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Zia S, Pizzuti V, Paris F, Alviano F, Bonsi L, Zattoni A, Reschiglian P, Roda B, Marassi V. Emerging technologies for quality control of cell-based, advanced therapy medicinal products. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2024; 246:116182. [PMID: 38772202 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2024.116182] [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: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024]
Abstract
Advanced therapy medicinal products (ATMP) are complex medicines based on gene therapy, somatic cell therapy, and tissue engineering. These products are rapidly arising as novel and promising therapies for a wide range of different clinical applications. The process for the development of well-established ATMPs is challenging. Many issues must be considered from raw material, manufacturing, safety, and pricing to assure the quality of ATMPs and their implementation as innovative therapeutic tools. Among ATMPs, cell-based ATMPs are drugs altogether. As for standard drugs, technologies for quality control, and non-invasive isolation and production of cell-based ATMPs are then needed to ensure their rapidly expanding applications and ameliorate safety and standardization of cell production. In this review, emerging approaches and technologies for quality control of innovative cell-based ATMPs are described. Among new techniques, microfluid-based systems show advantages related to their miniaturization, easy implementation in analytical process and automation which allow for the standardization of the final product.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Valeria Pizzuti
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Francesca Paris
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Francesco Alviano
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences (DiBiNem), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Laura Bonsi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Andrea Zattoni
- Stem Sel srl, Bologna, Italy; Department of Chemistry "G. Ciamician", University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy; National Institute of Biostructure and Biosystems (INBB), 00136 Rome, Italy
| | - Pierluigi Reschiglian
- Stem Sel srl, Bologna, Italy; Department of Chemistry "G. Ciamician", University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy; National Institute of Biostructure and Biosystems (INBB), 00136 Rome, Italy
| | - Barbara Roda
- Stem Sel srl, Bologna, Italy; Department of Chemistry "G. Ciamician", University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy; National Institute of Biostructure and Biosystems (INBB), 00136 Rome, Italy.
| | - Valentina Marassi
- Department of Chemistry "G. Ciamician", University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy; National Institute of Biostructure and Biosystems (INBB), 00136 Rome, Italy
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Daradmare S, Lee CS. Recent progress in the synthesis of all-aqueous two-phase droplets using microfluidic approaches. Colloids Surf B Biointerfaces 2022; 219:112795. [PMID: 36049253 DOI: 10.1016/j.colsurfb.2022.112795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Revised: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
An aqueous two-phase system (ATPS) is a system with liquid-liquid phase separation and shows great potential for the extraction, separation, purification, and enrichment of proteins, membranes, viruses, enzymes, nucleic acids, and other biomolecules because of its simplicity, biocompatibility, and wide applicability [1-4]. The clear aqueous-aqueous interface of ATPSs is highly advantageous for their implementation, therefore making ATPSs a green alternative approach to replace conventional emulsion systems, such as water-in-oil droplets. All aqueous emulsions (water-in-water, w-in-w) hold great promise in the biomedical field as glucose sensors [5] and promising carriers for the encapsulation and release of various biomolecules and nonbiomolecules [6-10]. However, the ultralow interfacial tension between the two phases is a hurdle in generating w-in-w emulsion droplets. In the past, bulk emulsification and electrospray techniques were employed for the generation of w-in-w emulsion droplets and the fabrication of microparticles and microcapsules in the later stage. Bulk emulsification is a simple and low-cost technique; however, it generates polydisperse w-in-w emulsion droplets. Another technique, electrospray, involves easy experimental setups that can generate monodisperse but nonspherical w-in-w emulsion droplets. In comparison, microfluidic platforms provide monodisperse w-in-w emulsion droplets with spherical shapes, deal with the small volumes of solutions and short reaction times and achieve portability and versatility in their design through rapid prototyping. Owing to several advantages, microfluidic approaches have recently been introduced. To date, several different strategies have been explored to generate w-in-w emulsions and multiple w-in-w emulsions and to fabricate microparticles and microcapsules using conventional microfluidic devices. Although a few review articles on ATPSs emulsions have been published in the past, to date, few reviews have exclusively focused on the evolution of microfluidic-based ATPS droplets. The present review begins with a brief discussion of the history of ATPSs and their fundamentals, which is followed by an account chronicling the integration of microfluidic devices with ATPSs to generate w-in-w emulsion droplets. Furthermore, the stabilization strategies of w-in-w emulsion droplets and microfluidic fabrication of microparticles and microcapsules for modern applications, such as biomolecule encapsulation and spheroid construction, are discussed in detail in this review. We believe that the present review will provide useful information to not only new entrants in the microfluidic community wanting to appreciate the findings of the field but also existing researchers wanting to keep themselves updated on progress in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sneha Daradmare
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, Chungnam National University, 99 Daehak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Chang-Soo Lee
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, Chungnam National University, 99 Daehak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea.
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Abstract
Advances in microfabrication and biomaterials have enabled the development of microfluidic chips for studying tissue and organ models. While these platforms have been developed primarily for modeling human diseases, they are also used to uncover cellular and molecular mechanisms through in vitro studies, especially in the neurovascular system, where physiological mechanisms and three-dimensional (3D) architecture are difficult to reconstruct via conventional assays. An extracellular matrix (ECM) model with a stable structure possessing the ability to mimic the natural extracellular environment of the cell efficiently is useful for tissue engineering applications. Conventionally used techniques for this purpose, for example, Matrigels, have drawbacks of owning complex fabrication procedures, in some cases not efficient enough in terms of functionality and expenses. Here, we proposed a fabrication protocol for a GelMA hydrogel, which has shown structural stability and the ability to imitate the natural environment of the cell accurately, inside a microfluidic chip utilizing co-culturing of two human cell lines. The chemical composition of the synthesized GelMA was identified by Fourier transform infrared spectrophotometry (FTIR), its surface morphology was observed by field emission electron microscopy (FESEM), and the structural properties were analyzed by atomic force microscopy (AFM). The swelling behavior of the hydrogel in the microfluidic chip was imaged, and its porosity was examined for 72 h by tracking cell localization using immunofluorescence. GelMA exhibited the desired biomechanical properties, and the viability of cells in both platforms was more than 80% for seven days. Furthermore, GelMA was a viable platform for 3D cell culture studies and was structurally stable over long periods, even when prepared by photopolymerization in a microfluidic platform. This work demonstrated a viable strategy to conduct co-culturing experiments as well as modeling invasion and migration events. This microfluidic assay may have application in drug delivery and dosage optimization studies.
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Hayaei Tehrani RS, Hajari MA, Ghorbaninejad Z, Esfandiari F. Droplet microfluidic devices for organized stem cell differentiation into germ cells: capabilities and challenges. Biophys Rev 2021; 13:1245-1271. [PMID: 35059040 PMCID: PMC8724463 DOI: 10.1007/s12551-021-00907-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Demystifying the mechanisms that underlie germline development and gamete production is critical for expanding advanced therapies for infertile couples who cannot benefit from current infertility treatments. However, the low number of germ cells, particularly in the early stages of development, represents a serious challenge in obtaining sufficient materials required for research purposes. In this regard, pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) have provided an opportunity for producing an unlimited source of germ cells in vitro. Achieving this ambition is highly dependent on accurate stem cell niche reconstitution which is achievable through applying advanced cell engineering approaches. Recently, hydrogel microparticles (HMPs), as either microcarriers or microcapsules, have shown promising potential in providing an excellent 3-dimensional (3D) biomimetic microenvironment alongside the systematic bioactive agent delivery. In this review, recent studies of utilizing various HMP-based cell engineering strategies for appropriate niche reconstitution and efficient in vitro differentiation are highlighted with a special focus on the capabilities of droplet-based microfluidic (DBM) technology. We believe that a deep understanding of the current limitations and potentials of the DBM systems in integration with stem cell biology provides a bright future for germ cell research. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12551-021-00907-5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reyhaneh Sadat Hayaei Tehrani
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, 16635-148, 1665659911 Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Amin Hajari
- Department of Cell Engineering, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zeynab Ghorbaninejad
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, 16635-148, 1665659911 Tehran, Iran
| | - Fereshteh Esfandiari
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, 16635-148, 1665659911 Tehran, Iran
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Aranda Hernandez J, Heuer C, Bahnemann J, Szita N. Microfluidic Devices as Process Development Tools for Cellular Therapy Manufacturing. ADVANCES IN BIOCHEMICAL ENGINEERING/BIOTECHNOLOGY 2021; 179:101-127. [PMID: 34410457 DOI: 10.1007/10_2021_169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Cellular therapies are creating a paradigm shift in the biomanufacturing industry. Particularly for autologous therapies, small-scale processing methods are better suited than the large-scale approaches that are traditionally employed in the industry. Current small-scale methods for manufacturing personalized cell therapies, however, are labour-intensive and involve a number of 'open events'. To overcome these challenges, new cell manufacturing platforms following a GMP-in-a-box concept have recently come on the market (GMP: Good Manufacturing Practice). These are closed automated systems with built-in pumps for fluid handling and sensors for in-process monitoring. At a much smaller scale, microfluidic devices exhibit many of the same features as current GMP-in-a-box systems. They are closed systems, fluids can be processed and manipulated, and sensors integrated for real-time detection of process variables. Fabricated from polymers, they can be made disposable, i.e. single-use. Furthermore, microfluidics offers exquisite spatiotemporal control over the cellular microenvironment, promising both reproducibility and control of outcomes. In this chapter, we consider the challenges in cell manufacturing, highlight recent advances of microfluidic devices for each of the main process steps, and summarize our findings on the current state of the art. As microfluidic cell culture devices have been reported for both adherent and suspension cell cultures, we report on devices for the key process steps, or unit operations, of both stem cell therapies and cell-based immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Christopher Heuer
- Institute of Technical Chemistry, Leibniz University Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Janina Bahnemann
- Institute of Technical Chemistry, Leibniz University Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Nicolas Szita
- Biochemical Engineering Department, University College London (UCL), London, UK.
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6
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Kim MH, Kino-Oka M. Bioengineering Considerations for a Nurturing Way to Enhance Scalable Expansion of Human Pluripotent Stem Cells. Biotechnol J 2020; 15:e1900314. [PMID: 31904180 DOI: 10.1002/biot.201900314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2019] [Revised: 11/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Understanding how defects in mechanotransduction affect cell-to-cell variability will add to the fundamental knowledge of human pluripotent stem cell (hPSC) culture, and may suggest new approaches for achieving a robust, reproducible, and scalable process that result in consistent product quality and yields. Here, the current state of the understanding of the fundamental mechanisms that govern the growth kinetics of hPSCs between static and dynamic cultures is reviewed, the factors causing fluctuations are identified, and culture strategies that might eliminate or minimize the occurrence of cell-to-cell variability arising from these fluctuations are discussed. The existing challenges in the development of hPSC expansion methods for enabling the transition from process development to large-scale production are addressed, a mandatory step for industrial and clinical applications of hPSCs.
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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
| | - Masahiro Kino-Oka
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
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7
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Azarmanesh M, Bawazeer S, Mohamad AA, Sanati-Nezhad A. Rapid and Highly Controlled Generation of Monodisperse Multiple Emulsions via a One-Step Hybrid Microfluidic Device. Sci Rep 2019; 9:12694. [PMID: 31481702 PMCID: PMC6722102 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-49136-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2019] [Accepted: 08/20/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Multiple Emulsions (MEs) contain a drop laden with many micro-droplets. A single-step microfluidic-based synthesis process of MEs is presented to provide a rapid and controlled generation of monodisperse MEs. The design relies on the interaction of three immiscible fluids with each other in subsequent droplet formation steps to generate monodisperse ME constructs. The design is within a microchannel consists of two compartments of cross-junction and T-junction. The high shear stress at the cross-junction creates a stagnation point that splits the first immiscible phase to four jet streams each of which are sprayed to micrometer droplets surrounded by the second phase. The resulted structure is then supported by the third phase at the T-junction to generate and transport MEs. The ME formation within microfluidics is numerically simulated and the effects of several key parameters on properties of MEs are investigated. The dimensionless modeling of ME formation enables to change only one parameter at the time and analyze the sensitivity of the system to each parameter. The results demonstrate the capability of highly controlled and high-throughput MEs formation in a one-step synthesis process. The consecutive MEs are monodisperse in size which open avenues for the generation of controlled MEs for different applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milad Azarmanesh
- Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Saleh Bawazeer
- Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Abdulmajeed A Mohamad
- Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 1N4, Canada.
| | - Amir Sanati-Nezhad
- Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 1N4, Canada. .,Center for Bioengineering Research and Education, Biomedical Engineering Program, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 1N4, Canada.
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8
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Kleine-Brüggeney H, van Vliet LD, Mulas C, Gielen F, Agley CC, Silva JCR, Smith A, Chalut K, Hollfelder F. Long-Term Perfusion Culture of Monoclonal Embryonic Stem Cells in 3D Hydrogel Beads for Continuous Optical Analysis of Differentiation. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2019; 15:e1804576. [PMID: 30570812 DOI: 10.1002/smll.201804576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2018] [Revised: 12/02/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Developmental cell biology requires technologies in which the fate of single cells is followed over extended time periods, to monitor and understand the processes of self-renewal, differentiation, and reprogramming. A workflow is presented, in which single cells are encapsulated into droplets (Ø: 80 µm, volume: ≈270 pL) and the droplet compartment is later converted to a hydrogel bead. After on-chip de-emulsification by electrocoalescence, these 3D scaffolds are subsequently arrayed on a chip for long-term perfusion culture to facilitate continuous cell imaging over 68 h. Here, the response of murine embryonic stem cells to different growth media, 2i and N2B27, is studied, showing that the exit from pluripotency can be monitored by fluorescence time-lapse microscopy, by immunostaining and by reverse-transcription and quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). The defined 3D environment emulates the natural context of cell growth (e.g., in tissue) and enables the study of cell development in various matrices. The large scale of cell cultivation (in 2000 beads in parallel) may reveal infrequent events that remain undetected in lower throughput or ensemble studies. This platform will help to gain qualitative and quantitative mechanistic insight into the role of external factors on cell behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hans Kleine-Brüggeney
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, 80 Tennis Court Road, Cambridge, CB2 1GA, UK
| | - Liisa D van Vliet
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, 80 Tennis Court Road, Cambridge, CB2 1GA, UK
| | - Carla Mulas
- Wellcome Trust/Medical Research Council Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge, CB2 1QR, UK
| | - Fabrice Gielen
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, 80 Tennis Court Road, Cambridge, CB2 1GA, UK
| | - Chibeza C Agley
- Wellcome Trust/Medical Research Council Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge, CB2 1QR, UK
| | - José C R Silva
- Wellcome Trust/Medical Research Council Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge, CB2 1QR, UK
| | - Austin Smith
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, 80 Tennis Court Road, Cambridge, CB2 1GA, UK
- Wellcome Trust/Medical Research Council Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge, CB2 1QR, UK
| | - Kevin Chalut
- Wellcome Trust/Medical Research Council Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge, CB2 1QR, UK
- Department of Physics, University of Cambridge, 19 J J Thomson Avenue, Cambridge, CB3 0HE, UK
| | - Florian Hollfelder
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, 80 Tennis Court Road, Cambridge, CB2 1GA, UK
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9
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Microengineering double layer hydrogel structures towards the recapitulation of the hematopoietic stem cell niche. Sci Bull (Beijing) 2018; 63:1319-1323. [PMID: 36658900 DOI: 10.1016/j.scib.2018.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2018] [Revised: 08/13/2018] [Accepted: 09/05/2018] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
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10
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Kim JA, Choi HJ, Kim CM, Jin HK, Bae JS, Kim GM. Enhancement of Virus Infection Using Dynamic Cell Culture in a Microchannel. MICROMACHINES 2018; 9:mi9100482. [PMID: 30424415 PMCID: PMC6215236 DOI: 10.3390/mi9100482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2018] [Revised: 09/18/2018] [Accepted: 09/19/2018] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
With increasing interest in induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) in the field of stem cell research, highly efficient infection of somatic cells with virus factors is gaining importance. This paper presents a method of employing microfluidic devices for dynamic cell culture and virus infection in a microchannel. The closed space in the microchannel provided a better environment for viruses to diffuse and contact cell surfaces to infect cells. The microfluidic devices were fabricated by photolithography and soft lithography. NIH/3T3 fibroblast cells were cultured in the microfluidic device in static and dynamic conditions and compared with the conventional culture method of using Petri dishes. Virus infection was evaluated using an enhanced green fluorescent protein virus as a model. Dynamic culture in the microchannel showed similar growth of cells to that in Petri dish culture, but the virus infection efficiency was four-times higher. The proposed dynamic culture system could be useful in iPSC research by providing efficient virus infection tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeong A Kim
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Kyungpook National University, 80 Daehakro, Buk-gu, Daegu 41566, Korea.
- Osong Medical Innovation Foundation, 123 Osongsaengmyung-ro, Osong-eub, Heungdeok-gu, Cheongju-si, Chungbuk 28160, Korea.
| | - Hye Jin Choi
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Kyungpook National University, 80 Daehakro, Buk-gu, Daegu 41566, Korea.
| | - Chul Min Kim
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Kyungpook National University, 80 Daehakro, Buk-gu, Daegu 41566, Korea.
- Institute of Tissue Regeneration Engineering (ITREN), Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Korea.
| | - Hee Kyung Jin
- Department of Laboratory Animal Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kyungpook National University, 80 Daehakro, Buk-gu, Daegu 41566, Korea.
| | - Jae-Sung Bae
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, 680 Gukchaebosang-ro, Jung-Gu, Daegu 41944, Korea.
| | - Gyu Man Kim
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Kyungpook National University, 80 Daehakro, Buk-gu, Daegu 41566, Korea.
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11
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Rico-Varela J, Ho D, Wan LQ. In Vitro Microscale Models for Embryogenesis. ADVANCED BIOSYSTEMS 2018; 2:1700235. [PMID: 30533517 PMCID: PMC6286056 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.201700235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Embryogenesis is a highly regulated developmental process requiring complex mechanical and biochemical microenvironments to give rise to a fully developed and functional embryo. Significant efforts have been taken to recapitulate specific features of embryogenesis by presenting the cells with developmentally relevant signals. The outcomes, however, are limited partly due to the complexity of this biological process. Microtechnologies such as micropatterned and microfluidic systems, along with new emerging embryonic stem cell-based models, could potentially serve as powerful tools to study embryogenesis. The aim of this article is to review major studies involving the culturing of pluripotent stem cells using different geometrical patterns, microfluidic platforms, and embryo/embryoid body-on-a-chip modalities. Indeed, new research opportunities have emerged for establishing in vitro culture for studying human embryogenesis and for high-throughput pharmacological testing platforms and disease models to prevent defects in early stages of human development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Rico-Varela
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 8th Street, Troy NY 12180
| | - Dominic Ho
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 8th Street, Troy NY 12180
| | - Leo Q. Wan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 8th Street, Troy NY 12180
- Center for Biotechnology & Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 8th Street, Troy NY 12180
- Center for Modeling, Simulation and Imaging in Medicine, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 8th Street, Troy NY 12180
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12
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Teixeira AG, Agarwal R, Ko KR, Grant‐Burt J, Leung BM, Frampton JP. Emerging Biotechnology Applications of Aqueous Two-Phase Systems. Adv Healthc Mater 2018; 7:e1701036. [PMID: 29280350 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.201701036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2017] [Revised: 10/30/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Liquid-liquid phase separation between aqueous solutions containing two incompatible polymers, a polymer and a salt, or a polymer and a surfactant, has been exploited for a wide variety of biotechnology applications throughout the years. While many applications for aqueous two-phase systems fall within the realm of separation science, the ability to partition many different materials within these systems, coupled with recent advances in materials science and liquid handling, has allowed bioengineers to imagine new applications. This progress report provides an overview of the history and key properties of aqueous two-phase systems to lend context to how these materials have progressed to modern applications such as cellular micropatterning and bioprinting, high-throughput 3D tissue assembly, microscale biomolecular assay development, facilitation of cell separation and microcapsule production using microfluidic devices, and synthetic biology. Future directions and present limitations and design considerations of this adaptable and promising toolkit for biomolecule and cellular manipulation are further evaluated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alyne G. Teixeira
- School of Biomedical Engineering Dalhousie University 5981 University Avenue Halifax NS B3H 4R2 Canada
| | - Rishima Agarwal
- School of Biomedical Engineering Dalhousie University 5981 University Avenue Halifax NS B3H 4R2 Canada
| | - Kristin Robin Ko
- School of Biomedical Engineering Dalhousie University 5981 University Avenue Halifax NS B3H 4R2 Canada
| | - Jessica Grant‐Burt
- School of Biomedical Engineering Dalhousie University 5981 University Avenue Halifax NS B3H 4R2 Canada
| | - Brendan M. Leung
- School of Biomedical Engineering Dalhousie University 5981 University Avenue Halifax NS B3H 4R2 Canada
- Department of Applied Oral Science Dalhousie University 5981 University Avenue Halifax NS B3H 4R2 Canada
| | - John P. Frampton
- School of Biomedical Engineering Dalhousie University 5981 University Avenue Halifax NS B3H 4R2 Canada
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13
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Guild J, Haque A, Gheibi P, Gao Y, Son KJ, Foster E, Dumont S, Revzin A. Embryonic Stem Cells Cultured in Microfluidic Chambers Take Control of Their Fate by Producing Endogenous Signals Including LIF. Stem Cells 2016; 34:1501-12. [DOI: 10.1002/stem.2324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2015] [Accepted: 12/23/2015] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Joshua Guild
- Department of Biomedical Engineering; University of California, Davis; Davis California USA
- Department of Cell and Tissue Biology; University of California San Francisco; San Francisco California USA
| | - Amranul Haque
- Department of Biomedical Engineering; University of California, Davis; Davis California USA
| | - Pantea Gheibi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering; University of California, Davis; Davis California USA
| | - Yandong Gao
- Department of Biomedical Engineering; University of California, Davis; Davis California USA
| | - Kyung Jin Son
- Department of Biomedical Engineering; University of California, Davis; Davis California USA
| | - Elena Foster
- Department of Biomedical Engineering; University of California, Davis; Davis California USA
| | - Sophie Dumont
- Department of Cell and Tissue Biology; University of California San Francisco; San Francisco California USA
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology; University of California; San Francisco, San Francisco California USA
| | - Alexander Revzin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering; University of California, Davis; Davis California USA
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14
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Fu J, Quek KY, Chuah YJ, Lim CS, Fan C, Wang DA. The effects of gelatin–dopamine coating on polydimethylsiloxane substrates on pluripotency maintenance and myocardial differentiation of cultured mouse embryonic stem cells. J Mater Chem B 2016; 4:7961-7973. [DOI: 10.1039/c6tb02631a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Gelatin–dopamine coating to improve ESC culture and myocardial differentiation on PDMS substrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiayin Fu
- Division of Bioengineering
- School of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering
- Nanyang Technological University
- Singapore 637457
| | - Kai Yun Quek
- Division of Bioengineering
- School of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering
- Nanyang Technological University
- Singapore 637457
| | - Yon Jin Chuah
- Division of Bioengineering
- School of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering
- Nanyang Technological University
- Singapore 637457
| | - Chee Seong Lim
- Division of Bioengineering
- School of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering
- Nanyang Technological University
- Singapore 637457
| | - Changjiang Fan
- Division of Bioengineering
- School of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering
- Nanyang Technological University
- Singapore 637457
| | - Dong-an Wang
- Division of Bioengineering
- School of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering
- Nanyang Technological University
- Singapore 637457
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15
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Zhang YS, Aleman J, Arneri A, Bersini S, Piraino F, Shin SR, Dokmeci MR, Khademhosseini A. From cardiac tissue engineering to heart-on-a-chip: beating challenges. Biomed Mater 2015; 10:034006. [PMID: 26065674 PMCID: PMC4489846 DOI: 10.1088/1748-6041/10/3/034006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The heart is one of the most vital organs in the human body, which actively pumps the blood through the vascular network to supply nutrients to as well as to extract wastes from all other organs, maintaining the homeostasis of the biological system. Over the past few decades, tremendous efforts have been exerted in engineering functional cardiac tissues for heart regeneration via biomimetic approaches. More recently, progress has been made toward the transformation of knowledge obtained from cardiac tissue engineering to building physiologically relevant microfluidic human heart models (i.e. heart-on-chips) for applications in drug discovery. The advancement in stem cell technologies further provides the opportunity to create personalized in vitro models from cells derived from patients. Here, starting from heart biology, we review recent advances in engineering cardiac tissues and heart-on-a-chip platforms for their use in heart regeneration and cardiotoxic/cardiotherapeutic drug screening, and then briefly conclude with characterization techniques and personalization potential of the cardiac models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Shrike Zhang
- Biomaterials Innovation Research Center, Division of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
- Harvard-MIT Division of Health Sciences and Technology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Julio Aleman
- Biomaterials Innovation Research Center, Division of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
- Harvard-MIT Division of Health Sciences and Technology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Andrea Arneri
- Biomaterials Innovation Research Center, Division of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
- Harvard-MIT Division of Health Sciences and Technology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
- Bioengineering Department, Politecnico di Milano, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci 32, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Simone Bersini
- Bioengineering Department, Politecnico di Milano, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci 32, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Francesco Piraino
- Institute of Bioengineering, School of Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Su Ryon Shin
- Biomaterials Innovation Research Center, Division of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
- Harvard-MIT Division of Health Sciences and Technology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Mehmet Remzi Dokmeci
- Biomaterials Innovation Research Center, Division of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
- Harvard-MIT Division of Health Sciences and Technology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Ali Khademhosseini
- Biomaterials Innovation Research Center, Division of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
- Harvard-MIT Division of Health Sciences and Technology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
- Department of Physics, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21569, Saudi Arabia
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16
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Plouffe BD, Murthy SK. Perspective on microfluidic cell separation: a solved problem? Anal Chem 2014; 86:11481-8. [PMID: 25350696 PMCID: PMC4255671 DOI: 10.1021/ac5013283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2014] [Accepted: 10/28/2014] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
The purification and sorting of cells using microfluidic methodologies has been a remarkably active area of research over the past decade. Much of the scientific and technological work associated with microfluidic cell separation has been driven by needs in clinical diagnostics and therapeutic monitoring, most notably in the context of circulating tumor cells. The last several years have seen advances in a broad range of separation modalities ranging from miniaturized analogs of established techniques such as fluorescence- and magnetic-activated cell sorting (FACS and MACS, respectively), to more specialized approaches based on affinity, dielectrophoretic mobility, and inertial properties of cells. With several of these technologies nearing commercialization, there is a sense that the field of microfluidic cell separation has achieved a high level of maturity over an unusually short span of time. In this Perspective, we set the stage by describing major scientific and technological advances in this field and ask what the future holds. While many scientific questions remain unanswered and new compelling questions will undoubtedly arise, the relative maturity of this field poses some unique challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian D. Plouffe
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Barnett Institute of Chemical and Biological Analysis, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Shashi K. Murthy
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Barnett Institute of Chemical and Biological Analysis, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
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17
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Misak HE, Asmatulu R, Gopu JS, Man KP, Zacharias NM, Wooley PH, Yang SY. Albumin-based nanocomposite spheres for advanced drug delivery systems. Biotechnol J 2014; 9:163-70. [PMID: 24106002 DOI: 10.1002/biot.201300150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2013] [Revised: 07/03/2013] [Accepted: 09/12/2013] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
A novel drug delivery system incorporating human serum albumin, poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid, magnetite nanoparticles, and therapeutic agent(s) was developed for potential application in the treatment of diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and skin cancer. An oil-in-oil emulsion/solvent evaporation (O/OSE) method was modified to produce a drug delivery system with a diameter of 0.5–2 μm. The diameter was mainly controlled by adjusting the viscosity of albumin in the discontinuous phase of the O/OSE method. The drug-release study showed that the release of drug and albumin was mostly dependent on the albumin content of the drug delivery system, which is very similar to the drug occlusion-mesopore model. Cytotoxicity tests indicated that increasing the albumin content in the drug delivery system increased cell viability, possibly due to the improved biocompatibility of the system. Overall, these studies show that the proposed system could be a viable option as a drug delivery system in the treatment of many illnesses, such as rheumatoid arthritis, and skin and breast cancers.
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18
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Abstract
Regenerative medicine affords a promising therapeutic strategy for the treatment of patients with chronic kidney disease. Nephron progenitor cell populations exist only during embryonic kidney development. Understanding the mechanisms by which these populations arise and differentiate is integral to the challenge of generating new nephrons for therapeutic purposes. Pluripotent stem cells (PSCs), comprising embryonic stem cells, and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) derived from adults, have the potential to generate functional kidney cells and tissue. Studies in mouse and human PSCs have identified specific approaches to the addition of growth factors, including Wnt and fibroblast growth factor, that can induce PSC differentiation into cells with phenotypic characteristics of nephron progenitor populations with the capacity to form kidney-like structures. Although significant progress has been made, further studies are necessary to confirm the production of functional kidney cells and to promote their three-dimensional organization into bona fide kidney tissue. Human PSCs have been generated from patients with kidney diseases, including polycystic kidney disease, Alport syndrome, and Wilms tumor, and may be used to better understand phenotypic consequences of naturally occurring genetic mutations and to conduct "clinical trials in a dish". The capability to generate human kidney cells from PSCs has significant translational applications, including the bioengineering of functional kidney tissue, use in drug development to test compounds for efficacy and toxicity, and in vitro disease modeling.
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19
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Ertl P, Sticker D, Charwat V, Kasper C, Lepperdinger G. Lab-on-a-chip technologies for stem cell analysis. Trends Biotechnol 2014; 32:245-53. [PMID: 24726257 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2014.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2013] [Revised: 02/20/2014] [Accepted: 03/05/2014] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
The combination of microfabrication-based technologies with cell biology has laid the foundation for the development of advanced in vitro diagnostic systems capable of analyzing cell cultures under physiologically relevant conditions. In the present review, we address recent lab-on-a-chip developments for stem cell analysis. We highlight in particular the tangible advantages of microfluidic devices to overcome most of the challenges associated with stem cell identification, expansion and differentiation, with the greatest advantage being that lab-on-a-chip technology allows for the precise regulation of culturing conditions, while simultaneously monitoring relevant parameters using embedded sensory systems. State-of-the-art lab-on-a-chip platforms for in vitro assessment of stem cell cultures are presented and their potential future applications discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Ertl
- BioSensor Technologies, AIT Austrian Institute of Technology GmbH, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Drago Sticker
- BioSensor Technologies, AIT Austrian Institute of Technology GmbH, Vienna, Austria
| | - Verena Charwat
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna, Austria
| | - Cornelia Kasper
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna, Austria
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20
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Titmarsh DM, Ovchinnikov DA, Wolvetang EJ, Cooper-White JJ. Full factorial screening of human embryonic stem cell maintenance with multiplexed microbioreactor arrays. Biotechnol J 2014; 8:822-34. [PMID: 23813764 DOI: 10.1002/biot.201200375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2012] [Revised: 04/09/2013] [Accepted: 06/03/2013] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Use of human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) in regenerative medicine applications relies on control of cell fate decisions by exogenous factors. This control can be hindered by the use of undefined culture components, poorly understood autocrine/paracrine effects, spatiotemporal variations in microenvironmental composition inherent to static culture formats, and signal cross-talk between multiple factors. We recently described microbioreactor arrays that provide a full factorial spectrum of exogenous factors, and allow gradual accumulation of paracrine factors through serial culture chambers. We combined these with defined biochemical conditions, and in situ reporter gene- and immunofluorescence-based readouts to create an hPSC screening platform with enhanced data throughput and microenvironmental control. HES3-EOS-C(3+)-EiP reporter hESCs were screened against FGF-2, TGF-β1, and retinoic acid in a modified mTeSR-1 medium background. Differential pluripotency marker expression reflected mTeSR-1's maintenance capacity, and differentiation in response to removal of maintenance factors or addition of retinoic acid. Interestingly, pluripotency marker expression was downregulated progressively through serial chambers. Since downstream chambers are exposed to greater levels of paracrine factors under continuous flow, this effect is thought to result from secreted factors that negatively influence pluripotency. The microbioreactor array platform decodes factor interplay, and has a broad application in deciphering microenvironmental control of cell fate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Drew M Titmarsh
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, Australia
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21
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Titmarsh DM, Chen H, Glass NR, Cooper-White JJ. Concise review: microfluidic technology platforms: poised to accelerate development and translation of stem cell-derived therapies. Stem Cells Transl Med 2013; 3:81-90. [PMID: 24311699 DOI: 10.5966/sctm.2013-0118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Stem cells are a powerful resource for producing a variety of cell types with utility in clinically associated applications, including preclinical drug screening and development, disease and developmental modeling, and regenerative medicine. Regardless of the type of stem cell, substantial barriers to clinical translation still exist and must be overcome to realize full clinical potential. These barriers span processes including cell isolation, expansion, and differentiation; purification, quality control, and therapeutic efficacy and safety; and the economic viability of bioprocesses for production of functional cell products. Microfluidic systems have been developed for a myriad of biological applications and have the intrinsic capability of controlling and interrogating the cellular microenvironment with unrivalled precision; therefore, they have particular relevance to overcoming such barriers to translation. Development of microfluidic technologies increasingly utilizes stem cells, addresses stem cell-relevant biological phenomena, and aligns capabilities with translational challenges and goals. In this concise review, we describe how microfluidic technologies can contribute to the translation of stem cell research outcomes, and we provide an update on innovative research efforts in this area. This timely convergence of stem cell translational challenges and microfluidic capabilities means that there is now an opportunity for both disciplines to benefit from increased interaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Drew M Titmarsh
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology and
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22
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Liu M, Liu N, Zang R, Li Y, Yang ST. Engineering stem cell niches in bioreactors. World J Stem Cells 2013; 5:124-35. [PMID: 24179601 PMCID: PMC3812517 DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v5.i4.124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2013] [Revised: 06/05/2013] [Accepted: 07/04/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Stem cells, including embryonic stem cells, induced pluripotent stem cells, mesenchymal stem cells and amniotic fluid stem cells have the potential to be expanded and differentiated into various cell types in the body. Efficient differentiation of stem cells with the desired tissue-specific function is critical for stem cell-based cell therapy, tissue engineering, drug discovery and disease modeling. Bioreactors provide a great platform to regulate the stem cell microenvironment, known as "niches", to impact stem cell fate decision. The niche factors include the regulatory factors such as oxygen, extracellular matrix (synthetic and decellularized), paracrine/autocrine signaling and physical forces (i.e., mechanical force, electrical force and flow shear). The use of novel bioreactors with precise control and recapitulation of niche factors through modulating reactor operation parameters can enable efficient stem cell expansion and differentiation. Recently, the development of microfluidic devices and microbioreactors also provides powerful tools to manipulate the stem cell microenvironment by adjusting flow rate and cytokine gradients. In general, bioreactor engineering can be used to better modulate stem cell niches critical for stem cell expansion, differentiation and applications as novel cell-based biomedicines. This paper reviews important factors that can be more precisely controlled in bioreactors and their effects on stem cell engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meimei Liu
- Meimei Liu, Ning Liu, Ru Zang, Shang-Tian Yang, William G Lowrie Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, United States
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23
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Abstract
Nanobio versus Bionano--what's in a name? This special Issue of Biotechnology Journal includes two sections, one featuring articles on nanobio, the other articles on bionano. The editors of the issue, François Baneyx and Je-Kyun Park, discuss the similarities and differences between the two in their editorial.
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