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Fu T, Uzoma PC, Ding X, Wu P, Penkov O, Hu H. A Novel Nano-Spherical Tip for Improving Precision in Elastic Modulus Measurements of Polymer Materials via Atomic Force Microscopy. MICROMACHINES 2024; 15:1175. [PMID: 39337835 PMCID: PMC11434511 DOI: 10.3390/mi15091175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2024] [Revised: 09/17/2024] [Accepted: 09/21/2024] [Indexed: 09/30/2024]
Abstract
Micro-nano-scale mechanical properties are vital for engineering and biological materials. The elastic modulus is generally measured by processing the force-indentation curves obtained by atomic force microscopy (AFM). However, the measurement precision is largely affected by tip shape, tip wear, sample morphology, and the contact model. In such research, it has been found that the radius of the sharp tip increases due to wear during contact scanning, affecting elastic modulus calculations. For flat-ended tips, it is difficult to identify the contact condition, leading to inaccurate results. Our research team has invented a nano-spherical tip, obtained by implanting focused helium ions into a silicon microcantilever, causing it to expand into a silicon nanosphere. This nano-spherical tip has the advantages of sub-micro size and a smooth spherical surface. Comparative tests of the elastic modulus measurement were conducted on polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) and polypropylene (PP) using these three tips. Overall, the experimental results show that our nano-spherical tip with a consistent tip radius, symmetrical geometric shape, and resistance to wear and contamination can improve precision in elastic modulus measurements of polymer materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianyu Fu
- ZJU-UIUC Institute, International Campus, Zhejiang University, Haining 314400, China
| | - Paul C Uzoma
- ZJU-UIUC Institute, International Campus, Zhejiang University, Haining 314400, China
| | - Xiaolei Ding
- ZJU-UIUC Institute, International Campus, Zhejiang University, Haining 314400, China
| | - Pengyuan Wu
- ZJU-UIUC Institute, International Campus, Zhejiang University, Haining 314400, China
| | - Oleksiy Penkov
- ZJU-UIUC Institute, International Campus, Zhejiang University, Haining 314400, China
| | - Huan Hu
- ZJU-UIUC Institute, International Campus, Zhejiang University, Haining 314400, China
- State Key Laboratory of Fluid Power & Mechatronic Systems, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
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2
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Chanduri M, Kumar A, Weiss D, Emuna N, Barsukov I, Shi M, Tanaka K, Wang X, Datye A, Kanyo J, Collin F, Lam T, Schwarz UD, Bai S, Nottoli T, Goult BT, Humphrey JD, Schwartz MA. Cellular stiffness sensing through talin 1 in tissue mechanical homeostasis. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2024; 10:eadi6286. [PMID: 39167642 PMCID: PMC11338229 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adi6286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 08/23/2024]
Abstract
Tissue mechanical properties are determined mainly by the extracellular matrix (ECM) and actively maintained by resident cells. Despite its broad importance to biology and medicine, tissue mechanical homeostasis remains poorly understood. To explore cell-mediated control of tissue stiffness, we developed mutations in the mechanosensitive protein talin 1 to alter cellular sensing of ECM. Mutation of a mechanosensitive site between talin 1 rod-domain helix bundles R1 and R2 increased cell spreading and tension exertion on compliant substrates. These mutations promote binding of the ARP2/3 complex subunit ARPC5L, which mediates the change in substrate stiffness sensing. Ascending aortas from mice bearing these mutations showed less fibrillar collagen, reduced axial stiffness, and lower rupture pressure. Together, these results demonstrate that cellular stiffness sensing contributes to ECM mechanics, directly supporting the mechanical homeostasis hypothesis and identifying a mechanosensitive interaction within talin that contributes to this mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manasa Chanduri
- Yale Cardiovascular Research Center, Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | - Abhishek Kumar
- Yale Cardiovascular Research Center, Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | - Dar Weiss
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Nir Emuna
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Igor Barsukov
- Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Systems Biology, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Crown Street, Liverpool L69 7ZB, UK
| | - Miusi Shi
- Yale Cardiovascular Research Center, Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | - Keiichiro Tanaka
- Yale Cardiovascular Research Center, Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | - Xinzhe Wang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | - Amit Datye
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | - Jean Kanyo
- Keck MS & Proteomics Resource, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Florine Collin
- Keck MS & Proteomics Resource, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - TuKiet Lam
- Keck MS & Proteomics Resource, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
- Department of Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Udo D. Schwarz
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Suxia Bai
- Department of Comparative Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Timothy Nottoli
- Department of Comparative Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Benjamin T Goult
- Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Systems Biology, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Crown Street, Liverpool L69 7ZB, UK
- School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, UK
| | - Jay D. Humphrey
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Martin A. Schwartz
- Yale Cardiovascular Research Center, Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
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3
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López-Alonso J, Eroles M, Janel S, Berardi M, Pellequer JL, Dupres V, Lafont F, Rico F. PyFMLab: Open-source software for atomic force microscopy microrheology data analysis. OPEN RESEARCH EUROPE 2024; 3:187. [PMID: 39118808 PMCID: PMC11308986 DOI: 10.12688/openreseurope.16550.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024]
Abstract
Background Atomic force microscopy (AFM) is one of the main techniques used to characterize the mechanical properties of soft biological samples and biomaterials at the nanoscale. Despite efforts made by the AFM community to promote open-source data analysis tools, standardization continues to be a significant concern in a field that requires common analysis procedures. AFM-based mechanical measurements involve applying a controlled force to the sample and measure the resulting deformation in the so-called force-distance curves. These may include simple approach and retract or oscillatory cycles at various frequencies (microrheology). To extract quantitative parameters, such as the elastic modulus, from these measurements, AFM measurements are processed using data analysis software. Although open tools exist and allow obtaining the mechanical properties of the sample, most of them only include standard elastic models and do not allow the processing of microrheology data. In this work, we have developed an open-source software package (called PyFMLab, as of python force microscopy laboratory) capable of determining the viscoelastic properties of samples from both conventional force-distance curves and microrheology measurements. Methods PyFMLab has been written in Python, which provides an accessible syntax and sufficient computational efficiency. The software features were divided into separate, self-contained libraries to enhance code organization and modularity and to improve readability, maintainability, testability, and reusability. To validate PyFMLab, two AFM datasets, one composed of simple force curves and another including oscillatory measurements, were collected on HeLa cells. Results The viscoelastic parameters obtained on the two datasets analysed using PyFMLab were validated against data processing proprietary software and against validated MATLAB routines developed before obtaining equivalent results. Conclusions Its open-source nature and versatility makes PyFMLab an open-source solution that paves the way for standardized viscoelastic characterization of biological samples from both force-distance curves and microrheology measurements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier López-Alonso
- Universite de Lille, CNRS, INSERM, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019-UMR9017, CILL—Center of Infection and Immunity of Lille, Lille, F-59000, France
| | - Mar Eroles
- Aix-Marseille Univ., CNRS, INSERM, LAI, Turing Centre for Living Systems, Marseille, 13009, France
| | - Sébastien Janel
- Universite de Lille, CNRS, INSERM, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019-UMR9017, CILL—Center of Infection and Immunity of Lille, Lille, F-59000, France
| | - Massimiliano Berardi
- LaserLab, Department of Physics and Astronomy, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, 1081HV, The Netherlands
- Optics 11 B.V, Amsterdam, 1101BM, The Netherlands
| | | | - Vincent Dupres
- Universite de Lille, CNRS, INSERM, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019-UMR9017, CILL—Center of Infection and Immunity of Lille, Lille, F-59000, France
| | - Frank Lafont
- Universite de Lille, CNRS, INSERM, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019-UMR9017, CILL—Center of Infection and Immunity of Lille, Lille, F-59000, France
| | - Felix Rico
- Aix-Marseille Univ., CNRS, INSERM, LAI, Turing Centre for Living Systems, Marseille, 13009, France
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Lima I, Silva A, Sousa F, Ferreira W, Freire R, de Oliveira C, de Sousa J. Measuring the viscoelastic relaxation function of cells with a time-dependent interpretation of the Hertz-Sneddon indentation model. Heliyon 2024; 10:e30623. [PMID: 38770291 PMCID: PMC11103437 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e30623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
The Hertz-Sneddon elastic indentation model is widely adopted in the biomechanical investigation of living cells and other soft materials using atomic force microscopy despite the explicit viscoelastic nature of these materials. In this work, we demonstrate that an exact analytical viscoelastic force model for power-law materials, can be interpreted as a time-dependent Hertz-Sneddon-like model. Characterizing fibroblasts (L929) and osteoblasts (OFCOLII) demonstrates the model's accuracy. Our results show that the difference between Young's modulus E Y obtained by fitting force curves with the Hertz-Sneddon model and the effective Young's modulus derived from the viscoelastic force model is less than 3%, even when cells are probed at large forces where nonlinear deformation effects become significant. We also propose a measurement protocol that involves probing samples at different indentation speeds and forces, enabling the construction of the average viscoelastic relaxation function of samples by conveniently fitting the force curves with the Hertz-Sneddon model.
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Affiliation(s)
- I.V.M. Lima
- Departamento de Física, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Fortaleza, 60440-900, Ceará, Brazil
| | - A.V.S. Silva
- Departamento de Física, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Fortaleza, 60440-900, Ceará, Brazil
- Instituto Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, Pau dos Ferros, 59900-000, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil
| | - F.D. Sousa
- Núcleo de Biologia Experimental, Universidade de Fortaleza, Fortaleza, 60811-905, Ceará, Brazil
| | - W.P. Ferreira
- Departamento de Física, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Fortaleza, 60440-900, Ceará, Brazil
| | - R.S. Freire
- Central Analítica, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Fortaleza, 60440-900, Ceará, Brazil
| | - C.L.N. de Oliveira
- Departamento de Física, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Fortaleza, 60440-900, Ceará, Brazil
| | - J.S. de Sousa
- Departamento de Física, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Fortaleza, 60440-900, Ceará, Brazil
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5
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Brás MM, Sousa A, Cruz TB, Michalewski J, Leite M, Sousa SR, Granja PL, Radmacher M. Microrheological comparison of melanoma cells by atomic force microscopy. J Biol Phys 2024; 50:55-69. [PMID: 38240860 PMCID: PMC10864228 DOI: 10.1007/s10867-023-09648-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is one of the most severe cancers due to its great potential to form metastasis. Recent studies showed the importance of mechanical property assessment in metastasis formation which depends on the cytoskeleton dynamics and cell migration. Although cells are considered purely elastic, they are viscoelastic entities. Microrheology atomic force microscopy (AFM) enables the assessment of elasticity and viscous properties, which are relevant to cell behavior regulation. The current work compares the mechanical properties of human neonatal primary melanocytes (HNPMs) with two melanoma cell lines (WM793B and 1205LU cells), using microrheology AFM. Immunocytochemistry of F-actin filaments and phosphorylated focal adhesion kinase (p-FAK) and cell migration assays were performed to understand the differences found in microrheology AFM regarding the tumor cell lines tested. AFM revealed that HNPMs and tumor cell lines had distinct mechanical properties. HNPMs were softer, less viscous, presenting a higher power-law than melanoma cells. Immunostaining showed that metastatic 1205LU cells expressed more p-FAK than WM793B cells. Melanoma cell migration assays showed that WM73B did not close the gap, in contrast to 1205LU cells, which closed the gap at the end of 23 h. These data seem to corroborate the high migratory behavior of 1205LU cells. Microrheology AFM applied to HNPMs and melanoma cells allowed the quantification of elasticity, viscous properties, glassy phase, and power-law properties, which have an impact in cell migration and metastasis formation. AFM study is important since it can be used as a biomarker of the different stages of the disease in melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Manuela Brás
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), Universidade do Porto, Porto, 4200-135, Portugal
- Faculdade de Engenharia da Universidade do Porto (FEUP), Porto, 4200-465, Portugal
| | - Aureliana Sousa
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), Universidade do Porto, Porto, 4200-135, Portugal
| | - Tânia B Cruz
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), Universidade do Porto, Porto, 4200-135, Portugal
| | - Jonas Michalewski
- Institute of Biophysics, University of Bremen, Bremen, 28334, Germany
| | - Marina Leite
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), Universidade do Porto, Porto, 4200-135, Portugal
| | - Susana R Sousa
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), Universidade do Porto, Porto, 4200-135, Portugal
- Instituto Superior de Engenharia do Porto (ISEP), Instituto Politécnico do Porto, Porto, 4200-072, Portugal
| | - Pedro L Granja
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), Universidade do Porto, Porto, 4200-135, Portugal
| | - Manfred Radmacher
- Institute of Biophysics, University of Bremen, Bremen, 28334, Germany.
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6
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Chanduri MVL, Kumar A, Weiss D, Emuna N, Barsukov I, Shi M, Tanaka K, Wang X, Datye A, Kanyo J, Collin F, Lam T, Schwarz UD, Bai S, Nottoli T, Goult BT, Humphrey JD, Schwartz MA. Mechanosensing through talin 1 contributes to tissue mechanical homeostasis. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.09.03.556084. [PMID: 38328095 PMCID: PMC10849504 DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.03.556084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
It is widely believed that tissue mechanical properties, determined mainly by the extracellular matrix (ECM), are actively maintained. However, despite its broad importance to biology and medicine, tissue mechanical homeostasis is poorly understood. To explore this hypothesis, we developed mutations in the mechanosensitive protein talin1 that alter cellular sensing of ECM stiffness. Mutation of a novel mechanosensitive site between talin1 rod domain helix bundles 1 and 2 (R1 and R2) shifted cellular stiffness sensing curves, enabling cells to spread and exert tension on compliant substrates. Opening of the R1-R2 interface promotes binding of the ARP2/3 complex subunit ARPC5L, which mediates the altered stiffness sensing. Ascending aortas from mice bearing these mutations show increased compliance, less fibrillar collagen, and rupture at lower pressure. Together, these results demonstrate that cellular stiffness sensing regulates ECM mechanical properties. These data thus directly support the mechanical homeostasis hypothesis and identify a novel mechanosensitive interaction within talin that contributes to this mechanism.
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7
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Xu R, Liu Y, Yang Z, Jiang Q, Zhang Y, Wang J. Application of calibrated and reusable probes on a home-made scanning probe microscope platform. THE REVIEW OF SCIENTIFIC INSTRUMENTS 2024; 95:013702. [PMID: 38206098 DOI: 10.1063/5.0169091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
The replacement of an Atomic Force Microscope (AFM) probe is inevitable due to blunting or contamination of its tip during usage. The fabrication of AFM probes is a complex and costly process, and the mechanical properties of these probes need to be calibrated due to material defects before use, making this procedure intricate. Taking inspiration from the Wollaston probe, we have developed a T-shaped tungsten probe and installed it into a home-made scanning probe microscope. The normal stiffness coefficient of this probe can be determined by gradually eroding the tip and altering the probe mass, resulting in a change in resonance frequency. We assess the reliability of this probe by comparing its scanning topography with that of a commercially available AFM. Furthermore, we investigate the wear resistance of the probe and demonstrate the effectiveness of re-corrosion sharpening after passivation, which yields scanning results equivalent to those obtained with a new probe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Xu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Design and Manufacture of Micro-Nano Biomedical Instruments, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China
| | - Yi Liu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Design and Manufacture of Micro-Nano Biomedical Instruments, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China
| | - Zhimu Yang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Design and Manufacture of Micro-Nano Biomedical Instruments, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China
| | - Qinmeng Jiang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Design and Manufacture of Micro-Nano Biomedical Instruments, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China
| | - Yanhui Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Design and Manufacture of Micro-Nano Biomedical Instruments, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China
| | - Jianli Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Design and Manufacture of Micro-Nano Biomedical Instruments, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China
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8
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Kolesov D, Astakhova A, Galdobina M, Moskovtsev A, Kubatiev A, Sokolovskaya A, Ukrainskiy L, Morozov S. Scanning Probe Microscopy Techniques for Studying the Cell Glycocalyx. Cells 2023; 12:2778. [PMID: 38132098 PMCID: PMC10741541 DOI: 10.3390/cells12242778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The glycocalyx is a brush-like layer that covers the surfaces of the membranes of most cell types. It consists of a mixture of carbohydrates, mainly glycoproteins and proteoglycans. Due to its structure and sensitivity to environmental conditions, it represents a complicated object to investigate. Here, we review studies of the glycocalyx conducted using scanning probe microscopy approaches. This includes imaging techniques as well as the measurement of nanomechanical properties. The nanomechanics of the glycocalyx is particularly important since it is widely present on the surfaces of mechanosensitive cells such as endothelial cells. An overview of problems with the interpretation of indirect data via the use of analytical models is presented. Special insight is given into changes in glycocalyx properties during pathological processes. The biological background and alternative research methods are briefly covered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dmitry Kolesov
- Moscow Polytechnic University, 107023 Moscow, Russia
- Institute of General Pathology and Pathophysiology, 125315 Moscow, Russia
| | - Anna Astakhova
- Institute of General Pathology and Pathophysiology, 125315 Moscow, Russia
| | - Maria Galdobina
- Institute of General Pathology and Pathophysiology, 125315 Moscow, Russia
| | - Alexey Moskovtsev
- Institute of General Pathology and Pathophysiology, 125315 Moscow, Russia
| | - Aslan Kubatiev
- Institute of General Pathology and Pathophysiology, 125315 Moscow, Russia
| | - Alisa Sokolovskaya
- Institute of General Pathology and Pathophysiology, 125315 Moscow, Russia
| | - Leonid Ukrainskiy
- Mechanical Engineering Research Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 119334 Moscow, Russia
| | - Sergey Morozov
- Institute of General Pathology and Pathophysiology, 125315 Moscow, Russia
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9
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Gilbert RJC. Peptide-based pore formation and cell membrane deformation: European Biophysics Journal Prizes at EBSA 2023. EUROPEAN BIOPHYSICS JOURNAL : EBJ 2023; 52:619-623. [PMID: 37994943 DOI: 10.1007/s00249-023-01691-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
The European Biophysics Journal Prizes awarded at the European Biophysical Societies Association (EBSA) Congress in Stockholm in the Summer of 2023 recognised papers published in 2020 and 2021 which made use of multiple complementing experimental, theoretical and computational approaches. One of the winning papers addressed the specific role of arginine residues within antimicrobial and cell-penetrating peptides, in promoting membrane defect stabilisation and pore formation. The other winning paper described the influence of atomic force microscopy probe geometry on the measurement of surface deformability, assessed for investigation of the differing viscoelastic properties of non-malignant and cancerous cells. These papers showcase biophysical science; the importance of combining different experimental, modelling and molecular dynamics methods; and how researchers need to understand the theoretical basis and the limitations of the techniques they use. EBSA warmly congratulates the authors on their work and its subsequent recognition. Publication of these papers also demonstrates the ongoing commitment of the European Biophysics Journal to molecular scale and to systems biophysics, and to support of the international biophysical community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert J C Gilbert
- Division of Structural Biology, Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford, OX3 7BN, UK.
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10
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López-Guajardo A, Zafar A, Al Hennawi K, Rossi V, Alrwaili A, Medcalf JD, Dunning M, Nordgren N, Pettersson T, Estabrook ID, Hawkins RJ, Gad AKB. Regulation of cellular contractile force, shape and migration of fibroblasts by oncogenes and Histone deacetylase 6. Front Mol Biosci 2023; 10:1197814. [PMID: 37564130 PMCID: PMC10411354 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2023.1197814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The capacity of cells to adhere to, exert forces upon and migrate through their surrounding environment governs tissue regeneration and cancer metastasis. The role of the physical contractile forces that cells exert in this process, and the underlying molecular mechanisms are not fully understood. We, therefore, aimed to clarify if the extracellular forces that cells exert on their environment and/or the intracellular forces that deform the cell nucleus, and the link between these forces, are defective in transformed and invasive fibroblasts, and to indicate the underlying molecular mechanism of control. Confocal, Epifluorescence and Traction force microscopy, followed by computational analysis, showed an increased maximum contractile force that cells apply on their environment and a decreased intracellular force on the cell nucleus in the invasive fibroblasts, as compared to normal control cells. Loss of HDAC6 activity by tubacin-treatment and siRNA-mediated HDAC6 knockdown also reversed the reduced size and more circular shape and defective migration of the transformed and invasive cells to normal. However, only tubacin-mediated, and not siRNA knockdown reversed the increased force of the invasive cells on their surrounding environment to normal, with no effects on nuclear forces. We observed that the forces on the environment and the nucleus were weakly positively correlated, with the exception of HDAC6 siRNA-treated cells, in which the correlation was weakly negative. The transformed and invasive fibroblasts showed an increased number and smaller cell-matrix adhesions than control, and neither tubacin-treatment, nor HDAC6 knockdown reversed this phenotype to normal, but instead increased it further. This highlights the possibility that the control of contractile force requires separate functions of HDAC6, than the control of cell adhesions, spreading and shape. These data are consistent with the possibility that defective force-transduction from the extracellular environment to the nucleus contributes to metastasis, via a mechanism that depends upon HDAC6. To our knowledge, our findings present the first correlation between the cellular forces that deforms the surrounding environment and the nucleus in fibroblasts, and it expands our understanding of how cells generate contractile forces that contribute to cell invasion and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana López-Guajardo
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, The Medical School, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Azeer Zafar
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, The Medical School, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Khairat Al Hennawi
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, The Medical School, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Valentina Rossi
- Immunology and Molecular Oncology Diagnostics, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV-IRCCS, Padova, Italy
| | - Abdulaziz Alrwaili
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, The Medical School, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Jessica D. Medcalf
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, The Medical School, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Mark Dunning
- Bioinformatics Core, The Medical School, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Niklas Nordgren
- Division Bioeconomy and Health, RISE Research Institutes of Sweden, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Torbjörn Pettersson
- Fibre and Polymer Technology, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ian D. Estabrook
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
- Center for Advancing Electronics Dresden, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Rhoda J. Hawkins
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
- African Institute for Mathematical Sciences, Accra, Ghana
| | - Annica K. B. Gad
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, The Medical School, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
- Madeira Chemistry Research Centre, University of Madeira, Funchal, Portugal
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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11
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Merson J, Parvez N, Picu RC. Probing soft fibrous materials by indentation. Acta Biomater 2023; 163:25-34. [PMID: 35381401 PMCID: PMC9526757 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2022.03.053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Revised: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Indentation is often used to measure the stiffness of soft materials whose main structural component is a network of filaments, such as the cellular cytoskeleton, connective tissue, gels, and the extracellular matrix. For elastic materials, the typical procedure requires fitting the experimental force-displacement curve with the Hertz model, which predicts that f=kδ1.5 and k is proportional to the reduced modulus of the indented material, E/(1-ν2). Here we show using explicit models of fiber networks that the Hertz model applies to indentation in network materials provided the indenter radius is larger than approximately 12lc, where lc is the mean segment length of the network. Using smaller indenters leads to a relation between force and indentation displacement of the form f=kδq, where q is observed to increase with decreasing indenter radius. Using the Hertz model to interpret results of indentations in network materials using small indenters leads to an inferred modulus smaller than the real modulus of the material. The origin of this departure from the classical Hertz model is investigated. A compacted, stiff network region develops under the indenter, effectively increasing the indenter size and modifying its shape. This modification is marginal when large indenters are used. However, when the indenter radius is small, the effect of the compacted layer is pronounced as it changes the indenter profile from spherical towards conical. This entails an increase of exponent q above the value of 1.5 corresponding to spherical indenters. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: The article presents a study of indentation in network biomaterials and demonstrates a size effect which precludes the use of the Hertz model to infer the elastic constants of the material. The size effect occurs once the indenter radius is smaller than approximately 12 times the mean segment length of the network. This result provides guidelines for the selection of indentation conditions that guarantee the applicability of the Hertz model. At the same time, the finding may be used to infer the mean segment length of the network based on indentations with indenters of various sizes. Hence, the method can be used to evaluate this structural parameter which is not easily accessible in experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Merson
- Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Nuclear Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY 12180, United States
| | - N Parvez
- Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Nuclear Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY 12180, United States
| | - R C Picu
- Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Nuclear Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY 12180, United States.
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12
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Kaur H, Teulon JM, Foucher AE, Fenel D, Chen SWW, Godon C, Desnos T, Pellequer JL. Measuring external primary cell wall elasticity of seedling roots using atomic force microscopy. STAR Protoc 2023; 4:102265. [PMID: 37200196 DOI: 10.1016/j.xpro.2023.102265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Stiffness plays a central action in plant cell extension. Here, we present a protocol to detect changes in stiffness on the external epidermal cell wall of living plant roots using atomic force microscopy (AFM). We provide generalized instructions for collecting force-distance curves and analysis of stiffness using contact-based mechanical model. With this protocol, and some initial training in AFM, a user is able to perform indentation experiments on 4- and 5-day-old Arabidopsis thaliana and determine stiffness properties. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Godon et al.1.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Daphna Fenel
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, CEA, CNRS, IBS, 38000 Grenoble, France
| | - Shu-Wen W Chen
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, CEA, CNRS, IBS, 38000 Grenoble, France; Rue Cyprien Jullin, 38470 Vinay, France
| | - Christian Godon
- Aix Marseille Université, CNRS, CEA, Institut de Biosciences et Biotechnologies Aix-Marseille, CEA Cadarache, 13115 Saint-Paul lez-Durance, France
| | - Thierry Desnos
- Aix Marseille Université, CNRS, CEA, Institut de Biosciences et Biotechnologies Aix-Marseille, Equipe Bioénergies et Microalgues, CEA Cadarache, 13115 Saint-Paul-lez-Durance, France.
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13
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Sajid N. Topography and mechanical measurements of primary Schwann cells and neuronal cells with atomic force microscope for understanding and controlling nerve growth. Micron 2023; 167:103427. [PMID: 36805164 DOI: 10.1016/j.micron.2023.103427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2023] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
Peripheral nerve injuries require a piece of substantial information for a satisfactory treatment. The prior peripheral nerve injury knowledge, can improve nerve repair, and its growth at molecular and cellular level. In this study, we employed an atomic force microscope (AFM) to investigate the topography and mechanical properties of the primary Schwann cells and neuronal cells. Tapping mode images and contact points force-volume maps provide the cells topography. Two different probes were used to acquire the micro and nanomechanical properties of the primary Schwann cells, NG-108-15 neuronal cells, and growth cones. Moreover, the sharp probe was only used to investigate neurites nanomechanics. A significant difference in the elastic moduli found between primary Schwann cells, and neuronal cells, with both probes, with consistent results. The elastic moduli of the growth cones were found higher, than the neuronal cells and primary Schwann cells, with both probes. Furthermore, the modulus variations were also found between neurites. These results have significant implications for a better understanding of the peripheral nerve system (PNS) in terms of defining the optimal pattern surface and nerve guidance conduits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nusrat Sajid
- Department of Physics, COMSATS University Islamabad, Lahore Campus, Lahore 54000, Pakistan.
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14
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Saito-Diaz K, Dietrich P, Wu HF, Sun X, Patel AJ, Wzientek CG, Prudden AR, Boons GJ, Chen S, Studer L, Xu B, Dragatsis I, Zeltner N. Genipin Crosslinks the Extracellular Matrix to Rescue Developmental and Degenerative Defects, and Accelerates Regeneration of Peripheral Neurons. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.03.22.533831. [PMID: 36993570 PMCID: PMC10055431 DOI: 10.1101/2023.03.22.533831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
The peripheral nervous system (PNS) is essential for proper body function. A high percentage of the population suffer nerve degeneration or peripheral damage. For example, over 40% of patients with diabetes or undergoing chemotherapy develop peripheral neuropathies. Despite this, there are major gaps in the knowledge of human PNS development and therefore, there are no available treatments. Familial Dysautonomia (FD) is a devastating disorder that specifically affects the PNS making it an ideal model to study PNS dysfunction. FD is caused by a homozygous point mutation in ELP1 leading to developmental and degenerative defects in the sensory and autonomic lineages. We previously employed human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) to show that peripheral sensory neurons (SNs) are not generated efficiently and degenerate over time in FD. Here, we conducted a chemical screen to identify compounds able to rescue this SN differentiation inefficiency. We identified that genipin, a compound prescribed in Traditional Chinese Medicine for neurodegenerative disorders, restores neural crest and SN development in FD, both in the hPSC model and in a FD mouse model. Additionally, genipin prevented FD neuronal degeneration, suggesting that it could be offered to patients suffering from PNS neurodegenerative disorders. We found that genipin crosslinks the extracellular matrix, increases the stiffness of the ECM, reorganizes the actin cytoskeleton, and promotes transcription of YAP-dependent genes. Finally, we show that genipin enhances axon regeneration in an in vitro axotomy model in healthy sensory and sympathetic neurons (part of the PNS) and in prefrontal cortical neurons (part of the central nervous system, CNS). Our results suggest genipin can be used as a promising drug candidate for treatment of neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative diseases, and as a enhancer of neuronal regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenyi Saito-Diaz
- Center for Molecular Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens GA, USA
| | - Paula Dietrich
- Department of Physiology, The University of Tennessee, Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Hsueh-Fu Wu
- Center for Molecular Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens GA, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens GA, USA
| | - Xin Sun
- College of Engineering, University of Georgia, Athens GA, USA
| | | | | | | | - Geert-Jan Boons
- Complex Carbohydrate Research Center, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
- Department of Chemistry, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
- Department of Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Bijvoet Center for Biomolecular Research, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Shuibing Chen
- Department of Surgery and Department of Biochemistry at Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
- Center for Stem Cell Biology, Sloan Kettering Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - Lorenz Studer
- Center for Stem Cell Biology, Sloan Kettering Institute, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Developmental Biology, Sloan Kettering Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - Bingqian Xu
- College of Engineering, University of Georgia, Athens GA, USA
| | - Ioannis Dragatsis
- Department of Physiology, The University of Tennessee, Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Nadja Zeltner
- Center for Molecular Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens GA, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens GA, USA
- Department of Cellular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens GA, USA
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15
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Owen DS. Toward a better modulus at shallow indentations-Enhanced tip and sample characterization for quantitative atomic force microscopy. Microsc Res Tech 2023; 86:84-96. [PMID: 36398794 PMCID: PMC10099859 DOI: 10.1002/jemt.24261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Approximations of the geometry of indenting probes, particularly when using shallow indentations on soft materials, can lead to the erroneous reporting of mechanical data in atomic force microscopy (AFM). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) identified a marked change in geometry toward the tip apex where the conical probe assumes a near linear flat-punch geometry. Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) is a ubiquitous elastomer within the materials and biological sciences. Its elastic modulus is widely characterized but the data are dispersed and can display orders of magnitude disparity. Herein, we compare the moduli gathered from a range of analytical techniques and relate these to the molecular architecture identified with AFM. We present a simple method that considers sub-100 nm indentations of PDMS using the Hertz and Sneddon contact mechanics models, and how this could be used to improve the output of shallow indentations on similarly soft materials, such as polymers or cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- David S Owen
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, South Yorkshire, UK
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16
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Zanut A, Li R, Deng R, Liu X, Rejhon M, Chen W, Weck M, de Peppo GM, Riedo E. A Polymer Canvas with the Stiffness of the Bone Matrix to Study and Control Mesenchymal Stem Cell Response. Adv Healthc Mater 2022; 12:e2201503. [PMID: 36565136 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202201503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Reproducing in vitro the complex multiscale physical features of human tissues creates novel biomedical opportunities and fundamental understanding of cell-environment interfaces and interactions. While stiffness has been recognized as a key driver of cell behavior, systematic studies on the role of stiffness have been limited to values in the KPa-MPa range, significantly below the stiffness of bone. Here, a platform enabling the tuning of the stiffness of a biocompatible polymeric interface up to values characteristic of human bone is reported, which are in the GPa range, by using extremely thin polymer films on glass and cross-linking the films using ultraviolet (UV) light irradiation. It is shown that a higher stiffness is related to better adhesion, proliferation, and osteogenic differentiation, and that it is possible to switch on/off cell attachment and growth by solely tuning the stiffness of the interface, without any surface chemistry or topography modification. Since the stiffness is tuned directly by UV irradiation, this platform is ideal for rapid and simple fabrication of stiffness patterns and gradients, thus representing an innovative tool for combinatorial studies of the synergistic effect of tissue environmental cues on cell behavior, and creates new opportunities for next-generation biosensors, single-cell patterning, and lab-on-a-chip devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Zanut
- Tandon School of Engineering, New York University, 6 Metrotech, Brooklyn, NY, 11201, USA
| | - Rui Li
- Tandon School of Engineering, New York University, 6 Metrotech, Brooklyn, NY, 11201, USA
| | - Ru Deng
- Department of Chemistry, New York University, Silver Center Block, 100 Washington Square E, New York, NY, 10003, USA
| | - Xiangyu Liu
- Tandon School of Engineering, New York University, 6 Metrotech, Brooklyn, NY, 11201, USA
| | - Martin Rejhon
- Tandon School of Engineering, New York University, 6 Metrotech, Brooklyn, NY, 11201, USA
| | - Weiqiang Chen
- Tandon School of Engineering, New York University, 6 Metrotech, Brooklyn, NY, 11201, USA
| | - Marcus Weck
- Department of Chemistry, New York University, Silver Center Block, 100 Washington Square E, New York, NY, 10003, USA
| | - Giuseppe Maria de Peppo
- Tandon School of Engineering, New York University, 6 Metrotech, Brooklyn, NY, 11201, USA.,The New York Stem Cell Foundation Research Institute, 619 West 54th Street, New York, NY, 10019, USA.,Mirimus, Inc, 760 Parkside Ave, Brooklyn, NY, 11226, USA
| | - Elisa Riedo
- Tandon School of Engineering, New York University, 6 Metrotech, Brooklyn, NY, 11201, USA
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17
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Chen SWW, Teulon JM, Kaur H, Godon C, Pellequer JL. Nano-structural stiffness measure for soft biomaterials of heterogeneous elasticity. NANOSCALE HORIZONS 2022; 8:75-82. [PMID: 36314544 DOI: 10.1039/d2nh00390b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Measuring the structural stiffness aims to reveal the impact of nanostructured components or various physiological circumstances on the elastic response of material to an external indentation. With a pyramidal tip at a nano-scale, we employed the atomic force microscopy (AFM) to indent the surfaces of two compositions of polyacrylamide gels with different softness and seedling roots of Arabidopsis thaliana. We found that the stiffness-depth curve derived from the measured force exhibits a heterogeneous character in elasticity. According to the tendency of stiffness-depth curve, we decomposed the responding force into depth-impact (FC), Hookean (FH) and tip-shape (FS) components, called trimechanic, where FS and its gradient should be offset at the surface or subsurfaces of the indented material. Thereby, trimechnic theory allows us to observe how the three restoring nanomechanics change with varied depth. Their strengths are represented by the respective spring constants (kC, kH, kS) of three parallel-connected spring (3PCS) analogs to differentiate restoring nanomechansims of indented materials. The effective Young's modulus Ê and the total stiffness kT (= kH + kS) globally unambiguously distinguish the softness between the two gel categories. Data fluctuations were observed in the elasticity parameters of individual samples, reflecting nanostructural variations in the gel matrix. Similar tendencies were found in the results from growing plant roots, though the data fluctuations are expectedly much more dramatic. The zone-wise representation of stiffness by the trimechanic-3PCS framework demonstrates a stiffness measure that reflects beneath nanostructures encountered by deepened depth. The trimechanic-3PCS framework can apply any mechanical model of power-law based force-depth relationship and is compatible with thin layer corrections. It provides a new paradigm for analyzing restoring nanomechanics of soft biomaterials in response to indenting forces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu-Wen W Chen
- Université Grenoble Alpes, CEA, CNRS, IBS, F-38000 Grenoble, France.
- Rue Cyprien Jullin, Vinay, 38470, France
| | - Jean-Marie Teulon
- Université Grenoble Alpes, CEA, CNRS, IBS, F-38000 Grenoble, France.
| | - Harinderbir Kaur
- Université Grenoble Alpes, CEA, CNRS, IBS, F-38000 Grenoble, France.
| | - Christian Godon
- Aix Marseille University, CEA, CNRS, BIAM, 13108 Saint Paul-Lez-Durance, Cadarache, France
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18
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Brás MM, Cruz TB, Maia AF, Oliveira MJ, Sousa SR, Granja PL, Radmacher M. Mechanical Properties of Colorectal Cancer Cells Determined by Dynamic Atomic Force Microscopy: A Novel Biomarker. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14205053. [PMID: 36291838 PMCID: PMC9600571 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14205053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Colorectal cancer (CRC) is presently the third-most abundant and the second-most lethal cancer worldwide. Thus, there is a real and urgent need to investigate the processes behind the appearance, development, and proliferation of CRC cells. Several biochemical pathways have been investigated to understand their role in oncogene activation and tumor-suppressor gene inhibition. Despite the research increase in biochemistry, there is still a need to better understand the biophysical cues that drive the activation of signaling pathways relevant to mechanotransduction and cell transformation. The elucidation of these biological processes may help to hinder oncogenic mechanisms and to find biomarkers that could be used to design more personalized therapeutic strategies. Abstract Colorectal cancer (CRC) has been addressed in the framework of molecular, cellular biology, and biochemical traits. A new approach to studying CRC is focused on the relationship between biochemical pathways and biophysical cues, which may contribute to disease understanding and therapy development. Herein, we investigated the mechanical properties of CRC cells, namely, HCT116, HCT15, and SW620, using static and dynamic methodologies by atomic force microscopy (AFM). The static method quantifies Young’s modulus; the dynamic method allows the determination of elasticity, viscosity, and fluidity. AFM results were correlated with confocal laser scanning microscopy and cell migration assay data. The SW620 metastatic cells presented the highest Young’s and storage moduli, with a defined cortical actin ring with distributed F-actin filaments, scarce vinculin expression, abundant total focal adhesions (FAK), and no filopodia formation, which could explain the lessened migratory behavior. In contrast, HCT15 cells presented lower Young’s and storage moduli, high cortical tubulin, less cortical F-actin and less FAK, and more filopodia formation, probably explaining the higher migratory behavior. HCT116 cells presented Young’s and storage moduli values in between the other cell lines, high cortical F-actin expression, intermediate levels of total FAK, and abundant filopodia formation, possibly explaining the highest migratory behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Manuela Brás
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica (INEB), Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Faculdade de Engenharia da Universidade do Porto, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
| | - Tânia B. Cruz
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica (INEB), Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - André F. Maia
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Instituto de Biologia Molecular e Celular (IBMC), Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Maria José Oliveira
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica (INEB), Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar (ICBAS), Universidade do Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Susana R. Sousa
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica (INEB), Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Instituto Superior de Engenharia do Porto (ISEP), Instituto Politécnico do Porto, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal
| | - Pedro L. Granja
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica (INEB), Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Manfred Radmacher
- Institute of Biophysics, University of Bremen, 28334 Bremen, Germany
- Correspondence:
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19
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Liu F, Hu K, Al-Qudsy LH, Wu LQ, Wang Z, Xu HY, Yang H, Yang PF. Aging exacerbates the morphological and mechanical response of mineralized collagen fibrils in murine cortical bone to disuse. Acta Biomater 2022; 152:345-354. [PMID: 36087867 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2022.08.064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Revised: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Mineralized collagen fibrils (MCFs) are the fundamental building blocks of bone tissue and contribute significantly to the mechanical behavior of bone. However, it is still largely unknown how the collagen network in bone responds to aging and the disuse normally accompanying it. Utilizing atomic force microscopy, nanoindentation and Raman spectroscopy, age-related alterations in the microstructure and mechanical properties of murine cortical tibia at multiple scales were investigated in this study. The potential difference in the responses of bone to disuse at different ages was studied. The results indicated that the age- and disuse-related alterations in bone initiate from MCFs in the bone matrix. The D-periodic spacing, radial elastic modulus of a single MCF and the mineral-to-matrix ratio on the cortical bone surface were larger in aged mice than in adult mice. Disuse, on the other hand, mainly has a major influence on aged mice, particularly on the morphology and mechanical properties of MCFs, but it only has modest effects on adult bone. These findings revealed insights into the morphological and mechanical adaptation of mineralized collagen fibrils in murine cortical bone to aging and disuse. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Bone is a complex structured composite material consisting of an interwoven framework of collagen fibrils reinforced by mineral particles and embedded in an extrafibrillar mineralized matrix. Utilizing atomic force microscopy, nanoindentation and Raman spectroscopy, this study suggests that the effects of aging, as well as the accompanying disuse, on the morphology and mechanical properties of bone initiate from the mineralized collagen fibril level. More interestingly, the MCF in the bone of aged mice seems to be more sensitive to disuse than that in adult mice. These findings significantly further the current understanding of the adaptation process of bone to aging at the mineralized collagen fibril level and provide direct insights into the physiological response of bone to aging and the abnormal mechanical environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fa Liu
- Key Laboratory for Space Bioscience and Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Ke Hu
- Key Laboratory for Space Bioscience and Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Luban H Al-Qudsy
- Key Laboratory for Space Bioscience and Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Lan-Qin Wu
- Key Laboratory for Space Bioscience and Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Zhe Wang
- Key Laboratory for Space Bioscience and Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Hui-Yun Xu
- Key Laboratory for Space Bioscience and Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Hui Yang
- Key Laboratory for Space Bioscience and Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Peng-Fei Yang
- Key Laboratory for Space Bioscience and Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, China.
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20
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Nakano T, Yamanaka H, Sakamoto M, Aiki Y, Yanase N, Hori R, Katayama Y, Tsuge I, Saito S, Morimoto N. Adjustable biodegradability of low-swelling hydrogels prepared from recombinant peptides based on human collagen type 1. J Biomater Appl 2022; 37:881-890. [PMID: 36007126 DOI: 10.1177/08853282221123452] [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: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
An ideal hydrogel for tissue engineering and regenerative therapy is cytocompatible, biocompatible, and has low-swelling characteristics. Recently, a novel low-swelling hydrogel with a homogenous structure was developed by crosslinking a recombinant peptide, modeled on human collagen type 1 (RCPhC1), with a four-arm polyethylene glycol (tetra-PEG). Here, we hypothesized that the biodegradability of the RCPhC1 hydrogel was adjustable by altering its initial polymer concentration. Three types of RCPhC1 hydrogels were prepared using the initial polymer at different concentrations, and their morphology, swelling ratio, collagenase degradability, cytocompatibility, biocompatibility, and biodegradability were compared. The results revealed a low swelling ratio. The higher the concentration of the initial polymer, the longer it took for it to be degraded by collagenase. The average cell viability ratio was over 92% when using the direct contact method, which suggests that the hydrogels have excellent cytocompatibility. No death, tumorigenesis, exposure of the implants, or skin necrosis associated with the subcutaneous implantation of the hydrogels was found in mice in vivo. Moreover, histological evaluation revealed the formation of a thin fibrous capsule, which suggests an acceptable biocompatibility. Furthermore, as hypothesized, it was confirmed that the biodegradability can be adjusted by changing the initial polymer concentration. Collectively, the ability to fine-tune the biodegradability of RCPhC1 hydrogels demonstrates their potential for use in various clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takashi Nakano
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, 38049Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Hiroki Yamanaka
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, 38049Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Michiharu Sakamoto
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, 38049Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Aiki
- Bio Science & Engineering Laboratory, 34778FUJIFILM Corporation, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Naoto Yanase
- Analysis Technology Center, 612992FUJIFILM Corporation, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Ritsuko Hori
- Analysis Technology Center, 612992FUJIFILM Corporation, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Katayama
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, 38049Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Itaru Tsuge
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, 38049Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Susumu Saito
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, 38049Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Naoki Morimoto
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, 38049Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
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21
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Kołodziejczyk AM, Grala MM, Zimon A, Białkowska K, Walkowiak B, Komorowski P. Investigation of HUVEC response to exposure to PAMAM dendrimers – changes in cell elasticity and vesicles release. Nanotoxicology 2022; 16:375-392. [DOI: 10.1080/17435390.2022.2097138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Maria Kołodziejczyk
- Nanomaterial Structural Research Laboratory, Bionanopark Ltd., Lodz, Poland
- Molecular and Nanostructural Biophysics Laboratory, Bionanopark Ltd., Lodz, Poland
| | | | - Aleksandra Zimon
- Nanomaterial Structural Research Laboratory, Bionanopark Ltd., Lodz, Poland
| | - Kamila Białkowska
- Molecular and Nanostructural Biophysics Laboratory, Bionanopark Ltd., Lodz, Poland
- Department of General Biophysics, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
| | - Bogdan Walkowiak
- Nanomaterial Structural Research Laboratory, Bionanopark Ltd., Lodz, Poland
- Department of Biophysics, Institute of Materials Science and Engineering, Lodz University of Technology, Lodz, Poland
| | - Piotr Komorowski
- Nanomaterial Structural Research Laboratory, Bionanopark Ltd., Lodz, Poland
- Department of Biophysics, Institute of Materials Science and Engineering, Lodz University of Technology, Lodz, Poland
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22
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Radoslavova S, Fels B, Pethö Z, Gruner M, Ruck T, Meuth SG, Folcher A, Prevarskaya N, Schwab A, Ouadid-Ahidouch H. TRPC1 channels regulate the activation of pancreatic stellate cells through ERK1/2 and SMAD2 pathways and perpetuate their pressure-mediated activation. Cell Calcium 2022; 106:102621. [PMID: 35905654 DOI: 10.1016/j.ceca.2022.102621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Revised: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic stellate cell (PSC) activation is a major event occurring during pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) development. Up to now mechanisms underlying their activation by mechanical cues such as the elevated tissue pressure in PDAC remain poorly understood. Here we investigate the role of one potential mechano-transducer, TRPC1 ion channel, in PSC activation. Using pre-activated human siTRPC1 and murine TRPC1-KO PSCs, we show that TRPC1 promotes αSMA (α-smooth muscle actin) expression, the main activation marker, in cooperation with the phosphorylated SMAD2, under normal and elevated pressure. Functional studies following TRPC1 silencing demonstrate the dual role of TRPC1 in the modulation of PSC proliferation and IL-6 secretion through the activation of ERK1/2 and SMAD2 pathways. Moreover, pressurization changes the mechanical behavior of PSCs by increasing their cellular stiffness and emitted traction forces in a TRPC1-dependent manner. In summary, these results point to a role of TRPC1 channels in sensing and transducing the characteristic mechanical properties of the PDAC microenvironment in PSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silviya Radoslavova
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, UR-UPJV 4667, University of Picardie Jules Verne, 80039 Amiens, France; University of Lille, Inserm U1003 - PHYCEL - Cellular Physiology, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Benedikt Fels
- Institute of Physiology, University Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany; DZHK (German Research Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Hamburg/Lübeck/Kiel, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Zoltan Pethö
- Institute of Physiology II, University Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Matthias Gruner
- Institute of Physiology II, University Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Tobias Ruck
- Klinik für Neurologie, Medical Faculty, Universitätsklinikum Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Sven G Meuth
- Klinik für Neurologie, Medical Faculty, Universitätsklinikum Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Antoine Folcher
- University of Lille, Inserm U1003 - PHYCEL - Cellular Physiology, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Natalia Prevarskaya
- University of Lille, Inserm U1003 - PHYCEL - Cellular Physiology, F-59000 Lille, France.
| | - Albrecht Schwab
- Institute of Physiology II, University Münster, Münster, Germany.
| | - Halima Ouadid-Ahidouch
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, UR-UPJV 4667, University of Picardie Jules Verne, 80039 Amiens, France.
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23
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Luo M, Yang W, Cartwright TN, Higgins JMG, Chen J. Simultaneous Measurement of Single-Cell Mechanics and Cell-to-Materials Adhesion Using Fluidic Force Microscopy. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2022; 38:620-628. [PMID: 34981921 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.1c01973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
The connection between cells and their substrate is essential for biological processes such as cell migration. Atomic force microscopy nanoindentation has often been adopted to measure single-cell mechanics. Very recently, fluidic force microscopy has been developed to enable rapid measurements of cell adhesion. However, simultaneous characterization of the cell-to-material adhesion and viscoelastic properties of the same cell is challenging. In this study, we present a new approach to simultaneously determine these properties for single cells, using fluidic force microscopy. For MCF-7 cells grown on tissue-culture-treated polystyrene surfaces, we found that the adhesive force and adhesion energy were correlated for each cell. Well-spread cells tended to have stronger adhesion, which may be due to the greater area of the contact between cellular adhesion receptors and the surface. By contrast, the viscoelastic properties of MCF-7 cells cultured on the same surface appeared to have little dependence on cell shape. This methodology provides an integrated approach to better understand the biophysics of multiple cell types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ma Luo
- School of Engineering, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne NE1 7RU, U.K
| | - Wenjian Yang
- School of Engineering, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne NE1 7RU, U.K
- Research Center for Intelligent Sensing Systems, Zhijiang Laboratory, Hangzhou 311100, China
| | - Tyrell N Cartwright
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Framlington Place, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4HH, U.K
| | - Jonathan M G Higgins
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Framlington Place, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4HH, U.K
| | - Jinju Chen
- School of Engineering, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne NE1 7RU, U.K
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24
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Xu X, Chu Y, Zhang Y, Li G, Yang P, Zhang J, Duan J, Yang H, Xu H, Wang M. Chondrocyte Adipogenic Differentiation in Softening Osteoarthritic Cartilage. J Dent Res 2021; 101:655-663. [PMID: 34903082 DOI: 10.1177/00220345211057539] [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] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
A chondrocyte-to-osteoblast lineage continuum exists in the growth plate. Adipogenic differentiation of chondrocytes in vivo should be investigated. Here, unilateral anterior crossbite (UAC), which can induce osteoarthritic lesions in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), was applied to 6-wk-old C57BL/6 mice. Matrix loss in TMJ cartilage was obvious, as demonstrated by safranin O staining, and the condylar cartilage elastic modulus values, detected by using atomic force microscopy (AFM), were reduced, indicating cartilage softening that might be linked with loss of the highly charged proteoglycan. By crossing the Rosa26/tdTomato (TdT) mice with Sox9;CreERT2 mice or with Col10;CreERT2 mice, we obtained the Sox9-TdT and Col10-TdT strains, respectively, in which the Sox9- or Col10-expressing cells, accordingly, were labeled by TdT. A few TdT-labeled cells in both strains expressed AdipoQ or DMP-1. The Sox9-TdT+AdipoQ+ cells were primarily located in the deep zone cartilage and then in the whole cartilage. Col10-TdT+AdipoQ+ cells, Sox9-TdT+DMP-1+ cells, and Col10-TdT+DMP-1+ cells were located in the deep zone region. UAC promoted AdipoQ and DMP-1 expression in cartilage. The percentages of Sox9-TdT+AdipoQ+ and Col10-TdT+AdipoQ+ cells to Sox9-TdT+ and Col10-TdT+ cells, respectively, were increased (both P < 0.05), implying that more chondrocytes were undergoing adipogenic differentiation in the UAC group, the cartilage of which was softened. The percentages of Sox9-TdT+DMP-1+ and Col10-TdT+DMP-1+ cells to Sox9-TdT+ cells and Col10-TdT+ cells, respectively, were increased (both P < 0.05), consistent with our report that UAC enhanced deep zone cartilage calcification, causing stiffening of the deep zone cartilage. Our present data demonstrated that TMJ chondrocyte descendants can become adipogenic in vivo in addition to becoming osteogenic. This potential was promoted in osteoarthritic cartilage, in which deep zone cartilage calcification-associated cartilage stiffening and proteoglycan loss-associated cartilage softening were both stimulated.
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Affiliation(s)
- X Xu
- School of Stomatology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China.,Department of Oral Anatomy and Physiology and Clinic of Temporomandibular Joint Disorders and Oral and Maxillofacial Pain, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Y Chu
- Department of Oral Anatomy and Physiology and Clinic of Temporomandibular Joint Disorders and Oral and Maxillofacial Pain, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China.,Key Laboratory for Space Bioscience and Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Y Zhang
- Department of Oral Anatomy and Physiology and Clinic of Temporomandibular Joint Disorders and Oral and Maxillofacial Pain, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - G Li
- Key Laboratory for Space Bioscience and Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, China
| | - P Yang
- Key Laboratory for Space Bioscience and Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, China.,Research & Development Institute in Shenzhen, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - J Zhang
- Department of Oral Anatomy and Physiology and Clinic of Temporomandibular Joint Disorders and Oral and Maxillofacial Pain, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - J Duan
- Department of Oral Anatomy and Physiology and Clinic of Temporomandibular Joint Disorders and Oral and Maxillofacial Pain, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - H Yang
- Department of Oral Anatomy and Physiology and Clinic of Temporomandibular Joint Disorders and Oral and Maxillofacial Pain, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - H Xu
- Key Laboratory for Space Bioscience and Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, China.,Research Center of Special Environmental Biomechanics & Medical Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, China
| | - M Wang
- School of Stomatology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China.,Department of Oral Anatomy and Physiology and Clinic of Temporomandibular Joint Disorders and Oral and Maxillofacial Pain, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
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25
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Lei X, Li H, Han Y, Li J, Yu F, Liang Q. Modulus characterization of cells with submicron colloidal probes by atomic force microscope. Microsc Res Tech 2021; 85:882-891. [PMID: 34708461 DOI: 10.1002/jemt.23957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Revised: 09/11/2021] [Accepted: 09/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Colloidal probes have been increasingly demanded for the characterization of cellular modulus in atomic force microscope because of their well-defined geometry and large contact area with cell. In this work, submicron colloidal probes are prepared by scanning electron microscope/focused ion beam and compared with sharp tip and micron colloidal probe, in conjunction with loading velocity and indentation depth on the apparent elastic modulus. NIM and cartilage cells are used as specimens. The results show that modulus value measured by sharp tip changes significantly with loading velocity while remains almost stable by colloidal probes. Also, submicron colloidal probe is superior in characterizing the modulus with increasing indentation depth, which could help reveal the mechanical details of cellular membrane and the modulus of the whole cell. To test the submicron colloidal probe further, the modulus distribution map of cell is scanned with submicron colloidal probe of 50 nm radius during small and large indentation depths with high spatial resolution. The outcome of this work will provide the effective submicron colloidal probe according to the effect of loading velocity and indentation depth, characterizing the mechanical properties of the cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojiao Lei
- School of Material Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Huiqin Li
- Instrumental Analysis Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yao Han
- Instrumental Analysis Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jinjin Li
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Fan Yu
- Instrumental Analysis Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qi Liang
- School of Astronomy and Physics, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
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26
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Giergiel M, Malek-Zietek KE, Konior J, Targosz-Korecka M. Endothelial glycocalyx detection and characterization by means of atomic force spectroscopy: Comparison of various data analysis approaches. Micron 2021; 151:103153. [PMID: 34627108 DOI: 10.1016/j.micron.2021.103153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Revised: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, atomic force spectroscopy (AFS) has been used to detect and characterize the endothelial glycocalyx (eGlx) in in vitro and ex vivo experiments. Several analysis methods were proposed, which differ not only in the numerical implementations, but also in physical models of glycocalyx description. Therefore, it is difficult to directly relate the experiments performed by different groups. In this work, we compared different models used for quantitative analysis of atomic force spectroscopy datasets recorded for eGlx. To capture glycocalyx at various structural conditions, we used basic enzymatic protocols for glycocalyx removal and restoration in human aortal endothelial cells (HAEC). Nanoindentation experiments for this model system were performed for (i) untreated cells, (ii) for cells after heparinase incubation, which enzymatically removes glycocalyx, (iii) for cells with successive heparin treatment, which partially restores the glycocalyx layer. Analysis of nanoindentation data was performed using different models: (a) a single-layer contact mechanics, (b) a double-layer model contact mechanics, (c) a polymer "brush" two-layer model based on the Alexander - de Gennes theory and (d) a simple single-layer "mechanical spring" model. Although different physical parameters are evaluated in methods (a-d), we show that all approaches revealed similar qualitative changes of the glycocalyx layer, which reflected the processes of glycocalyx degradation and its partial restoration. This paper may facilitate a direct comparison of past and future glycocalyx oriented AFS experiments that are analysed with different approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Giergiel
- Centre for Nanometer-Scale Science and Advanced Materials, NANOSAM, Faculty of Physics, Astronomy, and Applied Computer Science, Jagiellonian University, S. Lojasiewicza 11, 30-348, Krakow, Poland.
| | - Katarzyna Ewa Malek-Zietek
- Centre for Nanometer-Scale Science and Advanced Materials, NANOSAM, Faculty of Physics, Astronomy, and Applied Computer Science, Jagiellonian University, S. Lojasiewicza 11, 30-348, Krakow, Poland
| | - Jerzy Konior
- Centre for Nanometer-Scale Science and Advanced Materials, NANOSAM, Faculty of Physics, Astronomy, and Applied Computer Science, Jagiellonian University, S. Lojasiewicza 11, 30-348, Krakow, Poland
| | - Marta Targosz-Korecka
- Centre for Nanometer-Scale Science and Advanced Materials, NANOSAM, Faculty of Physics, Astronomy, and Applied Computer Science, Jagiellonian University, S. Lojasiewicza 11, 30-348, Krakow, Poland
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27
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Yan J, Xie C, Zhu J, Song Z, Wang Z, Li L. Effect of trypsin concentration on living SMCC-7721 cells studied by atomic force microscopy. J Microsc 2021; 284:203-213. [PMID: 34350998 DOI: 10.1111/jmi.13053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2021] [Revised: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Trypsin is playing an important role in the processes of cancer proliferation, invasion and metastasis which require the precise information of morphology and mechanical properties on the nano-scale for the related research. In this work, living human hepatoma (SMCC-7721) cells were treated with different concentrations of trypsin solution. The morphology and mechanical properties of the cells were measured via atomic force microscope (AFM). Statistical analyses of measurement data indicated that with the increase of trypsin concentration, the average cell height and the surface roughness were both increased, but the cell viability, the cell surface adhesion and the elasticity modulus were decreased significantly. The force required to puncture the cells was also gradually reduced. It indicates that trypsin not only hydrolyses the proteins between the cell and the substrate but also the membrane proteins. The results offer valuable clues for the cancerous process study, pathological analysis and trypsin inhibitor drug development. And this work provides an effective way for overcoming the cell membrane in drug injection for cell-targeted therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Yan
- International Research Centre for Nano Handling and Manufacturing of China, Changchun University of Science and Technology, Changchun, China.,Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Cross-Scale Micro and Nano Manufacturing, Changchun University of Science and Technology, Changchun, China
| | - Chenchen Xie
- International Research Centre for Nano Handling and Manufacturing of China, Changchun University of Science and Technology, Changchun, China.,Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Cross-Scale Micro and Nano Manufacturing, Changchun University of Science and Technology, Changchun, China
| | - Jiajing Zhu
- International Research Centre for Nano Handling and Manufacturing of China, Changchun University of Science and Technology, Changchun, China.,Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Cross-Scale Micro and Nano Manufacturing, Changchun University of Science and Technology, Changchun, China.,School of Engineering, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Zhengxun Song
- International Research Centre for Nano Handling and Manufacturing of China, Changchun University of Science and Technology, Changchun, China.,Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Cross-Scale Micro and Nano Manufacturing, Changchun University of Science and Technology, Changchun, China
| | - Zuobin Wang
- International Research Centre for Nano Handling and Manufacturing of China, Changchun University of Science and Technology, Changchun, China.,Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Cross-Scale Micro and Nano Manufacturing, Changchun University of Science and Technology, Changchun, China.,IRAC & JR3CN, University of Bedfordshire, Luton, UK
| | - Li Li
- International Research Centre for Nano Handling and Manufacturing of China, Changchun University of Science and Technology, Changchun, China.,Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Cross-Scale Micro and Nano Manufacturing, Changchun University of Science and Technology, Changchun, China
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28
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Zhang S, Weng Y, Ma C. Quantitative Nanomechanical Mapping of Polyolefin Elastomer at Nanoscale with Atomic Force Microscopy. NANOSCALE RESEARCH LETTERS 2021; 16:113. [PMID: 34216298 PMCID: PMC8254710 DOI: 10.1186/s11671-021-03568-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Elastomeric nanostructures are normally expected to fulfill an explicit mechanical role and therefore their mechanical properties are pivotal to affect material performance. Their versatile applications demand a thorough understanding of the mechanical properties. In particular, the time dependent mechanical response of low-density polyolefin (LDPE) has not been fully elucidated. Here, utilizing state-of-the-art PeakForce quantitative nanomechanical mapping jointly with force volume and fast force volume, the elastic moduli of LDPE samples were assessed in a time-dependent fashion. Specifically, the acquisition frequency was discretely changed four orders of magnitude from 0.1 up to 2 k Hz. Force data were fitted with a linearized DMT contact mechanics model considering surface adhesion force. Increased Young's modulus was discovered with increasing acquisition frequency. It was measured 11.7 ± 5.2 MPa at 0.1 Hz and increased to 89.6 ± 17.3 MPa at 2 kHz. Moreover, creep compliance experiment showed that instantaneous elastic modulus E1, delayed elastic modulus E2, viscosity η, retardation time τ were 22.3 ± 3.5 MPa, 43.3 ± 4.8 MPa, 38.7 ± 5.6 MPa s and 0.89 ± 0.22 s, respectively. The multiparametric, multifunctional local probing of mechanical measurement along with exceptional high spatial resolution imaging open new opportunities for quantitative nanomechanical mapping of soft polymers, and can potentially be extended to biological systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuting Zhang
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Province for Green Manufacturing of Fine Chemicals, Key Laboratory of Green Chemical Media and Reactions, Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, 453007, Henan, China.
| | - Yihui Weng
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Province for Green Manufacturing of Fine Chemicals, Key Laboratory of Green Chemical Media and Reactions, Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, 453007, Henan, China
| | - Chunhua Ma
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Henan Province for Green Manufacturing of Fine Chemicals, Key Laboratory of Green Chemical Media and Reactions, Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, 453007, Henan, China.
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29
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Yan J, Sun B, Xie C, Liu Y, Song Z, Xu H, Wang Z. The influence of different liquid environments on the atomic force microscopy detection of living bEnd.3 cells. ANALYTICAL METHODS : ADVANCING METHODS AND APPLICATIONS 2021; 13:2384-2390. [PMID: 33970977 DOI: 10.1039/d1ay00567g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Atomic force microscopy (AFM) is one of the most important tools in the field of biomedical science, and it can be used to perform the high-resolution three-dimensional imaging of samples in liquid environments to obtain their physical properties (such as surface potentials and mechanical properties). The influence of the liquid environment on the image quality of the sample and the detection results cannot be ignored. In this work, quantitative imaging (QI) mode AFM imaging and mechanical detection were performed on mouse brain microvascular endothelial (bEnd.3) cells in different liquid environments. The gray-level variance product (SMD2) function was used to evaluate the imaging quality of the cells in liquids with different physical properties, and the variations in cell mechanical properties were quantitatively analyzed. An AFM detection liquid containing less ions and organics compared with the traditional culture medium, which is beneficial for improving the imaging quality, is introduced, and it shows similar mechanical detection results within 3 h. This can greatly reduce the detection costs and could have positive significance in the field of AFM living-cell detection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Yan
- International Research Centre for Nano Handling and Manufacturing of China, Changchun University of Science and Technology, Changchun 130022, China.
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30
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Jung HG, Lee D, Lee SW, Kim I, Kim Y, Jang JW, Lee JH, Lee G, Yoon DS. Nanoindentation for Monitoring the Time-Variant Mechanical Strength of Drug-Loaded Collagen Hydrogel Regulated by Hydroxyapatite Nanoparticles. ACS OMEGA 2021; 6:9269-9278. [PMID: 33842796 PMCID: PMC8028154 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.1c00824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Hydroxyapatite nanoparticle-complexed collagen (HAP/Col) hydrogels have been widely used in biomedical applications as a scaffold for controlled drug release (DR). The time-variant mechanical properties (Young's modulus, E) of HAP/Col hydrogels are highly relevant to the precise and efficient control of DR. However, the correlation between the DR and the E of hydrogels remains unclear because of the lack of a nondestructive and continuous measuring system. To reveal the correlations, herein, we investigate the time-variant behavior of E for HAP/Col hydrogels during 28 days using the atomic force microscopy (AFM) nanoindentation technique. The initial E of hydrogels was controlled from 200 to 9000 Pa by the addition of HAPs. Subsequently, we analyzed the relationship between the DR of the hydrogels and the changes in their mechanical properties (ΔE) during hydrogel degradation. Interestingly, the higher the initial E value of HAP/Col hydrogels is, the higher is the rate of hydrogel degradation over time. However, the DR of hydrogels with higher initial E appeared to be significantly delayed by up to 40% at a maximum. The results indicate that adding an appropriate amount of HAPs into hydrogels plays a crucial role in determining the initial E and their degradation rate, which can contribute to the properties that prolong DR. Our findings may provide insights into designing hydrogels for biomedical applications such as bone regeneration and drug-delivery systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyo Gi Jung
- School
of Biomedical Engineering, Korea University, Seoul 02841, South Korea
- Interdisciplinary
Program in Precision Public Health, Korea
University, Seoul 02841, South Korea
| | - Dongtak Lee
- School
of Biomedical Engineering, Korea University, Seoul 02841, South Korea
| | - Sang Won Lee
- School
of Biomedical Engineering, Korea University, Seoul 02841, South Korea
| | - Insu Kim
- School
of Biomedical Engineering, Korea University, Seoul 02841, South Korea
| | - Yonghwan Kim
- School
of Biomedical Engineering, Korea University, Seoul 02841, South Korea
- Interdisciplinary
Program in Precision Public Health, Korea
University, Seoul 02841, South Korea
| | - Jae Won Jang
- School
of Biomedical Engineering, Korea University, Seoul 02841, South Korea
- Interdisciplinary
Program in Precision Public Health, Korea
University, Seoul 02841, South Korea
| | - Jeong Hoon Lee
- Department
of Electrical Engineering, Kwangwoon University, Seoul 01897, South Korea
| | - Gyudo Lee
- Department
of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Korea
University, Sejong 30019, South Korea
- Interdisciplinary
Graduate Program for Artificial Intelligence Smart Convergence Technology, Korea University, Sejong 30019, South Korea
| | - Dae Sung Yoon
- School
of Biomedical Engineering, Korea University, Seoul 02841, South Korea
- Interdisciplinary
Program in Precision Public Health, Korea
University, Seoul 02841, South Korea
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31
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Kolodziejczyk AM, Sokolowska P, Zimon A, Grala M, Rosowski M, Siatkowska M, Komorowski P, Walkowiak B. Dysfunction of endothelial cells exposed to nanomaterials assessed by atomic force spectroscopy. Micron 2021; 145:103062. [PMID: 33770641 DOI: 10.1016/j.micron.2021.103062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Revised: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
The study of the impact of nanomaterials on endothelial cell elasticity with the atomic force spectroscopy (AFS) can be a significant model for assessing nanomaterials toxic effects in vitro. The mechanical properties of cells exposed to nanostructures can provide information not only about cellular nano and micro-structure, but also about cell physiology. The toxicity of nanostructures is an important issue which must be carefully considered when the optimal nanomaterial is defined. There are no universal properties characterizing such a nanomaterial, i.e. depending on the intended use, the requirements can be diverse. For example, for biomedical use a nanomaterial should not negatively affect the cells or should cause the expected therapeutic or diagnostic effects in justified cases. The present study was devoted to the effects of silver nanoparticles (SNPs), multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and poly(amidoamine) (PAMAM) dendrimers of 4th generation on functioning of endothelial cells. Immortalized endothelial cells were exposed for 24 h to the tested nanomaterials used in concentrations reducing cellular viability to the levels of 90 % and 75 %. The innovative nature of our work is the comparison of cell elasticity performed with various AFS probes, which enabled detection of local and global elasticity alteration caused by the nanostructures. The obtained results demonstrated changes in elasticity of endothelial cell induced by the nanostructures, which were closely correlated with the level of cellular viability, forming of actin stress fibres and elevated levels of reactive oxygen species. Trend of changes in local and global elasticity of cells exposed to nanostructures was similar, but the magnitude of the response was dependent on the selected probe. SNPs and MWCNTs evoked cells stiffening, which was correlated with changes in production levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the cytoskeletal alteration. Softening of cells exposed to PAMAM dendrimers correlated with increased number of apoptotic cells and ROS production levels. Based on the obtained results we conclude, that the structure and the type of nanostructure (nanoparticle) is essential for their localization inside the cells and for the toxic effect on the endothelial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Paulina Sokolowska
- Bionanopark Ltd, Dubois 114/116, 93-465, Lodz, Poland; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical University of Lodz, Zeligowskiego 7 /9, 90-752, Lodz, Poland
| | | | | | | | | | - Piotr Komorowski
- Bionanopark Ltd, Dubois 114/116, 93-465, Lodz, Poland; Institute of Materials Science and Engineering, Lodz University of Technology, Stefanowskiego 1/15, 90-924, Lodz, Poland
| | - Bogdan Walkowiak
- Bionanopark Ltd, Dubois 114/116, 93-465, Lodz, Poland; Institute of Materials Science and Engineering, Lodz University of Technology, Stefanowskiego 1/15, 90-924, Lodz, Poland
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32
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Witko T, Baster Z, Rajfur Z, Sofińska K, Barbasz J. Increasing AFM colloidal probe accuracy by optical tweezers. Sci Rep 2021; 11:509. [PMID: 33436725 PMCID: PMC7804458 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-79938-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
A precise determination of the cantilever spring constant is the critical point of all colloidal probe experiments. Existing methods are based on approximations considering only cantilever geometry and do not take into account properties of any object or substance attached to the cantilever. Neglecting the influence of the colloidal sphere on the cantilever characteristics introduces significant uncertainty in a spring constant determination and affects all further considerations. In this work we propose a new method of spring constant calibration for 'colloidal probe' type cantilevers based on the direct measurement of force constant. The Optical Tweezers based calibration method will help to increase the accuracy and repeatability of the AFM colloidal probe experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomasz Witko
- M. Smoluchowski Institute of Physics, Jagiellonian University, Łojasiewicza 11, 30-348, Kraków, Poland
- Jerzy Haber Institute of Catalysis and Surface Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Niezapominajek 8, 30-239, Kraków, Poland
| | - Zbigniew Baster
- M. Smoluchowski Institute of Physics, Jagiellonian University, Łojasiewicza 11, 30-348, Kraków, Poland
| | - Zenon Rajfur
- M. Smoluchowski Institute of Physics, Jagiellonian University, Łojasiewicza 11, 30-348, Kraków, Poland
| | - Kamila Sofińska
- M. Smoluchowski Institute of Physics, Jagiellonian University, Łojasiewicza 11, 30-348, Kraków, Poland.
- Jerzy Haber Institute of Catalysis and Surface Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Niezapominajek 8, 30-239, Kraków, Poland.
| | - Jakub Barbasz
- Jerzy Haber Institute of Catalysis and Surface Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Niezapominajek 8, 30-239, Kraków, Poland.
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Sapra KT, Qin Z, Dubrovsky-Gaupp A, Aebi U, Müller DJ, Buehler MJ, Medalia O. Nonlinear mechanics of lamin filaments and the meshwork topology build an emergent nuclear lamina. Nat Commun 2020; 11:6205. [PMID: 33277502 PMCID: PMC7718915 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-20049-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2019] [Accepted: 11/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The nuclear lamina—a meshwork of intermediate filaments termed lamins—is primarily responsible for the mechanical stability of the nucleus in multicellular organisms. However, structural-mechanical characterization of lamin filaments assembled in situ remains elusive. Here, we apply an integrative approach combining atomic force microscopy, cryo-electron tomography, network analysis, and molecular dynamics simulations to directly measure the mechanical response of single lamin filaments in three-dimensional meshwork. Endogenous lamin filaments portray non-Hookean behavior – they deform reversibly at a few hundred picoNewtons and stiffen at nanoNewton forces. The filaments are extensible, strong and tough similar to natural silk and superior to the synthetic polymer Kevlar®. Graph theory analysis shows that the lamin meshwork is not a random arrangement of filaments but exhibits small-world properties. Our results suggest that lamin filaments arrange to form an emergent meshwork whose topology dictates the mechanical properties of individual filaments. The quantitative insights imply a role of meshwork topology in laminopathies. Mechanical strength of in situ assembled nuclear lamin filaments arranged in a 3D meshwork is unclear. Here, using mechanical, structural and simulation tools, the authors report the hierarchical organization of the lamin meshwork that imparts strength and toughness to lamin filaments at par with silk and Kevlar®
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Affiliation(s)
- K Tanuj Sapra
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland. .,Department of Biosystems Science and Bioengineering, ETH Zurich, Mattenstrasse 26, 4058, Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Zhao Qin
- Laboratory for Atomistic and Molecular Mechanics, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA.,Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY, 13244, USA
| | - Anna Dubrovsky-Gaupp
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ueli Aebi
- Biozentrum, University of Basel, CH-4056, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Daniel J Müller
- Department of Biosystems Science and Bioengineering, ETH Zurich, Mattenstrasse 26, 4058, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Markus J Buehler
- Laboratory for Atomistic and Molecular Mechanics, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Ohad Medalia
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland.
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34
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Weber A, Zbiral B, Iturri J, Benitez R, Toca-Herrera JL. Measuring (biological) materials mechanics with atomic force microscopy. 2. Influence of the loading rate and applied force (colloidal particles). Microsc Res Tech 2020; 84:1078-1088. [PMID: 33179834 DOI: 10.1002/jemt.23643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Revised: 09/25/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Atomic force microscopy (AFM) is the most often used tool to study the mechanical properties of eukaryotic cells. Due to their complex assembly, cells show viscoelastic properties. When performing experiments, one has to consider the influence of both loading rate and maximum load on the measured mechanical properties. Here, we employed colloidal particles of various sizes (from 2 to 20 μm diameter) to perform force spectroscopy measurements on endothelial cells at loading rates varying from 0.1 to 50 μm/s, and maximum loads ranging from 1 to 25 nN. We were able to determine the non-linear dependence of cell viscoelastic properties on the loading rate which followed a weak power law. In addition, we show that previous loading at high forces leads to a stiffening of cells. Based on these results we discuss a road map for determining cell mechanical properties using AFM. Finally, this work provides an experimental framework for cell mechanical measurements using force-cycle experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Weber
- Department of Nanobiotechnology, Institute for Biophysics, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences (BOKU), Vienna, Austria
| | - Barbara Zbiral
- Department of Nanobiotechnology, Institute for Biophysics, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences (BOKU), Vienna, Austria
| | - Jagoba Iturri
- Department of Nanobiotechnology, Institute for Biophysics, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences (BOKU), Vienna, Austria
| | - Rafael Benitez
- Departamento de Matemáticas para la Economía y la Empresa, Facultad de Economía, Universidad de Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - José L Toca-Herrera
- Department of Nanobiotechnology, Institute for Biophysics, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences (BOKU), Vienna, Austria
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35
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Chighizola M, Puricelli L, Bellon L, Podestà A. Large colloidal probes for atomic force microscopy: Fabrication and calibration issues. J Mol Recognit 2020; 34:e2879. [PMID: 33098182 DOI: 10.1002/jmr.2879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Revised: 10/01/2020] [Accepted: 10/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Atomic force microscopy (AFM) is a powerful tool to investigate interaction forces at the micro and nanoscale. Cantilever stiffness, dimensions and geometry of the tip can be chosen according to the requirements of the specific application, in terms of spatial resolution and force sensitivity. Colloidal probes (CPs), obtained by attaching a spherical particle to a tipless (TL) cantilever, offer several advantages for accurate force measurements: tunable and well-characterisable radius; higher averaging capabilities (at the expense of spatial resolution) and sensitivity to weak interactions; a well-defined interaction geometry (sphere on flat), which allows accurate and reliable data fitting by means of analytical models. The dynamics of standard AFM probes has been widely investigated, and protocols have been developed for the calibration of the cantilever spring constant. Nevertheless, the dynamics of CPs, and in particular of large CPs, with radius well above 10 μm and mass comparable, or larger, than the cantilever mass, is at present still poorly characterized. Here we describe the fabrication and calibration of (large) CPs. We describe and discuss the peculiar dynamical behaviour of CPs, and present an alternative protocol for the accurate calibration of the spring constant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Chighizola
- C.I.Ma.I.Na. and Dipartimento di Fisica "Aldo Pontremoli", Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Luca Puricelli
- C.I.Ma.I.Na. and Dipartimento di Fisica "Aldo Pontremoli", Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Ludovic Bellon
- Laboratoire de Physique, Univ. Lyon, ENS de Lyon, Univ. Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, Lyon, France
| | - Alessandro Podestà
- C.I.Ma.I.Na. and Dipartimento di Fisica "Aldo Pontremoli", Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
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36
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Zemła J, Bobrowska J, Kubiak A, Zieliński T, Pabijan J, Pogoda K, Bobrowski P, Lekka M. Indenting soft samples (hydrogels and cells) with cantilevers possessing various shapes of probing tip. EUROPEAN BIOPHYSICS JOURNAL : EBJ 2020; 49:485-495. [PMID: 32803311 PMCID: PMC7456413 DOI: 10.1007/s00249-020-01456-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2020] [Revised: 05/06/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The identification of cancer-related changes in cells and tissues based on the measurements of elastic properties using atomic force microscopy (AFM) seems to be approaching clinical application. Several limiting aspects have already been discussed; however, still, no data have shown how specific AFM probe geometries are related to the biomechanical evaluation of cancer cells. Here, we analyze and compare the nanomechanical results of mechanically homogenous polyacrylamide gels and heterogeneous bladder cancer cells measured using AFM probes of various tip geometry, including symmetric and non-symmetric pyramids and a sphere. Our observations show large modulus variability aligned with both types of AFM probes used and with the internal structure of the cells. Altogether, these results demonstrate that it is possible to differentiate between compliant and rigid samples of kPa elasticity; however, simultaneously, they highlight the strong need for standardized protocols for AFM-based elasticity measurements if applied in clinical practice including the use of a single type of AFM cantilever.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Zemła
- Institute of Nuclear Physics Polish Academy of Sciences, PL-31342, Kraków, Poland.
| | - Justyna Bobrowska
- Institute of Nuclear Physics Polish Academy of Sciences, PL-31342, Kraków, Poland
| | - Andrzej Kubiak
- Institute of Nuclear Physics Polish Academy of Sciences, PL-31342, Kraków, Poland
| | - Tomasz Zieliński
- Institute of Nuclear Physics Polish Academy of Sciences, PL-31342, Kraków, Poland
| | - Joanna Pabijan
- Institute of Nuclear Physics Polish Academy of Sciences, PL-31342, Kraków, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Pogoda
- Institute of Nuclear Physics Polish Academy of Sciences, PL-31342, Kraków, Poland
| | - Piotr Bobrowski
- Institute of Metallurgy and Materials Science Polish Academy of Sciences, PL-30059, Kraków, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Lekka
- Institute of Nuclear Physics Polish Academy of Sciences, PL-31342, Kraków, Poland.
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37
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Tsitlakidis A, Aifantis EC, Kritis A, Tsingotjidou AS, Cheva A, Selviaridis P, Foroglou N. Mechanical properties of human glioma. Neurol Res 2020; 42:1018-1026. [PMID: 32705967 DOI: 10.1080/01616412.2020.1796381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Brain gliomas represent some of the most aggressive tumors encountered by modern medicine and, despite major efforts to optimize early diagnosis and treatment, the prognosis remains poor. Due to the complex structure of the brain and the unique mechanical properties of the extracellular matrix, gliomas invade and expand into the brain parenchyma, along white matter tracts and within perivascular spaces, usually sparing normal vessels. Different methods have been developed to study the mechanical properties of gliomas in a wide range of scales, from cells and the microscale to tissues and the macroscale. In this review, the current view on glioma mechanics is presented and the methods used to determine glioma mechanical properties are outlined. Their principles and current state of affairs are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abraham Tsitlakidis
- First Department of Neurosurgery, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki , Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Elias C Aifantis
- Laboratory of Mechanics and Materials, Polytechnic School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki , Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Aristeidis Kritis
- Laboratory of Physiology, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki , Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Anastasia S Tsingotjidou
- Laboratory of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki , Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Angeliki Cheva
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki , Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Panagiotis Selviaridis
- First Department of Neurosurgery, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki , Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Nicolas Foroglou
- First Department of Neurosurgery, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki , Thessaloniki, Greece
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38
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Umana-Diaz C, Pichol-Thievend C, Marchand MF, Atlas Y, Salza R, Malbouyres M, Barret A, Teillon J, Ardidie-Robouant C, Ruggiero F, Monnot C, Girard P, Guilluy C, Ricard-Blum S, Germain S, Muller L. Scavenger Receptor Cysteine-Rich domains of Lysyl Oxidase-Like2 regulate endothelial ECM and angiogenesis through non-catalytic scaffolding mechanisms. Matrix Biol 2020; 88:33-52. [DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2019.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2019] [Revised: 11/08/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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39
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Carapeto AP, Vitorino MV, Santos JD, Ramalho SS, Robalo T, Rodrigues MS, Farinha CM. Mechanical Properties of Human Bronchial Epithelial Cells Expressing Wt- and Mutant CFTR. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21082916. [PMID: 32326361 PMCID: PMC7216210 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21082916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2020] [Revised: 04/15/2020] [Accepted: 04/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is caused by mutations in the gene encoding the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR). A single recessive mutation, the deletion of phenylalanine 508 (F508del), causes severe CF and resides on 70% of mutant chromosomes. Disorganization of the actin cytoskeleton has been previously reported in relation to the CF phenotype. In this work, we aimed to understand this alteration by means of Atomic Force Microscopy and Force Feedback Microscopy investigation of mechanical properties of cystic fibrosis bronchial epithelial (CFBE) cells stably transduced with either wild type (wt-) or F508del-CFTR. We show here that the expression of mutant CFTR causes a decrease in the cell’s apparent Young modulus as compared to the expression of the wt protein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana P. Carapeto
- BioISI – Instituto de Biosistemas e Ciências Integrativas, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal; (A.P.C.); (M.V.V.); (J.D.S.); (S.S.R.); (T.R.)
- Departamento de Física, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Miguel V. Vitorino
- BioISI – Instituto de Biosistemas e Ciências Integrativas, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal; (A.P.C.); (M.V.V.); (J.D.S.); (S.S.R.); (T.R.)
- Departamento de Física, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - João D. Santos
- BioISI – Instituto de Biosistemas e Ciências Integrativas, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal; (A.P.C.); (M.V.V.); (J.D.S.); (S.S.R.); (T.R.)
- Departamento de Química e Bioquímica, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Sofia S. Ramalho
- BioISI – Instituto de Biosistemas e Ciências Integrativas, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal; (A.P.C.); (M.V.V.); (J.D.S.); (S.S.R.); (T.R.)
- Departamento de Química e Bioquímica, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Tiago Robalo
- BioISI – Instituto de Biosistemas e Ciências Integrativas, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal; (A.P.C.); (M.V.V.); (J.D.S.); (S.S.R.); (T.R.)
- Departamento de Física, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Mário S. Rodrigues
- BioISI – Instituto de Biosistemas e Ciências Integrativas, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal; (A.P.C.); (M.V.V.); (J.D.S.); (S.S.R.); (T.R.)
- Departamento de Física, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
- Correspondence: (M.S.R.); (C.M.F.)
| | - Carlos M. Farinha
- BioISI – Instituto de Biosistemas e Ciências Integrativas, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal; (A.P.C.); (M.V.V.); (J.D.S.); (S.S.R.); (T.R.)
- Departamento de Química e Bioquímica, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
- Correspondence: (M.S.R.); (C.M.F.)
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40
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Determination of viscohyperelastic properties of tubule epithelial cells by an approach combined with AFM nanoindentation and finite element analysis. Micron 2020; 129:102779. [DOI: 10.1016/j.micron.2019.102779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2019] [Revised: 11/04/2019] [Accepted: 11/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
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41
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Puzzi L, Borin D, Gurha P, Lombardi R, Martinelli V, Weiss M, Andolfi L, Lazzarino M, Mestroni L, Marian AJ, Sbaizero O. Knock Down of Plakophillin 2 Dysregulates Adhesion Pathway through Upregulation of miR200b and Alters the Mechanical Properties in Cardiac Cells. Cells 2019; 8:cells8121639. [PMID: 31847412 PMCID: PMC6952926 DOI: 10.3390/cells8121639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2019] [Revised: 12/08/2019] [Accepted: 12/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Mutations in genes encoding intercalated disk/desmosome proteins, such as plakophilin 2 (PKP2), cause arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (ACM). Desmosomes are responsible for myocyte–myocyte attachment and maintaining mechanical integrity of the myocardium. Methods: We knocked down Pkp2 in HL-1 mouse atrial cardiomyocytes (HL-1Pkp2-shRNA) and characterized their biomechanical properties. Gene expression was analyzed by RNA-Sequencing, microarray, and qPCR. Immunofluorescence was used to detect changes in cytoskeleton and focal adhesion. Antagomirs were used to knock down expression of selected microRNA (miR) in the rescue experiments. Results: Knockdown of Pkp2 was associated with decreased cardiomyocyte stiffness and work of detachment, and increased plasticity index. Altered mechanical properties were associated with impaired actin cytoskeleton in HL-1Pkp2-shRNA cells. Analysis of differentially expressed genes identified focal adhesion and actin cytoskeleton amongst the most dysregulated pathways, and miR200 family (a, b, and 429) as the most upregulated miRs in HL-1Pkp2-shRNA cells. Knockdown of miR-200b but not miR-200a, miR-429, by sequence-specific shRNAs partially rescued integrin-α1 (Itga1) levels, actin organization, cell adhesion (on collagen), and stiffness. Conclusions: PKP2 deficiency alters cardiomyocytes adhesion through a mechanism that involves upregulation of miR-200b and suppression of Itga1 expression. These findings provide new insights into the molecular basis of altered mechanosensing in ACM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Puzzi
- Engineering and Architecture Department, University of Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy; (L.P.); (D.B.)
| | - Daniele Borin
- Engineering and Architecture Department, University of Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy; (L.P.); (D.B.)
| | - Priyatansh Gurha
- Centre for Cardiovascular Genetics, Institute of Molecular Medicine at the University of Texas Health Science Centre and Texas Heart Institute, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (P.G.); (A.J.M.)
| | - Raffaella Lombardi
- Advanced Biomedical Sciences, Federico II University, 80138 Napoli, Italy;
| | - Valentina Martinelli
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, 34149 Trieste, Italy;
| | - Marek Weiss
- Institute of Physics, Faculty of Technical Physics, Poznan University of Technology, Piotrowo 3, 60965 Poznan, Poland
| | - Laura Andolfi
- CNR-IOM, Area Science Park, 34149 Trieste, Italy; (L.A.); (M.L.)
| | - Marco Lazzarino
- CNR-IOM, Area Science Park, 34149 Trieste, Italy; (L.A.); (M.L.)
| | - Luisa Mestroni
- Cardiovascular Institute, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA;
| | - Ali J. Marian
- Centre for Cardiovascular Genetics, Institute of Molecular Medicine at the University of Texas Health Science Centre and Texas Heart Institute, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (P.G.); (A.J.M.)
| | - Orfeo Sbaizero
- Engineering and Architecture Department, University of Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy; (L.P.); (D.B.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-040-558-3770
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42
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Gungordu HI, Bao M, van Helvert S, Jansen JA, Leeuwenburgh SCG, Walboomers XF. Effect of mechanical loading and substrate elasticity on the osteogenic and adipogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells. J Tissue Eng Regen Med 2019; 13:2279-2290. [PMID: 31483956 DOI: 10.1002/term.2956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2018] [Revised: 06/11/2019] [Accepted: 06/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are highly sensitive to biomechanics of their extracellular environment. Generally, a higher elasticity of culture substrates can drive cells into the osteogenic lineage, whereas low substrate elasticity results in adipogenesis. Applied mechanical loading by cyclic strain is another major variable influencing cell fate. Yet, little is known about the simultaneous effect of both cues. Therefore, the present study investigated the relative importance of both cues on differentiation. MSCs were cultured in an osteogenic and also an adipogenic environment on soft polyacrylamide (PAAm; E = 23 ± 0.3 kPa), stiff PAAm (111 ± 2 kPa), and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS; E = 1,5 ± 0.07 MPa) either unstrained or with 8% cyclic strain at 1 Hz. Without strain, the relative expression of the early osteogenic marker alkaline phosphatase (ALP) was significantly higher (78%) on PDMS than on both PAAm. With 8% cyclic strain, ALP expression increased for all groups in comparison with unstrained controls. The highest increase was observed for the soft PAAm by 36%. Moreover, relative oil red O (ORO) expression-indicating adipogenesis-was the highest for unstrained soft PAAm. On the other hand, the percentage of ORO positive cells significantly decreased by 57% and 69% for soft and stiff PAAm when strained. In conclusion, biomaterial elasticity and mechanical loading can act simultaneously on cell differentiation. Substrate elasticity is an important factor, regulating the differentiation, but cyclic strain can drive MSCs towards the osteogenesis even on the softest substrate. As such, the osteogenic effect of mechanical loading can overrule the adipogenic effect of soft substrates, thereby acting as an inhibitor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hatice Imran Gungordu
- Department of Biomaterials, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Min Bao
- Department of Physical Organic Chemistry, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Sjoerd van Helvert
- Department of Cell Biology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - John A Jansen
- Department of Biomaterials, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | | | - X Frank Walboomers
- Department of Biomaterials, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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43
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Luxán G, Stewen J, Díaz N, Kato K, Maney SK, Aravamudhan A, Berkenfeld F, Nagelmann N, Drexler HC, Zeuschner D, Faber C, Schillers H, Hermann S, Wiseman J, Vaquerizas JM, Pitulescu ME, Adams RH. Endothelial EphB4 maintains vascular integrity and transport function in adult heart. eLife 2019; 8:45863. [PMID: 31782728 PMCID: PMC6884395 DOI: 10.7554/elife.45863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2019] [Accepted: 11/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The homeostasis of heart and other organs relies on the appropriate provision of nutrients and functional specialization of the local vasculature. Here, we have used mouse genetics, imaging and cell biology approaches to investigate how homeostasis in the adult heart is controlled by endothelial EphB4 and its ligand ephrin-B2, which are known regulators of vascular morphogenesis and arteriovenous differentiation during development. We show that inducible and endothelial cell-specific inactivation of Ephb4 in adult mice is compatible with survival, but leads to rupturing of cardiac capillaries, cardiomyocyte hypertrophy, and pathological cardiac remodeling. In contrast, EphB4 is not required for integrity and homeostasis of capillaries in skeletal muscle. Our analysis of mutant mice and cultured endothelial cells shows that EphB4 controls the function of caveolae, cell-cell adhesion under mechanical stress and lipid transport. We propose that EphB4 maintains critical functional properties of the adult cardiac vasculature and thereby prevents dilated cardiomyopathy-like defects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guillermo Luxán
- Department of Tissue Morphogenesis, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Münster, Germany
| | - Jonas Stewen
- Department of Tissue Morphogenesis, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Münster, Germany
| | - Noelia Díaz
- Regulatory Genomics Laboratory, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Münster, Germany
| | - Katsuhiro Kato
- Department of Tissue Morphogenesis, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Münster, Germany
| | - Sathish K Maney
- Department of Tissue Morphogenesis, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Münster, Germany
| | - Anusha Aravamudhan
- Department of Tissue Morphogenesis, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Münster, Germany
| | - Frank Berkenfeld
- Department of Tissue Morphogenesis, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Münster, Germany
| | - Nina Nagelmann
- Department of Clinical Radiology, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Hannes Ca Drexler
- Bioanalytical Mass Spectrometry Unit, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Münster, Germany
| | - Dagmar Zeuschner
- Electron Microscopy Unit, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Münster, Germany
| | - Cornelius Faber
- Department of Clinical Radiology, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Hermann Schillers
- Institute for Physiology II, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Sven Hermann
- European Institute for Molecular Imaging, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - John Wiseman
- Discovery Biology, Discovery Sciences, IMED Biotech Unit, AstraZeneca, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Juan M Vaquerizas
- Regulatory Genomics Laboratory, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Münster, Germany
| | - Mara E Pitulescu
- Department of Tissue Morphogenesis, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Münster, Germany
| | - Ralf H Adams
- Department of Tissue Morphogenesis, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Münster, Germany.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
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Pasztorek M, Rossmanith E, Mayr C, Hauser F, Jacak J, Ebner A, Weber V, Fischer MB. Influence of Platelet Lysate on 2D and 3D Amniotic Mesenchymal Stem Cell Cultures. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2019; 7:338. [PMID: 31803733 PMCID: PMC6873824 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2019.00338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Accepted: 10/30/2019] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The mechanobiological behavior of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in two- (2D) or three-dimensional (3D) cultures relies on the formation of actin filaments which occur as stress fibers and depends on mitochondrial dynamics involving vimentin intermediate filaments. Here we investigate whether human platelet lysate (HPL), that can potentially replace fetal bovine serum for clinical-scale expansion of functional cells, can modulate the stress fiber formation, alter mitochondrial morphology, change membrane elasticity and modulate immune regulatory molecules IDO and GARP in amnion derived MSCs. We can provide evidence that culture supplementation with HPL led to a reduction of stress fiber formation in 2D cultured MSCs compared to a conventional growth medium (MSCGM). 3D MSC cultures, in contrast, showed decreased actin concentrations independent of HPL supplementation. When stress fibers were further segregated by their binding to focal adhesions, a reduction in ventral stress fibers was observed in response to HPL in 2D cultured MSCs, while the length of the individual ventral stress fibers increased. Dorsal stress fibers or transverse arcs were not affected. Interestingly, ventral stress fiber formation did not correlate with membrane elasticity. 2D cultured MSCs did not show differences in the Young's modulus when propagated in the presence of HPL and further cultivation to passage 3 also had no effect on membrane elasticity. In addition, HPL reduced the mitochondrial mass of 2D cultured MSCs while the mitochondrial mass in 3D cultured MSCs was low initially. When mitochondria were segregated into punctuate, rods and networks, a cultivation-induced increase in punctuate and network mitochondria was observed in 2D cultured MSCs of passage 3. Finally, mRNA and protein expression of the immunomodulatory molecule IDO relied on stimulation of 2D culture MSCs with pro-inflammatory cytokines IFN-γ and TNF-α with no effect upon HPL supplementation. GARP mRNA and surface expression was constitutively expressed and did not respond to HPL supplementation or stimulation with IFN-γ and TNF-α. In conclusion, we can say that MSCs cultivated in 2D and 3D are sensitive to medium supplementation with HPL with changes in actin filament formation, mitochondrial dynamics and membrane elasticity that can have an impact on the immunomodulatory function of MSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markus Pasztorek
- Department for Biomedical Research, Center of Experimental Medicine, Danube University Krems, Krems an der Donau, Austria
| | - Eva Rossmanith
- Department for Biomedical Research, Center of Experimental Medicine, Danube University Krems, Krems an der Donau, Austria
| | - Christoph Mayr
- Department of Applied Experimental Biophysics, Institute of Biophysics, Johannes Kepler University Linz, Linz, Austria
| | - Fabian Hauser
- School of Medical Engineering and Applied Social Sciences, University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria, Linz, Austria
| | - Jaroslaw Jacak
- School of Medical Engineering and Applied Social Sciences, University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria, Linz, Austria
| | - Andreas Ebner
- Department of Applied Experimental Biophysics, Institute of Biophysics, Johannes Kepler University Linz, Linz, Austria
| | - Viktoria Weber
- Department for Biomedical Research, Center of Experimental Medicine, Danube University Krems, Krems an der Donau, Austria
- Christian Doppler Laboratories, Department for Biomedical Research, Danube University Krems, Krems an der Donau, Austria
| | - Michael B. Fischer
- Department for Biomedical Research, Center of Experimental Medicine, Danube University Krems, Krems an der Donau, Austria
- Christian Doppler Laboratories, Department for Biomedical Research, Danube University Krems, Krems an der Donau, Austria
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Keurhorst D, Liashkovich I, Frontzek F, Nitzlaff S, Hofschröer V, Dreier R, Stock C. MMP3 activity rather than cortical stiffness determines NHE1-dependent invasiveness of melanoma cells. Cancer Cell Int 2019; 19:285. [PMID: 31728131 PMCID: PMC6842528 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-019-1015-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2019] [Accepted: 11/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Both cell adhesion and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activity depend on pH at the cell surface. By regulating extracellular juxtamembrane pH, the Na+/H+ exchanger NHE1 plays a significant part in human melanoma (MV3) cell migration and invasion. Because NHE1, besides its pH-regulatory transport function, also serves as a structural element tying the cortical actin cytoskeleton to the plasma membrane, we investigated whether NHE1 affects cortical stiffness of MV3 cells, and how this makes an impact on their invasiveness. Methods NHE1 overexpressing MV3 cells were compared to the corresponding mock-transfected control cells. NHE1 expression was verified by Western blotting, cariporide (HOE642) was used to inhibit NHE1 activity, cell stiffness was determined by atomic force microscopy, and F-actin was visualized by phalloidin-staining. Migration on, and invasion of, native and glutaraldehyde-fixed collagen I substrates were analyzed using time-lapse video microscopy and Boyden-chamber assays, respectively. MMP secretion and activity were detected by Western blot and zymography, respectively. MMP activity was inhibited with NNGH. Results The cortical, but not the bulk stiffness, was significantly higher in NHE1 overexpressing cells. This increase in cortical stiffness was accompanied by a reorganization of the cortical cytoskeleton, i.e. a condensation of F-actin underneath and along the plasma membrane. However, it was not affected by NHE1 inhibition. Nevertheless, actin dynamics is required for cell invasion as demonstrated with the application of cytochalasin D. NHE1 overexpression was associated with an elevated MMP3 secretion and an increase in the invasion of a native matrix. This increase in invasiveness could be antagonized by the MMP inhibitor NNGH. Transmigration through a glutaraldehyde-fixed, indigestible substrate was not affected by NHE1 overexpression. Conclusion NHE1, as a structural element and independently of its transport activity, contributes to the organization of the cortical F-actin meshwork and thus impacts cortical stiffness. Since NHE1 overexpression stimulates MMP3 secretion but does not change transmigration through a fixed substrate, MV3 cell invasion of a native substrate depends on MMP activity rather than on a modifiable cortical stiffness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dennis Keurhorst
- 1Institute of Physiology II, University of Münster, Robert-Koch-Str. 27b, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Ivan Liashkovich
- 1Institute of Physiology II, University of Münster, Robert-Koch-Str. 27b, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Fabian Frontzek
- 2Department of Oncology and Hematology, University Hospital of Münster, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Svenja Nitzlaff
- 3Institute of Animal Physiology, University of Münster, Schlossplatz 8, 48143 Münster, Germany
| | - Verena Hofschröer
- 1Institute of Physiology II, University of Münster, Robert-Koch-Str. 27b, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Rita Dreier
- 4Institute of Physiological Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry, University of Münster, Waldeyer-Str. 15, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Christian Stock
- 1Institute of Physiology II, University of Münster, Robert-Koch-Str. 27b, 48149 Münster, Germany.,5Department of Gastroenterology, Hannover Medical School, Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1, 30625 Hannover, Germany
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Yu C, Xing M, Sun S, Guan G, Wang L. In vitro evaluation of vascular endothelial cell behaviors on biomimetic vascular basement membranes. Colloids Surf B Biointerfaces 2019; 182:110381. [PMID: 31351274 DOI: 10.1016/j.colsurfb.2019.110381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2019] [Revised: 07/15/2019] [Accepted: 07/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Vascular basement membrane (VBM) is a thin layer of fibrous extracellular matrix linking endothelium, and collagen type IV (COL IV) is its main composition. VBM plays a crucial role in anchoring down the endothelium to its loose connective tissue underneath. For vascular grafts, constructing biomimetic VBMs on the luminal surface is thus an effective approach to improve endothelialization in situ. In the present work, three types of polycaprolactone (PCL) membranes were produced and characterized through cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay, adhesion force and elastic modulus test to examine the influence of fiber diameter and membrane composition on vascular endothelial cell (EC) behaviors. The PCL membranes with finer fibers of 54.77 nm (PCL-54) could biomimic the nanotopography of VBMs more efficiently than 544.64 nm (PCL-544), and they were more suitable for Pig iliac endothelium cells (PIECs) adhesion and proliferation, meanwhile, inducing higher elastic modulus and adhesion force of PIECs. On this foundation, we further immobilized COL IV onto PCL-54 (PCL-COL IV) to biomimic VBMs compositionally. Results showed that PIECs on PCL-COL IV exhibited the highest viability and proliferation. Besides, quantitative data indicated that the elastic modulus of the PIECs on PCL-COL IV (4441.00 Pa) was as two times higher than that on PCL-54 (2312.26 Pa), and the adhesion force grew to 1120.99 pN from 673.58 pN of PIECs on PCL-54. In summary, the PCL-COL IV membranes show high similarity with the native VBMs in terms of structure and composition, suggesting a promising potential for surface modification to vascular grafts for improved endothelialization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenglong Yu
- Engineering Research Center of Technical Textile, Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Textile Science and Technology of Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Textile Industry for Biomedical Textile materials and Technology, College of Textiles, Donghua University, 2999 North Renmin Road, Shanghai, 201620, China
| | - Meiyi Xing
- Engineering Research Center of Technical Textile, Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Textile Science and Technology of Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Textile Industry for Biomedical Textile materials and Technology, College of Textiles, Donghua University, 2999 North Renmin Road, Shanghai, 201620, China
| | - Shibo Sun
- Engineering Research Center of Technical Textile, Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Textile Science and Technology of Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Textile Industry for Biomedical Textile materials and Technology, College of Textiles, Donghua University, 2999 North Renmin Road, Shanghai, 201620, China
| | - Guoping Guan
- Engineering Research Center of Technical Textile, Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Textile Science and Technology of Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Textile Industry for Biomedical Textile materials and Technology, College of Textiles, Donghua University, 2999 North Renmin Road, Shanghai, 201620, China.
| | - Lu Wang
- Engineering Research Center of Technical Textile, Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Textile Science and Technology of Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Textile Industry for Biomedical Textile materials and Technology, College of Textiles, Donghua University, 2999 North Renmin Road, Shanghai, 201620, China.
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Yang PF, Nie XT, Wang Z, Al-Qudsy LHH, Ren L, Xu HY, Rittweger J, Shang P. Disuse Impairs the Mechanical Competence of Bone by Regulating the Characterizations of Mineralized Collagen Fibrils in Cortical Bone. Front Physiol 2019; 10:775. [PMID: 31293444 PMCID: PMC6598106 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2019.00775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2019] [Accepted: 06/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Bones are made of complex material comprising organic components and mineral hydroxyapatite, both of which formulate the unique hierarchical structure of bone and its mechanical properties. Bones are capable of optimizing their structure and mechanical properties according to the mechanical environment. Mineral loss is a well-known consequence of skeleton disuse. By contrast, the response of the non-mineral phase of bone, i.e., the collagen network, during disuse remain largely unknown. In this study, a tail-suspension mice model was used to induce bone loss. Atomic force microscopy-based imaging and indentation approaches were adopted to investigate the influence of disuse on the morphology and in situ mechanical behavior of the collagen fibrils, under both non-loaded and load-bearing conditions, in the cortical tibia of mice. The results indicate that disuse induced by hindlimb unloading did not alter the orientation and D-periodic spacing of the collagen fibril, but results in decreased collagen crosslinking which correlates with decreased elasticity and increased susceptibility to mechanical damage. More concretely, the collagen fibrils in the disused tibia were misaligned under mechanical loading. It therefore indicates that the disordered arrangement of the mineralized collagen fibrils is one of the characteristics of the weakened bone during elastic deformation. These findings reveals the unique adaptation regimes of the collagen fibrils in the cortical bone to disuse, as well as the deformation mechanisms of bone in the relevant pathological process at different scales.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng-Fei Yang
- Key Laboratory for Space Bioscience and Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Institute of Special Environmental Biophysics, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, China.,Research & Development Institute, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Shenzhen, China.,Yangtze River Delta Research Institute, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Taicang, China
| | - Xiao-Tong Nie
- Key Laboratory for Space Bioscience and Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Institute of Special Environmental Biophysics, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Zhe Wang
- Key Laboratory for Space Bioscience and Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Institute of Special Environmental Biophysics, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Luban Hamdy Hameed Al-Qudsy
- Key Laboratory for Space Bioscience and Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Institute of Special Environmental Biophysics, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Li Ren
- Key Laboratory for Space Bioscience and Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Institute of Special Environmental Biophysics, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, China.,Research & Development Institute, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Hui-Yun Xu
- Key Laboratory for Space Bioscience and Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Institute of Special Environmental Biophysics, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, China.,Research & Development Institute, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Joern Rittweger
- Division of Muscle & Bone Metabolism, Institute of Aerospace Medicine, German Aerospace Center, Cologne, Germany.,Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Peng Shang
- Research & Development Institute, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Shenzhen, China.,Key Laboratory for Space Bioscience and Biotechnology, Institute of Special Environmental Biophysics, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, China
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Harjumäki R, Nugroho RWN, Zhang X, Lou YR, Yliperttula M, Valle-Delgado JJ, Österberg M. Quantified forces between HepG2 hepatocarcinoma and WA07 pluripotent stem cells with natural biomaterials correlate with in vitro cell behavior. Sci Rep 2019; 9:7354. [PMID: 31089156 PMCID: PMC6517585 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-43669-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2019] [Accepted: 04/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
In vitro cell culture or tissue models that mimic in vivo cellular response have potential in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, and are a more economical and accurate option for drug toxicity tests than animal experimentation. The design of in vivo-like cell culture models should take into account how the cells interact with the surrounding materials and how these interactions affect the cell behavior. Cell-material interactions are furthermore important in cancer metastasis and tumor progression, so deeper understanding of them can support the development of new cancer treatments. Herein, the colloidal probe microscopy technique was used to quantify the interactions of two cell lines (human pluripotent stem cell line WA07 and human hepatocellular carcinoma cell line HepG2) with natural, xeno-free biomaterials of different chemistry, morphology, and origin. Key components of extracellular matrices -human collagens I and IV, and human recombinant laminin-521-, as well as wood-derived, cellulose nanofibrils -with evidenced potential for 3D cell culture and tissue engineering- were analysed. Both strength of adhesion and force curve profiles depended on biomaterial nature and cell characteristics. The successful growth of the cells on a particular biomaterial required cell-biomaterial adhesion energies above 0.23 nJ/m. The information obtained in this work supports the development of new materials or hybrid scaffolds with tuned cell adhesion properties for tissue engineering, and provides a better understanding of the interactions of normal and cancerous cells with biomaterials in the human body.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riina Harjumäki
- Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems, School of Chemical Engineering, Aalto University, FI-00076, Aalto, Finland
- Division of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, FI-00014, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Robertus Wahyu N Nugroho
- Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems, School of Chemical Engineering, Aalto University, FI-00076, Aalto, Finland
| | - Xue Zhang
- Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems, School of Chemical Engineering, Aalto University, FI-00076, Aalto, Finland
| | - Yan-Ru Lou
- Division of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, FI-00014, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Marjo Yliperttula
- Division of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, FI-00014, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, I-35131, Padova, Italy
| | - Juan José Valle-Delgado
- Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems, School of Chemical Engineering, Aalto University, FI-00076, Aalto, Finland.
| | - Monika Österberg
- Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems, School of Chemical Engineering, Aalto University, FI-00076, Aalto, Finland.
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Quintela M, Sieglaff DH, Gazze AS, Zhang A, Gonzalez D, Francis L, Webb P, Conlan RS. HBO1 directs histone H4 specific acetylation, potentiating mechano-transduction pathways and membrane elasticity in ovarian cancer cells. NANOMEDICINE-NANOTECHNOLOGY BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE 2019; 17:254-265. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nano.2019.01.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2018] [Revised: 01/25/2019] [Accepted: 01/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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50
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Lei W, Xie C, Wu T, Wu X, Wang M. Transport mechanism of deformable micro-gel particle through micropores with mechanical properties characterized by AFM. Sci Rep 2019; 9:1453. [PMID: 30723227 PMCID: PMC6363738 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-37270-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2018] [Accepted: 12/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Deformable micro-gel particles (DMP) have been used to enhanced oil recovery (EOR) in reservoirs with unfavourable conditions. Direct pore-scale understanding of the DMP transport mechanism is important for further improvements of its EOR performance. To consider the interaction between soft particle and fluid in complex pore-throat geometries, we perform an Immersed Boundary-Lattice Boltzmann (IB-LB) simulation of DMP passing through a throat. A spring-network model is used to capture the deformation of DMP. In order to obtain appropriate simulation parameters that represent the real mechanical properties of DMP, we propose a procedure via fitting the DMP elastic modulus data measured by the nano-indentation experiments using Atomic Force Microscope (AFM). The pore-scale modelling obtains the critical pressure of the DMP for different particle-throat diameter ratios and elastic modulus. It is found that two-clog particle transport mode is observed in a contracted throat, the relationship between the critical pressure and the elastic modulus/particle-throat diameter ratio follows a power law. The particle-throat diameter ratio shows a greater impact on the critical pressure difference than the elastic modulus of particles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenhai Lei
- Department of Engineering Mechanics, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Chiyu Xie
- Department of Engineering Mechanics, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
- Department of Petroleum and Geosystems Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, 78712, USA
| | - Tianjiang Wu
- Changqing Oilfield, PetroChina, Xi'an, 710018, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xingcai Wu
- Research Institute of Petroleum Exploration & Development of PetroChina, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Moran Wang
- Department of Engineering Mechanics, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China.
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