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Wang X, Xu X, Zhang Y, An X, Zhang X, Chen G, Jiang Q, Yang J. Duo Cadherin-Functionalized Microparticles Synergistically Induce Chondrogenesis and Cartilage Repair of Stem Cell Aggregates. Adv Healthc Mater 2022; 11:e2200246. [PMID: 35485302 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202200246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Revised: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) aggregates incorporated with microparticles of functional materials have shown promising prospects in the field of cell therapy for cartilage repair. Given the importance of cadherins in modulating the stemness and chondrogenesis of MSCs, the use of transforming growth factor β1 (TGFβ1)-loaded poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA)-based composite microparticles inspired by duo cadherin (human E- and N-cadherin fusion proteins) to construct a bioartificial stem cell niche in engineered human MSC (hMSC) aggregates to promote chondrogenesis and cartilage regeneration is proposed. The hE/N-cadherin-functionalized PLGA/chitosan-heparin-TGFβ1 (Duo hE/N-cad@P/C-h-TGFβ1) microparticles spatiotemporally upregulates the endogenous E/N-cadherin expression of hMSC aggregates which further amplifies the chondrogenic differentiation and modulate paracrine and anti-inflammatory functions of hMSCs toward constructing a favorable microenvironment for chondrogenesis. The Duo hE/N-cad@P/C-h-TGFβ1 microparticles finely regulate the response of hMSCs to biochemical and mechanical signal stimuli in the microenvironment through the cadherin/catenin-Yes-associated protein signal transduction, which inhibits the hypertrophy of hMSC-derived chondrocytes. Furthermore, immunofluorescent and histological examinations show that the Duo hE/N-cad@P/C-h-TGFβ1 microparticles significantly improve regeneration of cartilage and subchondral bone in vivo. Together, the application of duo cadherin-functionalized microparticles is considered an innovative material-wise approach to exogenously activate hMSC aggregates for functional applications in regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueping Wang
- The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials Ministry of Education College of Life Science Nankai University Tianjin 300071 P. R. China
| | - Xingquan Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology Division of Sports Medicine and Adult Reconstructive Surgery and Department of Orthopedic Surgery Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School 321 Zhongshan Road Nanjing Jiangsu 210008 P. R. China
| | - Yan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology Nankai University Tianjin 300350 P. R. China
| | - Xueying An
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology Division of Sports Medicine and Adult Reconstructive Surgery and Department of Orthopedic Surgery Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School 321 Zhongshan Road Nanjing Jiangsu 210008 P. R. China
| | - Xue Zhang
- The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials Ministry of Education College of Life Science Nankai University Tianjin 300071 P. R. China
| | - Guoqiang Chen
- The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials Ministry of Education College of Life Science Nankai University Tianjin 300071 P. R. China
| | - Qing Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology Division of Sports Medicine and Adult Reconstructive Surgery and Department of Orthopedic Surgery Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School 321 Zhongshan Road Nanjing Jiangsu 210008 P. R. China
| | - Jun Yang
- The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials Ministry of Education College of Life Science Nankai University Tianjin 300071 P. R. China
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Passanha FR, Geuens T, LaPointe VLS. Sticking together: Harnessing cadherin biology for tissue engineering. Acta Biomater 2021; 134:107-115. [PMID: 34358698 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2021.07.070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Revised: 07/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Directing cell behavior and building a tissue for therapeutic impact is the main goal of regenerative medicine, for which scientists need to modulate the interaction of cells with biomaterials. The focus of the field thus far has been on the incorporation of cues from the extracellular matrix but we propose that scientists take lessons from cell-cell adhesion proteins, more specifically cadherin biology, as these proteins make multicellularity possible. In this perspective, we re-examine cadherins through the lens of a tissue engineer for the purpose of advancing regenerative medicine. Furthermore, we summarize exciting developments in biomaterials inspired by cadherins and discuss some challenges and opportunities for the future. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Tissue engineers need tools to direct cell behavior. To date, tissue engineers have designed many sophisticated materials to positively influence cell behavior but are faced with the challenge where these materials sometimes work and sometimes fail. This uncertainty is a big unanswered question that challenges the community. We propose that tissue engineering could be more successful if they would take lessons from cell-cell adhesion proteins, more specifically cadherin biology. In the article, we discuss key structural and functional characteristics that make cadherins ideal for tissue engineering approaches. Furthermore, by providing a state-of-the-art overview of exemplary studies that have used cadherins to influence cell behavior, we show tissue engineers that they already have the tools necessary to incorporate this knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona R Passanha
- MERLN Institute for Technology-Inspired Regenerative Medicine, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD, Maastricht, the Netherlands.
| | - Thomas Geuens
- MERLN Institute for Technology-Inspired Regenerative Medicine, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Vanessa L S LaPointe
- MERLN Institute for Technology-Inspired Regenerative Medicine, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD, Maastricht, the Netherlands.
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Li Q, Xu S, Feng Q, Dai Q, Yao L, Zhang Y, Gao H, Dong H, Chen D, Cao X. 3D printed silk-gelatin hydrogel scaffold with different porous structure and cell seeding strategy for cartilage regeneration. Bioact Mater 2021; 6:3396-3410. [PMID: 33842736 PMCID: PMC8010633 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2021.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hydrogel scaffolds are attractive for tissue defect repair and reorganization because of their human tissue-like characteristics. However, most hydrogels offer limited cell growth and tissue formation ability due to their submicron- or nano-sized gel networks, which restrict the supply of oxygen, nutrients and inhibit the proliferation and differentiation of encapsulated cells. In recent years, 3D printed hydrogels have shown great potential to overcome this problem by introducing macro-pores within scaffolds. In this study, we fabricated a macroporous hydrogel scaffold through horseradish peroxidase (HRP)-mediated crosslinking of silk fibroin (SF) and tyramine-substituted gelatin (GT) by extrusion-based low-temperature 3D printing. Through physicochemical characterization, we found that this hydrogel has excellent structural stability, suitable mechanical properties, and an adjustable degradation rate, thus satisfying the requirements for cartilage reconstruction. Cell suspension and aggregate seeding methods were developed to assess the inoculation efficiency of the hydrogel. Moreover, the chondrogenic differentiation of stem cells was explored. Stem cells in the hydrogel differentiated into hyaline cartilage when the cell aggregate seeding method was used and into fibrocartilage when the cell suspension was used. Finally, the effect of the hydrogel and stem cells were investigated in a rabbit cartilage defect model. After implantation for 12 and 16 weeks, histological evaluation of the sections was performed. We found that the enzymatic cross-linked and methanol treatment SF5GT15 hydrogel combined with cell aggregates promoted articular cartilage regeneration. In summary, this 3D printed macroporous SF-GT hydrogel combined with stem cell aggregates possesses excellent potential for application in cartilage tissue repair and regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingtao Li
- National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction (NERC-TRR), South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, GuangDong, 510641, China
- School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, GuangDong, 510641, China
- Zhongshan Institute of Modern Industrial Technology of SCUT, Zhongshan, Guangdong, 528437, China
| | - Sheng Xu
- National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction (NERC-TRR), South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, GuangDong, 510641, China
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Material Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, GuangDong, 510641, China
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering of Guangdong Province, Key Laboratory of Biomedical Materials and Engineering of the Ministry of Education, Innovation Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, GuangDong, 510641, China
| | - Qi Feng
- National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction (NERC-TRR), South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, GuangDong, 510641, China
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Material Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, GuangDong, 510641, China
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering of Guangdong Province, Key Laboratory of Biomedical Materials and Engineering of the Ministry of Education, Innovation Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, GuangDong, 510641, China
| | - Qiyuan Dai
- National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction (NERC-TRR), South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, GuangDong, 510641, China
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Material Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, GuangDong, 510641, China
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering of Guangdong Province, Key Laboratory of Biomedical Materials and Engineering of the Ministry of Education, Innovation Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, GuangDong, 510641, China
| | - Longtao Yao
- National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction (NERC-TRR), South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, GuangDong, 510641, China
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Material Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, GuangDong, 510641, China
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering of Guangdong Province, Key Laboratory of Biomedical Materials and Engineering of the Ministry of Education, Innovation Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, GuangDong, 510641, China
| | - Yichen Zhang
- National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction (NERC-TRR), South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, GuangDong, 510641, China
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Material Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, GuangDong, 510641, China
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering of Guangdong Province, Key Laboratory of Biomedical Materials and Engineering of the Ministry of Education, Innovation Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, GuangDong, 510641, China
| | - Huichang Gao
- National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction (NERC-TRR), South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, GuangDong, 510641, China
- School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, GuangDong, 510641, China
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering of Guangdong Province, Key Laboratory of Biomedical Materials and Engineering of the Ministry of Education, Innovation Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, GuangDong, 510641, China
| | - Hua Dong
- National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction (NERC-TRR), South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, GuangDong, 510641, China
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Material Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, GuangDong, 510641, China
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering of Guangdong Province, Key Laboratory of Biomedical Materials and Engineering of the Ministry of Education, Innovation Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, GuangDong, 510641, China
| | - Dafu Chen
- Laboratory of Bone Tissue Engineering, Beijing Laboratory of Biomedical Materials, Beijing Research Institute of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Beijing JiShuiTan Hospital, Beijing, 100035, China
| | - Xiaodong Cao
- National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction (NERC-TRR), South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, GuangDong, 510641, China
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Material Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, GuangDong, 510641, China
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering of Guangdong Province, Key Laboratory of Biomedical Materials and Engineering of the Ministry of Education, Innovation Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, GuangDong, 510641, China
- Zhongshan Institute of Modern Industrial Technology of SCUT, Zhongshan, Guangdong, 528437, China
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Doron G, Temenoff JS. Culture Substrates for Improved Manufacture of Mesenchymal Stromal Cell Therapies. Adv Healthc Mater 2021; 10:e2100016. [PMID: 33930252 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202100016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2021] [Revised: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Recent developments in mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC) therapies have increased the demand for tools to improve their manufacture, including the selection of optimal culture substrate materials. While many clinical manufacturers use planar tissue culture plastic (TCP) surfaces for MSC production, others have begun exploring the use of alternative culture substrates that present a variety of spatial, mechanical, and biochemical cues that influence cell expansion and resulting cell quality. In this review, the effects of culture and material properties distinct from traditional planar TCP surfaces on MSC proliferation, surface marker expression, and commonly used indications for therapeutic potency are examined. The different properties summarized include the use of alternative culture formats such as cellular aggregates or 3D scaffolds, as well as the effects of culture substrate stiffness and presentation of specific adhesive ligands and topographical cues. Specific substrate properties can be related to greater cell expansion and improvement in specific therapeutic functionalities, demonstrating the utility of culture materials in further improving the clinical-scale manufacture of highly secretory MSC products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gilad Doron
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University 313 Ferst Drive Atlanta GA 30332 USA
- Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience Georgia Institute of Technology Atlanta GA 30332 USA
| | - Johnna S. Temenoff
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University 313 Ferst Drive Atlanta GA 30332 USA
- Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience Georgia Institute of Technology Atlanta GA 30332 USA
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5
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Xie J, Li X, Zhang Y, Tang T, Chen G, Mao H, Gu Z, Yang J. VE-cadherin-based matrix promoting the self-reconstruction of pro-vascularization microenvironments and endothelial differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells. J Mater Chem B 2021; 9:3357-3370. [PMID: 33881442 DOI: 10.1039/d1tb00017a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Regulating the secretion and endothelial differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) plays an important role in the vascularization in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. In this study, a recombinant cadherin fusion protein consisting of a human vascular endothelial-cadherin extracellular domain and immunoglobulin IgG Fc region (hVE-cad-Fc) was developed as a bioartificial matrix for modulating hMSCs. The hVE-cad-Fc matrix significantly enhanced the secretion of angiogenic factors, activated the VE-cadherin-VEGFR2/FAK-AKT/PI3K signaling pathway in hMSCs, and promoted the endothelial differentiation of hMSCs even without extra VEGF. Furthermore, the hVE-cad-Fc matrix was applied for the surface modification of a poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) porous scaffold, which significantly improved the hemocompatibility and vascularization of the PLGA scaffold in vivo. These results revealed that the hVE-cad-Fc matrix should be a superior bioartificial ECM for remodeling the pro-vascularization extracellular microenvironment by regulating the secretion of hMSCs, and showed great potential for the vascularization in tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinghui Xie
- The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China.
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Kim SJ, Kim EM, Yamamoto M, Park H, Shin H. Engineering Multi-Cellular Spheroids for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine. Adv Healthc Mater 2020; 9:e2000608. [PMID: 32734719 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202000608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Revised: 07/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Multi-cellular spheroids are formed as a 3D structure with dense cell-cell/cell-extracellular matrix interactions, and thus, have been widely utilized as implantable therapeutics and various ex vivo tissue models in tissue engineering. In principle, spheroid culture methods maximize cell-cell cohesion and induce spontaneous cellular assembly while minimizing cellular interactions with substrates by using physical forces such as gravitational or centrifugal forces, protein-repellant biomaterials, and micro-structured surfaces. In addition, biofunctional materials including magnetic nanoparticles, polymer microspheres, and nanofiber particles are combined with cells to harvest composite spheroids, to accelerate spheroid formation, to increase the mechanical properties and viability of spheroids, and to direct differentiation of stem cells into desirable cell types. Biocompatible hydrogels are developed to produce microgels for the fabrication of size-controlled spheroids with high efficiency. Recently, spheroids have been further engineered to fabricate structurally and functionally reliable in vitro artificial 3D tissues of the desired shape with enhanced specific biological functions. This paper reviews the overall characteristics of spheroids and general/advanced spheroid culture techniques. Significant roles of functional biomaterials in advanced spheroid engineering with emphasis on the use of spheroids in the reconstruction of artificial 3D tissue for tissue engineering are also thoroughly discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Se-Jeong Kim
- Department of Bioengineering, Hanyang University, 222 Wangsimri-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul, 04763, Republic of Korea
- BK21 Plus Future Biopharmaceutical Human Resources Training and Research Team, Hanyang University, 222 Wangsimri-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul, 04763, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun Mi Kim
- Department of Bioengineering, Hanyang University, 222 Wangsimri-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul, 04763, Republic of Korea
- BK21 Plus Future Biopharmaceutical Human Resources Training and Research Team, Hanyang University, 222 Wangsimri-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul, 04763, Republic of Korea
| | - Masaya Yamamoto
- Department of Materials Processing, Graduate School of Engineering, Tohoku University, 6-6-02 Aramaki-aza Aoba, Aoba-ku, Sendai, 980-8579, Japan
- Biomedical Engineering for Diagnosis and Treatment, Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, Tohoku University, 6-6-02 Aramaki-aza Aoba, Aoba-ku, Sendai, 980-8579, Japan
| | - Hansoo Park
- School of Integrative Engineering, College of Engineering, Chung-Ang University, 84 Heukseok-ro, Dongjak-gu, 06974, Republic of Korea
| | - Heungsoo Shin
- Department of Bioengineering, Hanyang University, 222 Wangsimri-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul, 04763, Republic of Korea
- BK21 Plus Future Biopharmaceutical Human Resources Training and Research Team, Hanyang University, 222 Wangsimri-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul, 04763, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Nano Science & Technology (INST), Hanyang University, 222 Wangsimri-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul, 04763, Republic of Korea
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Ge M, Sheng Y, Qi S, Cao L, Zhang Y, Yang J. PLGA/chitosan-heparin composite microparticles prepared with microfluidics for the construction of hMSC aggregates. J Mater Chem B 2020; 8:9921-9932. [PMID: 33034328 DOI: 10.1039/d0tb01593h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Incorporating poly(lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA) microparticles into human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSC) aggregates has shown promising application prospects. However, the acidic degradation products and burst release of PLGA microparticles still need to be ameliorated. In this study, the PLGA/chitosan-heparin (P/C-h) composite microparticles were successfully fabricated by integrating the double emulsion and microfluidic technology through the precise manipulation of the emulsion composition and flow rate of the two-phase in a flow-focusing chip. The P/C-h microparticles were highly monodispersed with a diameter of 23.45 ± 0.25 μm and shell-core structure of the PLGA encapsulated C-h complex, which were suitable for the fabrication of hMSC aggregates. When the mass ratio of PLGA to the C-h complex was optimized to 2 : 1, the pH of the leach liquor of P/C-h microparticles remained neutral. Compared with those of PLGA microparticles, the cytotoxicity and the initial burst release (loaded FGF-2 and VEGF) were both significantly reduced in P/C-h microparticles. Furthermore, the survival, stemness, as well as secretion and migration abilities of cells in hMSC aggregates incorporating P/C-h microparticles were also enhanced. In summary, the P/C-h composite microparticles prepared by the droplet microfluidic technique support the optimal biological and functional profile of the hMSC aggregates, which may facilitate the clinical applications of MSC-based therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Ge
- The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China.
| | - Yaqi Sheng
- The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China.
| | - Shuyue Qi
- The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China.
| | - Lei Cao
- The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China.
| | - Yan Zhang
- The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China. and State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300350, China.
| | - Jun Yang
- The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China.
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Lyu Y, Xie J, Liu Y, Xiao M, Li Y, Yang J, Yang J, Liu W. Injectable Hyaluronic Acid Hydrogel Loaded with Functionalized Human Mesenchymal Stem Cell Aggregates for Repairing Infarcted Myocardium. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2020; 6:6926-6937. [PMID: 33320638 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.0c01344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Conventional strategies of stem cell injection in treating myocardial infarction (MI) remain a challenge because of low retention rate and insufficient secretion of exogenous cytokines for efficiently improving the microenvironment in the infarcted myocardium, thus hampering the therapeutic effect. Herein, poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microparticles modified with human VE-cad-Fc fusion protein are fabricated and integrated with human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) to construct functionalized MSC aggregates (FMAs). This fusion protein can effectively promote the paracrine activity of MSCs. The FMA is encapsulated with an injectable hyaluronic acid (HA)-based hydrogel, which is prepared by Schiff base reaction between oxidized HA (OHA) and hydrazided HA (HHA). The OHA@HHA hydrogel loading FMA is injected into the infarcted myocardium of rats, thereby efficiently improving the MI microenvironment in terms of decreased expressions of inflammatory cytokines and upregulated secretion of angiogenic factors compared to the plain hydrogel only and hydrogel encapsulating MSCs. The results of both echocardiography and histological analyses demonstrate the efficient reconstruction of cardiac function and structure and revascularization in the infarct myocardium. The delivery of functionalized stem cell aggregates with an injectable hydrogel offers a promising strategy for treating myocardial infarction and may be expanded to other tissue repair and reconstruction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanning Lyu
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Composite and Functional Materials, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Jinghui Xie
- The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Yang Liu
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Composite and Functional Materials, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Meng Xiao
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Composite and Functional Materials, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Yuan Li
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Composite and Functional Materials, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Jianhai Yang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Composite and Functional Materials, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Jun Yang
- The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Wenguang Liu
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Composite and Functional Materials, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300350, China
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Tsai AC, Jeske R, Chen X, Yuan X, Li Y. Influence of Microenvironment on Mesenchymal Stem Cell Therapeutic Potency: From Planar Culture to Microcarriers. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2020; 8:640. [PMID: 32671039 PMCID: PMC7327111 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2020.00640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2020] [Accepted: 05/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) are a promising candidate in cell therapy as they exhibit multilineage differentiation, homing to the site of injury, and secretion of trophic factors that facilitate tissue healing and/or modulate immune response. As a result, hMSC-derived products have attracted growing interests in preclinical and clinical studies. The development of hMSC culture platforms for large-scale biomanufacturing is necessary to meet the requirements for late-phase clinical trials and future commercialization. Microcarriers in stirred-tank bioreactors have been widely utilized in large-scale expansion of hMSCs for translational applications because of a high surface-to-volume ratio compared to conventional 2D planar culture. However, recent studies have demonstrated that microcarrier-expanded hMSCs differ from dish- or flask-expanded cells in size, morphology, proliferation, viability, surface markers, gene expression, differentiation potential, and secretome profile which may lead to altered therapeutic potency. Therefore, understanding the bioprocessing parameters that influence hMSC therapeutic efficacy is essential for the optimization of microcarrier-based bioreactor system to maximize hMSC quantity without sacrificing quality. In this review, biomanufacturing parameters encountered in planar culture and microcarrier-based bioreactor culture of hMSCs are compared and discussed with specific focus on cell-adhesion surface (e.g., discontinuous surface, underlying curvature, microcarrier stiffness, porosity, surface roughness, coating, and charge) and the dynamic microenvironment in bioreactor culture (e.g., oxygen and nutrients, shear stress, particle collision, and aggregation). The influence of dynamic culture in bioreactors on hMSC properties is also reviewed in order to establish connection between bioprocessing and stem cell function. This review addresses fundamental principles and concepts for future design of biomanufacturing systems for hMSC-based therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ang-Chen Tsai
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, United States
| | - Richard Jeske
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, United States
| | - Xingchi Chen
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, United States
| | - Xuegang Yuan
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, United States
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, United States
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An anti‐oxidative cell culture dish inhibits intracellular reactive oxygen species accumulation and modulates pluripotency‐associated gene expression in mesenchymal stem cells. J Biomed Mater Res A 2020; 108:1058-1063. [DOI: 10.1002/jbm.a.36881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2019] [Revised: 01/04/2020] [Accepted: 01/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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Gaspar VM, Lavrador P, Borges J, Oliveira MB, Mano JF. Advanced Bottom-Up Engineering of Living Architectures. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2020; 32:e1903975. [PMID: 31823448 DOI: 10.1002/adma.201903975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2019] [Revised: 08/30/2019] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Bottom-up tissue engineering is a promising approach for designing modular biomimetic structures that aim to recapitulate the intricate hierarchy and biofunctionality of native human tissues. In recent years, this field has seen exciting progress driven by an increasing knowledge of biological systems and their rational deconstruction into key core components. Relevant advances in the bottom-up assembly of unitary living blocks toward the creation of higher order bioarchitectures based on multicellular-rich structures or multicomponent cell-biomaterial synergies are described. An up-to-date critical overview of long-term existing and rapidly emerging technologies for integrative bottom-up tissue engineering is provided, including discussion of their practical challenges and required advances. It is envisioned that a combination of cell-biomaterial constructs with bioadaptable features and biospecific 3D designs will contribute to the development of more robust and functional humanized tissues for therapies and disease models, as well as tools for fundamental biological studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vítor M Gaspar
- Department of Chemistry, CICECO - Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Pedro Lavrador
- Department of Chemistry, CICECO - Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - João Borges
- Department of Chemistry, CICECO - Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Mariana B Oliveira
- Department of Chemistry, CICECO - Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - João F Mano
- Department of Chemistry, CICECO - Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
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Screening of perfused combinatorial 3D microenvironments for cell culture. Acta Biomater 2019; 96:222-236. [PMID: 31255663 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2019.06.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2019] [Revised: 06/23/2019] [Accepted: 06/25/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Biomaterials combining biochemical and biophysical cues to establish close-to-extracellular matrix (ECM) models have been explored for cell expansion and differentiation purposes. Multivariate arrays are used as material-saving and rapid-to-analyze platforms, which enable selecting hit-spotted formulations targeting specific cellular responses. However, these systems often lack the ability to emulate dynamic mechanical aspects that occur in specific biological milieus and affect physiological phenomena including stem cells differentiation, tumor progression, or matrix modulation. We report a tailor-made strategy to address the combined effect of flow and biochemical composition of three-dimensional (3D) biomaterials on cellular response. We suggest a simple-to-implement device comprising (i) a perforated platform accommodating miniaturized 3D biomaterials and (ii) a bioreactor that enables the incorporation of the biomaterial-containing array into a disposable perfusion chamber. The system was upscaled to parallelizable setups, increasing the number of analyzed platforms per independent experiment. As a proof-of-concept, porous chitosan scaffolds with 1 mm diameter were functionalized with combinations of 5 ECM and cell-cell contact-mediating proteins, relevant for bone and dental regeneration, corresponding to 32 protein combinatorial formulations. Mesenchymal stem cells adhesion and production of an early osteogenic marker were assessed on-chip on static and under-flow dynamic perfusion conditions. Different hit-spotted biomaterial formulations were detected for the different flow regimes using direct image analysis. Cell-binding proteins still poorly explored as biomaterials components - amelogenin and E-cadherin - were here shown as relevant cell response modulators. Their combination with ECM cell-binding proteins - fibronectin, vitronectin, and type 1 collagen - rendered specific biomaterial combinations with high cell adhesion and ALP production under flow. The developed versatile system may be targeted at widespread tissue regeneration applications, and as a disease model/drug screening platform. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: A perfusion system that enables cell culture in arrays of three-dimensional biomaterials under dynamic flow is reported. The effect of 31 cell-binding protein combinations in the adhesion and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) production of mesenchymal stem cells was assessed using a single bioreactor chamber. Flow perfusion was not only assessed as a classical enhancer/accelerator of cell growth and early osteogenic differentiation. We hypothesized that flow may affect cell-protein interactions, and that key components driving cell response may differ under static or dynamic regimes. Indeed, hit-spotted formulations that elicited highest cell attachment and ALP production on static cell culture differed from the ones detected for dynamic flow assays. The impacting role of poorly studied proteins as E-cadherin and amelogenin as biomaterial components was highlighted.
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Cao L, Zhang Y, Qian M, Wang X, Shuai Q, Gao C, Lang R, Yang J. Construction of multicellular aggregate by E-cadherin coated microparticles enhancing the hepatic specific differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells. Acta Biomater 2019; 95:382-394. [PMID: 30660779 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2019.01.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2018] [Revised: 01/10/2019] [Accepted: 01/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) into hepatocyte-like cells in vitroprovides a promising candidate for cell therapy of liver diseases, and cell aggregates have been proposed to improve the efficiency of expansion and differentiation. Previously, we engineered multicellular aggregates incorporating human E-cadherin fusion protein (hE-cad-Fc)-coated poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microparticles (hE-cad-PLGAs), and a significant improvement was obtained in both cellular proliferation of and cytokine secretion by hMSCs. In this study, hepatic differentiation of hMSCs was induced by a biomimetic microenvironment consisting of these engineered aggregates and a cocktail of specific cytokines. The ratio of hE-cad-PLGAs to hMSCs in engineered hMSCs aggregates was optimized to 1:3 for hepatic differentiation. The expressions of hepatic-specific markers were significantly promoted, and cell polarity and activated drug metabolism enzymes were established in MSC/hE-cad-PLGA aggregates compared with MSC and MSC/PLGA aggregates. Moreover, the expressions of stemness and definitive endoderm markers confirmed effectively induced endoderm differentiation in MSC/hE-cad-PLGA aggregates, which was consistent with the pattern of embryonic development. After pre-differentiation for 1 week, the MSC/hE-cad-PLGA aggregates continuously progressed the hepatic phenotype expression in healthy rat peritoneum. Therefore, the biomimetic microenvironment constructed by hE-cad-PLGAs in engineered multicellular aggregates was able to promote the process of endoderm differentiation and the subsequent hepatic differentiation of hMSCs. It would be appropriate for applied research in hepatotoxic drug screening and cell-based treatment of liver diseases. By optimizing with other cytokine cocktail, the engineered multicellular aggregates can be applied to the construction of other endoderm-derived organs. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: The differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) into hepatocyte-like cells in vitroprovides a promising for cell therapy for liver diseases, and cell aggregates have been proposed to improve the expansion and differentiation efficiency. Here, engineered multicellular aggregates were constructed by E-cadherin modified microparticles (hE-cad-PLGAs) construct a biomimetic microenvironment to promote the process of endoderm differentiation and the subsequent hepatic differentiation of hMSCs. Furthermore, after pre-differentiation for 1 week, the MSC/hE-cad-PLGA aggregates continuously progressed the hepatic phenotype expression in healthy rat peritoneum. Therefore, engineered multicellular aggregates with hE-cad-PLGAs would be appropriate for applied research in hepatotoxic drug screening and cell-based treatment of liver diseases, and provide a promising method in the construction of other endoderm-derived organs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Cao
- The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China; State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Mengyuan Qian
- The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Xueping Wang
- The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Qizhi Shuai
- The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Chao Gao
- The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Ren Lang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Jun Yang
- The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China.
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Li J, Di Russo J, Hua X, Chu Z, Spatz JP, Wei Q. Surface Immobilized E-Cadherin Mimetic Peptide Regulates the Adhesion and Clustering of Epithelial Cells. Adv Healthc Mater 2019; 8:e1801384. [PMID: 30908895 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.201801384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2018] [Revised: 03/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Cadherin mimetic peptides are widely used in synthetic biomaterials to mimic cell-cell adhesion in cell microniches. This mimicry regulates various cell behaviors. Although the interaction between immobilized cadherin and cells is investigated in numerous studies, the exact manner of functioning of cadherin mimetic peptides is yet to be fully understood. Cadherin mimetic peptides mimic only the critical amino acid sequence of cadherin and are not equal to these proteins in function. Compared to the cadherin proteins, mimetic peptides are more stable, easier to fabricate, and exhibit a precise chemical composition. In this study the E-cadherin mimetic peptide His-Ala-Val (HAV) on material surfaces is immobilized and epithelial cell adhesion and clustering are studied. The results suggest that immobilized HAV peptides specifically interact with E-cadherin on the cell membrane, resulting in an increased expression of E-cadherin and its downstream signaling protein β-catenin. This interaction relocates E-cadherin-based adhesion from the cell-cell interface to the cell-materials interface, which promotes cell adhesion via mechanosensing and initiates a transition in the cell cluster from a solid-like to a fluid-like state. The study presents an overview of the interactions between E-cadherin mimetic peptide and epithelial cells to aid in the design of novel biomaterials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Li
- Department of Cellular BiophysicsMax Planck Institute for Medical Research Jahnstraße 29 69120 Heidelberg Germany
- Department of Biophysical ChemistryInstitute of Physical ChemistryUniversity of Heidelberg Im Neuenheimer Feld 253 69120 Heidelberg Germany
| | - Jacopo Di Russo
- Department of Cellular BiophysicsMax Planck Institute for Medical Research Jahnstraße 29 69120 Heidelberg Germany
- Department of Biophysical ChemistryInstitute of Physical ChemistryUniversity of Heidelberg Im Neuenheimer Feld 253 69120 Heidelberg Germany
| | - Ximeng Hua
- Department of Cellular BiophysicsMax Planck Institute for Medical Research Jahnstraße 29 69120 Heidelberg Germany
- Department of Biophysical ChemistryInstitute of Physical ChemistryUniversity of Heidelberg Im Neuenheimer Feld 253 69120 Heidelberg Germany
| | - Zhiqin Chu
- Department of Electrical and Electronic EngineeringJoint Appointment with School of Biomedical SciencesThe University of Hong Kong Pokfulam Road Hong Kong China
| | - Joachim P. Spatz
- Department of Cellular BiophysicsMax Planck Institute for Medical Research Jahnstraße 29 69120 Heidelberg Germany
- Department of Biophysical ChemistryInstitute of Physical ChemistryUniversity of Heidelberg Im Neuenheimer Feld 253 69120 Heidelberg Germany
| | - Qiang Wei
- Department of Cellular BiophysicsMax Planck Institute for Medical Research Jahnstraße 29 69120 Heidelberg Germany
- Department of Biophysical ChemistryInstitute of Physical ChemistryUniversity of Heidelberg Im Neuenheimer Feld 253 69120 Heidelberg Germany
- College of Polymer Science and EngineeringState Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials and EngineeringSichuan University 610065 Chengdu China
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Microparticles in Contact with Cells: From Carriers to Multifunctional Tissue Modulators. Trends Biotechnol 2019; 37:1011-1028. [PMID: 30902347 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2019.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2018] [Revised: 02/15/2019] [Accepted: 02/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
For several decades microparticles have been exclusively and extensively explored as spherical drug delivery vehicles and large-scale cell expansion carriers. More recently, microparticulate structures gained interest in broader bioengineering fields, integrating myriad strategies that include bottom-up tissue engineering, 3D bioprinting, and the development of tissue/disease models. The concept of bulk spherical micrometric particles as adequate supports for cell cultivation has been challenged, and systems with finely tuned geometric designs and (bio)chemical/physical features are current key players in impacting technologies. Herein, we critically review the state of the art and future trends of biomaterial microparticles in contact with cells and tissues, excluding internalization studies, and with emphasis on innovative particle design and applications.
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Xu K, Zhu C, Xie J, Li X, Zhang Y, Yao F, Gu Z, Yang J. Enhanced vascularization of PCL porous scaffolds through VEGF-Fc modification. J Mater Chem B 2018; 6:4474-4485. [PMID: 32254665 DOI: 10.1039/c8tb00624e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
To accelerate the vascularization of engineered tissue, an endothelial-specific fusion protein (VEGF-Fc), which consists of a human vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and an immunoglobulin G Fc region, was fabricated and used to construct a bioactive interface in a porous scaffold. In this study, VEGF-Fc was immobilized on polycarprolactone (PCL) porous scaffolds by steeping, which is mediated by the hydrophobic binding of the Fc domain. The VEGF-Fc proteins were distributed stably and uniformly throughout the PCL porous scaffolds without affecting their surface morphology and mechanical properties. The immobilized VEGF-Fc activated the phosphorylation of VEGF2 receptor continuously, and further promoted the expressions of PI3K and MAPK, which effectively enhanced the adhesion and proliferation of human vascular endothelial cells (HUVECs). Furthermore, the immobilized VEGF-Fc promoted the migration of HUVECs into the scaffolds, and also enhanced the cellularization and ECM deposition in the subcutaneous implanted scaffolds in rats, which synergistically supported the vascularization of the scaffold in vivo. In view of the advantages of easy use, stability and efficiency, the VEGF-Fc fusion protein appeared to be a promising candidate for surface modification of porous scaffolds for tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Xu
- The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China.
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Ahrens CC, Dong Z, Li W. Engineering cell aggregates through incorporated polymeric microparticles. Acta Biomater 2017; 62:64-81. [PMID: 28782721 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2017.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2017] [Revised: 08/01/2017] [Accepted: 08/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Ex vivo cell aggregates must overcome significant limitations in the transport of nutrients, drugs, and signaling proteins compared to vascularized native tissue. Further, engineered extracellular environments often fail to sufficiently replicate tethered signaling cues and the complex architecture of native tissue. Co-cultures of cells with microparticles (MPs) is a growing field directed towards overcoming many of these challenges by providing local and controlled presentation of both soluble and tethered proteins and small molecules. Further, co-cultured MPs offer a mechanism to better control aggregate architecture and even to report key characteristics of the local microenvironment such as pH or oxygen levels. Herein, we provide a brief introduction to established and developing strategies for MP production including the choice of MP materials, fabrication techniques, and techniques for incorporating additional functionality. In all cases, we emphasize the specific utility of each approach to form MPs useful for applications in cell aggregate co-culture. We review established techniques to integrate cells and MPs. We highlight those strategies that promote targeted heterogeneity or homogeneity, and we describe approaches to engineer cell-particle and particle-particle interactions that enhance aggregate stability and biological response. Finally, we review advances in key application areas of MP aggregates and future areas of development. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANT Cell-scaled polymer microparticles (MPs) integrated into cellular aggregates have been shown to be a powerful tool to direct cell response. MPs have supported the development of healthy cartilage, islets, nerves, and vasculature by the maintenance of soluble gradients as well as by the local presentation of tethered cues and diffusing proteins and small molecules. MPs integrated with pluripotent stem cells have directed in vivo expansion and differentiation. Looking forward, MPs are expected to support both the characterization and development of in vitro tissue systems for applications such as drug testing platforms. However, useful co-cultures must be designed keeping in mind the limitations and attributes of each material strategy within the context of the overall tissue biology. The present review integrates prospectives from materials development, drug delivery, and tissue engineering to provide a toolbox for the development and application of MPs useful for long-term co-culture within cell aggregates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline C Ahrens
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX 79409, United States
| | - Ziye Dong
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX 79409, United States
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX 79409, United States.
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