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Babcock SJ, Houten SM, Gillingham MB. A review of fatty acid oxidation disorder mouse models. Mol Genet Metab 2024; 142:108351. [PMID: 38430613 PMCID: PMC11073919 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymgme.2024.108351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
Fatty acid oxidation disorders (FAODs) are a family of rare, genetic disorders that affect any part of the fatty acid oxidation pathway. Patients present with severe phenotypes, such as hypoketotic hypoglycemia, cardiomyopathy, and rhabdomyolysis, and currently manage these symptoms by the avoidance of fasting and maintaining a low-fat, high-carbohydrate diet. Because knowledge about FAODs is limited due to the small number of patients, rodent models have been crucial in learning more about these disorders, particularly in studying the molecular mechanisms involved in different phenotypes and in evaluating treatments for patients. The purpose of this review is to present the different FAOD mouse models and highlight the benefits and limitations of using these models. Specifically, we discuss the phenotypes of the available FAOD mouse models, the potential molecular causes of prominent FAOD phenotypes that have been studied using FAOD mouse models, and how FAOD mouse models have been used to evaluate treatments for patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon J Babcock
- Department of Molecular and Medical Genetics, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA.
| | - Sander M Houten
- Deparment of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Melanie B Gillingham
- Department of Molecular and Medical Genetics, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
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2
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Drzewiecki CM, Fox AS. Understanding the heterogeneity of anxiety using a translational neuroscience approach. COGNITIVE, AFFECTIVE & BEHAVIORAL NEUROSCIENCE 2024; 24:228-245. [PMID: 38356013 PMCID: PMC11039504 DOI: 10.3758/s13415-024-01162-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Anxiety disorders affect millions of people worldwide and present a challenge in neuroscience research because of their substantial heterogeneity in clinical presentation. While a great deal of progress has been made in understanding the neurobiology of fear and anxiety, these insights have not led to effective treatments. Understanding the relationship between phenotypic heterogeneity and the underlying biology is a critical first step in solving this problem. We show translation, reverse translation, and computational modeling can contribute to a refined, cross-species understanding of fear and anxiety as well as anxiety disorders. More specifically, we outline how animal models can be leveraged to develop testable hypotheses in humans by using targeted, cross-species approaches and ethologically informed behavioral paradigms. We discuss reverse translational approaches that can guide and prioritize animal research in nontraditional research species. Finally, we advocate for the use of computational models to harmonize cross-species and cross-methodology research into anxiety. Together, this translational neuroscience approach will help to bridge the widening gap between how we currently conceptualize and diagnose anxiety disorders, as well as aid in the discovery of better treatments for these conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carly M Drzewiecki
- California National Primate Research Center, University of California, Davis, CA, USA.
| | - Andrew S Fox
- California National Primate Research Center, University of California, Davis, CA, USA.
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Davis, CA, USA.
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3
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Kwon T. Utilizing non-human primate models to combat recent COVID-19/SARS-CoV-2 and viral infectious disease outbreaks. J Med Primatol 2024; 53:e12689. [PMID: 38084001 DOI: 10.1111/jmp.12689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Revised: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/13/2024]
Abstract
In recent times, global viral outbreaks and diseases, such as COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2), Zika (ZIKV), monkeypox (MPOX), Ebola (EBOV), and Marburg (MARV), have been extensively documented. Swiftly deciphering the mechanisms underlying disease pathogenesis and devising vaccines or therapeutic interventions to curtail these outbreaks stand as paramount imperatives. Amidst these endeavors, animal models emerge as pivotal tools. Among these models, non-human primates (NHPs) hold a position of particular importance. Their proximity in evolutionary lineage and physiological resemblances to humans render them a primary model for comprehending human viral infections. This review encapsulates the pivotal role of various NHP species-such as rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta), cynomolgus macaques (Macaca fascicularis), african green monkeys (Chlorocebus sabaeus/aethiops), pigtailed macaques (Macaca nemestrina/Macaca leonina), baboons (Papio hamadryas/Papio anubis), and common marmosets (Callithrix jacchus)-in investigations pertaining to the abovementioned viral outbreaks. These NHP models play a pivotal role in illuminating key aspects of disease dynamics, facilitating the development of effective countermeasures, and contributing significantly to our overall understanding of viral pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taeho Kwon
- Primate Resources Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Jeongeup-si, Jeonbuk, Korea
- Department of Functional Genomics, KRIBB School of Bioscience, Korea National University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, Korea
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4
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Wang LLW, Gao Y, Chandran Suja V, Boucher ML, Shaha S, Kapate N, Liao R, Sun T, Kumbhojkar N, Prakash S, Clegg JR, Warren K, Janes M, Park KS, Dunne M, Ilelaboye B, Lu A, Darko S, Jaimes C, Mannix R, Mitragotri S. Preclinical characterization of macrophage-adhering gadolinium micropatches for MRI contrast after traumatic brain injury in pigs. Sci Transl Med 2024; 16:eadk5413. [PMID: 38170792 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.adk5413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
The choroid plexus (ChP) of the brain plays a central role in orchestrating the recruitment of peripheral leukocytes into the central nervous system (CNS) through the blood-cerebrospinal fluid (BCSF) barrier in pathological conditions, thus offering a unique niche to diagnose CNS disorders. We explored whether magnetic resonance imaging of the ChP could be optimized for mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). mTBI induces subtle, yet influential, changes in the brain and is currently severely underdiagnosed. We hypothesized that mTBI induces sufficient alterations in the ChP to cause infiltration of circulating leukocytes through the BCSF barrier and developed macrophage-adhering gadolinium [Gd(III)]-loaded anisotropic micropatches (GLAMs), specifically designed to image infiltrating immune cells. GLAMs are hydrogel-based discoidal microparticles that adhere to macrophages without phagocytosis. We present a fabrication process to prepare GLAMs at scale and demonstrate their loading with Gd(III) at high relaxivities, a key indicator of their effectiveness in enhancing image contrast and clarity in medical imaging. In vitro experiments with primary murine and porcine macrophages demonstrated that GLAMs adhere to macrophages also under shear stress and did not affect macrophage viability or functions. Studies in a porcine mTBI model confirmed that intravenously administered macrophage-adhering GLAMs provide a differential signal in the ChP and lateral ventricles at Gd(III) doses 500- to 1000-fold lower than those used in the current clinical standard Gadavist. Under the same mTBI conditions, Gadavist did not offer a differential signal at clinically used doses. Our results suggest that macrophage-adhering GLAMs could facilitate mTBI diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lily Li-Wen Wang
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Allston, MA 02134, USA
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Boston, MA 20115, USA
- Harvard-MIT Division of Health Sciences and Technology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Yongsheng Gao
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Allston, MA 02134, USA
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Boston, MA 20115, USA
| | - Vineeth Chandran Suja
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Allston, MA 02134, USA
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Boston, MA 20115, USA
| | - Masen L Boucher
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Suyog Shaha
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Allston, MA 02134, USA
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Boston, MA 20115, USA
| | - Neha Kapate
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Allston, MA 02134, USA
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Boston, MA 20115, USA
- Harvard-MIT Division of Health Sciences and Technology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Rick Liao
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Allston, MA 02134, USA
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Boston, MA 20115, USA
| | - Tao Sun
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Allston, MA 02134, USA
| | - Ninad Kumbhojkar
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Allston, MA 02134, USA
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Boston, MA 20115, USA
| | - Supriya Prakash
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Allston, MA 02134, USA
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Boston, MA 20115, USA
| | - John R Clegg
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Allston, MA 02134, USA
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Boston, MA 20115, USA
| | - Kaitlyn Warren
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Morgan Janes
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Allston, MA 02134, USA
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Boston, MA 20115, USA
- Harvard-MIT Division of Health Sciences and Technology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Kyung Soo Park
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Allston, MA 02134, USA
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Boston, MA 20115, USA
| | - Michael Dunne
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Allston, MA 02134, USA
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Boston, MA 20115, USA
| | - Bolu Ilelaboye
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Allston, MA 02134, USA
| | - Andrew Lu
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Allston, MA 02134, USA
| | - Solomina Darko
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Allston, MA 02134, USA
| | - Camilo Jaimes
- Department of Radiology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Rebekah Mannix
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Departments of Pediatrics and Emergency Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Samir Mitragotri
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Allston, MA 02134, USA
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Boston, MA 20115, USA
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5
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Jaafar MH, Xu P, Mageswaran UM, Balasubramaniam SD, Solayappan M, Woon JJ, Teh CSJ, Todorov SD, Park YH, Liu G, Liong MT. Constipation anti-aging effects by dairy-based lactic acid bacteria. JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY 2024; 66:178-203. [PMID: 38618031 PMCID: PMC11007456 DOI: 10.5187/jast.2023.e93] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
Constipation, which refers to difficulties in defecation and infrequent bowel movement in emptying the gastrointestinal system that ultimately produces hardened fecal matters, is a health concern in livestock and aging animals. The present study aimed to evaluate the potential effects of dairy-isolated lactic acid bacteria (LAB) strains to alleviate constipation as an alternative therapeutic intervention for constipation treatment in the aging model. Rats were aged via daily subcutaneous injection of D-galactose (600 mg/body weight [kg]), prior to induction of constipation via oral administration of loperamide hydrochloride (5 mg/body weight [kg]). LAB strains (L. fermentum USM 4189 or L. plantarum USM 4187) were administered daily via oral gavage (1 × 10 Log CFU/day) while the control group received sterile saline. Aged rats as shown with shorter telomere lengths exhibited increased fecal bulk and soften fecal upon administration of LAB strains amid constipation as observed using the Bristol Stool Chart, accompanied by a higher fecal moisture content as compared to the control (p < 0.05). Fecal water-soluble metabolite profiles showed a reduced concentration of threonine upon administration of LAB strains compared to the control (p < 0.05). Histopathological analysis also showed that the administration of LAB strains contributed to a higher colonic goblet cell count as compared to the control (p < 0.05). The present study illustrates the potential of dairy-sourced LAB strains as probiotics to ameliorate the adverse effect of constipation amid aging, and as a potential dietary intervention strategy for dairy foods including yogurt and cheese.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamad Hafis Jaafar
- Bioprocess Technology, School of
Industrial Technology, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang
11800, Malaysia
| | - Pei Xu
- Bioprocess Technology, School of
Industrial Technology, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang
11800, Malaysia
- Faculty of Cuisine, Sichuan Tourism
University, Chengdu 610100, China
| | - Uma-Mageswary Mageswaran
- Bioprocess Technology, School of
Industrial Technology, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang
11800, Malaysia
| | | | | | - Jia-Jie Woon
- Department of Medical Microbiology,
Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603,
Malaysia
| | - Cindy Shuan-Ju Teh
- Department of Medical Microbiology,
Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603,
Malaysia
| | - Svetoslav Dimitrov Todorov
- ProBacLab, Department of Food Science and
Experimental Nutrition, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of
Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo 05508-090, Brazil
| | | | - Guoxia Liu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Microbial
Physiological and Metabolic Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Microbial
Resources, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of
Sciences, Beijing 100864, China
- CAS-TWAS Centre of Excellence for
Biotechnology, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Min-Tze Liong
- Bioprocess Technology, School of
Industrial Technology, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang
11800, Malaysia
- Renewable Biomass Transformation
Cluster, School of Industrial Technology, Universiti Sains
Malaysia, Penang 11800, Malaysia
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6
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Frías-Álvarez P, Ortiz-Millán G. The Numbers of Animals Used in Mexico for Scientific and Educational Purposes. Altern Lab Anim 2024; 52:28-41. [PMID: 38006253 DOI: 10.1177/02611929231217033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2023]
Abstract
In Mexico, there are no official public and reliably reported data on the total number and species of non-human animals used for scientific purposes. The aim of the current study was to calculate the total numbers of animals used for scientific and educational purposes in Mexico, from January 2015 to October 2021, based on data requested from the National Institute of Transparency, Access to Information and Protection of Personal Data (INAI, in Spanish). In this period, authorised laboratory animal facilities reported the use of 5,437,263 animals for scientific and educational purposes. However, these data should be viewed with caution, since there is no official register of all Mexican institutions that use animals for these purposes. The use of various species of different taxonomic groups was reported, including mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish and invertebrates. The main scientific purposes of this animal use were: technological development; innovation; laboratory testing; production of biologicals; quality control; diagnostic purposes; basic and applied research; and education. A robust system for the licensing and approval of animal use, as well as a means to ensure compliance with the relevant regulations, are both urgently required. In addition, in order to regulate animal use, monitor animal care and protect their welfare, the creation of a publicly accessible national database that records the number and species of the animals used is imperative.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Frías-Álvarez
- Instituto de Investigaciones Filosóficas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Gustavo Ortiz-Millán
- Instituto de Investigaciones Filosóficas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
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7
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Wayland JL, Doll JR, Lawson MJ, Stankiewicz TE, Oates JR, Sawada K, Damen MSMA, Alarcon PC, Haslam DB, Trout AT, DeFranco EA, Klepper CM, Woo JG, Moreno-Fernandez ME, Mouzaki M, Divanovic S. Thermoneutral Housing Enables Studies of Vertical Transmission of Obesogenic Diet-Driven Metabolic Diseases. Nutrients 2023; 15:4958. [PMID: 38068816 PMCID: PMC10708424 DOI: 10.3390/nu15234958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2023] [Revised: 11/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Vertical transmission of obesity is a critical contributor to the unabated obesity pandemic and the associated surge in metabolic diseases. Existing experimental models insufficiently recapitulate "human-like" obesity phenotypes, limiting the discovery of how severe obesity in pregnancy instructs vertical transmission of obesity. Here, via utility of thermoneutral housing and obesogenic diet feeding coupled to syngeneic mating of WT obese female and lean male mice on a C57BL/6 background, we present a tractable, more "human-like" approach to specifically investigate how maternal obesity contributes to offspring health. Using this model, we found that maternal obesity decreased neonatal survival, increased offspring adiposity, and accelerated offspring predisposition to obesity and metabolic disease. We also show that severe maternal obesity was sufficient to skew offspring microbiome and create a proinflammatory gestational environment that correlated with inflammatory changes in the offspring in utero and adulthood. Analysis of a human birth cohort study of mothers with and without obesity and their infants was consistent with mouse study findings of maternal inflammation and offspring weight gain propensity. Together, our results show that dietary induction of obesity in female mice coupled to thermoneutral housing can be used for future mechanistic interrogations of obesity and metabolic disease in pregnancy and vertical transmission of pathogenic traits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L. Wayland
- Immunology Graduate Program, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA
- Division of Immunobiology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Jessica R. Doll
- Division of Immunobiology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Matthew J. Lawson
- Division of Immunobiology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Traci E. Stankiewicz
- Division of Immunobiology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Jarren R. Oates
- Immunology Graduate Program, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA
- Division of Immunobiology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Keisuke Sawada
- Immunology Graduate Program, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA
- Division of Immunobiology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Michelle S. M. A. Damen
- Division of Immunobiology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Pablo C. Alarcon
- Immunology Graduate Program, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA
- Division of Immunobiology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - David B. Haslam
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA
| | - Andrew T. Trout
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA
- Department of Radiology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
- Department of Radiology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA
| | - Emily A. DeFranco
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA
| | - Corie M. Klepper
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Jessica G. Woo
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA
- Division of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Maria E. Moreno-Fernandez
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Marialena Mouzaki
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Senad Divanovic
- Immunology Graduate Program, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA
- Division of Immunobiology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA
- Center for Inflammation and Tolerance, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
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8
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Hadvina R, Estes A, Liu Y. Animal Models for the Study of Keratoconus. Cells 2023; 12:2681. [PMID: 38067109 PMCID: PMC10705680 DOI: 10.3390/cells12232681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Keratoconus (KC) is characterized by localized, central thinning and cone-like protrusion of the cornea. Its precise etiology remains undetermined, although both genetic and environmental factors are known to contribute to disease susceptibility. Due to KC's complex nature, there is currently no ideal animal model to represent both the corneal phenotype and underlying pathophysiology. Attempts to establish a KC model have involved mice, rats, and rabbits, with some additional novel animals suggested. Genetic animal models have only been attempted in mice. Similarly, spontaneously occurring animal models for KC have only been discovered in mice. Models generated using chemical or environmental treatments have been attempted in mice, rats, and rabbits. Among several methods used to induce KC in animals, ultraviolet radiation exposure and treatment with collagenase are some of the most prevalent. There is a clear need for an experimental model animal to elucidate the underlying mechanisms behind the development and progression of keratoconus. An appropriate animal model could also aid in the development of treatments to slow or arrest the disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Hadvina
- Department of Cellular Biology & Anatomy, Augusta University, 1120 15th Street, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
- Center for Biotechnology and Genomic Medicine, Augusta University, 1120 15th Street, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Amy Estes
- James & Jean Culver Vision Discovery Institute, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, 1120 15th Street, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Yutao Liu
- Department of Cellular Biology & Anatomy, Augusta University, 1120 15th Street, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
- Center for Biotechnology and Genomic Medicine, Augusta University, 1120 15th Street, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
- James & Jean Culver Vision Discovery Institute, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, 1120 15th Street, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
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9
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Arnold B, Ramakrishnan R, Wright A, Wilson K, VandeVord PJ. An automated rat grimace scale for the assessment of pain. Sci Rep 2023; 13:18859. [PMID: 37914795 PMCID: PMC10620195 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-46123-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Pain is a complex neuro-psychosocial experience that is internal and private, making it difficult to assess in both humans and animals. In pain research, animal models are prominently used, with rats among the most commonly studied. The rat grimace scale (RGS) measures four facial action units to quantify the pain behaviors of rats. However, manual recording of RGS scores is a time-consuming process that requires training. While computer vision models have been developed and utilized for various grimace scales, there are currently no models for RGS. To address this gap, this study worked to develop an automated RGS system which can detect facial action units in rat images and predict RGS scores. The automated system achieved an action unit detection precision and recall of 97%. Furthermore, the action unit RGS classifiers achieved a weighted accuracy of 81-93%. The system's performance was evaluated using a blast traumatic brain injury study, where it was compared to trained human graders. The results showed an intraclass correlation coefficient of 0.82 for the total RGS score, indicating that the system was comparable to human graders. The automated tool could enhance pain research by providing a standardized and efficient method for the assessment of RGS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brendan Arnold
- School of Biomedical Engineering and Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | | | - Amirah Wright
- School of Biomedical Engineering and Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Kelsey Wilson
- School of Biomedical Engineering and Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Pamela J VandeVord
- School of Biomedical Engineering and Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA.
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salem, VA, USA.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech, 440 Kelly Hall, 325 Stanger St., Blacksburg, VA, 24060, USA.
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10
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Buchanan LM, Domingo MJ, White SE, Vanoven TN, Karbasion N, Bersi MR, Pence IJ, Florian-Rodriguez M, Miller KS. Advances in vaginal bioengineering: Applications, techniques, and needs. Curr Res Physiol 2023; 6:100111. [PMID: 38107786 PMCID: PMC10724214 DOI: 10.1016/j.crphys.2023.100111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Lily M. Buchanan
- University of Texas at Dallas, Department of Bioengineering, 800 W. Campbell Rd, Richardson, TX, 75080, USA
| | - Mari J.E. Domingo
- Tulane University, Department of Biomedical Engineering, 6823 St. Charles Ave, New Orleans, LA, 70118, USA
| | - Shelby E. White
- Tulane University, Department of Biomedical Engineering, 6823 St. Charles Ave, New Orleans, LA, 70118, USA
| | - Triniti N. Vanoven
- University of Texas at Dallas, Department of Bioengineering, 800 W. Campbell Rd, Richardson, TX, 75080, USA
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Department of Biomedical Engineering, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
| | - Niyousha Karbasion
- Washington University at St. Louis, Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, 1 Brookings Dr, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Matthew R. Bersi
- Washington University at St. Louis, Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, 1 Brookings Dr, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Isaac J. Pence
- University of Texas at Dallas, Department of Bioengineering, 800 W. Campbell Rd, Richardson, TX, 75080, USA
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Department of Biomedical Engineering, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Charles and Jane Pak Center for Mineral Metabolism and Clinical Research, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Department of Internal Medicine, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
| | - Maria Florian-Rodriguez
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Cecil H. and Ida Green Center for Reproductive Biology Sciences, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
| | - Kristin S. Miller
- University of Texas at Dallas, Department of Bioengineering, 800 W. Campbell Rd, Richardson, TX, 75080, USA
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Department of Biomedical Engineering, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA
- University of Texas at Dallas, Department of Mechanical Engineering, 800 W. Campbell Rd, Richardson, TX, 75080, USA
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11
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Lang B, Kahnau P, Hohlbaum K, Mieske P, Andresen NP, Boon MN, Thöne-Reineke C, Lewejohann L, Diederich K. Challenges and advanced concepts for the assessment of learning and memory function in mice. Front Behav Neurosci 2023; 17:1230082. [PMID: 37809039 PMCID: PMC10551171 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2023.1230082] [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: 05/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The mechanisms underlying the formation and retrieval of memories are still an active area of research and discussion. Manifold models have been proposed and refined over the years, with most assuming a dichotomy between memory processes involving non-conscious and conscious mechanisms. Despite our incomplete understanding of the underlying mechanisms, tests of memory and learning count among the most performed behavioral experiments. Here, we will discuss available protocols for testing learning and memory using the example of the most prevalent animal species in research, the laboratory mouse. A wide range of protocols has been developed in mice to test, e.g., object recognition, spatial learning, procedural memory, sequential problem solving, operant- and fear conditioning, and social recognition. Those assays are carried out with individual subjects in apparatuses such as arenas and mazes, which allow for a high degree of standardization across laboratories and straightforward data interpretation but are not without caveats and limitations. In animal research, there is growing concern about the translatability of study results and animal welfare, leading to novel approaches beyond established protocols. Here, we present some of the more recent developments and more advanced concepts in learning and memory testing, such as multi-step sequential lockboxes, assays involving groups of animals, as well as home cage-based assays supported by automated tracking solutions; and weight their potential and limitations against those of established paradigms. Shifting the focus of learning tests from the classical experimental chamber to settings which are more natural for rodents comes with a new set of challenges for behavioral researchers, but also offers the opportunity to understand memory formation and retrieval in a more conclusive way than has been attainable with conventional test protocols. We predict and embrace an increase in studies relying on methods involving a higher degree of automatization, more naturalistic- and home cage-based experimental setting as well as more integrated learning tasks in the future. We are confident these trends are suited to alleviate the burden on animal subjects and improve study designs in memory research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Lang
- Animal Behavior and Laboratory Animal Science, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Institute for Animal Welfare, Free University of Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Science of Intelligence, Research Cluster of Excellence, Berlin, Germany
| | - Pia Kahnau
- Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR), Berlin, Germany
| | - Katharina Hohlbaum
- Science of Intelligence, Research Cluster of Excellence, Berlin, Germany
- Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR), Berlin, Germany
| | - Paul Mieske
- Animal Behavior and Laboratory Animal Science, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Institute for Animal Welfare, Free University of Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Science of Intelligence, Research Cluster of Excellence, Berlin, Germany
- Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR), Berlin, Germany
| | - Niek P. Andresen
- Science of Intelligence, Research Cluster of Excellence, Berlin, Germany
- Computer Vision and Remote Sensing, Technical University Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Marcus N. Boon
- Science of Intelligence, Research Cluster of Excellence, Berlin, Germany
- Modeling of Cognitive Processes, Technical University of Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Christa Thöne-Reineke
- Animal Behavior and Laboratory Animal Science, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Institute for Animal Welfare, Free University of Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Science of Intelligence, Research Cluster of Excellence, Berlin, Germany
| | - Lars Lewejohann
- Animal Behavior and Laboratory Animal Science, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Institute for Animal Welfare, Free University of Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Science of Intelligence, Research Cluster of Excellence, Berlin, Germany
- Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR), Berlin, Germany
| | - Kai Diederich
- Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR), Berlin, Germany
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12
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Gaspar L, Bartman S, Coppotelli G, Ross JM. Effect of apparatus characteristics on anxiety-like behavior in young adult and old mice of both sexes assessed by the elevated plus maze assay. Front Behav Neurosci 2023; 17:1182661. [PMID: 37638110 PMCID: PMC10450508 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2023.1182661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Incidence of anxiety-like disorders in humans has been shown to decrease with aging; however, it is still under debate whether there are similarities in mice, which would support the use of mouse models in understanding the neuronal network changes that regulate anxiety-like behavior in aging. One of the most common tests used to assess anxiety-like behavior in laboratory animals is the elevated plus maze (EPM). Although several variables, such as room brightness and width of the maze arms, have been shown to influence the spontaneous animal behavior during the EPM test, none of these variables have ever been evaluated in aging to understand their possible differential effect on younger and older mice. We therefore decided to investigate the effect of apparatus construction on young adult and old mice of both sexes on EPM test performance. Our results show that distance traveled during the test is the variable that is most affected by apparatus characteristics independent of age and sex. We also found that apparatus construction was key in demonstrating that old mice spent more time and had relatively more entries in the open arms as compared to young mice, suggesting a decrease in anxiety-like behavior with age. Taken together, our data demonstrate that EPM apparatus characteristics dramatically affect test outcome with a wider arm apparatus being more effective in revealing age-dependent changes in anxiety-like behavior, thus, suggesting the use of a wider arm EPM when conducting aging studies in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Gaspar
- George and Anne Ryan Institute for Neuroscience, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI, United States
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI, United States
| | - Sydney Bartman
- George and Anne Ryan Institute for Neuroscience, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI, United States
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI, United States
| | - Giuseppe Coppotelli
- George and Anne Ryan Institute for Neuroscience, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI, United States
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI, United States
| | - Jaime M. Ross
- George and Anne Ryan Institute for Neuroscience, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI, United States
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI, United States
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13
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Fadilah NIM, Phang SJ, Kamaruzaman N, Salleh A, Zawani M, Sanyal A, Maarof M, Fauzi MB. Antioxidant Biomaterials in Cutaneous Wound Healing and Tissue Regeneration: A Critical Review. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:antiox12040787. [PMID: 37107164 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12040787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2022] [Revised: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural-based biomaterials play an important role in developing new products for medical applications, primarily in cutaneous injuries. A large panel of biomaterials with antioxidant properties has revealed an advancement in supporting and expediting tissue regeneration. However, their low bioavailability in preventing cellular oxidative stress through the delivery system limits their therapeutic activity at the injury site. The integration of antioxidant compounds in the implanted biomaterial should be able to maintain their antioxidant activity while facilitating skin tissue recovery. This review summarises the recent literature that reported the role of natural antioxidant-incorporated biomaterials in promoting skin wound healing and tissue regeneration, which is supported by evidence from in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies. Antioxidant-based therapies for wound healing have shown promising evidence in numerous animal studies, even though clinical studies remain very limited. We also described the underlying mechanism of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and provided a comprehensive review of ROS-scavenging biomaterials found in the literature in the last six years.
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14
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Al-Manei K, Jia L, Al-Manei KK, Ndanshau EL, Grigoriadis A, Kumar A. Food Hardness Modulates Behavior, Cognition, and Brain Activation: A Systematic Review of Animal and Human Studies. Nutrients 2023; 15:nu15051168. [PMID: 36904167 PMCID: PMC10005610 DOI: 10.3390/nu15051168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Food hardness is one of the dietary features that may impact brain functions. We performed a systematic review to evaluate the effect of food hardness (hard food versus soft food diet) on behavior, cognition, and brain activation in animals and humans (PROSPERO ID: CRD42021254204). The search was conducted on 29 June 2022 using Medline (Ovid), Embase, and Web of Science databases. Data were extracted, tabulated by food hardness as an intervention, and summarized by qualitative synthesis. The SYRCLE and JBI tools were used to assess the risk of bias (RoB) of individual studies. Of the 5427 studies identified, 18 animal studies and 6 human studies met the inclusion criteria and were included. The RoB assessment indicated that 61% of animal studies had unclear risks, 11% had moderate risks, and 28% had low risks. All human studies were deemed to have a low risk of bias. The majority (48%) of the animal studies showed that a hard food diet improved behavioral task performance compared to soft food diets (8%). However, 44% of studies also showed no differential effects of food hardness on behavioral tests. It was also evident that certain regions of the brain were activated in response to changes in food hardness in humans, with a positive association between chewing hard food, cognition performance, and brain function. However, variations in the methodologies of the included studies hindered the meta-analysis execution. In conclusion, our findings highlight the beneficial effects of dietary food hardness on behavior, cognition, and brain function in both animals and humans, however, this effect may depend on several factors that require further understanding of the causality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khaled Al-Manei
- Division of Oral Diagnostics and Rehabilitation, Department of Dental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, 141 04 Huddinge, Sweden
- Division of Endodontics, Department of Restorative Dental Science, College of Dentistry, King Saud University, Riyadh 11545, Saudi Arabia
| | - Leming Jia
- Division of Oral Diagnostics and Rehabilitation, Department of Dental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, 141 04 Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Kholod Khalil Al-Manei
- Division of Endodontics, Department of Restorative Dental Science, College of Dentistry, King Saud University, Riyadh 11545, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Anastasios Grigoriadis
- Division of Oral Diagnostics and Rehabilitation, Department of Dental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, 141 04 Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Abhishek Kumar
- Division of Oral Diagnostics and Rehabilitation, Department of Dental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, 141 04 Huddinge, Sweden
- Academic Center for Geriatric Dentistry, 112 19 Stockholm, Sweden
- Correspondence:
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15
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Balitaan JNI, Luo WJ, Su YW, Yu CY, Wu TY, Chang CA, Jia HW, Lin SR, Hsiao CD, Yeh JM. Healing Wounds Efficiently with Biomimetic Soft Matter: Injectable Self-Healing Neutral Glycol Chitosan/Dibenzaldehyde-Terminated Poly(ethylene glycol) Hydrogel with Inherent Antibacterial Properties. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2023; 6:552-565. [PMID: 36759183 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.2c00859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
The high prevalence of acquiring skin wounds, along with the emergence of antibiotic-resistant strains that lead to infections, impose a threat to the physical, mental, and socioeconomic health of society. Among the wide array of wound dressings developed, hydrogels are regarded as a biomimetic soft matter of choice owing to their ability to provide a moist environment ideal for healing. Herein, neutral glycol chitosan (GC) was cross-linked via imine bonds with varying concentrations of dibenzaldehyde-terminated polyethylene glycol (DP) to give glycol chitosan/dibenzaldehyde-terminated polyethylene glycol hydrogels (GC/DP). These dynamic Schiff base linkages (absorption peak at 1638 cm-1) within the hydrogel structure endowed their ability to recover from damage as characterized by high-low strain exposure in continuous step strain rheology. Along with their good injectability and biodegradability, the hydrogels exhibited remarkable inhibition against E. coli, P. aeruginosa, and S. aureus. GC/DP hydrogels demonstrated high LC50 values in vivo using zebrafish embryos as a model system due to their relative biocompatibility and a remarkable 93.4 ± 0.88% wound contraction at 30-dpw against 49.1 ± 3.40% of the control. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study that developed injectable glycol chitosan/dibenzaldehyde-terminated polyethylene glycol self-healing hydrogels for application in wound healing with intrinsic bacteriostatic properties against the three bacteria.
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16
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Graphene-Based Materials in Dental Applications: Antibacterial, Biocompatible, and Bone Regenerative Properties. Int J Biomater 2023; 2023:8803283. [PMID: 36819211 PMCID: PMC9929215 DOI: 10.1155/2023/8803283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Graphene-based materials have been shown to have advantageous properties in biomedical and dental applications due to their high mechanical, physiochemical, antibacterial, and stem cell differentiating properties. Although graphene-based materials have displayed appropriate biocompatible properties when used in implant materials for orthopedic applications, little research has been performed to specifically test the biocompatibility of graphene for dental applications. The oral environment, compared to the body, varies greatly and must be considered when evaluating biocompatibility requirements for dental applications. This review will discuss in vitro and in vivo studies that assess graphene's cytotoxicity, antibacterial properties, and cell differentiation ability to evaluate the overall biocompatibility of graphene-based materials for dental applications. Particle shape, size, and concentration were found to be major factors that affected overall biocompatibility of graphene.
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17
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Wölfl S, Zala SM, Penn DJ. Male scent but not courtship vocalizations induce estrus in wild female house mice. Physiol Behav 2023; 259:114053. [PMID: 36502894 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2022.114053] [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: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Exposure to males or male urinary scent can induce and accelerate the rate of female estrous cycling in house mice ("Whitten effect"), and this response has been replicated many times since its discovery over 60 years ago. Here, we tested whether exposing female mice to recordings of male courtship ultrasonic vocalizations (USVs) induces estrous cycling, and whether exposure to both male scent and USVs has a stronger effect than to either of these stimuli alone. We conducted our study with 60 wild-derived female house mice (Mus musculus musculus). After singly housing females for 14 days, we monitored estrous stages via vaginal cytology for two weeks while isolated from males or male stimuli. We continued monitoring estrus for two more weeks during experimental exposure to one of four different types of stimuli: (1) clean bedding and background noise playback (negative control); (2) recordings of male USVs (16 min per day) and clean bedding (male USV treatment); (3) soiled male bedding and background noise playback (male odor treatment; positive control); or (4) male USVs and soiled male bedding (male odor and USV treatment). Females were then paired with males to test whether any of the four treatments influenced female reproduction (especially latency to birth). We confirmed that exposure to male odor increased female cycling, as expected, but exposure to recordings of male USVs had no effect on estrus. Females exposed to both USVs and odor went through more cycles compared to controls, but did not differ significantly from exposure to male odor (and background noise). After pairing females with a male, females showing male odor-induced cycling produced their first litter sooner than controls, whereas USVs did not have such an effect. This is the first study to our knowledge to show that male odor induces estrus in wild house mice and to show functional effects on reproduction. Our results do not support the hypothesis that male vocalizations induce female estrus, although we suggest other approaches that could be used to further test this hypothesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Wölfl
- Konrad Lorenz Institute of Ethology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Savoyenstrasse 1a, 1160, Vienna, Austria
| | - Sarah M Zala
- Konrad Lorenz Institute of Ethology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Savoyenstrasse 1a, 1160, Vienna, Austria
| | - Dustin J Penn
- Konrad Lorenz Institute of Ethology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Savoyenstrasse 1a, 1160, Vienna, Austria.
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18
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Clubb JHA, Kudling TV, Girych M, Haybout L, Pakola S, Hamdan F, Cervera-Carrascon V, Hemmes A, Grönberg-Vähä-Koskela S, Santos JM, Quixabeira DCA, Basnet S, Heiniö C, Arias V, Jirovec E, Kaptan S, Havunen R, Sorsa S, Erikat A, Schwartz J, Anttila M, Aro K, Viitala T, Vattulainen I, Cerullo V, Kanerva A, Hemminki A. Development of a Syrian hamster anti-PD-L1 monoclonal antibody enables oncolytic adenoviral immunotherapy modelling in an immunocompetent virus replication permissive setting. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1060540. [PMID: 36817448 PMCID: PMC9936529 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1060540] [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: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have revolutionized the treatment of cancer, but preclinical testing of hypotheses such as combination therapies has been complicated, in part due to species incompatibility issues. For example, one of few known permissive animal models for oncolytic adenoviruses is the Syrian hamster, for which an ICI, mainly an anti-PD-L1 monoclonal antibody (mAb) was not previously available. In this study, we developed an anti-Syrian hamster PD-L1 mAb to enable the evaluation of safety and efficacy, when combining anti-PD-L1 with an oncolytic adenovirus encoding tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) and interleukin-2 (IL-2) (Ad5/3-E2F-D24-hTNFα-IRES-hIL-2 or TILT-123). Methods Recombinant Syrian hamster PD-L1 was expressed and mice immunized for mAb formation using hybridoma technology. Clonal selection through binding and functional studies in vitro, in silico and in vivo identified anti-PD-L1 clone 11B12-1 as the primary mAb candidate for immunotherapy modelling. The oncolytic virus (OV) and ICI combination approach was then evaluated using 11B12-1 and TILT-123 in a Syrian hamster model of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Results Supernatants from hybridoma parent subclone 11B12B4 provided the highest positive PD-L1 signal, on Syrian hamster PBMCs and three cancer cell lines (HT100, HapT1 and HCPC1). In vitro co-cultures revealed superior immune modulated profiles of cell line matched HT100 tumour infiltrating lymphocytes when using subclones of 7G2, 11B12 and 12F1. Epitope binning and epitope prediction using AlphaFold2 and ColabFold revealed two distinct functional epitopes for clone 11B12-1 and 12F1-1. Treatment of Syrian hamsters bearing HapT1 tumours, with 11B12-1 induced significantly better (p<0.05) tumour growth control than isotype control by day 12. 12F1-1 did not induce significant tumour growth control. The combination of 11B12-1 with oncolytic adenovirus TILT-123 improved tumour growth control further, when compared to monotherapy (p<0.05) by day 26. Conclusions Novel Syrian hamster anti-PD-L1 clone 11B12-1 induces tumour growth control in a hamster model of PDAC. Combining 11B12-1 with oncolytic adenovirus TILT-123 improves tumour growth control further and demonstrates good safety and toxicity profiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- James H A Clubb
- Cancer Gene Therapy Group, Translational Immunology Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,R&D Department, TILT Biotherapeutics Ltd, Helsinki, Finland.,Research Program Unit (RPU), University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Tatiana V Kudling
- Cancer Gene Therapy Group, Translational Immunology Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Research Program Unit (RPU), University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Mykhailo Girych
- Department of Physics, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Lyna Haybout
- Cancer Gene Therapy Group, Translational Immunology Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Research Program Unit (RPU), University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Santeri Pakola
- Cancer Gene Therapy Group, Translational Immunology Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Research Program Unit (RPU), University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Firas Hamdan
- Laboratory of ImmunoViroTherapy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Drug Research Program, Division of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Víctor Cervera-Carrascon
- Cancer Gene Therapy Group, Translational Immunology Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,R&D Department, TILT Biotherapeutics Ltd, Helsinki, Finland.,Research Program Unit (RPU), University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Annabrita Hemmes
- Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland (FIMM), Helsinki Institute of Life Sciences (HiLIFE), University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Susanna Grönberg-Vähä-Koskela
- Cancer Gene Therapy Group, Translational Immunology Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Research Program Unit (RPU), University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - João Manuel Santos
- Cancer Gene Therapy Group, Translational Immunology Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,R&D Department, TILT Biotherapeutics Ltd, Helsinki, Finland.,Research Program Unit (RPU), University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Dafne C A Quixabeira
- Cancer Gene Therapy Group, Translational Immunology Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,R&D Department, TILT Biotherapeutics Ltd, Helsinki, Finland.,Research Program Unit (RPU), University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Saru Basnet
- Cancer Gene Therapy Group, Translational Immunology Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Research Program Unit (RPU), University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Camilla Heiniö
- Cancer Gene Therapy Group, Translational Immunology Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Research Program Unit (RPU), University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Victor Arias
- Cancer Gene Therapy Group, Translational Immunology Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Research Program Unit (RPU), University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Elise Jirovec
- Cancer Gene Therapy Group, Translational Immunology Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Research Program Unit (RPU), University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Shreyas Kaptan
- Department of Physics, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Riikka Havunen
- Cancer Gene Therapy Group, Translational Immunology Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,R&D Department, TILT Biotherapeutics Ltd, Helsinki, Finland.,Research Program Unit (RPU), University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Suvi Sorsa
- Cancer Gene Therapy Group, Translational Immunology Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,R&D Department, TILT Biotherapeutics Ltd, Helsinki, Finland.,Research Program Unit (RPU), University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Abdullah Erikat
- Department of Chemistry and the Randall Centre for Cell and Molecular Biophysics, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Joel Schwartz
- Chicago Department of Oral Medicine and Diagnostic Science, University of Illinois, Chicago, IL, United States
| | | | - Katri Aro
- Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland.,Department of Otorhinolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Helsinki Head and Neck Center, Helsinki University Hospital and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Tapani Viitala
- Drug Research Program, Division of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Ilpo Vattulainen
- Department of Physics, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Vincenzo Cerullo
- Laboratory of ImmunoViroTherapy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Drug Research Program, Division of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Anna Kanerva
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Helsinki University Hospital and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Akseli Hemminki
- Cancer Gene Therapy Group, Translational Immunology Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,R&D Department, TILT Biotherapeutics Ltd, Helsinki, Finland.,Research Program Unit (RPU), University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
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19
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Dual-Use Vaccine for Diarrhoeal Diseases: Cross-Protective Immunogenicity of a Cold-Chain-Free, Live-Attenuated, Oral Cholera Vaccine against Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) Challenge in BALB/c Mice. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:vaccines10122161. [PMID: 36560571 PMCID: PMC9787504 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10122161] [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: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
In low- and middle-income countries, diarrhoeal diseases are the second most common cause of mortality in children, mainly caused by enterotoxin-producing bacteria, such as Shigella, Vibrio, Salmonella, and Escherichia coli. Cholera and traveller's diarrhoea are caused by Vibrio cholerae (O1 and O139 serogroups) and enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC), respectively. The cholera toxin (CT) produced by V. cholerae and the heat-labile enterotoxin (LT) of ETEC are closely related by structure, function, and the immunological response to them. There is no exclusive vaccine for ETEC; however, cholera vaccines based on the CT-B component elicit a short-term cross-protection against ETEC infection. In this context, the cross-protective efficacy of MyCholTM, a prototype cold-chain-free, live-attenuated, oral cholera vaccine against V. cholerae O139 was evaluated in BALB/c mice. The 100% lethal dose (LD100) of 109 CFU/mL of the ETEC H10407 strain was used for the challenge studies. The mice immunised with MyChol™ survived the challenge by producing anti-CT antibodies, which cross-neutralised the LT toxin with no body weight loss and no sign of diarrhoea. Compared to unimmunised mice, the immunised mice elicited the neutralising antitoxin that markedly decreased ETEC colonisation and fluid accumulation caused by ETEC H10407 in the intestines. The immunised mice recorded higher antibody titres, including anti-CT IgG, anti-LT IgG, anti-CT-B IgG, and anti-LTB IgG. Only a two-fold rise in anti-CT/CT-B/LT/LT-B IgA was recorded in serum samples from immunised mice. No bactericidal antibodies against ETEC H10407 were detected. This investigation demonstrates the safety, immunogenicity, and cross-protective efficacy of MyCholTM against the ETEC H10407 challenge in BALB/c mice.
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20
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Barton TE, Frost F, Fothergill JL, Neill DR. Challenges and opportunities in the development of novel antimicrobial therapeutics for cystic fibrosis. J Med Microbiol 2022; 71. [PMID: 36748497 DOI: 10.1099/jmm.0.001643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic respiratory infection is the primary driver of mortality in individuals with cystic fibrosis (CF). Existing drug screening models utilised in preclinical antimicrobial development are unable to mimic the complex CF respiratory environment. Consequently, antimicrobials showing promising activity in preclinical models often fail to translate through to clinical efficacy in people with CF. Model systems used in CF anti-infective drug discovery and development range from antimicrobial susceptibility testing in nutrient broth, through to 2D and 3D in vitro tissue culture systems and in vivo models. No single model fully recapitulates every key aspect of the CF lung. To improve the outcomes of people with CF (PwCF) it is necessary to develop a set of preclinical models that collectively recapitulate the CF respiratory environment to a high degree of accuracy. Models must be validated for their ability to mimic aspects of the CF lung and associated lung infection, through evaluation of biomarkers that can also be assessed following treatment in the clinic. This will give preclinical models greater predictive power for identification of antimicrobials with clinical efficacy. The landscape of CF is changing, with the advent of modulator therapies that correct the function of the CFTR protein, while antivirulence drugs and phage therapy are emerging alternative treatments to chronic infection. This review discusses the challenges faced in current antimicrobial development pipelines, including the advantages and disadvantages of current preclinical models and the impact of emerging treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas E Barton
- Department of Clinical Infection, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Liverpool, Ronald Ross Building, 8 West Derby Street, Liverpool, L69 7BE, UK
| | - Frederick Frost
- Adult Cystic Fibrosis Centre, Liverpool Heart & Chest Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK.,Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Joanne L Fothergill
- Department of Clinical Infection, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Liverpool, Ronald Ross Building, 8 West Derby Street, Liverpool, L69 7BE, UK
| | - Daniel R Neill
- Department of Clinical Infection, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Liverpool, Ronald Ross Building, 8 West Derby Street, Liverpool, L69 7BE, UK
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21
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Carrageta DF, Guerra-Carvalho B, Spadella MA, Yeste M, Oliveira PF, Alves MG. Animal models of male reproductive ageing to study testosterone production and spermatogenesis. Rev Endocr Metab Disord 2022; 23:1341-1360. [PMID: 35604584 DOI: 10.1007/s11154-022-09726-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Ageing is the time-dependent gradual decline of the functional characteristics in an organism. It has been shown that it results in the loss of reproductive health and fertility. The age-dependent decline of fertility is a potential issue as the parenthood age is increasing in Western countries, mostly due to socioeconomic factors. In comparison to women, for whom the consequences of ageing are well documented and general awareness of the population is extensively raised, the effects of ageing for male fertility and the consequences of advanced paternal age for the offspring have not been widely studied. Studies with humans are welcome but it is hard to implement relevant experimental approaches to unveil the molecular mechanisms by which ageing affects male reproductive potential. Animal models have thus been extensively used. These models are advantageous due to their reduced costs, general easy maintenance in laboratory facilities, rigorous manipulation tools, short lifespan, known genetic backgrounds, and reduced ethical constraints. Herein, we discuss animal models for the study of male reproductive ageing. The most well-known and studied reproductive ageing models are rodents and non-human primates. The data collected from these models, particularly studies on testicular ageing, steroidogenesis, and genetic and epigenetic changes in spermatogenesis are detailed. Notably, some species challenge the currently accepted ageing theories and the concept of senescence itself, which renders them interesting animal models for the study of male reproductive ageing.
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Affiliation(s)
- David F Carrageta
- Clinical and Experimental Endocrinology, UMIB - Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine, ICBAS - School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal
- Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health (ITR), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Bárbara Guerra-Carvalho
- Clinical and Experimental Endocrinology, UMIB - Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine, ICBAS - School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal
- Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health (ITR), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Chemistry, QOPNA & LAQV, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
- Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Coimbra, Calçada Martim de Freitas, 3000-456, Coimbra, Portugal
| | | | - Marc Yeste
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, ES-17003, Girona, Spain
- Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, ES-17003, Girona, Spain
| | - Pedro F Oliveira
- Department of Chemistry, QOPNA & LAQV, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Marco G Alves
- Clinical and Experimental Endocrinology, UMIB - Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine, ICBAS - School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal.
- Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health (ITR), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, ES-17003, Girona, Spain.
- Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, ES-17003, Girona, Spain.
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22
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Masoli S, Rizza MF, Tognolina M, Prestori F, D’Angelo E. Computational models of neurotransmission at cerebellar synapses unveil the impact on network computation. Front Comput Neurosci 2022; 16:1006989. [PMID: 36387305 PMCID: PMC9649760 DOI: 10.3389/fncom.2022.1006989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The neuroscientific field benefits from the conjoint evolution of experimental and computational techniques, allowing for the reconstruction and simulation of complex models of neurons and synapses. Chemical synapses are characterized by presynaptic vesicle cycling, neurotransmitter diffusion, and postsynaptic receptor activation, which eventually lead to postsynaptic currents and subsequent membrane potential changes. These mechanisms have been accurately modeled for different synapses and receptor types (AMPA, NMDA, and GABA) of the cerebellar cortical network, allowing simulation of their impact on computation. Of special relevance is short-term synaptic plasticity, which generates spatiotemporal filtering in local microcircuits and controls burst transmission and information flow through the network. Here, we present how data-driven computational models recapitulate the properties of neurotransmission at cerebellar synapses. The simulation of microcircuit models is starting to reveal how diverse synaptic mechanisms shape the spatiotemporal profiles of circuit activity and computation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Masoli
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | | | | | - Francesca Prestori
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- *Correspondence: Francesca Prestori,
| | - Egidio D’Angelo
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Brain Connectivity Center, Pavia, Italy
- Egidio D’Angelo,
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23
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Cho HW, Seo K, Jeong JY, Chun JL, Kim KH. Evaluating sulfoxaflor residues in pig tissues using animal modeling. JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY 2022; 64:911-921. [PMID: 36287781 PMCID: PMC9574612 DOI: 10.5187/jast.2022.e67] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Revised: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Maximum residue limits (MRL) for pesticides in feed have been set to protect public health and produce safe livestock products. In vivo experiments to establish MRL are essential, as livestock are commonly used to obtain reliable In vivo quantitative information. Here, we aimed to evaluate whether small laboratory animals can replace or reduce monogastric livestock in experiments to quantify pesticide residues In vivo after oral consumption through feed. First, 24 pigs and rats were randomly assigned to four groups and fed 0, 3, 9, or 30 mg/kg of sulfoxaflor. After four weeks, serum, muscle, fat, liver, kidney, and small intestine samples were collected, and sulfoxaflor residues were analyzed using liquid chromatography - tandem mass spectrometry. Sulfoxaflor residues in pig tissues were significantly correlated with those in rat tissues. Model equations were formulated based on the residual sulfoxaflor amount in pig and rat tissues. The calculated and measured sulfoxaflor residues in pigs and rats showed more than 90% similarity. Sulfoxaflor did not affect body weight gain, feed intake, or the feed conversion ratio. Therefore, we concluded that pesticide residue quantification in vivo to establish MRL could be performed using small laboratory animals instead of livestock animals. This would contribute to obtaining In vivo pesticide residue information and reducing large-scale livestock animal experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun-Woo Cho
- National Institute of Animal Science,
Rural Development Administration, Wanju 55365, Korea
| | - Kangmin Seo
- National Institute of Animal Science,
Rural Development Administration, Wanju 55365, Korea
| | - Jin Young Jeong
- National Institute of Animal Science,
Rural Development Administration, Wanju 55365, Korea
| | - Ju Lan Chun
- National Institute of Animal Science,
Rural Development Administration, Wanju 55365, Korea.,Corresponding author Ju Lan Chun,
National Institute of Animal Science, Rural Development Administration, Wanju
55365, Korea. Tel: +82-63-238-7053, E-mail:
| | - Ki Hyun Kim
- National Institute of Animal Science,
Rural Development Administration, Wanju 55365, Korea.,Corresponding author Ki Hyun Kim,
National Institute of Animal Science, Rural Development Administration, Wanju
55365, Korea. Tel: +82-63-238-7052, E-mail:
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24
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Effects of Metformin on Bone Mineral Density and Adiposity-Associated Pathways in Animal Models with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11144193. [PMID: 35887957 PMCID: PMC9323116 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11144193] [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: 05/26/2022] [Revised: 07/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Recently, there have been investigations on metformin (Met) as a potential treatment for bone diseases such as osteoporosis, as researchers have outlined that type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) poses an increased risk of fractures. Hence, this systematic review was conducted according to the 2020 PRISMA guidelines to evaluate the evidence that supports the bone-protective effects of metformin on male animal models with T2DM. Five databases—Google Scholar, PubMed, Wiley Online Library, SCOPUS, and ScienceDirect—were used to search for original randomized controlled trials published in English with relevant keywords. The search identified 18 articles that matched the inclusion criteria and illustrated the effects of Met on bone. This study demonstrates that Met improved bone density and reduced the effects of T2DM on adiposity formation in the animal models. Further research is needed to pinpoint the optimal dosage of Met required to exhibit these therapeutic effects.
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25
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S. Aljaser F. Cryopreservation Methods and Frontiers in the Art of Freezing Life in Animal Models. Vet Med Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.5772/intechopen.101750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
The development in cryobiology in animal breeding had revolutionized the field of reproductive medicine. The main objective to preserve animal germplasm stems from variety of reasons such as conservation of endangered animal species, animal diversity, and an increased demand of animal models and/or genetically modified animals for research involving animal and human diseases. Cryopreservation has emerged as promising technique for fertility preservation and assisted reproduction techniques (ART) for production of animal breeds and genetically engineered animal species for research. Slow rate freezing and rapid freezing/vitrification are the two main methods of cryopreservation. Slow freezing is characterized by the phase transition (liquid turning into solid) when reducing the temperature below freezing point. Vitrification, on the other hand, is a phenomenon in which liquid solidifies without the formation of ice crystals, thus the process is referred to as a glass transition or ice-free cryopreservation. The vitrification protocol applies high concentrations of cryoprotective agents (CPA) used to avoid cryoinjury. This chapter provides a brief overview of fundamentals of cryopreservation and established methods adopted in cryopreservation. Strategies involved in cryopreserving germ cells (sperm and egg freezing) are included in this chapter. Last section describes the frontiers and advancement of cryopreservation in some of the important animal models like rodents (mouse and rats) and in few large animals (sheep, cow etc).
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26
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Stenger S, Grasshoff H, Hundt JE, Lange T. Potential effects of shift work on skin autoimmune diseases. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1000951. [PMID: 36865523 PMCID: PMC9972893 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1000951] [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: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Shift work is associated with systemic chronic inflammation, impaired host and tumor defense and dysregulated immune responses to harmless antigens such as allergens or auto-antigens. Thus, shift workers are at higher risk to develop a systemic autoimmune disease and circadian disruption with sleep impairment seem to be the key underlying mechanisms. Presumably, disturbances of the sleep-wake cycle also drive skin-specific autoimmune diseases, but epidemiological and experimental evidence so far is scarce. This review summarizes the effects of shift work, circadian misalignment, poor sleep, and the effect of potential hormonal mediators such as stress mediators or melatonin on skin barrier functions and on innate and adaptive skin immunity. Human studies as well as animal models were considered. We will also address advantages and potential pitfalls in animal models of shift work, and possible confounders that could drive skin autoimmune diseases in shift workers such as adverse lifestyle habits and psychosocial influences. Finally, we will outline feasible countermeasures that may reduce the risk of systemic and skin autoimmunity in shift workers, as well as treatment options and highlight outstanding questions that should be addressed in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Stenger
- Lübeck Institute of Experimental Dermatology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Hanna Grasshoff
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Jennifer Elisabeth Hundt
- Lübeck Institute of Experimental Dermatology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany.,Center for Research on Inflammation of the Skin, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Tanja Lange
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany.,Center for Research on Inflammation of the Skin, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany.,Center of Brain, Behavior and Metabolism (CBBM), University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
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27
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Buckinx A, Van Schuerbeek A, Bossuyt J, Allaoui W, Van Den Herrewegen Y, Smolders I, De Bundel D. Exploring Refinement Strategies for Single Housing of Male C57BL/6JRj Mice: Effect of Cage Divider on Stress-Related Behavior and Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal-Axis Activity. Front Behav Neurosci 2021; 15:743959. [PMID: 34776890 PMCID: PMC8581484 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2021.743959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Single housing of laboratory mice is a common practice to meet experimental needs, or to avoid intermale aggression. However, single housing is considered to negatively affect animal welfare and may compromise the scientific validity of experiments. The aim of this study was to investigate whether the use of a cage with a cage divider, which avoids physical contact between mice while maintaining sensory contact, may be a potential refinement strategy for experiments in which group housing of mice is not possible. Methods: Eight-week-old male C57BL/6JRj mice were single housed, pair housed or pair housed with a cage divider for four (experiment 1) or ten (experiment 2) weeks, after which we performed an open field test, Y-maze spontaneous alternation test, elevated plus maze test, an auditory fear conditioning task, and assessed responsiveness of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. Results: Housing conditions did not affect body weight, exploratory activity, anxiety, working memory, fear memory processing or markers for HPA-axis functioning in either experiment 1 or experiment 2. There was an increased distance traveled in mice housed with a cage divider compared to pair housed mice after 4 weeks, and after 10 weeks mice housed with a cage divider made significantly more arm entries in the Y-maze spontaneous alternation test. Conclusion: Taken together, our study did not provide evidence for robust differences in exploratory activity, anxiety, working memory and fear memory processing in male C57BL/6JRj mice that were single housed, pair housed or pair housed with a cage divider.
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Affiliation(s)
- An Buckinx
- Research Group Experimental Pharmacology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Center for Neurosciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Andries Van Schuerbeek
- Research Group Experimental Pharmacology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Center for Neurosciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jo Bossuyt
- Research Group Experimental Pharmacology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Center for Neurosciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Wissal Allaoui
- Research Group Experimental Pharmacology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Center for Neurosciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Yana Van Den Herrewegen
- Research Group Experimental Pharmacology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Center for Neurosciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Ilse Smolders
- Research Group Experimental Pharmacology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Center for Neurosciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Dimitri De Bundel
- Research Group Experimental Pharmacology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Center for Neurosciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
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28
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Udayakumar P, Das R, Kannadasan A. Significance of probiotics in remodeling the gut consortium to enhance the immunity of Caenorhabditis elegans. Genesis 2021; 59:e23454. [PMID: 34664387 DOI: 10.1002/dvg.23454] [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: 08/09/2021] [Revised: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
In the recent past, Caenorhabditis elegans has emerged as one of the leading nematode models for studying host-microbe interactions on molecular, cellular, or organismal levels. In general, morphological and functional similarities of the gut of C. elegans with respect to that of human has brought in speculations on the study of the intestinal microbiota. On the other hand, probiotics have proved their efficacy in metabolism, development, and pathogenesis thereby inducing an immune response in C. elegans. Nurturing C. elegans with probiotics has led to immunomodulatory effects in the intestinal microbiota, proposing C. elegans as one of the in vivo screening criteria to select potential probiotic bacteria for host health-promoting factors. The major prospect of these probiotics is to exert longevity toward the host in diverse environmental conditions. The extent of research on probiotic metabolism has shed light on mechanisms of the immunomodulatory effect exerted by the nematode model. This review discusses various aspects of the effects of probiotics in improving the health and mechanisms involved in conferring immunity in C. elegans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prithika Udayakumar
- Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Centre for Excellence in Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Dr. M.G.R. Educational and Research Institute, Chennai, India
| | - Reena Das
- Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Centre for Excellence in Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Dr. M.G.R. Educational and Research Institute, Chennai, India
| | - Anandbabu Kannadasan
- Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Centre for Excellence in Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Dr. M.G.R. Educational and Research Institute, Chennai, India
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29
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Neby M, Kamenova S, Devineau O, Ims RA, Soininen EM. Issues of under-representation in quantitative DNA metabarcoding weaken the inference about diet of the tundra vole Microtus oeconomus. PeerJ 2021; 9:e11936. [PMID: 34527438 PMCID: PMC8403475 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.11936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
During the last decade, methods based on high-throughput sequencing such as DNA metabarcoding have opened up for a range of new questions in animal dietary studies. One of the major advantages of dietary metabarcoding resides in the potential to infer a quantitative relationship between sequence read proportions and biomass of ingested food. However, this relationship's robustness is highly dependent on the system under study, calling for case-specific assessments. Herbivorous small rodents often play important roles in the ecosystem, and the use of DNA metabarcoding for analyses of rodent diets is increasing. However, there has been no direct validation of the quantitative reliability of DNA metabarcoding for small rodents. Therefore, we used an experimental approach to assess the relationship between input plant biomass and sequence reads proportions from DNA metabarcoding in the tundra vole Microtus oeconomus. We found a weakly positive relationship between the number of high-throughput DNA sequences and the expected biomass proportions of food plants. The weak relationship was possibly caused by a systematic under-amplification of one of the three plant taxa fed. Generally, our results add to the growing evidence that case-specific validation studies are required to reliably make use of sequence read abundance as a proxy of relative food proportions in the diet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magne Neby
- Department of Applied Ecology, Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, Koppang, Norway
| | | | - Olivier Devineau
- Department of Applied Ecology, Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, Koppang, Norway
| | - Rolf A. Ims
- Department of Arctic and Marine Biology, UiT—the Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Eeva M. Soininen
- Department of Arctic and Marine Biology, UiT—the Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
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30
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Kozhevnikova JD, Volodin IA, Zaytseva AS, Ilchenko OG, Volodina EV. Pup ultrasonic isolation calls of six gerbil species and the relationship between acoustic traits and body size. ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2021; 8:201558. [PMID: 33959325 PMCID: PMC8074943 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.201558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Among Gerbillinae rodents, ultrasonic calls of adults of small-sized species are typically higher frequency than those of adults of large-sized species. This study investigates whether a similar relationship can be found in pups of six gerbil species (Dipodillus campestris, Gerbillus perpallidus, Meriones unguiculatus, Meriones vinogradovi, Sekeetamys calurus and Pachyuromys duprasi). We compared the average values of acoustic variables (duration, fundamental and peak frequency) of ultrasonic calls (20 calls per pup, 1200 in total) recorded from 6- to 10-day-old pups (10 pups per species, 60 in total) isolated for 2 min at 22°C and then weighed and measured for body variables. The longest calls (56 ± 33 ms) were found in the largest species, and the highest frequency calls (74.8 ± 5.59 kHz) were found in the smallest species. However, across species, call duration (ranging from 56 to 159 ms among species) did not display a significant relationship with pup body size; and, among frequency variables, only the minimum fundamental frequency depended on pup body size. Discriminant analysis assigned 100% of calls to the correct species. The effect of species identity on the acoustics was stronger than the effect of body size. We discuss these results with the hypotheses of acoustic adaptation, social complexity, hearing ranges and phylogeny.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia D. Kozhevnikova
- Department of Vertebrate Zoology, Faculty of Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Vorobievy Gory, 1/12, 119234 Moscow, Russia
| | - Ilya A. Volodin
- Department of Vertebrate Zoology, Faculty of Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Vorobievy Gory, 1/12, 119234 Moscow, Russia
- Department of Behaviour and Behavioural Ecology, A.N. Severtsov Institute of Ecology and Evolution, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow 119071, Russia
| | - Alexandra S. Zaytseva
- Department of Vertebrate Zoology, Faculty of Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Vorobievy Gory, 1/12, 119234 Moscow, Russia
- Department of Small Mammals, Moscow Zoo, Moscow, Russia
| | | | - Elena V. Volodina
- Department of Behaviour and Behavioural Ecology, A.N. Severtsov Institute of Ecology and Evolution, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow 119071, Russia
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31
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Ling KC, Hagan DW, Santini-González J, Phelps EA. Effects of sustained GABA releasing implants on pancreatic islets in mice. Drug Deliv Transl Res 2021; 11:2198-2208. [PMID: 33454926 DOI: 10.1007/s13346-020-00886-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that is strongly and selectively synthesized in and secreted from pancreatic beta cells. Exogenously delivered GABA has been proposed to induce beta cell regeneration in type 1 diabetes, but these results have been difficult to replicate and may depend on the specifics of the animal model and drug delivery method used. Here, we developed a GABA-releasing ethylene-vinyl acetate polymer implant for sustained GABA delivery to the intraperitoneal space as an alternative to injected or oral GABA. We explored the effect of the GABA-releasing polymer implants compared to implanted osmotic pumps loaded with GABA on islet size in non-diabetic, outbred mice. We also attempted to monitor in vivo GABA release using HPLC on blood samples, but these measurements were confounded by high variability within treatment groups and unexpectedly high serum GABA levels in mice receiving GABA-negative implants. The ethylene-vinyl acetate polymer implants became heavily fibrosed with abdominal adhesion tissue, while the osmotic pumps had no macroscopic fibrosis. Histological analysis showed no significant effect of the sustained GABA delivery polymer or osmotic pumps on islet size, alpha cell to beta cell ratio, or the number of Ki67-positive islet cells. The GABA treatment time course was limited to two weeks due to the drug-release window of the polymer, while others reported islet-trophic effects of GABA after 10 to 12 weeks of treatment. In summary, our study is consistent with the concept that exogenous GABA administration does not significantly alter islet cell mass in non-diabetic CD-1 mice in the short-term. However, more data are needed including higher GABA doses and more prolonged treatment regimens for a better comparison with contrasting reports.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin C Ling
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - D Walker Hagan
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Jorge Santini-González
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Edward A Phelps
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.
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