1
|
Lin S, Feng D, Han X, Li L, Lin Y, Gao H. Microfluidic platform for omics analysis on single cells with diverse morphology and size: A review. Anal Chim Acta 2024; 1294:342217. [PMID: 38336406 DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2024.342217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Microfluidic techniques have emerged as powerful tools in single-cell research, facilitating the exploration of omics information from individual cells. Cell morphology is crucial for gene expression and physiological processes. However, there is currently a lack of integrated analysis of morphology and single-cell omics information. A critical challenge remains: what platform technologies are the best option to decode omics data of cells that are complex in morphology and size? RESULTS This review highlights achievements in microfluidic-based single-cell omics and isolation of cells based on morphology, along with other cell sorting methods based on physical characteristics. Various microfluidic platforms for single-cell isolation are systematically presented, showcasing their diversity and adaptability. The discussion focuses on microfluidic devices tailored to the distinct single-cell isolation requirements in plants and animals, emphasizing the significance of considering cell morphology and cell size in optimizing single-cell omics strategies. Simultaneously, it explores the application of microfluidic single-cell sorting technologies to single-cell sequencing, aiming to effectively integrate information about cell shape and size. SIGNIFICANCE AND NOVELTY The novelty lies in presenting a comprehensive overview of recent accomplishments in microfluidic-based single-cell omics, emphasizing the integration of different microfluidic platforms and their implications for cell morphology-based isolation. By underscoring the pivotal role of the specialized morphology of different cells in single-cell research, this review provides robust support for delving deeper into the exploration of single-cell omics data.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shujin Lin
- Mengchao Hepatobiliary Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350025, China; Central Laboratory at the Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fujian-Macao Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Traditional Chinese Medicine-Oriented Chronic Disease Prevention and Treatment, Innovation and Transformation Center, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China
| | - Dan Feng
- Biotechnology Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Xiao Han
- College of Biological Science and Engineering, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou, 350108, China.
| | - Ling Li
- Mengchao Hepatobiliary Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350025, China; The First Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350004, China; Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350004, China.
| | - Yao Lin
- Central Laboratory at the Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fujian-Macao Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Traditional Chinese Medicine-Oriented Chronic Disease Prevention and Treatment, Innovation and Transformation Center, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Rehabilitation Technology, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China.
| | - Haibing Gao
- Mengchao Hepatobiliary Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350025, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Albin B, Adhikari P, Tiwari AP, Qubbaj K, Yang IH. Electrical stimulation enhances mitochondrial trafficking as a neuroprotective mechanism against chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy. iScience 2024; 27:109052. [PMID: 38375222 PMCID: PMC10875116 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.109052] [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: 10/04/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Electrical stimulation (ESTIM) has shown to be an effective symptomatic treatment to treat pain associated with peripheral nerve damage. However, the neuroprotective mechanism of ESTIM on peripheral neuropathies is still unknown. In this study, we identified that ESTIM has the ability to enhance mitochondrial trafficking as a neuroprotective mechanism against chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathies (CIPNs). CIPN is a debilitating and painful sequalae of anti-cancer chemotherapy treatment which results in degeneration of peripheral nerves. Mitochondrial dynamics were analyzed within axons in response to two different antineoplastic mechanisms by chemotherapy drug treatments paclitaxel and oxaliplatin in vitro. Mitochondrial trafficking response to chemotherapy drug treatment was observed to decrease in conjunction with degeneration of distal axons. Using low-frequency ESTIM, we observed enhanced mitochondrial trafficking to be a neuroprotective mechanism against CIPN. This study confirms ESTIM enhances regeneration of peripheral nerves by increased mitochondrial trafficking.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bayne Albin
- Center for Biomedical Engineering and Science, Department of Mechanical Engineering and Engineering Science, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC 28223, USA
| | - Prashant Adhikari
- Center for Biomedical Engineering and Science, Department of Mechanical Engineering and Engineering Science, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC 28223, USA
| | - Arjun Prasad Tiwari
- Center for Biomedical Engineering and Science, Department of Mechanical Engineering and Engineering Science, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC 28223, USA
| | - Khayzaran Qubbaj
- Center for Biomedical Engineering and Science, Department of Mechanical Engineering and Engineering Science, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC 28223, USA
| | - In Hong Yang
- Center for Biomedical Engineering and Science, Department of Mechanical Engineering and Engineering Science, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC 28223, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Milton LA, Viglione MS, Ong LJY, Nordin GP, Toh YC. Vat photopolymerization 3D printed microfluidic devices for organ-on-a-chip applications. LAB ON A CHIP 2023; 23:3537-3560. [PMID: 37476860 PMCID: PMC10448871 DOI: 10.1039/d3lc00094j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
Organs-on-a-chip, or OoCs, are microfluidic tissue culture devices with micro-scaled architectures that repeatedly achieve biomimicry of biological phenomena. They are well positioned to become the primary pre-clinical testing modality as they possess high translational value. Current methods of fabrication have facilitated the development of many custom OoCs that have generated promising results. However, the reliance on microfabrication and soft lithographic fabrication techniques has limited their prototyping turnover rate and scalability. Additive manufacturing, known commonly as 3D printing, shows promise to expedite this prototyping process, while also making fabrication easier and more reproducible. We briefly introduce common 3D printing modalities before identifying two sub-types of vat photopolymerization - stereolithography (SLA) and digital light processing (DLP) - as the most advantageous fabrication methods for the future of OoC development. We then outline the motivations for shifting to 3D printing, the requirements for 3D printed OoCs to be competitive with the current state of the art, and several considerations for achieving successful 3D printed OoC devices touching on design and fabrication techniques, including a survey of commercial and custom 3D printers and resins. In all, we aim to form a guide for the end-user to facilitate the in-house generation of 3D printed OoCs, along with the future translation of these important devices.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura A Milton
- School of Mechanical, Medical and Process Engineering, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia.
- Centre for Biomedical Technologies, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Matthew S Viglione
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah, USA.
| | - Louis Jun Ye Ong
- School of Mechanical, Medical and Process Engineering, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia.
- Centre for Biomedical Technologies, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
- Max Planck Queensland Centre (MPQC) for the Materials Science of Extracellular Matrices, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Gregory P Nordin
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah, USA.
| | - Yi-Chin Toh
- School of Mechanical, Medical and Process Engineering, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia.
- Centre for Biomedical Technologies, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
- Max Planck Queensland Centre (MPQC) for the Materials Science of Extracellular Matrices, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
- Centre for Microbiome Research, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Tiwari AP, Tristan LJC, Albin B, Yang IH. Fluocinolone Acetonide Enhances Anterograde Mitochondria Trafficking and Promotes Neuroprotection against Paclitaxel-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy. ACS Chem Neurosci 2023. [PMID: 37167105 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.3c00218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Paclitaxel (PTX)-induced peripheral neuropathy (PIPN) is a debilitating health condition which is a result of degeneration of peripheral nerves found in extremities. Currently, there are no established treatment methods that can prevent or protect from PIPN. Fluocinolone acetonide (FA) has been recently identified as a potential candidate for protection from PIPN. However, the fundamental mechanism of action is still unknown. In this study, we showed that enhanced anterograde mitochondrial movement in dorsal root ganglion (DRG) cells has a major role in FA-mediated neuroprotection in PIPN. In this study, cells were treated with PTX or FA along with their combination followed by mitochondrial fluorescence staining. Somal (proximal) and axonal (distal) mitochondria were selectively stained using a microfluidic compartmentalized chamber with different MitoTrackers blue and red, respectively, which we termed, the two-color staining approach. Results revealed that axons were protected from degeneration by the PTX effect when treated along with FA. PTX exposure alone resulted in low mitochondrial mobility in DRG cells. However, cotreatment with PTX and FA showed significant enhancement of anterograde trafficking of somal (proximal) mitochondria to distal axons. Similarly, cotreatment with FA restored mitochondrial mobility significantly. Overall, this study affirms that increasing mitochondrial recruitment into the axon by cotreatment with FA can be a worthwhile strategy to protect or prevent PIPN. The proposed two-color staining approach can be extended to study trafficking for other neuron-specific subcellular organelles.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arjun Prasad Tiwari
- Center for Biomedical Engineering and Science, Department of Mechanical Engineering and Engineering Science, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, North Carolina 28223, United States
| | - Lee Ji Chao Tristan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119077, Singapore
- School of Medicine, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia 6009, Australia
| | - Bayne Albin
- Center for Biomedical Engineering and Science, Department of Mechanical Engineering and Engineering Science, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, North Carolina 28223, United States
| | - In Hong Yang
- Center for Biomedical Engineering and Science, Department of Mechanical Engineering and Engineering Science, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, North Carolina 28223, United States
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Biosensor integrated brain-on-a-chip platforms: Progress and prospects in clinical translation. Biosens Bioelectron 2023; 225:115100. [PMID: 36709589 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2023.115100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2022] [Revised: 01/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Because of the brain's complexity, developing effective treatments for neurological disorders is a formidable challenge. Research efforts to this end are advancing as in vitro systems have reached the point that they can imitate critical components of the brain's structure and function. Brain-on-a-chip (BoC) was first used for microfluidics-based systems with small synthetic tissues but has expanded recently to include in vitro simulation of the central nervous system (CNS). Defining the system's qualifying parameters may improve the BoC for the next generation of in vitro platforms. These parameters show how well a given platform solves the problems unique to in vitro CNS modeling (like recreating the brain's microenvironment and including essential parts like the blood-brain barrier (BBB)) and how much more value it offers than traditional cell culture systems. This review provides an overview of the practical concerns of creating and deploying BoC systems and elaborates on how these technologies might be used. Not only how advanced biosensing technologies could be integrated with BoC system but also how novel approaches will automate assays and improve point-of-care (PoC) diagnostics and accurate quantitative analyses are discussed. Key challenges providing opportunities for clinical translation of BoC in neurodegenerative disorders are also addressed.
Collapse
|
6
|
Intisar A, Woo H, Kang HG, Kim WH, Shin HY, Kim MY, Kim YS, Mo YJ, Lee YI, Kim MS. Electroceutical approach ameliorates intracellular PMP22 aggregation and promotes pro-myelinating pathways in a CMT1A in vitro model. Biosens Bioelectron 2023; 224:115055. [PMID: 36630746 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2022.115055] [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: 10/07/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease subtype 1A (CMT1A) is one of the most prevalent demyelinating peripheral neuropathies worldwide, caused by duplication of the peripheral myelin protein 22 (PMP22) gene, which is expressed primarily in Schwann cells (SCs). PMP22 overexpression in SCs leads to intracellular aggregation of the protein, which eventually results in demyelination. Unfortunately, previous biochemical approaches have not resulted in an approved treatment for CMT1A disease, compelling the pursuit for a biophysical approach such as electrical stimulation (ES). However, the effects of ES on CMT1A SCs have remained unexplored. In this study, we established PMP22-overexpressed Schwannoma cells as a CMT1A in vitro model, and investigated the biomolecular changes upon applying ES via a custom-made high-throughput ES platform, screening for the condition that delivers optimal therapeutic effects. While PMP22-overexpressed Schwannoma exhibited intracellular PMP22 aggregation, ES at 20 Hz for 1 h improved this phenomenon, bringing PMP22 distribution closer to healthy condition. ES at this condition also enhanced the expression of the genes encoding myelin basic protein (MBP) and myelin-associated glycoprotein (MAG), which are essential for assembling myelin sheath. Furthermore, ES altered the gene expression for myelination-regulating transcription factors Krox-20, Oct-6, c-Jun and Sox10, inducing pro-myelinating effects in PMP22-overexpressed Schwannoma. While electroceuticals has previously been applied in the peripheral nervous system towards acquired peripheral neuropathies such as pain and nerve injury, this study demonstrates its effectiveness towards ameliorating biomolecular abnormalities in an in vitro model of CMT1A, an inherited peripheral neuropathy. These findings will facilitate the clinical translation of an electroceutical treatment for CMT1A.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aseer Intisar
- Department of New Biology, DGIST, Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea
| | - Hanwoong Woo
- Department of New Biology, DGIST, Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun Gyu Kang
- Department of New Biology, DGIST, Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea
| | - Woon-Hae Kim
- Department of New Biology, DGIST, Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea; CTCELLS Corp., Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun Young Shin
- Department of New Biology, DGIST, Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea; CTCELLS Corp., Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea; SBCure Corp., Daegu, 43017, Republic of Korea
| | - Min Young Kim
- Department of New Biology, DGIST, Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea
| | - Yu Seon Kim
- Well Aging Research Center, DGIST, Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea
| | - Yun Jeoung Mo
- Well Aging Research Center, DGIST, Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea
| | - Yun-Il Lee
- Well Aging Research Center, DGIST, Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea
| | - Minseok S Kim
- Department of New Biology, DGIST, Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea; CTCELLS Corp., Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea; Translational Responsive Medicine Center (TRMC), DGIST, Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea; New Biology Research Center (NBRC), DGIST, Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Tiwari AP, Lokai T, Albin B, Yang IH. A Review on the Technological Advances and Future Perspectives of Axon Guidance and Regeneration in Peripheral Nerve Repair. Bioengineering (Basel) 2022; 9:bioengineering9100562. [PMID: 36290530 PMCID: PMC9598559 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering9100562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite a significant advance in the pathophysiological understanding of peripheral nerve damage, the successful treatment of large nerve defects remains an unmet medical need. In this article, axon growth guidance for peripheral nerve regeneration was systematically reviewed and discussed mainly from the engineering perspective. In addition, the common approaches to surgery, bioengineering approaches to emerging technologies such as optogenetic stimulation and magnetic stimulation for functional recovery were discussed, along with their pros and cons. Additionally, clear future perspectives of axon guidance and nerve regeneration were addressed.
Collapse
|
8
|
Advantages of Adult Mouse Dorsal Root Ganglia Explant Culture in Investigating Myelination in an Inherited Neuropathic Mice Model. Methods Protoc 2022; 5:mps5040066. [PMID: 35893592 PMCID: PMC9331548 DOI: 10.3390/mps5040066] [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: 05/13/2022] [Revised: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
A co-culture of neurons and Schwann cells has frequently been used to investigate myelin sheath formation. However, this approach is restricted to myelin-related diseases of the peripheral nervous system. This study introduces and compares an ex vivo model of adult-mouse-derived dorsal root ganglia (DRG) explant, with an in vitro co-culture of dissociated neurons from mouse embryo DRG and Schwann cells from a mouse sciatic nerve. The 2D co-culture has disadvantages of different mouse isolation for neurons and Schwann cells, animal number, culture duration, and the identification of disease model. However, 3D DRG explant neurons and myelination cells in Matrigel-coated culture are obtained from the same mouse, the culture period is shorter than that of 2D co-culture, and fewer animals are needed. In addition, it has simpler and shorter experimental steps than 2D co-culture. This culture system may prove advantageous in studies of biological functions and pathophysiological mechanisms of disease models, since it can reflect disease characteristics as traditional co-culture does. Therefore, it is suggested that a DRG explant culture is a scientifically, ethically, and economically more practical option than a co-culture system for studying myelin dynamics, myelin sheath formation, and demyelinating disease.
Collapse
|
9
|
Parittotokkaporn S. Smartphone generated electrical fields induce axon regrowth within microchannels following injury. Med Eng Phys 2022; 105:103815. [DOI: 10.1016/j.medengphy.2022.103815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Revised: 05/01/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
|
10
|
Filippi M, Buchner T, Yasa O, Weirich S, Katzschmann RK. Microfluidic Tissue Engineering and Bio-Actuation. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2022; 34:e2108427. [PMID: 35194852 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202108427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Revised: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Bio-hybrid technologies aim to replicate the unique capabilities of biological systems that could surpass advanced artificial technologies. Soft bio-hybrid robots consist of synthetic and living materials and have the potential to self-assemble, regenerate, work autonomously, and interact safely with other species and the environment. Cells require a sufficient exchange of nutrients and gases, which is guaranteed by convection and diffusive transport through liquid media. The functional development and long-term survival of biological tissues in vitro can be improved by dynamic flow culture, but only microfluidic flow control can develop tissue with fine structuring and regulation at the microscale. Full control of tissue growth at the microscale will eventually lead to functional macroscale constructs, which are needed as the biological component of soft bio-hybrid technologies. This review summarizes recent progress in microfluidic techniques to engineer biological tissues, focusing on the use of muscle cells for robotic bio-actuation. Moreover, the instances in which bio-actuation technologies greatly benefit from fusion with microfluidics are highlighted, which include: the microfabrication of matrices, biomimicry of cell microenvironments, tissue maturation, perfusion, and vascularization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Filippi
- Soft Robotics Laboratory, ETH Zurich, Tannenstrasse 3, Zurich, 8092, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Buchner
- Soft Robotics Laboratory, ETH Zurich, Tannenstrasse 3, Zurich, 8092, Switzerland
| | - Oncay Yasa
- Soft Robotics Laboratory, ETH Zurich, Tannenstrasse 3, Zurich, 8092, Switzerland
| | - Stefan Weirich
- Soft Robotics Laboratory, ETH Zurich, Tannenstrasse 3, Zurich, 8092, Switzerland
| | - Robert K Katzschmann
- Soft Robotics Laboratory, ETH Zurich, Tannenstrasse 3, Zurich, 8092, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Amirifar L, Shamloo A, Nasiri R, de Barros NR, Wang ZZ, Unluturk BD, Libanori A, Ievglevskyi O, Diltemiz SE, Sances S, Balasingham I, Seidlits SK, Ashammakhi N. Brain-on-a-chip: Recent advances in design and techniques for microfluidic models of the brain in health and disease. Biomaterials 2022; 285:121531. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2022.121531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Revised: 04/10/2022] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
|
12
|
Gupta P, Shinde A, Illath K, Kar S, Nagai M, Tseng FG, Santra TS. Microfluidic platforms for single neuron analysis. Mater Today Bio 2022; 13:100222. [PMID: 35243297 PMCID: PMC8866890 DOI: 10.1016/j.mtbio.2022.100222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Revised: 02/05/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Single-neuron actions are the basis of brain function, as clinical sequelae, neuronal dysfunction or failure for most of the central nervous system (CNS) diseases and injuries can be identified via tracing single-neurons. The bulk analysis methods tend to miscue critical information by assessing the population-averaged outcomes. However, its primary requisite in neuroscience to analyze single-neurons and to understand dynamic interplay of neurons and their environment. Microfluidic systems enable precise control over nano-to femto-liter volumes via adjusting device geometry, surface characteristics, and flow-dynamics, thus facilitating a well-defined micro-environment with spatio-temporal control for single-neuron analysis. The microfluidic platform not only offers a comprehensive landscape to study brain cell diversity at the level of transcriptome, genome, and/or epigenome of individual cells but also has a substantial role in deciphering complex dynamics of brain development and brain-related disorders. In this review, we highlight recent advances of microfluidic devices for single-neuron analysis, i.e., single-neuron trapping, single-neuron dynamics, single-neuron proteomics, single-neuron transcriptomics, drug delivery at the single-neuron level, single axon guidance, and single-neuron differentiation. Moreover, we also emphasize limitations and future challenges of single-neuron analysis by focusing on key performances of throughput and multiparametric activity analysis on microfluidic platforms.
Collapse
|
13
|
Prasanna P, Rathee S, Rahul V, Mandal D, Chandra Goud MS, Yadav P, Hawthorne S, Sharma A, Gupta PK, Ojha S, Jha NK, Villa C, Jha SK. Microfluidic Platforms to Unravel Mysteries of Alzheimer's Disease: How Far Have We Come? Life (Basel) 2021; 11:life11101022. [PMID: 34685393 PMCID: PMC8537508 DOI: 10.3390/life11101022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2021] [Revised: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a significant health concern with enormous social and economic impact globally. The gradual deterioration of cognitive functions and irreversible neuronal losses are primary features of the disease. Even after decades of research, most therapeutic options are merely symptomatic, and drugs in clinical practice present numerous side effects. Lack of effective diagnostic techniques prevents the early prognosis of disease, resulting in a gradual deterioration in the quality of life. Furthermore, the mechanism of cognitive impairment and AD pathophysiology is poorly understood. Microfluidics exploits different microscale properties of fluids to mimic environments on microfluidic chip-like devices. These miniature multichambered devices can be used to grow cells and 3D tissues in vitro, analyze cell-to-cell communication, decipher the roles of neural cells such as microglia, and gain insights into AD pathophysiology. This review focuses on the applications and impact of microfluidics on AD research. We discuss the technical challenges and possible solutions provided by this new cutting-edge technique to understand disease-associated pathways and mechanisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pragya Prasanna
- School of Applied Sciences, KK University, Nalanda 803115, Bihar, India;
- Correspondence: or (P.P.); (S.K.J.)
| | - Shweta Rathee
- Department of Food Science and Technology, National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship and Management, Sonipat 131028, Haryana, India;
| | - Vedanabhatla Rahul
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela 769008, Odisha, India;
| | - Debabrata Mandal
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Hajipur 844101, Bihar, India;
| | | | - Pardeep Yadav
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Engineering and Technology (SET), Sharda University, Greater Noida 201310, Uttar Pradesh, India; (P.Y.); (N.K.J.)
| | - Susan Hawthorne
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ulster University, Cromore Road, Coleraine, Co., Londonderry BT52 1SA, UK;
| | - Ankur Sharma
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Basic Science and Research (SBSR), Sharda University, Greater Noida 201310, Uttar Pradesh, India; (A.S.); (P.K.G.)
| | - Piyush Kumar Gupta
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Basic Science and Research (SBSR), Sharda University, Greater Noida 201310, Uttar Pradesh, India; (A.S.); (P.K.G.)
| | - Shreesh Ojha
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, P.O. Box 17666, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain 15551, United Arab Emirates;
| | - Niraj Kumar Jha
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Engineering and Technology (SET), Sharda University, Greater Noida 201310, Uttar Pradesh, India; (P.Y.); (N.K.J.)
| | - Chiara Villa
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy;
| | - Saurabh Kumar Jha
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Engineering and Technology (SET), Sharda University, Greater Noida 201310, Uttar Pradesh, India; (P.Y.); (N.K.J.)
- Correspondence: or (P.P.); (S.K.J.)
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Song S, McConnell KW, Amores D, Levinson A, Vogel H, Quarta M, Rando TA, George PM. Electrical stimulation of human neural stem cells via conductive polymer nerve guides enhances peripheral nerve recovery. Biomaterials 2021; 275:120982. [PMID: 34214785 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2021.120982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Revised: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Severe peripheral nerve injuries often result in permanent loss of function of the affected limb. Current treatments are limited by their efficacy in supporting nerve regeneration and behavioral recovery. Here we demonstrate that electrical stimulation through conductive nerve guides (CNGs) enhances the efficacy of human neural progenitor cells (hNPCs) in treating a sciatic nerve transection in rats. Electrical stimulation strengthened the therapeutic potential of NPCs by upregulating gene expression of neurotrophic factors which are critical in augmenting synaptic remodeling, nerve regeneration, and myelination. Electrically-stimulated hNPC-containing CNGs are significantly more effective in improving sensory and motor functions starting at 1-2 weeks after treatment than either treatment alone. Electrophysiology and muscle assessment demonstrated successful re-innervation of the affected target muscles in this group. Furthermore, histological analysis highlighted an increased number of regenerated nerve fibers with thicker myelination in electrically-stimulated hNPC-containing CNGs. The elevated expression of tyrosine kinase receptors (Trk) receptors, known to bind to neurotrophic factors, indicated the long-lasting effect from electrical stimulation on nerve regeneration and distal nerve re-innervation. These data suggest that electrically-enhanced stem cell-based therapy provides a regenerative rehabilitative approach to promote peripheral nerve regeneration and functional recovery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shang Song
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Kelly W McConnell
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Danielle Amores
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Alexa Levinson
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Hannes Vogel
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Marco Quarta
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA; Paul F. Glenn Laboratories for the Biology of Aging, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA; Center for Tissue Regeneration, Restoration and Repair, Veterans Affairs Hospital, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Thomas A Rando
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA; Paul F. Glenn Laboratories for the Biology of Aging, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA; Center for Tissue Regeneration, Restoration and Repair, Veterans Affairs Hospital, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Paul M George
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA; Stanford Stroke Center and Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
De Vitis E, La Pesa V, Gervaso F, Romano A, Quattrini A, Gigli G, Moroni L, Polini A. A microfabricated multi-compartment device for neuron and Schwann cell differentiation. Sci Rep 2021; 11:7019. [PMID: 33782434 PMCID: PMC8007719 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-86300-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding the complex communication between different cell populations and their interaction with the microenvironment in the central and peripheral nervous systems is fundamental in neuroscience research. The development of appropriate in vitro approaches and tools, able to selectively analyze and/or probe specific cells and cell portions (e.g., axons and cell bodies in neurons), driving their differentiation into specific cell phenotypes, has become therefore crucial in this direction. Here we report a multi-compartment microfluidic device where up to three different cell populations can be cultured in a fluidically independent circuit. The device allows cell migration across the compartments and their differentiation. We showed that an accurate choice of the device geometrical features and cell culture parameters allows to (1) maximize cell adhesion and proliferation of neuron-like human cells (SH-SY5Y cells), (2) control the inter-compartment cell migration of neuron and Schwann cells, (3) perform long-term cell culture studies in which both SH-SY5Y cells and primary rat Schwann cells can be differentiated towards specific phenotypes. These results can lead to a plethora of in vitro co-culture studies in the neuroscience research field, where tuning and investigating cell-cell and cell-microenvironment interactions are essential.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eleonora De Vitis
- CNR NANOTEC - Institute of Nanotechnology, Campus Ecotekne, via Monteroni, 73100, Lecce, Italy
- Dipartimento di Matematica e Fisica E. de Giorgi, Università Del Salento, Campus Ecotekne, via Monteroni, 73100, Lecce, Italy
| | - Velia La Pesa
- Division of Neuroscience, Institute of Experimental Neurology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesca Gervaso
- CNR NANOTEC - Institute of Nanotechnology, Campus Ecotekne, via Monteroni, 73100, Lecce, Italy.
| | - Alessandro Romano
- Division of Neuroscience, Institute of Experimental Neurology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Angelo Quattrini
- Division of Neuroscience, Institute of Experimental Neurology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Gigli
- CNR NANOTEC - Institute of Nanotechnology, Campus Ecotekne, via Monteroni, 73100, Lecce, Italy
- Dipartimento di Matematica e Fisica E. de Giorgi, Università Del Salento, Campus Ecotekne, via Monteroni, 73100, Lecce, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Moroni
- CNR NANOTEC - Institute of Nanotechnology, Campus Ecotekne, via Monteroni, 73100, Lecce, Italy
- Complex Tissue Regeneration, Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 40, Maastricht, 6229 ER, The Netherlands
| | - Alessandro Polini
- CNR NANOTEC - Institute of Nanotechnology, Campus Ecotekne, via Monteroni, 73100, Lecce, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Holloway PM, Willaime-Morawek S, Siow R, Barber M, Owens RM, Sharma AD, Rowan W, Hill E, Zagnoni M. Advances in microfluidic in vitro systems for neurological disease modeling. J Neurosci Res 2021; 99:1276-1307. [PMID: 33583054 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.24794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Revised: 11/21/2020] [Accepted: 12/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Neurological disorders are the leading cause of disability and the second largest cause of death worldwide. Despite significant research efforts, neurology remains one of the most failure-prone areas of drug development. The complexity of the human brain, boundaries to examining the brain directly in vivo, and the significant evolutionary gap between animal models and humans, all serve to hamper translational success. Recent advances in microfluidic in vitro models have provided new opportunities to study human cells with enhanced physiological relevance. The ability to precisely micro-engineer cell-scale architecture, tailoring form and function, has allowed for detailed dissection of cell biology using microphysiological systems (MPS) of varying complexities from single cell systems to "Organ-on-chip" models. Simplified neuronal networks have allowed for unique insights into neuronal transport and neurogenesis, while more complex 3D heterotypic cellular models such as neurovascular unit mimetics and "Organ-on-chip" systems have enabled new understanding of metabolic coupling and blood-brain barrier transport. These systems are now being developed beyond MPS toward disease specific micro-pathophysiological systems, moving from "Organ-on-chip" to "Disease-on-chip." This review gives an outline of current state of the art in microfluidic technologies for neurological disease research, discussing the challenges and limitations while highlighting the benefits and potential of integrating technologies. We provide examples of where such toolsets have enabled novel insights and how these technologies may empower future investigation into neurological diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paul M Holloway
- Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | | | - Richard Siow
- King's British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, School of Cardiovascular Medicine & Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Melissa Barber
- King's British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, School of Cardiovascular Medicine & Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Róisín M Owens
- Department Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Anup D Sharma
- New Orleans BioInnovation Center, AxoSim Inc., New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Wendy Rowan
- Novel Human Genetics Research Unit, GSK R&D, Stevenage, UK
| | - Eric Hill
- School of Life and Health sciences, Aston University, Birmingham, UK
| | - Michele Zagnoni
- Electronic and Electrical Engineering, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Nikolakopoulou P, Rauti R, Voulgaris D, Shlomy I, Maoz BM, Herland A. Recent progress in translational engineered in vitro models of the central nervous system. Brain 2020; 143:3181-3213. [PMID: 33020798 PMCID: PMC7719033 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awaa268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2019] [Revised: 06/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The complexity of the human brain poses a substantial challenge for the development of models of the CNS. Current animal models lack many essential human characteristics (in addition to raising operational challenges and ethical concerns), and conventional in vitro models, in turn, are limited in their capacity to provide information regarding many functional and systemic responses. Indeed, these challenges may underlie the notoriously low success rates of CNS drug development efforts. During the past 5 years, there has been a leap in the complexity and functionality of in vitro systems of the CNS, which have the potential to overcome many of the limitations of traditional model systems. The availability of human-derived induced pluripotent stem cell technology has further increased the translational potential of these systems. Yet, the adoption of state-of-the-art in vitro platforms within the CNS research community is limited. This may be attributable to the high costs or the immaturity of the systems. Nevertheless, the costs of fabrication have decreased, and there are tremendous ongoing efforts to improve the quality of cell differentiation. Herein, we aim to raise awareness of the capabilities and accessibility of advanced in vitro CNS technologies. We provide an overview of some of the main recent developments (since 2015) in in vitro CNS models. In particular, we focus on engineered in vitro models based on cell culture systems combined with microfluidic platforms (e.g. 'organ-on-a-chip' systems). We delve into the fundamental principles underlying these systems and review several applications of these platforms for the study of the CNS in health and disease. Our discussion further addresses the challenges that hinder the implementation of advanced in vitro platforms in personalized medicine or in large-scale industrial settings, and outlines the existing differentiation protocols and industrial cell sources. We conclude by providing practical guidelines for laboratories that are considering adopting organ-on-a-chip technologies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Polyxeni Nikolakopoulou
- AIMES, Center for the Advancement of Integrated Medical and Engineering Sciences, Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Rossana Rauti
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Dimitrios Voulgaris
- Division of Micro and Nanosystems, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Iftach Shlomy
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Ben M Maoz
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- The Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Anna Herland
- AIMES, Center for the Advancement of Integrated Medical and Engineering Sciences, Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
- Division of Micro and Nanosystems, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Del Rio JA, Ferrer I. Potential of Microfluidics and Lab-on-Chip Platforms to Improve Understanding of " prion-like" Protein Assembly and Behavior. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2020; 8:570692. [PMID: 33015021 PMCID: PMC7506036 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2020.570692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Human aging is accompanied by a relevant increase in age-associated chronic pathologies, including neurodegenerative and metabolic diseases. The appearance and evolution of numerous neurodegenerative diseases is paralleled by the appearance of intracellular and extracellular accumulation of misfolded proteins in affected brains. In addition, recent evidence suggests that most of these amyloid proteins can behave and propagate among neural cells similarly to infective prions. In order to improve understanding of the seeding and spreading processes of these "prion-like" amyloids, microfluidics and 3D lab-on-chip approaches have been developed as highly valuable tools. These techniques allow us to monitor changes in cellular and molecular processes responsible for amyloid seeding and cell spreading and their parallel effects in neural physiology. Their compatibility with new optical and biochemical techniques and their relative availability have increased interest in them and in their use in numerous laboratories. In addition, recent advances in stem cell research in combination with microfluidic platforms have opened new humanized in vitro models for myriad neurodegenerative diseases affecting different cellular targets of the vascular, muscular, and nervous systems, and glial cells. These new platforms help reduce the use of animal experimentation. They are more reproducible and represent a potential alternative to classical approaches to understanding neurodegeneration. In this review, we summarize recent progress in neurobiological research in "prion-like" protein using microfluidic and 3D lab-on-chip approaches. These approaches are driven by various fields, including chemistry, biochemistry, and cell biology, and they serve to facilitate the development of more precise human brain models for basic mechanistic studies of cell-to-cell interactions and drug discovery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jose A Del Rio
- Molecular and Cellular Neurobiotechnology, Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia, Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain.,Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Faculty of Biology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Center for Networked Biomedical Research on Neurodegenerative Diseases (Ciberned), Barcelona, Spain.,Institute of Neuroscience, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Isidre Ferrer
- Center for Networked Biomedical Research on Neurodegenerative Diseases (Ciberned), Barcelona, Spain.,Institute of Neuroscience, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Department of Pathology and Experimental Therapeutics, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Bellvitge University Hospital, Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain.,Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Hyvärinen T, Hagman S, Ristola M, Sukki L, Veijula K, Kreutzer J, Kallio P, Narkilahti S. Co-stimulation with IL-1β and TNF-α induces an inflammatory reactive astrocyte phenotype with neurosupportive characteristics in a human pluripotent stem cell model system. Sci Rep 2019; 9:16944. [PMID: 31729450 PMCID: PMC6858358 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-53414-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2019] [Accepted: 10/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Astrocyte reactivation has been discovered to be an important contributor to several neurological diseases. In vitro models involving human astrocytes have the potential to reveal disease-specific mechanisms of these cells and to advance research on neuropathological conditions. Here, we induced a reactive phenotype in human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)-derived astrocytes and studied the inflammatory natures and effects of these cells on human neurons. Astrocytes responded to interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) treatment with a typical transition to polygonal morphology and a shift to an inflammatory phenotype characterized by altered gene and protein expression profiles. Astrocyte-secreted factors did not exert neurotoxic effects, whereas they transiently promoted the functional activity of neurons. Importantly, we engineered a novel microfluidic platform designed for investigating interactions between neuronal axons and reactive astrocytes that also enables the implementation of a controlled inflammatory environment. In this platform, selective stimulation of astrocytes resulted in an inflammatory niche that sustained axonal growth, further suggesting that treatment induces a reactive astrocyte phenotype with neurosupportive characteristics. Our findings show that hiPSC-derived astrocytes are suitable for modeling astrogliosis, and the developed in vitro platform provides promising novel tools for studying neuron-astrocyte crosstalk and human brain disease in a dish.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tanja Hyvärinen
- NeuroGroup, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Sanna Hagman
- NeuroGroup, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Mervi Ristola
- NeuroGroup, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Lassi Sukki
- Micro and Nanosystems Research Group, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Katariina Veijula
- NeuroGroup, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Joose Kreutzer
- Micro and Nanosystems Research Group, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Pasi Kallio
- Micro and Nanosystems Research Group, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Susanna Narkilahti
- NeuroGroup, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Choi EH, Blasiak A, Lee J, Yang IH. Modulation of Neural Activity for Myelination in the Central Nervous System. Front Neurosci 2019; 13:952. [PMID: 31555087 PMCID: PMC6742708 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2019.00952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2019] [Accepted: 08/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Electrical stimulation has been playing a significant role in revealing various functions and mechanisms of the nervous system. It is no different for myelination, a process in which oligodendrocytes in the central nervous system (CNS) or Schwann Cells in the peripheral nerve system (PNS) wrap around axons to provide an insulating layer in vitro and in vivo. It has been widely recognized that the myelin sheath accelerates axon signal conduction and provides neuroprotection. Recent studies have begun to reveal its role in plasticity. The major mechanism that enables this process is activity-dependent myelination - the phenomenon where neuronal activity supports oligodendrocyte maturation and myelin sheath formation. In light of recent discoveries, a better understanding of this phenomenon has a potential to provide therapeutic targets for not only demyelinating diseases, but also psychiatric disorders. There is a growing need for experimental platforms capable of dissecting the effect of neural activity on myelination in health and disease. The effect of neural activity is commonly studied by comparing the myelination levels in cultures with neurons of low and high activity. Electrical stimulation is particularly well suited as a method of inducing neural activity in these systems. In this review, we describe in vitro platforms for studying activity-dependent myelination, which utilize neuron stimulation via electrical field. We also discuss stimulation profiles, as well as the alternatives to electrical stimulation in the context of regular, compartmentalized, and organotypic co-cultures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elliot H Choi
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States.,Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Gavin Herbert Eye Institute, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Agata Blasiak
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Joonho Lee
- School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - In Hong Yang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Engineering Science, Center for Biomedical Engineering and Science, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC, United States
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Heiney K, Mateus JC, Lopes CDF, Neto E, Lamghari M, Aguiar P. µSpikeHunter: An advanced computational tool for the analysis of neuronal communication and action potential propagation in microfluidic platforms. Sci Rep 2019; 9:5777. [PMID: 30962522 PMCID: PMC6453950 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-42148-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2018] [Accepted: 02/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding neuronal communication is fundamental in neuroscience, but there are few methodologies offering detailed analysis for well-controlled conditions. By interfacing microElectrode arrays with microFluidics (μEF devices), it is possible to compartmentalize neuronal cultures with a specified alignment of axons and microelectrodes. This setup allows the extracellular recording of spike propagation with a high signal-to-noise ratio over the course of several weeks. Addressing these μEF devices, we developed an advanced yet easy-to-use publically available computational tool, μSpikeHunter, which provides a detailed quantification of several communication-related properties such as propagation velocity, conduction failure, spike timings, and coding mechanisms. The combination of μEF devices and μSpikeHunter can be used in the context of standard neuronal cultures or with co-culture configurations where, for example, communication between sensory neurons and other cell types is monitored and assessed. The ability to analyze axonal signals (in a user-friendly, time-efficient, high-throughput manner) opens the door to new approaches in studies of peripheral innervation, neural coding, and neuroregeneration, among many others. We demonstrate the use of μSpikeHunter in dorsal root ganglion neurons where we analyze the presence of both anterograde and retrograde signals in μEF devices. A fully functional version of µSpikeHunter is publically available for download from https://github.com/uSpikeHunter .
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kristine Heiney
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, 4200-135, Porto, Portugal.,INEB - Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, 4200-135, Porto, Portugal
| | - José C Mateus
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, 4200-135, Porto, Portugal.,INEB - Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, 4200-135, Porto, Portugal.,ICBAS - Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Rua Jorge de Viterbo Ferreira, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal
| | - Cátia D F Lopes
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, 4200-135, Porto, Portugal.,INEB - Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, 4200-135, Porto, Portugal
| | - Estrela Neto
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, 4200-135, Porto, Portugal.,INEB - Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, 4200-135, Porto, Portugal
| | - Meriem Lamghari
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, 4200-135, Porto, Portugal.,INEB - Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, 4200-135, Porto, Portugal
| | - Paulo Aguiar
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, 4200-135, Porto, Portugal. .,INEB - Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, 4200-135, Porto, Portugal.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Subcellular Optogenetic Stimulation Platform for Studying Activity-Dependent Axon Myelination In Vitro. Methods Mol Biol 2019; 1791:207-224. [PMID: 30006712 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-7862-5_16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Activity-dependent myelination modulates neuron conduction velocity and as such it is essential for a correct wiring of a whole nervous system. Increasing myelination through inducing neuron activity has been proposed as a treatment strategy for demyelination diseases. Yet, the mechanisms and the effects of activity-dependent myelination remain elusive-new tools are needed. In this chapter, we describe a novel compartmentalized device integrated with an optogenetic stimulator for studying activity-dependent myelination in vitro. The platform can be modified to include multiple cell types, stimulation modes, and experimental readouts to answer a specific research question. This versatility combined with a precise control over spatial extent of the stimulation and the stimulation pattern make the proposed platform a valuable tool for molecular myelination studies.
Collapse
|
23
|
Black BJ, Atmaramani R, Plagens S, Campbell ZT, Dussor G, Price TJ, Pancrazio JJ. Emerging neurotechnology for antinoceptive mechanisms and therapeutics discovery. Biosens Bioelectron 2018; 126:679-689. [PMID: 30544081 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2018.11.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2018] [Revised: 11/01/2018] [Accepted: 11/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The tolerance, abuse, and potential exacerbation associated with classical chronic pain medications such as opioids creates a need for alternative therapeutics. Phenotypic screening provides a complementary approach to traditional target-based drug discovery. Profiling cellular phenotypes enables quantification of physiologically relevant traits central to a disease pathology without prior identification of a specific drug target. For complex disorders such as chronic pain, which likely involves many molecular targets, this approach may identify novel treatments. Sensory neurons, termed nociceptors, are derived from dorsal root ganglia (DRG) and can undergo changes in membrane excitability during chronic pain. In this review, we describe phenotypic screening paradigms that make use of nociceptor electrophysiology. The purpose of this paper is to review the bioelectrical behavior of DRG neurons, signaling complexity in sensory neurons, various sensory neuron models, assays for bioelectrical behavior, and emerging efforts to leverage microfabrication and microfluidics for assay development. We discuss limitations and advantages of these various approaches and offer perspectives on opportunities for future development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bryan J Black
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Texas at Dallas, 800 W. Campbell Road, Richardson, TX 75080, USA.
| | - Rahul Atmaramani
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Texas at Dallas, 800 W. Campbell Road, Richardson, TX 75080, USA
| | - Sarah Plagens
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Texas at Dallas, 800 W. Campbell Road, Richardson, TX 75080, USA
| | - Zachary T Campbell
- Department of Biological Sciences, The University of Texas at Dallas, 800 W. Campbell Road, Richardson, TX 75080, USA
| | - Gregory Dussor
- School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, The University of Texas at Dallas, 800 W. Campbell Road, Richardson, TX 75080, USA
| | - Theodore J Price
- School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, The University of Texas at Dallas, 800 W. Campbell Road, Richardson, TX 75080, USA
| | - Joseph J Pancrazio
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Texas at Dallas, 800 W. Campbell Road, Richardson, TX 75080, USA
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Osaki T, Shin Y, Sivathanu V, Campisi M, Kamm RD. In Vitro Microfluidic Models for Neurodegenerative Disorders. Adv Healthc Mater 2018; 7. [PMID: 28881425 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.201700489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2017] [Revised: 07/18/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Microfluidic devices enable novel means of emulating neurodegenerative disease pathophysiology in vitro. These organ-on-a-chip systems can potentially reduce animal testing and substitute (or augment) simple 2D culture systems. Reconstituting critical features of neurodegenerative diseases in a biomimetic system using microfluidics can thereby accelerate drug discovery and improve our understanding of the mechanisms of several currently incurable diseases. This review describes latest advances in modeling neurodegenerative diseases in the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system. First, this study summarizes fundamental advantages of microfluidic devices in the creation of compartmentalized cell culture microenvironments for the co-culture of neurons, glial cells, endothelial cells, and skeletal muscle cells and in their recapitulation of spatiotemporal chemical gradients and mechanical microenvironments. Then, this reviews neurodegenerative-disease-on-a-chip models focusing on Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Finally, this study discusses about current drawbacks of these models and strategies that may overcome them. These organ-on-chip technologies can be useful to be the first line of testing line in drug development and toxicology studies, which can contribute significantly to minimize the phase of animal testing steps.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tatsuya Osaki
- Department of Mechanical EngineeringMassachusetts Institutes of Technology 500 Technology Square MIT Building, Room NE47‐321 Cambridge MA 02139 USA
| | - Yoojin Shin
- Department of Mechanical EngineeringMassachusetts Institutes of Technology 500 Technology Square MIT Building, Room NE47‐321 Cambridge MA 02139 USA
| | - Vivek Sivathanu
- Department of Mechanical EngineeringMassachusetts Institutes of Technology 500 Technology Square MIT Building, Room NE47‐321 Cambridge MA 02139 USA
| | - Marco Campisi
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace EngineeringPolitecnico di Torino Corso Duca degli Abruzzi 24 10129 Torino Italy
| | - Roger D. Kamm
- Department of Mechanical EngineeringMassachusetts Institutes of Technology 500 Technology Square MIT Building, Room NE47‐321 Cambridge MA 02139 USA
- Department of Biological EngineeringMassachusetts Institutes of Technology 500 Technology Square, MIT Building, Room NE47‐321 Cambridge MA 02139 USA
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Domingues HS, Cruz A, Chan JR, Relvas JB, Rubinstein B, Pinto IM. Mechanical plasticity during oligodendrocyte differentiation and myelination. Glia 2017; 66:5-14. [PMID: 28940651 DOI: 10.1002/glia.23206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2017] [Revised: 07/31/2017] [Accepted: 08/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
In the central nervous system, oligodendrocyte precursor cells are exclusive in their potential to differentiate into myelinating oligodendrocytes. Oligodendrocyte precursor cells migrate within the parenchyma and extend cell membrane protrusions that ultimately evolve into myelinating sheaths able to wrap neuronal axons and significantly increase their electrical conductivity. The subcellular force generating mechanisms driving morphological and functional transformations during oligodendrocyte differentiation and myelination remain elusive. In this review, we highlight the mechanical processes governing oligodendrocyte plasticity in a dynamic interaction with the extracellular matrix.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Andrea Cruz
- International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory - INL, Braga, Portugal
| | - Jonah R Chan
- Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, United States of America
| | - João B Relvas
- Instituto de Biologia Molecular e Celular - IBMC, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal.,Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde - I3S, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Boris Rubinstein
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Inês Mendes Pinto
- International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory - INL, Braga, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Choi JH, Cho HY, Choi JW. Microdevice Platform for In Vitro Nervous System and Its Disease Model. Bioengineering (Basel) 2017; 4:E77. [PMID: 28952555 PMCID: PMC5615323 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering4030077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2017] [Revised: 09/07/2017] [Accepted: 09/07/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The development of precise microdevices can be applied to the reconstruction of in vitro human microenvironmental systems with biomimetic physiological conditions that have highly tunable spatial and temporal features. Organ-on-a-chip can emulate human physiological functions, particularly at the organ level, as well as its specific roles in the body. Due to the complexity of the structure of the central nervous system and its intercellular interaction, there remains an urgent need for the development of human brain or nervous system models. Thus, various microdevice models have been proposed to mimic actual human brain physiology, which can be categorized as nervous system-on-a-chip. Nervous system-on-a-chip platforms can prove to be promising technologies, through the application of their biomimetic features to the etiology of neurodegenerative diseases. This article reviews the microdevices for nervous system-on-a-chip platform incorporated with neurobiology and microtechnology, including microfluidic designs that are biomimetic to the entire nervous system. The emulation of both neurodegenerative disorders and neural stem cell behavior patterns in micro-platforms is also provided, which can be used as a basis to construct nervous system-on-a-chip.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Ha Choi
- Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Sogang University, 35 Baekbeom-ro, Mapo-Gu, Seoul 04107, Korea.
| | - Hyeon-Yeol Cho
- Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Sogang University, 35 Baekbeom-ro, Mapo-Gu, Seoul 04107, Korea.
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, 610 Taylor Road, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA.
| | - Jeong-Woo Choi
- Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Sogang University, 35 Baekbeom-ro, Mapo-Gu, Seoul 04107, Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Prasad A, Teh DBL, Blasiak A, Chai C, Wu Y, Gharibani PM, Yang IH, Phan TT, Lim KL, Yang H, Liu X, All AH. Static Magnetic Field Stimulation Enhances Oligodendrocyte Differentiation and Secretion of Neurotrophic Factors. Sci Rep 2017; 7:6743. [PMID: 28751716 PMCID: PMC5532210 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-06331-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2017] [Accepted: 06/12/2017] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The cellular-level effects of low/high frequency oscillating magnetic field on excitable cells such as neurons are well established. In contrast, the effects of a homogeneous, static magnetic field (SMF) on Central Nervous System (CNS) glial cells are less investigated. Here, we have developed an in vitro SMF stimulation set-up to investigate the genomic effects of SMF exposure on oligodendrocyte differentiation and neurotrophic factors secretion. Human oligodendrocytes precursor cells (OPCs) were stimulated with moderate intensity SMF (0.3 T) for a period of two weeks (two hours/day). The differential gene expression of cell activity marker (c-fos), early OPC (Olig1, Olig2. Sox10), and mature oligodendrocyte markers (CNP, MBP) were quantified. The enhanced myelination capacity of the SMF stimulated oligodendrocytes was validated in a dorsal root ganglion microfluidics chamber platform. Additionally, the effects of SMF on the gene expression and secretion of neurotrophic factors- BDNF and NT3 was quantified. We also report that SMF stimulation increases the intracellular calcium influx in OPCs as well as the gene expression of L-type channel subunits-CaV1.2 and CaV1.3. Our findings emphasize the ability of glial cells such as OPCs to positively respond to moderate intensity SMF stimulation by exhibiting enhanced differentiation, functionality as well as neurotrophic factor release.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ankshita Prasad
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, E4, 4 Engineering Drive 3, Singapore, 117583, Singapore
| | - Daniel B Loong Teh
- Singapore Institute of Neurotechnology (SINAPSE), National University of Singapore, 28 Medical Drive, 5-COR, Singapore, 117456, Singapore
| | - Agata Blasiak
- Singapore Institute of Neurotechnology (SINAPSE), National University of Singapore, 28 Medical Drive, 5-COR, Singapore, 117456, Singapore
| | - Chou Chai
- National Neuroscience Institute, 11 Jalan Tan Tock Seng, Singapore, 308433, Singapore
| | - Yang Wu
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, National University of Singapore, 4 Engineering Drive 3, Singapore, 117583, Singapore
| | - Payam M Gharibani
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, John Hopkins School of Medicine, 701C Rutland Avenue 720, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - In Hong Yang
- Singapore Institute of Neurotechnology (SINAPSE), National University of Singapore, 28 Medical Drive, 5-COR, Singapore, 117456, Singapore.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, John Hopkins School of Medicine, 701C Rutland Avenue 720, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Thang T Phan
- Department of Surgery, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 119228, Singapore
| | - Kah Leong Lim
- National Neuroscience Institute, 11 Jalan Tan Tock Seng, Singapore, 308433, Singapore.,Department of Physiology, 2 Medical Drive, MD9, National University of Singapore, 117593, Singapore, Singapore.,Duke-NUS Medical School. 8 College Road, 169857, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Hyunsoo Yang
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, National University of Singapore, 4 Engineering Drive 3, Singapore, 117583, Singapore
| | - Xiaogang Liu
- Department of Chemistry, National University of Singapore, 3 Science Drive 3, Singapore, 117543, Singapore.
| | - Angelo H All
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, John Hopkins School of Medicine, 701C Rutland Avenue 720, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA. .,Department of Neurology, John Hopkins School of Medicine, 701C Rutland Avenue 720, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Compartmentalized Microfluidic Platforms: The Unrivaled Breakthrough of In Vitro Tools for Neurobiological Research. J Neurosci 2017; 36:11573-11584. [PMID: 27852766 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1748-16.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2016] [Revised: 09/08/2016] [Accepted: 09/28/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Microfluidic technology has become a valuable tool to the scientific community, allowing researchers to study fine cellular mechanisms with higher variable control compared with conventional systems. It has evolved tremendously, and its applicability and flexibility made its usage grow exponentially and transversely to several research fields. This has been particularly noticeable in neuroscience research, where microfluidic platforms made it possible to address specific questions extending from axonal guidance, synapse formation, or axonal transport to the development of 3D models of the CNS to allow pharmacological testing and drug screening. Furthermore, the continuous upgrade of microfluidic platforms has allowed a deeper study of the communication occurring between different neuronal and glial cells or between neurons and other peripheral tissues, both in physiological and pathological conditions. Importantly, the evolution of microfluidic technology has always been accompanied by the development of new computational tools addressing data acquisition, analysis, and modeling.
Collapse
|
29
|
Subcellular electrical stimulation of neurons enhances the myelination of axons by oligodendrocytes. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0179642. [PMID: 28671962 PMCID: PMC5495216 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0179642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2016] [Accepted: 06/01/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Myelin formation has been identified as a modulator of neural plasticity. New tools are required to investigate the mechanisms by which environmental inputs and neural activity regulate myelination patterns. In this study, we demonstrate a microfluidic compartmentalized culture system with integrated electrical stimulation capabilities that can induce neural activity by whole cell and focal stimulation. A set of electric field simulations was performed to confirm spatial restriction of the electrical input in the compartmentalized culture system. We further demonstrate that electrode localization is a key consideration for generating uniform the stimulation of neuron and oligodendrocytes within the compartments. Using three configurations of the electrodes we tested the effects of subcellular activation of neural activity on distal axon myelination with oligodendrocytes. We further investigated if oligodendrocytes have to be exposed to the electrical field to induce axon myelination. An isolated stimulation of cell bodies and proximal axons had the same effect as an isolated stimulation of distal axons co-cultured with oligodendrocytes, and the two modes had a non-different result than whole cell stimulation. Our platform enabled the demonstration that electrical stimulation enhances oligodendrocyte maturation and myelin formation independent of the input localization and oligodendrocyte exposure to the electrical field.
Collapse
|
30
|
Cole KLH, Early JJ, Lyons DA. Drug discovery for remyelination and treatment of MS. Glia 2017; 65:1565-1589. [PMID: 28618073 DOI: 10.1002/glia.23166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2017] [Revised: 04/20/2017] [Accepted: 04/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Glia constitute the majority of the cells in our nervous system, yet there are currently no drugs that target glia for the treatment of disease. Given ongoing discoveries of the many roles of glia in numerous diseases of the nervous system, this is likely to change in years to come. Here we focus on the possibility that targeting the oligodendrocyte lineage to promote regeneration of myelin (remyelination) represents a therapeutic strategy for the treatment of the demyelinating disease multiple sclerosis, MS. We discuss how hypothesis driven studies have identified multiple targets and pathways that can be manipulated to promote remyelination in vivo, and how this work has led to the first ever remyelination clinical trials. We also highlight how recent chemical discovery screens have identified a host of small molecule compounds that promote oligodendrocyte differentiation in vitro. Some of these compounds have also been shown to promote myelin regeneration in vivo, with one already being trialled in humans. Promoting oligodendrocyte differentiation and remyelination represents just one potential strategy for the treatment of MS. The pathology of MS is complex, and its complete amelioration may require targeting multiple biological processes in parallel. Therefore, we present an overview of new technologies and models for phenotypic analyses and screening that can be exploited to study complex cell-cell interactions in in vitro and in vivo systems. Such technological platforms will provide insight into fundamental mechanisms and increase capacities for drug-discovery of relevance to glia and currently intractable disorders of the CNS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katy L H Cole
- Centre for Neuroregeneration, MS Society Centre for Translational Research, Euan MacDonald Centre for Motor Neurone Disease Research, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH16 4SB, United Kingdom
| | - Jason J Early
- Centre for Neuroregeneration, MS Society Centre for Translational Research, Euan MacDonald Centre for Motor Neurone Disease Research, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH16 4SB, United Kingdom
| | - David A Lyons
- Centre for Neuroregeneration, MS Society Centre for Translational Research, Euan MacDonald Centre for Motor Neurone Disease Research, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH16 4SB, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Ramamurthy P, White JB, Yull Park J, Hume RI, Ebisu F, Mendez F, Takayama S, Barald KF. Concomitant differentiation of a population of mouse embryonic stem cells into neuron-like cells and schwann cell-like cells in a slow-flow microfluidic device. Dev Dyn 2017; 246:7-27. [PMID: 27761977 PMCID: PMC5159187 DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.24466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2016] [Revised: 09/16/2016] [Accepted: 09/30/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To send meaningful information to the brain, an inner ear cochlear implant (CI) must become closely coupled to as large and healthy a population of remaining spiral ganglion neurons (SGN) as possible. Inner ear gangliogenesis depends on macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF), a directionally attractant neurotrophic cytokine made by both Schwann and supporting cells (Bank et al., 2012). MIF-induced mouse embryonic stem cell (mESC)-derived "neurons" could potentially substitute for lost or damaged SGN. mESC-derived "Schwann cells" produce MIF, as do all Schwann cells (Huang et al., a; Roth et al., 2007; Roth et al., 2008) and could attract SGN to a "cell-coated" implant. RESULTS Neuron- and Schwann cell-like cells were produced from a common population of mESCs in an ultra-slow-flow microfluidic device. As the populations interacted, "neurons" grew over the "Schwann cell" lawn, and early events in myelination were documented. Blocking MIF on the Schwann cell side greatly reduced directional neurite outgrowth. MIF-expressing "Schwann cells" were used to coat a CI: Mouse SGN and MIF-induced "neurons" grew directionally to the CI and to a wild-type but not MIF-knockout organ of Corti explant. CONCLUSIONS Two novel stem cell-based approaches for treating the problem of sensorineural hearing loss are described. Developmental Dynamics 246:7-27, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Poornapriya Ramamurthy
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Joshua B White
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Joong Yull Park
- School of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering, Chung-Ang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Richard I Hume
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Fumi Ebisu
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Flor Mendez
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Shuichi Takayama
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Kate F Barald
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Lee HU, Nag S, Blasiak A, Jin Y, Thakor N, Yang IH. Subcellular Optogenetic Stimulation for Activity-Dependent Myelination of Axons in a Novel Microfluidic Compartmentalized Platform. ACS Chem Neurosci 2016; 7:1317-1324. [PMID: 27570883 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.6b00157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Myelination is governed by neuron-glia communication, which in turn is modulated by neural activity. The exact mechanisms remain elusive. We developed a novel in vitro optogenetic stimulation platform that facilitates subcellular activity induction in hundreds of neurons simultaneously. The light isolation was achieved by creating a biocompatible, light-absorbent, black microfluidic device integrated with a programmable, high-power LED array. The system was applied to a compartmentalized culture of primary neurons whose distal axons were interacting with oligodendrocyte precursor cells. Neural activity was induced along whole neurons or was constrained to cell bodies with proximal axons or distal axons only. All three modes of stimulation promoted oligodendrocyte differentiation and the myelination of axons as evidenced by a decrease in the number of oligodendrocyte precursor cells followed by increases in the number of mature oligodendrocytes and myelin sheath fragments. These results demonstrated the potential of our novel optogenetic stimulation system for the global and focal induction of neural activity in vitro for studying axon myelination.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hae Ung Lee
- Singapore
Institute for Neurotechnology, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119077
| | - Sudip Nag
- Singapore
Institute for Neurotechnology, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119077
| | - Agata Blasiak
- Singapore
Institute for Neurotechnology, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119077
| | - Yan Jin
- Singapore
Institute for Neurotechnology, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119077
| | - Nitish Thakor
- Singapore
Institute for Neurotechnology, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119077
- Department
of Biomedical Engineering, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
| | - In Hong Yang
- Singapore
Institute for Neurotechnology, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119077
- Department
of Biomedical Engineering, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
A new mechanism of nervous system plasticity: activity-dependent myelination. Nat Rev Neurosci 2016; 16:756-67. [PMID: 26585800 DOI: 10.1038/nrn4023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 441] [Impact Index Per Article: 55.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The synapse is the focus of experimental research and theory on the cellular mechanisms of nervous system plasticity and learning, but recent research is expanding the consideration of plasticity into new mechanisms beyond the synapse, notably including the possibility that conduction velocity could be modifiable through changes in myelin to optimize the timing of information transmission through neural circuits. This concept emerges from a confluence of brain imaging that reveals changes in white matter in the human brain during learning, together with cellular studies showing that the process of myelination can be influenced by action potential firing in axons. This Opinion article summarizes the new research on activity-dependent myelination, explores the possible implications of these studies and outlines the potential for new research.
Collapse
|
34
|
Gao Y, Broussard J, Haque A, Revzin A, Lin T. Functional imaging of neuron-astrocyte interactions in a compartmentalized microfluidic device. MICROSYSTEMS & NANOENGINEERING 2016; 2:15045. [PMID: 31057811 PMCID: PMC6444726 DOI: 10.1038/micronano.2015.45] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2015] [Revised: 10/18/2015] [Accepted: 11/23/2015] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Traditional approaches in cultivating neural cells in a dish without orienting their interactions have had only limited success in revealing neural network properties. To enhance the experimental capabilities of studying neural circuitry in vitro, we designed an experimental system combining concepts of micropatterned surfaces, microfluidic devices and genetically encoded biosensors. Micropatterning was used to position neurons and astrocytes in defined locations and guide interactions between the two cell types. Microfluidic chambers were placed atop micropatterned surfaces to allow delivery of different pharmacological agents or viral vectors to the desired cell types. In this device, astrocytes and neurons communicated through grooves molded into the floor of the microfluidic device. By combining microfluidics with genetically encoded calcium indicators as functional readouts, we further demonstrated the utility of this device for analyzing neuron-neuron and neuron-astrocyte interactions in vitro under both healthy and pathophysiological conditions. We found that both spontaneous and evoked calcium dynamics in astrocytes can be modulated by interactions with neurons. In the future, we foresee employing the microdevices described here for studying mechanisms of neurological disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yandong Gao
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Joey Broussard
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Amranul Haque
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Alexander Revzin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
- ()
| | - Tian Lin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
- ()
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Zhou Q, Patel D, Kwa T, Haque A, Matharu Z, Stybayeva G, Gao Y, Diehl AM, Revzin A. Liver injury-on-a-chip: microfluidic co-cultures with integrated biosensors for monitoring liver cell signaling during injury. LAB ON A CHIP 2015; 15:4467-78. [PMID: 26480303 DOI: 10.1039/c5lc00874c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Tissue injury triggers complex communication between cells via secreted signaling molecules such as cytokines and growth factors. Discerning when and where these signals begin and how they propagate over time is very challenging with existing cell culture and analysis tools. The goal of this study was to develop new tools in the form of microfluidic co-cultures with integrated biosensors for local and continuous monitoring of secreted signals. Specifically, we focused on how alcohol injury affects TGF-β signaling between two liver cell types, hepatocytes and stellate cells. Activation of stellate cells happens early during liver injury and is at the center of liver fibrosis. We demonstrated that alcohol injury to microfluidic co-cultures caused significantly higher levels of stellate cell activation compared to conditioned media and transwell injury experiments. This highlighted the advantage of the microfluidic co-culture: placement of two cell types in close proximity to ensure high local concentrations of injury-promoting secreted signals. Next, we developed a microsystem consisting of five chambers, two for co-culturing hepatocytes with stellate cells and three additional chambers containing miniature aptamer-modified electrodes for monitoring secreted TGF-β. Importantly, the walls separating microfluidic chambers were actuatable; they could be raised or lowered to create different configurations of the device. The use of reconfigurable microfluidics and miniature biosensors revealed that alcohol injury causes hepatocytes to secrete TGF-β molecules, which diffuse over to neighboring stellate cells and trigger production of additional TGF-β from stellate cells. Our results lend credence to the emerging view of hepatocytes as active participants of liver injury. Broadly speaking, our microsystem makes it possible to monitor paracrine crosstalk between two cell types communicating via the same signaling molecule (e.g. TGF-β).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qing Zhou
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Davis, 451 Health Sciences, Davis, CA, USA.
| | - Dipali Patel
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Davis, 451 Health Sciences, Davis, CA, USA.
| | - Timothy Kwa
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Davis, 451 Health Sciences, Davis, CA, USA.
| | - Amranul Haque
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Davis, 451 Health Sciences, Davis, CA, USA.
| | - Zimple Matharu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Davis, 451 Health Sciences, Davis, CA, USA.
| | - Gulnaz Stybayeva
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Davis, 451 Health Sciences, Davis, CA, USA.
| | - Yandong Gao
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Davis, 451 Health Sciences, Davis, CA, USA.
| | - Anna Mae Diehl
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Duke University, 595 LaSalle Street, Snyderman Building, Suite 1073, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Alexander Revzin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Davis, 451 Health Sciences, Davis, CA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Zhang P, Abdelmohsen K, Liu Y, Tominaga-Yamanaka K, Yoon JH, Ioannis G, Martindale JL, Zhang Y, Becker KG, Yang IH, Gorospe M, Mattson MP. Novel RNA- and FMRP-binding protein TRF2-S regulates axonal mRNA transport and presynaptic plasticity. Nat Commun 2015; 6:8888. [PMID: 26586091 PMCID: PMC4673492 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms9888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2015] [Accepted: 10/06/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite considerable evidence that RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) regulate mRNA transport and local translation in dendrites, roles for axonal RBPs are poorly understood. Here we demonstrate that a non-telomeric isoform of telomere repeat-binding factor 2 (TRF2-S) is a novel RBP that regulates axonal plasticity. TRF2-S interacts directly with target mRNAs to facilitate their axonal delivery. The process is antagonized by fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP). Distinct from the current RNA-binding model of FMRP, we show that FMRP occupies the GAR domain of TRF2-S protein to block the assembly of TRF2-S–mRNA complexes. Overexpressing TRF2-S and silencing FMRP promotes mRNA entry to axons and enhances axonal outgrowth and neurotransmitter release from presynaptic terminals. Our findings suggest a pivotal role for TRF2-S in an axonal mRNA localization pathway that enhances axon outgrowth and neurotransmitter release. The molecular mechanisms regulating axonal mRNA transport are only partially understood. Here, Zhang et al. show a nontelomeric TRF2 splice variant interacts with FMRP to regulate the transport of several axonal mRNAs involved in axonal elongation and neurotransmitter release.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peisu Zhang
- Laboratory of Neurosciences, National Institute on Aging Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Boulevard, Baltimore, Maryland 21224, USA
| | - Kotb Abdelmohsen
- Laboratory of Genetics, National Institute on Aging Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Boulevard, Baltimore, Maryland 21224, USA
| | - Yong Liu
- Laboratory of Neurosciences, National Institute on Aging Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Boulevard, Baltimore, Maryland 21224, USA
| | - Kumiko Tominaga-Yamanaka
- Laboratory of Genetics, National Institute on Aging Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Boulevard, Baltimore, Maryland 21224, USA
| | - Je-Hyun Yoon
- Laboratory of Genetics, National Institute on Aging Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Boulevard, Baltimore, Maryland 21224, USA
| | - Grammatikakis Ioannis
- Laboratory of Genetics, National Institute on Aging Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Boulevard, Baltimore, Maryland 21224, USA
| | - Jennifer L Martindale
- Laboratory of Genetics, National Institute on Aging Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Boulevard, Baltimore, Maryland 21224, USA
| | - Yongqing Zhang
- Laboratory of Genetics, National Institute on Aging Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Boulevard, Baltimore, Maryland 21224, USA
| | - Kevin G Becker
- Laboratory of Genetics, National Institute on Aging Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Boulevard, Baltimore, Maryland 21224, USA
| | - In Hong Yang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117465, Singapore.,SINAPSE, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117465, Singapore
| | - Myriam Gorospe
- Laboratory of Genetics, National Institute on Aging Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Boulevard, Baltimore, Maryland 21224, USA
| | - Mark P Mattson
- Laboratory of Neurosciences, National Institute on Aging Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Boulevard, Baltimore, Maryland 21224, USA.,Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, USA
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Kerman BE, Kim HJ, Padmanabhan K, Mei A, Georges S, Joens MS, Fitzpatrick JAJ, Jappelli R, Chandross KJ, August P, Gage FH. In vitro myelin formation using embryonic stem cells. Development 2015; 142:2213-25. [PMID: 26015546 DOI: 10.1242/dev.116517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2014] [Accepted: 04/21/2015] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Myelination in the central nervous system is the process by which oligodendrocytes form myelin sheaths around the axons of neurons. Myelination enables neurons to transmit information more quickly and more efficiently and allows for more complex brain functions; yet, remarkably, the underlying mechanism by which myelination occurs is still not fully understood. A reliable in vitro assay is essential to dissect oligodendrocyte and myelin biology. Hence, we developed a protocol to generate myelinating oligodendrocytes from mouse embryonic stem cells and established a myelin formation assay with embryonic stem cell-derived neurons in microfluidic devices. Myelin formation was quantified using a custom semi-automated method that is suitable for larger scale analysis. Finally, early myelination was followed in real time over several days and the results have led us to propose a new model for myelin formation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bilal E Kerman
- Laboratory of Genetics, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, 10010 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Hyung Joon Kim
- Laboratory of Genetics, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, 10010 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Krishnan Padmanabhan
- Laboratory of Genetics, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, 10010 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA Computational Neuroscience Laboratory, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, 10010 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA Crick Jacobs Center for Theoretical and Computational Biology, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, 10010 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Arianna Mei
- Laboratory of Genetics, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, 10010 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Shereen Georges
- Laboratory of Genetics, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, 10010 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Matthew S Joens
- Waitt Advanced Biophotonics Center, Salk Institute for Biological Studies, 10010 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - James A J Fitzpatrick
- Waitt Advanced Biophotonics Center, Salk Institute for Biological Studies, 10010 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Roberto Jappelli
- Laboratory of Genetics, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, 10010 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Karen J Chandross
- Sanofi US, R&D, Genzyme MS/Neurology, 55 Corporate Drive, Bridgewater, NJ 08807, USA
| | - Paul August
- Sanofi US, R&D, Early to Candidate Unit, Tucson Innovation Center, 2090 E. Innovation Park Drive, Tucson, AZ 85755, USA
| | - Fred H Gage
- Laboratory of Genetics, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, 10010 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Kim S, Park J, Han A, Li J. Microfluidic systems for axonal growth and regeneration research. Neural Regen Res 2014; 9:1703-5. [PMID: 25422629 PMCID: PMC4238156 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.143412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/10/2014] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Sunja Kim
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA ; Institution for Neuroscience, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Jaewon Park
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA ; Institution for Neuroscience, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Arum Han
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA ; Institution for Neuroscience, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Jianrong Li
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA ; Institution for Neuroscience, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Samara C, Poirot O, Domènech-Estévez E, Chrast R. Neuronal activity in the hub of extrasynaptic Schwann cell-axon interactions. Front Cell Neurosci 2013; 7:228. [PMID: 24324401 PMCID: PMC3839048 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2013.00228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2013] [Accepted: 11/05/2013] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The integrity and function of neurons depend on their continuous interactions with glial cells. In the peripheral nervous system glial functions are exerted by Schwann cells (SCs). SCs sense synaptic and extrasynaptic manifestations of action potential propagation and adapt their physiology to support neuronal activity. We review here existing literature data on extrasynaptic bidirectional axon-SC communication, focusing particularly on neuronal activity implications. To shed light on underlying mechanisms, we conduct a thorough analysis of microarray data from SC-rich mouse sciatic nerve at different developmental stages and in neuropathic models. We identify molecules that are potentially involved in SC detection of neuronal activity signals inducing subsequent glial responses. We further suggest that alterations in the activity-dependent axon-SC crosstalk impact on peripheral neuropathies. Together with previously reported data, these observations open new perspectives for deciphering glial mechanisms of neuronal function support.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chrysanthi Samara
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of Lausanne Lausanne, Switzerland
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
40
|
Brunello CA, Jokinen V, Sakha P, Terazono H, Nomura F, Kaneko T, Lauri SE, Franssila S, Rivera C, Yasuda K, Huttunen HJ. Microtechnologies to fuel neurobiological research with nanometer precision. J Nanobiotechnology 2013; 11:11. [PMID: 23575365 PMCID: PMC3636074 DOI: 10.1186/1477-3155-11-11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2013] [Accepted: 04/03/2013] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The interface between engineering and molecular life sciences has been fertile ground for advancing our understanding of complex biological systems. Engineered microstructures offer a diverse toolbox for cellular and molecular biologists to direct the placement of cells and small organisms, and to recreate biological functions in vitro: cells can be positioned and connected in a designed fashion, and connectivity and community effects of cells studied. Because of the highly polar morphology and finely compartmentalized functions of neurons, microfabricated cell culture systems and related on-chip technologies have become an important enabling platform for studying development, function and degeneration of the nervous system at the molecular and cellular level. Here we review some of the compartmentalization techniques developed so far to highlight how high-precision control of neuronal connectivity allows new approaches for studying axonal and synaptic biology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia A Brunello
- Neuroscience Center, University of Helsinki, P.O. Box 56, Viikinkaari 4, FI-00014, Helsinki, Finland
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
41
|
Dinh ND, Chiang YY, Hardelauf H, Baumann J, Jackson E, Waide S, Sisnaiske J, Frimat JP, van Thriel C, Janasek D, Peyrin JM, West J. Microfluidic construction of minimalistic neuronal co-cultures. LAB ON A CHIP 2013; 13:1402-12. [PMID: 23403713 DOI: 10.1039/c3lc41224e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
In this paper we present compartmentalized neuron arraying (CNA) microfluidic circuits for the preparation of neuronal networks using minimal cellular inputs (10-100-fold less than existing systems). The approach combines the benefits of microfluidics for precision single cell handling with biomaterial patterning for the long term maintenance of neuronal arrangements. A differential flow principle was used for cell metering and loading along linear arrays. An innovative water masking technique was developed for the inclusion of aligned biomaterial patterns within the microfluidic environment. For patterning primary neurons the technique involved the use of meniscus-pinning micropillars to align a water mask for plasma stencilling a poly-amine coating. The approach was extended for patterning the human SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cell line using a poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) back-fill and for dopaminergic LUHMES neuronal precursors by the further addition of a fibronectin coating. The patterning efficiency Epatt was >75% during lengthy in chip culture, with ∼85% of the outgrowth channels occupied by neurites. Neurons were also cultured in next generation circuits which enable neurite guidance into all outgrowth channels for the formation of extensive inter-compartment networks. Fluidic isolation protocols were developed for the rapid and sustained treatment of the different cellular and sub-cellular compartments. In summary, this research demonstrates widely applicable microfluidic methods for the construction of compartmentalized brain models with single cell precision. These minimalistic ex vivo tissue constructs pave the way for high throughput experimentation to gain deeper insights into pathological processes such as Alzheimer and Parkinson Diseases, as well as neuronal development and function in health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ngoc-Duy Dinh
- Leibniz-Institut für Analytische Wissenschaften - ISAS - e.V., 44227 Dortmund, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
42
|
Malone M, Gary D, Yang IH, Miglioretti A, Houdayer T, Thakor N, McDonald J. Neuronal activity promotes myelination via a cAMP pathway. Glia 2013; 61:843-54. [PMID: 23554117 DOI: 10.1002/glia.22476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2012] [Accepted: 01/11/2013] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Neuronal activity promotes myelination in vivo and in vitro. However, the molecular events that mediate activity-dependent myelination are not completely understood. Seven, daily 1 h sessions of patterned electrical stimulation (ESTIM) promoted myelin segment formation in mixed cultures of dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons and oligodendrocytes (OLs); the increase in myelination was frequency-dependent. Myelin segment formation was also enhanced following exposure of DRGs to ESTIM prior to OL addition, suggesting that ESTIM promotes myelination in a manner involving neuron-specific signaling. Cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) levels in DRGs were increased three-fold following ESTIM, and artificially increasing cAMP mimicked the ability of ESTIM to promote myelination. Alternatively, inhibiting the cAMP pathway suppressed ESTIM-induced myelination. We used compartmentalized, microfluidic platforms to isolate DRG soma from OLs and assessed cell-type specific effects of ESTIM on myelination. A selective increase or decrease in DRG cAMP levels resulted in enhanced or suppressed myelination, respectively. This work describes a novel role for the cAMP pathway in neurons that results in enhanced myelination.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Misti Malone
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|