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LeBourdais R, Grifno GN, Banerji R, Regan K, Suki B, Nia HT. Mapping the strain-stiffening behavior of the lung and lung cancer at microscale resolution using the crystal ribcage. FRONTIERS IN NETWORK PHYSIOLOGY 2024; 4:1396593. [PMID: 39050550 PMCID: PMC11266057 DOI: 10.3389/fnetp.2024.1396593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
Lung diseases such as cancer substantially alter the mechanical properties of the organ with direct impact on the development, progression, diagnosis, and treatment response of diseases. Despite significant interest in the lung's material properties, measuring the stiffness of intact lungs at sub-alveolar resolution has not been possible. Recently, we developed the crystal ribcage to image functioning lungs at optical resolution while controlling physiological parameters such as air pressure. Here, we introduce a data-driven, multiscale network model that takes images of the lung at different distending pressures, acquired via the crystal ribcage, and produces corresponding absolute stiffness maps. Following validation, we report absolute stiffness maps of the functioning lung at microscale resolution in health and disease. For representative images of a healthy lung and a lung with primary cancer, we find that while the lung exhibits significant stiffness heterogeneity at the microscale, primary tumors introduce even greater heterogeneity into the lung's microenvironment. Additionally, we observe that while the healthy alveoli exhibit strain-stiffening of ∼1.75 times, the tumor's stiffness increases by a factor of six across the range of measured transpulmonary pressures. While the tumor stiffness is 1.4 times the lung stiffness at a transpulmonary pressure of three cmH2O, the tumor's mean stiffness is nearly five times greater than that of the surrounding tissue at a transpulmonary pressure of 18 cmH2O. Finally, we report that the variance in both strain and stiffness increases with transpulmonary pressure in both the healthy and cancerous lungs. Our new method allows quantitative assessment of disease-induced stiffness changes in the alveoli with implications for mechanotransduction.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Hadi T. Nia
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA, United States
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2
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Mottareale R, Frascogna C, La Verde G, Arrichiello C, Muto P, Netti PA, Fusco S, Panzetta V, Pugliese M. Impact of ionizing radiation on cell-ECM mechanical crosstalk in breast cancer. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2024; 12:1408789. [PMID: 38903185 PMCID: PMC11187264 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2024.1408789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024] Open
Abstract
The stiffness of the extracellular matrix plays a crucial role in cell motility and spreading, influencing cell morphology through cytoskeleton organization and transmembrane proteins' expression. In this context, mechanical characterization of both cells and the extracellular matrix gains prominence for enhanced diagnostics and clinical decision-making. Here, we investigate the combined effect of mechanotransduction and ionizing radiations on altering cells' mechanical properties, analysing mammary cell lines (MCF10A and MDA-MB-231) after X-ray radiotherapy (2 and 10 Gy). We found that ionizing radiations sensitively affect adenocarcinoma cells cultured on substrates mimicking cancerous tissue stiffness (15 kPa), inducing an increased structuration of paxillin-rich focal adhesions and cytoskeleton: this process translates in the augmentation of tension at the actin filaments level, causing cellular stiffness and consequently affecting cytoplasmatic/nuclear morphologies. Deeper exploration of the intricate interplay between mechanical factors and radiation should provide novel strategies to orient clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rocco Mottareale
- Department of Physics “E. Pancini”, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- Institute of Applied Sciences and Intelligent Systems E. Caianiello (CNR-ISASI), Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Crescenzo Frascogna
- Center for Advanced Biomaterials for Healthcare @CRIB, Italian Institute of Technology, Naples, Italy
- Department of Chemical, Materials and Production Engineering, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe La Verde
- Department of Physics “E. Pancini”, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Cecilia Arrichiello
- Radiotherapy Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori-IRCCS-Fondazione “G. Pascale”, Naples, Italy
| | - Paolo Muto
- Radiotherapy Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori-IRCCS-Fondazione “G. Pascale”, Naples, Italy
| | - Paolo A. Netti
- Center for Advanced Biomaterials for Healthcare @CRIB, Italian Institute of Technology, Naples, Italy
- Department of Chemical, Materials and Production Engineering, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- Interdisciplinary Research Centre on Biomaterials (CRIB), University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Sabato Fusco
- Center for Advanced Biomaterials for Healthcare @CRIB, Italian Institute of Technology, Naples, Italy
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences “V. Tiberio”, University of Molise, Campobasso, Italy
| | - Valeria Panzetta
- Center for Advanced Biomaterials for Healthcare @CRIB, Italian Institute of Technology, Naples, Italy
- Department of Chemical, Materials and Production Engineering, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- Interdisciplinary Research Centre on Biomaterials (CRIB), University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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3
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Liu S, Han Y, Kong L, Wang G, Ye Z. Atomic force microscopy in disease-related studies: Exploring tissue and cell mechanics. Microsc Res Tech 2024; 87:660-684. [PMID: 38063315 DOI: 10.1002/jemt.24471] [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: 07/30/2023] [Revised: 10/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/26/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Despite significant progress in human medicine, certain diseases remain challenging to promptly diagnose and treat. Hence, the imperative lies in the development of more exhaustive criteria and tools. Tissue and cellular mechanics exhibit distinctive traits in both normal and pathological states, suggesting that "force" represents a promising and distinctive target for disease diagnosis and treatment. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) holds great promise as a prospective clinical medical device due to its capability to concurrently assess surface morphology and mechanical characteristics of biological specimens within a physiological setting. This review presents a comprehensive examination of the operational principles of AFM and diverse mechanical models, focusing on its applications in investigating tissue and cellular mechanics associated with prevalent diseases. The findings from these studies lay a solid groundwork for potential clinical implementations of AFM. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: By examining the surface morphology and assessing tissue and cellular mechanics of biological specimens in a physiological setting, AFM shows promise as a clinical device to diagnose and treat challenging diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuaiyuan Liu
- Key Laboratory for Biorheological Science and Technology of Ministry of Education, State and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Vascular Implants, Bioengineering College of Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yibo Han
- Key Laboratory for Biorheological Science and Technology of Ministry of Education, State and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Vascular Implants, Bioengineering College of Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Lingwen Kong
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Central Hospital of Chongqing University, Chongqing Emergency Medical Center, Chongqing, China
| | - Guixue Wang
- Key Laboratory for Biorheological Science and Technology of Ministry of Education, State and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Vascular Implants, Bioengineering College of Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
- JinFeng Laboratory, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhiyi Ye
- Key Laboratory for Biorheological Science and Technology of Ministry of Education, State and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Vascular Implants, Bioengineering College of Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
- JinFeng Laboratory, Chongqing, China
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4
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Lightsey S, Sharma B. Natural Killer Cell Mechanosensing in Solid Tumors. Bioengineering (Basel) 2024; 11:328. [PMID: 38671750 PMCID: PMC11048000 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering11040328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2024] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells, which are an exciting alternative cell source for cancer immunotherapies, must sense and respond to their physical environment to traffic to and eliminate cancer cells. Herein, we review the mechanisms by which NK cells receive mechanical signals and explore recent key findings regarding the impact of the physical characteristics of solid tumors on NK cell functions. Data suggest that different mechanical stresses present in solid tumors facilitate NK cell functions, especially infiltration and degranulation. Moreover, we review recent engineering advances that can be used to systemically study the role of mechanical forces on NK cell activity. Understanding the mechanisms by which NK cells interpret their environment presents potential targets to enhance NK cell immunotherapies for the treatment of solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Blanka Sharma
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 23610, USA;
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5
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Miller DM, Yadanapudi K, Rai V, Rai SN, Chen J, Frieboes HB, Masters A, McCallum A, Williams BJ. Untangling the web of glioblastoma treatment resistance using a multi-omic and multidisciplinary approach. Am J Med Sci 2023; 366:185-198. [PMID: 37330006 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjms.2023.06.010] [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: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM), the most common human brain tumor, has been notoriously resistant to treatment. As a result, the dismal overall survival of GBM patients has not changed over the past three decades. GBM has been stubbornly resistant to checkpoint inhibitor immunotherapies, which have been remarkably effective in the treatment of other tumors. It is clear that GBM resistance to therapy is multifactorial. Although therapeutic transport into brain tumors is inhibited by the blood brain barrier, there is evolving evidence that overcoming this barrier is not the predominant factor. GBMs generally have a low mutation burden, exist in an immunosuppressed environment and they are inherently resistant to immune stimulation, all of which contribute to treatment resistance. In this review, we evaluate the contribution of multi-omic approaches (genomic and metabolomic) along with analyzing immune cell populations and tumor biophysical characteristics to better understand and overcome GBM multifactorial resistance to treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donald M Miller
- Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA; Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA.
| | - Kavitha Yadanapudi
- Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA; Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Veeresh Rai
- Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Shesh N Rai
- Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA; Biostatistics and Informatics Shared Resources, University of Cincinnati Cancer Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA; Cancer Data Science Center of University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Joseph Chen
- Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA; Department of Bioengineering, Speed School of Engineering, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Hermann B Frieboes
- Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA; Department of Bioengineering, Speed School of Engineering, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA; Center for Preventative Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Adrianna Masters
- Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA; Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Abigail McCallum
- Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA; Department of Neurosurgery, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Brian J Williams
- Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA; Department of Neurosurgery, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
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6
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Di X, Gao X, Peng L, Ai J, Jin X, Qi S, Li H, Wang K, Luo D. Cellular mechanotransduction in health and diseases: from molecular mechanism to therapeutic targets. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:282. [PMID: 37518181 PMCID: PMC10387486 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01501-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2022] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Cellular mechanotransduction, a critical regulator of numerous biological processes, is the conversion from mechanical signals to biochemical signals regarding cell activities and metabolism. Typical mechanical cues in organisms include hydrostatic pressure, fluid shear stress, tensile force, extracellular matrix stiffness or tissue elasticity, and extracellular fluid viscosity. Mechanotransduction has been expected to trigger multiple biological processes, such as embryonic development, tissue repair and regeneration. However, prolonged excessive mechanical stimulation can result in pathological processes, such as multi-organ fibrosis, tumorigenesis, and cancer immunotherapy resistance. Although the associations between mechanical cues and normal tissue homeostasis or diseases have been identified, the regulatory mechanisms among different mechanical cues are not yet comprehensively illustrated, and no effective therapies are currently available targeting mechanical cue-related signaling. This review systematically summarizes the characteristics and regulatory mechanisms of typical mechanical cues in normal conditions and diseases with the updated evidence. The key effectors responding to mechanical stimulations are listed, such as Piezo channels, integrins, Yes-associated protein (YAP) /transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ), and transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 (TRPV4). We also reviewed the key signaling pathways, therapeutic targets and cutting-edge clinical applications of diseases related to mechanical cues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingpeng Di
- Department of Urology and Institute of Urology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P.R. China
| | - Xiaoshuai Gao
- Department of Urology and Institute of Urology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P.R. China
| | - Liao Peng
- Department of Urology and Institute of Urology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P.R. China
| | - Jianzhong Ai
- Department of Urology and Institute of Urology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P.R. China
| | - Xi Jin
- Department of Urology and Institute of Urology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P.R. China
| | - Shiqian Qi
- Department of Urology and Institute of Urology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P.R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P.R. China
| | - Hong Li
- Department of Urology and Institute of Urology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P.R. China
| | - Kunjie Wang
- Department of Urology and Institute of Urology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P.R. China.
| | - Deyi Luo
- Department of Urology and Institute of Urology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P.R. China.
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7
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Papavassiliou KA, Basdra EK, Papavassiliou AG. The emerging promise of tumour mechanobiology in cancer treatment. Eur J Cancer 2023; 190:112938. [PMID: 37390803 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejca.2023.112938] [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: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2023]
Abstract
Tumour cell biomechanics has lately came to the fore as a disparate feature that fosters cancer development and progression. Tumour mechanosensing entails a mechanical interplay amongst tumour cells, extracellular matrix (ECM) and cells of the tumour microenvironment (TME). Sensory receptors (mechanoceptors) detect changes of extracellular mechanical inputs such as various types of mechanical forces/stress and trigger oncogenic signalling pathways advocating for cancer initiation, growth, survival, angiogenesis, invasion, metastasis, and immune evasion. Moreover, alterations in ECM stiffness and potentiation of mechanostimulated transcriptional regulatory molecules (transcription factors/cofactors) have been shown to strongly correlate with resistance to anticancer drugs. On this basis, new mechanosensitive proteins emerge as potential therapeutic targets and/or biomarkers in cancer. Accordingly, tumour mechanobiology arises as a promising field that can potentially provide novel combinatorial regimens to reverse drug resistance, as well as offer unprecedented targeting approaches that may help to more effectively treat a large proportion of solid tumours and their complications. Here, we highlight recent findings regarding various aspects of tumour mechanobiology in the clinical setting and discuss evidence-based perspectives of developing diagnostic/prognostic tools and therapeutic approaches that exploit tumour-TME physical associations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kostas A Papavassiliou
- First University Department of Respiratory Medicine, 'Sotiria' Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Efthimia K Basdra
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Athanasios G Papavassiliou
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.
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8
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Narciso M, Martínez Á, Júnior C, Díaz-Valdivia N, Ulldemolins A, Berardi M, Neal K, Navajas D, Farré R, Alcaraz J, Almendros I, Gavara N. Lung Micrometastases Display ECM Depletion and Softening While Macrometastases Are 30-Fold Stiffer and Enriched in Fibronectin. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15082404. [PMID: 37190331 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15082404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 04/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Mechanical changes in tumors have long been linked to increased malignancy and therapy resistance and attributed to mechanical changes in the tumor extracellular matrix (ECM). However, to the best of our knowledge, there have been no mechanical studies on decellularized tumors. Here, we studied the biochemical and mechanical progression of the tumor ECM in two models of lung metastases: lung carcinoma (CAR) and melanoma (MEL). We decellularized the metastatic lung sections, measured the micromechanics of the tumor ECM, and stained the sections for ECM proteins, proliferation, and cell death markers. The same methodology was applied to MEL mice treated with the clinically approved anti-fibrotic drug nintedanib. When compared to healthy ECM (~0.40 kPa), CAR and MEL lung macrometastases produced a highly dense and stiff ECM (1.79 ± 1.32 kPa, CAR and 6.39 ± 3.37 kPa, MEL). Fibronectin was overexpressed from the early stages (~118%) to developed macrometastases (~260%) in both models. Surprisingly, nintedanib caused a 4-fold increase in ECM-occupied tumor area (5.1 ± 1.6% to 18.6 ± 8.9%) and a 2-fold in-crease in ECM stiffness (6.39 ± 3.37 kPa to 12.35 ± 5.74 kPa). This increase in stiffness strongly correlated with an increase in necrosis, which reveals a potential link between tumor hypoxia and ECM deposition and stiffness. Our findings highlight fibronectin and tumor ECM mechanics as attractive targets in cancer therapy and support the need to identify new anti-fibrotic drugs to abrogate aberrant ECM mechanics in metastases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Narciso
- Unit of Biophysics and Bioengineering, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
- The Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - África Martínez
- Unit of Biophysics and Bioengineering, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Constança Júnior
- Unit of Biophysics and Bioengineering, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
- The Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Natalia Díaz-Valdivia
- Unit of Biophysics and Bioengineering, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
- The Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Anna Ulldemolins
- Unit of Biophysics and Bioengineering, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Massimiliano Berardi
- LaserLab, Department of Physics and Astronomy, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1081, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Optics11, Hettenheuvelweg 37-39, 1101 BM Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Kate Neal
- Unit of Biophysics and Bioengineering, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Daniel Navajas
- Unit of Biophysics and Bioengineering, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
- The Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- CIBER de Enfermedades Respiratorias (CIBERES), 08036 Madrid, Spain
| | - Ramon Farré
- Unit of Biophysics and Bioengineering, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
- CIBER de Enfermedades Respiratorias (CIBERES), 08036 Madrid, Spain
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jordi Alcaraz
- Unit of Biophysics and Bioengineering, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
- The Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Thoracic Oncology Unit, Hospital Clinic Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Isaac Almendros
- Unit of Biophysics and Bioengineering, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
- CIBER de Enfermedades Respiratorias (CIBERES), 08036 Madrid, Spain
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Núria Gavara
- Unit of Biophysics and Bioengineering, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
- The Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
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9
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Zills G, Datta T, Malmi-Kakkada AN. Enhanced mechanical heterogeneity of cell collectives due to temporal fluctuations in cell elasticity. Phys Rev E 2023; 107:014401. [PMID: 36797877 DOI: 10.1103/physreve.107.014401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Cells are dynamic systems characterized by temporal variations in biophysical properties such as stiffness and contractility. Recent studies show that the recruitment and release of actin filaments into and out of the cell cortex-a network of proteins underneath the cell membrane-leads to cell stiffening prior to division and softening immediately afterward. In three-dimensional (3D) cell collectives, it is unclear whether the stiffness change during division at the single-cell scale controls the spatial structure and dynamics at the multicellular scale. This is an important question to understand because cell stiffness variations impact cell spatial organization and cancer progression. Using a minimal 3D model incorporating cell birth, death, and cell-to-cell elastic and adhesive interactions, we investigate the effect of mechanical heterogeneity-variations in individual cell stiffnesses that make up the cell collective-on tumor spatial organization and cell dynamics. We discover that spatial mechanical heterogeneity characterized by a spheroid core composed of stiffer cells and softer cells in the periphery emerges within dense 3D cell collectives, which may be a general feature of multicellular tumor growth. We show that heightened spatial mechanical heterogeneity enhances single-cell dynamics and volumetric tumor growth driven by fluctuations in cell elasticity. Our results could have important implications in understanding how spatiotemporal variations in single-cell stiffness determine tumor growth and spread.
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Affiliation(s)
- Garrett Zills
- Department of Chemistry and Physics, Augusta University, 1120 15th Street, Augusta, Georgia 30912, USA
| | - Trinanjan Datta
- Department of Chemistry and Physics, Augusta University, 1120 15th Street, Augusta, Georgia 30912, USA
- Kavli Institute for Theoretical Physics, University of California, Santa Barbara, California 93106, USA
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10
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The role of RAS oncogenes in controlling epithelial mechanics. Trends Cell Biol 2023; 33:60-69. [PMID: 36175301 PMCID: PMC9850021 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcb.2022.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Revised: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Mutations in RAS are key oncogenic drivers and therapeutic targets. Oncogenic Ras proteins activate a network of downstream signalling pathways, including extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K), promoting cell proliferation and survival. However, there is increasing evidence that RAS oncogenes also alter the mechanical properties of both individual malignant cells and transformed tissues. Here we discuss the role of oncogenic RAS in controlling mechanical cell phenotypes and how these mechanical changes promote oncogenic transformation in single cells and tissues. RAS activation alters actin organisation and actomyosin contractility. These changes alter cell rheology and impact mechanosensing through changes in substrate adhesion and YAP/TAZ-dependent mechanotransduction. We then discuss how these changes play out in cell collectives and epithelial tissues by driving large-scale tissue deformations and the expansion of malignant cells. Uncovering how RAS oncogenes alter cell mechanics will lead to a better understanding of the morphogenetic processes that underlie tumour formation in RAS-mutant cancers.
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11
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Wang EJY, Chen IH, Kuo BYT, Yu CC, Lai MT, Lin JT, Lin LYT, Chen CM, Hwang T, Sheu JJC. Alterations of Cytoskeleton Networks in Cell Fate Determination and Cancer Development. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12121862. [PMID: 36551290 PMCID: PMC9775460 DOI: 10.3390/biom12121862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Revised: 12/03/2022] [Accepted: 12/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Cytoskeleton proteins have been long recognized as structural proteins that provide the necessary mechanical architecture for cell development and tissue homeostasis. With the completion of the cancer genome project, scientists were surprised to learn that huge numbers of mutated genes are annotated as cytoskeletal or associated proteins. Although most of these mutations are considered as passenger mutations during cancer development and evolution, some genes show high mutation rates that can even determine clinical outcomes. In addition, (phospho)proteomics study confirms that many cytoskeleton-associated proteins, e.g., β-catenin, PIK3CA, and MB21D2, are important signaling mediators, further suggesting their biofunctional roles in cancer development. With emerging evidence to indicate the involvement of mechanotransduction in stemness formation and cell differentiation, mutations in these key cytoskeleton components may change the physical/mechanical properties of the cells and determine the cell fate during cancer development. In particular, tumor microenvironment remodeling triggered by such alterations has been known to play important roles in autophagy, metabolism, cancer dormancy, and immune evasion. In this review paper, we will highlight the current understanding of how aberrant cytoskeleton networks affect cancer behaviors and cellular functions through mechanotransduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evan Ja-Yang Wang
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung 804201, Taiwan
| | - I-Hsuan Chen
- Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung 813405, Taiwan
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy and Health Care, Tajen University, Pingtung County 907391, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112304, Taiwan
| | - Brian Yu-Ting Kuo
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung 804201, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Cheng Yu
- Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung 813405, Taiwan
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy and Health Care, Tajen University, Pingtung County 907391, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112304, Taiwan
- Department of Surgery, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 114202, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Tsung Lai
- Department of Pathology, Taichung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Taichung 403301, Taiwan
| | - Jen-Tai Lin
- Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung 813405, Taiwan
| | - Leo Yen-Ting Lin
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung 804201, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Mei Chen
- Human Genetic Center, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 404327, Taiwan
| | - Tritium Hwang
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung 804201, Taiwan
| | - Jim Jinn-Chyuan Sheu
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung 804201, Taiwan
- Department of Biotechnology, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807378, Taiwan
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung 804201, Taiwan
- Institute of Precision Medicine, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung 804201, Taiwan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +886-7-5252000 (ext. 7102)
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12
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La Verde G, Artiola V, Pugliese M, La Commara M, Arrichiello C, Muto P, Netti PA, Fusco S, Panzetta V. Radiation therapy affects YAP expression and intracellular localization by modulating lamin A/C levels in breast cancer. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:969004. [PMID: 36091449 PMCID: PMC9450017 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.969004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The microenvironment of breast cancer actively participates in tumorigenesis and cancer progression. The changes observed in the architecture of the extracellular matrix initiate an oncogene-mediated cell reprogramming, that leads to a massive triggering of YAP nuclear entry, and, therefore, to cancer cell proliferation, invasion and probably to increased radiation-resistance. However, it is not yet fully understood how radiotherapy regulates the expression and subcellular localization of YAP in breast cancer cells experiencing different microenvironmental stiffnesses. To elucidate the role of extracellular matrix stiffness and ionizing radiations on YAP regulation, we explored the behaviour of two different mammary cell lines, a normal epithelial cell line (MCF10A) and a highly aggressive and invasive adenocarcinoma cell line (MDA-MB-231) interacting with polyacrylamide substrates mimicking the mechanics of both normal and tumour tissues (∼1 and ∼13 kPa). We report that X-ray radiation affected in a significant way the levels of YAP expression, density, and localization in both cell lines. After 24 h, MCF10A and MDA-MB-231 increased the expression level of YAP in both nucleus and cytoplasm in a dose dependent manner and particularly on the stiffer substrates. After 72 h, MCF10A reduced mostly the YAP expression in the cytoplasm, whereas it remained high in the nucleus of cells on stiffer substrates. Tumour cells continued to exhibit higher levels of YAP expression, especially in the cytoplasmic compartment, as indicated by the reduction of nuclear/cytoplasmic ratio of total YAP. Then, we investigated the existence of a correlation between YAP localization and the expression of the nuclear envelope protein lamin A/C, considering its key role in modulating nuclear deformability and changes in YAP shuttling phenomena. As supposed, we found that the effects of radiation on YAP nucleus/cytoplasmic expression ratio, increasing in healthy cells and decreasing in tumour ones, were accompanied by lower and higher lamin A/C levels in MCF10A and MDA-MB-231 cells, respectively. These findings point to obtain a deeper knowledge of the role of the extracellular matrix and the effects of X-rays on YAP and lamin A/C expression that can be used in the design of doses and timing of radiation therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe La Verde
- Istituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare, INFN Sezione di Napoli, Naples, Italy
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università Degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Valeria Artiola
- Dipartimento di Fisica “Ettore Pancini”, Università Degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Mariagabriella Pugliese
- Istituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare, INFN Sezione di Napoli, Naples, Italy
- Dipartimento di Fisica “Ettore Pancini”, Università Degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Marco La Commara
- Istituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare, INFN Sezione di Napoli, Naples, Italy
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università Degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Cecilia Arrichiello
- Radiotherapy Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori-IRCCS-Fondazione “G. Pascale”, Naples, Italy
| | - Paolo Muto
- Radiotherapy Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori-IRCCS-Fondazione “G. Pascale”, Naples, Italy
| | - Paolo A. Netti
- Interdisciplinary Research Centre on Biomaterials (CRIB) and Dipartimento di Ingegneria Chimica, Dei Materiali e Della Produzione Industriale, Università Degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Naples, Italy
- Center for Advanced Biomaterials for Healthcare@CRIB, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Naples, Italy
| | - Sabato Fusco
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences “V. Tiberio”, University of Molise, Campobasso, Italy
- *Correspondence: Sabato Fusco,
| | - Valeria Panzetta
- Interdisciplinary Research Centre on Biomaterials (CRIB) and Dipartimento di Ingegneria Chimica, Dei Materiali e Della Produzione Industriale, Università Degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Naples, Italy
- Center for Advanced Biomaterials for Healthcare@CRIB, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Naples, Italy
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13
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Mao Y, Nielsen P, Ali J. Passive and Active Microrheology for Biomedical Systems. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:916354. [PMID: 35866030 PMCID: PMC9294381 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.916354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Microrheology encompasses a range of methods to measure the mechanical properties of soft materials. By characterizing the motion of embedded microscopic particles, microrheology extends the probing length scale and frequency range of conventional bulk rheology. Microrheology can be characterized into either passive or active methods based on the driving force exerted on probe particles. Tracer particles are driven by thermal energy in passive methods, applying minimal deformation to the assessed medium. In active techniques, particles are manipulated by an external force, most commonly produced through optical and magnetic fields. Small-scale rheology holds significant advantages over conventional bulk rheology, such as eliminating the need for large sample sizes, the ability to probe fragile materials non-destructively, and a wider probing frequency range. More importantly, some microrheological techniques can obtain spatiotemporal information of local microenvironments and accurately describe the heterogeneity of structurally complex fluids. Recently, there has been significant growth in using these minimally invasive techniques to investigate a wide range of biomedical systems both in vitro and in vivo. Here, we review the latest applications and advancements of microrheology in mammalian cells, tissues, and biofluids and discuss the current challenges and potential future advances on the horizon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yating Mao
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Tallahassee, FL, United States
- National High Magnetic Field Laboratory, Tallahassee, FL, United States
| | - Paige Nielsen
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Tallahassee, FL, United States
- National High Magnetic Field Laboratory, Tallahassee, FL, United States
| | - Jamel Ali
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Tallahassee, FL, United States
- National High Magnetic Field Laboratory, Tallahassee, FL, United States
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14
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Zhang T, Jia Y, Yu Y, Zhang B, Xu F, Guo H. Targeting the tumor biophysical microenvironment to reduce resistance to immunotherapy. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2022; 186:114319. [PMID: 35545136 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2022.114319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2021] [Revised: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/30/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Immunotherapy based on immune checkpoint inhibitors has evolved into a new pillar of cancer treatment in clinics, but dealing with treatment resistance (either primary or acquired) is a major challenge. The tumor microenvironment (TME) has a substantial impact on the pathological behaviors and treatment response of many cancers. The biophysical clues in TME have recently been considered as important characteristics of cancer. Furthermore, there is mounting evidence that biophysical cues in TME play important roles in each step of the cascade of cancer immunotherapy that synergistically contribute to immunotherapy resistance. In this review, we summarize five main biophysical cues in TME that affect resistance to immunotherapy: extracellular matrix (ECM) structure, ECM stiffness, tumor interstitial fluid pressure (IFP), solid stress, and vascular shear stress. First, the biophysical factors involved in anti-tumor immunity and therapeutic antibody delivery processes are reviewed. Then, the causes of these five biophysical cues and how they contribute to immunotherapy resistance are discussed. Finally, the latest treatment strategies that aim to improve immunotherapy efficacy by targeting these biophysical cues are shared. This review highlights the biophysical cues that lead to immunotherapy resistance, also supplements their importance in related technologies for studying TME biophysical cues in vitro and therapeutic strategies targeting biophysical cues to improve the effects of immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian Zhang
- Department of Medical Oncology, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, PR China; Bioinspired Engineering and Biomechanics Center (BEBC), Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, PR China
| | - Yuanbo Jia
- Bioinspired Engineering and Biomechanics Center (BEBC), Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, PR China; MOE Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, PR China
| | - Yang Yu
- Department of Medical Oncology, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, PR China; Bioinspired Engineering and Biomechanics Center (BEBC), Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, PR China
| | - Baojun Zhang
- Department of Pathogenic Microbiology and Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an 710049, PR China
| | - Feng Xu
- Bioinspired Engineering and Biomechanics Center (BEBC), Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, PR China; MOE Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, PR China.
| | - Hui Guo
- Department of Medical Oncology, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, PR China; Bioinspired Engineering and Biomechanics Center (BEBC), Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, PR China.
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15
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Elucidation of CKAP4-remodeled cell mechanics in driving metastasis of bladder cancer through aptamer-based target discovery. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2110500119. [PMID: 35412892 PMCID: PMC9169774 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2110500119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Metastasis generally leads to a dismal prognosis in bladder cancer (BLCA). The mechanical status of the cell membrane has been reported to reflect the potential of the metastatic capacity of cancer cells. However, the molecular profile and corresponding mechanical traits underlying BLCA metastasis remain largely elusive. Our study demonstrates the significance of cytoskeleton-associated protein 4 (CKAP4) in BLCA malignancy through aptamer selection, emphasizes the mechanical dominance of the central-to-peripheral gradient over simply softening or stiffening in cell migration, and shows the role of exosomes in mediating mechanical signaling in BLCA metastasis. Altogether, our work verifies the promising advantages of an aptamer-based approach in cancer research, which ranges from biomarker discovery to the elucidation of biological functions. Metastasis contributes to the dismal prognosis of bladder cancer (BLCA). The mechanical status of the cell membrane is expected to mirror the ability of cell migration to promote cancer metastasis. However, the mechanical characteristics and underlying molecular profile associated with BLCA metastasis remain obscure. To study the unique cellular architecture and traits associated with cell migration, using a process called cell-based systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment (cell-SELEX) we generated an aptamer-based molecular probe, termed spl3c, which identified cytoskeleton-associated protein 4 (CKAP4). CKAP4 was associated with tumor metastasis in BLCA, but we also found it to be a mechanical regulator of BLCA cells through the maintenance of a central-to-peripheral gradient of stiffness on the cell membrane. Notably, such mechanical traits were transportable through exosome-mediated intercellular CKAP4 trafficking, leading to significant enhancement of migration in recipient cells and, consequently, aggravating metastatic potential in vivo. Taken together, our study shows the robustness of this aptamer-based molecular tool for biomarker discovery, revealing the dominance of a CKAP4-induced central-to-peripheral gradient of membrane stiffness that benefits cell migration and delineating the role of exosomes in mediating mechanical signaling in BLCA metastasis.
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16
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Panzetta V, Musella I, Fusco S, Netti PA. ECM Mechanoregulation in Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:797900. [PMID: 35237573 PMCID: PMC8883334 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.797900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Malignant pleural mesothelioma is a relatively rare, but devastating tumor, because of the difficulties in providing early diagnosis and effective treatments with conventional chemo- and radiotherapies. Patients usually present pleural effusions that can be used for diagnostic purposes by cytological analysis. This effusion cytology may take weeks or months to establish and has a limited sensitivity (30%-60%). Then, it is becoming increasingly urgent to develop alternative investigative methods to support the diagnosis of mesothelioma at an early stage when this cancer can be treated successfully. To this purpose, mechanobiology provides novel perspectives into the study of tumor onset and progression and new diagnostic tools for the mechanical characterization of tumor tissues. Here, we report a mechanical and biophysical characterization of malignant pleural mesothelioma cells as additional support to the diagnosis of pleural effusions. In particular, we examined a normal mesothelial cell line (Met5A) and two epithelioid mesothelioma cell lines (REN and MPP89), investigating how malignant transformation can influence cellular function like proliferation, cell migration, and cell spreading area with respect to the normal ones. These alterations also correlated with variations in cytoskeletal mechanical properties that, in turn, were measured on substrates mimicking the stiffness of patho-physiological ECM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Panzetta
- Department of Chemical, Materials and Production Engineering, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- Centro di Ricerca Interdipartimentale sui Biomateriali CRIB, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, IIT@CRIB, Naples, Italy
| | - Ida Musella
- Department of Chemical, Materials and Production Engineering, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, IIT@CRIB, Naples, Italy
| | - Sabato Fusco
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences “V. Tiberio”, University of Molise, Campobasso, Italy
| | - Paolo A. Netti
- Department of Chemical, Materials and Production Engineering, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- Centro di Ricerca Interdipartimentale sui Biomateriali CRIB, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, IIT@CRIB, Naples, Italy
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17
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Cytoskeleton Response to Ionizing Radiation: A Brief Review on Adhesion and Migration Effects. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9091102. [PMID: 34572287 PMCID: PMC8465203 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9091102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Revised: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The cytoskeleton is involved in several biological processes, including adhesion, motility, and intracellular transport. Alterations in the cytoskeletal components (actin filaments, intermediate filaments, and microtubules) are strictly correlated to several diseases, such as cancer. Furthermore, alterations in the cytoskeletal structure can lead to anomalies in cells’ properties and increase their invasiveness. This review aims to analyse several studies which have examined the alteration of the cell cytoskeleton induced by ionizing radiations. In particular, the radiation effects on the actin cytoskeleton, cell adhesion, and migration have been considered to gain a deeper knowledge of the biophysical properties of the cell. In fact, the results found in the analysed works can not only aid in developing new diagnostic tools but also improve the current cancer treatments.
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18
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Di Natale C, Lagreca E, Panzetta V, Gallo M, Passannanti F, Vitale M, Fusco S, Vecchione R, Nigro R, Netti P. Morphological and Rheological Guided Design for the Microencapsulation Process of Lactobacillus paracasei CBA L74 in Calcium Alginate Microspheres. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2021; 9:660691. [PMID: 34124020 PMCID: PMC8193927 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2021.660691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The intestinal microbiota is a real ecosystem composed of several bacterial species and a very huge amount of strains that through their metabolic activities play a crucial role in the development and performance of the immune system and other functions. Microbiota modulation by probiotics establishes a new era into the pharmaceutical and healthcare market. Probiotics play, in fact, an important role in helping and sustaining human health, but in order to produce benefits, their viability must be preserved throughout the production process up to consumption, and in addition, their bioactivity required to be safeguarded while passing through the gastrointestinal tract. In this frame, encouraging results come from encapsulation strategies that have proven to be very promising in protecting bacteria and their viability. However, specific effort has to be dedicated to the design optimization of the encapsulation process and, in particular, to the processing parameters that affect capsules microstructure. Herein, focusing on calcium alginate microspheres, after a preliminary selection of their processing conditions based on size distribution, we implemented a micro-rheological analysis, by using the multiple-particle tracking technique, to correlate the inner microstructure to the selected process conditions and to the viability of the Lactobacillus paracasei CBA L74. It was assessed that the explored levels of cross-linking, although changing the microorganism constriction, did not affect its viability. The obtained results confirm how this technology is a promising and a valid strategy to protect the microorganism viability and ensure its stability during the production process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Concetta Di Natale
- Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, IIT@CRIB, Largo Barsanti e Matteucci, Naples, Italy.,Centro di Ricerca Interdipartimentale sui Biomateriali CRIB, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Elena Lagreca
- Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, IIT@CRIB, Largo Barsanti e Matteucci, Naples, Italy
| | - Valeria Panzetta
- Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, IIT@CRIB, Largo Barsanti e Matteucci, Naples, Italy.,Centro di Ricerca Interdipartimentale sui Biomateriali CRIB, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.,Department of Chemical, Materials and Production Engineering, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Marianna Gallo
- Department of Chemical, Materials and Production Engineering, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.,Department of Engineering, University of Rome Niccolò Cusano, Rome, Italy.,Innovation & Technology Provider (ITP S.r.l.), Naples, Italy
| | | | - Michele Vitale
- Department of Chemical, Materials and Production Engineering, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Sabato Fusco
- Centro di Ricerca Interdipartimentale sui Biomateriali CRIB, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.,Dipartimento di Medicina e Scienze della Salute "Vincenzo Tiberio", Università del Molise, Campobasso, Italy
| | - Raffaele Vecchione
- Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, IIT@CRIB, Largo Barsanti e Matteucci, Naples, Italy
| | - Roberto Nigro
- Department of Chemical, Materials and Production Engineering, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Paolo Netti
- Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, IIT@CRIB, Largo Barsanti e Matteucci, Naples, Italy.,Centro di Ricerca Interdipartimentale sui Biomateriali CRIB, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.,Department of Chemical, Materials and Production Engineering, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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19
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Wang Z, Liu Y, Wang Z, Huang X, Huang W. Hydrogel‐based composites: Unlimited platforms for biosensors and diagnostics. VIEW 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/viw.20200165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Zeyi Wang
- Key Laboratory of Flexible Electronics (KLOFE) and Institute of Advanced Materials (IAM) Nanjing Tech University (NanjingTech) Nanjing China
| | - Yanlei Liu
- Key Laboratory of Flexible Electronics (KLOFE) and Institute of Advanced Materials (IAM) Nanjing Tech University (NanjingTech) Nanjing China
| | - Zhiwei Wang
- Key Laboratory of Flexible Electronics (KLOFE) and Institute of Advanced Materials (IAM) Nanjing Tech University (NanjingTech) Nanjing China
- Frontiers Science Center for Flexible Electronics, Xi'an Institute of Flexible Electronics (IFE) and Xi'an Institute of Biomedical Materials & Engineering Northwestern Polytechnical University Xi'an China
| | - Xiao Huang
- Key Laboratory of Flexible Electronics (KLOFE) and Institute of Advanced Materials (IAM) Nanjing Tech University (NanjingTech) Nanjing China
| | - Wei Huang
- Key Laboratory of Flexible Electronics (KLOFE) and Institute of Advanced Materials (IAM) Nanjing Tech University (NanjingTech) Nanjing China
- Frontiers Science Center for Flexible Electronics, Xi'an Institute of Flexible Electronics (IFE) and Xi'an Institute of Biomedical Materials & Engineering Northwestern Polytechnical University Xi'an China
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20
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Abstract
The role of the physical microenvironment in tumor development, progression, metastasis, and treatment is gaining appreciation. The emerging multidisciplinary field of the physical sciences of cancer is now embraced by engineers, physicists, cell biologists, developmental biologists, tumor biologists, and oncologists attempting to understand how physical parameters and processes affect cancer progression and treatment. Discoveries in this field are starting to be translated into new therapeutic strategies for cancer. In this Review, we propose four physical traits of tumors that contribute to tumor progression and treatment resistance: (i) elevated solid stresses (compression and tension), (ii) elevated interstitial fluid pressure, (iii) altered material properties (for example, increased tissue stiffness, which historically has been used to detect cancer by palpation), and (iv) altered physical microarchitecture. After defining these physical traits, we discuss their causes, consequences, and how they complement the biological hallmarks of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hadi T Nia
- Steele Laboratories, Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Lance L Munn
- Steele Laboratories, Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Rakesh K Jain
- Steele Laboratories, Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA. .,Ludwig Center at Harvard, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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21
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Dai S, Liang T, Fujii T, He S, Zhang F, Jiang H, Liu B, Shi X, Luo Z, Yang H. Increased elastic modulus of the synovial membrane in a rat ACLT model of osteoarthritis revealed by atomic force microscopy. Braz J Med Biol Res 2020; 53:e10058. [PMID: 33053109 PMCID: PMC7552902 DOI: 10.1590/1414-431x202010058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2020] [Accepted: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to explore changes in nanoscale elastic modulus of the synovium using atomic force microscopy (AFM) in addition to investigate changes in synovial histomorphology and secretory function in osteoarthritis (OA) in a rat anterior cruciate ligament transection (ACLT) model. Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned to sham control and ACLT OA groups. All right knee joints were harvested at 4, 8, or 12 weeks (W) after surgery for histological assessment of cartilage damage and synovitis in both the anterior and posterior capsules. AFM imaging and nanoscale biomechanical testing were conducted to measure the elastic modulus of the synovial collagen fibrils. Immunohistochemistry was used to visualize the expression of interleukin-1β (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and matrix metalloproteinase-3 (MMP-3) in the synovium. The OA groups exhibited progressive development of disease in the cartilage and synovium. Histopathological scores of the synovium in the OA groups increased gradually. Significant differences were observed between all OA groups except for the posterior 4W group. The synovial fibril arrangement in all OA groups was significantly disordered. The synovial fibrils in all ACLT OA groups at each time point were stiffer than those in the sham controls. OA rats displayed a significantly higher expression of IL-1β and MMP3 in the anterior capsule. In summary, synovial stiffening was closely associated with joint degeneration and might be a factor contributing to synovitis and increased production of proinflammatory mediators. Our data provided insights into the role of synovitis, particularly stiffening of the synovium, in OA pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shouqian Dai
- Orthopedic Institute, Department of Orthopaedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China.,Department of Emergency Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ting Liang
- Orthopedic Institute, Department of Orthopaedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Tadashi Fujii
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kashiba Asahigaoka Hospital, Kashiba, Nara, Japan
| | - Shuangjun He
- Orthopedic Institute, Department of Orthopaedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Fan Zhang
- Orthopedic Institute, Department of Orthopaedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Huaye Jiang
- Orthopedic Institute, Department of Orthopaedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Bo Liu
- Orthopedic Institute, Department of Orthopaedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiu Shi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zongping Luo
- Orthopedic Institute, Department of Orthopaedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Huilin Yang
- Orthopedic Institute, Department of Orthopaedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
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22
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Panciera T, Citron A, Di Biagio D, Battilana G, Gandin A, Giulitti S, Forcato M, Bicciato S, Panzetta V, Fusco S, Azzolin L, Totaro A, Dei Tos AP, Fassan M, Vindigni V, Bassetto F, Rosato A, Brusatin G, Cordenonsi M, Piccolo S. Reprogramming normal cells into tumour precursors requires ECM stiffness and oncogene-mediated changes of cell mechanical properties. NATURE MATERIALS 2020; 19:797-806. [PMID: 32066931 PMCID: PMC7316573 DOI: 10.1038/s41563-020-0615-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 124] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2019] [Accepted: 01/16/2020] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Defining the interplay between the genetic events and microenvironmental contexts necessary to initiate tumorigenesis in normal cells is a central endeavour in cancer biology. We found that receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK)-Ras oncogenes reprogram normal, freshly explanted primary mouse and human cells into tumour precursors, in a process requiring increased force transmission between oncogene-expressing cells and their surrounding extracellular matrix. Microenvironments approximating the normal softness of healthy tissues, or blunting cellular mechanotransduction, prevent oncogene-mediated cell reprogramming and tumour emergence. However, RTK-Ras oncogenes empower a disproportional cellular response to the mechanical properties of the cell's environment, such that when cells experience even subtle supra-physiological extracellular-matrix rigidity they are converted into tumour-initiating cells. These regulations rely on YAP/TAZ mechanotransduction, and YAP/TAZ target genes account for a large fraction of the transcriptional responses downstream of oncogenic signalling. This work lays the groundwork for exploiting oncogenic mechanosignalling as a vulnerability at the onset of tumorigenesis, including tumour prevention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tito Panciera
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua School of Medicine, Padua, Italy
| | - Anna Citron
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua School of Medicine, Padua, Italy
| | - Daniele Di Biagio
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua School of Medicine, Padua, Italy
| | - Giusy Battilana
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua School of Medicine, Padua, Italy
| | - Alessandro Gandin
- Department of Industrial Engineering and INSTM, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Stefano Giulitti
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua School of Medicine, Padua, Italy
| | - Mattia Forcato
- Center for Genome Research, Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Silvio Bicciato
- Center for Genome Research, Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Valeria Panzetta
- Interdisciplinary Research Centre on Biomaterials, CRIB, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- Center for Advanced Biomaterials for Health Care IIT@CRIB, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Naples, Italy
| | - Sabato Fusco
- Interdisciplinary Research Centre on Biomaterials, CRIB, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- Center for Advanced Biomaterials for Health Care IIT@CRIB, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Naples, Italy
| | - Luca Azzolin
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua School of Medicine, Padua, Italy
| | - Antonio Totaro
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua School of Medicine, Padua, Italy
| | - Angelo Paolo Dei Tos
- Department of Medicine (DIMED), Surgical Pathology and Cytopathology Unit, Padua, Italy
| | - Matteo Fassan
- Department of Medicine (DIMED), Surgical Pathology and Cytopathology Unit, Padua, Italy
| | | | - Franco Bassetto
- Clinic of Plastic Surgery, Padua University Hospital, Padua, Italy
| | - Antonio Rosato
- Istituto Oncologico Veneto IOV-IRCCS, and Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padua School of Medicine, Padua, Italy
| | - Giovanna Brusatin
- Department of Industrial Engineering and INSTM, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | | | - Stefano Piccolo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua School of Medicine, Padua, Italy.
- IFOM, The FIRC Institute of Molecular Oncology, Padua, Italy.
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23
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Panzetta V, La Verde G, Pugliese M, Artiola V, Arrichiello C, Muto P, La Commara M, Netti PA, Fusco S. Adhesion and Migration Response to Radiation Therapy of Mammary Epithelial and Adenocarcinoma Cells Interacting with Different Stiffness Substrates. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:E1170. [PMID: 32384675 PMCID: PMC7281676 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12051170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Revised: 04/27/2020] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The structural and mechanical properties of the microenvironmental context have a profound impact on cancer cell motility, tumor invasion, and metastasis formation. In fact, cells react to their mechanical environment modulating their adhesion, cytoskeleton organization, changes of shape, and, consequently, the dynamics of their motility. In order to elucidate the role of extracellular matrix stiffness as a driving force in cancer cell motility/invasion and the effects of ionizing radiations on these processes, we evaluated adhesion and migration as biophysical properties of two different mammary cell lines, over a range of pathophysiological stiffness (1-13 kPa) in a control condition and after the exposure to two different X-ray doses (2 and 10 Gy, photon beams). We concluded that the microenvironment mimicking the normal mechanics of healthy tissue has a radioprotective role on both cell lines, preventing cell motility and invasion. Supraphysiological extracellular matrix stiffness promoted tumor cell motility instead, but also had a normalizing effect on the response to radiation of tumor cells, lowering their migratory capability. This work lays the foundation for exploiting the extracellular matrix-mediated mechanism underlying the response of healthy and tumor cells to radiation treatments and opens new frontiers in the diagnostic and therapeutic use of radiotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Panzetta
- Centro di Ricerca Interdipartimentale sui Biomateriali, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Piazzale Tecchio 80, 80125 Napoli, Italy;
- Centre for Advanced Biomaterial for Health Care, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Largo Barsanti e Matteucci 53, 80125 Napoli, Italy
| | - Giuseppe La Verde
- Istituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare, INFN sezione di Napoli, Via Cinthia ed. 6, 80126 Napoli, Italy; (G.L.V.); (M.P.); (M.L.C.)
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Via Montesano 49, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Mariagabriella Pugliese
- Istituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare, INFN sezione di Napoli, Via Cinthia ed. 6, 80126 Napoli, Italy; (G.L.V.); (M.P.); (M.L.C.)
- Dipartimento di Fisica “Ettore Pancini”, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Via Cinthia ed. 6, 80126 Napoli, Italy;
| | - Valeria Artiola
- Dipartimento di Fisica “Ettore Pancini”, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Via Cinthia ed. 6, 80126 Napoli, Italy;
| | - Cecilia Arrichiello
- Radiotherapy Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori-IRCCS-Fondazione “G. Pascale”, Via Semmola, 53, 80131 Naples, Italy; (C.A.); (P.M.)
| | - Paolo Muto
- Radiotherapy Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori-IRCCS-Fondazione “G. Pascale”, Via Semmola, 53, 80131 Naples, Italy; (C.A.); (P.M.)
| | - Marco La Commara
- Istituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare, INFN sezione di Napoli, Via Cinthia ed. 6, 80126 Napoli, Italy; (G.L.V.); (M.P.); (M.L.C.)
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Via Montesano 49, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Paolo A. Netti
- Centro di Ricerca Interdipartimentale sui Biomateriali, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Piazzale Tecchio 80, 80125 Napoli, Italy;
- Centre for Advanced Biomaterial for Health Care, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Largo Barsanti e Matteucci 53, 80125 Napoli, Italy
| | - Sabato Fusco
- Centro di Ricerca Interdipartimentale sui Biomateriali, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Piazzale Tecchio 80, 80125 Napoli, Italy;
- Centre for Advanced Biomaterial for Health Care, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Largo Barsanti e Matteucci 53, 80125 Napoli, Italy
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24
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Kozminsky M, Sohn LL. The promise of single-cell mechanophenotyping for clinical applications. BIOMICROFLUIDICS 2020; 14:031301. [PMID: 32566069 PMCID: PMC7286698 DOI: 10.1063/5.0010800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Accepted: 05/11/2020] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Cancer is the second leading cause of death worldwide. Despite the immense research focused in this area, one is still not able to predict disease trajectory. To overcome shortcomings in cancer disease study and monitoring, we describe an exciting research direction: cellular mechanophenotyping. Cancer cells must overcome many challenges involving external forces from neighboring cells, the extracellular matrix, and the vasculature to survive and thrive. Identifying and understanding their mechanical behavior in response to these forces would advance our understanding of cancer. Moreover, used alongside traditional methods of immunostaining and genetic analysis, mechanophenotyping could provide a comprehensive view of a heterogeneous tumor. In this perspective, we focus on new technologies that enable single-cell mechanophenotyping. Single-cell analysis is vitally important, as mechanical stimuli from the environment may obscure the inherent mechanical properties of a cell that can change over time. Moreover, bulk studies mask the heterogeneity in mechanical properties of single cells, especially those rare subpopulations that aggressively lead to cancer progression or therapeutic resistance. The technologies on which we focus include atomic force microscopy, suspended microchannel resonators, hydrodynamic and optical stretching, and mechano-node pore sensing. These technologies are poised to contribute to our understanding of disease progression as well as present clinical opportunities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Molly Kozminsky
- California Institute for Quantitative Biosciences, University of California, 174 Stanley Hall, Berkeley, California 94720, USA
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25
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Altayyeb A, Othman E, Khashbah M, Esmaeel A, El-Mokhtar M, Lambalk C, Mijatovic V, Abdelgawad M. Characterization of Mechanical Signature of Eutopic Endometrial Stromal Cells of Endometriosis Patients. Reprod Sci 2020; 27:364-374. [PMID: 32046462 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-019-00042-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2018] [Accepted: 04/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Endometriosis affects 5-10% of women in reproductive age and causes pelvic pain and subfertility. Exact etiology of the disease is unknown. Here, we present a microfluidic platform for characterizing mechanical properties of eutopic endometrial stromal cells of endometriosis patients based on cellular deformability inside narrow microchannels. Primary human endometrial stromal cells were isolated from eutopic endometrium of endometriosis patients (4407 cells, from 7 endometriosis patients) and from disease-free women (4541 cells, from 6 control women) and were pumped through microchannels (formed of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) by standard soft lithography, with dimensions of 8 × 20 × 150 μm, as width × height × length) at a constant flow rate of 2 μL/min. High-speed imaging was used to capture videos of cells as they flow inside microchannels, and a computer vision code was used to track cells, measure their area, and calculate the time each cell takes to pass through the microchannel. Compared with their counterparts from control women, eutopic endometrial stromal cells from endometriosis patients showed significantly increased deformation index (1.65 ± 0.2 versus 1.43 ± 0.19, respectively, P value < 0.001), and higher velocity in travelling through narrow microchannels (96.530 ± 0.710 mm/s versus 57.518 ± 0.585 mm/s, respectively, P value < 0.001). The same difference in velocities between the two cell types was maintained after controlling for cell area. Eutopic endometrial stromal cells of endometriosis patients showed a mechanical phenotype characterized by high deformability and reduced stiffness. This mechanical signature can represent basis of a mechanical biomarker of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad Altayyeb
- Center for Nanotechnology, Zewail City of Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt
| | - Essam Othman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt. .,Amsterdam University Medical Center, Location VUmc, Academic Endometriosis Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Maha Khashbah
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | | | - Mohamed El-Mokhtar
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Cornelis Lambalk
- Amsterdam University Medical Center, Location VUmc, Academic Endometriosis Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Velja Mijatovic
- Amsterdam University Medical Center, Location VUmc, Academic Endometriosis Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Mohamed Abdelgawad
- Mechanical Engineering department, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt. .,Mechanical Engineering Department, American University of Sharjah, Sharjah, UAE.
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26
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Panzetta V, Pugliese MG, Musella I, De Menna M, Netti PA, Fusco S. A BIOPHYSICAL ANALYSIS TO ASSESS X-RAY SENSITIVITY OF HEALTHY AND TUMOUR CELLS. RADIATION PROTECTION DOSIMETRY 2019; 183:116-120. [PMID: 30668835 DOI: 10.1093/rpd/ncy303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2018] [Accepted: 12/27/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
The mechanobiology is providing novel perspectives in the study of cancer and is contributing to evaluate the cancer responses, from a biophysical point of view, to classical therapeutic approaches- radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Here we have explored the effects of two doses (4 and 8 Gy) of 6 MeV photons on spreading, focal adhesions, migration and mechanical properties of BALB/c 3T3 and their SV40 transformed equivalent, SVT2. Cell biophysical responses to 4 and 8 Gy were analysed and compared with those reported in previous published work when lower doses (1 and 2 Gy) were administered Panzetta et al. (Effects of high energy X-rays on cell morphology and functions. Proc. Book 2017;16:116). We observed that the range of sensitivity to ionising radiations profoundly changes depending on the patho-physiological state of cells. In particular, we found that X-rays induce morphological and functional variations in both cell lines (decreased motility, increased adhesion and increased cytoskeleton stiffness). These changes were slightly dependent on doses in the case of SVT2 cells and may indicate a possible mechanical normalisation in their phenotype. Nevertheless, the responses of BALB/c 3T3 were negligible only for the low dose of 1 Gy and increased significantly in a dose-dependent manner with higher doses. We believe that the characterisation of X-rays effects on the cell mechanobiology could shed new light in the design and customisation of radiotherapy treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Panzetta
- Centro Interdipartimentale di Ricerca sui Biomateriali, University of Naples Federico II
| | - M G Pugliese
- Physics Department, University of Naples Federico II
| | - I Musella
- Centro Interdipartimentale di Ricerca sui Biomateriali, University of Naples Federico II
| | - M De Menna
- Department for BioMedical Research, University of Bern
| | - P A Netti
- Centro Interdipartimentale di Ricerca sui Biomateriali, University of Naples Federico II
- IIT-Center for Advanced Biomaterials for Healthcare, Naples
| | - S Fusco
- Centro Interdipartimentale di Ricerca sui Biomateriali, University of Naples Federico II
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27
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Septiadi D, Crippa F, Moore TL, Rothen-Rutishauser B, Petri-Fink A. Nanoparticle-Cell Interaction: A Cell Mechanics Perspective. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2018; 30:e1704463. [PMID: 29315860 DOI: 10.1002/adma.201704463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2017] [Revised: 09/14/2017] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Progress in the field of nanoparticles has enabled the rapid development of multiple products and technologies; however, some nanoparticles can pose both a threat to the environment and human health. To enable their safe implementation, a comprehensive knowledge of nanoparticles and their biological interactions is needed. In vitro and in vivo toxicity tests have been considered the gold standard to evaluate nanoparticle safety, but it is becoming necessary to understand the impact of nanosystems on cell mechanics. Here, the interaction between particles and cells, from the point of view of cell mechanics (i.e., bionanomechanics), is highlighted and put in perspective. Specifically, the ability of intracellular and extracellular nanoparticles to impair cell adhesion, cytoskeletal organization, stiffness, and migration are discussed. Furthermore, the development of cutting-edge, nanotechnology-driven tools based on the use of particles allowing the determination of cell mechanics is emphasized. These include traction force microscopy, colloidal probe atomic force microscopy, optical tweezers, magnetic manipulation, and particle tracking microrheology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dedy Septiadi
- Adolphe Merkle Institute, University of Fribourg, Chemin des Verdiers 4, 1700, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Federica Crippa
- Adolphe Merkle Institute, University of Fribourg, Chemin des Verdiers 4, 1700, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Lee Moore
- Adolphe Merkle Institute, University of Fribourg, Chemin des Verdiers 4, 1700, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | | | - Alke Petri-Fink
- Adolphe Merkle Institute, University of Fribourg, Chemin des Verdiers 4, 1700, Fribourg, Switzerland
- Department of Chemistry, University of Fribourg, Chemin du Musée 9, 1700, Fribourg, Switzerland
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28
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Panzetta V, Guarnieri D, Paciello A, Della Sala F, Muscetti O, Raiola L, Netti P, Fusco S. ECM Mechano-Sensing Regulates Cytoskeleton Assembly and Receptor-Mediated Endocytosis of Nanoparticles. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2017; 3:1586-1594. [PMID: 33429644 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.7b00018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
It is possible to create sophisticated and target-specific devices for nanomedicine thanks to technological advances in the engineering of nanomaterials. When on target, these nanocarriers often have to be internalized by cells in order to accomplish their diagnostic or therapeutic function. Therefore, the control of such uptake mechanism by active targeting strategy has today become the new challenge in nanoparticle designing. It is also well-known that cells are able to sense and respond to the local physical environment and that the substrate stiffness, and not only the nanoparticle design, influences the cellular internalization mechanisms. In this frame, our work reports on the cyclic relationship among substrate stiffness, cell cytoskeleton assembly and internalization mechanism. Nanoparticles uptake has been investigated in terms of the mechanics of cell environment, the resulting cytoskeleton activity and the opportunity of activate molecular specific molecular pathways during the internalization process. To this aim, the surface of 100 nm polystyrene nanoparticles was decorated with a tripeptide (RGD and a scrambled version as a control), which was able to activate an internalization pathway directly correlated to the dynamics of the cell cytoskeleton, in turn, directly correlated to the elastic modulus of the substrates. We found that the substrate stiffness modulates the uptake of nanoparticles by regulating structural parameters of bEnd.3 cells as spreading, volume, focal adhesion, and mechanics. In fact, the nanoparticles were internalized in larger amounts both when decorated with RGD, which activated an internalization pathway directly correlated to the cell cytoskeleton, and when cells resided on stiffer material that, in turn, promoted the formation of a more structured cytoskeleton. This evidence indicates the directive role of the mechanical environment on cellular uptake of nanoparticles, contributing new insights to the rational design and development of novel nanocarrier systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Panzetta
- Center for Advanced Biomaterials for Health Care IIT@CRIB, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, L.go Barsanti e Matteucci 53, Naples 80125, Italy
| | - Daniela Guarnieri
- Center for Advanced Biomaterials for Health Care IIT@CRIB, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, L.go Barsanti e Matteucci 53, Naples 80125, Italy
| | - Antonio Paciello
- Center for Advanced Biomaterials for Health Care IIT@CRIB, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, L.go Barsanti e Matteucci 53, Naples 80125, Italy
| | - Francesca Della Sala
- Center for Advanced Biomaterials for Health Care IIT@CRIB, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, L.go Barsanti e Matteucci 53, Naples 80125, Italy
| | - Ornella Muscetti
- Center for Advanced Biomaterials for Health Care IIT@CRIB, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, L.go Barsanti e Matteucci 53, Naples 80125, Italy
| | - Luca Raiola
- Center for Advanced Biomaterials for Health Care IIT@CRIB, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, L.go Barsanti e Matteucci 53, Naples 80125, Italy
| | - Paolo Netti
- Center for Advanced Biomaterials for Health Care IIT@CRIB, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, L.go Barsanti e Matteucci 53, Naples 80125, Italy.,Interdisciplinary Research Centre on Biomaterials, CRIB and Department of Chemical, Materials & Industrial Production Engineering, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80125, Italy
| | - Sabato Fusco
- Center for Advanced Biomaterials for Health Care IIT@CRIB, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, L.go Barsanti e Matteucci 53, Naples 80125, Italy.,Interdisciplinary Research Centre on Biomaterials, CRIB and Department of Chemical, Materials & Industrial Production Engineering, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80125, Italy
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