1
|
Wancura M, Nkansah A, Robinson A, Toubbeh S, Talanker M, Jones S, Cosgriff-Hernandez E. PEG-Based Hydrogel Coatings: Design Tools for Biomedical Applications. Ann Biomed Eng 2024; 52:1804-1815. [PMID: 36774427 DOI: 10.1007/s10439-023-03154-9] [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: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Abstract
Device failure due to undesired biological responses remains a substantial roadblock in the development and translation of new devices into clinical care. Polyethylene glycol (PEG)-based hydrogel coatings can be used to confer antifouling properties to medical devices-enabling minimization of biological responses such as bacterial infection, thrombosis, and foreign body reactions. Application of hydrogel coatings to diverse substrates requires careful consideration of multiple material factors. Herein, we report a systematic investigation of two coating methods: (1) traditional photoinitiated hydrogel coatings; (2) diffusion-mediated, redox-initiated hydrogel coatings. The effects of method, substrate, and compositional variables on the resulting hydrogel coating thickness are presented. To expand the redox-based method to include high molecular weight macromers, a mechanistic investigation of the role of cure rate and macromer viscosity was necessary to balance solution infiltration and gelation. Overall, these structure-property relationships provide users with a toolbox for hydrogel coating design for a broad range of medical devices.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Megan Wancura
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - Abbey Nkansah
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - Andrew Robinson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - Shireen Toubbeh
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - Michael Talanker
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - Sarah Jones
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - Elizabeth Cosgriff-Hernandez
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, 107 W. Dean Keeton, BME Building, Room 3.503D, Austin, TX, 78712, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Ortega JA, Soares de Aguiar GP, Chandravanshi P, Levy N, Engel E, Álvarez Z. Exploring the properties and potential of the neural extracellular matrix for next-generation regenerative therapies. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS. NANOMEDICINE AND NANOBIOTECHNOLOGY 2024; 16:e1962. [PMID: 38723788 DOI: 10.1002/wnan.1962] [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: 04/20/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/24/2024]
Abstract
The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a dynamic and complex network of proteins and molecules that surrounds cells and tissues in the nervous system and orchestrates a myriad of biological functions. This review carefully examines the diverse interactions between cells and the ECM, as well as the transformative chemical and physical changes that the ECM undergoes during neural development, aging, and disease. These transformations play a pivotal role in shaping tissue morphogenesis and neural activity, thereby influencing the functionality of the central nervous system (CNS). In our comprehensive review, we describe the diverse behaviors of the CNS ECM in different physiological and pathological scenarios and explore the unique properties that make ECM-based strategies attractive for CNS repair and regeneration. Addressing the challenges of scalability, variability, and integration with host tissues, we review how advanced natural, synthetic, and combinatorial matrix approaches enhance biocompatibility, mechanical properties, and functional recovery. Overall, this review highlights the potential of decellularized ECM as a powerful tool for CNS modeling and regenerative purposes and sets the stage for future research in this exciting field. This article is categorized under: Implantable Materials and Surgical Technologies > Nanotechnology in Tissue Repair and Replacement Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Nanomedicine for Neurological Disease Implantable Materials and Surgical Technologies > Nanomaterials and Implants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J Alberto Ortega
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Therapeutics, Institute of Neurosciences, University of Barcelona, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet del Llobregat, Spain
| | - Gisele P Soares de Aguiar
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Therapeutics, Institute of Neurosciences, University of Barcelona, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet del Llobregat, Spain
| | - Palash Chandravanshi
- Biomaterials for Neural Regeneration Group, Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Natacha Levy
- Biomaterials for Neural Regeneration Group, Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Elisabeth Engel
- IMEM-BRT Group, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, EEBE, Technical University of Catalonia (UPC), Barcelona, Spain
- Biomaterials for Regenerative Therapies Group, Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona, Spain
- CIBER en Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina, CIBER-BBN, Madrid, Spain
| | - Zaida Álvarez
- Biomaterials for Neural Regeneration Group, Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona, Spain
- CIBER en Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina, CIBER-BBN, Madrid, Spain
- Simpson Querrey Institute for BioNanotechnology, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Leonard-Duke J, Agro SMJ, Csordas DJ, Bruce AC, Eggertsen TG, Tavakol TN, Barker TH, Bonham CA, Saucerman JJ, Taite LJ, Peirce SM. Multiscale computational model predicts how environmental changes and drug treatments affect microvascular remodeling in fibrotic disease. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.03.15.585249. [PMID: 38559112 PMCID: PMC10979947 DOI: 10.1101/2024.03.15.585249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Investigating the molecular, cellular, and tissue-level changes caused by disease, and the effects of pharmacological treatments across these biological scales, necessitates the use of multiscale computational modeling in combination with experimentation. Many diseases dynamically alter the tissue microenvironment in ways that trigger microvascular network remodeling, which leads to the expansion or regression of microvessel networks. When microvessels undergo remodeling in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), functional gas exchange is impaired due to loss of alveolar structures and lung function declines. Here, we integrated a multiscale computational model with independent experiments to investigate how combinations of biomechanical and biochemical cues in IPF alter cell fate decisions leading to microvascular remodeling. Our computational model predicted that extracellular matrix (ECM) stiffening reduced microvessel area, which was accompanied by physical uncoupling of endothelial cell (ECs) and pericytes, the cells that comprise microvessels. Nintedanib, an FDA-approved drug for treating IPF, was predicted to further potentiate microvessel regression by decreasing the percentage of quiescent pericytes while increasing the percentage of pericytes undergoing pericyte-myofibroblast transition (PMT) in high ECM stiffnesses. Importantly, the model suggested that YAP/TAZ inhibition may overcome the deleterious effects of nintedanib by promoting EC-pericyte coupling and maintaining microvessel homeostasis. Overall, our combination of computational and experimental modeling can explain how cell decisions affect tissue changes during disease and in response to treatments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julie Leonard-Duke
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
- Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Samuel M. J. Agro
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - David J. Csordas
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
- Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Anthony C. Bruce
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Taylor G. Eggertsen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
- Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Tara N. Tavakol
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Thomas H. Barker
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
- Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Catherine A. Bonham
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Jeffery J. Saucerman
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
- Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Lakeshia J. Taite
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Shayn M. Peirce
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
- Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Chapla R, Katz RR, West JL. Neurogenic Cell Behavior in 3D Culture Enhanced Within a Highly Compliant Synthetic Hydrogel Platform Formed via Competitive Crosslinking. Cell Mol Bioeng 2024; 17:35-48. [PMID: 38435792 PMCID: PMC10901766 DOI: 10.1007/s12195-024-00794-2] [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: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose Scaffold materials that better support neurogenesis are still needed to improve cell therapy outcomes for neural tissue damage. We have used a modularly tunable, highly compliant, degradable hydrogel to explore the impacts of hydrogel compliance stiffness on neural differentiation. Here we implemented competitive matrix crosslinking mechanics to finely tune synthetic hydrogel moduli within soft tissue stiffnesses, a range much softer than typically achievable in synthetic crosslinked hydrogels, providing a modularly controlled and ultrasoft 3D culture model which supports and enhances neurogenic cell behavior. Methods Soluble competitive allyl monomers were mixed with proteolytically-degradable poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate derivatives and crosslinked to form a matrix, and resultant hydrogel stiffness and diffusive properties were evaluated. Neural PC12 cells or primary rat fetal neural stem cells (NSCs) were encapsulated within the hydrogels, and cell morphology and phenotype were investigated to understand cell-matrix interactions and the effects of environmental stiffness on neural cell behavior within this model. Results Addition of allyl monomers caused a concentration-dependent decrease in hydrogel compressive modulus from 4.40 kPa to 0.26 kPa (natural neural tissue stiffness) without influencing soluble protein diffusion kinetics through the gel matrix. PC12 cells encapsulated in the softest hydrogels showed significantly enhanced neurite extension in comparison to PC12s in all other hydrogel stiffnesses tested. Encapsulated neural stem cells demonstrated significantly greater spreading and elongation in 0.26 kPa alloc hydrogels than in 4.4 kPa hydrogels. When soluble growth factor deprivation (for promotion of neural differentiation) was evaluated within the neural stiffness gels (0.26 kPa), NSCs showed increased neuronal marker expression, indicating early enhancement of neurogenic differentiation. Conclusions Implementing allyl-acrylate crosslinking competition reduced synthetic hydrogel stiffness to provide a supportive environment for 3D neural tissue culture, resulting in enhanced neurogenic behavior of encapsulated cells. These results indicate the potential suitability of this ultrasoft hydrogel system as a model platform for further investigating environmental factors on neural cell behavior. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12195-024-00794-2.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Chapla
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708 USA
| | - Rachel R. Katz
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708 USA
| | - Jennifer L. West
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708 USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22904 USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Yuan Y, Tyson C, Szyniec A, Agro S, Tavakol TN, Harmon A, Lampkins D, Pearson L, Dumas JE, Taite LJ. Bioactive Polyurethane-Poly(ethylene Glycol) Diacrylate Hydrogels for Applications in Tissue Engineering. Gels 2024; 10:108. [PMID: 38391438 PMCID: PMC10887679 DOI: 10.3390/gels10020108] [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: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Polyurethanes (PUs) are a highly adaptable class of biomaterials that are among some of the most researched materials for various biomedical applications. However, engineered tissue scaffolds composed of PU have not found their way into clinical application, mainly due to the difficulty of balancing the control of material properties with the desired cellular response. A simple method for the synthesis of tunable bioactive poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA) hydrogels containing photocurable PU is described. These hydrogels may be modified with PEGylated peptides or proteins to impart variable biological functions, and the mechanical properties of the hydrogels can be tuned based on the ratios of PU and PEGDA. Studies with human cells revealed that PU-PEG blended hydrogels support cell adhesion and viability when cell adhesion peptides are crosslinked within the hydrogel matrix. These hydrogels represent a unique and highly tailorable system for synthesizing PU-based synthetic extracellular matrices for tissue engineering applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yixuan Yuan
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA
| | - Caleb Tyson
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Hampton University, Hampton, VA 23668, USA
| | - Annika Szyniec
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA
| | - Samuel Agro
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA
| | - Tara N Tavakol
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA
| | - Alexander Harmon
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Hampton University, Hampton, VA 23668, USA
| | - DessaRae Lampkins
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Hampton University, Hampton, VA 23668, USA
| | - Lauran Pearson
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Hampton University, Hampton, VA 23668, USA
| | - Jerald E Dumas
- Joint School of Nanoscience and Nanoengineering, North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University, Greensboro, NC 27401, USA
| | - Lakeshia J Taite
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Olguín Y, Selva M, Benavente D, Orellana N, Montenegro I, Madrid A, Jaramillo-Pinto D, Otero MC, Corrales TP, Acevedo CA. Effect of Electrical Stimulation on PC12 Cells Cultured in Different Hydrogels: Basis for the Development of Biomaterials in Peripheral Nerve Tissue Engineering. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2760. [PMID: 38140099 PMCID: PMC10747664 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15122760] [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: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 11/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Extensive damage to peripheral nerves is a health problem with few therapeutic alternatives. In this context, the development of tissue engineering seeks to obtain materials that can help recreate environments conducive to cellular development and functional repair of peripheral nerves. Different hydrogels have been studied and presented as alternatives for future treatments to emulate the morphological characteristics of nerves. Along with this, other research proposes the need to incorporate electrical stimuli into treatments as agents that promote cell growth and differentiation; however, no precedent correlates the simultaneous effects of the types of hydrogel and electrical stimuli. This research evaluates the neural differentiation of PC12 cells, relating the effect of collagen, alginate, GelMA, and PEGDA hydrogels with electrical stimulation modulated in four different ways. Our results show significant correlations for different cultivation conditions. Electrical stimuli significantly increase neural differentiation for specific experimental conditions dependent on electrical frequency, not voltage. These backgrounds allow new material treatment schemes to be formulated through electrical stimulation in peripheral nerve tissue engineering.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yusser Olguín
- Departamento de Química y Medio Ambiente, Universidad Técnica Federico Santa María, Avenida España 1680, Valparaíso 2390123, Chile
- Centro Científico y Tecnológico de Valparaíso (CCTVal), Universidad Técnica Federico Santa María, Avenida España 1680, Valparaíso 2390123, Chile; (D.B.); (C.A.A.)
- Centro de Biotecnología, Universidad Técnica Federico Santa María, Avenida España 1680, Valparaíso 2390123, Chile; (M.S.); (N.O.); (T.P.C.)
| | - Mónica Selva
- Centro de Biotecnología, Universidad Técnica Federico Santa María, Avenida España 1680, Valparaíso 2390123, Chile; (M.S.); (N.O.); (T.P.C.)
| | - Diego Benavente
- Centro Científico y Tecnológico de Valparaíso (CCTVal), Universidad Técnica Federico Santa María, Avenida España 1680, Valparaíso 2390123, Chile; (D.B.); (C.A.A.)
| | - Nicole Orellana
- Centro de Biotecnología, Universidad Técnica Federico Santa María, Avenida España 1680, Valparaíso 2390123, Chile; (M.S.); (N.O.); (T.P.C.)
| | - Ivan Montenegro
- Centro de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Escuela de Obstetricia, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Valparaíso, Angamos 655, Reñaca, Viña del Mar 2520000, Chile;
| | - Alejandro Madrid
- Laboratorio de Productos Naturales y Síntesis Orgánica (LPNSO), Departamento de Ciencias y Geografía, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales y Exactas, Universidad de Playa Ancha, Avda. Leopoldo Carvallo 270, Playa Ancha, Valparaíso 2390123, Chile;
| | - Diego Jaramillo-Pinto
- Departamento de Física, Universidad Técnica Federico Santa María, Avenida España 1680, Valparaíso 2390123, Chile;
- Millenium Nucleus in NanoBioPhysics (NNBP), Universidad Técnica Federico Santa María, Valparaíso 2390123, Chile
| | - María Carolina Otero
- Escuela de Química y Farmacia, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Andres Bello, Republica 252, Santiago 8370071, Chile;
| | - Tomas P. Corrales
- Centro de Biotecnología, Universidad Técnica Federico Santa María, Avenida España 1680, Valparaíso 2390123, Chile; (M.S.); (N.O.); (T.P.C.)
- Departamento de Física, Universidad Técnica Federico Santa María, Avenida España 1680, Valparaíso 2390123, Chile;
- Millenium Nucleus in NanoBioPhysics (NNBP), Universidad Técnica Federico Santa María, Valparaíso 2390123, Chile
| | - Cristian A. Acevedo
- Centro Científico y Tecnológico de Valparaíso (CCTVal), Universidad Técnica Federico Santa María, Avenida España 1680, Valparaíso 2390123, Chile; (D.B.); (C.A.A.)
- Centro de Biotecnología, Universidad Técnica Federico Santa María, Avenida España 1680, Valparaíso 2390123, Chile; (M.S.); (N.O.); (T.P.C.)
- Departamento de Física, Universidad Técnica Federico Santa María, Avenida España 1680, Valparaíso 2390123, Chile;
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Leonard-Duke J, Bruce AC, Peirce SM, Taite LJ. Variations in mechanical stiffness alter microvascular sprouting and stability in a PEG hydrogel model of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Microcirculation 2023; 30:e12817. [PMID: 37248193 PMCID: PMC10524245 DOI: 10.1111/micc.12817] [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: 09/22/2022] [Revised: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Microvascular remodeling is governed by biomechanical and biochemical cues which are dysregulated in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Understanding how these cues impact endothelial cell-pericyte interactions necessitates a model system in which both variables can be independently and reproducibly modulated. In this study we develop a tunable hydrogel-based angiogenesis assay to study how varying angiogenic growth factors and environmental stiffness affect sprouting and vessel organization. METHODS Lungs harvested from mice were cut into 1 mm long segments then cultured on hydrogels having one of seven possible stiffness and growth factor combinations. Time course, brightfield, and immunofluorescence imaging were used to observe and quantify sprout formation. RESULTS Our assay was able to support angiogenesis in a comparable manner to Matrigel in soft 2 kPa gels while enabling tunability to study the effects of stiffness on sprout formation. Matrigel and 2 kPa groups contained significantly more samples with sprouts when compared to the stiffer 10 and 20 kPa gels. Growth factor treatment did not have as obvious an effect, although the 20 kPa PDGF + FGF-treated group had significantly longer vessels than the vascular endothelial growth factor-treated group. CONCLUSIONS We have developed a novel, tunable hydrogel assay for the creation of lung explant vessel organoids which can be modulated to study the impact of specific environmental cues on vessel formation and maturation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julie Leonard-Duke
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
- Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Anthony C Bruce
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Shayn M Peirce
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
- Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Lakeshia J Taite
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Grübel J, L Albernaz V, Tsianaka A, Jauch CO, Quirin S, Kerger C, Kohl CG, Burger-Kentischer A, Tovar GEM, Southan A. Preparation of multifunctional hydrogels with accessible isothiouronium groups via radical cross-linking copolymerization. Sci Rep 2023; 13:10361. [PMID: 37365250 PMCID: PMC10293292 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-36956-x] [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: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Hydrogels can be equipped with functional groups for specific purposes. Isothiouronium groups can enhance adsorptivity, or allow coupling of other functional groups through mild reactions after transformation to thiol groups. Here we present a method to prepare multifunctional hydrogels by introducing isothiouronium groups into poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA) hydrogels, and convert them into thiol-functionalized hydrogels by the reduction of the isothiouronium groups. For this purpose, the amphiphilic monomer 2-(11-(acryloyloxy)-undecyl)isothiouronium bromide (AUITB), containing an isothiouronium group, was synthesized and copolymerized with PEGDA. In this convenient way, it was possible to incorporate up to 3 wt% AUITB into the hydrogels without changing their equilibrium swelling degree. The successful functionalization was demonstrated by surface analysis of the hydrogels with water contact angle measurements and increased isoelectric points of the hydrogel surfaces from 4.5 to 9.0 due to the presence of the isothiouronium groups. The hydrogels showed a suitability as an adsorbent, as exemplified by the pronounced adsorption of the anionic drug diclofenac. The potential of the functionalization for (bio)conjugation reactions was demonstrated by the reduction of isothiouronium groups to thiols and subsequent immobilization of the functional enzyme horseradish peroxidase on the hydrogels. The results show that fully accessible isothiouronium groups can be introduced into radically cross-linked hydrogels.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jana Grübel
- Institute of Interfacial Process Engineering and Plasma Technology IGVP, University of Stuttgart, Nobelstr. 12, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Vanessa L Albernaz
- Institute of Interfacial Process Engineering and Plasma Technology IGVP, University of Stuttgart, Nobelstr. 12, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Anastasia Tsianaka
- Institute of Interfacial Process Engineering and Plasma Technology IGVP, University of Stuttgart, Nobelstr. 12, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Corinna O Jauch
- Institute of Interfacial Process Engineering and Plasma Technology IGVP, University of Stuttgart, Nobelstr. 12, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Silia Quirin
- Institute of Interfacial Process Engineering and Plasma Technology IGVP, University of Stuttgart, Nobelstr. 12, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Christian Kerger
- Fraunhofer Institute for Interfacial Engineering and Biotechnology IGB, Nobelstr. 12, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Christina G Kohl
- Fraunhofer Institute for Interfacial Engineering and Biotechnology IGB, Nobelstr. 12, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Anke Burger-Kentischer
- Fraunhofer Institute for Interfacial Engineering and Biotechnology IGB, Nobelstr. 12, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Günter E M Tovar
- Institute of Interfacial Process Engineering and Plasma Technology IGVP, University of Stuttgart, Nobelstr. 12, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany.
- Fraunhofer Institute for Interfacial Engineering and Biotechnology IGB, Nobelstr. 12, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany.
| | - Alexander Southan
- Institute of Interfacial Process Engineering and Plasma Technology IGVP, University of Stuttgart, Nobelstr. 12, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany.
- Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, Heisenbergstr. 3, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Ahmed TA, Eldaly B, Eldosuky S, Elkhenany H, El-Derby AM, Elshazly MF, El-Badri N. The interplay of cells, polymers, and vascularization in three-dimensional lung models and their applications in COVID-19 research and therapy. Stem Cell Res Ther 2023; 14:114. [PMID: 37118810 PMCID: PMC10144893 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-023-03341-4] [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: 10/15/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Millions of people have been affected ever since the emergence of the corona virus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak, leading to an urgent need for antiviral drug and vaccine development. Current experimentation on traditional two-dimensional culture (2D) fails to accurately mimic the in vivo microenvironment for the disease, while in vivo animal model testing does not faithfully replicate human COVID-19 infection. Human-based three-dimensional (3D) cell culture models such as spheroids, organoids, and organ-on-a-chip present a promising solution to these challenges. In this report, we review the recent 3D in vitro lung models used in COVID-19 infection and drug screening studies and highlight the most common types of natural and synthetic polymers used to generate 3D lung models.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Toka A Ahmed
- Center of Excellence for Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine (CESC), Zewail City of Science and Technology, October Gardens, 6th of October City, Giza, 12582, Egypt
- Egypt Center for Research and Regenerative Medicine (ECRRM), Cairo, Egypt
| | - Bassant Eldaly
- Center of Excellence for Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine (CESC), Zewail City of Science and Technology, October Gardens, 6th of October City, Giza, 12582, Egypt
| | - Shadwa Eldosuky
- Center of Excellence for Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine (CESC), Zewail City of Science and Technology, October Gardens, 6th of October City, Giza, 12582, Egypt
| | - Hoda Elkhenany
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria, 22785, Egypt
| | - Azza M El-Derby
- Center of Excellence for Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine (CESC), Zewail City of Science and Technology, October Gardens, 6th of October City, Giza, 12582, Egypt
| | - Muhamed F Elshazly
- Center of Excellence for Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine (CESC), Zewail City of Science and Technology, October Gardens, 6th of October City, Giza, 12582, Egypt
| | - Nagwa El-Badri
- Center of Excellence for Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine (CESC), Zewail City of Science and Technology, October Gardens, 6th of October City, Giza, 12582, Egypt.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Rouleau N, Murugan NJ, Kaplan DL. Functional bioengineered models of the central nervous system. NATURE REVIEWS BIOENGINEERING 2023; 1:252-270. [PMID: 37064657 PMCID: PMC9903289 DOI: 10.1038/s44222-023-00027-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
The functional complexity of the central nervous system (CNS) is unparalleled in living organisms. Its nested cells, circuits and networks encode memories, move bodies and generate experiences. Neural tissues can be engineered to assemble model systems that recapitulate essential features of the CNS and to investigate neurodevelopment, delineate pathophysiology, improve regeneration and accelerate drug discovery. In this Review, we discuss essential structure-function relationships of the CNS and examine materials and design considerations, including composition, scale, complexity and maturation, of cell biology-based and engineering-based CNS models. We highlight region-specific CNS models that can emulate functions of the cerebral cortex, hippocampus, spinal cord, neural-X interfaces and other regions, and investigate a range of applications for CNS models, including fundamental and clinical research. We conclude with an outlook to future possibilities of CNS models, highlighting the engineering challenges that remain to be overcome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Rouleau
- Department of Health Sciences, Wilfrid Laurier University, Waterloo, Ontario Canada
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, MA USA
| | - Nirosha J. Murugan
- Department of Health Sciences, Wilfrid Laurier University, Waterloo, Ontario Canada
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, MA USA
| | - David L. Kaplan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, MA USA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Katz RR, West JL. Tunable PEG Hydrogels for Discerning Differential Tumor Cell Response to Biomechanical Cues. Adv Biol (Weinh) 2022; 6:e2200084. [PMID: 35996804 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.202200084] [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: 03/22/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Increased extracellular matrix (ECM) density in the tumor microenvironment has been shown to influence aspects of tumor progression such as proliferation and invasion. Increased matrix density means cells experience not only increased mechanical properties, but also a higher density of bioactive sites. Traditional in vitro ECM models like Matrigel and collagen do not allow these properties to be investigated independently. In this work, a poly(ethylene glycol)-based scaffold is used which modifies with integrin-binding sites for cell attachment and matrix metalloproteinase 2 and 9 sensitive sites for enzyme-mediated degradation. The polymer backbone density and binding site concentration are independently tuned and the effect each of these properties and their interaction have on the proliferation, invasion, and focal complex formation of two different tumor cell lines is evaluated. It is seen that the cell line of epithelial origin (Hs 578T, triple negative breast cancer) proliferates more, invades less, and forms more mature focal complexes in response to an increase in matrix adhesion sites. Conversely, the cell line of mesenchymal origin (HT1080, fibrosarcoma) proliferates more in 2D culture but less in 3D culture, invades less, and forms more mature focal complexes in response to an increase in matrix stiffness.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rachel R Katz
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Fitzpatrick Center (FCIEMAS), Room 1427, 101 Science Drive, Campus Box 90281, Durham, NC, 27708-0281, USA
| | - Jennifer L West
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Fitzpatrick Center (FCIEMAS), Room 1427, 101 Science Drive, Campus Box 90281, Durham, NC, 27708-0281, USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia, 351 McCormick Rd, Charlottesville, VA, 22904, USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Elango J, Lijnev A, Zamora-Ledezma C, Alexis F, Wu W, Marín JMG, Sanchez de Val JEM. The Relationship of Rheological Properties and the Performance of Silk Fibroin Hydrogels in Tissue Engineering Application. Process Biochem 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.procbio.2022.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
|
13
|
Yi B, Xu Q, Liu W. An overview of substrate stiffness guided cellular response and its applications in tissue regeneration. Bioact Mater 2022; 15:82-102. [PMID: 35386347 PMCID: PMC8940767 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2021.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Revised: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cell-matrix interactions play a critical role in tissue repair and regeneration. With gradual uncovering of substrate mechanical characteristics that can affect cell-matrix interactions, much progress has been made to unravel substrate stiffness-mediated cellular response as well as its underlying mechanisms. Yet, as a part of cell-matrix interaction biology, this field remains in its infancy, and the detailed molecular mechanisms are still elusive regarding scaffold-modulated tissue regeneration. This review provides an overview of recent progress in the area of the substrate stiffness-mediated cellular responses, including 1) the physical determination of substrate stiffness on cell fate and tissue development; 2) the current exploited approaches to manipulate the stiffness of scaffolds; 3) the progress of recent researches to reveal the role of substrate stiffness in cellular responses in some representative tissue-engineered regeneration varying from stiff tissue to soft tissue. This article aims to provide an up-to-date overview of cell mechanobiology research in substrate stiffness mediated cellular response and tissue regeneration with insightful information to facilitate interdisciplinary knowledge transfer and enable the establishment of prognostic markers for the design of suitable biomaterials. Substrate stiffness physically determines cell fate and tissue development. Rational design of scaffolds requires the understanding of cell-matrix interactions. Substrate stiffness depends on scaffold molecular-constituent-structure interaction. Substrate stiffness-mediated cellular responses vary in different tissues.
Collapse
|
14
|
Katz RR, West JL. Reductionist Three-Dimensional Tumor Microenvironment Models in Synthetic Hydrogels. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14051225. [PMID: 35267532 PMCID: PMC8909517 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14051225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Tumors exist in a complex, three-dimensional environment which helps them to survive, grow, metastasize, and resist drug treatment. Simple, reproducible, in vitro models of this environment are necessary in order to better understand tumor behavior. Naturally derived polymers are great 3D cell culture substrates, but they often lack the tunability and batch-to-batch consistency which can be found in synthetic polymer systems. In this review, we describe the current state of and future directions for tumor microenvironment models in synthetic hydrogels. Abstract The tumor microenvironment (TME) plays a determining role in everything from disease progression to drug resistance. As such, in vitro models which can recapitulate the cell–cell and cell–matrix interactions that occur in situ are key to the investigation of tumor behavior and selecting effective therapeutic drugs. While naturally derived matrices can retain the dimensionality of the native TME, they lack tunability and batch-to-batch consistency. As such, many synthetic polymer systems have been employed to create physiologically relevant TME cultures. In this review, we discussed the common semi-synthetic and synthetic polymers used as hydrogel matrices for tumor models. We reviewed studies in synthetic hydrogels which investigated tumor cell interactions with vasculature and immune cells. Finally, we reviewed the utility of these models as chemotherapeutic drug-screening platforms, as well as the future directions of the field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rachel R. Katz
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC 27705, USA;
| | - Jennifer L. West
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC 27705, USA;
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22904, USA
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Freeform 3D Bioprinting Involving Ink Gelation by Cascade Reaction of Oxidase and Peroxidase: A Feasibility Study Using Hyaluronic Acid-Based Ink. Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11121908. [PMID: 34944552 PMCID: PMC8699251 DOI: 10.3390/biom11121908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2021] [Revised: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Freeform bioprinting, realized by extruding ink-containing cells into supporting materials to provide physical support during printing, has fostered significant advances toward the fabrication of cell-laden soft hydrogel constructs with desired spatial control. For further advancement of freeform bioprinting, we aimed to propose a method in which the ink embedded in supporting materials gelate through a cytocompatible and rapid cascade reaction between oxidase and peroxidase. To demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed method, we extruded ink containing choline, horseradish peroxidase (HRP), and a hyaluronic acid derivative, cross-linkable by HRP-catalyzed reaction, into a supporting material containing choline oxidase and successfully obtained three-dimensional hyaluronic acid-based hydrogel constructs with good shape fidelity to blueprints. Cytocompatibility of the bioprinting method was confirmed by the comparable growth of mouse fibroblast cells, released from the printed hydrogels through degradation on cell culture dishes, with those not exposed to the printing process, and considering more than 85% viability of the enclosed cells during 10 days of culture. Owing to the presence of derivatives of the various biocompatible polymers that are cross-linkable through HRP-mediated cross-linking, our results demonstrate that the novel 3D bioprinting method has great potential in tissue engineering applications.
Collapse
|
16
|
Gao W, Wang Z, Song F, Fu Y, Wu Q, Liu S. Temperature/Reduction Dual Response Nanogel Is Formed by In Situ Stereocomplexation of Poly (Lactic Acid). Polymers (Basel) 2021; 13:3492. [PMID: 34685251 PMCID: PMC8540984 DOI: 10.3390/polym13203492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
A novel type of dual responsive nanogels was synthesized by physical crosslinking of polylactic acid stereocomplexation: temperature and reduction dual stimulation responsive gels were formed in situ by mixing equal amounts of PLA (Poly (Lactic Acid)) enantiomeric graft copolymer micellar solution; the properties of double stimulation response make it more targeted in the field of drug release. The structural composition of the gels was studied by proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). Using transmission electron microscope (TEM) and dynamic light scattering (DLS) instruments, the differences in morphology and particle size were analyzed (indicating that nanogels have dual stimulus responses of temperature sensitivity and reduction). The Wide-Angle X-ray diffractionr (WAXD) was used to prove the stereocomplexation of PLA in the gels, the mechanical properties and gelation process of the gels were studied by rheology test. The physically cross-linked gel network generated by the self-recombination of micelles and then stereo-complexation has a more stable structure. The results show that the micelle properties, swelling properties and rheological properties of nanogels can be changed by adjusting the degree of polymerization of polylactic acid. In addition, it provides a safe and practical new method for preparing stable temperature/reduction response physical cross-linked gel.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Shouxin Liu
- Key Laboratory of Applied Surface and Colloid Chemistry, Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi’an 710119, China; (W.G.); (Z.W.); (F.S.); (Y.F.); (Q.W.)
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Yang X, Dargaville BL, Hutmacher DW. Elucidating the Molecular Mechanisms for the Interaction of Water with Polyethylene Glycol-Based Hydrogels: Influence of Ionic Strength and Gel Network Structure. Polymers (Basel) 2021; 13:845. [PMID: 33801863 PMCID: PMC8000404 DOI: 10.3390/polym13060845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Revised: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The interaction of water within synthetic and natural hydrogel systems is of fundamental importance in biomaterial science. A systematic study is presented on the swelling behavior and states of water for a polyethylene glycol-diacrylate (PEGDA)-based model neutral hydrogel system that goes beyond previous studies reported in the literature. Hydrogels with different network structures are crosslinked and swollen in different combinations of water and phosphate-buffered saline (PBS). Network variables, polyethylene glycol (PEG) molecular weight (MW), and weight fraction are positively correlated with swelling ratio, while "non-freezable bound water" content decreases with PEG MW. The presence of ions has the greatest influence on equilibrium water and "freezable" and "non-freezable" water, with all hydrogel formulations showing a decreased swelling ratio and increased bound water as ionic strength increases. Similarly, the number of "non-freezable bound water" molecules, calculated from DSC data, is greatest-up to six molecules per PEG repeat unit-for gels swollen in PBS. Fundamentally, the balance of osmotic pressure and non-covalent bonding is a major factor within the molecular structure of the hydrogel system. The proposed model explains the dynamic interaction of water within hydrogels in an osmotic environment. This study will point toward a better understanding of the molecular nature of the water interface in hydrogels.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Dietmar W. Hutmacher
- Centre for Transformative Biomimetics in Bioengineering, Queensland University of Technology, 60 Musk Avenue, Kelvin Grove, QLD 4059, Australia; (X.Y.); (B.L.D.)
| |
Collapse
|