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Zehorai E, Gross Lev T, Shimshoni E, Hadas R, Adir I, Golani O, Molodij G, Eitan R, Kadler KE, Kollet O, Neeman M, Dekel N, Solomonov I, Sagi I. Enhancing uterine receptivity for embryo implantation through controlled collagenase intervention. Life Sci Alliance 2024; 7:e202402656. [PMID: 39151945 PMCID: PMC11329778 DOI: 10.26508/lsa.202402656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 07/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Ineffective endometrial matrix remodeling, a key factor in infertility, impedes embryo implantation in the uterine wall. Our study reveals the cellular and molecular impact of human collagenase-1 administration in mouse uteri, demonstrating enhanced embryo implantation rates. Collagenase-1 promotes remodeling of the endometrial ECM, degrading collagen fibers and proteoglycans. This process releases matrix-bound bioactive factors (e.g., VEGF, decorin), facilitating vascular permeability and angiogenesis. Collagenase-1 elevates embryo implantation regulators, including NK cell infiltration and the key cytokine LIF. Remarkably, uterine tissue maintains structural integrity despite reduced endometrial collagen fiber tension. In-utero collagenase-1 application rescues implantation in heat stress and embryo transfer models, known for low implantation rates. Importantly, ex vivo exposure of human uterine tissue to collagenase-1 induces collagen de-tensioning and VEGF release, mirroring remodeling observed in mice. Our research highlights the potential of collagenases to induce and orchestrate cellular and molecular processes enhancing uterine receptivity for effective embryo implantation. This innovative approach underscores ECM remodeling mechanisms critical for embryo implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eldar Zehorai
- https://ror.org/0316ej306 Department of Immunology and Regenerative Biology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Tamar Gross Lev
- https://ror.org/0316ej306 Department of Immunology and Regenerative Biology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Elee Shimshoni
- https://ror.org/0316ej306 Department of Immunology and Regenerative Biology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Ron Hadas
- https://ror.org/0316ej306 Department of Immunology and Regenerative Biology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Idan Adir
- https://ror.org/0316ej306 Department of Immunology and Regenerative Biology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Ofra Golani
- https://ror.org/0316ej306 Life Sciences Core Facilities, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Guillaume Molodij
- https://ror.org/0316ej306 Life Sciences Core Facilities, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Ram Eitan
- Gynecologic Oncology Division, Helen Schneider Hospital for Women, Rabin Medical Center; Petah-Tikva and The Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Karl E Kadler
- Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Orit Kollet
- https://ror.org/0316ej306 Department of Immunology and Regenerative Biology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Michal Neeman
- https://ror.org/0316ej306 Department of Immunology and Regenerative Biology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Nava Dekel
- https://ror.org/0316ej306 Department of Immunology and Regenerative Biology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Inna Solomonov
- https://ror.org/0316ej306 Department of Immunology and Regenerative Biology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Irit Sagi
- https://ror.org/0316ej306 Department of Immunology and Regenerative Biology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
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2
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Thomas CI, Ryan MA, McNabb MC, Kamasawa N, Scholl B. Astrocyte coverage of excitatory synapses correlates to measures of synapse structure and function in ferret primary visual cortex. Glia 2024; 72:1785-1800. [PMID: 38856149 PMCID: PMC11324397 DOI: 10.1002/glia.24582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 05/25/2024] [Accepted: 06/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
Most excitatory synapses in the mammalian brain are contacted or ensheathed by astrocyte processes, forming tripartite synapses. Astrocytes are thought to be critical regulators of the structural and functional dynamics of synapses. While the degree of synaptic coverage by astrocytes is known to vary across brain regions and animal species, the reason for and implications of this variability remains unknown. Further, how astrocyte coverage of synapses relates to in vivo functional properties of individual synapses has not been investigated. Here, we characterized astrocyte coverage of synapses of pyramidal neurons in the ferret visual cortex and, using correlative light and electron microscopy, examined their relationship to synaptic strength and sensory-evoked Ca2+ activity. Nearly, all synapses were contacted by astrocytes, and most were contacted along the axon-spine interface. Structurally, we found that the degree of synaptic astrocyte coverage directly scaled with synapse size and postsynaptic density complexity. Functionally, we found that the amount of astrocyte coverage scaled with how selectively a synapse responds to a particular visual stimulus and, at least for the largest synapses, scaled with the reliability of visual stimuli to evoke postsynaptic Ca2+ events. Our study shows astrocyte coverage is highly correlated with structural metrics of synaptic strength of excitatory synapses in the visual cortex and demonstrates a previously unknown relationship between astrocyte coverage and reliable sensory activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Connon I Thomas
- Electron Microscopy Core Facility, Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience, Jupiter, Florida, USA
| | - Melissa A Ryan
- Electron Microscopy Core Facility, Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience, Jupiter, Florida, USA
| | - Micaiah C McNabb
- Electron Microscopy Core Facility, Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience, Jupiter, Florida, USA
| | - Naomi Kamasawa
- Electron Microscopy Core Facility, Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience, Jupiter, Florida, USA
| | - Benjamin Scholl
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado, USA
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3
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Krins N, Wien F, Schmeltz M, Pérez J, Dems D, Debons N, Laberty-Robert C, Schanne-Klein MC, Aimé C. Angle-Resolved Linear Dichroism to Probe the Organization of Highly Ordered Collagen Biomaterials. Biomacromolecules 2024; 25:6181-6187. [PMID: 39096318 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.4c00860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/05/2024]
Abstract
Controlling the assembly of high-order structures is central to soft-matter and biomaterial engineering. Angle-resolved linear dichroism can probe the ordering of chiral collagen molecules in the dense state. Collagen triple helices were aligned by solvent evaporation. Their ordering gives a strong linear dichroism (LD) that changes sign and intensity with varying sample orientations with respect to the beam linear polarization. Being complementary to circular dichroism, which probes the structure of chiral (bio)molecules, LD can shift from the molecular to the supramolecular scale and from the investigation of the conformation to interactions. Supported by multiphoton microscopy and X-ray scattering, we show that LD provides a straightforward route to probe collagen alignment, determine the packing density, and monitor denaturation. This approach could be adapted to any assembly of chiral (bio)macromolecules, with key advantages in detecting large-scale assemblies with high specificity to aligned and chiral molecules and improved sensitivity compared to conventional techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natacha Krins
- Laboratoire de Chimie de la Matière Condensée de Paris (LCMCP), Sorbonne Université, CNRS, Paris F-75005, France
| | - Frank Wien
- SOLEIL Synchrotron, Saint Aubin 91190, France
| | - Margaux Schmeltz
- Laboratoire d'Optique et Biosciences, Ecole Polytechnique, CNRS, Inserm, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, Palaiseau F-91128, France
| | | | - Dounia Dems
- Laboratoire de Chimie de la Matière Condensée de Paris (LCMCP), Sorbonne Université, CNRS, Paris F-75005, France
| | - Nicolas Debons
- Laboratoire de Chimie de la Matière Condensée de Paris (LCMCP), Sorbonne Université, CNRS, Paris F-75005, France
| | - Christel Laberty-Robert
- Laboratoire de Chimie de la Matière Condensée de Paris (LCMCP), Sorbonne Université, CNRS, Paris F-75005, France
| | - Marie-Claire Schanne-Klein
- Laboratoire d'Optique et Biosciences, Ecole Polytechnique, CNRS, Inserm, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, Palaiseau F-91128, France
| | - Carole Aimé
- Laboratoire de Chimie de la Matière Condensée de Paris (LCMCP), Sorbonne Université, CNRS, Paris F-75005, France
- PASTEUR, Département de chimie, École normale supérieure, PSL University, Sorbonne Université, CNRS, Paris 75005, France
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4
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Cesur NP, Zad Ghaffari Vahdat K, Türkoğlu Laçin N. Fabrication of bacterial cellulose/PVP nanofiber composites by electrospinning. Biopolymers 2024; 115:e23606. [PMID: 38888357 DOI: 10.1002/bip.23606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Revised: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
This study aimed to address a significant challenge in the application of bacterial cellulose (BC) within tissue engineering and regenerative medicine by tackling its inherent insolubility in water and organic solvents. Our team introduced a groundbreaking approach by utilizing zinc sulfate (ZnSO4) as a solvent to render BC soluble, a novel contribution to the literature. Subsequently, the obtained soluble BC was combined with varying concentrations of polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP). Notably, we pioneered the fabrication of BC/PVP composite scaffolds with customizable fiber surface morphology and regulated degradation rates through the electrospun technique. Several key parameters, such as PVP concentration (8%, 15%, 12%, and 20% w/v), applied voltage (22, 15, and 12 kV), and a fixed nozzle-collector distance of 10 cm with a flow rate of 0.9 mL/h, were systematically evaluated so as to find the optimum parameter created BC/PVP product with electrospun. For electrospun BC/PVP products, a voltage of 12 kV was found to be optimal. Intriguingly, our findings revealed enhanced cell adhesion and proliferation in BC/PVP electrospun products compared with using PVP membranes alone. Specifically, cell viability for PVP and PVP/BC electrospun products was determined as 50.73% and 79.95%, respectively. In terms of thermal properties, the BC/PVP electrospun product exhibited a mass loss of 82.6% at 380°C, while PVP alone experienced 90.2% mass loss at around 280°C. Furthermore, the protein adhesion capacities were measured at 62.3 ± 1.2 μg for PVP and 99.4 ± 2 μg for BC/PVP electrospun products, whereas product showed no biodegradation over 28 days and had notable water retention capacity. In conclusion, our research not only successfully attained nanofiber morphology but also showcased enhanced cell attachment and proliferation on the BC/PVP electrospun product.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nevra Pelin Cesur
- Paracelsus Medical University, Tendon and Bone Regeneration Institute, Salzburg, Austria
| | | | - Nelisa Türkoğlu Laçin
- Yıldız Technical University, Molecular Biology and Genetics Department, Istanbul, Turkey
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5
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Bloom ET, Sabanayagam CR, Benson JM, Lin LM, Ross JL, Caplan JL, Elliott DM. Neural network auto-segmentation of serial-block-face scanning electron microscopy images exhibit collagen fibril structural differences with tendon type and health. J Orthop Res 2024. [PMID: 39180281 DOI: 10.1002/jor.25961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2024] [Revised: 07/01/2024] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 08/26/2024]
Abstract
A U-Net machine learning algorithm was adapted to automatically segment tendon collagen fibril cross-sections from serial block face scanning electron microscopy (SBF-SEM) and create three-dimensional (3D) renderings. We compared the performance of routine Otsu thresholding and U-Net for a positional tendon that has low fibril density (rat tail tendon), an energy-storing tendon that has high fibril density (rat plantaris tendon), and a high fibril density tendon hypothesized to have disorganized 3D ultrastructure (degenerated rat plantaris tendon). The area segmentation of the tail and healthy plantaris tendon had excellent accuracy for both the Otsu and U-Net, with an Intersection over Union (IoU) of 0.8. With degeneration, only the U-Net could accurately segment the area, whereas Otsu IoU was only 0.45. For boundary validation, the U-Net outperformed Otsu segmentation for all tendons. The fibril diameter from U-Net was within 10% of the manual segmentation, however, the Otsu underestimated the fibril diameter by 39% in healthy plantaris and by 84% in the degenerated plantaris. Fibril geometry was averaged across the entire image stack and compared across tendon types. The tail had a lower fibril area fraction (58%) and larger fibril diameter (0.31 µm) than the healthy plantaris (67% and 0.21 µm) and degenerated plantaris tendon (66% and 0.19 µm). This method can be applied to a large variety of tissues to quantify 3D collagen fibril structure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen T Bloom
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware, USA
| | - Chandran R Sabanayagam
- Bio-Imaging Center, Delaware Biotechnology Institute, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware, USA
| | - Jamie M Benson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware, USA
| | - Lily M Lin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware, USA
| | - Jean L Ross
- Bio-Imaging Center, Delaware Biotechnology Institute, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware, USA
| | - Jeffrey L Caplan
- Bio-Imaging Center, Delaware Biotechnology Institute, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware, USA
- Department of Plant and Soil Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware, USA
| | - Dawn M Elliott
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware, USA
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6
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Zhou J, Ren R, Zhan Y, Song N, Zhu S, Jiang N. Comparing microstructural and micromechanical deformation of the TMJ disc in two anterior disc displacement models. J Oral Rehabil 2024. [PMID: 39152540 DOI: 10.1111/joor.13821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 07/17/2024] [Indexed: 08/19/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Anterior disc displacement (ADD) has been used to establish temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) models. Based on whether preserve of the retrodiscal attachment, the modelling methodologies include ADD with dissecting the retrodiscal attachment (ADDwd) and ADD without dissecting the retrodiscal attachment (ADDwod). This article aims to determine which model better matches the micromechanical and microstructural progression of TMD. METHODS Through meticulous microscopic observations, the microstructure and micromechanical deformation of the TMJ discs in ADDwd and ADDwod rabbit models were compared at 2 and 20 weeks. RESULT Scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy showed that collagen fibres became slenderized and straightened, collagen fibrils lost diameter and arrangement in the ADDwd group at 2 weeks. Meanwhile, nanoindentation and atomic electron microscopy showed that the micro- and nano- mechanical properties decreased dramatically. However, the ADDwod group exhibited no significant microstructure and micromechanical deformations at 2 weeks. Dissection of the retrodiscal attachment contribute in the acceleration of disease progression at the early stage, the devastating discal phenotype remained fundamentally the same within the two models at 20 weeks. CONCLUSION ADDwod models, induced stable and persistent disc deformation, therefore, can better match the progression of TMD. While ADDwd models can be considered for experiments which aim to obtain advanced phenotype in a short time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiahao Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Rong Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yanjing Zhan
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Ning Song
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Songsong Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Nan Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
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7
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Kuroda J, Hino H, Kondo S. Dynamics of actinotrichia, fibrous collagen structures in zebrafish fin tissues, unveiled by novel fluorescent probes. PNAS NEXUS 2024; 3:pgae266. [PMID: 39296332 PMCID: PMC11409509 DOI: 10.1093/pnasnexus/pgae266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/09/2024] [Indexed: 09/21/2024]
Abstract
Collagen fibers provide physical support to animal tissues by orienting in the correct position and at optimal density. Actinotrichia are thick collagen fibers that are present at the tips of fish fins and serve as scaffolds for bone formation. The arrangement and density of actinotrichia must be constantly maintained with a high degree of regularity to form spatial patterns in the fin bones, but the mechanisms of this process are largely unknown. To address this issue, we first identified two fluorescent probes that can stain actinotrichia clearly in vivo. Using these probes and time-lapse observation of actinotrichia synthesized at different growth stages, we revealed the following previously unknown dynamics of actinotrichia. (i) Actinotrichia do not stay stationary at the place where they are produced; instead, they move towards the dorsal area during the notochord bending and (ii) move towards the distal tip during the fin growth. (iii) Actinotrichia elongate asymmetrically as new collagen is added at the proximal side. (iv) Density is maintained by the insertion of new actinotrichia. (v) Actinotrichia are selectively degraded by osteoclasts. These findings suggest that the regular arrangement of actinotrichia is the outcome of multiple dynamic processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junpei Kuroda
- Laboratory of Pattern Formation, Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Hiromu Hino
- Laboratory of Pattern Formation, Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Shigeru Kondo
- Laboratory of Pattern Formation, Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
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Wang C, Fan M, Heo SJ, Adams SM, Li T, Liu Y, Li Q, Loebel C, Alisafaei F, Burdick JA, Lu XL, Birk DE, Mauck RL, Han L. Structure-Mechanics Principles and Mechanobiology of Fibrocartilage Pericellular Matrix: A Pivotal Role of Type V Collagen. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.06.26.600498. [PMID: 38979323 PMCID: PMC11230444 DOI: 10.1101/2024.06.26.600498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
The pericellular matrix (PCM) is the immediate microniche surrounding resident cells in various tissue types, regulating matrix turnover, cell-matrix cross-talk and disease initiation. This study elucidated the structure-mechanical properties and mechanobiological functions of the PCM in fibrocartilage, a family of connective tissues that sustain complex tensile and compressive loads in vivo. Studying the murine meniscus as the model tissue, we showed that fibrocartilage PCM contains thinner, random collagen fibrillar networks that entrap proteoglycans, a structure distinct from the densely packed, highly aligned collagen fibers in the bulk extracellular matrix (ECM). In comparison to the ECM, the PCM has a lower modulus and greater isotropy, but similar relative viscoelastic properties. In Col5a1 +/- menisci, the reduction of collagen V, a minor collagen localized in the PCM, resulted in aberrant fibril thickening with increased heterogeneity. Consequently, the PCM exhibited a reduced modulus, loss of isotropy and faster viscoelastic relaxation. This disrupted PCM contributes to perturbed mechanotransduction of resident meniscal cells, as illustrated by reduced intracellular calcium signaling, as well as upregulated biosynthesis of lysyl oxidase and tenascin C. When cultured in vitro, Col5a1 +/- meniscal cells synthesized a weakened nascent PCM, which had inferior properties towards protecting resident cells against applied tensile stretch. These findings underscore the PCM as a distinctive microstructure that governs fibrocartilage mechanobiology, and highlight the pivotal role of collagen V in PCM function. Targeting the PCM or its molecular constituents holds promise for enhancing not only meniscus regeneration and osteoarthritis intervention, but also addressing diseases across various fibrocartilaginous tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Wang
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Science and Health Systems, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
| | - Mingyue Fan
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Science and Health Systems, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
| | - Su-Jin Heo
- McKay Orthopaedic Research Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
| | - Sheila M Adams
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Morsani School of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, United States
| | - Thomas Li
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Science and Health Systems, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
| | - Yuchen Liu
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Science and Health Systems, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
| | - Qing Li
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Science and Health Systems, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
| | - Claudia Loebel
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States
| | - Farid Alisafaei
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, NJ 07102, United States
| | - Jason A Burdick
- BioFrontiers Institute and Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80309, United States
| | - X Lucas Lu
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716, United States
| | - David E Birk
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Morsani School of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, United States
| | - Robert L Mauck
- McKay Orthopaedic Research Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
- Translational Musculoskeletal Research Center, Corporal Michael J. Crescenz Veterans Administration Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
| | - Lin Han
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Science and Health Systems, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
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Utoiu E, Manoiu VS, Oprita EI, Craciunescu O. Bacterial Cellulose: A Sustainable Source for Hydrogels and 3D-Printed Scaffolds for Tissue Engineering. Gels 2024; 10:387. [PMID: 38920933 PMCID: PMC11203293 DOI: 10.3390/gels10060387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 05/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Bacterial cellulose is a biocompatible biomaterial with a unique macromolecular structure. Unlike plant-derived cellulose, bacterial cellulose is produced by certain bacteria, resulting in a sustainable material consisting of self-assembled nanostructured fibers with high crystallinity. Due to its purity, bacterial cellulose is appealing for biomedical applications and has raised increasing interest, particularly in the context of 3D printing for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine applications. Bacterial cellulose can serve as an excellent bioink in 3D printing, due to its biocompatibility, biodegradability, and ability to mimic the collagen fibrils from the extracellular matrix (ECM) of connective tissues. Its nanofibrillar structure provides a suitable scaffold for cell attachment, proliferation, and differentiation, crucial for tissue regeneration. Moreover, its mechanical strength and flexibility allow for the precise printing of complex tissue structures. Bacterial cellulose itself has no antimicrobial activity, but due to its ideal structure, it serves as matrix for other bioactive molecules, resulting in a hybrid product with antimicrobial properties, particularly advantageous in the management of chronic wounds healing process. Overall, this unique combination of properties makes bacterial cellulose a promising material for manufacturing hydrogels and 3D-printed scaffolds, advancing the field of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Elena Iulia Oprita
- National Institute of R&D for Biological Sciences, 296, Splaiul Independentei, 060031 Bucharest, Romania; (E.U.); (V.S.M.); (O.C.)
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Pickard A, Garva R, Adamson A, Calverley BC, Hoyle A, Hayward CE, Spiller D, Lu Y, Hodson N, Mandolfo O, Kim KK, Bou-Gharios G, Swift J, Bigger B, Kadler KE. Collagen fibril formation at the plasma membrane occurs independently from collagen secretion. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.09.593302. [PMID: 38766096 PMCID: PMC11100796 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.09.593302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Collagen fibrils are the primary supporting scaffold of vertebrate tissues but how they are assembled is unclear. Here, using CRISPR-tagging of type I collagen and SILAC labelling, we elucidate the cellular mechanism for the spatiotemporal assembly of collagen fibrils, in cultured fibroblasts. Our findings reveal multifaceted trafficking of collagen, including constitutive secretion, intracellular pooling, and plasma membrane-directed fibrillogenesis. Notably, we differentiate the processes of collagen secretion and fibril assembly and identify the crucial involvement of endocytosis in regulating fibril formation. By employing Col1a1 knockout fibroblasts we demonstrate the incorporation of exogenous collagen into nucleation sites at the plasma membrane through these recycling mechanisms. Our study sheds light on the assembly process and its regulation in health and disease. Mass spectrometry data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD036794.
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11
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Majumdar A, Lad J, Tumanova K, Serra S, Quereshy F, Khorasani M, Vitkin A. Machine learning based local recurrence prediction in colorectal cancer using polarized light imaging. JOURNAL OF BIOMEDICAL OPTICS 2024; 29:052915. [PMID: 38077502 PMCID: PMC10704263 DOI: 10.1117/1.jbo.29.5.052915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
Significance Current treatment for stage III colorectal cancer (CRC) patients involves surgery that may not be sufficient in many cases, requiring additional adjuvant systemic therapy. Identification of this latter cohort that is likely to recur following surgery is key to better personalized therapy selection, but there is a lack of proper quantitative assessment tools for potential clinical adoption. Aim The purpose of this study is to employ Mueller matrix (MM) polarized light microscopy in combination with supervised machine learning (ML) to quantitatively analyze the prognostic value of peri-tumoral collagen in CRC in relation to 5-year local recurrence (LR). Approach A simple MM microscope setup was used to image surgical resection samples acquired from stage III CRC patients. Various potential biomarkers of LR were derived from MM elements via decomposition and transformation operations. These were used as features by different supervised ML models to distinguish samples from patients that locally recurred 5 years later from those that did not. Results Using the top five most prognostic polarimetric biomarkers ranked by their relevant feature importances, the best-performing XGBoost model achieved a patient-level accuracy of 86%. When the patient pool was further stratified, 96% accuracy was achieved within a tumor-stage-III sub-cohort. Conclusions ML-aided polarimetric analysis of collagenous stroma may provide prognostic value toward improving the clinical management of CRC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anamitra Majumdar
- University of Toronto, Department of Medical Biophysics, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jigar Lad
- McMaster University, Department of Physics and Astronomy, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kseniia Tumanova
- University of Toronto, Department of Medical Biophysics, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Stefano Serra
- University of Toronto, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Fayez Quereshy
- University of Toronto, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mohammadali Khorasani
- University of British Columbia, Department of Surgery, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Alex Vitkin
- University of Toronto, Department of Medical Biophysics, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- University of Toronto, Department of Radiation Oncology, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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12
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Das S, Thimukonda Jegadeesan J, Basu B. Advancing Peripheral Nerve Regeneration: 3D Bioprinting of GelMA-Based Cell-Laden Electroactive Bioinks for Nerve Conduits. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2024; 10:1620-1645. [PMID: 38345020 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.3c01226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
Peripheral nerve injuries often result in substantial impairment of the neurostimulatory organs. While the autograft is still largely used as the "gold standard" clinical treatment option, nerve guidance conduits (NGCs) are currently considered a promising approach for promoting peripheral nerve regeneration. While several attempts have been made to construct NGCs using various biomaterial combinations, a comprehensive exploration of the process science associated with three-dimensional (3D) extrusion printing of NGCs with clinically relevant sizes (length: 20 mm; diameter: 2-8 mm), while focusing on tunable buildability using electroactive biomaterial inks, remains unexplored. In addressing this gap, we present here the results of the viscoelastic properties of a range of a multifunctional gelatin methacrylate (GelMA)/poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA)/carbon nanofiber (CNF)/gellan gum (GG) hydrogel bioink formulations and printability assessment using experiments and quantitative models. Our results clearly established the positive impact of the gellan gum on the enhancement of the rheological properties. Interestingly, the strategic incorporation of PEGDA as a secondary cross-linker led to a remarkable enhancement in the strength and modulus by 3 and 8-fold, respectively. Moreover, conductive CNF addition resulted in a 4-fold improvement in measured electrical conductivity. The use of four-component electroactive biomaterial ink allowed us to obtain high neural cell viability in 3D bioprinted constructs. While the conventionally cast scaffolds can support the differentiation of neuro-2a cells, the most important result has been the excellent cell viability of neural cells in 3D encapsulated structures. Taken together, our findings demonstrate the potential of 3D bioprinting and multimodal biophysical cues in developing functional yet critical-sized nerve conduits for peripheral nerve tissue regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soumitra Das
- Laboratory for Biomaterials, Materials Research Centre, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012, India
| | | | - Bikramjit Basu
- Laboratory for Biomaterials, Materials Research Centre, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012, India
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13
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Chen JJ, Kaufmann WA, Chen C, Arai I, Kim O, Shigemoto R, Jonas P. Developmental transformation of Ca 2+ channel-vesicle nanotopography at a central GABAergic synapse. Neuron 2024; 112:755-771.e9. [PMID: 38215739 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2023.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/14/2024]
Abstract
The coupling between Ca2+ channels and release sensors is a key factor defining the signaling properties of a synapse. However, the coupling nanotopography at many synapses remains unknown, and it is unclear how it changes during development. To address these questions, we examined coupling at the cerebellar inhibitory basket cell (BC)-Purkinje cell (PC) synapse. Biophysical analysis of transmission by paired recording and intracellular pipette perfusion revealed that the effects of exogenous Ca2+ chelators decreased during development, despite constant reliance of release on P/Q-type Ca2+ channels. Structural analysis by freeze-fracture replica labeling (FRL) and transmission electron microscopy (EM) indicated that presynaptic P/Q-type Ca2+ channels formed nanoclusters throughout development, whereas docked vesicles were only clustered at later developmental stages. Modeling suggested a developmental transformation from a more random to a more clustered coupling nanotopography. Thus, presynaptic signaling developmentally approaches a point-to-point configuration, optimizing speed, reliability, and energy efficiency of synaptic transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing-Jing Chen
- Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA), Am Campus 1, 3400 Klosterneuburg, Austria
| | - Walter A Kaufmann
- Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA), Am Campus 1, 3400 Klosterneuburg, Austria
| | - Chong Chen
- Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA), Am Campus 1, 3400 Klosterneuburg, Austria
| | - Itaru Arai
- Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA), Am Campus 1, 3400 Klosterneuburg, Austria
| | - Olena Kim
- Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA), Am Campus 1, 3400 Klosterneuburg, Austria
| | - Ryuichi Shigemoto
- Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA), Am Campus 1, 3400 Klosterneuburg, Austria
| | - Peter Jonas
- Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA), Am Campus 1, 3400 Klosterneuburg, Austria.
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14
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Raymond-Hayling H, Lu Y, Shearer T, Kadler K. A preliminary study into the emergence of tendon microstructure during postnatal development. Matrix Biol Plus 2024; 21:100142. [PMID: 38328801 PMCID: PMC10847156 DOI: 10.1016/j.mbplus.2024.100142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Tendons maintain mechanical function throughout postnatal development whilst undergoing significant microstructural changes. We present a study of postnatal tendon growth and characterise the major changes in collagen fibril architecture in mouse tail tendon from birth to eight weeks by analysing the geometries of cross-sectional transmission electron microscopy images. This study finds that a bimodal distribution of fibril diameters emerges from a unimodal distribution of narrow fibrils as early as the eighth day postnatal, and three distinct fibril populations are visible at around 14 days. The tendons in this study do not show evidence of precise hexagonal packing, even at birth, and the spaces between the fibrils remain constant throughout development. The fibril number in the tissue stabilises around day 28, and the fibril area fraction stabilises around day 26. This study gives coarse-grained insight into the transition periods in early tendon development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helena Raymond-Hayling
- Wellcome Centre for Cell Matrix Research, University of Manchester, United Kingdom
- Department of Mathematics, University of Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Yinhui Lu
- Wellcome Centre for Cell Matrix Research, University of Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Tom Shearer
- Department of Mathematics, University of Manchester, United Kingdom
- Department of Materials, University of Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Karl Kadler
- Wellcome Centre for Cell Matrix Research, University of Manchester, United Kingdom
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15
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Rego BV, Weiss D, Humphrey JD. A Fast, Robust Method for Quantitative Assessment of Collagen Fibril Architecture from Transmission Electron Micrographs. MICROSCOPY AND MICROANALYSIS : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF MICROSCOPY SOCIETY OF AMERICA, MICROBEAM ANALYSIS SOCIETY, MICROSCOPICAL SOCIETY OF CANADA 2023; 29:2099-2107. [PMID: 37856696 PMCID: PMC11419845 DOI: 10.1093/micmic/ozad116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Collagen is the most abundant protein in mammals; it exhibits a hierarchical organization and provides structural support to a wide range of soft tissues, including blood vessels. The architecture of collagen fibrils dictates vascular stiffness and strength, and changes therein can contribute to disease progression. While transmission electron microscopy (TEM) is routinely used to examine collagen fibrils under normal and pathological conditions, computational tools that enable fast and minimally subjective quantitative assessment remain lacking. In the present study, we describe a novel semi-automated image processing and statistical modeling pipeline for segmenting individual collagen fibrils from TEM images and quantifying key metrics of interest, including fibril cross-sectional area and aspect ratio. For validation, we show first-of-their-kind illustrative results for adventitial collagen in the thoracic aorta from three different mouse models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno V. Rego
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Biological & Agricultural Engineering, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, USA
| | - Dar Weiss
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Jay D. Humphrey
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
- Vascular Biology and Therapeutics Program, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
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16
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Thomas CI, Ryan MA, Kamasawa N, Scholl B. Postsynaptic mitochondria are positioned to support functional diversity of dendritic spines. eLife 2023; 12:RP89682. [PMID: 38059805 PMCID: PMC10703439 DOI: 10.7554/elife.89682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Postsynaptic mitochondria are critical for the development, plasticity, and maintenance of synaptic inputs. However, their relationship to synaptic structure and functional activity is unknown. We examined a correlative dataset from ferret visual cortex with in vivo two-photon calcium imaging of dendritic spines during visual stimulation and electron microscopy reconstructions of spine ultrastructure, investigating mitochondrial abundance near functionally and structurally characterized spines. Surprisingly, we found no correlation to structural measures of synaptic strength. Instead, we found that mitochondria are positioned near spines with orientation preferences that are dissimilar to the somatic preference. Additionally, we found that mitochondria are positioned near groups of spines with heterogeneous orientation preferences. For a subset of spines with a mitochondrion in the head or neck, synapses were larger and exhibited greater selectivity to visual stimuli than those without a mitochondrion. Our data suggest mitochondria are not necessarily positioned to support the energy needs of strong spines, but rather support the structurally and functionally diverse inputs innervating the basal dendrites of cortical neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Connon I Thomas
- Electron Microscopy Core Facility, Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience, Max Planck WayJupiterUnited States
| | - Melissa A Ryan
- Electron Microscopy Core Facility, Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience, Max Planck WayJupiterUnited States
| | - Naomi Kamasawa
- Electron Microscopy Core Facility, Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience, Max Planck WayJupiterUnited States
| | - Benjamin Scholl
- Department of Neuroscience, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaUnited States
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17
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Thomas CI, Ryan MA, McNabb MC, Kamasawa N, Scholl B. Astrocyte coverage of excitatory synapses correlates to measures of synapse structure and function in primary visual cortex. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.12.01.569664. [PMID: 38106030 PMCID: PMC10723302 DOI: 10.1101/2023.12.01.569664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Most excitatory synapses in the mammalian brain are contacted by astrocytes, forming the tripartite synapse. This interface is thought to be critical for glutamate turnover and structural or functional dynamics of synapses. While the degree of synaptic contact of astrocytes is known to vary across brain regions and animal species, the implications of this variability remain unknown. Furthermore, precisely how astrocyte coverage of synapses relates to in vivo functional properties of individual dendritic spines has yet to be investigated. Here, we characterized perisynaptic astrocyte processes (PAPs) contacting synapses of pyramidal neurons of the ferret visual cortex and, using correlative light and electron microscopy, examined their relationship to synaptic strength and to sensory-evoked Ca2+ activity. Nearly all synapses were contacted by PAPs, and most were contacted along the axon-spine interface (ASI). Structurally, we found that the degree of PAP coverage scaled with synapse size and complexity. Functionally, we found that PAP coverage scaled with the selectivity of Ca2+ responses of individual synapses to visual stimuli and, at least for the largest synapses, scaled with the reliability of visual stimuli to evoke postsynaptic Ca2+ events. Our study shows astrocyte coverage is highly correlated with structural properties of excitatory synapses in the visual cortex and implicates astrocytes as a contributor to reliable sensory activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Connon I Thomas
- Electron Microscopy Core Facility, Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience, 1 Max Planck Way, Jupiter, FL 33458, USA
| | - Melissa A Ryan
- Electron Microscopy Core Facility, Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience, 1 Max Planck Way, Jupiter, FL 33458, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Micaiah C McNabb
- Electron Microscopy Core Facility, Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience, 1 Max Planck Way, Jupiter, FL 33458, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, The Ohio State University, 460 Medical Center Drive, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Naomi Kamasawa
- Electron Microscopy Core Facility, Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience, 1 Max Planck Way, Jupiter, FL 33458, USA
| | - Benjamin Scholl
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Colorado Denver, 12800 East 19th Ave, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
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18
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Choi C, Yun E, Cha C. Emerging Technology of Nanofiber-Composite Hydrogels for Biomedical Applications. Macromol Biosci 2023; 23:e2300222. [PMID: 37530431 DOI: 10.1002/mabi.202300222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/03/2023]
Abstract
Hydrogels and nanofibers have been firmly established as go-to materials for various biomedical applications. They have been mostly utilized separately, rarely together, because of their distinctive attributes and shortcomings. However, the potential benefits of integrating nanofibers with hydrogels to synergistically combine their functionalities while attenuating their drawbacks are increasingly recognized. Compared to other nanocomposite materials, incorporating nanofibers into hydrogel has the distinct advantage of emulating the hierarchical structure of natural extracellular environment needed for cell and tissue culture. The most important technological aspect of developing "nanofiber-composite hydrogel" is generating nanofibers made of various polymers that are cross-linked and short enough to maintain stable dispersion in hydrated environment. In this review, recent research efforts to develop nanofiber-composite hydrogels are presented, with added emphasis on nanofiber processing techniques. Several notable examples of implementing nanofiber-composite hydrogels for biomedical applications are also introduced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cholong Choi
- Center for Programmable Matter, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology, Ulsan, 44919, Republic of Korea
| | - Eunhye Yun
- Center for Programmable Matter, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology, Ulsan, 44919, Republic of Korea
| | - Chaenyung Cha
- Center for Programmable Matter, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology, Ulsan, 44919, Republic of Korea
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19
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Yeung CYC, Garva R, Pickard A, Lu Y, Mallikarjun V, Swift J, Taylor SH, Rai J, Eyre DR, Chaturvedi M, Itoh Y, Meng QJ, Mauch C, Zigrino P, Kadler KE. Mmp14 is required for matrisome homeostasis and circadian rhythm in fibroblasts. Matrix Biol 2023; 124:8-22. [PMID: 37913834 DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2023.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
The circadian clock in tendon regulates the daily rhythmic synthesis of collagen-I and the appearance and disappearance of small-diameter collagen fibrils in the extracellular matrix. How the fibrils are assembled and removed is not fully understood. Here, we first showed that the collagenase, membrane type I-matrix metalloproteinase (MT1-MMP, encoded by Mmp14), is regulated by the circadian clock in postnatal mouse tendon. Next, we generated tamoxifen-induced Col1a2-Cre-ERT2::Mmp14 KO mice (Mmp14 conditional knockout (CKO)). The CKO mice developed hind limb dorsiflexion and thickened tendons, which accumulated narrow-diameter collagen fibrils causing ultrastructural disorganization. Mass spectrometry of control tendons identified 1195 proteins of which 212 showed time-dependent abundance. In Mmp14 CKO mice 19 proteins had reversed temporal abundance and 176 proteins lost time dependency. Among these, the collagen crosslinking enzymes lysyl oxidase-like 1 (LOXL1) and lysyl hydroxylase 1 (LH1; encoded by Plod2) were elevated and had lost time-dependent regulation. High-pressure chromatography confirmed elevated levels of hydroxylysine aldehyde (pyridinoline) crosslinking of collagen in CKO tendons. As a result, collagen-I was refractory to extraction. We also showed that CRISPR-Cas9 deletion of Mmp14 from cultured fibroblasts resulted in loss of circadian clock rhythmicity of period 2 (PER2), and recombinant MT1-MMP was highly effective at cleaving soluble collagen-I but less effective at cleaving collagen pre-assembled into fibrils. In conclusion, our study shows that circadian clock-regulated Mmp14 controls the rhythmic synthesis of small diameter collagen fibrils, regulates collagen crosslinking, and its absence disrupts the circadian clock and matrisome in tendon fibroblasts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ching-Yan Chloé Yeung
- Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK; Institute of Sports Medicine Copenhagen, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark; Center for Healthy Aging, Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Richa Garva
- Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK
| | - Adam Pickard
- Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK
| | - Yinhui Lu
- Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK
| | - Venkatesh Mallikarjun
- Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK
| | - Joe Swift
- Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK
| | - Susan H Taylor
- Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK
| | - Jyoti Rai
- Department of Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - David R Eyre
- Department of Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | - Yoshifumi Itoh
- Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Qing-Jun Meng
- Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK
| | - Cornelia Mauch
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany
| | - Paola Zigrino
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany
| | - Karl E Kadler
- Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK.
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20
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Thomas CI, Ryan MA, Kamasawa N, Scholl B. Postsynaptic mitochondria are positioned to support functional diversity of dendritic spines. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.07.14.549063. [PMID: 37502969 PMCID: PMC10370038 DOI: 10.1101/2023.07.14.549063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Postsynaptic mitochondria are critical to the development, plasticity, and maintenance of synaptic inputs. However, their relationship to synaptic structure and functional activity is unknown. We examined a correlative dataset from ferret visual cortex with in vivo two-photon calcium imaging of dendritic spines during visual stimulation and electron microscopy (EM) reconstructions of spine ultrastructure, investigating mitochondrial abundance near functionally- and structurally-characterized spines. Surprisingly, we found no correlation to structural measures of synaptic strength. Instead, we found that mitochondria are positioned near spines with orientation preferences that are dissimilar to the somatic preference. Additionally, we found that mitochondria are positioned near groups of spines with heterogeneous orientation preferences. For a subset of spines with mitochondrion in the head or neck, synapses were larger and exhibited greater selectivity to visual stimuli than those without a mitochondrion. Our data suggest mitochondria are not necessarily positioned to support the energy needs of strong spines, but rather support the structurally and functionally diverse inputs innervating the basal dendrites of cortical neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Connon I. Thomas
- Electron Microscopy Core Facility, Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience, 1 Max Planck Way, Jupiter, FL 33458, USA
| | - Melissa A. Ryan
- Electron Microscopy Core Facility, Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience, 1 Max Planck Way, Jupiter, FL 33458, USA
- Present Address: Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Naomi Kamasawa
- Electron Microscopy Core Facility, Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience, 1 Max Planck Way, Jupiter, FL 33458, USA
| | - Benjamin Scholl
- Department of Neuroscience, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, 415 Curie Blvd, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
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21
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Revell CK, Herrera JA, Lawless C, Lu Y, Kadler KE, Chang J, Jensen OE. Modeling collagen fibril self-assembly from extracellular medium in embryonic tendon. Biophys J 2023; 122:3219-3237. [PMID: 37415335 PMCID: PMC10465709 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2023.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 06/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Collagen is a key structural component of multicellular organisms and is arranged in a highly organized manner. In structural tissues such as tendons, collagen forms bundles of parallel fibers between cells, which appear within a 24-h window between embryonic day 13.5 (E13.5) and E14.5 during mouse embryonic development. Current models assume that the organized structure of collagen requires direct cellular control, whereby cells actively lay down collagen fibrils from cell surfaces. However, such models appear incompatible with the time and length scales of fibril formation. We propose a phase-transition model to account for the rapid development of ordered fibrils in embryonic tendon, reducing reliance on active cellular processes. We develop phase-field crystal simulations of collagen fibrillogenesis in domains derived from electron micrographs of inter-cellular spaces in embryonic tendon and compare results qualitatively and quantitatively to observed patterns of fibril formation. To test the prediction of this phase-transition model that free protomeric collagen should exist in the inter-cellular spaces before the formation of observable fibrils, we use laser-capture microdissection, coupled with mass spectrometry, which demonstrates steadily increasing free collagen in inter-cellular spaces up to E13.5, followed by a rapid reduction of free collagen that coincides with the appearance of less-soluble collagen fibrils. The model and measurements together provide evidence for extracellular self-assembly of collagen fibrils in embryonic mouse tendon, supporting an additional mechanism for rapid collagen fibril formation during embryonic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher K Revell
- Department of Mathematics, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom; Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Jeremy A Herrera
- Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Craig Lawless
- Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Yinhui Lu
- Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Karl E Kadler
- Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom.
| | - Joan Chang
- Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom; Division of Molecular and Cellular Function, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom.
| | - Oliver E Jensen
- Department of Mathematics, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom; Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom.
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22
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Hughes L, Machado P, Johnson E. Elemental Maps to Dye for: Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectrometry Facilitates a Better Understanding of the Contrast Mechanisms in Common Electron Microscopy Stains. MICROSCOPY AND MICROANALYSIS : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF MICROSCOPY SOCIETY OF AMERICA, MICROBEAM ANALYSIS SOCIETY, MICROSCOPICAL SOCIETY OF CANADA 2023; 29:1185-1186. [PMID: 37613196 DOI: 10.1093/micmic/ozad067.610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/25/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Errin Johnson
- The William Dunn School of Pathology, The University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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23
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Liang FX, Sall J, Petzold C, van Opbergen CJM, Liang X, Delmar M. Nanogold based protein localization enables subcellular visualization of cell junction protein by SBF-SEM. Methods Cell Biol 2023; 177:55-81. [PMID: 37451776 PMCID: PMC10612668 DOI: 10.1016/bs.mcb.2022.12.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Recent advances in volume electron microscopy (vEM) allow unprecedented visualization of the electron-dense structures of cells, tissues and model organisms at nanometric resolution in three dimensions (3D). Light-based microscopy has been widely used for specific localization of proteins; however, it is restricted by the diffraction limit of light, and lacks the ability to identify underlying structures. Here, we describe a protocol for ultrastructural detection, in three dimensions, of a protein (Connexin 43) expressed in the intercalated disc region of adult murine heart. Our protocol does not rest on the expression of genetically encoded proteins and it overcomes hurdles related to pre-embedding and immunolabeling, such as the penetration of the label and the preservation of the tissue. The pre-embedding volumetric immuno-electron microscopy (pre-embedding vIEM) protocol presented here combines several practical strategies to balance sample fixation with antigen and ultrastructural preservation, and penetration of labeling with blocking of non-specific antigen binding sites. The small 1.4 nm gold along with surrounded silver used as a detection marker buried in the sample also serves as a functional conductive resin that significantly reduces the charging of samples. Our protocol also presents strategies for facilitating the successful cutting of the samples during serial block-face scanning electron microscopy (SBF-SEM) imaging. Our results suggest that the small gold-based pre-embedding vIEM is an ideal labeling method for molecular localization throughout the depth of the sample at subcellular compartments and membrane microdomains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng-Xia Liang
- Microscopy Laboratory, Division of Advanced Research Technologies, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States; Department of Cell Biology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States.
| | - Joseph Sall
- Microscopy Laboratory, Division of Advanced Research Technologies, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Chris Petzold
- Microscopy Laboratory, Division of Advanced Research Technologies, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Chantal J M van Opbergen
- Leon H Charney Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Xiangxi Liang
- Microscopy Laboratory, Division of Advanced Research Technologies, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Mario Delmar
- Leon H Charney Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
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24
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Timin G, Milinkovitch MC. High-resolution confocal and light-sheet imaging of collagen 3D network architecture in very large samples. iScience 2023; 26:106452. [PMID: 37020961 PMCID: PMC10067766 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.106452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Although notoriously difficult, imaging collagen network architecture, a key element affecting tissue mechanical properties, is of paramount importance in developmental and cancer biology. Here, we introduce a simple and robust method of whole-mount collagen staining with the 'Fast Green' dye that provides unmatched visualization of collagen 3D network architecture, via confocal or light-sheet microscopy, compatible with solvent-based tissue clearing and immunostaining.
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25
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Zhang Y, Poon K, Masonsong GSP, Ramaswamy Y, Singh G. Sustainable Nanomaterials for Biomedical Applications. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:922. [PMID: 36986783 PMCID: PMC10056188 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15030922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Significant progress in nanotechnology has enormously contributed to the design and development of innovative products that have transformed societal challenges related to energy, information technology, the environment, and health. A large portion of the nanomaterials developed for such applications is currently highly dependent on energy-intensive manufacturing processes and non-renewable resources. In addition, there is a considerable lag between the rapid growth in the innovation/discovery of such unsustainable nanomaterials and their effects on the environment, human health, and climate in the long term. Therefore, there is an urgent need to design nanomaterials sustainably using renewable and natural resources with minimal impact on society. Integrating sustainability with nanotechnology can support the manufacturing of sustainable nanomaterials with optimized performance. This short review discusses challenges and a framework for designing high-performance sustainable nanomaterials. We briefly summarize the recent advances in producing sustainable nanomaterials from sustainable and natural resources and their use for various biomedical applications such as biosensing, bioimaging, drug delivery, and tissue engineering. Additionally, we provide future perspectives into the design guidelines for fabricating high-performance sustainable nanomaterials for medical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuhang Zhang
- School of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2008, Australia
| | - Kingsley Poon
- School of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2008, Australia
- Sydney Nano Institute, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2008, Australia
| | | | - Yogambha Ramaswamy
- School of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2008, Australia
- Sydney Nano Institute, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2008, Australia
| | - Gurvinder Singh
- School of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2008, Australia
- Sydney Nano Institute, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2008, Australia
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26
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Yeung CYC, Svensson RB, Yurchenko K, Malmgaard-Clausen NM, Tryggedsson I, Lendal M, Jokipii-Utzon A, Olesen JL, Lu Y, Kadler KE, Schjerling P, Kjaer M. Disruption of day-to-night changes in circadian gene expression with chronic tendinopathy. J Physiol 2023. [PMID: 36810732 DOI: 10.1113/jp284083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Overuse injury in tendon tissue (tendinopathy) is a frequent and costly musculoskeletal disorder and represents a major clinical problem with unsolved pathogenesis. Studies in mice have demonstrated that circadian clock-controlled genes are vital for protein homeostasis and important in the development of tendinopathy. We performed RNA sequencing, collagen content and ultrastructural analyses on human tendon biopsies obtained 12 h apart in healthy individuals to establish whether human tendon is a peripheral clock tissue and we performed RNA sequencing on patients with chronic tendinopathy to examine the expression of circadian clock genes in tendinopathic tissues. We found time-dependent expression of 280 RNAs including 11 conserved circadian clock genes in healthy tendons and markedly fewer (23) differential RNAs with chronic tendinopathy. Further, the expression of COL1A1 and COL1A2 was reduced at night but was not circadian rhythmic in synchronised human tenocyte cultures. In conclusion, day-to-night changes in gene expression in healthy human patellar tendons indicate a conserved circadian clock as well as the existence of a night reduction in collagen I expression. KEY POINTS: Tendinopathy is a major clinical problem with unsolved pathogenesis. Previous work in mice has shown that a robust circadian rhythm is required for collagen homeostasis in tendons. The use of circadian medicine in the diagnosis and treatment of tendinopathy has been stifled by the lack of studies on human tissue. Here, we establish that the expression of circadian clock genes in human tendons is time dependent, and now we have data to corroborate that circadian output is reduced in diseased tendon tissues. We consider our findings to be of significance in advancing the use of the tendon circadian clock as a therapeutic target or preclinical biomarker for tendinopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ching-Yan Chloé Yeung
- Institute of Sports Medicine Copenhagen, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Center for Healthy Aging, Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - René B Svensson
- Institute of Sports Medicine Copenhagen, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Center for Healthy Aging, Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kateryna Yurchenko
- Institute of Sports Medicine Copenhagen, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Center for Healthy Aging, Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Nikolaj M Malmgaard-Clausen
- Institute of Sports Medicine Copenhagen, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Center for Healthy Aging, Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ida Tryggedsson
- Institute of Sports Medicine Copenhagen, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Center for Healthy Aging, Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Marius Lendal
- Institute of Sports Medicine Copenhagen, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Center for Healthy Aging, Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anja Jokipii-Utzon
- Institute of Sports Medicine Copenhagen, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Center for Healthy Aging, Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jens L Olesen
- Institute of Sports Medicine Copenhagen, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Center for Healthy Aging, Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Yinhui Lu
- Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Karl E Kadler
- Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Peter Schjerling
- Institute of Sports Medicine Copenhagen, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Center for Healthy Aging, Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Michael Kjaer
- Institute of Sports Medicine Copenhagen, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Center for Healthy Aging, Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
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27
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Rego BV, Weiss D, Humphrey JD. A fast, robust method for quantitative assessment of collagen fibril architecture from transmission electron micrographs. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.02.06.527383. [PMID: 36798181 PMCID: PMC9934578 DOI: 10.1101/2023.02.06.527383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
Collagen is the most abundant protein in mammals; it exhibits a hierarchical organization and provides structural support to a wide range of soft tissues, including blood vessels. The architecture of collagen fibrils dictates vascular stiffness and strength, and changes therein can contribute to disease progression. While transmission electron microscopy (TEM) is routinely used to examine collagen fibrils under normal and pathological conditions, computational tools that enable fast and minimally subjective quantitative assessment remain lacking. In the present study, we describe a novel semi-automated image processing and statistical modeling pipeline for segmenting individual collagen fibrils from TEM images and quantifying key metrics of interest, including fibril cross-sectional area and aspect ratio. For validation, we show illustrative results for adventitial collagen in the thoracic aorta from three different mouse models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno V. Rego
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering & Applied Science, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Dar Weiss
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering & Applied Science, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Jay D. Humphrey
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering & Applied Science, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
- Vascular Biology and Therapeutics Program, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
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28
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Malong L, Napoli I, Casal G, White IJ, Stierli S, Vaughan A, Cattin AL, Burden JJ, Hng KI, Bossio A, Flanagan A, Zhao HT, Lloyd AC. Characterization of the structure and control of the blood-nerve barrier identifies avenues for therapeutic delivery. Dev Cell 2023; 58:174-191.e8. [PMID: 36706755 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2023.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Revised: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
The blood barriers of the nervous system protect neural environments but can hinder therapeutic accessibility. The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is well characterized, consisting of endothelial cells with specialized tight junctions and low levels of transcytosis, properties conferred by contacting pericytes and astrocytes. In contrast, the blood-nerve barrier (BNB) of the peripheral nervous system is poorly defined. Here, we characterize the structure of the mammalian BNB, identify the processes that confer barrier function, and demonstrate how the barrier can be opened in response to injury. The homeostatic BNB is leakier than the BBB, which we show is due to higher levels of transcytosis. However, the barrier is reinforced by macrophages that specifically engulf leaked materials, identifying a role for resident macrophages as an important component of the BNB. Finally, we demonstrate the exploitation of these processes to effectively deliver RNA-targeting therapeutics to peripheral nerves, indicating new treatment approaches for nervous system pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liza Malong
- UCL Laboratory for Molecular Cell Biology and UCL Cancer Institute, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Ilaria Napoli
- UCL Laboratory for Molecular Cell Biology and UCL Cancer Institute, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Giulia Casal
- UCL Laboratory for Molecular Cell Biology and UCL Cancer Institute, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Ian J White
- UCL Laboratory for Molecular Cell Biology and UCL Cancer Institute, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Salome Stierli
- UCL Laboratory for Molecular Cell Biology and UCL Cancer Institute, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Andrew Vaughan
- UCL Laboratory for Molecular Cell Biology and UCL Cancer Institute, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Anne-Laure Cattin
- UCL Laboratory for Molecular Cell Biology and UCL Cancer Institute, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Jemima J Burden
- UCL Laboratory for Molecular Cell Biology and UCL Cancer Institute, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Keng I Hng
- UCL Laboratory for Molecular Cell Biology and UCL Cancer Institute, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Alessandro Bossio
- UCL Laboratory for Molecular Cell Biology and UCL Cancer Institute, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Adrienne Flanagan
- UCL Laboratory for Molecular Cell Biology and UCL Cancer Institute, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Hien T Zhao
- IONIS, 2855 Gazelle Court, Carlsbad, CA 92010, USA
| | - Alison C Lloyd
- UCL Laboratory for Molecular Cell Biology and UCL Cancer Institute, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK.
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29
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Staab-Weijnitz CA, Onursal C, Nambiar D, Vanacore R. Assessment of Collagen in Translational Models of Lung Research. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2023; 1413:213-244. [PMID: 37195533 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-26625-6_11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
The extracellular matrix (ECM) plays an important role in lung health and disease. Collagen is the main component of the lung ECM, widely used for the establishment of in vitro and organotypic models of lung disease, and as scaffold material of general interest for the field of lung bioengineering. Collagen also is the main readout for fibrotic lung disease, where collagen composition and molecular properties are drastically changed and ultimately result in dysfunctional "scarred" tissue. Because of the central role of collagen in lung disease, quantification, determination of molecular properties, and three-dimensional visualization of collagen is important for both development and characterization of translational models of lung research. In this chapter, we provide a comprehensive overview on the various methodologies currently available for quantification and characterization of collagen including their detection principles, advantages, and disadvantages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia A Staab-Weijnitz
- Institute of Lung Health and Immunity and Comprehensive Pneumology Center with the CPC-M BioArchive, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität and Helmholtz Zentrum München, Munich, Germany.
| | - Ceylan Onursal
- Institute of Lung Health and Immunity and Comprehensive Pneumology Center with the CPC-M BioArchive, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität and Helmholtz Zentrum München, Munich, Germany
| | - Deepika Nambiar
- Center for Matrix Biology, Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Roberto Vanacore
- Center for Matrix Biology, Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA.
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30
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Gao J, Guo Z, Zhang Y, Liu Y, Xing F, Wang J, Luo X, Kong Y, Zhang G. Age-related changes in the ratio of Type I/III collagen and fibril diameter in mouse skin. Regen Biomater 2022; 10:rbac110. [PMID: 36683742 PMCID: PMC9847517 DOI: 10.1093/rb/rbac110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Revised: 12/04/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The content of type I collagen (COL-I) and type III collagen (COL-III) and the ratio between them not only affect the skin elasticity and mechanical strength, but also determine the fibril diameter. In this research, we investigated the age-related changes in COL-I/COL-III ratio with their formed fibril diameter. The experimental result was obtained from high performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometer, hydroxyproline determination, picrosirius red staining and transmission electron microscopes (TEM), respectively. The result indicated that the COL-I/COL-III ratio in mouse skin increased with aging. From the 0th to 9th week, the COL-I/COLIII ratio increased from 1.3:1 to 4.5:1. From the 9th to the 18th week, it remained between 4.5:1 and 4.9:1. The total content of COL-I and COL-III firstly increased and then decreased with aging. The TEM result showed that the fibril diameter increased with aging. From the 0th to 9th week, the average fibril diameter increased from 40 to 112 nm; From the 9th to 18th weeks, it increased from 112 to 140 nm. After the 9th week. The fibril diameter showed obvious uneven distribution. Thus, the COL-I/COLIII ratio was proportional to the fibril diameter, but inversely proportional to the uniformity of fibril diameter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianping Gao
- National Key Laboratory of Biochemical Engineering, Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China,School of Chemical and Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Zhenhu Guo
- National Key Laboratory of Biochemical Engineering, Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China,School of Chemical and Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yang Zhang
- National Key Laboratory of Biochemical Engineering, Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
| | - Yuying Liu
- National Key Laboratory of Biochemical Engineering, Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China,School of Chemical and Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Fangyu Xing
- National Key Laboratory of Biochemical Engineering, Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
| | - Junjie Wang
- National Key Laboratory of Biochemical Engineering, Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
| | - Xi Luo
- National Key Laboratory of Biochemical Engineering, Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China,School of Chemical and Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yingjun Kong
- National Key Laboratory of Biochemical Engineering, Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China,School of Chemical and Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Guifeng Zhang
- Correspondence address. Tel: +86 010 82613421, E-mail:
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31
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Mironov AA, Beznoussenko GV. Algorithm for Modern Electron Microscopic Examination of the Golgi Complex. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2557:161-209. [PMID: 36512216 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2639-9_12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The Golgi complex (GC) is an essential organelle of the eukaryotic exocytic pathway. It has a very complexed structure and thus localization of its resident proteins is not trivial. Fast development of microscopic methods generates a huge difficulty for Golgi researchers to select the best protocol to use. Modern methods of light microscopy, such as super-resolution light microscopy (SRLM) and electron microscopy (EM), open new possibilities in analysis of various biological structures at organelle, cell, and organ levels. Nowadays, new generation of EM methods became available for the study of the GC; these include three-dimensional EM (3DEM), correlative light-EM (CLEM), immune EM, and new estimators within stereology that allow realization of maximal goal of any morphological study, namely, to achieve a three-dimensional model of the sample with optimal level of resolution and quantitative determination of its chemical composition. Methods of 3DEM have partially overlapping capabilities. This requires a careful comparison of these methods, identification of their strengths and weaknesses, and formulation of recommendations for their application to cell or tissue samples. Here, we present an overview of 3DEM methods for the study of the GC and some basics for how the images are formed and how the image quality can be improved.
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32
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Lin L, Jiang S, Yang J, Qiu J, Jiao X, Yue X, Ke X, Yang G, Zhang L. Application of 3D-bioprinted nanocellulose and cellulose derivative-based bio-inks in bone and cartilage tissue engineering. Int J Bioprint 2022; 9:637. [PMID: 36844245 PMCID: PMC9947488 DOI: 10.18063/ijb.v9i1.637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
212Three-dimensional (3D) printing is a modern, computer-aided, design-based technology that allows the layer-by-layer deposition of 3D structures. Bioprinting, a 3D printing technology, has attracted increasing attention because of its capacity to produce scaffolds for living cells with extreme precision. Along with the rapid development of 3D bioprinting technology, the innovation of bio-inks, which is recognized as the most challenging aspect of this technology, has demonstrated tremendous promise for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Cellulose is the most abundant polymer in nature. Various forms of cellulose, nanocellulose, and cellulose derivatives, including cellulose ethers and cellulose esters, are common bioprintable materials used to develop bio-inks in recent years, owing to their biocompatibility, biodegradability, low cost, and printability. Although various cellulose-based bio-inks have been investigated, the potential applications of nanocellulose and cellulose derivative-based bio-inks have not been fully explored. This review focuses on the physicochemical properties of nanocellulose and cellulose derivatives as well as the recent advances in bio-ink design for 3D bioprinting of bone and cartilage. In addition, the current advantages and disadvantages of these bio-inks and their prospects in 3D printing-based tissue engineering are comprehensively discussed. We hope to offer helpful information for the logical design of innovative cellulose-based materials for use in this sector in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lan Lin
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, China
| | - Songli Jiang
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, China
| | - Jun Yang
- Department of Adult Reconstruction, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325200, China
| | - Jiandi Qiu
- Department of Adult Reconstruction, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325200, China
| | - Xiaoyi Jiao
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, China
| | - Xusong Yue
- Department of Adult Reconstruction, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325200, China
| | - Xiurong Ke
- Department of Adult Reconstruction, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325200, China
| | - Guojing Yang
- Department of Adult Reconstruction, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325200, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, China,Department of Adult Reconstruction, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325200, China, Corresponding author: Lei Zhang ()
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33
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Janvier AJ, Pendleton EG, Mortensen LJ, Green DC, Henstock JR, Canty-Laird EG. Multimodal analysis of the differential effects of cyclic strain on collagen isoform composition, fibril architecture and biomechanics of tissue engineered tendon. J Tissue Eng 2022; 13:20417314221130486. [PMID: 36339372 PMCID: PMC9629721 DOI: 10.1177/20417314221130486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Tendon is predominantly composed of aligned type I collagen, but additional isoforms are known to influence fibril architecture and maturation, which contribute to the tendon’s overall biomechanical performance. The role of the less well-studied collagen isoforms on fibrillogenesis in tissue engineered tendons is currently unknown, and correlating their relative abundance with biomechanical changes in response to cyclic strain is a promising method for characterising optimised bioengineered tendon grafts. In this study, human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) were cultured in a fibrin scaffold with 3%, 5% or 10% cyclic strain at 0.5 Hz for 3 weeks, and a comprehensive multimodal analysis comprising qPCR, western blotting, histology, mechanical testing, fluorescent probe CLSM, TEM and label-free second-harmonic imaging was performed. Molecular data indicated complex transcriptional and translational regulation of collagen isoforms I, II, III, V XI, XII and XIV in response to cyclic strain. Isoforms (XII and XIV) associated with embryonic tenogenesis were deposited in the formation of neo-tendons from hMSCs, suggesting that these engineered tendons form through some recapitulation of a developmental pathway. Tendons cultured with 3% strain had the smallest median fibril diameter but highest resistance to stress, whilst at 10% strain tendons had the highest median fibril diameter and the highest rate of stress relaxation. Second harmonic generation exposed distinct structural arrangements of collagen fibres in each strain group. Fluorescent probe images correlated increasing cyclic strain with increased fibril alignment from 40% (static strain) to 61.5% alignment (10% cyclic strain). These results indicate that cyclic strain rates stimulate differential cell responses via complex regulation of collagen isoforms which influence the structural organisation of developing fibril architectures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam J Janvier
- Department of Musculoskeletal and Ageing Science, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Emily G Pendleton
- Department of Animal and Dairy Science, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Luke J Mortensen
- Department of Animal and Dairy Science, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Daniel C Green
- Department of Musculoskeletal and Ageing Science, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK,The Medical Research Council Versus Arthritis Centre for Integrated Research into Musculoskeletal Ageing (CIMA), Liverpool, UK
| | - James R Henstock
- Department of Musculoskeletal and Ageing Science, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK,The Medical Research Council Versus Arthritis Centre for Integrated Research into Musculoskeletal Ageing (CIMA), Liverpool, UK,Elizabeth G Canty-Laird, Department of Musculoskeletal and Ageing Science, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, William Henry Duncan Building, 6 West Derby Street, Liverpool, L7 8TX, UK.
| | - Elizabeth G Canty-Laird
- Department of Musculoskeletal and Ageing Science, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK,Department of Animal and Dairy Science, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
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34
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Raymond-Hayling H, Lu Y, Kadler KE, Shearer T. A fibre tracking algorithm for volumetric microstructural data - application to tendons. Acta Biomater 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2022.10.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
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35
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Peddie CJ, Genoud C, Kreshuk A, Meechan K, Micheva KD, Narayan K, Pape C, Parton RG, Schieber NL, Schwab Y, Titze B, Verkade P, Aubrey A, Collinson LM. Volume electron microscopy. NATURE REVIEWS. METHODS PRIMERS 2022; 2:51. [PMID: 37409324 PMCID: PMC7614724 DOI: 10.1038/s43586-022-00131-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
Life exists in three dimensions, but until the turn of the century most electron microscopy methods provided only 2D image data. Recently, electron microscopy techniques capable of delving deep into the structure of cells and tissues have emerged, collectively called volume electron microscopy (vEM). Developments in vEM have been dubbed a quiet revolution as the field evolved from established transmission and scanning electron microscopy techniques, so early publications largely focused on the bioscience applications rather than the underlying technological breakthroughs. However, with an explosion in the uptake of vEM across the biosciences and fast-paced advances in volume, resolution, throughput and ease of use, it is timely to introduce the field to new audiences. In this Primer, we introduce the different vEM imaging modalities, the specialized sample processing and image analysis pipelines that accompany each modality and the types of information revealed in the data. We showcase key applications in the biosciences where vEM has helped make breakthrough discoveries and consider limitations and future directions. We aim to show new users how vEM can support discovery science in their own research fields and inspire broader uptake of the technology, finally allowing its full adoption into mainstream biological imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J. Peddie
- Electron Microscopy Science Technology Platform, The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
| | - Christel Genoud
- Electron Microscopy Facility, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Anna Kreshuk
- Cell Biology and Biophysics Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Kimberly Meechan
- Cell Biology and Biophysics Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany
- Present address: Faculty of Biosciences, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Kristina D. Micheva
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Kedar Narayan
- Center for Molecular Microscopy, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Cancer Research Technology Program, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Constantin Pape
- Cell Biology and Biophysics Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Robert G. Parton
- The Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Centre for Microscopy and Microanalysis, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Nicole L. Schieber
- Centre for Microscopy and Microanalysis, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Yannick Schwab
- Cell Biology and Biophysics Unit/ Electron Microscopy Core Facility, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | - Paul Verkade
- School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Aubrey Aubrey
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA, USA
| | - Lucy M. Collinson
- Electron Microscopy Science Technology Platform, The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
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36
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Dalbosco M, Carniel TA, Fancello EA, Holzapfel GA. Multiscale simulations suggest a protective role of neo-adventitia in abdominal aortic aneurysms. Acta Biomater 2022; 146:248-258. [PMID: 35526737 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2022.04.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2022] [Revised: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) are a dangerous cardiovascular disease, the pathogenesis of which is not yet fully understood. In the present work a recent mechanopathological theory, which correlates AAA progression with microstructural and mechanical alterations in the tissue, is investigated using multiscale models. The goal is to combine these changes, within the framework of mechanobiology, with possible mechanical cues that are sensed by vascular cells along the AAA pathogenesis. Particular attention is paid to the formation of a 'neo-adventitia' on the abluminal side of the aortic wall, which is characterized by a highly random (isotropic) distribution of collagen fibers. Macro- and micro-scale results suggest that the formation of an AAA, as expected, perturbs the micromechanical state of the aortic tissue and triggers a growth and remodeling (G&R) reaction by mechanosensing cells such as fibroblasts. This G&R then leads to the formation of a thick neo-adventitia that appears to bring the micromechanical state of the tissue closer to the original homeostatic level. In this context, this new layer could act like a protective sheath, similar to the tunica adventitia in healthy aortas. This potential 'attempt at healing' by vascular cells would have important implications on the stability of the AAA wall and thus on the risk of rupture. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Current clinical criteria for risk assessment in AAAs are still empirical, as the causes and mechanisms of the disease are not yet fully understood. The strength of the arterial tissue is closely related to its microstructure, which in turn is remodeled by mechanosensing cells in the course of the disease. In this study, multiscale simulations show a possible connection between mechanical cues at the microscopic level and collagen G&R in AAA tissue. It should be emphasized that these micromechanical cues cannot be visualized in vivo. Therefore, the results presented here will help to advance our current understanding of the disease and motivate future experimental studies, with important implications for AAA risk assessment.
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Electrospun Scaffolds as Cell Culture Substrates for the Cultivation of an In Vitro Blood-Brain Barrier Model Using Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14061308. [PMID: 35745880 PMCID: PMC9231001 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14061308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The human blood–brain barrier (BBB) represents the interface of microvasculature and the central nervous system, regulating the transport of nutrients and protecting the brain from external threats. To gain a deeper understanding of (patho)physiological processes affecting the BBB, sophisticated models mimicking the in vivo situation are required. Currently, most in vitro models are cultivated on stiff, semipermeable, and non-biodegradable Transwell® membrane inserts, not adequately mimicking the complexity of the extracellular environment of the native human BBB. To overcome these disadvantages, we developed three-dimensional electrospun scaffolds resembling the natural structure of the human extracellular matrix. The polymer fibers of the scaffold imitate collagen fibrils of the human basement membrane, exhibiting excellent wettability and biomechanical properties, thus facilitating cell adhesion, proliferation, and migration. Cultivation of human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) on these scaffolds enabled the development of a physiological BBB phenotype monitored via the formation of tight junctions and validated by the paracellular permeability of sodium fluorescein, further accentuating the non-linearity of TEER and barrier permeability. The novel in vitro model of the BBB forms a tight endothelial barrier, offering a platform to study barrier functions in a (patho)physiologically relevant context.
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Omoto T, Yimiti D, Sanada Y, Toriyama M, Ding C, Hayashi Y, Ikuta Y, Nakasa T, Ishikawa M, Sano M, Lee M, Akimoto T, Shukunami C, Miyaki S, Adachi N. Tendon-Specific Dicer Deficient Mice Exhibit Hypoplastic Tendon Through the Downregulation of Tendon-Related Genes and MicroRNAs. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:898428. [PMID: 35784484 PMCID: PMC9241168 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.898428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Tendon is a fibrous connective tissue, that is, transmitting the forces that permit body movement. However, tendon/ligament biology is still not fully understood and especially, the role of miRNAs in tendon/ligament is sparse and uncharacterized in in vivo models. The objectives of this study were to address the function of DICER using mice with tendon/ligament-specific deletion of Dicer (Dicer conditional knockout; cKO), and to identify key miRNAs in tendon/ligament. Dicer cKO mice exhibited hypoplastic tendons through structurally abnormal collagen fibrils with downregulation of tendon-related genes. The fragility of tendon did not significantly affect the tensile strength of tendon in Dicer cKO mice, but they showed larger dorsiflexion angle in gait compared with Control mice. We identified two miRNAs, miR-135a and miR-1247, which were highly expressed in the Achilles tendon of Control mice and were downregulated in the Achilles tendon of Dicer cKO mice compared with Control mice. miR-135a mimic increased the expression of tendon-related genes in injured Achilles tendon-derived fibroblasts. In this study, Dicer cKO mice exhibited immature tendons in which collagen fibrils have small diameter with the downregulation of tendon-related genes such as transcriptional factor, extracellular matrix, and miRNAs. Thus, DICER plays an important role in tendon maturation, and miR-135a may have the potential to become key miRNA for tendon maturation and healing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takenori Omoto
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Dilimulati Yimiti
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Yohei Sanada
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
- Medical Center for Translational and Clinical Research, Hiroshima University Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Minoru Toriyama
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Chenyang Ding
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Yuta Hayashi
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
- Department of Musculoskeletal Traumatology and Reconstructive Surgery, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Yasunari Ikuta
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Tomoyuki Nakasa
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
- Medical Center for Translational and Clinical Research, Hiroshima University Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Masakazu Ishikawa
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
- Department of Artificial Joints and Biomaterials, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Masayuki Sano
- Cellular and Molecular Biotechnology Research Institute, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Minjung Lee
- Faculty of Sport Sciences, Waseda University, Saitama, Japan
| | | | - Chisa Shukunami
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Shigeru Miyaki
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
- Medical Center for Translational and Clinical Research, Hiroshima University Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan
- *Correspondence: Shigeru Miyaki,
| | - Nobuo Adachi
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
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Haughton J, Cotter SL, Parnell WJ, Shearer T. Bayesian inference on a microstructural, hyperelastic model of tendon deformation. J R Soc Interface 2022; 19:20220031. [PMID: 35582809 PMCID: PMC9114946 DOI: 10.1098/rsif.2022.0031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Microstructural models of soft-tissue deformation are important in applications including artificial tissue design and surgical planning. The basis of these models, and their advantage over their phenomenological counterparts, is that they incorporate parameters that are directly linked to the tissue's microscale structure and constitutive behaviour and can therefore be used to predict the effects of structural changes to the tissue. Although studies have attempted to determine such parameters using diverse, state-of-the-art, experimental techniques, values ranging over several orders of magnitude have been reported, leading to uncertainty in the true parameter values and creating a need for models that can handle such uncertainty. We derive a new microstructural, hyperelastic model for transversely isotropic soft tissues and use it to model the mechanical behaviour of tendons. To account for parameter uncertainty, we employ a Bayesian approach and apply an adaptive Markov chain Monte Carlo algorithm to determine posterior probability distributions for the model parameters. The obtained posterior distributions are consistent with parameter measurements previously reported and enable us to quantify the uncertainty in their values for each tendon sample that was modelled. This approach could serve as a prototype for quantifying parameter uncertainty in other soft tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Haughton
- Department of Mathematics, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
| | - Simon L. Cotter
- Department of Mathematics, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
| | - William J. Parnell
- Department of Mathematics, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
| | - Tom Shearer
- Department of Mathematics, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
- Department of Materials, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
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40
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Zhou X, Zhao R, Yanamandra AK, Hoth M, Qu B. Light-Sheet Scattering Microscopy to Visualize Long-Term Interactions Between Cells and Extracellular Matrix. Front Immunol 2022; 13:828634. [PMID: 35154150 PMCID: PMC8831865 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.828634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Visualizing interactions between cells and the extracellular matrix (ECM) mesh is important to understand cell behavior and regulatory mechanisms by the extracellular environment. However, long term visualization of three-dimensional (3D) matrix structures remains challenging mainly due to photobleaching or blind spots perpendicular to the imaging plane. Here, we combine label-free light-sheet scattering microcopy (LSSM) and fluorescence microscopy to solve these problems. We verified that LSSM can reliably visualize structures of collagen matrices from different origin including bovine, human and rat tail. The quality and intensity of collagen structure images acquired by LSSM did not decline with time. LSSM offers abundant wavelength choice to visualize matrix structures, maximizing combination possibilities with fluorescently-labelled cells, allowing visualizing of long-term ECM-cell interactions in 3D. Interestingly, we observed ultrathin thread-like structures between cells and matrix using LSSM, which were not observed by normal fluorescence microscopy. Transient local alignment of matrix by cell-applied forces can be observed. In summary, LSSM provides a powerful and robust approach to investigate the complex interplay between cells and ECM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangda Zhou
- Biophysics, Center for Integrative Physiology and Molecular Medicine (CIPMM), School of Medicine, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Renping Zhao
- Biophysics, Center for Integrative Physiology and Molecular Medicine (CIPMM), School of Medicine, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Archana K Yanamandra
- Biophysics, Center for Integrative Physiology and Molecular Medicine (CIPMM), School of Medicine, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany.,INM-Leibniz Institute for New Materials, Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Markus Hoth
- Biophysics, Center for Integrative Physiology and Molecular Medicine (CIPMM), School of Medicine, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Bin Qu
- Biophysics, Center for Integrative Physiology and Molecular Medicine (CIPMM), School of Medicine, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany.,INM-Leibniz Institute for New Materials, Saarbrücken, Germany
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41
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Hayashi Y, Yimiti D, Sanada Y, Ding C, Omoto T, Ogura T, Nakasa T, Ishikawa M, Hiemori K, Tateno H, Miyaki S, Adachi N. The therapeutic capacity of bone marrow MSC-derived extracellular vesicles in Achilles tendon healing is passage dependent and indicated by specific glycans. FEBS Lett 2022; 596:1047-1058. [PMID: 35294042 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.14333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Revised: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The therapeutic potential of mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) for various diseases and tissue repair is attracting attention. Here, EVs from conditioned medium of human bone marrow MSCs at passage 5 (P5) and 12 (P12) were analyzed using mouse Achilles tendon rupture model and lectin microarray. P5 MSC-EVs accelerated Achilles tendon healing compared with P12 MSC-EVs. Fucose-specific lectin TJA-II was indicated as a glycan marker for therapeutic MSC-EVs. The present study demonstrated that early passaged MSC-EVs promote Achilles tendon healing compared with senescent MSC-EVs. Glycans on MSC-EVs might provide useful tools to establish a quality control and isolation system for therapeutic MSC-EVs in regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuta Hayashi
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan.,Department of Musculoskeletal Traumatology and Reconstructive surgery, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Dilimulati Yimiti
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Yohei Sanada
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan.,Medical Center for Translational and Clinical Research, Hiroshima University Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Chenyang Ding
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Takenori Omoto
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Toshihiko Ogura
- Health and Medical Research Institute, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Tomoyuki Nakasa
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan.,Medical Center for Translational and Clinical Research, Hiroshima University Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Masakazu Ishikawa
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan.,Department of Artificial Joints and Biomaterials, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Keiko Hiemori
- Cellular and Molecular Biotechnology Research Institute, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Tateno
- Cellular and Molecular Biotechnology Research Institute, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Shigeru Miyaki
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan.,Medical Center for Translational and Clinical Research, Hiroshima University Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Nobuo Adachi
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
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42
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Bhardwaj V, Fabijanic KI, Cohen A, Mao J, Azadegan C, Pittet JC, Bris BL. Holistic approach to visualize and quantify collagen organization at macro, micro, and nano‐scale. Skin Res Technol 2022; 28:419-426. [PMID: 35285552 PMCID: PMC9907653 DOI: 10.1111/srt.13140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is scarcity of imaging and image processing techniques for accurate discrimination and quantitation of the dermal extracellular matrix (ECM), primarily collagen. The aim of this study was to develop and demonstrate a holistic imaging and image processing approach to visualize and quantify collagen remodeling at the macro-, micro- and nano-scale using histochemical imaging, Reflectance Confocal Microscopy (RCM), and Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), respectively. MATERIAL AND METHODS For proof-of-concept, a commercial anti-aging product known to induce collagen neo-synthesis and re-organization was tested ex vivo on human skin biopsies from two aged females. RESULTS Relative to untreated skin, collagen fibers (RCM) and fibrils (AFM) were longer and aligned after treatment. The content of collagen and elastin (histochemical imaging and ELISA) statistically improved after treatment. CONCLUSION Based on our findings, we can conclude: (1) AFM, RCM, and histochemical imaging can accurately discriminate collagen from other ECM components in the skin and (2) the image processing methods can enable quantitation and hence capture small improvements in collagen remodeling after treatment (commercial cosmetic product with collagen organizer technology as proof-of-concept). The reported holistic imaging approach has direct clinical implications for scientists and dermatologists to make quick, real-time, and accurate decisions in skin research and diagnostics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinay Bhardwaj
- Department of Global Personal Care and Skin Health R&D Colgate‐Palmolive Company New Jersey USA
| | | | - Aaron Cohen
- Department of Global Personal Care and Skin Health R&D Colgate‐Palmolive Company New Jersey USA
| | - Junhong Mao
- Department of Global Personal Care and Skin Health R&D Colgate‐Palmolive Company New Jersey USA
| | - Chloe Azadegan
- Department of Global Personal Care and Skin Health R&D Colgate‐Palmolive Company New Jersey USA
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43
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Sasaki Y, Hirayama S, Nakao R. Scanning Electron Microscopy of Escherichia coli Encapsulated in a Spacerized Graphene Sandwich. Microscopy (Oxf) 2022; 71:175-180. [DOI: 10.1093/jmicro/dfac010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Revised: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Electron microscopy of biological materials such as bacteria allows multifaceted analysis to understand their structure and function with high resolution, which is difficult to achieve with optical microscopy. However, the samples are damaged or broken by electron beam irradiation and by the vacuum environment. Here, we observed bacteria in a suspension encapsulated in a graphene sandwich that prevents electron beam damage without the need for fixation. Specifically, we demonstrated in situ scanning electron microscopy observation of Escherichia coli in a graphene sandwich containing a perforated membrane as a spacer, encapsulating non-immobilized E. coli between the graphene layers. However, E. coli activity, such as division, was not observed, although the irradiated cells grew slightly when re-suspended under optimal culture conditions. Our findings suggest that the graphene sandwich methodology enables the observation of wet E. coli cells by electron microscopy but requires refinement to allow the live imaging of biological materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuki Sasaki
- Nanostructures Research Laboratory, Japan Fine Ceramics Center, 2-4-1 Mutsuno, Atsuta-ku, Nagoya 456-8587, Japan
| | - Satoru Hirayama
- Division of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, 2-5274, Gakkocho-dori, Chuo-ku, Niigata 951-8514, Japan
- Department of Bacteriology I, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, 1-23-1, Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-8640, Japan
| | - Ryoma Nakao
- Department of Bacteriology I, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, 1-23-1, Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-8640, Japan
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44
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Assessing Collagen D-Band Periodicity with Atomic Force Microscopy. MATERIALS 2022; 15:ma15041608. [PMID: 35208148 PMCID: PMC8877100 DOI: 10.3390/ma15041608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2022] [Revised: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
The collagen superfamily includes more than fifty collagen and/or collagen-like proteins with fibril-forming collagen type I being the most abundant protein within the extracellular matrix. Collagen type I plays a crucial role in a variety of functions, it has been associated with many pathological conditions and it is widely used due to its unique properties. One unique nano-scale characteristic of natural occurring collagen type I fibers is the so-called D-band periodicity, which has been associated with collagen natural structure and properties, while it seems to play a crucial role in the interactions between cells and collagen and in various pathological conditions. An accurate characterization of the surface and structure of collagen fibers, including D-band periodicity, on collagen-based tissues and/or (nano-)biomaterials can be achieved by Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM). AFM is a scanning probe microscope and is among the few techniques that can assess D-band periodicity. This review covers issues related to collagen and collagen D-band periodicity and the use of AFM for studying them. Through a systematic search in databases (PubMed and Scopus) relevant articles were identified. The study of these articles demonstrated that AFM can offer novel information concerning D-band periodicity. This study highlights the importance of studying collagen D-band periodicity and proves that AFM is a powerful tool for investigating a number of different properties related to collagen D-band periodicity.
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45
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Rauff A, Timmins LH, Whitaker RT, Weiss JA. A Nonparametric Approach for Estimating Three-Dimensional Fiber Orientation Distribution Functions (ODFs) in Fibrous Materials. IEEE TRANSACTIONS ON MEDICAL IMAGING 2022; 41:446-455. [PMID: 34559646 PMCID: PMC9052546 DOI: 10.1109/tmi.2021.3115716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Many biological tissues contain an underlying fibrous microstructure that is optimized to suit a physiological function. The fiber architecture dictates physical characteristics such as stiffness, diffusivity, and electrical conduction. Abnormal deviations of fiber architecture are often associated with disease. Thus, it is useful to characterize fiber network organization from image data in order to better understand pathological mechanisms. We devised a method to quantify distributions of fiber orientations based on the Fourier transform and the Qball algorithm from diffusion MRI. The Fourier transform was used to decompose images into directional components, while the Qball algorithm efficiently converted the directional data from the frequency domain to the orientation domain. The representation in the orientation domain does not require any particular functional representation, and thus the method is nonparametric. The algorithm was verified to demonstrate its reliability and used on datasets from microscopy to show its applicability. This method increases the ability to extract information of microstructural fiber organization from experimental data that will enhance our understanding of structure-function relationships and enable accurate representation of material anisotropy in biological tissues.
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46
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Lopez Marquez A, Gareis IE, Dias FJ, Gerhard C, Lezcano MF. Methods to Characterize Electrospun Scaffold Morphology: A Critical Review. Polymers (Basel) 2022; 14:467. [PMID: 35160457 PMCID: PMC8839183 DOI: 10.3390/polym14030467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Revised: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Electrospun scaffolds can imitate the hierarchical structures present in the extracellular matrix, representing one of the main concerns of modern tissue engineering. They are characterized in order to evaluate their capability to support cells or to provide guidelines for reproducibility. The issues with widely used methods for morphological characterization are discussed in order to provide insight into a desirable methodology for electrospun scaffold characterization. Reported methods include imaging and physical measurements. Characterization methods harbor inherent limitations and benefits, and these are discussed and presented in a comprehensive selection matrix to provide researchers with the adequate tools and insights required to characterize their electrospun scaffolds. It is shown that imaging methods present the most benefits, with drawbacks being limited to required costs and expertise. By making use of more appropriate characterization, researchers will avoid measurements that do not represent their scaffolds and perhaps might discover that they can extract more characteristics from their scaffold at no further cost.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex Lopez Marquez
- Faculty of Engineering and Health, University of Applied Sciences and Arts, 37085 Gottingen, Germany; (A.L.M.); (C.G.)
| | - Iván Emilio Gareis
- Laboratorio de Cibernética, Departamento de Bioingeniería, Facultad de Ingeniería, Universidad Nacional de Entre Ríos, Oro Verde 3100, Argentina;
| | - Fernando José Dias
- Research Centre for Dental Sciences CICO, Department of Integral Adults Dentistry, Dental School, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco 4811230, Chile;
| | - Christoph Gerhard
- Faculty of Engineering and Health, University of Applied Sciences and Arts, 37085 Gottingen, Germany; (A.L.M.); (C.G.)
| | - María Florencia Lezcano
- Laboratorio de Cibernética, Departamento de Bioingeniería, Facultad de Ingeniería, Universidad Nacional de Entre Ríos, Oro Verde 3100, Argentina;
- Research Centre for Dental Sciences CICO, Department of Integral Adults Dentistry, Dental School, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco 4811230, Chile;
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Muntz I, Fenu M, van Osch GJVM, Koenderink G. The role of cell-matrix interactions in connective tissue mechanics. Phys Biol 2021; 19. [PMID: 34902848 DOI: 10.1088/1478-3975/ac42b8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Living tissue is able to withstand large stresses in everyday life, yet it also actively adapts to dynamic loads. This remarkable mechanical behaviour emerges from the interplay between living cells and their non-living extracellular environment. Here we review recent insights into the biophysical mechanisms involved in the reciprocal interplay between cells and the extracellular matrix and how this interplay determines tissue mechanics, with a focus on connective tissues. We first describe the roles of the main macromolecular components of the extracellular matrix in regards to tissue mechanics. We then proceed to highlight the main routes via which cells sense and respond to their biochemical and mechanical extracellular environment. Next we introduce the three main routes via which cells can modify their extracellular environment: exertion of contractile forces, secretion and deposition of matrix components, and matrix degradation. Finally we discuss how recent insights in the mechanobiology of cell-matrix interactions are furthering our understanding of the pathophysiology of connective tissue diseases and cancer, and facilitating the design of novel strategies for tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iain Muntz
- Bionanoscience, TU Delft, Kavli Institute of Nanoscience Delft, Delft University of Technology, Van der Maasweg 9, Delft, Zuid-Holland, 2629 HC, NETHERLANDS
| | - Michele Fenu
- Otorhinolaryngology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, Zuid-Holland, 3000 CA, NETHERLANDS
| | - Gerjo J V M van Osch
- Orthopaedics; Otorhinolaryngology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, Zuid-Holland, 3000 CA, NETHERLANDS
| | - Gijsje Koenderink
- Bionanoscience, TU Delft, Kavli Institute of Nanoscience Delft, Delft University of Technology, Van der Maasweg 9, Delft, Zuid-Holland, 2629 HZ, NETHERLANDS
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48
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Revell CK, Jensen OE, Shearer T, Lu Y, Holmes DF, Kadler KE. Collagen fibril assembly: New approaches to unanswered questions. Matrix Biol Plus 2021; 12:100079. [PMID: 34381990 PMCID: PMC8334717 DOI: 10.1016/j.mbplus.2021.100079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Revised: 06/27/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Collagen fibrils are essential for metazoan life. They are the largest, most abundant, and most versatile protein polymers in animals, where they occur in the extracellular matrix to form the structural basis of tissues and organs. Collagen fibrils were first observed at the turn of the 20th century. During the last 40 years, the genes that encode the family of collagens have been identified, the structure of the collagen triple helix has been solved, the many enzymes involved in the post-translational modifications of collagens have been identified, mutations in the genes encoding collagen and collagen-associated proteins have been linked to heritable disorders, and changes in collagen levels have been associated with a wide range of diseases, including cancer. Yet despite extensive research, a full understanding of how cells assemble collagen fibrils remains elusive. Here, we review current models of collagen fibril self-assembly, and how cells might exert control over the self-assembly process to define the number, length and organisation of fibrils in tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher K. Revell
- Department of Mathematics, University of Manchester, Alan Turing Building, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
- Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Michael Smith Building, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
| | - Oliver E. Jensen
- Department of Mathematics, University of Manchester, Alan Turing Building, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
- Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Michael Smith Building, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
| | - Tom Shearer
- Department of Mathematics, University of Manchester, Alan Turing Building, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
- Department of Materials, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
| | - Yinhui Lu
- Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Michael Smith Building, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
| | - David F. Holmes
- Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Michael Smith Building, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
| | - Karl E. Kadler
- Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Michael Smith Building, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
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Siadat SM, Silverman AA, Susilo ME, Paten JA, DiMarzio CA, Ruberti JW. Development of Fluorescently Labeled, Functional Type I Collagen Molecules. Macromol Biosci 2021; 22:e2100144. [PMID: 34856056 DOI: 10.1002/mabi.202100144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Revised: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
While de novo collagen fibril formation is well-studied, there are few investigations into the growth and remodeling of extant fibrils, where molecular collagen incorporation into and erosion from the fibril surface must delicately balance during fibril growth and remodeling. Observing molecule/fibril interactions is difficult, requiring the tracking of molecular dynamics while, at the same time, minimizing the effect of the observation on fibril structure and assembly. To address the observation-interference problem, exogenous collagen molecules are tagged with small fluorophores and the fibrillogenesis kinetics of labeled collagen molecules as well as the structure and network morphology of assembled fibrils are examined. While excessive labeling significantly disturbs fibrillogenesis kinetics and network morphology of assembled fibrils, adding less than ≈1.2 labels per collagen molecule preserves these characteristics. Applications of the functional, labeled collagen probe are demonstrated in both cellular and acellular systems. The functional, labeled collagen associates strongly with native fibrils and when added to an in vitro model of corneal stromal development at low concentration, the labeled collagen is incorporated into a fine extracellular matrix (ECM) network associated with the cells within 24 h.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Monica E Susilo
- Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Jeffrey A Paten
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, 02134, USA
| | - Charles A DiMarzio
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Jeffrey W Ruberti
- Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
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50
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Lewczuk B, Szyryńska N. Field-Emission Scanning Electron Microscope as a Tool for Large-Area and Large-Volume Ultrastructural Studies. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11123390. [PMID: 34944167 PMCID: PMC8698110 DOI: 10.3390/ani11123390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Ultrastructural studies of cells and tissues are usually performed using transmission electron microscopy (TEM), which enables imaging at the highest possible resolution. The weak point of TEM is the limited ability to analyze the ultrastructure of large areas and volumes of biological samples. This limitation can be overcome by using modern field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) with high-sensitivity detection, which enables the creation of TEM-like images from the flat surfaces of resin-embedded biological specimens. Several FE-SEM-based techniques for two- and three-dimensional ultrastructural studies of cells, tissues, organs, and organisms have been developed in the 21st century. These techniques have created a new era in structural biology and have changed the role of the scanning electron microscope (SEM) in biological and medical laboratories. Since the premiere of the first commercially available SEM in 1965, these instruments were used almost exclusively to obtain topographical information over a large range of magnifications. Currently, FE-SEM offers many attractive possibilities in the studies of cell and tissue ultrastructure, and they are presented in this review. Abstract The development of field-emission scanning electron microscopes for high-resolution imaging at very low acceleration voltages and equipped with highly sensitive detectors of backscattered electrons (BSE) has enabled transmission electron microscopy (TEM)-like imaging of the cut surfaces of tissue blocks, which are impermeable to the electron beam, or tissue sections mounted on the solid substrates. This has resulted in the development of methods that simplify and accelerate ultrastructural studies of large areas and volumes of biological samples. This article provides an overview of these methods, including their advantages and disadvantages. The imaging of large sample areas can be performed using two methods based on the detection of transmitted electrons or BSE. Effective imaging using BSE requires special fixation and en bloc contrasting of samples. BSE imaging has resulted in the development of volume imaging techniques, including array tomography (AT) and serial block-face imaging (SBF-SEM). In AT, serial ultrathin sections are collected manually on a solid substrate such as a glass and silicon wafer or automatically on a tape using a special ultramicrotome. The imaging of serial sections is used to obtain three-dimensional (3D) information. SBF-SEM is based on removing the top layer of a resin-embedded sample using an ultramicrotome inside the SEM specimen chamber and then imaging the exposed surface with a BSE detector. The steps of cutting and imaging the resin block are repeated hundreds or thousands of times to obtain a z-stack for 3D analyses.
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