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Hidalgo-Alvarez V, Madl CM. Leveraging Biomaterial Platforms to Study Aging-Related Neural and Muscular Degeneration. Biomolecules 2024; 14:69. [PMID: 38254669 PMCID: PMC10813704 DOI: 10.3390/biom14010069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Aging is a complex multifactorial process that results in tissue function impairment across the whole organism. One of the common consequences of this process is the loss of muscle mass and the associated decline in muscle function, known as sarcopenia. Aging also presents with an increased risk of developing other pathological conditions such as neurodegeneration. Muscular and neuronal degeneration cause mobility issues and cognitive impairment, hence having a major impact on the quality of life of the older population. The development of novel therapies that can ameliorate the effects of aging is currently hindered by our limited knowledge of the underlying mechanisms and the use of models that fail to recapitulate the structure and composition of the cell microenvironment. The emergence of bioengineering techniques based on the use of biomimetic materials and biofabrication methods has opened the possibility of generating 3D models of muscular and nervous tissues that better mimic the native extracellular matrix. These platforms are particularly advantageous for drug testing and mechanistic studies. In this review, we discuss the developments made in the creation of 3D models of aging-related neuronal and muscular degeneration and we provide a perspective on the future directions for the field.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Christopher M. Madl
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA;
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2
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Boulingre M, Portillo-Lara R, Green RA. Biohybrid neural interfaces: improving the biological integration of neural implants. Chem Commun (Camb) 2023; 59:14745-14758. [PMID: 37991846 PMCID: PMC10720954 DOI: 10.1039/d3cc05006h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
Implantable neural interfaces (NIs) have emerged in the clinic as outstanding tools for the management of a variety of neurological conditions caused by trauma or disease. However, the foreign body reaction triggered upon implantation remains one of the major challenges hindering the safety and longevity of NIs. The integration of tools and principles from biomaterial design and tissue engineering has been investigated as a promising strategy to develop NIs with enhanced functionality and performance. In this Feature Article, we highlight the main bioengineering approaches for the development of biohybrid NIs with an emphasis on relevant device design criteria. Technical and scientific challenges associated with the fabrication and functional assessment of technologies composed of both artificial and biological components are discussed. Lastly, we provide future perspectives related to engineering, regulatory, and neuroethical challenges to be addressed towards the realisation of the promise of biohybrid neurotechnology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marjolaine Boulingre
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, South Kensington, London, SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Roberto Portillo-Lara
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, South Kensington, London, SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Rylie A Green
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, South Kensington, London, SW7 2AZ, UK
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Lisa DD, Muzzi L, Lagazzo A, Andolfi A, Martinoia S, Pastorino L. Long-term in vitroculture of 3D brain tissue model based on chitosan thermogel. Biofabrication 2023; 16:015011. [PMID: 37922538 DOI: 10.1088/1758-5090/ad0979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
Methods for studying brain function and disease heavily rely onin vivoanimal models,ex-vivotissue slices, and 2D cell culture platforms. These methods all have limitations that significantly impact the clinical translatability of results. Consequently, models able to better recapitulate some aspects ofin vivohuman brain are needed as additional preclinical tools. In this context, 3D hydrogel-basedin vitromodels of the brain are considered promising tools. To create a 3D brain-on-a-chip model, a hydrogel capable of sustaining neuronal maturation over extended culture periods is required. Among biopolymeric hydrogels, chitosan-β-glycerophosphate (CHITO-β-GP) thermogels have demonstrated their versatility and applicability in the biomedical field over the years. In this study, we investigated the ability of this thermogel to encapsulate neuronal cells and support the functional maturation of a 3D neuronal network in long-term cultures. To the best of our knowledge, we demonstrated for the first time that CHITO-β-GP thermogel possesses optimal characteristics for promoting neuronal growth and the development of an electrophysiologically functional neuronal network derived from both primary rat neurons and neurons differentiated from human induced pluripotent stem cells (h-iPSCs) co-cultured with astrocytes. Specifically, two different formulations were firstly characterized by rheological, mechanical and injectability tests. Primary nervous cells and neurons differentiated from h-iPSCs were embedded into the two thermogel formulations. The 3D cultures were then deeply characterized by immunocytochemistry, confocal microscopy, and electrophysiological recordings, employing both 2D and 3D micro-electrode arrays. The thermogels supported the long-term culture of neuronal networks for up to 100 d. In conclusion, CHITO-β-GP thermogels exhibit excellent mechanical properties, stability over time under culture conditions, and bioactivity toward nervous cells. Therefore, they are excellent candidates as artificial extracellular matrices in brain-on-a-chip models, with applications in neurodegenerative disease modeling, drug screening, and neurotoxicity evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donatella Di Lisa
- Department of Informatics, Bioengineering, Robotics and System Engineering, University of Genoa, Via all 'Opera Pia 13, 16145 Genoa, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Muzzi
- Department of Informatics, Bioengineering, Robotics and System Engineering, University of Genoa, Via all 'Opera Pia 13, 16145 Genoa, Italy
| | - Alberto Lagazzo
- Department of Civil, Chemical and Environmental Engineering, University of Genoa, via Montallegro 1, Genoa, Italy
| | - Andrea Andolfi
- Department of Informatics, Bioengineering, Robotics and System Engineering, University of Genoa, Via all 'Opera Pia 13, 16145 Genoa, Italy
| | - Sergio Martinoia
- Department of Informatics, Bioengineering, Robotics and System Engineering, University of Genoa, Via all 'Opera Pia 13, 16145 Genoa, Italy
| | - Laura Pastorino
- Department of Informatics, Bioengineering, Robotics and System Engineering, University of Genoa, Via all 'Opera Pia 13, 16145 Genoa, Italy
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Muangsanit P, Chailangkarn T, Tanwattana N, Wongwanakul R, Lekcharoensuk P, Kaewborisuth C. Hydrogel-based 3D human iPSC-derived neuronal culture for the study of rabies virus infection. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1215205. [PMID: 37692167 PMCID: PMC10485840 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1215205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Rabies is a highly fatal infectious disease that poses a significant threat to human health in developing countries. In vitro study-based understanding of pathogenesis and tropism of different strains of rabies virus (RABV) in the central nervous system (CNS) is limited due to the lack of suitable culture models that recapitulate the complex communication pathways among host cells, extracellular matrices, and viruses. Therefore, a three-dimensional (3D) cell culture that mimics cell-matrix interactions, resembling in vivo microenvironment, is necessary to discover relevant underlying mechanisms of RABV infection and host responses. Methods The 3D collagen-Matrigel hydrogel encapsulating hiPSC-derived neurons for RABV infection was developed and characterized based on cell viability, morphology, and gene expression analysis of neuronal markers. The replication kinetics of two different strains of RABV [wild-type Thai (TH) and Challenge Virus Standard (CVS)-11 strains] in both 2D and 3D neuronal cultures were examined. Differential gene expression analysis (DEG) of the neuropathological pathway of RABV-infected 2D and 3D models was also investigated via NanoString analysis. Results The 3D hiPSC-derived neurons revealed a more physiologically interconnected neuronal network as well as more robust and prolonged maturation and differentiation than the conventional 2D monolayer model. TH and CVS-11 exhibited distinct growth kinetics in 3D neuronal model. Additionally, gene expression analysis of the neuropathological pathway observed during RABV infection demonstrated a vast number of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in 3D model. Unlike 2D neuronal model, 3D model displayed more pronounced cellular responses upon infection with CVS-11 when compared to the TH-infected group, highlighting the influence of the cell environment on RABV-host interactions. Gene ontology (GO) enrichment of DEGs in the infected 3D neuronal culture showed alterations of genes associated with the inflammatory response, apoptotic signaling pathway, glutamatergic synapse, and trans-synaptic signaling which did not significantly change in 2D culture. Conclusion We demonstrated the use of a hydrogel-based 3D hiPSC-derived neuronal model, a highly promising technology, to study RABV infection in a more physiological environment, which will broaden our understanding of RABV-host interactions in the CNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Papon Muangsanit
- Virology and Cell Technology Research Team, National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (BIOTEC), National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), Pathumthani, Thailand
| | - Thanathom Chailangkarn
- Virology and Cell Technology Research Team, National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (BIOTEC), National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), Pathumthani, Thailand
| | - Nathiphat Tanwattana
- Virology and Cell Technology Research Team, National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (BIOTEC), National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), Pathumthani, Thailand
- Interdisciplinary Program in Genetic Engineering and Bioinformatics, Graduate School, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Ratjika Wongwanakul
- National Nanotechnology Center (NANOTEC), National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), Pathumthani, Thailand
| | - Porntippa Lekcharoensuk
- Interdisciplinary Program in Genetic Engineering and Bioinformatics, Graduate School, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Center for Advance Studies in Agriculture and Food, KU Institute Studies, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Challika Kaewborisuth
- Virology and Cell Technology Research Team, National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (BIOTEC), National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), Pathumthani, Thailand
- Interdisciplinary Program in Genetic Engineering and Bioinformatics, Graduate School, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
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Moreno-Castellanos N, Cuartas-Gómez E, Vargas-Ceballos O. Functionalized Collagen/Poly(ethylene glycol) Diacrylate Interpenetrating Network Hydrogel Enhances Beta Pancreatic Cell Sustenance. Gels 2023; 9:496. [PMID: 37367166 DOI: 10.3390/gels9060496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Three-dimensional matrices are a new strategy used to tackle type I diabetes, a chronic metabolic disease characterized by the destruction of beta pancreatic cells. Type I collagen is an abundant extracellular matrix (ECM), a component that has been used to support cell growth. However, pure collagen possesses some difficulties, including a low stiffness and strength and a high susceptibility to cell-mediated contraction. Therefore, we developed a collagen hydrogel with a poly (ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA) interpenetrating network (IPN), functionalized with vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) to mimic the pancreatic environment for the sustenance of beta pancreatic cells. We analyzed the physicochemical characteristics of the hydrogels and found that they were successfully synthesized. The mechanical behavior of the hydrogels improved with the addition of VEGF, and the swelling degree and the degradation were stable over time. In addition, it was found that 5 ng/mL VEGF-functionalized collagen/PEGDA IPN hydrogels sustained and enhanced the viability, proliferation, respiratory capacity, and functionality of beta pancreatic cells. Hence, this is a potential candidate for future preclinical evaluation, which may be favorable for diabetes treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Moreno-Castellanos
- Centro de Cromatografía y Espectrometría de Masas, CROM-MASS, Universidad Industrial de Santander, Cra 27 calle 9, Bucaramanga 680002, Colombia
| | - Elías Cuartas-Gómez
- CICTA Research Group, Department of Basic Sciences, Medicine School, Health Faculty, Universidad Industrial de Santander, Cra 27 calle 9, Bucaramanga 680002, Colombia
| | - Oscar Vargas-Ceballos
- GIMAT Research Group, Escuela de Ingeniería Metalúrgica y Ciencia de Materiales, Universidad Industrial de Santander, Cra 27 calle 9, Bucaramanga 680002, Colombia
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Di Lisa D, Muzzi L, Pepe S, Dellacasa E, Frega M, Fassio A, Martinoia S, Pastorino L. On the way back from 3D to 2D: Chitosan promotes adhesion and development of neuronal networks onto culture supports. Carbohydr Polym 2022; 297:120049. [DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2022.120049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Revised: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Khoonkari M, Liang D, Kamperman M, Kruyt FAE, van Rijn P. Physics of Brain Cancer: Multiscale Alterations of Glioblastoma Cells under Extracellular Matrix Stiffening. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14051031. [PMID: 35631616 PMCID: PMC9145282 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14051031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The biology and physics underlying glioblastoma is not yet completely understood, resulting in the limited efficacy of current clinical therapy. Recent studies have indicated the importance of mechanical stress on the development and malignancy of cancer. Various types of mechanical stress activate adaptive tumor cell responses that include alterations in the extracellular matrix (ECM) which have an impact on tumor malignancy. In this review, we describe and discuss the current knowledge of the effects of ECM alterations and mechanical stress on GBM aggressiveness. Gradual changes in the brain ECM have been connected to the biological and physical alterations of GBM cells. For example, increased expression of several ECM components such as glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), hyaluronic acid (HA), proteoglycans and fibrous proteins result in stiffening of the brain ECM, which alters inter- and intracellular signaling activity. Several mechanosensing signaling pathways have been identified that orchestrate adaptive responses, such as Hippo/YAP, CD44, and actin skeleton signaling, which remodel the cytoskeleton and affect cellular properties such as cell–cell/ECM interactions, growth, and migration/invasion of GBM cells. In vitro, hydrogels are used as a model to mimic the stiffening of the brain ECM and reconstruct its mechanics, which we also discuss. Overall, we provide an overview of the tumor microenvironmental landscape of GBM with a focus on ECM stiffening and its associated adaptive cellular signaling pathways and their possible therapeutic exploitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Khoonkari
- Department of Medical Oncology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands; (M.K.); (D.L.)
- Polymer Science, Zernike Institute for Advanced Materials, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands;
| | - Dong Liang
- Department of Medical Oncology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands; (M.K.); (D.L.)
| | - Marleen Kamperman
- Polymer Science, Zernike Institute for Advanced Materials, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands;
| | - Frank A. E. Kruyt
- Department of Medical Oncology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands; (M.K.); (D.L.)
- Correspondence: (F.A.E.K.); (P.v.R.)
| | - Patrick van Rijn
- Department of Biomedical Engineering-FB40, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, A. Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands
- W.J. Kolff Institute for Biomedical Engineering and Materials Science-FB41, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, A. Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands
- Correspondence: (F.A.E.K.); (P.v.R.)
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Many chronic diseases have evolved and to circumvent the limitations of using conventional drug therapies, smart cell encapsulating delivery systems have been explored to customize the treatment with alignment to disease longevity. Cell therapeutics has advanced in tandem with improvements in biomaterials that can suitably deliver therapeutic cells to achieve targeted therapy. Among the promising biomacromolecules for cell delivery are those that share bio-relevant architecture with the extracellular matrix and display extraordinary compatibility in the presence of therapeutic cells. Interestingly, many biomacromolecules that fulfil these tenets occur naturally and can form hydrogels. AREAS COVERED This review provides a concise incursion into the paradigm shift to cell therapeutics using biomacromolecules. Advances in the design and use of biomacromolecules to assemble smart therapeutic cell carriers is discussed in light of their pivotal role in enhancing cell encapsulation and delivery. In addition, the principles that govern the application of cell therapeutics in diabetes, neuronal disorders, cancers and cardiovascular disease are outlined. EXPERT OPINION Cell therapeutics promises to revolutionize the treatment of various secretory cell dysfunctions. Current and future advances in designing functional biomacromolecules will be critical to ensure that optimal delivery of therapeutic cells is achieved with desired biosafety and potency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samson A Adeyemi
- Wits Advanced Drug Delivery Platform Research Unit, Department of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, School of Therapeutic Science, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 7 York Road, Parktown, 2193, South Africa
| | - Yahya E Choonara
- Wits Advanced Drug Delivery Platform Research Unit, Department of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, School of Therapeutic Science, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 7 York Road, Parktown, 2193, South Africa
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Hsu CC, George JH, Waller S, Besnard C, Nagel DA, Hill EJ, Coleman MD, Korsunsky AM, Cui Z, Ye H. Increased connectivity of hiPSC-derived neural networks in multiphase granular hydrogel scaffolds. Bioact Mater 2022; 9:358-372. [PMID: 34820576 PMCID: PMC8586009 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2021.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Revised: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
To reflect human development, it is critical to create a substrate that can support long-term cell survival, differentiation, and maturation. Hydrogels are promising materials for 3D cultures. However, a bulk structure consisting of dense polymer networks often leads to suboptimal microenvironments that impedes nutrient exchange and cell-to-cell interaction. Herein, granular hydrogel-based scaffolds were used to support 3D human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)-derived neural networks. A custom designed 3D printed toolset was developed to extrude hyaluronic acid hydrogel through a porous nylon fabric to generate hydrogel granules. Cells and hydrogel granules were combined using a weaker secondary gelation step, forming self-supporting cell laden scaffolds. At three and seven days, granular scaffolds supported higher cell viability compared to bulk hydrogels, whereas granular scaffolds supported more neurite bearing cells and longer neurite extensions (65.52 ± 11.59 μm) after seven days compared to bulk hydrogels (22.90 ± 4.70 μm). Long-term (three-month) cultures of clinically relevant hiPSC-derived neural cells in granular hydrogels supported well established neuronal and astrocytic colonies and a high level of neurite extension both inside and beyond the scaffold. This approach is significant as it provides a simple, rapid and efficient way to achieve a tissue-relevant granular structure within hydrogel cultures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia-Chen Hsu
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Engineering Science, University of Oxford, OX3 7DQ, UK
| | - Julian H. George
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Engineering Science, University of Oxford, OX3 7DQ, UK
| | - Sharlayne Waller
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Engineering Science, University of Oxford, OX3 7DQ, UK
| | - Cyril Besnard
- MBLEM, Department of Engineering Science, University of Oxford, Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3PJ, UK
| | - David A Nagel
- School of Biosciences, College of Health and Life Sciences, Aston University, Birmingham, B4 7ET, UK
- Translational Medicine Research Group, Aston Medical School, College of Health and Life Sciences, Aston University, Birmingham, B4 7ET, UK
| | - Eric J Hill
- School of Biosciences, College of Health and Life Sciences, Aston University, Birmingham, B4 7ET, UK
| | - Michael D. Coleman
- School of Biosciences, College of Health and Life Sciences, Aston University, Birmingham, B4 7ET, UK
| | - Alexander M. Korsunsky
- MBLEM, Department of Engineering Science, University of Oxford, Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3PJ, UK
| | - Zhanfeng Cui
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Engineering Science, University of Oxford, OX3 7DQ, UK
| | - Hua Ye
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Engineering Science, University of Oxford, OX3 7DQ, UK
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10
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Abstract
In vitro models have been used as a complementary tool to animal studies in understanding the nervous system's physiological mechanisms and pathological disorders, while also serving as platforms to evaluate the safety and efficiency of therapeutic candidates. Following recent advances in materials science, micro- and nanofabrication techniques and cell culture systems, in vitro technologies have been rapidly gaining the potential to bridge the gap between animal and clinical studies by providing more sophisticated models that recapitulate key aspects of the structure, biochemistry, biomechanics, and functions of human tissues. This was made possible, in large part, by the development of biomaterials that provide cells with physicochemical features that closely mimic the cellular microenvironment of native tissues. Due to the well-known material-driven cellular response and the importance of mimicking the environment of the target tissue, the selection of optimal biomaterials represents an important early step in the design of biomimetic systems to investigate brain structures and functions. This review provides a comprehensive compendium of commonly used biomaterials as well as the different fabrication techniques employed for the design of neural tissue models. Furthermore, the authors discuss the main parameters that need to be considered to develop functional platforms not only for the study of brain physiological functions and pathological processes but also for drug discovery/development and the optimization of biomaterials for neural tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alp Ozgun
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada. .,Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - David Lomboni
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada. .,Ottawa-Carleton Institute for Biomedical Engineering (OCIBME), Ottawa, Canada
| | - Hallie Arnott
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada. .,Ottawa-Carleton Institute for Biomedical Engineering (OCIBME), Ottawa, Canada
| | - William A Staines
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - John Woulfe
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada.,The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Fabio Variola
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada. .,Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada.,Ottawa-Carleton Institute for Biomedical Engineering (OCIBME), Ottawa, Canada.,The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, Canada.,Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO), Ottawa, Canada
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Vallejo-giraldo C, Krukiewicz K, Biggs MJP. Understanding the Mechanobiology of Gliosis May Be the Key to Unlocking Sustained Chronic Performance of Bioelectronic Neural Interfaces. Advanced NanoBiomed Research 2022; 2:2100098. [DOI: 10.1002/anbr.202100098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
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Cuttaz EA, Chapman CAR, Goding JA, Vallejo-Giraldo C, Syed O, Green RA. Flexible Nanowire Conductive Elastomers for Applications in Fully Polymeric Bioelectronic Devices . Annu Int Conf IEEE Eng Med Biol Soc 2021; 2021:5872-5875. [PMID: 34892455 DOI: 10.1109/embc46164.2021.9629903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Soft, flexible polymer-based bioelectronics are a promising approach to minimize the chronic inflammatory reactions associated with metallic devices, impairing long-term device reliability and functionality. This work demonstrates the fabrication of conductive elastomers (CEs) consisting of chemically synthesized poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) nanowires embedded within a polyurethane (PU) elastomeric matrix, resulting in soft and flexible, fully polymeric electrode materials. Increasing PEDOT nanowire loadings resulted in an improvement in electrochemical properties and conductivity, an increased Young's modulus and reduced strain at failure. Nanowire CEs were also found to have significantly improved electrochemical performance compared to one of the standard electrode materials, platinum (Pt). Indirect in vitro cytocompatibility test was carried out to investigate the effect of leachable substances from the CE on primary rodent cells. Nanowire CEs provide a promising alternative to metals for the fabrication of soft bioelectronics.
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Portillo-Lara R, Goding JA, Green RA. Adaptive biomimicry: design of neural interfaces with enhanced biointegration. Curr Opin Biotechnol 2021; 72:62-68. [PMID: 34715548 DOI: 10.1016/j.copbio.2021.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Revised: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Neural interfaces (NIs) have traditionally used inorganic device constructs paired with electrical stimulation to bypass injured or diseased electroactive tissues. These bioinert devices have significant impact on the neural tissue, being synthetic and causing large volumetric changes to the biological environment. The concept of biomimicry has become popular for tissue engineering technologies, reflecting biological properties as a component of material design. Tissue engineering strategies can be harnessed in bioelectronic device design to improve biological tolerance, but the need for improved integration with the native tissue remains an unmet need. Adaptive biomimetic designs that respond to the changing neural tissue environment associated with wound healing can actively address the immune response to improve biointegration. These adaptive approaches include responsive materials paired with stem cells and bioactive molecules as integrated components of NIs. Combining adaptive biomimetics with NIs provides a new, more natural approach for communicating with the nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Portillo-Lara
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, SW7 2BP, London, United Kingdom
| | - Josef A Goding
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, SW7 2BP, London, United Kingdom
| | - Rylie A Green
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, SW7 2BP, London, United Kingdom.
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Motz CT, Kabat V, Saxena T, Bellamkonda RV, Zhu C. Neuromechanobiology: An Expanding Field Driven by the Force of Greater Focus. Adv Healthc Mater 2021; 10:e2100102. [PMID: 34342167 PMCID: PMC8497434 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202100102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2021] [Revised: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The brain processes information by transmitting signals through highly connected and dynamic networks of neurons. Neurons use specific cellular structures, including axons, dendrites and synapses, and specific molecules, including cell adhesion molecules, ion channels and chemical receptors to form, maintain and communicate among cells in the networks. These cellular and molecular processes take place in environments rich of mechanical cues, thus offering ample opportunities for mechanical regulation of neural development and function. Recent studies have suggested the importance of mechanical cues and their potential regulatory roles in the development and maintenance of these neuronal structures. Also suggested are the importance of mechanical cues and their potential regulatory roles in the interaction and function of molecules mediating the interneuronal communications. In this review, the current understanding is integrated and promising future directions of neuromechanobiology are suggested at the cellular and molecular levels. Several neuronal processes where mechanics likely plays a role are examined and how forces affect ligand binding, conformational change, and signal induction of molecules key to these neuronal processes are indicated, especially at the synapse. The disease relevance of neuromechanobiology as well as therapies and engineering solutions to neurological disorders stemmed from this emergent field of study are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cara T Motz
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332-0363, USA
- Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332-0363, USA
| | - Victoria Kabat
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332-0363, USA
| | - Tarun Saxena
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, 27709, USA
| | - Ravi V Bellamkonda
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Pratt School of Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, 27708, USA
| | - Cheng Zhu
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332-0363, USA
- Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332-0363, USA
- George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332-0363, USA
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Gradišnik L, Bošnjak R, Maver T, Velnar T. Advanced Bio-Based Polymers for Astrocyte Cell Models. Materials (Basel) 2021; 14:3664. [PMID: 34209194 PMCID: PMC8269866 DOI: 10.3390/ma14133664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Revised: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The development of in vitro neural tissue analogs is of great interest for many biomedical engineering applications, including the tissue engineering of neural interfaces, treatment of neurodegenerative diseases, and in vitro evaluation of cell-material interactions. Since astrocytes play a crucial role in the regenerative processes of the central nervous system, the development of biomaterials that interact favorably with astrocytes is of great research interest. The sources of human astrocytes, suitable natural biomaterials, guidance scaffolds, and ligand patterned surfaces are discussed in the article. New findings in this field are essential for the future treatment of spinal cord and brain injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lidija Gradišnik
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Maribor, Taborska Ulica 8, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia;
- AMEU-ECM, Slovenska 17, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Roman Bošnjak
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Zaloska 7, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia;
| | - Tina Maver
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Maribor, Taborska Ulica 8, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia;
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Maribor, Taborska Ulica 8, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Tomaž Velnar
- AMEU-ECM, Slovenska 17, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Zaloska 7, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia;
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