Mineralization capacity of Runx2/Cbfa1-genetically engineered fibroblasts is scaffold dependent

High-Strength Collagen-Based Composite Films Regulated by Water-Soluble Recombinant Spider Silk Proteins and Water Annealing

Spider silk has attracted extensive attention in the development of high-performance tissue engineering materials because of its excellent physical properties, biocompatibility, and biodegradability. Although high-molecular-weight recombinant spider silk proteins can be obtained through metabolic engineering of host bacteria, the solubility of the recombinant protein products is always poor. Strong denaturants and organic solvents have thus had to be exploited for their dissolution, and this seriously limits the applications of recombinant spider silk protein-based composite biomaterials. Herein, through adjusting the temperature, ionic strength, and denaturation time during the refolding process, we successfully prepared water-soluble recombinant spider major ampullate spidroin 1 (sMaSp1) with different repeat modules (24mer, 48mer, 72mer, and 96mer). Then, MaSp1 was introduced into the collagen matrix for fabricating MaSp1-collagen composite films. The introduction of spider silk proteins was demonstrated to clearly alter the internal structure of the composite films and improve the mechanical properties of the collagen-based films and turn the opaque protein films into transparency ones. More interestingly, the composite film prepared with sMaSp1 exhibited better performance in mechanical strength and cell adhesion compared to that prepared with water-insoluble MaSp1 (pMaSp1), which might be attributed to the effect of the initial dissolved state of MaSp1 on the microstructure of composite films. Additionally, the molecular weight of MaSp1 was also shown to significantly influence the mechanical strength (enhanced to 1.1- to 2.3-fold) and cell adhesion of composite films, and 72mer of sMaSp1 showed the best physical properties with good bioactivity. This study provides a method to produce recombinant spider silk protein with excellent water solubility, making it possible to utilize this protein under environmentally benign, mild conditions. This paves the way for the application of recombinant spider silk proteins in the development of diverse composite biomaterials.

Evaluation of bone formation on orthopedic implant surfaces using an ex-vivo bone bioreactor system

Recent advances in materials and manufacturing processes have allowed the fabrication of intricate implant surfaces to facilitate bony attachment. However, refinement and evaluation of these new design strategies are hindered by the cost and complications of animal studies, particularly during early iterations in the development process. To address this problem, we have previously constructed and validated an ex-vivo bone bioreactor culture system that can maintain the viability of bone samples for an extended period ex-vivo. In this study, we investigated the mineralization of a titanium wire mesh scaffold under both static and dynamic culturing using our ex vivo bioreactor system. Thirty-six cancellous bone cores were harvested from bovine metatarsals at the time of slaughter and divided into five groups under the following conditions: Group 1) Isolated bone cores placed in static culture, Group 2) Unloaded bone cores placed in static culture in contact with a fiber-mesh metallic scaffold, Group 3) Bone cores placed in contact with a fiber-mesh metallic scaffold under the constant pressure of 150 kPa, Group 4) Bone core placed in contact with a fiber-mesh metallic scaffold and exposed to cyclic loading with continuous perfusion flow of media within the ex-vivo culture system and Group 5) Bone core evaluated on Day 0 to serve as a positive control for comparison with all other groups at weeks 4 and 7. Bone samples within Groups 1-4 were incubated for 4 and 7 weeks and then evaluated using histological examination (H&E) and the Live-Dead assay (Life Technologies). Matrix deposits on the metallic scaffolds were examined with scanning electron microscopy (SEM), while the chemical composition of the matrix was measured using energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDX). We found that the viability of bone cores was maintained after seven weeks of loading in our ex vivo system. In addition, SEM images revealed crystallite-like structures on the dynamically loaded metal coupons (Group 4), corresponding to the initial stages of mineralization. EDX results further confirmed the presence of carbon at the interface and calcium phosphates in the matrix. We conclude that a bone bioreactor can be used as an alternate tool for in-vivo bone ingrowth studies of new implant surfaces or coatings.

Designing and validation of an automated ex-vivo bioreactor system for long term culture of bone

Several different bioreactors have been developed to study bone biology. Keeping a bone viable for long-term studies is still a challenge. We have developed an ex-vivo bone bioreactor that can keep the ex-vivo live bone viable for more than 4 weeks. Keeping a bone viable for over a month can be used as an alternative model for in-vivo experiments in animals. We hypothesize that the perfusion flow and mechanical load on the bone provide a real-time environment for the bone to survive. Cancellous bones were harvested from the bovine metatarsals and were placed in the dynamic culture with cyclic loading at regular intervals. After a period of week 4, the bone cores were retrieved from the bioreactor and tested for viability using calcein-AM and ethidium homodimer -1 fluorescent dyes and were compared with the cores that were placed in static culture with and without any loads on them and Day 0 bone core that acted as a positive control. The bone blocks were then fixed in 10% formalin, and bone mineral density was evaluated using a DXA scanner before staining them for H&E to study the morphological changes. Results revealed that the bone cultured in the bioreactor was viable as compared to the one in the static culture with and without constant load. Bone cores cultured in our ex-vivo bioreactor system also maintained their morphology and no statistical difference was found in the bone mineral density compared to positive controls and the statistical difference was found when compared with the cores cultured in static culture. This tool can be used to study bone biology for various applications such as bone ingrowth studies, to study the effect of drugs, hormones, or any growth factors, and much more.

Low magnitude high frequency vibrations expedite the osteogenesis of bone marrow stem cells on paper based 3D scaffolds

Anabolic effects of low magnitude high frequency (LMHF) vibrations on bone tissue were consistently shown in the literature in vivo, however in vitro efforts to elucidate underlying mechanisms are generally limited to 2D cell culture studies. Three dimensional cell culture platforms better mimic the natural microenvironment and biological processes usually differ in 3D compared to 2D culture. In this study, we used laboratory grade filter paper as a scaffold material for studying the effects of LHMF vibrations on osteogenesis of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells in a 3D system. LMHF vibrations were applied 15 min/day at 0.1 g acceleration and 90 Hz frequency for 21 days to residing cells under quiescent and osteogenic conditions. mRNA expression analysis was performed for alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and osteocalcin (OCN) genes, Alizarin red S staining was performed for mineral nodule formation and infrared spectroscopy was performed for determination of extracellular matrix composition. The highest osteocalcin expression, mineral nodule formation and the phosphate bands arising from the inorganic phase was observed for the cells incubated in osteogenic induction medium with vibration. Our results showed that filter paper can be used as a model scaffold system for studying the effects of mechanical loads on cells, and LMHF vibrations induced the osteogenic differentiation of stem cells.

Adaptor protein CrkII negatively regulates osteoblast differentiation and function through JNK phosphorylation

The adaptor protein CrkII is involved in several biological activities, including mitogenesis, phagocytosis, and cytoskeleton reorganization. Previously, we demonstrated that CrkII plays an important role in osteoclast differentiation and function through Rac1 activation both in vitro and in vivo. In this study, we investigated whether CrkII also regulates the differentiation and function of another type of bone cells, osteoblasts. Overexpression of CrkII in primary osteoblasts inhibited bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) 2-induced osteoblast differentiation and function, whereas knockdown of CrkII expression exerted the opposite effect. Importantly, CrkII strongly enhanced c-Jun-N-terminal kinase (JNK) phosphorylation, and the CrkII overexpression-mediated attenuation of osteoblast differentiation and function was recovered by JNK inhibitor treatment. Furthermore, transgenic mice overexpressing CrkII under control of the alpha-1 type I collagen promoter exhibited a reduced bone mass phenotype. Together, these results indicate that CrkII negatively regulates osteoblast differentiation and function through JNK phosphorylation. Given that CrkII acts as a negative and positive regulator of osteoblast and osteoclast differentiation, respectively, the regulation of CrkII expression in bone cells may help to develop new strategies to enhance bone formation and inhibit bone resorption.

Insight into skin cell-based osteogenesis: a review

For decades, researchers have been fascinated by the strategy of using cell therapy for bone defects; some progress in the field has been made. Owing to its ample supply and easy access, skin, the largest organ in the body, has gained attention as a potential source of stem cells. Despite extensive applications in skin and nerve regeneration, an increasing number of reports indicate its potential use in bone tissue engineering and regeneration. Unfortunately, few review articles are available to outline current research efforts in skin-based osteogenesis. This review first summarizes the latest findings on stem cells or progenitors in skin and their niches and then discusses the strategies of skin cell-based osteogenesis. We hope this article elucidates this topic and generates new ideas for future studies.

Comparative evaluation of the biological properties of fibrin for bone regeneration

Fibrin is a natural provisional matrix found in wound healing, while type I collagen is a major organic component of bone matrix. Despite the frequent use of fibrin and type I collagen in bone regenerative approaches, their comparative efficacies have not yet been evaluated. In the present study, we compared the effects of fibrin and collagen on the proliferation and differentiation of osteoblasts and protein adsorption. Compared to collagen, fibrin adsorbed approximately 6.7 times more serum fibronectin. Moreover, fibrin allowed the proliferation of larger MC3T3-E1 pre-osteoblasts, especially at a low cell density. Fibrin promoted osteoblast differentiation at higher levels than collagen, as confirmed by Runx2 expression and transcriptional activity, alkaline phosphatase activity, and calcium deposition. The results of the present study suggest that fibrin is superior to collagen in the support of bone regeneration. [BMB Reports 2014; 47(2): 110-114]

In vitro proliferation and differentiation potential of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells from ovariectomized rats

Bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMMSCs) from the patients suffering from age-related osteoporosis were found to have numerous degeneration, such as decreased growth rate, impaired capacity of differentiating into local tissue, and repressed telomerase activity. However, it is not clear whether post-menopausal osteoporotic bone is either subject to such decline in cellular function. In the present study, bone marrow cells were harvested from ovariectomized (OVX) and Sham rats and cultured in vitro at 3 months post-surgery. MTT assay indicated that the proliferation potential of (OVX)BMMSCs was always higher than that of (Sham)BMMSCs, no matter cultured in basic, osteoblastic or adipogenic medium. Alkaline phosphatase activity assay, Alizarin red S staining, Oil red O staining and real-time RT-PCR analysis further demonstrated that bilateral ovariectomization positively influenced the osteoblastic and adipogenic differentiation potential of BMMSCs, this action may be partly mediated through up-regulation of osteoblastic special markers core binding factor a1, collagen type I and low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 5, as well as adipogenic special markers peroxisome proliferators activated receptor gamma, CCAAT/enhancer binding protein alpha and adipocyte lipid-binding protein 2. These results may hold great promise for using post-menopausal osteoporotic bone as an attractive autologous marrow source for tissue engineering and cell-based therapies.

Transcriptional regulatory cascades in Runx2-dependent bone development

The development of the musculoskeletal system is a complex process that involves very precise control of bone formation and growth as well as remodeling during postnatal life. Although the understanding of the transcriptional mechanisms of osteogenesis has increased considerably, the molecular regulatory basis, especially the gene regulatory network of osteogenic differentiation, is still poorly understood. This review provides the reader with an overview of the key transcription factors that govern bone formation, highlighting their function and regulation linked to Runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2). Runx2 as the master transcription factor of osteoblast differentiation, Twist, Msh homeobox 2 (Msx2), and promyelocytic leukemia zinc-finger protein (PLZF) acting upstream of Runx2, Osterix (Osx) acting downstream of Runx2, and activating transcription factor 4 (ATF4) and zinc-finger protein 521 (ZFP521) acting as cofactors of Runx2 are discussed, and their relevance for tissue engineering is presented. References are provided for more in-depth personal study.

Effect of self-assembled nanofibrous silk/polycaprolactone layer on the osteoconductivity and mechanical properties of biphasic calcium phosphate scaffolds

We here present the first successful report on combining nanostructured silk and poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) with a ceramic scaffold to produce a composite scaffold that is highly porous (porosity ∼85%, pore size ∼500 μm, ∼100% interconnectivity), strong and non-brittle with a surface that resembles extracellular matrix (ECM). The ECM-like surface was developed by self-assembly of nanofibrous structured silk (20-80 nm diameter, similar to native collagen found in ECM) over a thin PCL layer which is coated on biphasic calcium phosphate (BCP) scaffolds. The effects of different concentrations of silk solution on the mechanical and physical properties of the scaffolds were also comprehensively examined. Our results showed that using silk only (irrespective of concentration) for the modification of ceramic scaffolds could drastically reduce the compressive strength of the modified scaffolds in aqueous media, and the modification made a limited contribution to improving scaffold toughness. Using PCL/nanostructured silk the compressive strength and modulus of the modified scaffolds reached 0.42 MPa (compared with 0.07 MPa for BCP) and ∼25 MPa (compared with 5 MPa for BCP), respectively. The failure strain of the modified scaffold increased more than 6% compared with a BCP scaffold (failure strain of less than 1%), indicating a transformation from brittle to elastic behavior. The cytocompatibility of ECM-like composite scaffolds was investigated by studying the attachment, morphology, proliferation and bone-related gene expression of primary human bone-derived cells. Cells cultured on the developed scaffolds for 7 days had significant up-regulation of cell proliferation (∼1.6-fold higher, P<0.001) and osteogenic gene expression levels (collagen type I, osteocalcin and bone sialoprotein) compared with the other groups tested.

A collagen network phase improves cell seeding of open-pore structure scaffolds under perfusion

Scaffolds with open-pore morphologies offer several advantages in cell-based tissue engineering, but their use is limited by a low cell-seeding efficiency. We hypothesized that inclusion of a collagen network as filling material within the open-pore architecture of polycaprolactone-tricalcium phosphate (PCL-TCP) scaffolds increases human bone marrow stromal cells (hBMSCs) seeding efficiency under perfusion and in vivo osteogenic capacity of the resulting constructs. PCL-TCP scaffolds, rapid prototyped with a honeycomb-like architecture, were filled with a collagen gel and subsequently lyophilized, with or without final crosslinking. Collagen-free scaffolds were used as controls. The seeding efficiency was assessed after overnight perfusion of expanded hBMSCs directly through the scaffold pores using a bioreactor system. By seeding and culturing freshly harvested hBMSCs under perfusion for 3 weeks, the osteogenic capacity of generated constructs was tested by ectopic implantation in nude mice. The presence of the collagen network, independently of the crosslinking process, significantly increased the cell seeding efficiency (2.5-fold), and reduced the loss of clonogenic cells in the supernatant. Although no implant generated frank bone tissue, possibly due to the mineral distribution within the scaffold polymer phase, the presence of a non-crosslinked collagen phase led to in vivo formation of scattered structures of dense osteoids. Our findings verify that the inclusion of a collagen network within open morphology porous scaffolds improves cell retention under perfusion seeding. In the context of cell-based therapies, collagen-filled porous scaffolds are expected to yield superior cell utilization, and could be combined with perfusion-based bioreactor devices to streamline graft manufacture.

Progress and outlook of inorganic nanoparticles for delivery of nucleic acid sequences related to orthopedic pathologies: a review

The anticipated growth in the aging population will drastically increase medical needs of society; of which, one of the largest components will undoubtedly be from orthopedic-related pathologies. There are several proposed solutions being investigated to cost-effectively prepare for the future--pharmaceuticals, implant devices, cell and gene therapies, or some combination thereof. Gene therapy is one of the more promising possibilities because it seeks to correct the root of the problem, thereby minimizing treatment duration and cost. Currently, viral vectors have shown the highest efficacies, but immunological concerns remain. Nonviral methods show reduced immune responses but are regarded as less efficient. The nonviral paradigms consist of mechanical and chemical approaches. While organic-based materials have been used more frequently in particle-based methods, inorganic materials capable of delivery have distinct advantages, especially advantageous in orthopedic applications. The inorganic gene therapy field is highly interdisciplinary in nature, and requires assimilation of knowledge across the broad fields of cell biology, biochemistry, molecular genetics, materials science, and clinical medicine. This review provides an overview of the role each area plays in orthopedic gene therapy as well as possible future directions for the field.

Suppression of Runx2 protein degradation by fibrous engineered matrix

The fibre structure of engineered matrix that mimic the morphology of type I collagen has exhibited good biological performance for bone regeneration. However, the mechanism by which synthetic fibres promote osteoblast differentiation has yet to be determined. In this study, we demonstrate that fibre structure of an engineered matrix suppresses the degradation of Runx2, a master transcription factor that can turn on to osteoblast differentiation. MC3T3-E1 pre-osteoblasts grown on a fibrous collagen matrix sustained a higher level of Runx2 protein than those on tissue culture dishes or on a collagenase-treated, non-fibrous collagen matrix. The ubiquitin-dependent degradation of Runx2 was profoundly decreased in cells grown on the fibrous collagen matrix. The forced expression of Smurf1, an ubiquitin ligase responsible for Runx2 degradation, abrogated the collagen fibre-induced increase of Runx2. We also prepared a polystyrene fibre matrix, and confirmed that the fibre matrix stabilised the Runx2 protein in MC3T3-E1. Furthermore, we genetically modified C2C12 myoblasts with Runx2, cultured the cells on polystyrene fibre matrix, and observed that the fibre matrix stabilised and sustained exogenous Runx2, which led to the promotion of osteoblast differentiation. Our findings in this study provide evidence that the fibre structure of an engineered matrix contributes to osteoblast differentiation by stabilising the Runx2 protein.

Runx2 overexpression in bone marrow stromal cells accelerates bone formation in critical-sized femoral defects

The repair of large nonunions in long bones remains a significant clinical problem due to high failure rates and limited tissue availability for auto- and allografts. Many cell-based strategies for healing bone defects deliver bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) to the defect site to take advantage of the inherent osteogenic capacity of this cell type. However, many factors, including donor age and ex vivo expansion of the cells, cause BMSCs to lose their differentiation ability. To overcome these limitations, we have genetically engineered BMSCs to constitutively overexpress the osteoblast-specific transcription factor Runx2. In the present study, we examined Runx2-modified BMSCs, delivered via polycaprolactone scaffolds loaded with type I collagen meshes, in critical-sized segmental defects in rats compared to unmodified cells, cell-free scaffolds, and empty defects. Runx2 expression in BMSCs accelerated healing of critical-sized defects compared to unmodified BMSCs and defects receiving cell-free treatments. These findings provide an accelerated method for healing large bone defects, which may reduce recovery time and the need for external fixation of critical-sized defects.

Differential surface antigen expression and 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 responsiveness distinguish human dermal fibroblasts with age-dependent osteogenic differentiation potential from marrow-derived stromal cells in vitro

BACKGROUND AIMS

Recent studies have demonstrated that cells committed to a fibroblastic lineage, including dermal fibroblasts, may undergo osteoblastic differentiation when treated with steroid hormones. However, stem cells have also been isolated from the dermis, making it unclear whether osteoinduction of dermal fibroblasts is the result of transdifferentiation of committed fibroblasts or differentiation of resident multipotent stromal cells, which are morphologically indistinguishable.

METHODS

Flow cytometry was used to characterize the expression of CD26, CD90 and CD105 on neonatal and adult human dermal fibroblasts and adult human bone marrow-derived stromal cells. These cells were then cultured with the steroid hormones 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D(3) and dexamethasone, and evaluated for protein expression and mineral deposition typical of an osteoblastic phenotype.

RESULTS

The surface peptidase, dipeptidyl peptidase IV (CD26), was differentially expressed between human neonatal (98.22 ± 1.47%) and adult (90.73 ± 7.97%) dermal fibroblasts and adult bone marrow-derived stromal cells (6.84 ± 5.07%). In addition, neonatal dermal fibroblasts treated with vitamin D(3) expressed alkaline phosphatase, osteocalcin and bone sialoprotein, and deposited mineral, which is consistent with an osteoblastic phenotype. Such differentiation was not observed in adult dermal fibroblasts. In contrast, marrow-derived stromal cells required dexamethasone in order to undergo osteoblastic differentiation.

CONCLUSIONS

Taken together, the differential surface antigen expression and disparate response to steroid hormones suggest that committed neonatal dermal fibroblasts are distinct from mesenchymal stromal cells and possess osteogenic differentiation potential.

Nanofibrous architecture of silk fibroin scaffolds prepared with a mild self-assembly process

Besides excellent biocompatibility and biodegradability, a useful tissue engineering scaffold should provide suitable macropores and nanofibrous structure, similar to extracellular matrix (ECM), to induce desired cellular activities and to guide tissue regeneration. In the present study, a mild process to prepare porous and nanofibrous silk-based scaffolds from aqueous solution is described. Using collagen to control the self-assembly of silk, nanofibrous silk scaffolds were firstly achieved through lyophilization. Water annealing was used to generate insolubility in the silk-based scaffolds, thereby avoiding the use of organic solvents. The nano-fibrils formed in the silk-collagen scaffolds had diameters of 20-100 nm, similar with native collagen in ECM. The silk-collagen scaffolds dissolved slowly in PBS solution, with about a 28% mass lost after 4 weeks. Following the dissolution or degradation, the nanofibrous structure inside the macropore walls emerged and interacted with cells directly. During in vitro cell culture, the nanofibrous silk-collagen scaffolds containing 7.4% collagen demonstrated significantly improved cell compatibility when compared with salt-leached silk scaffolds and silk-collagen scaffolds containing 20% collagen that emerged less nano-fibrils. Therefore, this new process provides useful scaffolds for tissue engineering applications. Furthermore, the process involves all-aqueous, room temperature and pressure processing without the use of toxic chemicals or solvents, offering new green chemistry approaches, as well as options to load bioactive drugs or growth factors into process.

Polycaprolactone/hydroxyapatite composite scaffolds: preparation, characterization, and in vitro and in vivo biological responses of human primary bone cells

Polycaprolactone (PCL) is a synthetic biodegradable polymer that has been approved for use as bone graft substitutes. In this study, PCL scaffolds incorporating hydroxyapatite (HAp) particles were fabricated by combined solvent casting and particulate leaching techniques. The average pore dimension was in the range of about 480-500 microm. The porosity, water absorption, and compressive modulus of the scaffold were evaluated. The responses of primary bone cells cultured on the PCL and PCL/HAp scaffolds were examined both in vitro and invivo. In comparison with the cells grown on the PCL scaffold, those cultured on the PCL/HAp counterpart positively expressed the markers of osteogenic differentiation. Cells increased the mRNA expressions of type I collagen and osteocalcin on day 10 and demonstrated a significant increase in calcium deposition. In coherence with the in vitro appearance, histomorphometric analysis in a mouse calvarial model showed a significantly greater amount of new bone formation. The results demonstrated that the prepared PCL/HAp scaffold could be a good candidate as synthetic substitute for bone tissue engineering. (c) 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2010.

Comparative evaluation of nanofibrous scaffolding for bone regeneration in critical-size calvarial defects

In a previous study we found that nanofibrous poly(l-lactic acid) (PLLA) scaffolds mimicking collagen fibers in size were superior to solid-walled scaffolds in promoting osteoblast differentiation and bone formation in vitro. In this study we used an in vivo model to confirm the biological properties of nanofibrous PLLA scaffolds and to evaluate how effectively they support bone regeneration against solid-walled scaffolds. The scaffolds were implanted in critical-size defects made on rat calvarial bones. Compared with solid-walled scaffolds, nanofibrous scaffolds supported substantially more new bone tissue formation, which was confirmed by micro-computed tomography measurement and von Kossa staining. Goldner's trichrome staining showed abundant collagen deposition in nanofibrous scaffolds but not in the control solid-walled scaffolds. The cells in these scaffolds were immuno-stained strongly for Runx2 and bone sialoprotein (BSP). In contrast, solid-walled scaffolds implanted in the defects were stained weakly with trichrome, Runx2, and BSP. These in vivo results demonstrate that nanofibrous architecture enhances osteoblast differentiation and bone formation.

Partially nanofibrous architecture of 3D tissue engineering scaffolds

An ideal tissue-engineering scaffold should provide suitable pores and appropriate pore surface to induce desired cellular activities and to guide 3D tissue regeneration. In the present work, we have developed macroporous polymer scaffolds with varying pore wall architectures from smooth (solid), microporous, partially nanofibrous, to entirely nanofibrous ones. All scaffolds are designed to have well-controlled interconnected macropores, resulting from leaching sugar sphere template. We examine the effects of material composition, solvent, and phase separation temperature on the pore surface architecture of 3D scaffolds. In particular, phase separation of PLLA/PDLLA or PLLA/PLGA blends leads to partially nanofibrous scaffolds, in which PLLA forms nanofibers and PDLLA or PLGA forms the smooth (solid) surfaces on macropore walls, respectively. Specific surface areas are measured for scaffolds with similar macroporosity but different macropore wall architectures. It is found that the pore wall architecture predominates the total surface area of the scaffolds. The surface area of a partially nanofibrous scaffold increases linearly with the PLLA content in the polymer blend. The amounts of adsorbed proteins from serum increase with the surface area of the scaffolds. These macroporous scaffolds with adjustable pore wall surface architectures may provide a platform for investigating the cellular responses to pore surface architecture, and provide us with a powerful tool to develop superior scaffolds for various tissue-engineering applications.

Modeling nutrient consumptions in large flow-through bioreactors for tissue engineering

Flow-through bioreactors are utilized in tissue regeneration to ensure complete nutrient distribution and apply defined hydrodynamic stresses. The fundamental concepts in designing these bioreactors for regenerating large high aspect ratio tissues (large surface area relative to the thickness of the matrix such as skin, bladder, and cartilage) are not well defined. Further, tissue regeneration is a dynamic process where the porous characteristics change due to proliferation of cells, de novo deposition of matrix components, and degradation of the porous architecture. These changes affect the transport characteristics and there is an imminent need to understand the influence of these factors. Using computational fluid dynamic tools, changes in the pressure drop, shear stress distribution and nutrient consumption patterns during tissue regeneration were assessed in rectangular and circular reactors described by Lawrence et al. [Biotechnol Bioeng 2009;102(3):935-947]. Further, six new designs with different inlet and outlet shapes were analyzed. The fluid flow was defined by the Brinkman equation on the porous regions using the pore characteristics of 85 microm and 120 pores/mm(2). The minimum flow requirements to satisfy nutrient (oxygen and glucose) requirements for three different cell types (SMCs, chondrocytes, and hepatocytes) was evaluated using convective diffusion equation. For consumption reaction, the Michaelis-Menten rate law was used, with constants (k(m) and v(m) values) extracted from literature. Simulations were performed by varying the flow rate as well as the cell number. One of the circular reactors with semicircular inlet and outlet shape decreased (i) non-uniformity in hydrodynamic stress within the porous structure and (ii) non-uniform nutrient distribution. All cell types showed increased consumption of oxygen than glucose. Hepatocytes needed a very high flow rate relative to other cell types. Increase in cell number suggested a need for increasing the flow in circular reactors.

Retroviral-mediated gene therapy for the differentiation of primary cells into a mineralizing osteoblastic phenotype

Bone tissue engineering has emerged as a promising strategy for the repair of critical-sized skeletal fractures. However, the clinical application of this approach has been limited by the availability of a robust mineralizing cell source. Non-osteogenic cells, such as skin fibroblasts, are an attractive cell-source alternative because they are easy to harvest from autologous donor skin biopsies and display a high capacity for in vitro expansion. We have recently demonstrated that retroviral gene delivery of the osteoblastic transcription factor Runx2/Cbfa1 promotes osteogenic differentiation in primary dermal fibroblasts cultured in monolayer. Notably, sustained expression of Runx2 was not sufficient to promote functional osteogenesis in these cells, and co-treatment with the steroid hormone dexamethasone was required to induce deposition of biologically-equivalent matrix mineralization. On the basis of these results, we then investigated the osteogenic capacity of these genetically engineered fibroblasts when seeded on polymeric scaffolds in vitro and in vivo. These experiments demonstrated that Runx2-expressing fibroblasts seeded on collagen scaffolds produce significant levels of matrix mineralization after 28 days in vivo implantation in a subcutaneous, heterotopic site. Overall, these results offer evidence that transcription factor-based gene therapy may be a powerful strategy for the conversion of a non-osteogenic cellular phenotype into a mineralizing cell source for bone repair applications. This concept may also be applied to control functional differentiation in a broad range of cell types and tissue engineering applications. The chapter below outlines detailed methods for the isolation and ex vivo genetic modification of primary dermal fibroblasts using retroviral-mediated delivery of the Runx2 transgene in both monolayer culture and three-dimensional scaffolds.

Engineering graded tissue interfaces

Interfacial zones between tissues provide specialized, transitional junctions central to normal tissue function. Regenerative medicine strategies focused on multiple cell types and/or bi/tri-layered scaffolds do not provide continuously graded interfaces, severely limiting the integration and biological performance of engineered tissue substitutes. Inspired by the bone-soft tissue interface, we describe a biomaterial-mediated gene transfer strategy for spatially regulated genetic modification and differentiation of primary dermal fibroblasts within tissue-engineered constructs. We demonstrate that zonal organization of osteoblastic and fibroblastic cellular phenotypes can be engineered by a simple, one-step seeding of fibroblasts onto scaffolds containing a spatial distribution of retrovirus encoding the osteogenic transcription factor Runx2/Cbfa1. Gradients of immobilized retrovirus, achieved via deposition of controlled poly(L-lysine) densities, resulted in spatial patterns of transcription factor expression, osteoblastic differentiation, and mineralized matrix deposition. Notably, this graded distribution of mineral deposition and mechanical properties was maintained when implanted in vivo in an ectopic site. Development of this facile and robust strategy is significant toward the regeneration of continuous interfacial zones that mimic the cellular and microstructural characteristics of native tissue.

A perspective: engineering periosteum for structural bone graft healing

Autograft is superior to both allograft and synthetic bone graft in repair of large structural bone defect largely due to the presence of multipotent mesenchymal stem cells in periosteum. Recent studies have provided further evidence that activation, expansion and differentiation of the donor periosteal progenitor cells are essential for the initiation of osteogenesis and angiogenesis of donor bone graft healing. The formation of donor cell-derived periosteal callus enables efficient host-dependent graft repair and remodeling at the later stage of healing. Removal of periosteum from bone autograft markedly impairs healing whereas engraftment of multipotent mesenchymal stem cells on bone allograft improves healing and graft incorporation. These studies provide rationale for fabrication of a biomimetic periosteum substitute that could fit bone of any size and shape for enhanced allograft healing and repair. The success of such an approach will depend on further understanding of the molecular signals that control inflammation, cellular recruitment as well as mesenchymal stem cell differentiation and expansion during the early phase of the repair process. It will also depend on multidisciplinary collaborations between biologists, material scientists and bioengineers to address issues of material selection and modification, biological and biomechanical parameters for functional evaluation of bone allograft healing.

Modification of silk fibroin using diazonium coupling chemistry and the effects on hMSC proliferation and differentiation

A simple chemical modification method using diazonium coupling chemistry was developed to tailor the structure and hydrophilicity of silk fibroin protein. The extent of modification using several aniline derivatives was characterized using UV-vis and 1H NMR spectroscopies, and the resulting protein structure was analyzed with ATR-FTIR spectroscopy. Introduction of hydrophobic functional groups facilitated rapid conversion of the protein from a random coil to a beta-sheet structure, while addition of hydrophilic groups inhibited this process. hMSCs were grown on these modified silks to assess the biocompatibility of these materials. The hydrophilicity of the silk derivatives was found to affect the growth rate and morphology, but hMSCs were able to attach, proliferate and differentiate into an osteogenic lineage on all of the silk derivatives.

Human skin fibroblasts: From mesodermal to hepatocyte-like differentiation

The phenotypic homology of fibroblasts and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) has been recently described. Our study investigated the in vitro potential of human skin fibroblasts to differentiate into mesodermal (osteocyte and adipocyte) and endodermal (hepatocyte) cell lineages by comparison with human bone marrow (hBM) MSCs. The endodermal potential of fibroblasts was then explored in vivo in a mouse model of liver injury. Fibroblasts were able to acquire osteocyte and adipocyte phenotypes as assessed by cytochemistry and gene expression analyses. After exposure to a specific differentiation cocktail, these cells presented hepatocyte-like morphology and acquired liver-specific markers on protein and gene expression levels. Furthermore, these fibroblast-derived hepatocyte-like cells (FDHLCs) displayed the ability to store glycogen and synthesize small amounts of urea. By gene expression analysis, we observed that fibroblasts remained in a mesenchymal-epithelial transition state after hepatocyte differentiation. Moreover, FDHLCs lost their hepatocyte-like phenotype after dedifferentiation. In vivo, human fibroblasts infused directly into the liver of hepatectomized severe combined immunodeficient (SCID) mice engrafted in situ and expressed hepatocyte markers (albumin, alpha-fetoprotein, and cytokeratin 18) together with the mesodermal marker fibronectin. Despite lower liver-specific marker expression, the in vitro and in vivo differentiation profile of fibroblasts was comparable to that of mesenchymal-derived hepatocyte-like cells (MDHLCs). In conclusion, our work demonstrates that human skin fibroblasts are able to display mesodermal and endodermal differentiation capacities and provides arguments that these cells share MSCs features both on the phenotypic and functional levels.

Genetic engineering for skeletal regenerative medicine

The clinical challenges of skeletal regenerative medicine have motivated significant advances in cellular and tissue engineering in recent years. In particular, advances in molecular biology have provided the tools necessary for the design of gene-based strategies for skeletal tissue repair. Consequently, genetic engineering has emerged as a promising method to address the need for sustained and robust cellular differentiation and extracellular matrix production. As a result, gene therapy has been established as a conventional approach to enhance cellular activities for skeletal tissue repair. Recent literature clearly demonstrates that genetic engineering is a principal factor in constructing effective methods for tissue engineering approaches to bone, cartilage, and connective tissue regeneration. This review highlights this literature, including advances in the development of efficacious gene carriers, novel cell sources, successful delivery strategies, and optimal target genes. The current status of the field and the challenges impeding the clinical realization of these approaches are also discussed.

In vitro and in vivo osteoblastic differentiation of BMP-2- and Runx2-engineered skeletal myoblasts

Genetic engineering with osteogenic factors is a promising approach for cell-based therapeutics and orthopedic regeneration. However, the relative efficacy of different strategies for inducing osteoblastic differentiation remains unclear and is further complicated by varied delivery vehicles, cell types, and evaluation criteria. In order to elucidate the effects of distinct gene-based strategies, we quantitatively evaluated osteoblastic differentiation and mineralization of primary skeletal myoblasts overexpressing either the BMP-2 growth factor or Runx2 transcription factor. Retroviral delivery of BMP-2 or Runx2 stimulated differentiation into an osteoblastic phenotype, as demonstrated by the induction of osteogenic gene expression, alkaline phosphatase activity, and matrix mineralization in monolayer culture and on collagen scaffolds both in vitro and in an intramuscular site in vivo. In general, BMP-2 stimulated osteoblastic markers faster and to a greater extent than Runx2, although we also identified experimental conditions under which these two factors produced similar effects. Additionally, Runx2-engineered cells did not utilize paracrine signaling via secreted osteogenic factors, in contrast to cells overexpressing BMP-2, as demonstrated by conditioned media studies and activation of Smad signaling. These results emphasize the complexity of gene therapy-based orthopedic therapeutics as an integrated relationship of differentiation state, construct maturation, and paracrine signaling of osteogenic cells. This study is significant in evaluating proposed therapeutic systems and defining a successful strategy for integrating gene medicine and orthopedic regeneration.

Virus-based gene therapy strategies for bone regeneration

Gene therapy has emerged as a promising strategy for the repair and regeneration of damaged musculoskeletal tissues. Application of this paradigm to bone healing has shown enhanced efficacy in preclinical animal studies compared to conventional bone grafting approaches. This review discusses current and emerging virus-based genetic engineering strategies for the delivery of therapeutic molecules which promote skeletal regeneration. Viral gene delivery vectors are discussed in the context of bone repair in order to illustrate the challenges and applications of these methods with tissue-specific examples. Moreover the concepts discussed can be broadly applied to promote healing in a wide range of tissues. We also present important considerations involved in the application of these gene therapy techniques to a variety of osteogenic (e.g. bone marrow-derived cells) and non-osteogenic (e.g. fibroblasts and skeletal myoblasts) cell types. Criteria for the selection of regenerative molecules with soluble versus intracellular modes of action and emerging combinatorial approaches are also discussed. Overall, gene transfer technologies have the potential to overcome limitations associated with existing bone grafting approaches and may enable investigators to design therapies which more closely mimic the complex spatial and temporal cascade of proteins involved in endogenous bone development and repair.