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Zanetti M, Braidotti N, Khumar M, Montelongo E, Lombardi R, Sbaizero O, Mestroni L, Taylor MRG, Baj G, Lazzarino M, Peña B, Andolfi L. Investigations of cardiac fibrosis rheology by in vitro cardiac tissue modeling with 3D cellular spheroids. J Mech Behav Biomed Mater 2024; 155:106571. [PMID: 38744118 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2024.106571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Cardiac fibrosis refers to the abnormal accumulation of extracellular matrix within the cardiac muscle, leading to increased stiffness and impaired heart function. From a rheological standpoint, knowledge about myocardial behavior is still lacking, partially due to a lack of appropriate techniques to investigate the rheology of in vitro cardiac tissue models. 3D multicellular cardiac spheroids are powerful and versatile platforms for modeling healthy and fibrotic cardiac tissue in vitro and studying how their mechanical properties are modulated. In this study, cardiac spheroids were created by co-culturing neonatal rat ventricular cardiomyocytes and fibroblasts in definite ratios using the hanging-drop method. The rheological characterization of such models was performed by Atomic Force Microscopy-based stress-relaxation measurements on the whole spheroid. After strain application, a viscoelastic bi-exponential relaxation was observed, characterized by a fast relaxation time (τ1) followed by a slower one (τ2). In particular, spheroids with higher fibroblasts density showed reduction for both relaxation times comparing to control, with a more pronounced decrement of τ1 with respect to τ2. Such response was found compatible with the increased production of extracellular matrix within these spheroids, which recapitulates the main feature of the fibrosis pathophysiology. These results demonstrate how the rheological characteristics of cardiac tissue vary as a function of cellular composition and extracellular matrix, confirming the suitability of such system as an in vitro preclinical model of cardiac fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Zanetti
- Consiglio Nazionale Delle Ricerche-Istituto Officina Dei Materiali (CNR-IOM), Area Science Park Basovizza, Strada Statale 14, Km 163,5, 34149, Trieste, Italy; Department of Physics, University of Trieste, Via A. Valerio 2, 34127, Trieste, Italy.
| | - Nicoletta Braidotti
- Consiglio Nazionale Delle Ricerche-Istituto Officina Dei Materiali (CNR-IOM), Area Science Park Basovizza, Strada Statale 14, Km 163,5, 34149, Trieste, Italy; Department of Physics, University of Trieste, Via A. Valerio 2, 34127, Trieste, Italy.
| | - Maydha Khumar
- Bioengineering Department, University of Colorado Denver Anschutz Medical Campus, At Bioscience 2 1270 E. Montview Avenue, Suite 100, Aurora, CO, 80045, United States
| | - Efren Montelongo
- Bioengineering Department, University of Colorado Denver Anschutz Medical Campus, At Bioscience 2 1270 E. Montview Avenue, Suite 100, Aurora, CO, 80045, United States
| | - Raffaella Lombardi
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, At 12700 E.19th Avenue, Bldg. P15, Aurora, CO, 80045, United States; Cardiovascular Institute, University of Colorado Denver Anschutz Medical Campus, School of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, At 12700 E.19th Avenue, Bldg. P15, Aurora, CO, 80045, United States
| | - Orfeo Sbaizero
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, At 12700 E.19th Avenue, Bldg. P15, Aurora, CO, 80045, United States; Department of Engineering and Architecture, University of Trieste, Via A. Valerio 6/A, 34127, Trieste, Italy
| | - Luisa Mestroni
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, At 12700 E.19th Avenue, Bldg. P15, Aurora, CO, 80045, United States; Cardiovascular Institute, University of Colorado Denver Anschutz Medical Campus, School of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, At 12700 E.19th Avenue, Bldg. P15, Aurora, CO, 80045, United States
| | - Matthew R G Taylor
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, At 12700 E.19th Avenue, Bldg. P15, Aurora, CO, 80045, United States
| | - Gabriele Baj
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, Via L. Giorgieri 5, 34127, Trieste, Italy
| | - Marco Lazzarino
- Consiglio Nazionale Delle Ricerche-Istituto Officina Dei Materiali (CNR-IOM), Area Science Park Basovizza, Strada Statale 14, Km 163,5, 34149, Trieste, Italy
| | - Brisa Peña
- Bioengineering Department, University of Colorado Denver Anschutz Medical Campus, At Bioscience 2 1270 E. Montview Avenue, Suite 100, Aurora, CO, 80045, United States; Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, At 12700 E.19th Avenue, Bldg. P15, Aurora, CO, 80045, United States; Cardiovascular Institute, University of Colorado Denver Anschutz Medical Campus, School of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, At 12700 E.19th Avenue, Bldg. P15, Aurora, CO, 80045, United States
| | - Laura Andolfi
- Consiglio Nazionale Delle Ricerche-Istituto Officina Dei Materiali (CNR-IOM), Area Science Park Basovizza, Strada Statale 14, Km 163,5, 34149, Trieste, Italy
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2
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Taheri M, Sousanabadi Farahani A. Experimental extraction of Young's modulus of gastric tissue with development of spherical, cylindrical, and crowned rollers contact theories. Heliyon 2024; 10:e31848. [PMID: 38867961 PMCID: PMC11167291 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e31848] [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: 12/30/2023] [Revised: 05/05/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Nanotechnology has been considered with the aim of recognizing the structural and mechanical properties as well as improving the treatment and diagnostic process in the field of medicine. The process of nanomanipulation by examining healthy and cancerous tissues in nanoscale is one of the processes used in this field. Therefore, in this article, considering the importance of recognizing the properties of cancerous and healthy tissues in improving the treatment and diagnosis process, one of the most common types of cancer has been studied. Young modulus has been used as a parameter in the diagnosis of cancerous tissue and its value has been calculated for gastric cancerous tissue. To achieve this goal, atomic force microscopy (AFM) was used during the manipulation process. This tool with the ability to study cancerous tissues in different environments and with the least amount of damage to the target tissue, is one of the effective tools in the field of nanomanipulation. The parameter studied in this study is the geometry of gastric cancer tissue. Therefore, the simulations have been performed by considering contact models with spherical, cylindrical and crowned rollers geometries. The force-indentation depth diagram for gastric tissue is plotted experimentally and compared with theoretical results. According to the experimental work done after reviewing the recorded topographic images, the approximate range of the Young's modulus value for gastric tissue has been calculated according to different geometries. Since the geometry of the crowned rollers is closer to the geometry of the gastric tissue, it has a higher accuracy and the values of the Young's modulus have been calculated according to this geometry in the range of 316-310 KPa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moein Taheri
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Arak University, Arak, Iran
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Ferraro R, Guido S, Caserta S, Tassieri M. i -Rheo-optical assay: Measuring the viscoelastic properties of multicellular spheroids. Mater Today Bio 2024; 26:101066. [PMID: 38693994 PMCID: PMC11061759 DOI: 10.1016/j.mtbio.2024.101066] [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: 02/08/2024] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024] Open
Abstract
This study introduces a novel mechanobiology assay, named "i-Rheo-optical assay", that integrates rheology with optical microscopy for analysing the viscoelastic properties of multicellular spheroids. These spheroids serve as three-dimensional models resembling tissue structures. The innovative technique enables real-time observation and quantification of morphological responses to applied stress using a cost-effective microscope coverslip for constant compression force application. By bridging a knowledge gap in biophysical research, which has predominantly focused on the elastic properties while only minimally exploring the viscoelastic nature in multicellular systems, the i-Rheo-optical assay emerges as an effective tool. It facilitates the measurement of broadband viscoelastic compressional moduli in spheroids, here derived from cancer (PANC-1) and non-tumoral (NIH/3T3) cell lines during compression tests. This approach plays a crucial role in elucidating the mechanical properties of spheroids and holds potential for identifying biomarkers to discriminate between healthy tissues and their pathological counterparts. Offering comprehensive insights into the biomechanical behaviour of biological systems, i-Rheo-optical assay marks a significant advancement in tissue engineering, cancer research, and therapeutic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosalia Ferraro
- DICMaPI, Università di Napoli Federico II, P.le V. Tecchio 80, 80125, Napoli, Italy
- CEINGE Advanced Biotechnologies, Via Gaetano Salvatore, 486, 80131, Napoli, Italy
| | - Stefano Guido
- DICMaPI, Università di Napoli Federico II, P.le V. Tecchio 80, 80125, Napoli, Italy
- CEINGE Advanced Biotechnologies, Via Gaetano Salvatore, 486, 80131, Napoli, Italy
| | - Sergio Caserta
- DICMaPI, Università di Napoli Federico II, P.le V. Tecchio 80, 80125, Napoli, Italy
- CEINGE Advanced Biotechnologies, Via Gaetano Salvatore, 486, 80131, Napoli, Italy
| | - Manlio Tassieri
- Division of Biomedical Engineering, James Watt School of Engineering, Advanced Research Centre, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G11 6EW, UK
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Heng Y, Zheng X, Xu Y, Yan J, Li Y, Sun L, Yang H. Microfluidic device featuring micro-constrained channels for multi-parametric assessment of cellular biomechanics and high-precision mechanical phenotyping of gastric cells. Anal Chim Acta 2024; 1301:342472. [PMID: 38553127 DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2024.342472] [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: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cellular biomechanics plays a significant role in the regulation of cellular physiological and pathological processes. In recent years, multiple methods have been developed to evaluate cellular biomechanics, such as atomic force microscopy (AFM), micropipette aspiration, and magnetic tweezers. However, most of these methods only focus on a single parameter and cannot automate the process at a high-efficiency level. A novel microfluidic method is necessary to achieve the simultaneous multi-parametric measurement of cellular biomechanics and high-precision cellular mechanical phenotyping at high throughput. RESULTS To tackle the issue concerning the low-throughput and cellular single-parameter evaluation, we designed and fabricated a microfluidic chip featuring multiple micro-constrained channels structure, providing a simultaneous multi-parametric assessment of cellular biomechanics, including elastic modulus, recovery capability, and deformability. We compared the biomechanical properties of normal human gastric mucosal epithelial cells (GES-1) and human gastric cancer cells (AGS and MKN-45) by the chip. Results demonstrated that the elastic modulus of GES-1, AGS, and MKN-45 cells decreased sequentially, which was the opposite of their invasiveness and metastasis potential, suggesting the inverse correlation between cellular elastic modulus and malignancy. Meanwhile, the recovery capability and deformability of GES-1, AGS, and MKN-45 cells increased sequentially, demonstrating the positive correlation between cellular deformability and malignancy. Furthermore, multiple parameters were used to distinguish gastric cancer cells from normal gastric cells via machine learning. An accuracy of over 94.8% for identifying gastric cancer cells was achieved. SIGNIFICANCE This study provides a deep insight into the biophysical mechanism of gastric cancer metastasis at the single-cell level and possesses great potential to function as a valuable tool for single-cell analysis, thereby facilitating high-precision and high-throughput discrimination of cellular phenotypes that are not easily discernible through single-marker analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Heng
- Robotics and Microsystems Center, School of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215000, China
| | - Xinyu Zheng
- Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215000, China; Department of Hematology and Oncology, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215025, China
| | - Youyuan Xu
- Robotics and Microsystems Center, School of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215000, China
| | - Jiaqi Yan
- Robotics and Microsystems Center, School of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215000, China
| | - Ying Li
- Department of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Shenzhen Polytechnic University, Shenzhen, 518055, China.
| | - Lining Sun
- Robotics and Microsystems Center, School of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215000, China
| | - Hao Yang
- Robotics and Microsystems Center, School of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215000, China.
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Pérez-Domínguez S, Kulkarni SG, Pabijan J, Gnanachandran K, Holuigue H, Eroles M, Lorenc E, Berardi M, Antonovaite N, Marini ML, Lopez Alonso J, Redonto-Morata L, Dupres V, Janel S, Acharya S, Otero J, Navajas D, Bielawski K, Schillers H, Lafont F, Rico F, Podestà A, Radmacher M, Lekka M. Reliable, standardized measurements for cell mechanical properties. NANOSCALE 2023; 15:16371-16380. [PMID: 37789717 DOI: 10.1039/d3nr02034g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
Atomic force microscopy (AFM) has become indispensable for studying biological and medical samples. More than two decades of experiments have revealed that cancer cells are softer than healthy cells (for measured cells cultured on stiff substrates). The softness or, more precisely, the larger deformability of cancer cells, primarily independent of cancer types, could be used as a sensitive marker of pathological changes. The wide application of biomechanics in clinics would require designing instruments with specific calibration, data collection, and analysis procedures. For these reasons, such development is, at present, still very limited, hampering the clinical exploitation of mechanical measurements. Here, we propose a standardized operational protocol (SOP), developed within the EU ITN network Phys2BioMed, which allows the detection of the biomechanical properties of living cancer cells regardless of the nanoindentation instruments used (AFMs and other indenters) and the laboratory involved in the research. We standardized the cell cultures, AFM calibration, measurements, and data analysis. This effort resulted in a step-by-step SOP for cell cultures, instrument calibration, measurements, and data analysis, leading to the concordance of the results (Young's modulus) measured among the six EU laboratories involved. Our results highlight the importance of the SOP in obtaining a reproducible mechanical characterization of cancer cells and paving the way toward exploiting biomechanics for diagnostic purposes in clinics.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Shruti G Kulkarni
- Institute of Biophysics, University of Bremen, 28359, Bremen, Germany.
| | - Joanna Pabijan
- Department of Biophysical Microstructures, Institute of Nuclear Physics, Polish Academy of Sciences, PL-31342 Kraków, Poland.
| | - Kajangi Gnanachandran
- Department of Biophysical Microstructures, Institute of Nuclear Physics, Polish Academy of Sciences, PL-31342 Kraków, Poland.
| | - Hatice Holuigue
- Department of Physics "Aldo Pontremoli" and CIMAINA, University of Milano, via Celoria 16, 20133 Milano, Italy.
| | - Mar Eroles
- Aix-Marseille Univ., CNRS, INSERM, LAI, Turing Centre for Living Systems, Marseille, France
| | - Ewelina Lorenc
- Department of Physics "Aldo Pontremoli" and CIMAINA, University of Milano, via Celoria 16, 20133 Milano, Italy.
| | - Massimiliano Berardi
- Laserlab, Department of Physics and Astronomy, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1081, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Optics11 Life, Hettenheuvelweg 37-39, 1101 BM, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Nelda Antonovaite
- Optics11 Life, Hettenheuvelweg 37-39, 1101 BM, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Maria Luisa Marini
- Université de Lille, CNRS, INSERM, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019-UMR9017, CIIL-Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Javier Lopez Alonso
- Université de Lille, CNRS, INSERM, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019-UMR9017, CIIL-Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Lorena Redonto-Morata
- Université de Lille, CNRS, INSERM, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019-UMR9017, CIIL-Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Vincent Dupres
- Université de Lille, CNRS, INSERM, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019-UMR9017, CIIL-Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Sebastien Janel
- Université de Lille, CNRS, INSERM, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019-UMR9017, CIIL-Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Sovon Acharya
- Institute of Physiology II, University Muenster, Robert-Koch-Str. 27b, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Jorge Otero
- Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia and Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- CIBER de Enfermedades Respiratorias, Madrid, Spain
| | - Daniel Navajas
- Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia and Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- CIBER de Enfermedades Respiratorias, Madrid, Spain
| | - Kevin Bielawski
- Optics11 Life, Hettenheuvelweg 37-39, 1101 BM, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Hermann Schillers
- Institute of Physiology II, University Muenster, Robert-Koch-Str. 27b, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Frank Lafont
- Université de Lille, CNRS, INSERM, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019-UMR9017, CIIL-Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Felix Rico
- Aix-Marseille Univ., CNRS, INSERM, LAI, Turing Centre for Living Systems, Marseille, France
| | - Alessandro Podestà
- Department of Physics "Aldo Pontremoli" and CIMAINA, University of Milano, via Celoria 16, 20133 Milano, Italy.
| | - Manfred Radmacher
- Institute of Biophysics, University of Bremen, 28359, Bremen, Germany.
| | - Małgorzata Lekka
- Department of Biophysical Microstructures, Institute of Nuclear Physics, Polish Academy of Sciences, PL-31342 Kraków, Poland.
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Yousafzai MS, Hammer JA. Using Biosensors to Study Organoids, Spheroids and Organs-on-a-Chip: A Mechanobiology Perspective. BIOSENSORS 2023; 13:905. [PMID: 37887098 PMCID: PMC10605946 DOI: 10.3390/bios13100905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
The increasing popularity of 3D cell culture models is being driven by the demand for more in vivo-like conditions with which to study the biochemistry and biomechanics of numerous biological processes in health and disease. Spheroids and organoids are 3D culture platforms that self-assemble and regenerate from stem cells, tissue progenitor cells or cell lines, and that show great potential for studying tissue development and regeneration. Organ-on-a-chip approaches can be used to achieve spatiotemporal control over the biochemical and biomechanical signals that promote tissue growth and differentiation. These 3D model systems can be engineered to serve as disease models and used for drug screens. While culture methods have been developed to support these 3D structures, challenges remain to completely recapitulate the cell-cell and cell-matrix biomechanical interactions occurring in vivo. Understanding how forces influence the functions of cells in these 3D systems will require precise tools to measure such forces, as well as a better understanding of the mechanobiology of cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions. Biosensors will prove powerful for measuring forces in both of these contexts, thereby leading to a better understanding of how mechanical forces influence biological systems at the cellular and tissue levels. Here, we discussed how biosensors and mechanobiological research can be coupled to develop accurate, physiologically relevant 3D tissue models to study tissue development, function, malfunction in disease, and avenues for disease intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Sulaiman Yousafzai
- Cell and Developmental Biology Center, National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - John A. Hammer
- Cell and Developmental Biology Center, National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
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Flé G, Houten EV, Rémillard-Labrosse G, FitzHarris G, Cloutier G. Imaging the subcellular viscoelastic properties of mouse oocytes. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2213836120. [PMID: 37186851 PMCID: PMC10214128 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2213836120] [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: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, cellular biomechanical properties have been investigated as an alternative to morphological assessments for oocyte selection in reproductive science. Despite the high relevance of cell viscoelasticity characterization, the reconstruction of spatially distributed viscoelastic parameter images in such materials remains a major challenge. Here, a framework for mapping viscoelasticity at the subcellular scale is proposed and applied to live mouse oocytes. The strategy relies on the principles of optical microelastography for imaging in combination with the overlapping subzone nonlinear inversion technique for complex-valued shear modulus reconstruction. The three-dimensional nature of the viscoelasticity equations was accommodated by applying an oocyte geometry-based 3D mechanical motion model to the measured wave field. Five domains-nucleolus, nucleus, cytoplasm, perivitelline space, and zona pellucida-could be visually differentiated in both oocyte storage and loss modulus maps, and statistically significant differences were observed between most of these domains in either property reconstruction. The method proposed herein presents excellent potential for biomechanical-based monitoring of oocyte health and complex transformations across lifespan. It also shows appreciable latitude for generalization to cells of arbitrary shape using conventional microscopy equipment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guillaume Flé
- Laboratory of Biorheology and Medical Ultrasonics, University of Montreal Hospital Research Center, Montreal, QCH2X 0A9, Canada
| | - Elijah Van Houten
- Mechanical Engineering Department, University of Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QCJ1K 2R1, Canada
| | - Gaudeline Rémillard-Labrosse
- Oocyte and Embryo Research Laboratory, University of Montreal Hospital Research Center, Montreal, QCH2X 0A9, Canada
| | - Greg FitzHarris
- Oocyte and Embryo Research Laboratory, University of Montreal Hospital Research Center, Montreal, QCH2X 0A9, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Montreal, Montreal, QCH3T 1J4, Canada
| | - Guy Cloutier
- Laboratory of Biorheology and Medical Ultrasonics, University of Montreal Hospital Research Center, Montreal, QCH2X 0A9, Canada
- Department of Radiology, Radio-Oncology and Nuclear Medicine, and Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Montreal, Montreal, QCH3T 1J4, Canada
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8
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Lamont S, Fropier J, Abadie J, Piat E, Constantinescu A, Roux C, Vernerey F. Profiling oocytes with neural networks from images and mechanical data. J Mech Behav Biomed Mater 2023; 138:105640. [PMID: 36566663 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2022.105640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The success rate of assisted reproductive technologies could be greatly improved by selectively choosing egg cells (oocytes) with the greatest chance of fertilization. The goal of mechanical profiling is, thus, to improve predictive oocyte selection by isolating the mechanical properties of oocytes and correlating them to their reproductive potential. The restrictions on experimental platforms, however - including minimal invasiveness and practicality in laboratory implementation - greatly limits the data that can be acquired from a single oocyte. In this study, we perform indentation studies on human oocytes and characterize the mechanical properties of the zona pellucida, the outer layer of the oocyte. We obtain excellent fitting with our physical model when indenting with a flat surface and clearly illustrate localized shear-thinning behavior of the zona pellucida, which has not been previously reported. We conclude by outlining a promising methodology for isolating the mechanical properties of the cytoplasm using neural networks and optical images taken during indentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Lamont
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Program of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO 80309, United States of America
| | - Juliette Fropier
- Laboratoire de Mécanique des Solides - CNRS - École Polytechnique - Institut Polytechnique de Paris, 91128, Palaiseau, France
| | - Joel Abadie
- FEMTO-ST Institute, Univ. Bourgogne Franche-Comté, CNRS, 15B avenue des Montboucons, 25030 Besançon, cedex, France
| | - Emmanuel Piat
- FEMTO-ST Institute, Univ. Bourgogne Franche-Comté, CNRS, 15B avenue des Montboucons, 25030 Besançon, cedex, France
| | - Andrei Constantinescu
- Laboratoire de Mécanique des Solides - CNRS - École Polytechnique - Institut Polytechnique de Paris, 91128, Palaiseau, France
| | - Christophe Roux
- Service de Biologie et Médecine de la Reproduction - Cryobiologie - CECOS Franche-Comté Bourgogne, CHRU Jean Minjoz, 3 Bd Fleming, 25030 Besançon cedex, France
| | - Franck Vernerey
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Program of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO 80309, United States of America.
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Onal S, Alkaisi MM, Nock V. Microdevice-based mechanical compression on living cells. iScience 2022; 25:105518. [PMID: 36444299 PMCID: PMC9699986 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.105518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Compressive stress enables the investigation of a range of cellular processes in which forces play an important role, such as cell growth, differentiation, migration, and invasion. Such solid stress can be introduced externally to study cell response and to mechanically induce changes in cell morphology and behavior by static or dynamic compression. Microfluidics is a useful tool for this, allowing one to mimic in vivo microenvironments in on-chip culture systems where force application can be controlled spatially and temporally. Here, we review the mechanical compression applications on cells with a broad focus on studies using microtechnologies and microdevices to apply cell compression, in comparison to off-chip bulk systems. Due to their unique features, microfluidic systems developed to apply compressive forces on single cells, in 2D and 3D culture models, and compression in cancer microenvironments are emphasized. Research efforts in this field can help the development of mechanoceuticals in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sevgi Onal
- Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Canterbury, Christchurch 8041, New Zealand
- MacDiarmid Institute for Advanced Materials and Nanotechnology, Wellington 6140, New Zealand
| | - Maan M. Alkaisi
- Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Canterbury, Christchurch 8041, New Zealand
- MacDiarmid Institute for Advanced Materials and Nanotechnology, Wellington 6140, New Zealand
| | - Volker Nock
- Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Canterbury, Christchurch 8041, New Zealand
- MacDiarmid Institute for Advanced Materials and Nanotechnology, Wellington 6140, New Zealand
- Biomolecular Interaction Centre, University of Canterbury, Christchurch 8041, New Zealand
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10
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Battistella A, Andolfi L, Zanetti M, Dal Zilio S, Stebel M, Ricci G, Lazzarino M. Atomic force spectroscopy-based essay to evaluate oocyte postovulatory aging. Bioeng Transl Med 2022; 7:e10294. [PMID: 36176606 PMCID: PMC9472013 DOI: 10.1002/btm2.10294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2021] [Revised: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Postovulatory aging is a process occurring in the mature (MII) oocyte leading the unfertilized ones to apoptosis. The optimal time window of fertility for different mammalian species after oocytes maturation depends on its timeliness: the higher the time elapsed from the accomplishment of the MII stage, the lower are the chances of fertilization and of development of a viable embryo. In the in vitro fertilization, the selection of competent oocytes for intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is mostly made by the visual inspection of the MII oocyte morphology, which does not allow to determine the oocyte postovulatory age. On the other hand, more specific tests usually involve some kind of staining, thus compromising the viability of the oocyte for reproductive purposes. Hence, the need of a noninvasive analysis of oocyte aging to improve the success rate of in vitro fertilization procedures. Here, we exploit atomic force microscopy to examine the evolution of the mechanical properties of mouse oocytes during in vitro postovulatory aging. Three hours before the occurrence of any visual morphological feature related to degradation, we observe a sudden change of the mechanical parameters: the elastic modulus doubles its initial value, while the viscosity decreases significantly. These mechanical variations are temporally correlated with the release of the cortical granules, investigated by fluorescence microscopy. Interestingly, the oocyte mechanics correlates as well with the yield of embryo formation, evaluated up to the blastocyst formation stage. These results demonstrate that minimally invasive mechanical measurements are very sensitive to the aging of the oocyte and can be used as a label-free method to detect the age of the postovulatory oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Giuseppe Ricci
- IRCSS Burlo GarofaloTriesteItaly
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health SciencesUniversity of TriesteTriesteItaly
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11
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Zanetti M, Andolfi L, Taylor MR, Mestroni L, Lazzarino M. AFM macro-probes to investigate whole 3D cardiac spheroids. MICRO AND NANO ENGINEERING 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mne.2022.100134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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12
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Zanetti M, Chen SN, Conti M, Taylor MRG, Sbaizero O, Mestroni L, Lazzarino M. Microfabricated cantilevers for parallelized cell-cell adhesion measurements. EUROPEAN BIOPHYSICS JOURNAL : EBJ 2022; 51:147-156. [PMID: 34304293 DOI: 10.1007/s00249-021-01563-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Revised: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Single-cell adhesion measured with atomic force microscopy (AFM) offers outstanding time and force resolution and allows the investigation of many important phenomena with unmatched precision. However, this technique suffers from serious practical limitations that hinder its effective application to a broader set of situations. Here we propose a different strategy based on the fabrication of large cantilevers and on the culture of the cells directly on them. Cantilevers are fabricated by standard micromachining, with an active area of 300 × 300 µm. A wedged structure is created so that the cantilever surface lies parallel to the substrate when mounted on an AFM system, so that the adhesion measurement probes the whole surface area at the same time. Thanks to the large area, cells can be seeded and grown on the cantilevers the day before the experiment, and let recover to optimal condition for the experiment. We used Human Embryonic Kidney cells, HEK 293A, to demonstrate the measurement of adhesion forces of up to 100 cells in parallel, and obtain a straightforward measurement of the average single cell adhesion energy. Our approach can improve significantly the cell-cell and cell-substrate adhesion statistics, reduce the experiment time and allow the investigation of the adhesion properties of cells that do not grow well in solution or on low adherent substrates, or that develop their characteristic features only after several hours or days of culture on a solid and adherent substrate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Zanetti
- CNR-IOM, Istituto Officina dei Materiali - Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, 34149, Trieste, Italy
- University of Trieste, 34127, Trieste, Italy
| | - Suet Nee Chen
- Molecular Genetics, Cardiovascular Institute, University of Colorado Denver Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045-2507, USA
| | - Martina Conti
- CNR-IOM, Istituto Officina dei Materiali - Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, 34149, Trieste, Italy
- University of Trieste, 34127, Trieste, Italy
| | - Matthew R G Taylor
- Molecular Genetics, Cardiovascular Institute, University of Colorado Denver Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045-2507, USA
| | | | - Luisa Mestroni
- Molecular Genetics, Cardiovascular Institute, University of Colorado Denver Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045-2507, USA
| | - Marco Lazzarino
- CNR-IOM, Istituto Officina dei Materiali - Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, 34149, Trieste, Italy.
- Molecular Genetics, Cardiovascular Institute, University of Colorado Denver Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045-2507, USA.
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13
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Wang Y, Le JV, Crocker K, Darcy MA, Halley PD, Zhao D, Andrioff N, Croy C, Poirier MG, Bundschuh R, Castro CE. A nanoscale DNA force spectrometer capable of applying tension and compression on biomolecules. Nucleic Acids Res 2021; 49:8987-8999. [PMID: 34358322 PMCID: PMC8421221 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkab656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Revised: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Single molecule force spectroscopy is a powerful approach to probe the structure, conformational changes, and kinetic properties of biological and synthetic macromolecules. However, common approaches to apply forces to biomolecules require expensive and cumbersome equipment and relatively large probes such as beads or cantilevers, which limits their use for many environments and makes integrating with other methods challenging. Furthermore, existing methods have key limitations such as an inability to apply compressive forces on single molecules. We report a nanoscale DNA force spectrometer (nDFS), which is based on a DNA origami hinge with tunable mechanical and dynamic properties. The angular free energy landscape of the nDFS can be engineered across a wide range through substitution of less than 5% of the strand components. We further incorporate a removable strut that enables reversible toggling of the nDFS between open and closed states to allow for actuated application of tensile and compressive forces. We demonstrate the ability to apply compressive forces by inducing a large bend in a 249bp DNA molecule, and tensile forces by inducing DNA unwrapping of a nucleosome sample. These results establish a versatile tool for force spectroscopy and robust methods for designing nanoscale mechanical devices with tunable force application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuchen Wang
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Jenny V Le
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Biophysics Graduate Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Kyle Crocker
- Department of Physics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Michael A Darcy
- Department of Physics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Patrick D Halley
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Dengke Zhao
- Department of Physics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Nick Andrioff
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Cassie Croy
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Michael G Poirier
- Biophysics Graduate Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Department of Physics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Ralf Bundschuh
- Biophysics Graduate Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Department of Physics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Carlos E Castro
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Biophysics Graduate Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
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14
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Efremov YM, Zurina IM, Presniakova VS, Kosheleva NV, Butnaru DV, Svistunov AA, Rochev YA, Timashev PS. Mechanical properties of cell sheets and spheroids: the link between single cells and complex tissues. Biophys Rev 2021; 13:541-561. [PMID: 34471438 PMCID: PMC8355304 DOI: 10.1007/s12551-021-00821-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell aggregates, including sheets and spheroids, represent a simple yet powerful model system to study both biochemical and biophysical intercellular interactions. However, it is becoming evident that, although the mechanical properties and behavior of multicellular structures share some similarities with individual cells, yet distinct differences are observed in some principal aspects. The description of mechanical phenomena at the level of multicellular model systems is a necessary step for understanding tissue mechanics and its fundamental principles in health and disease. Both cell sheets and spheroids are used in tissue engineering, and the modulation of mechanical properties of cell constructs is a promising tool for regenerative medicine. Here, we review the data on mechanical characterization of cell sheets and spheroids, focusing both on advances in the measurement techniques and current understanding of the subject. The reviewed material suggest that interplay between the ECM, intercellular junctions, and cellular contractility determines the behavior and mechanical properties of the cell aggregates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuri M. Efremov
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), 119991 8-2 Trubetskaya St, Moscow, Russia
- World-Class Research Center “Digital Biodesign and Personalized Healthcare”, Sechenov University, Moscow, 119991 Russia
| | - Irina M. Zurina
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), 119991 8-2 Trubetskaya St, Moscow, Russia
- FSBSI Institute of General Pathology and Pathophysiology, 125315, 8 Baltiyskaya St, Moscow, Russia
| | - Viktoria S. Presniakova
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), 119991 8-2 Trubetskaya St, Moscow, Russia
| | - Nastasia V. Kosheleva
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), 119991 8-2 Trubetskaya St, Moscow, Russia
- World-Class Research Center “Digital Biodesign and Personalized Healthcare”, Sechenov University, Moscow, 119991 Russia
- FSBSI Institute of General Pathology and Pathophysiology, 125315, 8 Baltiyskaya St, Moscow, Russia
| | - Denis V. Butnaru
- Institute for Urology and Reproductive Health, Sechenov University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Andrey A. Svistunov
- Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), 119991, 8-2 Trubetskaya St, Moscow, Russia
| | - Yury A. Rochev
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), 119991 8-2 Trubetskaya St, Moscow, Russia
- Centre for Research in Medical Devices (CÚRAM), National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, H91 W2TY, Ireland
| | - Peter S. Timashev
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), 119991 8-2 Trubetskaya St, Moscow, Russia
- World-Class Research Center “Digital Biodesign and Personalized Healthcare”, Sechenov University, Moscow, 119991 Russia
- Department of Polymers and Composites, N.N. Semenov Institute of Chemical Physics, 119991 4 Kosygin St, Moscow, Russia
- Chemistry Department, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Leninskiye Gory 1–3, Moscow, 119991 Russia
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15
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Andolfi L, Battistella A, Zanetti M, Lazzarino M, Pascolo L, Romano F, Ricci G. Scanning Probe Microscopies: Imaging and Biomechanics in Reproductive Medicine Research. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22083823. [PMID: 33917060 PMCID: PMC8067746 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22083823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Revised: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 04/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Basic and translational research in reproductive medicine can provide new insights with the application of scanning probe microscopies, such as atomic force microscopy (AFM) and scanning near-field optical microscopy (SNOM). These microscopies, which provide images with spatial resolution well beyond the optical resolution limit, enable users to achieve detailed descriptions of cell topography, inner cellular structure organization, and arrangements of single or cluster membrane proteins. A peculiar characteristic of AFM operating in force spectroscopy mode is its inherent ability to measure the interaction forces between single proteins or cells, and to quantify the mechanical properties (i.e., elasticity, viscoelasticity, and viscosity) of cells and tissues. The knowledge of the cell ultrastructure, the macromolecule organization, the protein dynamics, the investigation of biological interaction forces, and the quantification of biomechanical features can be essential clues for identifying the molecular mechanisms that govern responses in living cells. This review highlights the main findings achieved by the use of AFM and SNOM in assisted reproductive research, such as the description of gamete morphology; the quantification of mechanical properties of gametes; the role of forces in embryo development; the significance of investigating single-molecule interaction forces; the characterization of disorders of the reproductive system; and the visualization of molecular organization. New perspectives of analysis opened up by applying these techniques and the translational impacts on reproductive medicine are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Andolfi
- Istituto Officina dei Materiali IOM-CNR, 34149 Trieste, Italy; (A.B.); (M.Z.); (M.L.)
- Correspondence: (L.A.); (G.R.)
| | - Alice Battistella
- Istituto Officina dei Materiali IOM-CNR, 34149 Trieste, Italy; (A.B.); (M.Z.); (M.L.)
- Doctoral School in Nanotechnology, University of Trieste, 34100 Trieste, Italy
| | - Michele Zanetti
- Istituto Officina dei Materiali IOM-CNR, 34149 Trieste, Italy; (A.B.); (M.Z.); (M.L.)
- Doctoral School in Nanotechnology, University of Trieste, 34100 Trieste, Italy
| | - Marco Lazzarino
- Istituto Officina dei Materiali IOM-CNR, 34149 Trieste, Italy; (A.B.); (M.Z.); (M.L.)
| | - Lorella Pascolo
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, 34137 Trieste, Italy; (L.P.); (F.R.)
| | - Federico Romano
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, 34137 Trieste, Italy; (L.P.); (F.R.)
| | - Giuseppe Ricci
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, 34137 Trieste, Italy; (L.P.); (F.R.)
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy
- Correspondence: (L.A.); (G.R.)
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16
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Stracuzzi A, Dittmann J, Böl M, Ehret AE. Visco- and poroelastic contributions of the zona pellucida to the mechanical response of oocytes. Biomech Model Mechanobiol 2021; 20:751-765. [PMID: 33533999 PMCID: PMC7979617 DOI: 10.1007/s10237-020-01414-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Probing mechanical properties of cells has been identified as a means to infer information on their current state, e.g. with respect to diseases or differentiation. Oocytes have gained particular interest, since mechanical parameters are considered potential indicators of the success of in vitro fertilisation procedures. Established tests provide the structural response of the oocyte resulting from the material properties of the cell's components and their disposition. Based on dedicated experiments and numerical simulations, we here provide novel insights on the origin of this response. In particular, polarised light microscopy is used to characterise the anisotropy of the zona pellucida, the outermost layer of the oocyte composed of glycoproteins. This information is combined with data on volumetric changes and the force measured in relaxation/cyclic, compression/indentation experiments to calibrate a multi-phasic hyper-viscoelastic model through inverse finite element analysis. These simulations capture the oocyte's overall force response, the distinct volume changes observed in the zona pellucida, and the structural alterations interpreted as a realignment of the glycoproteins with applied load. The analysis reveals the presence of two distinct timescales, roughly separated by three orders of magnitude, and associated with a rapid outflow of fluid across the external boundaries and a long-term, progressive relaxation of the glycoproteins, respectively. The new results allow breaking the overall response down into the contributions from fluid transport and the mechanical properties of the zona pellucida and ooplasm. In addition to the gain in fundamental knowledge, the outcome of this study may therefore serve an improved interpretation of the data obtained with current methods for mechanical oocyte characterisation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Stracuzzi
- Institute for Mechanical Systems, ETH Zurich, 8092, Zurich, Switzerland
- Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, 8600, Dübendorf, Switzerland
| | - Johannes Dittmann
- Institute of Mechanics and Adaptronics, Technische Universität Braunschweig, Braunschweig, 38106, Germany
| | - Markus Böl
- Institute of Mechanics and Adaptronics, Technische Universität Braunschweig, Braunschweig, 38106, Germany.
| | - Alexander E Ehret
- Institute for Mechanical Systems, ETH Zurich, 8092, Zurich, Switzerland.
- Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, 8600, Dübendorf, Switzerland.
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17
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Li M, Xi N, Wang YC, Liu LQ. Atomic force microscopy for revealing micro/nanoscale mechanics in tumor metastasis: from single cells to microenvironmental cues. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2021; 42:323-339. [PMID: 32807839 PMCID: PMC8027022 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-020-0494-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Mechanics are intrinsic properties which appears throughout the formation, development, and aging processes of biological systems. Mechanics have been shown to play important roles in regulating the development and metastasis of tumors, and understanding tumor mechanics has emerged as a promising way to reveal the underlying mechanisms guiding tumor behaviors. In particular, tumors are highly complex diseases associated with multifaceted factors, including alterations in cancerous cells, tissues, and organs as well as microenvironmental cues, indicating that investigating tumor mechanics on multiple levels is significantly helpful for comprehensively understanding the effects of mechanics on tumor progression. Recently, diverse techniques have been developed for probing the mechanics of tumors, among which atomic force microscopy (AFM) has appeared as an excellent platform enabling simultaneously characterizing the structures and mechanical properties of living biological systems ranging from individual molecules and cells to tissue samples with unprecedented spatiotemporal resolution, offering novel possibilities for understanding tumor physics and contributing much to the studies of cancer. In this review, we survey the recent progress that has been achieved with the use of AFM for revealing micro/nanoscale mechanics in tumor development and metastasis. Challenges and future progress are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mi Li
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics, Shenyang Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang, 110016, China.
- Institutes for Robotics and Intelligent Manufacturing, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang, 110169, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.
| | - Ning Xi
- Department of Industrial and Manufacturing Systems Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yue-Chao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics, Shenyang Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang, 110016, China
- Institutes for Robotics and Intelligent Manufacturing, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang, 110169, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Lian-Qing Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics, Shenyang Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang, 110016, China.
- Institutes for Robotics and Intelligent Manufacturing, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang, 110169, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.
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18
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Liang W, Shi H, Yang X, Wang J, Yang W, Zhang H, Liu L. Recent advances in AFM-based biological characterization and applications at multiple levels. SOFT MATTER 2020; 16:8962-8984. [PMID: 32996549 DOI: 10.1039/d0sm01106a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Atomic force microscopy (AFM) has found a wide range of bio-applications in the past few decades due to its ability to measure biological samples in natural environments at a high spatial resolution. AFM has become a key platform in biomedical, bioengineering and drug research fields, enabling mechanical and morphological characterization of live biological systems. Hence, we provide a comprehensive review on recent advances in the use of AFM for characterizing the biomechanical properties of multi-scale biological samples, ranging from molecule, cell to tissue levels. First, we present the fundamental principles of AFM and two AFM-based models for the characterization of biomechanical properties of biological samples, covering key AFM devices and AFM bioimaging as well as theoretical models for characterizing the elasticity and viscosity of biomaterials. Then, we elaborate on a series of new experimental findings through analysis of biomechanics. Finally, we discuss the future directions and challenges. It is envisioned that the AFM technique will enable many remarkable discoveries, and will have far-reaching impacts on bio-related studies and applications in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenfeng Liang
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Shenyang Jianzhu University, Shenyang, 110168, China.
| | - Haohao Shi
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Shenyang Jianzhu University, Shenyang, 110168, China.
| | - Xieliu Yang
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Shenyang Jianzhu University, Shenyang, 110168, China.
| | - Junhai Wang
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Shenyang Jianzhu University, Shenyang, 110168, China.
| | - Wenguang Yang
- School of Electromechanical and Automotive Engineering, Yantai University, Yantai 264005, China
| | - Hemin Zhang
- Department of Neurology, The People's Hospital of Liaoning Province, Shenyang 110016, China.
| | - Lianqing Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics, Shenyang Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang 110016, China.
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19
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Huang H, Dai C, Shen H, Gu M, Wang Y, Liu J, Chen L, Sun L. Recent Advances on the Model, Measurement Technique, and Application of Single Cell Mechanics. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E6248. [PMID: 32872378 PMCID: PMC7504142 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21176248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2020] [Revised: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 08/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Since the cell was discovered by humans, it has been an important research subject for researchers. The mechanical response of cells to external stimuli and the biomechanical response inside cells are of great significance for maintaining the life activities of cells. These biomechanical behaviors have wide applications in the fields of disease research and micromanipulation. In order to study the mechanical behavior of single cells, various cell mechanics models have been proposed. In addition, the measurement technologies of single cells have been greatly developed. These models, combined with experimental techniques, can effectively explain the biomechanical behavior and reaction mechanism of cells. In this review, we first introduce the basic concept and biomechanical background of cells, then summarize the research progress of internal force models and experimental techniques in the field of cell mechanics and discuss the latest mechanical models and experimental methods. We summarize the application directions of cell mechanics and put forward the future perspectives of a cell mechanics model.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Jizhu Liu
- School of Mechanical and Electric Engineering, Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory of Advanced Robotics, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China; (H.H.); (C.D.); (H.S.); (M.G.); (Y.W.); (L.S.)
| | - Liguo Chen
- School of Mechanical and Electric Engineering, Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory of Advanced Robotics, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China; (H.H.); (C.D.); (H.S.); (M.G.); (Y.W.); (L.S.)
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20
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A Dynamic Hanging-Drop System for Mesenchymal Stem Cell Culture. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21124298. [PMID: 32560269 PMCID: PMC7352343 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21124298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Revised: 06/02/2020] [Accepted: 06/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
There have been many microfluid technologies combined with hanging-drop for cell culture gotten developed in the past decade. A common problem within these devices is that the cell suspension introduced at the central inlet could cause a number of cells in each microwell to not regularize. Also, the instability of droplets during the spheroid formation remains an unsolved ordeal. In this study, we designed a microfluidic-based hanging-drop culture system with the design of taper-tube that can increase the stability of droplets while enhancing the rate of liquid exchange. A ring is surrounding the taper-tube. The ring can hold the cells to enable us to seed an adequate amount of cells before perfusion. Moreover, during the period of cell culture, the mechanical force around the cell is relatively low to prevent stem cells from differentiate and maintain the phenotype. As a result of our hanging system design, cells are designed to accumulate at the bottom of the droplet. This method enhances convenience for observation activities and analysis of experiments. Thus, this microfluid chip can be used as an in vitro platform representing in vivo physiological conditions, and can be useful in regenerative therapy.
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21
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Pradhan S, Banda OA, Farino CJ, Sperduto JL, Keller KA, Taitano R, Slater JH. Biofabrication Strategies and Engineered In Vitro Systems for Vascular Mechanobiology. Adv Healthc Mater 2020; 9:e1901255. [PMID: 32100473 PMCID: PMC8579513 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.201901255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2019] [Revised: 01/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The vascular system is integral for maintaining organ-specific functions and homeostasis. Dysregulation in vascular architecture and function can lead to various chronic or acute disorders. Investigation of the role of the vascular system in health and disease has been accelerated through the development of tissue-engineered constructs and microphysiological on-chip platforms. These in vitro systems permit studies of biochemical regulation of vascular networks and parenchymal tissue and provide mechanistic insights into the biophysical and hemodynamic forces acting in organ-specific niches. Detailed understanding of these forces and the mechanotransductory pathways involved is necessary to develop preventative and therapeutic strategies targeting the vascular system. This review describes vascular structure and function, the role of hemodynamic forces in maintaining vascular homeostasis, and measurement approaches for cell and tissue level mechanical properties influencing vascular phenomena. State-of-the-art techniques for fabricating in vitro microvascular systems, with varying degrees of biological and engineering complexity, are summarized. Finally, the role of vascular mechanobiology in organ-specific niches and pathophysiological states, and efforts to recapitulate these events using in vitro microphysiological systems, are explored. It is hoped that this review will help readers appreciate the important, but understudied, role of vascular-parenchymal mechanotransduction in health and disease toward developing mechanotherapeutics for treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shantanu Pradhan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Delaware, 150 Academy Street, 161 Colburn Lab, Newark, DE, 19716, USA
- Department of Biotechnology, Bhupat and Jyoti Mehta School of Biosciences, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai 600036, India
| | - Omar A. Banda
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Delaware, 150 Academy Street, 161 Colburn Lab, Newark, DE, 19716, USA
| | - Cindy J. Farino
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Delaware, 150 Academy Street, 161 Colburn Lab, Newark, DE, 19716, USA
| | - John L. Sperduto
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Delaware, 150 Academy Street, 161 Colburn Lab, Newark, DE, 19716, USA
| | - Keely A. Keller
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Delaware, 150 Academy Street, 161 Colburn Lab, Newark, DE, 19716, USA
| | - Ryan Taitano
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Delaware, 150 Academy Street, 161 Colburn Lab, Newark, DE, 19716, USA
| | - John H. Slater
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Delaware, 150 Academy Street, 161 Colburn Lab, Newark, DE, 19716, USA
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Delaware, 201 DuPont Hall, Newark, DE 19716, USA
- Delaware Biotechnology Institute, 15 Innovation Way, Newark, DE 19711, USA
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22
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Must I, Rinne P, Krull F, Kaasik F, Johanson U, Aabloo A. Ionic Actuators as Manipulators for Microscopy. Front Robot AI 2019; 6:140. [PMID: 33501155 PMCID: PMC7805677 DOI: 10.3389/frobt.2019.00140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2019] [Accepted: 12/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-destructive handling of soft biological samples at the cellular level is becoming increasingly relevant in life sciences. In particular, spatially dense arrangements of soft manipulators with the capability of in situ monitoring via optical and electron microscopes promises new and exciting experimental techniques. The currently available manipulation technologies offer high positioning accuracy, yet these devices significantly grow in complexity in achieving compliance. We explore soft and compliant actuator material with a mechanical response similar to gel-like samples for perspective miniaturized manipulators. First, we demonstrate three techniques for rendering the bulk sheet-like electroactive material, the ionic and capacitive laminate (ICL), into a practical manipulator. We then show that these manipulators are also highly compatible with electron optics. Finally, we explore the performance of an ICL manipulator in handling a single large cell. Intrinsic compliance, miniature size, simple current-driven actuation, and negligible interference with the imaging technologies suggest a considerable perspective for the ICL in spatially dense arrays of compliant manipulators for microscopy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Indrek Must
- Intelligent Materials and Systems Lab, Institute of Technology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Pille Rinne
- Intelligent Materials and Systems Lab, Institute of Technology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Friedrich Krull
- Intelligent Materials and Systems Lab, Institute of Technology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Friedrich Kaasik
- Intelligent Materials and Systems Lab, Institute of Technology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Urmas Johanson
- Intelligent Materials and Systems Lab, Institute of Technology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Alvo Aabloo
- Intelligent Materials and Systems Lab, Institute of Technology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
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23
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Giverso C, Di Stefano S, Grillo A, Preziosi L. A three dimensional model of multicellular aggregate compression. SOFT MATTER 2019; 15:10005-10019. [PMID: 31761911 DOI: 10.1039/c9sm01628g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Multicellular aggregates are an excellent model system to explore the role of tissue biomechanics, which has been demonstrated to play a crucial role in many physiological and pathological processes. In this paper, we propose a three-dimensional mechanical model and apply it to the uniaxial compression of a multicellular aggregate in a realistic biological setting. In particular, we consider an aggregate of initially spherical shape and describe both its elastic deformations and the reorganisation of the cells forming the spheroid. The latter phenomenon, understood as remodelling, is accounted for by assuming that the aggregate undergoes plastic-like distortions. The study of the compression of the spheroid, achieved by means of two parallel, compressive plates, needs the formulation of a contact problem between the living spheroid itself and the plates, and is solved with the aid of the augmented Lagrangian method. The results of the performed numerical simulations are in qualitative agreement with the biological observations reported in the literature and can also be used to estimate quantitatively some fundamental aggregate mechanical parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Giverso
- Department of Mathematical Sciences, Politecnico di Torino, Corso Duca degli Abruzzi, 24 - 10129 Torino, Italy.
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