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Aazmi A, Zhang D, Mazzaglia C, Yu M, Wang Z, Yang H, Huang YYS, Ma L. Biofabrication methods for reconstructing extracellular matrix mimetics. Bioact Mater 2024; 31:475-496. [PMID: 37719085 PMCID: PMC10500422 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2023.08.018] [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: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
In the human body, almost all cells interact with extracellular matrices (ECMs), which have tissue and organ-specific compositions and architectures. These ECMs not only function as cellular scaffolds, providing structural support, but also play a crucial role in dynamically regulating various cellular functions. This comprehensive review delves into the examination of biofabrication strategies used to develop bioactive materials that accurately mimic one or more biophysical and biochemical properties of ECMs. We discuss the potential integration of these ECM-mimics into a range of physiological and pathological in vitro models, enhancing our understanding of cellular behavior and tissue organization. Lastly, we propose future research directions for ECM-mimics in the context of tissue engineering and organ-on-a-chip applications, offering potential advancements in therapeutic approaches and improved patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdellah Aazmi
- State Key Laboratory of Fluid Power and Mechatronic Systems, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Duo Zhang
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- School of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 51817, China
| | - Corrado Mazzaglia
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Mengfei Yu
- The Affiliated Stomatologic Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Zhen Wang
- Center for Laboratory Medicine, Allergy Center, Department of Transfusion Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, China
| | - Huayong Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Fluid Power and Mechatronic Systems, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Yan Yan Shery Huang
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Liang Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Fluid Power and Mechatronic Systems, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
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2
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Anjum S, Li T, Saeed M, Ao Q. Exploring polysaccharide and protein-enriched decellularized matrix scaffolds for tendon and ligament repair: A review. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 254:127891. [PMID: 37931866 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.127891] [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: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 10/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023]
Abstract
Tissue engineering (TE) has become a primary research topic for the treatment of diseased or damaged tendon/ligament (T/L) tissue. T/L injuries pose a severe clinical burden worldwide, necessitating the development of effective strategies for T/L repair and tissue regeneration. TE has emerged as a promising strategy for restoring T/L function using decellularized extracellular matrix (dECM)-based scaffolds. dECM scaffolds have gained significant prominence because of their native structure, relatively high bioactivity, low immunogenicity, and ability to function as scaffolds for cell attachment, proliferation, and differentiation, which are difficult to imitate using synthetic materials. Here, we review the recent advances and possible future prospects for the advancement of dECM scaffolds for T/L tissue regeneration. We focus on crucial scaffold properties and functions, as well as various engineering strategies employed for biomaterial design in T/L regeneration. dECM provides both the physical and mechanical microenvironments required by cells to survive and proliferate. Various decellularization methods and sources of allogeneic and xenogeneic dECM in T/L repair and regeneration are critically discussed. Additionally, dECM hydrogels, bio-inks in 3D bioprinting, and nanofibers are briefly explored. Understanding the opportunities and challenges associated with dECM-based scaffold development is crucial for advancing T/L repairs in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shabnam Anjum
- Department of Tissue Engineering, School of Intelligent Medicine, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China; NMPA Key Laboratory for Quality Research and Control of Tissue Regenerative Biomaterial, Institute of Regulatory Science for Medical Device, National Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
| | - Ting Li
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110004, China
| | - Mohammad Saeed
- Dr. A.P.J Abdul Kalam Technical University, Lucknow 226031, India
| | - Qiang Ao
- Department of Tissue Engineering, School of Intelligent Medicine, China Medical University, Shenyang 110122, China; NMPA Key Laboratory for Quality Research and Control of Tissue Regenerative Biomaterial, Institute of Regulatory Science for Medical Device, National Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China.
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Wang W, Ka SGS, Pan Y, Sheng Y, Huang YYS. Biointerface Fiber Technology from Electrospinning to Inflight Printing. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2023. [PMID: 38109220 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c10617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2023]
Abstract
Building two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) micro- and nanofibril structures with designable patterns and functionalities will offer exciting prospects for numerous applications spanning from permeable bioelectronics to tissue engineering scaffolds. This Spotlight on Applications highlights recent technological advances in fiber printing and patterning with functional materials for biointerfacing applications. We first introduce the current state of development of micro- and nanofibers with applications in biology and medical wearables. We then describe our contributions in developing a series of fiber printing techniques that enable the patterning of functional fiber architectures in three dimensions. These fiber printing techniques expand the material library and device designs, which underpin technological capabilities from enabling fundamental studies in cell migration to customizable and ecofriendly fabrication of sensors. Finally, we provide an outlook on the strategic pathways for developing the next-generation bioelectronics and "Fiber-of-Things" (FoT) using nano/micro-fibers as architectural building blocks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenyu Wang
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Trumpington Street, CB2 1PZ Cambridge, United Kingdom
- The Nanoscience Centre, University of Cambridge, 11 JJ Thomson Avenue, CB3 0FF Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Stanley Gong Sheng Ka
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Trumpington Street, CB2 1PZ Cambridge, United Kingdom
- The Nanoscience Centre, University of Cambridge, 11 JJ Thomson Avenue, CB3 0FF Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Yifei Pan
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Trumpington Street, CB2 1PZ Cambridge, United Kingdom
- The Nanoscience Centre, University of Cambridge, 11 JJ Thomson Avenue, CB3 0FF Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Yaqi Sheng
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Trumpington Street, CB2 1PZ Cambridge, United Kingdom
- The Nanoscience Centre, University of Cambridge, 11 JJ Thomson Avenue, CB3 0FF Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Yan Yan Shery Huang
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Trumpington Street, CB2 1PZ Cambridge, United Kingdom
- The Nanoscience Centre, University of Cambridge, 11 JJ Thomson Avenue, CB3 0FF Cambridge, United Kingdom
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Fathi S, Lei IM, Cao Y, Huang YYS. Microcapillary cell extrusion deposition with picolitre dispensing resolution. Biodes Manuf 2023; 6:1-11. [PMID: 36644556 PMCID: PMC9829649 DOI: 10.1007/s42242-022-00205-3] [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: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Extrusion-based cell deposition has become a prominent technique for expanding bioprinting applications. However, the associated print resolution in the order of nanolitre or above has been a limiting factor. The demand for improving print resolution towards the scale of a single cell has driven the development of precision nozzle extrusion, although the benefits gained remain ambiguous. Here, aided by in situ imaging, we investigated the dynamics of cell organisation through an extrusion-based microcapillary tip with picolitre precision through in-air or immersion deposition. The microcapillary extrusion setup, termed 'Picodis', was demonstrated by generating droplets of colouring inks immersed in an immiscible medium. Next, using 3T3 fibroblast cells as an experimental model, we demonstrated the deposition of cell suspension, and pre-aggregated cell pellets. Then, the dynamic organisation of cells within the microcapillary tip was described, along with cell ejection and deposition upon exiting the tip opening. The vision-assisted approach revealed that when dispersed in a culture medium, the movements of cells were distinctive based on the flow profiles and were purely driven by laminar fluid flow within a narrow tip. The primary process limitations were cell sedimentation, aggregation and compaction, along with trapped air bubbles. The use of picolitre-level resolution microcapillary extrusion, although it provides some level of control for a small number of cells, does not necessarily offer a reliable method when a specified number of cells are required. Our study provides insights into the process limitations of high-resolution cell ink extrusion, which may be useful for optimising biofabrication processes of cell-laden constructs for biomedical research. Supplementary information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s42242-022-00205-3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saeed Fathi
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK ,The Nanoscience Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Iek Man Lei
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK ,The Nanoscience Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Yang Cao
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK ,The Nanoscience Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Yan Yan Shery Huang
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK ,The Nanoscience Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
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5
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McInnes AD, Moser MAJ, Chen X. Preparation and Use of Decellularized Extracellular Matrix for Tissue Engineering. J Funct Biomater 2022; 13:jfb13040240. [PMID: 36412881 PMCID: PMC9680265 DOI: 10.3390/jfb13040240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Revised: 10/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The multidisciplinary fields of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine have the potential to revolutionize the practise of medicine through the abilities to repair, regenerate, or replace tissues and organs with functional engineered constructs. To this end, tissue engineering combines scaffolding materials with cells and biologically active molecules into constructs with the appropriate structures and properties for tissue/organ regeneration, where scaffolding materials and biomolecules are the keys to mimic the native extracellular matrix (ECM). For this, one emerging way is to decellularize the native ECM into the materials suitable for, directly or in combination with other materials, creating functional constructs. Over the past decade, decellularized ECM (or dECM) has greatly facilitated the advance of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, while being challenged in many ways. This article reviews the recent development of dECM for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, with a focus on the preparation of dECM along with its influence on cell culture, the modification of dECM for use as a scaffolding material, and the novel techniques and emerging trends in processing dECM into functional constructs. We highlight the success of dECM and constructs in the in vitro, in vivo, and clinical applications and further identify the key issues and challenges involved, along with a discussion of future research directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam D. McInnes
- Division of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5A9, Canada
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-306-966-5435
| | - Michael A. J. Moser
- Department of Surgery, Health Sciences Building, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 0W8, Canada
| | - Xiongbiao Chen
- Division of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5A9, Canada
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5A9, Canada
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Valverde MG, Mille LS, Figler KP, Cervantes E, Li VY, Bonventre JV, Masereeuw R, Zhang YS. Biomimetic models of the glomerulus. Nat Rev Nephrol 2022; 18:241-257. [PMID: 35064233 PMCID: PMC9949601 DOI: 10.1038/s41581-021-00528-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The use of biomimetic models of the glomerulus has the potential to improve our understanding of the pathogenesis of kidney diseases and to enable progress in therapeutics. Current in vitro models comprise organ-on-a-chip, scaffold-based and organoid approaches. Glomerulus-on-a-chip designs mimic components of glomerular microfluidic flow but lack the inherent complexity of the glomerular filtration barrier. Scaffold-based 3D culture systems and organoids provide greater microenvironmental complexity but do not replicate fluid flows and dynamic responses to fluidic stimuli. As the available models do not accurately model the structure or filtration function of the glomerulus, their applications are limited. An optimal approach to glomerular modelling is yet to be developed, but the field will probably benefit from advances in biofabrication techniques. In particular, 3D bioprinting technologies could enable the fabrication of constructs that recapitulate the complex structure of the glomerulus and the glomerular filtration barrier. The next generation of in vitro glomerular models must be suitable for high(er)-content or/and high(er)-throughput screening to enable continuous and systematic monitoring. Moreover, coupling of glomerular or kidney models with those of other organs is a promising approach to enable modelling of partial or full-body responses to drugs and prediction of therapeutic outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta G Valverde
- Division of Engineering in Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Division of Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences (UIPS), Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Luis S Mille
- Division of Engineering in Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Kianti P Figler
- Division of Engineering in Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Ernesto Cervantes
- Division of Engineering in Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Vanessa Y Li
- Division of Engineering in Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Joseph V Bonventre
- Division of Engineering in Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA, USA.
- Division of Renal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Rosalinde Masereeuw
- Division of Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences (UIPS), Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands.
| | - Yu Shrike Zhang
- Division of Engineering in Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA, USA.
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Zhang D, Sheng Y, Piano N, Jakuszeit T, Cozens E, Dong L, Buell AK, Pollet A, Lei IM, Wang W, Terentjev E, Huang YYS. Cancer cell migration on straight, wavy, loop and grid microfibre patterns. Biofabrication 2022; 14. [PMID: 34991078 DOI: 10.1088/1758-5090/ac48e6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Cell migration plays an important role in physiological and pathological processes where the fibrillar morphology of extracellular matrices (ECM) could regulate the migration dynamics. To mimic the morphological characteristics of fibrillar matrix structures, low-voltage continuous electrospinning was adapted to construct straight, wavy, looped and gridded fibre patterns made of polystyrene (of fibre diameter ca. 3 μm). Cells were free to explore their different shapes in response to the directly-adhered fibre, as well as to the neighbouring patterns. For all the patterns studied, analysing cellular migration dynamics of MDA-MB-231 (a highly migratory breast cancer cell line) demonstrated two interesting findings: first, although cells dynamically adjust their shapes and migration trajectories in response to different fibrillar environments, their average step speed is minimally affected by the fibre global pattern; secondly, a switch in behaviour was observed when the pattern features approach the upper limit of the cell body's minor axis, reflecting that cells' ability to divert from an existing fibre track is limited by the size along the cell body's minor axis. It is therefore concluded that the upper limit of cell body's minor axis might act as a guide for the design of microfibre patterns for different purposes of cell migration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Duo Zhang
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Trumpington Street, Cambridge, CB2 1TN, UNITED KINGDOM OF GREAT BRITAIN AND NORTHERN IRELAND
| | - Yaqi Sheng
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Trumpington Street, Cambridge, CB2 1TN, UNITED KINGDOM OF GREAT BRITAIN AND NORTHERN IRELAND
| | - Nicholas Piano
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Trumpington Street, Cambridge, CB2 1TN, UNITED KINGDOM OF GREAT BRITAIN AND NORTHERN IRELAND
| | - Theresa Jakuszeit
- Cavendish Laboratory, University of Cambridge, JJ Thomson Avenue, Cambridge, CB2 1TN, UNITED KINGDOM OF GREAT BRITAIN AND NORTHERN IRELAND
| | - Edward Cozens
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Trumpington Street, Cambridge, CB2 1TN, UNITED KINGDOM OF GREAT BRITAIN AND NORTHERN IRELAND
| | - Lingqing Dong
- School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, The Affiliated Stomatology Hospital., Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310058, CHINA
| | - Alexander K Buell
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Søltofts Plads, 227, 061 2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Lyngby, 2800, DENMARK
| | - Andreas Pollet
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, 5600MB Eindhoven, Eindhoven, Noord-Brabant, 5600 MB, NETHERLANDS
| | - Iek Man Lei
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Trumpington Street, Cambridge, CB2 1TN, UNITED KINGDOM OF GREAT BRITAIN AND NORTHERN IRELAND
| | - Wenyu Wang
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Trumpington Street, Cambridge, CB2 1TN, UNITED KINGDOM OF GREAT BRITAIN AND NORTHERN IRELAND
| | - Eugene Terentjev
- Cavendish Laboratory, University of Cambridge, JJ Thomson Avenue, CAMBRIDGE CB3 0HE, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB2 1TN, UNITED KINGDOM OF GREAT BRITAIN AND NORTHERN IRELAND
| | - Yan Yan Shery Huang
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Trumpington Street, Cambridge, CB2 1TN, UNITED KINGDOM OF GREAT BRITAIN AND NORTHERN IRELAND
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Organs-on-chip technology: a tool to tackle genetic kidney diseases. Pediatr Nephrol 2022; 37:2985-2996. [PMID: 35286457 PMCID: PMC9587109 DOI: 10.1007/s00467-022-05508-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Revised: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a major healthcare burden that takes a toll on the quality of life of many patients. Emerging evidence indicates that a substantial proportion of these patients carry a genetic defect that contributes to their disease. Any effort to reduce the percentage of patients with a diagnosis of nephropathy heading towards kidney replacement therapies should therefore be encouraged. Besides early genetic screenings and registries, in vitro systems that mimic the complexity and pathophysiological aspects of the disease could advance the screening for targeted and personalized therapies. In this regard, the use of patient-derived cell lines, as well as the generation of disease-specific cell lines via gene editing and stem cell technologies, have significantly improved our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying inherited kidney diseases. Furthermore, organs-on-chip technology holds great potential as it can emulate tissue and organ functions that are not found in other, more simple, in vitro models. The personalized nature of the chips, together with physiologically relevant read-outs, provide new opportunities for patient-specific assessment, as well as personalized strategies for treatment. In this review, we summarize the major kidney-on-chip (KOC) configurations and present the most recent studies on the in vitro representation of genetic kidney diseases using KOC-driven strategies.
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Vasanthan KS, Srinivasan V, Pandita D. Extracellular matrix extraction techniques and applications in biomedical engineering. Regen Med 2021; 16:775-802. [PMID: 34427104 DOI: 10.2217/rme-2021-0021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The concept of tissue engineering involves regeneration and repair of damaged tissue and organs using various combinations of cells, growth factors and scaffolds. The extracellular matrix (ECM) forms the integral part of the scaffold to induce cell proliferation thereby leading to new tissue formation. Decellularization technique provides decellularized ECM (dECM), free of cells while preserving the in vivo biomolecules. In this review, we focus on the detailed methodology of diverse decellularization techniques for various organs of different animals, and the biomedical applications employing the dECM. A culmination of different methods of decellularization is optimized, which offers a suitable microenvironment mimicking the native in vivo topography for in vitro organ regeneration. A detailed assessment of the dECM provides information on the microarchitecture, presence of ECM proteins, biocompatibility and cell proliferation. dECM has also been processed as scaffolds and drug-delivery vehicles, and utilized for regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirthanashri S Vasanthan
- Amity Institute of Molecular Medicine & Stem cell Research (AIMMSCR), Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Sector-125, Noida, 201313, India
| | | | - Deepti Pandita
- Delhi Pharmaceutical Science & Research University, Government of NCT of Delhi, New Delhi, 110017, India
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Towards bioengineered skeletal muscle: recent developments in vitro and in vivo. Essays Biochem 2021; 65:555-567. [PMID: 34342361 DOI: 10.1042/ebc20200149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Revised: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Skeletal muscle is a functional tissue that accounts for approximately 40% of the human body mass. It has remarkable regenerative potential, however, trauma and volumetric muscle loss, progressive disease and aging can lead to significant muscle loss that the body cannot recover from. Clinical approaches to address this range from free-flap transfer for traumatic events involving volumetric muscle loss, to myoblast transplantation and gene therapy to replace muscle loss due to sarcopenia and hereditary neuromuscular disorders, however, these interventions are often inadequate. The adoption of engineering paradigms, in particular materials engineering and materials/tissue interfacing in biology and medicine, has given rise to the rapidly growing, multidisciplinary field of bioengineering. These methods have facilitated the development of new biomaterials that sustain cell growth and differentiation based on bionic biomimicry in naturally occurring and synthetic hydrogels and polymers, as well as additive fabrication methods to generate scaffolds that go some way to replicate the structural features of skeletal muscle. Recent advances in biofabrication techniques have resulted in significant improvements to some of these techniques and have also offered promising alternatives for the engineering of living muscle constructs ex vivo to address the loss of significant areas of muscle. This review highlights current research in this area and discusses the next steps required towards making muscle biofabrication a clinical reality.
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11
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Lee CT, Gill EL, Wang W, Gerigk M, Terentjev EM, Shery Huang YY. Guided assembly of cancer ellipsoid on suspended hydrogel microfibers estimates multi-cellular traction force. Phys Biol 2021; 18:036001. [PMID: 33412531 DOI: 10.1088/1478-3975/abd9aa] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Three-dimensional (3D) multi-cellular aggregates hold important applications in tissue engineering and in vitro biological modeling. Probing the intrinsic forces generated during the aggregation process, could open up new possibilities in advancing the discovery of tissue mechanics-based biomarkers. We use individually suspended, and tethered gelatin hydrogel microfibers to guide multicellular aggregation of brain cancer cells (glioblastoma cell line, U87), forming characteristic cancer 'ellipsoids'. Over a culture period of up to 13 days, U87 aggregates evolve from a flexible cell string with cell coverage following the relaxed and curly fiber contour; to a distinct ellipsoid-on-string morphology, where the fiber segment connecting the ellipsoid poles become taut. Fluorescence imaging revealed the fiber segment embedded within the ellipsoidal aggregate to exhibit a morphological transition analogous to filament buckling under a compressive force. By treating the multicellular aggregate as an effective elastic medium where the microfiber is embedded, we applied a filament post-buckling theory to model the fiber morphology, deducing the apparent elasticity of the cancer ellipsoid medium, as well as the collective traction force inherent in the aggregation process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng-Tai Lee
- Cavendish Laboratory, University of Cambridge, JJ Thomson Avenue, Cambridge, CB3 0HE, United Kingdom
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Grabska-Zielińska S, Sionkowska A, Carvalho Â, Monteiro FJ. Biomaterials with Potential Use in Bone Tissue Regeneration-Collagen/Chitosan/Silk Fibroin Scaffolds Cross-Linked by EDC/NHS. MATERIALS 2021; 14:ma14051105. [PMID: 33652959 PMCID: PMC7956200 DOI: 10.3390/ma14051105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Revised: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Blending of different biopolymers, e.g., collagen, chitosan, silk fibroin and cross-linking modifications of these mixtures can lead to new materials with improved physico-chemical properties, compared to single-component scaffolds. Three-dimensional scaffolds based on three-component mixtures of silk fibroin, collagen and chitosan, chemically cross-linked, were prepared and their physico-chemical and biological properties were evaluated. A mixture of EDC (N-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)-N’-ethylcarbodiimide hydrochloride) and NHS (N-hydroxysuccinimide) was used as a cross-linking agent. FTIR was used to observe the position of the peaks characteristic for collagen, chitosan and silk fibroin. The following properties depending on the scaffold structure were studied: swelling behavior, liquid uptake, moisture content, porosity, density, and mechanical parameters. Scanning Electron Microscopy imaging was performed. Additionally, the biological properties of these materials were assessed, by metabolic activity assay. The results showed that the three-component mixtures, cross-linked by EDC/NHS and prepared by lyophilization method, presented porous structures. They were characterized by a high swelling degree. The composition of scaffolds has an influence on mechanical properties. All of the studied materials were cytocompatible with MG-63 osteoblast-like cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylwia Grabska-Zielińska
- Department of Physical Chemistry and Physicochemistry of Polymers, Faculty of Chemistry, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, 87-100 Toruń, Poland
- Correspondence:
| | - Alina Sionkowska
- Department of Chemistry of Biomaterials and Cosmetics, Faculty of Chemistry, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, 87-100 Toruń, Poland;
| | - Ângela Carvalho
- i3S—Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, 4200-180 Porto, Portugal; (Â.C.); (F.J.M.)
- INEB—Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, 4200-180 Porto, Portugal
| | - Fernando J. Monteiro
- i3S—Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, 4200-180 Porto, Portugal; (Â.C.); (F.J.M.)
- INEB—Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, 4200-180 Porto, Portugal
- FEUP—Faculdade de Engenharia, Universidade do Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, s/n, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
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13
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Zamani M, Shakhssalim N, Ramakrishna S, Naji M. Electrospinning: Application and Prospects for Urologic Tissue Engineering. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2020; 8:579925. [PMID: 33117785 PMCID: PMC7576678 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2020.579925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Functional disorders and injuries of urinary bladder, urethra, and ureter may necessitate the application of urologic reconstructive surgeries to recover normal urine passage, prevent progressive damages of these organs and upstream structures, and improve the quality of life of patients. Reconstructive surgeries are generally very invasive procedures that utilize autologous tissues. In addition to imperfect functional outcomes, these procedures are associated with significant complications owing to long-term contact of urine with unspecific tissues, donor site morbidity, and lack of sufficient tissue for vast reconstructions. Thanks to the extensive advancements in tissue engineering strategies, reconstruction of the diseased urologic organs through tissue engineering have provided promising vistas during the last two decades. Several biomaterials and fabrication methods have been utilized for reconstruction of the urinary tract in animal models and human subjects; however, limited success has been reported, which inspires the application of new methods and biomaterials. Electrospinning is the primary method for the production of nanofibers from a broad array of natural and synthetic biomaterials. The biomimetic structure of electrospun scaffolds provides an ECM-like matrix that can modulate cells' function. In addition, electrospinning is a versatile technique for the incorporation of drugs, biomolecules, and living cells into the constructed scaffolds. This method can also be integrated with other fabrication procedures to achieve hybrid smart constructs with improved performance. Herein, we reviewed the application and outcomes of electrospun scaffolds in tissue engineering of bladder, urethra, and ureter. First, we presented the current status of tissue engineering in each organ, then reviewed electrospun scaffolds from the simplest to the most intricate designs, and summarized the outcomes of preclinical (animal) studies in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masoud Zamani
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Amherst, NY, United States
| | - Nasser Shakhssalim
- Urology and Nephrology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seeram Ramakrishna
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Mohammad Naji
- Urology and Nephrology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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14
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Junka R, Yu X. Polymeric nanofibrous scaffolds laden with cell-derived extracellular matrix for bone regeneration. MATERIALS SCIENCE & ENGINEERING. C, MATERIALS FOR BIOLOGICAL APPLICATIONS 2020; 113:110981. [PMID: 32487395 PMCID: PMC7292471 DOI: 10.1016/j.msec.2020.110981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2019] [Revised: 04/14/2020] [Accepted: 04/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Bone tissue engineering aims to alleviate the shortage of available autograft material and the biological/mechanical incompatibility of allografts through fabrication of bioactive synthetic bone graft substitutes. However, these substitute grafting materials have insufficient biological potency that limits their clinical efficacy in regenerating large defects. Extracellular matrix, a natural tissue scaffold laden with biochemical and structural cues regulating cell adhesion and tissue morphogenesis, may be a versatile supplement that can extend its biological functionality to synthetic grafts. Embedding decellularized extracellular matrix (dECM) into synthetic polymers offers a promising strategy to enhance cellular response to synthetic materials, mitigate physical and mechanical limitations of dECMs, and improve clinical utility of synthetic bone grafts. Enriched with dECM biochemical cues, synthetic polymers can be readily fabricated into complex biocomposite grafts that mimic bone structure and stimulate endogenous cells to regenerate bone. In this study, cell-derived dECMs from osteoblast and endothelial cells were incorporated into polycaprolactone (PCL) solutions for electrospinning dual-layer nanofibrous scaffolds with osteogenic and vascular cues. The study examined the bioactivity of dECM scaffolds in osteoblast cultures for cell number, mineral deposits, and osteogenic markers, as well as regeneration of cortical bone defect in a rat femur. Scaffolds with osteoblast dECM had a significantly robust osteoblast proliferation, Alizarin Red staining/concentration, and osteopontin-positive extracellular deposits. Implanted scaffolds increased bone growth in femoral defects, and constructs with both osteogenic and vascular cues significantly improved cortical width. These findings demonstrate the potential to fabricate tailored biomimetic grafts with dECM cues and fibrous architecture for bone applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Radoslaw Junka
- Department Biomedical Engineering, Stevens Institute of Technology, Hoboken, NJ 07030, United States of America
| | - Xiaojun Yu
- Department Biomedical Engineering, Stevens Institute of Technology, Hoboken, NJ 07030, United States of America.
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15
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Abstract
Nowadays it is easy to imagine that the exploitation of different additive manufacturing approaches could find use in regenerative medicine and frontiers nanotechnology with a strong interest in the development of in vivo bio-incubators that better replicate the tissue environment. Various electrospinning technologies have been exploited for the fabrication of composite polymeric architectures, where fibers have been used for the construction layer by layer of micro-architectures. Unfortunately, in case of processing biomaterials, the intrinsic factors of the materials could become obstacles when considering such advanced engineering methods. Here, for the first time, we use the pyro-EHD process for the fabrication of layered three-dimensional architectures made using a biodegradable and biocompatible polymer. The proposed approach for layered 3D printing works at mild temperature allowing deposition at high resolution and great flexibility in manufacturing, avoiding high voltage generators, and nozzles. The layered 3D printing, activated by the pyro-electric effect, is discussed and characterized in terms of geometrical features and processing parameters. Different geometries and micro-architecture (wall, square, triangle, and hybrid structures) have been demonstrated and over printing of composite polymer, obtained by mixing multiwall carbon nanotubes and fluorochrome, has been discussed, focusing on the use of a biodegradable and biocompatible polymer.
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16
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Multi-Functional Electrospun Nanofibers from Polymer Blends for Scaffold Tissue Engineering. FIBERS 2019. [DOI: 10.3390/fib7070066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Electrospinning and polymer blending have been the focus of research and the industry for their versatility, scalability, and potential applications across many different fields. In tissue engineering, nanofiber scaffolds composed of natural fibers, synthetic fibers, or a mixture of both have been reported. This review reports recent advances in polymer blended scaffolds for tissue engineering and the fabrication of functional scaffolds by electrospinning. A brief theory of electrospinning and the general setup as well as modifications used are presented. Polymer blends, including blends with natural polymers, synthetic polymers, mixture of natural and synthetic polymers, and nanofiller systems, are discussed in detail and reviewed.
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17
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Wright MA, Ruggeri FS, Saar KL, Challa PK, Benesch JLP, Knowles TPJ. Analysis of αB-crystallin polydispersity in solution through native microfluidic electrophoresis. Analyst 2019; 144:4413-4424. [PMID: 31215547 DOI: 10.1039/c9an00382g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, significant advancements have been made in the understanding of the population distributions and dynamic oligomeric states of the molecular chaperone αB-crystallin and its core domain variants. In this work, we provide solution-phase evidence of the polydispersity of αB-crystallin using microfluidic methods, used for separating the oligomeric species present in solution according to their different electrophoretic mobilities on-chip in a matter of seconds. We in particular demonstrate that microfluidic high-field electrophoresis and diffusion can detect the oligomerisation of these highly dynamic molecular chaperones and characterise the dominant oligomeric species present. We thereby provide a robust microfluidic method for characterising the individual species within complex protein mixtures of biological relevance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya A Wright
- Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, CB2 1EW, UK. and Fluidic Analytics Ltd., Unit 5 Chesterton Mill, French's Road CB4 3NP, UK
| | | | - Kadi L Saar
- Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, CB2 1EW, UK.
| | - Pavan K Challa
- Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, CB2 1EW, UK.
| | - Justin L P Benesch
- Department of Physical and Theoretical Chemistry, University of Oxford, UK
| | - Tuomas P J Knowles
- Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, CB2 1EW, UK. and Department of Physics, University of Cambridge, JJ Thomson Ave, Cambridge CB3 0HE, UK
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18
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Li Z, Lei IM, Davoodi P, Huleihel L, Huang YYS. Solution Formulation and Rheology for Fabricating Extracellular Matrix-Derived Fibers Using Low-Voltage Electrospinning Patterning. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2019; 5:3676-3684. [DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.9b00432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Zhaoying Li
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1PZ, U.K
- The Nanoscience Centre, University of Cambridge, 11 JJ Thomson Avenue, Cambridge CB3 0FF, U.K
| | - Iek M. Lei
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1PZ, U.K
- The Nanoscience Centre, University of Cambridge, 11 JJ Thomson Avenue, Cambridge CB3 0FF, U.K
| | - Pooya Davoodi
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1PZ, U.K
- The Nanoscience Centre, University of Cambridge, 11 JJ Thomson Avenue, Cambridge CB3 0FF, U.K
| | - Luai Huleihel
- McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15219, United States
| | - Yan Yan Shery Huang
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1PZ, U.K
- The Nanoscience Centre, University of Cambridge, 11 JJ Thomson Avenue, Cambridge CB3 0FF, U.K
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19
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Gill E, Willis S, Gerigk M, Cohen P, Zhang D, Li X, Huang YYS. Fabrication of Designable and Suspended Microfibers via Low-Voltage 3D Micropatterning. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2019; 11:19679-19690. [PMID: 31081331 PMCID: PMC6613729 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.9b01258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2019] [Accepted: 05/13/2019] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Building two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) fibrous structures in the micro- and nanoscale will offer exciting prospects for numerous applications spanning from sensors to energy storage and tissue engineering scaffolds. Electrospinning is a well-suited technique for drawing micro- to nanoscale fibers, but current methods of building electrospun fibers in 3D are restrictive in terms of printed height, design of macroscopic fiber networks, and choice of polymer. Here, we combine low-voltage electrospinning and additive manufacturing as a method to pattern layers of suspended mesofibers. Layers of fibers are suspended between 3D-printed supports in situ in multiple fiber layers and designable orientations. We examine the key working parameters to attain a threshold for fiber suspension, use those behavioral observations to establish a "fiber suspension indicator", and demonstrate its utility through design of intricate suspended fiber architectures. Individual fibers produced by this method approach the micrometer/submicrometer scale, while the overall suspended 3D fiber architecture can span over a centimeter in height. We demonstrate an application of suspended fiber architectures in 3D cell culture, utilizing patterned fiber topography to guide the assembly of suspended high-cellular-density structures. The solution-based fiber suspension patterning process we report offers a unique competence in patterning soft polymers, including extracellular matrix-like materials, in a high resolution and aspect ratio. The platform could thus offer new design and manufacturing capabilities of devices and functional products by incorporating functional fibrous elements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth
L. Gill
- Department
of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Trumpington Street, Cambridge CB2 1PZ, U.K.
- The
Nanoscience Centre, University of Cambridge, 11 JJ Thomson Avenue, Cambridge CB3 0FF, U.K.
| | - Samuel Willis
- Department
of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Trumpington Street, Cambridge CB2 1PZ, U.K.
| | - Magda Gerigk
- Department
of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Trumpington Street, Cambridge CB2 1PZ, U.K.
- The
Nanoscience Centre, University of Cambridge, 11 JJ Thomson Avenue, Cambridge CB3 0FF, U.K.
| | - Paul Cohen
- Department
of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Trumpington Street, Cambridge CB2 1PZ, U.K.
| | - Duo Zhang
- Department
of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Trumpington Street, Cambridge CB2 1PZ, U.K.
- The
Nanoscience Centre, University of Cambridge, 11 JJ Thomson Avenue, Cambridge CB3 0FF, U.K.
| | - Xia Li
- Department
of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Trumpington Street, Cambridge CB2 1PZ, U.K.
| | - Yan Yan Shery Huang
- Department
of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Trumpington Street, Cambridge CB2 1PZ, U.K.
- The
Nanoscience Centre, University of Cambridge, 11 JJ Thomson Avenue, Cambridge CB3 0FF, U.K.
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20
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Santschi M, Vernengo A, Eglin D, D'Este M, Wuertz-Kozak K. Decellularized matrix as a building block in bioprinting and electrospinning. CURRENT OPINION IN BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cobme.2019.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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21
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Ruggeri FS, Šneideris T, Vendruscolo M, Knowles TPJ. Atomic force microscopy for single molecule characterisation of protein aggregation. Arch Biochem Biophys 2019; 664:134-148. [PMID: 30742801 PMCID: PMC6420408 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2019.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2018] [Revised: 02/03/2019] [Accepted: 02/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The development of atomic force microscopy (AFM) has opened up a wide range of novel opportunities in nanoscience and new modalities of observation in complex biological systems. AFM imaging has been widely employed to resolve the complex and heterogeneous conformational states involved in protein aggregation at the single molecule scale and shed light onto the molecular basis of a variety of human pathologies, including neurodegenerative disorders. The study of individual macromolecules at nanoscale, however, remains challenging, especially when fully quantitative information is required. In this review, we first discuss the principles of AFM with a special emphasis on the fundamental factors defining its sensitivity and accuracy. We then review the fundamental parameters and approaches to work at the limit of AFM resolution in order to perform single molecule statistical analysis of biomolecules and nanoscale protein aggregates. This single molecule statistical approach has proved to be powerful to unravel the molecular and hierarchical assembly of the misfolded species present transiently during protein aggregation, to visualise their dynamics at the nanoscale, as well to study the structural properties of amyloid-inspired functional nanomaterials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Simone Ruggeri
- Centre for Misfolding Disease, Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 1EW, United Kingdom.
| | - Tomas Šneideris
- Centre for Misfolding Disease, Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 1EW, United Kingdom; Institute of Biotechnology, Life Sciences Center, Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Michele Vendruscolo
- Centre for Misfolding Disease, Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 1EW, United Kingdom
| | - Tuomas P J Knowles
- Centre for Misfolding Disease, Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 1EW, United Kingdom; Cavendish Laboratory, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB3 0HE, United Kingdom.
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22
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Davidson MD, Song KH, Lee MH, Llewellyn J, Du Y, Baker BM, Wells RG, Burdick JA. Engineered Fibrous Networks To Investigate the Influence of Fiber Mechanics on Myofibroblast Differentiation. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2019; 5:3899-3908. [PMID: 33438429 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.8b01276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Tissue fibrosis is a leading cause of mortality and is characterized by excessive protein deposition and altered tissue mechanical properties. In pathological fibrosis, as well as cancer related fibrosis, tissue pericytes and fibroblasts transition from a quiescent to a myofibroblastic phenotype. In vitro models are needed to better understand how these cells are influenced by their local microenvironment. Here, we developed a fibrous network platform to mimic the structure of the extracellular matrix, where fibers consist of cross-linked hyaluronic acid hydrogels with controlled cross-link density and mechanical properties. As a model myofibroblast precursor, primary hepatic stellate cells were seeded onto fibers with either low (soft) or high (stiff) cross-link density, either directly after isolation (quiescent) or following preculture on tissue culture plates (activated). In general, both quiescent and activated cells showed an increase in spreading, alpha smooth muscle actin expression, and the formation of multicellular clusters on soft fibers when compared to stiff fibers. Further, inhibition of alpha smooth muscle actin decreased activation of cells on soft fibers. This is likely due to fiber recruitment in soft fibers that increased local fiber density, whereas stiff fibers resisted recruitment. This work emphasizes the importance of substrate topography on cell-material interactions and shows that tunable fibrous hydrogels are a relevant culture platform for studying fibrosis and mechanotransduction in disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew D Davidson
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States.,NSF Science and Technology Center for Engineering Mechanobiology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
| | - Kwang Hoon Song
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
| | - Mu-Huan Lee
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
| | - Jessica Llewellyn
- Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States.,NSF Science and Technology Center for Engineering Mechanobiology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
| | - Yu Du
- Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States.,NSF Science and Technology Center for Engineering Mechanobiology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
| | - Brendon M Baker
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Rebecca G Wells
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States.,Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States.,NSF Science and Technology Center for Engineering Mechanobiology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
| | - Jason A Burdick
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States.,NSF Science and Technology Center for Engineering Mechanobiology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
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