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Wilke HJ, Fuchs H, Benz K, Mollenhauer J, Gaissmaier C, Heuer F, Neidlinger-Wilke C. The Injection of Gels Through an Intact Annulus Maintains Biomechanical Performance without Extrusion Risk. Gels 2024; 10:269. [PMID: 38667688 PMCID: PMC11049287 DOI: 10.3390/gels10040269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2024] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
For autologous-disc-derived chondrocyte transplantation (ADCT) a transglutaminase crosslinked gelatine gel and an albumin hyaluronic acid gel, crosslinked with bis-thio-polyethylene glycol, were injected through a syringe into a degenerated intervertebral disc, where they solidified in situ. This biomechanical in vitro study with lumbar bovine motion segments evaluated disc height changes, motion characteristics in a quasi-static spine loading simulators, and the potential extrusion risk of these biomaterials in a complex dynamic multi-axial loading set-up with 100,000 loading cycles. After the injection and formation of the gel in the center of the nucleus, the disc height increase was about 0.3 mm. During cyclic testing, a gradual decrease in height could be detected due to viscoelastic effects and fluid loss. No gel extrusion could be observed for all specimens during the entire test procedure. A macroscopic inspection after dissections showed an accumulation of the solidified gel in the center of the nucleus. The results demonstrate that the injection of in situ solidifying gels through the intact annulus allows for the stable maintenance of the injected gel at the target location, with high potential for use as a suitable scaffold to anchor therapeutically applied cells for disc regeneration within the treated nucleus pulposus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hans-Joachim Wilke
- Institute of Orthopaedic Research and Biomechanics, Centre for Trauma Research Ulm, Ulm University, 89081 Ulm, Germany (C.N.-W.)
| | - Holger Fuchs
- Institute of Orthopaedic Research and Biomechanics, Centre for Trauma Research Ulm, Ulm University, 89081 Ulm, Germany (C.N.-W.)
| | - Karin Benz
- NMI Natural and Medical Sciences Institute, The University of Tübingen, 72770 Reutlingen, Germany; (K.B.)
- TETEC Tissue Engineering Technologies AG, 72770 Reutlingen, Germany;
| | - Juergen Mollenhauer
- NMI Natural and Medical Sciences Institute, The University of Tübingen, 72770 Reutlingen, Germany; (K.B.)
| | | | - Frank Heuer
- Institute of Orthopaedic Research and Biomechanics, Centre for Trauma Research Ulm, Ulm University, 89081 Ulm, Germany (C.N.-W.)
| | - Cornelia Neidlinger-Wilke
- Institute of Orthopaedic Research and Biomechanics, Centre for Trauma Research Ulm, Ulm University, 89081 Ulm, Germany (C.N.-W.)
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2
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McKinley JP, O'Connell GD. Review of state-of-the-art micro and macro-bioreactors for the intervertebral disc. J Biomech 2024; 165:111964. [PMID: 38412621 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2024.111964] [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: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
Lower back pain continues to be a global epidemic, limiting quality of life and ability to work, due in large part to symptomatic disc degeneration. Development of more effective and less invasive biological strategies are needed to treat disc degeneration. In vitro models such as macro- or micro-bioreactors or mechanically active organ-chips hold great promise in reducing the need for animal studies that may have limited clinical translatability, due to harsher and more complex mechanical loading environments in human discs than in most animal models. This review highlights the complex loading conditions of the disc in situ, evaluates state-of-the-art designs for applying such complex loads across multiple length scales, from macro-bioreactors that load whole discs to organ-chips that aim to replicate cellular or engineered tissue loading. Emphasis was placed on the rapidly evolving more customizable organ-chips, given their greater potential for studying the progression and treatment of symptomatic disc degeneration. Lastly, this review identifies new trends and challenges for using organ-chips to assess therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan P McKinley
- Berkeley BioMechanics Laboratory, Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of California, Berkeley 94720, CA, USA.
| | - Grace D O'Connell
- Berkeley BioMechanics Laboratory, Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of California, Berkeley 94720, CA, USA.
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3
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Riahinezhad H, Amsden BG. In situ forming, mechanically resilient hydrogels prepared from 4a-[PEG- b-PTMC-Ac] and thiolated chondroitin sulfate for nucleus pulposus cell delivery. J Mater Chem B 2024; 12:1257-1270. [PMID: 38167961 DOI: 10.1039/d3tb02574h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Intervertebral disk degeneration (IVDD) is a common condition that causes severe back pain and affects patients' mobility and life quality considerably. IVDD originates within the central region of the disk called the nucleus pulposus (NP). Removing the damaged tissue and replacing it with NP cells (NPCs) delivered within an in situ forming hydrogel is a promising treatment approach. Herein we describe a hydrogel formulation based on 4-arm [poly(ethylene glycol)-b-poly(trimethylene carbonate)-acrylate] (4a[PEG-b-PTMC-Ac]) crosslinked with thiolated chondroitin sulfate via Michael-type reaction for this purpose. A library of hydrogels based on 15 kDa 4a-[PEG] with PTMC blocks of varying molecular weight were prepared and characterized. The instantaneous moduli of the hydrogels were adjustable from 24 to 150 kPa depending on the length of the PTMC block and the polymer volume fraction. The influence of each of these parameters was effectively explained using both scaling or mean field theories of polyelectrolyte hydrogels. The hydrogels were resistant to cyclic compressive loading and degraded gradually over 70 days in vitro. A hydrogel formulation with an instantaneous modulus at the high end of the range of values reported for human NP tissue was chosen to assess the ability of these hydrogels for delivering NPCs. The prepolymer solution was injectable and formed a hydrogel within 30 minutes at 37 °C. Bovine NPCs were encapsulated within this hydrogel with high viability and proliferated throughout a 28 day, hypoxic culture period. The encapsulated NPCs formed clusters and deposited collagen type II but no collagen type I within the hydrogels. Despite an initial gradual decrease, a steady-state modulus was reached at the end of the 28 day culture period that was within the range reported for healthy human NP tissue. This in situ forming hydrogel formulation is a promising approach and with further development could be a viable clinical treatment for IVDD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hossein Riahinezhad
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada.
| | - Brian G Amsden
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada.
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4
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Muir VG, Fainor M, Orozco BS, Hilliard RL, Boyes M, Smith HE, Mauck RL, Schaer TP, Burdick JA, Gullbrand SE. Injectable Radiopaque Hyaluronic Acid Granular Hydrogels for Intervertebral Disc Repair. Adv Healthc Mater 2023:e2303326. [PMID: 38142300 PMCID: PMC11193841 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202303326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 12/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/25/2023]
Abstract
Injectable hydrogels offer minimally-invasive treatment options for degenerative disc disease, a prevalent condition affecting millions annually. Many hydrogels explored for intervertebral disc (IVD) repair suffer from weak mechanical integrity, migration issues, and expulsion. To overcome these limitations, an injectable and radiopaque hyaluronic acid granular hydrogel is developed. The granular structure provides easy injectability and low extrusion forces, while the radiopacity enables direct visualization during injection into the disc and non-invasive monitoring after injection. The radiopaque granular hydrogel is injected into rabbit disc explants to investigate restoration of healthy disc mechanics following needle puncture injury ex vivo and then delivered in a minimally-invasive manner into the intradiscal space in a clinically-relevant in vivo large animal goat model of IVD degeneration initiated through degradation by chondroitinase. The radiopaque granular hydrogel successfully halted loss of disc height due to degeneration. Further, the hydrogel not only enhanced proteoglycan content and reduced collagen content in the nucleus pulposus (NP) region compared to degenerative discs, but also helped to maintain the structural integrity of the disc and promote healthy segregation of the NP and annulus fibrosus regions. Overall, this study demonstrates the great potential of an injectable radiopaque granular hydrogel for treatment of degenerative disc disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria G Muir
- Department of Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Matthew Fainor
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, McKay Orthopaedic Research Laboratory, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Translational Musculoskeletal Research Center, Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Brianna S Orozco
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, McKay Orthopaedic Research Laboratory, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Translational Musculoskeletal Research Center, Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Rachel L Hilliard
- Department of Clinical Studies, New Bolton Center, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Madeline Boyes
- Department of Clinical Studies, New Bolton Center, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Harvey E Smith
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, McKay Orthopaedic Research Laboratory, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Translational Musculoskeletal Research Center, Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Robert L Mauck
- Department of Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, McKay Orthopaedic Research Laboratory, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Translational Musculoskeletal Research Center, Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Thomas P Schaer
- Department of Clinical Studies, New Bolton Center, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Jason A Burdick
- Department of Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80303, USA
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, College of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80303, USA
| | - Sarah E Gullbrand
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, McKay Orthopaedic Research Laboratory, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Translational Musculoskeletal Research Center, Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
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5
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Okoro PD, Frayssinet A, De Oliveira S, Rouquier L, Miklosic G, D'Este M, Potier E, Hélary C. Combining biomimetic collagen/hyaluronan hydrogels with discogenic growth factors promotes mesenchymal stroma cell differentiation into Nucleus Pulposus like cells. Biomater Sci 2023; 11:7768-7783. [PMID: 37870786 DOI: 10.1039/d3bm01025b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
Based on stem cell injection into degenerated Nucleus Pulposus (NP), novel treatments for intervertebral disc (IVD) regeneration were disappointing because of cell leakage or inappropriate cell differentiation. In this study, we hypothesized that mesenchymal stromal cells encapsulated within injectable hydrogels possessing adequate physico-chemical properties would differentiate into NP like cells. Composite hydrogels consisting of type I collagen and tyramine-substituted hyaluronic acid (THA) were prepared to mimic the NP physico-chemical properties. Human bone marrow derived mesenchymal stromal cells (BM-MSCs) were encapsulated within hydrogels and cultivated in proliferation medium (supplemented with 10% fetal bovine serum) or differentiation medium (supplemented with GDF5 and TGFβ1) over 28 days. Unlike pure collagen, collagen/THA composite hydrogels were stable over 28 days in culture. In proliferation medium, the cell viability within pure collagen hydrogels was high, whereas that in composite and pure THA hydrogels was lower due to the weaker cell adhesion. Nonetheless, BM-MSCs proliferated in all hydrogels. In composite hydrogels, cells exhibited a rounded morphology similar to NP cells. The differentiation medium did not impact the hydrogel stability and cell morphology but negatively impacted the cell viability in pure collagen hydrogels. A high THA content within hydrogels promoted the gene expression of NP markers such as collagen II, aggrecan, SOX9 and cytokeratin 18 at day 28. The differentiation medium potentialized this effect with an earlier and higher expression of these NP markers. Taken together, these results show that the physico-chemical properties of collagen/THA composite hydrogels and GDF5/TGFβ1 act in synergy to promote the differentiation of BM-MSCs into NP like cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prince David Okoro
- Laboratoire de Chimie de la Matière Condensée de Paris, Sorbonne Université, CNRS, UMR 7574, F-75005, Paris, France.
| | - Antoine Frayssinet
- Laboratoire de Chimie de la Matière Condensée de Paris, Sorbonne Université, CNRS, UMR 7574, F-75005, Paris, France.
| | - Stéphanie De Oliveira
- Laboratoire de Chimie de la Matière Condensée de Paris, Sorbonne Université, CNRS, UMR 7574, F-75005, Paris, France.
| | - Léa Rouquier
- Université Paris Cité, CNRS, INSERM, ENVA, B3OA, F-75010 Paris, France
| | - Gregor Miklosic
- AO Research Institute Davos (ARI), Clavadelerstrasse 8, 7270 Davos, Switzerland
| | - Matteo D'Este
- AO Research Institute Davos (ARI), Clavadelerstrasse 8, 7270 Davos, Switzerland
| | - Esther Potier
- Université Paris Cité, CNRS, INSERM, ENVA, B3OA, F-75010 Paris, France
| | - Christophe Hélary
- Laboratoire de Chimie de la Matière Condensée de Paris, Sorbonne Université, CNRS, UMR 7574, F-75005, Paris, France.
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6
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Schmitz TC, van Genabeek B, Pouderoijen MJ, Janssen HM, van Doeselaar M, Crispim JF, Tryfonidou MA, Ito K. Semi-synthetic degradable notochordal cell-derived matrix hydrogel for use in degenerated intervertebral discs: Initial in vitro characterization. J Biomed Mater Res A 2023; 111:1903-1915. [PMID: 37539663 DOI: 10.1002/jbm.a.37594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/23/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
Low back pain is the leading cause of disability worldwide, but current therapeutic interventions are palliative or surgical in nature. Loss of notochordal cells (NCs) and degradation of the healthy matrix in the nucleus pulposus (NP), the central tissue of intervertebral discs (IVDs), has been associated with onset of degenerative disc changes. Recently, we established a protocol for decellularization of notochordal cell derived matrix (NCM) and found that it can provide regenerative cues to nucleus pulposus cells of the IVD. Here, we combined the biologically regenerative properties of decellularized NCM with the mechanical tunability of a poly(ethylene glycol) hydrogel to additionally address biomechanics in the degenerate IVD. We further introduced a hydrolysable PEG-diurethane crosslinker for slow degradation of the gels in vivo. The resulting hydrogels were tunable over a broad range of stiffness's (0.2 to 4.5 kPa), matching that of NC-rich and -poor NP tissues, respectively. Gels formed within 30 min, giving ample time for handling, and remained shear-thinning post-polymerization. Gels also slowly released dNCM over 28 days as measured by GAG effusion. Viability of encapsulated bone marrow stromal cells after extrusion through a needle remained high. Although encapsulated NCs stayed viable over two weeks, their metabolic activity decreased, and their phenotype was lost in physiological medium conditions in vitro. Overall, the obtained gels hold promise for application in degenerated IVDs but require further tuning for combined use with NCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tara C Schmitz
- Orthopaedic Biomechanics, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | | | | | | | - Marina van Doeselaar
- Orthopaedic Biomechanics, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - João F Crispim
- Orthopaedic Biomechanics, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Marianna A Tryfonidou
- Department of Clinical Sciences of Companion Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Keita Ito
- Orthopaedic Biomechanics, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
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7
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Li ZL, Lu Q, Honiball JR, Wan SHT, Yeung KWK, Cheung KMC. Mechanical characterization and design of biomaterials for nucleus pulposus replacement and regeneration. J Biomed Mater Res A 2023; 111:1888-1902. [PMID: 37555381 DOI: 10.1002/jbm.a.37593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/23/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023]
Abstract
Biomaterials for nucleus pulposus (NP) replacement and regeneration have great potential to restore normal biomechanics in degenerated intervertebral discs following nucleotomy. Mechanical characterizations are essential for assessing the efficacy of biomaterial implants for clinical applications. While traditional compression tests are crucial to quantify various modulus values, relaxation behaviors and fatigue resistance, rheological measurements should also be conducted to investigate the viscoelastic properties, injectability, and overall stability upon deformation. To recapitulate the physiological in vivo environment, the use of spinal models is necessary to evaluate the risk of implant extrusion and the restoration of biomechanics under different loading conditions. When designing devices for NP replacement, injectable materials are ideal to fully fill the nucleus cavity and prevent implant migration. In addition to achieving biocompatibility and desirable mechanical characteristics, biomaterial implants should be optimized to avoid implant extrusion or re-herniation post-operatively. This review discusses the most commonly used testing protocols for assessing mechanical properties of biomaterial implants and serves as reference material for enabling researchers to characterize NP implants through a unified approach whereby newly developed biomaterials may be compared and contrasted to existing devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuoqi Lucas Li
- Department of Orthopaedics & Traumatology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Qiuji Lu
- Department of Orthopaedics & Traumatology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - John Robert Honiball
- Department of Orthopaedics & Traumatology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Sandra Hiu-Tung Wan
- Department of Orthopaedics & Traumatology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Kelvin Wai-Kwok Yeung
- Department of Orthopaedics & Traumatology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Innovative Technology in Orthopaedic Trauma, The University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Kenneth Man-Chee Cheung
- Department of Orthopaedics & Traumatology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
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8
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Jiang Y, Wang J, Sun D, Liu Z, Qi L, Du M, Wang J, Li Y, Zhu C, Huang Y, Song Y, Liu L, Feng G, Zhang L. A hydrogel reservoir as a self-contained nucleus pulposus cell delivery vehicle for immunoregulation and repair of degenerated intervertebral disc. Acta Biomater 2023; 170:303-317. [PMID: 37597680 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2023.08.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/21/2023]
Abstract
The strategies for modulating the local inflammatory microenvironment to inhibit intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) have garnered significant interest in recent years. In this study, we developed a "self-contained" injectable hydrogel capable of storing Mg2+ while carrying nucleus pulposus (NP) cells, with the aim of inhibiting IVDD through immunoregulation. The hydrogel consists of sodium alginate (SA), poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAAm), silicate ceramics (SC), and NP cells. When injected into the NP site, PNIPAAm gelates instantly under body temperature, forming an interpenetrating network (IPN) hydrogel with SA. Ca2+ released from the SC can crosslink the SA in situ, forming a SA/PNIPAAm hydrogel with an interpenetrating network (IPN) encapsulating the NP cells. Moreover, inside the hydrogel, Mg2+ released from SC are effectively encapsulated and maintained at a desirable concentration. These Mg2+ facilitates the local cell matrix synthesis and promotes immunomodulation (upregulating M2 / downregulating M1 macrophage polarization), thus inhibiting the IVDD progression. The proposed hydrogel has biocompatibility and is shown to enhance the expression of collagen II (COL II) and aggrecan. The potential of the injectable hydrogel in IVD repair has also been successfully demonstrated by in vivo studies. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yulin Jiang
- Analytical & Testing Center, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Orthopedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Juehan Wang
- Analytical & Testing Center, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Orthopedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Dan Sun
- Advanced Composite Research Group (ACRG), School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Queen's University Belfast, BT9 5AH, UK
| | - Zheng Liu
- Analytical & Testing Center, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Orthopedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Lin Qi
- Analytical & Testing Center, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Orthopedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Meixuan Du
- Analytical & Testing Center, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Orthopedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Analytical & Testing Center, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Orthopedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Yubao Li
- Analytical & Testing Center, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Orthopedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Ce Zhu
- Analytical & Testing Center, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Orthopedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Yong Huang
- Analytical & Testing Center, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Orthopedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Yueming Song
- Analytical & Testing Center, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Orthopedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Limin Liu
- Analytical & Testing Center, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Orthopedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Ganjun Feng
- Analytical & Testing Center, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Orthopedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Analytical & Testing Center, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Orthopedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China.
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9
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Wu R, Huang L, Xia Q, Liu Z, Huang Y, Jiang Y, Wang J, Ding H, Zhu C, Song Y, Liu L, Zhang L, Feng G. Injectable mesoporous bioactive glass/sodium alginate hydrogel loaded with melatonin for intervertebral disc regeneration. Mater Today Bio 2023; 22:100731. [PMID: 37533731 PMCID: PMC10393589 DOI: 10.1016/j.mtbio.2023.100731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) is a major contributing factor to both lower back and neck pain. As IDD progresses, the intervertebral disc (IVD) loses its ability to maintain its disc height when subjected to axial loading. This failure in the weight-bearing capacity of the IVD is a characteristic feature of degeneration. Natural polymer-based hydrogel, derived from biological polymers, possesses biocompatibility and is able to mimic the structure of extracellular matrix, enabling them to support cellular behavior. However, their mechanical performance is relatively poor, thus limiting their application in IVD regeneration. In this study, we developed an injectable composite hydrogel, namely, Mel-MBG/SA, which is similar to natural weight-bearing IVD. Mesoporous bioactive glasses not only enhance hydrogels, but also act as carriers for melatonin (Mel) to suppress inflammation during IDD. The Mel-MBG/SA hydrogel further provides a mixed system with sustained Mel release to alleviate IL-1β-induced oxidative stress and relieve inflammation associated with IDD pathology. Furthermore, our study shows that this delivery system can effectively suppress inflammation in the rat tail model, which is expected to further promote IVD regeneration. This approach presents a novel strategy for promoting tissue regeneration by effectively modulating the inflammatory environment while harnessing the mechanical properties of the material.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruibang Wu
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Orthopedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Leizhen Huang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Orthopedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Qinghong Xia
- Operating Room of Anesthesia Surgery Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University / West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Zheng Liu
- Analytical and Testing Center, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China
| | - Yong Huang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Orthopedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Yulin Jiang
- Analytical and Testing Center, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China
| | - Juehan Wang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Orthopedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Hong Ding
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Orthopedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Ce Zhu
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Orthopedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Yueming Song
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Orthopedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Limin Liu
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Orthopedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Analytical and Testing Center, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China
| | - Ganjun Feng
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Orthopedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
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10
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Chen J, Zhu H, Xia J, Zhu Y, Xia C, Hu Z, Jin Y, Wang J, He Y, Dai J, Hu Z. High-Performance Multi-Dynamic Bond Cross-Linked Hydrogel with Spatiotemporal siRNA Delivery for Gene-Cell Combination Therapy of Intervertebral Disc Degeneration. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023:e2206306. [PMID: 37078785 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202206306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Chronic inflammatory diseases, such as intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD), which affect the lives of hundreds of millions of people, still lack effective and precise treatments. In this study, a novel hydrogel system with many extraordinary properties is developed for gene-cell combination therapy of IVDD. Phenylboronic acid-modified G5 PAMAM (G5-PBA) is first synthesized, and therapeutic siRNA silencing the expression of P65 mixed with G5-PBA (siRNA@G5-PBA) is then embedded into the hydrogel (siRNA@G5-PBA@Gel) based on multi-dynamic bonds including acyl hydrazone bonds, imine linkage, π-π stacking, and hydrogen bonding interactions. Local and acidic inflammatory microenvironment-responsive gene-drug release can achieve spatiotemporal regulation of gene expression. In addition, gene-drug release from the hydrogel can be sustained for more than 28 days in vitro and in vivo, greatly inhibiting the secretion of inflammatory factors and the subsequent degeneration of nucleus pulposus (NP) cells induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Through prolonged inhibition of the P65/NLRP3 signaling pathway, the siRNA@G5-PBA@Gel is verified to relieve inflammatory storms, which can significantly enhance the regeneration of IVD when combined with cell therapy. Overall, this study proposes an innovative system for gene-cell combination therapy and a precise and minimally invasive treatment method for IVD regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaxin Chen
- Center for Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, 310014, China
| | - Haifeng Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Musculoskeletal System Degeneration, Regeneration Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310016, China
| | - Jiechao Xia
- Key Laboratory of Musculoskeletal System Degeneration, Regeneration Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310016, China
| | - Yutao Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Musculoskeletal System Degeneration, Regeneration Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310016, China
| | - Chen Xia
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, 310014, China
| | - Zehui Hu
- Key Laboratory of Musculoskeletal System Degeneration, Regeneration Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310016, China
| | - Yang Jin
- Key Laboratory of Musculoskeletal System Degeneration, Regeneration Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310016, China
| | - Ji Wang
- Center for Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, 310014, China
| | - Yong He
- State Key Laboratory of Fluid Power and Mechatronic Systems, College of Mechanical Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China
| | - Jiayong Dai
- Key Laboratory of Musculoskeletal System Degeneration, Regeneration Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310016, China
| | - Zhijun Hu
- Key Laboratory of Musculoskeletal System Degeneration, Regeneration Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310016, China
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11
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Basatvat S, Bach FC, Barcellona MN, Binch AL, Buckley CT, Bueno B, Chahine NO, Chee A, Creemers LB, Dudli S, Fearing B, Ferguson SJ, Gansau J, Gantenbein B, Gawri R, Glaeser JD, Grad S, Guerrero J, Haglund L, Hernandez PA, Hoyland JA, Huang C, Iatridis JC, Illien‐Junger S, Jing L, Kraus P, Laagland LT, Lang G, Leung V, Li Z, Lufkin T, van Maanen JC, McDonnell EE, Panebianco CJ, Presciutti SM, Rao S, Richardson SM, Romereim S, Schmitz TC, Schol J, Setton L, Sheyn D, Snuggs JW, Sun Y, Tan X, Tryfonidou MA, Vo N, Wang D, Williams B, Williams R, Yoon ST, Le Maitre CL. Harmonization and standardization of nucleus pulposus cell extraction and culture methods. JOR Spine 2023; 6:e1238. [PMID: 36994456 PMCID: PMC10041384 DOI: 10.1002/jsp2.1238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 10/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background In vitro studies using nucleus pulposus (NP) cells are commonly used to investigate disc cell biology and pathogenesis, or to aid in the development of new therapies. However, lab-to-lab variability jeopardizes the much-needed progress in the field. Here, an international group of spine scientists collaborated to standardize extraction and expansion techniques for NP cells to reduce variability, improve comparability between labs and improve utilization of funding and resources. Methods The most commonly applied methods for NP cell extraction, expansion, and re-differentiation were identified using a questionnaire to research groups worldwide. NP cell extraction methods from rat, rabbit, pig, dog, cow, and human NP tissue were experimentally assessed. Expansion and re-differentiation media and techniques were also investigated. Results Recommended protocols are provided for extraction, expansion, and re-differentiation of NP cells from common species utilized for NP cell culture. Conclusions This international, multilab and multispecies study identified cell extraction methods for greater cell yield and fewer gene expression changes by applying species-specific pronase usage, 60-100 U/ml collagenase for shorter durations. Recommendations for NP cell expansion, passage number, and many factors driving successful cell culture in different species are also addressed to support harmonization, rigor, and cross-lab comparisons on NP cells worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Frances C. Bach
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineUtrecht UniversityUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Marcos N. Barcellona
- Trinity Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College DublinThe University of DublinDublinIreland
| | - Abbie L. Binch
- Biomolecular Sciences Research CentreSheffield Hallam UniversitySheffieldUK
| | - Conor T. Buckley
- Trinity Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College DublinThe University of DublinDublinIreland
| | - Brian Bueno
- Leni & Peter W. May Department of OrthopaedicsIcahn School of Medicine at Mount SinaiNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Nadeen O. Chahine
- Departments of Orthopedic Surgery and Biomedical EngineeringColumbia UniversityNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Ana Chee
- Department of Orthopedic SurgeryRush University Medical CenterChicagoIllinoisUSA
| | - Laura B. Creemers
- Department of OrthopedicsUniversity Medical Center UtrechtUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Stefan Dudli
- Center for Experimental RheumatologyUniversity of ZurichZurichSwitzerland
| | - Bailey Fearing
- Department of Orthopedic SurgeryAtrium Health Musculoskeletal InstituteCharlotteNorth CarolinaUSA
| | | | - Jennifer Gansau
- Leni & Peter W. May Department of OrthopaedicsIcahn School of Medicine at Mount SinaiNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Benjamin Gantenbein
- Bone & Joint Program, Department for BioMedical Research (DBMR), Medical FacultyUniversity of BernBernSwitzerland
- Department for Orthopedics and Traumatology, Insel University HospitalUniversity of BernBernSwitzerland
| | - Rahul Gawri
- Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, Department of SurgeryMcGill UniversityMontrealCanada
- Regenerative Orthopaedics and Innovation LaboratoryMcGill UniversityMontrealCanada
| | | | | | - Julien Guerrero
- Bone & Joint Program, Department for BioMedical Research (DBMR), Medical FacultyUniversity of BernBernSwitzerland
- Center of Dental Medicine, Oral Biotechnology & BioengineeringUniversity of ZurichZurichSwitzerland
| | - Lisbet Haglund
- Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, Department of SurgeryMcGill UniversityMontrealCanada
| | - Paula A. Hernandez
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryUniversity of Texas Southwestern Medical CenterDallasTexasUSA
| | - Judith A. Hoyland
- School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Sciences CentreThe University of ManchesterManchesterUK
| | - Charles Huang
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringUniversity of MiamiCoral GablesFloridaUSA
| | - James C. Iatridis
- Leni & Peter W. May Department of OrthopaedicsIcahn School of Medicine at Mount SinaiNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | | | - Liufang Jing
- Department of OrthopaedicsEmory University School of MedicineAtlantaGAUSA
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringWashington University in St. LouisSt. LouisMissouriUSA
| | - Petra Kraus
- Department of OrthopaedicsEmory University School of MedicineAtlantaGAUSA
- Department of BiologyClarkson UniversityPotsdamNew YorkUSA
| | - Lisanne T. Laagland
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineUtrecht UniversityUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Gernot Lang
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery, Medical Center, Faculty of MedicineAlbert‐Ludwigs‐University of FreiburgFreiburg im BreisgauGermany
| | - Victor Leung
- Department of Orthopaedics & TraumatologyThe University of Hong KongHong KongSARChina
| | - Zhen Li
- AO Research Institute DavosDavosSwitzerland
| | - Thomas Lufkin
- Department of BiologyClarkson UniversityPotsdamNew YorkUSA
| | - Josette C. van Maanen
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineUtrecht UniversityUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Emily E. McDonnell
- Trinity Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College DublinThe University of DublinDublinIreland
| | - Chris J. Panebianco
- Leni & Peter W. May Department of OrthopaedicsIcahn School of Medicine at Mount SinaiNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | | | - Sanjna Rao
- Leni & Peter W. May Department of OrthopaedicsIcahn School of Medicine at Mount SinaiNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Stephen M. Richardson
- School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Sciences CentreThe University of ManchesterManchesterUK
| | - Sarah Romereim
- Department of Orthopedic SurgeryAtrium Health Musculoskeletal InstituteCharlotteNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Tara C. Schmitz
- Orthopaedic Biomechanics, Department of Biomedical EngineeringEindhoven University of TechnologyEindhovenThe Netherlands
| | - Jordy Schol
- Department of Orthopedic SurgeryTokai University School of MedicineIseharaJapan
| | - Lori Setton
- Departments of Biomedical Engineering and Orthopedic SurgeryWashington University in St. LouisSt. LouisMissouriUSA
| | | | - Joseph W. Snuggs
- Biomolecular Sciences Research CentreSheffield Hallam UniversitySheffieldUK
| | - Y. Sun
- Department of Orthopaedics & TraumatologyThe University of Hong KongHong KongSARChina
| | - Xiaohong Tan
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringWashington University in St. LouisSt. LouisMissouriUSA
| | - Marianna A. Tryfonidou
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineUtrecht UniversityUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Nam Vo
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Dong Wang
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgeryUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Brandon Williams
- Department of Orthopedic SurgeryRush University Medical CenterChicagoIllinoisUSA
| | - Rebecca Williams
- Biomolecular Sciences Research CentreSheffield Hallam UniversitySheffieldUK
| | - S. Tim Yoon
- Department of OrthopaedicsEmory University School of MedicineAtlantaGAUSA
| | - Christine L. Le Maitre
- Biomolecular Sciences Research CentreSheffield Hallam UniversitySheffieldUK
- Department of Oncology and MetabolismUniversity of SheffieldSheffieldSouth YorkshireUK
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12
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Wang Y, Di S, Yu J, Wang L, Li Z. Recent advances of graphene-biomacromolecule nanocomposites in medical applications. J Mater Chem B 2023; 11:500-518. [PMID: 36541392 DOI: 10.1039/d2tb01962k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, graphene-based composites have received increasing attention due to their high biocompatibility, large specific surface area, high electrical conductivity and unique mechanical properties. The combination of biomacromolecules and graphene provides a promising route for the preparation of novel graphene-based nanocomposites. Novel graphene-based nanocomposites with unique functions could be applied to medicine, biology, biosensors, environmental science, energy storage and other fields. Graphene-biomacromolecule nanocomposites have excellent biocompatibility, outstanding biofunctionality and low cytotoxicity, and have more advantages and development prospects than other traditional graphene-based materials in biological and biomedical fields. In this work, we summarize the research on the covalent and non-covalent interactions between different biomacromolecules (peptides, DNA/RNA, proteins and enzymes) and graphene, as well as the synthesis methods of novel functionalized graphene-biomacromolecule composites in recent years. We mainly introduce the recent advances (last 5 years) of graphene-biomacromolecule nanocomposites in medical applications, such as medical detection and disease treatment. We hope that this review will help readers to understand the methods and mechanisms of biomolecules modifying the surface of graphene, as well as the synthesis and application of graphene-based nanocomposites, which will promote the future developments of graphene-biomolecule composites in biomedicine, tissue engineering, materials engineering, and so on.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiting Wang
- College of Chemistry, Jilin Normal University, Siping, 136000, P. R. China.
| | - Shuhan Di
- College of Chemistry, Jilin Normal University, Siping, 136000, P. R. China.
| | - Jinhui Yu
- College of Chemistry, Jilin Normal University, Siping, 136000, P. R. China.
| | - Li Wang
- College of Chemistry, Jilin Normal University, Siping, 136000, P. R. China.
| | - Zhuang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Electroanalytical Chemistry, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, 130022, P. R. China
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13
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Arul MR, Zhang C, Alahmadi I, Moss IL, Banasavadi-Siddegowda YK, Abdulmalik S, Illien-Junger S, Kumbar SG. Novel Injectable Fluorescent Polymeric Nanocarriers for Intervertebral Disc Application. J Funct Biomater 2023; 14:52. [PMID: 36826851 PMCID: PMC9961171 DOI: 10.3390/jfb14020052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Damage to intervertebral discs (IVD) can lead to chronic pain and disability, and no current treatments can fully restore their function. Some non-surgical treatments have shown promise; however, these approaches are generally limited by burst release and poor localization of diverse molecules. In this proof-of-concept study, we developed a nanoparticle (NP) delivery system to efficiently deliver high- and low-solubility drug molecules. Nanoparticles of cellulose acetate and polycaprolactone-polyethylene glycol conjugated with 1-oxo-1H-pyrido [2,1-b][1,3]benzoxazole-3-carboxylic acid (PBC), a novel fluorescent dye, were prepared by the oil-in-water emulsion. Two drugs, a water insoluble indomethacin (IND) and a water soluble 4-aminopyridine (4-AP), were used to study their release patterns. Electron microscopy confirmed the spherical nature and rough surface of nanoparticles. The particle size analysis revealed a hydrodynamic radius ranging ~150-162 nm based on dynamic light scattering. Zeta potential increased with PBC conjugation implying their enhanced stability. IND encapsulation efficiency was almost 3-fold higher than 4-AP, with release lasting up to 4 days, signifying enhanced solubility, while the release of 4-AP continued for up to 7 days. Nanoparticles and their drug formulations did not show any apparent cytotoxicity and were taken up by human IVD nucleus pulposus cells. When injected into coccygeal mouse IVDs in vivo, the nanoparticles remained within the nucleus pulposus cells and the injection site of the nucleus pulposus and annulus fibrosus of the IVD. These fluorescent nano-formulations may serve as a platform technology to deliver therapeutic agents to IVDs and other tissues that require localized drug injections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael R. Arul
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Connecticut Health, Farmington, CT 06030, USA
| | - Changli Zhang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30308, USA
| | - Ibtihal Alahmadi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA
| | - Isaac L. Moss
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Connecticut Health, Farmington, CT 06030, USA
| | | | - Sama Abdulmalik
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Connecticut Health, Farmington, CT 06030, USA
| | | | - Sangamesh G. Kumbar
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Connecticut Health, Farmington, CT 06030, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA
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14
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Salzer E, Mouser VHM, Bulsink JA, Tryfonidou MA, Ito K. Dynamic loading leads to increased metabolic activity and spatial redistribution of viable cell density in nucleus pulposus tissue. JOR Spine 2023; 6:e1240. [PMID: 36994465 PMCID: PMC10041377 DOI: 10.1002/jsp2.1240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Revised: 11/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Nucleus pulposus (NP) cell density is orchestrated by an interplay between nutrient supply and metabolite accumulation. Physiological loading is essential for tissue homeostasis. However, dynamic loading is also believed to increase metabolic activity and could thereby interfere with cell density regulation and regenerative strategies. The aim of this study was to determine whether dynamic loading could reduce the NP cell density by interacting with its energy metabolism. Methods Bovine NP explants were cultured in a novel NP bioreactor with and without dynamic loading in milieus mimicking the pathophysiological or physiological NP environment. The extracellular content was evaluated biochemically and by Alcian Blue staining. Metabolic activity was determined by measuring glucose and lactate in tissue and medium supernatants. A lactate-dehydrogenase staining was performed to determine the viable cell density (VCD) in the peripheral and core regions of the NP. Results The histological appearance and tissue composition of NP explants did not change in any of the groups. Glucose levels in the tissue reached critical values for cell survival (≤0.5 mM) in all groups. Lactate released into the medium was increased in the dynamically loaded compared to the unloaded groups. While the VCD was unchanged on Day 2 in all regions, it was significantly reduced in the dynamically loaded groups on Day 7 (p ≤ 0.01) in the NP core, which led to a gradient formation of VCD in the group with degenerated NP milieu and dynamic loading (p ≤ 0.05). Conclusion It was demonstrated that dynamic loading in a nutrient deprived environment similar to that during IVD degeneration can increase cell metabolism to the extent that it was associated with changes in cell viability leading to a new equilibrium in the NP core. This should be considered for cell injections and therapies that lead to cell proliferation for treatment of IVD degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elias Salzer
- Orthopaedic Biomechanics, Department of Biomedical EngineeringEindhoven University of TechnologyEindhovenThe Netherlands
| | - Vivian H. M. Mouser
- Orthopaedic Biomechanics, Department of Biomedical EngineeringEindhoven University of TechnologyEindhovenThe Netherlands
| | - Jurgen A. Bulsink
- Orthopaedic Biomechanics, Department of Biomedical EngineeringEindhoven University of TechnologyEindhovenThe Netherlands
| | - Marianna A. Tryfonidou
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineUtrecht UniversityUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Keita Ito
- Orthopaedic Biomechanics, Department of Biomedical EngineeringEindhoven University of TechnologyEindhovenThe Netherlands
- Institute for Complex Molecular SystemsEindhoven University of TechnologyEindhovenThe Netherlands
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15
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Zamboni F, Ren G, Culebras M, O'Driscoll J, O'Dwyer J, Ryan EJ, Collins MN. Curcumin encapsulated polylactic acid nanoparticles embedded in alginate/gelatin bioinks for in situ immunoregulation: Characterization and biological assessment. Int J Biol Macromol 2022; 221:1218-1227. [PMID: 36087752 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2022.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Curcumin is a known naturally occurring anti-inflammatory agent derived from turmeric, and it is commonly used as a herbal food supplement. Here, in order to overcome the inherent hydrophobicity of curcumin (Cur), polylactic acid (PLA) nanoparticles (NPs) were synthesised using a solvent evaporation, and an oil-in-water emulsion method used to encapsulate curcumin. Polymeric NPs also offer the ability to control rate of drug release. The newly synthesised NPs were analysed using a scanning electron microscope (SEM), where results show the NPs range from 50 to 250 nm. NPs containing graded amounts of curcumin (0 %, 0.5 %, and 2 %) were added to cultures of NIH3T3 fibroblast cells for cytotoxicity evaluation using the Alamar Blue assay. Then, the curcumin NPs were incorporated into an alginate/gelatin solution, prior to crosslinking using a calcium chloride solution (200 nM). These hydrogels were then characterised with respect to their chemical, mechanical and rheological properties. Following hydrogel optimization, hydrogels loaded with NP containing 2 % curcumin were selected as a candidate as a bioink for three-dimensional (3D) printing. The biological assessment for these bioinks/hydrogels were conducted using THP-1 cells, a human monocytic cell line. Cell viability and immunomodulation were evaluated using lactate dehydrogenase (LHD) and a tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) enzyme-linked immunosorbent (ELISA) assay, respectively. Results show that the hydrogels were cytocompatible and supressed the production of TNF-α. These bioactive hydrogels are printable, supress immune cell activation and inflammation showing immense potential for the fabrication of tissue engineering constructs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda Zamboni
- Bernal Institute, University of Limerick, Ireland; Health Research Institute, University of Limerick, Ireland
| | - Guang Ren
- Bernal Institute, University of Limerick, Ireland
| | - Mario Culebras
- Institute of Material Science, University of Valencia, Spain
| | | | - Jack O'Dwyer
- School of Engineering, University of Limerick, Ireland
| | - Elizabeth J Ryan
- Health Research Institute, University of Limerick, Ireland; Department of Biological Sciences, University of Limerick, Ireland
| | - Maurice N Collins
- Bernal Institute, University of Limerick, Ireland; Health Research Institute, University of Limerick, Ireland; SFI AMBER, University of Limerick, Ireland.
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16
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Schmitz TC, van Doeselaar M, Tryfonidou MA, Ito K. Detergent-Free Decellularization of Notochordal Cell-Derived Matrix Yields a Regenerative, Injectable, and Swellable Biomaterial. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2022; 8:3912-3923. [PMID: 35942885 PMCID: PMC9472229 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.2c00790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
![]()
Porcine notochordal cell-derived matrix (NCM) has anti-inflammatory
and regenerative effects on degenerated intervertebral discs. For
its clinical use, safety must be assured. The porcine DNA is concerning
because of (1) the transmission of endogenous retroviruses and (2)
the inflammatory potential of cell-free DNA. Here, we present a simple,
detergent-free protocol: tissue lyophilization lyses cells, and matrix
integrity is preserved by limiting swelling during decellularization.
DNA is digested quickly by a high nuclease concentration, followed
by a short washout. Ninety-four percent of DNA was removed, and there
was no loss of glycosaminoglycans or collagen. Forty-three percent
of the total proteins remained in the decellularized NCM (dNCM). dNCM
stimulated as much GAG production as NCM in nucleus pulposus cells
but lost some anti-inflammatory effects. Reconstituted pulverized
dNCM yielded a soft, shear-thinning biomaterial with a swelling ratio
of 350% that also acted as an injectable cell carrier (cell viability
>70%). dNCM can therefore be used as the basis for future biomaterials
aimed at disc regeneration on a biological level and may restore joint
mechanics by creating swelling pressure within the intervertebral
disc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tara C Schmitz
- Orthopaedic Biomechanics, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, P.O. Box 513, Eindhoven 5600 MB, The Netherlands
| | - Marina van Doeselaar
- Orthopaedic Biomechanics, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, P.O. Box 513, Eindhoven 5600 MB, The Netherlands
| | - Marianna A Tryfonidou
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 108, Utrecht 3584 CM, Netherlands
| | - Keita Ito
- Orthopaedic Biomechanics, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, P.O. Box 513, Eindhoven 5600 MB, The Netherlands
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17
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Ligorio C, Hoyland JA, Saiani A. Self-Assembling Peptide Hydrogels as Functional Tools to Tackle Intervertebral Disc Degeneration. Gels 2022; 8:gels8040211. [PMID: 35448112 PMCID: PMC9028266 DOI: 10.3390/gels8040211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Low back pain (LBP), caused by intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration, is a major contributor to global disability. In its healthy state, the IVD is a tough and well-hydrated tissue, able to act as a shock absorber along the spine. During degeneration, the IVD is hit by a cell-driven cascade of events, which progressively lead to extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation, chronic inflammation, and pain. Current treatments are divided into palliative care (early stage degeneration) and surgical interventions (late-stage degeneration), which are invasive and poorly efficient in the long term. To overcome these limitations, alternative tissue engineering and regenerative medicine strategies, in which soft biomaterials are used as injectable carriers of cells and/or biomolecules to be delivered to the injury site and restore tissue function, are currently being explored. Self-assembling peptide hydrogels (SAPHs) represent a promising class of de novo synthetic biomaterials able to merge the strengths of both natural and synthetic hydrogels for biomedical applications. Inherent features, such as shear-thinning behaviour, high biocompatibility, ECM biomimicry, and tuneable physiochemical properties make these hydrogels appropriate and functional tools to tackle IVD degeneration. This review will describe the pathogenesis of IVD degeneration, list biomaterials requirements to attempt IVD repair, and focus on current peptide hydrogel materials exploited for this purpose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cosimo Ligorio
- Department of Materials, School of Natural Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, The University of Manchester, Manchester M1 3BB, UK;
- Manchester Institute of Biotechnology (MIB), The University of Manchester, Manchester M1 7DN, UK
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PG, UK;
- Correspondence:
| | - Judith A. Hoyland
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PG, UK;
| | - Alberto Saiani
- Department of Materials, School of Natural Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, The University of Manchester, Manchester M1 3BB, UK;
- Manchester Institute of Biotechnology (MIB), The University of Manchester, Manchester M1 7DN, UK
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Kamatani T, Hagizawa H, Yarimitsu S, Morioka M, Koyamatsu S, Sugimoto M, Kodama J, Yamane J, Ishiguro H, Shichino S, Abe K, Fujibuchi W, Fujie H, Kaito T, Tsumaki N. Human iPS cell-derived cartilaginous tissue spatially and functionally replaces nucleus pulposus. Biomaterials 2022; 284:121491. [PMID: 35395453 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2022.121491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Revised: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The loss of nucleus pulposus (NP) precedes the intervertebral disk (IVD) degeneration that causes back pain. Here, we demonstrate that the implantation of human iPS cell-derived cartilaginous tissue (hiPS-Cart) restores this loss by replacing lost NP spatially and functionally. NP cells consist of notochordal NP cells and chondrocyte-like NP cells. Single cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) analysis revealed that cells in hiPS-Cart corresponded to chondrocyte-like NP cells but not to notochordal NP cells. The implantation of hiPS-Cart into a nuclectomized space of IVD in nude rats prevented the degeneration of the IVD and preserved its mechanical properties. hiPS-Cart survived and occupied the nuclectomized space for at least six months after implantation, indicating spatial and functional replacement of lost NP by hiPS-Cart. Further scRNA-seq analysis revealed that hiPS-Cart cells changed their profile after implantation, differentiating into two lineages that are metabolically distinct from each other. However, post-implanted hiPS-Cart cells corresponded to chondrocyte-like NP cells only and did not develop into notochordal NP cells, suggesting that chondrocyte-like NP cells are nearly sufficient for NP function. The data collectively indicate that hiPS-Cart is a candidate implant for regenerating NP spatially and functionally and preventing IVD degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takashi Kamatani
- Department of Clinical Application, Center for iPS Cell Research and Application, Kyoto University, 53 Kawahara-cho, Shogoin, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8507, Japan; Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, 2-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Hiroki Hagizawa
- Department of Clinical Application, Center for iPS Cell Research and Application, Kyoto University, 53 Kawahara-cho, Shogoin, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8507, Japan; Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, 2-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan; Department of Tissue Biochemistry, Graduate School of Medicine and Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, 2-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Seido Yarimitsu
- Department of Mechanical Systems Engineering, Faculty of Systems Design, Tokyo Metropolitan University, 1-1 Minami-Osawa, Hachioji, Tokyo, 192-0397, Japan
| | - Miho Morioka
- Department of Clinical Application, Center for iPS Cell Research and Application, Kyoto University, 53 Kawahara-cho, Shogoin, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8507, Japan; Department of Tissue Biochemistry, Graduate School of Medicine and Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, 2-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Saeko Koyamatsu
- Department of Clinical Application, Center for iPS Cell Research and Application, Kyoto University, 53 Kawahara-cho, Shogoin, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8507, Japan; Department of Tissue Biochemistry, Graduate School of Medicine and Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, 2-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Michihiko Sugimoto
- Technology and Development Team for Mammalian Genome Dynamics, RIKEN BioResource Research Center, 3-1-1 Koyadai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-0074, Japan
| | - Joe Kodama
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, 2-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Junko Yamane
- Department of Life Science Frontiers, Center for iPS Cell Research and Application, Kyoto University, 53 Kawahara-cho, Shogoin, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8507, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Ishiguro
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, 2-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Shigeyuki Shichino
- Division of Molecular Regulation of Inflammatory and Immune Diseases, Research Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science, Building 17 Second Floor, 2641, Yamasaki, Noda, Chiba, 278-0042, Japan
| | - Kuniya Abe
- Technology and Development Team for Mammalian Genome Dynamics, RIKEN BioResource Research Center, 3-1-1 Koyadai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-0074, Japan
| | - Wataru Fujibuchi
- Department of Life Science Frontiers, Center for iPS Cell Research and Application, Kyoto University, 53 Kawahara-cho, Shogoin, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8507, Japan
| | - Hiromichi Fujie
- Department of Mechanical Systems Engineering, Faculty of Systems Design, Tokyo Metropolitan University, 1-1 Minami-Osawa, Hachioji, Tokyo, 192-0397, Japan
| | - Takashi Kaito
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, 2-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Noriyuki Tsumaki
- Department of Clinical Application, Center for iPS Cell Research and Application, Kyoto University, 53 Kawahara-cho, Shogoin, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8507, Japan; Department of Tissue Biochemistry, Graduate School of Medicine and Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, 2-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan.
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19
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Zoetebier B, Schmitz T, Ito K, Karperien M, Tryfonidou MA, Paez J. Injectable hydrogels for articular cartilage and nucleus pulposus repair: Status quo and prospects. Tissue Eng Part A 2022; 28:478-499. [PMID: 35232245 DOI: 10.1089/ten.tea.2021.0226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Osteoarthritis (OA) and chronic low back pain due to degenerative (intervertebral) disc disease (DDD) are two of the major causes of disabilities worldwide, affecting hundreds of millions of people and leading to a high socioeconomic burden. Although OA occurs in synovial joints and DDD occurs in cartilaginous joints, the similarities are striking, with both joints showing commonalities in the nature of the tissues and in the degenerative processes during disease. Consequently, repair strategies for articular cartilage (AC) and nucleus pulposus (NP), the core of the intervertebral disc, in the context of OA and DDD share common aspects. One of such tissue engineering approaches is the use of injectable hydrogels for AC and NP repair. In this review, the state-of-the-art and recent developments in injectable hydrogels for repairing, restoring, and regenerating AC tissue suffering from OA and NP tissue in DDD are summarized focusing on cell-free approaches. The various biomaterial strategies exploited for repair of both tissues are compared, and the synergies that could be gained by translating experiences from one tissue to the other are identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bram Zoetebier
- University of Twente Faculty of Science and Technology, 207105, Developmental BioEngineering , Drienerlolaan 5, Enschede, Netherlands, 7500 AE;
| | - Tara Schmitz
- Eindhoven University of Technology, 3169, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven, Noord-Brabant, Netherlands;
| | - Keita Ito
- Eindhoven University of Technology, Department of Biomedical Engineering, P.O. Box 513, GEMZ 4.115, Eindhoven, Netherlands, 5600 MB;
| | | | - Marianna A Tryfonidou
- Utrecht University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Clinical Sciences of Companion Animals, Yalelaan 108, Utrecht, Netherlands, 3584 CM;
| | - Julieta Paez
- University of Twente Faculty of Science and Technology, 207105, Developmental Bioengineering, University of Twente P.O. Box 217, Enschede The Netherlands, Enschede, Netherlands, 7500 AE;
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20
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Yamada K, Iwasaki N, Sudo H. Biomaterials and Cell-Based Regenerative Therapies for Intervertebral Disc Degeneration with a Focus on Biological and Biomechanical Functional Repair: Targeting Treatments for Disc Herniation. Cells 2022; 11:cells11040602. [PMID: 35203253 PMCID: PMC8870062 DOI: 10.3390/cells11040602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2021] [Revised: 01/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration is a common cause of low back pain and most spinal disorders. As IVD degeneration is a major obstacle to the healthy life of so many individuals, it is a major issue that needs to be overcome. Currently, there is no clinical treatment for the regeneration of degenerated IVDs. However, recent advances in regenerative medicine and tissue engineering suggest the potential of cell-based and/or biomaterial-based IVD regeneration therapies. These treatments may be indicated for patients with IVDs in the intermediate degenerative stage, a point where the number of viable cells decreases, and the structural integrity of the disc begins to collapse. However, there are many biological, biomechanical, and clinical challenges that must be overcome before the clinical application of these IVD regeneration therapies can be realized. This review summarizes the basic research and clinical trials literature on cell-based and biomaterial-based IVD regenerative therapies and outlines the important role of these strategies in regenerative treatment for IVD degenerative diseases, especially disc herniation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katsuhisa Yamada
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Faculty of Medicine and Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-8638, Japan; (K.Y.); (N.I.)
- Department of Advanced Medicine for Spine and Spinal Cord Disorders, Faculty of Medicine and Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-8638, Japan
| | - Norimasa Iwasaki
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Faculty of Medicine and Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-8638, Japan; (K.Y.); (N.I.)
| | - Hideki Sudo
- Department of Advanced Medicine for Spine and Spinal Cord Disorders, Faculty of Medicine and Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-8638, Japan
- Correspondence:
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21
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Combination of ultra-purified stem cells with an in situ-forming bioresorbable gel enhances intervertebral disc regeneration. EBioMedicine 2022; 76:103845. [PMID: 35085848 PMCID: PMC8801983 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2022.103845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2021] [Revised: 12/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Lumbar intervertebral disc (IVD) herniations are associated with significant disability. Discectomy is the conventional treatment option for IVD herniations but causes a defect in the IVD, which has low self-repair ability, thereby representing a risk of further IVD degeneration. An acellular, bioresorbable, and good manufacturing practice (GMP)-compliant in situ-forming gel, which corrects discectomy-associated IVD defects and prevents further IVD degeneration had been developed. However, this acellular matrix-based strategy has certain limitations, particularly in elderly patients, whose tissues have low self-repair ability. The aim of this study was to investigate the therapeutic efficacy of using a combination of newly-developed, ultra-purified, GMP-compliant, human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (rapidly expanding clones; RECs) and the gel for IVD regeneration after discectomy in a sheep model of severe IVD degeneration. Methods RECs and nucleus pulposus cells (NPCs) were co-cultured in the gel. In addition, RECs combined with the gel were implanted into IVDs following discectomy in sheep with degenerated IVDs. Findings Gene expression of NPC markers, growth factors, and extracellular matrix increased significantly in the co-culture compared to that in each mono-culture. The REC and gel combination enhanced IVD regeneration after discectomy (up to 24 weeks) in the severe IVD degeneration sheep model. Interpretation These findings demonstrate the translational potential of the combination of RECs with an in situ-forming gel for the treatment of herniations in degenerative human IVDs. Funding Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology of Japan, Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development, and the Mochida Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.
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22
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Culbert MP, Warren JP, Dixon AR, Fermor HL, Beales PA, Wilcox RK. Evaluation of injectable nucleus augmentation materials for the treatment of intervertebral disc degeneration. Biomater Sci 2021; 10:874-891. [PMID: 34951410 DOI: 10.1039/d1bm01589c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Back pain affects a person's health and mobility as well as being associated with large health and social costs. Lower back pain is frequently caused by degeneration of the intervertebral disc. Current operative and non-operative treatments are often ineffective and expensive. Nucleus augmentation is designed to be a minimally invasive method of restoring the disc to its native healthy state by restoring the disc height, and mechanical and/or biological properties. The majority of the candidate materials for nucleus augmentation are injectable hydrogels. In this review, we examine the materials that are currently under investigation for nucleus augmentation, and compare their ability to meet the design requirements for this application. Specifically, the delivery of the material into the disc, the mechanical properties of the material and the biological compatibility are examined. Recommendations for future testing are also made.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew P Culbert
- Institute of Medical and Biological Engineering, School of Mechanical Engineering, University of Leeds, UK, LS2 9JT.
| | - James P Warren
- Institute of Medical and Biological Engineering, School of Mechanical Engineering, University of Leeds, UK, LS2 9JT.
| | - Andrew R Dixon
- Institute of Medical and Biological Engineering, School of Mechanical Engineering, University of Leeds, UK, LS2 9JT.
| | - Hazel L Fermor
- Institute of Medical and Biological Engineering, School of Mechanical Engineering, University of Leeds, UK, LS2 9JT.
| | - Paul A Beales
- School of Chemistry, Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology and Bragg Centre for Materials Research, University of Leeds, UK, LS2 9JT
| | - Ruth K Wilcox
- Institute of Medical and Biological Engineering, School of Mechanical Engineering, University of Leeds, UK, LS2 9JT.
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23
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Integrin and syndecan binding peptide-conjugated alginate hydrogel for modulation of nucleus pulposus cell phenotype. Biomaterials 2021; 277:121113. [PMID: 34492582 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2021.121113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Revised: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Biomaterial based strategies have been widely explored to preserve and restore the juvenile phenotype of cells of the nucleus pulposus (NP) in degenerated intervertebral discs (IVD). With aging and maturation, NP cells lose their ability to produce necessary extracellular matrix and proteoglycans, accelerating disc degeneration. Previous studies have shown that integrin or syndecan binding peptide motifs from laminin can induce NP cells from degenerative human discs to re-express juvenile NP-specific cell phenotype and biosynthetic activity. Here, we engineered alginate hydrogels to present integrin- and syndecan-binding peptides alone or in combination (cyclic RGD and AG73, respectively) to introduce bioactive features into the alginate gels. We demonstrated human NP cells cultured upon and within alginate hydrogels presented with cRGD and AG73 peptides exhibited higher cell viability, biosynthetic activity, and NP-specific protein expression over alginate alone. Moreover, the combination of the two peptide motifs elicited markers of the NP-specific cell phenotype, including N-Cadherin, despite differences in cell morphology and multicellular cluster formation between 2D and 3D cultures. These results represent a promising step toward understanding how distinct adhesive peptides can be combined to guide NP cell fate. In the future, these insights may be useful to rationally design hydrogels for NP cell-transplantation based therapies for IVD degeneration.
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24
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Barcellona MN, Speer JE, Jing L, Patil DS, Gupta MC, Buchowski JM, Setton LA. Bioactive in situ crosslinkable polymer-peptide hydrogel for cell delivery to the intervertebral disc in a rat model. Acta Biomater 2021; 131:117-127. [PMID: 34229105 PMCID: PMC9157564 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2021.06.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Revised: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Degeneration of the intervertebral disc (IVD) is associated with
significant biochemical and morphological changes that include a loss of disc
height, decreased water content and decreased cellularity. Cell delivery has
been widely explored as a strategy to supplement the nucleus pulposus (NP)
region of the degenerated IVD in both pre-clinical and clinical trials, using
progenitor or primary cell sources. We previously demonstrated an ability for a
polymer-peptide hydrogel, serving as a culture substrate, to promote adult NP
cells to undergo a shift from a degenerative fibroblast-like state to a
juvenile-like NP phenotype. In the current study, we evaluate the ability for
this peptide-functionalized hydrogel to serve as a bioactive system for cell
delivery, retention and preservation of a biosynthetic phenotype for primary IVD
cells delivered to the rat caudal disc in an anular puncture degeneration model.
Our data suggest that encapsulation of adult degenerative human NP cells in a
stiff formulation of the hydrogel functionalized with laminin-mimetic peptides
IKVAV and AG73 can promote cell viability and increased biosynthetic activity
for this population in 3D culture in vitro. Delivery of the
peptide-functionalized biomaterial with primary rat cells to the degenerated IVD
supported NP cell retention and NP-specific protein expression in
vivo, and promoted improved disc height index (DHI) values and
endplate organization compared to untreated degenerated controls. The results of
this study suggest the physical cues of this peptide-functionalized hydrogel can
serve as a supportive carrier for cell delivery to the IVD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcos N Barcellona
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, United States
| | - Julie E Speer
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, United States
| | - Liufang Jing
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, United States
| | - Deepanjali S Patil
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, United States
| | - Munish C Gupta
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, United States
| | - Jacob M Buchowski
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, United States
| | - Lori A Setton
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, United States; Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, United States.
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25
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Injectable nanostructured colloidal gels resembling native nucleus pulposus as carriers of mesenchymal stem cells for the repair of degenerated intervertebral discs. MATERIALS SCIENCE & ENGINEERING. C, MATERIALS FOR BIOLOGICAL APPLICATIONS 2021; 128:112343. [DOI: 10.1016/j.msec.2021.112343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Revised: 07/25/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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26
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Dixon AR, Warren JP, Culbert MP, Mengoni M, Wilcox RK. Review of in vitro mechanical testing for intervertebral disc injectable biomaterials. J Mech Behav Biomed Mater 2021; 123:104703. [PMID: 34365096 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2021.104703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Revised: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Many early stage interventions for intervertebral disc degeneration are under development involving injection of a biomaterial into the affected tissue. Due to the complex mechanical behaviour of the intervertebral disc, there are challenges in comprehensively evaluating the performance of these injectable biomaterials in vitro. The aim of this review was to examine the different methods that have been developed to mechanically test injectable intervertebral disc biomaterials in an in vitro disc model. Testing methods were examined with emphasis on overall protocol, artificial degeneration method, mechanical testing regimes and injection delivery. Specifically, the effects of these factors on the evaluation of different aspects of device performance was assessed. Broad testing protocols varied between studies and enabled evaluation of different aspects of an injectable treatment. Studies employed artificial degeneration methodologies which were either on a macro scale through mechanical means or on a microscale with biochemical means. Mechanical loading regimes differed greatly across studies, with load being either held constant, ramped to failure, or applied cyclically, with large variability on all loading parameters. Evaluation of the risk of herniation was possible by utilising ramped loading, whereas cyclic loading enabled the examination of the restoration of mechanical behaviour for initial screening of biomaterials and surgical technique optimisation studies. However, there are large variations in the duration or tests, and further work is needed to define an appropriate number of cycles to standardise this type of testing. Biomaterial delivery was controlled by set volume or haptic feedback, and future investigations should generate evidence applying physiological loading during injection and normalisation of injection parameters based on disc size. Based on the reviewed articles and considering clinical risks, a series of recommendations have been made for future intervertebral disc mechanical testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- A R Dixon
- University of Leeds, Institute of Medical and Biological Engineering, Leeds, LS2 9JT, United Kingdom.
| | - J P Warren
- University of Leeds, Institute of Medical and Biological Engineering, Leeds, LS2 9JT, United Kingdom
| | - M P Culbert
- University of Leeds, Institute of Medical and Biological Engineering, Leeds, LS2 9JT, United Kingdom
| | - M Mengoni
- University of Leeds, Institute of Medical and Biological Engineering, Leeds, LS2 9JT, United Kingdom
| | - R K Wilcox
- University of Leeds, Institute of Medical and Biological Engineering, Leeds, LS2 9JT, United Kingdom.
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27
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Speer JE, Barcellona MN, Lu MY, Zha Z, Jing L, Gupta MC, Buchowski JM, Kelly MP, Setton LA. Development of a library of laminin-mimetic peptide hydrogels for control of nucleus pulposus cell behaviors. J Tissue Eng 2021; 12:20417314211021220. [PMID: 34188794 PMCID: PMC8211742 DOI: 10.1177/20417314211021220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The nucleus pulposus (NP) of the intervertebral disc plays a critical role in
distributing mechanical loads to the axial skeleton. Alterations in NP cells and,
consequently, NP matrix are some of the earliest changes in the development of disc
degeneration. Previous studies demonstrated a role for laminin-presenting biomaterials in
promoting a healthy phenotype for human NP cells from degenerated tissue. Here we
investigate the use of laminin-mimetic peptides presented individually or in combination
on a poly(ethylene) glycol hydrogel as a platform to modulate the behaviors of
degenerative human NP cells. Data confirm that NP cells attach to select laminin-mimetic
peptides that results in cell signaling downstream of integrin and syndecan binding.
Furthermore, the peptide-functionalized hydrogels demonstrate an ability to promote cell
behaviors that mimic that of full-length laminins. These results identify a set of
peptides that can be used to regulate NP cell behaviors toward a regenerative engineering
strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie E Speer
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Marcos N Barcellona
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Michael Y Lu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Zizhen Zha
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Liufang Jing
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Munish C Gupta
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Jacob M Buchowski
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Michael P Kelly
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Lori A Setton
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA.,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
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28
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Ligorio C, O'Brien M, Hodson NW, Mironov A, Iliut M, Miller AF, Vijayaraghavan A, Hoyland JA, Saiani A. TGF-β3-loaded graphene oxide - self-assembling peptide hybrid hydrogels as functional 3D scaffolds for the regeneration of the nucleus pulposus. Acta Biomater 2021; 127:116-130. [PMID: 33831573 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2021.03.077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Revised: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration is a process that starts in the central nucleus pulposus (NP) and leads to inflammation, extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation, and progressive loss of disc height. Early treatment of IVD degeneration is critical to the reduction of low back pain and related disability. As such, minimally invasive therapeutic approaches that can halt and reverse NP degeneration at the early stages of the disease are needed. Recently, we developed an injectable graphene oxide (GO) - self-assembling peptide FEFKFEFK (F: phenylalanine; K: lysine; E: glutamic acid) hybrid hydrogels as potential delivery platform for cells and/or drugs in the NP. In this current study, we explored the possibility of using the GO present in these hybrid hydrogels as a vehicle for the sequestration and controlled delivery of transforming growth factor beta-3 (TGF-β3), an anabolic growth factor (GF) known to direct NP cell fate and function. For this purpose, we first investigated the potential of GO to bind and sequestrate TGF-β3. We then cultured bovine NP cells in the new functional scaffolds and investigated their response to the presence of GO and TGF-β3. Our results clearly showed that GO flakes can sequestrate TGF-β3 through strong binding interactions resulting in a slow and prolonged release, with the GF remaining active even when bound to the GO flakes. The adsorption of the GF on the GO flakes to create TGF-β3-loaded GO flakes and their subsequent incorporation in the hydrogels through mixing, [(GO/TGF-β3Ads)-F8] hydrogel, led to the upregulation of NP-specific genes, accompanied by the production and deposition of an NP-like ECM, rich in aggrecan and collagen II. NP cells actively interacted with TGF-β3-loaded GO flakes and remodeled the scaffolds through endocytosis. This work highlights the potential of using GO as a nanocarrier for the design of functional hybrid peptide-based hydrogels. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration is a process that starts in the central nucleus pulposus (NP) and leads to inflammation, extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation, and progressive loss of disc height. As such, minimally invasive therapeutic approaches that can halt and reverse NP degeneration at the early stages of the disease are needed. In this current study, we explored the possibility of using peptide - GO hybrid hydrogels as a vehicle for the sequestration and controlled delivery of transforming growth factor beta-3 (TGF-β3), an anabolic growth factor (GF) known to direct NP cell fate and function.
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29
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Peng Y, Qing X, Lin H, Huang D, Li J, Tian S, Liu S, Lv X, Ma K, Li R, Rao Z, Bai Y, Chen S, Lei M, Quan D, Shao Z. Decellularized Disc Hydrogels for hBMSCs tissue-specific differentiation and tissue regeneration. Bioact Mater 2021; 6:3541-3556. [PMID: 33842740 PMCID: PMC8022111 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2021.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2020] [Revised: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Tissue specificity, a key factor in the decellularized tissue matrix (DTM), has shown bioactive functionalities in tuning cell fate-e.g., the differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells. Notably, cell fate is also determined by the living microenvironment, including material composition and spatial characteristics. Herein, two neighboring tissues within intervertebral discs, the nucleus pulposus (NP) and annulus fibrosus (AF), were carefully processed into DTM hydrogels (abbreviated DNP-G and DAF-G, respectively) to determine the tissue-specific effects on stem cell fate, such as specific components and different culturing methods, as well as in vivo regeneration. Distinct differences in their protein compositions were identified by proteomic analysis. Interestingly, the fate of human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSCs) also responds to both culturing methods and composition. Generally, hBMSCs cultured with DNP-G (3D) differentiated into NP-like cells, while hBMSCs cultured with DAF-G (2D) underwent AF-like differentiation, indicating a close correlation with the native microenvironments of NP and AF cells, respectively. Furthermore, we found that the integrin-mediated RhoA/LATS/YAP1 signaling pathway was activated in DAF-G (2D)-induced AF-specific differentiation. Additionally, the activation of YAP1 determined the tendency of NP- or AF-specific differentiation and played opposite regulatory effects. Finally, DNP-G and DAF-G specifically promoted tissue regeneration in NP degeneration and AF defect rat models, respectively. In conclusion, DNP-G and DAF-G can specifically determine the fate of stem cells through the integrin-mediated RhoA/LATS/YAP1 signaling pathway, and this tissue specificity is both compositional and spatial, supporting the utilization of tissue-specific DTM in advanced treatments of intervertebral disc degeneration.
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Key Words
- 2D, two-dimensional
- 3D, three-dimensional
- AF, annulus fibrosus
- Col I–S, collagen type I solution
- DAF, decellularized annulus fibrosus
- DAF-G, decellularized annulus fibrosus hydrogel
- DAF-S, decellularized annulus fibrosus solution
- DNP, decellularized nucleus pulposus
- DNP-G, decellularized nucleus pulposus hydrogel
- DNP-S, decellularized nucleus pulposus solution
- DTM, decellularized tissue matrix
- Decellularized tissue matrix
- Differentiation
- ECM, extracellular matrix
- FAF, fresh annulus fibrosus
- FNP, fresh nucleus pulposus
- IDD, intervertebral disc degeneration
- Intervertebral disc
- MSC, mesenchymal stem cell
- NP, nucleus pulposus
- Tissue specificity
- YAP1
- YAP1, yes-associated protein 1
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Affiliation(s)
- Yizhong Peng
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Xiangcheng Qing
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Hui Lin
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Donghua Huang
- Musculoskeletal Tumor Center, Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jinye Li
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Shuo Tian
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Sheng Liu
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Xiao Lv
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Kaige Ma
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Rui Li
- School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510127, China
| | - Zilong Rao
- School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510127, China
| | - Ying Bai
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510127, China
| | - Songfeng Chen
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou City, 450052, China
| | - Ming Lei
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China,Corresponding author.
| | - Daping Quan
- School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510127, China,School of Materials Science and Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510127, China,Corresponding author. School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510127, China.
| | - Zengwu Shao
- Department of Orthopaedics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China,Corresponding author.
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