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Al-Qadami G, Raposo A, Chien CC, Ma C, Priebe I, Hor M, Fung K. Intestinal organoid coculture systems: current approaches, challenges, and future directions. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2025; 328:G252-G276. [PMID: 39716040 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00203.2024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2024] [Revised: 12/12/2024] [Accepted: 12/12/2024] [Indexed: 12/25/2024]
Abstract
The intestinal microenvironment represents a complex and dynamic ecosystem, comprising a diverse range of epithelial and nonepithelial cells, a protective mucus layer, and a diverse community of gut microbiota. Understanding the intricate interplay between these components is essential for uncovering the mechanisms underlying intestinal health and disease. The development of intestinal organoids, three-dimensional (3-D) mini-intestines that closely mimic the architecture, cellular diversity, and functionality of the intestine, offers a powerful platform for investigating different aspects of intestinal physiology and pathology. However, current intestinal organoid models, mainly adult stem cell-derived organoids, lack the nonepithelial and microbial components of the intestinal microenvironment. As such, several coculture systems have been developed to coculture intestinal organoids with other intestinal elements including microbes (bacteria and viruses) and immune, stromal, and neural cells. These coculture models allow researchers to recreate the complex intestinal environment and study the intricate cross talk between different components of the intestinal ecosystem under healthy and pathological conditions. Currently, there are several approaches and methodologies to establish intestinal organoid cocultures, and each approach has its own strengths and limitations. This review discusses the existing methods for coculturing intestinal organoids with different intestinal elements, focusing on the methodological approaches, strengths and limitations, and future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anita Raposo
- Health and Biosecurity, CSIRO, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Chia-Chi Chien
- Australian Animal Health Laboratory, Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness, CSIRO, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Chenkai Ma
- Health and Biosecurity, CSIRO, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Ilka Priebe
- Health and Biosecurity, CSIRO, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Maryam Hor
- Health and Biosecurity, CSIRO, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Kim Fung
- Health and Biosecurity, CSIRO, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Koceva H, Amiratashani M, Akbarimoghaddam P, Hoffmann B, Zhurgenbayeva G, Gresnigt MS, Marcelino VR, Eggeling C, Figge MT, Amorim MJ, Mosig AS. Deciphering respiratory viral infections by harnessing organ-on-chip technology to explore the gut-lung axis. Open Biol 2025; 15:240231. [PMID: 40037530 PMCID: PMC11879621 DOI: 10.1098/rsob.240231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2025] [Indexed: 03/06/2025] Open
Abstract
The lung microbiome has recently gained attention for potentially affecting respiratory viral infections, including influenza A virus, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and SARS-CoV-2. We will discuss the complexities of the lung microenvironment in the context of viral infections and the use of organ-on-chip (OoC) models in replicating the respiratory tract milieu to aid in understanding the role of temporary microbial colonization. Leveraging the innovative capabilities of OoC, particularly through integrating gut and lung models, opens new avenues to understand the mechanisms linking inter-organ crosstalk and respiratory infections. We will discuss technical aspects of OoC lung models, ranging from the selection of cell substrates for extracellular matrix mimicry, mechanical strain, breathing mechanisms and air-liquid interface to the integration of immune cells and use of microscopy tools for algorithm-based image analysis and systems biology to study viral infection in vitro. OoC offers exciting new options to study viral infections across host species and to investigate human cellular physiology at a personalized level. This review bridges the gap between complex biological phenomena and the technical prowess of OoC models, providing a comprehensive roadmap for researchers in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hristina Koceva
- Institute of Biochemistry II, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence Balance of the Microverse, Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Mona Amiratashani
- Institute of Biochemistry II, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Parastoo Akbarimoghaddam
- Cluster of Excellence Balance of the Microverse, Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena, Jena, Germany
- Applied Systems Biology, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology, Hans Knöll Institute (HKI), Jena, Germany
| | - Bianca Hoffmann
- Cluster of Excellence Balance of the Microverse, Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena, Jena, Germany
- Applied Systems Biology, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology, Hans Knöll Institute (HKI), Jena, Germany
| | - Gaukhar Zhurgenbayeva
- Cluster of Excellence Balance of the Microverse, Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena, Jena, Germany
- Leibniz Institute of Photonic Technologies e.V., Member of the Leibniz Centre for Photonics in Infection Research (LPI), Jena, Germany
| | - Mark S. Gresnigt
- Cluster of Excellence Balance of the Microverse, Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena, Jena, Germany
- Junior Research Group Adaptive Pathogenicity Strategies, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology, Hans Knöll Institute (HKI), Jena, Germany
| | - Vanessa Rossetto Marcelino
- Melbourne Integrative Genomics, School of BioSciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The Peter Doherty Institute, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Christian Eggeling
- Cluster of Excellence Balance of the Microverse, Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena, Jena, Germany
- Leibniz Institute of Photonic Technologies e.V., Member of the Leibniz Centre for Photonics in Infection Research (LPI), Jena, Germany
- Institute of Applied Optics and Biophysics, Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena, Jena, Germany
- Jena Center for Soft Matter, Jena, Germany
| | - Marc Thilo Figge
- Cluster of Excellence Balance of the Microverse, Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena, Jena, Germany
- Applied Systems Biology, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology, Hans Knöll Institute (HKI), Jena, Germany
| | - Maria-João Amorim
- Católica Biomédical Research Centre, Católica Medical School, Universidade Católica Portuguesa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Alexander S. Mosig
- Institute of Biochemistry II, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence Balance of the Microverse, Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena, Jena, Germany
- Jena Center for Soft Matter, Jena, Germany
- Center of Sepsis Control and Care, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
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Özkan A, LoGrande NT, Feitor JF, Goyal G, Ingber DE. Intestinal organ chips for disease modelling and personalized medicine. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2024; 21:751-773. [PMID: 39192055 DOI: 10.1038/s41575-024-00968-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024]
Abstract
Alterations in intestinal structure, mechanics and physiology underlie acute and chronic intestinal conditions, many of which are influenced by dysregulation of microbiome, peristalsis, stroma or immune responses. Studying human intestinal physiology or pathophysiology is difficult in preclinical animal models because their microbiomes and immune systems differ from those of humans. Although advances in organoid culture partially overcome this challenge, intestinal organoids still lack crucial features that are necessary to study functions central to intestinal health and disease, such as digestion or fluid flow, as well as contributions from long-term effects of living microbiome, peristalsis and immune cells. Here, we review developments in organ-on-a-chip (organ chip) microfluidic culture models of the human intestine that are lined by epithelial cells and interfaced with other tissues (such as stroma or endothelium), which can experience both fluid flow and peristalsis-like motions. Organ chips offer powerful ways to model intestinal physiology and disease states for various human populations and individual patients, and can be used to gain new insight into underlying molecular and biophysical mechanisms of disease. They can also be used as preclinical tools to discover new drugs and then validate their therapeutic efficacy and safety in the same human-relevant model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alican Özkan
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Nina Teresa LoGrande
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jessica F Feitor
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Girija Goyal
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Donald E Ingber
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA.
- Vascular Biology Program and Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
- Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Cambridge, MA, USA.
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Fu S, Xu M, Wang B, Li B, Li Y, Wang Y, Liu X, Ling H, Wang Q, Zhang X, Li A, Zhang X, Liu M. Strain- and sex-specific differences in intestinal microhemodynamics and gut microbiota composition. Gastroenterol Rep (Oxf) 2024; 12:goae087. [PMID: 39286773 PMCID: PMC11405090 DOI: 10.1093/gastro/goae087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2024] [Accepted: 08/06/2024] [Indexed: 09/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Intestinal microcirculation is a critical interface for nutrient exchange and energy transfer, and is essential for maintaining physiological integrity. Our study aimed to elucidate the relationships among intestinal microhemodynamics, genetic background, sex, and microbial composition. Methods To dissect the microhemodynamic landscape of the BALB/c, C57BL/6J, and KM mouse strains, laser Doppler flowmetry paired with wavelet transform analysis was utilized to determine the amplitude of characteristic oscillatory patterns. Microbial consortia were profiled using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. To augment our investigation, a broad-spectrum antibiotic regimen was administered to these strains to evaluate the impact of gut microbiota depletion on intestinal microhemodynamics. Immunohistochemical analyses were used to quantify platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule-1 (PECAM-1), estrogen receptor α (ESR1), and estrogen receptor β (ESR2) expression. Results Our findings revealed strain-dependent and sex-related disparities in microhemodynamic profiles and characteristic oscillatory behaviors. Significant differences in the gut microbiota contingent upon sex and genetic lineage were observed, with correlational analyses indicating an influence of the microbiota on microhemodynamic parameters. Following antibiotic treatment, distinct changes in blood perfusion levels and velocities were observed, including a reduction in female C57BL/6J mice and a general decrease in perfusion velocity. Enhanced erythrocyte aggregation and modulated endothelial function post-antibiotic treatment indicated that a systemic response to microbiota depletion impacted cardiac amplitude. Immunohistochemical data revealed strain-specific and sex-specific PECAM-1 and ESR1 expression patterns that aligned with observed intestinal microhemodynamic changes. Conclusions This study highlights the influence of both genetic and sex-specific factors on intestinal microhemodynamics and the gut microbiota in mice. These findings also emphasize a substantial correlation between intestinal microhemodynamics and the compositional dynamics of the gut bacterial community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunjing Fu
- Institute of Microcirculation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, P. R. China
- International Center of Microvascular Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Mengting Xu
- Institute of Microcirculation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, P. R. China
- International Center of Microvascular Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Bing Wang
- Institute of Microcirculation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, P. R. China
- International Center of Microvascular Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Bingwei Li
- Institute of Microcirculation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, P. R. China
- International Center of Microvascular Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Yuan Li
- Institute of Microcirculation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, P. R. China
- International Center of Microvascular Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Yingyu Wang
- Institute of Microcirculation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, P. R. China
- International Center of Microvascular Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Xueting Liu
- Institute of Microcirculation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, P. R. China
- International Center of Microvascular Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Hao Ling
- Department of Radiology, The Affiliated Changsha Central Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Changsha, Hunan, P. R. China
| | - Qin Wang
- Institute of Microcirculation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, P. R. China
- International Center of Microvascular Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Xiaoyan Zhang
- Institute of Microcirculation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, P. R. China
- International Center of Microvascular Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Ailing Li
- Institute of Microcirculation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, P. R. China
- International Center of Microvascular Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Xu Zhang
- Laboratory of Electron Microscopy, Ultrastructural Pathology Center, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Mingming Liu
- Institute of Microcirculation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, P. R. China
- International Center of Microvascular Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, P. R. China
- Diabetes Research Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, P. R. China
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Zhang Y, Lu S, Zhuang J, Liang L. Advances in gut-brain organ chips. Cell Prolif 2024; 57:e13724. [PMID: 39086147 PMCID: PMC11503250 DOI: 10.1111/cpr.13724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2024] [Revised: 07/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
The brain and gut are sensory organs responsible for sensing, transmitting, integrating, and responding to signals from the internal and external environment. In-depth analysis of brain-gut axis interactions is important for human health and disease prevention. Current research on the brain-gut axis primarily relies on animal models. However, animal models make it difficult to study disease mechanisms due to inherent species differences, and the reproducibility of experiments is poor because of individual animal variations, which leads to a significant limitation of real-time sensory responses. Organ-on-a-chip platforms provide an innovative approach for disease treatment and personalized research by replicating brain and gut ecosystems in vitro. This enables a precise understanding of their biological functions and physiological responses. In this article, we examine the history and most current developments in brain, gut, and gut-brain chips. The importance of these systems for understanding pathophysiology and developing new drugs is emphasized throughout the review. This article also addresses future directions and present issues with the advancement and application of gut-brain-on-a-chip technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Clinical Cancer Pharmacology and Toxicology Research of Zhejiang Province, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, School of MedicineWestlake UniversityHangzhouChina
- Department of Pharmacy, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, School of MedicineWestlake UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Si‐Ming Lu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The First Affiliated HospitalZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Clinical In Vitro Diagnostic TechniquesHangzhouChina
- Institute of Laboratory MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Jian‐Jian Zhuang
- Key Laboratory of Clinical Cancer Pharmacology and Toxicology Research of Zhejiang Province, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, School of MedicineWestlake UniversityHangzhouChina
- Department of Pharmacy, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, School of MedicineWestlake UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Li‐Guo Liang
- Centre for Clinical LaboratoryThe First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical UniversityHangzhouChina
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated HospitalZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
- National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated HospitalZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
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Blum L, Vincent D, Boettcher M, Knopf J. Immunological aspects of necrotizing enterocolitis models: a review. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1434281. [PMID: 39104529 PMCID: PMC11298363 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1434281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 08/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is one of the most devasting diseases affecting preterm neonates. However, despite a lot of research, NEC's pathogenesis remains unclear. It is known that the pathogenesis is a multifactorial process, including (1) a pathological microbiome with abnormal bacterial colonization, (2) an immature immune system, (3) enteral feeding, (3) an impairment of microcirculation, and (4) possibly ischemia-reperfusion damage to the intestine. Overall, the immaturity of the mucosal barrier and the increased expression of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) within the intestinal epithelium result in an intestinal hyperinflammation reaction. Concurrently, a deficiency in counter-regulatory mediators can be seen. The sum of these processes can ultimately result in intestinal necrosis leading to very high mortality rates of the affected neonates. In the last decade no substantial advances in the treatment of NEC have been made. Thus, NEC animal models as well as in vitro models have been employed to better understand NEC's pathogenesis on a cellular and molecular level. This review will highlight the different models currently in use to study immunological aspects of NEC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Jasmin Knopf
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, University Medical Center Mannheim, University Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
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Wang H, Li X, Shi P, You X, Zhao G. Establishment and evaluation of on-chip intestinal barrier biosystems based on microfluidic techniques. Mater Today Bio 2024; 26:101079. [PMID: 38774450 PMCID: PMC11107260 DOI: 10.1016/j.mtbio.2024.101079] [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: 02/03/2024] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/24/2024] Open
Abstract
As a booming engineering technology, the microfluidic chip has been widely applied for replicating the complexity of human intestinal micro-physiological ecosystems in vitro. Biosensors, 3D imaging, and multi-omics have been applied to engineer more sophisticated intestinal barrier-on-chip platforms, allowing the improved monitoring of physiological processes and enhancing chip performance. In this review, we report cutting-edge advances in the microfluidic techniques applied for the establishment and evaluation of intestinal barrier platforms. We discuss different design principles and microfabrication strategies for the establishment of microfluidic gut barrier models in vitro. Further, we comprehensively cover the complex cell types (e.g., epithelium, intestinal organoids, endothelium, microbes, and immune cells) and controllable extracellular microenvironment parameters (e.g., oxygen gradient, peristalsis, bioflow, and gut-organ axis) used to recapitulate the main structural and functional complexity of gut barriers. We also present the current multidisciplinary technologies and indicators used for evaluating the morphological structure and barrier integrity of established gut barrier models in vitro. Finally, we highlight the challenges and future perspectives for accelerating the broader applications of these platforms in disease simulation, drug development, and personalized medicine. Hence, this review provides a comprehensive guide for the development and evaluation of microfluidic-based gut barrier platforms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Wang
- Master Lab for Innovative Application of Nature Products, National Center of Technology Innovation for Synthetic Biology, Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Tianjin, 300308, China
| | - Xiangyang Li
- Henan Engineering Research Center of Food Microbiology, College of Food and Bioengineering, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, 471023, China
- Haihe Laboratory of Synthetic Biology, Tianjin, 300308, China
| | - Pengcheng Shi
- Henan Engineering Research Center of Food Microbiology, College of Food and Bioengineering, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, 471023, China
| | - Xiaoyan You
- Master Lab for Innovative Application of Nature Products, National Center of Technology Innovation for Synthetic Biology, Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Tianjin, 300308, China
- Henan Engineering Research Center of Food Microbiology, College of Food and Bioengineering, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, 471023, China
| | - Guoping Zhao
- Master Lab for Innovative Application of Nature Products, National Center of Technology Innovation for Synthetic Biology, Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Tianjin, 300308, China
- CAS-Key Laboratory of Synthetic Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Shanghai Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200032, China
- CAS-Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China
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Yung C, Zhang Y, Kuhn M, Armstrong RJ, Olyaei A, Aloia M, Scottoline B, Andres SF. Neonatal enteroids absorb extracellular vesicles from human milk-fed infant digestive fluid. J Extracell Vesicles 2024; 13:e12422. [PMID: 38602306 PMCID: PMC11007820 DOI: 10.1002/jev2.12422] [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: 09/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Human milk contains extracellular vesicles (HMEVs). Pre-clinical models suggest that HMEVs may enhance intestinal function and limit inflammation; however, it is unknown if HMEVs or their cargo survive neonatal human digestion. This limits the ability to leverage HMEV cargo as additives to infant nutrition or as therapeutics. This study aimed to develop an EV isolation pipeline from small volumes of human milk and neonatal intestinal contents after milk feeding (digesta) to address the hypothesis that HMEVs survive in vivo neonatal digestion to be taken up intestinal epithelial cells (IECs). Digesta was collected from nasoduodenal sampling tubes or ostomies. EVs were isolated from raw and pasteurized human milk and digesta by density-gradient ultracentrifugation following two-step skimming, acid precipitation of caseins, and multi-step filtration. EVs were validated by electron microscopy, western blotting, nanoparticle tracking analysis, resistive pulse sensing, and super-resolution microscopy. EV uptake was tested in human neonatal enteroids. HMEVs and digesta EVs (dEVs) show typical EV morphology and are enriched in CD81 and CD9, but depleted of β-casein and lactalbumin. HMEV and some dEV fractions contain mammary gland-derived protein BTN1A1. Neonatal human enteroids rapidly take up dEVs in part via clathrin-mediated endocytosis. Our data suggest that EVs can be isolated from digestive fluid and that these dEVs can be absorbed by IECs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire Yung
- Department of PediatricsPediatric GI Division, School of Medicine, Oregon Health and Science UniversityPortlandOregonUSA
| | - Yang Zhang
- Department of PediatricsPediatric GI Division, School of Medicine, Oregon Health and Science UniversityPortlandOregonUSA
| | - Madeline Kuhn
- Department of PediatricsPediatric GI Division, School of Medicine, Oregon Health and Science UniversityPortlandOregonUSA
| | - Randall J. Armstrong
- Knight Cancer InstituteOregon Health and Science UniversityPortlandOregonUSA
- Cancer Early Detection Advanced Research (CEDAR)Oregon Health and Science UniversityPortlandOregonUSA
| | - Amy Olyaei
- Division of Neonatology, Department of PediatricsOregon Health and Science UniversityPortlandOregonUSA
| | - Molly Aloia
- Division of Neonatology, Department of PediatricsOregon Health and Science UniversityPortlandOregonUSA
| | - Brian Scottoline
- Department of PediatricsPediatric GI Division, School of Medicine, Oregon Health and Science UniversityPortlandOregonUSA
- Division of Neonatology, Department of PediatricsOregon Health and Science UniversityPortlandOregonUSA
| | - Sarah F. Andres
- Department of PediatricsPediatric GI Division, School of Medicine, Oregon Health and Science UniversityPortlandOregonUSA
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Yung C, Zhang Y, Kuhn M, Armstrong RJ, Olyaei A, Aloia M, Scottoline B, Andres SF. Neonatal enteroids absorb extracellular vesicles from human milk-fed infant digestive fluid. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.09.03.556067. [PMID: 38187651 PMCID: PMC10769189 DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.03.556067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
Human milk contains extracellular vesicles (HMEVs). Pre-clinical models suggest that HMEVs may enhance intestinal function and limit inflammation; however, it is unknown if HMEVs or their cargo survive neonatal human digestion. This limits the ability to leverage HMEV cargo as additives to infant nutrition or as therapeutics. This study aimed to develop an EV isolation pipeline from small volumes of human milk and neonatal intestinal contents after milk feeding (digesta) to address the hypothesis that HMEVs survive in vivo neonatal digestion to be taken up intestinal epithelial cells (IECs). Digesta was collected from nasoduodenal sampling tubes or ostomies. EVs were isolated from raw and pasteurized human milk and digesta by density-gradient ultracentrifugation following two-step skimming, acid precipitation of caseins, and multi-step filtration. EVs were validated by electron microscopy, western blotting, nanoparticle tracking analysis, resistive pulse sensing, and super-resolution microscopy. EV uptake was tested in human neonatal enteroids. HMEVs and digesta EVs (dEVs) show typical EV morphology and are enriched in CD81 and CD9, but depleted of β-casein and lactalbumin. HMEV and some dEV fractions contain mammary gland-derived protein BTN1A1. Neonatal human enteroids rapidly take up dEVs in part via clathrin-mediated endocytosis. Our data suggest that EVs can be isolated from digestive fluid and that these dEVs can be absorbed by IECs.
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He C, Lu F, Liu Y, Lei Y, Wang X, Tang N. Emergent trends in organ-on-a-chip applications for investigating metastasis within tumor microenvironment: A comprehensive bibliometric analysis. Heliyon 2024; 10:e23504. [PMID: 38187238 PMCID: PMC10770560 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e23504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 10/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Background With the burgeoning advancements in disease modeling, drug development, and precision medicine, organ-on-a-chip has risen to the forefront of biomedical research. Specifically in tumor research, this technology has exhibited exceptional potential in elucidating the dynamics of metastasis within the tumor microenvironment. Recognizing the significance of this field, our study aims to provide a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of global scientific contributions related to organ-on-a-chip. Methods Publications pertaining to organ-on-a-chip from 2014 to 2023 were retrieved at the Web of Science Core Collection database. Rigorous analyses of 2305 articles were conducted using tools including VOSviewer, CiteSpace, and R-bibliometrix. Results Over the 10-year span, global publications exhibited a consistent uptrend, anticipating continued growth. The United States and China were identified as dominant contributors, characterized by strong collaborative networks and substantial research investments. Predominant institutions encompass Harvard University, MIT, and the Chinese Academy of Sciences. Leading figures in the domain, such as Dr. Donald Ingber and Dr. Yu Shrike Zhang, emerge as pivotal collaboration prospects. Lab on a Chip, Micromachines, and Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology were the principal publishing journals. Pertinent keywords encompassed Microfluidic, Microphysiological System, Tissue Engineering, Organoid, In Vitro, Drug Screening, Hydrogel, Tumor Microenvironment, and Bioprinting. Emerging research avenues were identified as "Tumor Microenvironment and Metastasis," "Application of organ-on-a-chip in drug discovery and testing" and "Advancements in personalized medicine applications". Conclusion The organ-on-a-chip domain has demonstrated a transformative impact on understanding disease mechanisms and drug interactions, particularly within the tumor microenvironment. This bibliometric analysis underscores the ever-increasing importance of this field, guiding researchers and clinicians towards potential collaborative avenues and research directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunrong He
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Fangfang Lu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Yi Liu
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Yuanhu Lei
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Xiaoxu Wang
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Ning Tang
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
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11
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Young GR, Nelson A, Stewart CJ, Smith DL. Bacteriophage communities are a reservoir of unexplored microbial diversity in neonatal health and disease. Curr Opin Microbiol 2023; 75:102379. [PMID: 37647765 DOI: 10.1016/j.mib.2023.102379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2023] [Revised: 07/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
Acquisition and development of the gut microbiome are vital for immune education in neonates, especially those born preterm. As such, microbial communities have been extensively studied in the context of postnatal health and disease. Bacterial communities have been the focus of research in this area due to the relative ease of targeted bacterial sequencing and the availability of databases to align and validate sequencing data. Recent increases in high-throughput metagenomic sequencing accessibility have facilitated research to investigate bacteriophages within the context of neonatal gut microbial communities. Focusing on unexplored viral diversity, has identified novel bacteriophage species and previously uncharacterised viral diversity. In doing so, studies have highlighted links between bacteriophages and bacterial community structure in the context of health and disease. However, much remains unknown about the complex relationships between bacteriophages, the bacteria they infect and their human host. With a particular focus on preterm infants, this review highlights opportunities to explore the influence of bacteriophages on developing microbial communities and the tripartite relationships between bacteriophages, bacteria and the neonatal human host. We suggest a focus on expanding collections of isolated bacteriophages that will further our understanding of the growing numbers of bacteriophages identified in metagenomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory R Young
- Applied Sciences, Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle, UK
| | - Andrew Nelson
- Applied Sciences, Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle, UK
| | | | - Darren L Smith
- Applied Sciences, Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle, UK.
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12
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Frazer LC, Yamaguchi Y, Jania CM, Lanik WE, Gong Q, Singh DK, Mackay S, Akopyants NS, Good M. Microfluidic Model of Necrotizing Enterocolitis Incorporating Human Neonatal Intestinal Enteroids and a Dysbiotic Microbiome. J Vis Exp 2023:10.3791/65605. [PMID: 37590536 PMCID: PMC11003451 DOI: 10.3791/65605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a severe and potentially fatal intestinal disease that has been difficult to study due to its complex pathogenesis, which remains incompletely understood. The pathophysiology of NEC includes disruption of intestinal tight junctions, increased gut barrier permeability, epithelial cell death, microbial dysbiosis, and dysregulated inflammation. Traditional tools to study NEC include animal models, cell lines, and human or mouse intestinal organoids. While studies using those model systems have improved the field's understanding of disease pathophysiology, their ability to recapitulate the complexity of human NEC is limited. An improved in vitro model of NEC using microfluidic technology, named NEC-on-a-chip, has now been developed. The NEC-on-a-chip model consists of a microfluidic device seeded with intestinal enteroids derived from a preterm neonate, co-cultured with human endothelial cells and the microbiome from an infant with severe NEC. This model is a valuable tool for mechanistic studies into the pathophysiology of NEC and a new resource for drug discovery testing for neonatal intestinal diseases. In this manuscript, a detailed description of the NEC-on-a-chip model will be provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren C Frazer
- Division of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
| | - Yukihiro Yamaguchi
- Division of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
| | - Corey M Jania
- Division of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
| | | | - Qingqing Gong
- Department of Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine
| | - Dhirendra K Singh
- Division of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
| | - Stephen Mackay
- Division of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
| | - Natalia S Akopyants
- Division of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
| | - Misty Good
- Division of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill;
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13
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Sami AS, Frazer LC, Miller CM, Singh DK, Clodfelter LG, Orgel KA, Good M. The role of human milk nutrients in preventing necrotizing enterocolitis. Front Pediatr 2023; 11:1188050. [PMID: 37334221 PMCID: PMC10272619 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2023.1188050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is an intestinal disease that primarily impacts preterm infants. The pathophysiology of NEC involves a complex interplay of factors that result in a deleterious immune response, injury to the intestinal mucosa, and in its most severe form, irreversible intestinal necrosis. Treatments for NEC remain limited, but one of the most effective preventative strategies for NEC is the provision of breast milk feeds. In this review, we discuss mechanisms by which bioactive nutrients in breast milk impact neonatal intestinal physiology and the development of NEC. We also review experimental models of NEC that have been used to study the role of breast milk components in disease pathophysiology. These models are necessary to accelerate mechanistic research and improve outcomes for neonates with NEC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad S. Sami
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Lauren C. Frazer
- Division of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Claire M. Miller
- Division of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Dhirendra K. Singh
- Division of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Lynda G. Clodfelter
- Division of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Kelly A. Orgel
- Division of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Misty Good
- Division of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
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14
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Donkers JM, van der Vaart JI, van de Steeg E. Gut-on-a-Chip Research for Drug Development: Implications of Chip Design on Preclinical Oral Bioavailability or Intestinal Disease Studies. Biomimetics (Basel) 2023; 8:226. [PMID: 37366821 PMCID: PMC10296225 DOI: 10.3390/biomimetics8020226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Revised: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The gut plays a key role in drug absorption and metabolism of orally ingested drugs. Additionally, the characterization of intestinal disease processes is increasingly gaining more attention, as gut health is an important contributor to our overall health. The most recent innovation to study intestinal processes in vitro is the development of gut-on-a-chip (GOC) systems. Compared to conventional in vitro models, they offer more translational value, and many different GOC models have been presented over the past years. Herein, we reflect on the almost unlimited choices in designing and selecting a GOC for preclinical drug (or food) development research. Four components that largely influence the GOC design are highlighted, namely (1) the biological research questions, (2) chip fabrication and materials, (3) tissue engineering, and (4) the environmental and biochemical cues to add or measure in the GOC. Examples of GOC studies in the two major areas of preclinical intestinal research are presented: (1) intestinal absorption and metabolism to study the oral bioavailability of compounds, and (2) treatment-orientated research for intestinal diseases. The last section of this review presents an outlook on the limitations to overcome in order to accelerate preclinical GOC research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanne M. Donkers
- Department of Metabolic Health Research, TNO, Sylviusweg 71, 2333 BE Leiden, The Netherlands; (J.I.v.d.V.); (E.v.d.S.)
| | - Jamie I. van der Vaart
- Department of Metabolic Health Research, TNO, Sylviusweg 71, 2333 BE Leiden, The Netherlands; (J.I.v.d.V.); (E.v.d.S.)
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
- Einthoven Laboratory for Experimental Vascular Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Evita van de Steeg
- Department of Metabolic Health Research, TNO, Sylviusweg 71, 2333 BE Leiden, The Netherlands; (J.I.v.d.V.); (E.v.d.S.)
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