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Ohnishi T, Homan K, Fukushima A, Ukeba D, Iwasaki N, Sudo H. A Review: Methodologies to Promote the Differentiation of Mesenchymal Stem Cells for the Regeneration of Intervertebral Disc Cells Following Intervertebral Disc Degeneration. Cells 2023; 12:2161. [PMID: 37681893 PMCID: PMC10486900 DOI: 10.3390/cells12172161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration (IDD), a highly prevalent pathological condition worldwide, is widely associated with back pain. Treatments available compensate for the impaired function of the degenerated IVD but typically have incomplete resolutions because of their adverse complications. Therefore, fundamental regenerative treatments need exploration. Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy has been recognized as a mainstream research objective by the World Health Organization and was consequently studied by various research groups. Implanted MSCs exert anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, and anti-pyroptotic effects and promote extracellular component production, as well as differentiation into IVD cells themselves. Hence, the ultimate goal of MSC therapy is to recover IVD cells and consequently regenerate the extracellular matrix of degenerated IVDs. Notably, in addition to MSC implantation, healthy nucleus pulposus (NP) cells (NPCs) have been implanted to regenerate NP, which is currently undergoing clinical trials. NPC-derived exosomes have been investigated for their ability to differentiate MSCs from NPC-like phenotypes. A stable and economical source of IVD cells may include allogeneic MSCs from the cell bank for differentiation into IVD cells. Therefore, multiple alternative therapeutic options should be considered if a refined protocol for the differentiation of MSCs into IVD cells is established. In this study, we comprehensively reviewed the molecules, scaffolds, and environmental factors that facilitate the differentiation of MSCs into IVD cells for regenerative therapies for IDD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takashi Ohnishi
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Faculty of Medicine and Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-8638, Japan; (T.O.); (K.H.); (A.F.); (N.I.)
| | - Kentaro Homan
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Faculty of Medicine and Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-8638, Japan; (T.O.); (K.H.); (A.F.); (N.I.)
| | - Akira Fukushima
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Faculty of Medicine and Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-8638, Japan; (T.O.); (K.H.); (A.F.); (N.I.)
| | - Daisuke Ukeba
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Hokkaido University Hospital, Sapporo 060-8648, Japan;
| | - Norimasa Iwasaki
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Faculty of Medicine and Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-8638, Japan; (T.O.); (K.H.); (A.F.); (N.I.)
| | - Hideki Sudo
- Department of Advanced Medicine for Spine and Spinal Cord Disorders, Faculty of Medicine and Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-8638, Japan
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2
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Zhao YD, Huang YC, Lin JL, Li WS. Intervertebral Disc Progenitors: Lessons Learned from Single-Cell RNA Sequencing and the Role in Intervertebral Disc Regeneration. Bioengineering (Basel) 2023; 10:713. [PMID: 37370644 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering10060713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Revised: 05/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The tremendous personal and economic burden worldwide caused by low back pain (LBP) has been surging in recent years. While intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) is the leading cause of LBP and vast efforts have been made to develop effective therapies, this problem is far from being resolved, as most treatments, such as painkillers and surgeries, mainly focus on relieving the symptoms rather than reversing the cause of IVDD. However, as stem/progenitor cells possess the potential to regenerate IVD, a deeper understanding of the early development and role of these cells could help to improve the effectiveness of stem/progenitor cell therapy in treating LBP. Single-cell RNA sequencing results provide fresh insights into the heterogeneity and development patterns of IVD progenitors; additionally, we compare mesenchymal stromal cells and IVD progenitors to provide a clearer view of the optimal cell source proposed for IVD regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Dong Zhao
- Department of Orthopaedics, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
- Engineering Research Center of Bone and Joint Precision Medicine, Beijing 100191, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Spinal Disease Research, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Yong-Can Huang
- Shenzhen Engineering Laboratory of Orthopaedic Regenerative Technologies, Department of Spine Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen 518036, China
| | - Jia-Liang Lin
- Department of Orthopaedics, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
- Engineering Research Center of Bone and Joint Precision Medicine, Beijing 100191, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Spinal Disease Research, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Wei-Shi Li
- Department of Orthopaedics, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
- Engineering Research Center of Bone and Joint Precision Medicine, Beijing 100191, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Spinal Disease Research, Beijing 100191, China
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3
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Wang F, Cheung CW, Wong SSC. Regenerative medicine for the treatment of chronic low back pain: a narrative review. J Int Med Res 2023; 51:3000605231155777. [PMID: 36802994 PMCID: PMC9941606 DOI: 10.1177/03000605231155777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Low back pain (LBP) is a common and important clinical problem. In addition to pain, patients are also affected by personal, social, and economic burdens. Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration is a common cause of LBP, further increasing the patient's morbidity and medical costs. The limitations of current treatment strategies for long-term pain relief mean that increasing attention has been paid to regenerative medicine. We carried out a narrative review to explore the roles of four types of regenerative medicine for treating LBP: marrow-derived stem cells, growth factors, platelet-rich plasma, and prolotherapy. Marrow-derived stem cells are regarded as an ideal cell source for IVD regeneration. Growth factors may stimulate the synthesis of extracellular matrix and attenuate or reverse the degenerative process in IVD, while platelet-rich plasma, which contains multiple growth factors, is thought to be a promising alternative therapy for IVD degeneration. Prolotherapy can initiate the body's inflammatory healing response to repair injured joints and connective tissues. This review summarizes the mechanisms, in vitro and in vivo studies, and clinical applications of these four types of regenerative medicine in patients with LBP.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Stanley Sau Ching Wong
- Stanley Sau Ching Wong, Room 424, Block K, Queen Mary Hospital, 102 Pok Fu Lam Road, Hong Kong 852, China.
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4
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Croft AS, Spessot E, Bhattacharjee P, Yang Y, Motta A, Wöltje M, Gantenbein B. Biomedical applications of silk and its role for intervertebral disc repair. JOR Spine 2022; 5:e1225. [PMID: 36601376 PMCID: PMC9799090 DOI: 10.1002/jsp2.1225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2022] [Revised: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 09/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration (IDD) is the main contributor to chronic low back pain. To date, the present therapies mainly focus on treating the symptoms caused by IDD rather than addressing the problem itself. For this reason, researchers have searched for a suitable biomaterial to repair and/or regenerate the IVD. A promising candidate to fill this gap is silk, which has already been used as a biomaterial for many years. Therefore, this review aims first to elaborate on the different origins from which silk is harvested, the individual composition, and the characteristics of each silk type. Another goal is to enlighten why silk is so suitable as a biomaterial, discuss its functionalization, and how it could be used for tissue engineering purposes. The second part of this review aims to provide an overview of preclinical studies using silk-based biomaterials to repair the inner region of the IVD, the nucleus pulposus (NP), and the IVD's outer area, the annulus fibrosus (AF). Since the NP and the AF differ fundamentally in their structure, different therapeutic approaches are required. Consequently, silk-containing hydrogels have been used mainly to repair the NP, and silk-based scaffolds have been used for the AF. Although most preclinical studies have shown promising results in IVD-related repair and regeneration, their clinical transition is yet to come.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas S. Croft
- Tissue Engineering for Orthopaedic & Mechanobiology, Bone & Joint Program, Department for BioMedical Research (DBMR), Medical FacultyUniversity of BernBernSwitzerland
| | - Eugenia Spessot
- Department of Industrial Engineering and BIOtech Research CenterUniversity of TrentoTrentoItaly,European Institute of Excellence on Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine UnitTrentoItaly
| | - Promita Bhattacharjee
- Department of Chemical SciencesSSPC the Science Foundation Ireland Research Centre for Pharmaceuticals, Bernal Institute, University of LimerickLimerickIreland
| | - Yuejiao Yang
- Department of Industrial Engineering and BIOtech Research CenterUniversity of TrentoTrentoItaly,European Institute of Excellence on Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine UnitTrentoItaly,INSTM, Trento Research Unit, Interuniversity Consortium for Science and Technology of MaterialsTrentoItaly
| | - Antonella Motta
- Department of Industrial Engineering and BIOtech Research CenterUniversity of TrentoTrentoItaly,European Institute of Excellence on Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine UnitTrentoItaly,INSTM, Trento Research Unit, Interuniversity Consortium for Science and Technology of MaterialsTrentoItaly
| | - Michael Wöltje
- Institute of Textile Machinery and High Performance Material TechnologyDresdenGermany
| | - Benjamin Gantenbein
- Tissue Engineering for Orthopaedic & Mechanobiology, Bone & Joint Program, Department for BioMedical Research (DBMR), Medical FacultyUniversity of BernBernSwitzerland,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery & Traumatology, InselspitalBern University Hospital, Medical Faculty, University of BernBernSwitzerland
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5
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Lv B, Gan W, Cheng Z, Wu J, Chen Y, Zhao K, Zhang Y. Current Insights Into the Maintenance of Structure and Function of Intervertebral Disc: A Review of the Regulatory Role of Growth and Differentiation Factor-5. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:842525. [PMID: 35754493 PMCID: PMC9213660 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.842525] [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: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD), characterized by conversion of genotypic and phenotypic, is a major etiology of low back pain and disability. In general, this process starts with alteration of metabolic homeostasis leading to ongoing inflammatory process, extracellular matrix degradation and fibrosis, diminished tissue hydration, and impaired structural and mechanical functionality. During the past decades, extensive studies have focused on elucidating the molecular mechanisms of degeneration and shed light on the protective roles of various factors that may have the ability to halt and even reverse the IDD. Mutations of GDF-5 are associated with several human and animal diseases that are characterized by skeletal deformity such as short digits and short limbs. Growth and differentiation factor-5 (GDF-5) has been shown to be a promise biological therapy for IDD. Substantial literature has revealed that GDF-5 can decelerate the progression of IDD on the molecular, cellular, and organ level by altering prolonged imbalance between anabolism and catabolism. GDF family members are the central signaling moleculars in homeostasis of IVD and upregulation of their gene promotes the expression of healthy nucleus pulposus (NP) cell marker genes. In addition, GDF signaling is able to induce mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) to differentiate into NPCs and mobilize resident cell populations as chemotactic signals. This review will discuss the promising critical role of GDF-5 in maintenance of structure and function of IVDs, and its therapeutic role in IDD endogenous repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Lv
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Weikang Gan
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhangrong Cheng
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Juntao Wu
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yuhang Chen
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Kangchen Zhao
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yukun Zhang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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6
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Yi J, Liu Q, Zhang Q, Chew TG, Ouyang H. Modular protein engineering-based biomaterials for skeletal tissue engineering. Biomaterials 2022; 282:121414. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2022.121414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Revised: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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7
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Herger N, Bermudez-Lekerika P, Farshad M, Albers CE, Distler O, Gantenbein B, Dudli S. Should Degenerated Intervertebral Discs of Patients with Modic Type 1 Changes Be Treated with Mesenchymal Stem Cells? Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23052721. [PMID: 35269863 PMCID: PMC8910866 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23052721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Revised: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Low back pain (LBP) has been among the leading causes of disability for the past 30 years. This highlights the need for improvement in LBP management. Many clinical trials focus on developing treatments against degenerative disc disease (DDD). The multifactorial etiology of DDD and associated risk factors lead to a heterogeneous patient population. It comes as no surprise that the outcomes of clinical trials on intradiscal mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) injections for patients with DDD are inconsistent. Intradiscal MSC injections have demonstrated substantial pain relief and significant disability-related improvements, yet they have failed to regenerate the intervertebral disc (IVD). Increasing evidence suggests that the positive outcomes in clinical trials might be attributed to the immunomodulatory potential of MSCs rather than to their regenerative properties. Therefore, patient stratification for inflammatory DDD phenotypes may (i) better serve the mechanisms of action of MSCs and (ii) increase the treatment effect. Modic type 1 changes—pathologic inflammatory, fibrotic changes in the vertebral bone marrow—are frequently observed adjacent to degenerated IVDs in chronic LBP patients and represent a clinically distinct subpopulation of patients with DDD. This review discusses whether degenerated IVDs of patients with Modic type 1 changes should be treated with an intradiscal MSC injection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nick Herger
- Center of Experimental Rheumatology, University Hospital Zurich and Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, CH-8008 Zurich, Switzerland; (N.H.); (O.D.)
| | - Paola Bermudez-Lekerika
- Tissue Engineering for Orthopaedics and Mechanobiology, Bone & Joint Program, Department for BioMedical Research (DBMR), Medical Faculty, University of Bern, CH-3008 Bern, Switzerland; (P.B.-L.); (B.G.)
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, Medical Faculty, University of Bern, CH-3010 Bern, Switzerland;
| | - Mazda Farshad
- Department of Orthopaedics, Balgrist University Hospital, CH-8008 Zurich, Switzerland;
| | - Christoph E. Albers
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, Medical Faculty, University of Bern, CH-3010 Bern, Switzerland;
| | - Oliver Distler
- Center of Experimental Rheumatology, University Hospital Zurich and Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, CH-8008 Zurich, Switzerland; (N.H.); (O.D.)
| | - Benjamin Gantenbein
- Tissue Engineering for Orthopaedics and Mechanobiology, Bone & Joint Program, Department for BioMedical Research (DBMR), Medical Faculty, University of Bern, CH-3008 Bern, Switzerland; (P.B.-L.); (B.G.)
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, Medical Faculty, University of Bern, CH-3010 Bern, Switzerland;
| | - Stefan Dudli
- Center of Experimental Rheumatology, University Hospital Zurich and Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, CH-8008 Zurich, Switzerland; (N.H.); (O.D.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +41-4451-07511
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8
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Williams RJ, Tryfonidou MA, Snuggs JW, Le Maitre CL. Cell sources proposed for nucleus pulposus regeneration. JOR Spine 2021; 4:e1175. [PMID: 35005441 PMCID: PMC8717099 DOI: 10.1002/jsp2.1175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Revised: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Lower back pain (LBP) occurs in 80% of adults in their lifetime; resulting in LBP being one of the biggest causes of disability worldwide. Chronic LBP has been linked to the degeneration of the intervertebral disc (IVD). The current treatments for chronic back pain only provide alleviation of symptoms through pain relief, tissue removal, or spinal fusion; none of which target regenerating the degenerate IVD. As nucleus pulposus (NP) degeneration is thought to represent a key initiation site of IVD degeneration, cell therapy that specifically targets the restoration of the NP has been reviewed here. A literature search to quantitatively assess all cell types used in NP regeneration was undertaken. With key cell sources: NP cells; annulus fibrosus cells; notochordal cells; chondrocytes; bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cells; adipose-derived stromal cells; and induced pluripotent stem cells extensively analyzed for their regenerative potential of the NP. This review highlights: accessibility; expansion capability in vitro; cell survival in an IVD environment; regenerative potential; and safety for these key potential cell sources. In conclusion, while several potential cell sources have been proposed, iPSC may provide the most promising regenerative potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca J. Williams
- Biomedical Research Centre, BiosciencesSheffield Hallam UniversitySheffieldUK
| | - Marianna A. Tryfonidou
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineUtrecht UniversityUtrechtThe Netherlands
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9
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Borem R, Madeline A, Theos C, Vela R, Garon A, Gill S, Mercuri J. Angle-ply scaffold supports annulus fibrosus matrix expression and remodeling by mesenchymal stromal and annulus fibrosus cells. J Biomed Mater Res B Appl Biomater 2021; 110:1056-1068. [PMID: 34843173 DOI: 10.1002/jbm.b.34980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2021] [Revised: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
The angle-ply multilaminate structure of the annulus fibrosus is not reestablished following discectomy which leads to reherniation of the intervertebral disc (IVD). Biomimetic scaffolds developed to repair these defects should be evaluated for their ability to support tissue regeneration by endogenous and exogenous cells. Herein a collagen-based, angle-ply multilaminate patch designed to repair the outer annulus fibrosus was assessed for its ability to support mesenchymal stromal and annulus fibrosus cell viability, elongation, alignment, extracellular matrix gene expression, and scaffold remodeling. Results demonstrated that the cells remained viable, elongated, and aligned along the collagen fiber preferred direction of the scaffold, upregulated genes associated with annulus fibrosus matrix and produced collagen on the scaffold yielding biaxial mechanical properties that resembled native annulus fibrosus tissue. In conclusion, these scaffolds have demonstrated their potential to promote a living repair of defects in the annulus fibrosus and thus may be used to prevent recurrent IVD herniations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan Borem
- The Laboratory of Orthopaedic Tissue Regeneration & Orthobiologics, Department of Bioengineering, Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina, USA
| | - Allison Madeline
- The Laboratory of Orthopaedic Tissue Regeneration & Orthobiologics, Department of Bioengineering, Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina, USA
| | - Chris Theos
- The Laboratory of Orthopaedic Tissue Regeneration & Orthobiologics, Department of Bioengineering, Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina, USA
| | - Ricardo Vela
- The Laboratory of Orthopaedic Tissue Regeneration & Orthobiologics, Department of Bioengineering, Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina, USA
| | - Alex Garon
- The Laboratory of Orthopaedic Tissue Regeneration & Orthobiologics, Department of Bioengineering, Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina, USA
| | - Sanjitpal Gill
- The Laboratory of Orthopaedic Tissue Regeneration & Orthobiologics, Department of Bioengineering, Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina, USA.,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Medical Group of the Carolinas-Pelham, Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System, Greer, South Carolina, USA
| | - Jeremy Mercuri
- The Laboratory of Orthopaedic Tissue Regeneration & Orthobiologics, Department of Bioengineering, Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina, USA.,Frank H. Stelling and C. Dayton Riddle Orthopaedic Education and Research Laboratory, Clemson University Biomedical Engineering Innovation Campus, Greenville, South Carolina, USA
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10
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Peredo AP, Gullbrand SE, Smith HE, Mauck RL. Putting the Pieces in Place: Mobilizing Cellular Players to Improve Annulus Fibrosus Repair. TISSUE ENGINEERING. PART B, REVIEWS 2021; 27:295-312. [PMID: 32907498 PMCID: PMC10799291 DOI: 10.1089/ten.teb.2020.0196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The intervertebral disc (IVD) is an integral load-bearing tissue that derives its function from its composite structure and extracellular matrix composition. IVD herniations involve the failure of the annulus fibrosus (AF) and the extrusion of the nucleus pulposus beyond the disc boundary. Disc herniations can impinge the neural elements and cause debilitating pain and loss of function, posing a significant burden on individual patients and society as a whole. Patients with persistent symptoms may require surgery; however, surgical intervention fails to repair the ruptured AF and is associated with the risk for reherniation and further disc degeneration. Given the limitations of AF endogenous repair, many attempts have been made toward the development of effective repair approaches that reestablish IVD function. These methods, however, fail to recapitulate the composition and organization of the native AF, ultimately resulting in inferior tissue mechanics and function over time and high rates of reherniation. Harnessing the cellular function of cells (endogenous or exogenous) at the repair site through the provision of cell-instructive cues could enhance AF tissue regeneration and, ultimately, improve healing outcomes. In this study, we review the diverse approaches that have been developed for AF repair and emphasize the potential for mobilizing the appropriate cellular players at the site of injury to improve AF healing. Impact statement Conventional treatments for intervertebral disc herniation fail to repair the annulus fibrosus (AF), increasing the risk for recurrent herniation. The lack of repair devices in the market has spurred the development of regenerative approaches, yet most of these rely on a scarce endogenous cell population to repair large injuries, resulting in inadequate regeneration. This review identifies current and developing strategies for AF repair and highlights the potential for harnessing cellular function to improve AF regeneration. Ideal cell sources, differentiation strategies, and delivery methods are discussed to guide the design of repair systems that leverage specialized cells to achieve superior outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana P. Peredo
- Department of Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- McKay Orthopaedic Research Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Translational Musculoskeletal Research Center, Corporal Michael J. Crescenz Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Sarah E. Gullbrand
- McKay Orthopaedic Research Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Translational Musculoskeletal Research Center, Corporal Michael J. Crescenz Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Harvey E. Smith
- McKay Orthopaedic Research Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Translational Musculoskeletal Research Center, Corporal Michael J. Crescenz Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Robert L. Mauck
- Department of Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- McKay Orthopaedic Research Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Translational Musculoskeletal Research Center, Corporal Michael J. Crescenz Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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11
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Singh S, Patel AA, Singh JR. Intervertebral Disc Degeneration: The Role and Evidence for Non-Stem-Cell-Based Regenerative Therapies. Int J Spine Surg 2021; 15:54-67. [PMID: 34376496 DOI: 10.14444/8055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of non-stem-cell-based regenerative medicine therapies for lumbar discogenic pain is an area of growing interest. Although the intervertebral disc is a largely avascular structure, cells located within the nucleus pulposus as well as annulus fibrosis could be targeted for regenerative and restorative treatments. Degenerative disc disease is caused by an imbalance of catabolic and anabolic events within the nucleus pulposus. As catabolic processes overwhelm the environment within the nucleus pulposus, proinflammatory cytokines increase in concentration and lead to further disc degeneration. Non-stem-cell-based therapies, which include growth factor therapy and other proteins, can lead to an increased production of collagen and proteoglycans within the disc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saarang Singh
- Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Buffalo, New York
| | - Ankur A Patel
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, New York-Presbyterian Hospital, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - Jaspal R Singh
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical Center, New York, New York
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12
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The Application of Mesenchymal Stromal Cells and Their Homing Capabilities to Regenerate the Intervertebral Disc. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22073519. [PMID: 33805356 PMCID: PMC8036861 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22073519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2021] [Revised: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic low back pain (LBP) remains a challenging condition to treat, and especially to cure. If conservative treatment approaches fail, the current “gold standard” for intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD)-provoked back pain is spinal fusion. However, due to its invasive and destructive nature, the focus of orthopedic research related to the intervertebral disc (IVD) has shifted more towards cell-based therapeutic approaches. They aim to reduce or even reverse the degenerative cascade by mimicking the human body’s physiological healing system. The implementation of progenitor and/or stem cells and, in particular, the delivery of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) has revealed significant potential to cure the degenerated/injured IVD. Over the past decade, many research groups have invested efforts to find ways to utilize these cells as efficiently and sustainably as possible. This narrative literature review presents a summary of achievements made with the application of MSCs for the regeneration of the IVD in recent years, including their preclinical and clinical applications. Moreover, this review presents state-of-the-art strategies on how the homing capabilities of MSCs can be utilized to repair damaged or degenerated IVDs, as well as their current limitations and future perspectives.
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13
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Kim MJ, Lee JH, Kim JS, Kim HY, Lee HC, Byun JH, Lee JH, Kim NH, Oh SH. Intervertebral Disc Regeneration Using Stem Cell/Growth Factor-Loaded Porous Particles with a Leaf-Stacked Structure. Biomacromolecules 2020; 21:4795-4805. [PMID: 32955865 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.0c00992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Although biological therapies based on growth factors and transplanted cells have demonstrated some positive outcomes for intervertebral disc (IVD) regeneration, repeated injection of growth factors and cell leakage from the injection site remain considerable challenges for human therapeutic use. Herein, we prepare human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSCs) and transforming growth factor-β3 (TGF-β3)-loaded porous particles with a unique leaf-stack structural morphology (LSS particles) as a combination bioactive delivery matrix for degenerated IVD. The LSS particles are fabricated with clinically acceptable biomaterials (polycaprolactone and tetraglycol) and procedures (simple heating and cooling). The LSS particles allow sustained release of TGF-β3 for 18 days and stable cell adhesiveness without additional modifications of the particles. On the basis of in vitro and in vivo studies, it was observed that the hBMSCs/TGF-β3-loaded LSS particles can provide a suitable milieu for chondrogenic differentiation of hBMSCs and effectively induce IVD regeneration in a beagle dog model. Thus, therapeutically loaded LSS particles offer the promise of an effective bioactive delivery system for regeneration of various tissues including IVD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Ji Kim
- Department of Nanobiomedical Science, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Ho Lee
- Department of Advanced Materials, Hannam University, Daejeon 34054, Republic of Korea
| | - Jun-Soo Kim
- Institute of Animal Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Republic of Korea
| | - Ho Yong Kim
- Department of Nanobiomedical Science, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Republic of Korea
| | - Hee-Chun Lee
- Department of Veterinary Medical Imaging, College of Veterinary Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Republic of Korea
| | - June-Ho Byun
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Gyeongsang National University School of Medicine, Gyeongsang National University Hospital, Institute of Health Sciences, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52727, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Hoon Lee
- Institute of Animal Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Republic of Korea
| | - Na-Hyun Kim
- Gyeongnam Department of Environment & Toxicology, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Jinju 52834, Republic of Korea
| | - Se Heang Oh
- Department of Nanobiomedical Science, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Republic of Korea
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Hodgkinson T, Gilbert HTJ, Pandya T, Diwan AD, Hoyland JA, Richardson SM. Regenerative Response of Degenerate Human Nucleus Pulposus Cells to GDF6 Stimulation. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E7143. [PMID: 32992671 PMCID: PMC7582366 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21197143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2020] [Revised: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Growth differentiation factor (GDF) family members have been implicated in the development and maintenance of healthy nucleus pulposus (NP) tissue, making them promising therapeutic candidates for treatment of intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration and associated back pain. GDF6 has been shown to promote discogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells, but its effect on NP cells remains largely unknown. Our aim was to investigate GDF6 signalling in adult human NP cells derived from degenerate tissue and determine the signal transduction pathways critical for GDF6-mediated phenotypic changes and tissue homeostatic mechanisms. This study demonstrates maintained expression of GDF6 receptors in human NP and annulus fibrosus (AF) cells across a range of degeneration grades at gene and protein level. We observed an anabolic response in NP cells treated with recombinant GDF6 (increased expression of matrix and NP-phenotypic markers; increased glycosaminoglycan production; no change in catabolic enzyme expression), and identified the signalling pathways involved in these responses (SMAD1/5/8 and ERK1/2 phosphorylation, validated by blocking studies). These findings suggest that GDF6 promotes a healthy disc tissue phenotype in degenerate NP cells through SMAD-dependent and -independent (ERK1/2) mechanisms, which is important for development of GDF6 therapeutic strategies for treatment of degenerate discs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tom Hodgkinson
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, UK; (T.H.); (H.T.J.G.); (T.P.); (J.A.H.)
| | - Hamish T. J. Gilbert
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, UK; (T.H.); (H.T.J.G.); (T.P.); (J.A.H.)
| | - Tej Pandya
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, UK; (T.H.); (H.T.J.G.); (T.P.); (J.A.H.)
| | - Ashish D. Diwan
- St George & Sutherland Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2217, Australia;
| | - Judith A. Hoyland
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, UK; (T.H.); (H.T.J.G.); (T.P.); (J.A.H.)
- NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre, Central Manchester Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester M13 9NT, UK
| | - Stephen M. Richardson
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, UK; (T.H.); (H.T.J.G.); (T.P.); (J.A.H.)
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15
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Chuah YJ, Tan JR, Wu Y, Lim CS, Hee HT, Kang Y, Wang DA. Scaffold-Free tissue engineering with aligned bone marrow stromal cell sheets to recapitulate the microstructural and biochemical composition of annulus fibrosus. Acta Biomater 2020; 107:129-137. [PMID: 32105832 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2020.02.031] [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: 09/17/2019] [Revised: 02/05/2020] [Accepted: 02/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Current tissue engineering strategies through scaffold-based approaches fail to recapitulate the complex three-dimensional microarchitecture and biochemical composition of the native Annulus Fibrosus tissue. Considering limited access to healthy annulus fibrosus cells from patients, this study explored the potential of bone marrow stromal cells (BMSC) to fabricate a scaffold-free multilamellar annulus fibrosus-like tissue by integrating micropatterning technologies into multi-layered BMSC engineering. BMSC sheet with cells and collagen fibres aligned at ~30° with respect to their longitudinal dimension were developed on a microgroove-patterned PDMS substrate. Two sheets were then stacked together in alternating directions to form an angle-ply bilayer tissue, which was rolled up, sliced to form a multi-lamellar angle-ply tissue and cultured in a customized medium. The development of the annulus fibrosus-like tissue was further characterized by histological, gene expression and microscopic and mechanical analysis. We demonstrated that the engineered annulus fibrosus-like tissue with aligned BMSC sheet showed parallel collagen fibrils, biochemical composition and microstructures that resemble the native disk. Furthermore, aligned cell sheet showed enhanced expression of annulus fibrosus associated extracellular matrix markers and higher mechanical strength than that of the non-aligned cell sheet. The present study provides a new strategy in annulus fibrosus tissue engineering methodology to develop a scaffold-free annulus fibrosus-like tissue that resembles the microarchitecture and biochemical attributes of a native tissue. This can potentially lead to a promising avenue for advancing BMSC-mediated annulus fibrosus regeneration towards future clinical applications.
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16
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Interaction between Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Intervertebral Disc Microenvironment: From Cell Therapy to Tissue Engineering. Stem Cells Int 2019; 2019:2376172. [PMID: 32587618 PMCID: PMC7294366 DOI: 10.1155/2019/2376172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2019] [Revised: 07/20/2019] [Accepted: 08/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Low back pain (LBP) in one of the most disabling symptoms affecting nearly 80% of the population worldwide. Its primary cause seems to be intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD): a chronic and progressive process characterized by loss of viable cells and extracellular matrix (ECM) breakdown within the intervertebral disc (IVD) especially in its inner region, the nucleus pulposus (NP). Over the last decades, innovative biological treatments have been investigated in order to restore the original healthy IVD environment and achieve disc regeneration. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been widely exploited in regenerative medicine for their capacity to be easily harvested and be able to differentiate along the osteogenic, chondrogenic, and adipogenic lineages and to secrete a wide range of trophic factors that promote tissue homeostasis along with immunomodulation and anti-inflammation. Several in vitro and preclinical studies have demonstrated that MSCs are able to acquire a NP cell-like phenotype and to synthesize structural components of the ECM as well as trophic and anti-inflammatory mediators that may support resident cell activity. However, due to its unique anatomical location and function, the IVD presents distinctive features: avascularity, hypoxia, low glucose concentration, low pH, hyperosmolarity, and mechanical loading. Such conditions establish a hostile microenvironment for both resident and exogenously administered cells, which limited the efficacy of intradiscal cell therapy in diverse investigations. This review is aimed at describing the characteristics of the healthy and degenerated IVD microenvironment and how such features influence both resident cells and MSC viability and biological activity. Furthermore, we focused on how recent research has tried to overcome the obstacles coming from the IVD microenvironment by developing innovative cell therapies and functionalized bioscaffolds.
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Borem R, Madeline A, Vela R, Gill S, Mercuri J. Multi-laminate annulus fibrosus repair scaffold with an interlamellar matrix enhances impact resistance, prevents herniation and assists in restoring spinal kinematics. J Mech Behav Biomed Mater 2019; 95:41-52. [PMID: 30953808 PMCID: PMC6510600 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2019.03.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2018] [Revised: 03/03/2019] [Accepted: 03/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Focal defects in the annulus fibrosus (AF) of the intervertebral disc (IVD) arising from herniation have detrimental impacts on the IVD's mechanical function. Thus, biomimetic-based repair strategies must restore the mechanical integrity of the AF to help support and restore native spinal loading and motion. Accordingly, an annulus fibrosus repair patch (AFRP); a collagen-based multi-laminate scaffold with an angle-ply architecture has been previously developed, which demonstrates similar mechanical properties to native outer AF (oAF). To further enhance the mimetic nature of the AFRP, interlamellar (ILM) glycosaminoglycan (GAG) was incorporated into the scaffolds. The ability of the scaffolds to withstand simulated impact loading and resist herniation of native IVD tissue while contributing to the restoration of spinal kinematics were assessed separately. The results demonstrate that incorporation of a GAG-based ILM significantly increased (p < 0.001) the impact strength of the AFRP (2.57 ± 0.04 MPa) compared to scaffolds without (1.51 ± 0.13 MPa). Additionally, repair of injured functional spinal units (FSUs) with an AFRP in combination with sequestering native NP tissue and a full-thickness AF tissue plug enabled the restoration of creep displacement (p = 0.134), short-term viscous damping coefficient (p = 0.538), the long-term viscous (p = 0.058) and elastic (p = 0.751) damping coefficients, axial neutral zone (p = 0.908), and axial range of motion (p = 0.476) to an intact state. Lastly, the AFRP scaffolds were able to prevent native IVD tissue herniation upon application of supraphysiologic loads (5.28 ± 1.24 MPa). Together, these results suggest that the AFRP has the strength to sequester native NP and AF tissue and/or implants, and thus, can be used in a composite repair strategy for IVDs with focal annular defects thereby assisting in the restoration of spinal kinematics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan Borem
- The Laboratory of Orthopaedic Tissue Regeneration & Orthobiologics, Department of Bioengineering, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, USA
| | - Allison Madeline
- The Laboratory of Orthopaedic Tissue Regeneration & Orthobiologics, Department of Bioengineering, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, USA
| | - Ricardo Vela
- The Laboratory of Orthopaedic Tissue Regeneration & Orthobiologics, Department of Bioengineering, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, USA
| | - Sanjitpal Gill
- The Laboratory of Orthopaedic Tissue Regeneration & Orthobiologics, Department of Bioengineering, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, USA; Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Medical Group of the Carolinas-Pelham, Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System, Greer, SC, USA
| | - Jeremy Mercuri
- The Laboratory of Orthopaedic Tissue Regeneration & Orthobiologics, Department of Bioengineering, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, USA.
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18
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Frauchiger DA, May RD, Bakirci E, Tekari A, Chan SCW, Wöltje M, Benneker LM, Gantenbein B. Genipin-Enhanced Fibrin Hydrogel and Novel Silk for Intervertebral Disc Repair in a Loaded Bovine Organ Culture Model. J Funct Biomater 2018; 9:E40. [PMID: 29937524 PMCID: PMC6163705 DOI: 10.3390/jfb9030040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2018] [Revised: 06/20/2018] [Accepted: 06/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Intervertebral disc (IVD) repair represents a major challenge. Using functionalised biomaterials such as silk combined with enforced hydrogels might be a promising approach for disc repair. We aimed to test an IVD repair approach by combining a genipin-enhanced fibrin hydrogel with an engineered silk scaffold under complex load, after inducing an injury in a bovine whole organ IVD culture; (2) Methods: Bovine coccygeal IVDs were isolated from ~1-year-old animals within four hours post-mortem. Then, an injury in the annulus fibrosus was induced by a 2 mm biopsy punch. The repair approach consisted of genipin-enhanced fibrin hydrogel that was used to fill up the cavity. To seal the injury, a Good Manufacturing Practise (GMP)-compliant engineered silk fleece-membrane composite was applied and secured by the cross-linked hydrogel. Then, IVDs were exposed to one of three loading conditions: no load, static load and complex load in a two-degree-of-freedom bioreactor for 14 days. Followed by assessing DNA and matrix content, qPCR and histology, the injured discs were compared to an uninjured control IVD that underwent the same loading profiles. In addition, the genipin-enhanced fibrin hydrogel was further investigated with respect to cytotoxicity on human stem cells, annulus fibrosus, and nucleus pulposus cells; (3) Results: The repair was successful as no herniation could be detected for any of the three loading conditions. Disc height was not recovered by the repair DNA and matrix contents were comparable to a healthy, untreated control disc. Genipin resulted being cytotoxic in the in vitro test but did not show adverse effects when used for the organ culture model; (4) Conclusions: The current study indicated that the combination of the two biomaterials, i.e., genipin-enhanced fibrin hydrogel and an engineered silk scaffold, was a promising approach for IVD repair. Furthermore, genipin-enhanced fibrin hydrogel was not suitable for cell cultures; however, it was highly applicable as a filler material.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela A Frauchiger
- Tissue & Organ Mechano Biology, Institute for Surgical Technology and Biomechanics, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland.
| | - Rahel D May
- Tissue & Organ Mechano Biology, Institute for Surgical Technology and Biomechanics, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland.
| | - Ezgi Bakirci
- Tissue & Organ Mechano Biology, Institute for Surgical Technology and Biomechanics, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland.
| | - Adel Tekari
- Tissue & Organ Mechano Biology, Institute for Surgical Technology and Biomechanics, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland.
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Screening Processes, Centre of Biotechnology of Sfax, University of Sfax, Sfax 3018, Tunisia.
| | - Samantha C W Chan
- Tissue & Organ Mechano Biology, Institute for Surgical Technology and Biomechanics, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland.
| | - Michael Wöltje
- Institute of Textile Machinery and High Performance Material Technology, TU Dresden, 01062 Dresden, Germany.
| | - Lorin M Benneker
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology, Spine Unit, Insel Hospital, Bern University Hospital, Bern 3010, Switzerland.
| | - Benjamin Gantenbein
- Tissue & Organ Mechano Biology, Institute for Surgical Technology and Biomechanics, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland.
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