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Zambuto SG, Jain I, Theriault HS, Underhill GH, Harley BAC. Cell Chirality of Micropatterned Endometrial Microvascular Endothelial Cells. Adv Healthc Mater 2024; 13:e2303928. [PMID: 38291861 PMCID: PMC11076162 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202303928] [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: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
Chirality is an intrinsic cellular property that describes cell polarization biases along the left-right axis, apicobasal axis, or front-rear axes. Cell chirality plays a significant role in the arrangement of organs in the body as well as in the orientation of organelles, cytoskeletons, and cells. Vascular networks within the endometrium, the mucosal inner lining of the uterus, commonly display spiral architectures that rapidly form across the menstrual cycle. Herein, the role of endometrial-relevant extracellular matrix stiffness, composition, and soluble signals on endometrial endothelial cell chirality is systematically examined using a high-throughput microarray. Endometrial endothelial cells display marked patterns of chirality as individual cells and as cohorts in response to substrate stiffness and environmental cues. Vascular networks formed from endometrial endothelial cells also display shifts in chirality as a function of exogenous hormones. Changes in cellular-scale chirality correlate with changes in vascular network parameters, suggesting a critical role for cellular chirality in directing endometrial vessel network organization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha G Zambuto
- Dept. of Bioengineering, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
| | - Ishita Jain
- Dept. of Bioengineering, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
| | - Hannah S Theriault
- Dept. of Bioengineering, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
| | - Gregory H Underhill
- Dept. of Bioengineering, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
| | - Brendan A C Harley
- Dept. Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
- Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
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2
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Sun L, Jiang Y, Tan H, Liang R. Collagen and derivatives-based materials as substrates for the establishment of glioblastoma organoids. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 254:128018. [PMID: 37967599 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.128018] [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: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023]
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is a common primary brain malignancy known for its ability to invade the brain, resistance to chemotherapy and radiotherapy, tendency to recur frequently, and unfavorable prognosis. Attempts have been undertaken to create 2D and 3D models, such as glioblastoma organoids (GBOs), to recapitulate the glioma microenvironment, explore tumor biology, and develop efficient therapies. However, these models have limitations and are unable to fully recapitulate the complex networks formed by the glioma microenvironment that promote tumor cell growth, invasion, treatment resistance, and immune escape. Therefore, it is necessary to develop advanced experimental models that could better simulate clinical physiology. Here, we review recent advances in natural biomaterials (mainly focus on collagen and its derivatives)-based GBO models, as in vitro experimental platforms to simulate GBM tumor biology and response to tested drugs. Special attention will be given to 3D models that use collagen, gelatin, further modified derivatives, and composite biomaterials (e.g., with other natural or synthetic polymers) as substrates. Application of these collagen/derivatives-constructed GBOs incorporate the physical as well as chemical characteristics of the GBM microenvironment. A perspective on future research is given in terms of current issues. Generally, natural materials based on collagen/derivatives (monomers or composites) are expected to enrich the toolbox of GBO modeling substrates and potentially help to overcome the limitations of existing models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Sun
- Department of Targeting Therapy & Immunology; Department of Radiation Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yuelin Jiang
- West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
| | - Hong Tan
- College of Polymer Science and Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China.
| | - Ruichao Liang
- Department of Neurosurgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
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3
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Kriuchkovskaia V, Eames EK, Riggins RB, Harley BAC. Acquired temozolomide resistance instructs patterns of glioblastoma behavior in gelatin hydrogels. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.11.14.567115. [PMID: 38014332 PMCID: PMC10680767 DOI: 10.1101/2023.11.14.567115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
Acquired drug resistance in glioblastoma (GBM) presents a major clinical challenge and is a key factor contributing to abysmal prognosis, with less than 15 months median overall survival. Aggressive chemotherapy with the frontline therapeutic, temozolomide (TMZ), ultimately fails to kill residual highly invasive tumor cells after surgical resection and radiotherapy. Here, we report a three-dimensional (3D) engineered model of acquired TMZ resistance using two isogenically-matched sets of GBM cell lines encapsulated in gelatin methacrylol hydrogels. We benchmark response of TMZ-resistant vs. TMZ-sensitive GBM cell lines within the gelatin-based extracellular matrix platform and further validate drug response at physiologically relevant TMZ concentrations. We show changes in drug sensitivity, cell invasion, and matrix-remodeling cytokine production as the result of acquired TMZ resistance. This platform lays the foundation for future investigations targeting key elements of the GBM tumor microenvironment to combat GBM's devastating impact by advancing our understanding of GBM progression and treatment response to guide the development of novel treatment strategies. Teaser A hydrogel model to investigate the impact of acquired drug resistance on functional response in glioblastoma.
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4
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Zambuto SG, Jain I, Theriault HS, Underhill GH, Harley BAC. Cell Chirality of Micropatterned Endometrial Microvascular Endothelial Cells. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.10.20.563368. [PMID: 37961315 PMCID: PMC10634711 DOI: 10.1101/2023.10.20.563368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
Chirality is an intrinsic cellular property that describes cell polarization biases along the left-right axis, apicobasal axis, or front-rear axes. Cell chirality plays a significant role in the arrangement of organs in the body as well as the orientation of organelles, cytoskeletons, and cells. Vascular networks within the endometrium, the mucosal inner lining of the uterus, commonly display spiral architectures that rapidly form across the menstrual cycle. Herein, we systematically examine the role of endometrial-relevant extracellular matrix stiffness, composition, and soluble signals on endometrial endothelial cell chirality using a high-throughput microarray. Endometrial endothelial cells display marked patterns of chirality as individual cells and as cohorts in response to substrate stiffness and environmental cues. Vascular networks formed from endometrial endothelial cells also display shifts in chirality as a function of exogenous hormones. Changes in cellular-scale chirality correlate with changes in vascular network parameters, suggesting a critical role for cellular chirality in directing endometrial vessel network organization.
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5
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Wu KZ, Adine C, Mitriashkin A, Aw BJJ, Iyer NG, Fong ELS. Making In Vitro Tumor Models Whole Again. Adv Healthc Mater 2023; 12:e2202279. [PMID: 36718949 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202202279] [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: 09/06/2022] [Revised: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
As a reductionist approach, patient-derived in vitro tumor models are inherently still too simplistic for personalized drug testing as they do not capture many characteristics of the tumor microenvironment (TME), such as tumor architecture and stromal heterogeneity. This is especially problematic for assessing stromal-targeting drugs such as immunotherapies in which the density and distribution of immune and other stromal cells determine drug efficacy. On the other end, in vivo models are typically costly, low-throughput, and time-consuming to establish. Ex vivo patient-derived tumor explant (PDE) cultures involve the culture of resected tumor fragments that potentially retain the intact TME of the original tumor. Although developed decades ago, PDE cultures have not been widely adopted likely because of their low-throughput and poor long-term viability. However, with growing recognition of the importance of patient-specific TME in mediating drug response, especially in the field of immune-oncology, there is an urgent need to resurrect these holistic cultures. In this Review, the key limitations of patient-derived tumor explant cultures are outlined and technologies that have been developed or could be employed to address these limitations are discussed. Engineered holistic tumor explant cultures may truly realize the concept of personalized medicine for cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenny Zhuoran Wu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 119276, Singapore
| | - Christabella Adine
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 119276, Singapore
| | - Aleksandr Mitriashkin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 119276, Singapore
| | - Benjamin Jun Jie Aw
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 119276, Singapore
| | - N Gopalakrishna Iyer
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Division of Surgery and Surgical Oncology, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, 169857, Singapore
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore, 169610, Singapore
| | - Eliza Li Shan Fong
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 119276, Singapore
- The N.1 Institute for Health, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117456, Singapore
- Cancer Science Institute (CSI), National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117599, Singapore
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6
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Safarians G, Sohrabi A, Solomon I, Xiao W, Bastola S, Rajput BW, Epperson M, Rosenzweig I, Tamura K, Singer B, Huang J, Harrison MJ, Sanazzaro T, Condro MC, Kornblum HI, Seidlits SK. Glioblastoma Spheroid Invasion through Soft, Brain-Like Matrices Depends on Hyaluronic Acid-CD44 Interactions. Adv Healthc Mater 2023:e2203143. [PMID: 36694362 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202203143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Increased secretion of hyaluronic acid (HA), a glycosaminoglycan abundant in the brain extracellular matrix (ECM), correlates with worse clinical outcomes for glioblastoma (GBM) patients. GBM cells aggressively invade the brain parenchyma while encountering spatiotemporal changes in their local ECM, including HA concentration. To investigate how varying HA concentrations affect GBM invasion, patient-derived GBM cells are cultured within a soft, 3D matrix in which HA concentration is precisely varied and cell migration observed. Data demonstrate that HA concentration can determine the invasive activity of patient-derived GBM cells in a biphasic and highly sensitive manner, where the absolute concentration of HA at which cell migration peaked is specific to each patient-derived line. Furthermore, evidence that this response relies on phosphorylated ezrin, which interacts with the intracellular domain of HA-engaged CD44 to effectively link the actin cytoskeleton to the local ECM is provided. Overall, this study highlights CD44-HA binding as a major mediator of GBM cell migration that acts independently of integrins and focal adhesion complexes and suggests that targeting HA-CD44-ezrin interactions represents a promising therapeutic strategy to prevent tumor cell invasion in the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gevick Safarians
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Alireza Sohrabi
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - Itay Solomon
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Weikun Xiao
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Soniya Bastola
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA.,Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90024, USA
| | - Bushra W Rajput
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Mary Epperson
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Isabella Rosenzweig
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Kelly Tamura
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Breahna Singer
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Joyce Huang
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Mollie J Harrison
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - Talia Sanazzaro
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - Michael C Condro
- Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90024, USA
| | - Harley I Kornblum
- Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90024, USA
| | - Stephanie K Seidlits
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
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7
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Ngo MT, Sarkaria JN, Harley BA. Perivascular Stromal Cells Instruct Glioblastoma Invasion, Proliferation, and Therapeutic Response within an Engineered Brain Perivascular Niche Model. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2022; 9:e2201888. [PMID: 36109186 PMCID: PMC9631060 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202201888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) tumor cells are found in the perivascular niche microenvironment and are believed to associate closely with the brain microvasculature. However, it is largely unknown how the resident cells of the perivascular niche, such as endothelial cells, pericytes, and astrocytes, influence GBM tumor cell behavior and disease progression. A 3D in vitro model of the brain perivascular niche developed by encapsulating brain-derived endothelial cells, pericytes, and astrocytes in a gelatin hydrogel is described. It is shown that brain perivascular stromal cells, namely pericytes and astrocytes, contribute to vascular architecture and maturation. Cocultures of patient-derived GBM tumor cells with brain microvascular cells are used to identify a role for pericytes and astrocytes in establishing a perivascular niche environment that modulates GBM cell invasion, proliferation, and therapeutic response. Engineered models provide unique insight regarding the spatial patterning of GBM cell phenotypes in response to a multicellular model of the perivascular niche. Critically, it is shown that engineered perivascular models provide an important resource to evaluate mechanisms by which intercellular interactions modulate GBM tumor cell behavior, drug response, and provide a framework to consider patient-specific disease phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mai T. Ngo
- Department Chemical and Biomolecular EngineeringUniversity of Illinois Urbana‐ChampaignUrbanaIL61801USA
| | | | - Brendan A.C. Harley
- Department Chemical and Biomolecular EngineeringUniversity of Illinois Urbana‐ChampaignUrbanaIL61801USA
- Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic BiologyUniversity of Illinois Urbana‐ChampaignUrbanaIL61801USA
- Cancer Center at IllinoisUniversity of Illinois Urbana‐ChampaignUrbanaIL61801USA
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8
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Zambuto SG, Jain I, Clancy KBH, Underhill GH, Harley BAC. Role of Extracellular Matrix Biomolecules on Endometrial Epithelial Cell Attachment and Cytokeratin 18 Expression on Gelatin Hydrogels. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2022; 8:3819-3830. [PMID: 35994527 PMCID: PMC9581737 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.2c00247] [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] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The endometrium undergoes profound changes in tissue architecture and composition, both during the menstrual cycle as well as in the context of pregnancy. Dynamic remodeling processes of the endometrial extracellular matrix (ECM) are a major element of endometrial homeostasis, including changes across the menstrual cycle. A critical element of this tissue microenvironment is the endometrial basement membrane, a specialized layer of proteins that separates the endometrial epithelium from the underlying endometrial ECM. Bioengineering models of the endometrial microenvironment that present an appropriate endometrial ECM and basement membrane may provide an improved environment to study endometrial epithelial cell (EEC) function. Here, we exploit a tiered approach using two-dimensional high-throughput microarrays and three-dimensional gelatin hydrogels to define patterns of EEC attachment and cytokeratin 18 (CK18) expression in response to combinations of endometrial basement membrane proteins. We identify combinations (collagen IV + tenascin C; collagen I + collagen III; hyaluronic acid + tenascin C; collagen V; collagen V + hyaluronic acid; collagen III; and collagen I) that facilitate increased EEC attachment, increased CK18 intensity, or both. We also identify significant EEC mediated remodeling of the methacrylamide-functionalized gelatin matrix environment via analysis of nascent protein deposition. Together, we report efforts to tailor the localization of basement membrane-associated proteins and proteoglycans in order to investigate tissue-engineered models of the endometrial microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha G Zambuto
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Ishita Jain
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Kathryn B H Clancy
- Department of Anthropology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
- Beckman Institute for Advanced Science & Technology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
- Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Gregory H Underhill
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Brendan A C Harley
- Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
- Department Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
- Cancer Center at Illinois, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
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9
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Sahan AZ, Baday M, Patel CB. Biomimetic Hydrogels in the Study of Cancer Mechanobiology: Overview, Biomedical Applications, and Future Perspectives. Gels 2022; 8:gels8080496. [PMID: 36005097 PMCID: PMC9407355 DOI: 10.3390/gels8080496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Revised: 06/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Hydrogels are biocompatible polymers that are tunable to the system under study, allowing them to be widely used in medicine, bioprinting, tissue engineering, and biomechanics. Hydrogels are used to mimic the three-dimensional microenvironment of tissues, which is essential to understanding cell–cell interactions and intracellular signaling pathways (e.g., proliferation, apoptosis, growth, and survival). Emerging evidence suggests that the malignant properties of cancer cells depend on mechanical cues that arise from changes in their microenvironment. These mechanobiological cues include stiffness, shear stress, and pressure, and have an impact on cancer proliferation and invasion. The hydrogels can be tuned to simulate these mechanobiological tissue properties. Although interest in and research on the biomedical applications of hydrogels has increased in the past 25 years, there is still much to learn about the development of biomimetic hydrogels and their potential applications in biomedical and clinical settings. This review highlights the application of hydrogels in developing pre-clinical cancer models and their potential for translation to human disease with a focus on reviewing the utility of such models in studying glioblastoma progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayse Z. Sahan
- Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University California at San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
| | - Murat Baday
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
- Precision Health and Integrated Diagnostics Center, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
- Correspondence: (M.B.); (C.B.P.)
| | - Chirag B. Patel
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences (GSBS), Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Cancer Biology Program, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences (GSBS), Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Correspondence: (M.B.); (C.B.P.)
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10
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Tang-Schomer MD, Chandok H, Wu WB, Lau CC, Bookland MJ, George J. 3D patient-derived tumor models to recapitulate pediatric brain tumors In Vitro. Transl Oncol 2022; 20:101407. [PMID: 35381525 PMCID: PMC8980497 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2022.101407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2021] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Brain tumors are the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in children. Tailored therapies need preclinical brain tumor models representing a wide range of molecular subtypes. Here, we adapted a previously established brain tissue-model to fresh patient tumor cells with the goal of establishing3D in vitro culture conditions for each tumor type.Wereported our findings from 11 pediatric tumor cases, consisting of three medulloblastoma (MB) patients, three ependymoma (EPN) patients, one glioblastoma (GBM) patient, and four juvenile pilocytic astrocytoma (Ast) patients. Chemically defined media consisting of a mixture of pro-neural and pro-endothelial cell culture medium was found to support better growth than serum-containing medium for all the tumor cases we tested. 3D scaffold alone was found to support cell heterogeneity and tumor type-dependent spheroid-forming ability; both properties were lost in 2D or gel-only control cultures. Limited in vitro models showed that the number of differentially expressed genes between in vitro vs. primary tissues, are 104 (0.6%) of medulloblastoma, 3,392 (20.2%) of ependymoma, and 576 (3.4%) of astrocytoma, out of total 16,795 protein-coding genes and lincRNAs. Two models derived from a same medulloblastoma patient clustered together with the patient-matched primary tumor tissue; both models were 3D scaffold-only in Neurobasal and EGM 1:1 (v/v) mixture and differed by a 1-mo gap in culture (i.e., 6wk versus 10wk). The genes underlying the in vitrovs. in vivo tissue differences may provide mechanistic insights into the tumor microenvironment. This study is the first step towards establishing a pipeline from patient cells to models to personalized drug testing for brain cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min D. Tang-Schomer
- UConn Health, Department of Pediatrics, 263 Farmington Avenue, Farmington, Connecticut 06030, USA,Correspondence author.
| | - Harshpreet Chandok
- The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, 10 Discovery Drive, Farmington, Connecticut 06030, USA
| | - Wei-Biao Wu
- University of Chicago, Department of Statistics, 5747 S.Ellis Avenue, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Ching C. Lau
- Connecticut Children's Medical Center, 282 Washington St, Hartford, CT 06106, USA,UConn Health, Department of Pediatrics, 263 Farmington Avenue, Farmington, Connecticut 06030, USA,The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, 10 Discovery Drive, Farmington, Connecticut 06030, USA
| | - Markus J. Bookland
- Connecticut Children's Medical Center, 282 Washington St, Hartford, CT 06106, USA,UConn Health, Department of Pediatrics, 263 Farmington Avenue, Farmington, Connecticut 06030, USA
| | - Joshy George
- The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, 10 Discovery Drive, Farmington, Connecticut 06030, USA
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11
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Katz RR, West JL. Reductionist Three-Dimensional Tumor Microenvironment Models in Synthetic Hydrogels. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14051225. [PMID: 35267532 PMCID: PMC8909517 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14051225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Tumors exist in a complex, three-dimensional environment which helps them to survive, grow, metastasize, and resist drug treatment. Simple, reproducible, in vitro models of this environment are necessary in order to better understand tumor behavior. Naturally derived polymers are great 3D cell culture substrates, but they often lack the tunability and batch-to-batch consistency which can be found in synthetic polymer systems. In this review, we describe the current state of and future directions for tumor microenvironment models in synthetic hydrogels. Abstract The tumor microenvironment (TME) plays a determining role in everything from disease progression to drug resistance. As such, in vitro models which can recapitulate the cell–cell and cell–matrix interactions that occur in situ are key to the investigation of tumor behavior and selecting effective therapeutic drugs. While naturally derived matrices can retain the dimensionality of the native TME, they lack tunability and batch-to-batch consistency. As such, many synthetic polymer systems have been employed to create physiologically relevant TME cultures. In this review, we discussed the common semi-synthetic and synthetic polymers used as hydrogel matrices for tumor models. We reviewed studies in synthetic hydrogels which investigated tumor cell interactions with vasculature and immune cells. Finally, we reviewed the utility of these models as chemotherapeutic drug-screening platforms, as well as the future directions of the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel R. Katz
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC 27705, USA;
| | - Jennifer L. West
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC 27705, USA;
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22904, USA
- Correspondence:
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12
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Viray CM, van Magill B, Zreiqat H, Ramaswamy Y. Stereolithographic Visible-Light Printing of Poly(l-glutamic acid) Hydrogel Scaffolds. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2022; 8:1115-1131. [PMID: 35179029 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.1c01519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Bioprinting is a promising fabrication technique aimed at developing biologically functional, tissue-like constructs for various biomedical applications. Among the different bioprinting approaches, vat polymerization-based techniques offer the highest feature resolution compared to more commonly used extrusion-based methods and therefore have greater potential to be utilized for printing complex hierarchical tissue architectures. Although significant efforts have been directed toward harnessing digital light processing techniques for high-resolution bioprinting, the use of stereolithography (SLA) setups for producing distinct hydrogel filaments smaller than 20 μm has received less attention. Improving the bioprinting resolution is still a technical challenge that must consider both the practical limitations of the bioprinter apparatus and the formulation of the cytocompatible bioresin. In this study, we developed a novel bioresin compatible with SLA and capable of printing high-resolution features. This resin, composed of a biosynthetic polypeptide poly(l-glutamic acid) functionalized with tyramine moieties (PLGA-Tyr), was crosslinked using a visible-light photoinitiator system. Varying concentrations of PLGA-Tyr and the co-photoinitiator were evaluated for the hydrogel system's gelation ability, swelling characteristics, degradation profiles, mechanical properties, and cell viability post-encapsulation. This study introduces a custom-built, cost-effective, visible-light SLA bioprinting system named the "MicroNC". Using the newly developed visible-light bioresin, we demonstrated for the first time the ability to fabricate hydrogel scaffolds with well-resolved filaments (less than 8 μm in width) capable of supporting cell viability and proliferation and directing cellular morphology at the single-cell level for up to 14 days. Overall, these experiments have underscored the exciting potential of using the visible-light-photoinitiated PLGA-Tyr material system for developing physiologically relevant in vitro hydrogel scaffolds with feature resolutions comparable to the dimensions of individual human cells for a wide range of biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Marie Viray
- School of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia.,ARC Training Centre for Innovative BioEngineering, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia
| | - Benjamin van Magill
- School of Aerospace, Mechanical, and Mechatronic Engineering, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia
| | - Hala Zreiqat
- School of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia.,ARC Training Centre for Innovative BioEngineering, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia.,Sydney Nano Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia
| | - Yogambha Ramaswamy
- School of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia.,Sydney Nano Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia
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13
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Zambuto SG, Rattila S, Dveksler G, Harley BAC. Effects of Pregnancy-Specific Glycoproteins on Trophoblast Motility in Three-Dimensional Gelatin Hydrogels. Cell Mol Bioeng 2022; 15:175-191. [PMID: 35401843 PMCID: PMC8938592 DOI: 10.1007/s12195-021-00715-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Trophoblast invasion is a complex biological process necessary for establishment of pregnancy; however, much remains unknown regarding what signaling factors coordinate the extent of invasion. Pregnancy-specific glycoproteins (PSGs) are some of the most abundant circulating trophoblastic proteins in maternal blood during human pregnancy, with maternal serum concentrations rising to as high as 200-400 μg/mL at term. Methods Here, we employ three-dimensional (3D) trophoblast motility assays consisting of trophoblast spheroids encapsulated in 3D gelatin hydrogels to quantify trophoblast outgrowth area, viability, and cytotoxicity in the presence of PSG1 and PSG9 as well as epidermal growth factor and Nodal. Results We show PSG9 reduces trophoblast motility whereas PSG1 increases motility. Further, we assess bulk nascent protein production by encapsulated spheroids to highlight the potential of this approach to assess trophoblast response (motility, remodeling) to soluble factors and extracellular matrix cues. Conclusions Such models provide an important platform to develop a deeper understanding of early pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha G. Zambuto
- grid.35403.310000 0004 1936 9991Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801 USA
| | - Shemona Rattila
- grid.265436.00000 0001 0421 5525Department of Pathology, Uniformed Services University of Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD 20814 USA
| | - Gabriela Dveksler
- grid.265436.00000 0001 0421 5525Department of Pathology, Uniformed Services University of Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD 20814 USA
| | - Brendan A. C. Harley
- grid.35403.310000 0004 1936 9991Department Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 110 Roger Adams Laboratory, 600 S. Mathews Ave, Urbana, IL 61801 USA ,grid.35403.310000 0004 1936 9991Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801 USA
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14
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Bhargav AG, Domino JS, Chamoun R, Thomas SM. Mechanical Properties in the Glioma Microenvironment: Emerging Insights and Theranostic Opportunities. Front Oncol 2022; 11:805628. [PMID: 35127517 PMCID: PMC8813748 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.805628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Gliomas represent the most common malignant primary brain tumors, and a high-grade subset of these tumors including glioblastoma are particularly refractory to current standard-of-care therapies including maximal surgical resection and chemoradiation. The prognosis of patients with these tumors continues to be poor with existing treatments and understanding treatment failure is required. The dynamic interplay between the tumor and its microenvironment has been increasingly recognized as a key mechanism by which cellular adaptation, tumor heterogeneity, and treatment resistance develops. Beyond ongoing lines of investigation into the peritumoral cellular milieu and microenvironmental architecture, recent studies have identified the growing role of mechanical properties of the microenvironment. Elucidating the impact of these biophysical factors on disease heterogeneity is crucial for designing durable therapies and may offer novel approaches for intervention and disease monitoring. Specifically, pharmacologic targeting of mechanical signal transduction substrates such as specific ion channels that have been implicated in glioma progression or the development of agents that alter the mechanical properties of the microenvironment to halt disease progression have the potential to be promising treatment strategies based on early studies. Similarly, the development of technology to measure mechanical properties of the microenvironment in vitro and in vivo and simulate these properties in bioengineered models may facilitate the use of mechanical properties as diagnostic or prognostic biomarkers that can guide treatment. Here, we review current perspectives on the influence of mechanical properties in glioma with a focus on biophysical features of tumor-adjacent tissue, the role of fluid mechanics, and mechanisms of mechanical signal transduction. We highlight the implications of recent discoveries for novel diagnostics, therapeutic targets, and accurate preclinical modeling of glioma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adip G. Bhargav
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, United States
| | - Joseph S. Domino
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, United States
| | - Roukoz Chamoun
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, United States
| | - Sufi M. Thomas
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, United States
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15
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Kang JH, Turabee MH, Lee DS, Kwon YJ, Ko YT. Temperature and pH-responsive in situ hydrogels of gelatin derivatives to prevent the reoccurrence of brain tumor. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 143:112144. [PMID: 34509823 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.112144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Revised: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is a grade IV malignant brain tumor with a median survival time of approximately 12-16 months. Because of its highly aggressive and heterogeneous nature it is very difficult to remove by surgical resection. Herein we have reported dual stimuli-responsive and biodegradable in situ hydrogels of oligosulfamethazine-grafted gelatin and loaded with anticancer drug paclitaxel (PTX) for preventing the progress of Glioblastoma. The oligosulfamethazine (OSM) introduced to the gelatin backbone for the formation of definite and stable in situ hydrogel. The hydrogels transformed from a sol to a gel state upon changes in stimuli. pH and temperature and retained a distinct shape after subcutaneous administration in BALB/c mice. The viscosity of the sol state hydrogels was tuned by varying the feed molar ratio between gelatin and OSM. The porosity of the hydrogels was confirmed to be lower in higher degree OSM by SEM. Sustained release of PTX from hydrogels in physiological environments (pH 7.4) was further retarded up to 63% in 9th days in tumor environments (pH 6.5). While the empty hydrogels were non-toxic in cultured cells, the hydrogels loaded with PTX showed antitumor efficacy in orthotopic-GBM xenograft mice. Collectively, the gelatin-OSM formed porous hydrogels and released the cargo in a sustained manner in tumor environments efficiently suppressing the progress of GBM. Thus, gelatin-OSM hydrogels are a potential candidate for the direct delivery of therapeutics to the local areas in brain diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji Hee Kang
- College of Pharmacy, Gachon Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, Gachon University, 21936 Incheon, South Korea
| | - Md Hasan Turabee
- College of Pharmacy, Gachon Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, Gachon University, 21936 Incheon, South Korea
| | - Doo Sung Lee
- School of Chemical Engineering, Theranostic Macromolecules Research Center, Sungkyunkwan University, 16419 Suwon, South Korea
| | - Young Jik Kwon
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, University of California, 92697 Irvine, CA, United States; Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California, 92697 Irvine, CA, United States; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, 92697 Irvine, CA, United States; Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, 92697 Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Young Tag Ko
- College of Pharmacy, Gachon Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, Gachon University, 21936 Incheon, South Korea.
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16
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Gelatin methacrylate hydrogels culture model for glioblastoma cells enriches for mesenchymal-like state and models interactions with immune cells. Sci Rep 2021; 11:17727. [PMID: 34489494 PMCID: PMC8421368 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-97059-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma is the most lethal primary malignant brain tumor in adults. Simplified two-dimensional (2D) cell culture and neurospheres in vitro models fail to recapitulate the complexity of the tumor microenvironment, limiting its ability to predict therapeutic response. Three-dimensional (3D) scaffold-based models have emerged as a promising alternative for addressing these concerns. One such 3D system is gelatin methacrylate (GelMA) hydrogels, and we aimed to understand the suitability of using this system to mimic treatment-resistant glioblastoma cells that reside in specific niches. We characterized the phenotype of patient-derived glioma cells cultured in GelMA hydrogels (3D-GMH) for their tumorigenic properties using invasion and chemoresponse assays. In addition, we used integrated single-cell and spatial transcriptome analysis to compare cells cultured in 3D-GMH to neoplastic cells in vivo. Finally, we assessed tumor-immune cell interactions with a macrophage infiltration assay and a cytokine array. We show that the 3D-GMH system enriches treatment-resistant mesenchymal cells that are not represented in neurosphere cultures. Cells cultured in 3D-GMH resemble a mesenchymal-like cellular phenotype found in perivascular and hypoxic regions and recruit macrophages by secreting cytokines, a hallmark of the mesenchymal phenotype. Our 3D-GMH model effectively mimics the phenotype of glioma cells that are found in the perivascular and hypoxic niches of the glioblastoma core in situ, in contrast to the neurosphere cultures that enrich cells of the infiltrative edge of the tumor. This contrast highlights the need for due diligence in selecting an appropriate model when designing a study's objectives.
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17
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Gilchrist AE, Serrano JF, Ngo MT, Hrnjak Z, Kim S, Harley BAC. Encapsulation of murine hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells in a thiol-crosslinked maleimide-functionalized gelatin hydrogel. Acta Biomater 2021; 131:138-148. [PMID: 34161871 PMCID: PMC8373770 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2021.06.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Revised: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
Biomaterial platforms are an integral part of stem cell biomanufacturing protocols. The collective biophysical, biochemical, and cellular cues of the stem cell niche microenvironment play an important role in regulating stem cell fate decisions. Three-dimensional (3D) culture of stem cells within biomaterials provides a route to present biophysical and biochemical stimuli through cell-matrix interactions and cell-cell interactions via secreted biomolecules. Herein, we describe a maleimide-functionalized gelatin (GelMAL) hydrogel that can be crosslinked via thiol-Michael addition click reaction for the encapsulation of sensitive stem cell populations. The maleimide functional units along the gelatin backbone enables gelation via the addition of a dithiol crosslinker without requiring external stimuli (e.g., UV light, photoinitiator), thereby reducing reactive oxide species generation. Additionally, the versatility of crosslinker selection enables easy insertion of thiol-containing bioactive or bioinert motifs. Hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) were encapsulated in GelMAL, with mechanical properties tuned to mimic the in vivo bone marrow niche. We report the insertion of a cleavable peptide crosslinker that can be degraded by the proteolytic action of Sortase A, a mammalian-inert enzyme. Notably, Sortase A exposure preserves stem cell surface markers, which are an essential metric of hematopoietic activity used in immunophenotyping. This novel GelMAL system enables a route to produce artificial stem cell niches with tunable biophysical properties, intrinsic cell-interaction motifs, and orthogonal addition of bioactive crosslinks. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: We describe a maleimide-functionalized gelatin hydrogel that can be crosslinked via a thiol-maleimide mediated click reaction to form a stable hydrogel without the production of reactive oxygen species typical in light-based crosslinking. The mechanical properties can be tuned to match the in vivo bone marrow microenvironment for hematopoietic stem cell culture. Additionally, we report inclusion of a peptide crosslinker that can be cleaved via the proteolytic action of Sortase A and show that Sortase A exposure does not degrade sensitive surface marker expression patterns. Together, this approach reduces stem cell exposure to reactive oxygen species during hydrogel gelation and enables post-culture quantitative assessment of stem cell phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aidan E Gilchrist
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Julio F Serrano
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Mai T Ngo
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Zona Hrnjak
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Sanha Kim
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Brendan A C Harley
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA; Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA; Cancer Center at Illinois, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA.
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18
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Ngo MT, Karvelis E, Harley BAC. Multidimensional hydrogel models reveal endothelial network angiocrine signals increase glioblastoma cell number, invasion, and temozolomide resistance. Integr Biol (Camb) 2021; 12:139-149. [PMID: 32507878 DOI: 10.1093/intbio/zyaa010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2020] [Revised: 04/07/2020] [Accepted: 04/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common primary malignant brain tumor. The tissue microenvironment adjacent to vasculature, termed the perivascular niche, has been implicated in promoting biological processes involved in glioblastoma progression such as invasion, proliferation, and therapeutic resistance. However, the exact nature of the cues that support tumor cell aggression in this niche is largely unknown. Soluble angiocrine factors secreted by tumor-associated vasculature have been shown to support such behaviors in other cancer types. Here, we exploit macroscopic and microfluidic gelatin hydrogel platforms to profile angiocrine factors secreted by self-assembled endothelial networks and evaluate their relevance to glioblastoma biology. Aggregate angiocrine factors support increases in U87-MG cell number, migration, and therapeutic resistance to temozolomide. We also identify a novel role for TIMP1 in facilitating glioblastoma tumor cell migration. Overall, this work highlights the use of multidimensional hydrogel models to evaluate the role of angiocrine signals in glioblastoma progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mai T Ngo
- Dept. Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Elijah Karvelis
- Dept. Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Brendan A C Harley
- Dept. Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA.,Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA.,Cancer Center at Illinois, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
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19
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Ngo MT, Harley BAC. Progress in mimicking brain microenvironments to understand and treat neurological disorders. APL Bioeng 2021; 5:020902. [PMID: 33869984 PMCID: PMC8034983 DOI: 10.1063/5.0043338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurological disorders including traumatic brain injury, stroke, primary and metastatic brain tumors, and neurodegenerative diseases affect millions of people worldwide. Disease progression is accompanied by changes in the brain microenvironment, but how these shifts in biochemical, biophysical, and cellular properties contribute to repair outcomes or continued degeneration is largely unknown. Tissue engineering approaches can be used to develop in vitro models to understand how the brain microenvironment contributes to pathophysiological processes linked to neurological disorders and may also offer constructs that promote healing and regeneration in vivo. In this Perspective, we summarize features of the brain microenvironment in normal and pathophysiological states and highlight strategies to mimic this environment to model disease, investigate neural stem cell biology, and promote regenerative healing. We discuss current limitations and resulting opportunities to develop tissue engineering tools that more faithfully recapitulate the aspects of the brain microenvironment for both in vitro and in vivo applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mai T. Ngo
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
| | - Brendan A. C. Harley
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed:. Tel.: (217) 244-7112. Fax: (217) 333-5052
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20
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Zhu D, Trinh P, Li J, Grant GA, Yang F. Gradient hydrogels for screening stiffness effects on patient-derived glioblastoma xenograft cellfates in 3D. J Biomed Mater Res A 2021; 109:1027-1035. [PMID: 32862485 DOI: 10.1002/jbm.a.37093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Revised: 08/23/2020] [Accepted: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Brain cancer is a devastating disease given its extreme invasiveness and intricate location. Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is one of the most common forms of brain cancer, and cancer progression is often correlated with significantly altered tissue stiffness. To elucidate the effect of matrix stiffness on GBM cell fates, previous research is largely limited to 2D studies using immortalized cell lines, which has limited physiological relevance. The objective of the study is to develop gradient hydrogels with brain-mimicking stiffness range as a 3Din vitro GBM model for screening of the effects of matrix stiffness on GBM. To increase the physiological relevance, patient-derived tumor xenograft (PDTX) GBM cells were used. Our gradient platform allows formation of cell-containing hydrogels with stiffness ranging from 40 Pa to 1,300 Pa within a few minutes. By focusing on a brain-mimicking stiffness range, this gradient hydrogel platform is designed for investigating brain cancer. Increasing stiffness led to decreased GBM proliferation and less spreading, which is accompanied by downregulation of matrix-metalloproteinases (MMPs). Using temozolomide (TMZ) as a model drug, we demonstrate that increasing stiffness led to higher drug resistance by PDTX GBM cells in 3D, suggesting matrix stiffness can directly modulate how GBM cells respond to drug treatment. While the current study focuses on stiffness gradient, the setup may also be adapted for screening other cancer niche cues such as how biochemical ligand gradient modulates brain cancer progression and drug responses using reduced materials and time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danqing Zhu
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Pavin Trinh
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Jianfeng Li
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Gerry A Grant
- Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Fan Yang
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
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21
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Stanković T, Ranđelović T, Dragoj M, Stojković Burić S, Fernández L, Ochoa I, Pérez-García VM, Pešić M. In vitro biomimetic models for glioblastoma-a promising tool for drug response studies. Drug Resist Updat 2021; 55:100753. [PMID: 33667959 DOI: 10.1016/j.drup.2021.100753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2020] [Revised: 02/16/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The poor response of glioblastoma to current treatment protocols is a consequence of its intrinsic drug resistance. Resistance to chemotherapy is primarily associated with considerable cellular heterogeneity, and plasticity of glioblastoma cells, alterations in gene expression, presence of specific tumor microenvironment conditions and blood-brain barrier. In an attempt to successfully overcome chemoresistance and better understand the biological behavior of glioblastoma, numerous tri-dimensional (3D) biomimetic models were developed in the past decade. These novel advanced models are able to better recapitulate the spatial organization of glioblastoma in a real time, therefore providing more realistic and reliable evidence to the response of glioblastoma to therapy. Moreover, these models enable the fine-tuning of different tumor microenvironment conditions and facilitate studies on the effects of the tumor microenvironment on glioblastoma chemoresistance. This review outlines current knowledge on the essence of glioblastoma chemoresistance and describes the progress achieved by 3D biomimetic models. Moreover, comprehensive literature assessment regarding the influence of 3D culturing and microenvironment mimicking on glioblastoma gene expression and biological behavior is also provided. The contribution of the blood-brain barrier as well as the blood-tumor barrier to glioblastoma chemoresistance is also reviewed from the perspective of 3D biomimetic models. Finally, the role of mathematical models in predicting 3D glioblastoma behavior and drug response is elaborated. In the future, technological innovations along with mathematical simulations should create reliable 3D biomimetic systems for glioblastoma research that should facilitate the identification and possibly application in preclinical drug testing and precision medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tijana Stanković
- Department of Neurobiology, Institute for Biological Research "Siniša Stanković"- National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Despota Stefana 142, 11060, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Teodora Ranđelović
- Tissue Microenvironment Lab (TME), Aragón Institute of Engineering Research (I3A), University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Aragon 50018, Spain; Institute for Health Research Aragon (IIS Aragón), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Miodrag Dragoj
- Department of Neurobiology, Institute for Biological Research "Siniša Stanković"- National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Despota Stefana 142, 11060, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Sonja Stojković Burić
- Department of Neurobiology, Institute for Biological Research "Siniša Stanković"- National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Despota Stefana 142, 11060, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Luis Fernández
- Tissue Microenvironment Lab (TME), Aragón Institute of Engineering Research (I3A), University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Aragon 50018, Spain; Centro Investigación Biomédica en Red. Bioingenieria, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Zaragoza, Aragon 50018, Spain; Institute for Health Research Aragon (IIS Aragón), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Ignacio Ochoa
- Tissue Microenvironment Lab (TME), Aragón Institute of Engineering Research (I3A), University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Aragon 50018, Spain; Centro Investigación Biomédica en Red. Bioingenieria, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Zaragoza, Aragon 50018, Spain; Institute for Health Research Aragon (IIS Aragón), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Victor M Pérez-García
- Departamento de Matemáticas, E.T.S.I. Industriales and Instituto de Matemática Aplicada a la Ciencia y la Ingeniería (IMACI), Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Ciudad Real, 13071, Spain
| | - Milica Pešić
- Department of Neurobiology, Institute for Biological Research "Siniša Stanković"- National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Despota Stefana 142, 11060, Belgrade, Serbia.
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22
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Wang C, Sinha S, Jiang X, Murphy L, Fitch S, Wilson C, Grant G, Yang F. Matrix Stiffness Modulates Patient-Derived Glioblastoma Cell Fates in Three-Dimensional Hydrogels. Tissue Eng Part A 2021; 27:390-401. [PMID: 32731804 PMCID: PMC7984937 DOI: 10.1089/ten.tea.2020.0110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Accepted: 07/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer progression is known to be accompanied by changes in tissue stiffness. Previous studies have primarily employed immortalized cell lines and 2D hydrogel substrates, which do not recapitulate the 3D tumor niche. How matrix stiffness affects patient-derived cancer cell fate in 3D remains unclear. In this study, we report a matrix metalloproteinase-degradable poly(ethylene-glycol)-based hydrogel platform with brain-mimicking biochemical cues and tunable stiffness (40-26,600 Pa) for 3D culture of patient-derived glioblastoma xenograft (PDTX GBM) cells. Our results demonstrate that decreasing hydrogel stiffness enhanced PDTX GBM cell proliferation, and hydrogels with stiffness 240 Pa and below supported robust PDTX GBM cell spreading in 3D. PDTX GBM cells encapsulated in hydrogels demonstrated higher drug resistance than 2D control, and increasing hydrogel stiffness further enhanced drug resistance. Such 3D hydrogel platforms may provide a valuable tool for mechanistic studies of the role of niche cues in modulating cancer progression for different cancer types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Wang
- Department of Bioengineering, Schools of Engineering and Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Sauradeep Sinha
- Department of Bioengineering, Schools of Engineering and Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Xinyi Jiang
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Luke Murphy
- Department of Bioengineering, Schools of Engineering and Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Sergio Fitch
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Christy Wilson
- Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University, School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Gerald Grant
- Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University, School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Fan Yang
- Department of Bioengineering, Schools of Engineering and Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
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23
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Richbourg NR, Wancura M, Gilchrist AE, Toubbeh S, Harley BAC, Cosgriff-Hernandez E, Peppas NA. Precise control of synthetic hydrogel network structure via linear, independent synthesis-swelling relationships. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2021; 7:eabe3245. [PMID: 33579714 PMCID: PMC7880590 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abe3245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2020] [Accepted: 12/23/2020] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Hydrogel physical properties are tuned by altering synthesis conditions such as initial polymer concentration and polymer-cross-linker stoichiometric ratios. Traditionally, differences in hydrogel synthesis schemes, such as end-linked poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate hydrogels and cross-linked poly(vinyl alcohol) hydrogels, limit structural comparison between hydrogels. In this study, we use generalized synthesis variables for hydrogels that emphasize how changes in formulation affect the resulting network structure. We identify two independent linear correlations between these synthesis variables and swelling behavior. Analysis through recently updated swollen polymer network models suggests that synthesis-swelling correlations can be used to make a priori predictions of the stiffness and solute diffusivity characteristics of synthetic hydrogels. The same experiments and analyses performed on methacrylamide-modified gelatin hydrogels demonstrate that complex biopolymer structures disrupt the linear synthesis-swelling correlations. These studies provide insight into the control of hydrogel physical properties through structural design and can be used to implement and optimize biomedically relevant hydrogels.
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Affiliation(s)
- N R Richbourg
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Texas, Austin, TX 78712, USA
- Institute for Biomaterials, Drug Delivery, and Regenerative Medicine, University of Texas, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - M Wancura
- Department of Chemistry, University of Texas, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - A E Gilchrist
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - S Toubbeh
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Texas, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - B A C Harley
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
- Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
- Cancer Center at Illinois, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - E Cosgriff-Hernandez
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Texas, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - N A Peppas
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Texas, Austin, TX 78712, USA.
- Institute for Biomaterials, Drug Delivery, and Regenerative Medicine, University of Texas, Austin, TX 78712, USA
- McKetta Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Texas, Austin, TX 78712, USA
- Division of Molecular Therapeutics and Drug Delivery, College of Pharmacy, University of Texas, Austin, TX 78712, USA
- Departments of Surgery and Pediatrics, Dell Medical School, University of Texas, Austin, TX 78712, USA
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Blanco‐Fernandez B, Gaspar VM, Engel E, Mano JF. Proteinaceous Hydrogels for Bioengineering Advanced 3D Tumor Models. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2021; 8:2003129. [PMID: 33643799 PMCID: PMC7887602 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202003129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2020] [Revised: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
The establishment of tumor microenvironment using biomimetic in vitro models that recapitulate key tumor hallmarks including the tumor supporting extracellular matrix (ECM) is in high demand for accelerating the discovery and preclinical validation of more effective anticancer therapeutics. To date, ECM-mimetic hydrogels have been widely explored for 3D in vitro disease modeling owing to their bioactive properties that can be further adapted to the biochemical and biophysical properties of native tumors. Gathering on this momentum, herein the current landscape of intrinsically bioactive protein and peptide hydrogels that have been employed for 3D tumor modeling are discussed. Initially, the importance of recreating such microenvironment and the main considerations for generating ECM-mimetic 3D hydrogel in vitro tumor models are showcased. A comprehensive discussion focusing protein, peptide, or hybrid ECM-mimetic platforms employed for modeling cancer cells/stroma cross-talk and for the preclinical evaluation of candidate anticancer therapies is also provided. Further development of tumor-tunable, proteinaceous or peptide 3D microtesting platforms with microenvironment-specific biophysical and biomolecular cues will contribute to better mimic the in vivo scenario, and improve the predictability of preclinical screening of generalized or personalized therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Blanco‐Fernandez
- Department of Chemistry, CICECO – Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of AveiroCampus Universitário de SantiagoAveiro3810‐193Portugal
- Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC)The Barcelona Institute of Science and TechnologyBaldiri Reixac 10–12Barcelona08028Spain
| | - Vítor M. Gaspar
- Department of Chemistry, CICECO – Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of AveiroCampus Universitário de SantiagoAveiro3810‐193Portugal
| | - Elisabeth Engel
- Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC)The Barcelona Institute of Science and TechnologyBaldiri Reixac 10–12Barcelona08028Spain
- Materials Science and Metallurgical EngineeringPolytechnical University of Catalonia (UPC)Eduard Maristany 16Barcelona08019Spain
- CIBER en BioingenieríaBiomateriales y NanomedicinaCIBER‐BBNMadrid28029Spain
| | - João F. Mano
- Department of Chemistry, CICECO – Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of AveiroCampus Universitário de SantiagoAveiro3810‐193Portugal
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25
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Barnhouse V, Petrikas N, Crosby C, Zoldan J, Harley B. Perivascular Secretome Influences Hematopoietic Stem Cell Maintenance in a Gelatin Hydrogel. Ann Biomed Eng 2021; 49:780-792. [PMID: 32939609 PMCID: PMC7854499 DOI: 10.1007/s10439-020-02602-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Adult hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) produce the body's full complement of blood and immune cells. They reside in specialized microenvironments, or niches, within the bone marrow. The perivascular niche near blood vessels is believed to help maintain primitive HSCs in an undifferentiated state but demonstration of this effect is difficult. In vivo studies make it challenging to determine the direct effect of the endosteal and perivascular niches as they can be in close proximity, and two-dimensional in vitro cultures often lack an instructive extracellular matrix environment. We describe a tissue engineering approach to develop and characterize a three-dimensional perivascular tissue model to investigate the influence of the perivascular secretome on HSC behavior. We generate 3D endothelial networks in methacrylamide-functionalized gelatin hydrogels using human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs). We identify a subset of secreted factors important for HSC function, and examine the response of primary murine HSCs in hydrogels to the perivascular secretome. Within 4 days of culture, perivascular conditioned media promoted maintenance of a greater fraction of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells. This work represents an important first-generation perivascular model to investigate the role of niche secreted factors on the maintenance of primary HSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Barnhouse
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
| | - Nathan Petrikas
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 110 Roger Adams Laboratory, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
- Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
| | - Cody Crosby
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, USA
| | - Janet Zoldan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, USA
| | - Brendan Harley
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 110 Roger Adams Laboratory, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA.
- Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA.
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26
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Pibuel MA, Poodts D, Díaz M, Hajos SE, Lompardía SL. The scrambled story between hyaluronan and glioblastoma. J Biol Chem 2021; 296:100549. [PMID: 33744285 PMCID: PMC8050860 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2021.100549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Revised: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Advances in cancer biology are revealing the importance of the cancer cell microenvironment on tumorigenesis and cancer progression. Hyaluronan (HA), the main glycosaminoglycan in the extracellular matrix, has been associated with the progression of glioblastoma (GBM), the most frequent and lethal primary tumor in the central nervous system, for several decades. However, the mechanisms by which HA impacts GBM properties and processes have been difficult to elucidate. In this review, we provide a comprehensive assessment of the current knowledge on HA's effects on GBM biology, introducing its primary receptors CD44 and RHAMM and the plethora of relevant downstream signaling pathways that can scramble efforts to directly link HA activity to biological outcomes. We consider the complexities of studying an extracellular polymer and the different strategies used to try to capture its function, including 2D and 3D in vitro studies, patient samples, and in vivo models. Given that HA affects not only migration and invasion, but also cell proliferation, adherence, and chemoresistance, we highlight the potential role of HA as a therapeutic target. Finally, we review the different existing approaches to diminish its protumor effects, such as the use of 4-methylumbelliferone, HA oligomers, and hyaluronidases and encourage further research along these lines in order to improve the survival and quality of life of GBM patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matías Arturo Pibuel
- Departamento de Microbiología, Inmunología, Biotecnología y Genética, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Instituto de Estudios de la Inmunidad Humoral (IDEHU)-CONICET, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Capital Federal, Argentina.
| | - Daniela Poodts
- Departamento de Microbiología, Inmunología, Biotecnología y Genética, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Instituto de Estudios de la Inmunidad Humoral (IDEHU)-CONICET, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Capital Federal, Argentina
| | - Mariángeles Díaz
- Instituto de Estudios de la Inmunidad Humoral (IDEHU)-CONICET, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Capital Federal, Argentina
| | - Silvia Elvira Hajos
- Departamento de Microbiología, Inmunología, Biotecnología y Genética, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Instituto de Estudios de la Inmunidad Humoral (IDEHU)-CONICET, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Capital Federal, Argentina
| | - Silvina Laura Lompardía
- Departamento de Microbiología, Inmunología, Biotecnología y Genética, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Instituto de Estudios de la Inmunidad Humoral (IDEHU)-CONICET, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Capital Federal, Argentina.
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27
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Zambuto SG, Clancy KBH, Harley BAC. Tuning Trophoblast Motility in a Gelatin Hydrogel via Soluble Cues from the Maternal-Fetal Interface. Tissue Eng Part A 2020; 27:1064-1073. [PMID: 33216701 DOI: 10.1089/ten.tea.2020.0097] [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] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Trophoblast cells play multiple critical roles in pregnancy, notably modulating blastocyst attachment to the endometrium as well as invading into and actively remodeling the endometrium to facilitate biotransport needs of the growing embryo. Despite the importance of trophoblast invasion for processes essential at early stages of pregnancy, much remains unknown regarding the balance of signaling molecules that may influence trophoblast invasion into the endometrium. The goal of this study was to use three-dimensional trophoblast spheroid motility assays to examine the effect of cues from the maternal-fetal interface on trophoblast motility. We report use of a methacrylamide-functionalized gelatin hydrogel to support quantitative analysis of trophoblast outgrowth area and cell viability. We show that this multidimensional model of trophoblast motility can resolve quantifiable differences in outgrowth area and viability in the presence of a known invasion promoter, epidermal growth factor, and a known invasion inhibitor, transforming growth factor β1. We then investigate the sensitivity of trophoblast motility to cortisol, a hormone associated with exogenous stressors. Together, this approach provides a toolset to investigate the coordinated action of physiological and pathophysiological processes on early stages of trophoblast invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha G Zambuto
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
| | - Kathryn B H Clancy
- Department of Anthropology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA.,Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
| | - Brendan A C Harley
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA.,Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
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28
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Chen JWE, Lumibao J, Leary S, Sarkaria JN, Steelman AJ, Gaskins HR, Harley BAC. Crosstalk between microglia and patient-derived glioblastoma cells inhibit invasion in a three-dimensional gelatin hydrogel model. J Neuroinflammation 2020; 17:346. [PMID: 33208156 PMCID: PMC7677841 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-020-02026-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Glioblastoma is the most common and deadly form of primary brain cancer, accounting for more than 13,000 new diagnoses annually in the USA alone. Microglia are the innate immune cells within the central nervous system, acting as a front-line defense against injuries and inflammation via a process that involves transformation from a quiescent to an activated phenotype. Crosstalk between GBM cells and microglia represents an important axis to consider in the development of tissue engineering platforms to examine pathophysiological processes underlying GBM progression and therapy. METHODS This work used a brain-mimetic hydrogel system to study patient-derived glioblastoma specimens and their interactions with microglia. Here, glioblastoma cells were either cultured alone in 3D hydrogels or in co-culture with microglia in a manner that allowed secretome-based signaling but prevented direct GBM-microglia contact. Patterns of GBM cell invasion were quantified using a three-dimensional spheroid assay. Secretome and transcriptome (via RNAseq) were used to profile the consequences of GBM-microglia interactions. RESULTS Microglia displayed an activated phenotype as a result of GBM crosstalk. Three-dimensional migration patterns of patient-derived glioblastoma cells showed invasion was significantly decreased in response to microglia paracrine signaling. Potential molecular mechanisms underlying with this phenotype were identified from bioinformatic analysis of secretome and RNAseq data. CONCLUSION The data demonstrate a tissue engineered hydrogel platform can be used to investigate crosstalk between immune cells of the tumor microenvironment related to GBM progression. Such multi-dimensional models may provide valuable insight to inform therapeutic innovations to improve GBM treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jee-Wei Emily Chen
- Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
- Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
| | - Jan Lumibao
- Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
- Current Address: Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Sarah Leary
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
| | - Jann N Sarkaria
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Andrew J Steelman
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 110 Roger Adams Laboratory, 600 S. Mathews Ave, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
| | - H Rex Gaskins
- Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 110 Roger Adams Laboratory, 600 S. Mathews Ave, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
- Cancer Center at Illinois, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 110 Roger Adams Laboratory, 600 S. Mathews Ave, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
| | - Brendan A C Harley
- Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA.
- Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA.
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA.
- Cancer Center at Illinois, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 110 Roger Adams Laboratory, 600 S. Mathews Ave, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA.
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29
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Zambuto SG, Clancy KBH, Harley BAC. Tuning trophoblast motility in a gelatin hydrogel via soluble cues from the maternal-fetal interface. Tissue Eng Part A 2020:ten.SIWH.2020.0097. [PMID: 33076787 DOI: 10.1089/ten.siwh.2020.0097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Trophoblast cells play multiple critical roles in pregnancy, notably modulating blastocyst attachment to the endometrium as well as invading into and actively remodeling the endometrium to facilitate biotransport needs of the growing embryo. Despite the importance of trophoblast invasion for processes essential at early stages of pregnancy, much remains unknown regarding the balance of signaling molecules that may influence trophoblast invasion into the endometrium. The goal of this study was to use three-dimensional trophoblast spheroid motility assays to examine the effect of cues from the maternal-fetal interface on trophoblast motility. We report use of a methacrylamide-functionalized gelatin (GelMA) hydrogel to support quantitative analysis of trophoblast outgrowth area and cell viability. We show this multidimensional model of trophoblast motility can resolve quantifiable differences in outgrowth area and viability in the presence of a known invasion promoter, epidermal growth factor, and a known invasion inhibitor, transforming growth factor β1. We then investigate the sensitivity of trophoblast motility to cortisol, a hormone associated with exogenous stressors. Together, this approach provides a toolset to investigate the coordinated action of physiological and pathophysiological processes on early stages of trophoblast invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha G Zambuto
- University of Illinois, Bioengineering, Urbana, Illinois, United States;
| | | | - Brendan A C Harley
- University of Illinois, Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, 110 RAL, MC-712, Box C-3, 600 S. Mathews Ave, Urbana, Illinois, United States, 61801;
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30
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Wang C, Sinha S, Jiang X, Fitch S, Wilson C, Caretti V, Ponnuswami A, Monje M, Grant G, Yang F. A comparative study of brain tumor cells from different age and anatomical locations using 3D biomimetic hydrogels. Acta Biomater 2020; 116:201-208. [PMID: 32911104 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2020.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2020] [Revised: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Brain tumors exhibit vast genotypic and phenotypic diversity depending on patient age and anatomical location. Hydrogels hold great promise as 3D in vitro models for studying brain tumor biology and drug screening, yet previous studies were limited to adult glioblastoma cells, and most studies used immortalized cell lines. Here we report a hydrogel platform that supports the proliferation and invasion of patient-derived brain tumor cell cultures (PDCs) isolated from different patient age groups and anatomical locations. Hydrogel stiffness was tuned by varying poly(ethylene-glycol) concentration. Cell adhesive peptide (CGRDS), hyaluronic acid, and MMP-cleavable crosslinkers were incorporated to facilitate cell adhesion and cell-mediated degradation. Three PDC lines were compared including adult glioblastoma cells (aGBM), pediatric glioblastoma cells (pGBM), and diffuse pontine intrinsic glioma (DIPG). A commonly used immortalized adult glioblastoma cell line U87 was included as a control. PDCs displayed stiffness-dependent behavior, with 40 Pa hydrogel promoting faster tumor proliferation and invasion. Adult GBM cells exhibited faster proliferation than pediatric GBM, and DIPG showed slowest proliferation. These results suggest both patient age and tumor location affects brain tumor behaviors. Adult GBM PDCs also exhibited very different cell proliferation and morphology from U87. The hydrogel reported here can provide a useful tool for future studies to better understand how age and anatomical locations impacts brain tumor progression using 3D in vitro models.
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31
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Gilchrist AE, Harley BA. Connecting secretome to hematopoietic stem cell phenotype shifts in an engineered bone marrow niche. Integr Biol (Camb) 2020; 12:175-187. [PMID: 32556172 PMCID: PMC7384206 DOI: 10.1093/intbio/zyaa013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2020] [Revised: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 05/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) primarily reside in the bone marrow, where they receive external cues from their local microenvironment. The complex milieu of biophysical cues, cellular components and cell-secreted factors regulates the process by which HSC produce the blood and immune system. We previously showed direct coculture of primary murine hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells with a population of marrow-derived mesenchymal stromal and progenitor cells (MSPCs) in a methacrylamide-functionalized gelatin (GelMA) hydrogel improves hematopoietic progenitor maintenance. However, the mechanism by which MSPCs influenced HSC fate decisions remained unknown. Herein, we report the use of proteomic analysis to correlate HSC phenotype to a broad candidate pool of 200 soluble factors produced by combined mesenchymal and hematopoietic progeny. Partial least squares regression (PLSR), along with an iterative filter method, identified TGFβ-1, MMP-3, c-RP and TROY as positively correlated with HSC maintenance. Experimentally, we then observe exogenous stimulation of HSC monocultures in GelMA hydrogels with these combined cytokines increases the ratio of hematopoietic progenitors to committed progeny after a 7-day culture 7.52 ± 3.65-fold compared to non-stimulated monocultures. Findings suggest a cocktail of the downselected cytokines amplifies hematopoietic maintenance potential of HSCs beyond that of MSPC-secreted factors alone. This work integrates empirical and computation methods to identify cytokine combinations to improve HSC maintenance within an engineered HSC niche, suggesting a route toward identifying feeder-free culture platforms for HSC expansion. Insight Hematopoietic stem cells within an artificial niche receive maintenance cues in the form of soluble factors from hematopoietic and mesenchymal progeny. Applying a proteomic regression analysis, we identify a reduced set of soluble factors correlated to maintenance of a hematopoietic phenotype during culture in a biomaterial model of the bone marrow niche. We identify a minimum factor cocktail that promotes hematopoietic maintenance potential in a gelatin-based culture, regardless of the presence of mesenchymal feeder cells. By combining empirical and computational methods, we report an experimentally feasible number of factors from a large dataset, enabling exogenous integration of soluble factors into an engineered hematopoietic stem cell for enhanced maintenance potential of a quiescent stem cell population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aidan E. Gilchrist
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Brendan A.C. Harley
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
- Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
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32
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Mamer SB, Page P, Murphy M, Wang J, Gallerne P, Ansari A, Imoukhuede PI. The Convergence of Cell-Based Surface Plasmon Resonance and Biomaterials: The Future of Quantifying Bio-molecular Interactions-A Review. Ann Biomed Eng 2020; 48:2078-2089. [PMID: 31811474 PMCID: PMC8637426 DOI: 10.1007/s10439-019-02429-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2019] [Accepted: 11/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Cell biology is driven by complex networks of biomolecular interactions. Characterizing the kinetic and thermodynamic properties of these interactions is crucial to understanding their role in different physiological processes. Surface plasmon resonance (SPR)-based approaches have become a key tool in quantifying biomolecular interactions, however conventional approaches require isolating the interacting components from the cellular system. Cell-based SPR approaches have recently emerged, promising to enable precise measurements of biomolecular interactions within their normal biological context. Two major approaches have been developed, offering their own advantages and limitations. These approaches currently lack a systematic exploration of 'best practices' like those existing for traditional SPR experiments. Toward this end, we describe the two major approaches, and identify the experimental parameters that require exploration, and discuss the experimental considerations constraining the optimization of each. In particular, we discuss the requirements of future biomaterial development needed to advance the cell-based SPR technique.
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Affiliation(s)
- Spencer B Mamer
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | | | | | - Jiaojiao Wang
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Pierrick Gallerne
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
- Ecole Centrale de Lille, Villeneuve d'Ascq, Hauts-De-France, France
| | - Ali Ansari
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - P I Imoukhuede
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA.
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33
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Dubbin K, Robertson C, Hinckley A, Alvarado JA, Gilmore SF, Hynes WF, Wheeler EK, Moya ML. Macromolecular gelatin properties affect fibrin microarchitecture and tumor spheroid behavior in fibrin-gelatin gels. Biomaterials 2020; 250:120035. [PMID: 32334200 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2020.120035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2020] [Revised: 03/24/2020] [Accepted: 04/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
The biophysical properties of extracellular matrices (ECM) are known to regulate cell behavior, however decoupling cell behavior changes due to the relative contributions of material microstructure versus biomechanics or nutrient permeability remains challenging, especially within complex, multi-material matrices. We developed four gelatin-fibrin interpenetrating network (IPN) formulations which are identical in composition but possess variable gelatin molecular weight distributions, and display differences in microstructure, biomechanics, and diffusivity. In this work we interrogate the response of multicellular tumor spheroids to these IPN formulations and found that a high stiffness, gelatin-network dominated IPNs impeded remodeling and invasion of multicellular tumor spheroids; whereas relatively lower stiffness, fibrin-network dominated IPNs permitted protease-dependent remodeling and spheroid invasion. Cell proliferation correlated to nutrient diffusivity across tested IPN formulations. These findings demonstrate the complexity of ECM IPNs, relative to single polymer matrices, and highlight that cell response does not derive from a single aspect of the ECM, but rather from the interplay of multiple biomechanical properties. The methodology developed here represents a framework for future studies which aim to characterize cellular phenotypic responses to biophysical cues present within complex, multi-material matrices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Dubbin
- Engineering Directorate, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA, USA
| | - Claire Robertson
- Engineering Directorate, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA, USA
| | - Aubree Hinckley
- Physical and Life Sciences Directorate, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA, USA
| | - Javier A Alvarado
- Engineering Directorate, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA, USA
| | - Sean F Gilmore
- Physical and Life Sciences Directorate, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA, USA
| | - William F Hynes
- Engineering Directorate, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA, USA
| | - Elizabeth K Wheeler
- Engineering Directorate, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA, USA
| | - Monica L Moya
- Engineering Directorate, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA, USA.
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Dundar B, Markwell SM, Sharma NV, Olson CL, Mukherjee S, Brat DJ. Methods for in vitro modeling of glioma invasion: Choosing tools to meet the need. Glia 2020; 68:2173-2191. [PMID: 32134155 DOI: 10.1002/glia.23813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2019] [Revised: 01/24/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Widespread tumor cell invasion is a fundamental property of diffuse gliomas and is ultimately responsible for their poor prognosis. A greater understanding of basic mechanisms underlying glioma invasion is needed to provide insights into therapies that could potentially counteract them. While none of the currently available in vitro models can fully recapitulate the complex interactions of glioma cells within the brain tumor microenvironment, if chosen and developed appropriately, these models can provide controlled experimental settings to study molecular and cellular phenomena that are challenging or impossible to model in vivo. Therefore, selecting the most appropriate in vitro model, together with its inherent advantages and limitations, for specific hypotheses and experimental questions achieves primary significance. In this review, we describe and discuss commonly used methods for modeling and studying glioma invasion in vitro, including platforms, matrices, cell culture, and visualization techniques, so that choices for experimental approach are informed and optimal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bilge Dundar
- Department of Pathology, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Steven M Markwell
- Department of Pathology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Nitya V Sharma
- Department of Pathology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Cheryl L Olson
- Department of Pathology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Subhas Mukherjee
- Department of Pathology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Daniel J Brat
- Department of Pathology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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35
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Grigoryan B, Paulsen SJ, Corbett DC, Sazer DW, Fortin CL, Zaita AJ, Greenfield PT, Calafat NJ, Gounley JP, Ta AH, Johansson F, Randles A, Rosenkrantz JE, Louis-Rosenberg JD, Galie PA, Stevens KR, Miller JS. Multivascular networks and functional intravascular topologies within biocompatible hydrogels. Science 2019; 364:458-464. [PMID: 31048486 DOI: 10.1126/science.aav9750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 670] [Impact Index Per Article: 134.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2018] [Accepted: 04/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Solid organs transport fluids through distinct vascular networks that are biophysically and biochemically entangled, creating complex three-dimensional (3D) transport regimes that have remained difficult to produce and study. We establish intravascular and multivascular design freedoms with photopolymerizable hydrogels by using food dye additives as biocompatible yet potent photoabsorbers for projection stereolithography. We demonstrate monolithic transparent hydrogels, produced in minutes, comprising efficient intravascular 3D fluid mixers and functional bicuspid valves. We further elaborate entangled vascular networks from space-filling mathematical topologies and explore the oxygenation and flow of human red blood cells during tidal ventilation and distension of a proximate airway. In addition, we deploy structured biodegradable hydrogel carriers in a rodent model of chronic liver injury to highlight the potential translational utility of this materials innovation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bagrat Grigoryan
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA
| | | | - Daniel C Corbett
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA.,Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Daniel W Sazer
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA
| | - Chelsea L Fortin
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA.,Department of Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Alexander J Zaita
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA
| | - Paul T Greenfield
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA
| | | | - John P Gounley
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA
| | - Anderson H Ta
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA
| | - Fredrik Johansson
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA.,Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Amanda Randles
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA
| | | | | | - Peter A Galie
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rowan University, Glassboro, NJ 08028, USA
| | - Kelly R Stevens
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA. .,Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA.,Department of Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Jordan S Miller
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA.
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36
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Zambuto SG, Clancy KBH, Harley BAC. A gelatin hydrogel to study endometrial angiogenesis and trophoblast invasion. Interface Focus 2019; 9:20190016. [PMID: 31485309 PMCID: PMC6710659 DOI: 10.1098/rsfs.2019.0016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The endometrium is the lining of the uterus and site of blastocyst implantation. Each menstrual cycle, the endometrium cycles through rapid phases of growth, remodelling and breakdown. Significant vascular remodelling is also driven by trophoblast cells that form the outer layer of the blastocyst. Trophoblast invasion and remodelling enhance blood flow to the embryo ahead of placentation. Understanding the mechanisms of endometrial vascular remodelling and trophoblast invasion would provide key insights into endometrial physiology and cellular interactions critical for establishment of pregnancy. The objective of this study was to develop a tissue engineering platform to investigate the processes of endometrial angiogenesis and trophoblast invasion in a three-dimensional environment. We report adaptation of a methacrylamide-functionalized gelatin hydrogel that presents matrix stiffness in the range of the native tissue, supports the formation of endometrial endothelial cell networks with human umbilical vein endothelial cells and human endometrial stromal cells as an artificial endometrial perivascular niche and the culture of an endometrial epithelial cell layer, enables culture of a hormone-responsive stromal compartment and provides the capacity to monitor the kinetics of trophoblast invasion. With these studies, we provide a series of techniques that will instruct researchers in the development of endometrial models of increasing complexity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha G. Zambuto
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Kathryn B. H. Clancy
- Department of Anthropology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
- Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Brendan A. C. Harley
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
- Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
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37
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Gilchrist AE, Lee S, Hu Y, Harley BA. Soluble Signals and Remodeling in a Synthetic Gelatin-Based Hematopoietic Stem Cell Niche. Adv Healthc Mater 2019; 8:e1900751. [PMID: 31532901 PMCID: PMC6813872 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.201900751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2019] [Revised: 08/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) reside in the bone marrow within niches that provide microenvironmental signals in the form of biophysical cues, bound and diffusible biomolecules, and heterotypic cell-cell interactions that influence HSC fate decisions. This study seeks to inform the development of a synthetic culture platform that promotes ex vivo HSC expansion without exhaustion. A library of methacrylamide-functionalized gelatin (GelMA) hydrogels is used to explore remodeling and crosstalk from mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) on the expansion and quiescence of murine HSCs. The use of a degradable GelMA hydrogel enables MSC-mediated remodeling, yielding dynamic shifts in the matrix environment over time. An initially low-diffusivity hydrogel for co-culture of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells to MSCs facilitates maintenance of an early progenitor cell population over 7 days. Excitingly, this platform promotes retention of a quiescent HSC population compared to HSC monocultures. These studies reveal MSC-density-dependent upregulation of MMP-9 and changes in hydrogel mechanical properties (ΔE = 2.61 ± 0.72) suggesting MSC-mediated matrix remodeling may contribute to a dynamic culture environment. Herein, a 3D hydrogel is reported for ex vivo HSC culture, in which HSC expansion and quiescence is sensitive to hydrogel properties, MSC co-culture, and MSC-mediated hydrogel remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aidan E. Gilchrist
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Urbana, IL 61801
| | - Sunho Lee
- Department of Mechanical Science and Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Urbana, IL 61801
| | - Yuhang Hu
- Department of Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology Atlanta, GA 30332
| | - Brendan A.C. Harley
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Urbana, IL 61801
- Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Urbana, IL 61801
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38
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Wolf KJ, Chen J, Coombes J, Aghi MK, Kumar S. Dissecting and rebuilding the glioblastoma microenvironment with engineered materials. NATURE REVIEWS. MATERIALS 2019; 4:651-668. [PMID: 32647587 PMCID: PMC7347297 DOI: 10.1038/s41578-019-0135-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/24/2019] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most aggressive and common form of primary brain cancer. Several decades of research have provided great insight into GBM progression; however, the prognosis remains poor with a median patient survival time of ~ 15 months. The tumour microenvironment (TME) of GBM plays a crucial role in mediating tumour progression and thus is being explored as a therapeutic target. Progress in the development of treatments targeting the TME is currently limited by a lack of model systems that can accurately recreate the distinct extracellular matrix composition and anatomic features of the brain, such as the blood-brain barrier and axonal tracts. Biomaterials can be applied to develop synthetic models of the GBM TME to mimic physiological and pathophysiological features of the brain, including cellular and ECM composition, mechanical properties, and topography. In this Review, we summarize key features of the GBM microenvironment and discuss different strategies for the engineering of GBM TME models, including 2D and 3D models featuring chemical and mechanical gradients, interfaces and fluid flow. Finally, we highlight the potential of engineered TME models as platforms for mechanistic discovery and drug screening as well as preclinical testing and precision medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kayla J. Wolf
- University of California, Berkeley – University of California, San Francisco Graduate Program in Bioengineering, Berkeley, California, 94720, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California, 94720, USA
| | - Joseph Chen
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California, 94720, USA
| | - Jason Coombes
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California, 94720, USA
- Division of Transplantation Immunology and Mucosal Biology, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Manish K. Aghi
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of California San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco, California, 94158
| | - Sanjay Kumar
- University of California, Berkeley – University of California, San Francisco Graduate Program in Bioengineering, Berkeley, California, 94720, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California, 94720, USA
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California, 94720, USA
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Wu Y, Fu R, Mohanty S, Nasser M, Guo B, Ghosh G. Investigation of Integrated Effects of Hydroxyapatite and VEGF on Capillary Morphogenesis of Endothelial Cells. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2019; 2:2339-2346. [DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.8b00780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yang Wu
- Bioengineering Program, Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Michigan, Dearborn, 4901 Evergreen Road, Dearborn, Michigan 48128, United States
| | - Rong Fu
- Bioengineering Program, Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Michigan, Dearborn, 4901 Evergreen Road, Dearborn, Michigan 48128, United States
| | - Swetaparna Mohanty
- Bioengineering Program, Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Michigan, Dearborn, 4901 Evergreen Road, Dearborn, Michigan 48128, United States
| | - Malak Nasser
- Bioengineering Program, Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Michigan, Dearborn, 4901 Evergreen Road, Dearborn, Michigan 48128, United States
| | - Bingxin Guo
- Bioengineering Program, Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Michigan, Dearborn, 4901 Evergreen Road, Dearborn, Michigan 48128, United States
| | - Gargi Ghosh
- Bioengineering Program, Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Michigan, Dearborn, 4901 Evergreen Road, Dearborn, Michigan 48128, United States
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40
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Kaphle P, Li Y, Yao L. The mechanical and pharmacological regulation of glioblastoma cell migration in 3D matrices. J Cell Physiol 2019; 234:3948-3960. [PMID: 30132879 PMCID: PMC8006216 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.27209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2018] [Accepted: 07/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The invasion of glioblastoma is a complex process based on the interactions of tumor cells and the extracellular matrix. Tumors that are engineered using biomaterials are more physiologically relevant than a two-dimensional (2D) cell culture system. Matrix metalloproteinases and the plasminogen activator generated by tumor cells regulate a tumor's invasive behavior. In this study, microtumors were fabricated by encapsulating U87 glioma cells in Type I collagen and then glioma cell migration in the collagen hydrogels was investigated. Crosslinking of collagen with 8S-StarPEG increased the hydrogel viscosity and reduced the tumor cell migration speed in the hydrogels. The higher migration speed corresponded to the increased gene expression of MMP-2, MMP-9, urokinase plasminogen activator (uPA), and tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) in glioma cells grown in non-crosslinked collagen hydrogels. Inhibitors of these molecules hindered U87 and A172 cell migration in collagen hydrogels. Aprotinin and tranexamic acid did not inhibit U87 and A172 migration on the culture dish. This study demonstrated the differential effect of pharmacologic molecules on tumor cell motility in either a 2D or three-dimensional culture environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pranita Kaphle
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wichita State University, Fairmount 1845, Wichita, KS, 67260, USA
| | - Yongchao Li
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wichita State University, Fairmount 1845, Wichita, KS, 67260, USA
| | - Li Yao
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wichita State University, Fairmount 1845, Wichita, KS, 67260, USA
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41
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Ngo MT, Harley BAC. Perivascular signals alter global gene expression profile of glioblastoma and response to temozolomide in a gelatin hydrogel. Biomaterials 2019; 198:122-134. [PMID: 29941152 DOI: 10.1101/273763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2018] [Revised: 05/30/2018] [Accepted: 06/10/2018] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common primary malignant brain tumor, with patients exhibiting poor survival (median survival time: 15 months). Difficulties in treating GBM include not only the inability to resect the diffusively-invading tumor cells, but also therapeutic resistance. The perivascular niche (PVN) within the GBM tumor microenvironment contributes significantly to tumor cell invasion, cancer stem cell maintenance, and has been shown to protect tumor cells from radiation and chemotherapy. In this study, we examine how the inclusion of non-tumor cells in culture with tumor cells within a hydrogel impacts the overall gene expression profile of an in vitro artificial perivascular niche (PVN) comprised of endothelial and stromal cells directly cultured with GBM tumor cells within a methacrylamide-functionalized gelatin hydrogel. Using RNA-seq, we demonstrate that genes related to angiogenesis and extracellular matrix remodeling are upregulated in the PVN model compared to hydrogels containing only tumor or perivascular niche cells, while downregulated genes are related to cell cycle and DNA damage repair. Signaling pathways and genes commonly implicated in GBM malignancy, such as MGMT, EGFR, PI3K-Akt signaling, and Ras/MAPK signaling are also upregulated in the PVN model. We describe the kinetics of gene expression within the PVN hydrogels over a course of 14 days, observing the patterns associated with tumor cell-mediated endothelial network co-option and regression. We finally examine the effect of temozolomide, a frontline chemotherapy used clinically against GBM, on the PVN culture. Notably, the PVN model is less responsive to TMZ compared to hydrogels containing only tumor cells. Overall, these results demonstrate that inclusion of cellular and matrix-associated elements of the PVN within an in vitro model of GBM allows for the development of gene expression patterns and therapeutic response relevant to GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mai T Ngo
- Dept. Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
| | - Brendan A C Harley
- Dept. Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA; Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA.
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42
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43
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Swaminathan S, Hamid Q, Sun W, Clyne AM. Bioprinting of 3D breast epithelial spheroids for human cancer models. Biofabrication 2019; 11:025003. [PMID: 30616234 PMCID: PMC7731635 DOI: 10.1088/1758-5090/aafc49] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
3D human cancer models provide a better platform for drug efficacy studies than conventional 2D culture, since they recapitulate important aspects of the in vivo microenvironment. While biofabrication has advanced model creation, bioprinting generally involves extruding individual cells in a bioink and then waiting for these cells to self-assemble into a hierarchical 3D tissue. This self-assembly is time consuming and requires complex cellular interactions with other cell types, extracellular matrix components, and growth factors. We therefore investigated if we could directly bioprint pre-formed 3D spheroids in alginate-based bioinks to create a model tissue that could be used almost immediately. Human breast epithelial cell lines were bioprinted as individual cells or as pre-formed spheroids, either in monoculture or co-culture with vascular endothelial cells. While individual breast cells only spontaneously formed spheroids in Matrigel-based bioink, pre-formed breast spheroids maintained their viability, architecture, and function after bioprinting. Bioprinted breast spheroids were more resistant to paclitaxel than individually printed breast cells; however, this effect was abrogated by endothelial cell co-culture. This study shows that 3D cellular structure bioprinting has potential to create tissue models that quickly replicate the tumor microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swathi Swaminathan
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Mechanics, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States of America
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44
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Krishnamoorthy S, Zhang Z, Xu C. Biofabrication of three-dimensional cellular structures based on gelatin methacrylate-alginate interpenetrating network hydrogel. J Biomater Appl 2019; 33:1105-1117. [PMID: 30636494 DOI: 10.1177/0885328218823329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Hydrogels have been widely used as extracellular matrix materials in various three-dimensional bioprinting applications. However, they possess limitations such as insufficient mechanical integrity and strength, especially in the vascular applications requiring suture retention and tolerance of systemic intraluminal pressure. Interpenetrating network hydrogels are unique mixtures of two separate hydrogels with enhanced properties. This paper has demonstrated the fabrication of three-dimensional cellular constructs based on gelatin methacrylate-alginate interpenetrating network hydrogels using a microgel-assisted bioprinting method. Filament formation was investigated in terms of the filament diameter under different nozzle speed and dispensing pressure, and a phase diagram to identify the optimal conditions for continuous and uniform filaments was prepared. Three-dimensional hollow cellular constructs were fabricated and the cell viability was 75% after 24-hour incubation. The post-printing properties were characterized including mechanical properties, degradation and swelling properties, and pore size. The interpenetrating network hydrogels with different concentrations were compared with their individual components. It is found that the interpenetrating network hydrogels exhibit stronger mechanical properties, faster degradation and larger pore sizes than their individual components.
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Affiliation(s)
- Srikumar Krishnamoorthy
- 1 Department of Industrial, Manufacturing, and Systems Engineering, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX, USA
| | - Zhengyi Zhang
- 2 School of Naval Architecture and Ocean Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Changxue Xu
- 1 Department of Industrial, Manufacturing, and Systems Engineering, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX, USA
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45
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Palamà IE, D'Amone S, Cortese B. Microenvironmental Rigidity of 3D Scaffolds and Influence on Glioblastoma Cells: A Biomaterial Design Perspective. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2018; 6:131. [PMID: 30320080 PMCID: PMC6166390 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2018.00131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2018] [Accepted: 09/03/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Stefania D'Amone
- Nanotechnology Institute, CNR-Nanotechnology Institute, Lecce, Italy
| | - Barbara Cortese
- Nanotechnology Institute, CNR-Nanotechnology Institute, University La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
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46
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Ngo MT, Harley BAC. Perivascular signals alter global gene expression profile of glioblastoma and response to temozolomide in a gelatin hydrogel. Biomaterials 2018; 198:122-134. [PMID: 29941152 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2018.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2018] [Revised: 05/30/2018] [Accepted: 06/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common primary malignant brain tumor, with patients exhibiting poor survival (median survival time: 15 months). Difficulties in treating GBM include not only the inability to resect the diffusively-invading tumor cells, but also therapeutic resistance. The perivascular niche (PVN) within the GBM tumor microenvironment contributes significantly to tumor cell invasion, cancer stem cell maintenance, and has been shown to protect tumor cells from radiation and chemotherapy. In this study, we examine how the inclusion of non-tumor cells in culture with tumor cells within a hydrogel impacts the overall gene expression profile of an in vitro artificial perivascular niche (PVN) comprised of endothelial and stromal cells directly cultured with GBM tumor cells within a methacrylamide-functionalized gelatin hydrogel. Using RNA-seq, we demonstrate that genes related to angiogenesis and extracellular matrix remodeling are upregulated in the PVN model compared to hydrogels containing only tumor or perivascular niche cells, while downregulated genes are related to cell cycle and DNA damage repair. Signaling pathways and genes commonly implicated in GBM malignancy, such as MGMT, EGFR, PI3K-Akt signaling, and Ras/MAPK signaling are also upregulated in the PVN model. We describe the kinetics of gene expression within the PVN hydrogels over a course of 14 days, observing the patterns associated with tumor cell-mediated endothelial network co-option and regression. We finally examine the effect of temozolomide, a frontline chemotherapy used clinically against GBM, on the PVN culture. Notably, the PVN model is less responsive to TMZ compared to hydrogels containing only tumor cells. Overall, these results demonstrate that inclusion of cellular and matrix-associated elements of the PVN within an in vitro model of GBM allows for the development of gene expression patterns and therapeutic response relevant to GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mai T Ngo
- Dept. Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
| | - Brendan A C Harley
- Dept. Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA; Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA.
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47
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Chim LK, Mikos AG. Biomechanical forces in tissue engineered tumor models. CURRENT OPINION IN BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING 2018; 6:42-50. [PMID: 30276358 PMCID: PMC6162057 DOI: 10.1016/j.cobme.2018.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Solid tumors are complex three-dimensional (3D) networks of cancer and stromal cells within a dynamic extracellular matrix. Monolayer cultures fail to recapitulate the native microenvironment and therefore are poor candidates for pre-clinical drug studies and studying pathways in cancer. The tissue engineering toolkit allows us to make models that better recapitulate the 3D architecture present in tumors. Moreover, the role of the mechanical microenvironment, including matrix stiffness and shear stress from fluid flow, is known to contribute to cancer progression and drug resistance. We review recent developments in tissue engineered tumor models with a focus on the role of the biomechanical forces and propose future considerations to implement to improve physiological relevance of such models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Letitia K Chim
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, 6500 Main Street MS-142, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Antonios G Mikos
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, 6500 Main Street MS-142, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
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48
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Magariños AM, Pedron S, Creixell M, Kilinc M, Tabansky I, Pfaff DW, Harley BAC. The Feasibility of Encapsulated Embryonic Medullary Reticular Cells to Grow and Differentiate Into Neurons in Functionalized Gelatin-Based Hydrogels. FRONTIERS IN MATERIALS 2018; 5:40. [PMID: 30687706 PMCID: PMC6345411 DOI: 10.3389/fmats.2018.00040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
The study of the behavior of embryonic neurons in controlled in vitro conditions require methodologies that take advantage of advanced tissue engineering approaches to replicate elements of the developing brain extracellular matrix. We report here a series of experiments that explore the potential of photo-polymerized gelatin hydrogels to culture primary embryonic neurons. We employed large medullary reticular neurons whose activity is essential for brain arousal as well as a library of gelatin hydrogels that span a range of mechanical properties, inclusion of brain-mimetic hyaluronic acid, and adhesion peptides. These hydrogel platforms showed inherent capabilities to sustain neuronal viability and were permissive for neuronal differentiation, resulting in the development of neurite outgrowth under specific conditions. The maturation of embryonic medullary reticular cells took place in the absence of growth factors or other exogenous bioactive molecules. Immunocytochemistry labeling of neuron-specific tubulin confirmed the initiation of neural differentiation. Thus, this methodology provides an important validation for future studies of nerve cell growth and maintenance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana M. Magariños
- Laboratory of Neurobiology and Behavior, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Sara Pedron
- Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Marc Creixell
- Laboratory of Neurobiology and Behavior, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Murat Kilinc
- Laboratory of Neurobiology and Behavior, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Inna Tabansky
- Laboratory of Neurobiology and Behavior, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Donald W. Pfaff
- Laboratory of Neurobiology and Behavior, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Brendan A. C. Harley
- Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
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49
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Chen JWE, Lumibao J, Blazek A, Gaskins HR, Harley B. Hypoxia activates enhanced invasive potential and endogenous hyaluronic acid production by glioblastoma cells. Biomater Sci 2018; 6:854-862. [PMID: 29485655 PMCID: PMC5869158 DOI: 10.1039/c7bm01195d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common, aggressive, and deadly form of adult brain cancer, and is associated with a short survival rate (median 12-15 months, 5+ year less than 5%). The complex tumor microenvironment includes matrix transitions at the tumor margin, such as gradations in hyaluronic acid (HA). In addition, metabolic stress induced by decreased oxygen content across the tumor may contribute to tumor progression. However, cross-talk between matrix composition and metabolic stress remains unclear. In this study, we fabricated an in vitro brain memetic HA-decorated gelatin hydrogel platform incorporating variable oxygen concentrations to mimic intra-tumoral hypoxia. We observed that EGFR status (wildtype vs. a constitutively active EGFRvIII mutant) of U87 GBM cells affected proliferation and metabolic activity in response to hypoxia and matrix-bound HA. The use of an invasion assay revealed that invasion was significantly enhanced in both cell types under hypoxia. Moreover, we observed compensatory secretion of soluble HA in cases of enhanced GBM cell invasion, consistent with our previous findings using other GBM cell lines. Interestingly, U87 GBM cells adapted to hypoxia by shifting toward a more anaerobic metabolic state, a mechanism that may contribute to GBM cell invasion. Collectively, these data demonstrate that the use of a three-dimensional hydrogel provides a robust method to study the impact of matrix composition and metabolic challenges on GBM cell invasion, a key factor contributing to the most common, aggressive, and deadly form of adult brain cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jee-Wei Emily Chen
- Dept. of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA.
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Fisher SA, Tam RY, Fokina A, Mahmoodi MM, Distefano MD, Shoichet MS. Photo-immobilized EGF chemical gradients differentially impact breast cancer cell invasion and drug response in defined 3D hydrogels. Biomaterials 2018; 178:751-766. [PMID: 29452913 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2018.01.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2017] [Revised: 12/15/2017] [Accepted: 01/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Breast cancer cell invasion is influenced by growth factor concentration gradients in the tumor microenvironment. However, studying the influence of growth factor gradients on breast cancer cell invasion is challenging due to both the complexities of in vivo models and the difficulties in recapitulating the tumor microenvironment with defined gradients using in vitro models. A defined hyaluronic acid (HA)-based hydrogel crosslinked with matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) cleavable peptides and modified with multiphoton labile nitrodibenzofuran (NDBF) was synthesized to photochemically immobilize epidermal growth factor (EGF) gradients. We demonstrate that EGF gradients can differentially influence breast cancer cell invasion and drug response in cell lines with different EGF receptor (EGFR) expression levels. Photopatterned EGF gradients increase the invasion of moderate EGFR expressing MDA-MB-231 cells, reduce invasion of high EGFR expressing MDA-MB-468 cells, and have no effect on invasion of low EGFR-expressing MCF-7 cells. We evaluate MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468 cell response to the clinically tested EGFR inhibitor, cetuximab. Interestingly, the cellular response to cetuximab is completely different on the EGF gradient hydrogels: cetuximab decreases MDA-MB-231 cell invasion but increases MDA-MB-468 cell invasion and cell number, thus demonstrating the importance of including cell-microenvironment interactions when evaluating drug targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie A Fisher
- The Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, 160 College Street, Toronto Ontario, M5S 3E1, Canada
| | - Roger Y Tam
- The Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, 160 College Street, Toronto Ontario, M5S 3E1, Canada
| | - Ana Fokina
- The Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, 160 College Street, Toronto Ontario, M5S 3E1, Canada
| | - M Mohsen Mahmoodi
- Department of Chemistry, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis MN, 55455, USA
| | - Mark D Distefano
- Department of Chemistry, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis MN, 55455, USA
| | - Molly S Shoichet
- The Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, 160 College Street, Toronto Ontario, M5S 3E1, Canada.
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