151
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Wörsdörfer P, Ergün S. The Impact of Oxygen Availability and Multilineage Communication on Organoid Maturation. Antioxid Redox Signal 2021; 35:217-233. [PMID: 33334234 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2020.8195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Significance: An optimal supply with oxygen is of high importance during embryogenesis and a prerequisite for proper organ development. Different tissues require varying amounts of oxygen, and even within single organs, different phases of development go alongside with either physiological hypoxia or the need for sufficient oxygen supply. Recent Advances: Human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived organoid models are state of the art cell culture platforms for the investigation of developmental processes, disease modeling, and drug testing. Organoids modeling the development of multiple tissues were developed within the past years. Critical Issues: Until now, optimization of oxygen supply and its role during organoid growth, differentiation, and maturation have only rarely been addressed. Recent publications indicate that hypoxia-induced processes play an important role in three-dimensional tissue cultures, triggering multilineage communication between mesenchymal cells, the endothelium, as well as organotypic cells. Later in culture, a sufficient supply with oxygen is of high importance to allow larger organoid sizes. Moreover, cellular stress is reduced and tissue maturation is improved. Therefore, a functional blood vessel network is required. Future Directions: In this review, we will briefly summarize aspects of the role of oxygen during embryonic development and organogenesis, present an update on novel organoid models with a special focus on organoid vascularization, and discuss the importance of complex organoids involving parenchymal cells, mesenchymal cells, inflammatory cells, and functional blood vessels for the generation of mature and fully functional tissues in vitro. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 35, 217-233.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philipp Wörsdörfer
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Julius-Maximilians-University Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Süleyman Ergün
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Julius-Maximilians-University Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
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152
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Chaigne A, Smith MB, Lopez Cavestany R, Hannezo E, Chalut KJ, Paluch EK. Three-dimensional geometry controls division symmetry in stem cell colonies. J Cell Sci 2021; 134:jcs255018. [PMID: 34323278 PMCID: PMC8349555 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.255018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Proper control of division orientation and symmetry, largely determined by spindle positioning, is essential to development and homeostasis. Spindle positioning has been extensively studied in cells dividing in two-dimensional (2D) environments and in epithelial tissues, where proteins such as NuMA (also known as NUMA1) orient division along the interphase long axis of the cell. However, little is known about how cells control spindle positioning in three-dimensional (3D) environments, such as early mammalian embryos and a variety of adult tissues. Here, we use mouse embryonic stem cells (ESCs), which grow in 3D colonies, as a model to investigate division in 3D. We observe that, at the periphery of 3D colonies, ESCs display high spindle mobility and divide asymmetrically. Our data suggest that enhanced spindle movements are due to unequal distribution of the cell-cell junction protein E-cadherin between future daughter cells. Interestingly, when cells progress towards differentiation, division becomes more symmetric, with more elongated shapes in metaphase and enhanced cortical NuMA recruitment in anaphase. Altogether, this study suggests that in 3D contexts, the geometry of the cell and its contacts with neighbors control division orientation and symmetry. This article has an associated First Person interview with the first author of the paper.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agathe Chaigne
- MRC Laboratory for Molecular Cell Biology, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Matthew B. Smith
- MRC Laboratory for Molecular Cell Biology, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Rocio Lopez Cavestany
- MRC Laboratory for Molecular Cell Biology, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | | | - Kevin J. Chalut
- Wellcome/MRC Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0AW, UK
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3DY, UK
| | - Ewa K. Paluch
- MRC Laboratory for Molecular Cell Biology, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
- Wellcome/MRC Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0AW, UK
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3DY, UK
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153
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Zilova L, Weinhardt V, Tavhelidse T, Schlagheck C, Thumberger T, Wittbrodt J. Fish primary embryonic pluripotent cells assemble into retinal tissue mirroring in vivo early eye development. eLife 2021; 10:e66998. [PMID: 34252023 PMCID: PMC8275126 DOI: 10.7554/elife.66998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Organoids derived from pluripotent stem cells promise the solution to current challenges in basic and biomedical research. Mammalian organoids are however limited by long developmental time, variable success, and lack of direct comparison to an in vivo reference. To overcome these limitations and address species-specific cellular organization, we derived organoids from rapidly developing teleosts. We demonstrate how primary embryonic pluripotent cells from medaka and zebrafish efficiently assemble into anterior neural structures, particularly retina. Within 4 days, blastula-stage cell aggregates reproducibly execute key steps of eye development: retinal specification, morphogenesis, and differentiation. The number of aggregated cells and genetic factors crucially impacted upon the concomitant morphological changes that were intriguingly reflecting the in vivo situation. High efficiency and rapid development of fish-derived organoids in combination with advanced genome editing techniques immediately allow addressing aspects of development and disease, and systematic probing of impact of the physical environment on morphogenesis and differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucie Zilova
- Centre for Organismal Studies Heidelberg, Heidelberg UniversityHeidelbergGermany
| | - Venera Weinhardt
- Centre for Organismal Studies Heidelberg, Heidelberg UniversityHeidelbergGermany
| | - Tinatini Tavhelidse
- Centre for Organismal Studies Heidelberg, Heidelberg UniversityHeidelbergGermany
| | - Christina Schlagheck
- Centre for Organismal Studies Heidelberg, Heidelberg UniversityHeidelbergGermany
- Heidelberg International Biosciences Graduate School HBIGS and HeiKa Graduate School on “Functional Materials”HeidelbergGermany
| | - Thomas Thumberger
- Centre for Organismal Studies Heidelberg, Heidelberg UniversityHeidelbergGermany
| | - Joachim Wittbrodt
- Centre for Organismal Studies Heidelberg, Heidelberg UniversityHeidelbergGermany
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154
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Oriola D, Spagnoli FM. Engineering life in synthetic systems. Development 2021; 148:270849. [PMID: 34251450 DOI: 10.1242/dev.199497] [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: 05/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The second EMBO-EMBL Symposium 'Synthetic Morphogenesis: From Gene Circuits to Tissue Architecture' was held virtually in March 2021, with participants from all over the world joining from the comfort of their sofas to discuss synthetic morphogenesis at large. Leading scientists from a range of disciplines, including developmental biology, physics, chemistry and computer science, covered a gamut of topics from the principles of cell and tissue organization, patterning and gene regulatory networks, to synthetic approaches for exploring evolutionary and developmental biology principles. Here, we describe some of the high points.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Oriola
- EMBL Barcelona, Dr Aiguader 88, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Francesca M Spagnoli
- Centre for Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, King's College London, Guy's Hospital, Floor 28, Tower Wing, Great Maze Pond, London SE1 9RT, UK
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155
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Gorfinkiel N, Martinez Arias A. The cell in the age of the genomic revolution: Cell Regulatory Networks. Cells Dev 2021; 168:203720. [PMID: 34252599 DOI: 10.1016/j.cdev.2021.203720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2021] [Revised: 07/05/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Over the last few years an intense activity in the areas of advanced microscopy and quantitative cell biology has put the focus on the morphogenetic events that shape embryos. The interest in these processes is taking place against the backdrop of genomic studies, particularly of global patterns of gene expression at the level of single cells, which cannot fully account for the way cells build tissues and organs. Here we discuss the need to integrate the activity of genes with that of cells and propose the need to develop a framework, based on cellular processes and cell interactions, that parallels that which has been created for gene activity in the form of Gene Regulatory Networks (GRNs). We begin to do this by suggesting elements for building Cell Regulatory Networks (CRNs). In the same manner that GRNs create schedules of gene expression that result in the emergence of cell fates over time, CRNs create tissues and organs i.e. space. We also suggest how GRNs and CRNs might interact in the building of embryos through feedback loops involving mechanics and tissue tectonics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Gorfinkiel
- Departamento de Genética, Fisiología y Microbiología, Facultad de CC Biológicas, Universidad Complutense, José Antonio Nováis 12, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Alfonso Martinez Arias
- Systems Bioengineering, DCEXS, Universidad Pompeu Fabra, ICREA (Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats), Doctor Aiguader 88, Pg. Lluís Companys 23, Barcelona, Spain.
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156
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Guillot C, Djeffal Y, Michaut A, Rabe B, Pourquié O. Dynamics of primitive streak regression controls the fate of neuromesodermal progenitors in the chicken embryo. eLife 2021; 10:64819. [PMID: 34227938 PMCID: PMC8260230 DOI: 10.7554/elife.64819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
In classical descriptions of vertebrate development, the segregation of the three embryonic germ layers completes by the end of gastrulation. Body formation then proceeds in a head to tail fashion by progressive deposition of lineage-committed progenitors during regression of the primitive streak (PS) and tail bud (TB). The identification by retrospective clonal analysis of a population of neuromesodermal progenitors (NMPs) contributing to both musculoskeletal precursors (paraxial mesoderm) and spinal cord during axis formation challenged these notions. However, classical fate mapping studies of the PS region in amniotes have so far failed to provide direct evidence for such bipotential cells at the single-cell level. Here, using lineage tracing and single-cell RNA sequencing in the chicken embryo, we identify a resident cell population of the anterior PS epiblast, which contributes to neural and mesodermal lineages in trunk and tail. These cells initially behave as monopotent progenitors as classically described and only acquire a bipotential fate later, in more posterior regions. We show that NMPs exhibit a conserved transcriptomic signature during axis elongation but lose their epithelial characteristicsin the TB. Posterior to anterior gradients of convergence speed and ingression along the PS lead to asymmetric exhaustion of PS mesodermal precursor territories. Through limited ingression and increased proliferation, NMPs are maintained and amplified as a cell population which constitute the main progenitors in the TB. Together, our studies provide a novel understanding of the PS and TB contribution through the NMPs to the formation of the body of amniote embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlene Guillot
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, United States.,Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States.,Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Boston, United States
| | - Yannis Djeffal
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, United States.,Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States.,Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Boston, United States
| | - Arthur Michaut
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, United States.,Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States.,Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Boston, United States
| | - Brian Rabe
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States.,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Boston, United States
| | - Olivier Pourquié
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, United States.,Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States.,Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Boston, United States
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157
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Abstract
The axial skeleton of all vertebrates is composed of individual units known as vertebrae. Each vertebra has individual anatomical attributes, yet they can be classified in five different groups, namely cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacral and caudal, according to shared characteristics and their association with specific body areas. Variations in vertebral number, size, morphological features and their distribution amongst the different regions of the vertebral column are a major source of the anatomical diversity observed among vertebrates. In this review I will discuss the impact of those variations on the anatomy of different vertebrate species and provide insights into the genetic origin of some remarkable morphological traits that often serve to classify phylogenetic branches or individual species, like the long trunks of snakes or the long necks of giraffes.
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158
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Glykofrydis F, Cachat E, Berzanskyte I, Dzierzak E, Davies JA. Bioengineering Self-Organizing Signaling Centers to Control Embryoid Body Pattern Elaboration. ACS Synth Biol 2021; 10:1465-1480. [PMID: 34019395 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.1c00060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Multicellular systems possess an intrinsic capacity to autonomously generate nonrandom state distributions or morphologies in a process termed self-organization. Facets of self-organization, such as pattern formation, pattern elaboration, and symmetry breaking, are frequently observed in developing embryos. Artificial stem cell-derived structures including embryoid bodies (EBs), gastruloids, and organoids also demonstrate self-organization, but with a limited capacity compared to their in vivo developmental counterparts. There is a pressing need for better tools to allow user-defined control over self-organization in these stem cell-derived structures. Here, we employ synthetic biology to establish an efficient platform for the generation of self-organizing coaggregates, in which HEK-293 cells overexpressing P-cadherin (Cdh3) spontaneously form cell clusters attached mostly to one or two locations on the exterior of EBs. These Cdh3-expressing HEK cells, when further engineered to produce functional mouse WNT3A, evoke polarized and gradual Wnt/β-catenin pathway activation in EBs during coaggregation cultures. The localized WNT3A provision induces nascent mesoderm specification within regions of the EB close to the Cdh3-Wnt3a-expressing HEK source, resulting in pattern elaboration and symmetry breaking within EBs. This synthetic biology-based approach puts us closer toward engineering synthetic organizers to improve the realism in stem cell-derived structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fokion Glykofrydis
- UK Centre for Mammalian Synthetic Biology, Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH8 9XD, United Kingdom
- MRC Centre for Inflammation Research, The Queen’s Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, United Kingdom
| | - Elise Cachat
- UK Centre for Mammalian Synthetic Biology, Institute of Quantitative Biology, Biochemistry, and Biotechnology, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3BF, United Kingdom
| | - Ieva Berzanskyte
- UK Centre for Mammalian Synthetic Biology, Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH8 9XD, United Kingdom
| | - Elaine Dzierzak
- MRC Centre for Inflammation Research, The Queen’s Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, United Kingdom
| | - Jamie A. Davies
- UK Centre for Mammalian Synthetic Biology, Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH8 9XD, United Kingdom
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159
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Libby ARG, Joy DA, Elder NH, Bulger EA, Krakora MZ, Gaylord EA, Mendoza-Camacho F, Butts JC, McDevitt TC. Axial elongation of caudalized human organoids mimics aspects of neural tube development. Development 2021; 148:269182. [PMID: 34142711 DOI: 10.1242/dev.198275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Axial elongation of the neural tube is crucial during mammalian embryogenesis for anterior-posterior body axis establishment and subsequent spinal cord development, but these processes cannot be interrogated directly in humans as they occur post-implantation. Here, we report an organoid model of neural tube extension derived from human pluripotent stem cell (hPSC) aggregates that have been caudalized with Wnt agonism, enabling them to recapitulate aspects of the morphological and temporal gene expression patterns of neural tube development. Elongating organoids consist largely of neuroepithelial compartments and contain TBXT+SOX2+ neuro-mesodermal progenitors in addition to PAX6+NES+ neural progenitors. A critical threshold of Wnt agonism stimulated singular axial extensions while maintaining multiple cell lineages, such that organoids displayed regionalized anterior-to-posterior HOX gene expression with hindbrain (HOXB1) regions spatially distinct from brachial (HOXC6) and thoracic (HOXB9) regions. CRISPR interference-mediated silencing of TBXT, a Wnt pathway target, increased neuroepithelial compartmentalization, abrogated HOX expression and disrupted uniaxial elongation. Together, these results demonstrate the potent capacity of caudalized hPSC organoids to undergo axial elongation in a manner that can be used to dissect the cellular organization and patterning decisions that dictate early human nervous system development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley R G Libby
- Developmental and Stem Cell Biology PhD Program, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA.,Gladstone Institutes, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - David A Joy
- Gladstone Institutes, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA.,UC Berkeley-UC San Francisco Graduate Program in Bioengineering, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Nicholas H Elder
- Developmental and Stem Cell Biology PhD Program, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA.,Gladstone Institutes, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Emily A Bulger
- Developmental and Stem Cell Biology PhD Program, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA.,Gladstone Institutes, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | | | - Eliza A Gaylord
- Developmental and Stem Cell Biology PhD Program, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Frederico Mendoza-Camacho
- Developmental and Stem Cell Biology PhD Program, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | | | - Todd C McDevitt
- Gladstone Institutes, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA.,Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
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160
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Denker HW. Autonomy in the Development of Stem Cell-Derived Embryoids: Sprouting Blastocyst-Like Cysts, and Ethical Implications. Cells 2021; 10:1461. [PMID: 34200796 PMCID: PMC8230544 DOI: 10.3390/cells10061461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2021] [Revised: 05/23/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The experimental production of complex structures resembling mammalian embryos (e.g., blastoids, gastruloids) from pluripotent stem cells in vitro has become a booming research field. Since some of these embryoid models appear to reach a degree of complexity that may come close to viability, a broad discussion has set in with the aim to arrive at a consensus on the ethical implications with regard to acceptability of the use of this technology with human cells. The present text focuses on aspects of the gain of organismic wholeness of such stem cell-derived constructs, and of autonomy of self-organization, raised by recent reports on blastocyst-like cysts spontaneously budding in mouse stem cell cultures, and by previous reports on likewise spontaneous formation of gastrulating embryonic disc-like structures in primate models. Mechanisms of pattern (axis) formation in early embryogenesis are discussed in the context of self-organization of stem cell clusters. It is concluded that ethical aspects of development of organismic wholeness in the formation of embryoids need to receive more attention in the present discussions about new legal regulations in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hans-Werner Denker
- Universitätsklinikum, Institut für Anatomie, University Duisburg-Essen, Hufelandstr. 55, 45147 Essen, Germany
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161
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Rayon T, Briscoe J. Cross-species comparisons and in vitro models to study tempo in development and homeostasis. Interface Focus 2021; 11:20200069. [PMID: 34055305 PMCID: PMC8086913 DOI: 10.1098/rsfs.2020.0069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Time is inherent to biological processes. It determines the order of events and the speed at which they take place. However, we still need to refine approaches to measure the course of time in biological systems and understand what controls the pace of development. Here, we argue that the comparison of biological processes across species provides molecular insight into the timekeeping mechanisms in biology. We discuss recent findings and the open questions in the field and highlight the use of in vitro systems as tools to investigate cell-autonomous control as well as the coordination of temporal mechanisms within tissues. Further, we discuss the relevance of studying tempo for tissue transplantation, homeostasis and lifespan.
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162
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Busby L, Steventon B. Tissue tectonics and the multi-scale regulation of developmental timing. Interface Focus 2021; 11:20200057. [PMID: 34055304 PMCID: PMC8086930 DOI: 10.1098/rsfs.2020.0057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Development encompasses processes that occur at multiple length scales, including gene-regulatory interactions, cell movements and reorganization, cell signalling and growth. It is essential that the timing of events in all of these different processes is coordinated to generate well-patterned tissues and organs. However, how the timing of intrinsic cell state changes is coordinated with events occurring at the multi-tissue and whole-organism level is unknown. Here, we argue that an important mechanism that accounts for the integration of timing across levels of organization is provided by tissue tectonics, i.e. how morphogenetic events driving tissue shape changes result in the relative displacement of signalling and responding tissues and coordinate developmental timing across scales. In doing so, tissue tectonics provides a mechanism by which the cell specification events intrinsic to cells can be modulated by the temporal exposure to extracellular signals. This exposure is in turn regulated by higher-order properties of the embryo, such as their physical properties, rates of growth and the combination of dynamic cell behaviours, impacting tissue morphogenesis. Tissue tectonics creates a downward flow of information from higher to lower levels of biological organization, providing an instance of downward causation in development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara Busby
- Department of Genetics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EH, UK
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163
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Bolondi A, Haut L, Gassaloglu SI, Burton P, Kretzmer H, Buschow R, Meissner A, Herrmann BG, Veenvliet JV. Generation of Mouse Pluripotent Stem Cell-derived Trunk-like Structures: An in vitro Model of Post-implantation Embryogenesis. Bio Protoc 2021; 11:e4042. [PMID: 34250208 PMCID: PMC8250383 DOI: 10.21769/bioprotoc.4042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Revised: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Post-implantation mammalian embryogenesis involves profound molecular, cellular, and morphogenetic changes. The study of these highly dynamic processes is complicated by the limited accessibility of in utero development. In recent years, several complementary in vitro systems comprising self-organized assemblies of mouse embryonic stem cells, such as gastruloids, have been reported. We recently demonstrated that the morphogenetic potential of gastruloids can be further unlocked by the addition of a low percentage of Matrigel as an extracellular matrix surrogate. This resulted in the formation of highly organized trunk-like structures (TLSs) with a neural tube that is frequently flanked by bilateral somites. Notably, development at the molecular and morphogenetic levels is highly reminiscent of the natural embryo. To facilitate access to this powerful model, here we provide a detailed step-by-step protocol that should allow any lab with access to standard cell culture techniques to implement the culture system. This will provide the user with a means to investigate early mid-gestational mouse embryogenesis at an unprecedented spatiotemporal resolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriano Bolondi
- Dept. of Genome Regulation, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, 14195 Berlin, Germany
- Institute of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Freie Universität Berlin, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Leah Haut
- Dept. of Genome Regulation, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Seher Ipek Gassaloglu
- Dept. of Developmental Genetics, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Polly Burton
- Dept. of Developmental Genetics, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Helene Kretzmer
- Dept. of Genome Regulation, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - René Buschow
- Microscopy and Cryo-Electron Microscopy, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Alexander Meissner
- Dept. of Genome Regulation, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, 14195 Berlin, Germany
- Institute of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Freie Universität Berlin, 14195 Berlin, Germany
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Bernhard G. Herrmann
- Dept. of Developmental Genetics, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, 14195 Berlin, Germany
- Institute for Medical Genetics, Charité - University Medicine Berlin, Campus Benjamin Franklin, 12203 Berlin, Germany
| | - Jesse V. Veenvliet
- Dept. of Developmental Genetics, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, 14195 Berlin, Germany
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, 01307 Dresden, Germany
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164
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Xu PF, Borges RM, Fillatre J, de Oliveira-Melo M, Cheng T, Thisse B, Thisse C. Construction of a mammalian embryo model from stem cells organized by a morphogen signalling centre. Nat Commun 2021; 12:3277. [PMID: 34078907 PMCID: PMC8172561 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-23653-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Generating properly differentiated embryonic structures in vitro from pluripotent stem cells remains a challenge. Here we show that instruction of aggregates of mouse embryonic stem cells with an experimentally engineered morphogen signalling centre, that functions as an organizer, results in the development of embryo-like entities (embryoids). In situ hybridization, immunolabelling, cell tracking and transcriptomic analyses show that these embryoids form the three germ layers through a gastrulation process and that they exhibit a wide range of developmental structures, highly similar to neurula-stage mouse embryos. Embryoids are organized around an axial chordamesoderm, with a dorsal neural plate that displays histological properties similar to the murine embryo neuroepithelium and that folds into a neural tube patterned antero-posteriorly from the posterior midbrain to the tip of the tail. Lateral to the chordamesoderm, embryoids display somitic and intermediate mesoderm, with beating cardiac tissue anteriorly and formation of a vasculature network. Ventrally, embryoids differentiate a primitive gut tube, which is patterned both antero-posteriorly and dorso-ventrally. Altogether, embryoids provide an in vitro model of mammalian embryo that displays extensive development of germ layer derivatives and that promises to be a powerful tool for in vitro studies and disease modelling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng-Fei Xu
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
- Institute of Genetics and Department of Genetics, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | | | - Jonathan Fillatre
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Maraysa de Oliveira-Melo
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, State University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Tao Cheng
- Institute of Genetics and Department of Genetics, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Bernard Thisse
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Christine Thisse
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA.
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165
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Sozen B, Cornwall-Scoones J, Zernicka-Goetz M. The dynamics of morphogenesis in stem cell-based embryology: Novel insights for symmetry breaking. Dev Biol 2021; 474:82-90. [PMID: 33333067 PMCID: PMC8259461 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2020.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Revised: 12/05/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Breaking embryonic symmetry is an essential prerequisite to shape the initially symmetric embryo into a highly organized body plan that serves as the blueprint of the adult organism. This critical process is driven by morphogen signaling gradients that instruct anteroposterior axis specification. Despite its fundamental importance, what triggers symmetry breaking and how the signaling gradients are established in time and space in the mammalian embryo remain largely unknown. Stem cell-based in vitro models of embryogenesis offer an unprecedented opportunity to quantitatively dissect the multiple physical and molecular processes that shape the mammalian embryo. Here we review biochemical mechanisms governing early mammalian patterning in vivo and highlight recent advances to recreate this in vitro using stem cells. We discuss how the novel insights from these model systems extend previously proposed concepts to illuminate the extent to which embryonic cells have the intrinsic capability to generate specific, reproducible patterns during embryogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Berna Sozen
- California Institute of Technology, Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, 1200 E. California Boulevard, Pasadena, CA, 91125, USA; Yale University School of Medicine, Department of Genetics, New Haven, CT, 06510, USA.
| | - Jake Cornwall-Scoones
- California Institute of Technology, Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, 1200 E. California Boulevard, Pasadena, CA, 91125, USA; Developmental Dynamics Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Magdalena Zernicka-Goetz
- California Institute of Technology, Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, 1200 E. California Boulevard, Pasadena, CA, 91125, USA; Mammalian Embryo and Stem Cell Group, University of Cambridge, Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, Cambridge, CB2 3EG, UK.
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166
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Rosado-Olivieri EA, Brivanlou AH. Synthetic by design: Exploiting tissue self-organization to explore early human embryology. Dev Biol 2021; 474:16-21. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2021.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Revised: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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167
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Gritti N, Oriola D, Trivedi V. Rethinking embryology in vitro: A synergy between engineering, data science and theory. Dev Biol 2021; 474:48-61. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2020.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Revised: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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168
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Reassembling gastrulation. Dev Biol 2021; 474:71-81. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2020.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2020] [Revised: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 12/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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169
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Pereira Daoud AM, Popovic M, Dondorp WJ, Trani Bustos M, Bredenoord AL, Chuva de Sousa Lopes SM, van den Brink SC, Roelen BAJ, de Wert GMWR, Heindryckx B. Modelling human embryogenesis: embryo-like structures spark ethical and policy debate. Hum Reprod Update 2021; 26:779-798. [PMID: 32712668 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmaa027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2019] [Revised: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 06/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studying the human peri-implantation period remains hindered by the limited accessibility of the in vivo environment and scarcity of research material. As such, continuing efforts have been directed towards developing embryo-like structures (ELS) from pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) that recapitulate aspects of embryogenesis in vitro. While the creation of such models offers immense potential for studying fundamental processes in both pre- and early post-implantation development, it also proves ethically contentious due to wide-ranging views on the moral and legal reverence due to human embryos. Lack of clarity on how to qualify and regulate research with ELS thus presents a challenge in that it may either limit this new field of research without valid grounds or allow it to develop without policies that reflect justified ethical concerns. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE The aim of this article is to provide a comprehensive overview of the existing scientific approaches to generate ELS from mouse and human PSCs, as well as discuss future strategies towards innovation in the context of human development. Concurrently, we aim to set the agenda for the ethical and policy issues surrounding research on human ELS. SEARCH METHODS The PubMed database was used to search peer-reviewed articles and reviews using the following terms: 'stem cells', 'pluripotency', 'implantation', 'preimplantation', 'post-implantation', 'blastocyst', 'embryoid bodies', 'synthetic embryos', 'embryo models', 'self-assembly', 'human embryo-like structures', 'artificial embryos' in combination with other keywords related to the subject area. The PubMed and Web of Science databases were also used to systematically search publications on the ethics of ELS and human embryo research by using the aforementioned keywords in combination with 'ethics', 'law', 'regulation' and equivalent terms. All relevant publications until December 2019 were critically evaluated and discussed. OUTCOMES In vitro systems provide a promising way forward for uncovering early human development. Current platforms utilize PSCs in both two- and three-dimensional settings to mimic various early developmental stages, including epiblast, trophoblast and amniotic cavity formation, in addition to axis development and gastrulation. Nevertheless, much hinges on the term 'embryo-like'. Extension of traditional embryo frameworks to research with ELS reveals that (i) current embryo definitions require reconsideration, (ii) cellular convertibility challenges the attribution of moral standing on the basis of 'active potentiality' and (iii) meaningful application of embryo protective directives will require rethinking of the 14-day culture limit and moral weight attributed to (non-)viability. Many conceptual and normative (dis)similarities between ELS and embryos thus remain to be thoroughly elucidated. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Modelling embryogenesis holds vast potential for both human developmental biology and understanding various etiologies associated with infertility. To date, ELS have been shown to recapitulate several aspects of peri-implantation development, but critically, cannot develop into a fetus. Yet, concurrent to scientific innovation, considering the extent to which the use of ELS may raise moral concerns typical of human embryo research remains paramount. This will be crucial for harnessing the potential of ELS as a valuable research tool, whilst remaining within a robust moral and legal framework of professionally acceptable practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana M Pereira Daoud
- Department of Health Ethics and Society, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,Department of Medical Humanities, Utrecht University Medical Center, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,School for Oncology and Developmental Biology (GROW), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Mina Popovic
- Ghent-Fertility And Stem cell Team (G-FAST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Wybo J Dondorp
- Department of Health Ethics and Society, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,School for Oncology and Developmental Biology (GROW), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,School for Care and Public Health Research (CAPHRI), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,Socrates chair Ethics of Reproductive Genetics endowed by the Dutch Humanist Association, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marc Trani Bustos
- Ghent-Fertility And Stem cell Team (G-FAST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium.,Oncode Institute, Hubrecht Institute-KNAW (Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences) and University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Annelien L Bredenoord
- Department of Medical Humanities, Utrecht University Medical Center, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Susana M Chuva de Sousa Lopes
- Ghent-Fertility And Stem cell Team (G-FAST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium.,Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Susanne C van den Brink
- Oncode Institute, Hubrecht Institute-KNAW (Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences) and University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Bernard A J Roelen
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Guido M W R de Wert
- Department of Health Ethics and Society, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,School for Oncology and Developmental Biology (GROW), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,School for Care and Public Health Research (CAPHRI), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Björn Heindryckx
- Ghent-Fertility And Stem cell Team (G-FAST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
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170
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El Azhar Y, Sonnen KF. Development in a Dish- In Vitro Models of Mammalian Embryonic Development. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:655993. [PMID: 34113614 PMCID: PMC8185301 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.655993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite decades of research, the complex processes of embryonic development are not fully understood. The study of mammalian development poses particular challenges such as low numbers of embryos, difficulties in culturing embryos in vitro, and the time to generate mutant lines. With new approaches we can now address questions that had to remain unanswered in the past. One big contribution to studying the molecular mechanisms of development are two- and three-dimensional in vitro model systems derived from pluripotent stem cells. These models, such as blastoids, gastruloids, and organoids, enable high-throughput screens and straightforward gene editing for functional testing without the need to generate mutant model organisms. Furthermore, their use reduces the number of animals needed for research and allows the study of human development. Here, we outline and discuss recent advances in such in vitro model systems to investigate pre-implantation and post-implantation development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasmine El Azhar
- Hubrecht Institute, KNAW (Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences) and University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Katharina F Sonnen
- Hubrecht Institute, KNAW (Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences) and University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
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171
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Olmsted ZT, Paluh JL. Co-development of central and peripheral neurons with trunk mesendoderm in human elongating multi-lineage organized gastruloids. Nat Commun 2021; 12:3020. [PMID: 34021144 PMCID: PMC8140076 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-23294-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Stem cell technologies including self-assembling 3D tissue models provide access to early human neurodevelopment and fundamental insights into neuropathologies. Gastruloid models have not been used to investigate co-developing central and peripheral neuronal systems with trunk mesendoderm which we achieve here in elongating multi-lineage organized (EMLO) gastruloids. We evaluate EMLOs over a forty-day period, applying immunofluorescence of multi-lineage and functional biomarkers, including day 16 single-cell RNA-Seq, and evaluation of ectodermal and non-ectodermal neural crest cells (NCCs). We identify NCCs that differentiate to form peripheral neurons integrated with an upstream spinal cord region after day 8. This follows initial EMLO polarization events that coordinate with endoderm differentiation and primitive gut tube formation during multicellular spatial reorganization. This combined human central-peripheral nervous system model of early organogenesis highlights developmental events of mesendoderm and neuromuscular trunk regions and enables systemic studies of tissue interactions and innervation of neuromuscular, enteric and cardiac relevance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary T Olmsted
- State University of New York Polytechnic Institute, College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering, Nanobioscience Constellation, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Janet L Paluh
- State University of New York Polytechnic Institute, College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering, Nanobioscience Constellation, Albany, NY, USA.
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172
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Abstract
Increased control of biological growth and form is an essential gateway to transformative medical advances. Repairing of birth defects, restoring lost or damaged organs, normalizing tumors, all depend on understanding how cells cooperate to make specific, functional large-scale structures. Despite advances in molecular genetics, significant gaps remain in our understanding of the meso-scale rules of morphogenesis. An engineering approach to this problem is the creation of novel synthetic living forms, greatly extending available model systems beyond evolved plant and animal lineages. Here, we review recent advances in the emerging field of synthetic morphogenesis, the bioengineering of novel multicellular living bodies. Emphasizing emergent self-organization, tissue-level guided self-assembly, and active functionality, this work is the essential next generation of synthetic biology. Aside from useful living machines for specific functions, the rational design and analysis of new, coherent anatomies will greatly increase our understanding of foundational questions in evolutionary developmental and cell biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mo R. Ebrahimkhani
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, A809B Scaife Hall, 3550 Terrace Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, Swanson School of Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Pittsburgh Liver Research Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Michael Levin
- Allen Discovery Center at Tufts University, 200 Boston Avenue, Suite 4600, Medford, MA 02155, USA
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA
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173
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Ueda Y, Kimura-Yoshida C, Mochida K, Tsume M, Kameo Y, Adachi T, Lefebvre O, Hiramatsu R, Matsuo I. Intrauterine Pressures Adjusted by Reichert's Membrane Are Crucial for Early Mouse Morphogenesis. Cell Rep 2021; 31:107637. [PMID: 32433954 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2020.107637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2019] [Revised: 03/10/2020] [Accepted: 04/21/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Mammalian embryogenesis proceeds in utero with the support of nutrients and gases from maternal tissues. However, the contribution of the mechanical environment provided by the uterus to embryogenesis remains unaddressed. Notably, how intrauterine pressures are produced, accurately adjusted, and exerted on embryos are completely unknown. Here, we find that Reichert's membrane, a specialized basement membrane that wraps around the implanted mouse embryo, plays a crucial role as a shock absorber to protect embryos from intrauterine pressures. Notably, intrauterine pressures are produced by uterine smooth muscle contractions, showing the highest and most frequent periodic peaks just after implantation. Mechanistically, such pressures are adjusted within the sealed space between the embryo and uterus created by Reichert's membrane and are involved in egg-cylinder morphogenesis as an important biomechanical environment in utero. Thus, we propose the buffer space sealed by Reichert's membrane cushions and disperses intrauterine pressures exerted on embryos for egg-cylinder morphogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoko Ueda
- Department of Molecular Embryology, Research Institute, Osaka Women's and Children's Hospital, Osaka Prefectural Hospital Organization, 840, Murodo-cho, Izumi, Osaka 594-1101, Japan
| | - Chiharu Kimura-Yoshida
- Department of Molecular Embryology, Research Institute, Osaka Women's and Children's Hospital, Osaka Prefectural Hospital Organization, 840, Murodo-cho, Izumi, Osaka 594-1101, Japan
| | - Kyoko Mochida
- Department of Molecular Embryology, Research Institute, Osaka Women's and Children's Hospital, Osaka Prefectural Hospital Organization, 840, Murodo-cho, Izumi, Osaka 594-1101, Japan
| | - Mami Tsume
- Department of Molecular Embryology, Research Institute, Osaka Women's and Children's Hospital, Osaka Prefectural Hospital Organization, 840, Murodo-cho, Izumi, Osaka 594-1101, Japan
| | - Yoshitaka Kameo
- Institute for Frontier Life and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, 53 Kawahara-cho, Shogoin, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
| | - Taiji Adachi
- Institute for Frontier Life and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, 53 Kawahara-cho, Shogoin, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
| | - Olivier Lefebvre
- INSERM UMR_S1109, Université de Strasbourg, Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg (FMTS), Strasbourg 67000, France
| | - Ryuji Hiramatsu
- Department of Molecular Embryology, Research Institute, Osaka Women's and Children's Hospital, Osaka Prefectural Hospital Organization, 840, Murodo-cho, Izumi, Osaka 594-1101, Japan
| | - Isao Matsuo
- Department of Molecular Embryology, Research Institute, Osaka Women's and Children's Hospital, Osaka Prefectural Hospital Organization, 840, Murodo-cho, Izumi, Osaka 594-1101, Japan.
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174
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Spiteri C, Caprettini V, Chiappini C. Biomaterials-based approaches to model embryogenesis. Biomater Sci 2021; 8:6992-7013. [PMID: 33136109 DOI: 10.1039/d0bm01485k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Understanding, reproducing, and regulating the cellular and molecular processes underlying human embryogenesis is critical to improve our ability to recapitulate tissues with proper architecture and function, and to address the dysregulation of embryonic programs that underlies birth defects and cancer. The rapid emergence of stem cell technologies is enabling enormous progress in understanding embryogenesis using simple, powerful, and accessible in vitro models. Biomaterials are playing a central role in providing the spatiotemporal organisation of biophysical and biochemical signalling necessary to mimic, regulate and dissect the evolving embryonic niche in vitro. This contribution is rapidly improving our understanding of the mechanisms underlying embryonic patterning, in turn enabling the development of more effective clinical interventions for regenerative medicine and oncology. Here we highlight how key biomaterial approaches contribute to organise signalling in human embryogenesis models, and we summarise the biological insights gained from these contributions. Importantly, we highlight how nanotechnology approaches have remained largely untapped in this space, and we identify their key potential contributions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chantelle Spiteri
- Centre for Craniofacial and Regenerative Biology, King's College London, London, UK.
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175
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Moris N, Alev C, Pera M, Martinez Arias A. Biomedical and societal impacts of in vitro embryo models of mammalian development. Stem Cell Reports 2021; 16:1021-1030. [PMID: 33979591 PMCID: PMC8185435 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2021.03.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Revised: 03/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, a diverse array of in vitro cell-derived models of mammalian development have been described that hold immense potential for exploring fundamental questions in developmental biology, particularly in the case of the human embryo where ethical and technical limitations restrict research. These models open up new avenues toward biomedical advances in in vitro fertilization, clinical research, and drug screening with potential to impact wider society across many diverse fields. These technologies raise challenging questions with profound ethical, regulatory, and social implications that deserve due consideration. Here, we discuss the potential impacts of embryo-like models, and their biomedical potential and current limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naomi Moris
- Department of Genetics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EH, UK.
| | - Cantas Alev
- Institute for the Advanced Study of Human Biology (ASHBi), Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8510, Japan.
| | - Martin Pera
- The Jackson Laboratory, 600 Main Street, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA
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176
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Posfai E, Lanner F, Mulas C, Leitch HG. All models are wrong, but some are useful: Establishing standards for stem cell-based embryo models. Stem Cell Reports 2021; 16:1117-1141. [PMID: 33979598 PMCID: PMC8185978 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2021.03.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Detailed studies of the embryo allow an increasingly mechanistic understanding of development, which has proved of profound relevance to human disease. The last decade has seen in vitro cultured stem cell-based models of embryo development flourish, which provide an alternative to the embryo for accessible experimentation. However, the usefulness of any stem cell-based embryo model will be determined by how accurately it reflects in vivo embryonic development, and/or the extent to which it facilitates new discoveries. Stringent benchmarking of embryo models is thus an important consideration for this growing field. Here we provide an overview of means to evaluate both the properties of stem cells, the building blocks of most embryo models, as well as the usefulness of current and future in vitro embryo models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eszter Posfai
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA.
| | - Fredrik Lanner
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Karolinska Universitetssjukhuset, Stockholm, Sweden; Ming Wai Lau Center for Reparative Medicine, Stockholm node, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Carla Mulas
- Wellcome - MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Harry G Leitch
- MRC London Institute of Medical Sciences, London, UK; Institute of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London W12 0NN, UK; Centre for Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London W2 1PG, UK
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177
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Morales JS, Raspopovic J, Marcon L. From embryos to embryoids: How external signals and self-organization drive embryonic development. Stem Cell Reports 2021; 16:1039-1050. [PMID: 33979592 PMCID: PMC8185431 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2021.03.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2020] [Revised: 03/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Embryonic development has been traditionally seen as an inductive process directed by exogenous maternal inputs and extra-embryonic signals. Increasing evidence, however, is showing that, in addition to exogenous signals, the development of the embryo involves endogenous self-organization. Recently, this self-organizing potential has been highlighted by a number of stem cell models known as embryoids that can recapitulate different aspects of embryogenesis in vitro. Here, we review the self-organizing behaviors observed in different embryoid models and seek to reconcile this new evidence with classical knowledge of developmental biology. This analysis leads to reexamine embryonic development as a guided self-organizing process, where patterning and morphogenesis are controlled by a combination of exogenous signals and endogenous self-organization. Finally, we discuss the multidisciplinary approach required to investigate the genetic and cellular basis of self-organization.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Serrano Morales
- Andalusian Center for Developmental Biology (CABD), CSIC - UPO - JA, Seville, Spain
| | - Jelena Raspopovic
- Andalusian Center for Developmental Biology (CABD), CSIC - UPO - JA, Seville, Spain.
| | - Luciano Marcon
- Andalusian Center for Developmental Biology (CABD), CSIC - UPO - JA, Seville, Spain.
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178
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Matthews KRW, Wagner DS, Warmflash A. Stem cell-based models of embryos: The need for improved naming conventions. Stem Cell Reports 2021; 16:1014-1020. [PMID: 33770498 PMCID: PMC8185370 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2021.02.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Revised: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Stem cell-based models of embryos are known by various names, with different naming conventions, leading to confusion regarding their composition and potential. We propose the need for a general term for the field to promote public engagement and the development of a systematic nomenclature system to differentiate between specific models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirstin R W Matthews
- Baker Institute for Public Policy-Center for Health and Biosciences, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA.
| | - Daniel S Wagner
- Department of BioSciences, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA
| | - Aryeh Warmflash
- Department of BioSciences, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA
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179
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Liu L, Warmflash A. Self-organized signaling in stem cell models of embryos. Stem Cell Reports 2021; 16:1065-1077. [PMID: 33979594 PMCID: PMC8185436 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2021.03.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Revised: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Mammalian embryonic development is a complex process driven by self-organization. Understanding how a fertilized egg develops into an embryo composed of more than 200 cell types in precise spatial patterns remains one of the fundamental challenges in biology. Pluripotent stem cells have been used as in vitro models for investigating mammalian development, and represent promising building blocks for regenerative therapies. Recently, sophisticated stem cell-based models that recapitulate early embryonic fate patterning and morphogenesis have been developed. In this article, we review recent advances in stem cell models of embryos in particular focusing on signaling activities underpinning cell fate decisions in space and time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lizhong Liu
- Department of Biosciences, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA
| | - Aryeh Warmflash
- Department of Biosciences, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA; Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA.
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180
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Olmsted ZT, Paluh JL. Stem Cell Neurodevelopmental Solutions for Restorative Treatments of the Human Trunk and Spine. Front Cell Neurosci 2021; 15:667590. [PMID: 33981202 PMCID: PMC8107236 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2021.667590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The ability to reliably repair spinal cord injuries (SCI) will be one of the greatest human achievements realized in regenerative medicine. Until recently, the cellular path to this goal has been challenging. However, as detailed developmental principles are revealed in mouse and human models, their application in the stem cell community brings trunk and spine embryology into efforts to advance human regenerative medicine. New models of posterior embryo development identify neuromesodermal progenitors (NMPs) as a major bifurcation point in generating the spinal cord and somites and is leading to production of cell types with the full range of axial identities critical for repair of trunk and spine disorders. This is coupled with organoid technologies including assembloids, circuitoids, and gastruloids. We describe a paradigm for applying developmental principles towards the goal of cell-based restorative therapies to enable reproducible and effective near-term clinical interventions.
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181
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Gastruloids generated without exogenous Wnt activation develop anterior neural tissues. Stem Cell Reports 2021; 16:1143-1155. [PMID: 33891872 PMCID: PMC8185432 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2021.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Revised: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
When stimulated with a pulse from an exogenous WNT pathway activator, small aggregates of mouse embryonic stem cells (ESCs) can undergo embryo-like axial morphogenesis and patterning along the three major body axes. However, these structures, called gastruloids, currently lack the anterior embryonic regions, such as those belonging to the brain. Here, we describe an approach to generate gastruloids that have a more complete antero-posterior development. We used hydrogel microwell arrays to promote the robust derivation of mouse ESCs into post-implantation epiblast-like (EPI) aggregates in a reproducible and scalable manner. These EPI aggregates break symmetry and axially elongate without external chemical stimulation. Inhibition of WNT signaling in early stages of development leads to the formation of gastruloids with anterior neural tissues. Thus, we provide a new tool to study the development of the mouse after implantation in vitro, especially the formation of anterior neural regions. Mouse embryonic stem cells can be aggregated to form epiblast-like (EPI) aggregates EPI aggregates undergo axial morphogenesis in the absence of exogenous WNT activation Initial aggregate size is a major determinant for axial morphogenesis Early WNT inhibition is essential for the emergence of anterior neural progenitors
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182
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Machine learning-assisted high-content analysis of pluripotent stem cell-derived embryos in vitro. Stem Cell Reports 2021; 16:1331-1346. [PMID: 33891867 PMCID: PMC8185434 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2021.03.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Revised: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Stem cell-based embryo models by cultured pluripotent and extra-embryonic lineage stem cells are novel platforms to model early postimplantation development. We showed that induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) could form ITS (iPSCs and trophectoderm stem cells) and ITX (iPSCs, trophectoderm stem cells, and XEN cells) embryos, resembling the early gastrula embryo developed in vivo. To facilitate the efficient and unbiased analysis of the stem cell-based embryo model, we set up a machine learning workflow to extract multi-dimensional features and perform quantification of ITS embryos using 3D images collected from a high-content screening system. We found that different PSC lines differ in their ability to form embryo-like structures. Through high-content screening of small molecules and cytokines, we identified that BMP4 best promoted the morphogenesis of the ITS embryo. Our study established an innovative strategy to analyze stem cell-based embryo models and uncovered new roles of BMP4 in stem cell-based embryo models.
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183
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Lenne PF, Munro E, Heemskerk I, Warmflash A, Bocanegra-Moreno L, Kishi K, Kicheva A, Long Y, Fruleux A, Boudaoud A, Saunders TE, Caldarelli P, Michaut A, Gros J, Maroudas-Sacks Y, Keren K, Hannezo E, Gartner ZJ, Stormo B, Gladfelter A, Rodrigues A, Shyer A, Minc N, Maître JL, Di Talia S, Khamaisi B, Sprinzak D, Tlili S. Roadmap for the multiscale coupling of biochemical and mechanical signals during development. Phys Biol 2021; 18. [PMID: 33276350 PMCID: PMC8380410 DOI: 10.1088/1478-3975/abd0db] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The way in which interactions between mechanics and biochemistry lead to the emergence of complex cell and tissue organization is an old question that has recently attracted renewed interest from biologists, physicists, mathematicians and computer scientists. Rapid advances in optical physics, microscopy and computational image analysis have greatly enhanced our ability to observe and quantify spatiotemporal patterns of signalling, force generation, deformation, and flow in living cells and tissues. Powerful new tools for genetic, biophysical and optogenetic manipulation are allowing us to perturb the underlying machinery that generates these patterns in increasingly sophisticated ways. Rapid advances in theory and computing have made it possible to construct predictive models that describe how cell and tissue organization and dynamics emerge from the local coupling of biochemistry and mechanics. Together, these advances have opened up a wealth of new opportunities to explore how mechanochemical patterning shapes organismal development. In this roadmap, we present a series of forward-looking case studies on mechanochemical patterning in development, written by scientists working at the interface between the physical and biological sciences, and covering a wide range of spatial and temporal scales, organisms, and modes of development. Together, these contributions highlight the many ways in which the dynamic coupling of mechanics and biochemistry shapes biological dynamics: from mechanoenzymes that sense force to tune their activity and motor output, to collectives of cells in tissues that flow and redistribute biochemical signals during development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierre-François Lenne
- Aix-Marseille University, CNRS, IBDM, Turing Center for Living Systems, Marseille, France
| | - Edwin Munro
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Cell Biology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, United States of America
| | - Idse Heemskerk
- Department of Cell & Developmental Biology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States of America
| | - Aryeh Warmflash
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, 77005, United States of America
| | | | - Kasumi Kishi
- IST Austria, Am Campus 1, 3400 Klosterneuburg, Austria
| | - Anna Kicheva
- IST Austria, Am Campus 1, 3400 Klosterneuburg, Austria
| | - Yuchen Long
- Reproduction et Dévelopement des Plantes, Université de Lyon, École normale supérieure de Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, INRAe, CNRS, 69364 Lyon Cedex 07, France
| | - Antoine Fruleux
- Reproduction et Dévelopement des Plantes, Université de Lyon, École normale supérieure de Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, INRAe, CNRS, 69364 Lyon Cedex 07, France.,LadHyX, CNRS, Ecole polytechnique, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, 91128 Palaiseau Cedex, France
| | - Arezki Boudaoud
- Reproduction et Dévelopement des Plantes, Université de Lyon, École normale supérieure de Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, INRAe, CNRS, 69364 Lyon Cedex 07, France.,LadHyX, CNRS, Ecole polytechnique, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, 91128 Palaiseau Cedex, France
| | - Timothy E Saunders
- Mechanobiology Institute, National University of Singapore, 117411, Singapore
| | - Paolo Caldarelli
- Cellule Pasteur UPMC, Sorbonne Université, rue du Dr Roux, 75015 Paris, France.,Department of Developmental and Stem Cell Biology Institut Pasteur, 75724 Paris, Cedex 15, France.,CNRS UMR3738, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Arthur Michaut
- Department of Developmental and Stem Cell Biology Institut Pasteur, 75724 Paris, Cedex 15, France.,CNRS UMR3738, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Jerome Gros
- Department of Developmental and Stem Cell Biology Institut Pasteur, 75724 Paris, Cedex 15, France.,CNRS UMR3738, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Yonit Maroudas-Sacks
- Department of Physics, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 32000, Israel
| | - Kinneret Keren
- Department of Physics, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 32000, Israel.,Network Biology Research Laboratories and The Russell Berrie Nanotechnology Institute, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 32000, Israel
| | - Edouard Hannezo
- Institute of Science and Technology Austria, Am Campus 1, 3400 Klosterneuburg, Austria
| | - Zev J Gartner
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California, San Francisco, 600 16th St. Box 2280, San Francisco, CA 94158, United States of America
| | - Benjamin Stormo
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599 United States of America
| | - Amy Gladfelter
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599 United States of America
| | - Alan Rodrigues
- Laboratory of Morphogenesis, The Rockefeller University, 1230 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065, United States of America
| | - Amy Shyer
- Laboratory of Morphogenesis, The Rockefeller University, 1230 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065, United States of America
| | - Nicolas Minc
- Institut Jacques Monod, Université de Paris, CNRS UMR7592, 15 rue Hélène Brion, 75205 Paris Cedex 13, France
| | - Jean-Léon Maître
- Institut Curie, PSL Research University, Sorbonne Université, CNRS UMR3215, INSERM U934, Paris, France
| | - Stefano Di Talia
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham NC 27710, United States of America
| | - Bassma Khamaisi
- School of Neurobiology, Biochemistry and Biophysics, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel
| | - David Sprinzak
- School of Neurobiology, Biochemistry and Biophysics, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel
| | - Sham Tlili
- Aix-Marseille University, CNRS, IBDM, Turing Center for Living Systems, Marseille, France
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184
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Nicolas P, Etoc F, Brivanlou AH. The ethics of human-embryoids model: a call for consistency. J Mol Med (Berl) 2021; 99:569-579. [PMID: 33792755 PMCID: PMC8026457 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-021-02053-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Revised: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 02/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
In this article, we discuss the ethics of human embryoids, i.e., embryo-like structures made from pluripotent stem cells for modeling natural embryos. We argue that defining our social priorities is critical to design a consistent ethical guideline for research on those new entities. The absence of clear regulations on these emerging technologies stems from an unresolved debate surrounding natural human embryo research and one common opinion that one needs to solve the question of the moral status of the human embryo before regulating their surrogate. The recent NIH funding restrictions for research on human embryoids have made scientists even more unlikely to raise their voices. As a result, the scientific community has maintained a low profile while longing for a more favorable socio-political climate for their research. This article is a call for consistency among biomedical research on human materials, trying to position human embryoids within a spectrum of existing practice from stem cell research or IVF to research involving human subjects. We specifically note that the current practices in infertility clinics of freezing human embryos or disposing of them without any consideration for their potential benefits contradicts the assumption of special consideration for human material. Conversely, creating human embryoids for research purposes could ensure that no human material be used in vain, always serving humankind. We argue here that it is time to reconsider the full ban on embryo research (human embryos and embryoids) beyond the 14-day rule and that research on those entities should obey a sliding scale combining the completeness of the model (e.g., complete vs. partial) and the developmental stage: with more advanced completeness and developmental stage of the considered entity, being associated with more rigorous evaluation of societal benefits, statements of intention, and necessity of such research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Nicolas
- Bioethics Center, New York Medical College, 40 Sunshine Cottage Rd, Valhalla, NY 10595 USA
| | - Fred Etoc
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Biology and Molecular Embryology, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065 USA
| | - Ali H. Brivanlou
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Biology and Molecular Embryology, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065 USA
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185
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Shankar V, van Blitterswijk C, Vrij E, Giselbrecht S. From Snapshots to Development: Identifying the Gaps in the Development of Stem Cell-based Embryo Models along the Embryonic Timeline. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2021; 8:2004250. [PMID: 33898195 PMCID: PMC8061376 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202004250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Revised: 12/20/2020] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, stem cell-based models that reconstruct mouse and human embryogenesis have gained significant traction due to their near-physiological similarity to natural embryos. Embryo models can be generated in large numbers, provide accessibility to a variety of experimental tools such as genetic and chemical manipulation, and confer compatibility with automated readouts, which permits exciting experimental avenues for exploring the genetic and molecular principles of self-organization, development, and disease. However, the current embryo models recapitulate only snapshots within the continuum of embryonic development, allowing the progression of the embryonic tissues along a specific direction. Hence, to fully exploit the potential of stem cell-based embryo models, multiple important gaps in the developmental landscape need to be covered. These include recapitulating the lesser-explored interactions between embryonic and extraembryonic tissues such as the yolk sac, placenta, and the umbilical cord; spatial and temporal organization of tissues; and the anterior patterning of embryonic development. Here, it is detailed how combinations of stem cells and versatile bioengineering technologies can help in addressing these gaps and thereby extend the implications of embryo models in the fields of cell biology, development, and regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinidhra Shankar
- Maastricht UniversityUniversiteitssingel 40Maastricht6229 ERThe Netherlands
| | | | - Erik Vrij
- Maastricht UniversityUniversiteitssingel 40Maastricht6229 ERThe Netherlands
| | - Stefan Giselbrecht
- Maastricht UniversityUniversiteitssingel 40Maastricht6229 ERThe Netherlands
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186
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Macrae TA, Ramalho-Santos M. The deubiquitinase Usp9x regulates PRC2-mediated chromatin reprogramming during mouse development. Nat Commun 2021; 12:1865. [PMID: 33767158 PMCID: PMC7994559 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-21910-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2020] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Pluripotent cells of the mammalian embryo undergo extensive chromatin rewiring to prepare for lineage commitment after implantation. Repressive H3K27me3, deposited by Polycomb Repressive Complex 2 (PRC2), is reallocated from large blankets in pre-implantation embryos to mark promoters of developmental genes. The regulation of this global redistribution of H3K27me3 is poorly understood. Here we report a post-translational mechanism that destabilizes PRC2 to constrict H3K27me3 during lineage commitment. Using an auxin-inducible degron system, we show that the deubiquitinase Usp9x is required for mouse embryonic stem (ES) cell self-renewal. Usp9x-high ES cells have high PRC2 levels and bear a chromatin and transcriptional signature of the pre-implantation embryo, whereas Usp9x-low ES cells resemble the post-implantation, gastrulating epiblast. We show that Usp9x interacts with, deubiquitinates and stabilizes PRC2. Deletion of Usp9x in post-implantation embryos results in the derepression of genes that normally gain H3K27me3 after gastrulation, followed by the appearance of morphological abnormalities at E9.5, pointing to a recurrent link between Usp9x and PRC2 during development. Usp9x is a marker of "stemness" and is mutated in various neurological disorders and cancers. Our results unveil a Usp9x-PRC2 regulatory axis that is critical at peri-implantation and may be redeployed in other stem cell fate transitions and disease states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trisha A Macrae
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Miguel Ramalho-Santos
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada.
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
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187
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Tomoda K, Kime C. Synthetic embryology: Early mammalian embryo modeling systems from cell cultures. Dev Growth Differ 2021; 63:116-126. [PMID: 33540477 DOI: 10.1111/dgd.12713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Revised: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Recently, the fields of embryology, developmental biology, stem cell biology, and cell reprogramming, have intersected with synthetic embryo systems (SESs) from cultured cells. Among such SESs, several approaches have engaged early-embryo-like cells, cells with atypical potency, or assembled traditional in vitro stem cell populations with synergy, to advance life discovery systems that may yield emergent knowledge and biotechnical advance. Such models center on the competent generation of blastocyst-like and post-implantation embryo-like forms. Our group, and several others have recently pioneered unique SES strategies covering a broad spectrum of key early embryo-like developmental stages and features to seed an emerging SES field. Herein, we provide a comprehensive perspective of synthetic embryology and the powerful promise that excites us.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiichiro Tomoda
- Gladstone Institutes, San Francisco, CA, USA.,Center for iPS Cell Research and Application, Kyoto, Japan.,Osaka Medical College, Osaka, Japan
| | - Cody Kime
- RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe, Japan
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188
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Rossant J, Tam PPL. Opportunities and challenges with stem cell-based embryo models. Stem Cell Reports 2021; 16:1031-1038. [PMID: 33667412 PMCID: PMC8185371 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2021.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Revised: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Stem cell-based embryo models open an unprecedented avenue for modeling embryogenesis, cell lineage differentiation, tissue morphogenesis, and organogenesis in mammalian development. Experimentation on these embryo models can lead to a better understanding of the mechanisms of development and offers opportunities for functional genomic studies of disease-causing mechanisms, identification of therapeutic targets, and preclinical modeling of advanced therapeutics for precision medicine. An immediate challenge is to create embryo models of high fidelity to embryogenesis and organogenesis in vivo, to ensure that the knowledge gleaned is biologically meaningful and clinically relevant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janet Rossant
- Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, and The Gairdner Foundation, Toronto, Canada.
| | - Patrick P L Tam
- Children's Medical Research Institute, University of Sydney, and School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.
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189
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de Leeuw VC, Pennings JLA, Hessel EVS, Piersma AH. Exploring the biological domain of the neural embryonic stem cell test (ESTn): Morphogenetic regulators, Hox genes and cell types, and their usefulness as biomarkers for embryotoxicity screening. Toxicology 2021; 454:152735. [PMID: 33636252 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2021.152735] [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: 10/27/2020] [Revised: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 02/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Animal-free assessment of compound-induced developmental neurotoxicity will most likely be based on batteries of multiple in vitro tests. The optimal battery is built by combining tests with complementary biological domains that together ideally cover all relevant toxicity pathways. Thus, biological domain definition, i.e. which biological processes and cell types are represented, is an important assay characteristic for determining the place of assays in testing strategies. The murine neural embryonic stem cell test (ESTn) is employed to predict the developmental neurotoxicity of compounds. The aim of this study was to explore the biological domain of ESTn according to three groups of biomarker genes of early (neuro)development: morphogenetic regulators, Hox genes and cell type markers for the ectodermal and neural lineages. These biomarker groups were selected based on their crucial regulatory role in (neuro)development. Analysis of these genes in a series of previously generated whole transcriptome datasets of ESTn showed that at day 7 in culture cell differentiation resembled hindbrain/branchial/thoracic development between E6.5-E12.5 in vivo, with subsequent development into a mixed cell culture containing different neural subtypes, astrocytes and oligodendrocytes by day 13. In addition, the selected biomarkers showed common and distinct responses to compound exposure. Monitoring the biological domain of ESTn through gene expression patterns of morphogenetic regulators, Hox genes and cell type markers proved instrumental in providing mechanistic understanding of compound effects on neural differentiation in ESTn, and can aid in positioning of the test in a battery of complementary in vitro tests in integrated approaches to testing and assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria C de Leeuw
- Centre for Health Protection, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, the Netherlands; Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences (IRAS), Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| | - Jeroen L A Pennings
- Centre for Health Protection, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, the Netherlands
| | - Ellen V S Hessel
- Centre for Health Protection, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, the Netherlands
| | - Aldert H Piersma
- Centre for Health Protection, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, the Netherlands; Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences (IRAS), Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
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190
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Wymeersch FJ, Wilson V, Tsakiridis A. Understanding axial progenitor biology in vivo and in vitro. Development 2021; 148:148/4/dev180612. [PMID: 33593754 DOI: 10.1242/dev.180612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The generation of the components that make up the embryonic body axis, such as the spinal cord and vertebral column, takes place in an anterior-to-posterior (head-to-tail) direction. This process is driven by the coordinated production of various cell types from a pool of posteriorly-located axial progenitors. Here, we review the key features of this process and the biology of axial progenitors, including neuromesodermal progenitors, the common precursors of the spinal cord and trunk musculature. We discuss recent developments in the in vitro production of axial progenitors and their potential implications in disease modelling and regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filip J Wymeersch
- Laboratory for Human Organogenesis, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, 2-2-3 Minatojima-minamimachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe, 650-0047, Japan
| | - Valerie Wilson
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Institute for Stem Cell Research, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, 5 Little France Drive, Edinburgh EH16 4UU, UK
| | - Anestis Tsakiridis
- Centre for Stem Cell Biology, Department of Biomedical Science, The University of Sheffield, Western Bank, Sheffield S10 2TN UK .,Neuroscience Institute, The University of Sheffield, Western Bank, Sheffield, S10 2TN UK
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191
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Cermola F, D'Aniello C, Tatè R, De Cesare D, Martinez-Arias A, Minchiotti G, Patriarca EJ. Gastruloid Development Competence Discriminates Different States of Pluripotency. Stem Cell Reports 2021; 16:354-369. [PMID: 33482102 PMCID: PMC7878839 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2020.12.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Revised: 12/19/2020] [Accepted: 12/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Floating spheroidal aggregates of mouse embryonic stem cells can develop into polarized/elongated organoids, namely gastruloids. We set up a high-performing assay to measure gastruloid formation efficiency (GFE), and found that GFE decreases as pluripotency progresses from naive (GFE ≥ 95%) to primed (GFE = 0) state. Specifically, we show that primed EpiSCs fail to generate proper cell aggregates, while early-primed EpiLCs aggregate but eventually fail to develop into elongated gastruloids. Moreover, we characterized proline-induced cells (PiCs), a LIF-dependent reversible early-primed state of pluripotency, and show that PiCs are able to generate gastruloids (GFE ∼ 50%) and are also competent to differentiate into primordial germ cell-like cells. Thus, we propose the GFE assay as a valuable functional tool to discriminate different states of the pluripotency continuum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Cermola
- Stem Cell Fate Laboratory, Institute of Genetics and Biophysics "A. Buzzati Traverso", CNR, Naples, Italy
| | - Cristina D'Aniello
- Stem Cell Fate Laboratory, Institute of Genetics and Biophysics "A. Buzzati Traverso", CNR, Naples, Italy
| | - Rosarita Tatè
- Stem Cell Fate Laboratory, Institute of Genetics and Biophysics "A. Buzzati Traverso", CNR, Naples, Italy
| | - Dario De Cesare
- Stem Cell Fate Laboratory, Institute of Genetics and Biophysics "A. Buzzati Traverso", CNR, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Gabriella Minchiotti
- Stem Cell Fate Laboratory, Institute of Genetics and Biophysics "A. Buzzati Traverso", CNR, Naples, Italy.
| | - Eduardo Jorge Patriarca
- Stem Cell Fate Laboratory, Institute of Genetics and Biophysics "A. Buzzati Traverso", CNR, Naples, Italy.
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192
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Stadler T, Pybus OG, Stumpf MPH. Phylodynamics for cell biologists. Science 2021; 371:371/6526/eaah6266. [PMID: 33446527 DOI: 10.1126/science.aah6266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2019] [Accepted: 08/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Multicellular organisms are composed of cells connected by ancestry and descent from progenitor cells. The dynamics of cell birth, death, and inheritance within an organism give rise to the fundamental processes of development, differentiation, and cancer. Technical advances in molecular biology now allow us to study cellular composition, ancestry, and evolution at the resolution of individual cells within an organism or tissue. Here, we take a phylogenetic and phylodynamic approach to single-cell biology. We explain how "tree thinking" is important to the interpretation of the growing body of cell-level data and how ecological null models can benefit statistical hypothesis testing. Experimental progress in cell biology should be accompanied by theoretical developments if we are to exploit fully the dynamical information in single-cell data.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Stadler
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zürich, Switzerland. .,Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - O G Pybus
- Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
| | - M P H Stumpf
- Melbourne Integrative Genomics, School of BioSciences and School of Mathematics and Statistics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.
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193
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Veenvliet JV, Bolondi A, Kretzmer H, Haut L, Scholze-Wittler M, Schifferl D, Koch F, Guignard L, Kumar AS, Pustet M, Heimann S, Buschow R, Wittler L, Timmermann B, Meissner A, Herrmann BG. Mouse embryonic stem cells self-organize into trunk-like structures with neural tube and somites. Science 2021; 370:370/6522/eaba4937. [PMID: 33303587 DOI: 10.1126/science.aba4937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 158] [Impact Index Per Article: 52.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2019] [Revised: 05/13/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Post-implantation embryogenesis is a highly dynamic process comprising multiple lineage decisions and morphogenetic changes that are inaccessible to deep analysis in vivo. We found that pluripotent mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs) form aggregates that upon embedding in an extracellular matrix compound induce the formation of highly organized "trunk-like structures" (TLSs) comprising the neural tube and somites. Comparative single-cell RNA sequencing analysis confirmed that this process is highly analogous to mouse development and follows the same stepwise gene-regulatory program. Tbx6 knockout TLSs developed additional neural tubes mirroring the embryonic mutant phenotype, and chemical modulation could induce excess somite formation. TLSs thus reveal an advanced level of self-organization and provide a powerful platform for investigating post-implantation embryogenesis in a dish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesse V Veenvliet
- Department of Developmental Genetics, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, 14195 Berlin, Germany.
| | - Adriano Bolondi
- Department of Genome Regulation, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Helene Kretzmer
- Department of Genome Regulation, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Leah Haut
- Department of Developmental Genetics, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, 14195 Berlin, Germany.,Department of Genome Regulation, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Manuela Scholze-Wittler
- Department of Developmental Genetics, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Dennis Schifferl
- Department of Developmental Genetics, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Frederic Koch
- Department of Developmental Genetics, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Léo Guignard
- Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine and Berlin Institute of Health, 10115 Berlin, Germany
| | - Abhishek Sampath Kumar
- Department of Genome Regulation, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Milena Pustet
- Department of Developmental Genetics, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Simon Heimann
- Department of Developmental Genetics, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - René Buschow
- Microscopy and Cryo-Electron Microscopy, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Lars Wittler
- Department of Developmental Genetics, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Bernd Timmermann
- Sequencing Core Facility, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Alexander Meissner
- Department of Genome Regulation, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, 14195 Berlin, Germany. .,Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA.,Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA.,Institute of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Freie Universität Berlin, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Bernhard G Herrmann
- Department of Developmental Genetics, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, 14195 Berlin, Germany. .,Institute for Medical Genetics, Charité-University Medicine Berlin, Campus Benjamin Franklin, 12203 Berlin, Germany
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194
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Fu J, Warmflash A, Lutolf MP. Stem-cell-based embryo models for fundamental research and translation. NATURE MATERIALS 2021; 20:132-144. [PMID: 33199861 PMCID: PMC7855549 DOI: 10.1038/s41563-020-00829-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Despite its importance, understanding the early phases of human development has been limited by availability of human samples. The recent emergence of stem-cell-derived embryo models, a new field aiming to use stem cells to construct in vitro models to recapitulate snapshots of the development of the mammalian conceptus, opens up exciting opportunities to promote fundamental understanding of human development and advance reproductive and regenerative medicine. This Review provides a summary of the current knowledge of early mammalian development, using mouse and human conceptuses as models, and emphasizes their similarities and critical differences. We then highlight existing embryo models that mimic different aspects of mouse and human development. We further discuss bioengineering tools used for controlling multicellular interactions and self-organization critical for the development of these models. We conclude with a discussion of the important next steps and exciting future opportunities of stem-cell-derived embryo models for fundamental discovery and translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianping Fu
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
| | - Aryeh Warmflash
- Department of Biosciences, Rice University, Houston, TX, USA.
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, USA.
| | - Matthias P Lutolf
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Bioengineering, Institute of Bioengineering, School of Life Sciences and School of Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.
- Institute of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, School of Basic Science, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.
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195
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Diaz‐Cuadros M, Pourquie O. In vitro systems: A new window to the segmentation clock. Dev Growth Differ 2021; 63:140-153. [PMID: 33460448 PMCID: PMC8048467 DOI: 10.1111/dgd.12710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Revised: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Segmental organization of the vertebrate body plan is established by the segmentation clock, a molecular oscillator that controls the periodicity of somite formation. Given the dynamic nature of the segmentation clock, in vivo studies in vertebrate embryos pose technical challenges. As an alternative, simpler models of the segmentation clock based on primary explants and pluripotent stem cells have recently been developed. These ex vivo and in vitro systems enable more quantitative analysis of oscillatory properties and expand the experimental repertoire applicable to the segmentation clock. Crucially, by eliminating the need for model organisms, in vitro models allow us to study the segmentation clock in new species, including our own. The human oscillator was recently recapitulated using induced pluripotent stem cells, providing a window into human development. Certainly, a combination of in vivo and in vitro work holds the most promising potential to unravel the mechanisms behind vertebrate segmentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margarete Diaz‐Cuadros
- Department of GeneticsHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
- Department of PathologyBrigham and Women’s HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Olivier Pourquie
- Department of GeneticsHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
- Department of PathologyBrigham and Women’s HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA
- Harvard Stem Cell InstituteBostonMassachusettsUSA
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196
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Nedelec S, Martinez-Arias A. In vitro models of spinal motor circuit's development in mammals: achievements and challenges. Curr Opin Neurobiol 2021; 66:240-249. [PMID: 33677159 DOI: 10.1016/j.conb.2020.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Revised: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The connectivity patterns of neurons sustaining the functionality of spinal locomotor circuits rely on the specification of hundreds of motor neuron and interneuron subtypes precisely arrayed within the embryonic spinal cord. Knowledge acquired by developmental biologists on the molecular mechanisms underpinning this process in vivo has supported the development of 2D and 3D differentiation strategies to generate spinal neuronal diversity from mouse and human pluripotent stem cells (PSCs). Here, we review recent breakthroughs in this field and the perspectives opened up by models of in vitro embryogenesis to approach the mechanisms underlying neuronal diversification and the formation of functional mouse and human locomotor circuits. Beyond serving fundamental investigations, these new approaches should help engineering neuronal circuits differentially impacted in neuromuscular disorders, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or spinal muscular atrophies, and thus open new avenues for disease modeling and drug screenings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stéphane Nedelec
- Institut du Fer à Moulin, 75005, Paris, France; Inserm, UMR-S 1270, 75005 Paris, France; Sorbonne Université, Science and Engineering Faculty, 75005 Paris, France.
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197
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Ghimire S, Mantziou V, Moris N, Martinez Arias A. Human gastrulation: The embryo and its models. Dev Biol 2021; 474:100-108. [PMID: 33484705 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2021.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2020] [Revised: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Technical and ethical limitations create a challenge to study early human development, especially following the first 3 weeks of development after fertilization, when the fundamental aspects of the body plan are established through the process called gastrulation. As a consequence, our current understanding of human development is mostly based on the anatomical and histological studies on Carnegie Collection of human embryos, which were carried out more than half a century ago. Due to the 14-day rule on human embryo research, there have been no experimental studies beyond the fourteenth day of human development. Mutagenesis studies on animal models, mostly in mouse, are often extrapolated to human embryos to understand the transcriptional regulation of human development. However, due to the existence of significant differences in their morphological and molecular features as well as the time scale of their development, it is obvious that complete knowledge of human development can be achieved only by studying the human embryo. These studies require a cellular framework. Here we summarize the cellular, molecular, and temporal aspects associated with human gastrulation and discuss how they relate to existing human PSCs based models of early development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabitri Ghimire
- Department of Genetics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 3EH, UK.
| | - Veronika Mantziou
- Department of Genetics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 3EH, UK
| | - Naomi Moris
- Department of Genetics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 3EH, UK
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198
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Gastruloids: Embryonic Organoids from Mouse Embryonic Stem Cells to Study Patterning and Development in Early Mammalian Embryos. Methods Mol Biol 2021; 2258:131-147. [PMID: 33340359 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-1174-6_10] [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] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Gastruloids are embryonic organoids made from small, defined numbers of mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs) aggregated in suspension culture, which over time form 3D structures that mimic many of the features of early mammalian development. Unlike embryoid bodies that are usually disorganized when grown over several days, gastruloids display distinct, well-organized gene expression domains demarcating the emergence of the three body axes, anteroposterior axial elongation, and implementation of collinear Hox transcriptional patterns over 5-7 days of culture. As such gastruloids represent a useful experimental system that is complementary to in vivo approaches in studying early developmental patterning mechanisms regulating the acquisition of cell fates. In this protocol, we describe the most recent method for generating gastruloids with high reproducibility, and provide a comprehensive list of possible challenges as well as steps for protocol optimization.
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199
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Veenvliet JV, Herrmann BG. Modeling mammalian trunk development in a dish. Dev Biol 2020; 474:5-15. [PMID: 33347872 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2020.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2020] [Revised: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Mammalian post-implantation development comprises the coordination of complex lineage decisions and morphogenetic processes shaping the embryo. Despite technological advances, a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics of these processes and of the self-organization capabilities of stem cells and their descendants remains elusive. Building synthetic embryo-like structures from pluripotent embryonic stem cells in vitro promises to fill these knowledge gaps and thereby may prove transformative for developmental biology. Initial efforts to model the post-implantation embryo resulted in structures with compromised morphology (gastruloids). Recent approaches employing modified culture media, an extracellular matrix surrogate or extra-embryonic stem cells, however, succeeded in establishing embryo-like architecture. For example, embedding of gastruloids in Matrigel unlocked self-organization into trunk-like structures with bilateral somites and a neural tube-like structure, together with gut tissue and primordial germ cell-like cells. In this review, we describe the currently available models, discuss how these can be employed to acquire novel biological insights, and detail the imminent challenges for improving current models by in vitro engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesse V Veenvliet
- Dept. of Developmental Genetics, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Ihnestrasse 63-73, 14195, Berlin, Germany
| | - Bernhard G Herrmann
- Dept. of Developmental Genetics, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Ihnestrasse 63-73, 14195, Berlin, Germany; Institute for Medical Genetics, Charité - University Medicine Berlin, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Hindenburgdamm 30, 12203, Berlin, Germany.
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200
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Muncie JM, Ayad NME, Lakins JN, Xue X, Fu J, Weaver VM. Mechanical Tension Promotes Formation of Gastrulation-like Nodes and Patterns Mesoderm Specification in Human Embryonic Stem Cells. Dev Cell 2020; 55:679-694.e11. [PMID: 33207224 PMCID: PMC7755684 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2020.10.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2020] [Revised: 08/20/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Embryogenesis is directed by morphogens that induce differentiation within a defined tissue geometry. Tissue organization is mediated by cell-cell and cell-extracellular matrix (ECM) adhesions and is modulated by cell tension and tissue-level forces. Whether cell tension regulates development by modifying morphogen signaling is less clear. Human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) exhibit an intrinsic capacity for self-organization, which motivates their use as a tractable model of early human embryogenesis. We engineered patterned substrates that recapitulate the biophysical properties of the early embryo and mediate the self-organization of "gastrulation-like" nodes in cultured hESCs. Tissue geometries that generated local nodes of high cell-adhesion tension directed the spatial patterning of the BMP4-dependent "gastrulation-like" phenotype by enhancing phosphorylation and junctional release of β-catenin to promote Wnt signaling and mesoderm specification. Furthermore, direct force application via mechanical stretching promoted BMP-dependent mesoderm specification, confirming that tissue-level forces can directly regulate cell fate specification in early human development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathon M Muncie
- Graduate Program in Bioengineering, University of California, San Francisco and University of California Berkeley, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA; Center for Bioengineering and Tissue Regeneration, Department of Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Nadia M E Ayad
- Graduate Program in Bioengineering, University of California, San Francisco and University of California Berkeley, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA; Center for Bioengineering and Tissue Regeneration, Department of Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Johnathon N Lakins
- Center for Bioengineering and Tissue Regeneration, Department of Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Xufeng Xue
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Jianping Fu
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Valerie M Weaver
- Center for Bioengineering and Tissue Regeneration, Department of Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA; Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA; UCSF Comprehensive Cancer Center, Helen Diller Family Cancer Research Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA; Department of Anatomy, Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA.
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