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Lu R, Yu P, Sui Y. A computational study of cell membrane damage and intracellular delivery in a cross-slot microchannel. SOFT MATTER 2024; 20:4057-4071. [PMID: 38578041 DOI: 10.1039/d4sm00047a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
We propose a three-dimensional computational framework to simulate the flow-induced cell membrane damage and the resulting enhanced intracellular mass transport in a cross-slot microchannel. We model the cell as a liquid droplet enclosed by a viscoelastic membrane and solve the cell deformation using a well-tested immersed-boundary lattice-Boltzmann method. The cell membrane damage, which is directly related to the membrane permeability, is considered using continuum damage mechanics. The transport of the diffusive solute into the cell is solved by a lattice-Boltzmann model. After validating the computational framework against several benchmark cases, we consider a cell flowing through a cross-slot microchannel, focusing on the effects of the flow strength, channel fluid viscosity and cell membrane viscosity on the membrane damage and enhanced intracellular transport. Interestingly, we find that under a comparable pressure drop across the device, for cells with low membrane viscosity, the inertial flow regime, which can be achieved by driving a low-viscosity liquid at a high speed, often leads to much larger membrane damage, compared with the high-viscosity low-speed viscous flow regime. However, the enhancement can be significantly reduced or even reversed by an increase of the cell membrane viscosity, which limits cell deformation, particularly in the inertial flow regime. Our computational framework and simulation results may guide the design and optimisation of microfluidic devices, which use cross-slot geometry to disrupt cell membranes to enhance intracellular delivery of solutes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruixin Lu
- School of Mechanical Engineering, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai 200093, China.
- School of Engineering and Materials Science, Queen Mary University of London, London E1 4NS, UK.
| | - Peng Yu
- Department of Mechanics and Aerospace Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Yi Sui
- School of Engineering and Materials Science, Queen Mary University of London, London E1 4NS, UK.
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2
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Sevenler D, Toner M. High throughput intracellular delivery by viscoelastic mechanoporation. Nat Commun 2024; 15:115. [PMID: 38167490 PMCID: PMC10762167 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-44447-w] [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: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Brief pulses of electric field (electroporation) and/or tensile stress (mechanoporation) have been used to reversibly permeabilize the plasma membrane of mammalian cells and deliver materials to the cytosol. However, electroporation can be harmful to cells, while efficient mechanoporation strategies have not been scalable due to the use of narrow constrictions or needles which are susceptible to clogging. Here we report a high throughput approach to mechanoporation in which the plasma membrane is stretched and reversibly permeabilized by viscoelastic fluid forces within a microfluidic chip without surface contact. Biomolecules are delivered directly to the cytosol within seconds at a throughput exceeding 250 million cells per minute. Viscoelastic mechanoporation is compatible with a variety of biomolecules including proteins, RNA, and CRISPR-Cas9 ribonucleoprotein complexes, as well as a range of cell types including HEK293T cells and primary T cells. Altogether, viscoelastic mechanoporation appears feasible for contact-free permeabilization and delivery of biomolecules to mammalian cells ex vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Derin Sevenler
- Center for Engineering in Medicine and Surgery, Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | - Mehmet Toner
- Center for Engineering in Medicine and Surgery, Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02114, USA.
- Shriners Children's, Boston, MA, 02114, USA.
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3
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Hu T, Kumar AR, Luo Y, Tay A. Automating CAR-T Transfection with Micro and Nano-Technologies. SMALL METHODS 2023:e2301300. [PMID: 38054597 DOI: 10.1002/smtd.202301300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
Cancer poses a significant health challenge, with traditional treatments like surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy often lacking in cell specificity and long-term curative potential. Chimeric antigen receptor T cell (CAR-T) therapy,utilizing genetically engineered T cells to target cancer cells, is a promising alternative. However, its high cost limits widespread application. CAR-T manufacturing process encompasses three stages: cell isolation and activation, transfection, and expansion.While the first and last stages have straightforward, commercially available automation technologies, the transfection stage lags behind. Current automated transfection relies on viral vectors or bulk electroporation, which have drawbacks such as limited cargo capacity and significant cell disturbance. Conversely, micro and nano-tool methods offer higher throughput and cargo flexibility, yet their automation remains underexplored.In this perspective, the progress in micro and nano-engineering tools for CAR-T transfection followed by a discussion to automate them is described. It is anticipated that this work can inspire the community working on micro and nano transfection techniques to examine how their protocols can be automated to align with the growing interest in automating CAR-T manufacturing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianmu Hu
- Engineering Science Programme, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117575, Singapore
| | - Arun Rk Kumar
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117583, Singapore
- Institute for Health Innovation & Technology, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117599, Singapore
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117597, Singapore
| | - Yikai Luo
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117583, Singapore
- Institute for Health Innovation & Technology, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117599, Singapore
| | - Andy Tay
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117583, Singapore
- Institute for Health Innovation & Technology, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117599, Singapore
- Tissue Engineering Programme, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117510, Singapore
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4
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Morshedi Rad D, Hansen WP, Zhand S, Cranfield C, Ebrahimi Warkiani M. A hybridized mechano-electroporation technique for efficient immune cell engineering. J Adv Res 2023:S2090-1232(23)00346-6. [PMID: 37956863 DOI: 10.1016/j.jare.2023.11.009] [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: 04/16/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Immune cell engineering, which involves genetic modification of T cells, natural killer cells, and macrophages, is shifting the paradigm in immunotherapy for treating hematologic malignancies. These modified cells can be viewed as living drugs and offer advantages, including dynamic functionality, active local trafficking, and boosting the immune system while recognizing and eliminating malignant cells. Among the current technologies employed for the modification of immune cell functions, electroporation stands as a predominant approach, but it suffers from heterogeneity arising from the treatment of a bulk population of immune cells during the manufacturing procedures. To address this challenge of the field, here we present a hybrid approach to induce consecutive gentle mechanical and electric shocks. This approach enhances the treatment homogeneity and improves outcomes in difficult-to-load immune cells. The hybrid approach aims to enhance the treatment homogeneity by passing individual immune cells through a microengineered filter membrane with micropores smaller than the cell diameter. This facilitates the creation of transient pores in the cell membrane, followed by efficient delivery of biomolecules through the complementary use of a gentle electric shock. Using this hybrid mechano-electroporation (HMEP) system, we could successfully deliver fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC) dextran molecules from the smallest (4 kDa) to the largest (2000 kDa) size and GFP expressing plasmid DNA into different immune cell types. We also provide insight into the delivery performance of the HMEP system in comparison with the benchtop electroporation since both methods hinge on membrane disruption as their permeabilization mechanism. Immune cells treated with the HMEP protocol demonstrated higher delivery efficiencies while maintaining cell viability compared to those experiencing conventional electroporation. Therefore, membrane-based mechanoporation can be a cost-effective and efficient approach to pre-treat the hard-to-deliver immune cells before electroporation, elevating the treatment homogeneity and delivery of exogenous cargoes to a higher level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorsa Morshedi Rad
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2007
| | - William P Hansen
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2007
| | - Sareh Zhand
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2007
| | - Charles Cranfield
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2007
| | - Majid Ebrahimi Warkiani
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2007; Institute for Biomedical Materials and Devices (IBMD), Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia.
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Shokouhi AR, Chen Y, Yoh HZ, Murayama T, Suu K, Morikawa Y, Brenker J, Alan T, Voelcker NH, Elnathan R. Electroactive nanoinjection platform for intracellular delivery and gene silencing. J Nanobiotechnology 2023; 21:273. [PMID: 37592297 PMCID: PMC10433684 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-023-02056-1] [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: 06/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nanoinjection-the process of intracellular delivery using vertically configured nanostructures-is a physical route that efficiently negotiates the plasma membrane, with minimal perturbation and toxicity to the cells. Nanoinjection, as a physical membrane-disruption-mediated approach, overcomes challenges associated with conventional carrier-mediated approaches such as safety issues (with viral carriers), genotoxicity, limited packaging capacity, low levels of endosomal escape, and poor versatility for cell and cargo types. Yet, despite the implementation of nanoinjection tools and their assisted analogues in diverse cellular manipulations, there are still substantial challenges in harnessing these platforms to gain access into cell interiors with much greater precision without damaging the cell's intricate structure. Here, we propose a non-viral, low-voltage, and reusable electroactive nanoinjection (ENI) platform based on vertically configured conductive nanotubes (NTs) that allows for rapid influx of targeted biomolecular cargos into the intracellular environment, and for successful gene silencing. The localization of electric fields at the tight interface between conductive NTs and the cell membrane drastically lowers the voltage required for cargo delivery into the cells, from kilovolts (for bulk electroporation) to only ≤ 10 V; this enhances the fine control over membrane disruption and mitigates the problem of high cell mortality experienced by conventional electroporation. RESULTS Through both theoretical simulations and experiments, we demonstrate the capability of the ENI platform to locally perforate GPE-86 mouse fibroblast cells and efficiently inject a diverse range of membrane-impermeable biomolecules with efficacy of 62.5% (antibody), 55.5% (mRNA), and 51.8% (plasmid DNA), with minimal impact on cells' viability post nanoscale-EP (> 90%). We also show gene silencing through the delivery of siRNA that targets TRIOBP, yielding gene knockdown efficiency of 41.3%. CONCLUSIONS We anticipate that our non-viral and low-voltage ENI platform is set to offer a new safe path to intracellular delivery with broader selection of cargo and cell types, and will open opportunities for advanced ex vivo cell engineering and gene silencing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali-Reza Shokouhi
- Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, 381 Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia
- Melbourne Centre for Nanofabrication, Victorian Node of the Australian National Fabrication Facility, 151 Wellington Road, Clayton, VIC, 3168, Australia
| | - Yaping Chen
- Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, 381 Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia
- Melbourne Centre for Nanofabrication, Victorian Node of the Australian National Fabrication Facility, 151 Wellington Road, Clayton, VIC, 3168, Australia
| | - Hao Zhe Yoh
- Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, 381 Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia
- Melbourne Centre for Nanofabrication, Victorian Node of the Australian National Fabrication Facility, 151 Wellington Road, Clayton, VIC, 3168, Australia
| | - Takahide Murayama
- Institute of Semiconductor and Electronics Technologies, ULVAC Inc, 1220-1 Suyama, Susono, Shizuoka, 410-1231, Japan
| | - Koukou Suu
- Institute of Semiconductor and Electronics Technologies, ULVAC Inc, 1220-1 Suyama, Susono, Shizuoka, 410-1231, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Morikawa
- Institute of Semiconductor and Electronics Technologies, ULVAC Inc, 1220-1 Suyama, Susono, Shizuoka, 410-1231, Japan
| | - Jason Brenker
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Monash University, Wellington Rd, Clayton, VIC, 3168, Australia
| | - Tuncay Alan
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Monash University, Wellington Rd, Clayton, VIC, 3168, Australia
| | - Nicolas H Voelcker
- Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, 381 Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia.
- Melbourne Centre for Nanofabrication, Victorian Node of the Australian National Fabrication Facility, 151 Wellington Road, Clayton, VIC, 3168, Australia.
- INM-Leibniz Institute for New Materials, Campus D2 2, 66123, Saarbrücken, Germany.
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Monash University, 22 Alliance Lane, Clayton, VIC, 3168, Australia.
| | - Roey Elnathan
- Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, 381 Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia.
- Melbourne Centre for Nanofabrication, Victorian Node of the Australian National Fabrication Facility, 151 Wellington Road, Clayton, VIC, 3168, Australia.
- Faculty of Health, School of Medicine, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, Melbourne, VIC, 3216, Australia.
- Institute for Frontier Materials, Deakin University, Geelong Waurn Ponds campus, Melbourne, VIC, 3216, Australia.
- The Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus, Melbourne, VIC, 3216, Australia.
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Sevenler D, Toner M. High throughput intracellular delivery by viscoelastic mechanoporation. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.04.24.538131. [PMID: 37163007 PMCID: PMC10168280 DOI: 10.1101/2023.04.24.538131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Brief and intense electric fields (electroporation) and/or tensile stresses (mechanoporation) have been used to temporarily permeabilize the plasma membrane of mammalian cells for the purpose of delivering materials to the cytosol. However, electroporation can be harmful to cells, while efficient mechanoporation strategies have not been scalable due to the use of narrow constrictions or needles which are susceptible to clogging. Here we report a method of mechanoporation in which cells were stretched and permeabilized by viscoelastic flow forces without surface contact. Inertio-elastic cell focusing aligned cells to the center of the device, avoiding direct contact with walls and enabling efficient (95%) intracellular delivery to over 200 million cells per minute. Functional biomolecules such as proteins, RNA, and ribonucleoprotein complexes were successfully delivered to Jurkat cells. Efficient intracellular delivery to HEK293T cells and primary activated T cells was also demonstrated. Contact-free mechanoporation using viscoelastic fluid forces appears to be feasible method for efficient and high throughput intracellular delivery of biomolecules to mammalian cells ex vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Derin Sevenler
- Center for Engineering in Medicine and Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Mehmet Toner
- Center for Engineering in Medicine and Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Shriners Hospitals for Children, Boston, MA, USA
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7
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Yasser M, Ribback S, Evert K, Utpatel K, Annweiler K, Evert M, Dombrowski F, Calvisi DF. Early Subcellular Hepatocellular Alterations in Mice Post Hydrodynamic Transfection: An Explorative Study. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15020328. [PMID: 36672277 PMCID: PMC9857294 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15020328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hydrodynamic transfection (HT) or hydrodynamic tail vein injection (HTVi) is among the leading technique that is used to deliver plasmid genes mainly into the liver of live mice or rats. The DNA constructs are composed of coupled plasmids, while one contains the gene of interest that stably integrate into the hepatocyte genome with help of the other consisting sleeping beauty transposase system. The rapid injection of a large volume of DNA-solution through the tail vein induces an acute cardiac congestion that refluxed into the liver, mainly in acinus zone 3, also found through our EM study. Although, HT mediated hydrodynamic force can permeabilizes the fenestrated sinusoidal endothelium of liver, but the mechanism of plasmid incorporation into the hepatocytes remains unclear. Therefore, in the present study, we have hydrodynamically injected 2 mL volume of empty plasmid (transposon vector) or saline solution (control) into the tail vein of anesthetized C57BL/6J/129Sv mice. Liver tissue was resected at different time points from two animal group conditions, i.e., one time point per animal (1, 5, 10-20, 60 min or 24 and 48 hrs after HT) or multiple time points per animal (0, 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 min) and quickly fixed with buffered 4% osmium tetroxide. The tissues fed with only saline solution was also resected and fixed in the similar way. EM evaluation from the liver ultrathin sections reveals that swiftly after 1 min, the hepatocytes near to the central venule in the acinus zone 3 shows cytoplasmic membrane-bound vesicles. Such vesicles increased in both numbers and size to vacuoles and precisely often found in the proximity to the nucleus. Further, EM affirm these vacuoles are also optically empty and do not contain any electron dense material. Although, some of the other hepatocytes reveals sign of cell damage including swollen mitochondria, dilated endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus and disrupted plasma membrane, but most of the hepatocytes appeared normal. The ultrastructural findings in the mice injected with empty vector or saline injected control mice were similar. Therefore, we have interpreted the vacuole formation as nonspecific endocytosis without specific interactions at the plasma membrane.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohd Yasser
- Institut fuer Pathologie, Universitaetsmedizin Greifswald, Friedrich-Loeffler-Str. 23e, 17475 Greifswald, Germany
| | - Silvia Ribback
- Institut fuer Pathologie, Universitaetsmedizin Greifswald, Friedrich-Loeffler-Str. 23e, 17475 Greifswald, Germany
- Correspondence:
| | - Katja Evert
- Institut fuer Pathologie, Universitaetsklinikum Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Kirsten Utpatel
- Institut fuer Pathologie, Universitaetsklinikum Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Katharina Annweiler
- Institut fuer Pathologie, Universitaetsmedizin Greifswald, Friedrich-Loeffler-Str. 23e, 17475 Greifswald, Germany
| | - Matthias Evert
- Institut fuer Pathologie, Universitaetsklinikum Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Frank Dombrowski
- Institut fuer Pathologie, Universitaetsmedizin Greifswald, Friedrich-Loeffler-Str. 23e, 17475 Greifswald, Germany
| | - Diego F. Calvisi
- Institut fuer Pathologie, Universitaetsklinikum Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
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Chakrabarty P, Illath K, Kar S, Nagai M, Santra TS. Combinatorial physical methods for cellular therapy: Towards the future of cellular analysis? J Control Release 2023; 353:1084-1095. [PMID: 36538949 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2022.12.038] [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: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
The physical energy activated techniques for cellular delivery and analysis is one of the most rapidly expanding research areas for a variety of biological and biomedical discoveries. These methods, such as electroporation, optoporation, sonoporation, mechanoporation, magnetoporation, etc., have been widely used in delivering different biomolecules into a range of primary and patient-derived cell types. However, the techniques when used individually have had limitations in delivery and co-delivery of diverse biomolecules in various cell types. In recent years, a number of studies have been performed by combining the different membrane disruption techniques, either sequentially or simultaneously, in a single study. The studies, referred to as combinatorial, or hybrid techniques, have demonstrated enhanced transfection, such as efficient macromolecular and gene delivery and co-delivery, at lower delivery parameters and with high cell viability. Such studies can open up new and exciting avenues for understanding the subcellular structure and consequently facilitate the development of novel therapeutic strategies. This review consequently aims at summarising the different developments in hybrid therapeutic techniques. The different methods discussed include mechano-electroporation, electro-sonoporation, magneto-mechanoporation, magnetic nanoparticles enhanced electroporation, and magnetic hyperthermia studies. We discuss the clinical status of the different methods and conclude with a discussion on the future prospects of the combinatorial techniques for cellular therapy and diagnostics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pulasta Chakrabarty
- Department of Engineering Design, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai, India
| | - Kavitha Illath
- Department of Engineering Design, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai, India
| | - Srabani Kar
- Department of Physics, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Tirupati, India
| | - Moeto Nagai
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Toyohashi University of Technology, Aichi, Japan
| | - Tuhin Subhra Santra
- Department of Engineering Design, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai, India.
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Van Hoeck J, Braeckmans K, De Smedt SC, Raemdonck K. Non-viral siRNA delivery to T cells: Challenges and opportunities in cancer immunotherapy. Biomaterials 2022; 286:121510. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2022.121510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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10
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Chakrabarty P, Gupta P, Illath K, Kar S, Nagai M, Tseng FG, Santra TS. Microfluidic mechanoporation for cellular delivery and analysis. Mater Today Bio 2022; 13:100193. [PMID: 35005598 PMCID: PMC8718663 DOI: 10.1016/j.mtbio.2021.100193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Highly efficient intracellular delivery strategies are essential for developing therapeutic, diagnostic, biological, and various biomedical applications. The recent advancement of micro/nanotechnology has focused numerous researches towards developing microfluidic device-based strategies due to the associated high throughput delivery, cost-effectiveness, robustness, and biocompatible nature. The delivery strategies can be carrier-mediated or membrane disruption-based, where membrane disruption methods find popularity due to reduced toxicity, enhanced delivery efficiency, and cell viability. Among all of the membrane disruption techniques, the mechanoporation strategies are advantageous because of no external energy source required for membrane deformation, thereby achieving high delivery efficiencies and increased cell viability into different cell types with negligible toxicity. The past two decades have consequently seen a tremendous boost in mechanoporation-based research for intracellular delivery and cellular analysis. This article provides a brief review of the most recent developments on microfluidic-based mechanoporation strategies such as microinjection, nanoneedle arrays, cell-squeezing, and hydroporation techniques with their working principle, device fabrication, cellular delivery, and analysis. Moreover, a brief discussion of the different mechanoporation strategies integrated with other delivery methods has also been provided. Finally, the advantages, limitations, and future prospects of this technique are discussed compared to other intracellular delivery techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pulasta Chakrabarty
- Department of Engineering Design, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai, India
| | - Pallavi Gupta
- Department of Engineering Design, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai, India
| | - Kavitha Illath
- Department of Engineering Design, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai, India
| | - Srabani Kar
- Department of Electrical Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB30FA, UK
| | - Moeto Nagai
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Toyohashi University of Technology, Aichi, Japan
| | - Fan-Gang Tseng
- Department of Engineering and System Science, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Tuhin Subhra Santra
- Department of Engineering Design, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai, India
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11
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Rich J, Tian Z, Huang TJ. Sonoporation: Past, Present, and Future. ADVANCED MATERIALS TECHNOLOGIES 2022; 7:2100885. [PMID: 35399914 PMCID: PMC8992730 DOI: 10.1002/admt.202100885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2021] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
A surge of research in intracellular delivery technologies is underway with the increased innovations in cell-based therapies and cell reprogramming. Particularly, physical cell membrane permeabilization techniques are highlighted as the leading technologies because of their unique features, including versatility, independence of cargo properties, and high-throughput delivery that is critical for providing the desired cell quantity for cell-based therapies. Amongst the physical permeabilization methods, sonoporation holds great promise and has been demonstrated for delivering a variety of functional cargos, such as biomolecular drugs, proteins, and plasmids, to various cells including cancer, immune, and stem cells. However, traditional bubble-based sonoporation methods usually require special contrast agents. Bubble-based sonoporation methods also have high chances of inducing irreversible damage to critical cell components, lowering the cell viability, and reducing the effectiveness of delivered cargos. To overcome these limitations, several novel non-bubble-based sonoporation mechanisms are under development. This review will cover both the bubble-based and non-bubble-based sonoporation mechanisms being employed for intracellular delivery, the technologies being investigated to overcome the limitations of traditional platforms, as well as perspectives on the future sonoporation mechanisms, technologies, and applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Rich
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, 27708, USA
| | - Zhenhua Tian
- Department of Aerospace Engineering, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS, 39762, USA
| | - Tony Jun Huang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, Duke University, Durham, NC, 27708, USA
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12
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Advances in engineering and synthetic biology toward improved therapeutic immune cells. CURRENT OPINION IN BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cobme.2021.100342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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13
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Shan L, Cui M, Meacham JM. Spray characteristics of an ultrasonic microdroplet generator with a continuously variable operating frequency. THE JOURNAL OF THE ACOUSTICAL SOCIETY OF AMERICA 2021; 150:1300. [PMID: 34470276 DOI: 10.1121/10.0005908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Droplet spraying is utilized in diverse industrial processes and biomedical applications, including nanomaterial synthesis, biomaterial handling, and inhalation drug delivery. Ultrasonic droplet generators transfer energy into bulk liquids using acoustic waves to disrupt the free liquid surface into fine microdroplets. We previously established a method combining ultrasonic actuation, resonant operation, and acoustic wave focusing for efficient spraying of various liquids (e.g., low surface tension fuels, high viscosity inks, and suspensions of biological cells). The microfabricated device comprises a piezoelectric transducer, sample reservoir, and an array of acoustic horn structures terminated by microscale orifices. Orifice size roughly dictates droplet diameter, and a fixed reservoir height prescribes specific device resonant frequencies of operation. Here, we incorporate a continuously variable liquid reservoir height for dynamic adjustment of operating parameters to improve spray efficiency in real-time and potentially tune the droplet size. Computational modeling predicts the system harmonic response for a range of reservoir heights from 0.5 to 3 mm (corresponding to operating frequencies from ∼500 kHz to 2.5 MHz). Nozzle arrays with 10, 20, and 40 μm orifices are evaluated for spray uniformity and stability of the active nozzles, using model predictions to explain the experimental observations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Shan
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, Washington University in St. Louis, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, Missouri 63130, USA
| | - Mingyang Cui
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, Washington University in St. Louis, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, Missouri 63130, USA
| | - J Mark Meacham
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, Washington University in St. Louis, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, Missouri 63130, USA
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14
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Cui M, Kim M, Weisensee PB, Meacham JM. Thermal considerations for microswimmer trap-and-release using standing surface acoustic waves. LAB ON A CHIP 2021; 21:2534-2543. [PMID: 33998632 DOI: 10.1039/d1lc00257k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Controlled trapping of cells and microorganisms using substrate acoustic waves (SAWs; conventionally termed surface acoustic waves) has proven useful in numerous biological and biomedical applications owing to the label- and contact-free nature of acoustic confinement. However, excessive heating due to vibration damping and other system losses potentially compromises the biocompatibility of the SAW technique. Herein, we investigate the thermal biocompatibility of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)-based SAW and glass-based SAW [that supports a bulk acoustic wave (BAW) in the fluid domain] devices operating at different frequencies and applied voltages. First, we use infrared thermography to produce heat maps of regions of interest (ROI) within the aperture of the SAW transducers for PDMS- and glass-based devices. Motile Chlamydomonas reinhardtii algae cells are then used to test the trapping performance and biocompatibility of these devices. At low input power, the PDMS-based SAW system cannot generate a large enough acoustic trapping force to hold swimming C. reinhardtii cells. At high input power, the temperature of this device rises rapidly, damaging (and possibly killing) the cells. The glass-based SAW/BAW hybrid system, on the other hand, can not only trap swimming C. reinhardtii at low input power, but also exhibits better thermal biocompatibility than the PDMS-based SAW system at high input power. Thus, a glass-based SAW/BAW device creates strong acoustic trapping forces in a biocompatible environment, providing a new solution to safely trap active microswimmers for research involving motile cells and microorganisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingyang Cui
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri 63130, USA.
| | - Minji Kim
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri 63130, USA.
| | - Patricia B Weisensee
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri 63130, USA.
| | - J Mark Meacham
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri 63130, USA.
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15
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Raes L, De Smedt SC, Raemdonck K, Braeckmans K. Non-viral transfection technologies for next-generation therapeutic T cell engineering. Biotechnol Adv 2021; 49:107760. [PMID: 33932532 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2021.107760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2020] [Revised: 04/24/2021] [Accepted: 04/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Genetically engineered T cells have sparked interest in advanced cancer treatment, reaching a milestone in 2017 with two FDA-approvals for CD19-directed chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapeutics. It is becoming clear that the next generation of CAR T cell therapies will demand more complex engineering strategies and combinations thereof, including the use of revolutionary gene editing approaches. To date, manufacturing of CAR T cells mostly relies on γ-retroviral or lentiviral vectors, but their use is associated with several drawbacks, including safety issues, high manufacturing cost and vector capacity constraints. Non-viral approaches, including membrane permeabilization and carrier-based techniques, have therefore gained a lot of interest to replace viral transductions in the manufacturing of T cell therapeutics. This review provides an in-depth discussion on the avid search for alternatives to viral vectors, discusses key considerations for T cell engineering technologies, and provides an overview of the emerging spectrum of non-viral transfection technologies for T cells. Strengths and weaknesses of each technology will be discussed in relation to T cell engineering. Altogether, this work emphasizes the potential of non-viral transfection approaches to advance the next-generation of genetically engineered T cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurens Raes
- Laboratory of General Biochemistry & Physical Pharmacy, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Stefaan C De Smedt
- Laboratory of General Biochemistry & Physical Pharmacy, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Koen Raemdonck
- Laboratory of General Biochemistry & Physical Pharmacy, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Kevin Braeckmans
- Laboratory of General Biochemistry & Physical Pharmacy, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.
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16
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Morshedi Rad D, Alsadat Rad M, Razavi Bazaz S, Kashaninejad N, Jin D, Ebrahimi Warkiani M. A Comprehensive Review on Intracellular Delivery. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2021; 33:e2005363. [PMID: 33594744 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202005363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Revised: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Intracellular delivery is considered an indispensable process for various studies, ranging from medical applications (cell-based therapy) to fundamental (genome-editing) and industrial (biomanufacture) approaches. Conventional macroscale delivery systems critically suffer from such issues as low cell viability, cytotoxicity, and inconsistent material delivery, which have opened up an interest in the development of more efficient intracellular delivery systems. In line with the advances in microfluidics and nanotechnology, intracellular delivery based on micro- and nanoengineered platforms has progressed rapidly and held great promises owing to their unique features. These approaches have been advanced to introduce a smorgasbord of diverse cargoes into various cell types with the maximum efficiency and the highest precision. This review differentiates macro-, micro-, and nanoengineered approaches for intracellular delivery. The macroengineered delivery platforms are first summarized and then each method is categorized based on whether it employs a carrier- or membrane-disruption-mediated mechanism to load cargoes inside the cells. Second, particular emphasis is placed on the micro- and nanoengineered advances in the delivery of biomolecules inside the cells. Furthermore, the applications and challenges of the established and emerging delivery approaches are summarized. The topic is concluded by evaluating the future perspective of intracellular delivery toward the micro- and nanoengineered approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorsa Morshedi Rad
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia
- Institute for Biomedical Materials & Devices (IBMD), Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Maryam Alsadat Rad
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia
- Institute for Biomedical Materials & Devices (IBMD), Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Sajad Razavi Bazaz
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia
- Institute for Biomedical Materials & Devices (IBMD), Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Navid Kashaninejad
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia
- Institute for Biomedical Materials & Devices (IBMD), Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Dayong Jin
- Institute for Biomedical Materials & Devices (IBMD), Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia
- School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Majid Ebrahimi Warkiani
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia
- Institute for Biomedical Materials & Devices (IBMD), Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Sechenov University, Moscow, 119991, Russia
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17
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Honrado C, Bisegna P, Swami NS, Caselli F. Single-cell microfluidic impedance cytometry: from raw signals to cell phenotypes using data analytics. LAB ON A CHIP 2021; 21:22-54. [PMID: 33331376 PMCID: PMC7909465 DOI: 10.1039/d0lc00840k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
The biophysical analysis of single-cells by microfluidic impedance cytometry is emerging as a label-free and high-throughput means to stratify the heterogeneity of cellular systems based on their electrophysiology. Emerging applications range from fundamental life-science and drug assessment research to point-of-care diagnostics and precision medicine. Recently, novel chip designs and data analytic strategies are laying the foundation for multiparametric cell characterization and subpopulation distinction, which are essential to understand biological function, follow disease progression and monitor cell behaviour in microsystems. In this tutorial review, we present a comparative survey of the approaches to elucidate cellular and subcellular features from impedance cytometry data, covering the related subjects of device design, data analytics (i.e., signal processing, dielectric modelling, population clustering), and phenotyping applications. We give special emphasis to the exciting recent developments of the technique (timeframe 2017-2020) and provide our perspective on future challenges and directions. Its synergistic application with microfluidic separation, sensor science and machine learning can form an essential toolkit for label-free quantification and isolation of subpopulations to stratify heterogeneous biosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Honrado
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22904, USA.
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18
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Timmins LM, Burr AM, Carroll K, Keefe R, Teryek M, Cantolupo LJ, van der Loo JCM, Heathman TR, Gormley A, Smith D, Parekkadan B. Selecting a Cell Engineering Methodology During Cell Therapy Product Development. Cell Transplant 2021; 30:9636897211003022. [PMID: 34013781 PMCID: PMC8145581 DOI: 10.1177/09636897211003022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2021] [Revised: 02/16/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
When considering the development pathway for a genetically modified cell therapy product, it is critically important that the product is engineered consistent with its intended human use. For scientists looking to develop and commercialize a new technology, the decision to select a genetic modification method depends on several practical considerations. Whichever path is chosen, the developer must understand the key risks and potential mitigations of the cell engineering approach. The developer should also understand the clinical implications: permanent/memory establishment versus transient expression, and clinical manufacturing considerations when dealing with transplantation of genetically engineered cells. This review covers important topics for mapping out a strategy for developers of new cell-based therapeutics. Biological, technological, manufacturing, and clinical considerations are all presented to map out development lanes for the initiation and risk management of new gene-based cell therapeutic products for human use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren M. Timmins
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rutgers University, Piscataway Township, NJ, USA
| | - Alexandra M. Burr
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rutgers University, Piscataway Township, NJ, USA
| | - Kristina Carroll
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rutgers University, Piscataway Township, NJ, USA
- Precision Biosciences, Durham, NC, USA
| | | | - Matthew Teryek
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rutgers University, Piscataway Township, NJ, USA
| | | | - Johannes C. M. van der Loo
- The Raymond G. Perelman Center for Cellular and Molecular Therapeutics, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | - Adam Gormley
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rutgers University, Piscataway Township, NJ, USA
| | - David Smith
- Minaris Regenerative Medicine, LLC, Allendale, NJ, USA
| | - Biju Parekkadan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rutgers University, Piscataway Township, NJ, USA
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19
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Mahesh K, Varma M, Sen P. Double-peak signal features in microfluidic impedance flow cytometry enable sensitive measurement of cell membrane capacitance. LAB ON A CHIP 2020; 20:4296-4309. [PMID: 33094786 DOI: 10.1039/d0lc00744g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
The probing of individual cells at specific frequency regimes in a microfluidic impedance flow cytometer led to the observation of unusual "double peak" features in the reactive component of the resulting signal. The phenomenon was restricted to the lower frequencies (400-800 kHz) of the β-dispersion regime and its occurrence was facilitated by the co-planar microelectrode geometry in the device. To understand the reasons for this anomalous behaviour, the system was modelled using COMSOL. The simulated model agreed well with experimental observations and provided insight into the origins of this signal profile and the effect of various parameters on its behaviour. One of the most significant observations of this study was the high sensitivity of the features in the "double peak" profile to changes in cell membrane capacitance (CMC), compared to conventional "single peaks" of reactive impedance. This was consequently exploited to accurately distinguish populations of normal and glutaraldehyde treated erythrocytes based on variations in their CMC, indicating a drastic decrease in the CMC of treated cells. Additionally, we demonstrate the applicability of using this double peak effect to identify cell populations within a mixture of PBMCs. This study is an improvement over conventional approaches of measuring CMC via impedance flow cytometry by enabling the measurement of both cell size and cell membrane properties at a single frequency rather than using multiple frequencies. Using a single frequency significantly simplifies the system and reduces the associated costs. Additionally, this technique enables the measurement of CMC at relatively low frequencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karthik Mahesh
- Centre for Nano Science and Engineering (CeNSE), Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore 560012, India.
| | - Manoj Varma
- Centre for Nano Science and Engineering (CeNSE), Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore 560012, India. and Robert Bosch Centre for Cyber Physical Systems (RBCCPS), Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore 560012, India
| | - Prosenjit Sen
- Centre for Nano Science and Engineering (CeNSE), Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore 560012, India.
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20
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Chen Y, Wang J, Li X, Hu N, Voelcker NH, Xie X, Elnathan R. Emerging Roles of 1D Vertical Nanostructures in Orchestrating Immune Cell Functions. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2020; 32:e2001668. [PMID: 32844502 PMCID: PMC7461044 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202001668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2020] [Revised: 05/16/2020] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Engineered nano-bio cellular interfaces driven by 1D vertical nanostructures (1D-VNS) are set to prompt radical progress in modulating cellular processes at the nanoscale. Here, tuneable cell-VNS interfacial interactions are probed and assessed, highlighting the use of 1D-VNS in immunomodulation, and intracellular delivery into immune cells-both crucial in fundamental and translational biomedical research. With programmable topography and adaptable surface functionalization, 1D-VNS provide unique biophysical and biochemical cues to orchestrate innate and adaptive immunity, both ex vivo and in vivo. The intimate nanoscale cell-VNS interface leads to membrane penetration and cellular deformation, facilitating efficient intracellular delivery of diverse bioactive cargoes into hard-to-transfect immune cells. The unsettled interfacial mechanisms reported to be involved in VNS-mediated intracellular delivery are discussed. By identifying up-to-date progress and fundamental challenges of current 1D-VNS technology in immune-cell manipulation, it is hoped that this report gives timely insights for further advances in developing 1D-VNS as a safe, universal, and highly scalable platform for cell engineering and enrichment in advanced cancer immunotherapy such as chimeric antigen receptor-T therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaping Chen
- Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical SciencesMonash University381 Royal ParadeParkvilleVIC3052Australia
- Melbourne Centre for NanofabricationVictorian Node of the Australian National Fabrication Facility151 Wellington RoadClayton3168Australia
| | - Ji Wang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat‐sen UniversitySun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510006China
| | - Xiangling Li
- State Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Materials and TechnologiesSchool of Electronics and Information TechnologySun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510006China
| | - Ning Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Materials and TechnologiesSchool of Electronics and Information TechnologySun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510006China
| | - Nicolas H. Voelcker
- Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical SciencesMonash University381 Royal ParadeParkvilleVIC3052Australia
- Melbourne Centre for NanofabricationVictorian Node of the Australian National Fabrication Facility151 Wellington RoadClayton3168Australia
- Department of Materials Science and EngineeringMonash University22 Alliance LaneClaytonVIC3168Australia
- Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO)ClaytonVIC3168Australia
- INM‐Leibniz Institute for New MaterialsCampus D2 2Saarbrücken66123Germany
| | - Xi Xie
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat‐sen UniversitySun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510006China
- State Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Materials and TechnologiesSchool of Electronics and Information TechnologySun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510006China
| | - Roey Elnathan
- Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical SciencesMonash University381 Royal ParadeParkvilleVIC3052Australia
- Melbourne Centre for NanofabricationVictorian Node of the Australian National Fabrication Facility151 Wellington RoadClayton3168Australia
- Department of Materials Science and EngineeringMonash University22 Alliance LaneClaytonVIC3168Australia
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21
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Damle VG, Sharmin R, Morita A, Nie L, Schirhagl R. Micro Versus Macro - The Effect of Environmental Confinement on Cellular Nanoparticle Uptake. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2020; 8:869. [PMID: 32793585 PMCID: PMC7393206 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2020.00869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
While the microenvironment is known to alter the cellular behavior in terms of metabolism, growth and the degree of endoplasmic reticulum stress, its influence on the nanoparticle uptake is not yet investigated. Specifically, it is not clear if the cells cultured in a microenvironment ingest different amounts of nanoparticles than cells cultured in a macroenvironment (for example a petri dish). To answer this question, here we used J774 murine macrophages and fluorescent nanodiamonds (FND) as a model system to systematically compare the uptake efficiency of cells cultured in a petri dish and in a microfluidic channel. Specifically, equal numbers of cells were cultured in two devices followed by the FND incubation. Then cells were fixed, stained and imaged to quantify the FND uptake. We show that the FND uptake in the cells cultured in petri dishes is significantly higher than the uptake in a microfluidic chip where the alteration in CO2 environment, the cell culture medium pH and the surface area to volume ratio seem to be the underlying causes leading to this observed difference.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viraj G. Damle
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Rokshana Sharmin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Aryan Morita
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
- Department of Dental Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
| | - Linyan Nie
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Romana Schirhagl
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
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22
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Fajrial AK, He QQ, Wirusanti NI, Slansky JE, Ding X. A review of emerging physical transfection methods for CRISPR/Cas9-mediated gene editing. Theranostics 2020; 10:5532-5549. [PMID: 32373229 PMCID: PMC7196308 DOI: 10.7150/thno.43465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2019] [Accepted: 03/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Gene editing is a versatile technique in biomedicine that promotes fundamental research as well as clinical therapy. The development of Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR) as a genome editing machinery has accelerated the application of gene editing. However, the delivery of CRISPR components often suffers when using conventional transfection methods, such as viral transduction and chemical vectors, due to limited packaging size and inefficiency toward certain cell types. In this review, we discuss physical transfection methods for CRISPR gene editing which can overcome these limitations. We outline different types of physical transfection methods, highlight novel techniques to deliver CRISPR components, and emphasize the role of micro and nanotechnology to improve transfection performance. We present our perspectives on the limitations of current technology and provide insights on the future developments of physical transfection methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Apresio K. Fajrial
- Paul M. Rady Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80309, USA
| | - Qing Qing He
- Paul M. Rady Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80309, USA
| | - Nurul I. Wirusanti
- University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherland
| | - Jill E. Slansky
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Xiaoyun Ding
- Paul M. Rady Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80309, USA
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23
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Recent advances in micro/nanoscale intracellular delivery. NANOTECHNOLOGY AND PRECISION ENGINEERING 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.npe.2019.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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24
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Dixit HG, Starr R, Dundon ML, Pairs PI, Yang X, Zhang Y, Nampe D, Ballas CB, Tsutsui H, Forman SJ, Brown CE, Rao MP. Massively-Parallelized, Deterministic Mechanoporation for Intracellular Delivery. NANO LETTERS 2020; 20:860-867. [PMID: 31647675 PMCID: PMC8210888 DOI: 10.1021/acs.nanolett.9b03175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/14/2023]
Abstract
Microfluidic intracellular delivery approaches based on plasma membrane poration have shown promise for addressing the limitations of conventional cellular engineering techniques in a wide range of applications in biology and medicine. However, the inherent stochasticity of the poration process in many of these approaches often results in a trade-off between delivery efficiency and cellular viability, thus potentially limiting their utility. Herein, we present a novel microfluidic device concept that mitigates this trade-off by providing opportunity for deterministic mechanoporation (DMP) of cells en masse. This is achieved by the impingement of each cell upon a single needle-like penetrator during aspiration-based capture, followed by diffusive influx of exogenous cargo through the resulting membrane pore, once the cells are released by reversal of flow. Massive parallelization enables high throughput operation, while single-site poration allows for delivery of small and large-molecule cargos in difficult-to-transfect cells with efficiencies and viabilities that exceed both conventional and emerging transfection techniques. As such, DMP shows promise for advancing cellular engineering practice in general and engineered cell product manufacturing in particular.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harish G. Dixit
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California – Riverside, Riverside, California 92521, United States
| | - Renate Starr
- Department of Cancer Immunotherapy and Tumor Immunology, City of Hope Beckman Research Institute and Medical Center, Duarte, California 91010, United States
| | - Morgan L. Dundon
- Materials Science and Engineering Program, University of California – Riverside, Riverside, California 92521, United States
| | - Pranee I. Pairs
- Materials Science and Engineering Program, University of California – Riverside, Riverside, California 92521, United States
| | - Xin Yang
- Department of Cancer Immunotherapy and Tumor Immunology, City of Hope Beckman Research Institute and Medical Center, Duarte, California 91010, United States
| | - Yanyan Zhang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of California – Riverside, Riverside, California 92521, United States
| | - Daniel Nampe
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California – Riverside, Riverside, California 92521, United States
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of California – Riverside, Riverside, California 92521, United States
| | - Christopher B. Ballas
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana 46202, United States
| | - Hideaki Tsutsui
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California – Riverside, Riverside, California 92521, United States
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of California – Riverside, Riverside, California 92521, United States
- Stem Cell Center, University of California – Riverside, Riverside, California 92521, United States
| | - Stephen J. Forman
- Department of Cancer Immunotherapy and Tumor Immunology, City of Hope Beckman Research Institute and Medical Center, Duarte, California 91010, United States
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope Beckman Research Institute and Medical Center, Duarte, California 91010, United States
| | - Christine E. Brown
- Department of Cancer Immunotherapy and Tumor Immunology, City of Hope Beckman Research Institute and Medical Center, Duarte, California 91010, United States
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope Beckman Research Institute and Medical Center, Duarte, California 91010, United States
| | - Masaru P. Rao
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California – Riverside, Riverside, California 92521, United States
- Materials Science and Engineering Program, University of California – Riverside, Riverside, California 92521, United States
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of California – Riverside, Riverside, California 92521, United States
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25
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Intracellular delivery of mRNA to human primary T cells with microfluidic vortex shedding. Sci Rep 2019; 9:3214. [PMID: 30824814 PMCID: PMC6397276 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-40147-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2018] [Accepted: 02/07/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Intracellular delivery of functional macromolecules, such as DNA and RNA, across the cell membrane and into the cytosol, is a critical process in both biology and medicine. Herein, we develop and use microfluidic chips containing post arrays to induce microfluidic vortex shedding, or μVS, for cell membrane poration that permits delivery of mRNA into primary human T lymphocytes. We demonstrate transfection with μVS by delivery of a 996-nucleotide mRNA construct encoding enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) and assessed transfection efficiencies by quantifying levels of EGFP protein expression. We achieved high transfection efficiency (63.6 ± 3.44% EGFP + viable cells) with high cell viability (77.3 ± 0.58%) and recovery (88.7 ± 3.21%) in CD3 + T cells 19 hrs after μVS processing. Importantly, we show that processing cells via μVS does not negatively affect cell growth rates or alter cell states. We also demonstrate processing speeds of greater than 2.0 × 106 cells s-1 at volumes ranging from 0.1 to 1.5 milliliters. Altogether, these results highlight the use of μVS as a rapid and gentle delivery method with promising potential to engineer primary human cells for research and clinical applications.
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26
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Chen C, Zhang SP, Mao Z, Nama N, Gu Y, Huang PH, Jing Y, Guo X, Costanzo F, Huang TJ. Three-dimensional numerical simulation and experimental investigation of boundary-driven streaming in surface acoustic wave microfluidics. LAB ON A CHIP 2018; 18:3645-3654. [PMID: 30361727 PMCID: PMC6291338 DOI: 10.1039/c8lc00589c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Acoustic streaming has been widely used in microfluidics to manipulate various micro-/nano-objects. In this work, acoustic streaming activated by interdigital transducers (IDT) immersed in highly viscous oil is studied numerically and experimentally. In particular, we developed a modeling strategy termed the "slip velocity method" that enables a 3D simulation of surface acoustic wave microfluidics in a large domain (4 × 4 × 2 mm3) and at a high frequency (23.9 MHz). The experimental and numerical results both show that on top of the oil, all the acoustic streamlines converge at two horizontal stagnation points above the two symmetric sides of the IDT. At these two stagnation points, water droplets floating on the oil can be trapped. Based on these characteristics of the acoustic streaming field, we designed a surface acoustic wave microfluidic device with an integrated IDT array fabricated on a 128°YX LiNbO3 substrate to perform programmable, contactless droplet manipulation. By activating IDTs accordingly, the water droplets on the oil can be moved to the corresponding traps. With its excellent capability for manipulating droplets in a highly programmable, controllable manner, our surface acoustic wave microfluidic devices are valuable for on-chip contactless sample handling and chemical reactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuyi Chen
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Material Science, Duke University, NC 27707, USA.
| | - Steven Peiran Zhang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Material Science, Duke University, NC 27707, USA.
| | - Zhangming Mao
- Department of Engineering Science and Mechanics, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA.
| | - Nitesh Nama
- Department of Engineering Science and Mechanics, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA.
| | - Yuyang Gu
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Material Science, Duke University, NC 27707, USA.
| | - Po-Hsun Huang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Material Science, Duke University, NC 27707, USA.
| | - Yun Jing
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695-7910, USA
| | - Xiasheng Guo
- Key Laboratory of Modern Acoustics (MOE), Department of Physics, Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Microstructure, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China.
| | - Francesco Costanzo
- Department of Engineering Science and Mechanics, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA.
| | - Tony Jun Huang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Material Science, Duke University, NC 27707, USA.
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Lee J, Arun Kumar S, Jhan YY, Bishop CJ. Engineering DNA vaccines against infectious diseases. Acta Biomater 2018; 80:31-47. [PMID: 30172933 PMCID: PMC7105045 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2018.08.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2018] [Revised: 08/14/2018] [Accepted: 08/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Engineering vaccine-based therapeutics for infectious diseases is highly challenging, as trial formulations are often found to be nonspecific, ineffective, thermally or hydrolytically unstable, and/or toxic. Vaccines have greatly improved the therapeutic landscape for treating infectious diseases and have significantly reduced the threat by therapeutic and preventative approaches. Furthermore, the advent of recombinant technologies has greatly facilitated growth within the vaccine realm by mitigating risks such as virulence reversion despite making the production processes more cumbersome. In addition, seroconversion can also be enhanced by recombinant technology through kinetic and nonkinetic approaches, which are discussed herein. Recombinant technologies have greatly improved both amino acid-based vaccines and DNA-based vaccines. A plateau of interest has been reached between 2001 and 2010 for the scientific community with regard to DNA vaccine endeavors. The decrease in interest may likely be attributed to difficulties in improving immunogenic properties associated with DNA vaccines, although there has been research demonstrating improvement and optimization to this end. Despite improvement, to the extent of our knowledge, there are currently no regulatory body-approved DNA vaccines for human use (four vaccines approved for animal use). This article discusses engineering DNA vaccines against infectious diseases while discussing advantages and disadvantages of each, with an emphasis on applications of these DNA vaccines. Statement of Significance This review paper summarizes the state of the engineered/recombinant DNA vaccine field, with a scope entailing “Engineering DNA vaccines against infectious diseases”. We endeavor to emphasize recent advances, recapitulating the current state of the field. In addition to discussing DNA therapeutics that have already been clinically translated, this review also examines current research developments, and the challenges thwarting further progression. Our review covers: recombinant DNA-based subunit vaccines; internalization and processing; enhancing immune protection via adjuvants; manufacturing and engineering DNA; the safety, stability and delivery of DNA vaccines or plasmids; controlling gene expression using plasmid engineering and gene circuits; overcoming immunogenic issues; and commercial successes. We hope that this review will inspire further research in DNA vaccine development.
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Ledbetter AD, Shekhani HN, Binkley MM, Meacham JM. Tuning the Coupled-Domain Response for Efficient Ultrasonic Droplet Generation. IEEE TRANSACTIONS ON ULTRASONICS, FERROELECTRICS, AND FREQUENCY CONTROL 2018; 65:1893-1904. [PMID: 30047875 DOI: 10.1109/tuffc.2018.2859195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Acoustic microfluidic devices encompass mechanical, fluidic, and electromechanical domains. Complicated multidomain interactions require the consideration of each individual material domain, as well as coupled behaviors to achieve optimal performance. Herein, we report the co-optimization of components comprising an ultrasonic droplet generator to achieve the high-efficiency liquid atomization for operation in the 0.5-2.5-MHz frequency range. Due to the complexity of the real system, simplified 2-D representations of the device are investigated using an experimentally validated finite element analysis model. Ejection modes (i.e., frequencies at which droplet generation is predicted) are distinguished by maxima in the local pressure at the tips of an array of triangular nozzles. Resonance behaviors of the transducer assembly and fluid-filled chamber are examined to establish optimal geometric combinations concerning the chamber pressure field. The analysis identifies how domain geometries affect pressure field uniformity, broadband operation, and tip pressure amplitude. Lower frequency modes are found to focus the acoustic energy at the expense of field uniformity within the nozzle array. Resonance matching yields a nearly threefold increase in maximum attainable tip pressure amplitude. Significantly, we establish a set of design principles for these complex devices, which resembles a classical half-wave transducer, quarter-wave matching layer, and half-wave chamber layered system.
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Stewart MP, Langer R, Jensen KF. Intracellular Delivery by Membrane Disruption: Mechanisms, Strategies, and Concepts. Chem Rev 2018; 118:7409-7531. [PMID: 30052023 PMCID: PMC6763210 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.7b00678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 382] [Impact Index Per Article: 63.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Intracellular delivery is a key step in biological research and has enabled decades of biomedical discoveries. It is also becoming increasingly important in industrial and medical applications ranging from biomanufacture to cell-based therapies. Here, we review techniques for membrane disruption-based intracellular delivery from 1911 until the present. These methods achieve rapid, direct, and universal delivery of almost any cargo molecule or material that can be dispersed in solution. We start by covering the motivations for intracellular delivery and the challenges associated with the different cargo types-small molecules, proteins/peptides, nucleic acids, synthetic nanomaterials, and large cargo. The review then presents a broad comparison of delivery strategies followed by an analysis of membrane disruption mechanisms and the biology of the cell response. We cover mechanical, electrical, thermal, optical, and chemical strategies of membrane disruption with a particular emphasis on their applications and challenges to implementation. Throughout, we highlight specific mechanisms of membrane disruption and suggest areas in need of further experimentation. We hope the concepts discussed in our review inspire scientists and engineers with further ideas to improve intracellular delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin P. Stewart
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute
of Technology, Cambridge, USA
- The Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research,
Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, USA
| | - Robert Langer
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute
of Technology, Cambridge, USA
- The Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research,
Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, USA
| | - Klavs F. Jensen
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute
of Technology, Cambridge, USA
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