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Han R, Luo L, Wei C, Qiao Y, Xie J, Pan X, Xing J. Stiffness-tunable biomaterials provide a good extracellular matrix environment for axon growth and regeneration. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:1364-1376. [PMID: 39075897 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-01874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Neuronal growth, extension, branching, and formation of neural networks are markedly influenced by the extracellular matrix-a complex network composed of proteins and carbohydrates secreted by cells. In addition to providing physical support for cells, the extracellular matrix also conveys critical mechanical stiffness cues. During the development of the nervous system, extracellular matrix stiffness plays a central role in guiding neuronal growth, particularly in the context of axonal extension, which is crucial for the formation of neural networks. In neural tissue engineering, manipulation of biomaterial stiffness is a promising strategy to provide a permissive environment for the repair and regeneration of injured nervous tissue. Recent research has fine-tuned synthetic biomaterials to fabricate scaffolds that closely replicate the stiffness profiles observed in the nervous system. In this review, we highlight the molecular mechanisms by which extracellular matrix stiffness regulates axonal growth and regeneration. We highlight the progress made in the development of stiffness-tunable biomaterials to emulate in vivo extracellular matrix environments, with an emphasis on their application in neural repair and regeneration, along with a discussion of the current limitations and future prospects. The exploration and optimization of the stiffness-tunable biomaterials has the potential to markedly advance the development of neural tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronglin Han
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Lanxin Luo
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Caiyan Wei
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Yaru Qiao
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Jiming Xie
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Xianchao Pan
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Juan Xing
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan Province, China
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2
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Lee JWN, Holle AW. Engineering approaches for understanding mechanical memory in cancer metastasis. APL Bioeng 2024; 8:021503. [PMID: 38605886 PMCID: PMC11008915 DOI: 10.1063/5.0194539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Understanding cancer metastasis is crucial for advancing therapeutic strategies and improving clinical outcomes. Cancer cells face dynamic changes in their mechanical microenvironment that occur on timescales ranging from minutes to years and exhibit a spectrum of cellular transformations in response to these mechanical cues. A crucial facet of this adaptive response is the concept of mechanical memory, in which mechanosensitive cell behavior and function persists even when mechanical cues are altered. This review explores the evolving mechanical landscape during metastasis, emphasizing the significance of mechanical memory and its influence on cell behavior. We then focus on engineering techniques that are being utilized to probe mechanical memory of cancer cells. Finally, we highlight promising translational approaches poised to harness mechanical memory for new therapies, thereby advancing the frontiers of bioengineering applications in cancer research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Wen Nicole Lee
- Mechanobiology Institute, National University of Singapore, 117411 Singapore, Singapore
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3
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Pratt SJP, Plunkett CM, Kuzu G, Trinh T, Barbara J, Choconta P, Quackenbush D, Huynh T, Smith A, Barnes SW, New J, Pierce J, Walker JR, Mainquist J, King FJ, Elliott J, Hammack S, Decker RS. A high throughput cell stretch device for investigating mechanobiology in vitro. APL Bioeng 2024; 8:026129. [PMID: 38938688 PMCID: PMC11210978 DOI: 10.1063/5.0206852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Mechanobiology is a rapidly advancing field, with growing evidence that mechanical signaling plays key roles in health and disease. To accelerate mechanobiology-based drug discovery, novel in vitro systems are needed that enable mechanical perturbation of cells in a format amenable to high throughput screening. Here, both a mechanical stretch device and 192-well silicone flexible linear stretch plate were designed and fabricated to meet high throughput technology needs for cell stretch-based applications. To demonstrate the utility of the stretch plate in automation and screening, cell dispensing, liquid handling, high content imaging, and high throughput sequencing platforms were employed. Using this system, an assay was developed as a biological validation and proof-of-concept readout for screening. A mechano-transcriptional stretch response was characterized using focused gene expression profiling measured by RNA-mediated oligonucleotide Annealing, Selection, and Ligation with Next-Gen sequencing. Using articular chondrocytes, a gene expression signature containing stretch responsive genes relevant to cartilage homeostasis and disease was identified. The possibility for integration of other stretch sensitive cell types (e.g., cardiovascular, airway, bladder, gut, and musculoskeletal), in combination with alternative phenotypic readouts (e.g., protein expression, proliferation, or spatial alignment), broadens the scope of high throughput stretch and allows for wider adoption by the research community. This high throughput mechanical stress device fills an unmet need in phenotypic screening technology to support drug discovery in mechanobiology-based disease areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen J. P. Pratt
- Novartis, Biomedical Research 10675 John Jay Hopkins Dr, San Diego, California 92121, USA
| | | | - Guray Kuzu
- Novartis, Biomedical Research 10675 John Jay Hopkins Dr, San Diego, California 92121, USA
| | - Ton Trinh
- Novartis, Biomedical Research 10675 John Jay Hopkins Dr, San Diego, California 92121, USA
| | - Joshua Barbara
- Novartis, Biomedical Research 10675 John Jay Hopkins Dr, San Diego, California 92121, USA
| | - Paula Choconta
- Novartis, Biomedical Research 10675 John Jay Hopkins Dr, San Diego, California 92121, USA
| | - Doug Quackenbush
- Novartis, Biomedical Research 10675 John Jay Hopkins Dr, San Diego, California 92121, USA
| | - Truc Huynh
- Novartis, Biomedical Research 10675 John Jay Hopkins Dr, San Diego, California 92121, USA
| | - Anders Smith
- Novartis, Biomedical Research 10675 John Jay Hopkins Dr, San Diego, California 92121, USA
| | - S. Whitney Barnes
- Novartis, Biomedical Research 10675 John Jay Hopkins Dr, San Diego, California 92121, USA
| | - Joel New
- Novartis, Biomedical Research 10675 John Jay Hopkins Dr, San Diego, California 92121, USA
| | - James Pierce
- Novartis, Biomedical Research 10675 John Jay Hopkins Dr, San Diego, California 92121, USA
| | - John R. Walker
- Novartis, Biomedical Research 10675 John Jay Hopkins Dr, San Diego, California 92121, USA
| | - James Mainquist
- Novartis, Biomedical Research 10675 John Jay Hopkins Dr, San Diego, California 92121, USA
| | - Frederick J. King
- Novartis, Biomedical Research 10675 John Jay Hopkins Dr, San Diego, California 92121, USA
| | - Jimmy Elliott
- Novartis, Biomedical Research 10675 John Jay Hopkins Dr, San Diego, California 92121, USA
| | - Scott Hammack
- Novartis, Biomedical Research 10675 John Jay Hopkins Dr, San Diego, California 92121, USA
| | - Rebekah S. Decker
- Novartis, Biomedical Research 10675 John Jay Hopkins Dr, San Diego, California 92121, USA
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Cavallini C, Olivi E, Tassinari R, Zannini C, Ragazzini G, Marcuzzi M, Taglioli V, Ventura C. Deer antler stem cell niche: An interesting perspective. World J Stem Cells 2024; 16:479-485. [PMID: 38817324 PMCID: PMC11135255 DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v16.i5.479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Revised: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/24/2024] Open
Abstract
In recent years, there has been considerable exploration into methods aimed at enhancing the regenerative capacity of transplanted and/or tissue-resident cells. Biomaterials, in particular, have garnered significant interest for their potential to serve as natural scaffolds for cells. In this editorial, we provide commentary on the study by Wang et al, in a recently published issue of World J Stem Cells, which investigates the use of a decellularized xenogeneic extracellular matrix (ECM) derived from antler stem cells for repairing osteochondral defects in rat knee joints. Our focus lies specifically on the crucial role of biological scaffolds as a strategy for augmenting stem cell potential and regenerative capabilities, thanks to the establishment of a favorable microenvironment (niche). Stem cell differentiation heavily depends on exposure to intrinsic properties of the ECM, including its chemical and protein composition, as well as the mechanical forces it can generate. Collectively, these physicochemical cues contribute to a bio-instructive signaling environment that offers tissue-specific guidance for achieving effective repair and regeneration. The interest in mechanobiology, often conceptualized as a form of "structural memory", is steadily gaining more validation and momentum, especially in light of findings such as these.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Cavallini
- National Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Stem Cell Engineering, National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems - Eldor Lab, Bologna 40128, Italy
- Eldor Lab, Bologna 40128, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | - Martina Marcuzzi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), University of Bologna, Bologna 40138, Italy
| | | | - Carlo Ventura
- National Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Stem Cell Engineering, National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems - Eldor Lab, Bologna 40128, Italy.
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Tian A, Baidouri H, Kim S, Li J, Cheng X, Li Y, Chen R, Raghunathan V. To be or not to be - Decoding the Trabecular Meshwork Cell Identity. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.04.26.591346. [PMID: 38746421 PMCID: PMC11092480 DOI: 10.1101/2024.04.26.591346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
The trabecular meshwork within the conventional outflow apparatus is critical in maintaining intraocular pressure homeostasis. In vitro studies employing primary cell cultures of the human trabecular meshwork (hTM) have conventionally served as surrogates for investigating the pathobiology of TM dysfunction. Despite its abundant use, translation of outcomes from in vitro studies to ex vivo and/or in vivo studies remains a challenge. Given the cell heterogeneity, performing single-cell RNA sequencing comparing primary hTM cell cultures to hTM tissue may provide important insights on cellular identity and translatability, as such an approach has not been reported before. In this study, we assembled a total of 14 primary hTM in vitro samples across passages 1-4, including 4 samples from individuals diagnosed with glaucoma. This dataset offers a comprehensive transcriptomic resource of primary hTM in vitro scRNA-seq data to study global changes in gene expression in comparison to cells in tissue in situ. We have performed extensive preprocessing and quality control, allowing the research community to access and utilize this public resource.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Tian
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Hasna Baidouri
- University of Houston, College of Optomtery, Houston, TX, 77204, USA
| | - Sangbae Kim
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Jin Li
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Xuesen Cheng
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Yumei Li
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Rui Chen
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
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Jiao Y, Li X, Liu X, Li C, Yang X, Sun X, Wang F, Wang L. Cobweb-Inspired Micro/Nanostructured Scaffolds for Soft Tissue Regeneration with Inhibition Effect of Fibrosis under Dynamic Environment. Adv Healthc Mater 2023; 12:e2300997. [PMID: 37713107 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202300997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
In soft tissue repair, fibrosis can lead to repair failure and long-term chronic pain in patients. Excessive mechanical stimulation of fibroblasts is one of the causes of fibrosis during abdominal wall regeneration. Inspired by the cobweb, a polycaprolactone beaded fiber is prepared by electrospinning. The cobweb-inspired structure attenuates the mechanical stimulation of cells under a dynamic environment. Nano-protrusions are introduced into the scaffold for further inhibition of fibrosis by self-induced crystallization. A machine is built for in vitro dynamic culture and rat abdominal subcutaneous embedding experiments are performed to verify the inhibiting effect of fibrosis in a dynamic environment in vivo. Results show that the expression of integrin β1 and α-smooth muscle actin is inhibited by the cobweb-inspired structure under dynamic culture. The results of hematoxylin and eosin and Masson's trichrome indicate that the cobweb-inspired structure has a good inhibitory effect on fibrosis in a dynamic environment in vivo. In general, the cobweb-inspired scaffold with nano-protrusions has a good ability to inhibit fibrosis under both static and dynamic environments. It is believed that the scaffold has promising applications in the field of inhibiting fibrosis caused by mechanical stimulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongjie Jiao
- Key Laboratory of Textile Science & Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Textiles, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, China
- Key Laboratory of Textile Industry for Biomedical Textile Materials and Technology, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, China
| | - Xiaojing Li
- Key Laboratory of Textile Science & Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Textiles, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, China
| | - Xingxing Liu
- Key Laboratory of Textile Science & Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Textiles, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, China
- Key Laboratory of Textile Industry for Biomedical Textile Materials and Technology, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, China
| | - Chaojing Li
- Key Laboratory of Textile Science & Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Textiles, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, China
- Key Laboratory of Textile Industry for Biomedical Textile Materials and Technology, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, China
| | - Xiao Yang
- Key Laboratory of Textile Science & Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Textiles, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, China
| | - Xuwei Sun
- Key Laboratory of Textile Science & Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Textiles, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, China
| | - Fujun Wang
- Key Laboratory of Textile Science & Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Textiles, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, China
| | - Lu Wang
- Key Laboratory of Textile Science & Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Textiles, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, China
- Key Laboratory of Textile Industry for Biomedical Textile Materials and Technology, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, China
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Raghunathan V, Nartey A, Dhamodaran K, Baidouri H, Staverosky JA, Keller KE, Zientek K, Reddy A, Acott T, Vranka JA. Characterization of extracellular matrix deposited by segmental trabecular meshwork cells. Exp Eye Res 2023; 234:109605. [PMID: 37506755 PMCID: PMC11104015 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2023.109605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Biophysical and biochemical attributes of the extracellular matrix are major determinants of cell fate in homeostasis and disease. Ocular hypertension and glaucoma are diseases where the trabecular meshwork tissue responsible for aqueous humor egress becomes stiffer accompanied by changes in its matrisome in a segmental manner with regions of high or low flow. Prior studies demonstrate these alterations in the matrix are dynamic in response to age and pressure changes. The underlying reason for segmentation or differential response to pressure and stiffening are unknown. This is largely due to a lack of appropriate models (in vitro or ex vivo) to study this phenomena. METHODS Primary trabecular meshwork cells were isolated from segmental flow regions, and cells were cultured for 4 weeks in the presence or absence or dexamethasone to obtain cell derived matrices (CDM). The biomechanical attributes of the CDM, composition of the matrisome, and incidence of crosslinks were determined by atomic force microscopy and mass spectrometry. RESULTS Data demonstrate that matrix deposited by cells from low flow regions are stiffer and exhibit a greater number of immature and mature crosslinks, and that these are exacerbated in the presence of steroid. We also show a differential response of high or low flow cells to steroid via changes observed in the matrix composition. However, no correlations were observed between elastic moduli and presence or absence of mature and immature crosslinks in the CDMs. CONCLUSION Regardless of a direct correlation between matrix stiffness and crosslinks, we observed distinct differences in the composition and mechanics of the matrices deposited by segmental flow cells. These results suggest distinct differences in cellular identify and likely a basis for mechanical memory post isolation and culture. Nevertheless, we conclude that although a mechanistic basis for matrix stiffness was undetermined in this study, it is a viable tool to study cell-matrix interactions and further our understanding of trabecular meshwork pathobiology.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Andrews Nartey
- Department of Basic Sciences, College of Optometry, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Kamesh Dhamodaran
- Department of Basic Sciences, College of Optometry, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Hasna Baidouri
- Department of Basic Sciences, College of Optometry, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | | | - Kate E Keller
- Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Casey Eye Institute, USA
| | - Keith Zientek
- Proteomics Shared Resources, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Ashok Reddy
- Proteomics Shared Resources, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Ted Acott
- Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Casey Eye Institute, USA
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Madl CM. Accelerating aging with dynamic biomaterials: Recapitulating aged tissue phenotypes in engineered platforms. iScience 2023; 26:106825. [PMID: 37250776 PMCID: PMC10213044 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.106825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Aging is characterized by progressive decline in tissue function and represents the greatest risk factor for many diseases. Nevertheless, many fundamental mechanisms driving human aging remain poorly understood. Aging studies using model organisms are often limited in their applicability to humans. Mechanistic studies of human aging rely on relatively simple cell culture models that fail to replicate mature tissue function, making them poor surrogates for aged tissues. These culture systems generally lack well-controlled cellular microenvironments that capture the changes in tissue mechanics and microstructure that occur during aging. Biomaterial platforms presenting dynamic, physiologically relevant mechanical, structural, and biochemical cues can capture the complex changes in the cellular microenvironment in a well-defined manner, accelerating the process of cellular aging in model laboratory systems. By enabling selective tuning of relevant microenvironmental parameters, these biomaterials systems may enable identification of new therapeutic approaches to slow or reverse the detrimental effects of aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher M. Madl
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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9
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Raghunathan V, Nartey A, Dhamodaran K, Baidouri H, Staverosky JA, Keller KE, Zientek K, Reddy A, Acott T, Vranka JA. Characterization of extracellular matrix deposited by segmental trabecular meshwork cells. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.03.11.532242. [PMID: 36945588 PMCID: PMC10028995 DOI: 10.1101/2023.03.11.532242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/14/2023]
Abstract
Biophysical and biochemical attributes of the extracellular matrix are major determinants of cell fate in homeostasis and disease. Ocular hypertension and glaucoma are diseases where the trabecular meshwork tissue responsible for aqueous humor egress becomes stiffer accompanied by changes in its matrisome in a segmental manner with regions of high or low flow. Prior studies demonstrate these alterations in the matrix are dynamic in response to age and pressure changes. The underlying reason for segmentation or differential response to pressure and stiffening are unknown. This is largely due to a lack of appropriate models ( in vitro or ex vivo ) to study this phenomena. In this study, we characterize the biomechanical attributes, matrisome, and incidence of crosslinks in the matrix deposited by primary cells isolated from segmental flow regions and when treated with glucocorticosteroid. Data demonstrate that matrix deposited by cells from low flow regions are stiffer and exhibit a greater number of immature and mature crosslinks, and that these are exacerbated in the presence of steroid. We also show a differential response of high or low flow cells to steroid via changes observed in the matrix composition. We conclude that although a mechanistic basis for matrix stiffness was undetermined in this study, it is a viable tool to study cell-matrix interactions and further our understanding of trabecular meshwork pathobiology.
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10
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Liang C, Huang M, Li T, Li L, Sussman H, Dai Y, Siemann DW, Xie M, Tang X. Towards an integrative understanding of cancer mechanobiology: calcium, YAP, and microRNA under biophysical forces. SOFT MATTER 2022; 18:1112-1148. [PMID: 35089300 DOI: 10.1039/d1sm01618k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
An increasing number of studies have demonstrated the significant roles of the interplay between microenvironmental mechanics in tissues and biochemical-genetic activities in resident tumor cells at different stages of tumor progression. Mediated by molecular mechano-sensors or -transducers, biomechanical cues in tissue microenvironments are transmitted into the tumor cells and regulate biochemical responses and gene expression through mechanotransduction processes. However, the molecular interplay between the mechanotransduction processes and intracellular biochemical signaling pathways remains elusive. This paper reviews the recent advances in understanding the crosstalk between biomechanical cues and three critical biochemical effectors during tumor progression: calcium ions (Ca2+), yes-associated protein (YAP), and microRNAs (miRNAs). We address the molecular mechanisms underpinning the interplay between the mechanotransduction pathways and each of the three effectors. Furthermore, we discuss the functional interactions among the three effectors in the context of soft matter and mechanobiology. We conclude by proposing future directions on studying the tumor mechanobiology that can employ Ca2+, YAP, and miRNAs as novel strategies for cancer mechanotheraputics. This framework has the potential to bring insights into the development of novel next-generation cancer therapies to suppress and treat tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenyu Liang
- Department of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering, Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering (HWCOE), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA.
- UF Health Cancer Center (UFHCC), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
| | - Miao Huang
- Department of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering, Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering (HWCOE), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA.
- UF Health Cancer Center (UFHCC), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
| | - Tianqi Li
- UF Health Cancer Center (UFHCC), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine (COM), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA.
| | - Lu Li
- UF Health Cancer Center (UFHCC), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine (COM), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA.
| | - Hayley Sussman
- Department of Radiation Oncology, COM, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
| | - Yao Dai
- UF Health Cancer Center (UFHCC), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
- UF Genetics Institute (UFGI), University of Florida (UF), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
| | - Dietmar W Siemann
- UF Health Cancer Center (UFHCC), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
- UF Genetics Institute (UFGI), University of Florida (UF), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
| | - Mingyi Xie
- UF Health Cancer Center (UFHCC), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine (COM), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering (COE), University of Delaware (UD), Newark, DE, 19716, USA
| | - Xin Tang
- Department of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering, Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering (HWCOE), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA.
- UF Health Cancer Center (UFHCC), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
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11
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Purkayastha P, Jaiswal MK, Lele TP. Molecular cancer cell responses to solid compressive stress and interstitial fluid pressure. Cytoskeleton (Hoboken) 2021; 78:312-322. [PMID: 34291887 DOI: 10.1002/cm.21680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2021] [Revised: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Alterations to the mechanical properties of the microenvironment are a hallmark of cancer. Elevated mechanical stresses exist in many solid tumors and elicit responses from cancer cells. Uncontrolled growth in confined environments gives rise to elevated solid compressive stress on cancer cells. Recruitment of leaky blood vessels and an absence of functioning lymphatic vessels causes a rise in the interstitial fluid pressure. Here we review the role of the cancer cell cytoskeleton and the nucleus in mediating both the initial and adaptive cancer cell response to these two types of mechanical stresses. We review how these mechanical stresses alter cancer cell functions such as proliferation, apoptosis, and migration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Purboja Purkayastha
- Artie McFerrin Department of Chemical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Manish K Jaiswal
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Tanmay P Lele
- Artie McFerrin Department of Chemical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA.,Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Texas A&M University, Houston, Texas, USA
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