1
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Jazwinska DE, Cho Y, Zervantonakis IK. Enhancing PKA-dependent mesothelial barrier integrity reduces ovarian cancer transmesothelial migration via inhibition of contractility. iScience 2024; 27:109950. [PMID: 38812549 PMCID: PMC11134878 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.109950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer-mesothelial cell interactions are critical for multiple solid tumors to colonize the surface of peritoneal organs. Understanding mechanisms of mesothelial barrier dysfunction that impair its protective function is critical for discovering mesothelial-targeted therapies to combat metastatic spread. Here, we utilized a live cell imaging-based assay to elucidate the dynamics of ovarian cancer spheroid transmesothelial migration and mesothelial-generated mechanical forces. Treatment of mesothelial cells with the adenylyl cyclase agonist forskolin strengthens cell-cell junctions, reduces actomyosin fibers, contractility-driven matrix displacements, and cancer spheroid transmigration in a protein kinase A (PKA)-dependent mechanism. We also show that inhibition of the cytoskeletal regulator Rho-associated kinase in mesothelial cells phenocopies the anti-metastatic effects of forskolin. Conversely, upregulation of contractility in mesothelial cells disrupts cell-cell junctions and increases the clearance rates of ovarian cancer spheroids. Our findings demonstrate the critical role of mesothelial cell contractility and mesothelial barrier integrity in regulating metastatic dissemination within the peritoneal microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorota E. Jazwinska
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | - Youngbin Cho
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | - Ioannis K. Zervantonakis
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
- McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15219, USA
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA
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2
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Zhang M, Zhao F, Zhu Y, Brouwer LA, Van der Veen H, Burgess JK, Harmsen MC. Physical Properties and Biochemical Composition of Extracellular Matrix-Derived Hydrogels Dictate Vascularization Potential in an Organ-Dependent Fashion. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024; 16:29930-29945. [PMID: 38819955 PMCID: PMC11181272 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.4c05864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2024] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024]
Abstract
The inherent extracellular matrix (ECM) originating from a specific tissue impacts the process of vascularization, specifically vascular network formation (VNF) orchestrated by endothelial cells (ECs). The specific contribution toward these processes of ECM from highly disparate organs such as the skin and lungs remains a relatively unexplored area. In this study, we compared VNF and ECM remodeling mediated by microvascular ECs within gel, lung, and combinations thereof (hybrid) ECM hydrogels. Irrespective of the EC source, the skin-derived ECM hydrogel exhibited a higher propensity to drive and support VNF compared to both lung and hybrid ECM hydrogels. There were distinct disparities in the physical properties of the three types of hydrogels, including viscoelastic properties and complex architectural configurations, including fiber diameter, pore area, and numbers among the fibers. The hybrid ECM hydrogel properties were unique and not the sum of the component ECM parts. Furthermore, cellular ECM remodeling responses varied with skin ECM hydrogels promoting matrix metalloproteinase 1 (MMP1) secretion, while hybrid ECM hydrogels exhibited increased MMP9, fibronectin, and collagen IV deposition. Principal component analysis (PCA) indicated that the influence of a gel's mechanical properties on VNF was stronger than the biochemical composition. These data indicate that the organ-specific properties of an ECM dictate its capacity to support VNF, while intriguingly showing that ECs respond to more than just the biochemical constituents of an ECM. The study suggests potential applications in regenerative medicine by strategically selecting ECM origin or combinations to manipulate vascularization, offering promising prospects for enhancing wound healing through pro-regenerative interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Zhang
- Department
of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1 (EA11), Groningen 9713 GZ, The Netherlands
- University
Medical Center Groningen, W.J. Kolff Institute for Biomedical Engineering
and Materials Science-FB41, University of
Groningen, A. Deusinglaan 1, Groningen 9713 AV, The Netherlands
| | - Fenghua Zhao
- University
Medical Center Groningen, W.J. Kolff Institute for Biomedical Engineering
and Materials Science-FB41, University of
Groningen, A. Deusinglaan 1, Groningen 9713 AV, The Netherlands
- University
Medical Center Groningen, Department of Biomedical Engineering-FB40, University of Groningen, A. Deusinglaan 1, Groningen 9713 AV, The Netherlands
| | - Yuxuan Zhu
- Department
of Computer Science, Rensselaer Polytechnic
Institute, Troy, New York 12180, United States
| | - Linda A. Brouwer
- Department
of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1 (EA11), Groningen 9713 GZ, The Netherlands
| | - Hasse Van der Veen
- Department
of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1 (EA11), Groningen 9713 GZ, The Netherlands
| | - Janette K. Burgess
- Department
of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1 (EA11), Groningen 9713 GZ, The Netherlands
- University
Medical Center Groningen, W.J. Kolff Institute for Biomedical Engineering
and Materials Science-FB41, University of
Groningen, A. Deusinglaan 1, Groningen 9713 AV, The Netherlands
- University
Medical Center Groningen, Groningen Research Institute for Asthma
and COPD (GRIAC), University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1 (EA11), Groningen 9713 AV, The Netherlands
| | - Martin C. Harmsen
- Department
of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1 (EA11), Groningen 9713 GZ, The Netherlands
- University
Medical Center Groningen, W.J. Kolff Institute for Biomedical Engineering
and Materials Science-FB41, University of
Groningen, A. Deusinglaan 1, Groningen 9713 AV, The Netherlands
- University
Medical Center Groningen, Groningen Research Institute for Asthma
and COPD (GRIAC), University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1 (EA11), Groningen 9713 AV, The Netherlands
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3
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Suh K, Cho YK, Breinyn IB, Cohen DJ. E-cadherin biomaterials reprogram collective cell migration and cell cycling by forcing homeostatic conditions. Cell Rep 2024; 43:113743. [PMID: 38358889 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.113743] [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: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Cells attach to the world through either cell-extracellular matrix adhesion or cell-cell adhesion, and traditional biomaterials imitate the matrix for integrin-based adhesion. However, materials incorporating cadherin proteins that mimic cell-cell adhesion offer an alternative to program cell behavior and integrate into living tissues. We investigated how cadherin substrates affect collective cell migration and cell cycling in epithelia. Our approach involved biomaterials with matrix proteins on one-half and E-cadherin proteins on the other, forming a "Janus" interface across which we grew a single sheet of cells. Tissue regions over the matrix side exhibited normal collective dynamics, but an abrupt behavior shift occurred across the Janus boundary onto the E-cadherin side, where cells attached to the substrate via E-cadherin adhesions, resulting in stalled migration and slowing of the cell cycle. E-cadherin surfaces disrupted long-range mechanical coordination and nearly doubled the length of the G0/G1 phase of the cell cycle, linked to the lack of integrin focal adhesions on the E-cadherin surface.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Suh
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA
| | - Youn Kyoung Cho
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA
| | - Isaac B Breinyn
- Department of Quantitative and Computational Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA
| | - Daniel J Cohen
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA.
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4
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Keshavanarayana P, Spill F. A mechanical modeling framework to study endothelial permeability. Biophys J 2024; 123:334-348. [PMID: 38169215 PMCID: PMC10870174 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2023.12.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
The inner lining of blood vessels, the endothelium, is made up of endothelial cells. Vascular endothelial (VE)-cadherin protein forms a bond with VE-cadherin from neighboring cells to determine the size of gaps between the cells and thereby regulate the size of particles that can cross the endothelium. Chemical cues such as thrombin, along with mechanical properties of the cell and extracellular matrix are known to affect the permeability of endothelial cells. Abnormal permeability is found in patients suffering from diseases including cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and COVID-19. Even though some of the regulatory mechanisms affecting endothelial permeability are well studied, details of how several mechanical and chemical stimuli acting simultaneously affect endothelial permeability are not yet understood. In this article, we present a continuum-level mechanical modeling framework to study the highly dynamic nature of the VE-cadherin bonds. Taking inspiration from the catch-slip behavior that VE-cadherin complexes are known to exhibit, we model the VE-cadherin homophilic bond as cohesive contact with damage following a traction-separation law. We explicitly model the actin cytoskeleton and substrate to study their role in permeability. Our studies show that mechanochemical coupling is necessary to simulate the influence of the mechanical properties of the substrate on permeability. Simulations show that shear between cells is responsible for the variation in permeability between bicellular and tricellular junctions, explaining the phenotypic differences observed in experiments. An increase in the magnitude of traction force due to disturbed flow that endothelial cells experience results in increased permeability, and it is found that the effect is higher on stiffer extracellular matrix. Finally, we show that the cylindrical monolayer exhibits higher permeability than the planar monolayer under unconstrained cases. Thus, we present a contact mechanics-based mechanochemical model to investigate the variation in the permeability of endothelial monolayer due to multiple loads acting simultaneously.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Fabian Spill
- School of Mathematics, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom.
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5
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Noerr PS, Zamora Alvarado JE, Golnaraghi F, McCloskey KE, Gopinathan A, Dasbiswas K. Optimal mechanical interactions direct multicellular network formation on elastic substrates. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2301555120. [PMID: 37910554 PMCID: PMC10636364 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2301555120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Cells self-organize into functional, ordered structures during tissue morphogenesis, a process that is evocative of colloidal self-assembly into engineered soft materials. Understanding how intercellular mechanical interactions may drive the formation of ordered and functional multicellular structures is important in developmental biology and tissue engineering. Here, by combining an agent-based model for contractile cells on elastic substrates with endothelial cell culture experiments, we show that substrate deformation-mediated mechanical interactions between cells can cluster and align them into branched networks. Motivated by the structure and function of vasculogenic networks, we predict how measures of network connectivity like percolation probability and fractal dimension as well as local morphological features including junctions, branches, and rings depend on cell contractility and density and on substrate elastic properties including stiffness and compressibility. We predict and confirm with experiments that cell network formation is substrate stiffness dependent, being optimal at intermediate stiffness. We also show the agreement between experimental data and predicted cell cluster types by mapping a combined phase diagram in cell density substrate stiffness. Overall, we show that long-range, mechanical interactions provide an optimal and general strategy for multicellular self-organization, leading to more robust and efficient realizations of space-spanning networks than through just local intercellular interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick S. Noerr
- Department of Physics, University of California, Merced, CA95343
| | - Jose E. Zamora Alvarado
- Department of Materials and Biomaterials Science and Engineering, University of California, Merced, CA95343
| | | | - Kara E. McCloskey
- Department of Materials and Biomaterials Science and Engineering, University of California, Merced, CA95343
| | - Ajay Gopinathan
- Department of Physics, University of California, Merced, CA95343
| | - Kinjal Dasbiswas
- Department of Physics, University of California, Merced, CA95343
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6
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Song J, Gerecht S. Hydrogels to Recapture Extracellular Matrix Cues That Regulate Vascularization. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2023; 43:e291-e302. [PMID: 37317849 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.122.318235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The ECM (extracellular matrix) is a 3-dimensional network that supports cellular responses and maintains structural tissue integrity in healthy and pathological conditions. The interactions between ECM and cells trigger signaling cascades that lead to phenotypic changes and structural and compositional turnover of the ECM, which in turn regulates vascular cell behavior. Hydrogel biomaterials are a powerful platform for basic and translational studies and clinical applications due to their high swelling capacity and exceptional versatility in compositions and properties. This review highlights recent developments and uses of engineered natural hydrogel platforms that mimic the ECM and present defined biochemical and mechanical cues for vascularization. Specifically, we focus on modulating vascular cell stimulation and cell-ECM/cell-cell interactions in the microvasculature that are the established biomimetic microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiyeon Song
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC
| | - Sharon Gerecht
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC
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7
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Suh K, Cho YK, Breinyn IB, Cohen DJ. E-cadherin biointerfaces reprogram collective cell migration and cell cycling by forcing homeostatic conditions. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.07.25.550505. [PMID: 37546933 PMCID: PMC10402016 DOI: 10.1101/2023.07.25.550505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
Cells attach to the world around them in two ways-cell:extracellular-matrix adhesion and cell:cell adhesion-and conventional biomaterials are made to resemble the matrix to encourage integrin-based cell adhesion. However, interest is growing for cell-mimetic interfaces that mimic cell-cell interactions using cadherin proteins, as this offers a new way to program cell behavior and design synthetic implants and objects that can integrate directly into living tissues. Here, we explore how these cadherin-based materials affect collective cell behaviors, focusing specifically on collective migration and cell cycle regulation in cm-scale epithelia. We built culture substrates where half of the culture area was functionalized with matrix proteins and the contiguous half was functionalized with E-cadherin proteins, and we grew large epithelia across this 'Janus' interface. Parts of the tissues in contact with the matrix side of the Janus interface exhibited normal collective dynamics, but an abrupt shift in behaviors happened immediately across the Janus boundary onto the E-cadherin side, where cells formed hybrid E-cadherin junctions with the substrate, migration effectively froze in place, and cell-cycling significantly decreased. E-cadherin materials suppressed long-range mechanical correlations in the tissue and mechanical information reflected off the substrate interface. These effects could not be explained by conventional density, shape index, or contact inhibition explanations. E-cadherin surfaces nearly doubled the length of the G0/G1 phase of the cell cycle, which we ultimately connected to the exclusion of matrix focal adhesions induced by the E-cadherin culture surface.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Suh
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA, 08544
| | - Youn Kyoung Cho
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA, 08544
| | - Isaac B Breinyn
- Department of Quantitative and Computational Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA, 08544
| | - Daniel J Cohen
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA, 08544
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8
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Xiao P, Zhang Y, Zeng Y, Yang D, Mo J, Zheng Z, Wang J, Zhang Y, Zhou Z, Zhong X, Yan W. Impaired angiogenesis in ageing: the central role of the extracellular matrix. J Transl Med 2023; 21:457. [PMID: 37434156 PMCID: PMC10334673 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04315-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Each step in angiogenesis is regulated by the extracellular matrix (ECM). Accumulating evidence indicates that ageing-related changes in the ECM driven by cellular senescence lead to a reduction in neovascularisation, reduced microvascular density, and an increased risk of tissue ischaemic injury. These changes can lead to health events that have major negative impacts on quality of life and place a significant financial burden on the healthcare system. Elucidating interactions between the ECM and cells during angiogenesis in the context of ageing is neceary to clarify the mechanisms underlying reduced angiogenesis in older adults. In this review, we summarize ageing-related changes in the composition, structure, and function of the ECM and their relevance for angiogenesis. Then, we explore in detail the mechanisms of interaction between the aged ECM and cells during impaired angiogenesis in the older population for the first time, discussing diseases caused by restricted angiogenesis. We also outline several novel pro-angiogenic therapeutic strategies targeting the ECM that can provide new insights into the choice of appropriate treatments for a variety of age-related diseases. Based on the knowledge gathered from recent reports and journal articles, we provide a better understanding of the mechanisms underlying impaired angiogenesis with age and contribute to the development of effective treatments that will enhance quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Xiao
- Department of Stomatology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Yanli Zhang
- Stomatological Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510280, China
| | - Yuting Zeng
- Department of Stomatology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Dehong Yang
- Department of Orthopedics Spinal Surgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Jiayao Mo
- Department of Stomatology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Ziting Zheng
- Department of Stomatology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Jilei Wang
- Department of Stomatology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Yuxin Zhang
- Department of Stomatology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Zhiyan Zhou
- Department of Stomatology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Xincen Zhong
- Department of Stomatology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Wenjuan Yan
- Department of Stomatology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China.
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9
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Yan L, Dwiggins CW, Moriarty RA, Jung JW, Gupta U, Brandon KD, Stroka KM. Matrix stiffness regulates the tight junction phenotypes and local barrier properties in tricellular regions in an iPSC-derived BBB model. Acta Biomater 2023:S1742-7061(23)00327-6. [PMID: 37302732 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2023.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The blood-brain barrier (BBB) can respond to various mechanical cues such as shear stress and substrate stiffness. In the human brain, the compromised barrier function of the BBB is closely associated with a series of neurological disorders that are often also accompanied by the alteration of brain stiffness. In many types of peripheral vasculature, higher matrix stiffness decreases barrier function of endothelial cells through mechanotransduction pathways that alter cell-cell junction integrity. However, human brain endothelial cells are specialized endothelial cells that largely resist changes in cell morphology and key BBB markers. Therefore, it has remained an open question how matrix stiffness affects barrier integrity in the human BBB. To gain insight into the effects of matrix stiffness on BBB permeability, we differentiated brain microvascular endothelial-like cells from human induced pluripotent stem cells (iBMEC-like cells) and cultured the cells on extracellular matrix-coated hydrogels of varying stiffness. We first detected and quantified the junction presentation of key tight junction (TJ) proteins. Our results show matrix-dependent junction phenotypes in iBMEC-like cells, where cells on softer gels (1 kPa) have significantly lower continuous and total TJ coverages. We also determined that these softer gels also lead to decreased barrier function in a local permeability assay. Furthermore, we found that matrix stiffness regulates the local permeability of iBMEC-like cells through the balance of continuous ZO-1 TJs and no junction regions ZO-1 in tricellular regions. Together, these findings provide valuable insights into the effects of matrix stiffness on TJ phenotypes and local permeability of iBMEC-like cells. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Brain mechanical properties, including stiffness, are particularly sensitive indicators for pathophysiological changes in neural tissue. The compromised function of the blood-brain barrier is closely associated with a series of neurological disorders often accompanied by altered brain stiffness. In this study, we use polymeric biomaterials and provide new evidence that biomaterial stiffness regulates the local permeability in iPSC-derived brain endothelial cells in tricellular regions through the tight junction protein ZO-1. Our findings provide valuable insights into the changes in junction architecture and barrier permeability in response to different substrate stiffnesses. Since BBB dysfunction has been linked to many diseases, understanding the influence of substrate stiffness on junction presentations and barrier permeability could lead to the development of new treatments for diseases associated with BBB dysfunction or drug delivery across BBB systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Yan
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA.
| | - Cole W Dwiggins
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA
| | - Rebecca A Moriarty
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA
| | - Jae W Jung
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA
| | - Udit Gupta
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA
| | - Ken D Brandon
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA
| | - Kimberly M Stroka
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA; Biophysics Program, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA; Center for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA; Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA.
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10
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Javanmardi Y, Agrawal A, Malandrino A, Lasli S, Chen M, Shahreza S, Serwinski B, Cammoun L, Li R, Jorfi M, Djordjevic B, Szita N, Spill F, Bertazzo S, Sheridan GK, Shenoy V, Calvo F, Kamm R, Moeendarbary E. Endothelium and Subendothelial Matrix Mechanics Modulate Cancer Cell Transendothelial Migration. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2206554. [PMID: 37051804 PMCID: PMC10238207 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202206554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Revised: 03/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Cancer cell extravasation, a key step in the metastatic cascade, involves cancer cell arrest on the endothelium, transendothelial migration (TEM), followed by the invasion into the subendothelial extracellular matrix (ECM) of distant tissues. While cancer research has mostly focused on the biomechanical interactions between tumor cells (TCs) and ECM, particularly at the primary tumor site, very little is known about the mechanical properties of endothelial cells and the subendothelial ECM and how they contribute to the extravasation process. Here, an integrated experimental and theoretical framework is developed to investigate the mechanical crosstalk between TCs, endothelium and subendothelial ECM during in vitro cancer cell extravasation. It is found that cancer cell actin-rich protrusions generate complex push-pull forces to initiate and drive TEM, while transmigration success also relies on the forces generated by the endothelium. Consequently, mechanical properties of the subendothelial ECM and endothelial actomyosin contractility that mediate the endothelial forces also impact the endothelium's resistance to cancer cell transmigration. These results indicate that mechanical features of distant tissues, including force interactions between the endothelium and the subendothelial ECM, are key determinants of metastatic organotropism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yousef Javanmardi
- Department of Mechanical EngineeringUniversity College LondonTorrington PlaceLondonWC1E 7JEUK
| | - Ayushi Agrawal
- Department of Mechanical EngineeringUniversity College LondonTorrington PlaceLondonWC1E 7JEUK
| | - Andrea Malandrino
- Department of Biological EngineeringMassachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridgeMA02139USA
- Biomaterials, Biomechanics and Tissue Engineering GroupDepartment of Materials Science and Engineering and Research Center for Biomedical EngineeringUniversitat Politécnica de Catalunya (UPC)08019BarcelonaSpain
| | - Soufian Lasli
- Department of Mechanical EngineeringUniversity College LondonTorrington PlaceLondonWC1E 7JEUK
| | - Michelle Chen
- Department of Biological EngineeringMassachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridgeMA02139USA
| | - Somayeh Shahreza
- Department of Mechanical EngineeringUniversity College LondonTorrington PlaceLondonWC1E 7JEUK
| | - Bianca Serwinski
- Department of Mechanical EngineeringUniversity College LondonTorrington PlaceLondonWC1E 7JEUK
- 199 Biotechnologies LtdGloucester RoadLondonW2 6LDUK
| | - Leila Cammoun
- Department of Biological EngineeringMassachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridgeMA02139USA
| | - Ran Li
- Department of Biological EngineeringMassachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridgeMA02139USA
| | - Mehdi Jorfi
- Department of Biological EngineeringMassachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridgeMA02139USA
| | - Boris Djordjevic
- Department of Mechanical EngineeringUniversity College LondonTorrington PlaceLondonWC1E 7JEUK
- 199 Biotechnologies LtdGloucester RoadLondonW2 6LDUK
| | - Nicolas Szita
- Department of Biochemical EngineeringUniversity College LondonLondonWC1E 6BTUK
| | - Fabian Spill
- School of MathematicsUniversity of BirminghamEdgbastonBirminghamB152TSUK
| | - Sergio Bertazzo
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical EngineeringUniversity College LondonLondonWC1E 6BTUK
| | - Graham K Sheridan
- School of Life SciencesQueen's Medical CentreUniversity of NottinghamNottinghamNG7 2UHUK
| | - Vivek Shenoy
- Department of Materials Science and EngineeringUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPA19104USA
| | - Fernando Calvo
- Instituto de Biomedicina y Biotecnología de Cantabria (Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Universidad de Cantabria)Santander39011Spain
| | - Roger Kamm
- Department of Biological EngineeringMassachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridgeMA02139USA
| | - Emad Moeendarbary
- Department of Mechanical EngineeringUniversity College LondonTorrington PlaceLondonWC1E 7JEUK
- Department of Biological EngineeringMassachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridgeMA02139USA
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11
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Kang JH, Jang M, Seo SJ, Choi A, Shin D, Seo S, Lee SH, Kim HN. Mechanobiological Adaptation to Hyperosmolarity Enhances Barrier Function in Human Vascular Microphysiological System. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2206384. [PMID: 36808839 PMCID: PMC10161024 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202206384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
In infectious disease such as sepsis and COVID-19, blood vessel leakage treatment is critical to prevent fatal progression into multi-organ failure and ultimately death, but the existing effective therapeutic modalities that improve vascular barrier function are limited. Here, this study reports that osmolarity modulation can significantly improve vascular barrier function, even in an inflammatory condition. 3D human vascular microphysiological systems and automated permeability quantification processes for high-throughput analysis of vascular barrier function are utilized. Vascular barrier function is enhanced by >7-folds with 24-48 h hyperosmotic exposure (time window of emergency care; >500 mOsm L-1 ) but is disrupted after hypo-osmotic exposure (<200 mOsm L-1 ). By integrating genetic and protein level analysis, it is shown that hyperosmolarity upregulates vascular endothelial-cadherin, cortical F-actin, and cell-cell junction tension, indicating that hyperosmotic adaptation mechanically stabilizes the vascular barrier. Importantly, improved vascular barrier function following hyperosmotic exposure is maintained even after chronic exposure to proinflammatory cytokines and iso-osmotic recovery via Yes-associated protein signaling pathways. This study suggests that osmolarity modulation may be a unique therapeutic strategy to proactively prevent infectious disease progression into severe stages via vascular barrier function protection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joon Ho Kang
- Brain Science InstituteKorea Institute of Science and TechnologySeoul02792Republic of Korea
| | - Minjeong Jang
- Brain Science InstituteKorea Institute of Science and TechnologySeoul02792Republic of Korea
| | - Su Jin Seo
- Brain Science InstituteKorea Institute of Science and TechnologySeoul02792Republic of Korea
- Department of Chemical EngineeringKwangwoon UniversitySeoul01897Republic of Korea
| | - Andrew Choi
- Brain Science InstituteKorea Institute of Science and TechnologySeoul02792Republic of Korea
| | - Daeeun Shin
- Brain Science InstituteKorea Institute of Science and TechnologySeoul02792Republic of Korea
- School of Mechanical EngineeringSungkyunkwan UniversitySuwon16419Republic of Korea
| | - Suyoung Seo
- Brain Science InstituteKorea Institute of Science and TechnologySeoul02792Republic of Korea
- Program in Nano Science and TechnologyGraduate School of Convergence Science and TechnologySeoul National UniversitySeoul08826Republic of Korea
| | - Soo Hyun Lee
- Brain Science InstituteKorea Institute of Science and TechnologySeoul02792Republic of Korea
- Division of Bio‐Medical Science & TechnologyKIST SchoolUniversity of Science and Technology (UST)Seoul02792Republic of Korea
| | - Hong Nam Kim
- Brain Science InstituteKorea Institute of Science and TechnologySeoul02792Republic of Korea
- Division of Bio‐Medical Science & TechnologyKIST SchoolUniversity of Science and Technology (UST)Seoul02792Republic of Korea
- School of Mechanical EngineeringYonsei UniversitySeoul03722Republic of Korea
- Yonsei‐KIST Convergence Research InstituteYonsei UniversitySeoul03722Republic of Korea
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12
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Wan HY, Chen JCH, Xiao Q, Wong CW, Yang B, Cao B, Tuan RS, Nilsson SK, Ho YP, Raghunath M, Kamm RD, Blocki A. Stabilization and improved functionality of three-dimensional perfusable microvascular networks in microfluidic devices under macromolecular crowding. Biomater Res 2023; 27:32. [PMID: 37076899 PMCID: PMC10116810 DOI: 10.1186/s40824-023-00375-w] [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: 11/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is great interest to engineer in vitro models that allow the study of complex biological processes of the microvasculature with high spatiotemporal resolution. Microfluidic systems are currently used to engineer microvasculature in vitro, which consists of perfusable microvascular networks (MVNs). These are formed through spontaneous vasculogenesis and exhibit the closest resemblance to physiological microvasculature. Unfortunately, under standard culture conditions and in the absence of co-culture with auxiliary cells as well as protease inhibitors, pure MVNs suffer from a short-lived stability. METHODS Herein, we introduce a strategy for stabilization of MVNs through macromolecular crowding (MMC) based on a previously established mixture of Ficoll macromolecules. The biophysical principle of MMC is based on macromolecules occupying space, thus increasing the effective concentration of other components and thereby accelerating various biological processes, such as extracellular matrix deposition. We thus hypothesized that MMC will promote the accumulation of vascular ECM (basement membrane) components and lead to a stabilization of MVN with improved functionality. RESULTS MMC promoted the enrichment of cellular junctions and basement membrane components, while reducing cellular contractility. The resulting advantageous balance of adhesive forces over cellular tension resulted in a significant stabilization of MVNs over time, as well as improved vascular barrier function, closely resembling that of in vivo microvasculature. CONCLUSION Application of MMC to MVNs in microfluidic devices provides a reliable, flexible and versatile approach to stabilize engineered microvessels under simulated physiological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ho-Ying Wan
- Institute for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Jack Chun Hin Chen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Qinru Xiao
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Christy Wingtung Wong
- Institute for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Boguang Yang
- Department of Orthopaedics & Traumatology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Benjamin Cao
- Biomedical Manufacturing Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), Melbourne, Australia
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Rocky S Tuan
- Institute for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Center for Neuromusculoskeletal Restorative Medicine (CNRM), Hong Kong Science Park, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Susan K Nilsson
- Biomedical Manufacturing Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), Melbourne, Australia
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Yi-Ping Ho
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Michael Raghunath
- Institute for Chemistry and Biotechnology, Zurich University of Applied Sciences, Wädenswil, Switzerland
| | - Roger D Kamm
- Department of Biology and Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Anna Blocki
- Institute for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.
- Department of Orthopaedics & Traumatology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.
- Center for Neuromusculoskeletal Restorative Medicine (CNRM), Hong Kong Science Park, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR, China.
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13
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Imbir G, Trembecka-Wójciga K, Ozga P, Schirhagl R, Mzyk A. Elastic moduli of polyelectrolyte multilayer films regulate endothelium-blood interaction under dynamic conditions. Colloids Surf B Biointerfaces 2023; 225:113269. [PMID: 36963315 DOI: 10.1016/j.colsurfb.2023.113269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
A broad spectrum of biomaterials has been explored in order to design cardiovascular implants of sufficient hemocompatibility. Most of them were extensively tested for the ability to facilitate repopulation by patient cells. It was shown that stiffness, surface roughness, or hydrophilicity of polyelectrolyte films have an impact on adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation of cells. At the same time, it is still unknown how these properties influence cell functionality and as a consequence interactions with blood components under dynamic conditions. In this study, we aimed to determine the impact of chemical cross-linking of Chitosan (Chi) and Chrondroitin Sulphate (CS) on endothelium-blood cross-talk. We have found that the morphology of the endothelium monolayer was not altered by changes in coating properties. However, free radical generation by endothelial cells varied depending on the elastic properties of the coating. Simultaneously, we have observed a significant decrease in the level of adhering and circulating active platelets as well as aggregates when the endothelium monolayer was formed on stiffer films than on the other coating variants. Moreover, the same type of films has promoted significantly higher adhesion of blood morphotic elements when they were not functionalized by endothelium. The observed changes in hemocompatibility indicate the importance of a design of coatings that will promote cellularization in vivo in a relatively short time and which will regulate cell function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Imbir
- Institute of Metallurgy and Materials Science Polish Academy of Sciences, 25 Reymonta Street, 30-059 Cracow, Poland; Institute of Nuclear Physics Polish Academy of Sciences, 152 Radzikowski Street, 31-342 Cracow, Poland.
| | - Klaudia Trembecka-Wójciga
- Institute of Metallurgy and Materials Science Polish Academy of Sciences, 25 Reymonta Street, 30-059 Cracow, Poland
| | - Piotr Ozga
- Institute of Metallurgy and Materials Science Polish Academy of Sciences, 25 Reymonta Street, 30-059 Cracow, Poland
| | - Romana Schirhagl
- Groningen University, University Medical Center Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Aldona Mzyk
- Institute of Metallurgy and Materials Science Polish Academy of Sciences, 25 Reymonta Street, 30-059 Cracow, Poland; Groningen University, University Medical Center Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, the Netherlands.
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14
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Hamrangsekachaee M, Wen K, Bencherif SA, Ebong EE. Atherosclerosis and endothelial mechanotransduction: current knowledge and models for future research. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2023; 324:C488-C504. [PMID: 36440856 PMCID: PMC10069965 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00449.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Endothelium health is essential to the regulation of physiological vascular functions. Because of the critical capability of endothelial cells (ECs) to sense and transduce chemical and mechanical signals in the local vascular environment, their dysfunction is associated with a vast variety of vascular diseases and injuries, especially atherosclerosis and subsequent cardiovascular diseases. This review describes the mechanotransduction events that are mediated through ECs, the EC subcellular components involved, and the pathways reported to be potentially involved. Up-to-date research efforts involving in vivo animal models and in vitro biomimetic models are also discussed, including their advantages and drawbacks, with recommendations on future modeling approaches to aid the development of novel therapies targeting atherosclerosis and related cardiovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ke Wen
- Chemical Engineering Department, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Sidi A Bencherif
- Chemical Engineering Department, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts
- Bioengineering Department, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts
- Laboratoire de BioMécanique et BioIngénierie, UMR CNRS 7388, Sorbonne Universités, Université de Technologie of Compiègne, Compiègne, France
- Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Eno E Ebong
- Chemical Engineering Department, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts
- Bioengineering Department, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts
- Neuroscience Department, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, New York
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15
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Aguilar VM, Paul A, Lazarko D, Levitan I. Paradigms of endothelial stiffening in cardiovascular disease and vascular aging. Front Physiol 2023; 13:1081119. [PMID: 36714307 PMCID: PMC9874005 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.1081119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Endothelial cells, the inner lining of the blood vessels, are well-known to play a critical role in vascular function, while endothelial dysfunction due to different cardiovascular risk factors or accumulation of disruptive mechanisms that arise with aging lead to cardiovascular disease. In this review, we focus on endothelial stiffness, a fundamental biomechanical property that reflects cell resistance to deformation. In the first part of the review, we describe the mechanisms that determine endothelial stiffness, including RhoA-dependent contractile response, actin architecture and crosslinking, as well as the contributions of the intermediate filaments, vimentin and lamin. Then, we review the factors that induce endothelial stiffening, with the emphasis on mechanical signals, such as fluid shear stress, stretch and stiffness of the extracellular matrix, which are well-known to control endothelial biomechanics. We also describe in detail the contribution of lipid factors, particularly oxidized lipids, that were also shown to be crucial in regulation of endothelial stiffness. Furthermore, we discuss the relative contributions of these two mechanisms of endothelial stiffening in vasculature in cardiovascular disease and aging. Finally, we present the current state of knowledge about the role of endothelial stiffening in the disruption of endothelial cell-cell junctions that are responsible for the maintenance of the endothelial barrier.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor M. Aguilar
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States,Richard and Loan Hill Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Amit Paul
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Dana Lazarko
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Irena Levitan
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States,Richard and Loan Hill Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States,*Correspondence: Irena Levitan,
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16
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Aging is an important risk factor for cardiovascular disease and is associated with increased vessel wall stiffness. Pathophysiological stiffening, notably in arteries, disturbs the integrity of the vascular endothelium and promotes permeability and transmigration of immune cells, thereby driving the development of atherosclerosis and related vascular diseases. Effective therapeutic strategies for arterial stiffening are still lacking. RECENT FINDINGS Here, we overview the literature on age-related arterial stiffening, from patient-derived data to preclinical in-vivo and in-vitro findings. First, we overview the common techniques that are used to measure stiffness and discuss the observed stiffness values in atherosclerosis and aging. Next, the endothelial response to stiffening and possibilities to attenuate this response are discussed. SUMMARY Future research that will define the endothelial contribution to stiffness-related cardiovascular disease may provide new targets for intervention to restore endothelial function in atherosclerosis and complement the use of currently applied lipid-lowering, antihypertensive, and anti-inflammatory drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aukie Hooglugt
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Department of Medical Biochemistry, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences
- Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center, Department of Physiology, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Olivia Klatt
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Department of Medical Biochemistry, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences
| | - Stephan Huveneers
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Department of Medical Biochemistry, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences
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17
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Hernandez DS, Michelson KE, Romanovicz D, Ritschdorff ET, Shear JB. Laser-imprinting of micro-3D printed protein hydrogels enables real-time independent modification of substrate topography and elastic modulus. BIOPRINTING (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2022; 28:e00250. [PMID: 37601117 PMCID: PMC10438846 DOI: 10.1016/j.bprint.2022.e00250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/22/2023]
Abstract
Independent control over the Young's modulus and topography of a hydrogel cell culture substrate is necessary to characterize how attributes of its adherent surface affect cellular responses. Arbitrary, real-time manipulation of these parameters at the micron scale would further provide cellular biologists and bioengineers with the tools to study and control numerous highly dynamic behaviors including cellular adhesion, motility, metastasis, and differentiation. Although physical, chemical, thermal, and light-based strategies have been developed to influence Young's modulus and topography of hydrogel substrates, independent control of these physical attributes has remained elusive, spatial resolution is often limited, and features commonly must be pre-patterned. We recently reported a strategy in which biomaterials having specified three-dimensional (3D) morphologies are micro-3D printed in a two-step process: laser-scanning bioprinting of a protein-based hydrogel, followed by biocompatible hydrogel re-scanning to create microscale imprinted features at user-defined times. In this approach, a pulsed near-infrared laser beam is focused within the printed hydrogel to promote matrix contraction through multiphoton crosslinking, where scanning the laser focus projects a user-defined topographical pattern on the surface without subjecting the hydrogel-solution interface to damaging light intensities. Here, we extend this strategy, demonstrating the ability to decouple dynamic topographical changes from changes in hydrogel Young's modulus at the substrate surface by increasing the isolation distance between the surface and re-scanning planes. Using atomic force microscopy, we show that robust topographic changes can be imposed without altering the Young's modulus measured at the substrate surface by scanning at a depth of greater than ~6 μm. Transmission electron microscopy of hydrogel thin sections reveals changes to hydrogel porosity and density distribution within scanned regions, and that such changes to the hydrogel matrix are highly localized to regions of laser exposure. These results represent valuable new capabilities for deconvolving the effects of substrate dynamic physical attributes on the behavior of adherent cells.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Dwight Romanovicz
- Department of Chemistry, 1 University Station A5300, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, United States
| | - Eric T. Ritschdorff
- Department of Chemistry, 1 University Station A5300, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, United States
| | - Jason B. Shear
- Department of Chemistry, 1 University Station A5300, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, United States
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18
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Brougham-Cook A, Kimmel HRC, Monckton CP, Owen D, Khetani SR, Underhill GH. Engineered matrix microenvironments reveal the heterogeneity of liver sinusoidal endothelial cell phenotypic responses. APL Bioeng 2022; 6:046102. [PMID: 36345318 PMCID: PMC9637025 DOI: 10.1063/5.0097602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis is one of the hallmarks of chronic liver disease and is associated with aberrant wound healing. Changes in the composition of the liver microenvironment during fibrosis result in a complex crosstalk of extracellular cues that promote altered behaviors in the cell types that comprise the liver sinusoid, particularly liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs). Recently, it has been observed that LSECs may sustain injury before other fibrogenesis-associated cells of the sinusoid, implicating LSECs as key actors in the fibrotic cascade. A high-throughput cellular microarray platform was used to deconstruct the collective influences of defined combinations of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins, substrate stiffness, and soluble factors on primary human LSEC phenotype in vitro. We observed remarkable heterogeneity in LSEC phenotype as a function of stiffness, ECM, and soluble factor context. LYVE-1 and CD-31 expressions were highest on 1 kPa substrates, and the VE-cadherin junction localization was highest on 25 kPa substrates. Also, LSECs formed distinct spatial patterns of LYVE-1 expression, with LYVE-1+ cells observed in the center of multicellular domains, and pattern size regulated by microenvironmental context. ECM composition also influenced a substantial dynamic range of expression levels for all markers, and the collagen type IV was observed to promote elevated expressions of LYVE-1, VE-cadherin, and CD-31. These studies highlight key microenvironmental regulators of LSEC phenotype and reveal unique spatial patterning of the sinusoidal marker LYVE-1. Furthermore, these data provide insight into understanding more precisely how LSECs respond to fibrotic microenvironments, which will aid drug development and identification of targets to treat liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aidan Brougham-Cook
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
| | - Hannah R. C. Kimmel
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
| | - Chase P. Monckton
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60607, USA
| | - Daniel Owen
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
| | - Salman R. Khetani
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60607, USA
| | - Gregory H. Underhill
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA,Author to whom correspondence should be addressed:. Tel.: 217–244-2169
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19
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Kong X, Kapustka A, Sullivan B, Schwarz GJ, Leckband DE. Extracellular matrix regulates force transduction at VE-cadherin junctions. Mol Biol Cell 2022; 33:ar95. [PMID: 35653290 DOI: 10.1091/mbc.e22-03-0075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Increased tension on VE-cadherin (VE-cad) complexes activates adaptive cell stiffening and local cytoskeletal reinforcement--two key signatures of intercellular mechanotransduction. Here we demonstrate that tugging on VE-cad receptors initiates a cascade that results in downstream integrin activation. The formation of new integrin adhesions potentiates vinculin and actin recruitment to mechanically reinforce stressed cadherin adhesions. This cascade differs from documented antagonistic effects of integrins on intercellular junctions. We identify focal adhesion kinase, Abl kinase, and RhoA GTPase as key components of the positive feedback loop. Results further show that a consequence of integrin involvement is the sensitization of intercellular force transduction to the extracellular matrix (ECM) not by regulating junctional tension but by altering signal cascades that reinforce cell-cell adhesions. On type 1 collagen or fibronectin substrates, integrin subtypes α2β1 and α5β1, respectively, differentially control actin remodeling at VE-cad adhesions. Specifically, ECM-dependent differences in VE-cad force transduction mirror differences in the rigidity sensing mechanisms of α2β1 and α5β1 integrins. The findings verify the role of integrins in VE-cad force transduction and uncover a previously unappreciated mechanism by which the ECM impacts the mechanical reinforcement of interendothelial junctions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyu Kong
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801
| | - Adrian Kapustka
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801
| | - Brendan Sullivan
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801
| | - Gregory J Schwarz
- Center for Biophysics and Quantitative Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801
| | - Deborah E Leckband
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801.,Center for Biophysics and Quantitative Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801.,Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801.,Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801
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20
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Paudel SS, deWeever A, Sayner S, Stevens T, Tambe DT. Substrate stiffness modulates migration and local intercellular membrane motion in pulmonary endothelial cell monolayers. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2022; 323:C936-C949. [PMID: 35912996 PMCID: PMC9467474 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00339.2021] [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: 09/13/2021] [Revised: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The pulmonary artery endothelium forms a semipermeable barrier that limits macromolecular flux through intercellular junctions. This barrier is maintained by an intrinsic forward protrusion of the interacting membranes between adjacent cells. However, the dynamic interactions of these membranes have been incompletely quantified. Here, we present a novel technique to quantify the motion of the peripheral membrane of the cells, called paracellular morphological fluctuations (PMFs), and to assess the impact of substrate stiffness on PMFs. Substrate stiffness impacted large-length scale morphological changes such as cell size and motion. Cell size was larger on stiffer substrates, whereas the speed of cell movement was decreased on hydrogels with stiffness either larger or smaller than 1.25 kPa, consistent with cells approaching a jammed state. Pulmonary artery endothelial cells moved fastest on 1.25 kPa hydrogel, a stiffness consistent with a healthy pulmonary artery. Unlike these large-length scale morphological changes, the baseline of PMFs was largely insensitive to the substrate stiffness on which the cells were cultured. Activation of store-operated calcium channels using thapsigargin treatment triggered a transient increase in PMFs beyond the control treatment. However, in hypocalcemic conditions, such an increase in PMFs was absent on 1.25 kPa hydrogel but was present on 30 kPa hydrogel-a stiffness consistent with that of a hypertensive pulmonary artery. These findings indicate that 1) PMFs occur in cultured endothelial cell clusters, irrespective of the substrate stiffness; 2) PMFs increase in response to calcium influx through store-operated calcium entry channels; and 3) stiffer substrate promotes PMFs through a mechanism that does not require calcium influx.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunita Subedi Paudel
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama
- Department of Mechanical Aerospace and Biomedical Engineering, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama
- Center for Lung Biology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama
| | - Althea deWeever
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama
- Center for Lung Biology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama
| | - Sarah Sayner
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama
- Center for Lung Biology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama
| | - Troy Stevens
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama
- Department of Mechanical Aerospace and Biomedical Engineering, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama
| | - Dhananjay T Tambe
- Department of Mechanical Aerospace and Biomedical Engineering, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama
- Department of Pharmacology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama
- Center for Lung Biology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama
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21
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Hollósi A, Pászty K, Bunta BL, Bozó T, Kellermayer M, Debreczeni ML, Cervenak L, Baccarini M, Varga A. BRAF increases endothelial cell stiffness through reorganization of the actin cytoskeleton. FASEB J 2022; 36:e22478. [PMID: 35916021 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202200344r] [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: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
The dynamics of the actin cytoskeleton and its connection to endothelial cell-cell junctions determine the barrier function of endothelial cells. The proper regulation of barrier opening/closing is necessary for the normal function of vessels, and its dysregulation can result in chronic and acute inflammation leading to edema formation. By using atomic force microscopy, we show here that thrombin-induced permeability of human umbilical vein endothelial cells, associated with actin stress fiber formation, stiffens the cell center. The depletion of the MEK/ERK kinase BRAF reduces thrombin-induced permeability prevents stress fiber formation and cell stiffening. The peripheral actin ring becomes stabilized by phosphorylated myosin light chain, while cofilin is excluded from the cell periphery. All these changes can be reverted by the inhibition of ROCK, but not of the MEK/ERK module. We propose that the balance between the binding of cofilin and myosin to F-actin in the cell periphery, which is regulated by the activity of ROCK, determines the local dynamics of actin reorganization, ultimately driving or preventing stress fiber formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Hollósi
- Department of Biophysics and Radiation Biology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Katalin Pászty
- Department of Biophysics and Radiation Biology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Bálint Levente Bunta
- Department of Biophysics and Radiation Biology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Tamás Bozó
- Department of Biophysics and Radiation Biology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Miklós Kellermayer
- Department of Biophysics and Radiation Biology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Márta Lídia Debreczeni
- Department of Internal Medicine and Haematology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - László Cervenak
- Department of Internal Medicine and Haematology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Manuela Baccarini
- Department of Microbiology, Immunobiology and Genetics, Max Perutz Labs, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Andrea Varga
- Department of Biophysics and Radiation Biology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
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22
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Human endothelial cells display a rapid tensional stress increase in response to tumor necrosis factor-α. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0270197. [PMID: 35749538 PMCID: PMC9232152 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0270197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Endothelial cells form the inner layer of blood vessels, making them the first barrier between the blood and interstitial tissues; thus endothelial cells play a crucial role in inflammation. In the inflammatory response, one important element is the pro-inflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). While other pro-inflammatory agents like thrombin and histamine induce acute but transient changes in endothelial cells, which have been well studied biologically as well as mechanically, TNF-α is primarily known for its sustained effects on permeability and leukocyte recruitment. These functions are associated with transcriptional changes that take place on the timescale of hours and days. Here, we investigated the early mechanical action of TNF-α and show that even just 4 min after TNF-α was added onto human umbilical vein endothelial cell monolayers, there was a striking rise in mechanical substrate traction force and internal monolayer tension. These traction forces act primarily at the boundary of the monolayer, as was to be expected. This increased internal monolayer tension may, in addition to TNF-α’s other well-studied biochemical responses, provide a mechanical signal for the cells to prepare to recruit leukocytes.
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23
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Introini V, Govendir MA, Rayner JC, Cicuta P, Bernabeu M. Biophysical Tools and Concepts Enable Understanding of Asexual Blood Stage Malaria. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:908241. [PMID: 35711656 PMCID: PMC9192966 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.908241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Forces and mechanical properties of cells and tissues set constraints on biological functions, and are key determinants of human physiology. Changes in cell mechanics may arise from disease, or directly contribute to pathogenesis. Malaria gives many striking examples. Plasmodium parasites, the causative agents of malaria, are single-celled organisms that cannot survive outside their hosts; thus, thost-pathogen interactions are fundamental for parasite’s biological success and to the host response to infection. These interactions are often combinations of biochemical and mechanical factors, but most research focuses on the molecular side. However, Plasmodium infection of human red blood cells leads to changes in their mechanical properties, which has a crucial impact on disease pathogenesis because of the interaction of infected red blood cells with other human tissues through various adhesion mechanisms, which can be probed and modelled with biophysical techniques. Recently, natural polymorphisms affecting red blood cell biomechanics have also been shown to protect human populations, highlighting the potential of understanding biomechanical factors to inform future vaccines and drug development. Here we review biophysical techniques that have revealed new aspects of Plasmodium falciparum invasion of red blood cells and cytoadhesion of infected cells to the host vasculature. These mechanisms occur differently across Plasmodium species and are linked to malaria pathogenesis. We highlight promising techniques from the fields of bioengineering, immunomechanics, and soft matter physics that could be beneficial for studying malaria. Some approaches might also be applied to other phases of the malaria lifecycle and to apicomplexan infections with complex host-pathogen interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viola Introini
- Cambridge Institute for Medical Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Cavendish Laboratory, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Viola Introini,
| | - Matt A. Govendir
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Julian C. Rayner
- Cambridge Institute for Medical Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Pietro Cicuta
- Cavendish Laboratory, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Maria Bernabeu
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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24
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Xu J, Xu X, Li X, He S, Li D, Ji B. Cellular mechanics of wound formation in single cell layer under cyclic stretching. Biophys J 2022; 121:288-299. [PMID: 34902328 PMCID: PMC8790211 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2021.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2021] [Revised: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Wounds can be produced when cells and tissues are subjected to excessive forces, for instance, under pathological conditions or nonphysiological loading. However, the cellular behaviors in the wound formation process are not clear. Here we tested the behaviors of wound formation in the epithelial layer with an in-suit uniaxial stretching device. We found that the wound often nucleates at the position where the cells are dividing. The polarization direction of cells near the wound is preferentially along the wound edge, whereas the cells far from the wound are preferentially perpendicular to the stretching direction. The larger the wound area is, the higher is the aspect ratio of the cells around the wound. Increasing the cell density will strengthen the cell layer. The higher the cell density is, the smaller is the area of the wounds, and the weaker is the effect of stretching on the polarization of the cells. Furthermore, we built a coarse-grained cell model that can explicitly consider the elasticity and viscoelasticity of cells, cell-cell interaction, and cell active stress, by which we simulated the wound formation process and quantitatively analyzed the force and stress fields in the cell layer, particularly around the wound. These analyses reveal the cellular mechanisms of wound formation behaviors in the cell layer under stretching and shed useful light on tissue engineering and regenerative medicine for biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiayi Xu
- Department of Applied Mechanics, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China,Oujiang Laboratory, Zhejiang, Wenzhou Institute, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wenzhou, China,Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiangyu Xu
- Department of Applied Mechanics, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China,Oujiang Laboratory, Zhejiang, Wenzhou Institute, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wenzhou, China
| | - Xiaojun Li
- Department of Applied Mechanics, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Shijie He
- Center for Engineering in Medicine and Surgery, Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Dechang Li
- Department of Engineering Mechanics, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China,Corresponding author
| | - Baohua Ji
- Oujiang Laboratory, Zhejiang, Wenzhou Institute, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wenzhou, China,Department of Engineering Mechanics, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China,Corresponding author
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25
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Pothapragada SP, Gupta P, Mukherjee S, Das T. Matrix mechanics regulates epithelial defence against cancer by tuning dynamic localization of filamin. Nat Commun 2022; 13:218. [PMID: 35017535 PMCID: PMC8752856 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-27896-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
In epithelia, normal cells recognize and extrude out newly emerged transformed cells by competition. This process is the most fundamental epithelial defence against cancer, whose occasional failure promotes oncogenesis. However, little is known about what factors determine the success or failure of this defence. Here we report that mechanical stiffening of extracellular matrix attenuates the epithelial defence against HRasV12-transformed cells. Using photoconversion labelling, protein tracking, and loss-of-function mutations, we attribute this attenuation to stiffening-induced perinuclear sequestration of a cytoskeletal protein, filamin. On soft matrix mimicking healthy epithelium, filamin exists as a dynamically single population, which moves to the normal cell-transformed cell interface to initiate the extrusion of transformed cells. However, on stiff matrix mimicking fibrotic epithelium, filamin redistributes into two dynamically distinct populations, including a new perinuclear pool that cannot move to the cell-cell interface. A matrix stiffness-dependent differential between filamin-Cdc42 and filamin-perinuclear cytoskeleton interaction controls this distinctive filamin localization and hence, determines the success or failure of epithelial defence on soft versus stiff matrix. Together, our study reveals how pathological matrix stiffening leads to a failed epithelial defence at the initial stage of oncogenesis. Epithelial cells have the ability to competitively remove potentially cancerous cells from the tissue. Here the authors discover that pathological stiffening of extracellular matrix leads to the loss of this basic epithelial defence against cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shilpa P Pothapragada
- TIFR Centre for Interdisciplinary Sciences, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research Hyderabad (TIFR-H), Hyderabad, 500 046, India
| | - Praver Gupta
- TIFR Centre for Interdisciplinary Sciences, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research Hyderabad (TIFR-H), Hyderabad, 500 046, India
| | - Soumi Mukherjee
- TIFR Centre for Interdisciplinary Sciences, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research Hyderabad (TIFR-H), Hyderabad, 500 046, India.,Department of Biology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA
| | - Tamal Das
- TIFR Centre for Interdisciplinary Sciences, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research Hyderabad (TIFR-H), Hyderabad, 500 046, India.
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26
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Wang P, Zhang YL, Fu KL, Liu Z, Zhang L, Liu C, Deng Y, Xie R, Ju XJ, Wang W, Chu LY. Zinc-coordinated polydopamine surface with a nanostructure and superhydrophilicity for antibiofouling and antibacterial applications. MATERIALS ADVANCES 2022. [DOI: 10.1039/d2ma00482h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
A superhydrophilic nanostructured surface of zinc-coordinated polydopamine is formed by the growth and intertwining of the PDA/Zn nanowires via Zn–N and Zn–O bonds, which has potential for preventing biomaterial-associated biofouling and infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Po Wang
- School of Chemical Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610065, P. R. China
| | - Yi-Lin Zhang
- School of Chemical Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610065, P. R. China
| | - Kai-Lai Fu
- School of Chemical Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610065, P. R. China
| | - Zhuang Liu
- School of Chemical Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610065, P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610065, P. R. China
| | - Ling Zhang
- Kidney Research Institute, Division of Nephrology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610065, China
| | - Chen Liu
- Kidney Research Institute, Division of Nephrology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610065, China
| | - Yi Deng
- School of Chemical Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610065, P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610065, P. R. China
| | - Rui Xie
- School of Chemical Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610065, P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610065, P. R. China
| | - Xiao-Jie Ju
- School of Chemical Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610065, P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610065, P. R. China
| | - Wei Wang
- School of Chemical Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610065, P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610065, P. R. China
| | - Liang-Yin Chu
- School of Chemical Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610065, P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610065, P. R. China
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27
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Substrate stiffening promotes VEGF-A functions via the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2022; 586:27-33. [PMID: 34823219 PMCID: PMC8785232 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2021.11.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
While it is now well-established that substrate stiffness regulates vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A) mediated signaling and functions, causal mechanisms remain poorly understood. Here, we report an underlying role for the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway. This pathway is activated on stiffer substrates, is amplified by VEGF-A stimulation, and correlates with enhanced endothelial cell (EC) proliferation, contraction, pro-angiogenic secretion, and capillary-like tube formation. In the settings of advanced age-related macular degeneration, characterized by EC and retinal pigment epithelial (RPE)-mediated angiogenesis, these data implicate substrate stiffness as a novel causative mechanism and Akt/mTOR inhibition as a novel therapeutic pathway.
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28
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Mechanical Aspects of Angiogenesis. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13194987. [PMID: 34638470 PMCID: PMC8508205 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13194987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Revised: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The formation of new blood vessels from already existing ones is a process of high clinical relevance, since it is of great importance for both physiological and pathological processes. In regard to tumors, the process is crucial, since it ensures the supply with nutrients and the growth of the tumor. The influence of mechanical factors on this biological process is an emerging field. Until now, the shear force of the blood flow has been considered the main mechanical parameter during angiogenesis. This review article provides an overview of further mechanical cues, with particular focus on the surrounding extracellular matrix impacting the cell behavior and, thus, regulating angiogenesis. This underlines the enormous importance of the mechanical properties of the extracellular matrix on cell biological processes and shows how changing the mechanics of the extracellular matrix could be used as a possible therapeutic approach in cancer therapy. Abstract Angiogenesis is of high clinical relevance as it plays a crucial role in physiological (e.g., tissue regeneration) and pathological processes (e.g., tumor growth). Besides chemical signals, such as VEGF, the relationship between cells and the extracellular matrix (ECM) can influence endothelial cell behavior during angiogenesis. Previously, in terms of the connection between angiogenesis and mechanical factors, researchers have focused on shear forces due to blood flow. However, it is becoming increasingly important to include the direct influence of the ECM on biological processes, such as angiogenesis. In this context, we focus on the stiffness of the surrounding ECM and the adhesion of cells to the ECM. Furthermore, we highlight the mechanical cues during the main stages of angiogenesis: cell migration, tip and stalk cells, and vessel stabilization. It becomes clear that the different stages of angiogenesis require various chemical and mechanical cues to be modulated by/modulate the stiffness of the ECM. Thus, changes of the ECM during tumor growth represent additional potential dysregulations of angiogenesis in addition to erroneous biochemical signals. This awareness could be the basis of therapeutic approaches to counteract specific processes in tumor angiogenesis.
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29
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Wiener GI, Kadosh D, Weihs D. Mechanical interactions of invasive cancer cells through their substrate evolve from additive to synergistic. J Biomech 2021; 129:110759. [PMID: 34601215 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2021.110759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Revised: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Non-contacting, adjacent cancer cells can mechanically interact through their substrate to increase their invasive and migratory capacities that underly metastases-formation. Such mechanical interactions may induce additive or synergistic enhancement of invasiveness, potentially indicating different underlying force-mechanisms. To identify cell-cell-gel interactions, we monitor the time-evolution of three-dimensional traction strains induced by MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells adhering on physiological-stiffness (1.8 kPa) collagen gels and compare to simulations. Single metastatic cells apply strain energies of 0.2-2 pJ (average 0.51 ± 0.06 pJ) at all observation times (30-174 min) inducing a mechanical volume-of-effect in the collagen gel that is initially (<60 min from seeding) on the cell-volume scale (∼3000 µm3) and on average increases with time from cell seeding. When cells adhere closely adjacent, at short times (<60 min) we distinguish the additive contributions of neighboring cells to the strains, while at longer times strain fields are synergistically amplified and may facilitate increased cooperative/collective cancer-cell-invasiveness. The results of well-spaced and closely adjacent cells at short times match our simulations of additive deformations induced by radially applied strains with experimentally based inverse-distance decay. We thus reveal a time-dependent evolution from additive to synergistic interactions of adjacently adhering cells that may facilitate metastatic invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guy I Wiener
- Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 3200003, Israel
| | - Dana Kadosh
- Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 3200003, Israel; Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 3525433, Israel(1)
| | - Daphne Weihs
- Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 3200003, Israel.
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30
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Influence of Substrate Stiffness on Barrier Function in an iPSC-Derived In Vitro Blood-Brain Barrier Model. Cell Mol Bioeng 2021; 15:31-42. [DOI: 10.1007/s12195-021-00706-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
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31
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Dessalles CA, Leclech C, Castagnino A, Barakat AI. Integration of substrate- and flow-derived stresses in endothelial cell mechanobiology. Commun Biol 2021; 4:764. [PMID: 34155305 PMCID: PMC8217569 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-021-02285-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Endothelial cells (ECs) lining all blood vessels are subjected to large mechanical stresses that regulate their structure and function in health and disease. Here, we review EC responses to substrate-derived biophysical cues, namely topography, curvature, and stiffness, as well as to flow-derived stresses, notably shear stress, pressure, and tensile stresses. Because these mechanical cues in vivo are coupled and are exerted simultaneously on ECs, we also review the effects of multiple cues and describe burgeoning in vitro approaches for elucidating how ECs integrate and interpret various mechanical stimuli. We conclude by highlighting key open questions and upcoming challenges in the field of EC mechanobiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire A Dessalles
- LadHyX, CNRS, Ecole polytechnique, Institut polytechnique de Paris, Palaiseau, France
| | - Claire Leclech
- LadHyX, CNRS, Ecole polytechnique, Institut polytechnique de Paris, Palaiseau, France
| | - Alessia Castagnino
- LadHyX, CNRS, Ecole polytechnique, Institut polytechnique de Paris, Palaiseau, France
| | - Abdul I Barakat
- LadHyX, CNRS, Ecole polytechnique, Institut polytechnique de Paris, Palaiseau, France.
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32
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Miroshnikova YA, Manet S, Li X, Wickström SA, Faurobert E, Albiges-Rizo C. Calcium signaling mediates a biphasic mechanoadaptive response of endothelial cells to cyclic mechanical stretch. Mol Biol Cell 2021; 32:1724-1736. [PMID: 34081532 PMCID: PMC8684738 DOI: 10.1091/mbc.e21-03-0106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The vascular system is precisely regulated to adjust blood flow to organismal demand, thereby guaranteeing adequate perfusion under varying physiological conditions. Mechanical forces, such as cyclic circumferential stretch, are among the critical stimuli that dynamically adjust vessel distribution and diameter, but the precise mechanisms of adaptation to changing forces are unclear. We find that endothelial monolayers respond to cyclic stretch by transient remodeling of the vascular endothelial cadherin–based adherens junctions and the associated actomyosin cytoskeleton. Time-resolved proteomic profiling reveals that this remodeling is driven by calcium influx through the mechanosensitive Piezo1 channel, triggering Rho activation to increase actomyosin contraction. As the mechanical stimulus persists, calcium signaling is attenuated through transient down-regulation of Piezo1 protein. At the same time, filamins are phosphorylated to increase monolayer stiffness, allowing mechanoadaptation to restore junctional integrity despite continuing exposure to stretch. Collectively, this study identifies a biphasic response to cyclic stretch, consisting of an initial calcium-driven junctional mechanoresponse, followed by mechanoadaptation facilitated by monolayer stiffening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yekaterina A Miroshnikova
- Université Grenoble Alpes, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Grenoble 38042, France.,INSERM U1209, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, F-38700 La Tronche, France.,CNRS UMR 5039, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, F-38700 La Tronche, France.,Max Planck Institute for Biology of Ageing, D-50931 Cologne, Germany.,Helsinki Institute of Life Science, University of Helsinki, FI-00014 Helsinki, Finland.,Wihuri Research Institute, Biomedicum Helsinki, University of Helsinki, FI-00014 Helsinki, Finland.,Stem Cells and Metabolism Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, FI-00014 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Sandra Manet
- Université Grenoble Alpes, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Grenoble 38042, France.,INSERM U1209, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, F-38700 La Tronche, France.,CNRS UMR 5039, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, F-38700 La Tronche, France
| | - Xinping Li
- Max Planck Institute for Biology of Ageing, D-50931 Cologne, Germany
| | - Sara A Wickström
- Max Planck Institute for Biology of Ageing, D-50931 Cologne, Germany.,Helsinki Institute of Life Science, University of Helsinki, FI-00014 Helsinki, Finland.,Wihuri Research Institute, Biomedicum Helsinki, University of Helsinki, FI-00014 Helsinki, Finland.,Stem Cells and Metabolism Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, FI-00014 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Eva Faurobert
- Université Grenoble Alpes, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Grenoble 38042, France.,INSERM U1209, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, F-38700 La Tronche, France.,CNRS UMR 5039, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, F-38700 La Tronche, France
| | - Corinne Albiges-Rizo
- Université Grenoble Alpes, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Grenoble 38042, France.,INSERM U1209, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, F-38700 La Tronche, France.,CNRS UMR 5039, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, F-38700 La Tronche, France
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33
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Norman MDA, Ferreira SA, Jowett GM, Bozec L, Gentleman E. Measuring the elastic modulus of soft culture surfaces and three-dimensional hydrogels using atomic force microscopy. Nat Protoc 2021; 16:2418-2449. [PMID: 33854255 PMCID: PMC7615740 DOI: 10.1038/s41596-021-00495-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Growing interest in exploring mechanically mediated biological phenomena has resulted in cell culture substrates and 3D matrices with variable stiffnesses becoming standard tools in biology labs. However, correlating stiffness with biological outcomes and comparing results between research groups is hampered by variability in the methods used to determine Young's (elastic) modulus, E, and by the inaccessibility of relevant mechanical engineering protocols to most biology labs. Here, we describe a protocol for measuring E of soft 2D surfaces and 3D hydrogels using atomic force microscopy (AFM) force spectroscopy. We provide instructions for preparing hydrogels with and without encapsulated live cells, and provide a method for mounting samples within the AFM. We also provide details on how to calibrate the instrument, and give step-by-step instructions for collecting force-displacement curves in both manual and automatic modes (stiffness mapping). We then provide details on how to apply either the Hertz or the Oliver-Pharr model to calculate E, and give additional instructions to aid the user in plotting data distributions and carrying out statistical analyses. We also provide instructions for inferring differential matrix remodeling activity in hydrogels containing encapsulated single cells or organoids. Our protocol is suitable for probing a range of synthetic and naturally derived polymeric hydrogels such as polyethylene glycol, polyacrylamide, hyaluronic acid, collagen, or Matrigel. Although sample preparation timings will vary, a user with introductory training to AFM will be able to use this protocol to characterize the mechanical properties of two to six soft surfaces or 3D hydrogels in a single day.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael D. A. Norman
- Centre for Craniofacial and Regenerative Biology, King’s College London, London SE1 9RT, UK
| | - Silvia A. Ferreira
- Centre for Craniofacial and Regenerative Biology, King’s College London, London SE1 9RT, UK
| | - Geraldine M. Jowett
- Centre for Craniofacial and Regenerative Biology, King’s College London, London SE1 9RT, UK
| | - Laurent Bozec
- Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1G6, Canada
| | - Eileen Gentleman
- Centre for Craniofacial and Regenerative Biology, King’s College London, London SE1 9RT, UK
- London Centre for Nanotechnology, London WC1H 0AH, UK
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34
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Misawa A, Kondo Y, Takei H, Takizawa T. Long Noncoding RNA HOXA11-AS and Transcription Factor HOXB13 Modulate the Expression of Bone Metastasis-Related Genes in Prostate Cancer. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12020182. [PMID: 33514011 PMCID: PMC7912412 DOI: 10.3390/genes12020182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Revised: 01/17/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are emerging as critical regulators of gene expression, which play fundamental roles in cancer development. In this study, we found that homeobox A11 antisense RNA (HOXA11-AS), a highly expressed lncRNA in cell lines derived from prostate cancer bone metastases, promoted the cell invasion and proliferation of PC3 prostate cancer cells. Transcription factor homeobox B13 (HOXB13) was identified as an upstream regulator of HOXA11-AS.HOXA11-AS regulated bone metastasis-associated C-C motif chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2)/C-C chemokine receptor type 2 (CCR2) signaling in both PC3 prostate cancer cells and SaOS2 osteoblastic cells. The HOXB13/HOXA11-AS axis also regulated integrin subunits (ITGAV and ITGB1) specific to prostate cancer bone metastasis. HOXB13, in combination with HOXA11-AS, directly regulated the integrin-binding sialoprotein (IBSP) promoter. Furthermore, conditioned medium containing HOXA11-AS secreted from PC3 cells could induce the expression of CCL2 and IBSP in SaOS2 osteoblastic cells. These results suggest that prostate cancer HOXA11-AS and HOXB13 promote metastasis by regulation of CCL2/CCR2 cytokine and integrin signaling in autocrine and paracrine manners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aya Misawa
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Anatomy, Nippon Medical School, 1-1-5 Sendagi, Tokyo 113-8602, Japan;
| | - Yukihiro Kondo
- Department of Urology, Nippon Medical School, 1-1-5 Sendagi, Tokyo 113-8602, Japan;
| | - Hiroyuki Takei
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, Nippon Medical School, 1-1-5 Sendagi, Tokyo 113-8602, Japan;
| | - Toshihiro Takizawa
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Anatomy, Nippon Medical School, 1-1-5 Sendagi, Tokyo 113-8602, Japan;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-3-3822-2131; Fax: +81-3-5685-3052
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35
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Ragelle H, Dernick K, Khemais S, Keppler C, Cousin L, Farouz Y, Louche C, Fauser S, Kustermann S, Tibbitt MW, Westenskow PD. Human Retinal Microvasculature-on-a-Chip for Drug Discovery. Adv Healthc Mater 2020; 9:e2001531. [PMID: 32975047 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202001531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Retinal cells within neurovascular units generate the blood-retinal barrier (BRB) to regulate the local retinal microenvironment and to limit access to inflammatory cells. Breakdown of the endothelial junctional complexes in the BRB negatively affects neuronal signaling and ultimately causes vision loss. As new therapeutics are being developed either to prevent barrier disruption or to restore barrier function, access to physiologically relevant human in vitro tissue models that recapitulate important features of barrier biology is essential for disease modeling, target validation, and toxicity assessment. Here, a tunable organ-on-a-chip model of the retinal microvasculature using human retinal microvascular endothelial cells with integrated flow is described. Automated imaging and image analysis methods are employed for facile screening of leakage mediators and cytokine inhibitors on barrier properties. The developed retinal microvasculature-on-a-chip will enable improved understanding of BRB biology and provide an additional tool for drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Héloïse Ragelle
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development Roche Innovation Center Basel F. Hoffmann‐La Roche Ltd. Basel 4070 Switzerland
| | - Karen Dernick
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development Roche Innovation Center Basel F. Hoffmann‐La Roche Ltd. Basel 4070 Switzerland
| | - Sonia Khemais
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development Roche Innovation Center Basel F. Hoffmann‐La Roche Ltd. Basel 4070 Switzerland
| | - Cordula Keppler
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development Roche Innovation Center Basel F. Hoffmann‐La Roche Ltd. Basel 4070 Switzerland
| | - Lucien Cousin
- Macromolecular Engineering Laboratory Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering ETH Zurich Zurich 8092 Switzerland
| | - Yohan Farouz
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development Roche Innovation Center Basel F. Hoffmann‐La Roche Ltd. Basel 4070 Switzerland
| | - Chris Louche
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development Roche Innovation Center Basel F. Hoffmann‐La Roche Ltd. Basel 4070 Switzerland
| | - Sascha Fauser
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development Roche Innovation Center Basel F. Hoffmann‐La Roche Ltd. Basel 4070 Switzerland
| | - Stefan Kustermann
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development Roche Innovation Center Basel F. Hoffmann‐La Roche Ltd. Basel 4070 Switzerland
| | - Mark W. Tibbitt
- Macromolecular Engineering Laboratory Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering ETH Zurich Zurich 8092 Switzerland
| | - Peter D. Westenskow
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development Roche Innovation Center Basel F. Hoffmann‐La Roche Ltd. Basel 4070 Switzerland
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36
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VanderBurgh JA, Potharazu AV, Schwager SC, Reinhart-King CA. A discrete interface in matrix stiffness creates an oscillatory pattern of endothelial monolayer disruption. J Cell Sci 2020; 133:jcs244533. [PMID: 32878941 PMCID: PMC7520461 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.244533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Intimal stiffening upregulates endothelial cell contractility, disrupting barrier integrity; however, intimal stiffening is non-uniform. The impact of local changes in intimal stiffness on proximal and distal cell-cell interactions is unknown. To investigate the range at which matrix stiffness heterogeneities impact neighboring endothelial cells within a monolayer, we built a micropillar system with adjacent regions of stiff and compliant matrix. The stiffness interface results in an oscillatory pattern of neutrophil transendothelial migration, symmetrical about the interface and well-fit by a sinusoid function. 'Peaks' of the sinusoid were found to have increased cellular contractility and decreased barrier function relative to 'troughs' of the sinusoid. Pharmacological modulation of contractility was observed to break symmetry, altering the amplitude and wavelength of the sinusoid, indicating that contractility may regulate this effect. This work illuminates a novel biophysical phenomenon of the role of stiffness-mediated cell-matrix interactions on cell-cell interactions at a distance. Additionally, it provides insight into the range at which intimal matrix stiffness heterogeneities will impact endothelial barrier function and potentially contribute to atherogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob A VanderBurgh
- Nancy E. and Peter C. Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37235, USA
| | - Archit V Potharazu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37235, USA
| | - Samantha C Schwager
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37235, USA
| | - Cynthia A Reinhart-King
- Nancy E. and Peter C. Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37235, USA
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Xu H, Donegan S, Dreher JM, Stark AJ, Canović EP, Stamenović D, Smith ML. Focal adhesion displacement magnitude is a unifying feature of tensional homeostasis. Acta Biomater 2020; 113:372-379. [PMID: 32634483 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2020.06.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2020] [Revised: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Tensional homeostasis is widely recognized to exist at the length scales of organs and tissues, but the cellular length scale mechanism for tension regulation is not known. In this study, we explored whether tensional homeostasis emerges from the behavior of the individual focal adhesion (FA), which is the subcellular structure that transmits cell stress to the surrounding extracellular matrix. Past studies have suggested that cell contractility builds up until a certain displacement is achieved, and we thus hypothesized that tensional homeostasis may require a threshold level of substrate displacement. Micropattern traction microscopy was used to study a wide range of FA traction forces generated by bovine vascular smooth muscle cells and bovine aortic endothelial cells cultured on substrates of stiffness of 3.6, 6.7, 13.6, and 30 kPa. The most striking feature of FA dynamics observed here is that the substrate displacement resulting from FA traction forces is a unifying feature that determines FA tensional stability. Beyond approximately 1 μm of substrate displacement, FAs, regardless of cell type or substrate stiffness, exhibit a precipitous drop in temporal fluctuations of traction forces. These findings lead us to the conclusion that traction force dynamics collectively determine whether cells or cell ensembles develop tensional homeostasis, and this insight is necessary to fully understand how matrix stiffness impacts cellular behavior in healthy conditions and, more important, in pathological conditions such as cancer or vascular aging, where environmental stiffness is altered. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Tensional homeostasis is widely recognized to exist at the length scales of organs and tissues, but the cellular length scale mechanism for tension regulation is not known. In this study, we explored whether tensional homeostasis emerges from the behavior of the individual focal adhesion (FA), which is the subcellular structure that transmits cell stress to the extracellular matrix. We utilized micropattern traction microscopy to measure time-lapses of FA forces in vascular smooth muscle cells and in endothelial cells. We discovered that the magnitude of the substrate displacement determines whether the FA has low temporal variability of traction forces. This finding is significant since it is the first known feature of tensional homeostasis that is broadly unifying across a range of environmental conditions and cell types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Xu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, 44 Cummington Mall, Boston, MA 02215, United States
| | - Stephanie Donegan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, 44 Cummington Mall, Boston, MA 02215, United States; Department of Mechanical Engineering, Boston University, 110 Cummington Mall, Boston, Massachusetts 02215, United States
| | - Jordan M Dreher
- Department of Chemistry, Norfolk State University, 700 Park Avenue, Norfolk, Virginia 23504, United States
| | - Alicia J Stark
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, 44 Cummington Mall, Boston, MA 02215, United States
| | - Elizabeth P Canović
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, 44 Cummington Mall, Boston, MA 02215, United States
| | - Dimitrije Stamenović
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, 44 Cummington Mall, Boston, MA 02215, United States; Division of Material Science and Engineering, Boston University, 15St. Mary's St., Brookline, MA 02446, United States.
| | - Michael L Smith
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, 44 Cummington Mall, Boston, MA 02215, United States.
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Vargas DA, Heck T, Smeets B, Ramon H, Parameswaran H, Van Oosterwyck H. Intercellular Adhesion Stiffness Moderates Cell Decoupling as a Function of Substrate Stiffness. Biophys J 2020; 119:243-257. [PMID: 32621867 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2020.05.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2019] [Revised: 03/29/2020] [Accepted: 05/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The interplay between cell-cell and cell-substrate interactions is complex yet necessary for the formation and healthy functioning of tissues. The same mechanosensing mechanisms used by the cell to sense its extracellular matrix also play a role in intercellular interactions. We used the discrete element method to develop a computational model of a deformable cell that includes subcellular components responsible for mechanosensing. We modeled a three-dimensional cell pair on a patterned (two-dimensional) substrate, a simple laboratory setup to study intercellular interactions. We explicitly modeled focal adhesions and adherens junctions. These mechanosensing adhesions matured, becoming stabilized by force. We also modeled contractile stress fibers that bind the discrete adhesions. The mechanosensing fibers strengthened upon stalling. Traction exerted on the substrate was used to generate traction maps (along the cell-substrate interface). These simulated maps are compared to experimental maps obtained via traction force microscopy. The model recreates the dependence on substrate stiffness of the tractions' spatial distribution, contractile moment of the cell pair, intercellular force, and number of focal adhesions. It also recreates the phenomenon of cell decoupling, in which cells exert forces separately when substrate stiffness increases. More importantly, the model provides viable molecular explanations for decoupling: mechanosensing mechanisms are responsible for competition between different fiber-adhesion configurations present in the cell pair. The point at which an increasing substrate stiffness becomes as high as that of the cell-cell interface is the tipping point at which configurations that favor cell-substrate adhesion dominate over those favoring cell-cell adhesion. This competition is responsible for decoupling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego A Vargas
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, KU Leuven, Celestijnenlaan 300C, Leuven, Brabant, Belgium
| | - Tommy Heck
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, KU Leuven, Celestijnenlaan 300C, Leuven, Brabant, Belgium
| | - Bart Smeets
- Mechatronics Biostatistics and Sensors, Department of Biosystems, KU Leuven, Kasteelpark Arenberg 30, Leuven, Brabant, Belgium
| | - Herman Ramon
- Mechatronics Biostatistics and Sensors, Department of Biosystems, KU Leuven, Kasteelpark Arenberg 30, Leuven, Brabant, Belgium
| | | | - Hans Van Oosterwyck
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, KU Leuven, Celestijnenlaan 300C, Leuven, Brabant, Belgium; Prometheus: Division of Skeletal Tissue Engineering, KU Leuven, Herestraat 49, Brabant, Belgium.
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39
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Lugo-Cintrón KM, Ayuso JM, White BR, Harari PM, Ponik S, Beebe DJ, Gong MM, Virumbrales-Muñoz M. Matrix density drives 3D organotypic lymphatic vessel activation in a microfluidic model of the breast tumor microenvironment. LAB ON A CHIP 2020; 20:1586-1600. [PMID: 32297896 PMCID: PMC7330815 DOI: 10.1039/d0lc00099j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Lymphatic vessels (LVs) have been suggested as a preferential conduit for metastatic progression in breast cancer, where a correlation between the occurrence of lymph node metastasis and an increased extracellular matrix (ECM) density has been reported. However, the effect of ECM density on LV function is largely unknown. To better understand these effects, we used a microfluidic device to recreate tubular LVs in a collagen type I matrix. The density of the matrix was tailored to mimic normal breast tissue using a low-density collagen (LD-3 mg mL-1) and cancerous breast tissue using a high-density collagen (HD-6 mg mL-1). We investigated the effect of ECM density on LV morphology, growth, cytokine secretion, and barrier function. LVs cultured in HD matrices showed morphological changes as compared to LVs cultured in a LD matrix. Specifically, LVs cultured in HD matrices had a 3-fold higher secretion of the pro-inflammatory cytokine, IL-6, and a leakier phenotype, suggesting LVs acquired characteristics of activated vessels. Interestingly, LV leakiness was mitigated by blocking the IL-6 receptor on the lymphatic ECs, maintaining endothelium permeability at similar levels of LV cultured in a LD matrix. To recreate a more in vivo microenvironment, we incorporated metastatic breast cancer cells (MDA-MB-231) into the LD and HD matrices. For HD matrices, co-culture with MDA-MB-231 cells exacerbated vessel leakiness and secretion of IL-6. In summary, our data suggest that (1) ECM density is an important microenvironmental cue that affects LV function in the breast tumor microenvironment (TME), (2) dense matrices condition LVs towards an activated phenotype and (3) blockade of IL-6 signaling may be a potential therapeutic target to mitigate LV dysfunction. Overall, modeling LVs and their interactions with the TME can help identify novel therapeutic targets and, in turn, advance therapeutic discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karina M. Lugo-Cintrón
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA
| | - José M. Ayuso
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA
- Morgridge Institute for Research, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Bridget R. White
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Paul M. Harari
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Suzanne Ponik
- Department of Cell and Regenerative Biology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA
| | - David J. Beebe
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Max M. Gong
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Trine University, Angola, IN, USA
| | - María Virumbrales-Muñoz
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA
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40
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Yi B, Shen Y, Tang H, Wang X, Zhang Y. Stiffness of the aligned fibers affects structural and functional integrity of the oriented endothelial cells. Acta Biomater 2020; 108:237-249. [PMID: 32205213 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2020.03.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2019] [Revised: 03/17/2020] [Accepted: 03/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Promoting healthy endothelialization of the tissue-engineered vascular grafts is of great importance in preventing the occurrence of undesired post-implantation complications including neointimal hyperplasia, late thrombosis, and neoatherosclerosis. Previous researches have demonstrated the crucial role of scaffold topography or stiffness in modulating the behavior of the monolayer endothelial cells (ECs). However, effects of the stiffness of scaffolds with anisotropic topography on ECs within vivo like oriented morphology has received little attention. In this study, aligned fibrous substrates (AFSs) with tunable stiffness (14.68-2141.72 MPa), similar to the range of stiffness of the healthy and diseased subendothelial matrix, were used to investigate the effects of fiber stiffness on ECs' attachment, orientation, proliferation, function, remodeling and dysfunction. The results demonstrate that stiffness of the AFSs, capable of providing topographical cues, is a crucial endothelium-protective microenvironmental factor by maintaining stable and quiescent endothelium with in vivo like orientation and strong cell-cell junctions. Stiffer AFSs exacerbated the disruption of endothelium integrity, the occurrence of endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT), and the inflammation-induced activation in the endothelial monolayer. This study provides new insights into the understanding on how the stiffness of biomimicking anisotropic substrate regulates the structural and functional integrity of the in vivo like endothelial monolayer, and offers essential designing parameters in engineering biomimicking small-diameter vascular grafts for the regeneration of viable blood vessels. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: In vascular tissue engineering, promoting endothelialization on scaffold surface has been considered as a paramount strategy to reduce post-implantation complications. Electrospun aligned fibers have been known to provide contact guidance effect in directing endothelial cells' oriented growth, however, whether the formed EC monolayer in 'correct' orientation shape is of 'correct' function hasn't been explored yet. Given the recognized important role of substrate stiffness in endothelial function, AFSs across physiologically relevant range of moduli (14.68-2141.72 MPa) while maintaining consistent surface chemistry and topographical features were employed to investigate the fiber stiffness effects on ECs function in anisotropic morphology. This study will provide more insightful perspectives in the physiologically remodeling progression of vascular endothelium and design of vascular scaffolds.
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41
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Jannatbabaei A, Tafazzoli‐Shadpour M, Seyedjafari E. Effects of substrate mechanics on angiogenic capacity and nitric oxide release in human endothelial cells. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2020; 1470:31-43. [DOI: 10.1111/nyas.14326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2019] [Revised: 12/15/2019] [Accepted: 02/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Atefeh Jannatbabaei
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringAmirkabir University of Technology Tehran Iran
| | | | - Ehsan Seyedjafari
- Department of Biotechnology, College of ScienceUniversity of Tehran Tehran Iran
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42
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Patel NG, Nguyen A, Xu N, Ananthasekar S, Alvarez DF, Stevens T, Tambe DT. Unleashing shear: Role of intercellular traction and cellular moments in collective cell migration. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2020; 522:279-285. [PMID: 31879014 PMCID: PMC6957749 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2019.11.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2019] [Accepted: 11/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
In the field of endothelial biology, the term "shear forces" is tied to the forces exerted by the flowing blood on the quiescent cells. But endothelial cells themselves also exert physical forces on their immediate and distant neighbors. Specific factors of such intrinsic mechanical signals most relevant to immediate neighbors include normal (Fn) and shear (Fs) components of intercellular tractions, and those factors most relevant to distant neighbors include contractile or dilatational (Mc) and shear (Ms) components of the moments of cytoskeletal forces. However, for cells within a monolayer, Fn, Fs, Mc, and Ms remain inaccessible to experimental evaluation. Here, we present an approach that enables quantitative assessment of these properties. Remarkably, across a collectively migrating sheet of pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells, Fs was of the same order of magnitude as Fn. Moreover, compared to the normal components (Fn, Mc) of the mechanical signals, the shear components (Fs, Ms) were more distinctive in the cells closer to the migration front. Individual cells had an innately collective tendency to migrate along the axis of maximum contractile moment - a collective migratory process we referred to as cellular plithotaxis. Notably, larger Fs and Ms were associated with stronger plithotaxis, but dilatational moment appeared to disengage plithotactic guidance. Overall, cellular plithotaxis was more strongly associated with the "shear forces" (Fs, Ms) than with the "normal forces" (Fn, Mc). Finally, the mechanical state of the cells with fast migration speed and those with highly circular shape were reminiscent of fluid-like and solid-like matter, respectively. The results repeatedly pointed to neighbors imposing shear forces on a cell as a highly significant event, and hence, the term "shear forces" must include not just the forces from flowing fluid but also the forces from the substrate and neighbors. Collectively, these advances set the stage for deeper understanding of mechanical signaling in cellular monolayers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neel G Patel
- William B. Burnsed, Jr. Department of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA
| | - Alyson Nguyen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Pat Capps Covey College of Allied Health Professions, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA
| | - Ningyong Xu
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, College of Medicine, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA; Center for Lung Biology, College of Medicine, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA
| | | | - Diego F Alvarez
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, College of Osteopathic Medicine, Sam Houston State University, Conroe, TX, USA
| | - Troy Stevens
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, College of Medicine, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA; Center for Lung Biology, College of Medicine, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA
| | - Dhananjay T Tambe
- William B. Burnsed, Jr. Department of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA; Center for Lung Biology, College of Medicine, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA; Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA.
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43
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Hiepen C, Jatzlau J, Hildebrandt S, Kampfrath B, Goktas M, Murgai A, Cuellar Camacho JL, Haag R, Ruppert C, Sengle G, Cavalcanti-Adam EA, Blank KG, Knaus P. BMPR2 acts as a gatekeeper to protect endothelial cells from increased TGFβ responses and altered cell mechanics. PLoS Biol 2019; 17:e3000557. [PMID: 31826007 PMCID: PMC6927666 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.3000557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2019] [Revised: 12/23/2019] [Accepted: 11/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Balanced transforming growth factor-beta (TGFβ)/bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)-signaling is essential for tissue formation and homeostasis. While gain in TGFβ signaling is often found in diseases, the underlying cellular mechanisms remain poorly defined. Here we show that the receptor BMP type 2 (BMPR2) serves as a central gatekeeper of this balance, highlighted by its deregulation in diseases such as pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). We show that BMPR2 deficiency in endothelial cells (ECs) does not abolish pan-BMP-SMAD1/5 responses but instead favors the formation of mixed-heteromeric receptor complexes comprising BMPR1/TGFβR1/TGFβR2 that enable enhanced cellular responses toward TGFβ. These include canonical TGFβ-SMAD2/3 and lateral TGFβ-SMAD1/5 signaling as well as formation of mixed SMAD complexes. Moreover, BMPR2-deficient cells express genes indicative of altered biophysical properties, including up-regulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins such as fibrillin-1 (FBN1) and of integrins. As such, we identified accumulation of ectopic FBN1 fibers remodeled with fibronectin (FN) in junctions of BMPR2-deficient ECs. Ectopic FBN1 deposits were also found in proximity to contractile intimal cells in pulmonary artery lesions of BMPR2-deficient heritable PAH (HPAH) patients. In BMPR2-deficient cells, we show that ectopic FBN1 is accompanied by active β1-integrin highly abundant in integrin-linked kinase (ILK) mechano-complexes at cell junctions. Increased integrin-dependent adhesion, spreading, and actomyosin-dependent contractility facilitates the retrieval of active TGFβ from its latent fibrillin-bound depots. We propose that loss of BMPR2 favors endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) allowing cells of myo-fibroblastic character to create a vicious feed-forward process leading to hyperactivated TGFβ signaling. In summary, our findings highlight a crucial role for BMPR2 as a gatekeeper of endothelial homeostasis protecting cells from increased TGFβ responses and integrin-mediated mechano-transduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Hiepen
- Freie Universität Berlin, Institute for Chemistry and Biochemistry, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jerome Jatzlau
- Freie Universität Berlin, Institute for Chemistry and Biochemistry, Berlin, Germany
- Berlin-Brandenburg School for Regenerative Therapies, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany
| | - Susanne Hildebrandt
- Freie Universität Berlin, Institute for Chemistry and Biochemistry, Berlin, Germany
- Berlin-Brandenburg School for Regenerative Therapies, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany
| | - Branka Kampfrath
- Freie Universität Berlin, Institute for Chemistry and Biochemistry, Berlin, Germany
| | - Melis Goktas
- Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces, Mechano(bio)chemistry, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Arunima Murgai
- Freie Universität Berlin, Institute for Chemistry and Biochemistry, Berlin, Germany
- Berlin-Brandenburg School for Regenerative Therapies, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany
- Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Rainer Haag
- Freie Universität Berlin, Institute for Chemistry and Biochemistry, Berlin, Germany
| | - Clemens Ruppert
- Universities of Giessen and Marburg Lung Center (UGMLC), Medical Clinic II, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Gerhard Sengle
- University of Cologne, Center for Biochemistry, Medical Faculty, Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), Cologne, Germany
| | | | - Kerstin G. Blank
- Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces, Mechano(bio)chemistry, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Petra Knaus
- Freie Universität Berlin, Institute for Chemistry and Biochemistry, Berlin, Germany
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44
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Kohn JC, Abdalrahman T, Sack KL, Reinhart-King CA, Franz T. Cell focal adhesion clustering leads to decreased and homogenized basal strains. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR NUMERICAL METHODS IN BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING 2019; 35:e3260. [PMID: 31484224 DOI: 10.1002/cnm.3260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2019] [Revised: 08/10/2019] [Accepted: 08/31/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The subendothelial matrix of the artery is a complex mechanical environment where endothelial cells respond to and affect changes upon the underlying substrate. Our recent work has demonstrated that endothelial cell strain heterogeneity increases on a more heterogeneous underlying subendothelial matrix, and these cells display increased focal adhesion presence on stiffer substrate areas. However, the impact of these grouped focal adhesions on endothelial cell strains has not been explored. Here, we use finite element modeling to investigate the effects of microscale stiffness heterogeneities and focal adhesion location and stiffness on endothelial cell strains. Shear stress applied to the apical cell layer demonstrated a minimal effect on cell strain values, while substrate stretch had a greater effect on cell strain in the cell-substrate model. The addition of focal adhesions into the computational model (cell-FA-substrate model) predicted a decrease and homogenization of the cell strains. For simulations including focal adhesions, stiffer and more distributed adhesions caused increased and more heterogeneous endothelial cell strains. Overall, our data indicate that cells may group focal adhesions to minimize and homogenize their basal strains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie C Kohn
- Nancy E. and Peter C. Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
- Division of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Human Biology, University of Cape Town, Observatory, South Africa
| | - Tamer Abdalrahman
- Division of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Human Biology, University of Cape Town, Observatory, South Africa
- Julius Wolff Institute for Biomechanics and Musculoskeletal Regeneration, Charité, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Kevin L Sack
- Division of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Human Biology, University of Cape Town, Observatory, South Africa
| | - Cynthia A Reinhart-King
- Nancy E. and Peter C. Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Thomas Franz
- Division of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Human Biology, University of Cape Town, Observatory, South Africa
- Bioengineering Science Research Group, Engineering Sciences, Faculty of Engineering and the Environment, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
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45
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Shin Y, Lim S, Kim J, Jeon JS, Yoo H, Gweon B. Emulating endothelial dysfunction by implementing an early atherosclerotic microenvironment within a microfluidic chip. LAB ON A CHIP 2019; 19:3664-3677. [PMID: 31565711 DOI: 10.1039/c9lc00352e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Recent studies on endothelial dysfunction in relation to vascular diseases including atherosclerosis have highlighted the key contribution of the microenvironment of endothelial cells (ECs). By mimicking the microenvironment of early atherosclerotic lesions, here, we replicate the pathophysiological phenotype and function of ECs within microchannels. Considering the elevated deposition of fibronectin (FN) in early atherosclerotic plaques and the close correlation between the vascular stiffness and the progression of atherosclerosis, we utilized FN coated hydrogels with increased stiffness for endothelial substrates within the microchannels. As a result, we demonstrated that endothelial integrity on FN coated microchannels is likely to be undermined exhibiting a random orientation in response to the applied fluid flow, notable disruption of vascular endothelial cadherins (VE-cadherins), and higher endothelial permeability as opposed to that on microchannels coated with collagen (CL), the atheroresistant vascular model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujin Shin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Hanyang University, Republic of Korea
| | - Seongjin Lim
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, KAIST, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jinwon Kim
- Cardiovascular Center, Korea University Guro Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jessie S Jeon
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, KAIST, Republic of Korea.
| | - Hongki Yoo
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Hanyang University, Republic of Korea and Department of Mechanical Engineering, KAIST, Republic of Korea.
| | - Bomi Gweon
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Hanyang University, Republic of Korea and Department of Mechanical Engineering, Sejong University, Republic of Korea.
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46
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Islam MM, Steward RL. Perturbing Endothelial Biomechanics via Connexin 43 Structural Disruption. J Vis Exp 2019. [PMID: 31633688 DOI: 10.3791/60034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Endothelial cells have been established to generate intercellular stresses and tractions, but the role gap junctions play in endothelial intercellular stress and traction generation is currently unknown. Therefore, we present here a mechanics-based protocol to probe the influence of gap junction connexin 43 (Cx43) has on endothelial biomechanics by exposing confluent endothelial monolayers to a known Cx43 inhibitor 2,5-dihydroxychalcone (chalcone) and measuring the impact this inhibitor has on tractions and intercellular stresses. We present representative results, which show a decrease in both tractions and intercellular stresses under a high chalcone dosage (2 µg/mL) when compared to control. This protocol can be applied to not just Cx43, but also other gap junctions as well, assuming the appropriate inhibitor is used. We believe this protocol will be useful in the fields of cardiovascular and mechanobiology research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Mydul Islam
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of Central Florida
| | - Robert L Steward
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of Central Florida; Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Central Florida;
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47
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Kohn JC, Bordeleau F, Miller J, Watkins HC, Modi S, Ma J, Azar J, Putnam D, Reinhart-King CA. Beneficial Effects of Exercise on Subendothelial Matrix Stiffness are Short-Lived. J Biomech Eng 2019; 140:2675127. [PMID: 29560498 DOI: 10.1115/1.4039579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2017] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Aerobic exercise helps to maintain cardiovascular health in part by mitigating age-induced arterial stiffening. However, the long-term effects of exercise regimens on aortic stiffness remain unknown, especially in the intimal extracellular matrix layer known as the subendothelial matrix. To examine how the stiffness of the subendothelial matrix changes following exercise cessation, mice were exposed to an 8 week swimming regimen followed by an 8 week sedentary rest period. Whole vessel and subendothelial matrix stiffness were measured after both the exercise and rest periods. After swimming, whole vessel and subendothelial matrix stiffness decreased, and after 8 weeks of rest, these values returned to baseline. Within the same time frame, the collagen content in the intima layer and the presence of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) in the whole vessel were also affected by the exercise and the rest periods. Overall, our data indicate that consistent exercise is necessary for maintaining compliance in the subendothelial matrix.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie C Kohn
- Nancy E. and Peter C. Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Weill Hall, Ithaca, NY 14853 e-mail:
| | - François Bordeleau
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Engineering and Science Building, Nashville, TN 351631 e-mail:
| | - Joseph Miller
- Nancy E. and Peter C. Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Weill Hall, Ithaca, NY 14853 e-mail:
| | - Hannah C Watkins
- Nancy E. and Peter C. Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Weill Hall, Ithaca, NY 14853 e-mail:
| | - Shweta Modi
- Nancy E. and Peter C. Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Weill Hall, Ithaca, NY 14853 e-mail:
| | - Jenny Ma
- Nancy E. and Peter C. Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Weill Hall, Ithaca, NY 14853 e-mail:
| | - Julian Azar
- Nancy E. and Peter C. Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Weill Hall, Ithaca, NY 14853 e-mail:
| | - David Putnam
- Nancy E. and Peter C. Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Weill Hall, Ithaca, NY 14853.,Robert Frederick Smith School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Cornell University, , Ithaca, NY 14853 e-mail:
| | - Cynthia A Reinhart-King
- Nancy E. and Peter C. Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Weill Hall, Ithaca, NY 14853.,Cornelius Vanderbilt Professor of Engineering, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Mailbox PMB 351631, 440 Engineering and Science Building, Nashville, TN 351631 e-mails:
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48
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Polio SR, Stasiak SE, Jamieson RR, Balestrini JL, Krishnan R, Parameswaran H. Extracellular matrix stiffness regulates human airway smooth muscle contraction by altering the cell-cell coupling. Sci Rep 2019; 9:9564. [PMID: 31267003 PMCID: PMC6606622 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-45716-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2018] [Accepted: 06/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
For an airway or a blood vessel to narrow, there must be a connected path that links the smooth muscle (SM) cells with each other, and transmits forces around the organ, causing it to constrict. Currently, we know very little about the mechanisms that regulate force transmission pathways in a multicellular SM ensemble. Here, we used extracellular matrix (ECM) micropatterning to study force transmission in a two-cell ensemble of SM cells. Using the two-SM cell ensemble, we demonstrate (a) that ECM stiffness acts as a switch that regulates whether SM force is transmitted through the ECM or through cell-cell connections. (b) Fluorescent imaging for adherens junctions and focal adhesions show the progressive loss of cell-cell borders and the appearance of focal adhesions with the increase in ECM stiffness (confirming our mechanical measurements). (c) At the same ECM stiffness, we show that the presence of a cell-cell border substantially decreases the overall contractility of the SM cell ensemble. Our results demonstrate that connectivity among SM cells is a critical factor to consider in the development of diseases such as asthma and hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel R Polio
- Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Suzanne E Stasiak
- Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Ryan R Jamieson
- Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Jenna L Balestrini
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Ramaswamy Krishnan
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
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49
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Suresh K, Carino K, Johnston L, Servinsky L, Machamer CE, Kolb TM, Lam H, Dudek SM, An SS, Rane MJ, Shimoda LA, Damarla M. A nonapoptotic endothelial barrier-protective role for caspase-3. Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol 2019; 316:L1118-L1126. [PMID: 30908935 PMCID: PMC6620669 DOI: 10.1152/ajplung.00487.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2018] [Revised: 02/26/2019] [Accepted: 03/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Noncanonical roles for caspase-3 are emerging in the fields of cancer and developmental biology. However, little is known of nonapoptotic functions of caspase-3 in most cell types. We have recently demonstrated a disassociation between caspase-3 activation and execution of apoptosis with accompanying cytoplasmic caspase-3 sequestration and preserved endothelial barrier function. Therefore, we tested the hypothesis that nonapoptotic caspase-3 activation promotes endothelial barrier integrity. Human lung microvascular endothelial cells were exposed to thrombin, a nonapoptotic stimulus, and endothelial barrier function was assessed using electric cell-substrate impedance sensing. Actin cytoskeletal rearrangement and paracellular gap formation were assessed using phalloidin staining. Cell stiffness was evaluated using magnetic twisting cytometry. In addition, cell lysates were harvested for protein analyses. Caspase-3 was inhibited pharmacologically with pan-caspase and a caspase-3-specific inhibitor. Molecular inhibition of caspase-3 was achieved using RNA interference. Cells exposed to thrombin exhibited a cytoplasmic activation of caspase-3 with transient and nonapoptotic decrease in endothelial barrier function as measured by a drop in electrical resistance followed by a rapid recovery. Inhibition of caspases led to a more pronounced and rapid drop in thrombin-induced endothelial barrier function, accompanied by increased endothelial cell stiffness and paracellular gaps. Caspase-3-specific inhibition and caspase-3 knockdown both resulted in more pronounced thrombin-induced endothelial barrier disruption. Taken together, our results suggest cytoplasmic caspase-3 has nonapoptotic functions in human endothelium and can promote endothelial barrier integrity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karthik Suresh
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine , Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Kathleen Carino
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine , Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Laura Johnston
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine , Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Laura Servinsky
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine , Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Carolyn E Machamer
- Department of Cell Biology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine , Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Todd M Kolb
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine , Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Hong Lam
- Department of Environmental Health and Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Public Health , Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Steven M Dudek
- Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago , Chicago, Illinois
| | - Steven S An
- Department of Environmental Health and Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Public Health , Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Madhavi J Rane
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Louisville , Louisville, Kentucky
| | - Larissa A Shimoda
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine , Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Mahendra Damarla
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine , Baltimore, Maryland
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50
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Ragelle H, Goncalves A, Kustermann S, Antonetti DA, Jayagopal A. Organ-On-A-Chip Technologies for Advanced Blood-Retinal Barrier Models. J Ocul Pharmacol Ther 2019; 36:30-41. [PMID: 31140899 PMCID: PMC6985766 DOI: 10.1089/jop.2019.0017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2019] [Accepted: 04/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The blood-retinal barrier (BRB) protects the retina by maintaining an adequate microenvironment for neuronal function. Alterations of the junctional complex of the BRB and consequent BRB breakdown in disease contribute to a loss of neuronal signaling and vision loss. As new therapeutics are being developed to prevent or restore barrier function, it is critical to implement physiologically relevant in vitro models that recapitulate the important features of barrier biology to improve disease modeling, target validation, and toxicity assessment. New directions in organ-on-a-chip technology are enabling more sophisticated 3-dimensional models with flow, multicellularity, and control over microenvironmental properties. By capturing additional biological complexity, organs-on-chip can help approach actual tissue organization and function and offer additional tools to model and study disease compared with traditional 2-dimensional cell culture. This review describes the current state of barrier biology and barrier function in ocular diseases, describes recent advances in organ-on-a-chip design for modeling the BRB, and discusses the potential of such models for ophthalmic drug discovery and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Héloïse Ragelle
- Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland
| | - Andreia Goncalves
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan, Ann Harbor, Michigan
| | - Stefan Kustermann
- Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland
| | - David A. Antonetti
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan, Ann Harbor, Michigan
| | - Ashwath Jayagopal
- Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland
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