1
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Buchholz MB, Bernal PN, Bessler N, Bonhomme C, Levato R, Rios A. Development of a bioreactor and volumetric bioprinting protocol to enable perfused culture of biofabricated human epithelial mammary ducts and endothelial constructs. Biofabrication 2025; 17:031001. [PMID: 40300616 DOI: 10.1088/1758-5090/add20f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2025] [Indexed: 05/01/2025]
Abstract
Tissue function depends on the 3D spatial organization of cells, extracellular matrix components, as well as dynamic nutrient gradients and mechanical forces. Advances in biofabrication technologies have enabled the creation of increasingly sophisticated tissue models, but achieving native-like tissue maturation post-fabrication remains a challenge. The development of bioreactors and microfluidic systems capable of introducing dynamic culture platforms and controlled mechanical and biochemical stimulation for biofabricated tissue analogues is therefore imperative to address this. In this technical note, we introduce a multi-step pipeline to fabricate, seed and perfuse geometrically complex hydrogel constructs with quality control protocols through the computational analysis of confocal multispectral 3D imaging data for each step of the process. Employing ultra-fast volumetric bioprinting, chips with tunable channel architectures were fabricated. Furthermore, an autoclavable and transparent perfusion bioreactor inspired by open-source designs was developed to enable controlled, long-term perfusion (up to 28 days) and real-time monitoring of cell behavior. As proof-of-concept, employing this pipeline, we fabricated a human mammary ductal model and an endothelialized vessel on-a-chip, demonstrating the compatibility of the platform with epithelial and endothelial cell lines, and investigated the effect of dynamic culture on tissue-specific cell organization. Dynamic perfusion underlined the influence of mechanical stimulation on cell organization and maturation. Various chip architectures, capable of recapitulating tissue-specific features (i.e.lobules) were printed, enabling the mono- and co-culture of human mammary epithelial and endothelial cells. Our pipeline, with the accompanying protocols and analysis scripts presented here, provide the potential to be applied for the dynamic culture of a wide range of tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maj-Britt Buchholz
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Orthopaedics, University Medical Center Utrecht, Uppsalalaan 8, 3584 CT Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Paulina Nunez Bernal
- Department of Orthopaedics, University Medical Center Utrecht, Uppsalalaan 8, 3584 CT Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Nils Bessler
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Camille Bonhomme
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 108, 3584 CM Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Riccardo Levato
- Department of Orthopaedics, University Medical Center Utrecht, Uppsalalaan 8, 3584 CT Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 108, 3584 CM Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Anne Rios
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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2
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O'Connor CE, Zhang F, Neufeld A, Prado O, Simmonds SP, Fortin CL, Johansson F, Mene J, Saxton SH, Kopyeva I, Gregorio NE, James Z, DeForest CA, Wayne EC, Witten DM, Stevens KR. Bioprinted platform for parallelized screening of engineered microtissues in vivo. Cell Stem Cell 2025; 32:838-853.e6. [PMID: 40168987 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2025.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2024] [Revised: 12/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2025] [Indexed: 04/03/2025]
Abstract
Human engineered tissues hold great promise for therapeutic tissue regeneration and repair. Yet, development of these technologies often stalls at the stage of in vivo studies due to the complexity of engineered tissue formulations, which are often composed of diverse cell populations and material elements, along with the tedious nature of in vivo experiments. We introduce a "plug and play" platform called parallelized host apposition for screening tissues in vivo (PHAST). PHAST enables parallelized in vivo testing of 43 three-dimensional microtissues in a single 3D-printed device. Using PHAST, we screen microtissue formations with varying cellular and material components and identify formulations that support vascular graft-host inosculation and engineered liver tissue function in vivo. Our studies reveal that the cellular population(s) that should be included in engineered tissues for optimal in vivo performance is material dependent. PHAST could thus accelerate development of human tissue therapies for clinical regeneration and repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colleen E O'Connor
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Fan Zhang
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Anna Neufeld
- Department of Statistics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Olivia Prado
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Susana P Simmonds
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Chelsea L Fortin
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Fredrik Johansson
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Jonathan Mene
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Sarah H Saxton
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Irina Kopyeva
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Nicole E Gregorio
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Zachary James
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Cole A DeForest
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Elizabeth C Wayne
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Daniela M Witten
- Department of Statistics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Department of Biostatistics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Kelly R Stevens
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Center for Cardiovascular Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Brotman Baty Institute, Seattle, WA 98195, USA.
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3
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Yavitt FM, Khang A, Bera K, McNally DL, Blatchley MR, Gallagher AP, Klein OD, Castillo-Azofeifa D, Dempsey PJ, Anseth KS. Engineered epithelial curvature controls Paneth cell localization in intestinal organoids. CELL BIOMATERIALS 2025; 1:100046. [PMID: 40270579 PMCID: PMC12013698 DOI: 10.1016/j.celbio.2025.100046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/25/2025]
Abstract
The cellular organization within organoid models is important to regulate tissue specific function, yet few engineering approaches can control or direct cellular organization. Here, a photodegradable hydrogel is used to create softened regions that direct crypt formation within intestinal organoids, where the dimensions of the photosoftened regions generate predictable and defined crypt architectures. Guided by in vivo metrics of crypt morphology, this photopatterning method is used to control the width and length of in vitro organoid crypts, which ultimately defines the curvature of the epithelium. By tracking expression of differentiated Paneth cell markers in real-time, we show that epithelial curvature directs the localization of Paneth cells within engineered crypts, providing user-directed control over organoid functionality. We anticipate that our improved control over organoid architecture and thus Paneth cell localization will lead to more consistent in vitro organoid models for both mechanistic studies and translational applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- F. Max Yavitt
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80303, USA
- BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80303, USA
| | - Alex Khang
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80303, USA
- BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80303, USA
| | - Kaustav Bera
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80303, USA
- BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80303, USA
| | - Delaney L. McNally
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80303, USA
| | - Michael R. Blatchley
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80303, USA
- BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80303, USA
| | - Aaron P. Gallagher
- Department of Orofacial Sciences and Program in Craniofacial Biology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, 90089, USA
- School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
| | - Ophir D. Klein
- Department of Orofacial Sciences and Program in Craniofacial Biology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, 90089, USA
- Department of Pediatrics and Guerin Children’s, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, 90505, USA
- Department of Pediatrics and Institute for Human Genetics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
| | - David Castillo-Azofeifa
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, California, 94080, USA
| | - Peter J. Dempsey
- Section of Developmental Biology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado, Denver, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Kristi S. Anseth
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80303, USA
- BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80303, USA
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4
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Villeneuve C, McCreery KP, Wickström SA. Measuring and manipulating mechanical forces during development. Nat Cell Biol 2025; 27:575-590. [PMID: 40065147 DOI: 10.1038/s41556-025-01632-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2024] [Accepted: 02/04/2025] [Indexed: 04/13/2025]
Abstract
Tissue deformations are a central feature of development, from early embryogenesis, growth and building the body plan to the establishment of functional organs. These deformations often result from active contractile forces generated by cells and cell collectives, and are mediated by changes in their mechanical properties. Mechanical forces drive the formation of functional organ architectures, but they also coordinate cell behaviour and fate transitions, ensuring robustness of development. Advances in microscopy, genetics and chemistry have enabled increasingly powerful tools for measuring, generating and perturbing mechanical forces. Here we discuss approaches to measure and manipulate mechanical forces with a focus on developmental processes, ranging from quantification of molecular interactions to mapping the mechanical properties of tissues. We focus on contemporary methods, and discuss the biological discoveries that these approaches have enabled. We conclude with an outlook to methodologies at the interface of physics, chemistry and biology to build an integrated understanding of tissue morphodynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clémentine Villeneuve
- Department of Cell and Tissue Dynamics, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Münster, Germany
| | - Kaitlin P McCreery
- Department of Cell and Tissue Dynamics, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Münster, Germany
| | - Sara A Wickström
- Department of Cell and Tissue Dynamics, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Münster, Germany.
- Stem Cells and Metabolism Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.
- Helsinki Institute of Life Science, Biomedicum Helsinki, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.
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5
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Andrews TGR, Priya R. The Mechanics of Building Functional Organs. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Biol 2025; 17:a041520. [PMID: 38886066 PMCID: PMC7616527 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a041520] [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: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
Organ morphogenesis is multifaceted, multiscale, and fundamentally a robust process. Despite the complex and dynamic nature of embryonic development, organs are built with reproducible size, shape, and function, allowing them to support organismal growth and life. This striking reproducibility of tissue form exists because morphogenesis is not entirely hardwired. Instead, it is an emergent product of mechanochemical information flow, operating across spatial and temporal scales-from local cellular deformations to organ-scale form and function, and back. In this review, we address the mechanical basis of organ morphogenesis, as understood by observations and experiments in living embryos. To this end, we discuss how mechanical information controls the emergence of a highly conserved set of structural motifs that shape organ architectures across the animal kingdom: folds and loops, tubes and lumens, buds, branches, and networks. Moving forward, we advocate for a holistic conceptual framework for the study of organ morphogenesis, which rests on an interdisciplinary toolkit and brings the embryo center stage.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rashmi Priya
- The Francis Crick Institute, London NW1 1AT, United Kingdom
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6
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Wu H, Feng E, Yin H, Zhang Y, Chen G, Zhu B, Yue X, Zhang H, Liu Q, Xiong L. Biomaterials for neuroengineering: applications and challenges. Regen Biomater 2025; 12:rbae137. [PMID: 40007617 PMCID: PMC11855295 DOI: 10.1093/rb/rbae137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2024] [Revised: 10/19/2024] [Accepted: 11/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2025] Open
Abstract
Neurological injuries and diseases are a leading cause of disability worldwide, underscoring the urgent need for effective therapies. Neural regaining and enhancement therapies are seen as the most promising strategies for restoring neural function, offering hope for individuals affected by these conditions. Despite their promise, the path from animal research to clinical application is fraught with challenges. Neuroengineering, particularly through the use of biomaterials, has emerged as a key field that is paving the way for innovative solutions to these challenges. It seeks to understand and treat neurological disorders, unravel the nature of consciousness, and explore the mechanisms of memory and the brain's relationship with behavior, offering solutions for neural tissue engineering, neural interfaces and targeted drug delivery systems. These biomaterials, including both natural and synthetic types, are designed to replicate the cellular environment of the brain, thereby facilitating neural repair. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview for biomaterials in neuroengineering, highlighting their application in neural functional regaining and enhancement across both basic research and clinical practice. It covers recent developments in biomaterial-based products, including 2D to 3D bioprinted scaffolds for cell and organoid culture, brain-on-a-chip systems, biomimetic electrodes and brain-computer interfaces. It also explores artificial synapses and neural networks, discussing their applications in modeling neural microenvironments for repair and regeneration, neural modulation and manipulation and the integration of traditional Chinese medicine. This review serves as a comprehensive guide to the role of biomaterials in advancing neuroengineering solutions, providing insights into the ongoing efforts to bridge the gap between innovation and clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huanghui Wu
- Translational Research Institute of Brain and Brain-Like Intelligence, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology and Brain Functional Modulation, Clinical Research Center for Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Shanghai Fourth People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200434, China
| | - Enduo Feng
- Translational Research Institute of Brain and Brain-Like Intelligence, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology and Brain Functional Modulation, Clinical Research Center for Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Shanghai Fourth People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200434, China
| | - Huanxin Yin
- Translational Research Institute of Brain and Brain-Like Intelligence, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology and Brain Functional Modulation, Clinical Research Center for Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Shanghai Fourth People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200434, China
| | - Yuxin Zhang
- Translational Research Institute of Brain and Brain-Like Intelligence, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology and Brain Functional Modulation, Clinical Research Center for Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Shanghai Fourth People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200434, China
| | - Guozhong Chen
- Translational Research Institute of Brain and Brain-Like Intelligence, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology and Brain Functional Modulation, Clinical Research Center for Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Shanghai Fourth People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200434, China
| | - Beier Zhu
- Translational Research Institute of Brain and Brain-Like Intelligence, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology and Brain Functional Modulation, Clinical Research Center for Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Shanghai Fourth People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200434, China
| | - Xuezheng Yue
- School of Materials and Chemistry, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai 200093, China
| | - Haiguang Zhang
- Rapid Manufacturing Engineering Center, School of Mechatronical Engineering and Automation, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Intelligent Manufacturing and Robotics, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Qiong Liu
- Translational Research Institute of Brain and Brain-Like Intelligence, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology and Brain Functional Modulation, Clinical Research Center for Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Shanghai Fourth People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200434, China
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Department of Macromolecular Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Lize Xiong
- Translational Research Institute of Brain and Brain-Like Intelligence, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology and Brain Functional Modulation, Clinical Research Center for Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Shanghai Fourth People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200434, China
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7
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Pang JC, Robinson PA, Aquino KM, Levi PT, Holmes A, Markicevic M, Shen X, Funck T, Palomero-Gallagher N, Kong R, Yeo BT, Tiego J, Bellgrove MA, Constable RT, Lake E, Breakspear M, Fornito A. Geometric influences on the regional organization of the mammalian brain. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2025:2025.01.30.635820. [PMID: 39975401 PMCID: PMC11838429 DOI: 10.1101/2025.01.30.635820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/21/2025]
Abstract
The mammalian brain is comprised of anatomically and functionally distinct regions. Substantial work over the past century has pursued the generation of ever-more accurate maps of regional boundaries, using either expert judgement or data-driven clustering of functional, connectional, and/or architectonic properties. However, these approaches are often purely descriptive, have limited generalizability, and do not elucidate the underlying generative mechanisms that shape the regional organization of the brain. Here, we develop a novel approach that leverages a simple, hierarchical principle for generating a multiscale parcellation of any brain structure in any mammalian species using only its geometry. We show that this approach yields regions at any resolution scale that are more homogeneous than those defined in nearly all existing benchmark brain parcellations in use today across hundreds of anatomical, functional, cellular, and molecular brain properties measured in humans, macaques, marmosets, and mice. We additionally show how our method can be generalized to previously unstudied mammalian species for which no parcellations exist. Finally, we demonstrate how our approach captures the essence of a simple, hierarchical reaction-diffusion mechanism, in which the geometry of a brain structure shapes the spatial expression of putative patterning molecules linked to the formation of distinct regions through development. Our findings point to a highly conserved and universal influence of geometry on the regional organization of the mammalian brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- James C. Pang
- School of Psychological Sciences, The Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, and Monash Biomedical Imaging, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Peter A. Robinson
- School of Physics, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | | | - Priscila T. Levi
- School of Psychological Sciences, The Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, and Monash Biomedical Imaging, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Alexander Holmes
- School of Psychological Sciences, The Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, and Monash Biomedical Imaging, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Marija Markicevic
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Xilin Shen
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Thomas Funck
- Center for the Developing Brain, Child Mind Institute, New York, New York, USA
- Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-1), Research Centre Jülich, Jülich, Germany
| | - Nicola Palomero-Gallagher
- Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-1), Research Centre Jülich, Jülich, Germany
- C. & O. Vogt Institute of Brain Research, Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Ru Kong
- Centre for Sleep and Cognition & Centre for Translational MR Research, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Medicine, Human, Longevity Translational Research Programme, Human Potential Translational Research Programme & Institute for Digital Medicine (WisDM), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- N.I Institute for Health, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - B.T. Thomas Yeo
- Centre for Sleep and Cognition & Centre for Translational MR Research, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Medicine, Human, Longevity Translational Research Programme, Human Potential Translational Research Programme & Institute for Digital Medicine (WisDM), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- N.I Institute for Health, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Integrative Sciences and Engineering Programme (ISEP), National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jeggan Tiego
- School of Psychological Sciences, The Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, and Monash Biomedical Imaging, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mark A. Bellgrove
- School of Psychological Sciences, The Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, and Monash Biomedical Imaging, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - R Todd Constable
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Evelyn Lake
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Michael Breakspear
- School of Psychological Sciences, College of Engineering, Science and the Environment, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Medicine and Public Health, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Alex Fornito
- School of Psychological Sciences, The Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, and Monash Biomedical Imaging, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
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8
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Iber D, Mederacke M, Vetter R. Coordination of nephrogenesis with branching of the urinary collecting system, the vasculature and the nervous system. Curr Top Dev Biol 2025; 163:45-82. [PMID: 40254350 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ctdb.2024.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/22/2025]
Affiliation(s)
- Dagmar Iber
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zürich, Basel, Switzerland; Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Malte Mederacke
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zürich, Basel, Switzerland; Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Roman Vetter
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zürich, Basel, Switzerland; Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, Basel, Switzerland
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9
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Myllymäki SM, Lan Q, Mikkola ML. Embryonic Mammary Gland Morphogenesis. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2025; 1464:9-27. [PMID: 39821018 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-70875-6_2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2025]
Abstract
Embryonic mammary gland development unfolds with the specification of bilateral mammary lines, thereafter progressing through placode, bud, and sprout stages before branching morphogenesis. Extensive epithelial-mesenchymal interactions guide morphogenesis from embryogenesis to adulthood. Two distinct mesenchymal tissues are involved, the primary mammary mesenchyme that harbors mammary inductive capacity, and the secondary mesenchyme, the precursor of the adult stroma. Placode and bud stages are morphologically similar with other ectodermal appendages like the hair follicle, reflecting the mammary gland's assumed evolutionary origin from an ancestral hair follicle-associated glandular unit. The shared features extend to signalling cascades such as the Wnt/β-catenin, fibroblast growth factor (Fgf), and ectodysplasin (Eda) pathways, while pathways unique to mammary gland include parathyroid hormone-like hormone (Pthlh) signalling and Hedgehog activity suppression. Mammary gland branching is highly non-stereotypic, achieved by the dynamic use of two distinct modes of branching: tip bifurcation and side branching and stochastic branch point formation. The cellular mechanisms driving the initial morphogenetic steps are slowly beginning to be unravelled. During placode and bud stages, mammary primordium predominantly grows through cell influx, while sprouting correlates with heightened proliferation. Branch elongation is driven by directional cell migration combined with differential cell motility and proliferation supplying the reservoir of migratory cells, whereas a bifurcating tip is associated with localized repression of the cell cycle and cell motility. Numerous similarities exist between embryonic programs and breast tumorigenesis, spanning cellular plasticity, epithelial-stromal interactions, and molecular regulators. Understanding embryonic mammogenesis may provide insights into how normal developmental processes can go awry, leading to malignancy, or how they can be reversed to prevent cancer progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satu-Marja Myllymäki
- Institute of Biotechnology, Helsinki Institute of Life Science HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Faculty of Medicine, Stem Cells and Metabolism Research Program, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Qiang Lan
- Institute of Biotechnology, Helsinki Institute of Life Science HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Marja L Mikkola
- Institute of Biotechnology, Helsinki Institute of Life Science HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.
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10
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Paavolainen O, Peurla M, Koskinen LM, Pohjankukka J, Saberi K, Tammelin E, Sulander SR, Valkonen M, Mourao L, Boström P, Brück N, Ruusuvuori P, Scheele CLGJ, Hartiala P, Peuhu E. Volumetric analysis of the terminal ductal lobular unit architecture and cell phenotypes in the human breast. Cell Rep 2024; 43:114837. [PMID: 39368089 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.114837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2024] [Revised: 08/20/2024] [Accepted: 09/20/2024] [Indexed: 10/07/2024] Open
Abstract
The major lactiferous ducts of the human breast branch out and end at terminal ductal lobular units (TDLUs). Despite their functional and clinical importance, the three-dimensional (3D) architecture of TDLUs has remained undetermined. Our quantitative and volumetric imaging of healthy human breast tissue demonstrates that highly branched TDLUs, which exhibit increased proliferation, are uncommon in the resting tissue regardless of donor age, parity, or hormonal contraception. Overall, TDLUs have a consistent shape and branch parameters, and they contain a main subtree that dominates in bifurcation events and exhibits a more duct-like keratin expression pattern. Simulation of TDLU branching morphogenesis in three dimensions suggests that evolutionarily conserved mechanisms regulate mammary gland branching in humans and mice despite their anatomical differences. In all, our data provide structural insight into 3D anatomy and branching of the human breast and exemplify the power of volumetric imaging in gaining a deeper understanding of breast biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oona Paavolainen
- Institute of Biomedicine, Cancer Laboratory FICAN West, University of Turku, 20520 Turku, Finland; Turku Bioscience, University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University, 20520 Turku, Finland
| | - Markus Peurla
- Institute of Biomedicine, Cancer Laboratory FICAN West, University of Turku, 20520 Turku, Finland; Turku Bioscience, University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University, 20520 Turku, Finland
| | - Leena M Koskinen
- Institute of Biomedicine, Cancer Laboratory FICAN West, University of Turku, 20520 Turku, Finland; Turku Bioscience, University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University, 20520 Turku, Finland
| | - Jonna Pohjankukka
- Institute of Biomedicine, Cancer Laboratory FICAN West, University of Turku, 20520 Turku, Finland; Turku Bioscience, University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University, 20520 Turku, Finland
| | - Kamyab Saberi
- VIB Center for Cancer Biology, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ella Tammelin
- Institute of Biomedicine, Cancer Laboratory FICAN West, University of Turku, 20520 Turku, Finland; Turku Bioscience, University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University, 20520 Turku, Finland
| | - Suvi-Riitta Sulander
- Institute of Biomedicine, Cancer Laboratory FICAN West, University of Turku, 20520 Turku, Finland; Turku Bioscience, University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University, 20520 Turku, Finland
| | - Masi Valkonen
- Institute of Biomedicine, Cancer Laboratory FICAN West, University of Turku, 20520 Turku, Finland
| | - Larissa Mourao
- VIB Center for Cancer Biology, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Pia Boström
- Department of Pathology, Turku University Hospital, 20520 Turku, Finland; University of Turku, 20520 Turku, Finland
| | - Nina Brück
- Department of Pathology, Turku University Hospital, 20520 Turku, Finland; University of Turku, 20520 Turku, Finland
| | - Pekka Ruusuvuori
- Institute of Biomedicine, Cancer Laboratory FICAN West, University of Turku, 20520 Turku, Finland
| | - Colinda L G J Scheele
- VIB Center for Cancer Biology, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Pauliina Hartiala
- University of Turku, 20520 Turku, Finland; Department of Plastic and General Surgery, Turku University Hospital, 20520 Turku, Finland; Medicity Research Laboratories and InFLAMES Research Flagship Center, University of Turku, 20520 Turku, Finland
| | - Emilia Peuhu
- Institute of Biomedicine, Cancer Laboratory FICAN West, University of Turku, 20520 Turku, Finland; Turku Bioscience, University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University, 20520 Turku, Finland.
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11
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Buchholz MB, Scheerman DI, Levato R, Wehrens EJ, Rios AC. Human breast tissue engineering in health and disease. EMBO Mol Med 2024; 16:2299-2321. [PMID: 39179741 PMCID: PMC11473723 DOI: 10.1038/s44321-024-00112-3] [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: 03/22/2024] [Revised: 06/13/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 08/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The human mammary gland represents a highly organized and dynamic tissue, uniquely characterized by postnatal developmental cycles. During pregnancy and lactation, it undergoes extensive hormone-stimulated architectural remodeling, culminating in the formation of specialized structures for milk production to nourish offspring. Moreover, it carries significant health implications, due to the high prevalence of breast cancer. Therefore, gaining insight into the unique biology of the mammary gland can have implications for managing breast cancer and promoting the well-being of both women and infants. Tissue engineering techniques hold promise to narrow the translational gap between existing breast models and clinical outcomes. Here, we provide an overview of the current landscape of breast tissue engineering, outline key requirements, and the challenges to overcome for achieving more predictive human breast models. We propose methods to validate breast function and highlight preclinical applications for improved understanding and targeting of breast cancer. Beyond mammary gland physiology, representative human breast models can offer new insight into stem cell biology and developmental processes that could extend to other organs and clinical contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maj-Britt Buchholz
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Demi I Scheerman
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Riccardo Levato
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Orthopedics, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Ellen J Wehrens
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Anne C Rios
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
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12
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Sacco JL, Gomez EW. Epithelial-Mesenchymal Plasticity and Epigenetic Heterogeneity in Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:3289. [PMID: 39409910 PMCID: PMC11475326 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16193289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2024] [Revised: 09/10/2024] [Accepted: 09/23/2024] [Indexed: 10/20/2024] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment comprises various cell types and experiences dynamic alterations in physical and mechanical properties as cancer progresses. Intratumoral heterogeneity is associated with poor prognosis and poses therapeutic challenges, and recent studies have begun to identify the cellular mechanisms that contribute to phenotypic diversity within tumors. This review will describe epithelial-mesenchymal (E/M) plasticity and its contribution to phenotypic heterogeneity in tumors as well as how epigenetic factors, such as histone modifications, histone modifying enzymes, DNA methylation, and chromatin remodeling, regulate and maintain E/M phenotypes. This review will also report how mechanical properties vary across tumors and regulate epigenetic modifications and E/M plasticity. Finally, it highlights how intratumoral heterogeneity impacts therapeutic efficacy and provides potential therapeutic targets to improve cancer treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica L. Sacco
- Department of Chemical Engineering, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA;
| | - Esther W. Gomez
- Department of Chemical Engineering, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA;
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
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13
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Cassel de Camps C, Rostami S, Xu V, Li C, Lépine P, Durcan TM, Moraes C. Microfabricated dynamic brain organoid cocultures to assess the effects of surface geometry on assembloid formation. Biotechnol J 2024; 19:e2400070. [PMID: 39167558 DOI: 10.1002/biot.202400070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 07/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 08/23/2024]
Abstract
Organoids have emerged as valuable tools for the study of development and disease. Assembloids are formed by integrating multiple organoid types to create more complex models. However, the process by which organoids integrate to form assembloids remains unclear and may play an important role in the resulting organoid structure. Here, a microfluidic platform is developed that allows separate culture of distinct organoid types and provides the capacity to partially control the geometry of the resulting organoid surfaces. Removal of a microfabricated barrier then allows the shaped and positioned organoids to interact and form an assembloid. When midbrain and unguided brain organoids were allowed to assemble with a defined spacing between them, axonal projections from midbrain organoids and cell migration out of unguided organoids were observed and quantitatively measured as the two types of organoids fused together. Axonal projection directions were statistically biased toward other midbrain organoids, and unguided organoid surface geometry was found to affect cell invasion. This platform provides a tool to observe cellular interactions between organoid surfaces that are spaced apart in a controlled manner, and may ultimately have value in exploring neuronal migration, axon targeting, and assembloid formation mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sabra Rostami
- Department of Chemical Engineering, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Vanessa Xu
- Department of Chemical Engineering, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Chen Li
- Department of Chemical Engineering, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Paula Lépine
- Early Drug Discovery Unit (EDDU), Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Thomas M Durcan
- Early Drug Discovery Unit (EDDU), Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Christopher Moraes
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Department of Chemical Engineering, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Institute, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
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14
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Satta JP, Lindström R, Myllymäki SM, Lan Q, Trela E, Prunskaite-Hyyryläinen R, Kaczyńska B, Voutilainen M, Kuure S, Vainio SJ, Mikkola ML. Exploring the principles of embryonic mammary gland branching morphogenesis. Development 2024; 151:dev202179. [PMID: 39092607 DOI: 10.1242/dev.202179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
Branching morphogenesis is a characteristic feature of many essential organs, such as the lung and kidney, and most glands, and is the net result of two tissue behaviors: branch point initiation and elongation. Each branched organ has a distinct architecture customized to its physiological function, but how patterning occurs in these ramified tubular structures is a fundamental problem of development. Here, we use quantitative 3D morphometrics, time-lapse imaging, manipulation of ex vivo cultured mouse embryonic organs and mice deficient in the planar cell polarity component Vangl2 to address this question in the developing mammary gland. Our results show that the embryonic epithelial trees are highly complex in topology owing to the flexible use of two distinct modes of branch point initiation: lateral branching and tip bifurcation. This non-stereotypy was contrasted by the remarkably constant average branch frequency, indicating a ductal growth invariant, yet stochastic, propensity to branch. The probability of branching was malleable and could be tuned by manipulating the Fgf10 and Tgfβ1 pathways. Finally, our in vivo data and ex vivo time-lapse imaging suggest the involvement of tissue rearrangements in mammary branch elongation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jyoti P Satta
- Institute of Biotechnology, Helsinki Institute of Life Science, University of Helsinki, Helsinki 00014, Finland
| | - Riitta Lindström
- Institute of Biotechnology, Helsinki Institute of Life Science, University of Helsinki, Helsinki 00014, Finland
| | - Satu-Marja Myllymäki
- Institute of Biotechnology, Helsinki Institute of Life Science, University of Helsinki, Helsinki 00014, Finland
| | - Qiang Lan
- Institute of Biotechnology, Helsinki Institute of Life Science, University of Helsinki, Helsinki 00014, Finland
| | - Ewelina Trela
- Institute of Biotechnology, Helsinki Institute of Life Science, University of Helsinki, Helsinki 00014, Finland
| | | | - Beata Kaczyńska
- Institute of Biotechnology, Helsinki Institute of Life Science, University of Helsinki, Helsinki 00014, Finland
| | - Maria Voutilainen
- Institute of Biotechnology, Helsinki Institute of Life Science, University of Helsinki, Helsinki 00014, Finland
| | - Satu Kuure
- GM-unit, Laboratory Animal Center, Helsinki Institute of Life Science, University of Helsinki, Helsinki 00014, Finland
- Stem Cells and Metabolism Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki 00014, Finland
| | - Seppo J Vainio
- Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Oulu, Oulu 90014, Finland
- Kvantum Institute, Infotech Oulu, University of Oulu, Oulu 90014, Finland
| | - Marja L Mikkola
- Institute of Biotechnology, Helsinki Institute of Life Science, University of Helsinki, Helsinki 00014, Finland
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15
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Zaniker EJ, Hashim PH, Gauthier S, Ankrum JA, Campo H, Duncan FE. Three-Dimensionally Printed Agarose Micromold Supports Scaffold-Free Mouse Ex Vivo Follicle Growth, Ovulation, and Luteinization. Bioengineering (Basel) 2024; 11:719. [PMID: 39061801 PMCID: PMC11274170 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering11070719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2024] [Revised: 07/08/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Ex vivo follicle growth is an essential tool, enabling interrogation of folliculogenesis, ovulation, and luteinization. Though significant advancements have been made, existing follicle culture strategies can be technically challenging and laborious. In this study, we advanced the field through development of a custom agarose micromold, which enables scaffold-free follicle culture. We established an accessible and economical manufacturing method using 3D printing and silicone molding that generates biocompatible hydrogel molds without the risk of cytotoxicity from leachates. Each mold supports simultaneous culture of multiple multilayer secondary follicles in a single focal plane, allowing for constant timelapse monitoring and automated analysis. Mouse follicles cultured using this novel system exhibit significantly improved growth and ovulation outcomes with comparable survival, oocyte maturation, and hormone production profiles as established three-dimensional encapsulated in vitro follicle growth (eIVFG) systems. Additionally, follicles recapitulated aspects of in vivo ovulation physiology with respect to their architecture and spatial polarization, which has not been observed in eIVFG systems. This system offers simplicity, scalability, integration with morphokinetic analyses of follicle growth and ovulation, and compatibility with existing microphysiological platforms. This culture strategy has implications for fundamental follicle biology, fertility preservation strategies, reproductive toxicology, and contraceptive drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily J. Zaniker
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; (E.J.Z.); (P.H.H.); (S.G.)
| | - Prianka H. Hashim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; (E.J.Z.); (P.H.H.); (S.G.)
| | - Samuel Gauthier
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; (E.J.Z.); (P.H.H.); (S.G.)
| | - James A. Ankrum
- Roy J. Carver Department of Biomedical Engineering, Pappajohn Biomedical Institute, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52245, USA;
| | - Hannes Campo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; (E.J.Z.); (P.H.H.); (S.G.)
| | - Francesca E. Duncan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; (E.J.Z.); (P.H.H.); (S.G.)
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16
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Jansson M, Lindberg J, Rask G, Svensson J, Billing O, Nazemroaya A, Berglund A, Wärnberg F, Sund M. Stromal Type I Collagen in Breast Cancer: Correlation to Prognostic Biomarkers and Prediction of Chemotherapy Response. Clin Breast Cancer 2024; 24:e360-e369.e4. [PMID: 38485557 DOI: 10.1016/j.clbc.2024.02.015] [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: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 12/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Fibrillar collagens accumulate in the breast cancer stroma and appear as poorly defined spiculated masses in mammography imaging. The prognostic value of tissue type I collagen remains elusive in treatment-naïve and chemotherapy-treated breast cancer patients. Here, type I collagen mRNA and protein expression were analysed in 2 large independent breast cancer cohorts. Levels were related to clinicopathological parameters, prognostic biomarkers, and outcome. METHOD COL1A1 mRNA expression was analysed in 2509 patients with breast cancer obtained from the cBioPortal database. Type I collagen protein expression was studied by immunohistochemistry in 1395 women diagnosed with early invasive breast cancer. RESULTS Low COL1A1 mRNA and protein levels correlated with poor prognosis features, such as hormone receptor negativity, high histological grade, triple-negative subtype, node positivity, and tumour size. In unadjusted analysis, high stromal type I collagen protein expression was associated with improved overall survival (OS) (HR = 0.78, 95% CI = 0.61-0.99, p = .043) and trended towards improved breast cancer-specific survival (BCSS) (HR = 0.65, 95% CI = 0.42-1.01, P = 0.053), although these findings were lost after adjustment for other clinical variables. In unadjusted analysis, high expression of type I collagen was associated with better OS (HR = 0.70, 95% CI = 0.55-0.90, P = .006) and BCSS (HR = 0.55, 95% CI = 0.34-0.88, P = .014) among patients not receiving chemotherapy. Strikingly, the opposite was observed among patients receiving chemotherapy. There, high expression of type I collagen was instead associated with worse OS (HR = 1.83, 95% CI = 0.65-5.14, P = .25) and BCSS (HR = 1.72, 95% CI = 0.54-5.50, P = .357). CONCLUSION Low stromal type I collagen mRNA and protein expression are associated with unfavourable tumour characteristics in breast cancer. Stromal type I collagen might predict chemotherapy response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malin Jansson
- Department of Surgery and Perioperative Sciences/Surgery, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden.
| | - Jessica Lindberg
- Department of Surgery and Perioperative Sciences/Surgery, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Gunilla Rask
- Department of Medical Biosciences/Pathology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Johan Svensson
- Department of Surgery and Perioperative Sciences/Surgery, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden; Department of Statistics, Umeå School of Business, Economics and Statistics, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Ola Billing
- Department of Surgery and Perioperative Sciences/Surgery, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | | | - Anette Berglund
- Department of Surgery and Perioperative Sciences/Surgery, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Fredrik Wärnberg
- Department of Surgery, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Malin Sund
- Department of Surgery and Perioperative Sciences/Surgery, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden; Department of Surgery, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
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17
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So CL, Robitaille M, Sadras F, McCullough MH, Milevskiy MJG, Goodhill GJ, Roberts-Thomson SJ, Monteith GR. Cellular geometry and epithelial-mesenchymal plasticity intersect with PIEZO1 in breast cancer cells. Commun Biol 2024; 7:467. [PMID: 38632473 PMCID: PMC11024093 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-024-06163-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Differences in shape can be a distinguishing feature between different cell types, but the shape of a cell can also be dynamic. Changes in cell shape are critical when cancer cells escape from the primary tumor and undergo major morphological changes that allow them to squeeze between endothelial cells, enter the vasculature, and metastasize to other areas of the body. A shift from rounded to spindly cellular geometry is a consequence of epithelial-mesenchymal plasticity, which is also associated with changes in gene expression, increased invasiveness, and therapeutic resistance. However, the consequences and functional impacts of cell shape changes and the mechanisms through which they occur are still poorly understood. Here, we demonstrate that altering the morphology of a cell produces a remodeling of calcium influx via the ion channel PIEZO1 and identify PIEZO1 as an inducer of features of epithelial-to-mesenchymal plasticity. Combining automated epifluorescence microscopy and a genetically encoded calcium indicator, we demonstrate that activation of the PIEZO1 force channel with the PIEZO1 agonist, YODA 1, induces features of epithelial-to-mesenchymal plasticity in breast cancer cells. These findings suggest that PIEZO1 is a critical point of convergence between shape-induced changes in cellular signaling and epithelial-mesenchymal plasticity in breast cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Choon Leng So
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, QLD, 4102, Australia
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Mélanie Robitaille
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, QLD, 4102, Australia
| | - Francisco Sadras
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, QLD, 4102, Australia
| | - Michael H McCullough
- Queensland Brain Institute and School of Mathematics and Physics, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia
- Eccles Institute of Neuroscience, John Curtin School of Medical Research, and School of Computing, ANU College of Engineering and Computer Science, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, 2600, Australia
| | - Michael J G Milevskiy
- ACRF Cancer Biology and Stem Cells Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC, 3052, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 2010, Australia
| | - Geoffrey J Goodhill
- Queensland Brain Institute and School of Mathematics and Physics, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia
- Departments of Developmental Biology and Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | | | - Gregory R Monteith
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, QLD, 4102, Australia.
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18
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Ripamonti U, Duarte R. Mechanistic insights into the spontaneous induction of bone formation. BIOMATERIALS ADVANCES 2024; 158:213795. [PMID: 38335762 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioadv.2024.213795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
The grand discovery of morphogens, or "form-generating substances", revealed that tissue morphogenesis is initiated by soluble molecular signals or morphogens primarily belonging to the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) supergene family. The regenerative potential of bone rests on its extracellular matrix, which is the repository of several morphogens that tightly control cellular differentiating pathways, cellular matrix deposition and remodeling. Alluringly, the matrix also contains specific factors transferred from the heterotopic implanted bone matrices initiating "Tissue Induction", as provocatively described in Nature in 1945. Later, it was found that selected genes and gene products of the TGF-β supergene family singly, synchronously, and synergistically mastermind the induction of bone formation. This review describes the phenomenon of the spontaneous and/or intrinsic osteoinductivity of calcium phosphate-based biomaterials and titanium' constructs without the applications of soluble osteogenetic molecular signals. The review shows the spontaneous induction of bone formation initiated by Ca++ activating stem cell differentiation and up-regulation of bone morphogenetic proteins genes. Expressed gene products are embedded into the concavities of the calcium phosphate-based substrata, initiating bone formation as a secondary response. Pure titanium's substrata do not initiate the spontaneous induction of bone formation. The induction of bone is solely dependent on acid, alkali and heat treatments to form apatite layers on the treated titanium surfaces. The induction of bone formation is achieved exclusively by apatite-based biomaterial surfaces. The hydroxyapatite, in its various forms and geometric configurations, finely tunes the induction of bone formation in heterotopic sites. Cellular differentiation by fine-tuning of the cellular molecular machinery is initiated by specific geometric modularity of the hydroxyapatite substrata that push cellular buttons that start the ripple-like cascade of "Tissue Induction", generating newly formed ossicles with bone marrow in heterotopic extraskeletal sites. The highlighted mechanistic insights into the spontaneous induction of bone formation are a research platform invocating selected molecular elements to construct the induction of bone formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ugo Ripamonti
- Bone Research Laboratory, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.
| | - Raquel Duarte
- Bone Research Laboratory, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa; Internal Medicine Research Laboratory, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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19
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Koskinen LM, Nieminen L, Arjonen A, Guzmán C, Peurla M, Peuhu E. Spatial Engineering of Mammary Epithelial Cell Cultures with 3D Bioprinting Reveals Growth Control by Branch Point Proximity. J Mammary Gland Biol Neoplasia 2024; 29:5. [PMID: 38416267 PMCID: PMC10902034 DOI: 10.1007/s10911-024-09557-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
The three-dimensional (3D) structure of the ductal epithelium and the surrounding extracellular matrix (ECM) are integral aspects of the breast tissue, and they have important roles during mammary gland development, function and malignancy. However, the architecture of the branched mammary epithelial network is poorly recapitulated in the current in vitro models. 3D bioprinting is an emerging approach to improve tissue-mimicry in cell culture. Here, we developed and optimized a protocol for 3D bioprinting of normal and cancerous mammary epithelial cells into a branched Y-shape to study the role of cell positioning in the regulation of cell proliferation and invasion. Non-cancerous cells formed continuous 3D cell networks with several organotypic features, whereas the ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) -like cancer cells exhibited aberrant basal polarization and defective formation of the basement membrane (BM). Quantitative analysis over time demonstrated that both normal and cancerous cells proliferate more at the branch tips compared to the trunk region of the 3D-bioprinted cultures, and particularly at the tip further away from the branch point. The location-specific rate of proliferation was independent of TGFβ signaling but invasion of the DCIS-like breast cancer cells was reduced upon the inhibition of TGFβ. Thus, our data demonstrate that the 3D-bioprinted cells can sense their position in the branched network of cells and proliferate at the tips, thus recapitulating this feature of mammary epithelial branching morphogenesis. In all, our results demonstrate the capacity of the developed 3D bioprinting method for quantitative analysis of the relationships between tissue structure and cell behavior in breast morphogenesis and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leena M Koskinen
- Institute of Biomedicine, Cancer Laboratory FICAN West, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
- Turku Bioscience Centre, University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University, Turku, Finland
| | | | | | | | - Markus Peurla
- Institute of Biomedicine, Cancer Laboratory FICAN West, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
- Turku Bioscience Centre, University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University, Turku, Finland
| | - Emilia Peuhu
- Institute of Biomedicine, Cancer Laboratory FICAN West, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.
- Turku Bioscience Centre, University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University, Turku, Finland.
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20
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Hirashima T, Matsuda M. ERK-mediated curvature feedback regulates branching morphogenesis in lung epithelial tissue. Curr Biol 2024; 34:683-696.e6. [PMID: 38228149 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2023.12.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
Intricate branching patterns emerge in internal organs due to the recurrent occurrence of simple deformations in epithelial tissues. During murine lung development, epithelial cells in distal tips of the single tube require fibroblast growth factor (FGF) signals emanating from their surrounding mesenchyme to form repetitive tip bifurcations. However, it remains unknown how the cells employ FGF signaling to convert their behaviors to achieve the recursive branching processes. Here, we show a mechano-chemical regulatory system underlying lung branching morphogenesis, orchestrated by extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) as a downstream driver of FGF signaling. We found that tissue-scale curvature regulated ERK activity in the lung epithelium using two-photon live cell imaging and mechanical perturbations. ERK activation occurs specifically in epithelial tissues exhibiting positive curvature, regardless of whether the change in curvature was attributable to morphogenesis or perturbations. Moreover, ERK activation accelerates actin polymerization preferentially at the apical side of cells, mechanically contributing to the extension of the apical membrane, culminating in a reduction of epithelial tissue curvature. These results indicate the existence of a negative feedback loop between tissue curvature and ERK activity that transcends spatial scales. Our mathematical model confirms that this regulatory mechanism is sufficient to generate the recursive branching processes. Taken together, we propose that ERK orchestrates a curvature feedback loop pivotal to the self-organized patterning of tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsuyoshi Hirashima
- Mechanobiology Institute, National University of Singapore, 5A Engineering Drive 1, Singapore 117411, Singapore; Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 2 Medical Drive MD9, Singapore 117593, Singapore; The Hakubi Center, Kyoto University, Yoshida-honmachi, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan; Graduate School of Biostudies, Kyoto University, Yoshidakone-cho, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan; Japan Science and Technology Agency, PRESTO, 4-1-8 Honchō, Kawaguchi 332-0012, Japan.
| | - Michiyuki Matsuda
- Graduate School of Biostudies, Kyoto University, Yoshidakone-cho, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan; Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Yoshidakone-cho, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan; Institute for Integrated Cell-Material Sciences, Kyoto University, Yoshida-honmachi, Kyoto 606-8317, Japan
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21
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Viola JM, Porter CM, Gupta A, Alibekova-Long M, Prahl LS, Hughes AJ. High-Throughput Assembly of Compositionally Controlled 3D Cell Communities for Developmental Engineering. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2805:31-50. [PMID: 39008173 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3854-5_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
Cell patterning for 3D culture has increased our understanding of how cells interact among themselves and with their environment during tissue morphogenesis. Building cell communities from the bottom up with size and compositional control is invaluable for studies of morphological transitions. Here, we detail Photolithographic DNA-programmed Assembly of Cells (pDPAC). pDPAC uses a photoactive polyacrylamide gel substrate to capture single-stranded DNA on a 2D surface in large-scale, highly resolved patterns using the photomask technology. Cells are then functionalized with a complementary DNA strand, enabling cells to be temporarily adhered to distinct locations only where their complementary strand is patterned. These temporary 2D patterns can be transferred to extracellular matrix hydrogels for 3D culture of cells in biomimetic microenvironments. Use of a polyacrylamide substrate has advantages, including a simpler photolithography workflow, lower non-specific cell adhesion, and lower stiction to ECM hydrogels during release of patterned hydrogels. The protocol is equally applicable to large (cm)-scale patterns and repetitive arrays of smaller-scale cell interaction or migration experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- John M Viola
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Catherine M Porter
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Ananya Gupta
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | - Louis S Prahl
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Alex J Hughes
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
- Department of Cell & Developmental Biology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
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22
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Mederacke M, Conrad L, Doumpas N, Vetter R, Iber D. Geometric effects position renal vesicles during kidney development. Cell Rep 2023; 42:113526. [PMID: 38060445 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.113526] [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: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023] Open
Abstract
During kidney development, reciprocal signaling between the epithelium and the mesenchyme coordinates nephrogenesis with branching morphogenesis of the collecting ducts. The mechanism that positions the renal vesicles, and thus the nephrons, relative to the branching ureteric buds has remained elusive. By combining computational modeling and experiments, we show that geometric effects concentrate the key regulator, WNT9b, at the junctions between parent and daughter branches where renal vesicles emerge, even when uniformly expressed in the ureteric epithelium. This curvature effect might be a general paradigm to create non-uniform signaling in development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malte Mederacke
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zürich, Schanzenstrasse 44, 4056 Basel, Switzerland; Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, Mattenstrasse 26, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Lisa Conrad
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zürich, Schanzenstrasse 44, 4056 Basel, Switzerland; Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, Mattenstrasse 26, 4058 Basel, Switzerland; Department for BioMedical Research (DBMR), University of Bern, Murtenstrasse 35, 3008 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Nikolaos Doumpas
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zürich, Schanzenstrasse 44, 4056 Basel, Switzerland; Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, Mattenstrasse 26, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Roman Vetter
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zürich, Schanzenstrasse 44, 4056 Basel, Switzerland; Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, Mattenstrasse 26, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Dagmar Iber
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zürich, Schanzenstrasse 44, 4056 Basel, Switzerland; Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, Mattenstrasse 26, 4058 Basel, Switzerland.
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23
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Chen S, Wang L, Yang L, Rana AS, He C. Engineering Biomimetic Microenvironment for Organoid. Macromol Biosci 2023; 23:e2300223. [PMID: 37531622 DOI: 10.1002/mabi.202300223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023]
Abstract
Organoid is an emerging frontier technology in the field of life science, in which pluripotent stem cells or tissue-derived differentiated/progenitor cells form 3D structures according to their multi-directional differentiation potential and self-assembly ability. Nowadays, although various types of organoids are widely investigated, their construction is still complicated in operation, uncertain in yield, and poor in reproducibility for the structure and function of native organs. Constructing a biomimetic microenvironment for stem cell proliferation and differentiation in vitro is recognized as a key to driving this field. This review reviews the recent development of engineered biomimetic microenvironments for organoids. First, the composition of the matrix for organoid culture is summarized. Then, strategies for engineering the microenvironment from biophysical, biochemical, and cellular perspectives are discussed in detail. Subsequently, the newly developed monitoring technologies are also reviewed. Finally, a brief conclusion and outlook are presented for the inspiration of future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuo Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Nano-Biomaterials and Regenerative Medicine, College of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, China
| | - Lijuan Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Nano-Biomaterials and Regenerative Medicine, College of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, China
| | - Lei Yang
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Nano-Biomaterials and Regenerative Medicine, College of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, China
| | - Abdus Samad Rana
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Nano-Biomaterials and Regenerative Medicine, College of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, China
| | - Chuanglong He
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Nano-Biomaterials and Regenerative Medicine, College of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, China
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24
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Martínez G, Begines B, Pajuelo E, Vázquez J, Rodriguez-Albelo LM, Cofini D, Torres Y, Alcudia A. Versatile Biodegradable Poly(acrylic acid)-Based Hydrogels Infiltrated in Porous Titanium Implants to Improve the Biofunctional Performance. Biomacromolecules 2023; 24:4743-4758. [PMID: 37677155 PMCID: PMC10646965 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.3c00532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2023] [Revised: 08/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
This research work proposes a synergistic approach to improve implants' performance through the use of porous Ti substrates to reduce the mismatch between Young's modulus of Ti (around 110 GPa) and the cortical bone (20-25 GPa), and the application of a biodegradable, acrylic acid-based polymeric coating to reduce bacterial adhesion and proliferation, and to enhance osseointegration. First, porous commercially pure Ti substrates with different porosities and pore size distributions were fabricated by using space-holder techniques to obtain substrates with improved tribomechanical behavior. On the other hand, a new diacrylate cross-linker containing a reduction-sensitive disulfide bond was synthesized to prepare biodegradable poly(acrylic acid)-based hydrogels with 1, 2, and 4% cross-linker. Finally, after the required characterization, both strategies were implemented, and the combination of 4% cross-linked poly(acrylic acid)-based hydrogel infiltrated in 30 vol % porosity, 100-200 μm average pore size, was revealed as an outstanding choice for enhancing implant performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guillermo Martínez
- Departamento
de Química Orgánica y Farmacéutica, Facultad
de Farmacia, Universidad de Sevilla, Seville 41012, Spain
| | - Belén Begines
- Departamento
de Química Orgánica y Farmacéutica, Facultad
de Farmacia, Universidad de Sevilla, Seville 41012, Spain
| | - Eloisa Pajuelo
- Departamento
de Microbiología y Parasitología, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad de Sevilla, Seville 41012, Spain
| | - Juan Vázquez
- Departamento
de Química Orgánica, Facultad de Química, Universidad de Sevilla, Seville 41004, Spain
| | - Luisa Marleny Rodriguez-Albelo
- Departamento
de Ingeniería y Ciencia de los Materiales y del Transporte,
Escuela Politécnica Superior, Universidad
de Sevilla, Seville 41011, Spain
| | - Davide Cofini
- Departamento
de Química Orgánica y Farmacéutica, Facultad
de Farmacia, Universidad de Sevilla, Seville 41012, Spain
| | - Yadir Torres
- Departamento
de Ingeniería y Ciencia de los Materiales y del Transporte,
Escuela Politécnica Superior, Universidad
de Sevilla, Seville 41011, Spain
| | - Ana Alcudia
- Departamento
de Química Orgánica y Farmacéutica, Facultad
de Farmacia, Universidad de Sevilla, Seville 41012, Spain
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25
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van Loo B, Ten Den SA, Araújo-Gomes N, de Jong V, Snabel RR, Schot M, Rivera-Arbeláez JM, Veenstra GJC, Passier R, Kamperman T, Leijten J. Mass production of lumenogenic human embryoid bodies and functional cardiospheres using in-air-generated microcapsules. Nat Commun 2023; 14:6685. [PMID: 37865642 PMCID: PMC10590445 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-42297-0] [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: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Organoids are engineered 3D miniature tissues that are defined by their organ-like structures, which drive a fundamental understanding of human development. However, current organoid generation methods are associated with low production throughputs and poor control over size and function including due to organoid merging, which limits their clinical and industrial translation. Here, we present a microfluidic platform for the mass production of lumenogenic embryoid bodies and functional cardiospheres. Specifically, we apply triple-jet in-air microfluidics for the ultra-high-throughput generation of hollow, thin-shelled, hydrogel microcapsules that can act as spheroid-forming bioreactors in a cytocompatible, oil-free, surfactant-free, and size-controlled manner. Uniquely, we show that microcapsules generated by in-air microfluidics provide a lumenogenic microenvironment with near 100% efficient cavitation of spheroids. We demonstrate that upon chemical stimulation, human pluripotent stem cell-derived spheroids undergo cardiomyogenic differentiation, effectively resulting in the mass production of homogeneous and functional cardiospheres that are responsive to external electrical stimulation. These findings drive clinical and industrial adaption of stem cell technology in tissue engineering and drug testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bas van Loo
- University of Twente, TechMed Centre, Department of Developmental BioEngineering, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Simone A Ten Den
- University of Twente, TechMed Centre, Department of Applied Stem Cell Technology, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Nuno Araújo-Gomes
- University of Twente, TechMed Centre, Department of Developmental BioEngineering, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Vincent de Jong
- University of Twente, TechMed Centre, Department of Developmental BioEngineering, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Rebecca R Snabel
- Radboud University, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, Department of Molecular Developmental Biology, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Maik Schot
- University of Twente, TechMed Centre, Department of Developmental BioEngineering, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - José M Rivera-Arbeláez
- University of Twente, TechMed Centre, Department of Applied Stem Cell Technology, Enschede, The Netherlands
- University of Twente, TechMed Centre, Max Planck Center for Complex Fluid Dynamics, BIOS Lab-on-a-Chip Group, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Gert Jan C Veenstra
- Radboud University, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, Department of Molecular Developmental Biology, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Robert Passier
- University of Twente, TechMed Centre, Department of Applied Stem Cell Technology, Enschede, The Netherlands
- Leiden University Medical Centre, Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Tom Kamperman
- University of Twente, TechMed Centre, Department of Developmental BioEngineering, Enschede, The Netherlands
- IamFluidics B.V., De Veldmaat 17, 7522NM, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Jeroen Leijten
- University of Twente, TechMed Centre, Department of Developmental BioEngineering, Enschede, The Netherlands.
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26
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White MJ, Singh T, Wang E, Smith Q, Kutys ML. 'Chip'-ing away at morphogenesis - application of organ-on-chip technologies to study tissue morphogenesis. J Cell Sci 2023; 136:jcs261130. [PMID: 37795818 PMCID: PMC10565497 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.261130] [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] [Indexed: 10/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Emergent cell behaviors that drive tissue morphogenesis are the integrated product of instructions from gene regulatory networks, mechanics and signals from the local tissue microenvironment. How these discrete inputs intersect to coordinate diverse morphogenic events is a critical area of interest. Organ-on-chip technology has revolutionized the ability to construct and manipulate miniaturized human tissues with organotypic three-dimensional architectures in vitro. Applications of organ-on-chip platforms have increasingly transitioned from proof-of-concept tissue engineering to discovery biology, furthering our understanding of molecular and mechanical mechanisms that operate across biological scales to orchestrate tissue morphogenesis. Here, we provide the biological framework to harness organ-on-chip systems to study tissue morphogenesis, and we highlight recent examples where organ-on-chips and associated microphysiological systems have enabled new mechanistic insight in diverse morphogenic settings. We further highlight the use of organ-on-chip platforms as emerging test beds for cell and developmental biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J. White
- Department of Cell and Tissue Biology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Tania Singh
- Department of Cell and Tissue Biology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
- UCSF-UC Berkeley Joint Program in Bioengineering, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Eric Wang
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Quinton Smith
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
- Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Matthew L. Kutys
- Department of Cell and Tissue Biology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
- UCSF-UC Berkeley Joint Program in Bioengineering, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
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27
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Lin X, Sun L, Lu M, Zhao Y. Biomimetic Gland Models with Engineered Stratagems. RESEARCH (WASHINGTON, D.C.) 2023; 6:0232. [PMID: 37719047 PMCID: PMC10503994 DOI: 10.34133/research.0232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
As extensively distributed tissues throughout the human body, glands play a critical role in various physiological processes. Therefore, the construction of biomimetic gland models in vitro has aroused great interest in multiple disciplines. In the biological field, the researchers focus on optimizing the cell sources and culture techniques to reconstruct the specific structures and functions of glands, such as the emergence of organoid technology. From the perspective of biomedical engineering, the generation of biomimetic gland models depends on the combination of engineered scaffolds and microfluidics, to mimic the in vivo environment of glandular tissues. These engineered stratagems endowed gland models with more biomimetic features, as well as a wide range of application prospects. In this review, we first describe the biomimetic strategies for constructing different in vitro gland models, focusing on the role of microfluidics in promoting the structure and function development of biomimetic glands. After summarizing several common in vitro models of endocrine and exocrine glands, the applications of gland models in disease modelling, drug screening, regenerative medicine, and personalized medicine are enumerated. Finally, we conclude the current challenges and our perspective of these biomimetic gland models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Lin
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering,
Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China
- Oujiang Laboratory (Zhejiang Lab for Regenerative Medicine, Vision and Brain Health),
Wenzhou Institute, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325001, China
| | - Lingyu Sun
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering,
Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China
| | - Minhui Lu
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering,
Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China
| | - Yuanjin Zhao
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering,
Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China
- Oujiang Laboratory (Zhejiang Lab for Regenerative Medicine, Vision and Brain Health),
Wenzhou Institute, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325001, China
- Southeast University Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518071, China
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28
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Callaway MK, Dos Santos CO. Gestational Breast Cancer - a Review of Outcomes, Pathophysiology, and Model Systems. J Mammary Gland Biol Neoplasia 2023; 28:16. [PMID: 37450228 PMCID: PMC10348943 DOI: 10.1007/s10911-023-09546-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The onset of pregnancy marks the start of offspring development, and represents the key physiological event that induces re-organization and specialization of breast tissue. Such drastic tissue remodeling has also been linked to epithelial cell transformation and the establishment of breast cancer (BC). While patient outcomes for BC overall continue to improve across subtypes, prognosis remains dismal for patients with gestational breast cancer (GBC) and post-partum breast cancer (PPBC), as pregnancy and lactation pose additional complications and barriers to several gold standard clinical approaches. Moreover, delayed diagnosis and treatment, coupled with the aggressive time-scale in which GBC metastasizes, inevitably contributes to the higher incidence of disease recurrence and patient mortality. Therefore, there is an urgent and evident need to better understand the factors contributing to the establishment and spreading of BC during pregnancy. In this review, we provide a literature-based overview of the diagnostics and treatments available to patients with BC more broadly, and highlight the treatment deficit patients face due to gestational status. Further, we review the current understanding of the molecular and cellular mechanisms driving GBC, and discuss recent advances in model systems that may support the identification of targetable approaches to block BC development and dissemination during pregnancy. Our goal is to provide an updated perspective on GBC, and to inform critical areas needing further exploration to improve disease outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Camila O Dos Santos
- , Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cancer Center, Cold Spring Harbor, NY, USA.
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29
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Srivastava V, Hu JL, Garbe JC, Veytsman B, Shalabi SF, Yllanes D, Thomson M, LaBarge MA, Huber G, Gartner ZJ. Configurational entropy is an intrinsic driver of tissue structural heterogeneity. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.07.01.546933. [PMID: 37425903 PMCID: PMC10327153 DOI: 10.1101/2023.07.01.546933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/11/2023]
Abstract
Tissues comprise ordered arrangements of cells that can be surprisingly disordered in their details. How the properties of single cells and their microenvironment contribute to the balance between order and disorder at the tissue-scale remains poorly understood. Here, we address this question using the self-organization of human mammary organoids as a model. We find that organoids behave like a dynamic structural ensemble at the steady state. We apply a maximum entropy formalism to derive the ensemble distribution from three measurable parameters - the degeneracy of structural states, interfacial energy, and tissue activity (the energy associated with positional fluctuations). We link these parameters with the molecular and microenvironmental factors that control them to precisely engineer the ensemble across multiple conditions. Our analysis reveals that the entropy associated with structural degeneracy sets a theoretical limit to tissue order and provides new insight for tissue engineering, development, and our understanding of disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasudha Srivastava
- Dept. of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Jennifer L. Hu
- UC Berkeley-UC San Francisco Graduate Program in Bioengineering, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | - James C. Garbe
- Dept. of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
- Life Sciences Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | - Boris Veytsman
- Chan Zuckerberg Initiative, Redwood City, CA 94963, USA
- School of Systems Biology, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA 22030, USA
| | | | - David Yllanes
- Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
- Instituto de Biocomputaciòn y Fìsica de Sistemas Complejos (BIFI), 50018 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Matt Thomson
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Mark A. LaBarge
- Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Greg Huber
- Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Zev J. Gartner
- Dept. of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
- Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
- Center for Cellular Construction, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
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30
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Jeong DP, Montes D, Chang HC, Hanjaya-Putra D. Fractal dimension to characterize interactions between blood and lymphatic endothelial cells. Phys Biol 2023; 20:045004. [PMID: 37224822 PMCID: PMC10258918 DOI: 10.1088/1478-3975/acd898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Spatial patterning of different cell types is crucial for tissue engineering and is characterized by the formation of sharp boundary between segregated groups of cells of different lineages. The cell-cell boundary layers, depending on the relative adhesion forces, can result in kinks in the border, similar to fingering patterns between two viscous partially miscible fluids which can be characterized by its fractal dimension. This suggests that mathematical models used to analyze the fingering patterns can be applied to cell migration data as a metric for intercellular adhesion forces. In this study, we develop a novel computational analysis method to characterize the interactions between blood endothelial cells (BECs) and lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs), which form segregated vasculature by recognizing each other through podoplanin. We observed indiscriminate mixing with LEC-LEC and BEC-BEC pairs and a sharp boundary between LEC-BEC pair, and fingering-like patterns with pseudo-LEC-BEC pairs. We found that the box counting method yields fractal dimension between 1 for sharp boundaries and 1.3 for indiscriminate mixing, and intermediate values for fingering-like boundaries. We further verify that these results are due to differential affinity by performing random walk simulations with differential attraction to nearby cells and generate similar migration pattern, confirming that higher differential attraction between different cell types result in lower fractal dimensions. We estimate the characteristic velocity and interfacial tension for our simulated and experimental data to show that the fractal dimension negatively correlates with capillary number (Ca), further indicating that the mathematical models used to study viscous fingering pattern can be used to characterize cell-cell mixing. Taken together, these results indicate that the fractal analysis of segregation boundaries can be used as a simple metric to estimate relative cell-cell adhesion forces between different cell types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donghyun Paul Jeong
- Bioengineering Graduate Program, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, United States of America
- Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, United States of America
| | - Daniel Montes
- Bioengineering Graduate Program, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, United States of America
- Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, United States of America
| | - Hsueh-Chia Chang
- Bioengineering Graduate Program, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, United States of America
- Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, United States of America
- Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, United States of America
- Harper Cancer Research Institute, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, United States of America
- Center for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, United States of America
| | - Donny Hanjaya-Putra
- Bioengineering Graduate Program, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, United States of America
- Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, United States of America
- Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, United States of America
- Harper Cancer Research Institute, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, United States of America
- Center for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, United States of America
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31
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Cassel de Camps C, Mok S, Ashby E, Li C, Lépine P, Durcan TM, Moraes C. Compressive molding of engineered tissues via thermoresponsive hydrogel devices. LAB ON A CHIP 2023; 23:2057-2067. [PMID: 36916609 DOI: 10.1039/d3lc00007a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Biofabrication of tissues requires sourcing appropriate combinations of cells, and then arranging those cells into a functionally-useful construct. Recently, organoids with diverse cell populations have shown great promise as building blocks from which to assemble more complex structures. However, organoids typically adopt spherical or uncontrolled morphologies, which intrinsically limit the tissue structures that can be produced using this bioassembly technique. Here, we develop microfabricated smart hydrogel platforms in thermoresponsive poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) to compressively mold microtissues such as spheroids or organoids into customized forms, on demand. These Compressive Hydrogel Molders (CHyMs) compact at cell culture temperatures to force loaded tissues into a new shape, and then expand to release the tissues for downstream applications. As a first demonstration, breast cancer spheroids were biaxially compacted in cylindrical cavities, and uniaxially compacted in rectangular ones. Spheroid shape changes persisted after the tissues were released from the CHyMs. We then demonstrate long-term molding of spherical brain organoids in ring-shaped CHyMs over one week. Fused bridges formed only when brain organoids were encased in Matrigel, and the resulting ring-shaped organoids expressed tissue markers that correspond with expected differentiation profiles. These results demonstrate that tissues differentiate appropriately even during long-term molding in a CHyM. This platform hence provides a new tool to shape pre-made tissues as desired, via temporary compression and release, allowing an exploration of alternative organoid geometries as building blocks for bioassembly applications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Stephanie Mok
- Department of Chemical Engineering, McGill University, Montréal, H3A 0C5 QC, Canada
| | - Emily Ashby
- Department of Chemical Engineering, McGill University, Montréal, H3A 0C5 QC, Canada
| | - Chen Li
- Department of Chemical Engineering, McGill University, Montréal, H3A 0C5 QC, Canada
| | - Paula Lépine
- Early Drug Discovery Unit (EDDU), Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital, McGill University, 3801 University Street, Montréal, H3A 2B4 QC, Canada
| | - Thomas M Durcan
- Early Drug Discovery Unit (EDDU), Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital, McGill University, 3801 University Street, Montréal, H3A 2B4 QC, Canada
| | - Christopher Moraes
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, McGill University, Montréal, H3A 2B4 QC, Canada.
- Department of Chemical Engineering, McGill University, Montréal, H3A 0C5 QC, Canada
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Institute, McGill University, Montréal, H3A 1A3 QC, Canada
- Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montréal, H4A 3J1, QC, Canada
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32
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Treacy NJ, Clerkin S, Davis JL, Kennedy C, Miller AF, Saiani A, Wychowaniec JK, Brougham DF, Crean J. Growth and differentiation of human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)-derived kidney organoids using fully synthetic peptide hydrogels. Bioact Mater 2023; 21:142-156. [PMID: 36093324 PMCID: PMC9420433 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2022.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Revised: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)-derived kidney organoids have prospective applications ranging from basic disease modelling to personalised medicine. However, there remains a necessity to refine the biophysical and biochemical parameters that govern kidney organoid formation. Differentiation within fully-controllable and physiologically relevant 3D growth environments will be critical to improving organoid reproducibility and maturation. Here, we matured hiPSC-derived kidney organoids within fully synthetic self-assembling peptide hydrogels (SAPHs) of variable stiffness (storage modulus, G'). The resulting organoids contained complex structures comparable to those differentiated within the animal-derived matrix, Matrigel. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) was then used to compare organoids matured within SAPHs to those grown within Matrigel or at the air-liquid interface. A total of 13,179 cells were analysed, revealing 14 distinct clusters. Organoid compositional analysis revealed a larger proportion of nephron cell types within Transwell-derived organoids, while SAPH-derived organoids were enriched for stromal-associated cell populations. Notably, differentiation within a higher G' SAPH generated podocytes with more mature gene expression profiles. Additionally, maturation within a 3D microenvironment significantly reduced the derivation of off-target cell types, which are a known limitation of current kidney organoid protocols. This work demonstrates the utility of synthetic peptide-based hydrogels with a defined stiffness, as a minimally complex microenvironment for the selected differentiation of kidney organoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niall J Treacy
- Diabetes Complications Research Centre, University College Dublin (UCD) Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research and Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland.,UCD School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Shane Clerkin
- Diabetes Complications Research Centre, University College Dublin (UCD) Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research and Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland.,UCD School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Jessica L Davis
- Diabetes Complications Research Centre, University College Dublin (UCD) Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research and Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland.,UCD School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Ciarán Kennedy
- Diabetes Complications Research Centre, University College Dublin (UCD) Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research and Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland.,UCD School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Aline F Miller
- Department of Materials & Manchester Institute of Biotechnology (MIB), School of Natural Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, The University of Manchester, UK
| | - Alberto Saiani
- Department of Materials & Manchester Institute of Biotechnology (MIB), School of Natural Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, The University of Manchester, UK
| | - Jacek K Wychowaniec
- UCD School of Chemistry, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Dermot F Brougham
- UCD School of Chemistry, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - John Crean
- Diabetes Complications Research Centre, University College Dublin (UCD) Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research and Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland.,UCD School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
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33
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Trentesaux C, Yamada T, Klein OD, Lim WA. Harnessing synthetic biology to engineer organoids and tissues. Cell Stem Cell 2023; 30:10-19. [PMID: 36608674 PMCID: PMC11684341 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2022.12.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The development of an organism depends on intrinsic genetic programs of progenitor cells and their spatiotemporally complex extrinsic environment. Ex vivo generation of organoids from progenitor cells provides a platform for recapitulating and exploring development. Current approaches rely largely on soluble morphogens or engineered biomaterials to manipulate the physical environment, but the emerging field of synthetic biology provides a powerful toolbox to genetically manipulate cell communication, adhesion, and even cell fate. Applying these modular tools to organoids should lead to a deeper understanding of developmental principles, improved organoid models, and an enhanced capability to design tissues for regenerative purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Coralie Trentesaux
- Department of Orofacial Sciences and Program in Craniofacial Biology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Toshimichi Yamada
- Cell Design Institute, Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Ophir D Klein
- Department of Orofacial Sciences and Program in Craniofacial Biology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA.
| | - Wendell A Lim
- Cell Design Institute, Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA.
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34
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Schot M, Araújo-Gomes N, van Loo B, Kamperman T, Leijten J. Scalable fabrication, compartmentalization and applications of living microtissues. Bioact Mater 2023; 19:392-405. [PMID: 35574053 PMCID: PMC9062422 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2022.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Living microtissues are used in a multitude of applications as they more closely resemble native tissue physiology, as compared to 2D cultures. Microtissues are typically composed of a combination of cells and materials in varying combinations, which are dictated by the applications' design requirements. Their applications range wide, from fundamental biological research such as differentiation studies to industrial applications such as cruelty-free meat production. However, their translation to industrial and clinical settings has been hindered due to the lack of scalability of microtissue production techniques. Continuous microfluidic processes provide an opportunity to overcome this limitation as they offer higher throughput production rates as compared to traditional batch techniques, while maintaining reproducible control over microtissue composition and size. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of the current approaches to engineer microtissues with a focus on the advantages of, and need for, the use of continuous processes to produce microtissues in large quantities. Finally, an outlook is provided that outlines the required developments to enable large-scale microtissue fabrication using continuous processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maik Schot
- Department of Developmental Bioengineering, Faculty of Science and Technology, Technical Medical Centre, University of Twente, Drienerlolaan 5, 7522NB, Enschede, the Netherlands
| | - Nuno Araújo-Gomes
- Department of Developmental Bioengineering, Faculty of Science and Technology, Technical Medical Centre, University of Twente, Drienerlolaan 5, 7522NB, Enschede, the Netherlands
| | - Bas van Loo
- Department of Developmental Bioengineering, Faculty of Science and Technology, Technical Medical Centre, University of Twente, Drienerlolaan 5, 7522NB, Enschede, the Netherlands
| | - Tom Kamperman
- Department of Developmental Bioengineering, Faculty of Science and Technology, Technical Medical Centre, University of Twente, Drienerlolaan 5, 7522NB, Enschede, the Netherlands
| | - Jeroen Leijten
- Department of Developmental Bioengineering, Faculty of Science and Technology, Technical Medical Centre, University of Twente, Drienerlolaan 5, 7522NB, Enschede, the Netherlands
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35
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Neumann NM, Kim DM, Huebner RJ, Ewald AJ. Collective cell migration is spatiotemporally regulated during mammary epithelial bifurcation. J Cell Sci 2023; 136:jcs259275. [PMID: 36602106 PMCID: PMC10112963 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.259275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Branched epithelial networks are generated through an iterative process of elongation and bifurcation. We sought to understand bifurcation of the mammary epithelium. To visualize this process, we utilized three-dimensional (3D) organotypic culture and time-lapse confocal microscopy. We tracked cell migration during bifurcation and observed local reductions in cell speed at the nascent bifurcation cleft. This effect was proximity dependent, as individual cells approaching the cleft reduced speed, whereas cells exiting the cleft increased speed. As the cells slow down, they orient both migration and protrusions towards the nascent cleft, while cells in the adjacent branches orient towards the elongating tips. We next tested the hypothesis that TGF-β signaling controls mammary branching by regulating cell migration. We first validated that addition of TGF-β1 (TGFB1) protein increased cleft number, whereas inhibition of TGF-β signaling reduced cleft number. Then, consistent with our hypothesis, we observed that pharmacological inhibition of TGF-β1 signaling acutely decreased epithelial migration speed. Our data suggest a model for mammary epithelial bifurcation in which TGF-β signaling regulates cell migration to determine the local sites of bifurcation and the global pattern of the tubular network.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neil M. Neumann
- Department of Cell Biology and Center for Cell Dynamics, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Daniel M. Kim
- Department of Cell Biology and Center for Cell Dynamics, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Robert J. Huebner
- Department of Cell Biology and Center for Cell Dynamics, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Andrew J. Ewald
- Department of Cell Biology and Center for Cell Dynamics, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
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36
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Jo Y, Hwang DG, Kim M, Yong U, Jang J. Bioprinting-assisted tissue assembly to generate organ substitutes at scale. Trends Biotechnol 2023; 41:93-105. [PMID: 35907704 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2022.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2022] [Revised: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Various external cues can guide cellular behavior and maturation during developmental processes. Recent studies on bioprinting-assisted tissue engineering have considered this a practical, versatile, and flexible way to provide external cues to developing engineered tissues. An ensemble of multiple external cues can improve the speed and capability of morphogenesis. In this review, we discuss how bioprinting and biomaterials provide multiple guidance to generate micro-sized building blocks with specific shapes and also highlight their applications in tissue assembly toward volumetric tissue and organ generation. Furthermore, we discuss our perspectives on the future translation of bioprinting technologies integrated with artificial intelligence (AI) and robot-assisted apparatus to promote automation, standardization, and clinical translation of bioprinted tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeonggwon Jo
- School of Interdisciplinary Bioscience and Bioengineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong Gyu Hwang
- School of Interdisciplinary Bioscience and Bioengineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang, Republic of Korea
| | - Myungji Kim
- School of Interdisciplinary Bioscience and Bioengineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang, Republic of Korea
| | - Uijung Yong
- Department of Convergence IT Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang, Republic of Korea
| | - Jinah Jang
- School of Interdisciplinary Bioscience and Bioengineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang, Republic of Korea; Department of Convergence IT Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang, Republic of Korea; Department of Mechanical Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang, Republic of Korea; Institute for Convergence Research and Education in Advanced Technology, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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37
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Chakraborty J, Chawla S, Ghosh S. Developmental biology-inspired tissue engineering by combining organoids and 3D bioprinting. Curr Opin Biotechnol 2022; 78:102832. [PMID: 36332345 DOI: 10.1016/j.copbio.2022.102832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Revised: 10/01/2022] [Accepted: 10/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Very few tissue-engineered constructs could achieve the desired results in human clinical trials. The main reason is their inability to recapitulate the cellular conformation, biological, and mechanical functions of the native tissue. Here, we highlight the future avenues of tissue regeneration combining developmental biology, organoids, and 3D bioprinting. A deep mechanistic insight into the embryonic level and recapitulating them would be the most promising strategy in next-generation tissue engineering. Rather than focusing on the adult tissue features, the latest developmental re-engineering strategies replicate the developmental phases of tissue development. Integrating developmental re-engineering with 3D bioprinting can regulate several signaling pathways. This would further help to fabricate mini-organ constructs for transplantation or in vitro screening of drugs using an organ-on-a-chip platform.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juhi Chakraborty
- Department of Textile and Fibre Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, New Delhi 110016, India
| | - Shikha Chawla
- Department of Textile and Fibre Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, New Delhi 110016, India
| | - Sourabh Ghosh
- Department of Textile and Fibre Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, New Delhi 110016, India.
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38
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Stanton JE, Grabrucker AM. The use of organoids in food research. Curr Opin Food Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cofs.2022.100977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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39
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Ellison ST, Duraivel S, Subramaniam V, Hugosson F, Yu B, Lebowitz JJ, Khoshbouei H, Lele TP, Martindale MQ, Angelini TE. Cellular micromasonry: biofabrication with single cell precision. SOFT MATTER 2022; 18:8554-8560. [PMID: 36350122 DOI: 10.1039/d2sm01013e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
In many tissues, cell type varies over single-cell length-scales, creating detailed heterogeneities fundamental to physiological function. To gain understanding of the relationship between tissue function and detailed structure, and eventually to engineer structurally and physiologically accurate tissues, we need the ability to assemble 3D cellular structures having the level of detail found in living tissue. Here we introduce a method of 3D cell assembly having a level of precision finer than the single-cell scale. With this method we create detailed cellular patterns, demonstrating that cell type can be varied over the single-cell scale and showing function after their assembly.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Tori Ellison
- Department of Material Sciences and Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611, USA.
| | - Senthilkumar Duraivel
- Department of Material Sciences and Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611, USA.
| | - Vignesh Subramaniam
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611, USA
| | - Fredrik Hugosson
- The Whitney Laboratory for Marine Bioscience, St. Augustine, Florida 32080, USA
| | - Bo Yu
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611, USA
| | - Joseph J Lebowitz
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611, USA
| | - Habibeh Khoshbouei
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611, USA
| | - Tanmay P Lele
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843, USA
- Artie McFerrin Department of Chemical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843, USA
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Texas A&M University, Houston, Texas 77843, USA
| | - Mark Q Martindale
- The Whitney Laboratory for Marine Bioscience, St. Augustine, Florida 32080, USA
| | - Thomas E Angelini
- Department of Material Sciences and Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611, USA.
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611, USA
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611, USA
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40
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Jeon EY, Sorrells L, Abaci HE. Biomaterials and bioengineering to guide tissue morphogenesis in epithelial organoids. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:1038277. [PMID: 36466337 PMCID: PMC9712807 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.1038277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 09/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Organoids are self-organized and miniatured in vitro models of organs and recapitulate key aspects of organ architecture and function, leading to rapid progress in understanding tissue development and disease. However, current organoid culture systems lack accurate spatiotemporal control over biochemical and physical cues that occur during in vivo organogenesis and fail to recapitulate the complexity of organ development, causing the generation of immature organoids partially resembling tissues in vivo. Recent advances in biomaterials and microengineering technologies paved the way for better recapitulation of organ morphogenesis and the generation of anatomically-relevant organoids. For this, understanding the native ECM components and organization of a target organ is essential in providing rational design of extracellular scaffolds that support organoid growth and maturation similarly to the in vivo microenvironment. In this review, we focus on epithelial organoids that resemble the spatial distinct structure and function of organs lined with epithelial cells including intestine, skin, lung, liver, and kidney. We first discuss the ECM diversity and organization found in epithelial organs and provide an overview of developing hydrogel systems for epithelial organoid culture emphasizing their key parameters to determine cell fates. Finally, we review the recent advances in tissue engineering and microfabrication technologies including bioprinting and microfluidics to overcome the limitations of traditional organoid cultures. The integration of engineering methodologies with the organoid systems provides a novel approach for instructing organoid morphogenesis via precise spatiotemporal modulation of bioactive cues and the establishment of high-throughput screening platforms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eun Young Jeon
- Dermatology Department, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, United States
| | - Leila Sorrells
- Biomedical Engineering Department, Columbia University, New York, New York, United States
| | - Hasan Erbil Abaci
- Dermatology Department, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, United States
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41
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Paramore SV, Goodwin K, Nelson CM. How to build an epithelial tree. Phys Biol 2022; 19. [DOI: 10.1088/1478-3975/ac9e38] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Nature has evolved a variety of mechanisms to build epithelial trees of diverse architectures within different organs and across species. Epithelial trees are elaborated through branch initiation and extension, and their morphogenesis ends with branch termination. Each of these steps of the branching process can be driven by the actions of epithelial cells themselves (epithelial-intrinsic mechanisms) or by the cells of their surrounding tissues (epithelial-extrinsic mechanisms). Here, we describe examples of how these mechanisms drive each stage of branching morphogenesis, drawing primarily from studies of the lung, kidney, salivary gland, mammary gland, and pancreas, all of which contain epithelial trees that form through collective cell behaviors. Much of our understanding of epithelial branching comes from experiments using mice, but we also include examples here from avian and reptilian models. Throughout, we highlight how distinct mechanisms are employed in different organs and species to build epithelial trees. We also highlight how similar morphogenetic motifs are used to carry out conserved developmental programs or repurposed to support novel ones. Understanding the unique strategies used by nature to build branched epithelia from across the tree of life can help to inspire creative solutions to problems in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
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42
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Nakanishi J, Yamamoto S. Static and photoresponsive dynamic materials to dissect physical regulation of cellular functions. Biomater Sci 2022; 10:6116-6134. [PMID: 36111810 DOI: 10.1039/d2bm00789d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Recent progress in mechanobiology has highlighted the importance of physical cues, such as mechanics, geometry (size), topography, and porosity, in the determination of cellular activities and fates, in addition to biochemical factors derived from their surroundings. In this review, we will first provide an overview of how such fundamental insights are identified by synchronizing the hierarchical nature of biological systems and static materials with tunable physical cues. Thereafter, we will explain the photoresponsive dynamic biomaterials to dissect the spatiotemporal aspects of the dependence of biological functions on physical cues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Nakanishi
- Research Center for Functional Materials, National Institute for Materials Science, Japan. .,Graduate School of Advanced Science and Engineering, Waseda University, Japan.,Graduate School of Advanced Engineering, Tokyo University of Science, Japan
| | - Shota Yamamoto
- Research Center for Functional Materials, National Institute for Materials Science, Japan. .,Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Japan
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43
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Günther C, Winner B, Neurath MF, Stappenbeck TS. Organoids in gastrointestinal diseases: from experimental models to clinical translation. Gut 2022; 71:1892-1908. [PMID: 35636923 PMCID: PMC9380493 DOI: 10.1136/gutjnl-2021-326560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
We are entering an era of medicine where increasingly sophisticated data will be obtained from patients to determine proper diagnosis, predict outcomes and direct therapies. We predict that the most valuable data will be produced by systems that are highly dynamic in both time and space. Three-dimensional (3D) organoids are poised to be such a highly valuable system for a variety of gastrointestinal (GI) diseases. In the lab, organoids have emerged as powerful systems to model molecular and cellular processes orchestrating natural and pathophysiological human tissue formation in remarkable detail. Preclinical studies have impressively demonstrated that these organs-in-a-dish can be used to model immunological, neoplastic, metabolic or infectious GI disorders by taking advantage of patient-derived material. Technological breakthroughs now allow to study cellular communication and molecular mechanisms of interorgan cross-talk in health and disease including communication along for example, the gut-brain axis or gut-liver axis. Despite considerable success in culturing classical 3D organoids from various parts of the GI tract, some challenges remain to develop these systems to best help patients. Novel platforms such as organ-on-a-chip, engineered biomimetic systems including engineered organoids, micromanufacturing, bioprinting and enhanced rigour and reproducibility will open improved avenues for tissue engineering, as well as regenerative and personalised medicine. This review will highlight some of the established methods and also some exciting novel perspectives on organoids in the fields of gastroenterology. At present, this field is poised to move forward and impact many currently intractable GI diseases in the form of novel diagnostics and therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Günther
- Department of Medicine 1, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Beate Winner
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
- Center of Rare Diseases Erlangen (ZSEER), University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Markus F Neurath
- Department of Medicine 1, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Thaddeus S Stappenbeck
- Department of Inflammation and Immunity, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
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44
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Kalot R, Mhanna R, Talhouk R. Organ-on-a-chip platforms as novel advancements for studying heterogeneity, metastasis, and drug efficacy in breast cancer. Pharmacol Ther 2022; 237:108156. [PMID: 35150784 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2022.108156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Revised: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Breast cancer has the highest cancer incidence rate in women worldwide. Therapies for breast cancer have shown high success rates, yet many cases of recurrence and drug resistance are still reported. Developing innovative strategies for studying breast cancer may improve therapeutic outcomes of the disease by providing better insight into the associated molecular mechanisms. A novel advancement in breast cancer research is the utilization of organ-on-a-chip (OOAC) technology to establish in vitro physiologically relevant breast cancer biomimetic models. This emerging technology combines microfluidics and tissue culturing methods to establish organ-specific micro fabricated culture models. Here, we shed light on the advantages of OOAC platforms over conventional in vivo and in vitro models in terms of mimicking tissue heterogeneity, disease progression, and facilitating pharmacological drug testing with a focus on models of the mammary gland in both normal and breast cancer states. By highlighting the various designs and applications of the breast-on-a-chip platforms, we show that the latter propose means to facilitate breast cancer-related studies and provide an efficient approach for therapeutic drug screening in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita Kalot
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon
| | - Rami Mhanna
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Maroun Semaan Faculty of Engineering and Architecture, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon
| | - Rabih Talhouk
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon.
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45
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Iyer NR, Ashton RS. Bioengineering the human spinal cord. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:942742. [PMID: 36092702 PMCID: PMC9458954 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.942742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Three dimensional, self-assembled organoids that recapitulate key developmental and organizational events during embryogenesis have proven transformative for the study of human central nervous system (CNS) development, evolution, and disease pathology. Brain organoids have predominated the field, but human pluripotent stem cell (hPSC)-derived models of the spinal cord are on the rise. This has required piecing together the complex interactions between rostrocaudal patterning, which specifies axial diversity, and dorsoventral patterning, which establishes locomotor and somatosensory phenotypes. Here, we review how recent insights into neurodevelopmental biology have driven advancements in spinal organoid research, generating experimental models that have the potential to deepen our understanding of neural circuit development, central pattern generation (CPG), and neurodegenerative disease along the body axis. In addition, we discuss the application of bioengineering strategies to drive spinal tissue morphogenesis in vitro, current limitations, and future perspectives on these emerging model systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nisha R. Iyer
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, MA, United States
- Wisconsin Institute for Discovery, University of Wisconsin—Madison, Madison, WI, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin—Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Randolph S. Ashton
- Wisconsin Institute for Discovery, University of Wisconsin—Madison, Madison, WI, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin—Madison, Madison, WI, United States
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Tomasin R, Bruni-Cardoso A. The role of cellular quiescence in cancer - beyond a quiet passenger. J Cell Sci 2022; 135:276213. [PMID: 35929545 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.259676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Quiescence, the ability to temporarily halt proliferation, is a conserved process that initially allowed survival of unicellular organisms during inhospitable times and later contributed to the rise of multicellular organisms, becoming key for cell differentiation, size control and tissue homeostasis. In this Review, we explore the concept of cancer as a disease that involves abnormal regulation of cellular quiescence at every step, from malignant transformation to metastatic outgrowth. Indeed, disrupted quiescence regulation can be linked to each of the so-called 'hallmarks of cancer'. As we argue here, quiescence induction contributes to immune evasion and resistance against cell death. In contrast, loss of quiescence underlies sustained proliferative signalling, evasion of growth suppressors, pro-tumorigenic inflammation, angiogenesis and genomic instability. Finally, both acquisition and loss of quiescence are involved in replicative immortality, metastasis and deregulated cellular energetics. We believe that a viewpoint that considers quiescence abnormalities that occur during oncogenesis might change the way we ask fundamental questions and the experimental approaches we take, potentially contributing to novel discoveries that might help to alter the course of cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebeka Tomasin
- e-signal Lab, Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Chemistry, University of São Paulo, Ave Prof. Lineu Prestes 748, São Paulo, SP 05508-000, Brazil
| | - Alexandre Bruni-Cardoso
- e-signal Lab, Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Chemistry, University of São Paulo, Ave Prof. Lineu Prestes 748, São Paulo, SP 05508-000, Brazil
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Jones CFE, Di Cio S, Connelly JT, Gautrot JE. Design of an Integrated Microvascularized Human Skin-on-a-Chip Tissue Equivalent Model. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:915702. [PMID: 35928950 PMCID: PMC9343775 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.915702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Tissue-engineered skin constructs have been under development since the 1980s as a replacement for human skin tissues and animal models for therapeutics and cosmetic testing. These have evolved from simple single-cell assays to increasingly complex models with integrated dermal equivalents and multiple cell types including a dermis, epidermis, and vasculature. The development of micro-engineered platforms and biomaterials has enabled scientists to better recreate and capture the tissue microenvironment in vitro, including the vascularization of tissue models and their integration into microfluidic chips. However, to date, microvascularized human skin equivalents in a microfluidic context have not been reported. Here, we present the design of a novel skin-on-a-chip model integrating human-derived primary and immortalized cells in a full-thickness skin equivalent. The model is housed in a microfluidic device, in which a microvasculature was previously established. We characterize the impact of our chip design on the quality of the microvascular networks formed and evidence that this enables the formation of more homogenous networks. We developed a methodology to harvest tissues from embedded chips, after 14 days of culture, and characterize the impact of culture conditions and vascularization (including with pericyte co-cultures) on the stratification of the epidermis in the resulting skin equivalents. Our results indicate that vascularization enhances stratification and differentiation (thickness, architecture, and expression of terminal differentiation markers such as involucrin and transglutaminase 1), allowing the formation of more mature skin equivalents in microfluidic chips. The skin-on-a-chip tissue equivalents developed, because of their realistic microvasculature, may find applications for testing efficacy and safety of therapeutics delivered systemically, in a human context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian F. E. Jones
- Institute of Bioengineering, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
- School of Engineering and Materials Science, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Stefania Di Cio
- Institute of Bioengineering, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
- School of Engineering and Materials Science, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - John T. Connelly
- The Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Julien E. Gautrot
- Institute of Bioengineering, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
- School of Engineering and Materials Science, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
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48
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Guo CL. Self-Sustained Regulation or Self-Perpetuating Dysregulation: ROS-dependent HIF-YAP-Notch Signaling as a Double-Edged Sword on Stem Cell Physiology and Tumorigenesis. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:862791. [PMID: 35774228 PMCID: PMC9237464 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.862791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Organ development, homeostasis, and repair often rely on bidirectional, self-organized cell-niche interactions, through which cells select cell fate, such as stem cell self-renewal and differentiation. The niche contains multiplexed chemical and mechanical factors. How cells interpret niche structural information such as the 3D topology of organs and integrate with multiplexed mechano-chemical signals is an open and active research field. Among all the niche factors, reactive oxygen species (ROS) have recently gained growing interest. Once considered harmful, ROS are now recognized as an important niche factor in the regulation of tissue mechanics and topology through, for example, the HIF-YAP-Notch signaling pathways. These pathways are not only involved in the regulation of stem cell physiology but also associated with inflammation, neurological disorder, aging, tumorigenesis, and the regulation of the immune checkpoint molecule PD-L1. Positive feedback circuits have been identified in the interplay of ROS and HIF-YAP-Notch signaling, leading to the possibility that under aberrant conditions, self-organized, ROS-dependent physiological regulations can be switched to self-perpetuating dysregulation, making ROS a double-edged sword at the interface of stem cell physiology and tumorigenesis. In this review, we discuss the recent findings on how ROS and tissue mechanics affect YAP-HIF-Notch-PD-L1 signaling, hoping that the knowledge can be used to design strategies for stem cell-based and ROS-targeting therapy and tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chin-Lin Guo
- Institute of Physics, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
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Sahu S, Albaugh ME, Martin BK, Patel NL, Riffle L, Mackem S, Kalen JD, Sharan SK. Growth factor dependency in mammary organoids regulates ductal morphogenesis during organ regeneration. Sci Rep 2022; 12:7200. [PMID: 35504930 PMCID: PMC9065107 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-11224-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Signaling pathways play an important role in cell fate determination in stem cells and regulate a plethora of developmental programs, the dysregulation of which can lead to human diseases. Growth factors (GFs) regulating these signaling pathways therefore play a major role in the plasticity of adult stem cells and modulate cellular differentiation and tissue repair outcomes. We consider murine mammary organoid generation from self-organizing adult stem cells as a tool to understand the role of GFs in organ development and tissue regeneration. The astounding capacity of mammary organoids to regenerate a gland in vivo after transplantation makes it a convenient model to study organ regeneration. We show organoids grown in suspension with minimal concentration of Matrigel and in the presence of a cocktail of GFs regulating EGF and FGF signaling can recapitulate key epithelial layers of adult mammary gland. We establish a toolkit utilizing in vivo whole animal imaging and ultrasound imaging combined with ex vivo approaches including tissue clearing and confocal imaging to study organ regeneration and ductal morphogenesis. Although the organoid structures were severely impaired in vitro when cultured in the presence of individual GFs, ex vivo imaging revealed ductal branching after transplantation albeit with significantly reduced number of terminal end buds. We anticipate these imaging modalities will open novel avenues to study mammary gland morphogenesis in vivo and can be beneficial for monitoring mammary tumor progression in pre-clinical and clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sounak Sahu
- Mouse Cancer Genetics Program, Centre for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bldg- 560, Room 32-33, 1050 Boyles Street, Frederick, MD, 21702, USA
| | - Mary E Albaugh
- Mouse Cancer Genetics Program, Centre for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bldg- 560, Room 32-33, 1050 Boyles Street, Frederick, MD, 21702, USA
- Leidos Biomedical Sciences, Inc., Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD, 21702, USA
| | - Betty K Martin
- Mouse Cancer Genetics Program, Centre for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bldg- 560, Room 32-33, 1050 Boyles Street, Frederick, MD, 21702, USA
- Leidos Biomedical Sciences, Inc., Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD, 21702, USA
| | - Nimit L Patel
- Leidos Biomedical Sciences, Inc., Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD, 21702, USA
- Small Animal Imaging Program, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD, 21702, USA
| | - Lisa Riffle
- Leidos Biomedical Sciences, Inc., Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD, 21702, USA
- Small Animal Imaging Program, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD, 21702, USA
| | - Susan Mackem
- Cancer and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Centre for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD, 21702, USA
| | - Joseph D Kalen
- Leidos Biomedical Sciences, Inc., Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD, 21702, USA
- Small Animal Imaging Program, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD, 21702, USA
| | - Shyam K Sharan
- Mouse Cancer Genetics Program, Centre for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bldg- 560, Room 32-33, 1050 Boyles Street, Frederick, MD, 21702, USA.
- Centre for Advanced Preclinical Research, National Cancer Institute, Bldg- 560, Room 32-33, 1050 Boyles Street, Frederick, MD, 21702, USA.
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50
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Che H, Selig M, Rolauffs B. Micro-patterned cell populations as advanced pharmaceutical drugs with precise functional control. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2022; 184:114169. [PMID: 35217114 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2022.114169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Human cells are both advanced pharmaceutical drugs and 'drug deliverers'. However, functional control prior to or after cell implantation remains challenging. Micro-patterning cells through geometrically defined adhesion sites allows controlling morphogenesis, polarity, cellular mechanics, proliferation, migration, differentiation, stemness, cell-cell interactions, collective cell behavior, and likely immuno-modulatory properties. Consequently, generating micro-patterned therapeutic cells is a promising idea that has not yet been realized and few if any steps have been undertaken in this direction. This review highlights potential therapeutic applications, summarizes comprehensively the many cell functions that have been successfully controlled through micro-patterning, details the established micro-pattern designs, introduces the available fabrication technologies to the non-specialized reader, and suggests a quality evaluation score. Such a broad review is not yet available but would facilitate the manufacturing of therapeutically patterned cell populations using micro-patterned cell-instructive biomaterials for improved functional control as drug delivery systems in the context of cells as pharmaceutical products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Che
- G.E.R.N. Research Center for Tissue Replacement, Regeneration & Neogenesis, Department of Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center-Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, 79085 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany; Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Center, Suzhou Municipal Hospital (North District), Nanjing Medical University Affiliated Suzhou Hospital, Suzhou 215006, China
| | - Mischa Selig
- G.E.R.N. Research Center for Tissue Replacement, Regeneration & Neogenesis, Department of Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center-Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, 79085 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany; Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Schaenzlestrasse 1, D-79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Bernd Rolauffs
- G.E.R.N. Research Center for Tissue Replacement, Regeneration & Neogenesis, Department of Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center-Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, 79085 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany.
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