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Hasanzadeh E, Seifalian A, Mellati A, Saremi J, Asadpour S, Enderami SE, Nekounam H, Mahmoodi N. Injectable hydrogels in central nervous system: Unique and novel platforms for promoting extracellular matrix remodeling and tissue engineering. Mater Today Bio 2023; 20:100614. [PMID: 37008830 PMCID: PMC10050787 DOI: 10.1016/j.mtbio.2023.100614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Revised: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 04/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Repairing central nervous system (CNS) is difficult due to the inability of neurons to recover after damage. A clinically acceptable treatment to promote CNS functional recovery and regeneration is currently unavailable. According to recent studies, injectable hydrogels as biodegradable scaffolds for CNS tissue engineering and regeneration have exceptionally desirable attributes. Hydrogel has a biomimetic structure similar to extracellular matrix, hence has been considered a 3D scaffold for CNS regeneration. An interesting new type of hydrogel, injectable hydrogels, can be injected into target areas with little invasiveness and imitate several aspects of CNS. Injectable hydrogels are being researched as therapeutic agents because they may imitate numerous properties of CNS tissues and hence reduce subsequent injury and regenerate neural tissue. Because of their less adverse effects and cost, easier use and implantation with less pain, and faster regeneration capacity, injectable hydrogels, are more desirable than non-injectable hydrogels. This article discusses the pathophysiology of CNS and the use of several kinds of injectable hydrogels for brain and spinal cord tissue engineering, paying particular emphasis to recent experimental studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elham Hasanzadeh
- Immunogenetics Research Center, Department of Tissue Engineering & Regenerative Medicine, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
- Corresponding author. School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Valie-Asr Boulevard, Sari, Mazandaran, Iran.
| | - Alexander Seifalian
- Nanotechnology & Regenerative Medicine Commercialisation Centre (NanoRegMed Ltd, Nanoloom Ltd, & Liberum Health Ltd), London BioScience Innovation Centre, 2 Royal College Street, London, UK
| | - Amir Mellati
- Department of Tissue Engineering & Regenerative Medicine, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
- Molecular and Cell Biology Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Jamileh Saremi
- Research Center for Noncommunicable Diseases, Jahrom University of Medical Sciences, Jahrom, Iran
| | - Shiva Asadpour
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Sciences, School of Advanced Technologies, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Seyed Ehsan Enderami
- Immunogenetics Research Center, Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Houra Nekounam
- Department of Medical Nanotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Narges Mahmoodi
- Sina Trauma and Surgery Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Corresponding author. Sina Trauma and Surgery Research Center, Sina Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Hasan-Abad Square, Imam Khomeini Ave., Tehran, 11365-3876, Iran.
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2
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Sousa JPM, Stratakis E, Mano J, Marques PAAP. Anisotropic 3D scaffolds for spinal cord guided repair: Current concepts. BIOMATERIALS ADVANCES 2023; 148:213353. [PMID: 36848743 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioadv.2023.213353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
A spinal cord injury (SCI) can be caused by unforeseen events such as a fall, a vehicle accident, a gunshot, or a malignant illness, which has a significant impact on the quality of life of the patient. Due to the limited regenerative potential of the central nervous system (CNS), SCI is one of the most daunting medical challenges of modern medicine. Great advances have been made in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, which include the transition from two-dimensional (2D) to three-dimensional (3D) biomaterials. Combinatory treatments that use 3D scaffolds may significantly enhance the repair and regeneration of functional neural tissue. In an effort to mimic the chemical and physical properties of neural tissue, scientists are researching the development of the ideal scaffold made of synthetic and/or natural polymers. Moreover, in order to restore the architecture and function of neural networks, 3D scaffolds with anisotropic properties that replicate the native longitudinal orientation of spinal cord nerve fibres are being designed. In an effort to determine if scaffold anisotropy is a crucial property for neural tissue regeneration, this review focuses on the most current technological developments relevant to anisotropic scaffolds for SCI. Special consideration is given to the architectural characteristics of scaffolds containing axially oriented fibres, channels, and pores. By analysing neural cell behaviour in vitro and tissue integration and functional recovery in animal models of SCI, the therapeutic efficacy is evaluated for its successes and limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana P M Sousa
- TEMA - Centre for Mechanical Technology and Automation, Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal; LASI - Intelligent Systems Associate Laboratory, Portugal; Institute of Electronic Structure and Laser, Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas (FORTH-IESL), Heraklion, Greece; CICECO - Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, Aveiro 3810-193, Portugal
| | - Emmanuel Stratakis
- Institute of Electronic Structure and Laser, Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas (FORTH-IESL), Heraklion, Greece
| | - João Mano
- CICECO - Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, Aveiro 3810-193, Portugal
| | - Paula A A P Marques
- TEMA - Centre for Mechanical Technology and Automation, Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal; LASI - Intelligent Systems Associate Laboratory, Portugal.
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3
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Rochkind S, Almog M, Nevo Z. Reviving matrix for nerve reconstruction in rat model of acute and chronic complete spinal cord injury. Neurol Res 2022; 44:1132-1141. [PMID: 35998212 DOI: 10.1080/01616412.2022.2112380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the innovative antigliotic guiding regenerative gel (AGRG) as reviving matrix for reconnection of spinal cord defect in rat models of complete acute and chronic spinal cord injury (SCI). In acute SCI, a 2 mm segment of the spinal cord (SC) was removed at Th7-Th8. Then AGRG was injected to the gap or left untreated. In chronic SCI, a 1 mm segment of the spinal cord (SC) was removed at Th7-Th8. One month later, the injured area was cleaned from connective and scar tissue, creating a gap of 2-3 mm. Then, AGRG was injected to the gap or left untreated. Functional, electrophysiological, histological and immunohistochemical assessments were performed. In acute SCI, at week 24, 75% of AGRG group showed a somatosensory evoked potential (SEP) signal. Appearance of myelin basic protein (MBP) was observed in the injured area in the AGRG group (p < 0.1), compared to the untreated group. In chronic SCI, 24 weeks after 2nd surgery, appearance of MBP, indicating presence of myelinated axons, was observed in AGRG group, compared to the untreated group (p < 0.01). These preliminary results suggest that AGRG can serve as a vital bridging station inducing regeneration of injured SC in acute and chronic cases of paraplegia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shimon Rochkind
- Research Center for Nerve Reconstruction, Division of Peripheral Nerve Reconstruction, Department of Neurosurgery, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel.,Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Mara Almog
- Research Center for Nerve Reconstruction, Division of Peripheral Nerve Reconstruction, Department of Neurosurgery, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Zvi Nevo
- Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
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Khan HM, Liao X, Sheikh BA, Wang Y, Su Z, Guo C, Li Z, Zhou C, Cen Y, Kong Q. Smart biomaterials and their potential applications in tissue engineering. J Mater Chem B 2022; 10:6859-6895. [PMID: 36069198 DOI: 10.1039/d2tb01106a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Smart biomaterials have been rapidly advancing ever since the concept of tissue engineering was proposed. Interacting with human cells, smart biomaterials can play a key role in novel tissue morphogenesis. Various aspects of biomaterials utilized in or being sought for the goal of encouraging bone regeneration, skin graft engineering, and nerve conduits are discussed in this review. Beginning with bone, this study summarizes all the available bioceramics and materials along with their properties used singly or in conjunction with each other to create scaffolds for bone tissue engineering. A quick overview of the skin-based nanocomposite biomaterials possessing antibacterial properties for wound healing is outlined along with skin regeneration therapies using infrared radiation, electrospinning, and piezoelectricity, which aid in wound healing. Furthermore, a brief overview of bioengineered artificial skin grafts made of various natural and synthetic polymers has been presented. Finally, by examining the interactions between natural and synthetic-based biomaterials and the biological environment, their strengths and drawbacks for constructing peripheral nerve conduits are highlighted. The description of the preclinical outcome of nerve regeneration in injury healed with various natural-based conduits receives special attention. The organic and synthetic worlds collide at the interface of nanomaterials and biological systems, producing a new scientific field including nanomaterial design for tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haider Mohammed Khan
- Department of Orthopedics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, 610041, Chengdu, China.
| | - Xiaoxia Liao
- Department of Burn and Plastic Surgery, West China School of Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, 610041, Chengdu, China.
| | - Bilal Ahmed Sheikh
- Department of Orthopedics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, 610041, Chengdu, China.
| | - Yixi Wang
- Department of Burn and Plastic Surgery, West China School of Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, 610041, Chengdu, China.
| | - Zhixuan Su
- College of Biomedical Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China.,National Engineering Research Centre for Biomaterials, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China.
| | - Chuan Guo
- Department of Orthopedics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, 610041, Chengdu, China.
| | - Zhengyong Li
- Department of Burn and Plastic Surgery, West China School of Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, 610041, Chengdu, China.
| | - Changchun Zhou
- College of Biomedical Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China.,National Engineering Research Centre for Biomaterials, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China.
| | - Ying Cen
- Department of Burn and Plastic Surgery, West China School of Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, 610041, Chengdu, China.
| | - Qingquan Kong
- Department of Orthopedics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, 610041, Chengdu, China.
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Elhattab K, Hefzy MS, Hanf Z, Crosby B, Enders A, Smiczek T, Haghshenas M, Jahadakbar A, Elahinia M. Biomechanics of Additively Manufactured Metallic Scaffolds-A Review. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2021; 14:6833. [PMID: 34832234 PMCID: PMC8625735 DOI: 10.3390/ma14226833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Revised: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
This review paper is related to the biomechanics of additively manufactured (AM) metallic scaffolds, in particular titanium alloy Ti6Al4V scaffolds. This is because Ti6Al4V has been identified as an ideal candidate for AM metallic scaffolds. The factors that affect the scaffold technology are the design, the material used to build the scaffold, and the fabrication process. This review paper includes thus a discussion on the design of Ti6A4V scaffolds in relation to how their behavior is affected by their cell shapes and porosities. This is followed by a discussion on the post treatment and mechanical characterization including in-vitro and in-vivo biomechanical studies. A review and discussion are also presented on the ongoing efforts to develop predictive tools to derive the relationships between structure, processing, properties and performance of powder-bed additive manufacturing of metals. This is a challenge when developing process computational models because the problem involves multi-physics and is of multi-scale in nature. Advantages, limitations, and future trends in AM scaffolds are finally discussed. AM is considered at the forefront of Industry 4.0, the fourth industrial revolution. The market of scaffold technology will continue to boom because of the high demand for human tissue repair.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mohamed Samir Hefzy
- Department of Mechanical, Industrial & Manufacturing Engineering, College of Engineering, The University of Toledo, Toledo, OH 43606, USA; (K.E.); (Z.H.); (B.C.); (A.E.); (T.S.); (M.H.); (A.J.); (M.E.)
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6
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Vedaraman S, Perez‐Tirado A, Haraszti T, Gerardo‐Nava J, Nishiguchi A, De Laporte L. Anisometric Microstructures to Determine Minimal Critical Physical Cues Required for Neurite Alignment. Adv Healthc Mater 2021; 10:e2100874. [PMID: 34197054 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202100874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Revised: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
In nerve regeneration, scaffolds play an important role in providing an artificial extracellular matrix with architectural, mechanical, and biochemical cues to bridge the site of injury. Directed nerve growth is a crucial aspect of nerve repair, often introduced by engineered scaffolds imparting linear tracks. The influence of physical cues, determined by well-defined architectures, has been mainly studied for implantable scaffolds and is usually limited to continuous guiding features. In this report, the potential of short anisometric microelements in inducing aligned neurite extension, their dimensions, and the role of vertical and horizontal distances between them, is investigated. This provides crucial information to create efficient injectable 3D materials with discontinuous, in situ magnetically oriented microstructures, like the Anisogel. By designing and fabricating periodic, anisometric, discreet guidance cues in a high-throughput 2D in vitro platform using two-photon lithography techniques, the authors are able to decipher the minimal guidance cues required for directed nerve growth along the major axis of the microelements. These features determine whether axons grow unidirectionally or cross paths via the open spaces between the elements, which is vital for the design of injectable Anisogels for enhanced nerve repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sitara Vedaraman
- DWI‐Leibniz Institute for Interactive Materials Forckenbeckstrasse 50 Aachen 52074 Germany
- Institute for Technical and Macromolecular Chemistry RWTH Aachen Worringerweg 1–2 Aachen 52074 Germany
| | - Amaury Perez‐Tirado
- DWI‐Leibniz Institute for Interactive Materials Forckenbeckstrasse 50 Aachen 52074 Germany
| | - Tamas Haraszti
- DWI‐Leibniz Institute for Interactive Materials Forckenbeckstrasse 50 Aachen 52074 Germany
- Institute for Technical and Macromolecular Chemistry RWTH Aachen Worringerweg 1–2 Aachen 52074 Germany
| | - Jose Gerardo‐Nava
- DWI‐Leibniz Institute for Interactive Materials Forckenbeckstrasse 50 Aachen 52074 Germany
| | - Akihiro Nishiguchi
- Biomaterials Field Research Center for Functional Materials National Institute for Materials Science Tsukuba 305‐0044 Japan
| | - Laura De Laporte
- DWI‐Leibniz Institute for Interactive Materials Forckenbeckstrasse 50 Aachen 52074 Germany
- Institute for Technical and Macromolecular Chemistry RWTH Aachen Worringerweg 1–2 Aachen 52074 Germany
- Institute of Applied Medical Engineering Department of Advanced Materials for Biomedicine RWTH University Forckenbeckstraße 55 Aachen 52074 Germany
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7
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Matthews J, Surey S, Grover LM, Logan A, Ahmed Z. Thermosensitive collagen/fibrinogen gels loaded with decorin suppress lesion site cavitation and promote functional recovery after spinal cord injury. Sci Rep 2021; 11:18124. [PMID: 34518601 PMCID: PMC8438067 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-97604-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
The treatment of spinal cord injury (SCI) is a complex challenge in regenerative medicine, complicated by the low intrinsic capacity of CNS neurons to regenerate their axons and the heterogeneity in size, shape and extent of human injuries. For example, some contusion injuries do not compromise the dura mater and in such cases implantation of preformed scaffolds or drug delivery systems may cause further damage. Injectable in situ thermosensitive scaffolds are therefore a less invasive alternative. In this study, we report the development of a novel, flowable, thermosensitive, injectable drug delivery system comprising bovine collagen (BC) and fibrinogen (FB) that forms a solid BC/FB gel (Gel) immediately upon exposure to physiological conditions and can be used to deliver reparative drugs, such as the naturally occurring anti-inflammatory, anti-scarring agent Decorin, into adult rat spinal cord lesion sites. In dorsal column lesions of adult rats treated with the Gel + Decorin, cavitation was completely suppressed and instead lesion sites became filled with injury-responsive cells and extracellular matrix materials, including collagen and laminin. Decorin increased the intrinsic potential of dorsal root ganglion neurons (DRGN) by increasing their expression of regeneration associated genes (RAGs), enhanced local axon regeneration/sprouting, as evidenced both histologically and by improved electrophysiological, locomotor and sensory function recovery. These results suggest that this drug formulated, injectable hydrogel has the potential to be further studied and translated into the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob Matthews
- Neuroscience and Ophthalmology, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Sarina Surey
- Neuroscience and Ophthalmology, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Liam M Grover
- School of Chemical Engineering, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Ann Logan
- Warwick Medical School, Biomedical Sciences, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL, UK
| | - Zubair Ahmed
- Neuroscience and Ophthalmology, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK. .,Centre for Trauma Sciences Research, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK.
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8
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Wiseman TM, Baron-Heeris D, Houwers IGJ, Keenan R, Williams RJ, Nisbet DR, Harvey AR, Hodgetts SI. Peptide Hydrogel Scaffold for Mesenchymal Precursor Cells Implanted to Injured Adult Rat Spinal Cord. Tissue Eng Part A 2020; 27:993-1007. [PMID: 33040713 DOI: 10.1089/ten.tea.2020.0115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
A unique, biomimetic self-assembling peptide (SAP) hydrogel, Fmoc-DIKVAV, has been shown to be a suitable cell and drug delivery system in the injured brain. In this study, we assessed its utility in adult Fischer 344 (F344) rats as a stabilizing scaffold and vehicle for grafted cells after mild thoracic (thoracic level 10 [T10]) contusion spinal cord injury (SCI). Treatments were as follows: Fmoc-DIKVAV alone, Fmoc-DIKVAV containing viable or nonviable rat mesenchymal precursor cells (rMPCs), and rMPCs alone. The majority of post-SCI treatments were administered at 11-15 days (mean 13.5 days) and the results then compared to SCI-only control (no treatment) rats. Postinjury behavior was quantified using open field locomotion (BBB) and LadderWalk analysis. After perfusion at 8 weeks, longitudinal spinal cord sections were immunostained with a panel of antibodies. Qualitatively, in the SAP-only treatment group, implanted gels contained regenerate axons as well as astrocytic, immune cell, and extracellular matrix (ECM) component profiles. Grafts of Fmoc-DIKVAV plus viable or nonviable rMPCs also contained numerous macrophages/microglia and ECM components, but astrocytes were generally confined to implant margins, and axons were rare. Quantitative analysis showed that, while average cyst size was reduced in all experimental groups, the decrease compared to SCI-only controls was only significant in the SAP and rMPC treatment groups. There was gradual improvement in functionality after SCI, but a consistent trend was only seen between the rMPC treatment group and SCI-only controls. In summary, after contusion SCI, implantation of Fmoc-DIKVAV hydrogel provided a favorable microenvironment for cellular infiltration and axonal regrowth, a supportive role that unexpectedly appeared to be compromised by prior inclusion of rMPCs into the gel matrix. Impact statement The self-assembling peptide hydrogel, Fmoc-DIKVAV, is a biomimetic scaffold that is an effective cell and drug delivery system in the injured brain. We examined whether this hydrogel, alone or combined with mesenchymal precursor cells, was also able to stabilise spinal cord tissue after thoracic contusion injury and improve morphological and behavioral outcomes. While improved functionality was not consistently seen, there was reduced cyst size and increased tissue sparing in some groups. There was regenerative axonal growth into hydrogels, but only in initially cell-free implants. This type of polymer is a suitable candidate for further testing in spinal cord injury models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tylie M Wiseman
- School of Human Sciences, The University of Western Australia (UWA), Perth, Australia
| | - Danii Baron-Heeris
- School of Human Sciences, The University of Western Australia (UWA), Perth, Australia
| | - Imke G J Houwers
- School of Human Sciences, The University of Western Australia (UWA), Perth, Australia
| | - Rory Keenan
- School of Human Sciences, The University of Western Australia (UWA), Perth, Australia
| | - Richard J Williams
- Centre for Molecular and Medical Research, School of Medicine, Deakin University, Burwood, Australia.,Biofab3D, St. Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - David R Nisbet
- Biofab3D, St. Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia.,Laboratory of Advanced Biomaterials, College of Engineering and Computer Science, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Alan R Harvey
- School of Human Sciences, The University of Western Australia (UWA), Perth, Australia.,Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, Australia
| | - Stuart I Hodgetts
- School of Human Sciences, The University of Western Australia (UWA), Perth, Australia.,Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, Australia
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9
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Sever-Bahcekapili M, Yilmaz C, Demirel A, Kilinc MC, Dogan I, Caglar YS, Guler MO, Tekinay AB. Neuroactive Peptide Nanofibers for Regeneration of Spinal Cord after Injury. Macromol Biosci 2020; 21:e2000234. [PMID: 33043585 DOI: 10.1002/mabi.202000234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Revised: 09/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The highly complex nature of spinal cord injuries (SCIs) requires design of novel biomaterials that can stimulate cellular regeneration and functional recovery. Promising SCI treatments use biomaterial scaffolds, which provide bioactive cues to the cells in order to trigger neural regeneration in the spinal cord. In this work, the use of peptide nanofibers is demonstrated, presenting protein binding and cellular adhesion epitopes in a rat model of SCI. The self-assembling peptide molecules are designed to form nanofibers, which display heparan sulfate mimetic and laminin mimetic epitopes to the cells in the spinal cord. These neuroactive nanofibers are found to support adhesion and viability of dorsal root ganglion neurons as well as neurite outgrowth in vitro and enhance tissue integrity after 6 weeks of injury in vivo. Treatment with the peptide nanofiber scaffolds also show significant behavioral improvement. These results demonstrate that it is possible to facilitate regeneration especially in the white matter of the spinal cord, which is usually damaged during the accidents using bioactive 3D nanostructures displaying high densities of laminin and heparan sulfate-mimetic epitopes on their surfaces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melike Sever-Bahcekapili
- Institute of Materials Science and NanotechnologyNational Nanotechnology Research Center (UNAM), Bilkent University, Ankara, 06800, Turkey
| | - Canelif Yilmaz
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, Bilkent University, Ankara, 06800, Turkey
| | - Altan Demirel
- Department of Neurosurgery, Aksaray State Hospital, Aksaray, 68200, Turkey
| | - Mustafa Cemil Kilinc
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Neurosurgery, Ankara University, Ankara, 06100, Turkey
| | - Ihsan Dogan
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Neurosurgery, Ankara University, Ankara, 06100, Turkey
| | - Yusuf Sukru Caglar
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Neurosurgery, Ankara University, Ankara, 06100, Turkey
| | - Mustafa O Guler
- The Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - Ayse B Tekinay
- Institute of Materials Science and NanotechnologyNational Nanotechnology Research Center (UNAM), Bilkent University, Ankara, 06800, Turkey.,The Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA.,Eryigit Research and Development Center, Ankara, 06380, Turkey
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10
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Abstract
Abstract
Carbon nanotubes (CNTs), with unique graphitic structure, superior mechanical, electrical, optical and biological properties, has attracted more and more interests in biomedical applications, including gene/drug delivery, bioimaging, biosensor and tissue engineering. In this review, we focus on the role of CNTs and their polymeric composites in tissue engineering applications, with emphasis on their usages in the nerve, cardiac and bone tissue regenerations. The intrinsic natures of CNTs including their physical and chemical properties are first introduced, explaining the structure effects on CNTs electrical conductivity and various functionalization of CNTs to improve their hydrophobic characteristics. Biosafety issues of CNTs are also discussed in detail including the potential reasons to induce the toxicity and their potential strategies to minimise the toxicity effects. Several processing strategies including solution-based processing, polymerization, melt-based processing and grafting methods are presented to show the 2D/3D construct formations using the polymeric composite containing CNTs. For the sake of improving mechanical, electrical and biological properties and minimising the potential toxicity effects, recent advances using polymer/CNT composite the tissue engineering applications are displayed and they are mainly used in the neural tissue (to improve electrical conductivity and biological properties), cardiac tissue (to improve electrical, elastic properties and biological properties) and bone tissue (to improve mechanical properties and biological properties). Current limitations of CNTs in the tissue engineering are discussed and the corresponded future prospective are also provided. Overall, this review indicates that CNTs are promising “next-generation” materials for future biomedical applications.
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11
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Sadik ME, Ozturk AK, Albayar A, Branche M, Sullivan PZ, Schlosser LO, Browne KD, Jaye AH, Smith DH. A Strategy Toward Bridging a Complete Spinal Cord Lesion Using Stretch-Grown Axons. Tissue Eng Part A 2020; 26:623-635. [DOI: 10.1089/ten.tea.2019.0230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Mindy Ezra Sadik
- Center for Brain Injury and Repair, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Ali K. Ozturk
- Department of Neurosurgery, Pennsylvania Hospital, University of Pennsylvania Health System, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Ahmed Albayar
- Center for Brain Injury and Repair, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Marc Branche
- Center for Brain Injury and Repair, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Patricia Zadnik Sullivan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Pennsylvania Hospital, University of Pennsylvania Health System, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Laura O. Schlosser
- Center for Brain Injury and Repair, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Kevin D. Browne
- Center for Brain Injury and Repair, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Andrew H. Jaye
- Center for Brain Injury and Repair, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Douglas H. Smith
- Center for Brain Injury and Repair, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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12
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Morgado PI, Palacios M, Larrain J. In situ injectable hydrogels for spinal cord regeneration: advances from the last 10 years. Biomed Phys Eng Express 2019; 6:012002. [PMID: 33438588 DOI: 10.1088/2057-1976/ab52e8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a tremendously devastating disorder with no effective therapy. Neuroprotective strategies have been applied aiming to prevent secondary cell death but no successful and robust effects have been observed. Recently, combinatorial approaches using biomaterials with cells and/or growth factors have demonstrated promising therapeutic effects because of the improvement of axonal growth and in vivo functional recovery in model organisms. In situ injectable hydrogels are a particularly attractive neuroregenerative approach to improve spinal cord repair and regeneration since they can be precisely injected into the lesion site filling the space prior to gelification, decrease scarring and promote axon growth due to the hydrogel's soft structure. Important advances regarding the use of hydrogels as potential therapeutic approaches has been reported during the last 10 years. Injectable alginate hydrogel loaded with GDNF, thermoresponsives heparin-poloxamer loaded with NGF and imidazole-poly(organophosphazenes) hydrogels are just three examples of biomaterials that can promote neurite, axon growth and improve functional recovery in hemisected and resected rats. Here we will review the status of in situ injectable hydrogels for spinal cord regeneration with special focus in the advantages of using hydrogel scaffolds, the ideal polymers to be used, the gelification process and the cells or growth factors combined. The in vitro and in vivo results reported for those biomaterials will be presented, compared and discussed.
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Licht C, Rose JC, Anarkoli AO, Blondel D, Roccio M, Haraszti T, Gehlen DB, Hubbell JA, Lutolf MP, De Laporte L. Synthetic 3D PEG-Anisogel Tailored with Fibronectin Fragments Induce Aligned Nerve Extension. Biomacromolecules 2019; 20:4075-4087. [PMID: 31614080 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.9b00891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
An enzymatically cross-linked polyethylene glycol (PEG)-based hydrogel was engineered to promote and align nerve cells in a three-dimensional manner. To render the injectable, otherwise bioinert, PEG-based material supportive for cell growth, its mechanical and biochemical properties were optimized. A recombinant fibronectin fragment (FNIII9*-10/12-14) was coupled to the PEG backbone during gelation to provide cell adhesive and growth factor binding domains in close vicinity. Compared to full-length fibronectin, FNIII9*-10/12-14 supports nerve growth at similar concentrations. In a 3D environment, only the ultrasoft 1 w/v% PEG hydrogels with a storage modulus of ∼10 Pa promoted neuronal growth. This gel was used to establish the first fully synthetic, injectable Anisogel by the addition of magnetically aligned microelements, such as rod-shaped microgels or short fibers. The Anisogel led to linear neurite extension and represents a large step in the direction of clinical translation with the opportunity to treat acute spinal cord injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Licht
- DWI - Leibniz Institute for Interactive Materials , 52074 Aachen , Germany
| | - Jonas C Rose
- DWI - Leibniz Institute for Interactive Materials , 52074 Aachen , Germany
| | | | - Delphine Blondel
- Institute for Bioengineering , Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) , Lausanne 1015 , Switzerland
| | - Marta Roccio
- Institute for Bioengineering , Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) , Lausanne 1015 , Switzerland.,Department of Biomedical Research , University of Bern , 3010 Bern , Switzerland
| | - Tamás Haraszti
- DWI - Leibniz Institute for Interactive Materials , 52074 Aachen , Germany
| | - David B Gehlen
- DWI - Leibniz Institute for Interactive Materials , 52074 Aachen , Germany
| | - Jeffrey A Hubbell
- Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering , University of Chicago , Chicago , Illinois 60637 , United States
| | - Matthias P Lutolf
- Institute for Bioengineering , Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) , Lausanne 1015 , Switzerland
| | - Laura De Laporte
- DWI - Leibniz Institute for Interactive Materials , 52074 Aachen , Germany.,ITMC - Institute of Technical and Macromolecular Chemistry , RWTH University Aachen , 52074 Aachen , Germany
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14
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Výborný K, Vallová J, Kočí Z, Kekulová K, Jiráková K, Jendelová P, Hodan J, Kubinová Š. Genipin and EDC crosslinking of extracellular matrix hydrogel derived from human umbilical cord for neural tissue repair. Sci Rep 2019; 9:10674. [PMID: 31337821 PMCID: PMC6650505 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-47059-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2018] [Accepted: 07/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Extracellular matrix (ECM) hydrogels, produced by tissue decellularization are natural injectable materials suitable for neural tissue repair. However, the rapid biodegradation of these materials may disrupt neural tissue reconstruction in vivo. The aim of this study was to improve the stability of the previously described ECM hydrogel derived from human umbilical cord using genipin and N-(3-Dimethylaminopropyl)-N'-ethylcarbodiimide hydrochloride (EDC), crosslinking at concentration of 0.5-10 mM. The hydrogels, crosslinked by genipin (ECM/G) or EDC (ECM/D), were evaluated in vitro in terms of their mechanical properties, degradation stability and biocompatibility. ECM/G, unlike ECM/D, crosslinked hydrogels revealed improved rheological properties when compared to uncrosslinked ECM. Both ECM/G and ECM/D slowed down the gelation time and increased the resistance against in vitro enzymatic degradation, while genipin crosslinking was more effective than EDC. Crosslinkers concentration of 1 mM enhanced the in vitro bio-stability of both ECM/G and ECM/D without affecting mesenchymal stem cell proliferation, axonal sprouting or neural stem cell growth and differentiation. Moreover, when injected into cortical photochemical lesion, genipin allowed in situ gelation and improved the retention of ECM for up to 2 weeks without any adverse tissue response or enhanced inflammatory reaction. In summary, we demonstrated that genipin, rather than EDC, improved the bio-stability of injectable ECM hydrogel in biocompatible concentration, and that ECM/G has potential as a scaffold for neural tissue application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karel Výborný
- Institute of Experimental Medicine of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic.,2nd Medical Faculty, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jana Vallová
- Institute of Experimental Medicine of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic.,2nd Medical Faculty, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Zuzana Kočí
- Institute of Experimental Medicine of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Kristýna Kekulová
- Institute of Experimental Medicine of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic.,2nd Medical Faculty, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Klára Jiráková
- Institute of Experimental Medicine of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Pavla Jendelová
- Institute of Experimental Medicine of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jiří Hodan
- Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Šárka Kubinová
- Institute of Experimental Medicine of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic.
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15
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Nazarpak MH, Entekhabi E, Najafi F, Rahmani M, Solati Hashjin M. Synthesis and characterization of conductive neural tissue engineering scaffolds based on urethane-polycaprolactone. INT J POLYM MATER PO 2018. [DOI: 10.1080/00914037.2018.1513933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Elahe Entekhabi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Amirkabir University of Technology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farhood Najafi
- Department of Resin and Additives, Institute for Color Science and Technology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Majid Rahmani
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Amirkabir University of Technology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehran Solati Hashjin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Amirkabir University of Technology, Tehran, Iran
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Zhu W, Zhang H, Chen X, Jin K, Ning L. Numerical characterization of regenerative axons growing along a spherical multifunctional scaffold after spinal cord injury. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0205961. [PMID: 30365562 PMCID: PMC6203361 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0205961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2017] [Accepted: 10/04/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) followed by extensive cell loss, inflammation, and scarring, often permanently damages neurological function. Biomaterial scaffolds are promising but currently have limited applicability in SCI because after entering the scaffold, regenerating axons tend to become trapped and rarelyre-enter the host tissue, the reasons for which remain to be completely explored. Here, we propose a mathematical model and computer simulation for characterizing regenerative axons growing along a scaffold following SCI, and how their growth may be guided. The model assumed a solid, spherical, multifunctional, biomaterial scaffold, that would bridge the rostral and caudal stumps of a completely transected spinal cord in a rat model and would guide the rostral regenerative axons toward the caudal tissue. Other assumptions include the whole scaffold being coated with extracellular matrix components, and the caudal area being additionally seeded with chemoattractants. The chemical factors on and around the scaffold were formulated to several coupled variables, and the parameter values were derived fromexisting experimental data. Special attention was given to the effects of coating strength, seeding location, and seeding density, as well as the ramp slope of the scaffold, on axonal regeneration. In numerical simulations, a slimmer scaffold provided a small slope at the entry "on-ramp" area that improved the success rate of axonal regeneration. If success rates are high, an increased number of regenerative axons traverse through the narrow channels, causing congestion and lowering the growth rate. An increase in the number of severed axons (300-12000) did not significantly affect the growth rate, but it reduced the success rate of axonal regeneration. However, an increase in the seeding densities of the complexes on the whole scaffold, and that in the seeding densities of the chemoattractants on the caudal area, improved both the success and growth rates. However, an increase in the density of thecomplexes on the whole scaffold risks an over-eutrophic surface that harms axonal regeneration.Although theoretical predictions are yet to be validated directly by experiments, this theoretical tool can advance the treatment of SCI, and is also applicable to scaffolds with other architectures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiping Zhu
- Shanghai Institute of Applied Mathematics and Mechanics, Shanghai University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
- * E-mail:
| | - Han Zhang
- Shanghai Institute of Applied Mathematics and Mechanics, Shanghai University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuning Chen
- Shanghai Institute of Applied Mathematics and Mechanics, Shanghai University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Kan Jin
- Shanghai Institute of Applied Mathematics and Mechanics, Shanghai University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Le Ning
- Shanghai Institute of Applied Mathematics and Mechanics, Shanghai University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
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Macha P, Perreault L, Hamedani Y, Mayes ML, Vasudev MC. Molecular Mechanisms of Tryptophan–Tyrosine Nanostructures Formation and their Influence on PC-12 Cells. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2018; 1:1266-1275. [DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.8b00121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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18
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Hejčl A, Růžička J, Proks V, Macková H, Kubinová Š, Tukmachev D, Cihlář J, Horák D, Jendelová P. Dynamics of tissue ingrowth in SIKVAV-modified highly superporous PHEMA scaffolds with oriented pores after bridging a spinal cord transection. JOURNAL OF MATERIALS SCIENCE. MATERIALS IN MEDICINE 2018; 29:89. [PMID: 29938301 DOI: 10.1007/s10856-018-6100-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2017] [Accepted: 06/05/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
While many types of biomaterials have been evaluated in experimental spinal cord injury (SCI) research, little is known about the time-related dynamics of the tissue infiltration of these scaffolds. We analyzed the ingrowth of connective tissue, axons and blood vessels inside the superporous poly (2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) hydrogel with oriented pores. The hydrogels, either plain or seeded with mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), were implanted in spinal cord transection at the level of Th8. The animals were sacrificed at days 2, 7, 14, 28, 49 and 6 months after SCI and histologically evaluated. We found that within the first week, the hydrogels were already infiltrated with connective tissue and blood vessels, which remained stable for the next 6 weeks. Axons slowly and gradually infiltrated the hydrogel within the first month, after which the numbers became stable. Six months after SCI we observed rare axons crossing the hydrogel bridge and infiltrating the caudal stump. There was no difference in the tissue infiltration between the plain hydrogels and those seeded with MSCs. We conclude that while connective tissue and blood vessels quickly infiltrate the scaffold within the first week, axons show a rather gradual infiltration over the first month, and this is not facilitated by the presence of MSCs inside the hydrogel pores. Further research which is focused on the permissive micro-environment of the hydrogel scaffold is needed, to promote continuous and long-lasting tissue regeneration across the spinal cord lesion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleš Hejčl
- Institute of Experimental Medicine, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Vídeňská 1083, 142 20, Prague, Czech Republic.
- Department of Neurosurgery, J. E. Purkinje University, Masaryk Hospital, Sociální péče 12A, 401 13, Ústí nad Labem, Czech Republic.
| | - Jiří Růžička
- Institute of Experimental Medicine, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Vídeňská 1083, 142 20, Prague, Czech Republic
- Department of Neuroscience, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, V Úvalu 84, 150 06, Prague 5, Czech Republic
| | - Vladimír Proks
- Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Heyrovského nám.2, 162 06, Praha 6, Břevnov, Czech Republic
| | - Hana Macková
- Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Heyrovského nám.2, 162 06, Praha 6, Břevnov, Czech Republic
| | - Šárka Kubinová
- Institute of Experimental Medicine, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Vídeňská 1083, 142 20, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Dmitry Tukmachev
- Department of Neurosurgery, Motol University Hospital, V Úvalu 84, Prague 5, 150 06, Czech Republic
| | - Jiří Cihlář
- Department of Mathematics, Faculty of Science, J. E. Purkyně University, České mládeže 8, 400 96, Ústí nad Labem, Czech Republic
| | - Daniel Horák
- Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Heyrovského nám.2, 162 06, Praha 6, Břevnov, Czech Republic
| | - Pavla Jendelová
- Institute of Experimental Medicine, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Vídeňská 1083, 142 20, Prague, Czech Republic
- Department of Neuroscience, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, V Úvalu 84, 150 06, Prague 5, Czech Republic
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Liu S, Schackel T, Weidner N, Puttagunta R. Biomaterial-Supported Cell Transplantation Treatments for Spinal Cord Injury: Challenges and Perspectives. Front Cell Neurosci 2018; 11:430. [PMID: 29375316 PMCID: PMC5768640 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2017.00430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2017] [Accepted: 12/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI), resulting in para- and tetraplegia caused by the partial or complete disruption of descending motor and ascending sensory neurons, represents a complex neurological condition that remains incurable. Following SCI, numerous obstacles comprising of the loss of neural tissue (neurons, astrocytes, and oligodendrocytes), formation of a cavity, inflammation, loss of neuronal circuitry and function must be overcome. Given the multifaceted primary and secondary injury events that occur with SCI treatment options are likely to require combinatorial therapies. While several methods have been explored, only the intersection of two, cell transplantation and biomaterial implantation, will be addressed in detail here. Owing to the constant advance of cell culture technologies, cell-based transplantation has come to the forefront of SCI treatment in order to replace/protect damaged tissue and provide physical as well as trophic support for axonal regrowth. Biomaterial scaffolds provide cells with a protected environment from the surrounding lesion, in addition to bridging extensive damage and providing physical and directional support for axonal regrowth. Moreover, in this combinatorial approach cell transplantation improves scaffold integration and therefore regenerative growth potential. Here, we review the advances in combinatorial therapies of Schwann cells (SCs), astrocytes, olfactory ensheathing cells (OECs), mesenchymal stem cells, as well as neural stem and progenitor cells (NSPCs) with various biomaterial scaffolds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengwen Liu
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Thomas Schackel
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Norbert Weidner
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Radhika Puttagunta
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
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20
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Liu S, Sandner B, Schackel T, Nicholson L, Chtarto A, Tenenbaum L, Puttagunta R, Müller R, Weidner N, Blesch A. Regulated viral BDNF delivery in combination with Schwann cells promotes axonal regeneration through capillary alginate hydrogels after spinal cord injury. Acta Biomater 2017; 60:167-180. [PMID: 28735026 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2017.07.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2017] [Revised: 07/05/2017] [Accepted: 07/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Grafting of cell-seeded alginate capillary hydrogels into a spinal cord lesion site provides an axonal bridge while physically directing regenerating axonal growth in a linear pattern. However, without an additional growth stimulus, bridging axons fail to extend into the distal host spinal cord. Here we examined whether a combinatory strategy would support regeneration of descending axons across a cervical (C5) lateral hemisection lesion in the rat spinal cord. Following spinal cord transections, Schwann cell (SC)-seeded alginate hydrogels were grafted to the lesion site and AAV5 expressing brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) under control of a tetracycline-regulated promoter was injected caudally. In addition, we examined whether SC injection into the caudal spinal parenchyma would further enhance regeneration of descending axons to re-enter the host spinal cord. Our data show that both serotonergic and descending axons traced by biotinylated dextran amine (BDA) extend throughout the scaffolds. The number of regenerating axons is significantly increased when caudal BDNF expression is activated and transient BDNF delivery is able to sustain axons after gene expression is switched off. Descending axons are confined to the caudal graft/host interface even with continuous BDNF expression for 8weeks. Only with a caudal injection of SCs, a pathway facilitating axonal regeneration through the host/graft interface is generated allowing axons to successfully re-enter the caudal spinal cord. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE Recovery from spinal cord injury is poor due to the limited regeneration observed in the adult mammalian central nervous system. Biomaterials, cell transplantation and growth factors that can guide axons across a lesion site, provide a cellular substrate, stimulate axon growth and have shown some promise in increasing the growth distance of regenerating axons. In the present study, we combined an alginate biomaterial with linear channels with transplantation of Schwann cells within and beyond the lesion site and injection of a regulatable vector for the transient expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Our data show that only with the full combination axons extend across the lesion site and that expression of BDNF beyond 4weeks does not further increase the number of regenerating axons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengwen Liu
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany; Department of Neurosurgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, PR China
| | - Beatrice Sandner
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Thomas Schackel
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - LaShae Nicholson
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Abdelwahed Chtarto
- Experimental Neurosurgery Laboratory and I.R.I.B.H.M., Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Liliane Tenenbaum
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University Hospital of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Radhika Puttagunta
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Rainer Müller
- Department of Physical and Theoretical Chemistry, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Norbert Weidner
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Armin Blesch
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany; Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Dept. of Neurological Surgery and Goodman Campbell Brain and Spine, Indianapolis, USA.
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21
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Thomson SE, Charalambous C, Smith CA, Tsimbouri PM, Déjardin T, Kingham PJ, Hart AM, Riehle MO. Microtopographical cues promote peripheral nerve regeneration via transient mTORC2 activation. Acta Biomater 2017; 60:220-231. [PMID: 28754648 PMCID: PMC5593812 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2017.07.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2017] [Revised: 07/04/2017] [Accepted: 07/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Despite microsurgical repair, recovery of function following peripheral nerve injury is slow and often incomplete. Outcomes could be improved by an increased understanding of the molecular biology of regeneration and by translation of experimental bioengineering strategies. Topographical cues have been shown to be powerful regulators of the rate and directionality of neurite regeneration, and in this study we investigated the downstream molecular effects of linear micropatterned structures in an organotypic explant model. Linear topographical cues enhanced neurite outgrowth and our results demonstrated that the mTOR pathway is important in regulating these responses. mTOR gene expression peaked between 48 and 72 h, coincident with the onset of rapid neurite outgrowth and glial migration, and correlated with neurite length at 48 h. mTOR protein was located to glia and in a punctate distribution along neurites. mTOR levels peaked at 72 h and were significantly increased by patterned topography (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the topographical cues could override pharmacological inhibition. Downstream phosphorylation assays and inhibition of mTORC1 using rapamycin highlighted mTORC2 as an important mediator, and more specific therapeutic target. Quantitative immunohistochemistry confirmed the presence of the mTORC2 component rictor at the regenerating front where it co-localised with F-actin and vinculin. Collectively, these results provide a deeper understanding of the mechanism of action of topography on neural regeneration, and support the incorporation of topographical patterning in combination with pharmacological mTORC2 potentiation within biomaterial constructs used to repair peripheral nerves. Statement of Significance Peripheral nerve injury is common and functionally devastating. Despite microsurgical repair, healing is slow and incomplete, with lasting functional deficit. There is a clear need to translate bioengineering approaches and increase our knowledge of the molecular processes controlling nerve regeneration to improve the rate and success of healing. Topographical cues are powerful determinants of neurite outgrowth and represent a highly translatable engineering strategy. Here we demonstrate, for the first time, that microtopography potentiates neurite outgrowth via the mTOR pathway, with the mTORC2 subtype being of particular importance. These results give further evidence for the incorporation of microtopographical cues into peripheral nerve regeneration conduits and indicate that mTORC2 may be a suitable therapeutic target to potentiate nerve regeneration.
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22
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DePaul MA, Lin CY, Silver J, Lee YS. Combinatory repair strategy to promote axon regeneration and functional recovery after chronic spinal cord injury. Sci Rep 2017; 7:9018. [PMID: 28827771 PMCID: PMC5567101 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-09432-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2017] [Accepted: 07/26/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Eight weeks post contusive spinal cord injury, we built a peripheral nerve graft bridge (PNG) through the cystic cavity and treated the graft/host interface with acidic fibroblast growth factor (aFGF) and chondroitinase ABC (ChABC). This combinatorial strategy remarkably enhanced integration between host astrocytes and graft Schwann cells, allowing for robust growth, especially of catecholaminergic axons, through the graft and back into the distal spinal cord. In the absence of aFGF+ChABC fewer catecholaminergic axons entered the graft, no axons exited, and Schwann cells and astrocytes failed to integrate. In sharp contrast with the acutely bridge-repaired cord, in the chronically repaired cord only low levels of serotonergic axons regenerated into the graft, with no evidence of re-entry back into the spinal cord. The failure of axons to regenerate was strongly correlated with a dramatic increase of SOCS3 expression. While regeneration was more limited overall than at acute stages, our combinatorial strategy in the chronically injured animals prevented a decline in locomotor behavior and bladder physiology outcomes associated with an invasive repair strategy. These results indicate that PNG+aFGF+ChABC treatment of the chronically contused spinal cord can provide a permissive substrate for the regeneration of certain neuronal populations that retain a growth potential over time, and lead to functional improvements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc A DePaul
- Case Western Reserve Univ., Dept. of Neurosciences, 10900 Euclid Ave., SOM E654, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Ching-Yi Lin
- Department of Neurosciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, 44195, USA
| | - Jerry Silver
- Case Western Reserve Univ., Dept. of Neurosciences, 10900 Euclid Ave., SOM E654, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Yu-Shang Lee
- Department of Neurosciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, 44195, USA.
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23
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Adams RD, Gupta B, Harkins AB. Validation of electrical stimulation models: intracellular calcium measurement in three-dimensional scaffolds. J Neurophysiol 2017; 118:1415-1424. [PMID: 28592688 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00223.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2017] [Revised: 05/17/2017] [Accepted: 06/02/2017] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Peripheral nerve injury can be disabling. Regeneration is limited by the rate of axonal extension, and proximal injury to peripheral nerves can take over a year to reach target organs. Electrical stimulation (ES) has been shown to increase the rate of neurite growth, though the mechanism is not yet well understood. In our prior manuscript, we developed a computational model that demonstrates how ES can functionally elevate intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i) based on ES intensity and duration. In this article, we validate the computation model for the [Ca2+]i changes in neuron soma. Embryonic chicken dorsal root ganglion cells were suspended in 3-dimensional collagen scaffolds. Fura-2 was used to measure [Ca2+]i in response to biphasic ES pulses ranging from 70 to 60,000 V/m in intensity and from 10 µs to 100 ms in duration. The computational model most closely matched the experimental data of the neurons with the highest [Ca2+]i elevation for ES pulses 100 µs or greater in duration. Nickel (200 µM) and cadmium (200 µM) blocked 98-99% of the [Ca2+]i rise, indicating that the rise in [Ca2+]i in response to ES is via voltage-dependent calcium channels. The average [Ca2+]i rise in response to ES was about one-tenth of the peak rise. Therefore, the computational model is validated for elevating [Ca2+]i of neurons and can be used as a tool for designing efficacious ES protocols for improving neuronal regeneration.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Electrical stimulation is used to enhance neuron growth, and the role of neuronal intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i) is an area of research interest. Widely varying stimulation parameters in the literature make it difficult to compare stimulation protocols. The results in this manuscript are the first to show neuronal [Ca2+]i in response to a broad and defined range of electrical pulse durations and intensities. These results validate our previously published novel computational model of [Ca2+]i.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert D Adams
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri; and
| | - Brinda Gupta
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri; and
| | - Amy B Harkins
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri; and .,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, Missouri
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24
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Abstract
Axon regeneration is a chaotic process due largely to unorganized axon alignment. Therefore, in order for a sufficient number of regenerated axons to bridge the lesion site, properly organized axonal alignment is required. Since demyelination after nerve injury strongly impairs the conductive capacity of surviving axons, remyelination is critical for successful functioning of regenerated nerves. Previously, we demonstrated that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) aligned on a pre-stretch induced anisotropic surface because the cells can sense a larger effective stiffness in the stretched direction than in the perpendicular direction. We also showed that an anisotropic surface arising from a mechanical pre-stretched surface similarly affects alignment, as well as growth and myelination of axons. Here, we provide a detailed protocol for preparing a pre-stretched anisotropic surface, the isolation and culture of dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons on a pre-stretched surface, and show the myelination behavior of a co-culture of DRG neurons with Schwann cells (SCs) on a pre-stretched surface.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun Liu
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Michigan State University
| | - Christina Chan
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Michigan State University; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Michigan State University;
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McCreedy DA, Margul DJ, Seidlits SK, Antane JT, Thomas RJ, Sissman GM, Boehler RM, Smith DR, Goldsmith SW, Kukushliev TV, Lamano JB, Vedia BH, He T, Shea LD. Semi-automated counting of axon regeneration in poly(lactide co-glycolide) spinal cord bridges. J Neurosci Methods 2016; 263:15-22. [PMID: 26820904 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneumeth.2016.01.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2015] [Revised: 01/14/2016] [Accepted: 01/16/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a debilitating event with multiple mechanisms of degeneration leading to life-long paralysis. Biomaterial strategies, including bridges that span the injury and provide a pathway to reconnect severed regions of the spinal cord, can promote partial restoration of motor function following SCI. Axon growth through the bridge is essential to characterizing regeneration, as recovery can occur via other mechanisms such as plasticity. Quantitative analysis of axons by manual counting of histological sections can be slow, which can limit the number of bridge designs evaluated. In this study, we report a semi-automated process to resolve axon numbers in histological sections, which allows for efficient analysis of large data sets. NEW METHOD Axon numbers were estimated in SCI cross-sections from animals implanted with poly(lactide co-glycolide) (PLG) bridges with multiple channels for guiding axons. Immunofluorescence images of histological sections were filtered using a Hessian-based approach prior to threshold detection to improve the signal-to-noise ratio and filter out background staining associated with PLG polymer. RESULTS Semi-automated counting successfully recapitulated average axon densities and myelination in a blinded PLG bridge implantation study. COMPARISON WITH EXISTING METHODS Axon counts obtained with the semi-automated technique correlated well with manual axon counts from blinded independent observers across sections with a wide range of total axons. CONCLUSIONS This semi-automated detection of Hessian-filtered axons provides an accurate and significantly faster alternative to manual counting of axons for quantitative analysis of regeneration following SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dylan A McCreedy
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Daniel J Margul
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Stephanie K Seidlits
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA; Department of Bioengineering, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jennifer T Antane
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Ryan J Thomas
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Gillian M Sissman
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Ryan M Boehler
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Dominique R Smith
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Sam W Goldsmith
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Todor V Kukushliev
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Jonathan B Lamano
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Bansi H Vedia
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Ting He
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Lonnie D Shea
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
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Liu C, Pyne R, Kim J, Wright NT, Baek S, Chan C. The Impact of Prestretch Induced Surface Anisotropy on Axon Regeneration. Tissue Eng Part C Methods 2015; 22:102-112. [PMID: 26563431 DOI: 10.1089/ten.tec.2015.0328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Nerve regeneration after spinal cord injury requires proper axon alignment to bridge the lesion site and myelination to achieve functional recovery. Significant effort has been invested in developing engineering approaches to induce axon alignment with less focus on myelination. Topological features, such as aligned fibers and channels, have been shown to induce axon alignment, but do not enhance axon thickness. We previously demonstrated that surface anisotropy generated through mechanical prestretch induced mesenchymal stem cells to align in the direction of prestretch. In this study, we demonstrate that static prestretch-induced anisotropy promotes dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons to extend thicker axon aggregates along the stretched direction and form aligned fascicular-like axon tracts. Moreover, Schwann cells, when cocultured with DRG neurons on the prestretched surface colocalized with the aligned axons and expressed P0 protein, are indicative of myelination of the aligned axons, thereby demonstrating that prestretch-induced surface anisotropy is beneficial in enhancing axon alignment, growth, and myelination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun Liu
- 1 Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Michigan State University , East Lansing, Michigan
| | - Ryan Pyne
- 1 Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Michigan State University , East Lansing, Michigan
| | - Jungsil Kim
- 2 Department of Mechanical Engineering & Materials Science, Washington University , Saint Louis, Missouri
| | - Neil Thomas Wright
- 3 Department of Mechanical Engineering, Michigan State University , East Lansing, Michigan
| | - Seungik Baek
- 3 Department of Mechanical Engineering, Michigan State University , East Lansing, Michigan
| | - Christina Chan
- 1 Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Michigan State University , East Lansing, Michigan.,4 Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Michigan State University , East Lansing, Michigan
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Pires LR, Pêgo AP. Bridging the lesion-engineering a permissive substrate for nerve regeneration. Regen Biomater 2015; 2:203-14. [PMID: 26816642 PMCID: PMC4669012 DOI: 10.1093/rb/rbv012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2015] [Revised: 07/21/2015] [Accepted: 06/30/2015] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Biomaterial-based strategies to restore connectivity after lesion at the spinal cord are focused on bridging the lesion and providing an favourable substrate and a path for axonal re-growth. Following spinal cord injury (SCI) a hostile environment for neuronal cell growth is established by the activation of multiple inhibitory mechanisms that hamper regeneration to occur. Implantable scaffolds can provide mechanical support and physical guidance for axon re-growth and, at the same time, contribute to alleviate the hostile environment by the in situ delivery of therapeutic molecules and/or relevant cells. Basic research on SCI has been contributing with the description of inhibitory mechanisms for regeneration as well as identifying drugs/molecules that can target inhibition. This knowledge is the background for the development of combined strategies with biomaterials. Additionally, scaffold design is significantly evolving. From the early simple hollow conduits, scaffolds with complex architectures that can modulate cell fate are currently being tested. A number of promising pre-clinical studies combining scaffolds, cells, drugs and/or nucleic acids are reported in the open literature. Overall, it is considered that to address the multi-factorial inhibitory environment of a SCI, a multifaceted therapeutic approach is imperative. The progress in the identification of molecules that target inhibition after SCI and its combination with scaffolds and/or cells are described and discussed in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liliana R. Pires
- INEB—Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, Rua do Campo Alegre 823, 4150-180 Porto, Portugal
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Portugal
- Faculdade de Engenharia—Universidade do Porto (FEUP), Porto, Portugal and
| | - Ana P. Pêgo
- INEB—Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, Rua do Campo Alegre 823, 4150-180 Porto, Portugal
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Portugal
- Faculdade de Engenharia—Universidade do Porto (FEUP), Porto, Portugal and
- Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar (ICBAS), Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
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Pandamooz S, Nabiuni M, Miyan J, Ahmadiani A, Dargahi L. Organotypic Spinal Cord Culture: a Proper Platform for the Functional Screening. Mol Neurobiol 2015; 53:4659-74. [PMID: 26310972 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-015-9403-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2015] [Accepted: 08/17/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Recent improvements in organotypic slice culturing and its accompanying technological innovations have made this biological preparation increasingly useful ex vivo experimental model. Among organotypic slice cultures obtained from various central nervous regions, spinal cord slice culture is an absorbing model that represents several unique advantages over other current in vitro and in vivo models. The culture of developing spinal cord slices, as allows real-time observation of embryonic cells behaviors, is an instrumental platform for developmental investigation. Importantly, due to the ability of ex vivo models to recapitulate different aspects of corresponding in vivo conditions, these models have been subject of various manipulations to derive disease-relevant slice models. Moreover spinal cord slice cultures represent a potential platform for screening of different pharmacological agents and evaluation of cell transplantation and neuroregenerative materials. In this review, we will focus on studies carried out using the ex vivo model of spinal cord slice cultures and main advantages linked to practicality of these slices in both normal and neuropathological diseases and summarize them in different categories based on application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sareh Pandamooz
- Neuroscience Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Animal Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Nabiuni
- Department of Animal Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Jaleel Miyan
- Neurobiology Research Group, Faculty of Life Sciences, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Abolhassan Ahmadiani
- Neuroscience Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Leila Dargahi
- NeuroBiology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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29
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Kajbafzadeh AM, Khorramirouz R, Akbarzadeh A, Sabetkish S, Sabetkish N, Saadat P, Tehrani M. A novel technique for simultaneous whole-body and multi-organ decellularization: umbilical artery catheterization as a perfusion-based method in a sheep foetus model. Int J Exp Pathol 2015; 96:116-32. [PMID: 26031202 DOI: 10.1111/iep.12124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2014] [Accepted: 02/09/2015] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to develop a method to generate multi-organ acellular matrices. Using a foetal sheep model have developed a method of systemic pulsatile perfusion via the umbilical artery which allows for simultaneous multi-organ decellularization. Twenty sheep foetuses were systemically perfused with Triton X-100 and sodium dodecyl sulphate. Following completion of the whole-body decellularization, multiple biopsy samples were taken from different parts of 21 organs to ascertain complete cell component removal in the preserved extracellular matrices. Both the natural and decellularized organs were subjected to several examinations. The samples were obtained from the skin, eye, ear, nose, throat, cardiovascular, respiratory, gastrointestinal, urinary, musculoskeletal, central nervous and peripheral nervous systems. The histological results depicted well-preserved extracellular matrix (ECM) integrity and intact vascular structures, without any evidence of residual cellular materials, in all decellularized bioscaffolds. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) and biochemical properties remained intact, similar to their age-matched native counterparts. Preservation of the collagen structure was evaluated by a hydroxyproline assay. Dense organs such as bone and muscle were also completely decellularized, with a preserved ECM structure. Thus, as shown in this study, several organs and different tissues were decellularized using a perfusion-based method, which has not been previously accomplished. Given the technical challenges that exist for the efficient generation of biological scaffolds, the current results may pave the way for obtaining a variety of decellularized scaffolds from a single donor. In this study, there have been unique responses to the single acellularization protocol in foetuses, which may reflect the homogeneity of tissues and organs in the developing foetal body.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdol-Mohammad Kajbafzadeh
- Pediatric Urology Research Center, Section of Tissue Engineering and Stem Cells Therapy, Children's Hospital Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran (IRI)
| | - Reza Khorramirouz
- Pediatric Urology Research Center, Section of Tissue Engineering and Stem Cells Therapy, Children's Hospital Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran (IRI)
| | - Aram Akbarzadeh
- Pediatric Urology Research Center, Section of Tissue Engineering and Stem Cells Therapy, Children's Hospital Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran (IRI)
| | - Shabnam Sabetkish
- Pediatric Urology Research Center, Section of Tissue Engineering and Stem Cells Therapy, Children's Hospital Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran (IRI)
| | - Nastaran Sabetkish
- Pediatric Urology Research Center, Section of Tissue Engineering and Stem Cells Therapy, Children's Hospital Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran (IRI)
| | - Paria Saadat
- Pediatric Urology Research Center, Section of Tissue Engineering and Stem Cells Therapy, Children's Hospital Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran (IRI)
| | - Mona Tehrani
- Pediatric Urology Research Center, Section of Tissue Engineering and Stem Cells Therapy, Children's Hospital Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran (IRI)
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30
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Hydrogels and Cell Based Therapies in Spinal Cord Injury Regeneration. Stem Cells Int 2015; 2015:948040. [PMID: 26124844 PMCID: PMC4466497 DOI: 10.1155/2015/948040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2014] [Accepted: 12/14/2014] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a central nervous system- (CNS-) related disorder for which there is yet no successful treatment. Within the past several years, cell-based therapies have been explored for SCI repair, including the use of pluripotent human stem cells, and a number of adult-derived stem and mature cells such as mesenchymal stem cells, olfactory ensheathing cells, and Schwann cells. Although promising, cell transplantation is often overturned by the poor cell survival in the treatment of spinal cord injuries. Alternatively, the therapeutic role of different cells has been used in tissue engineering approaches by engrafting cells with biomaterials. The latter have the advantages of physically mimicking the CNS tissue, while promoting a more permissive environment for cell survival, growth, and differentiation. The roles of both cell- and biomaterial-based therapies as single therapeutic approaches for SCI repair will be discussed in this review. Moreover, as the multifactorial inhibitory environment of a SCI suggests that combinatorial approaches would be more effective, the importance of using biomaterials as cell carriers will be herein highlighted, as well as the recent advances and achievements of these promising tools for neural tissue regeneration.
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31
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Artificial collagen-filament scaffold promotes axon regeneration and long tract reconstruction in a rat model of spinal cord transection. Med Mol Morphol 2015; 48:214-24. [DOI: 10.1007/s00795-015-0104-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2014] [Accepted: 05/01/2015] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
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32
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Zhu Y, Soderblom C, Trojanowsky M, Lee DH, Lee JK. Fibronectin Matrix Assembly after Spinal Cord Injury. J Neurotrauma 2015; 32:1158-67. [PMID: 25492623 DOI: 10.1089/neu.2014.3703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
After spinal cord injury (SCI), a fibrotic scar forms at the injury site that is best characterized by the accumulation of perivascular fibroblasts and deposition of the extracellular matrix protein fibronectin. While fibronectin is a growth-permissive substrate for axons, the fibrotic scar is inhibitory to axon regeneration. The mechanism behind how fibronectin contributes to the inhibitory environment and how the fibronectin matrix is assembled in the fibrotic scar is unknown. By deleting fibronectin in myeloid cells, we demonstrate that fibroblasts are most likely the major source of fibronectin in the fibrotic scar. In addition, we demonstrate that fibronectin is initially present in a soluble form and is assembled into a matrix at 7 d post-SCI. Assembly of the fibronectin matrix may be mediated by the canonical fibronectin receptor, integrin α5β1, which is primarily expressed by activated macrophages/microglia in the fibrotic scar. Despite the pronounced cavitation after rat SCI, fibrotic scar also is observed in a rat SCI model, which is considered to be more similar to human pathology. Taken together, our study provides insight into the mechanism of fibrotic scar formation after spinal cord injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunjiao Zhu
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami School of Medicine , Miami, Florida
| | - Cynthia Soderblom
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami School of Medicine , Miami, Florida
| | - Michelle Trojanowsky
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami School of Medicine , Miami, Florida
| | - Do-Hun Lee
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami School of Medicine , Miami, Florida
| | - Jae K Lee
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami School of Medicine , Miami, Florida
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Webber MJ, Khan OF, Sydlik SA, Tang BC, Langer R. A perspective on the clinical translation of scaffolds for tissue engineering. Ann Biomed Eng 2014; 43:641-56. [PMID: 25201605 DOI: 10.1007/s10439-014-1104-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2014] [Accepted: 08/26/2014] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Scaffolds have been broadly applied within tissue engineering and regenerative medicine to regenerate, replace, or augment diseased or damaged tissue. For a scaffold to perform optimally, several design considerations must be addressed, with an eye toward the eventual form, function, and tissue site. The chemical and mechanical properties of the scaffold must be tuned to optimize the interaction with cells and surrounding tissues. For complex tissue engineering, mass transport limitations, vascularization, and host tissue integration are important considerations. As the tissue architecture to be replaced becomes more complex and hierarchical, scaffold design must also match this complexity to recapitulate a functioning tissue. We outline these design constraints and highlight creative and emerging strategies to overcome limitations and modulate scaffold properties for optimal regeneration. We also highlight some of the most advanced strategies that have seen clinical application and discuss the hurdles that must be overcome for clinical use and commercialization of tissue engineering technologies. Finally, we provide a perspective on the future of scaffolds as a functional contributor to advancing tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J Webber
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 77 Massachusetts Avenue, Room 76-661, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
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34
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Smirnov MS, Cabral KA, Geller HM, Urbach JS. The effects of confinement on neuronal growth cone morphology and velocity. Biomaterials 2014; 35:6750-7. [PMID: 24840617 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2014.04.097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2014] [Accepted: 04/21/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Optimizing growth cone guidance through the use of patterned substrates is important for designing regenerative substrates to aid in recovery from neuronal injury. Using laser ablation, we designed micron-scale patterns capable of confining dissociated mouse cerebellar granule neuron growth cones to channels of different widths ranging from 1.5 to 12 μm. Growth cone dynamics in these channels were observed using time-lapse microscopy. Growth cone area was decreased in channels between 1.5 and 6 μm as compared to that in 12 μm and unpatterned substrates. Growth cone aspect ratio was also affected as narrower channels forced growth cones into a narrow, elongated shape. There was no difference in the overall rate of growth cone advance in uniform channels between 1.5 and 12 μm as compared to growth on unpatterned substrates. The percentage of time growth cones advanced, paused, and retracted was also similar. However, growth cones did respond to changes in confinement: growth cones in narrow lanes rapidly sped up when encountering a wide region and then slowed down as they entered another narrow region. Our results suggest that the rate of neurite extension is not affected by the degree of confinement, but does respond to changes in confinement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael S Smirnov
- Interdisciplinary Program in Neuroscience, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20057, USA; Department of Physics and the Institute for Soft Matter Synthesis and Metrology, Georgetown University, 320 Regents Hall, Washington, DC 20057, USA
| | - Katelyn A Cabral
- Developmental Neurobiology Section, Cell Biology and Physiology Center, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Herbert M Geller
- Developmental Neurobiology Section, Cell Biology and Physiology Center, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Jeffrey S Urbach
- Department of Physics and the Institute for Soft Matter Synthesis and Metrology, Georgetown University, 320 Regents Hall, Washington, DC 20057, USA.
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Adams RD, Rendell SR, Counts LR, Papke JB, Willits RK, Harkins AB. Electrical and neurotrophin enhancement of neurite outgrowth within a 3D collagen scaffold. Ann Biomed Eng 2014; 42:1282-91. [PMID: 24710795 DOI: 10.1007/s10439-014-1001-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2013] [Accepted: 03/28/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Electrical and chemical stimulation have been studied as potent mechanisms of enhancing nerve regeneration and wound healing. However, it remains unclear how electrical stimuli affect nerve growth, particularly in the presence of neurotrophic factors. The objective of this study was to explore (1) the effect of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and nerve growth factor (NGF) supplementation to support neurite outgrowth in a 3D scaffold, and (2) the effect of brief, low voltage, electrical stimulation (ES) on neurite outgrowth prior to neurotrophin supplementation. Dissociated E11 chick dorsal root ganglia (DRG) were seeded within a 1.5 mg/mL type-I collagen scaffold. For neurotrophin treatments, scaffolds were incubated for 24 h in culture media containing NGF (10 ng/mL) or BDNF (200 ng/mL), or both. For ES groups, scaffolds containing neurons were stimulated for 10 min at 8-10 V/m DC, then incubated for 24 h with neurotrophin. Fixed and labeled neurons were imaged to measure neurite growth and directionality. BDNF supplementation was not as effective as NGF at supporting DRG neurite outgrowth. ES prior to NGF supplementation improved DRG neurite outgrowth compared to NGF alone. This combination of brief ES with NGF treatment was the most effective treatment compared to NGF or BDNF alone. Brief ES had no impact on neurite directionality in the 3D scaffolds. These results demonstrate that ES improves neurite outgrowth in the presence of neurotrophins, and could provide a potential therapeutic approach to improve nerve regeneration when coupled with neurotrophin treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert D Adams
- Department of Pharmacological and Physiological Science, Saint Louis University, 1402 S. Grand Blvd, St. Louis, MO, 63104, USA
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Rocha DN, Brites P, Fonseca C, Pêgo AP. Poly(trimethylene carbonate-co-ε-caprolactone) promotes axonal growth. PLoS One 2014; 9:e88593. [PMID: 24586346 PMCID: PMC3937290 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0088593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2013] [Accepted: 01/13/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Mammalian central nervous system (CNS) neurons do not regenerate after injury due to the inhibitory environment formed by the glial scar, largely constituted by myelin debris. The use of biomaterials to bridge the lesion area and the creation of an environment favoring axonal regeneration is an appealing approach, currently under investigation. This work aimed at assessing the suitability of three candidate polymers – poly(ε-caprolactone), poly(trimethylene carbonate-co-ε-caprolactone) (P(TMC-CL)) (11∶89 mol%) and poly(trimethylene carbonate) - with the final goal of using these materials in the development of conduits to promote spinal cord regeneration. Poly(L-lysine) (PLL) coated polymeric films were tested for neuronal cell adhesion and neurite outgrowth. At similar PLL film area coverage conditions, neuronal polarization and axonal elongation was significantly higher on P(TMC-CL) films. Furthermore, cortical neurons cultured on P(TMC-CL) were able to extend neurites even when seeded onto myelin. This effect was found to be mediated by the glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK3β) signaling pathway with impact on the collapsin response mediator protein 4 (CRMP4), suggesting that besides surface topography, nanomechanical properties were implicated in this process. The obtained results indicate P(TMC-CL) as a promising material for CNS regenerative applications as it promotes axonal growth, overcoming myelin inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Nogueira Rocha
- INEB – Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- FEUP - Faculdade de Engenharia da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Pedro Brites
- Nerve Regeneration Group, IBMC – Instituto de Biologia Molecular e Celular, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Carlos Fonseca
- INEB – Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- FEUP - Faculdade de Engenharia da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Ana Paula Pêgo
- INEB – Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- FEUP - Faculdade de Engenharia da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- ICBAS – Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- * E-mail:
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Valappil SP, Misra SK, Boccaccini AR, Roy I. Biomedical applications of polyhydroxyalkanoates, an overview of animal testing andin vivoresponses. Expert Rev Med Devices 2014; 3:853-68. [PMID: 17280548 DOI: 10.1586/17434440.3.6.853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 129] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) have been established as biodegradable polymers since the second half of the twentieth century. Altering monomer composition of PHAs allows the development of polymers with favorable mechanical properties, biocompatibility and desirable degradation rates, under specific physiological conditions. Hence, the medical applications of PHAs have been explored extensively in recent years. PHAs have been used to develop devices, including sutures, nerve repair devices, repair patches, slings, cardiovascular patches, orthopedic pins, adhesion barriers, stents, guided tissue repair/regeneration devices, articular cartilage repair devices, nerve guides, tendon repair devices, bone-marrow scaffolds, tissue engineered cardiovascular devices and wound dressings. So far, various tests on animal models have shown polymers, from the PHA family, to be compatible with a range of tissues. Often, pyrogenic contaminants copurified with PHAs limit their pharmacological application rather than the monomeric composition of the PHAs and thus the purity of the PHA material is critical. This review summarizes the animal testing, tissue response, in vivo molecular stability and challenges of using PHAs for medical applications. In future, PHAs may become the materials of choice for various medical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabeel P Valappil
- Department of Molecular & Applied Biosciences, University of Westminster, 115 New Cavendish Street, London, UK.
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Tuinstra HM, Margul DJ, Goodman AG, Boehler RM, Holland SJ, Zelivyanskaya ML, Cummings BJ, Anderson AJ, Shea LD. Long-term characterization of axon regeneration and matrix changes using multiple channel bridges for spinal cord regeneration. Tissue Eng Part A 2013; 20:1027-37. [PMID: 24168314 DOI: 10.1089/ten.tea.2013.0111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) results in loss of sensory and motor function below the level of injury and has limited available therapies. The host response to SCI is typified by limited endogenous repair, and biomaterial bridges offer the potential to alter the microenvironment to promote regeneration. Porous multiple channel bridges implanted into the injury provide stability to limit secondary damage and support cell infiltration that limits cavity formation. At the same time, the channels provide a path that physically directs axon growth across the injury. Using a rat spinal cord hemisection injury model, we investigated the dynamics of axon growth, myelination, and scar formation within and around the bridge in vivo for 6 months, at which time the bridge has fully degraded. Axons grew into and through the channels, and the density increased overtime, resulting in the greatest axon density at 6 months postimplantation, despite complete degradation of the bridge by that time point. Furthermore, the persistence of these axons contrasts with reports of axonal dieback in other models and is consistent with axon stability resulting from some degree of connectivity. Immunostaining of axons revealed both motor and sensory origins of the axons found in the channels of the bridge. Extensive myelination was observed throughout the bridge at 6 months, with centrally located and peripheral channels seemingly myelinated by oligodendrocytes and Schwann cells, respectively. Chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan deposition was restricted to the edges of the bridge, was greatest at 1 week, and significantly decreased by 6 weeks. The dynamics of collagen I and IV, laminin, and fibronectin deposition varied with time. These studies demonstrate that the bridge structure can support substantial long-term axon growth and myelination with limited scar formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah M Tuinstra
- 1 Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Northwestern University , Evanston, Illinois
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Fabbro A, Prato M, Ballerini L. Carbon nanotubes in neuroregeneration and repair. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2013; 65:2034-44. [PMID: 23856411 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2013.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2013] [Revised: 04/29/2013] [Accepted: 07/05/2013] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
In the last decade, we have experienced an increasing interest and an improved understanding of the application of nanotechnology to the nervous system. The aim of such studies is that of developing future strategies for tissue repair to promote functional recovery after brain damage. In this framework, carbon nanotube based technologies are emerging as particularly innovative tools due to the outstanding physical properties of these nanomaterials together with their recently documented ability to interface neuronal circuits, synapses and membranes. This review will discuss the state of the art in carbon nanotube technology applied to the development of devices able to drive nerve tissue repair; we will highlight the most exciting findings addressing the impact of carbon nanotubes in nerve tissue engineering, focusing in particular on neuronal differentiation, growth and network reconstruction.
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Solanki A, Chueng STD, Yin PT, Kappera R, Chhowalla M, Lee KB. Axonal alignment and enhanced neuronal differentiation of neural stem cells on graphene-nanoparticle hybrid structures. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2013; 25:5477-82. [PMID: 23824715 PMCID: PMC4189106 DOI: 10.1002/adma.201302219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 141] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2013] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Human neural stem cells (hNSCs) cultured on graphene-nanoparticle hybrid structures show a unique behavior wherein the axons from the differentiating hNSCs show enhanced growth and alignment. We show that the axonal alignment is primarily due to the presence of graphene and the underlying nanoparticle monolayer causes enhanced neuronal differentiation of the hNSCs, thus having great implications of these hybrid-nanostructures for neuro-regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aniruddh Solanki
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA, Fax: (+1) 732-445-5312
| | - Sy-Tsong Dean Chueng
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA, Fax: (+1) 732-445-5312
| | - Perry T. Yin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Rajesh Kappera
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Manish Chhowalla
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Ki-Bum Lee
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA, Fax: (+1) 732-445-5312, http://chem.rutgers.edu/–kbleeweb; Department of Biomedical Engineering Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
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Carbon nanomaterials for nerve tissue stimulation and regeneration. MATERIALS SCIENCE & ENGINEERING. C, MATERIALS FOR BIOLOGICAL APPLICATIONS 2013; 34:35-49. [PMID: 24268231 DOI: 10.1016/j.msec.2013.09.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2013] [Revised: 09/11/2013] [Accepted: 09/28/2013] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Nanotechnology offers new perspectives in the field of innovative medicine, especially for reparation and regeneration of irreversibly damaged or diseased nerve tissues due to lack of effective self-repair mechanisms in the peripheral and central nervous systems (PNS and CNS, respectively) of the human body. Carbon nanomaterials, due to their unique physical, chemical and biological properties, are currently considered as promising candidates for applications in regenerative medicine. This chapter discusses the potential applications of various carbon nanomaterials including carbon nanotubes, nanofibers and graphene for regeneration and stimulation of nerve tissue, as well as in drug delivery systems for nerve disease therapy.
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Hilton BJ, Assinck P, Duncan GJ, Lu D, Lo S, Tetzlaff W. Dorsolateral Funiculus Lesioning of the Mouse Cervical Spinal Cord at C4 but Not at C6 Results in Sustained Forelimb Motor Deficits. J Neurotrauma 2013; 30:1070-83. [DOI: 10.1089/neu.2012.2734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Brett J. Hilton
- Department of Zoology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- International Collaboration on Repair Discoveries (ICORD), Blusson Spinal Cord Centre, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Peggy Assinck
- International Collaboration on Repair Discoveries (ICORD), Blusson Spinal Cord Centre, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Greg J. Duncan
- Department of Zoology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- International Collaboration on Repair Discoveries (ICORD), Blusson Spinal Cord Centre, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Daniel Lu
- International Collaboration on Repair Discoveries (ICORD), Blusson Spinal Cord Centre, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Stephanie Lo
- International Collaboration on Repair Discoveries (ICORD), Blusson Spinal Cord Centre, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Wolfram Tetzlaff
- Department of Zoology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- International Collaboration on Repair Discoveries (ICORD), Blusson Spinal Cord Centre, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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Neurient: an algorithm for automatic tracing of confluent neuronal images to determine alignment. J Neurosci Methods 2013; 214:210-22. [PMID: 23384629 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneumeth.2013.01.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2012] [Revised: 01/25/2013] [Accepted: 01/25/2013] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
A goal of neural tissue engineering is the development and evaluation of materials that guide neuronal growth and alignment. However, the methods available to quantitatively evaluate the response of neurons to guidance materials are limited and/or expensive, and may require manual tracing to be performed by the researcher. We have developed an open source, automated Matlab-based algorithm, building on previously published methods, to trace and quantify alignment of fluorescent images of neurons in culture. The algorithm is divided into three phases, including computation of a lookup table which contains directional information for each image, location of a set of seed points which may lie along neurite centerlines, and tracing neurites starting with each seed point and indexing into the lookup table. This method was used to obtain quantitative alignment data for complex images of densely cultured neurons. Complete automation of tracing allows for unsupervised processing of large numbers of images. Following image processing with our algorithm, available metrics to quantify neurite alignment include angular histograms, percent of neurite segments in a given direction, and mean neurite angle. The alignment information obtained from traced images can be used to compare the response of neurons to a range of conditions. This tracing algorithm is freely available to the scientific community under the name Neurient, and its implementation in Matlab allows a wide range of researchers to use a standardized, open source method to quantitatively evaluate the alignment of dense neuronal cultures.
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Quist AP, Oscarsson S. Micropatterned surfaces: techniques and applications in cell biology. Expert Opin Drug Discov 2012; 5:569-81. [PMID: 22823168 DOI: 10.1517/17460441.2010.489606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE OF THE FIELD Engineering of cell culture substrates provides a unique opportunity for precise control of the cellular microenvironment with both spatial as well as temporal resolutions. This greatly enhances studies of cell-cell, cell-matrix and cell-factor interaction studies in vitro. AREAS COVERED IN THIS REVIEW The technologies used for micropatterning in the biological field over the last decade and new applications in the last few years for dynamic control of surfaces, tissue engineering, drug discovery, cell-cell interactions and stem cell studies are presented. WHAT THE READER WILL GAIN The reader will gain knowledge on the state of the art in micropatterning and its wide ranging applications in cell patterning, with new pathways to control the cell environment. TAKE HOME MESSAGE Micropatterning of cells has been studied and developed enough to be widely applied ranging from single cell assays to tissue engineering. Techniques have evolved from many-step processes to direct writing of biologically selective patterns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arjan P Quist
- Richmond Chemical Corp., 2210 Midwest Rd Ste 100, Oak Brook IL 60523, USA +1 630 5722500 ; +1 630 5722522 ;
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Ducheyne P, Mauck RL, Smith DH. Biomaterials in the repair of sports injuries. NATURE MATERIALS 2012; 11:652-654. [PMID: 22825010 DOI: 10.1038/nmat3392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Paul Ducheyne
- University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Philadelphia 19104, USA.
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East E, Golding JP, Phillips JB. Engineering an integrated cellular interface in three-dimensional hydrogel cultures permits monitoring of reciprocal astrocyte and neuronal responses. Tissue Eng Part C Methods 2012; 18:526-36. [PMID: 22235832 PMCID: PMC3381295 DOI: 10.1089/ten.tec.2011.0587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2011] [Accepted: 01/09/2012] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
This study reports a new type of three-dimensional (3D) tissue model for studying interactions between cell types in collagen hydrogels. The aim was to create a 3D cell culture model containing separate cell populations in close proximity without the presence of a mechanical barrier, and demonstrate its relevance to modeling the axon growth-inhibitory cellular interfaces that develop in the central nervous system (CNS) in response to damage. This provides a powerful new tool to determine which aspects of the astroglial scar response and subsequent neuronal regeneration inhibition are determined by the presence of the other cell types. Astrocytes (CNS glia) and dissociated dorsal root ganglia (DRG; containing neurons and peripheral nervous system [PNS] glia) were seeded within collagen solution at 4 °C in adjacent chambers of a stainless steel mould, using cells cultured from wild-type or green fluorescent protein expressing rats, to track specific populations. The divider between the chambers was removed using a protocol that allowed the gels to integrate without mixing of the cell populations. Following setting of the gels, they were maintained in culture for up to 15 days. Reciprocal astrocyte and neuronal responses were monitored using confocal microscopy and 3D image analysis. At DRG:astrocyte interfaces, by 5 days there was an increase in the number of astrocytes at the interface followed by hypertrophy and increased glial fibrillary acidic protein expression at 10 and 15 days, indicative of reactive gliosis. Neurons avoided crossing DRG:astrocyte interfaces, and neuronal growth was restricted to the DRG part of the gel. By contrast, neurons were able to grow freely across DRG:DRG interfaces, demonstrating the absence of a mechanical barrier. These results show that in a precisely controlled 3D environment, an interface between DRG and astrocyte cultures is sufficient to trigger reactive gliosis and inhibition of neuronal regeneration across the interface. Different aspects of the astrocyte response could be independently monitored, providing an insight into the formation of a glial scar. This technology has wide potential for researchers wishing to maintain and monitor interactions between adjacent cell populations in 3D culture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma East
- Faculty of Science, The Open University, Milton Keynes, United Kingdom
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Ivirico JLE, Cruz DMG, Monrós MCA, Martínez-Ramos C, Pradas MM. Synthesis and properties of caprolactone and ethylene glycol copolymers for neural regeneration. JOURNAL OF MATERIALS SCIENCE. MATERIALS IN MEDICINE 2012; 23:1605-1617. [PMID: 22534765 DOI: 10.1007/s10856-012-4649-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2012] [Accepted: 04/14/2012] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Copolymer networks from poly(ethylene glycol) methacrylate (PEGMA) and caprolactone 2-(methacryloyloxy) ethyl ester were synthesized and the resulting structure of the copolymer network was characterized by differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetry, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, equilibrium water gain and dynamic mechanical analysis, results which were employed to conclude about the network structure of the resulting copolymers. The new material is a random copolymer with a good miscibility and increasing hydrophilicity as the PEGMA content increases in the composition. Physical data suggest an excess free volume and synergistic interactions between the lateral chains of both comonomers. Olfactory ensheathing cells were cultured on the different networks, and cell viability and proliferation were assessed by MTS assay. The copolymers with a 30 wt% of PEGMA showed the best results compared with the other compositions in this respect, indicating the relevance for biological performance of a balance of hydrophilic and hydrophobic functionalities in the polymer chain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Luis Escobar Ivirico
- Center for Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering, Universitat Politècnica de València, 46022, Valencia, Spain.
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48
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HUANG YICHENG, HUANG YIYOU. TISSUE ENGINEERING FOR NERVE REPAIR. BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING-APPLICATIONS BASIS COMMUNICATIONS 2012. [DOI: 10.4015/s101623720600018x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Nerve regeneration is a complex biological phenomenon. Once the nervous system is impaired, its recovery is difficult and malfunctions in other parts of the body may occur because mature neurons don't undergo cell division. To increase the prospects of axonal regeneration and functional recovery, researches have focused on designing “nerve guidance channels” or “nerve conduits”. For developing tissue engineered nerve conduits, four components come to mind, including a scaffold for axonal proliferation, supporting cells such as Schwann cells, growth factors, and extracelluar matrix. This article reviews the nervous system physiology, the factors that are critical for nerve repair, and the advanced technologies that are explored to fabricate nerve conduits. Furthermore, we also introduce a new method we developed to create longitudinally oriented channels within biodegradable polymers, Chitosan and PLGA, using a combined lyophilizing and wire-heating process. This innovative method using Ni-Cr wires as mandrels to create nerve guidance channels. The process is easy, straightforward, highly reproducible, and could easily be tailored to other polymer and solvent systems. These scaffolds could be useful for guided regeneration after transection injury in either the peripheral nerve or spinal cord.
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Affiliation(s)
- YI-CHENG HUANG
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, College of Medicine and Engineering, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - YI-YOU HUANG
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, College of Medicine and Engineering, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
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49
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Sedaghati T, Yang SY, Mosahebi A, Alavijeh MS, Seifalian AM. Nerve regeneration with aid of nanotechnology and cellular engineering. Biotechnol Appl Biochem 2012; 58:288-300. [PMID: 21995532 DOI: 10.1002/bab.51] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Repairing nerve defects with large gaps remains one of the most operative challenges for surgeons. Incomplete recovery from peripheral nerve injuries can produce a diversity of negative outcomes, including numbness, impairment of sensory or motor function, possibility of developing chronic pain, and devastating permanent disability. In the last few years, numerous microsurgical techniques, such as coaptation, nerve autograft, and different biological or polymeric nerve conduits, have been developed to reconstruct a long segment of damaged peripheral nerve. A few of these techniques are promising and have become popular among surgeons. Advancements in the field of tissue engineering have led to development of synthetic nerve conduits as an alternative for the nerve autograft technique, which is the current practice to bridge nerve defects with gaps larger than 30 mm. However, to date, despite significant progress in this field, no material has been found to be an ideal alternative to the nerve autograft. This article briefly reviews major up-to-date published studies using different materials as an alternative to the nerve autograft to bridge peripheral nerve gaps in an attempt to assess their ability to support and enhance nerve regeneration and their prospective drawbacks, and also highlights the promising hope for nerve regeneration with the next generation of nerve conduits, which has been significantly enhanced with the tissue engineering approach, especially with the aid of nanotechnology in development of the three-dimensional scaffold. The goal is to determine potential alternatives for nerve regeneration and repair that are simply and directly applicable in clinical conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tina Sedaghati
- UCL Centre for Nanotechnology and Regenerative Medicine, UCL Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, University College London, London, UK
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50
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Davidenko N, Gibb T, Schuster C, Best SM, Campbell JJ, Watson CJ, Cameron RE. Biomimetic collagen scaffolds with anisotropic pore architecture. Acta Biomater 2012; 8:667-76. [PMID: 22005330 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2011.09.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2011] [Revised: 09/12/2011] [Accepted: 09/26/2011] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Sponge-like matrices with a specific three-dimensional structural design resembling the actual extracellular matrix of a particular tissue show significant potential for the regeneration and repair of a broad range of damaged anisotropic tissues. The manipulation of the structure of collagen scaffolds using a freeze-drying technique was explored in this work as an intrinsically biocompatible way of tailoring the inner architecture of the scaffold. The research focused on the influence of temperature gradients, imposed during the phase of crystallisation of collagen suspensions, upon the degree of anisotropy in the microstructures of the scaffolds produced. Moulding technology was employed to achieve differences in heat transfer rates during the freezing processes. For this purpose various moulds with different configurations were developed with a view to producing uniaxial and multi-directional temperature gradients across the sample during this process. Scanning electron microscopy analysis of different cross-sections (longitudinal and horizontal) of scaffolds revealed that highly aligned matrices with axially directed pore architectures were obtained where single unidirectional temperature gradients were induced. Altering the freezing conditions by the introduction of multiple temperature gradients allowed collagen scaffolds to be produced with complex pore orientations, and anisotropy in pore size and alignment.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Davidenko
- Department of Materials Science and Metallurgy, University of Cambridge, Pembroke Street, Cambridge CB2 3QZ, UK.
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