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Liu T, Gu J, Fu C, Su L. Three-Dimensional Scaffolds for Intestinal Cell Culture: Fabrication, Utilization, and Prospects. TISSUE ENGINEERING. PART B, REVIEWS 2024; 30:158-175. [PMID: 37646409 DOI: 10.1089/ten.teb.2023.0124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
The intestine is a visceral organ that integrates absorption, metabolism, and immunity, which is vulnerable to external stimulus. Researchers in the fields such as food science, immunology, and pharmacology have committed to developing appropriate in vitro intestinal cell models to study the intestinal absorption and metabolism mechanisms of various nutrients and drugs, or pathogenesis of intestinal diseases. In the past three decades, the intestinal cell models have undergone a significant transformation from conventional two-dimensional cultures to three-dimensional (3D) systems, and the achievements of 3D cell culture have been greatly contributed by the fabrication of different scaffolds. In this review, we first introduce the developing trend of existing intestinal models. Then, four types of scaffolds, including Transwell, hydrogel, tubular scaffolds, and intestine-on-a-chip, are discussed for their 3D structure, composition, advantages, and limitations in the establishment of intestinal cell models. Excitingly, some of the in vitro intestinal cell models based on these scaffolds could successfully mimic the 3D structure, microenvironment, mechanical peristalsis, fluid system, signaling gradients, or other important aspects of the original human intestine. Furthermore, we discuss the potential applications of the intestinal cell models in drug screening, disease modeling, and even regenerative repair of intestinal tissues. This review presents an overview of state-of-the-art scaffold-based cell models within the context of intestines, and highlights their major advances and applications contributing to a better knowledge of intestinal diseases. Impact statement The intestine tract is crucial in the absorption and metabolism of nutrients and drugs, as well as immune responses against external pathogens or antigens in a complex microenvironment. The appropriate experimental cell model in vitro is needed for in-depth studies of intestines, due to the limitation of animal models in dynamic control and real-time assessment of key intestinal physiological and pathological processes, as well as the "R" principles in laboratory animal experiments. Three-dimensional (3D) scaffold-based cell cultivation has become a developing tendency because of the superior cell proliferation and differentiation and more physiologically relevant environment supported by the customized 3D scaffolds. In this review, we summarize four types of up-to-date 3D cell culture scaffolds fabricated by various materials and techniques for a better recapitulation of some essential physiological and functional characteristics of original intestines compared to conventional cell models. These emerging 3D intestinal models have shown promising results in not only evaluating the pharmacokinetic characteristics, security, and effectiveness of drugs, but also studying the pathological mechanisms of intestinal diseases at cellular and molecular levels. Importantly, the weakness of the representative 3D models for intestines is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiange Liu
- Department of Food Science and Technology, National University of Singapore (Suzhou) Research Institute, Suzhou, China
| | - Jia Gu
- Department of Food Science and Technology, National University of Singapore (Suzhou) Research Institute, Suzhou, China
| | - Caili Fu
- Department of Food Science and Technology, National University of Singapore (Suzhou) Research Institute, Suzhou, China
| | - Lingshan Su
- Department of Food Science and Technology, National University of Singapore (Suzhou) Research Institute, Suzhou, China
- Department of Food Science and Technology, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
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2
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Aazmi A, Zhang D, Mazzaglia C, Yu M, Wang Z, Yang H, Huang YYS, Ma L. Biofabrication methods for reconstructing extracellular matrix mimetics. Bioact Mater 2024; 31:475-496. [PMID: 37719085 PMCID: PMC10500422 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2023.08.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
In the human body, almost all cells interact with extracellular matrices (ECMs), which have tissue and organ-specific compositions and architectures. These ECMs not only function as cellular scaffolds, providing structural support, but also play a crucial role in dynamically regulating various cellular functions. This comprehensive review delves into the examination of biofabrication strategies used to develop bioactive materials that accurately mimic one or more biophysical and biochemical properties of ECMs. We discuss the potential integration of these ECM-mimics into a range of physiological and pathological in vitro models, enhancing our understanding of cellular behavior and tissue organization. Lastly, we propose future research directions for ECM-mimics in the context of tissue engineering and organ-on-a-chip applications, offering potential advancements in therapeutic approaches and improved patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdellah Aazmi
- State Key Laboratory of Fluid Power and Mechatronic Systems, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Duo Zhang
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- School of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 51817, China
| | - Corrado Mazzaglia
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Mengfei Yu
- The Affiliated Stomatologic Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Zhen Wang
- Center for Laboratory Medicine, Allergy Center, Department of Transfusion Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, China
| | - Huayong Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Fluid Power and Mechatronic Systems, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Yan Yan Shery Huang
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Liang Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Fluid Power and Mechatronic Systems, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
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3
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Graybill PM, Jacobs EJ, Jana A, Agashe A, Nain AS, Davalos RV. Ultra-thin and ultra-porous nanofiber networks as a basement-membrane mimic. LAB ON A CHIP 2023; 23:4565-4578. [PMID: 37772328 PMCID: PMC10623910 DOI: 10.1039/d3lc00304c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/30/2023]
Abstract
Current basement membrane (BM) mimics used for modeling endothelial and epithelial barriers in vitro do not faithfully recapitulate key in vivo physiological properties such as BM thickness, porosity, stiffness, and fibrous composition. Here, we use networks of precisely arranged nanofibers to form ultra-thin (∼3 μm thick) and ultra-porous (∼90%) BM mimics for blood-brain barrier modeling. We show that these nanofiber networks enable close contact between endothelial monolayers and pericytes across the membrane, which are known to regulate barrier tightness. Cytoskeletal staining and transendothelial electrical resistance (TEER) measurements reveal barrier formation on nanofiber membranes integrated within microfluidic devices and transwell inserts. Further, significantly higher TEER values indicate a biological benefit for co-cultures formed on the ultra-thin nanofiber membranes. Our BM mimic overcomes critical technological challenges in forming co-cultures that are in proximity and facilitate cell-cell contact, while still being constrained to their respective sides. We anticipate that our nanofiber networks will find applications in drug discovery, cell migration, and barrier dysfunction studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip M Graybill
- Bioelectromechanical Systems Lab, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA.
| | - Edward J Jacobs
- Bioelectromechanical Systems Lab, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA.
| | - Aniket Jana
- Spinneret-Based Tunable Engineering Parameters (STEP) Lab, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA.
| | - Atharva Agashe
- Spinneret-Based Tunable Engineering Parameters (STEP) Lab, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA.
| | - Amrinder S Nain
- Spinneret-Based Tunable Engineering Parameters (STEP) Lab, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA.
| | - Rafael V Davalos
- Bioelectromechanical Systems Lab, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA.
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4
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Chinnasami H, Dey MK, Devireddy R. Three-Dimensional Scaffolds for Bone Tissue Engineering. Bioengineering (Basel) 2023; 10:759. [PMID: 37508786 PMCID: PMC10376773 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering10070759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Immobilization using external or internal splints is a standard and effective procedure to treat minor skeletal fractures. In the case of major skeletal defects caused by extreme trauma, infectious diseases or tumors, the surgical implantation of a bone graft from external sources is required for a complete cure. Practical disadvantages, such as the risk of immune rejection and infection at the implant site, are high in xenografts and allografts. Currently, an autograft from the iliac crest of a patient is considered the "gold standard" method for treating large-scale skeletal defects. However, this method is not an ideal solution due to its limited availability and significant reports of morbidity in the harvest site (30%) as well as the implanted site (5-35%). Tissue-engineered bone grafts aim to create a mechanically strong, biologically viable and degradable bone graft by combining a three-dimensional porous scaffold with osteoblast or progenitor cells. The materials used for such tissue-engineered bone grafts can be broadly divided into ceramic materials (calcium phosphates) and biocompatible/bioactive synthetic polymers. This review summarizes the types of materials used to make scaffolds for cryo-preservable tissue-engineered bone grafts as well as the distinct methods adopted to create the scaffolds, including traditional scaffold fabrication methods (solvent-casting, gas-foaming, electrospinning, thermally induced phase separation) and more recent fabrication methods (fused deposition molding, stereolithography, selective laser sintering, Inkjet 3D printing, laser-assisted bioprinting and 3D bioprinting). This is followed by a short summation of the current osteochondrogenic models along with the required scaffold mechanical properties for in vivo applications. We then present a few results of the effects of freezing and thawing on the structural and mechanical integrity of PLLA scaffolds prepared by the thermally induced phase separation method and conclude this review article by summarizing the current regulatory requirements for tissue-engineered products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harish Chinnasami
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA
| | - Mohan Kumar Dey
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA
| | - Ram Devireddy
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA
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5
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Gonçalves AM, Leal F, Moreira A, Schellhorn T, Blahnová VH, Zeiringer S, Vocetková K, Tetyczka C, Simaite A, Buzgo M, Roblegg E, Costa PF, Ertl P, Filová E, Kohl Y. Potential of Electrospun Fibrous Scaffolds for Intestinal, Skin, and Lung Epithelial Tissue Modeling. ADVANCED NANOBIOMED RESEARCH 2023. [DOI: 10.1002/anbr.202200104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Filipa Leal
- BIOFABICS Rua Alfredo Allen 455 4200-135 Porto Portugal
| | | | - Tobias Schellhorn
- Institute of Chemical Technologies and Analytics Vienna University of Technology Getreidemarkt 9/164 1060 Vienna Austria
| | - Veronika Hefka Blahnová
- Institute of Experimental Medicine of the Czech Academy of Sciences Vídeňská 1083 14220 Prague Czechia
| | - Scarlett Zeiringer
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences University of Graz Universitaetsplatz 1 8010 Graz Austria
| | - Karolina Vocetková
- Institute of Experimental Medicine of the Czech Academy of Sciences Vídeňská 1083 14220 Prague Czechia
| | - Carolin Tetyczka
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences University of Graz Universitaetsplatz 1 8010 Graz Austria
| | - Aiva Simaite
- InoCure s.r.o. Politických vězňů 935/13 11000 Praha 1 Prague Czech Republic
| | - Matej Buzgo
- BIOFABICS Rua Alfredo Allen 455 4200-135 Porto Portugal
| | - Eva Roblegg
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences University of Graz Universitaetsplatz 1 8010 Graz Austria
| | | | - Peter Ertl
- Institute of Chemical Technologies and Analytics Vienna University of Technology Getreidemarkt 9/164 1060 Vienna Austria
| | - Eva Filová
- Institute of Experimental Medicine of the Czech Academy of Sciences Vídeňská 1083 14220 Prague Czechia
| | - Yvonne Kohl
- Fraunhofer Institute for Biomedical Engineering IBMT Joseph-von-Fraunhofer-Weg 1 66280 Sulzbach/Saar Germany
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6
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Aazmi A, Zhou H, Lv W, Yu M, Xu X, Yang H, Zhang YS, Ma L. Vascularizing the brain in vitro. iScience 2022; 25:104110. [PMID: 35378862 PMCID: PMC8976127 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.104110] [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] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The brain is arguably the most fascinating and complex organ in the human body. Recreating the brain in vitro is an ambition restricted by our limited understanding of its structure and interacting elements. One of these interacting parts, the brain microvasculature, is distinguished by a highly selective barrier known as the blood-brain barrier (BBB), limiting the transport of substances between the blood and the nervous system. Numerous in vitro models have been used to mimic the BBB and constructed by implementing a variety of microfabrication and microfluidic techniques. However, currently available models still cannot accurately imitate the in vivo characteristics of BBB. In this article, we review recent BBB models by analyzing each parameter affecting the accuracy of these models. Furthermore, we propose an investigation of the synergy between BBB models and neuronal tissue biofabrication, which results in more advanced models, including neurovascular unit microfluidic models and vascularized brain organoid-based models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdellah Aazmi
- State Key Laboratory of Fluid Power and Mechatronic Systems, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.,School of Mechanical Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Hongzhao Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Fluid Power and Mechatronic Systems, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.,School of Mechanical Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Weikang Lv
- State Key Laboratory of Fluid Power and Mechatronic Systems, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.,School of Mechanical Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Mengfei Yu
- The Affiliated Stomatologic Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Xiaobin Xu
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 201804, China
| | - Huayong Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Fluid Power and Mechatronic Systems, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.,School of Mechanical Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Yu Shrike Zhang
- Division of Engineering in Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Liang Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Fluid Power and Mechatronic Systems, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.,School of Mechanical Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
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7
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Dogan AA, Dufva M. Customized 3D-printed stackable cell culture inserts tailored with bioactive membranes. Sci Rep 2022; 12:3694. [PMID: 35256703 PMCID: PMC8901659 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-07739-7] [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: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
There is a high demand in various fields to develop complex cell cultures. Apart from titer plates, Transwell inserts are the most popular device because they are commercially available, easy to use, and versatile. While Transwell inserts are standardized, there are potential gains to customize inserts in terms of the number of layers, height between the layers and the size and composition of the bioactive membrane. To demonstrate such customization, we present a small library of 3D-printed inserts and a robust method to functionalize the inserts with hydrogel and synthetic membrane materials. The library consists of 24- to 96-well sized inserts as whole plates, strips, and singlets. The density of cultures (the number of wells per plate) and the number of layers was decided by the wall thickness, the capillary forces between the layers and the ability to support fluid operations. The highest density for a two-layer culture was 48-well plate format because the corresponding 96-well format could not support fluidic operations. The bottom apertures were functionalized with hydrogels using a new high-throughput dip-casting technique. This yielded well-defined hydrogel membranes in the apertures with a thickness of about 500 µm and a %CV (coefficient of variance) of < 10%. Consistent intestine barrier was formed on the gelatin over 3-weeks period. Furthermore, mouse intestinal organoid development was compared on hydrogel and synthetic filters glued to the bottom of the 3D-printed inserts. Condensation was most pronounced in inserts with filters followed by the gelatin membrane and the control, which were organoids cultured at the bottom of a titer plate well. This showed that the bottom of an insert should be chosen based on the application. All the inserts were fabricated using an easy-to-use stereolithography (SLA) printer commonly used for dentistry and surgical applications. Therefore, on demand printing of the customized inserts is realistic in many laboratory settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asli Aybike Dogan
- Department of Health Technology, Technical University of Denmark, 2800, Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Martin Dufva
- Department of Health Technology, Technical University of Denmark, 2800, Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark.
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8
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Xu Y, Shrestha N, Préat V, Beloqui A. An overview of in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo models for studying the transport of drugs across intestinal barriers. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2021; 175:113795. [PMID: 33989702 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2021.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2020] [Revised: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Oral administration is the most commonly used route for drug delivery owing to its cost-effectiveness, ease of administration, and high patient compliance. However, the absorption of orally delivered compounds is a complex process that greatly depends on the interplay between the characteristics of the drug/formulation and the gastrointestinal tract. In this contribution, we review the different preclinical models (in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo) from their development to application for studying the transport of drugs across intestinal barriers. This review also discusses the advantages and disadvantages of each model. Furthermore, the authors have reviewed the selection and validation of these models and how the limitations of the models can be addressed in future investigations. The correlation and predictability of the intestinal transport data from the preclinical models and human data are also explored. With the increasing popularity and prevalence of orally delivered drugs/formulations, sophisticated preclinical models with higher predictive capacity for absorption of oral formulations used in clinical studies will be needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yining Xu
- University of Louvain, Louvain Drug Research Institute, Advanced Drug Delivery and Biomaterials, Avenue Mounier 73 B1.73.12, 1200 Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Neha Shrestha
- University of Louvain, Louvain Drug Research Institute, Advanced Drug Delivery and Biomaterials, Avenue Mounier 73 B1.73.12, 1200 Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Véronique Préat
- University of Louvain, Louvain Drug Research Institute, Advanced Drug Delivery and Biomaterials, Avenue Mounier 73 B1.73.12, 1200 Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Ana Beloqui
- University of Louvain, Louvain Drug Research Institute, Advanced Drug Delivery and Biomaterials, Avenue Mounier 73 B1.73.12, 1200 Brussels, Belgium.
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9
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Fedi A, Vitale C, Ponschin G, Ayehunie S, Fato M, Scaglione S. In vitro models replicating the human intestinal epithelium for absorption and metabolism studies: A systematic review. J Control Release 2021; 335:247-268. [PMID: 34033859 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2021.05.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Revised: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion (ADME) studies represent a fundamental step in the early stages of drug discovery. In particular, the absorption of orally administered drugs, which occurs at the intestinal level, has gained attention since poor oral bioavailability often led to failures for new drug approval. In this context, several in vitro preclinical models have been recently developed and optimized to better resemble human physiology in the lab and serve as an animal alternative to accomplish the 3Rs principles. However, numerous models are ineffective in recapitulating the key features of the human small intestine epithelium and lack of prediction potential for drug absorption and metabolism during the preclinical stage. In this review, we provide an overview of in vitro models aimed at mimicking the intestinal barrier for pharmaceutical screening. After briefly describing how the human small intestine works, we present i) conventional 2D synthetic and cell-based systems, ii) 3D models replicating the main features of the intestinal architecture, iii) micro-physiological systems (MPSs) reproducing the dynamic stimuli to which cells are exposed in the native microenvironment. In this review, we will highlight the benefits and drawbacks of the leading intestinal models used for drug absorption and metabolism studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arianna Fedi
- Department of Computer Science, Bioengineering, Robotics and Systems Engineering, University of Genoa, 16126 Genoa, Italy; National Research Council of Italy, Institute of Electronics, Computer and Telecommunications (IEIIT) Institute, 16149 Genoa, Italy
| | - Chiara Vitale
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute of Electronics, Computer and Telecommunications (IEIIT) Institute, 16149 Genoa, Italy
| | - Giulia Ponschin
- Department of Computer Science, Bioengineering, Robotics and Systems Engineering, University of Genoa, 16126 Genoa, Italy
| | | | - Marco Fato
- Department of Computer Science, Bioengineering, Robotics and Systems Engineering, University of Genoa, 16126 Genoa, Italy; National Research Council of Italy, Institute of Electronics, Computer and Telecommunications (IEIIT) Institute, 16149 Genoa, Italy
| | - Silvia Scaglione
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute of Electronics, Computer and Telecommunications (IEIIT) Institute, 16149 Genoa, Italy.
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10
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Advances in modelling the human microbiome-gut-brain axis in vitro. Biochem Soc Trans 2021; 49:187-201. [PMID: 33544117 PMCID: PMC7924999 DOI: 10.1042/bst20200338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Revised: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The human gut microbiome has emerged as a key player in the bidirectional communication of the gut–brain axis, affecting various aspects of homeostasis and pathophysiology. Until recently, the majority of studies that seek to explore the mechanisms underlying the microbiome–gut–brain axis cross-talk, relied almost exclusively on animal models, and particularly gnotobiotic mice. Despite the great progress made with these models, various limitations, including ethical considerations and interspecies differences that limit the translatability of data to human systems, pushed researchers to seek for alternatives. Over the past decades, the field of in vitro modelling of tissues has experienced tremendous growth, thanks to advances in 3D cell biology, materials, science and bioengineering, pushing further the borders of our ability to more faithfully emulate the in vivo situation. The discovery of stem cells has offered a new source of cells, while their use in generating gastrointestinal and brain organoids, among other tissues, has enabled the development of novel 3D tissues that better mimic the native tissue structure and function, compared with traditional assays. In parallel, organs-on-chips technology and bioengineered tissues have emerged as highly promising alternatives to animal models for a wide range of applications. Here, we discuss how recent advances and trends in this area can be applied in host–microbe and host–pathogen interaction studies. In addition, we highlight paradigm shifts in engineering more robust human microbiome-gut-brain axis models and their potential to expand our understanding of this complex system and hence explore novel, microbiome-based therapeutic approaches.
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11
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Moysidou CM, Barberio C, Owens RM. Advances in Engineering Human Tissue Models. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2021; 8:620962. [PMID: 33585419 PMCID: PMC7877542 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2020.620962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Research in cell biology greatly relies on cell-based in vitro assays and models that facilitate the investigation and understanding of specific biological events and processes under different conditions. The quality of such experimental models and particularly the level at which they represent cell behavior in the native tissue, is of critical importance for our understanding of cell interactions within tissues and organs. Conventionally, in vitro models are based on experimental manipulation of mammalian cells, grown as monolayers on flat, two-dimensional (2D) substrates. Despite the amazing progress and discoveries achieved with flat biology models, our ability to translate biological insights has been limited, since the 2D environment does not reflect the physiological behavior of cells in real tissues. Advances in 3D cell biology and engineering have led to the development of a new generation of cell culture formats that can better recapitulate the in vivo microenvironment, allowing us to examine cells and their interactions in a more biomimetic context. Modern biomedical research has at its disposal novel technological approaches that promote development of more sophisticated and robust tissue engineering in vitro models, including scaffold- or hydrogel-based formats, organotypic cultures, and organs-on-chips. Even though such systems are necessarily simplified to capture a particular range of physiology, their ability to model specific processes of human biology is greatly valued for their potential to close the gap between conventional animal studies and human (patho-) physiology. Here, we review recent advances in 3D biomimetic cultures, focusing on the technological bricks available to develop more physiologically relevant in vitro models of human tissues. By highlighting applications and examples of several physiological and disease models, we identify the limitations and challenges which the field needs to address in order to more effectively incorporate synthetic biomimetic culture platforms into biomedical research.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Róisín Meabh Owens
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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12
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Darling NJ, Mobbs CL, González-Hau AL, Freer M, Przyborski S. Bioengineering Novel in vitro Co-culture Models That Represent the Human Intestinal Mucosa With Improved Caco-2 Structure and Barrier Function. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2020; 8:992. [PMID: 32984279 PMCID: PMC7487342 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2020.00992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The Caco-2 monolayer is the most widely used in vitro model of the human intestinal mucosa to study absorption. However, models lack communication from other cells present in the native intestine, such as signals from fibroblasts in the lamina propria. In this study, we have investigated the effects of fibroblasts upon the Caco-2 epithelium through two mechanisms: indirect signaling from fibroblasts and direct contact with fibroblasts. Culture of Caco-2 cells with paracrine signals from fibroblasts, through the use of conditioned media, did not induce a significant change in epithelial cell morphology or function. To examine the effects of direct contact between the epithelium and fibroblasts, we developed novel, humanized three-dimensional (3D) co-culture models whereby Caco-2 cells are grown on the surface of a subepithelial-like tissue construct containing intestinal or dermal fibroblasts. In our models, we observed endogenous extracellular matrix production from the fibroblasts that provides support to the above epithelium. The Caco-2 epithelium displayed morphological changes in 3D co-culture including enhanced polarization and the formation of a basement membrane-like attachment to the underlying stromal compartment. An important structural alteration was the significantly straightened lateral membrane that closely mimics the structure of the in vivo intestinal mucosa. This enhanced lateral membrane phenotype, in correlation with an reduction in TEER to levels more similar to the human intestine, is thought to be responsible for the increased paracellular permeability observed in 3D co-cultures. Our results demonstrate that direct contact between epithelial and mesenchymal cells results in an enhanced epithelial barrier. The in vitro models described herein have the potential to be used for studying intestinal epithelial-fibroblast interactions and could provide more accurate tools for drug permeability studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole J Darling
- Department of Biosciences, Durham University, Durham, United Kingdom
| | - Claire L Mobbs
- Department of Biosciences, Durham University, Durham, United Kingdom.,Reprocell Europe Ltd, Sedgefield, United Kingdom
| | | | - Matthew Freer
- Department of Biosciences, Durham University, Durham, United Kingdom
| | - Stefan Przyborski
- Department of Biosciences, Durham University, Durham, United Kingdom.,Reprocell Europe Ltd, Sedgefield, United Kingdom
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Volpe DA. Advances in cell-based permeability assays to screen drugs for intestinal absorption. Expert Opin Drug Discov 2020; 15:539-549. [DOI: 10.1080/17460441.2020.1735347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Donna A. Volpe
- Division of Applied Regulatory Science, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MD, USA
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Nikolova MP, Chavali MS. Recent advances in biomaterials for 3D scaffolds: A review. Bioact Mater 2019; 4:271-292. [PMID: 31709311 PMCID: PMC6829098 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2019.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 400] [Impact Index Per Article: 80.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2019] [Revised: 10/07/2019] [Accepted: 10/15/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Considering the advantages and disadvantages of biomaterials used for the production of 3D scaffolds for tissue engineering, new strategies for designing advanced functional biomimetic structures have been reviewed. We offer a comprehensive summary of recent trends in development of single- (metal, ceramics and polymers), composite-type and cell-laden scaffolds that in addition to mechanical support, promote simultaneous tissue growth, and deliver different molecules (growth factors, cytokines, bioactive ions, genes, drugs, antibiotics, etc.) or cells with therapeutic or facilitating regeneration effect. The paper briefly focuses on divers 3D bioprinting constructs and the challenges they face. Based on their application in hard and soft tissue engineering, in vitro and in vivo effects triggered by the structural and biological functionalized biomaterials are underlined. The authors discuss the future outlook for the development of bioactive scaffolds that could pave the way for their successful imposing in clinical therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria P. Nikolova
- Department of Material Science and Technology, University of Ruse “A. Kanchev”, 8 Studentska Str., 7000, Ruse, Bulgaria
| | - Murthy S. Chavali
- Shree Velagapudi Ramakrishna Memorial College (PG Studies, Autonomous), Nagaram, 522268, Guntur District, India
- PG Department of Chemistry, Dharma Appa Rao College, Nuzvid, 521201, Krishna District, India
- MCETRC, Tenali, 522201, Guntur District, Andhra Pradesh, India
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