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Benwood C, Walters-Shumka J, Scheck K, Willerth SM. 3D bioprinting patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cell models of Alzheimer's disease using a smart bioink. Bioelectron Med 2023; 9:10. [PMID: 37221543 DOI: 10.1186/s42234-023-00112-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alzheimer's disease (AD), a progressive neurodegenerative disorder, is becoming increasingly prevalent as our population ages. It is characterized by the buildup of amyloid beta plaques and neurofibrillary tangles containing hyperphosphorylated-tau. The current treatments for AD do not prevent the long-term progression of the disease and pre-clinical models often do not accurately represent its complexity. Bioprinting combines cells and biomaterials to create 3D structures that replicate the native tissue environment and can be used as a tool in disease modeling or drug screening. METHODS This work differentiated both healthy and diseased patient-derived human induced pluripotent stems cells (hiPSCs) into neural progenitor cells (NPCs) that were bioprinted using the Aspect RX1 microfluidic printer into dome-shaped constructs. The combination of cells, bioink, and puromorphamine (puro)-releasing microspheres were used to mimic the in vivo environment and direct the differentiation of the NPCs into basal forebrain-resembling cholinergic neurons (BFCN). These tissue models were then characterized for cell viability, immunocytochemistry, and electrophysiology to evaluate their functionality and physiology for use as disease-specific neural models. RESULTS Tissue models were successfully bioprinted and the cells were viable for analysis after 30- and 45-day cultures. The neuronal and cholinergic markers β-tubulin III (Tuj1), forkhead box G1 (FOXG1), and choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) were identified as well as the AD markers amyloid beta and tau. Further, immature electrical activity was observed when the cells were excited with potassium chloride and acetylcholine. CONCLUSIONS This work shows the successful development of bioprinted tissue models incorporating patient derived hiPSCs. Such models can potentially be used as a tool to screen promising drug candidates for treating AD. Further, this model could be used to increase the understanding of AD progression. The use of patient derived cells also shows the potential of this model for use in personalized medicine applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire Benwood
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, V8P 5C2, Canada
| | | | - Kali Scheck
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, V8P 5C2, Canada
| | - Stephanie M Willerth
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, V8P 5C2, Canada.
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, V8P 5C2, Canada.
- School of Biomedical Engineering, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada.
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2
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Sharma R, Benwood C, Willerth SM. Drug-releasing Microspheres for Stem Cell Differentiation. Curr Protoc 2021; 1:e331. [PMID: 34919351 DOI: 10.1002/cpz1.331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The ability of stem cells to differentiate into specialized cells make them a valuable tool for therapeutic applications. 3D bioprinting, a subset of additive manufacturing, uses bioinks composed of cells and biomaterials to create living tissues. The use of bioactive factors like small molecules and proteins can promote stem cell differentiation into the desired cell phenotypes for tissue regeneration. Small molecules can accelerate the process of regeneration in tissue engineering, maintain bioactivity in a biological environment, and minimize the costs associated with this process. Additionally, they can be encapsulated in specialized drug-delivery devices called microspheres for controlled release. Microspheres are small (1-1000 μm) spherical particles usually made from biodegradable and biocompatible polymers that can be loaded with drugs and other bioactive components. They can then be integrated into stem-cell-laden bioinks used to form bioprinted tissues, where they will release the encapsulated drug and promote differentiation of stem cells into the desired mature cell type. Microspheres can be widely used to encapsulate a broad range of therapeutic agents, including hydrophilic and hydrophobic small molecule drugs, DNA, and proteins. The release of encapsulated molecules occurs through degradation and erosion of the polymer matrix. This article provides detailed protocols for fabricating and sterilizing drug-releasing microspheres made from poly-ε-caprolactone, a promising biodegradable polymer often used for controlled drug delivery due to its biocompatibility and biodegradation kinetics. Additional protocols describe characterization of the loading and size of microspheres as well as incorporation of microspheres into a fibrin-based bioink for 3D bioprinting. © 2021 Wiley Periodicals LLC. Basic Protocol 1: Fabrication of drug-releasing PCL microspheres Support Protocol 1: Preparation of microspheres for determination of encapsulation efficiency by HPLC Support Protocol 2: Preparation of microspheres for SEM analysis Basic Protocol 2: Incorporation of microspheres into fibrin-based bioink.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruchi Sharma
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Claire Benwood
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Stephanie M Willerth
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada.,Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada.,Centre for Biomedical Research, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada.,School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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3
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Mahmoodi N, Ai J, Hassannejad Z, Ebrahimi-Barough S, Hasanzadeh E, Nekounam H, Vaccaro AR, Rahimi-Movaghar V. Improving motor neuron-like cell differentiation of hEnSCs by the combination of epothilone B loaded PCL microspheres in optimized 3D collagen hydrogel. Sci Rep 2021; 11:21722. [PMID: 34741076 PMCID: PMC8571364 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-01071-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord regeneration is limited due to various obstacles and complex pathophysiological events after injury. Combination therapy is one approach that recently garnered attention for spinal cord injury (SCI) recovery. A composite of three-dimensional (3D) collagen hydrogel containing epothilone B (EpoB)-loaded polycaprolactone (PCL) microspheres (2.5 ng/mg, 10 ng/mg, and 40 ng/mg EpoB/PCL) were fabricated and optimized to improve motor neuron (MN) differentiation efficacy of human endometrial stem cells (hEnSCs). The microspheres were characterized using liquid chromatography-mass/mass spectrometry (LC-mas/mas) to assess the drug release and scanning electron microscope (SEM) for morphological assessment. hEnSCs were isolated, then characterized by flow cytometry, and seeded on the optimized 3D composite. Based on cell morphology and proliferation, cross-linked collagen hydrogels with and without 2.5 ng/mg EpoB loaded PCL microspheres were selected as the optimized formulations to compare the effect of EpoB release on MN differentiation. After differentiation, the expression of MN markers was estimated by real-time PCR and immunofluorescence (IF). The collagen hydrogel containing the EpoB group had the highest HB9 and ISL-1 expression and the longest neurite elongation. Providing a 3D permissive environment with EpoB, significantly improves MN-like cell differentiation and maturation of hEnSCs and is a promising approach to replace lost neurons after SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Narges Mahmoodi
- Sina Trauma and Surgery Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Jafar Ai
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Sciences, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Hassannejad
- Pediatric Urology and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Tissue, Cell and Gene Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Somayeh Ebrahimi-Barough
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Sciences, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Elham Hasanzadeh
- Immunogenetics Research Center, Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Sciences, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Houra Nekounam
- Department of Medical Nanotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alexander R Vaccaro
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Rothman Institute, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Vafa Rahimi-Movaghar
- Sina Trauma and Surgery Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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4
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De la Vega L, Abelseth L, Sharma R, Triviño-Paredes J, Restan M, Willerth SM. 3D Bioprinting Human‐Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells and Drug‐Releasing Microspheres to Produce Responsive Neural Tissues. ADVANCED NANOBIOMED RESEARCH 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/anbr.202000077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Laura De la Vega
- Department of Mechanical Engineering University of Victoria Victoria V8W 2Y2 Canada
| | - Laila Abelseth
- Biomedical Engineering Program University of Victoria Victoria V8W 2Y2 Canada
| | - Ruchi Sharma
- Department of Mechanical Engineering University of Victoria Victoria V8W 2Y2 Canada
| | | | - Milena Restan
- Biomedical Engineering Program University of Victoria Victoria V8W 2Y2 Canada
| | - Stephanie M. Willerth
- Department of Mechanical Engineering University of Victoria Victoria V8W 2Y2 Canada
- Biomedical Engineering Program University of Victoria Victoria V8W 2Y2 Canada
- Division of Medical Sciences University of Victoria Victoria V8W 2Y2 Canada
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5
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Ge M, Sheng Y, Qi S, Cao L, Zhang Y, Yang J. PLGA/chitosan-heparin composite microparticles prepared with microfluidics for the construction of hMSC aggregates. J Mater Chem B 2020; 8:9921-9932. [PMID: 33034328 DOI: 10.1039/d0tb01593h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Incorporating poly(lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA) microparticles into human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSC) aggregates has shown promising application prospects. However, the acidic degradation products and burst release of PLGA microparticles still need to be ameliorated. In this study, the PLGA/chitosan-heparin (P/C-h) composite microparticles were successfully fabricated by integrating the double emulsion and microfluidic technology through the precise manipulation of the emulsion composition and flow rate of the two-phase in a flow-focusing chip. The P/C-h microparticles were highly monodispersed with a diameter of 23.45 ± 0.25 μm and shell-core structure of the PLGA encapsulated C-h complex, which were suitable for the fabrication of hMSC aggregates. When the mass ratio of PLGA to the C-h complex was optimized to 2 : 1, the pH of the leach liquor of P/C-h microparticles remained neutral. Compared with those of PLGA microparticles, the cytotoxicity and the initial burst release (loaded FGF-2 and VEGF) were both significantly reduced in P/C-h microparticles. Furthermore, the survival, stemness, as well as secretion and migration abilities of cells in hMSC aggregates incorporating P/C-h microparticles were also enhanced. In summary, the P/C-h composite microparticles prepared by the droplet microfluidic technique support the optimal biological and functional profile of the hMSC aggregates, which may facilitate the clinical applications of MSC-based therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Ge
- The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China.
| | - Yaqi Sheng
- The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China.
| | - Shuyue Qi
- The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China.
| | - Lei Cao
- The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China.
| | - Yan Zhang
- The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China. and State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300350, China.
| | - Jun Yang
- The Key Laboratory of Bioactive Materials, Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China.
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6
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Sharma R, Smits IPM, De La Vega L, Lee C, Willerth SM. 3D Bioprinting Pluripotent Stem Cell Derived Neural Tissues Using a Novel Fibrin Bioink Containing Drug Releasing Microspheres. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2020; 8:57. [PMID: 32117936 PMCID: PMC7026266 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2020.00057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2019] [Accepted: 01/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
3D bioprinting combines cells with a supportive bioink to fabricate multiscale, multi-cellular structures that imitate native tissues. Here, we demonstrate how our novel fibrin-based bioink formulation combined with drug releasing microspheres can serve as a tool for bioprinting tissues using human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)-derived neural progenitor cells (NPCs). Microspheres, small spherical particles that generate controlled drug release, promote hiPSC differentiation into dopaminergic neurons when used to deliver small molecules like guggulsterone. We used the microfluidics based RX1 bioprinter to generate domes with a 1 cm diameter consisting of our novel fibrin-based bioink containing guggulsterone microspheres and hiPSC-derived NPCs. The resulting tissues exhibited over 90% cellular viability 1 day post printing that then increased to 95% 7 days post printing. The bioprinted tissues expressed the early neuronal marker, TUJ1 and the early midbrain marker, Forkhead Box A2 (FOXA2) after 15 days of culture. These bioprinted neural tissues expressed TUJ1 (15 ± 1.3%), the dopamine marker, tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) (8 ± 1%) and other glial markers such as glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) (15 ± 4%) and oligodendrocyte progenitor marker (O4) (4 ± 1%) after 30 days. Also, quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) analysis showed these bioprinted tissues expressed TUJ1, NURR1 (gene expressed in midbrain dopaminergic neurons), LMX1B, TH, and PAX6 after 30 days. In conclusion, we have demonstrated that using a microsphere-laden bioink to bioprint hiPSC-derived NPCs can promote the differentiation of neural tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruchi Sharma
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - Imke P. M. Smits
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, Netherlands
| | - Laura De La Vega
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - Christopher Lee
- Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Stephanie M. Willerth
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, Netherlands
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
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7
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How can microsphere-mediated delivery of small molecules serve as a novel tool for engineering tissues from stem cells? Ther Deliv 2019; 10:671-674. [PMID: 31608826 DOI: 10.4155/tde-2019-0071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
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8
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Electrophoretic mobility of neuron-like cells regenerated from iPSCs with induction of retinoic acid- and nerve growth factor-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles. J Taiwan Inst Chem Eng 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jtice.2019.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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9
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Advancements in Canadian Biomaterials Research in Neurotraumatic Diagnosis and Therapies. Processes (Basel) 2019. [DOI: 10.3390/pr7060336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Development of biomaterials for the diagnosis and treatment of neurotraumatic ailments has been significantly advanced with our deepened knowledge of the pathophysiology of neurotrauma. Canadian research in the fields of biomaterial-based contrast agents, non-invasive axonal tracing, non-invasive scaffold imaging, scaffold patterning, 3D printed scaffolds, and drug delivery are conquering barriers to patient diagnosis and treatment for traumatic injuries to the nervous system. This review highlights some of the highly interdisciplinary Canadian research in biomaterials with a focus on neurotrauma applications.
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10
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Mirani B, Pagan E, Shojaei S, Duchscherer J, Toyota BD, Ghavami S, Akbari M. A 3D bioprinted hydrogel mesh loaded with all-trans retinoic acid for treatment of glioblastoma. Eur J Pharmacol 2019; 854:201-212. [PMID: 30974104 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2019.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2018] [Revised: 04/01/2019] [Accepted: 04/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Treatment of glioblastoma (GBM), as the most lethal type of brain tumor, still remains a major challenge despite the various therapeutic approaches developed over the recent decades. GBM is considered as one of the most therapy-resistant human tumors. Treatment with temozolomide (TMZ) chemotherapy and radiotherapy in GBM patients has led to 30% of two-year survival rate (American Brain Tumor Association), representing a demanding field to develop more effective therapeutic strategies. This study presents a novel method for local delivery of all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) for targeting GBM cells as a possible adjuvant therapeutic strategy for this disease. We have used 3D bioprinting to fabricate hydrogel meshes laden with ATRA-loaded polymeric particles. The ATRA-loaded meshes have been shown to facilitate a sustained release of ATRA with tunable release rate. Cell viability assay was used to demonstrate the ability of fabricated meshes in reducing cell growth in U-87 MG cell line. We later showed that the developed meshes induced apoptotic cell death in U-87 MG. Furthermore, the use of hydrogel for embedding the ATRA-loaded particles can facilitate the immobilization of the drug next to the tumor site. Our current innovative approach has shown the potential to open up new avenues for treatment of GBM, benefiting patients who suffer from this debilitating disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bahram Mirani
- Laboratory for Innovations in Microengineering (LiME), Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8P 5C2, Canada; Centre for Advanced Materials and Related Technologies (CAMTEC), University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, V8P 5C2, Canada; Centre for Biomedical Research (CBR), University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, V8P 5C2, Canada
| | - Erik Pagan
- Laboratory for Innovations in Microengineering (LiME), Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8P 5C2, Canada
| | - Shahla Shojaei
- Laboratory for Innovations in Microengineering (LiME), Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8P 5C2, Canada; Centre for Advanced Materials and Related Technologies (CAMTEC), University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, V8P 5C2, Canada; Centre for Biomedical Research (CBR), University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, V8P 5C2, Canada
| | - Jade Duchscherer
- Laboratory for Innovations in Microengineering (LiME), Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8P 5C2, Canada
| | - Brian D Toyota
- Division of Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, K7K 1G8, Canada
| | - Saeid Ghavami
- Department of Human Anatomy and Cell Sciences, Faculty of Health Science, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, R3E 0J9, Canada; Autophagy Research Center, Health Policy Research Center, Institute of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran; Research Institute of Oncology and Hematology, CancerCare Manitoba, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Mohsen Akbari
- Laboratory for Innovations in Microengineering (LiME), Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8P 5C2, Canada; Centre for Advanced Materials and Related Technologies (CAMTEC), University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, V8P 5C2, Canada; Centre for Biomedical Research (CBR), University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, V8P 5C2, Canada.
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11
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Zhang Q, Shi B, Ding J, Yan L, Thawani JP, Fu C, Chen X. Polymer scaffolds facilitate spinal cord injury repair. Acta Biomater 2019; 88:57-77. [PMID: 30710714 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2019.01.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2018] [Revised: 01/10/2019] [Accepted: 01/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
During the past decades, improving patient neurological recovery following spinal cord injury (SCI) has remained a challenge. An effective treatment for SCI would not only reduce fractured elements and isolate developing local glial scars to promote axonal regeneration but also ameliorate secondary effects, including inflammation, apoptosis, and necrosis. Three-dimensional (3D) scaffolds provide a platform in which these mechanisms can be addressed in a controlled manner. Polymer scaffolds with favorable biocompatibility and appropriate mechanical properties have been engineered to minimize cicatrization, customize drug release, and ensure an unobstructed space to promote cell growth and differentiation. These properties make polymer scaffolds an important potential therapeutic platform. This review highlights the recent developments in polymer scaffolds for SCI engineering. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: How to improve the efficacy of neurological recovery after spinal cord injury (SCI) is always a challenge. Tissue engineering provides a promising strategy for SCI repair, and scaffolds are one of the most important elements in addition to cells and inducing factors. The review highlights recent development and future prospects in polymer scaffolds for SCI therapy. The review will guide future studies by outlining the requirements and characteristics of polymer scaffold technologies employed against SCI. Additionally, the peculiar properties of polymer materials used in the therapeutic process of SCI also have guiding significance to other tissue engineering approaches.
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12
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Willerth SM, Sakiyama-Elbert SE. Combining Stem Cells and Biomaterial Scaffolds for Constructing Tissues and Cell Delivery. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019. [DOI: 10.3233/stj-180001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Combining stem cells with biomaterial scaffolds serves as a promising strategy for engineering tissues for both in vitro and in vivo applications. This updated review details commonly used biomaterial scaffolds for engineering tissues from stem cells. We first define the different types of stem cells and their relevant properties and commonly used scaffold formulations. Next, we discuss natural and synthetic scaffold materials typically used when engineering tissues, along with their associated advantages and drawbacks and gives examples of target applications. New approaches to engineering tissues, such as 3D bioprinting, are described as they provide exciting opportunities for future work along with current challenges that must be addressed. Thus, this review provides an overview of the available biomaterials for directing stem cell differentiation as a means of producing replacements for diseased or damaged tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie M. Willerth
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Victoria, VIC, Canada
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, VIC, Canada
- International Collaboration on Repair Discoveries, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
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13
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Lee C, Robinson M, Willerth SM. Direct Reprogramming of Glioblastoma Cells into Neurons Using Small Molecules. ACS Chem Neurosci 2018; 9:3175-3185. [PMID: 30091580 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.8b00365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma multiforme, a type of deadly brain cancer, originates most commonly from astrocytes found in the brain. Current multimodal treatments for glioblastoma minimally increase life expectancy, but significant advancements in prognosis have not been made in the past few decades. Here we investigate cellular reprogramming for inhibiting the aggressive proliferation of glioblastoma cells. Cellular reprogramming converts one differentiated cell type into another type based on the principles of regenerative medicine. In this study, we used cellular reprogramming to investigate whether small molecule mediated reprogramming could convert glioblastoma cells into neurons. We investigated a novel method for reprogramming U87MG human glioblastoma cells into terminally differentiated neurons using a small molecule cocktail consisting of forskolin, ISX9, CHIR99021 I-BET 151, and DAPT. Treating U87MG glioblastoma cells with this cocktail successfully reprogrammed the malignant cells into early neurons over 13 days. The reprogrammed cells displayed morphological and immunofluorescent characteristics associated with neuronal phenotypes. Genetic analysis revealed that the chemical cocktail upregulates the Ngn2, Ascl1, Brn2, and MAP2 genes, resulting in neuronal reprogramming. Furthermore, these cells displayed decreased viability and lacked the ability to form high numbers of tumor-like spheroids. Overall, this study validates the use of a novel small molecule cocktail for reprogramming glioblastoma into nonproliferating neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Lee
- Department of Biology, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8W 2Y2, Canada
| | - Meghan Robinson
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8W 2Y2, Canada
| | - Stephanie M. Willerth
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8W 2Y2, Canada
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8W 2Y2, Canada
- Centre for Biomedical Research, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8W 2Y2, Canada
- International Collaboration on Repair Discoveries, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
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14
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De la Vega L, Karmirian K, Willerth SM. Engineering Neural Tissue from Human Pluripotent Stem Cells Using Novel Small Molecule Releasing Microspheres. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018. [DOI: 10.1002/adbi.201800133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Laura De la Vega
- Department of Mechanical EngineeringDivision of Medical SciencesUniversity of Victoria 3800 Finnerty Road Victoria BC V8P 5C2 Canada
| | - Karina Karmirian
- Biomedical Sciences InstituteFederal University of Rio de Janeiro Av. Pedro Calmon, 550 Rio de Janeiro RJ 21941‐901 Brazil
| | - Stephanie Michelle Willerth
- Department of Mechanical EngineeringDivision of Medical SciencesUniversity of Victoria 3800 Finnerty Road Victoria BC V8P 5C2 Canada
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15
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Ma W, Jin GW, Gehret PM, Chada NC, Suh WH. A Novel Cell Penetrating Peptide for the Differentiation of Human Neural Stem Cells. Biomolecules 2018; 8:biom8030048. [PMID: 29987263 PMCID: PMC6163344 DOI: 10.3390/biom8030048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2018] [Revised: 06/22/2018] [Accepted: 06/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinoic acid (RA) is a bioactive lipid that has been shown to promote neural stem cell differentiation. However, the highly hydrophobic molecule needs to first solubilize and translocate across the cell membrane in order to exert a biological response. The cell entry of RA can be aided by cell penetrating peptides (CPPs), which are short amino acid sequences that are able to carry bioactive cargo past the cell membrane. In this work, a novel cell penetrating peptide was developed to deliver RA to human neural stem cells and, subsequently, promote neuronal differentiation. The novel CPP consists of a repeating sequence, whose number of repeats is proportional to the efficiency of cell penetration. Using fluorescence microscopy, the mode of translocation was determined to be related to an endocytic pathway. The levels of β-III tubulin (Tubb3) and microtubule associated protein 2 (MAP2) expression in neural stem cells treated with RA conjugated to the CPP were assessed by quantitative immunocytochemistry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weili Ma
- Department of Bioengineering, College of Engineering, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19122, USA.
| | - Geun-Woo Jin
- Department of Bioengineering, College of Engineering, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19122, USA.
| | - Paul M Gehret
- Department of Bioengineering, College of Engineering, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19122, USA.
| | - Neil C Chada
- Department of Bioengineering, College of Engineering, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19122, USA.
| | - Won Hyuk Suh
- Department of Bioengineering, College of Engineering, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19122, USA.
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16
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Agbay A, De La Vega L, Nixon G, Willerth S. Guggulsterone-releasing microspheres direct the differentiation of human induced pluripotent stem cells into neural phenotypes. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 13:034104. [PMID: 29368696 DOI: 10.1088/1748-605x/aaaa77] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD), a common neurodegenerative disorder, results from the loss of motor function when dopaminergic neurons (DNs) in the brain selectively degenerate. While pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) show promise for generating replacement neurons, current protocols for generating terminally differentiated DNs require a complicated cocktail of factors. Recent work demonstrated that a naturally occurring steroid called guggulsterone effectively differentiated PSCs into DNs, simplifying this process. In this study, we encapsulated guggulsterone into novel poly-ε-caprolactone-based microspheres and characterized its release profile over 44 d in vitro, demonstrating we can control its release over time. These guggulsterone-releasing microspheres were also successfully incorporated in human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cellular aggregates under feeder-free and xeno-free conditions and cultured for 20 d to determine their effect on differentiation. All cultures stained positive for the early neuronal marker TUJ1 and guggulsterone microsphere-incorporated aggregates did not adversely affect neurite length and branching. Guggulsterone microsphere incorporated aggregates exhibited the highest levels of TUJ1 expression as well as high Olig 2 expression, an inhibitor of the STAT3 astrogenesis pathway previously known as a target for guggulsterone in cancer treatment. Together, this study represents an important first step towards engineered neural tissues consisting of guggulsterone microspheres and PSCs for generating DNs that could eventually be evaluated in a pre-clinical model of PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Agbay
- Department of Neuroscience, Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
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17
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Ahrens CC, Dong Z, Li W. Engineering cell aggregates through incorporated polymeric microparticles. Acta Biomater 2017; 62:64-81. [PMID: 28782721 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2017.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2017] [Revised: 08/01/2017] [Accepted: 08/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Ex vivo cell aggregates must overcome significant limitations in the transport of nutrients, drugs, and signaling proteins compared to vascularized native tissue. Further, engineered extracellular environments often fail to sufficiently replicate tethered signaling cues and the complex architecture of native tissue. Co-cultures of cells with microparticles (MPs) is a growing field directed towards overcoming many of these challenges by providing local and controlled presentation of both soluble and tethered proteins and small molecules. Further, co-cultured MPs offer a mechanism to better control aggregate architecture and even to report key characteristics of the local microenvironment such as pH or oxygen levels. Herein, we provide a brief introduction to established and developing strategies for MP production including the choice of MP materials, fabrication techniques, and techniques for incorporating additional functionality. In all cases, we emphasize the specific utility of each approach to form MPs useful for applications in cell aggregate co-culture. We review established techniques to integrate cells and MPs. We highlight those strategies that promote targeted heterogeneity or homogeneity, and we describe approaches to engineer cell-particle and particle-particle interactions that enhance aggregate stability and biological response. Finally, we review advances in key application areas of MP aggregates and future areas of development. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANT Cell-scaled polymer microparticles (MPs) integrated into cellular aggregates have been shown to be a powerful tool to direct cell response. MPs have supported the development of healthy cartilage, islets, nerves, and vasculature by the maintenance of soluble gradients as well as by the local presentation of tethered cues and diffusing proteins and small molecules. MPs integrated with pluripotent stem cells have directed in vivo expansion and differentiation. Looking forward, MPs are expected to support both the characterization and development of in vitro tissue systems for applications such as drug testing platforms. However, useful co-cultures must be designed keeping in mind the limitations and attributes of each material strategy within the context of the overall tissue biology. The present review integrates prospectives from materials development, drug delivery, and tissue engineering to provide a toolbox for the development and application of MPs useful for long-term co-culture within cell aggregates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline C Ahrens
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX 79409, United States
| | - Ziye Dong
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX 79409, United States
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX 79409, United States.
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18
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Rajwani A, Restall B, Muller NJ, Roebuck S, Willerth SM. An Affordable Microsphere-Based Device for Visual Assessment of Water Quality. BIOSENSORS 2017; 7:E31. [PMID: 28783063 PMCID: PMC5618037 DOI: 10.3390/bios7030031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2017] [Revised: 07/29/2017] [Accepted: 08/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
This work developed a prototype of an affordable, long-term water quality detection device that provides a visual readout upon detecting bacterial contamination. This device prototype consists of: (1) enzyme-releasing microspheres that lyse bacteria present in a sample, (2) microspheres that release probes that bind the DNA of the lysed bacteria, and (3) a detector region consisting of gold nanoparticles. The probes bind bacterial DNA, forming complexes. These complexes induce aggregation of the gold nanoparticles located in the detector region. The nanoparticle aggregation process causes a red to blue color change, providing a visual indicator of contamination being detected. Our group fabricated and characterized microspheres made of poly (ε-caprolactone) that released lysozyme (an enzyme that degrades bacterial cell walls) and hairpin DNA probes that bind to regions of the Escherichiacoli genome over a 28-day time course. The released lysozyme retained its ability to lyse bacteria. We then showed that combining these components with gold nanoparticles followed by exposure to an E. coli-contaminated water sample (concentrations tested-10⁶ and 10⁸ cells/mL) resulted in a dramatic red to blue color change. Overall, this device represents a novel low-cost system for long term detection of bacteria in a water supply and other applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azra Rajwani
- Biomedical Engineering program, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8W 2Y2, Canada.
| | - Brendon Restall
- Biomedical Engineering program, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8W 2Y2, Canada.
| | - Nathan J Muller
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8W 2Y2, Canada.
| | - Scott Roebuck
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8W 2Y2, Canada.
| | - Stephanie M Willerth
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8W 2Y2, Canada.
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8W 2Y2, Canada.
- Centre for Biomedical Research, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8W 2Y2, Canada.
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Ottoboni L, Merlini A, Martino G. Neural Stem Cell Plasticity: Advantages in Therapy for the Injured Central Nervous System. Front Cell Dev Biol 2017; 5:52. [PMID: 28553634 PMCID: PMC5427132 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2017.00052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2017] [Accepted: 04/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The physiological and pathological properties of the neural germinal stem cell niche have been well-studied in the past 30 years, mainly in animals and within given limits in humans, and knowledge is available for the cyto-architectonic structure, the cellular components, the timing of development and the energetic maintenance of the niche, as well as for the therapeutic potential and the cross talk between neural and immune cells. In recent years we have gained detailed understanding of the potentiality of neural stem cells (NSCs), although we are only beginning to understand their molecular, metabolic, and epigenetic profile in physiopathology and, further, more can be invested to measure quantitatively the activity of those cells, to model in vitro their therapeutic responses or to predict interactions in silico. Information in this direction has been put forward for other organs but is still limited in the complex and very less accessible context of the brain. A comprehensive understanding of the behavior of endogenous NSCs will help to tune or model them toward a desired response in order to treat complex neurodegenerative diseases. NSCs have the ability to modulate multiple cellular functions and exploiting their plasticity might make them into potent and versatile cellular drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Ottoboni
- Neuroimmunology Unit, Division of Neuroscience, Institute of Experimental Neurology, San Raffaele Scientific InstituteMilan, Italy
| | - Arianna Merlini
- Neuroimmunology Unit, Division of Neuroscience, Institute of Experimental Neurology, San Raffaele Scientific InstituteMilan, Italy
| | - Gianvito Martino
- Neuroimmunology Unit, Division of Neuroscience, Institute of Experimental Neurology, San Raffaele Scientific InstituteMilan, Italy
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Fibrin hydrogels induce mixed dorsal/ventral spinal neuron identities during differentiation of human induced pluripotent stem cells. Acta Biomater 2017; 51:237-245. [PMID: 28088670 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2017.01.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2016] [Revised: 01/03/2017] [Accepted: 01/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
We hypothesized that generating spinal motor neurons (sMNs) from human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)-derived neural aggregates (NAs) using a chemically-defined differentiation protocol would be more effective inside of 3D fibrin hydrogels compared to 2D poly-L-ornithine(PLO)/laminin-coated tissue culture plastic surfaces. We performed targeted RNA-Seq using next generation sequencing to determine the substrate-specific differences in gene expression that regulate cell phenotype. Cells cultured on both substrates expressed sMN genes CHAT and MNX1, though persistent WNT signaling contributed to a higher expression of genes associated with interneurons in NAs cultured in 3D fibrin scaffolds. Cells in fibrin also expressed lower levels of astrocyte progenitor genes and higher levels of the neuronal-specific gene TUBB3, suggesting a purer population of neurons compared to 2D cultures. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE Fibrin scaffolds can support the neuronal differentiation of pluripotent stem cells. This study provides insight into how fibrin hydrogels affect neuronal induction by analyzing of the signaling pathways activated during the differentiation process. These insights can then be used to tailor the properties of these hydrogels to optimize the generation of sMNs for regenerative medicine applications.
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