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Zhao N, Pessell AF, Zhu N, Searson PC. Tissue-Engineered Microvessels: A Review of Current Engineering Strategies and Applications. Adv Healthc Mater 2024:e2303419. [PMID: 38686434 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202303419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Microvessels, including arterioles, capillaries, and venules, play an important role in regulating blood flow, enabling nutrient and waste exchange, and facilitating immune surveillance. Due to their important roles in maintaining normal function in human tissues, a substantial effort has been devoted to developing tissue-engineered models to study endothelium-related biology and pathology. Various engineering strategies have been developed to recapitulate the structural, cellular, and molecular hallmarks of native human microvessels in vitro. In this review, recent progress in engineering approaches, key components, and culture platforms for tissue-engineered human microvessel models is summarized. Then, tissue-specific models, and the major applications of tissue-engineered microvessels in development, disease modeling, drug screening and delivery, and vascularization in tissue engineering, are reviewed. Finally, future research directions for the field are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Zhao
- Institute for Nanobiotechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
| | - Alexander F Pessell
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
| | - Ninghao Zhu
- Institute for Nanobiotechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
| | - Peter C Searson
- Institute for Nanobiotechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
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2
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Klak M, Rachalewski M, Filip A, Dobrzański T, Berman A, Wszoła M. Bioprinting of Perfusable, Biocompatible Vessel-like Channels with dECM-Based Bioinks and Living Cells. Bioengineering (Basel) 2024; 11:439. [PMID: 38790306 PMCID: PMC11117567 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering11050439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 04/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
There is a growing interest in the production of bioinks that on the one hand, are biocompatible and, on the other hand, have mechanical properties that allow for the production of stable constructs that can survive for a long time after transplantation. While the selection of the right material is crucial for bioprinting, there is another equally important issue that is currently being extensively researched-the incorporation of the vascular system into the fabricated scaffolds. Therefore, in the following manuscript, we present the results of research on bioink with unique physico-chemical and biological properties. In this article, two methods of seeding cells were tested using bioink B and seeding after bioprinting the whole model. After 2, 5, 8, or 24 h of incubation, the flow medium was used in the tested systems. At the end of the experimental trial, for each time variant, the canals were stored in formaldehyde, and immunohistochemical staining was performed to examine the presence of cells on the canal walls and roof. Cells adhered to both ways of fiber arrangement; however, a parallel bioprint with the 5 h incubation and the intermediate plating of cells resulted in better adhesion efficiency. For this test variant, the percentage of cells that adhered was at least 20% higher than in the other analyzed variants. In addition, it was for this variant that the lowest percentage of viable cells was found that were washed out of the tested model. Importantly, hematoxylin and eosin staining showed that after 8 days of culture, the cells were evenly distributed throughout the canal roof. Our study clearly shows that neovascularization-promoting cells effectively adhere to ECM-based pancreatic bioink. Summarizing the presented results, it was demonstrated that the proposed bioink compositions can be used for bioprinting bionic organs with a vascular system formed by endothelial cells and fibroblasts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Klak
- Foundation of Research and Science Development, 01-242 Warsaw, Poland or (M.W.)
- Polbionica sp. z o.o., 01-242 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Michał Rachalewski
- Foundation of Research and Science Development, 01-242 Warsaw, Poland or (M.W.)
| | - Anna Filip
- Foundation of Research and Science Development, 01-242 Warsaw, Poland or (M.W.)
| | | | | | - Michał Wszoła
- Foundation of Research and Science Development, 01-242 Warsaw, Poland or (M.W.)
- Polbionica sp. z o.o., 01-242 Warsaw, Poland
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3
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Vanderslice EJ, Golding SGH, Jacot JG. Vascularization of PEGylated fibrin hydrogels increases the proliferation of human iPSC-cardiomyocytes. J Biomed Mater Res A 2024; 112:625-634. [PMID: 38155509 PMCID: PMC10922460 DOI: 10.1002/jbm.a.37662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023]
Abstract
Studies have long sought to develop engineered heart tissue for the surgical correction of structural heart defects, as well as other applications and vascularization of this tissue has presented a challenge. Recent studies suggest that vascular cells and a vascular network may have regenerative effects on implanted cardiomyocytes (CM) and nearby heart tissue separate from perfusion of oxygen and nutrients. The goal of this study was to test whether vascular cells or a formed vascular network in a fibrin-based hydrogel would alter the proliferation of human iPSC-derived CM. First, vascular network formation in a slowly degrading PEGylated fibrin hydrogel was optimized by altering the cell ratio of human umbilical vein endothelial cells to human dermal fibroblasts, the inclusion of growth factors, and the total cell concentration. An endothelial to fibroblast ratio of 5:1 and a total cell concentration of 1.1 × 106 cells/mL without additional growth factors generated robust vascular networks while minimizing the number of cells required. Using this optimized system, human iPSC-derived CM were cultured on hydrogels without vascular cells, hydrogels with unorganized encapsulated vascular cells, or hydrogels with encapsulated vascular cells organized into networks for 7 days. CM proliferation and gene expression were assayed following 7 days of culture on the hydrogels. The presence of vascular cells in the hydrogel, whether unorganized or in vascular networks, significantly increased CM proliferation compared to an acellular hydrogel. Hydrogels with unorganized vascular cells resulted in lower CM maturity evidenced by decreased expression of cardiac troponin t (TNNT2), myosin light chain 7, and phospholamban compared to hydrogels without vascular cells and hydrogels with vascular networks. Altogether, this study details a robust method of forming rudimentary vascular networks in a fibrin-based hydrogel and shows that a hydrogel containing endothelial cells and fibroblasts can induce proliferation in adjacent CM, and these cells do not hinder CM gene expression when organized into a vascular network.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ethan J. Vanderslice
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA 80045
| | - Staunton G. H. Golding
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA 80045
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA 37235
| | - Jeffrey G. Jacot
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA 80045
- Department of Pediatrics, Children’s Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA 80045
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4
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Chao G, Zukin S, Fortuna PRJ, Boettner B, Church GM. Progress and limitations in engineering cellular adhesion for research and therapeutics. Trends Cell Biol 2024; 34:277-287. [PMID: 37580241 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcb.2023.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023]
Abstract
Intercellular interactions form the cornerstone of multicellular biology. Despite advances in protein engineering, researchers artificially directing physical cell interactions still rely on endogenous cell adhesion molecules (CAMs) alongside off-target interactions and unintended signaling. Recently, methods for directing cellular interactions have been developed utilizing programmable domains such as coiled coils (CCs), nanobody-antigen, and single-stranded DNA (ssDNA). We first discuss desirable molecular- and systems-level properties in engineered CAMs, using the helixCAM platform as a benchmark. Next, we propose applications for engineered CAMs in immunology, developmental biology, tissue engineering, and neuroscience. Biologists in various fields can readily adapt current engineered CAMs to establish control over cell interactions, and their utilization in basic and translational research will incentivize further expansion in engineered CAM capabilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Chao
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Stefan Zukin
- Wyss Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | | | - George M Church
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Wyss Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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5
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Sun T, Xiang Y, Turner F, Bao X. Integrated Experimental and Mathematical Exploration of Modular Tissue Cultures for Developmental Engineering. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2987. [PMID: 38474234 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052987] [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: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Developmental engineering (DE) involves culturing various cells on modular scaffolds (MSs), yielding modular tissues (MTs) assembled into three-dimensional (3D) tissues, mimicking developmental biology. This study employs an integrated approach, merging experimental and mathematical methods to investigate the biological processes in MT cultivation and assembly. Human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs) were cultured on tissue culture plastics, poly(lactic acid) (PLA) discs with regular open structures, or spherical poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) MSs, respectively. Notably, HDFs exhibited flattened spindle shapes when adhered to solid surfaces, and complex 3D structures when migrating into the structured voids of PLA discs or interstitial spaces between aggregated PMMA MSs, showcasing coordinated colonization of porous scaffolds. Empirical investigations led to power law models simulating density-dependent cell growth on solid surfaces or voids. Concurrently, a modified diffusion model was applied to simulate oxygen diffusion within tissues cultured on solid surfaces or porous structures. These mathematical models were subsequently combined to explore the influences of initial cell seeding density, culture duration, and oxygen diffusion on MT cultivation and assembly. The findings underscored the intricate interplay of factors influencing MT design for tissue assembly. The integrated approach provides insights into mechanistic aspects, informing bioprocess design for manufacturing MTs and 3D tissues in DE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Sun
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Loughborough University, Epinal Way, Loughborough LE11 3TU, UK
| | - Yu Xiang
- Department of Materials, Loughborough University, Epinal Way, Loughborough LE11 3TU, UK
| | - Freya Turner
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Loughborough University, Epinal Way, Loughborough LE11 3TU, UK
| | - Xujin Bao
- Department of Materials, Loughborough University, Epinal Way, Loughborough LE11 3TU, UK
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6
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Natesh NR, Mogha P, Chen A, Antonia SJ, Varghese S. Differential roles of normal and lung cancer-associated fibroblasts in microvascular network formation. APL Bioeng 2024; 8:016120. [PMID: 38524671 PMCID: PMC10959556 DOI: 10.1063/5.0188238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Perfusable microvascular networks offer promising three-dimensional in vitro models to study normal and compromised vascular tissues as well as phenomena such as cancer cell metastasis. Engineering of these microvascular networks generally involves the use of endothelial cells stabilized by fibroblasts to generate robust and stable vasculature. However, fibroblasts are highly heterogenous and may contribute variably to the microvascular structure. Here, we study the effect of normal and cancer-associated lung fibroblasts on the formation and function of perfusable microvascular networks. We examine the influence of cancer-associated fibroblasts on microvascular networks when cultured in direct (juxtacrine) and indirect (paracrine) contacts with endothelial cells, discovering a generative inhibition of microvasculature in juxtacrine co-cultures and a functional inhibition in paracrine co-cultures. Furthermore, we probed the secreted factors differential between cancer-associated fibroblasts and normal human lung fibroblasts, identifying several cytokines putatively influencing the resulting microvasculature morphology and functionality. These findings suggest the potential contribution of cancer-associated fibroblasts in aberrant microvasculature associated with tumors and the plausible application of such in vitro platforms in identifying new therapeutic targets and/or agents that can prevent formation of aberrant vascular structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naveen R. Natesh
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, 203 Research Drive, MSRB1 Room No. 381, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA
| | - Pankaj Mogha
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Duke University, 200 Trent Drive, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA
| | - Alan Chen
- Department of Medical Oncology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA
| | - Scott J. Antonia
- Department of Medical Oncology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA
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7
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Shiwarski DJ, Hudson AR, Tashman JW, Bakirci E, Moss S, Coffin BD, Feinberg AW. 3D Bioprinting of Collagen-based Microfluidics for Engineering Fully-biologic Tissue Systems. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.01.26.577422. [PMID: 38352326 PMCID: PMC10862740 DOI: 10.1101/2024.01.26.577422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Microfluidic and organ-on-a-chip devices have improved the physiologic and translational relevance of in vitro systems in applications ranging from disease modeling to drug discovery and pharmacology. However, current manufacturing approaches have limitations in terms of materials used, non-native mechanical properties, patterning of extracellular matrix (ECM) and cells in 3D, and remodeling by cells into more complex tissues. We present a method to 3D bioprint ECM and cells into microfluidic collagen-based high-resolution internally perfusable scaffolds (CHIPS) that address these limitations, expand design complexity, and simplify fabrication. Additionally, CHIPS enable size-dependent diffusion of molecules out of perfusable channels into the surrounding device to support cell migration and remodeling, formation of capillary-like networks, and integration of secretory cell types to form a glucose-responsive, insulin-secreting pancreatic-like microphysiological system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J Shiwarski
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Andrew R Hudson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Joshua W Tashman
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Ezgi Bakirci
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Samuel Moss
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Brian D Coffin
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Adam W Feinberg
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
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8
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Davidson CD, Midekssa FS, DePalma SJ, Kamen JL, Wang WY, Jayco DKP, Wieger ME, Baker BM. Mechanical Intercellular Communication via Matrix-Borne Cell Force Transmission During Vascular Network Formation. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2306210. [PMID: 37997199 PMCID: PMC10797481 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202306210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
Intercellular communication is critical to the formation and homeostatic function of all tissues. Previous work has shown that cells can communicate mechanically via the transmission of cell-generated forces through their surrounding extracellular matrix, but this process is not well understood. Here, mechanically defined, synthetic electrospun fibrous matrices are utilized in conjunction with a microfabrication-based cell patterning approach to examine mechanical intercellular communication (MIC) between endothelial cells (ECs) during their assembly into interconnected multicellular networks. It is found that cell force-mediated matrix displacements in deformable fibrous matrices underly directional extension and migration of neighboring ECs toward each other prior to the formation of stable cell-cell connections enriched with vascular endothelial cadherin (VE-cadherin). A critical role is also identified for calcium signaling mediated by focal adhesion kinase and mechanosensitive ion channels in MIC that extends to multicellular assembly of 3D vessel-like networks when ECs are embedded within fibrin hydrogels. These results illustrate a role for cell-generated forces and ECM mechanical properties in multicellular assembly of capillary-like EC networks and motivates the design of biomaterials that promote MIC for vascular tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Firaol S. Midekssa
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMI48109USA
| | - Samuel J. DePalma
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMI48109USA
| | - Jordan L. Kamen
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMI48109USA
| | - William Y. Wang
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMI48109USA
| | | | - Megan E. Wieger
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMI48109USA
| | - Brendon M. Baker
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMI48109USA
- Department of Chemical EngineeringUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMI48109USA
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9
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Jiang H, Li X, Chen T, Liu Y, Wang Q, Wang Z, Jia J. Bioprinted vascular tissue: Assessing functions from cellular, tissue to organ levels. Mater Today Bio 2023; 23:100846. [PMID: 37953757 PMCID: PMC10632537 DOI: 10.1016/j.mtbio.2023.100846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 10/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Abstract
3D bioprinting technology is widely used to fabricate various tissue structures. However, the absence of vessels hampers the ability of bioprinted tissues to receive oxygen and nutrients as well as to remove wastes, leading to a significant reduction in their survival rate. Despite the advancements in bioinks and bioprinting technologies, bioprinted vascular structures continue to be unsuitable for transplantation compared to natural blood vessels. In addition, a complete assessment index system for evaluating the structure and function of bioprinted vessels in vitro has not yet been established. Therefore, in this review, we firstly highlight the significance of selecting suitable bioinks and bioprinting techniques as they two synergize with each other. Subsequently, focusing on both vascular-associated cells and vascular tissues, we provide a relatively thorough assessment of the functions of bioprinted vascular tissue based on the physiological functions that natural blood vessels possess. We end with a review of the applications of vascular models, such as vessel-on-a-chip, in simulating pathological processes and conducting drug screening at the organ level. We believe that the development of fully functional blood vessels will soon make great contributions to tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haihong Jiang
- School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xueyi Li
- Sino-Swiss Institute of Advanced Technology, School of Micro-electronics, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| | - Tianhong Chen
- School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yang Liu
- School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qian Wang
- School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhimin Wang
- Shanghai-MOST Key Laboratory of Health and Disease Genomics, Chinese National Human Genome Center at Shanghai (CHGC) and Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies (SIBPT), Shanghai, China
| | - Jia Jia
- School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
- Sino-Swiss Institute of Advanced Technology, School of Micro-electronics, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
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10
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Mora-Boza A, Mulero-Russe A, Caprio ND, Burdick JA, Singh A, García AJ. Facile Photopatterning of Perfusable Microchannels in Synthetic Hydrogels to Recreate Microphysiological Environments. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023; 35:e2306765. [PMID: 37775089 PMCID: PMC10841628 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202306765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023]
Abstract
The fabrication of perfusable hydrogels is crucial for recreating in vitro microphysiological environments. Existing strategies to fabricate complex microchannels in hydrogels involve sophisticated equipment/techniques. A cost-effective, facile, versatile, and ultra-fast methodology is reported to fabricate perfusable microchannels of complex shapes in photopolymerizable hydrogels without the need of specialized equipment or sophisticated protocols. The methodology utilizes one-step ultraviolet (UV) light-triggered cross-linking and a photomask printed on inexpensive transparent films to photopattern PEG-norbornene hydrogels. Complex and intricate patterns with high resolution, including perfusable microchannels, can be fabricated in <1 s. The perfusable hydrogel is integrated into a custom-made microfluidic device that permits connection to external pump systems, allowing continuous fluid perfusion into the microchannels. Under dynamic culture, human endothelial cells form a functional and confluent endothelial monolayer that remains viable for at least 7 days and respond to inflammatory stimuli. Finally, approach to photopattern norbornene hyaluronic acid hydrogels is adapted, highlighting the versatility of the technique. This study presents an innovative strategy to simplify and reduce the cost of biofabrication techniques for developing functional in vitro models using perfusable three-dimensional (3D) hydrogels. The approach offers a novel solution to overcome the complexities associated with existing methods, allowing engineering advanced in vitro microphysiological environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Mora-Boza
- George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332-0363, USA
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332-0535, USA
- Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332-0363, USA
| | - Adriana Mulero-Russe
- George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332-0363, USA
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332-0535, USA
- Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332-0363, USA
| | - Nikolas Di Caprio
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104-6321, USA
- BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80309, USA
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80309, USA
| | - Jason A Burdick
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104-6321, USA
- BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80309, USA
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80309, USA
| | - Ankur Singh
- George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332-0363, USA
- Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332-0363, USA
| | - Andrés J García
- George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332-0363, USA
- Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332-0363, USA
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11
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Wang E, Andrade MJ, Smith Q. Vascularized liver-on-a-chip model to investigate nicotine-induced dysfunction. BIOMICROFLUIDICS 2023; 17:064108. [PMID: 38155919 PMCID: PMC10754629 DOI: 10.1063/5.0172677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023]
Abstract
The development of physiologically relevant in vitro systems for simulating disease onset and progression and predicting drug metabolism holds tremendous value in reducing drug discovery time and cost. However, many of these platforms lack accuracy in replicating the tissue architecture and multicellular interactions. By leveraging three-dimensional cell culture, biomimetic soft hydrogels, and engineered stimuli, in vitro models have continued to progress. Nonetheless, the incorporation of the microvasculature has been met with many challenges, specifically with the addition of parenchymal cell types. Here, a systematic approach to investigating the initial seeding density of endothelial cells and its effects on interconnected networks was taken and combined with hepatic spheroids to form a liver-on-a-chip model. Leveraging this system, nicotine's effects on microvasculature and hepatic function were investigated. The findings indicated that nicotine led to interrupted adherens junctions, decreased guanosine triphosphate cyclohydrolase 1 expression, impaired angiogenesis, and lowered barrier function, all key factors in endothelial dysfunction. With the combination of the optimized microvascular networks, a vascularized liver-on-a-chip was formed, providing functional xenobiotic metabolism and synthesis of both albumin and urea. This system provides insight into potential hepatotoxicity caused by various drugs and allows for assessing vascular dysfunction in a high throughput manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Wang
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, USA
| | - Melisa J. Andrade
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, USA
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12
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Margolis EA, Friend NE, Rolle MW, Alsberg E, Putnam AJ. Manufacturing the multiscale vascular hierarchy: progress toward solving the grand challenge of tissue engineering. Trends Biotechnol 2023; 41:1400-1416. [PMID: 37169690 PMCID: PMC10593098 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2023.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
In human vascular anatomy, blood flows from the heart to organs and tissues through a hierarchical vascular tree, comprising large arteries that branch into arterioles and further into capillaries, where gas and nutrient exchange occur. Engineering a complete, integrated vascular hierarchy with vessels large enough to suture, strong enough to withstand hemodynamic forces, and a branching structure to permit immediate perfusion of a fluidic circuit across scales would be transformative for regenerative medicine (RM), enabling the translation of engineered tissues of clinically relevant size, and perhaps whole organs. How close are we to solving this biological plumbing problem? In this review, we highlight advances in engineered vasculature at individual scales and focus on recent strategies to integrate across scales.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily A Margolis
- University of Michigan, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Nicole E Friend
- University of Michigan, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Marsha W Rolle
- Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Eben Alsberg
- University of Illinois at Chicago, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Andrew J Putnam
- University of Michigan, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
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13
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Whisler J, Shahreza S, Schlegelmilch K, Ege N, Javanmardi Y, Malandrino A, Agrawal A, Fantin A, Serwinski B, Azizgolshani H, Park C, Shone V, Demuren OO, Del Rosario A, Butty VL, Holroyd N, Domart MC, Hooper S, Szita N, Boyer LA, Walker-Samuel S, Djordjevic B, Sheridan GK, Collinson L, Calvo F, Ruhrberg C, Sahai E, Kamm R, Moeendarbary E. Emergent mechanical control of vascular morphogenesis. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2023; 9:eadg9781. [PMID: 37566656 PMCID: PMC10421067 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adg9781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023]
Abstract
Vascularization is driven by morphogen signals and mechanical cues that coordinately regulate cellular force generation, migration, and shape change to sculpt the developing vascular network. However, it remains unclear whether developing vasculature actively regulates its own mechanical properties to achieve effective vascularization. We engineered tissue constructs containing endothelial cells and fibroblasts to investigate the mechanics of vascularization. Tissue stiffness increases during vascular morphogenesis resulting from emergent interactions between endothelial cells, fibroblasts, and ECM and correlates with enhanced vascular function. Contractile cellular forces are key to emergent tissue stiffening and synergize with ECM mechanical properties to modulate the mechanics of vascularization. Emergent tissue stiffening and vascular function rely on mechanotransduction signaling within fibroblasts, mediated by YAP1. Mouse embryos lacking YAP1 in fibroblasts exhibit both reduced tissue stiffness and develop lethal vascular defects. Translating our findings through biology-inspired vascular tissue engineering approaches will have substantial implications in regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan Whisler
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Somayeh Shahreza
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University College London, London, UK
| | | | - Nil Ege
- Tumour Cell Biology Laboratory, Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
- Mnemo Therapeutics, 101 Boulevard Murat, 75016 Paris, France
| | - Yousef Javanmardi
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University College London, London, UK
| | - Andrea Malandrino
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Biomaterials, Biomechanics and Tissue Engineering Group, Department of Materials Science and Engineering and Research Center for Biomedical Engineering, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya (UPC), Av. Eduard Maristany, 10-14 08019 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ayushi Agrawal
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University College London, London, UK
| | - Alessandro Fantin
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK
- Department of Biosciences, University of Milan, Via G. Celoria 26, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Bianca Serwinski
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University College London, London, UK
- 199 Biotechnologies Ltd., Gloucester Road, London W2 6LD, UK
- Northeastern University London, London, E1W 1LP, UK
| | - Hesham Azizgolshani
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Clara Park
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Victoria Shone
- Experimental Histopathology Laboratory, Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
| | - Olukunle O. Demuren
- Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Amanda Del Rosario
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Vincent L. Butty
- Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Natalie Holroyd
- UCL Centre for Advanced Biomedical Imaging, Paul O'Gorman Building, 72 Huntley Street, London, UK
| | | | - Steven Hooper
- Tumour Cell Biology Laboratory, Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
| | - Nicolas Szita
- Department of Biochemical Engineering, University College London, London, UK
| | - Laurie A. Boyer
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Simon Walker-Samuel
- UCL Centre for Advanced Biomedical Imaging, Paul O'Gorman Building, 72 Huntley Street, London, UK
| | - Boris Djordjevic
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University College London, London, UK
- 199 Biotechnologies Ltd., Gloucester Road, London W2 6LD, UK
| | - Graham K. Sheridan
- School of Life Sciences, Queen’s Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Lucy Collinson
- Electron Microscopy Laboratory, Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
| | - Fernando Calvo
- Instituto de Biomedicina y Biotecnología de Cantabria (Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Universidad de Cantabria), Santander, Spain
| | | | - Erik Sahai
- Tumour Cell Biology Laboratory, Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
| | - Roger Kamm
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Emad Moeendarbary
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University College London, London, UK
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
- 199 Biotechnologies Ltd., Gloucester Road, London W2 6LD, UK
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14
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O'Connor CE, Neufeld A, Fortin CL, Johansson F, Mene J, Saxton SH, Simmonds SP, Kopyeva I, Gregorio NE, DeForest CA, Witten DM, Stevens KR. Highly Parallel Tissue Grafting for Combinatorial In Vivo Screening. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.03.16.533029. [PMID: 36993278 PMCID: PMC10055160 DOI: 10.1101/2023.03.16.533029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Material- and cell-based technologies such as engineered tissues hold great promise as human therapies. Yet, the development of many of these technologies becomes stalled at the stage of pre-clinical animal studies due to the tedious and low-throughput nature of in vivo implantation experiments. We introduce a 'plug and play' in vivo screening array platform called Highly Parallel Tissue Grafting (HPTG). HPTG enables parallelized in vivo screening of 43 three-dimensional microtissues within a single 3D printed device. Using HPTG, we screen microtissue formations with varying cellular and material components and identify formulations that support vascular self-assembly, integration and tissue function. Our studies highlight the importance of combinatorial studies that vary cellular and material formulation variables concomitantly, by revealing that inclusion of stromal cells can "rescue" vascular self-assembly in manner that is material-dependent. HPTG provides a route for accelerating pre-clinical progress for diverse medical applications including tissue therapy, cancer biomedicine, and regenerative medicine.
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15
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Li C, Xiao C, Zhan L, Zhang Z, Xing J, Zhai J, Zhou Z, Tan G, Piao J, Zhou Y, Qi S, Wang Z, Yu P, Ning C. Wireless electrical stimulation at the nanoscale interface induces tumor vascular normalization. Bioact Mater 2022; 18:399-408. [PMID: 35415302 PMCID: PMC8965767 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2022.03.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Revised: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Pathological angiogenesis frequently occurs in tumor tissue, limiting the efficiency of chemotherapeutic drug delivery and accelerating tumor progression. However, traditional vascular normalization strategies are not fully effective and limited by the development of resistance. Herein, inspired by the intervention of endogenous bioelectricity in vessel formation, we propose a wireless electrical stimulation therapeutic strategy, capable of breaking bioelectric homeostasis within cells, to achieve tumor vascular normalization. Polarized barium titanate nanoparticles with high mechano-electrical conversion performance were developed, which could generate pulsed open-circuit voltage under low-intensity pulsed ultrasound. We demonstrated that wireless electrical stimulation significantly inhibited endothelial cell migration and differentiation in vitro. Interestingly, we found that the angiogenesis-related eNOS/NO pathway was inhibited, which could be attributed to the destruction of the intracellular calcium ion gradient by wireless electrical stimulation. In vivo tumor-bearing mouse model indicated that wireless electrical stimulation normalized tumor vasculature by optimizing vascular structure, enhancing blood perfusion, reducing vascular leakage, and restoring local oxygenation. Ultimately, the anti-tumor efficacy of combination treatment was 1.8 times that of the single chemotherapeutic drug doxorubicin group. This work provides a wireless electrical stimulation strategy based on the mechano-electrical conversion performance of piezoelectric nanoparticles, which is expected to achieve safe and effective clinical adjuvant treatment of malignant tumors. Wireless electrical stimulation was proposed for tumor vascular normalization. Polarized ferroelectric nanoparticles were developed for wireless stimulation. Wireless stimulation inhibited endothelial cell migration and differentiation. The intracellular Ca2+ gradient and eNOS/NO pathway of cells were disturbed. In vivo vascular normalization and anti-tumor efficacy were significantly enhanced.
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16
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Kim S, Wan Z, Jeon JS, Kamm RD. Microfluidic vascular models of tumor cell extravasation. Front Oncol 2022; 12:1052192. [PMID: 36439519 PMCID: PMC9698448 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.1052192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Emerging microfluidic disease models have amply demonstrated their value in many fields of cancer research. These in vitro technologies recapitulate key aspects of metastatic cancer, including the process of tumor cell arrest and extravasation at the site of the metastatic tumor. To date, extensive efforts have been made to capture key features of the microvasculature to reconstitute the pre-metastatic niche and investigate dynamic extravasation behaviors using microfluidic systems. In this mini-review, we highlight recent microfluidic vascular models of tumor cell extravasation and explore how this approach contributes to development of in vitro disease models to enhance understanding of metastasis in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seunggyu Kim
- Mechanobiology Lab, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, United States
- Biomicrofluidics Lab, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Zhengpeng Wan
- Mechanobiology Lab, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, United States
| | - Jessie S. Jeon
- Biomicrofluidics Lab, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Roger D. Kamm
- Mechanobiology Lab, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, United States
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17
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Mousavi A, Stefanek E, Jafari A, Ajji Z, Naghieh S, Akbari M, Savoji H. Tissue-engineered heart chambers as a platform technology for drug discovery and disease modeling. BIOMATERIALS ADVANCES 2022; 138:212916. [PMID: 35913255 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioadv.2022.212916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Revised: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Current drug screening approaches are incapable of fully detecting and characterizing drug effectiveness and toxicity of human cardiomyocytes. The pharmaceutical industry uses mathematical models, cell lines, and in vivo models. Many promising drugs are abandoned early in development, and some cardiotoxic drugs reach humans leading to drug recalls. Therefore, there is an unmet need to have more reliable and predictive tools for drug discovery and screening applications. Biofabrication of functional cardiac tissues holds great promise for developing a faithful 3D in vitro disease model, optimizing drug screening efficiencies enabling precision medicine. Different fabrication techniques including molding, pull spinning and 3D bioprinting were used to develop tissue-engineered heart chambers. The big challenge is to effectively organize cells into tissue with structural and physiological features resembling native tissues. Some advancements have been made in engineering miniaturized heart chambers that resemble a living pump for drug screening and disease modeling applications. Here, we review the currently developed tissue-engineered heart chambers and discuss challenges and prospects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Mousavi
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC H3T 1J4, Canada; Research Center, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Sainte-Justine, Montreal, QC, H3T 1C5 Canada; Montreal TransMedTech Institute (iTMT), Montreal, QC H3T 1C5, Canada
| | - Evan Stefanek
- Laboratory for Innovation in Microengineering (LiME), Department of Mechanical Engineering, Center for Biomedical Research, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8P 2C5, Canada; Centre for Advanced Materials and Related Technologies (CAMTEC), University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8P 5C2, Canada
| | - Arman Jafari
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC H3T 1J4, Canada; Research Center, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Sainte-Justine, Montreal, QC, H3T 1C5 Canada; Montreal TransMedTech Institute (iTMT), Montreal, QC H3T 1C5, Canada
| | - Zineb Ajji
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC H3T 1J4, Canada; Research Center, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Sainte-Justine, Montreal, QC, H3T 1C5 Canada; Montreal TransMedTech Institute (iTMT), Montreal, QC H3T 1C5, Canada
| | - Saman Naghieh
- Division of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5A9, Canada
| | - Mohsen Akbari
- Laboratory for Innovation in Microengineering (LiME), Department of Mechanical Engineering, Center for Biomedical Research, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8P 2C5, Canada; Centre for Advanced Materials and Related Technologies (CAMTEC), University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8P 5C2, Canada; Biotechnology Center, Silesian University of Technology, Akademicka 2A, 44-100 Gliwice, Poland
| | - Houman Savoji
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC H3T 1J4, Canada; Research Center, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Sainte-Justine, Montreal, QC, H3T 1C5 Canada; Montreal TransMedTech Institute (iTMT), Montreal, QC H3T 1C5, Canada.
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18
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Wang Y, Keshavarz M, Barhouse P, Smith Q. Strategies for Regenerative Vascular Tissue Engineering. Adv Biol (Weinh) 2022; 7:e2200050. [PMID: 35751461 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.202200050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 05/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Vascularization remains one of the key challenges in creating functional tissue-engineered constructs for therapeutic applications. This review aims to provide a developmental lens on the necessity of blood vessels in defining tissue function while exploring stem cells as a suitable source for vascular tissue engineering applications. The intersections of stem cell biology, material science, and engineering are explored as potential solutions for directing vascular assembly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Wang
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering University of California Irvine CA 92697 USA
- Sue & Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center University of California Irvine CA 92697 USA
| | - Mozhgan Keshavarz
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering University of California Irvine CA 92697 USA
- Sue & Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center University of California Irvine CA 92697 USA
| | - Patrick Barhouse
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering University of California Irvine CA 92697 USA
- Sue & Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center University of California Irvine CA 92697 USA
| | - Quinton Smith
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering University of California Irvine CA 92697 USA
- Sue & Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center University of California Irvine CA 92697 USA
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19
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Kim D, Hwang KS, Seo EU, Seo S, Lee BC, Choi N, Choi J, Kim HN. Vascularized Lung Cancer Model for Evaluating the Promoted Transport of Anticancer Drugs and Immune Cells in an Engineered Tumor Microenvironment. Adv Healthc Mater 2022; 11:e2102581. [PMID: 35286780 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202102581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) is the environment around the tumor, including blood vessels, immune cells, fibroblasts, signaling molecules, and the extracellular matrix (ECM). Owing to its component interactions, the TME influences tumor growth and drug delivery in a highly complex manner. Although several vascularized cancer models are developed to mimic the TME in vitro, these models cannot comprehensively reflect blood vessel-tumor spheroid interactions. Here, a method for inducing controlled tumor angiogenesis by engineering the microenvironment is presented. The interstitial flow direction regulates the direction of capillary sprouting, showing that angiogenesis occurs in the opposite direction of flow, while the existence of lung fibroblasts affects the continuity and lumen formation of sprouted capillaries. The vascularized tumor model shows enhanced delivery of anticancer drugs and immune cells to the tumor spheroids because of the perfusable vascular networks. The possibility of capillary embolism using anticancer drug-conjugated liquid metal nanoparticles is investigated using the vascularized tumor model. This vascularized tumor platform can aid in the development of effective anticancer drugs and cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dasom Kim
- Brain Science Institute Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) Seoul 02792 Republic of Korea
| | - Kyeong Seob Hwang
- Brain Science Institute Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) Seoul 02792 Republic of Korea
- School of Mechanical Engineering Yonsei University Seoul 03722 Republic of Korea
| | - Eun U Seo
- Brain Science Institute Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) Seoul 02792 Republic of Korea
- Division of Bio‐Medical Science and Technology KIST School Korea University of Science and Technology (UST) Seoul 02792 Republic of Korea
| | - Suyeong Seo
- Brain Science Institute Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) Seoul 02792 Republic of Korea
- Program in Nano Science and Technology Graduate School of Convergence Science and Technology Seoul National University Seoul 08826 Republic of Korea
| | - Byung Chul Lee
- Brain Science Institute Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) Seoul 02792 Republic of Korea
- Division of Bio‐Medical Science and Technology KIST School Korea University of Science and Technology (UST) Seoul 02792 Republic of Korea
| | - Nakwon Choi
- Brain Science Institute Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) Seoul 02792 Republic of Korea
- Division of Bio‐Medical Science and Technology KIST School Korea University of Science and Technology (UST) Seoul 02792 Republic of Korea
- KU‐KIST Graduate School of Converging Science and Technology Korea University Seoul 02841 Republic of Korea
| | - Jonghoon Choi
- School of Integrative Engineering Chung‐Ang University Seoul 06974 Republic of Korea
| | - Hong Nam Kim
- Brain Science Institute Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) Seoul 02792 Republic of Korea
- School of Mechanical Engineering Yonsei University Seoul 03722 Republic of Korea
- Division of Bio‐Medical Science and Technology KIST School Korea University of Science and Technology (UST) Seoul 02792 Republic of Korea
- Yonsei‐KIST Convergence Research Institute Yonsei University Seoul 03722 Republic of Korea
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20
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O’Connor C, Brady E, Zheng Y, Moore E, Stevens KR. Engineering the multiscale complexity of vascular networks. NATURE REVIEWS. MATERIALS 2022; 7:702-716. [PMID: 35669037 PMCID: PMC9154041 DOI: 10.1038/s41578-022-00447-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
The survival of vertebrate organisms depends on highly regulated delivery of oxygen and nutrients through vascular networks that pervade nearly all tissues in the body. Dysregulation of these vascular networks is implicated in many common human diseases such as hypertension, coronary artery disease, diabetes and cancer. Therefore, engineers have sought to create vascular networks within engineered tissues for applications such as regenerative therapies, human disease modelling and pharmacological testing. Yet engineering vascular networks has historically remained difficult, owing to both incomplete understanding of vascular structure and technical limitations for vascular fabrication. This Review highlights the materials advances that have enabled transformative progress in vascular engineering by ushering in new tools for both visualizing and building vasculature. New methods such as bioprinting, organoids and microfluidic systems are discussed, which have enabled the fabrication of 3D vascular topologies at a cellular scale with lumen perfusion. These approaches to vascular engineering are categorized into technology-driven and nature-driven approaches. Finally, the remaining knowledge gaps, emerging frontiers and opportunities for this field are highlighted, including the steps required to replicate the multiscale complexity of vascular networks found in nature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colleen O’Connor
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA USA
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Seattle, WA USA
| | - Eileen Brady
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Seattle, WA USA
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA USA
| | - Ying Zheng
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA USA
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Seattle, WA USA
- Center for Cardiovascular Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA USA
| | - Erika Moore
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL USA
| | - Kelly R. Stevens
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA USA
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Seattle, WA USA
- Center for Cardiovascular Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA USA
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA USA
- Brotman Baty Institute, Seattle, WA USA
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21
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Smith Q, Bays J, Li L, Shareef H, Chen CS, Bhatia SN. Directing Cholangiocyte Morphogenesis in Natural Biomaterial Scaffolds. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2022; 9:e2102698. [PMID: 34786888 PMCID: PMC8787431 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202102698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Revised: 09/04/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Patients with Alagille syndrome carry monogenic mutations in the Notch signaling pathway and face complications such as jaundice and cholestasis. Given the presence of intrahepatic ductopenia in these patients, Notch2 receptor signaling is implicated in driving normal biliary development and downstream branching morphogenesis. As a result, in vitro model systems of liver epithelium are needed to further mechanistic insight of biliary tissue assembly. Here, primary human intrahepatic cholangiocytes as a candidate population for such a platform are systematically evaluated, and conditions that direct their branching morphogenesis are described. It is found that extracellular matrix presentation, coupled with mitogen stimulation, promotes biliary branching in a Notch-dependent manner. These results demonstrate the utility of using 3D scaffolds for mechanistic investigation of cholangiocyte branching and provide a gateway to integrate biliary architecture in additional in vitro models of liver tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quinton Smith
- Howard Hughes Medical InstituteChevy ChaseMD20815USA
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer ResearchMassachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridgeMA02142USA
| | - Jennifer Bays
- Department of BioengineeringBoston UniversityBostonMA02215USA
- The Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired EngineeringHarvard UniversityBostonMA02215USA
| | - Linqing Li
- Department of BioengineeringBoston UniversityBostonMA02215USA
- The Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired EngineeringHarvard UniversityBostonMA02215USA
| | - Haniyah Shareef
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer ResearchMassachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridgeMA02142USA
| | - Christopher S. Chen
- Department of BioengineeringBoston UniversityBostonMA02215USA
- The Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired EngineeringHarvard UniversityBostonMA02215USA
| | - Sangeeta N. Bhatia
- Howard Hughes Medical InstituteChevy ChaseMD20815USA
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer ResearchMassachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridgeMA02142USA
- The Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired EngineeringHarvard UniversityBostonMA02215USA
- Institute for Medical Engineering and ScienceMassachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridgeMA02142USA
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer ScienceMassachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridgeMA02142USA
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22
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Debbi L, Zohar B, Shuhmaher M, Shandalov Y, Goldfracht I, Levenberg S. Integrating engineered macro vessels with self-assembled capillaries in 3D implantable tissue for promoting vascular integration in-vivo. Biomaterials 2021; 280:121286. [PMID: 34871879 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2021.121286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Revised: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
A functional multi-scale vascular network can promote 3D engineered tissue growth and improve transplantation outcome. In this work, by using a combination of living cells, biological hydrogel, and biodegradable synthetic polymer we fabricated a biocompatible, multi-scale vascular network (MSVT) within thick, implantable engineered tissues. Using a templating technique, macro-vessels were patterned in a 3D biodegradable polymeric scaffold seeded with endothelial and support cells within a collagen gel. The lumen of the macro-vessel was lined with endothelial cells, which further sprouted and anastomosed with the surrounding self-assembled capillaries. Anastomoses between the two-scaled vascular systems displayed tightly bonded cell junctions, as indicated by vascular endothelial cadherin expression. Moreover, MSVT functionality and patency were demonstrated by dextran passage through the interconnected multi-scale vasculature. Additionally, physiological flow conditions were applied with home-designed flow bioreactors, to achieve a MSVT with a natural endothelium structure. Finally, implantation of a multi-scale-vascularized graft in a mouse model resulted in extensive host vessel penetration into the graft and a significant increase in blood perfusion via the engineered vessels compared to control micro-scale-vascularized graft. Designing and fabricating such multi-scale vascular architectures within 3D engineered tissues may benefit both in vitro models and therapeutic translation research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lior Debbi
- Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Israel
| | - Barak Zohar
- Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Israel
| | - Margarita Shuhmaher
- Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Israel
| | - Yulia Shandalov
- Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Israel
| | - Idit Goldfracht
- Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Israel
| | - Shulamit Levenberg
- Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Israel.
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23
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Shen J, Wang J, Liu X, Sun Y, Yin A, Chai Y, Zhang K, Wang C, Zheng X. In Situ Prevascularization Strategy with Three-Dimensional Porous Conduits for Neural Tissue Engineering. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2021; 13:50785-50801. [PMID: 34664947 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.1c16138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Neovascularization is crucial for peripheral nerve regeneration and long-term functional restoration. Previous studies have emphasized strategies that enhance axonal repair over vascularization. Here, we describe the development and application of an in situ prevascularization strategy that uses 3D porous nerve guidance conduits (NGCs) to achieve angiogenesis-mediated neural regeneration. The optimal porosity of the NGC is a critical feature for achieving neovascularization and nerve growth patency. Hollow silk fibroin/poly(l-lactic acid-co-ε-caprolactone) NGCs with 3D sponge-like walls were fabricated using electrospinning and freeze-drying. In vitro results showed that 3D porous NGC favored cell biocompatibility had neuroregeneration potential and, most importantly, had angiogenic activity. Results from our mechanistic studies suggest that activation of HIF-1α signaling might be associated with this process. We also tested in situ prevascularized 3D porous NGCs in vivo by transplanting them into a 10 mm rat sciatic nerve defect model with the aim of regenerating the severed nerve. The prevascularized 3D porous NGCs greatly enhanced intraneural angiogenesis, resulting in demonstrable neurogenesis. Eight weeks after transplantation, the performance of the prevascularized 3D NGCs was similar to that of traditional autografts in terms of improved anatomical structure, morphology, and neural function. In conclusion, combining a reasonably fabricated 3D-pore conduit structure with in situ prevascularization promoted functional nerve regeneration, suggesting an alternative strategy for achieving functional recovery after peripheral nerve trauma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junjie Shen
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Yishan Road 600, Shanghai 200233, PR China
- Haikou Orthopedic and Diabetes Hospital of Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital, Hainan 570300, PR China
| | - Jiayan Wang
- College of Materials and Textile Engineering, Nanotechnology Research Institute, Jiaxing University, Zhejiang 314001, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Yarn Materials Forming and Composite Processing Technology, Zhejiang 314001, PR China
| | - Xuanzhe Liu
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Yishan Road 600, Shanghai 200233, PR China
| | - Yi Sun
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Yishan Road 600, Shanghai 200233, PR China
| | - Anlin Yin
- College of Materials and Textile Engineering, Nanotechnology Research Institute, Jiaxing University, Zhejiang 314001, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Yarn Materials Forming and Composite Processing Technology, Zhejiang 314001, PR China
| | - Yimin Chai
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Yishan Road 600, Shanghai 200233, PR China
| | - Kuihua Zhang
- College of Materials and Textile Engineering, Nanotechnology Research Institute, Jiaxing University, Zhejiang 314001, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Yarn Materials Forming and Composite Processing Technology, Zhejiang 314001, PR China
| | - Chunyang Wang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Yishan Road 600, Shanghai 200233, PR China
- Haikou Orthopedic and Diabetes Hospital of Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital, Hainan 570300, PR China
| | - Xianyou Zheng
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Yishan Road 600, Shanghai 200233, PR China
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Szklanny AA, Machour M, Redenski I, Chochola V, Goldfracht I, Kaplan B, Epshtein M, Simaan Yameen H, Merdler U, Feinberg A, Seliktar D, Korin N, Jaroš J, Levenberg S. 3D Bioprinting of Engineered Tissue Flaps with Hierarchical Vessel Networks (VesselNet) for Direct Host-To-Implant Perfusion. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2021; 33:e2102661. [PMID: 34510579 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202102661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Revised: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Engineering hierarchical vasculatures is critical for creating implantable functional thick tissues. Current approaches focus on fabricating mesoscale vessels for implantation or hierarchical microvascular in vitro models, but a combined approach is yet to be achieved to create engineered tissue flaps. Here, millimetric vessel-like scaffolds and 3D bioprinted vascularized tissues interconnect, creating fully engineered hierarchical vascular constructs for implantation. Endothelial and support cells spontaneously form microvascular networks in bioprinted tissues using a human collagen bioink. Sacrificial molds are used to create polymeric vessel-like scaffolds and endothelial cells seeded in their lumen form native-like endothelia. Assembling endothelialized scaffolds within vascularizing hydrogels incites the bioprinted vasculature and endothelium to cooperatively create vessels, enabling tissue perfusion through the scaffold lumen. Using a cuffing microsurgery approach, the engineered tissue is directly anastomosed with a rat femoral artery, promoting a rich host vasculature within the implanted tissue. After two weeks in vivo, contrast microcomputer tomography imaging and lectin perfusion of explanted engineered tissues verify the host ingrowth vasculature's functionality. Furthermore, the hierarchical vessel network (VesselNet) supports in vitro functionality of cardiomyocytes. Finally, the proposed approach is expanded to mimic complex structures with native-like millimetric vessels. This work presents a novel strategy aiming to create fully-engineered patient-specific thick tissue flaps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariel A Szklanny
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, 32000, Israel
| | - Majd Machour
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, 32000, Israel
| | - Idan Redenski
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, 32000, Israel
| | - Václav Chochola
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, 625 00, Czech Republic
| | - Idit Goldfracht
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, 32000, Israel
| | - Ben Kaplan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, 32000, Israel
| | - Mark Epshtein
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, 32000, Israel
| | - Haneen Simaan Yameen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, 32000, Israel
| | - Uri Merdler
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, 32000, Israel
| | - Adam Feinberg
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - Dror Seliktar
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, 32000, Israel
| | - Netanel Korin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, 32000, Israel
| | - Josef Jaroš
- Cell and Tissue Regeneration, International Clinical Research Center, St. Anne's University Hospital Brno, Brno, 65691, Czech Republic
| | - Shulamit Levenberg
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, 32000, Israel
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25
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Kant RJ, Bare CF, Coulombe KL. Tissues with Patterned Vessels or Protein Release Induce Vascular Chemotaxis in an In Vitro Platform. Tissue Eng Part A 2021; 27:1290-1304. [PMID: 33472529 PMCID: PMC8610033 DOI: 10.1089/ten.tea.2020.0269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Engineered tissues designed for translational applications in regenerative medicine require vascular networks to deliver oxygen and nutrients rapidly to the implanted cells. A limiting factor of in vivo translation is the rapid and successful inosculation, or connection, of host and implanted vascular networks and subsequent perfusion of the implant. An approach gaining favor in vascular tissue engineering is to provide instructive cues from the engineered tissue to enhance host vascular penetration and connection with the implant. Here, we use a novel in vitro platform based on the aortic ring assay to evaluate the impact of patterned, endothelialized vessels or growth factor release from engineered constructs on preinosculative vascular cell outgrowth from surrogate host tissue in a controlled, defined environment, and introduce robust tools for evaluating vascular morphogenesis and chemotaxis. We demonstrate the creation of engineered vessels at the arteriole scale, which develop basement membrane, exhibit tight junctions, and actively sprout into the surrounding bulk hydrogel. Vessel-containing constructs are co-cultured adjacent to rodent aortic rings, and the resulting heterocellular outgrowth is quantified. Cells originating from the aortic ring migrate preferentially toward constructs containing engineered vessels with 1.5-fold faster outgrowth kinetics, 2.5-fold increased cellular density, and 1.6-fold greater network formation versus control (no endothelial cells and growth factor-reduced culture medium). Growth factor release from constructs with nonendothelialized channels and in reduced factor medium equivalently stimulates sustained vascular outgrowth distance, cellular density, and network formation, akin to engineered vessels in endothelial growth medium 2 (EGM-2) medium. In conclusion, we show that three-dimensional endothelialized patterned vessels or growth factor release stimulate a robust, host-derived vascular cell chemotactic response at early time points critical for instructive angiogenic cues. Further, we developed robust, unbiased tools to quantify metrics of vascular morphogenesis and preinosculative heterocellular outgrowth from rat aortic rings and demonstrated the utility of our complex, controlled environment, heterocellular in vitro platform. Impact statement Using a novel in vitro platform, we show that engineered constructs with patterned vessels or angiogenic growth factor release, two methods of instructing host revascularization responses, equivalently improve early host-derived vascular outgrowth. Our platform leverages the aortic ring assay in a tissue engineering context to study preinosculative vascular cell chemotaxis from surrogate host vascular cells in response to paracrine cues from co-cultured engineered tissues using robust, open-source quantification tools. Our accessible and flexible platform enables translationally focused studies in revascularization using implantable therapeutics containing prepatterned vessels with greater environmental control than in vivo studies to advance vascular tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajeev J. Kant
- Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Colette F. Bare
- Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Kareen L.K. Coulombe
- Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
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26
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A robust vasculogenic microfluidic model using human immortalized endothelial cells and Thy1 positive fibroblasts. Biomaterials 2021; 276:121032. [PMID: 34303155 PMCID: PMC9891349 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2021.121032] [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] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Revised: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and stromal cells, such as human lung fibroblasts (FBs), have been widely used to generate functional microvascular networks (μVNs) in vitro. However, primary cells derived from different donors have batch-to-batch variations and limited lifespans when cultured in vitro, which hampers the reproducibility of μVN formation. Here, we immortalize HUVECs and FBs by exogenously expressing human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) to obtain stable endothelial cell and FB sources for μVN formation in vitro. Interestingly, we find that immortalized HUVECs can only form functional μVNs with immortalized FBs from earlier passages but not from later passages. Mechanistically, we show that Thy1 expression decreases in FBs from later passages. Compared to Thy1 negative FBs, Thy1 positive FBs express higher IGFBP2, IGFBP7, and SPARC, which are important for angiogenesis and lumen formation during vasculogenesis in 3D. Moreover, Thy1 negative FBs physically block microvessel openings, reducing the perfusability of μVNs. Finally, by culturing immortalized FBs on gelatin-coated surfaces in serum-free medium, we are able to maintain the majority of Thy1 positive immortalized FBs to support perfusable μVN formation. Overall, we establish stable cell sources for μVN formation and characterize the functions of Thy1 positive and negative FBs in vasculogenesis in vitro.
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27
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Identifying Candidate Biomarkers of Ionizing Radiation in Human Pulmonary Microvascular Lumens Using Microfluidics-A Pilot Study. MICROMACHINES 2021; 12:mi12080904. [PMID: 34442526 PMCID: PMC8402207 DOI: 10.3390/mi12080904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Revised: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
The microvasculature system is critical for the delivery and removal of key nutrients and waste products and is significantly damaged by ionizing radiation. Single-cell capillaries and microvasculature structures are the primary cause of circulatory dysfunction, one that results in morbidities leading to progressive tissue and organ failure and premature death. Identifying tissue-specific biomarkers that are predictive of the extent of tissue and organ damage will aid in developing medical countermeasures for treating individuals exposed to ionizing radiation. In this pilot study, we developed and tested a 17 µL human-derived microvascular microfluidic lumen for identifying candidate biomarkers of ionizing radiation exposure. Through mass-spectrometry-based proteomics, we detected 35 proteins that may be candidate early biomarkers of ionizing radiation exposure. This pilot study demonstrates the feasibility of using humanized microfluidic and organ-on-a-chip systems for biomarker discovery studies. A more elaborate study of sufficient statistical power is needed to identify candidate biomarkers and test medical countermeasures of ionizing radiation.
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28
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Abstract
Recreating human organ-level function in vitro is a rapidly evolving field that integrates tissue engineering, stem cell biology, and microfluidic technology to produce 3D organoids. A critical component of all organs is the vasculature. Herein, we discuss general strategies to create vascularized organoids, including common source materials, and survey previous work using vascularized organoids to recreate specific organ functions and simulate tumor progression. Vascularization is not only an essential component of individual organ function but also responsible for coupling the fate of all organs and their functions. While some success in coupling two or more organs together on a single platform has been demonstrated, we argue that the future of vascularized organoid technology lies in creating organoid systems complete with tissue-specific microvasculature and in coupling multiple organs through a dynamic vascular network to create systems that can respond to changing physiological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Venktesh S Shirure
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Davis, California 95616, USA;
| | - Christopher C W Hughes
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California, Irvine, California 92697, USA
| | - Steven C George
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Davis, California 95616, USA;
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29
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Margolis EA, Cleveland DS, Kong YP, Beamish JA, Wang WY, Baker BM, Putnam AJ. Stromal cell identity modulates vascular morphogenesis in a microvasculature-on-a-chip platform. LAB ON A CHIP 2021; 21:1150-1163. [PMID: 33538719 PMCID: PMC7990720 DOI: 10.1039/d0lc01092h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Supportive stromal cells of mesenchymal origins regulate vascular morphogenesis in developmental, pathological, and regenerative contexts, contributing to vessel formation, maturation, and long-term stability, in part via the secretion of bioactive molecules. In this work, we adapted a microfluidic lab-on-a-chip system that enables the formation and perfusion of microvascular capillary beds with connections to arteriole-scale endothelialized channels to explore how stromal cell (SC) identity influences endothelial cell (EC) morphogenesis. We compared and contrasted lung fibroblasts (LFs), dermal fibroblasts (DFs), and bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) for their abilities to support endothelial morphogenesis and subsequent perfusion of microvascular networks formed in fibrin hydrogels within the microfluidic device. We demonstrated that while all 3 SC types supported EC morphogenesis, LFs in particular resulted in microvascular morphologies with the highest total network length, vessel diameter, and vessel interconnectivity across a range of SC-EC ratio and density conditions. Not only did LFs support robust vascular morphology, but also, they were the only SC type to support functional perfusion of the resultant capillary beds. Lastly, we identified heightened traction stress produced by LFs as a possible mechanism by which LFs enhance endothelial morphogenesis in 3D compared to other SC types examined. This study provides a unique comparison of three different SC types and their role in supporting the formation of microvasculature that could provide insights for the choice of cells for vascular cell-based therapies and the regulation of tissue-specific vasculature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily A Margolis
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, 1101 Beal Ave., Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
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30
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Tefft JB, Chen CS, Eyckmans J. Reconstituting the dynamics of endothelial cells and fibroblasts in wound closure. APL Bioeng 2021; 5:016102. [PMID: 33511324 PMCID: PMC7817247 DOI: 10.1063/5.0028651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The formation of healthy vascularized granulation tissue is essential for rapid wound closure and the prevention of chronic wounds in humans, yet how endothelial cells and fibroblasts coordinate during this process has been difficult to study. Here, we have developed an in vitro system that reveals how human endothelial and stromal cells in a 3D matrix respond during wound healing and granulation tissue formation. By creating incisions in engineered cultures composed of human umbilical vein endothelial cells and human lung fibroblasts embedded within a 3D matrix, we observed that these tissues are able to close the wound within approximately 4 days. Live tracking of cells during wound closure revealed that the process is mediated primarily by fibroblasts. The fibroblasts migrate circumferentially around the wound edge during early phases of healing, while contracting the wound. The fibroblast-derived matrix is, then, deposited into the void, facilitating fibroblast migration toward the wound center and filling of the void. Interestingly, the endothelial cells remain at the periphery of the wound rather than actively sprouting into the healing region to restore the vascular network. This study captures the dynamics of endothelial and fibroblast-mediated closure of three-dimensional wounds, which results in the repopulation of the wound with the cell-derived extracellular matrix representative of early granulation tissue, thus presenting a model for future studies to investigate factors regulating vascularized granulation tissue formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliann B. Tefft
- The Biological Design Center and Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts 02215, USA
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31
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Mansoorifar A, Gordon R, Bergan R, Bertassoni LE. Bone-on-a-chip: microfluidic technologies and microphysiologic models of bone tissue. ADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS 2021; 31:2006796. [PMID: 35422682 PMCID: PMC9007546 DOI: 10.1002/adfm.202006796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Bone is an active organ that continuously undergoes an orchestrated process of remodeling throughout life. Bone tissue is uniquely capable of adapting to loading, hormonal, and other changes happening in the body, as well as repairing bone that becomes damaged to maintain tissue integrity. On the other hand, diseases such as osteoporosis and metastatic cancers disrupt normal bone homeostasis leading to compromised function. Historically, our ability to investigate processes related to either physiologic or diseased bone tissue has been limited by traditional models that fail to emulate the complexity of native bone. Organ-on-a-chip models are based on technological advances in tissue engineering and microfluidics, enabling the reproduction of key features specific to tissue microenvironments within a microfabricated device. Compared to conventional in-vitro and in-vivo bone models, microfluidic models, and especially organs-on-a-chip platforms, provide more biomimetic tissue culture conditions, with increased predictive power for clinical assays. In this review, we will report microfluidic and organ-on-a-chip technologies designed for understanding the biology of bone as well as bone-related diseases and treatments. Finally, we discuss the limitations of the current models and point toward future directions for microfluidics and organ-on-a-chip technologies in bone research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amin Mansoorifar
- Department of Restorative Dentistry, School of Dentistry, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Ryan Gordon
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Knight Cancer Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Raymond Bergan
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Knight Cancer Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Luiz E. Bertassoni
- Department of Restorative Dentistry, School of Dentistry, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
- Cancer Early Detection Advanced Research Center (CEDAR), Knight Cancer Institute, Portland, OR, USA
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32
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Kim S, Uroz M, Bays JL, Chen CS. Harnessing Mechanobiology for Tissue Engineering. Dev Cell 2021; 56:180-191. [PMID: 33453155 PMCID: PMC7855912 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2020.12.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Revised: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
A primary challenge in tissue engineering is to recapitulate both the structural and functional features of whole tissues and organs. In vivo, patterning of the body plan and constituent tissues emerges from the carefully orchestrated interactions between the transcriptional programs that give rise to cell types and the mechanical forces that drive the bending, twisting, and extensions critical to morphogenesis. Substantial recent progress in mechanobiology-understanding how mechanics regulate cell behaviors and what cellular machineries are responsible-raises the possibility that one can begin to use these insights to help guide the strategy and design of functional engineered tissues. In this perspective, we review and propose the development of different approaches, from providing appropriate extracellular mechanical cues to interfering with cellular mechanosensing machinery, to aid in controlling cell and tissue structure and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sudong Kim
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and the Biological Design Center, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215, USA; The Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Marina Uroz
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and the Biological Design Center, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215, USA; The Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Jennifer L Bays
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and the Biological Design Center, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215, USA; The Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Christopher S Chen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and the Biological Design Center, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215, USA; The Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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