1
|
Dedhia PH, Sivakumar H, Rodriguez MA, Nairon KG, Zent JM, Zheng X, Jones K, Popova LV, Leight JL, Skardal A. A 3D adrenocortical carcinoma tumor platform for preclinical modeling of drug response and matrix metalloproteinase activity. Sci Rep 2023; 13:15508. [PMID: 37726363 PMCID: PMC10509170 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-42659-0] [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: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) has a poor prognosis, and no new drugs have been identified in decades. The absence of drug development can partly be attributed to a lack of preclinical models. Both animal models and 2D cell cultures of ACC fail to accurately mimic the disease, as animal physiology is inherently different than humans, and 2D cultures fail to represent the crucial 3D architecture. Organoids and other small 3D in vitro models of tissues or tumors can model certain complexities of human in vivo biology; however, this technology has largely yet to be applied to ACC. In this study, we describe the generation of 3D tumor constructs from an established ACC cell line, NCI-H295R. NCI-H295R cells were encapsulated to generate 3D ACC constructs. Tumor constructs were assessed for biomarker expression, viability, proliferation, and cortisol production. In addition, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) functionality was assessed directly using fluorogenic MMP-sensitive biosensors and through infusion of NCI-H295R cells into a metastasis-on-a-chip microfluidic device platform. ACC tumor constructs showed expression of biomarkers associated with ACC, including SF-1, Melan A, and inhibin α. Treatment of ACC tumor constructs with chemotherapeutics demonstrated decreased drug sensitivity compared to 2D cell culture. Since most tumor cells migrate through tissue using MMPs to break down extracellular matrix, we validated the utility of ACC tumor constructs by integrating fluorogenic MMP-sensitive peptide biosensors within the tumor constructs. Lastly, in our metastasis-on-a-chip device, NCI-H295R cells successfully engrafted in a downstream lung cell line-based construct, but invasion distance into the lung construct was decreased by MMP inhibition. These studies, which would not be possible using 2D cell cultures, demonstrated that NCI-H295R cells secreted active MMPs that are used for invasion in 3D. This work represents the first evidence of a 3D tumor constructs platform for ACC that can be deployed for future mechanistic studies as well as development of new targets for intervention and therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Priya H Dedhia
- Division of Surgical Oncology, The Ohio State University and Arthur G. James Comprehensive Cancer Center, 816 Biomedical Research Tower, 460 W. 12th Ave, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA.
- Translational Therapeutics Program, The Ohio State University and Arthur G. James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA.
- Center for Cancer Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA.
| | - Hemamylammal Sivakumar
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, 886 Biomedical Research Tower, 460 W. 12th Ave, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Marco A Rodriguez
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, 886 Biomedical Research Tower, 460 W. 12th Ave, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Kylie G Nairon
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, 886 Biomedical Research Tower, 460 W. 12th Ave, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Joshua M Zent
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, 886 Biomedical Research Tower, 460 W. 12th Ave, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Xuguang Zheng
- Division of Surgical Oncology, The Ohio State University and Arthur G. James Comprehensive Cancer Center, 816 Biomedical Research Tower, 460 W. 12th Ave, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Katie Jones
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, 886 Biomedical Research Tower, 460 W. 12th Ave, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Liudmila V Popova
- Division of Surgical Oncology, The Ohio State University and Arthur G. James Comprehensive Cancer Center, 816 Biomedical Research Tower, 460 W. 12th Ave, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Jennifer L Leight
- Center for Cancer Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, 886 Biomedical Research Tower, 460 W. 12th Ave, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA.
- Cancer Biology Program, The Ohio State University and Arthur G. James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA.
| | - Aleksander Skardal
- Center for Cancer Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, 886 Biomedical Research Tower, 460 W. 12th Ave, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA.
- Cancer Biology Program, The Ohio State University and Arthur G. James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Dedhia P, Sivakumar H, Rodriguez MA, Nairon KG, Zent JM, Zheng X, Jones K, Popova L, Leight JL, Skardal A. A 3D adrenocortical carcinoma tumor platform for preclinical modeling of drug response and matrix metalloproteinase activity. bioRxiv 2023:2023.01.24.525287. [PMID: 36747748 PMCID: PMC9900758 DOI: 10.1101/2023.01.24.525287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) has a poor prognosis, and no new drugs have been identified in decades. The absence of drug development can partly be attributed to a lack of preclinical models. Both animal models and 2D cell cultures of ACC fail to accurately mimic the disease, as animal physiology is inherently different than humans, and 2D cultures fail to represent the crucial 3D architecture. Organoids and other small 3D in vitro models of tissues or tumors can model certain complexities of human in vivo biology; however, this technology has largely yet to be applied to ACC. In this study, we describe the generation of 3D tumor constructs from an established ACC cell line, NCI-H295R. NCI-H295R cells were encapsulated to generate 3D ACC constructs. Tumor constructs were assessed for biomarker expression, viability, proliferation, and cortisol production. In addition, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) functionality was assessed directly using fluorogenic MMP-sensitive biosensors and through infusion of NCI-H295R cells into a metastasis-on-a-chip microfluidic device platform. ACC tumor constructs showed expression of biomarkers associated with ACC, including SF-1, Melan A, and inhibin alpha. Treatment of ACC tumor constructs with chemotherapeutics demonstrated decreased drug sensitivity compared to 2D cell culture. Since most tumor cells migrate through tissue using MMPs to break down extracellular matrix, we validated the utility of ACC tumor constructs by integrating fluorogenic MMP-sensitive peptide biosensors within the tumor constructs. Lastly, in our metastasis-on-a-chip device, NCI-H295R cells successfully engrafted in a downstream lung cell line-based construct, but invasion distance into the lung construct was decreased by MMP inhibition. These studies, which would not be possible using 2D cell cultures, demonstrated that NCI-H295R cells secreted active MMPs that are used for invasion in 3D. This work represents the first evidence of a 3D tumor constructs platform for ACC that can be deployed for future mechanistic studies as well as development of new targets for intervention and therapies.
Collapse
|
3
|
Sharick JT, Atieh AJ, Gooch KJ, Leight JL. Click chemistry functionalization of self-assembling peptide hydrogels. J Biomed Mater Res A 2023; 111:389-403. [PMID: 36210776 PMCID: PMC10092743 DOI: 10.1002/jbm.a.37460] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Self-assembling peptide (SAP) hydrogels provide a fibrous microenvironment to cells while also giving users control of biochemical and mechanical cues. Previously, biochemical cues were introduced by physically mixing them with SAPs prior to hydrogel assembly, or by incorporating them into the SAP sequence during peptide synthesis, which limited flexibility and increased costs. To circumvent these limitations, we developed "Click SAPs," a novel formulation that can be easily functionalized via click chemistry thiol-ene reaction. Due to its high cytocompatibility, the thiol-ene click reaction is currently used to crosslink and functionalize other types of polymeric hydrogels. In this study, we developed a click chemistry compatible SAP platform by addition of a modified lysine (lysine-alloc) to the SAP sequence, enabling effective coupling of thiol-containing molecules to the SAP hydrogel network. We demonstrate the flexibility of this approach by incorporating a fluorescent dye, a cellular adhesion peptide, and a matrix metalloproteinase-sensitive biosensor using the thiol-ene reaction in 3D Click SAPs. Using atomic force microscopy, we demonstrate that Click SAPs retain the ability to self-assemble into fibers, similar to previous systems. Additionally, a range of physiologically relevant stiffnesses can be achieved by adjusting SAP concentration. Encapsulated cells maintain high viability in Click SAPs and can interact with adhesion peptides and a matrix metalloproteinase biosensor, demonstrating that incorporated molecules retain their biological activity. The Click SAP platform supports easier functionalization with a wider array of bioactive molecules and enables new investigations with temporal and spatial control of the cellular microenvironment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joe T Sharick
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA.,The Center for Cancer Engineering, The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Angelina J Atieh
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA.,The Center for Cancer Engineering, The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Keith J Gooch
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA.,Davis Heart & Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Jennifer L Leight
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA.,The Center for Cancer Engineering, The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Tahara S, de Faria FCC, Sarchet P, Calore F, Sharick J, Leight JL, Casadei L, Pollock RE. Three dimensional models of dedifferentiated liposarcoma cell lines: scaffold-based and scaffold-free approaches. Hum Cell 2023; 36:1081-1089. [PMID: 36763259 DOI: 10.1007/s13577-023-00865-y] [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: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
Sarcomas are rare malignancies, the number of reports is limited, and this rarity makes further research difficult even though liposarcoma is one of major sarcomas. 2D cell culture remains an important role in establishing basic tumor biology research, but its various shortcomings and limitations are still of concern, and it is now well-accepted that the behavior of 3D-cultured cells is more reflective of in vivo cellular responses compared to 2D models. This study aimed to establish 3D cell culture of liposarcomas using two different methods: scaffold-based (Matrigel extracellular matrix [ECM] scaffold method) and scaffold-free (Ultra-low attachment [ULA] plate). Lipo246, Lipo224 and Lipo863 cell lines were cultured, and distinctive differences in structures were observed in Matrigel 3D model: Lipo224 and Lipo863 formed spheroids, whereas Lipo246 grew radially without forming spheres. In ULA plate approaches, all cell lines formed spheroids, but Lipo224 and Lipo863 spheroids showed bigger size and looser aggregation than Lipo246. Formalin fixed, paraffin embedded (FFPE) blocks were obtained from all 3D models, confirming the spheroid structures. The expression of MDM2, Ki-67 positivity and MDM2 amplification were confirmed by IHC and DNAscope™, respectively. Protein and DNA were extracted from all samples and MDM2 upregulation was confirmed by western blot and qPCR analysis. After treatment with MDM2 inhibitor SAR405838, DDLPS spheroids demonstrated different sensitivity patterns from 2D models. Taken together, we believed that 3D models would have a possibility to provide us a new predictability of efficacy and toxicity, and considered as one important process in in vitro pre-clinical phase prior to moving forward to clinical trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sayumi Tahara
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, 460 West 10th Avenue. Suite D920E, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Fernanda Costas C de Faria
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, 460 West 10th Avenue. Suite D920E, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Patricia Sarchet
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, 460 West 10th Avenue. Suite D920E, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Federica Calore
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, 460 West 10th Avenue. Suite D920E, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Joe Sharick
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Jennifer L Leight
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Lucia Casadei
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, 460 West 10th Avenue. Suite D920E, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Raphael E Pollock
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, 460 West 10th Avenue. Suite D920E, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Jones CE, Sharick JT, Sizemore ST, Cukierman E, Strohecker AM, Leight JL. A miniaturized screening platform to identify novel regulators of extracellular matrix alignment. Cancer Res Commun 2022; 2:1471-1486. [PMID: 36530465 PMCID: PMC9757767 DOI: 10.1158/2767-9764.crc-22-0157] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Revised: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Extracellular matrix alignment contributes to metastasis in a number of cancers and is a known prognostic stromal factor; however, the mechanisms controlling matrix organization remain unclear. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF) play a critical role in this process, particularly via matrix production and modulation of key signaling pathways controlling cell adhesion and contractility. Stroma normalization, as opposed to elimination, is a highly sought strategy, and screening for drugs that effectively alter extracellular matrix (ECM) alignment is a practical way to identify novel CAF-normalizing targets that modulate ECM organization. To meet this need, we developed a novel high-throughput screening platform in which fibroblast-derived matrices were produced in 384-well plates, imaged with automated confocal microscopy, and analyzed using a customized MATLAB script. This platform is a technical advance because it miniaturizes the assay, eliminates costly and time-consuming experimental steps, and streamlines data acquisition and analysis to enable high-throughput screening applications. As a proof of concept, this platform was used to screen a kinase inhibitor library to identify modulators of matrix alignment. A number of novel potential regulators were identified, including several receptor tyrosine kinases (c-MET, tropomyosin receptor kinase 1 (NTRK1), HER2/ERBB2) and the serine/threonine kinases protein kinase A, C, and G (PKA, PKC, and PKG). The expression of these regulators was analyzed in publicly available patient datasets to examine the association between stromal gene expression and patient outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin E. Jones
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Joe T. Sharick
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
- The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Program in Cancer Biology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Steven T. Sizemore
- The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Program in Cancer Biology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Edna Cukierman
- Cancer Signaling and Epigenetics, The Marvin and Concetta Greenberg Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Temple Health, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Anne Marie Strohecker
- The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Program in Cancer Biology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Jennifer L. Leight
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
- The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Program in Cancer Biology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Nairon KG, DePalma TJ, Zent JM, Leight JL, Skardal A. Tumor cell-conditioned media drives collagen remodeling via fibroblast and pericyte activation in an in vitro premetastatic niche model. iScience 2022; 25:104645. [PMID: 35811850 PMCID: PMC9257340 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.104645] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Revised: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary tumors secrete large quantities of cytokines and exosomes into the bloodstream, which are uptaken at downstream sites and induce a pro-fibrotic, pro-inflammatory premetastatic niche. Niche development is associated with later increased metastatic burden, but the cellular and matrix changes in the niche that facilitate metastasis are yet unknown. Furthermore, there is no current standard model to study this phenomenon. Here, biofabricated collagen and hyaluronic acid hydrogel models were employed to identify matrix changes elicited by pericytes and fibroblasts after exposure to colorectal cancer-secreted factors. Focusing on myofibroblast activation and collagen remodeling, we report fibroblast activation and pericyte stunting in response to tumor signaling. In addition, we characterize contributions of both cell types to matrix dysregulation via collagen degradation, deposition, and architectural remodeling. With these findings, we discuss potential impacts on tissue stiffening and vascular leakiness and suggest pathways of interest for future mechanistic studies of metastatic cell-premetastatic niche interactions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kylie G. Nairon
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Thomas J. DePalma
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Joshua M. Zent
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Jennifer L. Leight
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- The Ohio State University and Arthur G. James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Center for Cancer Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Aleksander Skardal
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- The Ohio State University and Arthur G. James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Center for Cancer Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Drain AP, Zahir N, Northey JJ, Zhang H, Huang PJ, Maller O, Lakins JN, Yu X, Leight JL, Alston-Mills BP, Hwang ES, Chen YY, Park CC, Weaver VM. Matrix compliance permits NF-κB activation to drive therapy resistance in breast cancer. J Exp Med 2021; 218:e20191360. [PMID: 33822843 PMCID: PMC8025243 DOI: 10.1084/jem.20191360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2019] [Revised: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancers (TNBCs) are associated with poor survival mediated by treatment resistance. TNBCs are fibrotic, yet little is known regarding how the extracellular matrix (ECM) evolves following therapy and whether it impacts treatment response. Analysis revealed that while primary untreated TNBCs are surrounded by a rigid stromal microenvironment, chemotherapy-resistant residual tumors inhabit a softer niche. TNBC organoid cultures and xenograft studies showed that organoids interacting with soft ECM exhibit striking resistance to chemotherapy, ionizing radiation, and death receptor ligand TRAIL. A stiff ECM enhanced proapoptotic JNK activity to sensitize cells to treatment, whereas a soft ECM promoted treatment resistance by elevating NF-κB activity and compromising JNK activity. Treatment-resistant residual TNBCs residing within soft stroma had elevated activated NF-κB levels, and disengaging NF-κB activity sensitized tumors in a soft matrix to therapy. Thus, the biophysical properties of the ECM modify treatment response, and agents that modulate stiffness-dependent NF-κB or JNK activity could enhance therapeutic efficacy in patients with TNBC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Allison P. Drain
- Center for Bioengineering and Tissue Regeneration, Department of Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
- University of California, Berkeley–University of California, San Francisco Graduate Program in Bioengineering, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Nastaran Zahir
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
- Institute for Medicine and Engineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Jason J. Northey
- Center for Bioengineering and Tissue Regeneration, Department of Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Hui Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Po-Jui Huang
- Center for Bioengineering and Tissue Regeneration, Department of Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Ori Maller
- Center for Bioengineering and Tissue Regeneration, Department of Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Johnathon N. Lakins
- Center for Bioengineering and Tissue Regeneration, Department of Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Xinmiao Yu
- Center for Bioengineering and Tissue Regeneration, Department of Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Jennifer L. Leight
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
- Institute for Medicine and Engineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Brenda P. Alston-Mills
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
- Institute for Medicine and Engineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - E. Shelley Hwang
- Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC
| | - Yunn-Yi Chen
- Department of Pathology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Catherine C. Park
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
- University of California, San Francisco Helen Diller Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Valerie M. Weaver
- Center for Bioengineering and Tissue Regeneration, Department of Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
- University of California, San Francisco Helen Diller Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Jones CE, Sharick JT, Colbert SE, Shukla VC, Zent JM, Ostrowski MC, Ghadiali SN, Sizemore ST, Leight JL. Pten regulates collagen fibrillogenesis by fibroblasts through SPARC. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0245653. [PMID: 33534863 PMCID: PMC7857610 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0245653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 01/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Collagen deposition contributes to both high mammographic density and breast cancer progression. Low stromal PTEN expression has been observed in as many as half of breast tumors and is associated with increases in collagen deposition, however the mechanism connecting PTEN loss to increased collagen deposition remains unclear. Here, we demonstrate that Pten knockout in fibroblasts using an Fsp-Cre;PtenloxP/loxP mouse model increases collagen fiber number and fiber size within the mammary gland. Pten knockout additionally upregulated Sparc transcription in fibroblasts and promoted collagen shuttling out of the cell. Interestingly, SPARC mRNA expression was observed to be significantly elevated in the tumor stroma as compared to the normal breast in several patient cohorts. While SPARC knockdown via shRNA did not affect collagen shuttling, it notably decreased assembly of exogenous collagen. In addition, SPARC knockdown decreased fibronectin assembly and alignment of the extracellular matrix in an in vitro fibroblast-derived matrix model. Overall, these data indicate upregulation of SPARC is a mechanism by which PTEN regulates collagen deposition in the mammary gland stroma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin E. Jones
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Joe T. Sharick
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Sheila E. Colbert
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Vasudha C. Shukla
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Joshua M. Zent
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Michael C. Ostrowski
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, United States of America
| | - Samir N. Ghadiali
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, United States of America
- Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, College of Medicine and Wexner Medical Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, United States of America
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, College of Medicine and Wexner Medical Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Steven T. Sizemore
- Department of Radiation Oncology, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, United States of America
- The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Jennifer L. Leight
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, United States of America
- The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Wormsbaecher C, Hindman AR, Avendano A, Cortes-Medina M, Jones CE, Bushman A, Onua L, Kovalchin CE, Murphy AR, Helber HL, Shapiro A, Voytovitch K, Kuang X, Aguilar-Valenzuela R, Leight JL, Song JW, Burd CJ. In utero estrogenic endocrine disruption alters the stroma to increase extracellular matrix density and mammary gland stiffness. Breast Cancer Res 2020; 22:41. [PMID: 32370801 PMCID: PMC7201668 DOI: 10.1186/s13058-020-01275-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2019] [Accepted: 04/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In utero endocrine disruption is linked to increased risk of breast cancer later in life. Despite numerous studies establishing this linkage, the long-term molecular changes that predispose mammary cells to carcinogenic transformation are unknown. Herein, we investigated how endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs) drive changes within the stroma that can contribute to breast cancer susceptibility. METHODS We utilized bisphenol A (BPA) as a model of estrogenic endocrine disruption to analyze the long-term consequences in the stroma. Deregulated genes were identified by RNA-seq transcriptional profiling of adult primary fibroblasts, isolated from female mice exposed to in utero BPA. Collagen staining, collagen imaging techniques, and permeability assays were used to characterize changes to the extracellular matrix. Finally, gland stiffness tests were performed on exposed and control mammary glands. RESULTS We identified significant transcriptional deregulation of adult fibroblasts exposed to in utero BPA. Deregulated genes were associated with cancer pathways and specifically extracellular matrix composition. Multiple collagen genes were more highly expressed in the BPA-exposed fibroblasts resulting in increased collagen deposition in the adult mammary gland. This transcriptional reprogramming of BPA-exposed fibroblasts generates a less permeable extracellular matrix and a stiffer mammary gland. These phenotypes were only observed in adult 12-week-old, but not 4-week-old, mice. Additionally, diethylstilbestrol, known to increase breast cancer risk in humans, also increases gland stiffness similar to BPA, while bisphenol S does not. CONCLUSIONS As breast stiffness, extracellular matrix density, and collagen deposition have been directly linked to breast cancer risk, these data mechanistically connect EDC exposures to molecular alterations associated with increased disease susceptibility. These alterations develop over time and thus contribute to cancer risk in adulthood.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Clarissa Wormsbaecher
- Department of Molecular Genetics, The Ohio State University, 920 Biomedical Research Tower, 460 W. 12th Ave., Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
- The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Andrea R Hindman
- Department of Molecular Genetics, The Ohio State University, 920 Biomedical Research Tower, 460 W. 12th Ave., Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
- The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Alex Avendano
- The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Marcos Cortes-Medina
- The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Caitlin E Jones
- The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Andrew Bushman
- The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Lotanna Onua
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Claire E Kovalchin
- Department of Molecular Genetics, The Ohio State University, 920 Biomedical Research Tower, 460 W. 12th Ave., Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
- The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Alina R Murphy
- The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Hannah L Helber
- Department of Molecular Genetics, The Ohio State University, 920 Biomedical Research Tower, 460 W. 12th Ave., Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
- The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Ali Shapiro
- The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Kyle Voytovitch
- Department of Molecular Genetics, The Ohio State University, 920 Biomedical Research Tower, 460 W. 12th Ave., Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
- The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Xingyan Kuang
- The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | | | - Jennifer L Leight
- The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Jonathan W Song
- The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Craig J Burd
- Department of Molecular Genetics, The Ohio State University, 920 Biomedical Research Tower, 460 W. 12th Ave., Columbus, OH, 43210, USA.
- The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Casadei L, Calore F, Braggio DA, Zewdu A, Deshmukh AA, Fadda P, Lopez G, Wabitsch M, Song C, Leight JL, Grignol VP, Lev D, Croce CM, Pollock RE. MDM2 Derived from Dedifferentiated Liposarcoma Extracellular Vesicles Induces MMP2 Production from Preadipocytes. Cancer Res 2019; 79:4911-4922. [PMID: 31387924 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-19-0203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2019] [Revised: 06/14/2019] [Accepted: 08/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Dedifferentiated liposarcoma (DDLPS) is frequently diagnosed late, and patients typically respond poorly to treatments. DDLPS is molecularly characterized by wild-type p53 and amplification of the MDM2 gene, which results in overexpression of MDM2 protein, a key oncogenic process in DDLPS. In this study, we demonstrate that extracellular vesicles derived from patients with DDLPS or from DDLPS cell lines are carriers of MDM2 DNA that can be transferred to preadipocytes, a major and ubiquitous cellular component of the DDLPS tumor microenvironment, leading to impaired p53 activity in preadipocytes and increased proliferation, migration, and production of matrix metalloproteinase 2; treatment with MDM2 inhibitors repressed these effects. Overall, these findings indicate that MDM2 plays a crucial role in DDLPS by enabling cross-talk between tumor cells and the surrounding microenvironment and that targeting vesicular MDM2 could represent a therapeutic option for treating DDLPS. SIGNIFICANCE: Extracellular vesicles derived from dedifferentiated liposarcoma cells induce oncogenic properties in preadipocytes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Casadei
- The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio.,Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Federica Calore
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Danielle A Braggio
- The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio.,Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Abeba Zewdu
- The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio.,Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Ameya A Deshmukh
- The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, Ohio
| | - Paolo Fadda
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Gonzalo Lopez
- The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio.,Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Martin Wabitsch
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine Division of Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes Centre for Hormonal Disorders in Children and Adolescents, Ulm University Hospital, Germany
| | - Chi Song
- College of Public Health, Division of Biostatistics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Jennifer L Leight
- The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, Ohio
| | - Valerie P Grignol
- The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio.,Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Dina Lev
- Department of Surgery "B," Sheba Medical Center and The Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Carlo M Croce
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Raphael E Pollock
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Fakhouri AS, Weist JL, Tomusko AR, Leight JL. High-Throughput Three-Dimensional Hydrogel Cell Encapsulation Assay for Measuring Matrix Metalloproteinase Activity. Assay Drug Dev Technol 2019; 17:100-115. [PMID: 30958702 DOI: 10.1089/adt.2018.877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Three-dimensional (3D) cell culture systems more closely mimic the in vivo cellular microenvironment than traditional two-dimensional cell culture methods, making them a valuable tool in drug screening assays. However, 3D environments often make analysis of cellular responses more difficult, so most high-throughput (HT) 3D assays have been limited to measurements of cell viability. Yet, many other cell functions contribute to disease and are important pharmacological targets. Therefore, there is a need for new technologies that enable HT measurements of a wider range of cell functions for drug screening. Here, we have adapted a hydrogel system that enables cells to be cultured in a 3D environment and allows for the simultaneous detection of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) and metabolic activities. This system was then characterized for utility in HT screening approaches. MMPs are critical regulators of tissue homeostasis and are upregulated in many diseases, such as arthritis and cancer. The developed assay achieved Z'-factor values above 0.9 and 0.5 for enzymatic and cellular assays, respectively, intraplate coefficients of variation (%CV) below 10% and 12%, respectively, and signal measurement was unaffected by dimethyl sulfoxide, a common solvent of therapeutic compounds. Human MMP-1, -2, and -9 resulted in a significant increase in signal intensity. Encapsulation of several cell types produced robust signals above background noise and within the linear range of the assay. Multiple drugs that are known to alter MMP activity were utilized in a range of concentrations with a fibrosarcoma cell line to demonstrate the feasibility of the assay for HT applications. This assay combines 3D cellular encapsulation and MMP activity detection in HT format, which makes it suitable for drug screening and development applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abdulaziz S Fakhouri
- 1 Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio.,2 The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute, Columbus, Ohio.,3 Biomedical Technology Department, King Saud University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Jessica L Weist
- 1 Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio.,2 The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Anthony R Tomusko
- 1 Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio.,2 The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Jennifer L Leight
- 1 Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio.,2 The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute, Columbus, Ohio
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Fakhouri AS, Leight JL. Measuring Global Cellular Matrix Metalloproteinase and Metabolic Activity in 3D Hydrogels. J Vis Exp 2019. [PMID: 30735180 DOI: 10.3791/59123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Three-dimensional (3D) cell culture systems often more closely recapitulate in vivo cellular responses and functions than traditional two-dimensional (2D) culture systems. However, measurement of cell function in 3D culture is often more challenging. Many biological assays require retrieval of cellular material which can be difficult in 3D cultures. One way to address this challenge is to develop new materials that enable measurement of cell function within the material. Here, a method is presented for measurement of cellular matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activity in 3D hydrogels in a 96-well format. In this system, a poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) hydrogel is functionalized with a fluorogenic MMP cleavable sensor. Cellular MMP activity is proportional to fluorescence intensity and can be measured with a standard microplate reader. Miniaturization of this assay to a 96-well format reduced the time required for experimental set up by 50% and reagent usage by 80% per condition as compared to the previous 24-well version of the assay. This assay is also compatible with other measurements of cellular function. For example, a metabolic activity assay is demonstrated here, which can be conducted simultaneously with MMP activity measurements within the same hydrogel. The assay is demonstrated with human melanoma cells encapsulated across a range of cell seeding densities to determine the appropriate encapsulation density for the working range of the assay. After 24 h of cell encapsulation, MMP and metabolic activity readouts were proportional to cell seeding density. While the assay is demonstrated here with one fluorogenic degradable substrate, the assay and methodology could be adapted for a wide variety of hydrogel systems and other fluorescent sensors. Such an assay provides a practical, efficient and easily accessible 3D culturing platform for a wide variety of applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abdulaziz S Fakhouri
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University; The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute; Biomedical Technology Department, King Saud University
| | - Jennifer L Leight
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University; The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute;
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Abstract
The purpose of this method is to measure the proteolytic activity of complex biological samples. The samples are separated by molecular weight using electrophoresis through a resolving gel embedded with a degradable substrate. This method differs from traditional gel zymography in that a quenched fluorogenic peptide is covalently incorporated into the resolving gel instead of full length proteins, such as gelatin or casein. Use of the fluorogenic peptides enables direct detection of proteolytic activity without additional staining steps. Enzymes within the biological samples cleave the quenched fluorogenic peptide, resulting in an increase in fluorescence. The fluorescent signal in the gels is then imaged with a standard fluorescent gel scanner and quantified using densitometry. The use of peptides as the degradable substrate greatly expands the possible proteases detectable with zymographic techniques.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ameya A Deshmukh
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Center, Ohio State University; Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, Ohio State University
| | - Jessica L Weist
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Center, Ohio State University
| | - Jennifer L Leight
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Center, Ohio State University; Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, Ohio State University;
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Jones CE, Hammer AM, Cho Y, Sizemore GM, Cukierman E, Yee LD, Ghadiali SN, Ostrowski MC, Leight JL. Stromal PTEN Regulates Extracellular Matrix Organization in the Mammary Gland. Neoplasia 2018; 21:132-145. [PMID: 30550871 PMCID: PMC6293034 DOI: 10.1016/j.neo.2018.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [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: 09/04/2018] [Revised: 10/30/2018] [Accepted: 10/31/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The organization of the extracellular matrix has a profound impact on cancer development and progression. The matrix becomes aligned throughout tumor progression, providing “highways” for tumor cell invasion. Aligned matrix is associated with breast density and is a negative prognostic factor in several cancers; however, the underlying mechanisms regulating this reorganization remain poorly understood. Deletion of the tumor suppressor Pten in the stroma was previously shown to promote extracellular matrix expansion and tumor progression. However, it was unknown if PTEN also regulated matrix organization. To address this question, a murine model with fibroblast-specific Pten deletion was used to examine how PTEN regulates matrix remodeling. Using second harmonic generation microscopy, Pten deletion was found to promote collagen alignment parallel to the mammary duct in the normal gland and further remodeling perpendicular to the tumor edge in tumor-bearing mice. Increased alignment was observed with Pten deletion in vitro using fibroblast-derived matrices. PTEN loss was associated with fibroblast activation and increased cellular contractility, as determined by traction force microscopy. Inhibition of contractility abrogated the increased matrix alignment observed with PTEN loss. Murine mammary adenocarcinoma cells cultured on aligned matrices derived from Pten−/− fibroblasts migrated faster than on matrices from wild-type fibroblasts. Combined, these data demonstrate that PTEN loss in fibroblasts promotes extracellular matrix deposition and alignment independently from cancer cell presence, and this reorganization regulates cancer cell behavior. Importantly, stromal PTEN negatively correlated with collagen alignment and high mammographic density in human breast tissue, suggesting parallel function for PTEN in patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin E Jones
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210
| | - Anisha M Hammer
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210
| | - YouJin Cho
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210
| | - Gina M Sizemore
- Department of Radiation Oncology, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210; The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210
| | - Edna Cukierman
- Department of Cancer Biology, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Temple Health, Philadelphia, PA 19111
| | - Lisa D Yee
- The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210; Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210
| | - Samir N Ghadiali
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210; Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, College of Medicine and Wexner Medical Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210; Department of Internal Medicine (Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine), College of Medicine and Wexner Medical Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210
| | - Michael C Ostrowski
- The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210; Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210
| | - Jennifer L Leight
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210; The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Barnhouse VR, Weist JL, Shukla VC, Ghadiali SN, Kniss DA, Leight JL. Myoferlin regulates epithelial cancer cell plasticity and migration through autocrine TGF-β1 signaling. Oncotarget 2018; 9:19209-19222. [PMID: 29721195 PMCID: PMC5922389 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.24971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [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: 01/15/2018] [Accepted: 03/15/2018] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Epithelial cancer cells can undergo an epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), a complex genetic program that enables cells to break free from the primary tumor, breach the basement membrane, invade through the stroma and metastasize to distant organs. Myoferlin (MYOF), a protein involved in plasma membrane function and repair, is overexpressed in several invasive cancer cell lines. Depletion of myoferlin in the human breast cancer cell line MDA-MB-231 (MDA-231MYOFKD) reduced migration and invasion and caused the cells to revert to an epithelial phenotype. To test if this mesenchymal-epithelial transition was durable, MDA-231MYOFKD cells were treated with TGF-β1, a potent stimulus of EMT. After 48 hr with TGF-β1, MDA-231MYOFKD cells underwent an EMT. TGF-β1 treatment also decreased directional cell motility toward more random migration, similar to the highly invasive control cells. To probe the potential mechanism of MYOF function, we examined TGF-β1 receptor signaling. MDA-MB-231 growth and survival has been previously shown to be regulated by autocrine TGF-β1. We hypothesized that MYOF depletion may result in the dysregulation of TGF-β1 signaling, thwarting EMT. To investigate this hypothesis, we examined production of endogenous TGF-β1 and observed a decrease in TGF-β1 protein secretion and mRNA transcription. To determine if TGF-β1 was required to maintain the mesenchymal phenotype, TGF-β receptor signaling was inhibited with a small molecule inhibitor, resulting in decreased expression of several mesenchymal markers. These results identify a novel pathway in the regulation of autocrine TGF-β signaling and a mechanism by which MYOF regulates cellular phenotype and invasive capacity of human breast cancer cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Victoria R Barnhouse
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, 43210 Ohio, USA
| | - Jessica L Weist
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, 43210 Ohio, USA.,The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, 43210 Ohio, USA
| | - Vasudha C Shukla
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, 43210 Ohio, USA
| | - Samir N Ghadiali
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, 43210 Ohio, USA.,Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, College of Medicine and Wexner Medical Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, 43210 Ohio, USA.,Department of Internal Medicine (Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine), College of Medicine and Wexner Medical Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, 43210 Ohio, USA
| | - Douglas A Kniss
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, 43210 Ohio, USA.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Laboratory of Perinatal Research), College of Medicine and Wexner Medical Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, 43210 Ohio, USA
| | - Jennifer L Leight
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, 43210 Ohio, USA.,The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, 43210 Ohio, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Shin DS, Tokuda EY, Leight JL, Miksch CE, Brown TE, Anseth KS. Synthesis of microgel sensors for spatial and temporal monitoring of protease activity. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2017; 4:378-387. [PMID: 29527570 PMCID: PMC5842818 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.7b00017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [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] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Proteases are involved in almost every important cellular activity, from embryonic morphogenesis to apoptosis. To study protease activity in situ, hydrogels provide a synthetic mimic of the extracellular matrix (ECM) and have utility as a platform to study activity, such as those related to cell migration, in three-dimensions. While 3-dimensional visualization of protease activity could prove quite useful to elucidate the proteolytic interaction at the interface between cells and their surrounding environment, there has been no versatile tool to visualize local proteolytic activity in real time. Here, micron-sized gels were synthesized by inverse suspension polymerization using thiolene photo-click chemistry. The size distribution was selected to avoid cellular uptake and to lower cytotoxicity, while simultaneously allowing the integration of peptide-based FRET sensors of local cell activity. Proteolytic activity of collagenase was detected within an hour via changes in fluorescence of embedded microgels; incubation of microgel sensors with A375 melanoma cells showed upregulated MMP activity in the presence of soluble fibronectins in media. The microgel sensors were readily incorporated into both gelatin and poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) hydrogels and used to successfully detect spatiotemporal proteolytic activity of A375 melanoma cells. Finally, a tumor model was constructed from a hydrogel microwell array that was used to aggregate A375 melanoma cells, and local variations in proteolytic activity were monitored as a function of distance from the cell aggregate center.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Della S. Shin
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado at Boulder, 3415 Colorado Avenue, Boulder, CO 80309, USA
| | - Emi Y. Tokuda
- Suite 100, Ben Towne Center for Childhood Cancer Research, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, 1100 Olive Way, Seattle, WA 98101, USA
| | - Jennifer L. Leight
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Ohio State University, 1080 Carmack Rd., Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Connor E. Miksch
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado at Boulder, 3415 Colorado Avenue, Boulder, CO 80309, USA
| | - Tobin E. Brown
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado at Boulder, 3415 Colorado Avenue, Boulder, CO 80309, USA
| | - Kristi S. Anseth
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado at Boulder, 3415 Colorado Avenue, Boulder, CO 80309, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute and the BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado at Boulder, 3415 Colorado Avenue, Boulder, CO 80309, USA
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L. Leight
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio 43210
| | - Allison P. Drain
- University of California, Berkeley–University of California, San Francisco Graduate Program in Bioengineering, Center for Bioengineering and Tissue Regeneration, Department of Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, California 94143
| | - Valerie M. Weaver
- Center for Bioengineering and Tissue Regeneration, Department of Surgery, Department of Anatomy, Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, and Helen Diller Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, California 94143
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Sridhar BV, Brock JL, Silver JS, Leight JL, Randolph MA, Anseth KS. Tissue Engineering: Development of a Cellularly Degradable PEG Hydrogel to Promote Articular Cartilage Extracellular Matrix Deposition (Adv. Healthcare Mater. 5/2015). Adv Healthc Mater 2015. [DOI: 10.1002/adhm.201570027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Balaji V. Sridhar
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering and the Biofrontiers Institute; University of Colorado; 596 UCB Boulder CO 80303-0596 USA
| | - John L. Brock
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering and the Biofrontiers Institute; University of Colorado; 596 UCB Boulder CO 80303-0596 USA
| | - Jason S. Silver
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering and the Biofrontiers Institute; University of Colorado; 596 UCB Boulder CO 80303-0596 USA
| | - Jennifer L. Leight
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering and the Biofrontiers Institute; University of Colorado; 596 UCB Boulder CO 80303-0596 USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Comprehensive Cancer Center; The Ohio State University; 291 Bevis Hall Columbus OH 43210 USA
- The Howard Hughes Medical Institute; University of Colorado; 596 UCB Boulder CO 80303-1904 USA
| | - Mark A. Randolph
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery; Laboratory for Musculoskeletal Tissue Engineering; Massachusetts General Hospital; Harvard Medical School; 55 Fruit St., WAC 435 Boston MA 02114 USA
- Division of Plastic Surgery; Plastic Surgery Research Laboratory; Massachusetts General Hospital; Harvard Medical School; 15 Parkman St., WACC 453 Boston MA 02114 USA
| | - Kristi S. Anseth
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering and the Biofrontiers Institute; University of Colorado; 596 UCB Boulder CO 80303-0596 USA
- The Howard Hughes Medical Institute; University of Colorado; 596 UCB Boulder CO 80303-1904 USA
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Sridhar BV, Brock JL, Silver JS, Leight JL, Randolph MA, Anseth KS. Development of a cellularly degradable PEG hydrogel to promote articular cartilage extracellular matrix deposition. Adv Healthc Mater 2015; 4:702-13. [PMID: 25607633 PMCID: PMC4487633 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.201400695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [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: 11/09/2014] [Revised: 12/19/2014] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Healing articular cartilage remains a significant clinical challenge because of its limited self-healing capacity. While delivery of autologous chondrocytes to cartilage defects has received growing interest, combining cell-based therapies with scaffolds that capture aspects of native tissue and promote cell-mediated remodeling could improve outcomes. Currently, scaffold-based therapies with encapsulated chondrocytes permit matrix production; however, resorption of the scaffold does not match the rate of production by cells leading to generally low extracellular matrix outputs. Here, a poly (ethylene glycol) (PEG) norbornene hydrogel is functionalized with thiolated transforming growth factor (TGF-β1) and cross-linked by an MMP-degradable peptide. Chondrocytes are co-encapsulated with a smaller population of mesenchymal stem cells, with the goal of stimulating matrix production and increasing bulk mechanical properties of the scaffold. The co-encapsulated cells cleave the MMP-degradable target sequence more readily than either cell population alone. Relative to non-degradable gels, cellularly degraded materials show significantly increased glycosaminoglycan and collagen deposition over just 14 d of culture, while maintaining high levels of viability and producing a more widely-distributed matrix. These results indicate the potential of an enzymatically degradable, peptide-functionalized PEG hydrogel to locally influence and promote cartilage matrix production over a short period. Scaffolds that permit cell-mediated remodeling may be useful in designing treatment options for cartilage tissue engineering applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Balaji V. Sridhar
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, and the Biofrontiers Institute, University of Colorado, 596 UCB, Boulder, Colorado, 80303-0596, USA
| | - J. Logan Brock
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, and the Biofrontiers Institute, University of Colorado, 596 UCB, Boulder, Colorado, 80303-0596, USA
| | - Jason S. Silver
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, and the Biofrontiers Institute, University of Colorado, 596 UCB, Boulder, Colorado, 80303-0596, USA
| | - Jennifer L. Leight
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, and the Biofrontiers Institute, University of Colorado, 596 UCB, Boulder, Colorado, 80303-0596, USA. Department of Biomedical Engineering and Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, 291 Bevis Hall, Columbus, Ohio, 43210 USA. The Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Colorado, 596 UCB, Boulder, Colorado, 80303-1904, USA
| | - Mark A. Randolph
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Laboratory for Musculoskeletal Tissue Engineering, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 55 Fruit St., WAC 435, Boston, Massachusetts, 02114, USA. Division of Plastic Surgery, Plastic Surgery Research Laboratory, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 15 Parkman St., WACC 453, Boston, Massachusetts, 02114, USA
| | - Kristi S. Anseth
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, and the Biofrontiers Institute, University of Colorado, 596 UCB, Boulder, Colorado, 80303-0596, USA. The Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Colorado, 596 UCB, Boulder, Colorado, 80303-1904, USA
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Tokuda EY, Leight JL, Anseth KS. Modulation of matrix elasticity with PEG hydrogels to study melanoma drug responsiveness. Biomaterials 2014; 35:4310-8. [PMID: 24565518 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2014.01.063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2013] [Accepted: 01/24/2014] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Metastatic melanoma is highly resistant to drug treatment, and the underlying mechanisms of this resistance remain unclear. Increased tissue stiffness is correlated with tumor progression, but whether increased tissue stiffness contributes to treatment resistance in melanoma is not known. To investigate the effect of substrate stiffness on melanoma cell treatment responsiveness, PEG hydrogels were utilized as a cell culture system to precisely vary matrix elasticity and investigate melanoma cell responses to a commercially available pharmacological inhibitor (PLX4032). The tensile moduli were varied between 0.6 and 13.1 kPa (E) and the effects of PLX4032 on metabolic activity, apoptosis, and proliferation were evaluated on human cell lines derived from radial growth phase (WM35) and metastatic melanoma (A375). The A375 cells were found to be stiffness-independent; matrix elasticity did not alter cell morphology or apoptosis with PLX4032 treatment. The WM35 cells, however, were more dependent on substrate modulus, displaying increased apoptosis and smaller focal adhesions on compliant substrates. Culturing melanoma cells on PEG hydrogels revealed stage-dependent responses to PLX4032 that would have otherwise been masked if cultured strictly on TCPS. These findings demonstrate the utility of PEG hydrogels as a versatile in vitro culture platform with which to investigate the molecular mechanisms of melanoma biology and treatment responsiveness.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emi Y Tokuda
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado at Boulder, Boulder, CO 80309, USA
| | - Jennifer L Leight
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado at Boulder, Boulder, CO 80309, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute and The BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado at Boulder, Boulder, CO 80309, USA
| | - Kristi S Anseth
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado at Boulder, Boulder, CO 80309, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute and The BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado at Boulder, Boulder, CO 80309, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Leight JL, Alge DL, Maier AJ, Anseth KS. Direct measurement of matrix metalloproteinase activity in 3D cellular microenvironments using a fluorogenic peptide substrate. Biomaterials 2013; 34:7344-52. [PMID: 23830581 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2013.06.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2013] [Accepted: 06/12/2013] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Incorporation of degradable moieties into synthetic hydrogels has greatly increased the utility of these three-dimensional matrices for in vitro cell culture as well as tissue engineering applications. A common method for introducing degradability is the inclusion of oligopeptides sensitive to cleavage by matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), enabling cell-mediated remodeling and migration within the material. While this strategy has been effective, characterization and measurement of cell-mediated degradation in these materials has remained challenging. There are 20+ MMP family members whose activity is regulated in space and time by a number of biochemical and biophysical cues. Thus, the typical approach of characterizing cleavage of degradable moieties in solution with recombinant enzymes does not easily translate to three-dimensional cell-mediated matrix remodeling. To address this challenge, we report here the synthesis of a cell-laden hydrogel matrix functionalized with a fluorogenic peptide substrate to provide real-time, quantitative monitoring of global MMP activity. Using this system, stimulation of MMP activity was observed with growth factor treatment in mammary epithelial cells and compared to classical zymography results. Further, the effect of biophysical cues on MMP activity of human mesenchymal stem cells was also investigated where more rigid hydrogels were observed to increase MMP activity. The regulation of MMP activity by these biochemical and biophysical cues highlights the need for in situ, real-time measurement of hydrogel degradation, and use of these functionalized hydrogels will aid in future rational design of degradable synthetic hydrogels for in vitro cell studies and tissue engineering applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L Leight
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute and the BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado at Boulder, Boulder, CO 80309, USA
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Leight JL, Liu WF, Chaturvedi RR, Chen S, Yang MT, Raghavan S, Chen CS. Manipulation of 3D Cluster Size and Geometry by Release from 2D Micropatterns. Cell Mol Bioeng 2012; 5:299-306. [PMID: 23730348 DOI: 10.1007/s12195-012-0236-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
A novel method to control three-dimensional cell cluster size and geometry using two-dimensional patterning techniques is described. Cells were first cultured on two-dimensional micropatterned collagen using conventional soft lithography techniques. Collagenase was used to degrade the micropatterned collagen and release cells from the micropatterns, forming clusters of cells which were then resuspended in a three-dimensional collagen matrix. This method facilitated the formation of uniformly sized clusters within a single sample. By systematically varying the geometry of the two-dimensional micropatterned islands, final cluster size and cell number in three dimensions could be controlled. Using this technique, we showed that proliferation of cells within collagen gels depended on the size of clusters, suggesting an important role for multicellular structure on biological function. Furthermore, by utilizing more complex two-dimensional patterns, non-spherical structures could be produced. This technique demonstrates a simple way to exploit two-dimensional micro-patterning in order to create complex and structured multicellular clusters in a three-dimensional environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L Leight
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, 510 Skirkanich Hall, 210 South 33rd Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Leight JL, Wozniak MA, Chen S, Lynch ML, Chen CS. Matrix rigidity regulates a switch between TGF-β1-induced apoptosis and epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Mol Biol Cell 2012; 23:781-91. [PMID: 22238361 PMCID: PMC3290638 DOI: 10.1091/mbc.e11-06-0537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 319] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Matrix rigidity regulates a switch between TGF-β1–induced cell functions in two epithelial cell lines. On compliant polyacrylamide gels, TGF-β1 induced apoptosis, whereas on rigid gels, cells underwent an epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT). Compliant gels reduced PI3K/Akt activity, which was essential for cell survival and EMT on rigid gels. The transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling pathway is often misregulated during cancer progression. In early stages of tumorigenesis, TGF-β acts as a tumor suppressor by inhibiting proliferation and inducing apoptosis. However, as the disease progresses, TGF-β switches to promote tumorigenic cell functions, such as epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) and increased cell motility. Dramatic changes in the cellular microenvironment are also correlated with tumor progression, including an increase in tissue stiffness. However, it is unknown whether these changes in tissue stiffness can regulate the effects of TGF-β. To this end, we examined normal murine mammary gland cells and Madin–Darby canine kidney epithelial cells cultured on polyacrylamide gels with varying rigidity and treated with TGF-β1. Varying matrix rigidity switched the functional response to TGF-β1. Decreasing rigidity increased TGF-β1–induced apoptosis, whereas increasing rigidity resulted in EMT. Matrix rigidity did not change Smad signaling, but instead regulated the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. Direct genetic and pharmacologic manipulations further demonstrated a role for PI3K/Akt signaling in the apoptotic and EMT responses. These findings demonstrate that matrix rigidity regulates a previously undescribed switch in TGF-β–induced cell functions and provide insight into how changes in tissue mechanics during disease might contribute to the cellular response to TGF-β.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L Leight
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Gehler S, Baldassarre M, Lad Y, Leight JL, Wozniak MA, Riching KM, Eliceiri KW, Weaver VM, Calderwood DA, Keely PJ. Filamin A-beta1 integrin complex tunes epithelial cell response to matrix tension. Mol Biol Cell 2009; 20:3224-38. [PMID: 19458194 DOI: 10.1091/mbc.e08-12-1186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The physical properties of the extracellular matrix (ECM) regulate the behavior of several cell types; yet, mechanisms by which cells recognize and respond to changes in these properties are not clear. For example, breast epithelial cells undergo ductal morphogenesis only when cultured in a compliant collagen matrix, but not when the tension of the matrix is increased by loading collagen gels or by increasing collagen density. We report that the actin-binding protein filamin A (FLNa) is necessary for cells to contract collagen gels, and pull on collagen fibrils, which leads to collagen remodeling and morphogenesis in compliant, low-density gels. In stiffer, high-density gels, cells are not able to contract and remodel the matrix, and morphogenesis does not occur. However, increased FLNa-beta1 integrin interactions rescue gel contraction and remodeling in high-density gels, resulting in branching morphogenesis. These results suggest morphogenesis can be "tuned" by the balance between cell-generated contractility and opposing matrix stiffness. Our findings support a role for FLNa-beta1 integrin as a mechanosensitive complex that bidirectionally senses the tension of the matrix and, in turn, regulates cellular contractility and response to this matrix tension.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Scott Gehler
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Abstract
Tissue morphogenesis and homeostasis are dependent on a complex dialogue between multiple cell types and chemical and physical cues in the surrounding microenvironment. The emergence of engineered three-dimensional (3D) tissue constructs and the development of tractable methods to recapitulate the native tissue microenvironment ex vivo has led to a deeper understanding of tissue-specific behavior. However, much remains unclear about how the microenvironment and aberrations therein directly affect tissue morphogenesis and behavior. Elucidating the role of the microenvironment in directing tissue-specific behavior will aid in the development of surrogate tissues and tractable approaches to diagnose and treat chronic-debilitating diseases such as cancer and atherosclerosis. Toward this goal, 3D organotypic models have been developed to clarify the mechanisms of epithelial morphogenesis and the subsequent maintenance of tissue homeostasis. Here we describe the application of these 3D culture models to illustrate how the microenvironment plays a critical role in regulating mammary tissue function and signaling, and discuss the rationale for applying precisely defined organotypic culture assays to study epithelial cell behavior. Experimental methods are provided to generate and manipulate 3D organotypic cultures to study the effect of matrix stiffness and matrix dimensionality on epithelial tissue morphology and signaling. We end by discussing technical limitations of currently available systems and by presenting opportunities for improvement.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kandice R Johnson
- Institute for Medicine and Engineering, Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Janmey PA, McCormick ME, Rammensee S, Leight JL, Georges PC, MacKintosh FC. Negative normal stress in semiflexible biopolymer gels. Nat Mater 2007; 6:48-51. [PMID: 17187066 DOI: 10.1038/nmat1810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2006] [Accepted: 11/06/2006] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
When subject to stress or external loads, most materials resist deformation. Any stable material, for instance, resists compression-even liquids. Solids also resist simple shear deformations that conserve volume. Under shear, however, most materials also have a tendency to expand in the direction perpendicular to the applied shear stress, a response that is known as positive normal stress. For example, wet sand tends to dilate when sheared, and therefore dries around our feet when we walk on the beach. In the case of simple solids, elastic rods or wires tend to elongate when subject to torsion. Here, we show that networks of semiflexible biopolymers such as those that make up both the cytoskeleton of cells and the extracellular matrix exhibit the opposite tendency: when sheared between two plates, they tend to pull the plates together. We show that these negative normal stresses can be as large as the shear stress and that this property is directly related to the nonlinear strain-stiffening behaviour of biopolymer gels.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paul A Janmey
- Institute for Medicine and Engineering, University of Pennsylvania, 3340 Smith Walk, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|