cytocompatibility and cell protective effect under ROS microenvironment of these hydrogels in both normal and oxidative conditions. The neural marker investigation in the induction of electrical impulses was assessed through RT-PCR and immunofluorescence assay, demonstrating the differentiation of P19 cells to neurons cultured in these scaffolds. In summary, the antioxidant and electroconductive Alg-PPy/PLL hydrogels demonstrated excellent potential as promising scaffolds for treating neurodegenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reza Karimi-Soflou
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Amirkabir University of Technology (Tehran Polytechnic), Iran
| | - Iman Shabani
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Amirkabir University of Technology (Tehran Polytechnic), Iran.
| | - Akbar Karkhaneh
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Amirkabir University of Technology (Tehran Polytechnic), Iran.
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24
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Microtubes with gradient decellularized porcine sciatic nerve matrix from microfluidics for sciatic nerve regeneration. Bioact Mater 2023; 21:511-519. [PMID: 36185737 PMCID: PMC9508151 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2022.08.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Revised: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
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25
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Bi W, Cai S, Lei T, Wang L. Implementation of blood-brain barrier on microfluidic chip: recent advance and future prospects. Ageing Res Rev 2023; 87:101921. [PMID: 37004842 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2023.101921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
Abstract
The complex structure of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) hinders its modeling and the treatment of brain diseases. The microfluidic technology promotes the development of BBB-on-a-chip platforms, which can be used to reproduce the complex brain microenvironment and physiological reactions. Compared with traditional transwell technology, microfluidic BBB-on-a-chip shows great technical advantages in terms of flexible control of fluid shear stress in the chip and fabrication efficiency of the chip system, which can be enhanced by the development of lithography and three-dimensional (3D) printing. It is convenient to accurately monitor the dynamic changes of biochemical parameters of individual cells in the model by integrating an automatic super-resolution imaging sensing platform. In addition, biomaterials, especially hydrogels and conductive polymers, solve the limitations of microfluidic BBB-on-a-chip by compounding onto microfluidic chip to provide a 3D space and special performance on the microfluidic chip. The microfluidic BBB-on-a-chip promotes the development of basic research, including cell migration, mechanism exploration of neurodegenerative diseases, drug barrier permeability, SARS-CoV-2 pathology. This study summarizes the recent advances, challenges and future prospects of microfluidic BBB-on-a-chip, which can help to promote the development of personalized medicine and drug discovery.
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26
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Prasad T, Iyer S, Chatterjee S, Kumar M. In vivo models to study neurogenesis and associated neurodevelopmental disorders-Microcephaly and autism spectrum disorder. WIREs Mech Dis 2023:e1603. [PMID: 36754084 DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.1603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
The genesis and functioning of the central nervous system are one of the most intricate and intriguing aspects of embryogenesis. The big lacuna in the field of human CNS development is the lack of accessibility of the human brain for direct observation during embryonic and fetal development. Thus, it is imperative to establish alternative animal models to gain deep mechanistic insights into neurodevelopment, establishment of neural circuitry, and its function. Neurodevelopmental events such as neural specification, differentiation, and generation of neuronal and non-neuronal cell types have been comprehensively studied using a variety of animal models and in vitro model systems derived from human cells. The experimentations on animal models have revealed novel, mechanistic insights into neurogenesis, formation of neural networks, and function. The models, thus serve as indispensable tools to understand the molecular basis of neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) arising from aberrations during embryonic development. Here, we review the spectrum of in vivo models such as fruitfly, zebrafish, frog, mice, and nonhuman primates to study neurogenesis and NDDs like microcephaly and Autism Spectrum Disorder. We also discuss nonconventional models such as ascidians and the recent technological advances in the field to study neurogenesis, disease mechanisms, and pathophysiology of human NDDs. This article is categorized under: Cancer > Stem Cells and Development Congenital Diseases > Stem Cells and Development Neurological Diseases > Stem Cells and Development Congenital Diseases > Genetics/Genomics/Epigenetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuhina Prasad
- CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CSIR-CCMB), Hyderabad, India.,Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
| | - Sharada Iyer
- CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CSIR-CCMB), Hyderabad, India.,Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
| | - Sayoni Chatterjee
- CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CSIR-CCMB), Hyderabad, India
| | - Megha Kumar
- CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CSIR-CCMB), Hyderabad, India.,Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
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27
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Álvarez Z, Ortega JA, Sato K, Sasselli IR, Kolberg-Edelbrock AN, Qiu R, Marshall KA, Nguyen TP, Smith CS, Quinlan KA, Papakis V, Syrgiannis Z, Sather NA, Musumeci C, Engel E, Stupp SI, Kiskinis E. Artificial extracellular matrix scaffolds of mobile molecules enhance maturation of human stem cell-derived neurons. Cell Stem Cell 2023; 30:219-238.e14. [PMID: 36638801 PMCID: PMC9898161 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2022.12.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) technologies offer a unique resource for modeling neurological diseases. However, iPSC models are fraught with technical limitations including abnormal aggregation and inefficient maturation of differentiated neurons. These problems are in part due to the absence of synergistic cues of the native extracellular matrix (ECM). We report on the use of three artificial ECMs based on peptide amphiphile (PA) supramolecular nanofibers. All nanofibers display the laminin-derived IKVAV signal on their surface but differ in the nature of their non-bioactive domains. We find that nanofibers with greater intensity of internal supramolecular motion have enhanced bioactivity toward hiPSC-derived motor and cortical neurons. Proteomic, biochemical, and functional assays reveal that highly mobile PA scaffolds caused enhanced β1-integrin pathway activation, reduced aggregation, increased arborization, and matured electrophysiological activity of neurons. Our work highlights the importance of designing biomimetic ECMs to study the development, function, and dysfunction of human neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zaida Álvarez
- Simpson Querrey Institute for BioNanotechnology, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; Department of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; Biomaterials for Regenerative Therapies, Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), Barcelona 08028, Spain
| | - J Alberto Ortega
- The Ken & Ruth Davee Department of Neurology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; Department of Pathology and Experimental Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona 08907, Spain
| | - Kohei Sato
- Simpson Querrey Institute for BioNanotechnology, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
| | - Ivan R Sasselli
- Simpson Querrey Institute for BioNanotechnology, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA; Center for Cooperative Research in Biomaterials (CIC biomaGUNE), Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Donostia-San Sebastián 20014, Spain
| | - Alexandra N Kolberg-Edelbrock
- Simpson Querrey Institute for BioNanotechnology, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
| | - Ruomeng Qiu
- Simpson Querrey Institute for BioNanotechnology, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
| | - Kelly A Marshall
- The Ken & Ruth Davee Department of Neurology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Thao Phuong Nguyen
- The Ken & Ruth Davee Department of Neurology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
| | - Cara S Smith
- Simpson Querrey Institute for BioNanotechnology, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
| | - Katharina A Quinlan
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881, USA
| | - Vasileios Papakis
- The Ken & Ruth Davee Department of Neurology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Zois Syrgiannis
- Simpson Querrey Institute for BioNanotechnology, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
| | - Nicholas A Sather
- Simpson Querrey Institute for BioNanotechnology, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Chiara Musumeci
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
| | - Elisabeth Engel
- Biomaterials for Regenerative Therapies, Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), Barcelona 08028, Spain
| | - Samuel I Stupp
- Simpson Querrey Institute for BioNanotechnology, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA; Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA; Department of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA.
| | - Evangelos Kiskinis
- Simpson Querrey Institute for BioNanotechnology, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; The Ken & Ruth Davee Department of Neurology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA.
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28
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Roth JG, Huang MS, Heilshorn SC. Mobility mediates maturation: Synthetic substrates to enhance neural differentiation. Cell Stem Cell 2023; 30:115-117. [PMID: 36736286 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2023.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The maturation of human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)-derived neurons in 2D is dependent upon cell attachment, spreading, and pathfinding across a biomaterial substrate. In this issue of Cell Stem Cell, Álvarez et al.1 demonstrate that highly mobile supramolecular scaffolds facilitate long-term hiPSC-derived motor neuron culture, increase maturation-related phenotypes, and recapitulate disease-relevant pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julien G Roth
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA; Stanford Brain Organogenesis, Wu Tsai Neurosciences Institute & Bio-X, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Michelle S Huang
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Sarah C Heilshorn
- Stanford Brain Organogenesis, Wu Tsai Neurosciences Institute & Bio-X, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA; Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
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29
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Yao X, Zhan L, Yan Z, Li J, Kong L, Wang X, Xiao H, Jiang H, Huang C, Ouyang Y, Qian Y, Fan C. Non-electric bioelectrical analog strategy by a biophysical-driven nano-micro spatial anisotropic scaffold for regulating stem cell niche and tissue regeneration in a neuronal therapy. Bioact Mater 2023; 20:319-338. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2022.05.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Revised: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
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30
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Zhang J, Wang L, Xue Y, Lei IM, Chen X, Zhang P, Cai C, Liang X, Lu Y, Liu J. Engineering Electrodes with Robust Conducting Hydrogel Coating for Neural Recording and Modulation. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023; 35:e2209324. [PMID: 36398434 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202209324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Revised: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Coating conventional metallic electrodes with conducting polymers has enabled the essential characteristics required for bioelectronics, such as biocompatibility, electrical conductivity, mechanical compliance, and the capacity for structural and chemical functionalization of the bioelectrodes. However, the fragile interface between the conducting polymer and the electrode in wet physiological environment greatly limits their utility and reliability. Here, a general yet reliable strategy to seamlessly interface conventional electrodes with conducting hydrogel coatings is established, featuring tissue-like modulus, highly-desirable electrochemical properties, robust interface, and long-term reliability. Numerical modeling reveals the role of toughening mechanism, synergy of covalent anchorage of long-chain polymers, and chemical cross-linking, in improving the long-term robustness of the interface. Through in vivo implantation in freely-moving mouse models, it is shown that stable electrophysiological recording can be achieved, while the conducting hydrogel-electrode interface remains robust during the long-term low-voltage electrical stimulation. This simple yet versatile design strategy addresses the long-standing technical challenges in functional bioelectrode engineering, and opens up new avenues for the next-generation diagnostic brain-machine interfaces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiajun Zhang
- Department of Mechanical and Energy Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Lulu Wang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Manipulation, the Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Yu Xue
- Department of Mechanical and Energy Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Iek Man Lei
- Department of Mechanical and Energy Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Xingmei Chen
- Department of Mechanical and Energy Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Pei Zhang
- Department of Mechanical and Energy Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Chengcheng Cai
- Department of Mechanical and Energy Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Xiangyu Liang
- Department of Mechanical and Energy Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Yi Lu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Manipulation, the Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Ji Liu
- Department of Mechanical and Energy Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Biomimetic Robotics and Intelligent Systems, Department of Mechanical and Energy Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Human-Augmentation and Rehabilitation Robotics in Universities, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, China
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31
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Castillo Ransanz L, Van Altena PFJ, Heine VM, Accardo A. Engineered cell culture microenvironments for mechanobiology studies of brain neural cells. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:1096054. [PMID: 36588937 PMCID: PMC9794772 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.1096054] [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: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The biomechanical properties of the brain microenvironment, which is composed of different neural cell types, the extracellular matrix, and blood vessels, are critical for normal brain development and neural functioning. Stiffness, viscoelasticity and spatial organization of brain tissue modulate proliferation, migration, differentiation, and cell function. However, the mechanical aspects of the neural microenvironment are largely ignored in current cell culture systems. Considering the high promises of human induced pluripotent stem cell- (iPSC-) based models for disease modelling and new treatment development, and in light of the physiological relevance of neuromechanobiological features, applications of in vitro engineered neuronal microenvironments should be explored thoroughly to develop more representative in vitro brain models. In this context, recently developed biomaterials in combination with micro- and nanofabrication techniques 1) allow investigating how mechanical properties affect neural cell development and functioning; 2) enable optimal cell microenvironment engineering strategies to advance neural cell models; and 3) provide a quantitative tool to assess changes in the neuromechanobiological properties of the brain microenvironment induced by pathology. In this review, we discuss the biological and engineering aspects involved in studying neuromechanobiology within scaffold-free and scaffold-based 2D and 3D iPSC-based brain models and approaches employing primary lineages (neural/glial), cell lines and other stem cells. Finally, we discuss future experimental directions of engineered microenvironments in neuroscience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucía Castillo Ransanz
- Department of Child and Adolescence Psychiatry, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Emma Children’s Hospital, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Pieter F. J. Van Altena
- Department of Precision and Microsystems Engineering, Delft University of Technology, Delft, Netherlands
| | - Vivi M. Heine
- Department of Child and Adolescence Psychiatry, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Emma Children’s Hospital, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands,Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Department of Complex Trait Genetics, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands,*Correspondence: Vivi M. Heine, ; Angelo Accardo,
| | - Angelo Accardo
- Department of Precision and Microsystems Engineering, Delft University of Technology, Delft, Netherlands,*Correspondence: Vivi M. Heine, ; Angelo Accardo,
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32
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Shao X, Liu Z, Mao S, Han L. Unraveling the Mechanobiology Underlying Traumatic Brain Injury with Advanced Technologies and Biomaterials. Adv Healthc Mater 2022; 11:e2200760. [PMID: 35841392 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202200760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Revised: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a worldwide health and socioeconomic problem, associated with prolonged and complex neurological aftermaths, including a variety of functional deficits and neurodegenerative disorders. Research on the long-term effects has highlighted that TBI shall be regarded as a chronic health condition. The initiation and exacerbation of TBI involve a series of mechanical stimulations and perturbations, accompanied by mechanotransduction events within the brain tissues. Mechanobiology thus offers a unique perspective and likely promising approach to unravel the underlying molecular and biochemical mechanisms leading to neural cells dysfunction after TBI, which may contribute to the discovery of novel targets for future clinical treatment. This article investigates TBI and the subsequent brain dysfunction from a lens of neuromechanobiology. Following an introduction, the mechanobiological insights are examined into the molecular pathology of TBI, and then an overview is given of the latest research technologies to explore neuromechanobiology, with particular focus on microfluidics and biomaterials. Challenges and prospects in the current field are also discussed. Through this article, it is hoped that extensive technical innovation in biomedical devices and materials can be encouraged to advance the field of neuromechanobiology, paving potential ways for the research and rehabilitation of neurotrauma and neurological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaowei Shao
- Institute of Marine Science and Technology, Shandong University, Qingdao, Shandong, 266237, China.,Suzhou Research Institute, Shandong University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215123, China
| | - Zhongqian Liu
- Institute of Marine Science and Technology, Shandong University, Qingdao, Shandong, 266237, China
| | - Shijie Mao
- Institute of Marine Science and Technology, Shandong University, Qingdao, Shandong, 266237, China
| | - Lin Han
- Institute of Marine Science and Technology, Shandong University, Qingdao, Shandong, 266237, China
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33
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Biochemical Pathways of Cellular Mechanosensing/Mechanotransduction and Their Role in Neurodegenerative Diseases Pathogenesis. Cells 2022; 11:cells11193093. [PMID: 36231055 PMCID: PMC9563116 DOI: 10.3390/cells11193093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2022] [Revised: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
In this review, we shed light on recent advances regarding the characterization of biochemical pathways of cellular mechanosensing and mechanotransduction with particular attention to their role in neurodegenerative disease pathogenesis. While the mechanistic components of these pathways are mostly uncovered today, the crosstalk between mechanical forces and soluble intracellular signaling is still not fully elucidated. Here, we recapitulate the general concepts of mechanobiology and the mechanisms that govern the mechanosensing and mechanotransduction processes, and we examine the crosstalk between mechanical stimuli and intracellular biochemical response, highlighting their effect on cellular organelles' homeostasis and dysfunction. In particular, we discuss the current knowledge about the translation of mechanosignaling into biochemical signaling, focusing on those diseases that encompass metabolic accumulation of mutant proteins and have as primary characteristics the formation of pathological intracellular aggregates, such as Alzheimer's Disease, Huntington's Disease, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Parkinson's Disease. Overall, recent findings elucidate how mechanosensing and mechanotransduction pathways may be crucial to understand the pathogenic mechanisms underlying neurodegenerative diseases and emphasize the importance of these pathways for identifying potential therapeutic targets.
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Zou G, Xia J, Luo H, Xiao D, Jin J, Miao C, Zuo X, Gao Q, Zhang Z, Xue T, You Y, Zhang Y, Zhang L, Xiong W. Combined alcohol and cannabinoid exposure leads to synergistic toxicity by affecting cerebellar Purkinje cells. Nat Metab 2022; 4:1138-1149. [PMID: 36109623 DOI: 10.1038/s42255-022-00633-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Combined use of cannabis and alcohol results in greater psychoactive toxicity than either substance alone, but the underlying central mechanisms behind this worsened outcome remain unclear. Here we show that the synergistic effect of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and ethanol on motor incoordination in mice is achieved by activating presynaptic type 1 cannabinoid receptors (CB1R) and potentiating extrasynaptic glycine receptors (GlyR) within cerebellar Purkinje cells (PCs). The combination of ethanol and THC significantly reduces miniature excitatory postsynaptic current frequency in a CB1R-dependent manner, while increasing the extrasynaptic GlyR-mediated chronic chloride current, both leading to decreased PC activity. Ethanol enhances THC actions by boosting the blood-brain-barrier permeability of THC and enriching THC in the cell membrane. Di-desoxy-THC, a designed compound that specifically disrupts THC-GlyR interaction without affecting the basic functions of CB1R and GlyR, is able to restore PC function and motor coordination in mice. Our findings provide potential therapeutic strategies for overcoming the synergistic toxicity caused by combining cannabis and alcohol use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guichang Zou
- Institute on Aging and Brain Disorders, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- Institute of Artificial Intelligence, Hefei Comprehensive National Science Center, Hefei, China
| | - Jing Xia
- Institute on Aging and Brain Disorders, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Heyi Luo
- Institute on Aging and Brain Disorders, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Dan Xiao
- Institute on Aging and Brain Disorders, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Jin Jin
- Institute on Aging and Brain Disorders, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Chenjian Miao
- Institute on Aging and Brain Disorders, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Xin Zuo
- Institute on Aging and Brain Disorders, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Qianqian Gao
- CAS Key Laboratory of Soft Matter Chemistry, Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Zhi Zhang
- Institute on Aging and Brain Disorders, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Tian Xue
- Institute on Aging and Brain Disorders, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Yezi You
- CAS Key Laboratory of Soft Matter Chemistry, Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Ye Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The Second Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Laboratory for Integrative Neuroscience, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Wei Xiong
- Institute on Aging and Brain Disorders, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China.
- Institute of Artificial Intelligence, Hefei Comprehensive National Science Center, Hefei, China.
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Biomedical Aging Research, Hefei, China.
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Iafrate L, Benedetti MC, Donsante S, Rosa A, Corsi A, Oreffo ROC, Riminucci M, Ruocco G, Scognamiglio C, Cidonio G. Modelling skeletal pain harnessing tissue engineering. IN VITRO MODELS 2022; 1:289-307. [PMID: 36567849 PMCID: PMC9766883 DOI: 10.1007/s44164-022-00028-7] [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: 04/28/2022] [Revised: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Bone pain typically occurs immediately following skeletal damage with mechanical distortion or rupture of nociceptive fibres. The pain mechanism is also associated with chronic pain conditions where the healing process is impaired. Any load impacting on the area of the fractured bone will stimulate the nociceptive response, necessitating rapid clinical intervention to relieve pain associated with the bone damage and appropriate mitigation of any processes involved with the loss of bone mass, muscle, and mobility and to prevent death. The following review has examined the mechanisms of pain associated with trauma or cancer-related skeletal damage focusing on new approaches for the development of innovative therapeutic interventions. In particular, the review highlights tissue engineering approaches that offer considerable promise in the application of functional biomimetic fabrication of bone and nerve tissues. The strategic combination of bone and nerve tissue engineered models provides significant potential to develop a new class of in vitro platforms, capable of replacing in vivo models and testing the safety and efficacy of novel drug treatments aimed at the resolution of bone-associated pain. To date, the field of bone pain research has centred on animal models, with a paucity of data correlating to the human physiological response. This review explores the evident gap in pain drug development research and suggests a step change in approach to harness tissue engineering technologies to recapitulate the complex pathophysiological environment of the damaged bone tissue enabling evaluation of the associated pain-mimicking mechanism with significant therapeutic potential therein for improved patient quality of life. Graphical abstract Rationale underlying novel drug testing platform development. Pain detected by the central nervous system and following bone fracture cannot be treated or exclusively alleviated using standardised methods. The pain mechanism and specificity/efficacy of pain reduction drugs remain poorly understood. In vivo and ex vivo models are not yet able to recapitulate the various pain events associated with skeletal damage. In vitro models are currently limited by their inability to fully mimic the complex physiological mechanisms at play between nervous and skeletal tissue and any disruption in pathological states. Robust innovative tissue engineering models are needed to better understand pain events and to investigate therapeutic regimes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Iafrate
- Center for Life Nano- & Neuro-Science (CLN2S), Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Cristina Benedetti
- Center for Life Nano- & Neuro-Science (CLN2S), Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Rome, Italy
- Department of Biology and Biotechnologies “Charles Darwin”, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Samantha Donsante
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Rosa
- Center for Life Nano- & Neuro-Science (CLN2S), Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Rome, Italy
- Department of Biology and Biotechnologies “Charles Darwin”, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Corsi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Richard O. C. Oreffo
- Bone and Joint Research Group, Stem Cells and Regeneration, Institute of Developmental Sciences, Centre for Human Development, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Mara Riminucci
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Ruocco
- Center for Life Nano- & Neuro-Science (CLN2S), Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara Scognamiglio
- Center for Life Nano- & Neuro-Science (CLN2S), Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Rome, Italy
| | - Gianluca Cidonio
- Center for Life Nano- & Neuro-Science (CLN2S), Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Rome, Italy
- Bone and Joint Research Group, Stem Cells and Regeneration, Institute of Developmental Sciences, Centre for Human Development, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
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Yu D, Zhang H, Liu Z, Liu C, Du X, Ren J, Qu X. Hydrogen‐Bonded Organic Framework (HOF)‐Based Single‐Neural Stem Cell Encapsulation and Transplantation to Remodel Impaired Neural Networks. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2022; 61:e202201485. [DOI: 10.1002/anie.202201485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Dongqin Yu
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and State Key Laboratory of Rare Earth Resource Utilization Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry Chinese Academy of Sciences Changchun Jilin 130022 P. R. China
- University of Science and Technology of China Hefei Anhui 230026 P. R. China
| | - Haochen Zhang
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and State Key Laboratory of Rare Earth Resource Utilization Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry Chinese Academy of Sciences Changchun Jilin 130022 P. R. China
- University of Science and Technology of China Hefei Anhui 230026 P. R. China
| | - Zhenqi Liu
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and State Key Laboratory of Rare Earth Resource Utilization Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry Chinese Academy of Sciences Changchun Jilin 130022 P. R. China
- University of Science and Technology of China Hefei Anhui 230026 P. R. China
| | - Chun Liu
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and State Key Laboratory of Rare Earth Resource Utilization Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry Chinese Academy of Sciences Changchun Jilin 130022 P. R. China
- University of Science and Technology of China Hefei Anhui 230026 P. R. China
| | - Xiubo Du
- College of Life Sciences and Oceanography Shenzhen University Shenzhen 518060 P. R. China
| | - Jinsong Ren
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and State Key Laboratory of Rare Earth Resource Utilization Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry Chinese Academy of Sciences Changchun Jilin 130022 P. R. China
- University of Science and Technology of China Hefei Anhui 230026 P. R. China
| | - Xiaogang Qu
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and State Key Laboratory of Rare Earth Resource Utilization Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry Chinese Academy of Sciences Changchun Jilin 130022 P. R. China
- University of Science and Technology of China Hefei Anhui 230026 P. R. China
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Schepici G, Gugliandolo A, Mazzon E. Serum-Free Cultures: Could They Be a Future Direction to Improve Neuronal Differentiation of Mesenchymal Stromal Cells? Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23126391. [PMID: 35742836 PMCID: PMC9223839 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23126391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) are undifferentiated cells with multilinear potential, known for their immunomodulatory and regenerative properties. Although the scientific community is working to improve their application, concerns limit their use to repair tissues following neurological damage. One of these obstacles is represented by the use of culture media supplemented with fetal bovine serum (FBS), which, due to its xenogenic nature and the risk of contamination, has increased scientific, ethical and safety problems. Therefore, the use of serum-free media could improve MSC culture methods, avoiding infectious and immunogenic transmission problems as well as MSC bioprocesses, without the use of animal components. The purpose of our review is to provide an overview of experimental studies that demonstrate that serum-free cultures, along with the supplementation of growth factors or chemicals, can lead to a more defined and controlled environment, enhancing the proliferation and neuronal differentiation of MSCs.
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Chen Z, Zhang T, Chen CT, Yang S, Lv Z, Cao L, Ren J, Shao Z, Jiang LB, Ling S. Mechanically and electrically biocompatible hydrogel ionotronic fibers for fabricating structurally stable implants and enabling noncontact physioelectrical modulation. MATERIALS HORIZONS 2022; 9:1735-1749. [PMID: 35502878 DOI: 10.1039/d2mh00296e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Narrowing the mechanical and electrical mismatch between tissue and implantable microelectronics is essential for reducing immune responses and modulating physioelectrical signals. Nevertheless, the design of such implantable microelectronics remains a challenge due to the limited availability of suitable materials. Here, the fabrication of an electrically and mechanically biocompatible alginate hydrogel ionotronic fiber (AHIF) is reported, which is constructed by combing ionic chelation-assisted wet-spinning and mechanical training. The synergistic effects of these two processes allow the alginate to form a highly-oriented nanofibril and molecular network, with a hierarchical structure highly similar to that of natural fibers. These favourable structural features endow AHIF with tissue-mimicking mechanical characteristics, such as self-stiffening and soft tissue-like mechanical properties. In addition, tissue-like chemical components, i.e., biomacromolecules, Ca2+ ions, and water, endow AHIF with properties including biocompatibility and tissue-matching conductivity. These advantages bring light to the application of AHIFs in electrically-conductive implantable devices. As a prototype, an AHIF is designed to perform physioelectrical modulation through noncontact electromagnetic induction. Through experimental and machine learning optimizations, physioelectrical-like signals generated by the AHIF are used to identify the geometry and tension state of the implanted device in the body. Such an intelligent AHIF system has promising application prospects in bioelectronics, IntelliSense, and human-machine interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhihao Chen
- School of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, 393 Middle Huaxia Road, Shanghai, 201210, China.
| | - Taiwei Zhang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, No. 180, Fenglin Road, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Chun-Teh Chen
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, 94720 CA, USA
| | - Shuo Yang
- School of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, 393 Middle Huaxia Road, Shanghai, 201210, China.
| | - Zhuochen Lv
- School of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, 393 Middle Huaxia Road, Shanghai, 201210, China.
| | - Leitao Cao
- School of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, 393 Middle Huaxia Road, Shanghai, 201210, China.
| | - Jing Ren
- School of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, 393 Middle Huaxia Road, Shanghai, 201210, China.
| | - Zhengzhong Shao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of Macromolecular Science, Laboratory of Advanced Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Li-Bo Jiang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, No. 180, Fenglin Road, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Shengjie Ling
- School of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, 393 Middle Huaxia Road, Shanghai, 201210, China.
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Zhao G, Zhou H, Jin G, Jin B, Geng S, Luo Z, Ge Z, Xu F. Rational Design of Electrically Conductive Biomaterials toward Excitable Tissues Regeneration. Prog Polym Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.progpolymsci.2022.101573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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40
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Zhang Z, O’Laughlin R, Song H, Ming GL. Patterning of brain organoids derived from human pluripotent stem cells. Curr Opin Neurobiol 2022; 74:102536. [PMID: 35405627 PMCID: PMC9167774 DOI: 10.1016/j.conb.2022.102536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 02/27/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
The emerging technology of brain organoids deriving from human pluripotent stem cells provides unprecedented opportunities to study human brain development and associated disorders. Various brain organoid protocols have been developed that can recapitulate some key features of cell type diversity, cytoarchitectural organization, developmental processes, functions, and pathologies of the developing human brain. In this review, we focus on patterning of human stem cell-derived brain organoids. We start with an overview of general procedures to generate brain organoids. We then highlight some recently developed brain organoid protocols and chemical cues involved in modeling development of specific human brain regions, subregions, and multiple regions together. We also discuss limitations and potential future improvements of human brain organoid technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhijian Zhang
- Department of Neuroscience and Mahoney Institute for Neurosciences, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Richard O’Laughlin
- Department of Neuroscience and Mahoney Institute for Neurosciences, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Hongjun Song
- Department of Neuroscience and Mahoney Institute for Neurosciences, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.,Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.,Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.,The Epigenetics Institute, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Guo-li Ming
- Department of Neuroscience and Mahoney Institute for Neurosciences, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.,Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.,Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School for Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.,Correspondence author: Guo-li Ming ()
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41
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Shang L, Ye F, Li M, Zhao Y. Spatial confinement toward creating artificial living systems. Chem Soc Rev 2022; 51:4075-4093. [PMID: 35502858 DOI: 10.1039/d1cs01025e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Lifeforms are regulated by many physicochemical factors, and these factors could be controlled to play a role in the construction of artificial living systems. Among these factors, spatial confinement is an important one, which mediates biological behaviors at multiscale levels and participates in the biomanufacturing processes accordingly. This review describes how spatial confinement, as a fundamental biological phenomenon, provides cues for the construction of artificial living systems. Current knowledge about the role of spatial confinement in mediating individual cell behavior, collective cellular behavior, and tissue-level behavior are categorized. Endeavors on the synthesis of biomacromolecules, artificial cells, engineered tissues, and organoids in spatially confined bioreactors are then emphasized. After that, we discuss the cutting-edge applications of spatially confined artificial living systems in biomedical fields. Finally, we conclude by assessing the remaining challenges and future trends in the context of fundamental science, technical improvement, and practical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luoran Shang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Institute of Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008, China. .,Shanghai Xuhui Central Hospital, Zhongshan-Xuhui Hospital, and the Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, International Co-laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism (Ministry of Science and Technology), Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Fangfu Ye
- Beijing National Laboratory for Condensed Matter Physics, Institute of Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China. .,Oujiang Laboratory (Zhejiang Lab for Regenerative Medicine, Vision and Brain Health); Wenzhou Institute, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325001, China.
| | - Ming Li
- Beijing National Laboratory for Condensed Matter Physics, Institute of Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China.
| | - Yuanjin Zhao
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Institute of Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008, China. .,Oujiang Laboratory (Zhejiang Lab for Regenerative Medicine, Vision and Brain Health); Wenzhou Institute, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325001, China.
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42
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Yu D, Zhang H, Liu Z, Liu C, Du X, Ren J, Qu X. Hydrogen‐Bonded Organic Frameworks (HOFs)‐Based Single‐Neural Stem Cell Encapsulation and Transplantation to Remodel Impaired Neural Networks. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.202201485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Dongqin Yu
- Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry Chinese Academy of Sciences: Chang Chun Institute of Applied Chemistry Chinese Academy of Sciences Laboratory of Chemical Biology and State Key Laboratory of Rare Earth Resource Utilization 5625 Renmin Street CHINA
| | - Haochen Zhang
- Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry Chinese Academy of Sciences: Chang Chun Institute of Applied Chemistry Chinese Academy of Sciences Laboratory of Chemical Biology and State Key Laboratory of Rare Earth Resource Utilization CHINA
| | - Zhenqi Liu
- Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry Chinese Academy of Sciences: Chang Chun Institute of Applied Chemistry Chinese Academy of Sciences Laboratory of Chemical Biology and State Key Laboratory of Rare Earth Resource Utilization CHINA
| | - Chun Liu
- Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry Chinese Academy of Sciences: Chang Chun Institute of Applied Chemistry Chinese Academy of Sciences Laboratory of Chemical Biology and State Key Laboratory of Rare Earth Resource Utilization CHINA
| | - Xiubo Du
- Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry Chinese Academy of Sciences: Chang Chun Institute of Applied Chemistry Chinese Academy of Sciences Laboratory of Chemical Biology and State Key Laboratory of Rare Earth Resource Utilization CHINA
| | - Jinsong Ren
- Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry Chinese Academy of Sciences: Chang Chun Institute of Applied Chemistry Chinese Academy of Sciences Laboratory of Chemical Biology and State Key Laboratory of Rare Earth Resource Utilization Remnin Street #5625 130022 Changchun CHINA
| | - Xiaogang Qu
- Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Division of Biological Inorganic Chemistry 5625 Renmin Street 130022 Changchun CHINA
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Navarro RS, Huang MS, Roth JG, Hubka KM, Long CM, Enejder A, Heilshorn SC. Tuning Polymer Hydrophilicity to Regulate Gel Mechanics and Encapsulated Cell Morphology. Adv Healthc Mater 2022; 11:e2200011. [PMID: 35373510 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202200011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Revised: 03/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Mechanically tunable hydrogels are attractive platforms for 3D cell culture, as hydrogel stiffness plays an important role in cell behavior. Traditionally, hydrogel stiffness has been controlled through altering either the polymer concentration or the stoichiometry between crosslinker reactive groups. Here, an alternative strategy based upon tuning the hydrophilicity of an elastin-like protein (ELP) is presented. ELPs undergo a phase transition that leads to protein aggregation at increasing temperatures. It is hypothesized that increasing this transition temperature through bioconjugation with azide-containing molecules of increasing hydrophilicity will allow direct control of the resulting gel stiffness by making the crosslinking groups more accessible. These azide-modified ELPs are crosslinked into hydrogels with bicyclononyne-modified hyaluronic acid (HA-BCN) using bioorthogonal, click chemistry, resulting in hydrogels with tunable storage moduli (100-1000 Pa). Human mesenchymal stromal cells (hMSCs), human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), and human neural progenitor cells (hNPCs) are all observed to alter their cell morphology when encapsulated within hydrogels of varying stiffness. Taken together, the use of protein hydrophilicity as a lever to tune hydrogel mechanical properties is demonstrated. These hydrogels have tunable moduli over a stiffness range relevant to soft tissues, support the viability of encapsulated cells, and modify cell spreading as a consequence of gel stiffness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renato S. Navarro
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering Stanford University Stanford CA 94305 USA
| | - Michelle S. Huang
- Department of Chemical Engineering Stanford University Stanford CA 94305 USA
| | - Julien G. Roth
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine Stanford University School of Medicine Stanford CA 94305 USA
| | - Kelsea M. Hubka
- Maternal and Child Health Research Institute Stanford University School of Medicine Stanford CA 94305 USA
| | - Chris M. Long
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering Stanford University Stanford CA 94305 USA
| | - Annika Enejder
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering Stanford University Stanford CA 94305 USA
| | - Sarah C. Heilshorn
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering Stanford University Stanford CA 94305 USA
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Du J, Liu X, Yarema KJ, Jia X. Glycoengineering human neural stem cells (hNSCs) for adhesion improvement using a novel thiol-modified N-acetylmannosamine (ManNAc) analog. BIOMATERIALS ADVANCES 2022; 134:112675. [PMID: 35599100 PMCID: PMC9300770 DOI: 10.1016/j.msec.2022.112675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Revised: 01/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
This study sets the stage for the therapeutic use of Ac5ManNTProp, an N-acetylmannosamine (ManNAc) analog that installs thiol-modified sialoglycans onto the surfaces of human neural stem cells (hNSC). First, we compared hNSC adhesion to the extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins laminin, fibronectin, and collagen and found preferential adhesion and concomitant changes to cell morphology and cell spreading for Ac5ManNTProp-treated cells to laminin, compared to fibronectin where there was a modest response, and collagen where there was no observable increase. PCR array transcript analysis identified several classes of cell adhesion molecules that responded to combined Ac5ManNTProp treatment and hNSC adhesion to laminin. Of these, we focused on integrin α6β1 expression, which was most strongly upregulated in analog-treated cells incubated on laminin. We also characterized downstream responses including vinculin display as well as the phosphorylation of focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and extracellular signal-related kinase (ERK). In these experiments, Ac5ManNTProp more strongly induced all tested biological endpoints compared to Ac5ManNTGc, showing that the single methylene unit that structurally separates the two analogs finely tunes biological responses. Together, the concerted modulation of multiple pro-regenerative activities through Ac5ManNTProp treatment, in concert with crosstalk with ECM components, lays a foundation for using our metabolic glycoengineering approach to treat neurological disorders by favorably modulating endpoints that contribute to the viability of transplanted NSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Du
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201
| | - Xiao Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201
| | - Kevin J. Yarema
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205,Translational Cell and Tissue Engineering Center, The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21231
| | - Xiaofeng Jia
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; Department of Orthopedics, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA; Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA; Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
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Harry GJ, McBride S, Witchey SK, Mhaouty-Kodja S, Trembleau A, Bridge M, Bencsik A. Roadbumps at the Crossroads of Integrating Behavioral and In Vitro Approaches for Neurotoxicity Assessment. FRONTIERS IN TOXICOLOGY 2022; 4:812863. [PMID: 35295216 PMCID: PMC8915899 DOI: 10.3389/ftox.2022.812863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
With the appreciation that behavior represents the integration and complexity of the nervous system, neurobehavioral phenotyping and assessment has seen a renaissance over the last couple of decades, resulting in a robust database on rodent performance within various testing paradigms, possible associations with human disorders, and therapeutic interventions. The interchange of data across behavior and other test modalities and multiple model systems has advanced our understanding of fundamental biology and mechanisms associated with normal functions and alterations in the nervous system. While there is a demonstrated value and power of neurobehavioral assessments for examining alterations due to genetic manipulations, maternal factors, early development environment, the applied use of behavior to assess environmental neurotoxicity continues to come under question as to whether behavior represents a sensitive endpoint for assessment. Why is rodent behavior a sensitive tool to the neuroscientist and yet, not when used in pre-clinical or chemical neurotoxicity studies? Applying new paradigms and evidence on the biological basis of behavior to neurobehavioral testing requires expertise and refinement of how such experiments are conducted to minimize variability and maximize information. This review presents relevant issues of methods used to conduct such test, sources of variability, experimental design, data analysis, interpretation, and reporting. It presents beneficial and critical limitations as they translate to the in vivo environment and considers the need to integrate across disciplines for the best value. It proposes that a refinement of behavioral assessments and understanding of subtle pronounced differences will facilitate the integration of data obtained across multiple approaches and to address issues of translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- G. Jean Harry
- Neurotoxicology Group, Molecular Toxicology Branch, Division National Toxicology Program, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Durham, NC, United States
- *Correspondence: G. Jean Harry,
| | - Sandra McBride
- Social & Scientific Systems, Inc., a DLH Holdings Company, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Shannah K. Witchey
- Division National Toxicology Program, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Sakina Mhaouty-Kodja
- Sorbonne Université, CNRS, INSERM, Neuroscience Paris Seine – Institut de Biologie Paris Seine, Paris, France
| | - Alain Trembleau
- Sorbonne Université, CNRS UMR8246, Inserm U1130, Institut de Biologie Paris Seine (IBPS), Neuroscience Paris Seine (NPS), Paris, France
| | - Matthew Bridge
- Social & Scientific Systems, Inc., a DLH Holdings Company, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Anna Bencsik
- Anses Laboratoire de Lyon, French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health & Safety (ANSES), Université de Lyon 1, Lyon, France
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46
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Okano H, Morimoto S. iPSC-based disease modeling and drug discovery in cardinal neurodegenerative disorders. Cell Stem Cell 2022; 29:189-208. [PMID: 35120619 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2022.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
It has been 15 years since the birth of human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) technology in 2007, and the scope of its application has been expanding. In addition to the development of cell therapies using iPSC-derived cells, pathological analyses using disease-specific iPSCs and clinical trials to confirm the safety and efficacy of drugs developed using iPSCs are progressing. With the innovation of related technologies, iPSC applications are about to enter a new stage. This review outlines advances in iPSC modeling and therapeutic development for cardinal neurodegenerative diseases, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, and Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hideyuki Okano
- Department of Physiology, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan; Laboratory for Marmoset Neural Architecture, RIKEN Center for Brain Science, Wako-shi, Saitama 351-0198, Japan.
| | - Satoru Morimoto
- Department of Physiology, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan
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47
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Hogberg HT, Smirnova L. The Future of 3D Brain Cultures in Developmental Neurotoxicity Testing. FRONTIERS IN TOXICOLOGY 2022; 4:808620. [PMID: 35295222 PMCID: PMC8915853 DOI: 10.3389/ftox.2022.808620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Human brain is undoubtedly the most complex organ in the body. Thus, it is difficult to develop adequate and at the same time human relevant test systems and models to cover the aspects of brain homeostasis and even more challenging to address brain development. Animal tests for Developmental Neurotoxicity (DNT) have been devised, but because of complex underlying mechanisms of neural development, and interspecies differences, there are many limitations of animal-based approaches. The high costs, high number of animals used per test and technical difficulties of these tests are prohibitive for routine DNT chemical screening. Therefore, many potential DNT chemicals remain unidentified. New approach methodologies (NAMs) are needed to change this. Experts in the field have recommended the use of a battery of human in vitro tests to be used for the initial prioritization of high-risk environmental chemicals for DNT testing. Microphysiological systems (MPS) of the brain mimic the in vivo counterpart in terms of cellular composition, recapitulation of regional architecture and functionality. These systems amendable to use in a DNT test battery with promising features such as (i) complexity, (ii) closer recapitulation of in vivo response and (iii) possibility to multiplex many assays in one test system, which can increase throughput and predictivity for human health. The resent progress in 3D brain MPS research, advantages, limitations and future perspectives are discussed in this review.
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Maurissen TL, Pavlou G, Bichsel C, Villaseñor R, Kamm RD, Ragelle H. Microphysiological Neurovascular Barriers to Model the Inner Retinal Microvasculature. J Pers Med 2022; 12:jpm12020148. [PMID: 35207637 PMCID: PMC8876566 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12020148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Blood-neural barriers regulate nutrient supply to neuronal tissues and prevent neurotoxicity. In particular, the inner blood-retinal barrier (iBRB) and blood–brain barrier (BBB) share common origins in development, and similar morphology and function in adult tissue, while barrier breakdown and leakage of neurotoxic molecules can be accompanied by neurodegeneration. Therefore, pre-clinical research requires human in vitro models that elucidate pathophysiological mechanisms and support drug discovery, to add to animal in vivo modeling that poorly predict patient responses. Advanced cellular models such as microphysiological systems (MPS) recapitulate tissue organization and function in many organ-specific contexts, providing physiological relevance, potential for customization to different population groups, and scalability for drug screening purposes. While human-based MPS have been developed for tissues such as lung, gut, brain and tumors, few comprehensive models exist for ocular tissues and iBRB modeling. Recent BBB in vitro models using human cells of the neurovascular unit (NVU) showed physiological morphology and permeability values, and reproduced brain neurological disorder phenotypes that could be applicable to modeling the iBRB. Here, we describe similarities between iBRB and BBB properties, compare existing neurovascular barrier models, propose leverage of MPS-based strategies to develop new iBRB models, and explore potentials to personalize cellular inputs and improve pre-clinical testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas L. Maurissen
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Immunology, Infectious Diseases and Ophthalmology, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Grenzacherstrasse 124, 4070 Basel, Switzerland;
| | - Georgios Pavlou
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 77 Massachusetts Ave., MIT Building, Room NE47-321, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA;
| | - Colette Bichsel
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Grenzacherstrasse 124, 4070 Basel, Switzerland;
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Institute for Translational Bioengineering, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Grenzacherstrasse 124, 4070 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Roberto Villaseñor
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Neuroscience and Rare Diseases, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Grenzacherstrasse 124, 4070 Basel, Switzerland;
| | - Roger D. Kamm
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 77 Massachusetts Ave., MIT Building, Room NE47-321, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA;
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 77 Massachusetts Ave., MIT Building, Room NE47-321, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
- Correspondence: (R.D.K.); (H.R.)
| | - Héloïse Ragelle
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Immunology, Infectious Diseases and Ophthalmology, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Grenzacherstrasse 124, 4070 Basel, Switzerland;
- Correspondence: (R.D.K.); (H.R.)
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Zou Y, Yin Y, Xiao Z, Zhao Y, Han J, Chen B, Xu B, Cui Y, Ma X, Dai J. Transplantation of collagen sponge-based three-dimensional neural stem cells cultured in a RCCS facilitates locomotor functional recovery in spinal cord injury animals. Biomater Sci 2022; 10:915-924. [PMID: 35044381 DOI: 10.1039/d1bm01744f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Numerous studies have indicated that microgravity induces various changes in the cellular functions of neural stem cells (NSCs), and the use of microgravity to culture tissue engineered seed cells for the treatment of nervous system diseases has drawn increasing attention. The goal of this study was to verify the efficacy of collagen sponge-based 3-dimensional (3D) NSCs cultured in a rotary cell culture system (RCCS) in treating spinal cord injury (SCI). The Basso-Beattie-Bresnahan score, inclined plane test, and electrophysiology results all indicated that 3D cultured NSCs cultured in a RCCS had better therapeutic effects than those cultured in a traditional cell culture environment, suggesting that the microgravity provided by the RCCS could enhance the therapeutic effect of 3D cultured NSCs. Our study indicates the feasibility of combining the RCCS with collagen sponge-based 3D cell culture for producing tissue engineered seed cells for the treatment of SCI. This novel and effective method shows promise for application in cell-based therapy for SCI in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunlong Zou
- China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, 126 Xiantai Street, Changchun 130033, China
| | - Yanyun Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 3 Nanyitiao, Zhongguancun, Beijing 100101, China.
| | - Zhifeng Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 3 Nanyitiao, Zhongguancun, Beijing 100101, China.
| | - Yannan Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 3 Nanyitiao, Zhongguancun, Beijing 100101, China.
| | - Jin Han
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 3 Nanyitiao, Zhongguancun, Beijing 100101, China.
| | - Bing Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 3 Nanyitiao, Zhongguancun, Beijing 100101, China.
| | - Bai Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 3 Nanyitiao, Zhongguancun, Beijing 100101, China.
| | - Yi Cui
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100080, China.
| | - Xu Ma
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100080, China.
| | - Jianwu Dai
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 3 Nanyitiao, Zhongguancun, Beijing 100101, China.
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50
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Ozgun A, Lomboni D, Arnott H, Staines WA, Woulfe J, Variola F. Biomaterial-based strategies for in vitro neural models. Biomater Sci 2022; 10:1134-1165. [PMID: 35023513 DOI: 10.1039/d1bm01361k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
In vitro models have been used as a complementary tool to animal studies in understanding the nervous system's physiological mechanisms and pathological disorders, while also serving as platforms to evaluate the safety and efficiency of therapeutic candidates. Following recent advances in materials science, micro- and nanofabrication techniques and cell culture systems, in vitro technologies have been rapidly gaining the potential to bridge the gap between animal and clinical studies by providing more sophisticated models that recapitulate key aspects of the structure, biochemistry, biomechanics, and functions of human tissues. This was made possible, in large part, by the development of biomaterials that provide cells with physicochemical features that closely mimic the cellular microenvironment of native tissues. Due to the well-known material-driven cellular response and the importance of mimicking the environment of the target tissue, the selection of optimal biomaterials represents an important early step in the design of biomimetic systems to investigate brain structures and functions. This review provides a comprehensive compendium of commonly used biomaterials as well as the different fabrication techniques employed for the design of neural tissue models. Furthermore, the authors discuss the main parameters that need to be considered to develop functional platforms not only for the study of brain physiological functions and pathological processes but also for drug discovery/development and the optimization of biomaterials for neural tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alp Ozgun
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada. .,Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - David Lomboni
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada. .,Ottawa-Carleton Institute for Biomedical Engineering (OCIBME), Ottawa, Canada
| | - Hallie Arnott
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada. .,Ottawa-Carleton Institute for Biomedical Engineering (OCIBME), Ottawa, Canada
| | - William A Staines
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - John Woulfe
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada.,The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Fabio Variola
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada. .,Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada.,Ottawa-Carleton Institute for Biomedical Engineering (OCIBME), Ottawa, Canada.,The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, Canada.,Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO), Ottawa, Canada
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