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Jiang Y, Zhou R, Wu Y, Kong G, Zeng J, Li X, Wang B, Gu C, Liao F, Qi F, Zhu Q, Gu L, Zheng C. In vitro modeling of skeletal muscle ischemia-reperfusion injury based on sphere differentiation culture from human pluripotent stem cells. Exp Cell Res 2024; 439:114111. [PMID: 38823471 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2024.114111] [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: 02/12/2024] [Revised: 04/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024]
Abstract
Skeletal muscle ischemia-reperfusion (IR) injury poses significant challenges due to its local and systemic complications. Traditional studies relying on two-dimensional (2D) cell culture or animal models often fall short of faithfully replicating the human in vivo environment, thereby impeding the translational process from animal research to clinical applications. Three-dimensional (3D) constructs, such as skeletal muscle spheroids with enhanced cell-cell interactions from human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) offer a promising alternative by partially mimicking human physiological cellular environment in vivo processes. This study aims to establish an innovative in vitro model, human skeletal muscle spheroids based on sphere differentiation from hPSCs, to investigate human skeletal muscle developmental processes and IR mechanisms within a controlled laboratory setting. By eticulously recapitulating embryonic myogenesis through paraxial mesodermal differentiation of neuro-mesodermal progenitors, we successfully established 3D skeletal muscle spheroids that mirror the dynamic colonization observed during human skeletal muscle development. Co-culturing human skeletal muscle spheroids with spinal cord spheroids facilitated the formation of neuromuscular junctions, providing functional relevance to skeletal muscle spheroids. Furthermore, through oxygen-glucose deprivation/re-oxygenation treatment, 3D skeletal muscle spheroids provide insights into the molecular events and pathogenesis of IR injury. The findings presented in this study significantly contribute to our understanding of skeletal muscle development and offer a robust platform for in vitro studies on skeletal muscle IR injury, holding potential applications in drug testing, therapeutic development, and personalized medicine within the realm of skeletal muscle-related pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifei Jiang
- Department of Microsurgery, Orthopedic Trauma and Hand Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China; Guangdong Province Engineering Laboratory for Soft Tissue Biofabrication, Guangzhou, China; Guangdong Provincial Peripheral Nerve Tissue Engineering and Technology Research Center, Guangzhou, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Runtao Zhou
- Department of Microsurgery, Orthopedic Trauma and Hand Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China; Guangdong Province Engineering Laboratory for Soft Tissue Biofabrication, Guangzhou, China; Guangdong Provincial Peripheral Nerve Tissue Engineering and Technology Research Center, Guangzhou, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yixun Wu
- Department of Microsurgery, Orthopedic Trauma and Hand Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China; Guangdong Province Engineering Laboratory for Soft Tissue Biofabrication, Guangzhou, China; Guangdong Provincial Peripheral Nerve Tissue Engineering and Technology Research Center, Guangzhou, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ganggang Kong
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Guangzhou, China; Department of Spine Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jingguang Zeng
- Department of Microsurgery, Orthopedic Trauma and Hand Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China; Guangdong Province Engineering Laboratory for Soft Tissue Biofabrication, Guangzhou, China; Guangdong Provincial Peripheral Nerve Tissue Engineering and Technology Research Center, Guangzhou, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xubo Li
- Department of Microsurgery, Orthopedic Trauma and Hand Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China; Guangdong Province Engineering Laboratory for Soft Tissue Biofabrication, Guangzhou, China; Guangdong Provincial Peripheral Nerve Tissue Engineering and Technology Research Center, Guangzhou, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bo Wang
- Department of Microsurgery, Orthopedic Trauma and Hand Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China; Guangdong Province Engineering Laboratory for Soft Tissue Biofabrication, Guangzhou, China; Guangdong Provincial Peripheral Nerve Tissue Engineering and Technology Research Center, Guangzhou, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Cheng Gu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Guangzhou, China; Department of Joint Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Fawei Liao
- Department of Microsurgery, Orthopedic Trauma and Hand Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China; Guangdong Province Engineering Laboratory for Soft Tissue Biofabrication, Guangzhou, China; Guangdong Provincial Peripheral Nerve Tissue Engineering and Technology Research Center, Guangzhou, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Fangze Qi
- Department of Microsurgery, Orthopedic Trauma and Hand Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China; Guangdong Province Engineering Laboratory for Soft Tissue Biofabrication, Guangzhou, China; Guangdong Provincial Peripheral Nerve Tissue Engineering and Technology Research Center, Guangzhou, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qintang Zhu
- Department of Microsurgery, Orthopedic Trauma and Hand Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China; Guangdong Province Engineering Laboratory for Soft Tissue Biofabrication, Guangzhou, China; Guangdong Provincial Peripheral Nerve Tissue Engineering and Technology Research Center, Guangzhou, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Liqiang Gu
- Department of Microsurgery, Orthopedic Trauma and Hand Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China; Guangdong Province Engineering Laboratory for Soft Tissue Biofabrication, Guangzhou, China; Guangdong Provincial Peripheral Nerve Tissue Engineering and Technology Research Center, Guangzhou, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Canbin Zheng
- Department of Microsurgery, Orthopedic Trauma and Hand Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China; Guangdong Province Engineering Laboratory for Soft Tissue Biofabrication, Guangzhou, China; Guangdong Provincial Peripheral Nerve Tissue Engineering and Technology Research Center, Guangzhou, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Guangzhou, China.
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2
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Nguyen CT, Chávez-Madero C, Jacques E, Musgrave B, Yin T, Saraci K, Gilbert PM, Stewart BA. Electron microscopic analysis of the influence of iPSC-derived motor neurons on bioengineered human skeletal muscle tissues. Cell Tissue Res 2024; 396:57-69. [PMID: 38326636 PMCID: PMC10997689 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-024-03864-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
3D bioengineered skeletal muscle macrotissues are increasingly important for studies of cell biology and development of therapeutics. Tissues derived from immortalized cells obtained from patient samples, or from pluripotent stem cells, can be co-cultured with motor-neurons to create models of human neuromuscular junctions in culture. In this study, we present foundational work on 3D cultured muscle ultrastructure, with and without motor neurons, which is enabled by the development of a new co-culture platform. Our results show that tissues from Duchenne muscular dystrophy patients are poorly organized compared to tissues grown from healthy donor and that the presence of motor neurons invariably improves sarcomere organization. Electron micrographs show that in the presence of motor neurons, filament directionality, banding patterns, z-disc continuity, and the appearance of presumptive SSR and T-tubule profiles all improve in healthy, DMD-, and iPSC-derived muscle tissue. Further work to identify the underlying defects of DMD tissue disorganization and the mechanisms by which motor neurons support muscle are likely to yield potential new therapeutic approaches for treating patients suffering from Duchenne muscular dystrophy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine T Nguyen
- Department of Biology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, ON, L5L 1C6, Canada
- Department of Cell & Systems Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 3G5, Canada
| | - Carolina Chávez-Madero
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 3G9, Canada
- Donnelly Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 3E1, Canada
| | - Erik Jacques
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 3G9, Canada
- Donnelly Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 3E1, Canada
| | - Brennen Musgrave
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 3G9, Canada
- Donnelly Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 3E1, Canada
| | - Ting Yin
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 3G9, Canada
- Donnelly Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 3E1, Canada
| | - Kejzi Saraci
- Department of Biology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, ON, L5L 1C6, Canada
| | - Penney M Gilbert
- Department of Cell & Systems Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 3G5, Canada
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 3G9, Canada
- Donnelly Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 3E1, Canada
| | - Bryan A Stewart
- Department of Biology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, ON, L5L 1C6, Canada.
- Department of Cell & Systems Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 3G5, Canada.
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3
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Nguyen J, Gilbert PM. Decoding the forces that shape muscle stem cell function. Curr Top Dev Biol 2024; 158:279-306. [PMID: 38670710 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ctdb.2024.02.009] [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] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Skeletal muscle is a force-producing organ composed of muscle tissues, connective tissues, blood vessels, and nerves, all working in synergy to enable movement and provide support to the body. While robust biomechanical descriptions of skeletal muscle force production at the body or tissue level exist, little is known about force application on microstructures within the muscles, such as cells. Among various cell types, skeletal muscle stem cells reside in the muscle tissue environment and play a crucial role in driving the self-repair process when muscle damage occurs. Early evidence indicates that the fate and function of skeletal muscle stem cells are controlled by both biophysical and biochemical factors in their microenvironments, but much remains to accomplish in quantitatively describing the biophysical muscle stem cell microenvironment. This book chapter aims to review current knowledge on the influence of biophysical stresses and landscape properties on muscle stem cells in heath, aging, and diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jo Nguyen
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; Donnelly Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Penney M Gilbert
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; Donnelly Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; Department of Cell and Systems Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
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In 't Groen SLM, Franken M, Bock T, Krüger M, de Greef JC, Pijnappel WWMP. A knock down strategy for rapid, generic, and versatile modelling of muscular dystrophies in 3D-tissue-engineered-skeletal muscle. Skelet Muscle 2024; 14:3. [PMID: 38389096 PMCID: PMC10882755 DOI: 10.1186/s13395-024-00335-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human iPSC-derived 3D-tissue-engineered-skeletal muscles (3D-TESMs) offer advanced technology for disease modelling. However, due to the inherent genetic heterogeneity among human individuals, it is often difficult to distinguish disease-related readouts from random variability. The generation of genetically matched isogenic controls using gene editing can reduce variability, but the generation of isogenic hiPSC-derived 3D-TESMs can take up to 6 months, thereby reducing throughput. METHODS Here, by combining 3D-TESM and shRNA technologies, we developed a disease modelling strategy to induce distinct genetic deficiencies in a single hiPSC-derived myogenic progenitor cell line within 1 week. RESULTS As proof of principle, we recapitulated disease-associated pathology of Duchenne muscular dystrophy and limb-girdle muscular dystrophy type 2A caused by loss of function of DMD and CAPN3, respectively. shRNA-mediated knock down of DMD or CAPN3 induced a loss of contractile function, disruption of tissue architecture, and disease-specific proteomes. Pathology in DMD-deficient 3D-TESMs was partially rescued by a candidate gene therapy treatment using micro-dystrophin, with similar efficacy compared to animal models. CONCLUSIONS These results show that isogenic shRNA-based humanized 3D-TESM models provide a fast, cheap, and efficient tool to model muscular dystrophies and are useful for the preclinical evaluation of novel therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stijn L M In 't Groen
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, 3015 GE, The Netherlands
- Department of Pediatrics, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, 3015 GE, The Netherlands
- Center for Lysosomal and Metabolic Diseases, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, 3015 GE, The Netherlands
| | - Marnix Franken
- Department of Human Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, 2333 ZA, Netherlands
| | - Theresa Bock
- Institute of Genetics and Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Center for Molecular Medicine, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Marcus Krüger
- Institute of Genetics and Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Center for Molecular Medicine, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Jessica C de Greef
- Department of Human Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, 2333 ZA, Netherlands
| | - W W M Pim Pijnappel
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, 3015 GE, The Netherlands.
- Department of Pediatrics, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, 3015 GE, The Netherlands.
- Center for Lysosomal and Metabolic Diseases, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, 3015 GE, The Netherlands.
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5
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van der Wal E, Iuliano A, In 't Groen SLM, Bholasing AP, Priesmann D, Sharma P, den Hamer B, Saggiomo V, Krüger M, Pijnappel WWMP, de Greef JC. Highly contractile 3D tissue engineered skeletal muscles from human iPSCs reveal similarities with primary myoblast-derived tissues. Stem Cell Reports 2023; 18:1954-1971. [PMID: 37774701 PMCID: PMC10656354 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2023.08.014] [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: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Skeletal muscle research is transitioning toward 3D tissue engineered in vitro models reproducing muscle's native architecture and supporting measurement of functionality. Human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) offer high yields of cells for differentiation. It has been difficult to differentiate high-quality, pure 3D muscle tissues from hiPSCs that show contractile properties comparable to primary myoblast-derived tissues. Here, we present a transgene-free method for the generation of purified, expandable myogenic progenitors (MPs) from hiPSCs grown under feeder-free conditions. We defined a protocol with optimal hydrogel and medium conditions that allowed production of highly contractile 3D tissue engineered skeletal muscles with forces similar to primary myoblast-derived tissues. Gene expression and proteomic analysis between hiPSC-derived and primary myoblast-derived 3D tissues revealed a similar expression profile of proteins involved in myogenic differentiation and sarcomere function. The protocol should be generally applicable for the study of personalized human skeletal muscle tissue in health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik van der Wal
- Department of Human Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZA Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Alessandro Iuliano
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus University Medical Center, 3015 GE Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Pediatrics, Erasmus University Medical Center, 3015 GE Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Center for Lysosomal and Metabolic Diseases, Erasmus University Medical Center, 3015 GE Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Stijn L M In 't Groen
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus University Medical Center, 3015 GE Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Pediatrics, Erasmus University Medical Center, 3015 GE Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Center for Lysosomal and Metabolic Diseases, Erasmus University Medical Center, 3015 GE Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Anjali P Bholasing
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus University Medical Center, 3015 GE Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Pediatrics, Erasmus University Medical Center, 3015 GE Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Center for Lysosomal and Metabolic Diseases, Erasmus University Medical Center, 3015 GE Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Dominik Priesmann
- Institute of Genetics and Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Center for Molecular Medicine, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Preeti Sharma
- Physical Chemistry and Soft Matter, Wageningen University and Research, 6708 WE Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Bianca den Hamer
- Department of Human Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZA Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Vittorio Saggiomo
- Department of BioNanoTechnology, Wageningen University and Research, 6708 WG Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Marcus Krüger
- Institute of Genetics and Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Center for Molecular Medicine, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - W W M Pim Pijnappel
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus University Medical Center, 3015 GE Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Pediatrics, Erasmus University Medical Center, 3015 GE Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Center for Lysosomal and Metabolic Diseases, Erasmus University Medical Center, 3015 GE Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Jessica C de Greef
- Department of Human Genetics, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZA Leiden, the Netherlands.
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Tejedera-Villafranca A, Montolio M, Ramón-Azcón J, Fernández-Costa JM. Mimicking sarcolemmal damage in vitro: a contractile 3D model of skeletal muscle for drug testing in Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Biofabrication 2023; 15:045024. [PMID: 37725998 DOI: 10.1088/1758-5090/acfb3d] [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: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023]
Abstract
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is the most prevalent neuromuscular disease diagnosed in childhood. It is a progressive and wasting disease, characterized by a degeneration of skeletal and cardiac muscles caused by the lack of dystrophin protein. The absence of this crucial structural protein leads to sarcolemmal fragility, resulting in muscle fiber damage during contraction. Despite ongoing efforts, there is no cure available for DMD patients. One of the primary challenges is the limited efficacy of current preclinical tools, which fail in modeling the biological complexity of the disease. Human-based three-dimensional (3D) cell culture methods appear as a novel approach to accelerate preclinical research by enhancing the reproduction of pathophysiological processes in skeletal muscle. In this work, we developed a patient-derived functional 3D skeletal muscle model of DMD that reproduces the sarcolemmal damage found in the native DMD muscle. These bioengineered skeletal muscle tissues exhibit contractile functionality, as they responded to electrical pulse stimulation. Sustained contractile regimes induced the loss of myotube integrity, mirroring the pathological myotube breakdown inherent in DMD due to sarcolemmal instability. Moreover, damaged DMD tissues showed disease functional phenotypes, such as tetanic fatigue. We also evaluated the therapeutic effect of utrophin upregulator drug candidates on the functionality of the skeletal muscle tissues, thus providing deeper insight into the real impact of these treatments. Overall, our findings underscore the potential of bioengineered 3D skeletal muscle technology to advance DMD research and facilitate the development of novel therapies for DMD and related neuromuscular disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ainoa Tejedera-Villafranca
- Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), C/Baldiri Reixac 10-12, E08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marisol Montolio
- Duchenne Parent Project España, E28032 Madrid, Spain
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Faculty of Biology, University of Barcelona, E08027 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Javier Ramón-Azcón
- Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), C/Baldiri Reixac 10-12, E08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Institució Catalana de Reserca i Estudis Avançats (ICREA), Passeig de Lluís Companys, 23, E08010 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Juan M Fernández-Costa
- Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), C/Baldiri Reixac 10-12, E08028 Barcelona, Spain
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7
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Ko UH, Choung J, Lee J, Park SH, Shin JH. Surface tension-induced biomimetic assembly of cell-laden fibrous bundle construct for muscle tissue engineering. Biomed Mater 2023; 18:055031. [PMID: 37611612 DOI: 10.1088/1748-605x/acf35a] [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: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023]
Abstract
The field of tissue engineering has been long seeking to develop functional muscle tissue that closely resembles natural muscle. This study used a bio-inspired assembly based on the surface tension mechanism to develop a novel method for engineering muscle tissue. This approach enabled uniaxially ordered electrospun fibers to naturally collide into an aligned bundle without the need for manual handling, thereby reducing cell damage during the cell culture procedure. During the assembly procedure, C2C12 myoblasts were cultured in a viscous collagen hydrogel that caused wetting while providing adequate structural stability for the cell-fiber construct. In addition, gene expression analysis of the resulting muscle-like fibril bundle revealed improved myogenic differentiation. These findings highlight the potential of using a collagen hydrogel and the surface tension mechanism to construct biologically relevant muscle tissue, offering a promising strategy that may outperform existing approaches. Overall, this study contributes to the development of advanced tissue engineering methods and brings us a step closer to creating functional muscle tissue for therapeutic and regenerative medicine applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ung Hyun Ko
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jinseung Choung
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Junho Lee
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Suk-Hee Park
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Pusan National University, Busan, Republic of Korea
| | - Jennifer H Shin
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
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Tavares-Negrete JA, Pedroza-González SC, Frías-Sánchez AI, Salas-Ramírez ML, de Santiago-Miramontes MDLÁ, Luna-Aguirre CM, Alvarez MM, Trujillo-de Santiago G. Supplementation of GelMA with Minimally Processed Tissue Promotes the Formation of Densely Packed Skeletal-Muscle-Like Tissues. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2023. [PMID: 37126642 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.2c01521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
We present a simple and cost-effective strategy for developing gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) hydrogels supplemented with minimally processed tissue (MPT) to fabricate densely packed skeletal-muscle-like tissues. MPT powder was prepared from skeletal muscle by freeze-drying, grinding, and sieving. Cell-culture experiments showed that the incorporation of 0.5-2.0% (w/v) MPT into GelMA hydrogels enhances the proliferation of murine myoblasts (C2C12 cells) compared to proliferation in pristine GelMA hydrogels and GelMA supplemented with decellularized skeletal-muscle tissues (DCTs). MPT-supplemented constructs also preserved their three-dimensional (3D) integrity for 28 days. By contrast, analogous pristine GelMA constructs only maintained their structure for 14 days or less. C2C12 cells embedded in MPT-supplemented constructs exhibited a higher degree of cell alignment and reached a significantly higher density than cells loaded in pristine GelMA constructs. Our results suggest that the addition of MPT incorporates a rich source of biochemical and topological cues, such as growth factors, glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), and structurally preserved proteins (e.g., collagen). In addition, GelMA supplemented with MPT showed suitable rheological properties for use as bioinks for extrusion bioprinting. We envision that this simple and cost-effective strategy of hydrogel supplementation will evolve into an exciting spectrum of applications for tissue engineers, primarily in the biofabrication of relevant microtissues for in vitro models and cultured meat and ultimately for the biofabrication of transplant materials using autologous MPT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge A Tavares-Negrete
- Centro de Biotecnología-FEMSA, Tecnológico de Monterrey, 64849 Monterrey, México
- Departamento de Ingeniería Mecatrónica y Eléctrica, Tecnológico de Monterrey, 64849 Monterrey, México
| | - Sara Cristina Pedroza-González
- Centro de Biotecnología-FEMSA, Tecnológico de Monterrey, 64849 Monterrey, México
- Departamento de Ingeniería Mecatrónica y Eléctrica, Tecnológico de Monterrey, 64849 Monterrey, México
| | - Ada I Frías-Sánchez
- Centro de Biotecnología-FEMSA, Tecnológico de Monterrey, 64849 Monterrey, México
- Departamento de Ingeniería Mecatrónica y Eléctrica, Tecnológico de Monterrey, 64849 Monterrey, México
| | - Miriam L Salas-Ramírez
- Centro de Biotecnología-FEMSA, Tecnológico de Monterrey, 64849 Monterrey, México
- Departamento de Ingeniería Mecatrónica y Eléctrica, Tecnológico de Monterrey, 64849 Monterrey, México
| | | | - Claudia Maribel Luna-Aguirre
- Centro de Biotecnología-FEMSA, Tecnológico de Monterrey, 64849 Monterrey, México
- Departamento de Ingeniería Mecatrónica y Eléctrica, Tecnológico de Monterrey, 64849 Monterrey, México
| | - Mario M Alvarez
- Centro de Biotecnología-FEMSA, Tecnológico de Monterrey, 64849 Monterrey, México
- Departamento de Ingeniería Mecatrónica y Eléctrica, Tecnológico de Monterrey, 64849 Monterrey, México
| | - Grissel Trujillo-de Santiago
- Centro de Biotecnología-FEMSA, Tecnológico de Monterrey, 64849 Monterrey, México
- Departamento de Ingeniería Mecatrónica y Eléctrica, Tecnológico de Monterrey, 64849 Monterrey, México
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9
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Sanchez MM, Bagdasarian IA, Darch W, Morgan JT. Organotypic cultures as aging associated disease models. Aging (Albany NY) 2022; 14:9338-9383. [PMID: 36435511 PMCID: PMC9740367 DOI: 10.18632/aging.204361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Aging remains a primary risk factor for a host of diseases, including leading causes of death. Aging and associated diseases are inherently multifactorial, with numerous contributing factors and phenotypes at the molecular, cellular, tissue, and organismal scales. Despite the complexity of aging phenomena, models currently used in aging research possess limitations. Frequently used in vivo models often have important physiological differences, age at different rates, or are genetically engineered to match late disease phenotypes rather than early causes. Conversely, routinely used in vitro models lack the complex tissue-scale and systemic cues that are disrupted in aging. To fill in gaps between in vivo and traditional in vitro models, researchers have increasingly been turning to organotypic models, which provide increased physiological relevance with the accessibility and control of in vitro context. While powerful tools, the development of these models is a field of its own, and many aging researchers may be unaware of recent progress in organotypic models, or hesitant to include these models in their own work. In this review, we describe recent progress in tissue engineering applied to organotypic models, highlighting examples explicitly linked to aging and associated disease, as well as examples of models that are relevant to aging. We specifically highlight progress made in skin, gut, and skeletal muscle, and describe how recently demonstrated models have been used for aging studies or similar phenotypes. Throughout, this review emphasizes the accessibility of these models and aims to provide a resource for researchers seeking to leverage these powerful tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina M. Sanchez
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | | | - William Darch
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | - Joshua T. Morgan
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
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10
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Fernández-Garibay X, Gomez-Florit M, Domingues RMA, Gomes M, Fernandez-Costa JM, Ramon J. Xeno-free bioengineered human skeletal muscle tissue using human platelet lysate-based hydrogels. Biofabrication 2022; 14. [PMID: 36041422 DOI: 10.1088/1758-5090/ac8dc8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Bioengineered human skeletal muscle tissues have emerged in the last years as new in vitro systems for disease modeling. These bioartificial muscles are classically fabricated by encapsulating human myogenic precursor cells in a hydrogel scaffold that resembles the extracellular matrix. However, most of these hydrogels are derived from xenogenic sources, and the culture media is supplemented with animal serum, which could interfere in drug testing assays. On the contrary, xeno-free biomaterials and culture conditions in tissue engineering offer increased relevance for developing human disease models. In this work, we used human platelet lysate-based nanocomposite hydrogels (HUgel) as scaffolds for human skeletal muscle tissue engineering. These hydrogels consist of human platelet lysate reinforced with cellulose nanocrystals (a-CNC) that allow tunable mechanical, structural, and biochemical properties for the 3D culture of stem cells. Here, we developed hydrogel casting platforms to encapsulate human muscle satellite stem cells in HUgel. The a-CNC content was modulated to enhance matrix remodeling, uniaxial tension, and self-organization of the cells, resulting in the formation of highly aligned, long myotubes expressing sarcomeric proteins. Moreover, the bioengineered human muscles were subjected to electrical stimulation, and the exerted contractile forces were measured in a non-invasive manner. Overall, our results demonstrated that the bioengineered human skeletal muscles could be built in xeno-free cell culture platforms to assess tissue functionality, which is promising for drug development applications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Manuel Gomez-Florit
- 3B's Research Group, University of Minho, Zona Industrial da Gandra, 4805-017, Braga, Braga, 4805-017, PORTUGAL
| | - Rui M A Domingues
- 3B's Research Group, University of Minho, Zona Industrial da Gandra, 4805-017, Braga, Braga, 4805-017, PORTUGAL
| | - Manuela Gomes
- 3B's Research group, University of Minho, AvePark - Zona Industrial da Gandra, 4805-017 Barco GMR, Braga, Braga, 4704-553, PORTUGAL
| | - Juan M Fernandez-Costa
- Institute for Bioengineering in Catalonia, C/ Baldiri i reixac, 10-12, Barcelona, Catalunya, 08028, SPAIN
| | - Javier Ramon
- Institute for Bioengineering in Catalonia, C/ Baldiri i reixac, 10-12, Barcelona, Catalunya, 08028, SPAIN
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11
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Carraro E, Rossi L, Maghin E, Canton M, Piccoli M. 3D in vitro Models of Pathological Skeletal Muscle: Which Cells and Scaffolds to Elect? Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:941623. [PMID: 35898644 PMCID: PMC9313593 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.941623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Skeletal muscle is a fundamental tissue of the human body with great plasticity and adaptation to diseases and injuries. Recreating this tissue in vitro helps not only to deepen its functionality, but also to simulate pathophysiological processes. In this review we discuss the generation of human skeletal muscle three-dimensional (3D) models obtained through tissue engineering approaches. First, we present an overview of the most severe myopathies and the two key players involved: the variety of cells composing skeletal muscle tissue and the different components of its extracellular matrix. Then, we discuss the peculiar characteristics among diverse in vitro models with a specific focus on cell sources, scaffold composition and formulations, and fabrication techniques. To conclude, we highlight the efficacy of 3D models in mimicking patient-specific myopathies, deepening muscle disease mechanisms or investigating possible therapeutic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eugenia Carraro
- Istituto di Ricerca Pediatrica Città della Speranza, Padova, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Lucia Rossi
- Istituto di Ricerca Pediatrica Città della Speranza, Padova, Italy
| | - Edoardo Maghin
- Istituto di Ricerca Pediatrica Città della Speranza, Padova, Italy
| | - Marcella Canton
- Istituto di Ricerca Pediatrica Città della Speranza, Padova, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Martina Piccoli
- Istituto di Ricerca Pediatrica Città della Speranza, Padova, Italy
- *Correspondence: Martina Piccoli,
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12
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Kim JH, Yu SM, Son JW. Human Tissue-Engineered Skeletal Muscle: A Tool for Metabolic Research. Endocrinol Metab (Seoul) 2022; 37:408-414. [PMID: 35798547 PMCID: PMC9262682 DOI: 10.3803/enm.2022.302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Skeletal muscle is now regarded as an endocrine organ based on its secretion of myokines and exerkines, which, in response to metabolic stimuli, regulate the crosstalk between the skeletal muscle and other metabolic organs in terms of systemic energy homeostasis. This conceptual basis of skeletal muscle as a metabolically active organ has provided insights into the potential role of physical inactivity and conditions altering muscle quality and quantity in the development of multiple metabolic disorders, including insulin resistance, obesity, and diabetes. Therefore, it is important to understand human muscle physiology more deeply in relation to the pathophysiology of metabolic diseases. Since monolayer cell lines or animal models used in conventional research differ from the pathophysiological features of the human body, there is increasing need for more physiologically relevant in vitro models of human skeletal muscle. Here, we introduce recent studies on in vitro models of human skeletal muscle generated from adult myogenic progenitors or pluripotent stem cells and summarize recent progress in the development of three-dimensional (3D) bioartificial muscle, which mimics the physiological complexity of native skeletal muscle tissue in terms of maturation and functionality. We then discuss the future of skeletal muscle 3D-organoid culture technology in the field of metabolic research for studying pathological mechanisms and developing personalized therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji-Hoon Kim
- Center for Advanced Bio-Molecular Recognition, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, Korea
| | - Seung-Min Yu
- Center for Advanced Bio-Molecular Recognition, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jang Won Son
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Bucheon St. Mary’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Bucheon, Korea
- Corresponding author: Jang Won Son Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Bucheon St. Mary’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, 327 Sosa-ro, Wonmi-gu, Bucheon 14647, Korea Tel: +82-32-340-7040, Fax: +82-32-340-2025, E-mail:
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13
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Vesga-Castro C, Aldazabal J, Vallejo-Illarramendi A, Paredes J. Contractile force assessment methods for in vitro skeletal muscle tissues. eLife 2022; 11:e77204. [PMID: 35604384 PMCID: PMC9126583 DOI: 10.7554/elife.77204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the last few years, there has been growing interest in measuring the contractile force (CF) of engineered muscle tissues to evaluate their functionality. However, there are still no standards available for selecting the most suitable experimental platform, measuring system, culture protocol, or stimulation patterns. Consequently, the high variability of published data hinders any comparison between different studies. We have identified that cantilever deflection, post deflection, and force transducers are the most commonly used configurations for CF assessment in 2D and 3D models. Additionally, we have discussed the most relevant emerging technologies that would greatly complement CF evaluation with intracellular and localized analysis. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the most significant advances in CF evaluation and its critical parameters. In order to compare contractile performance across experimental platforms, we have used the specific force (sF, kN/m2), CF normalized to the calculated cross-sectional area (CSA). However, this parameter presents a high variability throughout the different studies, which indicates the need to identify additional parameters and complementary analysis suitable for proper comparison. We propose that future contractility studies in skeletal muscle constructs report detailed information about construct size, contractile area, maturity level, sarcomere length, and, ideally, the tetanus-to-twitch ratio. These studies will hopefully shed light on the relative impact of these variables on muscle force performance of engineered muscle constructs. Prospective advances in muscle tissue engineering, particularly in muscle disease models, will require a joint effort to develop standardized methodologies for assessing CF of engineered muscle tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camila Vesga-Castro
- University of Navarra, Tecnun School of Engineering, Manuel de LardizábalSan SebastianSpain
- University of Navarra, Biomedical Engineering Center, Campus UniversitarioPamplonaSpain
- Group of Neurosciences, Department of Pediatrics, UPV/EHU, Hospital Donostia - IIS BiodonostiaSan SebastianSpain
| | - Javier Aldazabal
- University of Navarra, Tecnun School of Engineering, Manuel de LardizábalSan SebastianSpain
- University of Navarra, Biomedical Engineering Center, Campus UniversitarioPamplonaSpain
| | - Ainara Vallejo-Illarramendi
- Group of Neurosciences, Department of Pediatrics, UPV/EHU, Hospital Donostia - IIS BiodonostiaSan SebastianSpain
- CIBERNED, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Ministry of Science, Innovation, and UniversitiesMadridSpain
| | - Jacobo Paredes
- University of Navarra, Tecnun School of Engineering, Manuel de LardizábalSan SebastianSpain
- University of Navarra, Biomedical Engineering Center, Campus UniversitarioPamplonaSpain
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14
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Barthélémy F, Santoso JW, Rabichow L, Jin R, Little I, Nelson SF, McCain ML, Miceli MC. Modeling Patient-Specific Muscular Dystrophy Phenotypes and Therapeutic Responses in Reprogrammed Myotubes Engineered on Micromolded Gelatin Hydrogels. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:830415. [PMID: 35465312 PMCID: PMC9020228 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.830415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
In vitro models of patient-derived muscle allow for more efficient development of genetic medicines for the muscular dystrophies, which often present mutation-specific pathologies. One popular strategy to generate patient-specific myotubes involves reprogramming dermal fibroblasts to a muscle lineage through MyoD induction. However, creating physiologically relevant, reproducible tissues exhibiting multinucleated, aligned myotubes with organized striations is dependent on the introduction of physicochemical cues that mimic the native muscle microenvironment. Here, we engineered patient-specific control and dystrophic muscle tissues in vitro by culturing and differentiating MyoD–directly reprogrammed fibroblasts isolated from one healthy control subject, three patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), and two Limb Girdle 2A/R1 (LGMD2A/R1) patients on micromolded gelatin hydrogels. Engineered DMD and LGMD2A/R1 tissues demonstrated varying levels of defects in α-actinin expression and organization relative to control, depending on the mutation. In genetically relevant DMD tissues amenable to mRNA reframing by targeting exon 44 or 45 exclusion, exposure to exon skipping antisense oligonucleotides modestly increased myotube coverage and alignment and rescued dystrophin protein expression. These findings highlight the value of engineered culture substrates in guiding the organization of reprogrammed patient fibroblasts into aligned muscle tissues, thereby extending their value as tools for exploration and dissection of the cellular and molecular basis of genetic muscle defects, rescue, and repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florian Barthélémy
- Department of Microbiology Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Center for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Jeffrey W. Santoso
- Laboratory for Living Systems Engineering, Department of Biomedical Engineering, USC Viterbi School of Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Laura Rabichow
- Department of Microbiology Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Center for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Rongcheng Jin
- Laboratory for Living Systems Engineering, Department of Biomedical Engineering, USC Viterbi School of Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Isaiah Little
- Department of Microbiology Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Center for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Stanley F. Nelson
- Center for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Department of Neurology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Megan L. McCain
- Laboratory for Living Systems Engineering, Department of Biomedical Engineering, USC Viterbi School of Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Department of Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Keck School of Medicine of USC, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- *Correspondence: M. Carrie Miceli, ; Megan L. McCain,
| | - M. Carrie Miceli
- Department of Microbiology Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Center for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- *Correspondence: M. Carrie Miceli, ; Megan L. McCain,
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15
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Jiang Y, Torun T, Maffioletti SM, Serio A, Tedesco FS. Bioengineering human skeletal muscle models: Recent advances, current challenges and future perspectives. Exp Cell Res 2022; 416:113133. [DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2022.113133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Revised: 12/30/2021] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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16
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Jalal S, Dastidar S, Tedesco FS. Advanced models of human skeletal muscle differentiation, development and disease: Three-dimensional cultures, organoids and beyond. Curr Opin Cell Biol 2021; 73:92-104. [PMID: 34384976 PMCID: PMC8692266 DOI: 10.1016/j.ceb.2021.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Advanced in vitro models of human skeletal muscle tissue are increasingly needed to model complex developmental dynamics and disease mechanisms not recapitulated in animal models or in conventional monolayer cell cultures. There has been impressive progress towards creating such models by using tissue engineering approaches to recapitulate a range of physical and biochemical components of native human skeletal muscle tissue. In this review, we discuss recent studies focussed on developing complex in vitro models of human skeletal muscle beyond monolayer cell cultures, involving skeletal myogenic differentiation from human primary myoblasts or pluripotent stem cells, often in the presence of structural scaffolding support. We conclude with our outlook on the future of advanced skeletal muscle three-dimensional cultures (e.g. organoids and biofabrication) to produce physiologically and clinically relevant platforms for disease modelling and therapy development in musculoskeletal and neuromuscular disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salma Jalal
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, WC1E 6DE London, United Kingdom
| | - Sumitava Dastidar
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, WC1E 6DE London, United Kingdom
| | - Francesco Saverio Tedesco
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, WC1E 6DE London, United Kingdom; The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, United Kingdom; Dubowitz Neuromuscular Centre, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London WC1N 1EH, United Kingdom; Department of Paediatric Neurology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, WC1N 3JH London, United Kingdom.
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17
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Fralish Z, Lotz EM, Chavez T, Khodabukus A, Bursac N. Neuromuscular Development and Disease: Learning From in vitro and in vivo Models. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:764732. [PMID: 34778273 PMCID: PMC8579029 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.764732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The neuromuscular junction (NMJ) is a specialized cholinergic synaptic interface between a motor neuron and a skeletal muscle fiber that translates presynaptic electrical impulses into motor function. NMJ formation and maintenance require tightly regulated signaling and cellular communication among motor neurons, myogenic cells, and Schwann cells. Neuromuscular diseases (NMDs) can result in loss of NMJ function and motor input leading to paralysis or even death. Although small animal models have been instrumental in advancing our understanding of the NMJ structure and function, the complexities of studying this multi-tissue system in vivo and poor clinical outcomes of candidate therapies developed in small animal models has driven the need for in vitro models of functional human NMJ to complement animal studies. In this review, we discuss prevailing models of NMDs and highlight the current progress and ongoing challenges in developing human iPSC-derived (hiPSC) 3D cell culture models of functional NMJs. We first review in vivo development of motor neurons, skeletal muscle, Schwann cells, and the NMJ alongside current methods for directing the differentiation of relevant cell types from hiPSCs. We further compare the efficacy of modeling NMDs in animals and human cell culture systems in the context of five NMDs: amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, myasthenia gravis, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, myotonic dystrophy, and Pompe disease. Finally, we discuss further work necessary for hiPSC-derived NMJ models to function as effective personalized NMD platforms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary Fralish
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Pratt School of Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Ethan M Lotz
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Pratt School of Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Taylor Chavez
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Pratt School of Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Alastair Khodabukus
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Pratt School of Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Nenad Bursac
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Pratt School of Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States
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18
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Nguyen CT, Ebrahimi M, Gilbert PM, Stewart BA. Electrophysiological analysis of healthy and dystrophic 3-D bioengineered skeletal muscle tissues. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2021; 321:C749-C759. [PMID: 34406904 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00049.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Recently, methods for creating three-dimensional (3-D) human skeletal muscle tissues from myogenic cell lines have been reported. Bioengineered muscle tissues are contractile and respond to electrical and chemical stimulation. In this study, we provide an electrophysiological analysis of healthy and dystrophic 3-D bioengineered skeletal muscle tissues, focusing on Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). We enlist the 3-D in vitro model of DMD muscle tissue to evaluate muscle cell electrical properties uncoupled from presynaptic neural inputs, an understudied aspect of DMD. Our data show that previously reported electrophysiological aspects of DMD, including effects on membrane potential and membrane resistance, are replicated in the 3-D muscle tissue model. Furthermore, we test a potential therapeutic compound, poloxamer 188, and demonstrate capacity for improving the membrane potential in DMD muscle. Therefore, this study serves as a baseline for a new in vitro method to examine potential therapies for muscular disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine T Nguyen
- Department of Biology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Toronto, Canada.,Department of Cell and Systems Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Majid Ebrahimi
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, Toronto, Canada
| | - Penney M Gilbert
- Department of Cell and Systems Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, Toronto, Canada
| | - Bryan A Stewart
- Department of Biology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Toronto, Canada.,Department of Cell and Systems Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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19
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Seidlits SK, Kilian KA. Biomaterials for Personalized Disease Models. Acta Biomater 2021; 132:1-3. [PMID: 34503734 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2021.08.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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