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Soliman BG, Nguyen AK, Gooding JJ, Kilian KA. Advancing Synthetic Hydrogels through Nature-Inspired Materials Chemistry. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024:e2404235. [PMID: 38896849 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202404235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2024] [Revised: 05/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
Synthetic extracellular matrix (ECM) mimics that can recapitulate the complex biochemical and mechanical nature of native tissues are needed for advanced models of development and disease. Biomedical research has heavily relied on the use of animal-derived biomaterials, which is now impeding their translational potential and convoluting the biological insights gleaned from in vitro tissue models. Natural hydrogels have long served as a convenient and effective cell culture tool, but advances in materials chemistry and fabrication techniques now present promising new avenues for creating xenogenic-free ECM substitutes appropriate for organotypic models and microphysiological systems. However, significant challenges remain in creating synthetic matrices that can approximate the structural sophistication, biochemical complexity, and dynamic functionality of native tissues. This review summarizes key properties of the native ECM, and discusses recent approaches used to systematically decouple and tune these properties in synthetic matrices. The importance of dynamic ECM mechanics, such as viscoelasticity and matrix plasticity, is also discussed, particularly within the context of organoid and engineered tissue matrices. Emerging design strategies to mimic these dynamic mechanical properties are reviewed, such as multi-network hydrogels, supramolecular chemistry, and hydrogels assembled from biological monomers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bram G Soliman
- School of Chemistry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
- Australian Centre for NanoMedicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Ashley K Nguyen
- School of Chemistry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
- Australian Centre for NanoMedicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - J Justin Gooding
- School of Chemistry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
- Australian Centre for NanoMedicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Kristopher A Kilian
- School of Chemistry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
- Australian Centre for NanoMedicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
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Ryoo H, Kimmel H, Rondo E, Underhill GH. Advances in high throughput cell culture technologies for therapeutic screening and biological discovery applications. Bioeng Transl Med 2024; 9:e10627. [PMID: 38818120 PMCID: PMC11135158 DOI: 10.1002/btm2.10627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Cellular phenotypes and functional responses are modulated by the signals present in their microenvironment, including extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins, tissue mechanical properties, soluble signals and nutrients, and cell-cell interactions. To better recapitulate and analyze these complex signals within the framework of more physiologically relevant culture models, high throughput culture platforms can be transformative. High throughput methodologies enable scientists to extract increasingly robust and broad datasets from individual experiments, screen large numbers of conditions for potential hits, better qualify and predict responses for preclinical applications, and reduce reliance on animal studies. High throughput cell culture systems require uniformity, assay miniaturization, specific target identification, and process simplification. In this review, we detail the various techniques that researchers have used to face these challenges and explore cellular responses in a high throughput manner. We highlight several common approaches including two-dimensional multiwell microplates, microarrays, and microfluidic cell culture systems as well as unencapsulated and encapsulated three-dimensional high throughput cell culture systems, featuring multiwell microplates, micromolds, microwells, microarrays, granular hydrogels, and cell-encapsulated microgels. We also discuss current applications of these high throughput technologies, namely stem cell sourcing, drug discovery and predictive toxicology, and personalized medicine, along with emerging opportunities and future impact areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyeon Ryoo
- Bioengineering DepartmentUniversity of Illinois Urbana‐ChampaignUrbanaIllinoisUSA
| | - Hannah Kimmel
- Bioengineering DepartmentUniversity of Illinois Urbana‐ChampaignUrbanaIllinoisUSA
| | - Evi Rondo
- Bioengineering DepartmentUniversity of Illinois Urbana‐ChampaignUrbanaIllinoisUSA
| | - Gregory H. Underhill
- Bioengineering DepartmentUniversity of Illinois Urbana‐ChampaignUrbanaIllinoisUSA
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Sun M, Zhang J, Xuanyuan T, Liu X, Liu W. Facile and Rapid Microcontact Printing of Additive-Free Polydimethylsiloxane for Biological Patterning Diversity. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024. [PMID: 38597685 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.4c00460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
The development and application of micropatterning technology play a promising role in the manipulation of biological substances and the exploration of life sciences at the microscale. However, the universally adaptable micropatterning method with user-friendly properties for acceptance in routine laboratories remains scarce. Herein, a green, facile, and rapid microcontact printing method is reported for upgrading popularization and diversification of biological patterning. The three-step printing can achieve high simplicity and fidelity of additive-free polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) micropatterning and chip fabrication within 8 min as well as keep their high stability and diversity. A detailed experimental report is provided to support the advanced microcontact printing method. Furthermore, the applications of easy-to-operate PDMS-patterned chips are extensively validated to complete microdroplet array assembly with spatial control, cell pattern formation with high efficiency and geometry customization, and microtissue assembly and biomimetic tumor construction on a large scale. This straightforward method promotes diverse micropatternings with minimal time, effort, and expertise and maximal biocompatibility, which might broaden its applications in interdisciplinary scientific communities. This work also offers an insight into the establishment of popularized and market-oriented microtools for biomedical purposes such as biosensing, organs on a chip, cancer research, and bioscreening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meilin Sun
- Departments of Biomedical Engineering and Pathology, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China
| | - Jinwei Zhang
- Departments of Biomedical Engineering and Pathology, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China
| | - Tingting Xuanyuan
- Departments of Biomedical Engineering and Pathology, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China
| | - Xufang Liu
- Departments of Biomedical Engineering and Pathology, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China
| | - Wenming Liu
- Departments of Biomedical Engineering and Pathology, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China
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Wang Z, Numada A, Wagai F, Oda Y, Ohgushi M, Maki K, Adachi T, Eiraku M. Spatial cell fate manipulation of human pluripotent stem cells by controlling the microenvironment using photocurable hydrogel. Development 2024; 151:dev201621. [PMID: 38512805 PMCID: PMC11006369 DOI: 10.1242/dev.201621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
Human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) dynamically respond to their chemical and physical microenvironment, dictating their behavior. However, conventional in vitro studies predominantly employ plastic culture wares, which offer a simplified representation of the in vivo microenvironment. Emerging evidence underscores the pivotal role of mechanical and topological cues in hPSC differentiation and maintenance. In this study, we cultured hPSCs on hydrogel substrates with spatially controlled stiffness. The use of culture substrates that enable precise manipulation of spatial mechanical properties holds promise for better mimicking in vivo conditions and advancing tissue engineering techniques. We designed a photocurable polyethylene glycol-polyvinyl alcohol (PVA-PEG) hydrogel, allowing the spatial control of surface stiffness and geometry at a micrometer scale. This versatile hydrogel can be functionalized with various extracellular matrix proteins. Laminin 511-functionalized PVA-PEG gel effectively supports the growth and differentiation of hPSCs. Moreover, by spatially modulating the stiffness of the patterned gel, we achieved spatially selective cell differentiation, resulting in the generation of intricate patterned structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhe Wang
- Laboratory of Developmental Systems, Institute for Life and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
- Department of Polymer Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
| | - Akira Numada
- Laboratory of Developmental Systems, Institute for Life and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
- Department of Polymer Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
| | - Fumi Wagai
- Laboratory of Developmental Systems, Institute for Life and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
| | - Yusuke Oda
- Laboratory of Developmental Systems, Institute for Life and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
- Department of Polymer Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
| | - Masatoshi Ohgushi
- Laboratory of Developmental Systems, Institute for Life and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
- Department of Polymer Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
| | - Koichiro Maki
- Laboratory of Biomechanics, Institute for Life and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
| | - Taiji Adachi
- Laboratory of Biomechanics, Institute for Life and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
| | - Mototsugu Eiraku
- Laboratory of Developmental Systems, Institute for Life and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
- Department of Polymer Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
- Institute for Advanced Study of Human Biology (WPI-ASHBi), Kyoto University, Yoshida-Konoe-Cho, Sakyo-Ku, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan
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Bao M, Xie J. Geometric Confinement-Mediated Mechanical Tension Directs Patterned Differentiation of Mouse ESCs into Organized Germ Layers. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2023; 15:34397-34406. [PMID: 37458389 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c03798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
The self-organization of embryonic stem cells (ESCs) into organized tissues with three distinct germ layers is critical to morphogenesis and early development. While the regulation of this self-organization by soluble signals is well established, the involvement of mechanical force gradients in this process remains unclear due to the lack of a suitable platform to study this process. In this study, we developed a 3D microenvironment to examine the influence of mechanical tension gradients on ESC-patterned differentiation during morphogenesis by controlling the geometrical signals (shape and size) of ESC colonies. We found that changes in colony geometry impacted the germ layer pattern, with Cdx2-positive cells being more abundant at edges and in areas with high curvatures. The differentiation patterns were determined by geometry-mediated cell tension gradients, with an extraembryonic mesoderm-like layer forming in high-tension regions and ectodermal-like lineages at low-tension regions in the center. Suppression of cytoskeletal tension hindered ESC self-organization. These results indicate that geometric confinement-mediated mechanical tension plays a crucial role in linking multicellular organization to cell differentiation and impacting tissue patterning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Bao
- Oujiang Laboratory, Zhejiang Lab for Regenerative Medicine, Vision and Brain Health, Wenzhou 325001, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jing Xie
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China
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Kim MH, Kuroda M, Ke D, Thanuthanakhun N, Kino-Oka M. An in vitro culture platform for studying the effect of collective cell migration on spatial self-organization within induced pluripotent stem cell colonies. J Biol Eng 2023; 17:25. [PMID: 36998087 PMCID: PMC10064534 DOI: 10.1186/s13036-023-00341-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) provide an in vitro system to identify the impact of cell behavior on the earliest stages of cell fate specification during human development. Here, we developed an hiPSC-based model to study the effect of collective cell migration in meso-endodermal lineage segregation and cell fate decisions through the control of space confinement using a detachable ring culture system. RESULTS The actomyosin organization of cells at the edge of undifferentiated colonies formed in a ring barrier differed from that of the cells in the center of the colony. In addition, even in the absence of exogenous supplements, ectoderm, mesoderm, endoderm, and extraembryonic cells differentiated following the induction of collective cell migration at the colony edge by removing the ring-barrier. However, when collective cell migration was inhibited by blocking E-cadherin function, this fate decision within an hiPSC colony was altered to an ectodermal fate. Furthermore, the induction of collective cell migration at the colony edge using an endodermal induction media enhanced endodermal differentiation efficiency in association with cadherin switching, which is involved in the epithelial-mesenchymal transition. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that collective cell migration can be an effective way to drive the segregation of mesoderm and endoderm lineages, and cell fate decisions of hiPSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mee-Hae Kim
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan.
| | - Masaki Kuroda
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Ding Ke
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Naruchit Thanuthanakhun
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Masahiro Kino-Oka
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
- Research Base for Cell Manufacturability, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
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