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Wang L, Bai L, Wang S, Zhou J, Liu Y, Zhang C, Yao S, He J, Liu C, Li D. Biomimetic design and integrated biofabrication of an in-vitro three-dimensional multi-scale multilayer cortical model. Mater Today Bio 2024; 28:101176. [PMID: 39171099 PMCID: PMC11334787 DOI: 10.1016/j.mtbio.2024.101176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2024] [Revised: 07/01/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/23/2024] Open
Abstract
The lack of accurate and reliable in vitro brain models hinders the development of brain science and research on brain diseases. Owing to the complex structure of the brain tissue and its highly nonlinear characteristics, the construction of brain-like in vitro tissue models remains one of the most challenging research fields in the construction of living tissues. This study proposes a multi-scale design of a brain-like model with a biomimetic cortical structure, which includes the macroscopic structural features of six layers of different cellular components, as well as micrometer-scale continuous fiber structures running through all layers vertically. To achieve integrated biomanufacturing of such a complex multi-scale brain-like model, a multi-material composite printing/culturing integrated bioprinting platform was developed in-house by integrating cell-laden hydrogel ink direct writing printing and electrohydrodynamic fiber 3D printing technologies. Through integrated bioprinting, multi-scale models with different cellular components and fiber structural parameters were prepared to study the effects of macroscopic and microscopic structural features on the directionality of neural cells, as well as the interaction between glial cells and neurons within the tissue model in a three-dimensional manner. The results revealed that the manufactured in vitro biomimetic cortical model achieved morphological connections between the layers of neurons, reflecting the structure and cellular morphology of the natural cortex. Micrometer-scale (10 μm) cross-layer fibers effectively guided and controlled the extension length and direction of the neurites of surrounding neural cells but had no significant effect on the migration of neurons. In contrast, glial cells significantly promoted the migration of surrounding PC12 cells towards the glial layer but did not contribute to the extension of neurites. This study provides a basis for the design and manufacture of accurate brain-like models for the functionalization of neuronal tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Manufacturing System Engineering, School of Mechanical Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong University, China
- National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Additive Manufacturing Medical Devices, Xi'an Jiaotong University, China
- National Innovation Platform (Center) for Industry-Education Integration of Medical Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, China
| | - Luge Bai
- State Key Laboratory for Manufacturing System Engineering, School of Mechanical Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong University, China
- National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Additive Manufacturing Medical Devices, Xi'an Jiaotong University, China
- National Innovation Platform (Center) for Industry-Education Integration of Medical Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, China
| | - Sen Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Manufacturing System Engineering, School of Mechanical Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong University, China
- National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Additive Manufacturing Medical Devices, Xi'an Jiaotong University, China
- National Innovation Platform (Center) for Industry-Education Integration of Medical Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, China
| | - Jiajia Zhou
- State Key Laboratory for Manufacturing System Engineering, School of Mechanical Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong University, China
- National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Additive Manufacturing Medical Devices, Xi'an Jiaotong University, China
- National Innovation Platform (Center) for Industry-Education Integration of Medical Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, China
| | - Yingjie Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Manufacturing System Engineering, School of Mechanical Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong University, China
- National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Additive Manufacturing Medical Devices, Xi'an Jiaotong University, China
- National Innovation Platform (Center) for Industry-Education Integration of Medical Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, China
| | - Chenrui Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Manufacturing System Engineering, School of Mechanical Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong University, China
- National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Additive Manufacturing Medical Devices, Xi'an Jiaotong University, China
- National Innovation Platform (Center) for Industry-Education Integration of Medical Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, China
| | - Siqi Yao
- State Key Laboratory for Manufacturing System Engineering, School of Mechanical Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong University, China
- National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Additive Manufacturing Medical Devices, Xi'an Jiaotong University, China
- National Innovation Platform (Center) for Industry-Education Integration of Medical Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, China
| | - Jiankang He
- State Key Laboratory for Manufacturing System Engineering, School of Mechanical Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong University, China
- National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Additive Manufacturing Medical Devices, Xi'an Jiaotong University, China
- National Innovation Platform (Center) for Industry-Education Integration of Medical Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, China
| | - Chaozong Liu
- Institute of Orthopaedic & Musculoskeletal, University College London, Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital, Stanmore, UK
| | - Dichen Li
- State Key Laboratory for Manufacturing System Engineering, School of Mechanical Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong University, China
- National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Additive Manufacturing Medical Devices, Xi'an Jiaotong University, China
- National Innovation Platform (Center) for Industry-Education Integration of Medical Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, China
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Callegari F, Brofiga M, Tedesco M, Massobrio P. Electrophysiological features of cortical 3D networks are deeply modulated by scaffold properties. APL Bioeng 2024; 8:036112. [PMID: 39193551 PMCID: PMC11348497 DOI: 10.1063/5.0214745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 08/05/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Three-dimensionality (3D) was proven essential for developing reliable models for different anatomical compartments and many diseases. However, the neuronal compartment still poses a great challenge as we still do not understand precisely how the brain computes information and how the complex chain of neuronal events can generate conscious behavior. Therefore, a comprehensive model of neuronal tissue has not yet been found. The present work was conceived in this framework: we aimed to contribute to what must be a collective effort by filling in some information on possible 3D strategies to pursue. We compared directly different kinds of scaffolds (i.e., PDMS sponges, thermally crosslinked hydrogels, and glass microbeads) in their effect on neuronal network activity recorded using micro-electrode arrays. While the overall rate of spiking activity remained consistent, the type of scaffold had a notable impact on bursting dynamics. The frequency, density of bursts, and occurrence of random spikes were all affected. The examination of inter-burst intervals revealed distinct burst generation patterns unique to different scaffold types. Network burst propagation unveiled divergent trends among configurations. Notably, it showed the most differences, underlying that functional variations may arise from a different 3D spatial organization. This evidence suggests that not all 3D neuronal constructs can sustain the same level of richness of activity. Furthermore, we commented on the reproducibility, efficacy, and scalability of the methods, where the beads still offer superior performances. By comparing different 3D scaffolds, our results move toward understanding the best strategies to develop functional 3D neuronal units for reliable pre-clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Callegari
- Department of Informatics, Bioengineering, Robotics, and Systems Engineering (DIBRIS), University of Genova, Genova, Italy
| | | | - Mariateresa Tedesco
- Department of Informatics, Bioengineering, Robotics, and Systems Engineering (DIBRIS), University of Genova, Genova, Italy
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De Vitis E, Stanzione A, Romano A, Quattrini A, Gigli G, Moroni L, Gervaso F, Polini A. The Evolution of Technology-Driven In Vitro Models for Neurodegenerative Diseases. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2304989. [PMID: 38366798 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202304989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Abstract
The alteration in the neural circuits of both central and peripheral nervous systems is closely related to the onset of neurodegenerative disorders (NDDs). Despite significant research efforts, the knowledge regarding NDD pathological processes, and the development of efficacious drugs are still limited due to the inability to access and reproduce the components of the nervous system and its intricate microenvironment. 2D culture systems are too simplistic to accurately represent the more complex and dynamic situation of cells in vivo and have therefore been surpassed by 3D systems. However, both models suffer from various limitations that can be overcome by employing two innovative technologies: organ-on-chip and 3D printing. In this review, an overview of the advantages and shortcomings of both microfluidic platforms and extracellular matrix-like biomaterials will be given. Then, the combination of microfluidics and hydrogels as a new synergistic approach to study neural disorders by analyzing the latest advances in 3D brain-on-chip for neurodegenerative research will be explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleonora De Vitis
- CNR NANOTEC-Institute of Nanotechnology, Campus Ecotekn, via Monteroni, Lecce, 73100, Italy
| | - Antonella Stanzione
- CNR NANOTEC-Institute of Nanotechnology, Campus Ecotekn, via Monteroni, Lecce, 73100, Italy
| | - Alessandro Romano
- IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Division of Neuroscience, Institute of Experimental Neurology, Milan, 20132, Italy
| | - Angelo Quattrini
- IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Division of Neuroscience, Institute of Experimental Neurology, Milan, 20132, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Gigli
- CNR NANOTEC-Institute of Nanotechnology, Campus Ecotekn, via Monteroni, Lecce, 73100, Italy
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Università Del Salento, Campus Ecotekne, via Monteroni, Lecce, 73100, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Moroni
- CNR NANOTEC-Institute of Nanotechnology, Campus Ecotekn, via Monteroni, Lecce, 73100, Italy
- Complex Tissue Regeneration, Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 40, Maastricht, 6229 ER, Netherlands
| | - Francesca Gervaso
- CNR NANOTEC-Institute of Nanotechnology, Campus Ecotekn, via Monteroni, Lecce, 73100, Italy
| | - Alessandro Polini
- CNR NANOTEC-Institute of Nanotechnology, Campus Ecotekn, via Monteroni, Lecce, 73100, Italy
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Na H, Park J, Jeong KH. Plasmon-enhanced optoacoustic transducer with Ecoflex thin film for broadband ultrasound generation using overdriven pulsed laser diode. JOURNAL OF BIOMEDICAL OPTICS 2023; 28:125005. [PMID: 38144698 PMCID: PMC10739335 DOI: 10.1117/1.jbo.28.12.125005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023]
Abstract
Significance Ultrasonic transducers facilitate noninvasive biomedical imaging and therapeutic applications. Optoacoustic generation using nanoplasmonic structures provides a technical solution for highly efficient broadband ultrasonic transducer. However, bulky and high-cost nanosecond lasers as conventional excitation sources hinder a compact configuration of transducer. Aim Here, we report a plasmon-enhanced optoacoustic transducer (PEAT) for broadband ultrasound generation, featuring an overdriven pulsed laser diode (LD) and an Ecoflex thin film. The PEAT module consists of an LD, a collimating lens, a focusing lens, and an Ecoflex-coated 3D nanoplasmonic substrate (NPS). Approach The LD is overdriven above its nominal current and precisely modulated to achieve nanosecond pulsed beam with high optical peak power. The focused laser beam is injected on the NPS with high-density electromagnetic hotspots, which allows for the efficient plasmonic photothermal effect. The thermal expansion of Ecoflex finally generates broadband ultrasound. Results The overdriven pulsed LD achieves a maximum optical peak power of 40 W, exceeding the average optical power of 3 W. The 22 μ m thick Ecoflex-coated NPS exhibits an eightfold optoacoustic enhancement with a fractional - 6 dB bandwidth higher than 160% and a peak frequency of 2.5 MHz. In addition, the optoacoustic amplitude is precisely controlled by the optical peak power or the laser pulse width. The PEAT-integrated microfluidic chip clearly demonstrates acoustic atomization by generating aerosol droplets at the air-liquid interface. Conclusions Plasmon-enhanced optoacoustic generation using PEAT can provide an approach for compact and on-demand biomedical applications, such as ultrasound imaging and lab-on-a-chip technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamin Na
- Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Department of Bio and Brain Engineering, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), KAIST Institute for Health Science and Technology (KIHST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jaehyeok Park
- Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Department of Bio and Brain Engineering, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), KAIST Institute for Health Science and Technology (KIHST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Ki-Hun Jeong
- Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Department of Bio and Brain Engineering, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), KAIST Institute for Health Science and Technology (KIHST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
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5
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Yao Y, Coleman HA, Meagher L, Forsythe JS, Parkington HC. 3D Functional Neuronal Networks in Free-Standing Bioprinted Hydrogel Constructs. Adv Healthc Mater 2023; 12:e2300801. [PMID: 37369123 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202300801] [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: 04/22/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
The composition, elasticity, and organization of the extracellular matrix within the central nervous system contribute to the architecture and function of the brain. From an in vitro modeling perspective, soft biomaterials are needed to mimic the 3D neural microenvironments. While many studies have investigated 3D culture and neural network formation in bulk hydrogel systems, these approaches have limited ability to position cells to mimic sophisticated brain architectures. In this study, cortical neurons and astrocytes acutely isolated from the brains of rats are bioprinted in a hydrogel to form 3D neuronal constructs. Successful bioprinting of cellular and acellular strands in a multi-bioink approach allows the subsequent formation of gray- and white-matter tracts reminiscent of cortical structures. Immunohistochemistry shows the formation of dense, 3D axon networks. Calcium signaling and extracellular electrophysiology in these 3D neuronal networks confirm spontaneous activity in addition to evoked activities under pharmacological and electrical stimulation. The system and bioprinting approaches are capable of fabricating soft, free-standing neuronal structures of different bioink and cell types with high resolution and throughput, which provide a promising platform for understanding fundamental questions of neural networks, engineering neuromorphic circuits, and for in vitro drug screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Yao
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
- School of Physics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - Harold A Coleman
- Department of Physiology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Laurence Meagher
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
- ARC Training Centre for Cell and Tissue Engineering Technologies, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - John S Forsythe
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
- ARC Training Centre for Cell and Tissue Engineering Technologies, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
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6
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Liu Y, Yao X, Fan C, Zhang G, Luo X, Qian Y. Microfabrication and lab-on-a-chip devices promote in vitromodeling of neural interfaces for neuroscience researches and preclinical applications. Biofabrication 2023; 16:012002. [PMID: 37832555 DOI: 10.1088/1758-5090/ad032a] [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: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
Neural tissues react to injuries through the orchestration of cellular reprogramming, generating specialized cells and activating gene expression that helps with tissue remodeling and homeostasis. Simplified biomimetic models are encouraged to amplify the physiological and morphological changes during neural regeneration at cellular and molecular levels. Recent years have witnessed growing interest in lab-on-a-chip technologies for the fabrication of neural interfaces. Neural system-on-a-chip devices are promisingin vitromicrophysiological platforms that replicate the key structural and functional characteristics of neural tissues. Microfluidics and microelectrode arrays are two fundamental techniques that are leveraged to address the need for microfabricated neural devices. In this review, we explore the innovative fabrication, mechano-physiological parameters, spatiotemporal control of neural cell cultures and chip-based neurogenesis. Although the high variability in different constructs, and the restriction in experimental and analytical access limit the real-life applications of microphysiological models, neural system-on-a-chip devices have gained considerable translatability for modeling neuropathies, drug screening and personalized therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Liu
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200233, People's Republic of China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center for Orthopaedic Material Innovation and Tissue Regeneration, Shanghai 200233, People's Republic of China
- State Key Laboratory of Biochemical Engineering, Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Biopharmaceutical Preparation and Delivery, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiangyun Yao
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200233, People's Republic of China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center for Orthopaedic Material Innovation and Tissue Regeneration, Shanghai 200233, People's Republic of China
| | - Cunyi Fan
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200233, People's Republic of China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center for Orthopaedic Material Innovation and Tissue Regeneration, Shanghai 200233, People's Republic of China
| | - Guifeng Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biochemical Engineering, Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Biopharmaceutical Preparation and Delivery, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, People's Republic of China
| | - Xi Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Biochemical Engineering, Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Biopharmaceutical Preparation and Delivery, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, People's Republic of China
| | - Yun Qian
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200233, People's Republic of China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center for Orthopaedic Material Innovation and Tissue Regeneration, Shanghai 200233, People's Republic of China
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7
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Lee D, Yang K, Xie J. Advances in Nerve Injury Models on a Chip. Adv Biol (Weinh) 2023; 7:e2200227. [PMID: 36709421 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.202200227] [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: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Regeneration and functional recovery of the damaged nerve are challenging due to the need for effective therapeutic drugs, biomaterials, and approaches. The poor outcome of the treatment of nerve injury stems from the incomplete understanding of axonal biology and interactions between neurons and the surrounding environment, such as glial cells and extracellular matrix. Microfluidic devices, in combination with various injury techniques, have been applied to test biological hypotheses in nerve injury and nerve regeneration. The microfluidic devices provide multiple advantages over the in vitro cell culture on a petri dish and in vivo animal models because a specific part of the neuronal environment can be manipulated using physical and chemical interventions. In addition, single-cell behavior and interactions between neurons and glial cells can be visualized and quantified on microfluidic platforms. In this article, current in vitro nerve injury models on a chip that mimics in vivo axonal injuries and the regeneration process of axons are summarized. The microfluidic-based nerve injury models could enhance the understanding of the physiological and pathophysiological mechanisms of nerve tissues and simultaneously serve as powerful drug and biomaterial screening platforms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donghee Lee
- Department of Surgery-Transplant and Mary and Dick Holland Regenerative Medicine Program, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
| | - Kai Yang
- Department of Surgery-Plastic Surgery, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
| | - Jingwei Xie
- Department of Surgery-Transplant and Mary and Dick Holland Regenerative Medicine Program, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Nebraska Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, 68588, USA
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Jeong S, Kang HW, Kim SH, Hong GS, Nam MH, Seong J, Yoon ES, Cho IJ, Chung S, Bang S, Kim HN, Choi N. Integration of reconfigurable microchannels into aligned three-dimensional neural networks for spatially controllable neuromodulation. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2023; 9:eadf0925. [PMID: 36897938 PMCID: PMC10005277 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adf0925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Anisotropically organized neural networks are indispensable routes for functional connectivity in the brain, which remains largely unknown. While prevailing animal models require additional preparation and stimulation-applying devices and have exhibited limited capabilities regarding localized stimulation, no in vitro platform exists that permits spatiotemporal control of chemo-stimulation in anisotropic three-dimensional (3D) neural networks. We present the integration of microchannels seamlessly into a fibril-aligned 3D scaffold by adapting a single fabrication principle. We investigated the underlying physics of elastic microchannels' ridges and interfacial sol-gel transition of collagen under compression to determine a critical window of geometry and strain. We demonstrated the spatiotemporally resolved neuromodulation in an aligned 3D neural network by local deliveries of KCl and Ca2+ signal inhibitors, such as tetrodotoxin, nifedipine, and mibefradil, and also visualized Ca2+ signal propagation with a speed of ~3.7 μm/s. We anticipate that our technology will pave the way to elucidate functional connectivity and neurological diseases associated with transsynaptic propagation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sohyeon Jeong
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Korea
- Division of Bio-Medical Science and Technology, KIST School, University of Science and Technology (UST), Seoul 02792, Korea
- MEPSGEN Co. Ltd., Seoul 05836, Korea
| | - Hyun Wook Kang
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Korea
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Korea
| | - So Hyun Kim
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Korea
- SK Biopharmaceuticals Co. Ltd., Seongnam 13494, Korea
| | - Gyu-Sang Hong
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Korea
| | - Min-Ho Nam
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Korea
| | - Jihye Seong
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Korea
- Division of Bio-Medical Science and Technology, KIST School, University of Science and Technology (UST), Seoul 02792, Korea
- Department of Life Sciences, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Korea
- KHU-KIST Department of Converging Science and Technology, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02453, Korea
| | - Eui-Sung Yoon
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Korea
- Division of Nano and Information Technology, KIST School, University of Science and Technology (UST), Seoul 02792, Korea
| | - Il-Joo Cho
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Korea
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Korea
| | - Seok Chung
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Korea
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Korea
- KU-KIST Graduate School of Converging Science and Technology, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Korea
| | - Seokyoung Bang
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Korea
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Dongguk University, Goyang 10326, Korea
| | - Hong Nam Kim
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Korea
- Division of Bio-Medical Science and Technology, KIST School, University of Science and Technology (UST), Seoul 02792, Korea
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Korea
- Yonsei-KIST Convergence Research Institute, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Korea
| | - Nakwon Choi
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Korea
- KU-KIST Graduate School of Converging Science and Technology, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Korea
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9
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Song J, Bang S, Choi N, Kim HN. Brain organoid-on-a-chip: A next-generation human brain avatar for recapitulating human brain physiology and pathology. BIOMICROFLUIDICS 2022; 16:061301. [PMID: 36438549 PMCID: PMC9691285 DOI: 10.1063/5.0121476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases and neurodevelopmental disorders have become increasingly prevalent; however, the development of new pharmaceuticals to treat these diseases has lagged. Animal models have been extensively utilized to identify underlying mechanisms and to validate drug efficacies, but they possess inherent limitations including genetic heterogeneity with humans. To overcome these limitations, human cell-based in vitro brain models including brain-on-a-chip and brain organoids have been developed. Each technique has distinct advantages and disadvantages in terms of the mimicry of structure and microenvironment, but each technique could not fully mimic the structure and functional aspects of the brain tissue. Recently, a brain organoid-on-a-chip (BOoC) platform has emerged, which merges brain-on-a-chip and brain organoids. BOoC can potentially reflect the detailed structure of the brain tissue, vascular structure, and circulation of fluid. Hence, we summarize recent advances in BOoC as a human brain avatar and discuss future perspectives. BOoC platform can pave the way for mechanistic studies and the development of pharmaceuticals to treat brain diseases in future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiyoung Song
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Seokyoung Bang
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Dongguk University, Goyang 10326, Republic of Korea
| | - Nakwon Choi
- Authors to whom correspondence should be addressed:; ; and
| | - Hong Nam Kim
- Authors to whom correspondence should be addressed:; ; and
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10
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Montalà-Flaquer M, López-León CF, Tornero D, Houben AM, Fardet T, Monceau P, Bottani S, Soriano J. Rich dynamics and functional organization on topographically designed neuronal networks in vitro. iScience 2022; 25:105680. [PMID: 36567712 PMCID: PMC9768383 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.105680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Revised: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuronal cultures are a prominent experimental tool to understand complex functional organization in neuronal assemblies. However, neurons grown on flat surfaces exhibit a strongly coherent bursting behavior with limited functionality. To approach the functional richness of naturally formed neuronal circuits, here we studied neuronal networks grown on polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) topographical patterns shaped as either parallel tracks or square valleys. We followed the evolution of spontaneous activity in these cultures along 20 days in vitro using fluorescence calcium imaging. The networks were characterized by rich spatiotemporal activity patterns that comprised from small regions of the culture to its whole extent. Effective connectivity analysis revealed the emergence of spatially compact functional modules that were associated with both the underpinned topographical features and predominant spatiotemporal activity fronts. Our results show the capacity of spatial constraints to mold activity and functional organization, bringing new opportunities to comprehend the structure-function relationship in living neuronal circuits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Montalà-Flaquer
- Departament de Física de la Matèria Condensada, Universitat de Barcelona, E-08028 Barcelona, Spain,Universitat de Barcelona Institute of Complex Systems (UBICS), E-08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Clara F. López-León
- Departament de Física de la Matèria Condensada, Universitat de Barcelona, E-08028 Barcelona, Spain,Universitat de Barcelona Institute of Complex Systems (UBICS), E-08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Daniel Tornero
- Laboratory of Neural Stem Cells and Brain Damage, Institute of Neurosciences, University of Barcelona, E-08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Akke Mats Houben
- Departament de Física de la Matèria Condensada, Universitat de Barcelona, E-08028 Barcelona, Spain,Universitat de Barcelona Institute of Complex Systems (UBICS), E-08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Tanguy Fardet
- Laboratoire Matière et Systèmes Complexes, Université de Paris, UMR 7057 CNRS, Paris, France,University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany,Max Planck Institute for Biological Cybernetics, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Pascal Monceau
- Laboratoire Matière et Systèmes Complexes, Université de Paris, UMR 7057 CNRS, Paris, France
| | - Samuel Bottani
- Laboratoire Matière et Systèmes Complexes, Université de Paris, UMR 7057 CNRS, Paris, France
| | - Jordi Soriano
- Departament de Física de la Matèria Condensada, Universitat de Barcelona, E-08028 Barcelona, Spain,Universitat de Barcelona Institute of Complex Systems (UBICS), E-08028 Barcelona, Spain,Corresponding author
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11
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Habibey R, Rojo Arias JE, Striebel J, Busskamp V. Microfluidics for Neuronal Cell and Circuit Engineering. Chem Rev 2022; 122:14842-14880. [PMID: 36070858 PMCID: PMC9523714 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.2c00212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The widespread adoption of microfluidic devices among the neuroscience and neurobiology communities has enabled addressing a broad range of questions at the molecular, cellular, circuit, and system levels. Here, we review biomedical engineering approaches that harness the power of microfluidics for bottom-up generation of neuronal cell types and for the assembly and analysis of neural circuits. Microfluidics-based approaches are instrumental to generate the knowledge necessary for the derivation of diverse neuronal cell types from human pluripotent stem cells, as they enable the isolation and subsequent examination of individual neurons of interest. Moreover, microfluidic devices allow to engineer neural circuits with specific orientations and directionality by providing control over neuronal cell polarity and permitting the isolation of axons in individual microchannels. Similarly, the use of microfluidic chips enables the construction not only of 2D but also of 3D brain, retinal, and peripheral nervous system model circuits. Such brain-on-a-chip and organoid-on-a-chip technologies are promising platforms for studying these organs as they closely recapitulate some aspects of in vivo biological processes. Microfluidic 3D neuronal models, together with 2D in vitro systems, are widely used in many applications ranging from drug development and toxicology studies to neurological disease modeling and personalized medicine. Altogether, microfluidics provide researchers with powerful systems that complement and partially replace animal models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rouhollah Habibey
- Department
of Ophthalmology, Universitäts-Augenklinik
Bonn, University of Bonn, Ernst-Abbe-Straße 2, D-53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Jesús Eduardo Rojo Arias
- Wellcome—MRC
Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, Cambridge
Biomedical Campus, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0AW, United Kingdom
| | - Johannes Striebel
- Department
of Ophthalmology, Universitäts-Augenklinik
Bonn, University of Bonn, Ernst-Abbe-Straße 2, D-53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Volker Busskamp
- Department
of Ophthalmology, Universitäts-Augenklinik
Bonn, University of Bonn, Ernst-Abbe-Straße 2, D-53127 Bonn, Germany
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12
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Intisar A, Lee SJ, Kim YG, Kim WH, Shin HY, Kim MY, Kim JM, Lee J, Mo YJ, Kim YS, Kim SH, Lee YI, Kim MS. A fully automated primary neuron purification system using continuous centrifugal microfluidics. LAB ON A CHIP 2022; 22:3268-3276. [PMID: 35916196 DOI: 10.1039/d2lc00381c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Progress in neurological research has experienced bottlenecks owing to the limited availability of purified primary neurons. Since neuronal cells are non-proliferative, it is necessary to obtain purified neurons from animal models or human patients for experimental work. However, currently available methods for purifying primary neurons are time-consuming (taking approximately 1 week), and suffer from insufficient viability and purity. Here, we report a method for rapid enrichment of neurons from the mouse embryonic dorsal root ganglion (DRG), using a fully-automated continuous centrifugal microfluidics (CCM) based neuron purification disc (NPD). Non-neuronal cells were removed via negative depletion by combining density gradient centrifugation and immunomagnetic separation. The CCM-NPD platform enables effective isolation of intact neurons within 13 min, which is approximately 800 times faster than the conventional chemical purification method. Furthermore, the neurons purified using the CCM-NPD platform showed better neurite growth, along with higher viability (93.5%) and purity (97.0%) after 1 week of culture, compared to the chemical purification method. Therefore, the proposed automated and rapid system yields purified DRG neurons with high viability and purity, while avoiding the use of harsh chemicals. We believe this system will significantly mitigate the shortage of purified primary neurons and advance neurological research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aseer Intisar
- Department of New Biology, DGIST, Daegu 42988, Republic of Korea.
| | | | | | - Woon-Hae Kim
- Department of New Biology, DGIST, Daegu 42988, Republic of Korea.
| | - Hyun Young Shin
- Department of New Biology, DGIST, Daegu 42988, Republic of Korea.
| | - Min Young Kim
- Department of New Biology, DGIST, Daegu 42988, Republic of Korea.
| | | | - Jungmin Lee
- CTCELLS Corp, Daegu 42988, Republic of Korea
| | - Yun Jeoung Mo
- Well Aging Research Center, DGIST, Daegu 42988, Republic of Korea
| | - Yu Seon Kim
- Well Aging Research Center, DGIST, Daegu 42988, Republic of Korea
| | | | - Yun-Il Lee
- Well Aging Research Center, DGIST, Daegu 42988, Republic of Korea
| | - Minseok S Kim
- Department of New Biology, DGIST, Daegu 42988, Republic of Korea.
- CTCELLS Corp, Daegu 42988, Republic of Korea
- Translational Responsive Medicine Center (TRMC), DGIST, Daegu 42988, Republic of Korea
- New Biology Research Center (NBRC), DGIST, Daegu 42988, Republic of Korea
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13
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Wei Z, Sun T, Shimoda S, Chen Z, Chen X, Wang H, Huang Q, Fukuda T, Shi Q. Bio-inspired engineering of a perfusion culture platform for guided three-dimensional nerve cell growth and differentiation. LAB ON A CHIP 2022; 22:1006-1017. [PMID: 35147637 DOI: 10.1039/d1lc01149a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Collagen provides a promising environment for 3D nerve cell culture; however, the function of perfusion culture and cell-growth guidance is difficult to integrate into such an environment to promote cell growth. In this paper, we develop a bio-inspired design method for constructing a perfusion culture platform for guided nerve cell growth and differentiation in collagen. Based on the anatomical structure of peripheral neural tissue, a biomimetic porous structure (BPS) is fabricated by two-photon polymerization of IP-Visio. The micro-capillary effect is then utilized to facilitate the self-assembly of cell encapsulated collagen into the BPS. 3D perfusion culture can be rapidly implemented by inserting the cell-filled BPS into a pipette tip connected with syringe pumps. Furthermore, we investigate the nerve cell behavior in the BPS. 7-channel aligned cellular structures surrounded with a Schwann cell layer can be stably formed after a long-time perfusion culture. Differentiation of PC12 cells and mouse neural stem cells shows 3D neurite outgrowth alignment and elongation in collagen. The calcium activities of differentiated PC12 cells are visualized for confirming the preliminary formation of cell function. These results demonstrate that the proposed bio-inspired 3D cell culture platform with the advantages of miniaturization, structure complexity and perfusion has great potential for future application in the study of nerve regeneration and drug screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zihou Wei
- Key Laboratory of Biomimetic Robots and Systems (Beijing Institute of Technology), Ministry of Education, 100081, People's Republic of China.
- School of Mechatronical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, People's Republic of China
| | - Tao Sun
- Key Laboratory of Biomimetic Robots and Systems (Beijing Institute of Technology), Ministry of Education, 100081, People's Republic of China.
- School of Mechatronical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, People's Republic of China
| | - Shingo Shimoda
- Center of Brain Science (CBS), CBS-TOYOTA Collaboration Center (BTCC), Intelligent Behaviour Control Unit, Riken, Nagoya 463-0003, Japan
| | - Zhe Chen
- Institute of Engineering Medicine, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Xie Chen
- Key Laboratory of Biomimetic Robots and Systems (Beijing Institute of Technology), Ministry of Education, 100081, People's Republic of China.
- School of Mechatronical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, People's Republic of China
| | - Huaping Wang
- Key Laboratory of Biomimetic Robots and Systems (Beijing Institute of Technology), Ministry of Education, 100081, People's Republic of China.
- School of Mechatronical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiang Huang
- Key Laboratory of Biomimetic Robots and Systems (Beijing Institute of Technology), Ministry of Education, 100081, People's Republic of China.
- School of Mechatronical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, People's Republic of China
| | - Toshio Fukuda
- Key Laboratory of Biomimetic Robots and Systems (Beijing Institute of Technology), Ministry of Education, 100081, People's Republic of China.
- School of Mechatronical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, People's Republic of China
- Institute of Engineering Medicine, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Qing Shi
- Key Laboratory of Biomimetic Robots and Systems (Beijing Institute of Technology), Ministry of Education, 100081, People's Republic of China.
- School of Mechatronical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, People's Republic of China
- Institute of Engineering Medicine, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
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14
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Sirkkunan D, Pingguan-Murphy B, Muhamad F. Directing Axonal Growth: A Review on the Fabrication of Fibrous Scaffolds That Promotes the Orientation of Axons. Gels 2021; 8:gels8010025. [PMID: 35049560 PMCID: PMC8775123 DOI: 10.3390/gels8010025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Revised: 12/19/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Tissues are commonly defined as groups of cells that have similar structure and uniformly perform a specialized function. A lesser-known fact is that the placement of these cells within these tissues plays an important role in executing its functions, especially for neuronal cells. Hence, the design of a functional neural scaffold has to mirror these cell organizations, which are brought about by the configuration of natural extracellular matrix (ECM) structural proteins. In this review, we will briefly discuss the various characteristics considered when making neural scaffolds. We will then focus on the cellular orientation and axonal alignment of neural cells within their ECM and elaborate on the mechanisms involved in this process. A better understanding of these mechanisms could shed more light onto the rationale of fabricating the scaffolds for this specific functionality. Finally, we will discuss the scaffolds used in neural tissue engineering (NTE) and the methods used to fabricate these well-defined constructs.
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15
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Bang S, Lee S, Hwang KS, Kim J, Choi N, Kim HN. Three-Dimensional Axotomy and Regeneration on Open-Access Microfluidic Platform. IEEE Trans Nanobioscience 2021; 21:395-404. [PMID: 34941516 DOI: 10.1109/tnb.2021.3136869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
An increasing number of patients are suffering from central nervous system (CNS) injury, including spinal cord injury. However, no suitable treatment is available for such patients as yet. Various platforms have been utilized to recapitulate CNS injuries. However, animal models and in vitro two-dimensional (2D)-based cell culture platforms have limitations, such as genetic heterogeneity and loss of the neural-circuit ultrastructure. To overcome these limitations, we developed a method for performing axotomy on an open-access three-dimensional (3D) neuron-culture platform. In this platform, the 3D alignment of axons in the brain tissue was recapitulated. For direct access to the cultured axons, the bottom of the 3D neuron-culture device was disassembled, enabling exposure of the neuron-laden Matrigel to the outside. The mechanical damage to the axons was recapitulated by puncturing the neuron-laden Matrigel using a pin. Thus, precise axotomy of three-dimensionally aligned axons could be performed. Furthermore, it was possible to fill the punctuated area by re-injecting Matrigel. Consequently, neurites regenerated into re-injected Matrigel. Moreover, it was confirmed that astrocytes can be co-cultured on this open-access platform without interfering with the axon alignment. The proposed open-access platform is expected to be useful for developing treatment techniques for CNS injuries.
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16
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Bang S, Hwang KS, Jeong S, Cho IJ, Choi N, Kim J, Kim HN. Engineered neural circuits for modeling brain physiology and neuropathology. Acta Biomater 2021; 132:379-400. [PMID: 34157452 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2021.06.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Revised: 05/16/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The neural circuits of the central nervous system are the regulatory pathways for feeling, motion control, learning, and memory, and their dysfunction is closely related to various neurodegenerative diseases. Despite the growing demand for the unraveling of the physiology and functional connectivity of the neural circuits, their fundamental investigation is hampered because of the inability to access the components of neural circuits and the complex microenvironment. As an alternative approach, in vitro human neural circuits show principles of in vivo human neuronal circuit function. They allow access to the cellular compartment and permit real-time monitoring of neural circuits. In this review, we summarize recent advances in reconstituted in vitro neural circuits using engineering techniques. To this end, we provide an overview of the fabrication techniques and methods for stimulation and measurement of in vitro neural circuits. Subsequently, representative examples of in vitro neural circuits are reviewed with a particular focus on the recapitulation of structures and functions observed in vivo, and we summarize their application in the study of various brain diseases. We believe that the in vitro neural circuits can help neuroscience and the neuropharmacology. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Despite the growing demand to unravel the physiology and functional connectivity of the neural circuits, the studies on the in vivo neural circuits are frequently limited due to the poor accessibility. Furthermore, single neuron-based analysis has an inherent limitation in that it does not reflect the full spectrum of the neural circuit physiology. As an alternative approach, in vitro engineered neural circuit models have arisen because they can recapitulate the structural and functional characteristics of in vivo neural circuits. These in vitro neural circuits allow the mimicking of dysregulation of the neural circuits, including neurodegenerative diseases and traumatic brain injury. Emerging in vitro engineered neural circuits will provide a better understanding of the (patho-)physiology of neural circuits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seokyoung Bang
- 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
| | - Sohyeon Jeong
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea; Division of Bio-Medical Science & Technology, KIST School, Korea University of Science and Technology (UST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Il-Joo Cho
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea; Division of Bio-Medical Science & Technology, KIST School, Korea University of Science and Technology (UST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea; School of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea; Yonsei-KIST Convergence Research Institute, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, 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 & 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.
| | - Jongbaeg Kim
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea.
| | - Hong Nam Kim
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea; Division of Bio-Medical Science & Technology, KIST School, Korea University of Science and Technology (UST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea.
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17
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Brofiga M, Pisano M, Raiteri R, Massobrio P. On the road to the brain-on-a-chip: a review on strategies, methods, and applications. J Neural Eng 2021; 18. [PMID: 34280903 DOI: 10.1088/1741-2552/ac15e4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
The brain is the most complex organ of our body. Such a complexity spans from the single-cell morphology up to the intricate connections that hundreds of thousands of neurons establish to create dense neuronal networks. All these components are involved in the genesis of the rich patterns of electrophysiological activity that characterize the brain. Over the years, researchers coming from different disciplines developedin vitrosimplified experimental models to investigate in a more controllable and observable way how neuronal ensembles generate peculiar firing rhythms, code external stimulations, or respond to chemical drugs. Nowadays, suchin vitromodels are namedbrain-on-a-chippointing out the relevance of the technological counterpart as artificial tool to interact with the brain: multi-electrode arrays are well-used devices to record and stimulate large-scale developing neuronal networks originated from dissociated cultures, brain slices, up to brain organoids. In this review, we will discuss the state of the art of the brain-on-a-chip, highlighting which structural and biological features a realisticin vitrobrain should embed (and how to achieve them). In particular, we identified two topological features, namely modular and three-dimensional connectivity, and a biological one (heterogeneity) that takes into account the huge number of neuronal types existing in the brain. At the end of this travel, we will show how 'far' we are from the goal and how interconnected-brain-regions-on-a-chip is the most appropriate wording to indicate the current state of the art.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Brofiga
- Department of Informatics, Bioengineering, Robotics, and Systems Engineering (DIBRIS), University of Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Marietta Pisano
- Department of Informatics, Bioengineering, Robotics, and Systems Engineering (DIBRIS), University of Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Roberto Raiteri
- Department of Informatics, Bioengineering, Robotics, and Systems Engineering (DIBRIS), University of Genova, Genova, Italy.,CNR- Institute of Biophysics, Genova, Italy
| | - Paolo Massobrio
- Department of Informatics, Bioengineering, Robotics, and Systems Engineering (DIBRIS), University of Genova, Genova, Italy.,National Institute for Nuclear Physics (INFN), Genova, Italy
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18
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Murray AF, Delivopoulos E. Adhesion and Growth of Neuralized Mouse Embryonic Stem Cells on Parylene-C/SiO 2 Substrates. MATERIALS 2021; 14:ma14123174. [PMID: 34207642 PMCID: PMC8226677 DOI: 10.3390/ma14123174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2021] [Revised: 06/03/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Neuronal patterning on microfabricated architectures has developed rapidly over the past few years, together with the emergence of soft biocompatible materials and tissue engineering scaffolds. Previously, we introduced a patterning technique based on serum and the biopolymer parylene-C, achieving highly compliant growth of primary neurons and astrocytes on different geometries. Here, we expanded this technique and illustrated that neuralized cells derived from mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs) followed stripes of variable widths with conformity equal to or higher than that of primary neurons and astrocytes. Our results indicate the presence of undifferentiated mESCs, which also conformed to the underlying patterns to a high degree. This is an exciting and unexpected outcome, as molecular mechanisms governing cell and ECM protein interactions are different in stem cells and primary cells. Our study enables further investigations into the development and electrophysiology of differentiating patterned neural stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan F. Murray
- School of Engineering, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3FB, UK;
| | - Evangelos Delivopoulos
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading, Reading RG6 6DH, UK
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +44-11-8378-8615
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19
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Bang S, Lee S, Choi N, Kim HN. Emerging Brain-Pathophysiology-Mimetic Platforms for Studying Neurodegenerative Diseases: Brain Organoids and Brains-on-a-Chip. Adv Healthc Mater 2021; 10:e2002119. [PMID: 34028201 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202002119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Revised: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases are a group of disorders characterized by progressive degeneration of the structural and functional integrity of the central and peripheral nervous systems. Millions of people suffer from degenerative brain diseases worldwide, and the mortality continues to increase every year, causing a growing demand for knowledge of the underlying mechanisms and development of therapeutic targets. Conventional 2D-based cell culture platforms and animal models cannot fully recapitulate the pathophysiology, and this has limited the capability for estimating drug efficacy. Recently, engineered platforms, including brain organoids and brain-on-a-chip, have emerged. They mimic the physiology of brain tissue and reflect the fundamental pathophysiological signatures of neurodegenerative diseases, such as the accumulation of neurotoxic proteins, structural abnormalities, and functional loss. In this paper, recent advances in brain-mimetic platforms and their potential for modeling features of neurodegenerative diseases in vitro are reviewed. The development of a physiologically relevant model should help overcome unresolved neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seokyoung Bang
- Brain Science Institute Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) Seoul 02792 Republic of Korea
| | - Songhyun Lee
- Department of Medical Engineering Yonsei University College of Medicine Seoul 03722 Republic of Korea
| | - Nakwon Choi
- Brain Science Institute Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) Seoul 02792 Republic of Korea
- KU‐KIST Graduate School of Converging Science and Technology Korea University Seoul 02841 Republic of Korea
| | - Hong Nam Kim
- Brain Science Institute Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) Seoul 02792 Republic of Korea
- Division of Bio‐Medical Science & Technology KIST School Korea University of Science and Technology (UST) Seoul 02792 Republic of Korea
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20
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Zheng F, Xiao Y, Liu H, Fan Y, Dao M. Patient-Specific Organoid and Organ-on-a-Chip: 3D Cell-Culture Meets 3D Printing and Numerical Simulation. Adv Biol (Weinh) 2021; 5:e2000024. [PMID: 33856745 PMCID: PMC8243895 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.202000024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2020] [Revised: 02/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The last few decades have witnessed diversified in vitro models to recapitulate the architecture and function of living organs or tissues and contribute immensely to advances in life science. Two novel 3D cell culture models: 1) Organoid, promoted mainly by the developments of stem cell biology and 2) Organ-on-a-chip, enhanced primarily due to microfluidic technology, have emerged as two promising approaches to advance the understanding of basic biological principles and clinical treatments. This review describes the comparable distinct differences between these two models and provides more insights into their complementarity and integration to recognize their merits and limitations for applicable fields. The convergence of the two approaches to produce multi-organoid-on-a-chip or human organoid-on-a-chip is emerging as a new approach for building 3D models with higher physiological relevance. Furthermore, rapid advancements in 3D printing and numerical simulations, which facilitate the design, manufacture, and results-translation of 3D cell culture models, can also serve as novel tools to promote the development and propagation of organoid and organ-on-a-chip systems. Current technological challenges and limitations, as well as expert recommendations and future solutions to address the promising combinations by incorporating organoids, organ-on-a-chip, 3D printing, and numerical simulation, are also summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fuyin Zheng
- Key Laboratory for Biomechanics and Mechanobiology, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, 100083, China
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
| | - Yuminghao Xiao
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Hui Liu
- Key Laboratory for Biomechanics and Mechanobiology, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Yubo Fan
- Key Laboratory for Biomechanics and Mechanobiology, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Ming Dao
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
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21
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Zilberman A, Cornelison RC. Microphysiological models of the central nervous system with fluid flow. Brain Res Bull 2021; 174:72-83. [PMID: 34029679 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2021.05.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Revised: 05/08/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
There are over 1,000 described neurological and neurodegenerative disorders affecting nearly 100 million Americans - roughly one third of the U.S. population. Collectively, treatment of neurological conditions is estimated to cost $800 billion every year. Lowering this societal burden will require developing better model systems in which to study these diverse disorders. Microphysiological systems are promising tools for modeling healthy and diseased neural tissues to study mechanisms and treatment of neuropathology. One major benefit of microphysiological systems is the ability to incorporate biophysical forces, namely the forces derived from biological fluid flow. Fluid flow in the central nervous system (CNS) is a complex but important element of physiology, and pathologies as diverse as traumatic or ischemic injury, cancer, neurodegenerative disease, and natural aging have all been found to alter flow pathways. In this review, we summarize recent advances in three-dimensional microphysiological systems for studying the biology and therapy of CNS disorders and highlight the ability and growing need to incorporate biological fluid flow in these miniaturized model systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleeza Zilberman
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA, 01003, United States
| | - R Chase Cornelison
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA, 01003, United States.
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22
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Yang L, Pijuan-Galito S, Rho HS, Vasilevich AS, Eren AD, Ge L, Habibović P, Alexander MR, de Boer J, Carlier A, van Rijn P, Zhou Q. High-Throughput Methods in the Discovery and Study of Biomaterials and Materiobiology. Chem Rev 2021; 121:4561-4677. [PMID: 33705116 PMCID: PMC8154331 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.0c00752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The complex interaction of cells with biomaterials (i.e., materiobiology) plays an increasingly pivotal role in the development of novel implants, biomedical devices, and tissue engineering scaffolds to treat diseases, aid in the restoration of bodily functions, construct healthy tissues, or regenerate diseased ones. However, the conventional approaches are incapable of screening the huge amount of potential material parameter combinations to identify the optimal cell responses and involve a combination of serendipity and many series of trial-and-error experiments. For advanced tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, highly efficient and complex bioanalysis platforms are expected to explore the complex interaction of cells with biomaterials using combinatorial approaches that offer desired complex microenvironments during healing, development, and homeostasis. In this review, we first introduce materiobiology and its high-throughput screening (HTS). Then we present an in-depth of the recent progress of 2D/3D HTS platforms (i.e., gradient and microarray) in the principle, preparation, screening for materiobiology, and combination with other advanced technologies. The Compendium for Biomaterial Transcriptomics and high content imaging, computational simulations, and their translation toward commercial and clinical uses are highlighted. In the final section, current challenges and future perspectives are discussed. High-throughput experimentation within the field of materiobiology enables the elucidation of the relationships between biomaterial properties and biological behavior and thereby serves as a potential tool for accelerating the development of high-performance biomaterials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liangliang Yang
- University
of Groningen, W. J. Kolff Institute for Biomedical Engineering and
Materials Science, Department of Biomedical Engineering, University Medical Center Groningen, A. Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Sara Pijuan-Galito
- School
of Pharmacy, Biodiscovery Institute, University
of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham NG7 2RD, U.K.
| | - Hoon Suk Rho
- Department
of Instructive Biomaterials Engineering, MERLN Institute for Technology-Inspired
Regenerative Medicine, Maastricht University, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Aliaksei S. Vasilevich
- Department
of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University
of Technology, 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Aysegul Dede Eren
- Department
of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University
of Technology, 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Lu Ge
- University
of Groningen, W. J. Kolff Institute for Biomedical Engineering and
Materials Science, Department of Biomedical Engineering, University Medical Center Groningen, A. Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Pamela Habibović
- Department
of Instructive Biomaterials Engineering, MERLN Institute for Technology-Inspired
Regenerative Medicine, Maastricht University, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Morgan R. Alexander
- School
of Pharmacy, Boots Science Building, University
of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham NG7 2RD, U.K.
| | - Jan de Boer
- Department
of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University
of Technology, 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Aurélie Carlier
- Department
of Cell Biology-Inspired Tissue Engineering, MERLN Institute for Technology-Inspired
Regenerative Medicine, Maastricht University, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Patrick van Rijn
- University
of Groningen, W. J. Kolff Institute for Biomedical Engineering and
Materials Science, Department of Biomedical Engineering, University Medical Center Groningen, A. Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Qihui Zhou
- Institute
for Translational Medicine, Department of Stomatology, The Affiliated
Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao
University, Qingdao 266003, China
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23
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Rothbauer M, Bachmann BE, Eilenberger C, Kratz SR, Spitz S, Höll G, Ertl P. A Decade of Organs-on-a-Chip Emulating Human Physiology at the Microscale: A Critical Status Report on Progress in Toxicology and Pharmacology. MICROMACHINES 2021; 12:470. [PMID: 33919242 PMCID: PMC8143089 DOI: 10.3390/mi12050470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Organ-on-a-chip technology has the potential to accelerate pharmaceutical drug development, improve the clinical translation of basic research, and provide personalized intervention strategies. In the last decade, big pharma has engaged in many academic research cooperations to develop organ-on-a-chip systems for future drug discoveries. Although most organ-on-a-chip systems present proof-of-concept studies, miniaturized organ systems still need to demonstrate translational relevance and predictive power in clinical and pharmaceutical settings. This review explores whether microfluidic technology succeeded in paving the way for developing physiologically relevant human in vitro models for pharmacology and toxicology in biomedical research within the last decade. Individual organ-on-a-chip systems are discussed, focusing on relevant applications and highlighting their ability to tackle current challenges in pharmacological research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Rothbauer
- Faculty of Technical Chemistry, Institute of Applied Synthetic Chemistry and Institute of Chemical Technologies and Analytics, Vienna University of Technology, Getreidemarkt 9/163-164, 1060 Vienna, Austria; (B.E.M.B.); (C.E.); (S.R.A.K.); (S.S.); (G.H.)
- Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration, 1200 Vienna, Austria
- Karl Chiari Lab for Orthopaedic Biology, Department of Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Währinger Gürtel 18-22, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Barbara E.M. Bachmann
- Faculty of Technical Chemistry, Institute of Applied Synthetic Chemistry and Institute of Chemical Technologies and Analytics, Vienna University of Technology, Getreidemarkt 9/163-164, 1060 Vienna, Austria; (B.E.M.B.); (C.E.); (S.R.A.K.); (S.S.); (G.H.)
- Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration, 1200 Vienna, Austria
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Experimental and Clinical Traumatology, Allgemeine Unfallversicherungsanstalt (AUVA) Research Centre, Donaueschingenstraße 13, 1200 Vienna, Austria
| | - Christoph Eilenberger
- Faculty of Technical Chemistry, Institute of Applied Synthetic Chemistry and Institute of Chemical Technologies and Analytics, Vienna University of Technology, Getreidemarkt 9/163-164, 1060 Vienna, Austria; (B.E.M.B.); (C.E.); (S.R.A.K.); (S.S.); (G.H.)
- Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration, 1200 Vienna, Austria
| | - Sebastian R.A. Kratz
- Faculty of Technical Chemistry, Institute of Applied Synthetic Chemistry and Institute of Chemical Technologies and Analytics, Vienna University of Technology, Getreidemarkt 9/163-164, 1060 Vienna, Austria; (B.E.M.B.); (C.E.); (S.R.A.K.); (S.S.); (G.H.)
- Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration, 1200 Vienna, Austria
- Drug Delivery and 3R-Models Group, Buchmann Institute for Molecular Life Sciences & Institute for Pharmaceutical Technology, Goethe University Frankfurt Am Main, 60438 Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Sarah Spitz
- Faculty of Technical Chemistry, Institute of Applied Synthetic Chemistry and Institute of Chemical Technologies and Analytics, Vienna University of Technology, Getreidemarkt 9/163-164, 1060 Vienna, Austria; (B.E.M.B.); (C.E.); (S.R.A.K.); (S.S.); (G.H.)
- Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration, 1200 Vienna, Austria
| | - Gregor Höll
- Faculty of Technical Chemistry, Institute of Applied Synthetic Chemistry and Institute of Chemical Technologies and Analytics, Vienna University of Technology, Getreidemarkt 9/163-164, 1060 Vienna, Austria; (B.E.M.B.); (C.E.); (S.R.A.K.); (S.S.); (G.H.)
- Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration, 1200 Vienna, Austria
| | - Peter Ertl
- Faculty of Technical Chemistry, Institute of Applied Synthetic Chemistry and Institute of Chemical Technologies and Analytics, Vienna University of Technology, Getreidemarkt 9/163-164, 1060 Vienna, Austria; (B.E.M.B.); (C.E.); (S.R.A.K.); (S.S.); (G.H.)
- Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration, 1200 Vienna, Austria
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24
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Rouleau N, Murugan NJ, Kaplan DL. Toward Studying Cognition in a Dish. Trends Cogn Sci 2021; 25:294-304. [PMID: 33546973 PMCID: PMC7946736 DOI: 10.1016/j.tics.2021.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2020] [Revised: 01/10/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Bioengineered neural tissues help advance our understanding of neurodevelopment, regeneration, and neural disease; however, it remains unclear whether they can replicate higher-order functions including cognition. Building upon technical achievements in the fields of biomaterials, tissue engineering, and cell biology, investigators have generated an assortment of artificial brain structures and cocultured circuits. Though they have displayed basic electrochemical signaling, their capacities to generate minimal patterns of information processing suggestive of high-order cognitive analogues have not yet been explored. Here, we review the current state of neural tissue engineering and consider the possibility of a study of cognition in vitro. We adopt a practical definition of minimal cognition, anticipate problems of measurement, and discuss solutions toward a study of cognition in a dish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Rouleau
- Department of Psychology, Algoma University, 1520 Queen Street East, Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Canada, P6A 2G4; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Science and Technology Center, 4 Colby Street, Medford, MA 02155, USA
| | - Nirosha J Murugan
- Department of Biology, Algoma University, 1520 Queen Street East, Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Canada, P6A 2G4
| | - David L Kaplan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Science and Technology Center, 4 Colby Street, Medford, MA 02155, USA.
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25
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Holloway PM, Willaime-Morawek S, Siow R, Barber M, Owens RM, Sharma AD, Rowan W, Hill E, Zagnoni M. Advances in microfluidic in vitro systems for neurological disease modeling. J Neurosci Res 2021; 99:1276-1307. [PMID: 33583054 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.24794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Revised: 11/21/2020] [Accepted: 12/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Neurological disorders are the leading cause of disability and the second largest cause of death worldwide. Despite significant research efforts, neurology remains one of the most failure-prone areas of drug development. The complexity of the human brain, boundaries to examining the brain directly in vivo, and the significant evolutionary gap between animal models and humans, all serve to hamper translational success. Recent advances in microfluidic in vitro models have provided new opportunities to study human cells with enhanced physiological relevance. The ability to precisely micro-engineer cell-scale architecture, tailoring form and function, has allowed for detailed dissection of cell biology using microphysiological systems (MPS) of varying complexities from single cell systems to "Organ-on-chip" models. Simplified neuronal networks have allowed for unique insights into neuronal transport and neurogenesis, while more complex 3D heterotypic cellular models such as neurovascular unit mimetics and "Organ-on-chip" systems have enabled new understanding of metabolic coupling and blood-brain barrier transport. These systems are now being developed beyond MPS toward disease specific micro-pathophysiological systems, moving from "Organ-on-chip" to "Disease-on-chip." This review gives an outline of current state of the art in microfluidic technologies for neurological disease research, discussing the challenges and limitations while highlighting the benefits and potential of integrating technologies. We provide examples of where such toolsets have enabled novel insights and how these technologies may empower future investigation into neurological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul M Holloway
- Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | | | - Richard Siow
- King's British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, School of Cardiovascular Medicine & Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Melissa Barber
- King's British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, School of Cardiovascular Medicine & Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Róisín M Owens
- Department Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Anup D Sharma
- New Orleans BioInnovation Center, AxoSim Inc., New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Wendy Rowan
- Novel Human Genetics Research Unit, GSK R&D, Stevenage, UK
| | - Eric Hill
- School of Life and Health sciences, Aston University, Birmingham, UK
| | - Michele Zagnoni
- Electronic and Electrical Engineering, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK
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26
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Brofiga M, Pisano M, Tedesco M, Raiteri R, Massobrio P. Three-dimensionality shapes the dynamics of cortical interconnected to hippocampal networks. J Neural Eng 2020; 17:056044. [DOI: 10.1088/1741-2552/abc023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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27
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Harberts J, Fendler C, Teuber J, Siegmund M, Silva A, Rieck N, Wolpert M, Zierold R, Blick RH. Toward Brain-on-a-Chip: Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Guided Neuronal Networks in Tailor-Made 3D Nanoprinted Microscaffolds. ACS NANO 2020; 14:13091-13102. [PMID: 33058673 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.0c04640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Brain-on-a-chip (BoC) concepts should consider three-dimensional (3D) scaffolds to mimic the 3D nature of the human brain not accessible by conventional planar cell culturing. Furthermore, the essential key to adequately address drug development for human pathophysiological diseases of the nervous system, such as Parkinson's or Alzheimer's, is to employ human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived neurons instead of neurons from animal models. To address both issues, we present electrophysiologically mature human iPSC-derived neurons cultured in BoC applicable microscaffolds prepared by direct laser writing. 3D nanoprinted tailor-made elevated cavities interconnected by freestanding microchannels were used to create defined neuronal networks-as a proof of concept-with two-dimensional topology. The neuronal outgrowth in these nonplanar structures was investigated, among others, in terms of neurite length, size of continuous networks, and branching behavior using z-stacks prepared by confocal microscopy and cross-sectional scanning electron microscopy images prepared by focused ion beam milling. Functionality of the human iPSC-derived neurons was demonstrated with patch clamp measurements in both current- and voltage-clamp mode. Action potentials and spontaneous excitatory postsynaptic currents-fundamental prerequisites for proper network signaling-prove full integrity of these artificial neuronal networks. Considering the network formation occurring within only a few days and the versatile nature of direct laser writing to create even more complex scaffolds for 3D network topologies, we believe that our study offers additional approaches in human disease research to mimic the complex interconnectivity of the human brain in BoC studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jann Harberts
- Center for Hybrid Nanostructures, Universität Hamburg, Luruper Chaussee 149, 22761 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Cornelius Fendler
- Center for Hybrid Nanostructures, Universität Hamburg, Luruper Chaussee 149, 22761 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Jeremy Teuber
- Center for Hybrid Nanostructures, Universität Hamburg, Luruper Chaussee 149, 22761 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Malte Siegmund
- Center for Hybrid Nanostructures, Universität Hamburg, Luruper Chaussee 149, 22761 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Aaron Silva
- Center for Hybrid Nanostructures, Universität Hamburg, Luruper Chaussee 149, 22761 Hamburg, Germany
- Roy J. Carver Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa 52242, United States
| | - Niklas Rieck
- Center for Hybrid Nanostructures, Universität Hamburg, Luruper Chaussee 149, 22761 Hamburg, Germany
- School of Life Science Hamburg gGmbH, Schnackenburgallee 114, 22525 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Merle Wolpert
- Center for Hybrid Nanostructures, Universität Hamburg, Luruper Chaussee 149, 22761 Hamburg, Germany
- School of Life Science Hamburg gGmbH, Schnackenburgallee 114, 22525 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Robert Zierold
- Center for Hybrid Nanostructures, Universität Hamburg, Luruper Chaussee 149, 22761 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Robert H Blick
- Center for Hybrid Nanostructures, Universität Hamburg, Luruper Chaussee 149, 22761 Hamburg, Germany
- Material Science and Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin 53706, United States
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28
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Abstract
The field of tissue engineering has advanced over the past decade, but the largest impact on human health should be achieved with the transition of engineered solid organs to the clinic. The number of patients suffering from solid organ disease continues to increase, with over 100 000 patients on the U.S. national waitlist and approximately 730 000 deaths in the United States resulting from end-stage organ disease annually. While flat, tubular, and hollow nontubular engineered organs have already been implanted in patients, in vitro formation of a fully functional solid organ at a translatable scale has not yet been achieved. Thus, one major goal is to bioengineer complex, solid organs for transplantation, composed of patient-specific cells. Among the myriad of approaches attempted to engineer solid organs, 3D bioprinting offers unmatched potential. This review highlights the structural complexity which must be engineered at nano-, micro-, and mesostructural scales to enable organ function. We showcase key advances in bioprinting solid organs with complex vascular networks and functioning microstructures, advances in biomaterials science that have enabled this progress, the regulatory hurdles the field has yet to overcome, and cutting edge technologies that bring us closer to the promise of engineered solid organs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam M Jorgensen
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - James J Yoo
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Anthony Atala
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
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29
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Bae M, Yi HG, Jang J, Cho DW. Microphysiological Systems for Neurodegenerative Diseases in Central Nervous System. MICROMACHINES 2020; 11:E855. [PMID: 32947879 PMCID: PMC7570039 DOI: 10.3390/mi11090855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2020] [Revised: 09/13/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases are among the most severe problems in aging societies. Various conventional experimental models, including 2D and animal models, have been used to investigate the pathogenesis of (and therapeutic mechanisms for) neurodegenerative diseases. However, the physiological gap between humans and the current models remains a hurdle to determining the complexity of an irreversible dysfunction in a neurodegenerative disease. Therefore, preclinical research requires advanced experimental models, i.e., those more physiologically relevant to the native nervous system, to bridge the gap between preclinical stages and patients. The neural microphysiological system (neural MPS) has emerged as an approach to summarizing the anatomical, biochemical, and pathological physiology of the nervous system for investigation of neurodegenerative diseases. This review introduces the components (such as cells and materials) and fabrication methods for designing a neural MPS. Moreover, the review discusses future perspectives for improving the physiological relevance to native neural systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mihyeon Bae
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), 77 Chungam-ro, Nam-gu, Pohang 37673, Korea;
| | - Hee-Gyeong Yi
- Department of Rural and Biosystems Engineering, College of Agricultural Sciences, Chonnam National University, 77 Yongbong-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61186, Korea
| | - Jinah Jang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), 77 Chungam-ro, Nam-gu, Pohang 37673, Korea;
- Department of Creative IT Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), 77 Chungam-ro, Nam-gu, Pohang 37673, Korea
- Institute of Convergence Science, Yonsei University, 50 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03722, Korea
| | - Dong-Woo Cho
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), 77 Chungam-ro, Nam-gu, Pohang 37673, Korea;
- Institute of Convergence Science, Yonsei University, 50 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03722, Korea
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30
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Xiang Y, Cakir B, Park IH. Deconstructing and reconstructing the human brain with regionally specified brain organoids. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2020; 111:40-51. [PMID: 32553582 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2020.05.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2019] [Revised: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Brain organoids, three-dimensional neural cultures recapitulating the spatiotemporal organization and function of the brain in a dish, offer unique opportunities for investigating the human brain development and diseases. To model distinct parts of the brain, various region-specific human brain organoids have been developed. In this article, we review current approaches to produce human region-specific brain organoids, developed through the endeavor of many researchers. We highlight the applications of human region-specific brain organoids, especially in reconstructing regional interactions in the brain through organoid fusion. We also outline the existing challenges to drive forward further the brain organoid technology and its applications for future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangfei Xiang
- Department of Genetics, Yale Stem Cell Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA.
| | - Bilal Cakir
- Department of Genetics, Yale Stem Cell Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - In-Hyun Park
- Department of Genetics, Yale Stem Cell Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA.
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31
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Nichols K, Koppes R, Koppes A. Recent advancements in microphysiological systems for neural development and disease. CURRENT OPINION IN BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cobme.2020.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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32
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Crowe JA, El-Tamer A, Nagel D, Koroleva AV, Madrid-Wolff J, Olarte OE, Sokolovsky S, Estevez-Priego E, Ludl AA, Soriano J, Loza-Alvarez P, Chichkov BN, Hill EJ, Parri HR, Rafailov EU. Development of two-photon polymerised scaffolds for optical interrogation and neurite guidance of human iPSC-derived cortical neuronal networks. LAB ON A CHIP 2020; 20:1792-1806. [PMID: 32314760 DOI: 10.1039/c9lc01209e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Recent progress in the field of human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) has led to the efficient production of human neuronal cell models for in vitro study. This has the potential to enable the understanding of live human cellular and network function which is otherwise not possible. However, a major challenge is the generation of reproducible neural networks together with the ability to interrogate and record at the single cell level. A promising aid is the use of biomaterial scaffolds that would enable the development and guidance of neuronal networks in physiologically relevant architectures and dimensionality. The optimal scaffold material would need to be precisely fabricated with submicron resolution, be optically transparent, and biocompatible. Two-photon polymerisation (2PP) enables precise microfabrication of three-dimensional structures. In this study, we report the identification of two biomaterials that support the growth and differentiation of human iPSC-derived neural progenitors into functional neuronal networks. Furthermore, these materials can be patterned to induce alignment of neuronal processes and enable the optical interrogation of individual cells. 2PP scaffolds with tailored topographies therefore provide an effective method of producing defined in vitro human neural networks for application in influencing neurite guidance and complex network activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- J A Crowe
- School of Life and Health Sciences, Aston University, B4 7ET Birmingham, UK.
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33
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Tunesi M, Izzo L, Raimondi I, Albani D, Giordano C. A miniaturized hydrogel-based in vitro model for dynamic culturing of human cells overexpressing beta-amyloid precursor protein. J Tissue Eng 2020; 11:2041731420945633. [PMID: 32922719 PMCID: PMC7446262 DOI: 10.1177/2041731420945633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent findings have highlighted an interconnection between intestinal microbiota and the brain, referred to as microbiota-gut-brain axis, and suggested that alterations in microbiota composition might affect brain functioning, also in Alzheimer's disease. To investigate microbiota-gut-brain axis biochemical pathways, in this work we developed an innovative device to be used as modular unit in an engineered multi-organ-on-a-chip platform recapitulating in vitro the main players of the microbiota-gut-brain axis, and an innovative three-dimensional model of brain cells based on collagen/hyaluronic acid or collagen/poly(ethylene glycol) semi-interpenetrating polymer networks and β-amyloid precursor protein-Swedish mutant-expressing H4 cells, to simulate the pathological scenario of Alzheimer's disease. We set up the culturing conditions, assessed cell response, scaled down the three-dimensional models to be hosted in the organ-on-a-chip device, and cultured them both in static and in dynamic conditions. The results suggest that the device and three-dimensional models are exploitable for advanced engineered models representing brain features also in Alzheimer's disease scenario.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Tunesi
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering “G. Natta,” Politecnico di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Luca Izzo
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering “G. Natta,” Politecnico di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Ilaria Raimondi
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering “G. Natta,” Politecnico di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Diego Albani
- Department of Neuroscience, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri – IRCSS, Milan, Italy
| | - Carmen Giordano
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering “G. Natta,” Politecnico di Milano, Milan, Italy
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34
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An S, Han SY, Cho SW. Hydrogel-integrated Microfluidic Systems for Advanced Stem Cell Engineering. BIOCHIP JOURNAL 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s13206-019-3402-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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35
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Bang S, Jeong S, Choi N, Kim HN. Brain-on-a-chip: A history of development and future perspective. BIOMICROFLUIDICS 2019; 13:051301. [PMID: 31616534 PMCID: PMC6783295 DOI: 10.1063/1.5120555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2019] [Accepted: 09/25/2019] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Since the advent of organ-on-a-chip, many researchers have tried to mimic the physiology of human tissue on an engineered platform. In the case of brain tissue, structural connections and cell-cell interactions are important factors for brain function. The recent development of brain-on-a-chip is an effort to mimic those structural and functional aspects of brain tissue within a miniaturized engineered platform. From this perspective, we provide an overview of trace of brain-on-a-chip development, especially in terms of complexity and high-content/high-throughput screening capabilities, and future perspectives on more in vivo-like brain-on-a-chip development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seokyoung Bang
- Center for BioMicrosystems, Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, South Korea
| | | | - Nakwon Choi
- Authors to whom correspondence should be addressed:, Telephone: +82-2-958-5617 and , Telephone: +82-2-958-6742
| | - Hong Nam Kim
- Authors to whom correspondence should be addressed:, Telephone: +82-2-958-5617 and , Telephone: +82-2-958-6742
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Toward the formation of neural circuits in human brain organoids. Curr Opin Cell Biol 2019; 61:86-91. [PMID: 31425932 DOI: 10.1016/j.ceb.2019.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2019] [Revised: 07/08/2019] [Accepted: 07/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Because of the ability to recapitulate normal developmental processes, brain organoids derived from pluripotent stem cells are an important experimental resource to investigate the development and pathogenesis of human brains. Although brain organoids are used in research on diseases such as microcephaly, it has traditionally been difficult to analyze diseases that affect neuronal networks between distant brain regions, as effective brain organoids containing multiple brain regions with defined connectivity have yet to be established. In this review, we discuss strategies to construct such organoids and provide a review on recent progress on brain organoids.
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Hyung S, Lee S, Kim YJ, Bang S, Tahk D, Park J, Suh JF, Jeon NL. Optogenetic neuronal stimulation promotes axon outgrowth and myelination of motor neurons in a three‐dimensional motor neuron–Schwann cell coculture model on a microfluidic biochip. Biotechnol Bioeng 2019; 116:2425-2438. [DOI: 10.1002/bit.27083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2019] [Revised: 05/02/2019] [Accepted: 06/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sujin Hyung
- Center for BionicsKorea Institute of Science and Technology Seoul South Korea
- BK21 Plus Transformative Training Program for Creative Mechanical and Aerospace EngineersSeoul National University Seoul South Korea
- Multiscale Mechanical Design School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Institute of Advanced Machinery and DesignSeoul National University Seoul South Korea
| | - Seung‐Ryeol Lee
- Multiscale Mechanical Design School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Institute of Advanced Machinery and DesignSeoul National University Seoul South Korea
| | - Yeon Jee Kim
- Center for BionicsKorea Institute of Science and Technology Seoul South Korea
| | - Seokyoung Bang
- Multiscale Mechanical Design School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Institute of Advanced Machinery and DesignSeoul National University Seoul South Korea
| | - Dongha Tahk
- Multiscale Mechanical Design School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Institute of Advanced Machinery and DesignSeoul National University Seoul South Korea
| | - Jong‐Chul Park
- Department of Medical Engineering and Brain Korea 21 PLUS Project for Medical ScienceYonsei University College of Medicine Seoul South Korea
| | - Jun‐Kyo Francis Suh
- Center for BionicsKorea Institute of Science and Technology Seoul South Korea
| | - Noo Li Jeon
- Multiscale Mechanical Design School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Institute of Advanced Machinery and DesignSeoul National University Seoul South Korea
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Lee SR, Hyung S, Bang S, Lee Y, Ko J, Lee S, Kim HJ, Jeon NL. Modeling neural circuit, blood–brain barrier, and myelination on a microfluidic 96 well plate. Biofabrication 2019; 11:035013. [DOI: 10.1088/1758-5090/ab1402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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George J, Hsu CC, Nguyen LTB, Ye H, Cui Z. Neural tissue engineering with structured hydrogels in CNS models and therapies. Biotechnol Adv 2019; 42:107370. [PMID: 30902729 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2019.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2018] [Revised: 02/25/2019] [Accepted: 03/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
The development of techniques to create and use multiphase microstructured hydrogels (granular hydrogels or microgels) has enabled the generation of cultures with more biologically relevant architecture and use of structured hydrogels is especially pertinent to the development of new types of central nervous system (CNS) culture models and therapies. We review material choice and the customisation of hydrogel structure, as well as the use of hydrogels in developmental models. Combining the use of structured hydrogel techniques with developmentally relevant tissue culture approaches will enable the generation of more relevant models and treatments to repair damaged CNS tissue architecture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julian George
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Engineering Science, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Chia-Chen Hsu
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Engineering Science, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Linh Thuy Ba Nguyen
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Engineering Science, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Hua Ye
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Engineering Science, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom.
| | - Zhanfeng Cui
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Engineering Science, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom.
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40
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Bang S, Lee BJ, Lee SR, Na S, Jang JM, Kang M, Kim SY, Min DH, Song JM, Ho WK, Jeon NL. Reliable autapse formation using the single-cell patterning method. Biofabrication 2018; 11:015008. [DOI: 10.1088/1758-5090/aaeb66] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
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A microfabricated nerve-on-a-chip platform for rapid assessment of neural conduction in explanted peripheral nerve fibers. Nat Commun 2018; 9:4403. [PMID: 30353009 PMCID: PMC6199302 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-018-06895-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2018] [Accepted: 09/24/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Peripheral nerves are anisotropic and heterogeneous neural tissues. Their complex physiology restricts realistic in vitro models, and high resolution and selective probing of axonal activity. Here, we present a nerve-on-a-chip platform that enables rapid extracellular recording and axonal tracking of action potentials collected from tens of myelinated fibers. The platform consists of microfabricated stimulation and recording microchannel electrode arrays. First, we identify conduction velocities of action potentials traveling through the microchannel and propose a robust data-sorting algorithm using velocity selective recording. We optimize channel geometry and electrode spacing to enhance the algorithm reliability. Second, we demonstrate selective heat-induced neuro-inhibition of peripheral nerve activity upon local illumination of a conjugated polymer (P3HT) blended with a fullerene derivative (PCBM) coated on the floor of the microchannel. We demonstrate the nerve-on-a-chip platform is a versatile tool to optimize the design of implantable peripheral nerve interfaces and test selective neuromodulation techniques ex vivo. Peripheral nerves have a complex physiology and it is therefore difficult to measure axonal activity in vitro. Here the authors make a nerve-on-a-chip platform to align peripheral nerves and permit measurement of conduction amplitude and velocity along several axons in a single experiment.
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Prox J, Smith T, Holl C, Chehade N, Guo L. Integrated biocircuits: engineering functional multicellular circuits and devices. J Neural Eng 2018; 15:023001. [DOI: 10.1088/1741-2552/aaa906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
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Osaki T, Shin Y, Sivathanu V, Campisi M, Kamm RD. In Vitro Microfluidic Models for Neurodegenerative Disorders. Adv Healthc Mater 2018; 7. [PMID: 28881425 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.201700489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2017] [Revised: 07/18/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Microfluidic devices enable novel means of emulating neurodegenerative disease pathophysiology in vitro. These organ-on-a-chip systems can potentially reduce animal testing and substitute (or augment) simple 2D culture systems. Reconstituting critical features of neurodegenerative diseases in a biomimetic system using microfluidics can thereby accelerate drug discovery and improve our understanding of the mechanisms of several currently incurable diseases. This review describes latest advances in modeling neurodegenerative diseases in the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system. First, this study summarizes fundamental advantages of microfluidic devices in the creation of compartmentalized cell culture microenvironments for the co-culture of neurons, glial cells, endothelial cells, and skeletal muscle cells and in their recapitulation of spatiotemporal chemical gradients and mechanical microenvironments. Then, this reviews neurodegenerative-disease-on-a-chip models focusing on Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Finally, this study discusses about current drawbacks of these models and strategies that may overcome them. These organ-on-chip technologies can be useful to be the first line of testing line in drug development and toxicology studies, which can contribute significantly to minimize the phase of animal testing steps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatsuya Osaki
- Department of Mechanical EngineeringMassachusetts Institutes of Technology 500 Technology Square MIT Building, Room NE47‐321 Cambridge MA 02139 USA
| | - Yoojin Shin
- Department of Mechanical EngineeringMassachusetts Institutes of Technology 500 Technology Square MIT Building, Room NE47‐321 Cambridge MA 02139 USA
| | - Vivek Sivathanu
- Department of Mechanical EngineeringMassachusetts Institutes of Technology 500 Technology Square MIT Building, Room NE47‐321 Cambridge MA 02139 USA
| | - Marco Campisi
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace EngineeringPolitecnico di Torino Corso Duca degli Abruzzi 24 10129 Torino Italy
| | - Roger D. Kamm
- Department of Mechanical EngineeringMassachusetts Institutes of Technology 500 Technology Square MIT Building, Room NE47‐321 Cambridge MA 02139 USA
- Department of Biological EngineeringMassachusetts Institutes of Technology 500 Technology Square, MIT Building, Room NE47‐321 Cambridge MA 02139 USA
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Geraili A, Jafari P, Hassani MS, Araghi BH, Mohammadi MH, Ghafari AM, Tamrin SH, Modarres HP, Kolahchi AR, Ahadian S, Sanati-Nezhad A. Controlling Differentiation of Stem Cells for Developing Personalized Organ-on-Chip Platforms. Adv Healthc Mater 2018; 7. [PMID: 28910516 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.201700426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2017] [Revised: 06/01/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Organ-on-chip (OOC) platforms have attracted attentions of pharmaceutical companies as powerful tools for screening of existing drugs and development of new drug candidates. OOCs have primarily used human cell lines or primary cells to develop biomimetic tissue models. However, the ability of human stem cells in unlimited self-renewal and differentiation into multiple lineages has made them attractive for OOCs. The microfluidic technology has enabled precise control of stem cell differentiation using soluble factors, biophysical cues, and electromagnetic signals. This study discusses different tissue- and organ-on-chip platforms (i.e., skin, brain, blood-brain barrier, bone marrow, heart, liver, lung, tumor, and vascular), with an emphasis on the critical role of stem cells in the synthesis of complex tissues. This study further recaps the design, fabrication, high-throughput performance, and improved functionality of stem-cell-based OOCs, technical challenges, obstacles against implementing their potential applications, and future perspectives related to different experimental platforms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Armin Geraili
- Department of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering; Sharif University of Technology; Azadi, Tehran 14588-89694 Iran
- Graduate Program in Biomedical Engineering; Western University; London N6A 5B9 ON Canada
| | - Parya Jafari
- Graduate Program in Biomedical Engineering; Western University; London N6A 5B9 ON Canada
- Department of Electrical Engineering; Sharif University of Technology; Azadi, Tehran 14588-89694 Iran
| | - Mohsen Sheikh Hassani
- Department of Systems and Computer Engineering; Carleton University; 1125 Colonel By Drive Ottawa K1S 5B6 ON Canada
| | - Behnaz Heidary Araghi
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering; Sharif University of Technology; Azadi, Tehran 14588-89694 Iran
| | - Mohammad Hossein Mohammadi
- Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering; University of Toronto; Toronto ON M5S 3G9 Canada
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry; University of Toronto; Toronto Ontario M5S 3E5 Canada
| | - Amir Mohammad Ghafari
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology; Cell Science Research Center; Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology; Tehran 16635-148 Iran
| | - Sara Hasanpour Tamrin
- BioMEMS and Bioinspired Microfluidic Laboratory (BioM); Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering; University of Calgary; 2500 University Drive N.W. Calgary T2N 1N4 AB Canada
| | - Hassan Pezeshgi Modarres
- BioMEMS and Bioinspired Microfluidic Laboratory (BioM); Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering; University of Calgary; 2500 University Drive N.W. Calgary T2N 1N4 AB Canada
| | - Ahmad Rezaei Kolahchi
- BioMEMS and Bioinspired Microfluidic Laboratory (BioM); Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering; University of Calgary; 2500 University Drive N.W. Calgary T2N 1N4 AB Canada
| | - Samad Ahadian
- Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering; University of Toronto; Toronto ON M5S 3G9 Canada
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry; University of Toronto; Toronto Ontario M5S 3E5 Canada
| | - Amir Sanati-Nezhad
- BioMEMS and Bioinspired Microfluidic Laboratory (BioM); Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering; University of Calgary; 2500 University Drive N.W. Calgary T2N 1N4 AB Canada
- Center for Bioengineering Research and Education; Biomedical Engineering Program; University of Calgary; Calgary T2N 1N4 AB Canada
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Zhuang P, Sun AX, An J, Chua CK, Chew SY. 3D neural tissue models: From spheroids to bioprinting. Biomaterials 2017; 154:113-133. [PMID: 29120815 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2017.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 161] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2017] [Revised: 09/14/2017] [Accepted: 10/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Three-dimensional (3D) in vitro neural tissue models provide a better recapitulation of in vivo cell-cell and cell-extracellular matrix interactions than conventional two-dimensional (2D) cultures. Therefore, the former is believed to have great potential for both mechanistic and translational studies. In this paper, we review the recent developments in 3D in vitro neural tissue models, with a particular focus on the emerging bioprinted tissue structures. We draw on specific examples to describe the merits and limitations of each model, in terms of different applications. Bioprinting offers a revolutionary approach for constructing repeatable and controllable 3D in vitro neural tissues with diverse cell types, complex microscale features and tissue level responses. Further advances in bioprinting research would likely consolidate existing models and generate complex neural tissue structures bearing higher fidelity, which is ultimately useful for probing disease-specific mechanisms, facilitating development of novel therapeutics and promoting neural regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei Zhuang
- Singapore Centre for 3D Printing, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore.
| | - Alfred Xuyang Sun
- Department of Neurology, National Neuroscience Institute, 20 College Road, Singapore 169856, Singapore; Genome Institute of Singapore, 60 Biopolis Street, Singapore 138672, Singapore.
| | - Jia An
- Singapore Centre for 3D Printing, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore.
| | - Chee Kai Chua
- Singapore Centre for 3D Printing, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore.
| | - Sing Yian Chew
- School of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 637459, Singapore; Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 308232, Singapore.
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Bang S, Lee SR, Ko J, Son K, Tahk D, Ahn J, Im C, Jeon NL. A Low Permeability Microfluidic Blood-Brain Barrier Platform with Direct Contact between Perfusable Vascular Network and Astrocytes. Sci Rep 2017; 7:8083. [PMID: 28808270 PMCID: PMC5556097 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-07416-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 158] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2016] [Accepted: 06/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
A novel three dimensional blood brain barrier (BBB) platform was developed by independently supplying different types of media to separate cell types within a single device. One channel (vascular channel, VC) is connected to the inner lumen of the vascular network while the other supplies media to the neural cells (neural channel, NC). Compared to co-cultures supplied with only one type of medium (or 1:1 mixture), best barrier properties and viability were obtained with culturing HUVECs with endothelial growth medium (EGM) and neural cells with neurobasal medium supplemented with fetal bovine serum (NBMFBS) independently. The measured vascular network permeability were comparable to reported in vivo values (20 kDa FITC-dextran, 0.45 ± 0.11 × 10−6 cm/s; 70 kDa FITC-dextran, 0.36 ± 0.05 × 10−6 cm/s) and a higher degree of neurovascular interfacing (astrocytic contact with the vascular network, GFAP-CD31 stain overlap) and presence of synapses (stained with synaptophysin). The BBB platform can dependably imitate the perivascular network morphology and synaptic structures characteristic of the NVU. This microfluidic BBB model can find applications in screening pharmaceuticals that target the brain for in neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seokyoung Bang
- Division of WCU (World Class University) Multiscale Mechanical Design, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Seung-Ryeol Lee
- Division of WCU (World Class University) Multiscale Mechanical Design, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jihoon Ko
- Division of WCU (World Class University) Multiscale Mechanical Design, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Kyungmin Son
- Division of WCU (World Class University) Multiscale Mechanical Design, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Dongha Tahk
- Division of WCU (World Class University) Multiscale Mechanical Design, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jungho Ahn
- Division of WCU (World Class University) Multiscale Mechanical Design, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Changkyun Im
- BK21 Plus Transformative Training Program for Creative Mechanical Engineers, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Noo Li Jeon
- Division of WCU (World Class University) Multiscale Mechanical Design, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea. .,Institute of Advanced Machinery and Design, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea.
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Kato-Negishi M, Onoe H, Ito A, Takeuchi S. Rod-Shaped Neural Units for Aligned 3D Neural Network Connection. Adv Healthc Mater 2017; 6. [PMID: 28429415 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.201700143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2017] [Revised: 03/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
This paper proposes neural tissue units with aligned nerve fibers (called rod-shaped neural units) that connect neural networks with aligned neurons. To make the proposed units, 3D fiber-shaped neural tissues covered with a calcium alginate hydrogel layer are prepared with a microfluidic system and are cut in an accurate and reproducible manner. These units have aligned nerve fibers inside the hydrogel layer and connectable points on both ends. By connecting the units with a poly(dimethylsiloxane) guide, 3D neural tissues can be constructed and maintained for more than two weeks of culture. In addition, neural networks can be formed between the different neural units via synaptic connections. Experimental results indicate that the proposed rod-shaped neural units are effective tools for the construction of spatially complex connections with aligned nerve fibers in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Midori Kato-Negishi
- Institute of Industrial Science; The University of Tokyo; 4-6-1, Komaba Meguro-ku Tokyo 153-8505 Japan
- Exploratory Research for Advanced Technology (ERATO); Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST); 4-6-1 Komaba Meguro-ku Tokyo 153-8505 Japan
| | - Hiroaki Onoe
- Institute of Industrial Science; The University of Tokyo; 4-6-1, Komaba Meguro-ku Tokyo 153-8505 Japan
- Exploratory Research for Advanced Technology (ERATO); Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST); 4-6-1 Komaba Meguro-ku Tokyo 153-8505 Japan
| | - Akane Ito
- Institute of Industrial Science; The University of Tokyo; 4-6-1, Komaba Meguro-ku Tokyo 153-8505 Japan
| | - Shoji Takeuchi
- Institute of Industrial Science; The University of Tokyo; 4-6-1, Komaba Meguro-ku Tokyo 153-8505 Japan
- Exploratory Research for Advanced Technology (ERATO); Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST); 4-6-1 Komaba Meguro-ku Tokyo 153-8505 Japan
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Gomes ME, Rodrigues MT, Domingues RM, Reis RL. Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine: New Trends and Directions—A Year in Review. TISSUE ENGINEERING PART B-REVIEWS 2017; 23:211-224. [DOI: 10.1089/ten.teb.2017.0081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Manuela E. Gomes
- 3B's Research Group—Biomaterials, Biodegradables and Biomimetics, University of Minho, Headquarters of the European Institute of Excellence on Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Guimarães, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's, PT Government Associate Laboratory, Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Márcia T. Rodrigues
- 3B's Research Group—Biomaterials, Biodegradables and Biomimetics, University of Minho, Headquarters of the European Institute of Excellence on Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Guimarães, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's, PT Government Associate Laboratory, Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Rui M.A. Domingues
- 3B's Research Group—Biomaterials, Biodegradables and Biomimetics, University of Minho, Headquarters of the European Institute of Excellence on Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Guimarães, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's, PT Government Associate Laboratory, Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Rui L. Reis
- 3B's Research Group—Biomaterials, Biodegradables and Biomimetics, University of Minho, Headquarters of the European Institute of Excellence on Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Guimarães, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's, PT Government Associate Laboratory, Guimarães, Portugal
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49
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Haring AP, Sontheimer H, Johnson BN. Microphysiological Human Brain and Neural Systems-on-a-Chip: Potential Alternatives to Small Animal Models and Emerging Platforms for Drug Discovery and Personalized Medicine. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2017; 13:381-406. [PMID: 28488234 PMCID: PMC5534264 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-017-9738-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Translational challenges associated with reductionist modeling approaches, as well as ethical concerns and economic implications of small animal testing, drive the need for developing microphysiological neural systems for modeling human neurological diseases, disorders, and injuries. Here, we provide a comprehensive review of microphysiological brain and neural systems-on-a-chip (NSCs) for modeling higher order trajectories in the human nervous system. Societal, economic, and national security impacts of neurological diseases, disorders, and injuries are highlighted to identify critical NSC application spaces. Hierarchical design and manufacturing of NSCs are discussed with distinction for surface- and bulk-based systems. Three broad NSC classes are identified and reviewed: microfluidic NSCs, compartmentalized NSCs, and hydrogel NSCs. Emerging areas and future directions are highlighted, including the application of 3D printing to design and manufacturing of next-generation NSCs, the use of stem cells for constructing patient-specific NSCs, and the application of human NSCs to 'personalized neurology'. Technical hurdles and remaining challenges are discussed. This review identifies the state-of-the-art design methodologies, manufacturing approaches, and performance capabilities of NSCs. This work suggests NSCs appear poised to revolutionize the modeling of human neurological diseases, disorders, and injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander P Haring
- Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, 24061, USA
- Macromolecules Innovation Institute, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, 24061, USA
| | - Harald Sontheimer
- Glial Biology in Health, Disease, and Cancer Center, Virginia Tech Carilion Research Institute, Roanoke, VA, 24016, USA
- School of Neuroscience, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, 24061, USA
| | - Blake N Johnson
- Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, 24061, USA.
- Macromolecules Innovation Institute, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, 24061, USA.
- School of Neuroscience, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, 24061, USA.
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, 24061, USA.
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50
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Karimi M, Bahrami S, Mirshekari H, Basri SMM, Nik AB, Aref AR, Akbari M, Hamblin MR. Microfluidic systems for stem cell-based neural tissue engineering. LAB ON A CHIP 2016; 16:2551-71. [PMID: 27296463 PMCID: PMC4935609 DOI: 10.1039/c6lc00489j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Neural tissue engineering aims at developing novel approaches for the treatment of diseases of the nervous system, by providing a permissive environment for the growth and differentiation of neural cells. Three-dimensional (3D) cell culture systems provide a closer biomimetic environment, and promote better cell differentiation and improved cell function, than could be achieved by conventional two-dimensional (2D) culture systems. With the recent advances in the discovery and introduction of different types of stem cells for tissue engineering, microfluidic platforms have provided an improved microenvironment for the 3D-culture of stem cells. Microfluidic systems can provide more precise control over the spatiotemporal distribution of chemical and physical cues at the cellular level compared to traditional systems. Various microsystems have been designed and fabricated for the purpose of neural tissue engineering. Enhanced neural migration and differentiation, and monitoring of these processes, as well as understanding the behavior of stem cells and their microenvironment have been obtained through application of different microfluidic-based stem cell culture and tissue engineering techniques. As the technology advances it may be possible to construct a "brain-on-a-chip". In this review, we describe the basics of stem cells and tissue engineering as well as microfluidics-based tissue engineering approaches. We review recent testing of various microfluidic approaches for stem cell-based neural tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahdi Karimi
- Department of Medical Nanotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Sajad Bahrami
- Department of Medical Nanotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. and Nanomedicine Research Association (NRA), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamed Mirshekari
- Advanced Nanobiotechnology and Nanomedicine Research Group (ANNRG), Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Seyed Masoud Moosavi Basri
- Bioenvironmental Research Center, Sharif University of Technology, Tehran, Iran. and Civil & Environmental Engineering Department, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amirala Bakhshian Nik
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of New Sciences and Technologies, University of Tehran, Iran.
| | - Amir R Aref
- Department of Cancer Biology, Center for Cancer Systems Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA and Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA.
| | - Mohsen Akbari
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA. and Laboratory for Innovations in MicroEngineering (LiME), Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - Michael R Hamblin
- Wellman Center for Photomedicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA. and Department of Dermatology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA and Harvard-MIT Division of Health Sciences and Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
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