1901
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Hutmacher DW, Holzapfel BM, De-Juan-Pardo EM, Pereira BA, Ellem SJ, Loessner D, Risbridger GP. Convergence of regenerative medicine and synthetic biology to develop standardized and validated models of human diseases with clinical relevance. Curr Opin Biotechnol 2015; 35:127-32. [PMID: 26121082 DOI: 10.1016/j.copbio.2015.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2015] [Revised: 06/09/2015] [Accepted: 06/10/2015] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
In order to progress beyond currently available medical devices and implants, the concept of tissue engineering has moved into the centre of biomedical research worldwide. The aim of this approach is not to replace damaged tissue with an implant or device but rather to prompt the patient's own tissue to enact a regenerative response by using a tissue-engineered construct to assemble new functional and healthy tissue. More recently, it has been suggested that the combination of Synthetic Biology and translational tissue-engineering techniques could enhance the field of personalized medicine, not only from a regenerative medicine perspective, but also to provide frontier technologies for building and transforming the research landscape in the field of in vitro and in vivo disease models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dietmar Werner Hutmacher
- Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, 60 Musk Avenue, Kelvin Grove, QLD 4049, Brisbane, Australia; George W Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, 801 Ferst Drive Northwest, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA; Institute for Advanced Study, Technical University Munich, Lichtenbergstraße 2a, 85748 Garching, Munich, Germany.
| | - Boris Michael Holzapfel
- Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, 60 Musk Avenue, Kelvin Grove, QLD 4049, Brisbane, Australia; Orthopedic Center for Musculoskeletal Research, University of Wuerzburg, Koenig-Ludwig-Haus, Brettreichstr. 11, 97072 Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Elena Maria De-Juan-Pardo
- Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, 60 Musk Avenue, Kelvin Grove, QLD 4049, Brisbane, Australia; Prostate Cancer Research Group, Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Brooke Anne Pereira
- Prostate Cancer Research Group, Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Stuart John Ellem
- Prostate Cancer Research Group, Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Daniela Loessner
- Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, 60 Musk Avenue, Kelvin Grove, QLD 4049, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Gail Petuna Risbridger
- Prostate Cancer Research Group, Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
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1902
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Yasotharan S, Pinto S, Sled JG, Bolz SS, Günther A. Artery-on-a-chip platform for automated, multimodal assessment of cerebral blood vessel structure and function. LAB ON A CHIP 2015; 15:2660-9. [PMID: 25990299 DOI: 10.1039/c5lc00021a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
We present a compact microfluidic platform for the automated, multimodal assessment of intact small blood vessels. Mouse olfactory artery segments were reversibly loaded onto a microfluidic device and kept under physiological (i.e., close to in vivo) environmental conditions. For immunohistochemical endpoint protein analysis, automated on chip fixation and staining of the artery eliminated the need for any subsequent tissue sectioning or processing outside the chip. In a first case study, we demonstrate the blood vessel abluminal structure based on the positions of smooth muscle cell nuclei, actin filaments and voltage gated calcium channels. In a second case study we incubated smooth muscle cells (SMCs) with a calcium-sensitive dye to simultaneously assess time-dependent, agonist-induced calcium and diameter changes of pressurized resistance arteries. We expect the presented microfluidic platform to promote routine on-chip staining and quantitative fluorescence imaging of intact blood vessels from different vascular beds, tissue engineered vascular constructs and vascularized microtissues. The at least tenfold reduction in required aliquot volumes for functional assessment and staining was achieved by on-board fluid manipulation of the syringe-pump free platform and may promote its applications for screening of newly synthesized compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanjesh Yasotharan
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, 5 King's College Road, Toronto, Ontario M5S3G8, Canada.
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1903
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Abstract
Effective antivirals have been developed against specific viruses, such as HIV, Hepatitis C virus and influenza virus. This 'one bug-one drug' approach to antiviral drug development can be successful, but it may be inadequate for responding to an increasing diversity of viruses that cause significant diseases in humans. The majority of viral pathogens that cause emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases are membrane-enveloped viruses, which require the fusion of viral and cell membranes for virus entry. Therefore, antivirals that target the membrane fusion process represent new paradigms for broad-spectrum antiviral discovery. In this Review, we discuss the mechanisms responsible for the fusion between virus and cell membranes and explore how broad-spectrum antivirals target this process to prevent virus entry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frederic Vigant
- Department of Microbiology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, One Gustave L. Levy Place, #1124, New York, New York 10029, USA
| | - Nuno C Santos
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Egas Moniz, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Benhur Lee
- Department of Microbiology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, One Gustave L. Levy Place, #1124, New York, New York 10029, USA
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1904
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Zhang YS, Aleman J, Arneri A, Bersini S, Piraino F, Shin SR, Dokmeci MR, Khademhosseini A. From cardiac tissue engineering to heart-on-a-chip: beating challenges. Biomed Mater 2015; 10:034006. [PMID: 26065674 PMCID: PMC4489846 DOI: 10.1088/1748-6041/10/3/034006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The heart is one of the most vital organs in the human body, which actively pumps the blood through the vascular network to supply nutrients to as well as to extract wastes from all other organs, maintaining the homeostasis of the biological system. Over the past few decades, tremendous efforts have been exerted in engineering functional cardiac tissues for heart regeneration via biomimetic approaches. More recently, progress has been made toward the transformation of knowledge obtained from cardiac tissue engineering to building physiologically relevant microfluidic human heart models (i.e. heart-on-chips) for applications in drug discovery. The advancement in stem cell technologies further provides the opportunity to create personalized in vitro models from cells derived from patients. Here, starting from heart biology, we review recent advances in engineering cardiac tissues and heart-on-a-chip platforms for their use in heart regeneration and cardiotoxic/cardiotherapeutic drug screening, and then briefly conclude with characterization techniques and personalization potential of the cardiac models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Shrike Zhang
- Biomaterials Innovation Research Center, Division of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
- Harvard-MIT Division of Health Sciences and Technology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Julio Aleman
- Biomaterials Innovation Research Center, Division of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
- Harvard-MIT Division of Health Sciences and Technology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Andrea Arneri
- Biomaterials Innovation Research Center, Division of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
- Harvard-MIT Division of Health Sciences and Technology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
- Bioengineering Department, Politecnico di Milano, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci 32, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Simone Bersini
- Bioengineering Department, Politecnico di Milano, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci 32, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Francesco Piraino
- Institute of Bioengineering, School of Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Su Ryon Shin
- Biomaterials Innovation Research Center, Division of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
- Harvard-MIT Division of Health Sciences and Technology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Mehmet Remzi Dokmeci
- Biomaterials Innovation Research Center, Division of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
- Harvard-MIT Division of Health Sciences and Technology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Ali Khademhosseini
- Biomaterials Innovation Research Center, Division of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
- Harvard-MIT Division of Health Sciences and Technology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
- Department of Physics, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21569, Saudi Arabia
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1905
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Moreno EL, Hachi S, Hemmer K, Trietsch SJ, Baumuratov AS, Hankemeier T, Vulto P, Schwamborn JC, Fleming RMT. Differentiation of neuroepithelial stem cells into functional dopaminergic neurons in 3D microfluidic cell culture. LAB ON A CHIP 2015; 15:2419-2428. [PMID: 25902196 DOI: 10.1039/c5lc00180c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
A hallmark of Parkinson's disease is the progressive loss of nigrostriatal dopaminergic neurons. We derived human neuroepithelial cells from induced pluripotent stem cells and successfully differentiated them into dopaminergic neurons within phase-guided, three-dimensional microfluidic cell culture bioreactors. After 30 days of differentiation within the microfluidic bioreactors, in situ morphological, immunocytochemical and calcium imaging confirmed the presence of dopaminergic neurons that were spontaneously electrophysiologically active, a characteristic feature of nigrostriatal dopaminergic neurons in vivo. Differentiation was as efficient as in macroscopic culture, with up to 19% of differentiated neurons immunoreactive for tyrosine hydroxylase, the penultimate enzyme in the synthesis of dopamine. This new microfluidic cell culture model integrates the latest innovations in developmental biology and microfluidic cell culture to generate a biologically realistic and economically efficient route to personalised drug discovery for Parkinson's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edinson Lucumi Moreno
- Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, University of Luxembourg, 7 avenue des Hauts-Fourneaux, L-4362 Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg.
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1906
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Senutovitch N, Vernetti L, Boltz R, DeBiasio R, Gough A, Taylor DL. Fluorescent protein biosensors applied to microphysiological systems. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2015; 240:795-808. [PMID: 25990438 PMCID: PMC4464952 DOI: 10.1177/1535370215584934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
This mini-review discusses the evolution of fluorescence as a tool to study living cells and tissues in vitro and the present role of fluorescent protein biosensors (FPBs) in microphysiological systems (MPSs). FPBs allow the measurement of temporal and spatial dynamics of targeted cellular events involved in normal and perturbed cellular assay systems and MPSs in real time. FPBs evolved from fluorescent analog cytochemistry (FAC) that permitted the measurement of the dynamics of purified proteins covalently labeled with environmentally insensitive fluorescent dyes and then incorporated into living cells, as well as a large list of diffusible fluorescent probes engineered to measure environmental changes in living cells. In parallel, a wide range of fluorescence microscopy methods were developed to measure the chemical and molecular activities of the labeled cells, including ratio imaging, fluorescence lifetime, total internal reflection, 3D imaging, including super-resolution, as well as high-content screening. FPBs evolved from FAC by combining environmentally sensitive fluorescent dyes with proteins in order to monitor specific physiological events such as post-translational modifications, production of metabolites, changes in various ion concentrations, and the dynamic interaction of proteins with defined macromolecules in time and space within cells. Original FPBs involved the engineering of fluorescent dyes to sense specific activities when covalently attached to particular domains of the targeted protein. The subsequent development of fluorescent proteins (FPs), such as the green fluorescent protein, dramatically accelerated the adoption of studying living cells, since the genetic "labeling" of proteins became a relatively simple method that permitted the analysis of temporal-spatial dynamics of a wide range of proteins. Investigators subsequently engineered the fluorescence properties of the FPs for environmental sensitivity that, when combined with targeted proteins/peptides, created a new generation of FPBs. Examples of FPBs that are useful in MPS are presented, including the design, testing, and application in a liver MPS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Senutovitch
- University of Pittsburgh Drug Discovery Institute, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA University of Pittsburgh Department of Computational & Systems Biology, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
| | - Lawrence Vernetti
- University of Pittsburgh Drug Discovery Institute, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA University of Pittsburgh Department of Computational & Systems Biology, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
| | - Robert Boltz
- University of Pittsburgh Drug Discovery Institute, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA University of Pittsburgh Department of Computational & Systems Biology, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
| | - Richard DeBiasio
- University of Pittsburgh Drug Discovery Institute, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
| | - Albert Gough
- University of Pittsburgh Drug Discovery Institute, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA University of Pittsburgh Department of Computational & Systems Biology, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
| | - D Lansing Taylor
- University of Pittsburgh Drug Discovery Institute, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA University of Pittsburgh Department of Computational & Systems Biology, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
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1907
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Eglen RM, Randle DH. Drug Discovery Goes Three-Dimensional: Goodbye to Flat High-Throughput Screening? Assay Drug Dev Technol 2015; 13:262-5. [DOI: 10.1089/adt.2015.647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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1908
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1909
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Ben-Zvi D, Melton DA. Modeling human nutrition using human embryonic stem cells. Cell 2015; 161:12-17. [PMID: 25815980 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2015.02.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2015] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Nutrition presents unanswered scientific questions of high public health importance. We envision model systems composed of interacting gastrointestinal and metabolic tissues derived from human embryonic stem cells, populated by gut microbiota. The culture will be embedded in 3D scaffolds, creating a controlled experimental system that enables tissue sampling and imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danny Ben-Zvi
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Harvard University, 7 Divinity Avenue, Cambridge MA, USA.
| | - Douglas A Melton
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Harvard University, 7 Divinity Avenue, Cambridge MA, USA
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1910
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Batalov I, Feinberg AW. Differentiation of Cardiomyocytes from Human Pluripotent Stem Cells Using Monolayer Culture. Biomark Insights 2015; 10:71-6. [PMID: 26052225 PMCID: PMC4447149 DOI: 10.4137/bmi.s20050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2015] [Revised: 03/12/2015] [Accepted: 03/13/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Human pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) are a promising cell source for cardiac tissue engineering and cell-based therapies for heart repair because they can be expanded in vitro and differentiated into most cardiovascular cell types, including cardiomyocytes. During embryonic heart development, this differentiation occurs under the influence of internal and external stimuli that guide cells to go down the cardiac lineage. In order to differentiate PSCs in vitro, these or similar stimuli need to be provided in a controlled manner. However, because it is not possible to completely recapitulate the embryonic environment, the factors essential for cardiac differentiation of PSCs in vitro need to be experimentally determined and validated. Since PSCs were first developed, significant progress has been made in optimizing techniques for their differentiation toward cardiomyocytes. In this review, we will summarize recent advances in these techniques, with particular focus on monolayer-based methods that have improved the efficiency and scalability of cardiomyocyte differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivan Batalov
- Department of Materials Science & Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Adam W Feinberg
- Department of Materials Science & Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA, USA. ; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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1911
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Bersini S, Moretti M. 3D functional and perfusable microvascular networks for organotypic microfluidic models. JOURNAL OF MATERIALS SCIENCE. MATERIALS IN MEDICINE 2015; 26:180. [PMID: 25893395 DOI: 10.1007/s10856-015-5520-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2014] [Accepted: 03/25/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
The metastatic dissemination of cancer cells from primary tumors to secondary loci is a complex and multistep process including local invasion, intravasation, survival in the blood stream and extravasation towards the metastatic site. It is well known cancer metastases follow organ-specific pathways with selected primary tumors mainly metastasizing towards a specific panel of secondary organs (Steven Paget's theory 1889). However, circulatory patterns and microarchitecture of capillary networks play a key role in the metastatic spread as well (James Ewing's theory 1929). Taking into account both these factors would be critical to develop more complex and physiologically relevant in vitro cancer models. This review presents recent advances in the generation of microvascularized systems through microfluidic approaches and discusses promising results achieved by organ-on-a-chip platforms mimicking the pathophysiology of the functional units of specific organs. The combination of physiologically-like microvascular networks and organotypic microenvironments would foster a new generation of in vitro cancer models to more effectively screen new therapeutics, design personalized medicine treatments and investigate molecular pathways involved in cancer metastases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Bersini
- Cell and Tissue Engineering Lab, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Galeazzi, 20161, Milan, Italy,
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1912
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Faley SL, Baer BB, Larsen TSH, Bellan LM. Robust fluidic connections to freestanding microfluidic hydrogels. BIOMICROFLUIDICS 2015; 9:036501. [PMID: 26045731 PMCID: PMC4441701 DOI: 10.1063/1.4921453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2015] [Accepted: 05/11/2015] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Biomimetic scaffolds approaching physiological scale, whose size and large cellular load far exceed the limits of diffusion, require incorporation of a fluidic means to achieve adequate nutrient/metabolite exchange. This need has driven the extension of microfluidic technologies into the area of biomaterials. While construction of perfusable scaffolds is essentially a problem of microfluidic device fabrication, functional implementation of free-standing, thick-tissue constructs depends upon successful integration of external pumping mechanisms through optimized connective assemblies. However, a critical analysis to identify optimal materials/assembly components for hydrogel substrates has received little focus to date. This investigation addresses this issue directly by evaluating the efficacy of a range of adhesive and mechanical fluidic connection methods to gelatin hydrogel constructs based upon both mechanical property analysis and cell compatibility. Results identify a novel bioadhesive, comprised of two enzymatically modified gelatin compounds, for connecting tubing to hydrogel constructs that is both structurally robust and non-cytotoxic. Furthermore, outcomes from this study provide clear evidence that fluidic interconnect success varies with substrate composition (specifically hydrogel versus polydimethylsiloxane), highlighting not only the importance of selecting the appropriately tailored components for fluidic hydrogel systems but also that of encouraging ongoing, targeted exploration of this issue. The optimization of such interconnect systems will ultimately promote exciting scientific and therapeutic developments provided by microfluidic, cell-laden scaffolds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon L Faley
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Vanderbilt University , 2400 Highland Avenue, 101 Olin Hall, Nashville, Tennessee 37212, USA
| | - Bradly B Baer
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Vanderbilt University , 2400 Highland Avenue, 101 Olin Hall, Nashville, Tennessee 37212, USA
| | - Taylor S H Larsen
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Vanderbilt University , 2400 Highland Avenue, 101 Olin Hall, Nashville, Tennessee 37212, USA
| | - Leon M Bellan
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Vanderbilt University , 2400 Highland Avenue, 101 Olin Hall, Nashville, Tennessee 37212, USA
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1913
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Esch EW, Bahinski A, Huh D. Organs-on-chips at the frontiers of drug discovery. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2015; 14:248-60. [PMID: 25792263 DOI: 10.1038/nrd4539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 761] [Impact Index Per Article: 84.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Improving the effectiveness of preclinical predictions of human drug responses is critical to reducing costly failures in clinical trials. Recent advances in cell biology, microfabrication and microfluidics have enabled the development of microengineered models of the functional units of human organs - known as organs-on-chips - that could provide the basis for preclinical assays with greater predictive power. Here, we examine the new opportunities for the application of organ-on-chip technologies in a range of areas in preclinical drug discovery, such as target identification and validation, target-based screening, and phenotypic screening. We also discuss emerging drug discovery opportunities enabled by organs-on-chips, as well as important challenges in realizing the full potential of this technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric W Esch
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, USA
| | - Anthony Bahinski
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
| | - Dongeun Huh
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, USA
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1914
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High-content screening technology for studying drug-induced hepatotoxicity in cell models. Arch Toxicol 2015; 89:1007-22. [PMID: 25787152 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-015-1503-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2015] [Accepted: 03/05/2015] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
High-content screening is the application of automated microscopy and image analysis to both cell biology and drug discovery. Over the last decade, this technique has emerged as a useful technology that allows the simultaneous measurement of different parameters at a single-cell level. Hepatotoxicity is a compelling reason for drug nonapprovals and withdrawals. It is recognized that the safety of a compound cannot be based on a single in vitro assay, and existing methods are not predictive of drug-induced toxicity. However, different HCS assays have been recently demonstrated as being powerful for identifying different mechanisms implicated in drug-induced toxicity with high sensitivity and specificity. These assays integrate the data obtained from different cell function indicators and can be easily incorporated into basic screening processes for the safety evaluation and selection of drug candidates; thus, they contribute greatly to lessen the likelihood of drug failure. Exploring the use of cellular imaging technology in drug-induced liver injury by reviewing the different tests proposed provides evidence that this technology has a strong impact on drug discovery.
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1915
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Xu Y, Wang X. Fluid and cell behaviors along a 3D printed alginate/gelatin/fibrin channel. Biotechnol Bioeng 2015; 112:1683-95. [PMID: 25727058 DOI: 10.1002/bit.25579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2014] [Accepted: 02/17/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Three-dimensional (3D) cell manipulation is available with the integration of microfluidic technology and rapid prototyping techniques. High-Fidelity (Hi-Fi) constructs hold enormous therapeutic potential for organ manufacturing and regenerative medicine. In the present paper we introduced a quasi-three-dimensional (Q3D) model with parallel biocompatible alginate/gelatin/fibrin hurdles. The behaviors of fluids and cells along the microfluidic channels with various widths were studied. Cells inside the newly designed microfluidic channels attached and grew well. Morphological changes of adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) in both two-dimensional (2D) and 3D milieu were found on the printed constructs. Endothelialization occurred with the co-cultures of ADSCs and hepatocytes. This study provides insights into the interactions among fluids, cells and biomaterials, the behaviors of fluids and cells along the microfluidic channels, and the applications of Q3D techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yufan Xu
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials Processing Technology, Ministry of Education & Center of Organ Manufacturing, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, P.R. China
| | - Xiaohong Wang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials Processing Technology, Ministry of Education & Center of Organ Manufacturing, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, P.R. China. .,State Key Laboratory of Materials Processing and Die & Mould Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, P.R. China.
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1916
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A Microfluidic Diffusion Cell for Fast and Easy Percutaneous Absorption Assays. Pharm Res 2015; 32:2704-12. [PMID: 25724160 DOI: 10.1007/s11095-015-1654-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2014] [Accepted: 02/10/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Percutaneous absorption assays of molecules for pharmaceutical and cosmetology purposes are important to determine the bioavailability of new compounds, once topically applied. The current method of choice is to measure the rate of diffusion through excised human skin using a diffusion cell. This method however entails significant drawbacks such as scarce availability and poor reproducibility of the sample, low sampling rate, and tedious assay setup. METHODS The objective of the present work is to propose an alternative method that overcomes these issues by integrating an experimental model of the skin (artificial stratum corneum) and online optical sensors into a microfluidic device. RESULTS The measurement of the diffusion profile followed by the calculation of the permeability coefficients and time lag were performed on seven different molecules and obtained data positively fit with those available from literature on human skin penetration. The coating of the lipid mixture to generate the artificial stratum corneum also proved robust and reproducible. The results show that the proposed device is able to give fast, real-time, accurate, and reproducible data in a user-friendly manner, and can be produced at a large scale. CONCLUSION These assets should help both the cosmetics and pharmaceutics fields where the skin is the target or a pathway of a formulated compound, by allowing more candidate molecules or formulations to be assessed during the various stages of their development.
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1917
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Abstract
The development of a functional three-dimensional model of human skeletal muscle tissue could accelerate progress towards new and personalized treatments for skeletal muscle disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohsen Afshar Bakooshli
- Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Penney M Gilbert
- Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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1918
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Skommer J, Wlodkowic D. Successes and future outlook for microfluidics-based cardiovascular drug discovery. Expert Opin Drug Discov 2015; 10:231-44. [PMID: 25672221 DOI: 10.1517/17460441.2015.1001736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The greatest advantage of using microfluidics as a platform for the assessment of cardiovascular drug action is its ability to finely regulate fluid flow conditions, including flow rate, shear stress and pulsatile flow. At the same time, microfluidics provide means for modifying the vessel geometry (bifurcations, stenoses, complex networks), the type of surface of the vessel walls, and for patterning cells in 3D tissue-like architecture, including generation of lumen walls lined with cells and heart-on-a-chip structures for mimicking ventricular cardiomyocyte physiology. In addition, owing to the small volume of required specimens, microfluidics is ideally suited to clinical situations whereby monitoring of drug dosing or efficacy needs to be coupled with minimal phlebotomy-related drug loss. AREAS COVERED In this review, the authors highlight potential applications for the currently existing and emerging technologies and offer several suggestions on how to close the development cycle of microfluidic devices for cardiovascular drug discovery. EXPERT OPINION The ultimate goal in microfluidics research for drug discovery is to develop 'human-on-a-chip' systems, whereby several organ cultures, including the vasculature and the heart, can mimic complex interactions between the organs and body systems. This would provide in vivo-like pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics for drug ADMET assessment. At present, however, the great variety of available designs does not go hand in hand with their use by the pharmaceutical community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Skommer
- RMIT University, School of Applied Sciences , Melbourne, VIC , Australia
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1919
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Ramadan Q, Gijs MAM. In vitro micro-physiological models for translational immunology. LAB ON A CHIP 2015; 15:614-36. [PMID: 25501670 DOI: 10.1039/c4lc01271b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
The immune system is a source of regulation of the human body and is key for its stable functioning. Animal models have been successfully used for many years to study human immunity and diseases and provided significant contributions to the development of powerful new therapies. However, such models inevitably display differences from the human metabolism and disease state and therefore may correlate poorly with the human conditions. This explains the interest for the use of in vitro models of human cells, which have better potential to assist in understanding the physiological events that characterize the immune response in humans. Microfluidic technologies offer great capabilities to create miniaturized in vivo-like physiological models that mimic tissue-tissue interactions and simulate the body metabolism in both the healthy and diseased states. The micro-scale features of these microfluidic systems allow positioning heterogeneous cellular cultures in close proximity to each other in a dynamic fluidic environment, thereby allowing efficient cell-cell interactions and effectively narrowing the gap between in vivo and in vitro conditions. Due to the relative simplicity of these systems, compared to animal models, it becomes possible to investigate cell signaling by monitoring the metabolites transported from one tissue to another in real time. This allows studying detailed physiological events and in consequence understanding the influence of metabolites on a specific tissue/organ function as well as on the healthy/diseased state modulation. Numerous in vitro models of human organs have been developed during the last few years, aiming to mimic as closely as possible the in vivo characteristics of such organs. This technology is still in its infancy, but is promised a bright future in industrial and medical applications. Here we review the recent literature, in which functional microphysiological models have been developed to mimic tissues and to explore multi-tissue interactions, focusing in particular on the study of immune reactions, inflammation and the development of diseases. Also, an outlook on the opportunities and issues for further translational development of functional in vitro models in immunology will be presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qasem Ramadan
- Bioelectronics Laboratory, Institute of Microelectronics, 11 Science Park II, Singapore 117685.
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1920
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Yang Y, Yang X, Zou J, Jia C, Hu Y, Du H, Wang H. Evaluation of photodynamic therapy efficiency using an in vitro three-dimensional microfluidic breast cancer tissue model. LAB ON A CHIP 2015; 15:735-744. [PMID: 25428803 DOI: 10.1039/c4lc01065e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
In recognition of the limitations of monolayer cell cultures and resource-intensive animal studies, a microfluidic culture system was developed for creation of physiologically relevant three-dimensional (3D) tissues. In this study, an in vitro 3D breast cancer tissue model was established in a microfluidic system with human breast cancer cells (MCF-7) and primary adipose-derived stromal cells (ASCs). It was evaluated for utility in determining the efficiency of photodynamic therapy (PDT) with therapeutic agents (i.e. photosensitizer and gold nanoparticles) under various irradiation conditions. We demonstrated, for the first time, the potential use of a microfluidic-based in vitro 3D breast cancer model for effective evaluation of PDT, with the capability of controlling 3D microenvironments for breast cancer tissue formation, real-time monitoring of tissue progression, implementing a circulation-like dynamic medium flow and drug supplements, and investigating the relation between light penetration and tissue depth in PDT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yamin Yang
- Department of Chemistry, Chemical Biology and Biomedical Engineering, Stevens Institute of Technology, Hoboken, NJ 07030, USA.
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1921
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Modelling the metastatic cascade by in vitro microfluidic platforms. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015; 49:21-9. [PMID: 25759320 DOI: 10.1016/j.proghi.2015.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2015] [Accepted: 01/22/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The metastatic cascade comprises the following steps in sequential manner: the future metastatic cell has to leave the primary tumor mass, degrade the surrounding extracellular matrix, extravasate and circulate within in the bloodstream. Thereafter it has to attach to the endothelium of a target organ, intravasate into the connective tissue and has to proliferate to form a clinically detectable metastasis. We overview the in vitro microfluidic platforms modelling the metastatic cascade and the evolution towards systems capable of recapitulating all the steps by a single comprehensive model.
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1922
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Bal-Price A, Crofton KM, Leist M, Allen S, Arand M, Buetler T, Delrue N, FitzGerald RE, Hartung T, Heinonen T, Hogberg H, Bennekou SH, Lichtensteiger W, Oggier D, Paparella M, Axelstad M, Piersma A, Rached E, Schilter B, Schmuck G, Stoppini L, Tongiorgi E, Tiramani M, Monnet-Tschudi F, Wilks MF, Ylikomi T, Fritsche E. International STakeholder NETwork (ISTNET): creating a developmental neurotoxicity (DNT) testing road map for regulatory purposes. Arch Toxicol 2015; 89:269-87. [PMID: 25618548 PMCID: PMC4309915 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-015-1464-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2014] [Accepted: 12/04/2014] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
A major problem in developmental neurotoxicity (DNT) risk assessment is the lack of toxicological hazard information for most compounds. Therefore, new approaches are being considered to provide adequate experimental data that allow regulatory decisions. This process requires a matching of regulatory needs on the one hand and the opportunities provided by new test systems and methods on the other hand. Alignment of academically and industrially driven assay development with regulatory needs in the field of DNT is a core mission of the International STakeholder NETwork (ISTNET) in DNT testing. The first meeting of ISTNET was held in Zurich on 23-24 January 2014 in order to explore the concept of adverse outcome pathway (AOP) to practical DNT testing. AOPs were considered promising tools to promote test systems development according to regulatory needs. Moreover, the AOP concept was identified as an important guiding principle to assemble predictive integrated testing strategies (ITSs) for DNT. The recommendations on a road map towards AOP-based DNT testing is considered a stepwise approach, operating initially with incomplete AOPs for compound grouping, and focussing on key events of neurodevelopment. Next steps to be considered in follow-up activities are the use of case studies to further apply the AOP concept in regulatory DNT testing, making use of AOP intersections (common key events) for economic development of screening assays, and addressing the transition from qualitative descriptions to quantitative network modelling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Bal-Price
- Systems Toxicology Unit, EURL-ECVAM, Institute for Health and Consumer Protection, European Commission, Joint Research Centre, TP 580, Via Fermi 1, 21026, Ispra, VA, Italy,
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1923
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Dancik Y, Troutman JA, Jaworska J. Estimation of in vivo dose of dermally applied chemicals leading to estrogen/androgen receptor-mediated toxicity from in vitro data--Illustration with four reproductive toxicants. Reprod Toxicol 2015; 55:50-63. [PMID: 25597788 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2015.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2014] [Revised: 12/21/2014] [Accepted: 01/06/2015] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
We present a quantitative in vitro-in vivo extrapolation framework enabling the estimation of the external dermal exposure dose from in vitro experimental data relevant to a toxicity pathway of interest. The framework adapts elements of the biological pathway altering dose (BPAD) method [Judson et al. Chem Res Toxicol 2011;24:451] to the case of dermal exposure. Dermal doses of four toxicants equivalent to concentrations characterizing their effect on estrogen receptor α or androgen receptor activity in chemical-activated luciferase expression (CALUX) assays are estimated. The analysis shows that dermal BPADs, calculated from one in vitro concentration, can differ by up to a factor of 55, due to the impact applied dose and dermal exposure scenarios can have on skin permeation kinetics. These features should therefore be taken into account in risk assessment of dermally applied chemicals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuri Dancik
- The Procter & Gamble Company, 1853 Strombeek-Bever, Belgium.
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1924
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Madden L, Juhas M, Kraus WE, Truskey GA, Bursac N. Bioengineered human myobundles mimic clinical responses of skeletal muscle to drugs. eLife 2015; 4:e04885. [PMID: 25575180 PMCID: PMC4337710 DOI: 10.7554/elife.04885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 211] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2014] [Accepted: 01/08/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Existing in vitro models of human skeletal muscle cannot recapitulate the organization and function of native muscle, limiting their use in physiological and pharmacological studies. Here, we demonstrate engineering of electrically and chemically responsive, contractile human muscle tissues (‘myobundles’) using primary myogenic cells. These biomimetic constructs exhibit aligned architecture, multinucleated and striated myofibers, and a Pax7+ cell pool. They contract spontaneously and respond to electrical stimuli with twitch and tetanic contractions. Positive correlation between contractile force and GCaMP6-reported calcium responses enables non-invasive tracking of myobundle function and drug response. During culture, myobundles maintain functional acetylcholine receptors and structurally and functionally mature, evidenced by increased myofiber diameter and improved calcium handling and contractile strength. In response to diversely acting drugs, myobundles undergo dose-dependent hypertrophy or toxic myopathy similar to clinical outcomes. Human myobundles provide an enabling platform for predictive drug and toxicology screening and development of novel therapeutics for muscle-related disorders. DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.04885.001 Scientists have developed realistic models of the human liver, lung, and heart that allow them to observe living tissue in the laboratory. These models have helped us to better understand how these organs work and what goes wrong in diseases that affect these organs. The models can also be used to test how new drugs may affect a particular organ without the risk of exposing patients to the drug. Efforts to develop a realistic laboratory model of human muscle tissues that can contract like real muscles have not been as successful to date. This shortcoming has potentially hindered the development of drugs to treat numerous disorders that affect muscles and movement in humans—such as muscular dystrophies, which are diseases in which people progressively lose muscle strength. Some important drugs, like cholesterol-lowering statins, have detrimental effects on muscle tissue; one statin was so harmful to muscles that it had to be withdrawn from the market. As such, it would be useful to have experimental models that would allow scientists to test whether potential drugs damage or treat muscle tissue. Madden et al. have now bioengineered a three-dimensional laboratory model of living muscle tissue made of cells taken from biopsies of several different human patients. These tissues were grown into bundles of muscle fibers on special polymer frames in the laboratory. The bioengineered muscle bundles respond to electrical and chemical signals and contract just like normal muscle. They also exhibit the same structure and signaling as healthy muscle tissue in humans. Madden et al. exposed the muscle tissue bundles to three drugs known to affect muscles to determine if the model could be used to test whether drugs have harmful effects. This revealed that the bundles had weaker contractions in response to statins and the malaria drug chloroquine, just like normal muscles do—and that this effect worsened if more of each drug was used. Madden et al. also found that a drug that strengthens muscle contractions at low doses and damages muscle at high doses in humans has similar effects in the model. As well as this model being used to screen for harmful effects of drugs before clinical trials, the technique used to create the model could be used to grow muscle tissue from patients with muscle diseases. This would help researchers and doctors to better understand the patient's condition and potentially develop more efficient therapies. Also, the technique could be eventually developed to grow healthy muscle tissue to implant in patients who have been injured. DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.04885.002
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauran Madden
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, United States
| | - Mark Juhas
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, United States
| | - William E Kraus
- Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, United States
| | - George A Truskey
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, United States
| | - Nenad Bursac
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, United States
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1925
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Prakash C, Zuniga B, Song CS, Jiang S, Cropper J, Park S, Chatterjee B. Nuclear Receptors in Drug Metabolism, Drug Response and Drug Interactions. NUCLEAR RECEPTOR RESEARCH 2015; 2:101178. [PMID: 27478824 PMCID: PMC4963026 DOI: 10.11131/2015/101178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Orally delivered small-molecule therapeutics are metabolized in the liver and intestine by phase I and phase II drug-metabolizing enzymes (DMEs), and transport proteins coordinate drug influx (phase 0) and drug/drug-metabolite efflux (phase III). Genes involved in drug metabolism and disposition are induced by xenobiotic-activated nuclear receptors (NRs), i.e. PXR (pregnane X receptor) and CAR (constitutive androstane receptor), and by the 1α, 25-dihydroxy vitamin D3-activated vitamin D receptor (VDR), due to transactivation of xenobiotic-response elements (XREs) present in phase 0-III genes. Additional NRs, like HNF4-α, FXR, LXR-α play important roles in drug metabolism in certain settings, such as in relation to cholesterol and bile acid metabolism. The phase I enzymes CYP3A4/A5, CYP2D6, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP1A2, CYP2C8, CYP2A6, CYP2J2, and CYP2E1 metabolize >90% of all prescription drugs, and phase II conjugation of hydrophilic functional groups (with/without phase I modification) facilitates drug clearance. The conjugation step is mediated by broad-specificity transferases like UGTs, SULTs, GSTs. This review delves into our current understanding of PXR/CAR/VDR-mediated regulation of DME and transporter expression, as well as effects of single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) and epigenome (specified by promoter methylation, histone modification, microRNAs, long non coding RNAs) on the expression of PXR/CAR/VDR and phase 0-III mediators, and their impacts on variable drug response. Therapeutic agents that target epigenetic regulation and the molecular basis and consequences (overdosing, underdosing, or beneficial outcome) of drug-drug/drug-food/drug-herb interactions are also discussed. Precision medicine requires understanding of a drug's impact on DME and transporter activity and their NR-regulated expression in order to achieve optimal drug efficacy without adverse drug reactions. In future drug screening, new tools such as humanized mouse models and microfluidic organs-on-chips, which mimic the physiology of a multicellular environment, will likely replace the current cell-based workflow.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chandra Prakash
- Department of Molecular Medicine/Institute of Biotechnology, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, Texas Research Park, 15355 Lambda Drive, San Antonio, Texas 78245
- William Carey University College of Osteopathic Medicine, 498 Tucsan Ave, Hattiesburg, Mississipi 39401
| | - Baltazar Zuniga
- Department of Molecular Medicine/Institute of Biotechnology, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, Texas Research Park, 15355 Lambda Drive, San Antonio, Texas 78245
- University of Texas at Austin, 2100 Comal Street, Austin, Texas 78712
| | - Chung Seog Song
- Department of Molecular Medicine/Institute of Biotechnology, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, Texas Research Park, 15355 Lambda Drive, San Antonio, Texas 78245
| | - Shoulei Jiang
- Department of Molecular Medicine/Institute of Biotechnology, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, Texas Research Park, 15355 Lambda Drive, San Antonio, Texas 78245
| | - Jodie Cropper
- Department of Molecular Medicine/Institute of Biotechnology, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, Texas Research Park, 15355 Lambda Drive, San Antonio, Texas 78245
| | - Sulgi Park
- Department of Molecular Medicine/Institute of Biotechnology, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, Texas Research Park, 15355 Lambda Drive, San Antonio, Texas 78245
| | - Bandana Chatterjee
- Department of Molecular Medicine/Institute of Biotechnology, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, Texas Research Park, 15355 Lambda Drive, San Antonio, Texas 78245
- South Texas Veterans Health Care System, Audie L Murphy VA Hospital, 7400 Merton Minter Boulevard, San Antonio, Texas 78229
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1926
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Wick P, Chortarea S, Guenat OT, Roesslein M, Stucki JD, Hirn S, Petri-Fink A, Rothen-Rutishauser B. In vitro-ex vivo model systems for nanosafety assessment. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF NANOMEDICINE 2015. [DOI: 10.1515/ejnm-2014-0049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
AbstractEngineered nanomaterials have unique and novel properties enabling wide-ranging new applications in nearly all fields of research. As these new properties have raised concerns about potential adverse effects for the environment and human health, extensive efforts are underway to define reliable, cost- and time-effective, as well as mechanistic-based testing strategies to replace the current method of animal testing, which is still the most prevalent model used for the risk assessment of chemicals. Current approaches for nanomaterials follow this line. The aim of this review is to explore and qualify the relevance of new in vitro and ex vivo models in (nano)material safety assessment, a crucial prerequisite for translation into applications.
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1927
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van de Stolpe A, Kauffmann RH. Innovative human-specific investigational approaches to autoimmune disease. RSC Adv 2015. [DOI: 10.1039/c4ra15794j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
An organ-on-chip disease model approach, including “pre-clinical trial-on-chip” is introduced for understanding of human autoimmune disease pathophysiology and drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anja van de Stolpe
- Precision & Decentralized Diagnostics
- Philips Research
- Eindhoven
- The Netherlands
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1928
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Zhang YS, Ribas J, Nadhman A, Aleman J, Selimović Š, Lesher-Perez SC, Wang T, Manoharan V, Shin SR, Damilano A, Annabi N, Dokmeci MR, Takayama S, Khademhosseini A. A cost-effective fluorescence mini-microscope for biomedical applications. LAB ON A CHIP 2015; 15:3661-9. [PMID: 26282117 PMCID: PMC4550514 DOI: 10.1039/c5lc00666j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
We have designed and fabricated a miniature microscope from off-the-shelf components and a webcam, with built-in fluorescence capability for biomedical applications. The mini-microscope was able to detect both biochemical parameters, such as cell/tissue viability (e.g. live/dead assay), and biophysical properties of the microenvironment such as oxygen levels in microfabricated tissues based on an oxygen-sensitive fluorescent dye. This mini-microscope has adjustable magnifications from 8-60×, achieves a resolution as high as <2 μm, and possesses a long working distance of 4.5 mm (at a magnification of 8×). The mini-microscope was able to chronologically monitor cell migration and analyze beating of microfluidic liver and cardiac bioreactors in real time, respectively. The mini-microscope system is cheap, and its modularity allows convenient integration with a wide variety of pre-existing platforms including, but not limited to, cell culture plates, microfluidic devices, and organs-on-a-chip systems. Therefore, we envision its widespread application in cell biology, tissue engineering, biosensing, microfluidics, and organs-on-chips, which can potentially replace conventional bench-top microscopy where long-term in situ and large-scale imaging/analysis is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Shrike Zhang
- Biomaterials Innovation Research Center, Division of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA.
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1929
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Davis MI, Simeonov A, Lea W, Auld D. Literature Search and Review. Assay Drug Dev Technol 2014. [DOI: 10.1089/adt.2014.1209.lr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Doug Auld
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Cambridge, Massachusetts
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1930
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Muehleder S, Ovsianikov A, Zipperle J, Redl H, Holnthoner W. Connections matter: channeled hydrogels to improve vascularization. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2014; 2:52. [PMID: 25453032 PMCID: PMC4231943 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2014.00052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2014] [Accepted: 10/27/2014] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of cell-laden hydrogels to engineer soft tissue has been emerging within the past years. Despite, several newly developed and sophisticated techniques to encapsulate different cell types the importance of vascularization of the engineered constructs is often underestimated. As a result, cell death within a construct leads to impaired function and inclusion of the implant. Here, we discuss the fabrication of hollow channels within hydrogels as a promising strategy to facilitate vascularization. Furthermore, we present an overview on the feasible use of removable spacers, 3D laser-, and planar processing strategies to create channels within hydrogels. The implementation of these structures promotes control over cell distribution and increases oxygen transport and nutrient supply in vitro. However, many studies lack the use of endothelial cells in their approaches leaving out an important factor to enhance vessel ingrowth and anastomosis formation upon implantation. In addition, the adequate endothelial cell type needs to be considered to make these approaches bridge the gap to in vivo applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Severin Muehleder
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Experimental and Clinical Traumatology, AUVA Research Center , Vienna , Austria ; Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration , Vienna , Austria
| | - Aleksandr Ovsianikov
- Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration , Vienna , Austria ; Institute of Material Science and Technology, Vienna University of Technology , Vienna , Austria
| | - Johannes Zipperle
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Experimental and Clinical Traumatology, AUVA Research Center , Vienna , Austria ; Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration , Vienna , Austria
| | - Heinz Redl
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Experimental and Clinical Traumatology, AUVA Research Center , Vienna , Austria ; Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration , Vienna , Austria
| | - Wolfgang Holnthoner
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Experimental and Clinical Traumatology, AUVA Research Center , Vienna , Austria ; Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration , Vienna , Austria
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1931
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Huang JX, Blaskovich MA, Cooper MA. Cell- and biomarker-based assays for predicting nephrotoxicity. Expert Opin Drug Metab Toxicol 2014; 10:1621-35. [DOI: 10.1517/17425255.2014.967681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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1932
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Zeiss CJ. Improving the predictive value of interventional animal models data. Drug Discov Today 2014; 20:475-82. [PMID: 25448761 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2014.10.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2014] [Revised: 10/03/2014] [Accepted: 10/27/2014] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
For many chronic diseases, translational success using the animal model paradigm has reached an impasse. Using Alzheimer's disease as an example, this review employs a networks-based method to assess repeatability of outcomes across species, by intervention and mechanism. Over 75% of animal studies reported an improved outcome. Strain background was a significant potential confounder. Five percent of interventions had been tested across animals and humans, or examined across three or more animal models. Positive outcomes across species emerged for donepezil, memantine and exercise. Repeatable positive outcomes in animals were identified for the amyloid hypothesis and three additional mechanisms. This approach supports in silico reduction of positive outcomes bias in animal studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline J Zeiss
- Section of Comparative Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, 375 Congress Ave, New Haven, CT 06520, USA.
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1933
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Li SC, Kabeer MH, Vu LT, Keschrumrus V, Yin HZ, Dethlefs BA, Zhong JF, Weiss JH, Loudon WG. Training stem cells for treatment of malignant brain tumors. World J Stem Cells 2014; 6:432-440. [PMID: 25258664 PMCID: PMC4172671 DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v6.i4.432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2014] [Revised: 08/09/2014] [Accepted: 09/01/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The treatment of malignant brain tumors remains a challenge. Stem cell technology has been applied in the treatment of brain tumors largely because of the ability of some stem cells to infiltrate into regions within the brain where tumor cells migrate as shown in preclinical studies. However, not all of these efforts can translate in the effective treatment that improves the quality of life for patients. Here, we perform a literature review to identify the problems in the field. Given the lack of efficacy of most stem cell-based agents used in the treatment of malignant brain tumors, we found that stem cell distribution (i.e., only a fraction of stem cells applied capable of targeting tumors) are among the limiting factors. We provide guidelines for potential improvements in stem cell distribution. Specifically, we use an engineered tissue graft platform that replicates the in vivo microenvironment, and provide our data to validate that this culture platform is viable for producing stem cells that have better stem cell distribution than with the Petri dish culture system.
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