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Su Z, Xing Y, Xiao Y, Guo J, Wang C, Wang F, Xu Z, Wu W, Gu Y. Decellularized, Heparinized Small-Caliber Tissue-Engineered "Biological Tubes" for Allograft Vascular Grafts. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2024; 10:5154-5167. [PMID: 39079153 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.4c00634] [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: 08/13/2024]
Abstract
There remains a lack of small-caliber tissue-engineered blood vessels (TEBVs) with wide clinical use. Biotubes were developed by electrospinning and in-body tissue architecture (iBTA) technology to prepare small-caliber TEBVs with promising applications. Different ratios of hybrid fibers of poly(l-lactic-co-ε-caprolactone) (PLCL) and polyurethane (PU) were obtained by electrospinning, and the electrospun tubes were then implanted subcutaneously in the abdominal area of a rabbit (as an in vivo bioreactor). The biotubes were harvested after 4 weeks. They were then decellularized and cross-linked with heparin. PLCL/PU electrospun vascular tubes, decellularized biotubes (D-biotubes), and heparinized combined decellularized biotubes (H + D-biotubes) underwent carotid artery allograft transplantation in a rabbit model. Vascular ultrasound follow-up and histological observation revealed that the biotubes developed based on electrospinning and iBTA technology, after decellularization and heparinization cross-linking, showed a better patency rate, adequate mechanical properties, and remodeling ability in the rabbit model. IBTA technology caused a higher patency, and the heparinization cross-linking process gave the biotubes stronger mechanical properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhixiang Su
- Vascular Surgery Department, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, 102218 Beijing, China
| | - Yuehao Xing
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Beijing Children's Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Center for Children's Health, 100045 Beijing, China
| | - Yonghao Xiao
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, 100086 Beijing, China
| | - Julong Guo
- Vascular Surgery Department, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, 100053 Beijing, China
| | - Cong Wang
- Vascular Surgery Department, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, 100053 Beijing, China
| | - Fei Wang
- Vascular Surgery Department, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, 100053 Beijing, China
| | - Zeqin Xu
- Vascular Surgery Department, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, 100053 Beijing, China
| | - Weiwei Wu
- Vascular Surgery Department, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, 102218 Beijing, China
| | - Yongquan Gu
- Vascular Surgery Department, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, 100053 Beijing, China
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García-Limón V, Aguilar-Mejía OE, Reyes-Cruz H, Suaste-Gómez E. A novel XYZ electrospinning that orients the trajectory and collimates the electrified fluid jet of polymer nanofibers by induced electric fields. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0308026. [PMID: 39088569 PMCID: PMC11293704 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0308026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 08/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Electrospinning is a process in which high voltage creates nanostructured fibers with random orientation from a polymer solution. A novel electrospinning instrument was designed and constructed, capable of orienting and collimating the trajectory of the electrified fluid jet. The equipment collimates and adjusts the electrified fluid jet in the X-Y directions using deflector plates connected to a variable electric field. Simultaneously, different membrane thicknesses can be selected, i.e., in the Z direction. Additionally, by programming the sinusoidal function generator to perform an X-Y sweep, Lissajous figures (LF) were obtained. SEM images obtained through XYZ electrospinning of PVC and PVDF membranes were used to determine the control achieved over the orientation distribution of the processed nanofibers and the modification of their diameter, with and without applying the electric field to the deflector plates. The nanofibers obtained from the polymeric membranes, which originated after the straight segment of the Taylor cone, did not exhibit a random trajectory and position. Instead, the collimated electrified fluid jet deposited them in a cross pattern (X-Y) on the collector-cathode plate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Víctor García-Limón
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Section Bioelectronics, Center for Research and Advanced Studies (CINVESTAV), Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Oscar E. Aguilar-Mejía
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Section Bioelectronics, Center for Research and Advanced Studies (CINVESTAV), Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Hector Reyes-Cruz
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Section Bioelectronics, Center for Research and Advanced Studies (CINVESTAV), Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Ernesto Suaste-Gómez
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Section Bioelectronics, Center for Research and Advanced Studies (CINVESTAV), Mexico City, Mexico
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3
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Ochola J, Hume C, Bezuidenhout D. Analysis of morphological properties of fibrous electrospun polyurethane grafts using image segmentation. J Mech Behav Biomed Mater 2024; 155:106573. [PMID: 38744117 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2024.106573] [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: 12/17/2023] [Revised: 04/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
The concentration of the polymer in the electrospinning solution greatly influences the mechanical behaviour of electrospun vascular grafts due to the influence on scaffold morphology. The scaffold morphology (fiber diameter, fiber orientation and inter-fiber voids) of the grafts plays an important role in their behaviour during use. Even though manual methods and complex algorithms have been used so far for characterisation of the morphology of electrospun architecture, they still have several drawbacks that limit their reliability. This study therefore uses conventional, statistical region merging and a hybrid image segmentation algorithm, to characterise the morphology of the electrospun vascular grafts. Consequently, vascular grafts were fabricated using an in-house electrospinning equipment using three polymer material concentration levels (14%, 16% and 18%) of medical-grade thermoplastic polyurethane (Pellethane®). The image thresholding and segementation algorithms were then used for segmentation of SEM images extracted from the polymer grafts and then morphological parameters were investigated in terms of fiber diameter, fiber orientation, and interfiber spaces (pore area and porosity). The results indicate that electrospun image segmentation was "best" when the hybrid algorithm and the conventional algorithm was used, which implied that fiber property values computed from the hybrid algorithm were closed to the manually measurements especially for the 14% PU with fiber diameter 2.2%, fiber orientation 7.6% and porosity at 1.9%. However there was higher disperity between the manual and hybrid algorithm. This suggests more fiber uniformity in the 14%PU potentially affected the accuracy of the hybrid algorithm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerry Ochola
- Department of Manufacturing, Industrial and Textile Engineering, School of Engineering, Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya; Biomedical Engineering Research Center, Division of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Human Biology, University of Cape Town, Observatory, South Africa.
| | - Cameron Hume
- Cardiovascular Research Unit: Chris Barnard Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Observatory, South Africa
| | - Deon Bezuidenhout
- Cardiovascular Research Unit: Chris Barnard Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Observatory, South Africa
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4
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Zhao F, Zhang M, Nizamoglu M, Kaper HJ, Brouwer LA, Borghuis T, Burgess JK, Harmsen MC, Sharma PK. Fibroblast alignment and matrix remodeling induced by a stiffness gradient in a skin-derived extracellular matrix hydrogel. Acta Biomater 2024; 182:67-80. [PMID: 38750915 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2024.05.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2024] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
Large skin injuries heal as scars. Stiffness gradually increases from normal skin to scar tissue (20x higher), due to excessive deposition and crosslinking of extracellular matrix (ECM) mostly produced by (myo)fibroblasts. Using a custom mold, skin-derived ECM hydrogels (dECM) were UV crosslinked after diffusion of ruthenium (Ru) to produce a Ru-dECM gradient hydrogel. The Ru diffusion gradient equates to a stiffness gradient and models physiology of the scarred skin. Crosslinking in Ru-dECM hydrogels results in a 23-fold increase in stiffness from a stiffness similar to that of normal skin. Collagen fiber density increases in a stiffness-dependent fashion while stress relaxation also alters, with one additional Maxwell element necessary for characterizing Ru-dECM. Alignment of fibroblasts encapsulated in hydrogels suggests that the stiffness gradient directs fibroblasts to orientate at ∼45 ° in regions below 120 kPa. In areas above 120 kPa, fibroblasts decrease the stiffness prior to adjusting their orientation. Furthermore, fibroblasts remodel their surrounding ECM in a gradient-dependent fashion, with rearrangement of cell-surrounding ECM in high-stiffness areas, and formation of interlaced collagen bundles in low-stiffness areas. Overall, this study shows that fibroblasts remodel their local environment to generate an optimal ECM mechanical and topographical environment. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: This study developed a versatile in vitro model with a gradient stiffness using skin-derived ECM hydrogel with unchanged biochemical environment. Using Ruthenium crosslinking, a 20-fold stiffness increase was achieved as observed in fibrotic skin. The interaction between fibroblasts and matrix depends on changes in the matrix stiffness. The stiffness gradient directed the alignment of fibroblasts with ∼45° in regions with≤ 120 kPa. The cells in regions with the higher stiffness decreased stiffness first and then oriented themselves. Furthermore, fibroblasts remodeled surrounding ECM and regulated its mechanics in a gradient-dependent fashion to reach an optimal condition. Our study highlights the dynamic interplay between cells and surrounding matrix, shedding light on potential mechanisms and strategies to target scar formation and remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fenghua Zhao
- University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, W.J. Kolff Institute for Biomedical Engineering and Materials Science-FB41, A. Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, the Netherlands; University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Department of Biomaterials and Biomedical Technology-FB40, A. Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, the Netherlands; University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, Hanzeplein 1 (EA11), 9713 GZ Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Meng Zhang
- University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, W.J. Kolff Institute for Biomedical Engineering and Materials Science-FB41, A. Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, the Netherlands; University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, Hanzeplein 1 (EA11), 9713 GZ Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Mehmet Nizamoglu
- University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, Hanzeplein 1 (EA11), 9713 GZ Groningen, the Netherlands; University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD (GRIAC), Hanzeplein 1 (EA11), 9713 AV Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Hans J Kaper
- University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, W.J. Kolff Institute for Biomedical Engineering and Materials Science-FB41, A. Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, the Netherlands; University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Department of Biomaterials and Biomedical Technology-FB40, A. Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Linda A Brouwer
- University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, Hanzeplein 1 (EA11), 9713 GZ Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Theo Borghuis
- University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, Hanzeplein 1 (EA11), 9713 GZ Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Janette K Burgess
- University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, W.J. Kolff Institute for Biomedical Engineering and Materials Science-FB41, A. Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, the Netherlands; University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, Hanzeplein 1 (EA11), 9713 GZ Groningen, the Netherlands; University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD (GRIAC), Hanzeplein 1 (EA11), 9713 AV Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Martin C Harmsen
- University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, W.J. Kolff Institute for Biomedical Engineering and Materials Science-FB41, A. Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, the Netherlands; University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, Hanzeplein 1 (EA11), 9713 GZ Groningen, the Netherlands; University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD (GRIAC), Hanzeplein 1 (EA11), 9713 AV Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Prashant K Sharma
- University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, W.J. Kolff Institute for Biomedical Engineering and Materials Science-FB41, A. Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, the Netherlands; University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Department of Biomaterials and Biomedical Technology-FB40, A. Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, the Netherlands.
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5
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Doherty EL, Krohn G, Warren EC, Patton A, Whitworth CP, Rathod M, Biehl A, Aw WY, Freytes DO, Polacheck WJ. Human Cell-Derived Matrix Composite Hydrogels with Diverse Composition for Use in Vasculature-on-chip Models. Adv Healthc Mater 2024; 13:e2400192. [PMID: 38518808 PMCID: PMC11281875 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202400192] [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: 02/16/2024] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/24/2024]
Abstract
Microphysiological and organ-on-chip platforms seek to address critical gaps in human disease models and drug development that underlie poor rates of clinical success for novel interventions. While the fabrication technology and model cells used to synthesize organs-on-chip have advanced considerably, most platforms rely on animal-derived or synthetic extracellular matrix as a cell substrate, limiting mimicry of human physiology and precluding use in modeling diseases in which matrix dynamics play a role in pathogenesis. Here, the development of human cell-derived matrix (hCDM) composite hydrogels for use in 3D microphysiologic models of the vasculature is reported. hCDM composite hydrogels are derived from human donor fibroblasts and maintain a complex milieu of basement membrane, proteoglycans, and nonfibrillar matrix components. The use of hCDM composite hydrogels as 2D and 3D cell culture substrates is demonstrated, and hCDM composite hydrogels are patterned to form engineered human microvessels. Interestingly, hCDM composite hydrogels are enriched in proteins associated with vascular morphogenesis as determined by mass spectrometry, and functional analysis demonstrates proangiogenic signatures in human endothelial cells cultured in these hydrogels. In conclusion, this study suggests that human donor-derived hCDM composite hydrogels could address technical gaps in human organs-on-chip development and serve as substrates to promote vascularization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth L Doherty
- The Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, 10010 Mary Ellen Jones Building, 116 Manning Drive, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, USA
| | - Grace Krohn
- The Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, 10010 Mary Ellen Jones Building, 116 Manning Drive, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, USA
| | - Emily C Warren
- The Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, 10010 Mary Ellen Jones Building, 116 Manning Drive, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, USA
| | - Alexandra Patton
- The Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, 10010 Mary Ellen Jones Building, 116 Manning Drive, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, USA
| | - Chloe P Whitworth
- Curriculum in Genetics and Molecular Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, 130 Mason Farm Road, Chapel Hill, Carolina, NC 27599, USA
| | - Mitesh Rathod
- The Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, 10010 Mary Ellen Jones Building, 116 Manning Drive, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, USA
| | - Andreea Biehl
- The Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, 10010 Mary Ellen Jones Building, 116 Manning Drive, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, USA
| | - Wen Yih Aw
- The Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, 10010 Mary Ellen Jones Building, 116 Manning Drive, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, USA
| | - Donald O Freytes
- The Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, 10010 Mary Ellen Jones Building, 116 Manning Drive, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, USA
| | - William J Polacheck
- The Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, 10010 Mary Ellen Jones Building, 116 Manning Drive, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, USA
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, 111 Mason Farm Road, Chapel Hill, Carolina, NC 27599, USA
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6
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Bulgarin H, Thomberg T, Lust A, Nerut J, Koppel M, Romann T, Palm R, Månsson M, Vana M, Junninen H, Külaviir M, Paiste P, Kirsimäe K, Punapart M, Viru L, Merits A, Lust E. Enhanced and copper concentration dependent virucidal effect against SARS-CoV-2 of electrospun poly(vinylidene difluoride) filter materials. iScience 2024; 27:109835. [PMID: 38799576 PMCID: PMC11126773 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.109835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Virucidal filter materials were prepared by electrospinning a solution of 28 wt % poly(vinylidene difluoride) in N,N-dimethylacetamide without and with the addition of 0.25 wt %, 0.75 wt %, 2.0 wt %, or 3.5 wt % Cu(NO3)2 · 2.5H2O as virucidal agent. The fabricated materials had a uniform and defect free fibrous structure and even distribution of copper nanoclusters. X-ray diffraction analysis showed that during the electrospinning process, Cu(NO3)2 · 2.5H2O changed into Cu2(NO3)(OH)3. Electrospun filter materials obtained by electrospinning were essentially macroporous. Smaller pores of copper nanoclusters containing materials resulted in higher particle filtration than those without copper nanoclusters. Electrospun filter material fabricated with the addition of 2.0 wt % and 3.5 wt % of Cu(NO3)2 · 2.5H2O in a spinning solution showed significant virucidal activity, and there was 2.5 ± 0.35 and 3.2 ± 0.30 logarithmic reduction in the concentration of infectious SARS-CoV-2 within 12 h, respectively. The electrospun filter materials were stable as they retained virucidal activity for three months.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanna Bulgarin
- Institute of Chemistry, University of Tartu, Ravila 14a, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Thomas Thomberg
- Institute of Chemistry, University of Tartu, Ravila 14a, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Andres Lust
- Institute of Pharmacy, University of Tartu, Nooruse 1, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Jaak Nerut
- Institute of Chemistry, University of Tartu, Ravila 14a, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Miriam Koppel
- Institute of Chemistry, University of Tartu, Ravila 14a, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Tavo Romann
- Institute of Chemistry, University of Tartu, Ravila 14a, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Rasmus Palm
- Institute of Chemistry, University of Tartu, Ravila 14a, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
- Department of Applied Physics, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, 10691 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Martin Månsson
- Department of Applied Physics, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, 10691 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Marko Vana
- Institute of Physics, University of Tartu, W. Ostwald 1, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Heikki Junninen
- Institute of Physics, University of Tartu, W. Ostwald 1, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Marian Külaviir
- Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Tartu, Ravila 14a, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Päärn Paiste
- Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Tartu, Ravila 14a, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Kalle Kirsimäe
- Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Tartu, Ravila 14a, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Marite Punapart
- Institute of Technology, University of Tartu, Nooruse 1, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Liane Viru
- Institute of Technology, University of Tartu, Nooruse 1, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Andres Merits
- Institute of Technology, University of Tartu, Nooruse 1, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Enn Lust
- Institute of Chemistry, University of Tartu, Ravila 14a, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
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7
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Zhang M, Zhao F, Zhu Y, Brouwer LA, Van der Veen H, Burgess JK, Harmsen MC. Physical Properties and Biochemical Composition of Extracellular Matrix-Derived Hydrogels Dictate Vascularization Potential in an Organ-Dependent Fashion. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024; 16:29930-29945. [PMID: 38819955 PMCID: PMC11181272 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.4c05864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2024] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024]
Abstract
The inherent extracellular matrix (ECM) originating from a specific tissue impacts the process of vascularization, specifically vascular network formation (VNF) orchestrated by endothelial cells (ECs). The specific contribution toward these processes of ECM from highly disparate organs such as the skin and lungs remains a relatively unexplored area. In this study, we compared VNF and ECM remodeling mediated by microvascular ECs within gel, lung, and combinations thereof (hybrid) ECM hydrogels. Irrespective of the EC source, the skin-derived ECM hydrogel exhibited a higher propensity to drive and support VNF compared to both lung and hybrid ECM hydrogels. There were distinct disparities in the physical properties of the three types of hydrogels, including viscoelastic properties and complex architectural configurations, including fiber diameter, pore area, and numbers among the fibers. The hybrid ECM hydrogel properties were unique and not the sum of the component ECM parts. Furthermore, cellular ECM remodeling responses varied with skin ECM hydrogels promoting matrix metalloproteinase 1 (MMP1) secretion, while hybrid ECM hydrogels exhibited increased MMP9, fibronectin, and collagen IV deposition. Principal component analysis (PCA) indicated that the influence of a gel's mechanical properties on VNF was stronger than the biochemical composition. These data indicate that the organ-specific properties of an ECM dictate its capacity to support VNF, while intriguingly showing that ECs respond to more than just the biochemical constituents of an ECM. The study suggests potential applications in regenerative medicine by strategically selecting ECM origin or combinations to manipulate vascularization, offering promising prospects for enhancing wound healing through pro-regenerative interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Zhang
- Department
of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1 (EA11), Groningen 9713 GZ, The Netherlands
- University
Medical Center Groningen, W.J. Kolff Institute for Biomedical Engineering
and Materials Science-FB41, University of
Groningen, A. Deusinglaan 1, Groningen 9713 AV, The Netherlands
| | - Fenghua Zhao
- University
Medical Center Groningen, W.J. Kolff Institute for Biomedical Engineering
and Materials Science-FB41, University of
Groningen, A. Deusinglaan 1, Groningen 9713 AV, The Netherlands
- University
Medical Center Groningen, Department of Biomedical Engineering-FB40, University of Groningen, A. Deusinglaan 1, Groningen 9713 AV, The Netherlands
| | - Yuxuan Zhu
- Department
of Computer Science, Rensselaer Polytechnic
Institute, Troy, New York 12180, United States
| | - Linda A. Brouwer
- Department
of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1 (EA11), Groningen 9713 GZ, The Netherlands
| | - Hasse Van der Veen
- Department
of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1 (EA11), Groningen 9713 GZ, The Netherlands
| | - Janette K. Burgess
- Department
of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1 (EA11), Groningen 9713 GZ, The Netherlands
- University
Medical Center Groningen, W.J. Kolff Institute for Biomedical Engineering
and Materials Science-FB41, University of
Groningen, A. Deusinglaan 1, Groningen 9713 AV, The Netherlands
- University
Medical Center Groningen, Groningen Research Institute for Asthma
and COPD (GRIAC), University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1 (EA11), Groningen 9713 AV, The Netherlands
| | - Martin C. Harmsen
- Department
of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1 (EA11), Groningen 9713 GZ, The Netherlands
- University
Medical Center Groningen, W.J. Kolff Institute for Biomedical Engineering
and Materials Science-FB41, University of
Groningen, A. Deusinglaan 1, Groningen 9713 AV, The Netherlands
- University
Medical Center Groningen, Groningen Research Institute for Asthma
and COPD (GRIAC), University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1 (EA11), Groningen 9713 AV, The Netherlands
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8
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Lau K, Reichheld S, Xian M, Sharpe SJ, Cerruti M. Directed Assembly of Elastic Fibers via Coacervate Droplet Deposition on Electrospun Templates. Biomacromolecules 2024; 25:3519-3531. [PMID: 38742604 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.4c00180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Elastic fibers provide critical elasticity to the arteries, lungs, and other organs. Elastic fiber assembly is a process where soluble tropoelastin is coacervated into liquid droplets, cross-linked, and deposited onto and into microfibrils. While much progress has been made in understanding the biology of this process, questions remain regarding the timing of interactions during assembly. Furthermore, it is unclear to what extent fibrous templates are needed to guide coacervate droplets into the correct architecture. The organization and shaping of coacervate droplets onto a fiber template have never been previously modeled or employed as a strategy for shaping elastin fiber materials. Using an in vitro system consisting of elastin-like polypeptides (ELPs), genipin cross-linker, electrospun polylactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) fibers, and tannic acid surface coatings for fibers, we explored ELP coacervation, cross-linking, and deposition onto fiber templates. We demonstrate that integration of coacervate droplets into a fibrous template is primarily influenced by two factors: (1) the balance of coacervation and cross-linking and (2) the surface energy of the fiber templates. The success of this integration affects the mechanical properties of the final fiber network. Our resulting membrane materials exhibit highly tunable morphologies and a range of elastic moduli (0.8-1.6 MPa) comparable to native elastic fibers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirklann Lau
- Department of Mining and Materials Engineering, McGill University, 3610 University Street, Wong Building 2250, Montreal, Quebec H3A 0C5, Canada
| | - Sean Reichheld
- Molecular Medicine, Hospital for Sick Children, Peter Gilgan Center for Research and Learning, 686 Bay Street, Room 20.9714, Toronto, Ontario M5G 1X8, Canada
| | - Mingqian Xian
- Department of Mining and Materials Engineering, McGill University, 3610 University Street, Wong Building 2250, Montreal, Quebec H3A 0C5, Canada
| | - Simon J Sharpe
- Molecular Medicine, Hospital for Sick Children, Peter Gilgan Center for Research and Learning, 686 Bay Street, Room 20.9714, Toronto, Ontario M5G 1X8, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Toronto, 1 King's College Circle, Medical Sciences Building, Room 5207, Toronto, Ontario M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Marta Cerruti
- Department of Mining and Materials Engineering, McGill University, 3610 University Street, Wong Building 2250, Montreal, Quebec H3A 0C5, Canada
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9
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Mauro F, Corrado B, De Gregorio V, Lagreca E, Di Natale C, Vecchione R, Netti PA. Exploring the evolution of bacterial cellulose precursors and their potential use as cellulose-based building blocks. Sci Rep 2024; 14:11613. [PMID: 38773229 PMCID: PMC11109180 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-62462-9] [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: 03/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Natural polymers have found increased use in a wider range of applications due to their less harmful effects. Notably, bacterial cellulose has gained significant consideration due to its exceptional physical and chemical properties and its substantial biocompatibility, which makes it an attractive candidate for several biomedical applications. This study attempts to thoroughly unravel the microstructure of bacterial cellulose precursors, known as bioflocculants, which to date have been poorly characterised, by employing both electron and optical microscopy techniques. Here, starting from bioflocculants from Symbiotic Culture of Bacteria and Yeast (SCOBY), we proved that their microstructural features, such as porosity percentage, cellulose assembly degree, fibres' density and fraction, change in a spatio-temporal manner during their rising toward the liquid-air interface. Furthermore, our research identified a correlation between electron and optical microscopy parameters, enabling the assessment of bioflocculants' microstructure without necessitating offline sample preparation procedures. The ultimate goal was to determine their potential suitability as a novel cellulose-based building block material with tuneable structural properties. Our investigations substantiate the capability of SCOBY bioflocculants, characterized by distinct microstructures, to successfully assemble within a microfluidic device, thereby generating a cellulose sheet endowed with specific and purposefully designed structural features.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Mauro
- Department of Chemical, Materials and Industrial Production Engineering, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Naples, Italy
| | - Brunella Corrado
- Interdisciplinary Research Centre on Biomaterials, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | | | | | - Concetta Di Natale
- Department of Chemical, Materials and Industrial Production Engineering, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Paolo Antonio Netti
- Department of Chemical, Materials and Industrial Production Engineering, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Naples, Italy
- Interdisciplinary Research Centre on Biomaterials, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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10
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M R H Mostafa A, Petrai O, Poot AA, Prakash J. Polymeric nanofiber leveraged co-delivery of anti-stromal PAK1 inhibitor and paclitaxel enhances therapeutic effects in stroma-rich 3D spheroid models. Int J Pharm 2024; 656:124078. [PMID: 38569978 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2024.124078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
The role of tumor stroma in solid tumors has been widely recognized in cancer progression, metastasis and chemoresistance. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) play a crucial role in matrix remodeling and promoting cancer cell stemness and resistance via reciprocal crosstalk. Residual tumor tissue after surgical removal as well as unresectable tumors face therapeutic challenges to achieve curable outcome. In this study, we propose to develop a dual delivery approach by combining p21-activated kinase 1 (PAK1) inhibitor (FRAX597) to inhibit tumor stroma and chemotherapeutic agent paclitaxel (PTX) to kill cancer cells using electrospun nanofibers. First, the role of the PAK1 pathway was established in CAF differentiation, migration and contraction using relevant in vitro models. Second, polycaprolactone polymer-based nanofibers were fabricated using a uniaxial electrospinning technique to incorporate FRAX597 and/or PTX, which showed a uniform texture and a prolonged release of both drugs for 16 days. To test nanofibers, stroma-rich 3D heterospheroid models were set up which showed high resistance to PTX nanofibers compared to stroma-free homospheroids. Interestingly, nanofibers containing PTX and FRAX597 showed strong anti-tumor effects on heterospheroids by reducing the growth and viability by > 90 % compared to either of single drug-loaded nanofibers. These effects were reflected by reduced intra-spheroidal expression levels of collagen 1 and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA). Overall, this study provides a new therapeutic strategy to inhibit the tumor stroma using PAK1 inhibitor and thereby enhance the efficacy of chemotherapy using nanofibers as a local delivery system for unresectable or residual tumor. Use of 3D models to evaluate nanofibers highlights these models as advanced in vitro tools to study the effect of controlled release local drug delivery systems before animal studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed M R H Mostafa
- Engineered Therapeutics, Department of Advanced Organ Bioengineering and Therapeutics, TechMed Centre, University of Twente, Enschede, the Netherlands
| | - Ornela Petrai
- Engineered Therapeutics, Department of Advanced Organ Bioengineering and Therapeutics, TechMed Centre, University of Twente, Enschede, the Netherlands
| | - André A Poot
- Engineered Therapeutics, Department of Advanced Organ Bioengineering and Therapeutics, TechMed Centre, University of Twente, Enschede, the Netherlands
| | - Jai Prakash
- Engineered Therapeutics, Department of Advanced Organ Bioengineering and Therapeutics, TechMed Centre, University of Twente, Enschede, the Netherlands.
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11
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Shirk BD, Torres Pereira Meriade Duarte I, McTyer JB, Eccles LE, Lateef AH, Shirk PD, Stoppel WL. Harvesting Silk Fibers from Plodia interpunctella: Role of Environmental Rearing Conditions in Fiber Production and Properties. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2024; 10:2088-2099. [PMID: 38427786 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.3c01372] [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] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
Silk fibers are produced by a wide variety of insects. The silkworm Bombyx mori (Bombyx) was domesticated because the physical properties of its silk fibers were amenable to the production of fine textiles. Subsequently, engineers have regenerated silk fibroin to form biomaterials. The monocular focus on Bombyx silk has underutilized the expanse of diverse silk proteins produced by more than 100,000 other arthropods. This vast array of silk fibers could be utilized for biomedical engineering challenges if sufficient rearing and purification processes are developed. Herein, we show that the moth, Plodia interpunctella (Plodia), represents an alternative silk source that is easily reared in highly regulated culture environments allowing for greater consistency in the silk produced. We controlled the temperature, resource availability (larvae/gram diet), and population density (larvae/mL) with the goal of increasing silk fiber production and improving homogeneity in Plodia silk proteins. We determined that higher temperatures accelerated insect growth and reduced life cycle length. Furthermore, we established initial protocols for the production of Plodia silk with optimal silk production occurring at 24 °C, with a resource availability of 10 larvae/gram and a population density of 0.72 larvae/mL. Population density was shown to be the most prominent driving force of Plodia silk mat formation among the three parameters assessed. Future work will need to link gene expression, protein production and purification, and resulting mechanical properties as a function of environmental cues to further transition Plodia silk into regenerated silk fibroin biomaterials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryce D Shirk
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611, United States
| | | | - Jasmine B McTyer
- Chemical Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611, United States
| | - Lauren E Eccles
- Chemical Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611, United States
| | - Ali H Lateef
- Chemical Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611, United States
| | - Paul D Shirk
- Entomology and Nematology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611, United States
| | - Whitney L Stoppel
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611, United States
- Chemical Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611, United States
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12
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Fromager B, Cambedouzou J, Marhuenda E, Iskratsch T, Pinault M, Bakalara N, Cornu D. Tunable electrospun scaffolds of polyacrylonitrile loaded with carbon nanotubes: from synthesis to biological applications. Chembiochem 2024; 25:e202300768. [PMID: 38353030 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202300768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
Growing cells in a biomimetic environment is critical for tissue engineering as well as for studying the cell biology underlying disease mechanisms. To this aim a range of 3D matrices have been developed, from hydrogels to decellularized matrices. They need to mimic the extracellular matrix to ensure the optimal growth and function of cells. Electrospinning has gained in popularity due to its capacity to individually tune chemistry and mechanical properties and as such influence cell attachment, differentiation or maturation. Polyacrylonitrile (PAN) derived electrospun fibres scaffolds have shown exciting potential due to reports of mechanical tunability and biocompatibility. Building on previous work we fabricate here a range of PAN fibre scaffolds with different concentrations of carbon nanotubes. We characterize them in-depth in respect to their structure, surface chemistry and mechanical properties, using scanning electron microscopy, image processing, ultramicrotomic transmission electron microscopy, x-ray nanotomography, infrared spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy and nanoindentation. Together the data demonstrate this approach to enable finetuning the mechanical properties, while keeping the structure and chemistry unaltered and hence offering ideal properties for comparative studies of the cellular mechanobiology. Finally, we confirm the biocompatibility of the scaffolds using primary rat cardiomyocytes, vascular smooth muscle (A7r5) and myoblast (C2C12) cell lines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bénédicte Fromager
- IEM, Univ Montpellier, CNRS, ENSCM, cc047 Pl. E. Bataillon, 34095, Montpellier, France
| | - Julien Cambedouzou
- IEM, Univ Montpellier, CNRS, ENSCM, cc047 Pl. E. Bataillon, 34095, Montpellier, France
| | - Emilie Marhuenda
- School of Engineering and Materials Science, Queen Mary University Of London, 327 Mile End Rd, Bethnal Green, London, E1 4NS, Royaume-Uni
| | - Thomas Iskratsch
- School of Engineering and Materials Science, Queen Mary University Of London, 327 Mile End Rd, Bethnal Green, London, E1 4NS, Royaume-Uni
| | - Mathieu Pinault
- Univ Paris Saclay, CEA, CNRS, NIMBE,LEDNA, F-91191, Gif Sur Yvette, France
| | - Norbert Bakalara
- CNRS, ENSTBB-Bordeaux INP, Université de Bordeaux, 146 rue Léo Saignat, 33076, Bordeaux, France
| | - David Cornu
- IEM, Univ Montpellier, CNRS, ENSCM, cc047 Pl. E. Bataillon, 34095, Montpellier, France
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13
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Ghatage T, Singh S, Mandal K, Dhar A. Co-activation of Mas and pGCA receptors suppresses Endothelin-1-induced endothelial dysfunction via nitric oxide/cGMP system. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2024; 1870:167110. [PMID: 38462025 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2024.167110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aortic endothelium is crucial in preserving vascular tone through endothelium-derived vasodilators and vasoconstrictors. Dysfunction in the endothelium is an early indicator of cardiovascular diseases. Our study explores the therapeutic potential of a dual-acting peptide (DAP) to co-activate Mas and pGCA receptors and restore the balance between vasodilators and vasoconstrictors on endothelial dysfunction in DOCA-salt-induced hypertensive rats. METHODS DOCA-salt was administered to male wistar rats to induce hypertension, and various parameters, including blood pressure (BP), water intake and body weight were monitored. DAP, Ang1-7, BNP, and losartan were administered to hypertensive rats for three weeks. Histological analysis and isometric tension studies were carried out to assess endothelial function. In addition to this, we used primary aortic endothelial cells for detailed mechanistic investigations. RESULTS DOCA-salt administration significantly elevated systolic, diastolic, mean arterial BP, and water intake whereas, downregulated the gene expression of Mas and pGCA receptors. However, DAP co-administration attenuated BP increase, upregulated the gene expression of Mas and pGCA receptors, normalized serum and urinary parameters, and effectively reduced fibrosis, inflammation, and vascular calcification. Notably, DAP outperformed the standard drug, Losartan. Our findings indicate that DAP restores aortic function by balancing the NO and ET1-induced pathways. CONCLUSION Co-activating Mas and pGCA receptors with DAP mitigates vascular damage and enhances endothelial function, emphasizing its potential to maintain a delicate balance between vasodilatory NO and vasoconstrictor ET1 in endothelial dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trupti Ghatage
- Department of Pharmacy, Birla Institute of Technology and Sciences (BITS) Pilani, Hyderabad Campus, Jawahar Nagar, Shameerpet, Hyderabad, Telangana 500078, India
| | - Sameer Singh
- Tata Institute of Fundamental Research Hyderabad, Hyderabad, Telangana 500046, India
| | - Kalyaneswar Mandal
- Tata Institute of Fundamental Research Hyderabad, Hyderabad, Telangana 500046, India
| | - Arti Dhar
- Department of Pharmacy, Birla Institute of Technology and Sciences (BITS) Pilani, Hyderabad Campus, Jawahar Nagar, Shameerpet, Hyderabad, Telangana 500078, India.
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14
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Yin TJ, Steyl SK, Howard J, Carlson K, Jeyapalina S, Naleway SE. Freeze casting of hydroxyapatite-titania composites for bone substitutes. J Biomed Mater Res A 2024; 112:473-483. [PMID: 37962005 DOI: 10.1002/jbm.a.37645] [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] [Revised: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
Hydroxyapatite (HA) is commonly used as a bone substitute material, but it lacks mechanical strength when compared to native bone tissues. To improve the efficacy of HA as a bone substitute by improving the mechanical strength and cell growth attributes, porous composite scaffolds of HA and titania (HA-TiO2 ) were fabricated through a freeze-casting process. Three different compositions by weight percent, 25-75 HA-TiO2 , 50-50 HA-TiO2 , and 75-25 HA-TiO2 , were custom-made for testing. After sintering at 1250°C, these composite scaffolds exhibited improved mechanical properties compared to porous HA scaffolds. Substrate mixing was observed, which helped reduce crystal size and introduced new phases such as β-TCP and CaTiO3 , which also led to improved mechanical properties. The composition of 50-50 HA-TiO2 had the highest ultimate compressive strength of 3.12 ± 0.36 MPa and elastic modulus 63.29 ± 28.75 MPa. Human osteoblast cell proliferation assay also increased on all three different compositions when compared to porous HA at 14 days. These results highlight the potential of freeze casting composites for the fabrication of bone substitutes, which provide enhanced mechanical strength and biocompatibility while maintaining porosity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tony J Yin
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Samantha K Steyl
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Jerry Howard
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Nevada, Reno, Reno, Nevada, USA
| | - Krista Carlson
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Nevada, Reno, Reno, Nevada, USA
| | - Sujee Jeyapalina
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Steven E Naleway
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
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15
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Lopresti F, Campora S, Rigogliuso S, Nicosia A, Lo Cicero A, Di Marco C, Tornabene S, Ghersi G, La Carrubba V. Improvement of Osteogenic Differentiation of Mouse Pre-Osteoblastic MC3T3-E1 Cells on Core-Shell Polylactic Acid/Chitosan Electrospun Scaffolds for Bone Defect Repair. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2507. [PMID: 38473755 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 02/17/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Electrospun hybrid scaffolds composed of synthetic and natural polymers have gained increasing interest in tissue engineering applications over the last decade. In this work, scaffolds composed of polylactic acid electrospun fibers, either treated (P-PLA) or non-treated (PLA) with air-plasma, were coated with high molecular weight chitosan to create a core-shell microfibrous structure. The effective thickness control of the chitosan layer was confirmed by gravimetric, spectroscopic (FTIR-ATR) and morphological (SEM) investigations. The chitosan coating increased the fiber diameter of the microfibrous scaffolds while the tensile mechanical tests, conducted in dry and wet environments, showed a reinforcing action of the coating layer on the scaffolds, in particular when deposited on P-PLA samples. The stability of the Chi coating on both PLA and P-PLA substrates was confirmed by gravimetric analysis, while their mineralization capacity was evaluated though scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) after immersing the scaffolds in simulated body fluids (SBF) at 37 °C for 1 week. Sample biocompatibility was investigated through cell viability assay and SEM analysis on mouse pre-osteoblastic MC3T3-E1 cells grown on scaffolds at different times (1, 7, 14 and 21 days). Finally, Alizarin Red assay and qPCR analysis suggested that the combination of plasma treatment and chitosan coating on PLA electrospun scaffolds influences the osteoblastic differentiation of MC3T3-E1 cells, thus demonstrating the great potential of P-PLA/chitosan hybrid scaffolds for bone tissue engineering applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Lopresti
- Department of Engineering, University of Palermo, RU INSTM, Viale delle Scienze, 90128 Palermo, Italy
| | - Simona Campora
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, Ed. 16, 90128 Palermo, Italy
| | - Salvatrice Rigogliuso
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, Ed. 16, 90128 Palermo, Italy
| | - Aldo Nicosia
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, Italian National Research Council (IRIB-CNR), 90146 Palermo, Italy
| | - Alessandra Lo Cicero
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, Ed. 16, 90128 Palermo, Italy
| | - Chiara Di Marco
- Department of Engineering, University of Palermo, RU INSTM, Viale delle Scienze, 90128 Palermo, Italy
| | - Salvatore Tornabene
- Department of Engineering, University of Palermo, RU INSTM, Viale delle Scienze, 90128 Palermo, Italy
| | - Giulio Ghersi
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, Ed. 16, 90128 Palermo, Italy
- Abiel s.r.l, via Enzo ed Elvira Sellerio, 50, 90141 Palermo, Italy
| | - Vincenzo La Carrubba
- Department of Engineering, University of Palermo, RU INSTM, Viale delle Scienze, 90128 Palermo, Italy
- ATeN Center, University of Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, Ed. 18A, 90128 Palermo, Italy
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16
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Eyisoylu H, Hazekamp ED, Cruts J, Koenderink GH, de Maat MPM. Flow affects the structural and mechanical properties of the fibrin network in plasma clots. JOURNAL OF MATERIALS SCIENCE. MATERIALS IN MEDICINE 2024; 35:8. [PMID: 38285167 PMCID: PMC10824866 DOI: 10.1007/s10856-024-06775-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
The fibrin network is one of the main components of thrombi. Altered fibrin network properties are known to influence the development and progression of thrombotic disorders, at least partly through effects on the mechanical stability of fibrin. Most studies investigating the role of fibrin in thrombus properties prepare clots under static conditions, missing the influence of blood flow which is present in vivo. In this study, plasma clots in the presence and absence of flow were prepared inside a Chandler loop. Recitrated plasma from healthy donors were spun at 0 and 30 RPM. The clot structure was characterized using scanning electron microscopy and confocal microscopy and correlated with the stiffness measured by unconfined compression testing. We quantified fibrin fiber density, pore size, and fiber thickness and bulk stiffness at low and high strain values. Clots formed under flow had thinner fibrin fibers, smaller pores, and a denser fibrin network with higher stiffness values compared to clots formed in absence of flow. Our findings indicate that fluid flow is an essential factor to consider when developing physiologically relevant in vitro thrombus models used in researching thrombectomy outcomes or risk of embolization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hande Eyisoylu
- Department of Hematology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Bionanoscience, Kavli Institute of Nanoscience, Delft University of Technology, Delft, the Netherlands
| | - Emma D Hazekamp
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Thoraxcenter, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Janneke Cruts
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Thoraxcenter, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Gijsje H Koenderink
- Department of Bionanoscience, Kavli Institute of Nanoscience, Delft University of Technology, Delft, the Netherlands.
| | - Moniek P M de Maat
- Department of Hematology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
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17
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Abbas TO, Parangusan H, Yalcin HC, Hassan M, Zakrif L, Zandi N, Pennisi CP. Trilayer composite scaffold for urethral reconstruction: in vitroevaluation of mechanical, biological, and angiogenic properties. Biomed Mater 2024; 19:025022. [PMID: 38194708 DOI: 10.1088/1748-605x/ad1c9c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
Regeneration of damaged urethral tissue remains a major challenge in the field of lower urinary tract reconstruction. To address this issue, various synthetic and natural biodegradable biomaterials are currently being explored for the fabrication of scaffolds that promote urethral regeneration and healing. In this study, we present an approach to fabricate a trilayer hybrid scaffold comprising a central layer of poly(lactic acid) (PLA) between two layers of chitosan. The chitosan/PLA/chitosan (CPC) scaffolds were fabricated by a sequential electrospinning process and their properties were evaluated for their suitability for urethral tissue engineering. The physical and biological properties of the CPC scaffolds were evaluated in comparison to electrospun PLA scaffolds and acellular dermis (Alloderm) as controls for a synthetic and a natural scaffold, respectively. Compared to the controls, the CPC scaffolds exhibited higher elastic modulus and ultimate tensile strength, while maintaining extensibility and suture retention strength appropriate for clinical use. The CPC scaffolds displayed significant hydrophilicity, which was associated with a higher water absorption capacity of the chitosan nanofibres. The degradation products of the CPC scaffolds did not exhibit cytotoxicity and promoted wound closure by fibroblastsin vitro. In addition, CPC scaffolds showed increased growth of smooth muscle cells, an essential component for functional regeneration of urethral tissue. Furthermore, in a chicken embryo-based assay, CPC scaffolds demonstrated significantly higher angiogenic potential, indicating their ability to promote vascularisation, a crucial aspect for successful urethral reconstruction. Overall, these results suggest that CPC hybrid scaffolds containing both natural and synthetic components offer significant advantages over conventional acellular or synthetic materials alone. CPC scaffolds show promise as potential candidates for further research into the reconstruction of the urethrain vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tariq O Abbas
- Regenerative Medicine Group, Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
- Pediatric Surgery Department, Hamad General Hospital, Doha, Qatar
- College of Medicine, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
- Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Doha, Qatar
- Urology Division, Urology Department, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar
| | | | - Huseyin C Yalcin
- Biomedical Research Centre, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
- Department of Biomedical Science, College of Health Sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Mohamed Hassan
- Centre for Advanced Materials, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Lubna Zakrif
- Biomedical Research Centre, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Nooshin Zandi
- Regenerative Medicine Group, Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Cristian P Pennisi
- Regenerative Medicine Group, Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
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18
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Hashemi SS, Mohammadi AA, Kian M, Rafati A, Ghaedi M, Ghafari B. Fabrication and evaluation of the regenerative effect of a polycaprolactone/chitosan nanofibrous scaffold containing bentonite nanoparticles in a rat model of deep second-degree burn injury. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF BASIC MEDICAL SCIENCES 2024; 27:223-232. [PMID: 38234665 PMCID: PMC10790295 DOI: 10.22038/ijbms.2023.69930.15210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
Objectives In the present study, we evaluated the effect of a nanofibrous scaffold including polycaprolactone (PCL), chitosan (CHT), and bentonite nanoparticles (Ben-NPS) on wound healing in order to introduce a novel dressing for burn wounds. Materials and Methods PCL, PCL/CHT, and PCL/CHT/Ben-NPS nanofibrous scaffolds were fabricated by the electrospinning technique. Their structural and physiochemical characteristics were investigated by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), tensile strength, water contact angle, as well as, swelling and degradation profiles test. The disc diffusion assay was carried out to investigate the antibacterial potential of the scaffolds. In addition, the cell viability and proliferation ability of human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs) on the scaffolds were assessed using MTT assay as well as SEM imaging. The wound-healing property of the nanofibrous scaffolds was evaluated by histopathological investigations during 3,7, and 14 days in a rat model of burn wounds. Results SEM showed that all scaffolds had three-dimensional, beadles-integrated structures. Adding Ben-NPS into the PCL/CHT polymeric composite significantly enhanced the mechanical, swelling, and antibacterial properties. HDFs had the most cell viability and proliferation values on the PCL/CHT/Ben-NPS scaffold. Histopathological evaluation in the rat model revealed that dressing animal wounds with the PCL/CHT/Ben-NPS scaffold promotes wound healing. Conclusion The PCL/CHT/Ben-NPS scaffold has promising regenerative properties for accelerating skin wound healing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyedeh-Sara Hashemi
- Burn and Wound Healing Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Ali-Akbar Mohammadi
- Burn and Wound Healing Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Fars, Iran
| | - Mehdi Kian
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Fars, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Fars, Iran
| | - Alireza Rafati
- Division of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Sarvestan Branch, Islamic Azad University, Sarvestan, Fars, Iran
| | - Mojtaba Ghaedi
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, Jahrom University of Medical Sciences, Jahrom, Fars, Iran
| | - Behzad Ghafari
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Fars, Iran
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19
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Taborda M, Catalan KN, Orellana N, Bezjak D, Enrione J, Acevedo CA, Corrales TP. Micropatterned Nanofiber Scaffolds of Salmon Gelatin, Chitosan, and Poly(vinyl alcohol) for Muscle Tissue Engineering. ACS OMEGA 2023; 8:47883-47896. [PMID: 38144088 PMCID: PMC10733945 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c06436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023]
Abstract
The development of scaffolds that mimic the aligned fibrous texture of the extracellular matrix has become an important requirement in muscle tissue engineering. Electrospinning is a widely used technique to fabricate biomimetic scaffolds. Therefore, a biopolymer blend composed of salmon gelatin (SG), chitosan (Ch), and poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) was developed by electrospinning onto a micropatterned (MP) collector, resulting in a biomimetic scaffold for seeding muscle cells. Rheology and surface tension studies were performed to determine the optimum solution concentration and viscosity for electrospinning. The scaffold microstructure was analyzed using SEM to determine the nanofiber's diameter and orientation. Blends of SG/Ch/PVA exhibited better electrospinnability and handling properties than pure PVA. The resulting scaffolds consist of a porous surface (∼46%), composed of a random fiber distribution, for a flat collector and scaffolds with regions of aligned nanofibers for the MP collector. The nanofiber diameters are 141 ± 2 and 151 ± 2 nm for the flat and MP collector, respectively. In vitro studies showed that myoblasts cultured on scaffold SG/Ch/PVA presented a high rate of cell growth. Furthermore, the aligned nanofibers on the SG/Ch/PVA scaffold provide a suitable platform for myoblast alignment.
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Affiliation(s)
- María
I. Taborda
- Centro
de Biotecnología, Universidad Técnica
Federico Santa María, Avenida España 1680, Valparaíso 2340000, Chile
- Programa
de doctorado en Biotecnología, Pontificia
Universidad Católica de Valparaíso−Universidad
Técnica Federico Santa María, Avenida España 1680, Valparaíso 2340000, Chile
| | - Karina N. Catalan
- Departamento
de Física, Universidad Técnica
Federico Santa María, Av. España 1680, Valparaíso 2340000, Chile
| | - Nicole Orellana
- Centro
de Biotecnología, Universidad Técnica
Federico Santa María, Avenida España 1680, Valparaíso 2340000, Chile
| | - Dragica Bezjak
- Centro
de Biotecnología, Universidad Técnica
Federico Santa María, Avenida España 1680, Valparaíso 2340000, Chile
- Programa
de doctorado en Biotecnología, Pontificia
Universidad Católica de Valparaíso−Universidad
Técnica Federico Santa María, Avenida España 1680, Valparaíso 2340000, Chile
| | - Javier Enrione
- Escuela
de Nutrición y Dietética, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de los Andes, Monseñor Álvaro del Portillo 12455, Las Condes, Santiago 7550000, Chile
| | - Cristian A. Acevedo
- Centro
de Biotecnología, Universidad Técnica
Federico Santa María, Avenida España 1680, Valparaíso 2340000, Chile
- Departamento
de Física, Universidad Técnica
Federico Santa María, Av. España 1680, Valparaíso 2340000, Chile
- Centro
Científico Tecnológico de Valparaíso (CCTVAL), Universidad Técnica Federico Santa María, Avenida España 1680, Valparaíso 2340000, Chile
| | - Tomas P. Corrales
- Centro
de Biotecnología, Universidad Técnica
Federico Santa María, Avenida España 1680, Valparaíso 2340000, Chile
- Departamento
de Física, Universidad Técnica
Federico Santa María, Av. España 1680, Valparaíso 2340000, Chile
- Millenium
Nucleus in NanoBioPhysics (NNBP), Valparaíso 2340000, Chile
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20
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Bhattacharjee P, Madden PW, Patriarca E, Ahearne M. Optimization and evaluation of oxygen-plasma-modified, aligned, poly (Є-caprolactone) and silk fibroin nanofibrous scaffold for corneal stromal regeneration. BIOMATERIALS AND BIOSYSTEMS 2023; 12:100083. [PMID: 37731910 PMCID: PMC10507194 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbiosy.2023.100083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The shortage of human donor corneas for transplantation necessitates the exploration of tissue engineering approaches to develop corneal substitutes. However, these substitutes must possess the necessary strength, transparency, and ability to regulate cell behaviour before they can be used in patients. In this study, we investigated the effectiveness of an oxygen plasma surface-modified poly-ε-caprolactone (PCL) combined with silk fibroin (SF) nanofibrous scaffold for corneal stromal regeneration. To fabricate the electrospun scaffolds, PCL and SF blends were used on a rotating mandrel. The optimization of the blend aimed to replicate the structural and functional properties of the human cornea, focusing on nanofibre alignment, mechanical characteristics, and in vitro cytocompatibility with human corneal stromal keratocytes. Surface modification of the scaffold resulted in improved transparency and enhanced cell interaction. Based on the evaluation, a composite nanofibrous scaffold with a 1:1 blend of PCL and SF was selected for a more comprehensive analysis. The biological response of keratocytes to the scaffold was assessed through cellular adhesion, proliferation, cytoskeletal organization, gene expression, and immunocytochemical staining. The scaffold facilitated the adhesion of corneal stromal cells, supporting cell proliferation, maintaining normal cytoskeletal organization, and promoting increased expression of genes associated with healthy corneal stromal keratocytes. These findings highlight the potential of a surface-modified PCL/SF blend (1:1) as a promising scaffolding material for corneal stromal regeneration. The developed scaffold not only demonstrated favourable biological interactions with corneal stromal cells but also exhibited characteristics aligned with the requirements for successful corneal tissue engineering. Further research and refinement of these constructs could lead to significant advancements in addressing the shortage of corneas for transplantation, ultimately improving the treatment outcomes for patients in need.
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Affiliation(s)
- Promita Bhattacharjee
- Trinity Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, University of Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Department of Mechanical, Manufacturing and Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, Trinity College Dublin, University of Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Peter W. Madden
- Trinity Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, University of Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Department of Mechanical, Manufacturing and Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, Trinity College Dublin, University of Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Enzo Patriarca
- Department of Mechanical, Manufacturing and Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, Trinity College Dublin, University of Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Mark Ahearne
- Trinity Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, University of Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Department of Mechanical, Manufacturing and Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, Trinity College Dublin, University of Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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21
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Zhang M, Zhao F, Zhang X, Brouwer LA, Burgess JK, Harmsen MC. Fibroblasts alter the physical properties of dermal ECM-derived hydrogels to create a pro-angiogenic microenvironment. Mater Today Bio 2023; 23:100842. [PMID: 37942422 PMCID: PMC10628774 DOI: 10.1016/j.mtbio.2023.100842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/22/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the impact of fibroblasts (MRC-5) on the extracellular matrix (ECM) microenvironment of endothelial cells (ECs) during the vascularization of skin-derived ECM hydrogel in vitro. Two types of ECs were studied: human dermal microvascular endothelial cells (HMEC) and human pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells (HPMEC). Results showed that the presence of MRC-5 fibroblasts increased the stiffness of the hydrogel and led to larger fiber diameters and increased porosity. Extensive collagen fiber remodeling occurred in the ECM hydrogel with MRC-5 fibroblasts. Additionally, higher levels of fibulin-1 and fibronectin were deposited in the hydrogel when co-cultured with MRC-5 fibroblasts. These findings suggest that MRC-5 fibroblasts play a role in modifying the ECM microenvironment, promoting vascularization through dynamic ECM remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Zhang
- University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, Hanzeplein 1 (EA11), 9713, GZ Groningen, the Netherlands
- University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, W.J. Kolff Institute for Biomedical Engineering and Materials Science-FB41, A. Deusinglaan 1, 9713, AV Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Fenghua Zhao
- University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, W.J. Kolff Institute for Biomedical Engineering and Materials Science-FB41, A. Deusinglaan 1, 9713, AV Groningen, the Netherlands
- University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Department of Biomedical Engineering-FB40, A. Deusinglaan 1, 9713, AV Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Xue Zhang
- University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, Hanzeplein 1 (EA11), 9713, GZ Groningen, the Netherlands
- University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, W.J. Kolff Institute for Biomedical Engineering and Materials Science-FB41, A. Deusinglaan 1, 9713, AV Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Linda A. Brouwer
- University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, Hanzeplein 1 (EA11), 9713, GZ Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Janette K. Burgess
- University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, Hanzeplein 1 (EA11), 9713, GZ Groningen, the Netherlands
- University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, W.J. Kolff Institute for Biomedical Engineering and Materials Science-FB41, A. Deusinglaan 1, 9713, AV Groningen, the Netherlands
- University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD (GRIAC), Hanzeplein 1 (EA11), 9713, AV Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Martin C. Harmsen
- University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, Hanzeplein 1 (EA11), 9713, GZ Groningen, the Netherlands
- University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, W.J. Kolff Institute for Biomedical Engineering and Materials Science-FB41, A. Deusinglaan 1, 9713, AV Groningen, the Netherlands
- University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD (GRIAC), Hanzeplein 1 (EA11), 9713, AV Groningen, the Netherlands
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22
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Ferri-Angulo D, Yousefi-Mashouf H, Michel M, McLeer A, Orgéas L, Bailly L, Sohier J. Versatile fiber-reinforced hydrogels to mimic the microstructure and mechanics of human vocal-fold upper layers. Acta Biomater 2023; 172:92-105. [PMID: 37748548 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2023.09.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
Human vocal folds are remarkable soft laryngeal structures that enable phonation due to their unique vibro-mechanical performances. These properties are tied to their specific fibrous architecture, especially in the upper layers, which comprise a gel-like composite called lamina propria. The lamina propria can withstand large and reversible deformations under various multiaxial loadings. Despite their importance, the relationships between the microstructure of vocal folds and their resulting macroscopic properties remain poorly understood. There is a need for versatile models that encompass their structural complexity while mimicking their mechanical features. In this study, we present a candidate model inspired by histological measurements of the upper layers of human vocal folds. Bi-photonic observations were used to quantify the distribution, orientation, width, and volume fraction of collagen and elastin fibers between histological layers. Using established biomaterials, polymer fiber-reinforced hydrogels were developed to replicate the fibrillar network and ground substance of native vocal fold tissue. To achieve this, jet-sprayed poly(ε-caprolactone) fibrillar mats were successfully impregnated with poly(L-lysine) dendrimers/polyethylene glycol hydrogels. The resulting composites exhibited versatile structural, physical and mechanical properties that could be customized through variations in the chemical formulation of their hydrogel matrix, the microstructural architecture of their fibrous networks (i.e., fiber diameter, orientation and volume fraction) and their assembly process. By mimicking the collagen network of the lamina propria with polymer fibers and the elastin/ground substance with the hydrogel composition, we successfully replicated the non-linear, anisotropic, and viscoelastic mechanical behavior of the vocal-fold upper layers, accounting for inter/intra-individual variations. The development of this mimetic model offers promising avenues for a better understanding of the complex mechanisms involved in voice production. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Human vocal folds are outstanding vibrating soft living tissues allowing phonation. Simple physical models that take into account the histological structure of the vocal fold and recapitulate its mechanical features are scarce. As a result, the relations between tissue components, organisation and vibro-mechanical performances still remain an open question. We describe here the development and the characterization of fiber-reinforced hydrogels inspired from the vocal-fold microstructure. These systems are able to reproduce the mechanics of vocal-fold tissues upon realistic cyclic and large strains under various multi-axial loadings, thus providing a mimetic model to further understand the impact of the fibrous network microstructure in phonation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Ferri-Angulo
- MATEIS, CNRS, Université de Lyon, INSA de Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, UMR5510, 69100 Villeurbanne, France
| | - Hamid Yousefi-Mashouf
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, CNRS, Grenoble INP, 3SR, 38000 Grenoble, France; Univ. Grenoble Alpes, CNRS, Grenoble INP, GIPSA-lab, 38000 Grenoble, France
| | - Margot Michel
- Laboratory of Tissue Biology and Therapeutic Engineering, CNRS, University of Lyon, Claude Bernard University Lyon 1, UMR5305 LBTI, 69007 Lyon, France
| | - Anne McLeer
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, CHU Grenoble Alpes, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR5309, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, 38000 Grenoble, France
| | - Laurent Orgéas
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, CNRS, Grenoble INP, 3SR, 38000 Grenoble, France
| | - Lucie Bailly
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, CNRS, Grenoble INP, 3SR, 38000 Grenoble, France
| | - Jérôme Sohier
- Laboratory of Tissue Biology and Therapeutic Engineering, CNRS, University of Lyon, Claude Bernard University Lyon 1, UMR5305 LBTI, 69007 Lyon, France.
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23
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Švára D, Filipová B, Jelínek P, Mikeš P, Kluk A, Šoóš M. The impact of polymer mixture composition on the properties of electrospun membranes for drug delivery applications. Int J Pharm 2023; 647:123548. [PMID: 37890644 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2023.123548] [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: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
Orally dispersible films (ODFs) prepared by an electrospinning are a novel type of pharmaceutical formulation. This dosage form has the potential to be beneficial for small children and the elderly, who can have problems with administration of classical tablets due to the increased risk of choking and difficulty with swallowing. Due to the highly porous nanofiber morphology, the ODFs examined in this study achieve rapid disintegration into drug microparticles when in contact with saliva. The suspension is then easier to swallow. In this study, we focus on the impact of film composition (polymer matrix composition) on the properties of electrospun membranes. In particular, we prepared ODFs composed of a mixture of PEG 100 000 with HPMC E5 and PVP k90 with HPMC E5. We found significant differences in the structure of electrospinned membranes, where samples containing PEG 100 000 and HPMC E5 exhibited much narrower distribution of fibers. Furthermore, nanofibers containing PVP k90 exhibit a faster disintegration rate, while dissolution of the drug was faster in the case of PEG 100 000 containing ODFs. The improvement was caused by both the structure and composition of the membranes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominik Švára
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Chemistry and Technology, Technická 3, 166 28 Prague 6 - Dejvice, Czech Republic
| | - Barbora Filipová
- Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, Humanities and Education, Technical University of Liberec, Studentská 1402/2, 461 17 Liberec, Czech Republic
| | - Petr Jelínek
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Chemistry and Technology, Technická 3, 166 28 Prague 6 - Dejvice, Czech Republic
| | - Petr Mikeš
- Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, Humanities and Education, Technical University of Liberec, Studentská 1402/2, 461 17 Liberec, Czech Republic
| | - Anna Kluk
- Zentiva, k.s., U Kabelovny 130, 102 00 Prague 10, Czech Republic
| | - Miroslav Šoóš
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Chemistry and Technology, Technická 3, 166 28 Prague 6 - Dejvice, Czech Republic.
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24
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Olivero E, Gawronska E, Manimuda P, Jivani D, Chaggan FZ, Corey Z, de Almeida TS, Kaplan-Bie J, McIntyre G, Wodo O, Nalam PC. Gradient porous structures of mycelium: a quantitative structure-mechanical property analysis. Sci Rep 2023; 13:19285. [PMID: 37935723 PMCID: PMC10630317 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-45842-5] [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: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Gradient porous structures (GPS) are characterized by structural variations along a specific direction, leading to enhanced mechanical and functional properties compared to homogeneous structures. This study explores the potential of mycelium, the root part of a fungus, as a biomaterial for generating GPS. During the intentional growth of mycelium, the filamentous network undergoes structural changes as the hyphae grow away from the feed substrate. Through microstructural analysis of sections obtained from the mycelium tissue, systematic variations in fiber characteristics (such as fiber radii distribution, crosslink density, network density, segment length) and pore characteristics (including pore size, number, porosity) are observed. Furthermore, the mesoscale mechanical moduli of the mycelium networks exhibit a gradual variation in local elastic modulus, with a significant change of approximately 50% across a 30 mm thick mycelium tissue. The structure-property analysis reveals a direct correlation between the local mechanical moduli and the network crosslink density of the mycelium. This study presents the potential of controlling growth conditions to generate mycelium-based GPS with desired functional properties. This approach, which is both sustainable and economically viable, expands the applications of mycelium-based GPS to include filtration membranes, bio-scaffolds, tissue regeneration platforms, and more.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Olivero
- Department of Materials Design and Innovation, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, 14226, USA
| | - Elzbieta Gawronska
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Computer Science, Czestochowa University of Technology, 42201, Czestochowa, Poland
| | | | - Devyani Jivani
- Department of Materials Design and Innovation, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, 14226, USA
| | | | - Zachary Corey
- Department of Materials Design and Innovation, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, 14226, USA
| | | | | | - Gavin McIntyre
- Ecovative Design LLC, 60 Cohoes Ave, Green Island, NY, 12183, USA
| | - Olga Wodo
- Department of Materials Design and Innovation, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, 14226, USA.
| | - Prathima C Nalam
- Department of Materials Design and Innovation, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, 14226, USA.
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25
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Kyriakou S, Acosta S, El Maachi I, Rütten S, Jockenhoevel S. A Dexamethasone-Loaded Polymeric Electrospun Construct as a Tubular Cardiovascular Implant. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:4332. [PMID: 37960012 PMCID: PMC10649717 DOI: 10.3390/polym15214332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular tissue engineering is providing many solutions to cardiovascular diseases. The complex disease demands necessitating tissue-engineered constructs with enhanced functionality. In this study, we are presenting the production of a dexamethasone (DEX)-loaded electrospun tubular polymeric poly(l-lactide) (PLA) or poly(d,l-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) construct which contains iPSC-CMs (induced pluripotent stem cell cardiomyocytes), HUVSMCs (human umbilical vein smooth muscle cells), and HUVECs (human umbilical vein endothelial cells) embedded in fibrin gel. The electrospun tube diameter was calculated, as well as the DEX release for 50 days for 2 different DEX concentrations. Furthermore, we investigated the influence of the polymer composition and concentration on the function of the fibrin gels by imaging and quantification of CD31, alpha-smooth muscle actin (αSMA), collagen I (col I), sarcomeric alpha actinin (SAA), and Connexin 43 (Cx43). We evaluated the cytotoxicity and cell proliferation of HUVECs and HUVSMCs cultivated in PLA and PLGA polymeric sheets. The immunohistochemistry results showed efficient iPSC-CM marker expression, while the HUVEC toxicity was higher than the respective HUVSMC value. In total, our study emphasizes the combination of fibrin gel and electrospinning in a functionalized construct, which includes three cell types and provides useful insights of the DEX release and cytotoxicity in a tissue engineering perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stavroula Kyriakou
- Department of Biohybrid & Medical Textiles (BioTex), AME—Institute of Applied Medical Engineering, Helmholtz Institute, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany; (S.K.); (S.A.); (I.E.M.)
| | - Sergio Acosta
- Department of Biohybrid & Medical Textiles (BioTex), AME—Institute of Applied Medical Engineering, Helmholtz Institute, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany; (S.K.); (S.A.); (I.E.M.)
| | - Ikram El Maachi
- Department of Biohybrid & Medical Textiles (BioTex), AME—Institute of Applied Medical Engineering, Helmholtz Institute, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany; (S.K.); (S.A.); (I.E.M.)
| | - Stephan Rütten
- Electron Microscopy Facility, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, 52074 Aachen, Germany;
| | - Stefan Jockenhoevel
- Department of Biohybrid & Medical Textiles (BioTex), AME—Institute of Applied Medical Engineering, Helmholtz Institute, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany; (S.K.); (S.A.); (I.E.M.)
- AMIBM—Aachen-Maastricht-Institute for Biobased Materials, Maastricht University, 6167 RD Geleen, The Netherlands
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26
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Wortmann M, Westphal M, Kaltschmidt B, Klöcker M, Layland AS, Brockhagen B, Hütten A, Frese N, Ehrmann A. Nanofibers are a matter of perspective: effects of methodology and subjectivity on diameter measurements. NANOSCALE ADVANCES 2023; 5:5900-5906. [PMID: 37881710 PMCID: PMC10597546 DOI: 10.1039/d3na00528c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Abstract
Nanofibers are currently among the most researched nanomaterials in materials science. Various high-resolution microscopy techniques are used for morphological investigations, with the diameter as primary characteristic. Since methodological factors influencing the diameter distribution are usually ignored, numerical values can hardly be compared across different or even within single studies. Here, we investigate influencing factors such as microscopy technique, degree of magnification, eventual coatings, and the analysts' bias in the image selection and evaluation. We imaged a single nanofiber sample using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), helium ion microscopy (HIM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). These techniques yield significant methodological variations between the diameter distributions. We further observed a strong influence of analysts' subjectivity, with a consistent average deviation between 4 different analysts of up to 31%. The average deviation between micrographs within each category was 14%, revealing a considerable influence of micrograph selection and strong potential for cherry picking. The mean values were mostly comparable with the results using automated image analysis software, which was more reproducible, much faster, and more accurate for images with lower magnification. The results demonstrate that one of the most frequently measured characteristics of nanofibers is subject to strong systematic fluctuations that are rarely if ever addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Wortmann
- Bielefeld University, Faculty of Physics, Universitätsstraße 25 33615 Bielefeld Germany
| | - Michael Westphal
- Bielefeld University, Faculty of Physics, Universitätsstraße 25 33615 Bielefeld Germany
| | - Bernhard Kaltschmidt
- Bielefeld University, Faculty of Physics, Universitätsstraße 25 33615 Bielefeld Germany
| | - Michaela Klöcker
- Bielefeld University of Applied Sciences and Arts, Faculty of Engineering and Mathematics Interaktion 1 33619 Bielefeld Germany
| | - Ashley S Layland
- neotem Bioanalytics, Universitätsstraße 25 33615 Bielefeld Germany
| | - Bennet Brockhagen
- Bielefeld University of Applied Sciences and Arts, Faculty of Engineering and Mathematics Interaktion 1 33619 Bielefeld Germany
| | - Andreas Hütten
- Bielefeld University, Faculty of Physics, Universitätsstraße 25 33615 Bielefeld Germany
| | - Natalie Frese
- University of Hawaii, Department of Physics and Astronomy Watanabe Hall, 2505 Correa Road Honolulu HI 96822 USA
| | - Andrea Ehrmann
- Bielefeld University of Applied Sciences and Arts, Faculty of Engineering and Mathematics Interaktion 1 33619 Bielefeld Germany
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27
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Pisani S, Mauri V, Negrello E, Friuli V, Genta I, Dorati R, Bruni G, Marconi S, Auricchio F, Pietrabissa A, Benazzo M, Conti B. Hybrid 3D-Printed and Electrospun Scaffolds Loaded with Dexamethasone for Soft Tissue Applications. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2478. [PMID: 37896239 PMCID: PMC10609822 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15102478] [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: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To make the regenerative process more effective and efficient, tissue engineering (TE) strategies have been implemented. Three-dimensional scaffolds (electrospun or 3D-printed), due to their suitable designed architecture, offer the proper location of the position of cells, as well as cell adhesion and the deposition of the extracellular matrix. Moreover, the possibility to guarantee a concomitant release of drugs can promote tissue regeneration. METHODS A PLA/PCL copolymer was used for the manufacturing of electrospun and hybrid scaffolds (composed of a 3D-printed support coated with electrospun fibers). Dexamethasone was loaded as an anti-inflammatory drug into the electrospun fibers, and the drug release kinetics and scaffold biological behavior were evaluated. RESULTS The encapsulation efficiency (EE%) was higher than 80%. DXM embedding into the electrospun fibers resulted in a slowed drug release rate, and a slower release was seen in the hybrid scaffolds. The fibers maintained their nanometric dimensions (less than 800 nm) even after deposition on the 3D-printed supports. Cell adhesion and proliferation was favored in the DXM-loading hybrid scaffolds. CONCLUSIONS The hybrid scaffolds that were developed in this study can be optimized as a versatile platform for soft tissue regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Pisani
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Pavia, Viale Taramelli, 12, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (V.F.); (I.G.); (R.D.); (B.C.)
| | - Valeria Mauri
- SC General Surgery 2, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Viale Camillo Golgi, 19, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (V.M.); (E.N.); (A.P.)
| | - Erika Negrello
- SC General Surgery 2, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Viale Camillo Golgi, 19, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (V.M.); (E.N.); (A.P.)
| | - Valeria Friuli
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Pavia, Viale Taramelli, 12, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (V.F.); (I.G.); (R.D.); (B.C.)
| | - Ida Genta
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Pavia, Viale Taramelli, 12, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (V.F.); (I.G.); (R.D.); (B.C.)
| | - Rossella Dorati
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Pavia, Viale Taramelli, 12, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (V.F.); (I.G.); (R.D.); (B.C.)
| | - Giovanna Bruni
- Consorzio per lo Sviluppo dei Sistemi a Grande Interfase (C.S.G.I.), Department of Chemistry, Physical Chemistry Section, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy;
| | - Stefania Marconi
- Department of Civil Engineering and Architecture, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy;
- Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Viale Camillo Golgi, 19, 27100 Pavia, Italy;
| | - Ferdinando Auricchio
- Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Viale Camillo Golgi, 19, 27100 Pavia, Italy;
| | - Andrea Pietrabissa
- SC General Surgery 2, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Viale Camillo Golgi, 19, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (V.M.); (E.N.); (A.P.)
- Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy;
| | - Marco Benazzo
- Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy;
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- Integrated Unit of Experimental Surgery, Advanced Microsurgery and Regenerative Medicine, Università degli Studi di Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Bice Conti
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Pavia, Viale Taramelli, 12, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (V.F.); (I.G.); (R.D.); (B.C.)
- Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Viale Camillo Golgi, 19, 27100 Pavia, Italy;
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Anisiei A, Andreica BI, Mititelu-Tartau L, Coman CG, Bilyy R, Bila G, Rosca I, Sandu AI, Amler E, Marin L. Biodegradable trimethyl chitosan nanofiber mats by electrospinning as bioabsorbable dressings for wound closure and healing. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 249:126056. [PMID: 37524280 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.126056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023]
Abstract
The paper aimed to prepare quaternary chitosan-based nanofibers as bioabsorbable wound dressings. To this aim, fully biodegradable chitosan/N,N,N-trimethyl chitosan (TMC) nanofibers were designed and prepared via electrospinning, using poly(ethylene glycol) as sacrificial additive. The new biomaterials were structurally and morphologically characterized by FTIR and NMR spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy, and their properties required for wound dressings application were investigated and discussed in detail. Thus, the nanofiber behavior was investigated by swelling, dynamic vapor sorption, and in vitro biodegradation in media mimicking the wound exudate. The mechanical properties were analysed from the stress-strain curves, the bioadhesivity from the texture analysis and the mucoadhesivity from the Zeta potential and transmittance measurements. The antimicrobial activity was assessed against S. aureus and E. coli strains, and the biocompatibility was tested in vitro on normal human dermal fibroblasts, and in vivo on rats. The application of the fiber mats with the best balance of properties as dressings on deep burn wound models in rats showed wound closure and active healing, with fully restoration of epithelia. It was concluded that the combination of chitosan with TMC into nanofibers provides new potential bioabsorbable wound dressing, opening new perspectives in regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandru Anisiei
- "Petru Poni" Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of Romanian Academy, Iasi, Romania
| | | | | | - Corneliu G Coman
- "Grigore T. Popa" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iasi, Romania
| | - Rostyslav Bilyy
- Lectinotest R&D, Mechamichna Str 2, 79022, Ukraine; Danylo Halytsky Lviv National Medical University, Lviv, Ukraine
| | - Galyna Bila
- Lectinotest R&D, Mechamichna Str 2, 79022, Ukraine; Danylo Halytsky Lviv National Medical University, Lviv, Ukraine
| | - Irina Rosca
- "Petru Poni" Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of Romanian Academy, Iasi, Romania
| | - Andreea-Isabela Sandu
- "Petru Poni" Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of Romanian Academy, Iasi, Romania
| | - Evžen Amler
- Research and Development Department Inocure, Prague, Czech Republic; Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Luminita Marin
- "Petru Poni" Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of Romanian Academy, Iasi, Romania.
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Mahmood N, Sefat E, Roberts D, Gilger BC, Gluck JM. Application of Noggin-Coated Electrospun Scaffold in Corneal Wound Healing. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2023; 12:15. [PMID: 37594449 PMCID: PMC10445176 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.12.8.15] [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: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 07/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose The objective of this study is to develop and characterize electrospun corneal bandage infused with Noggin protein and evaluate its therapeutic potential in the treatment of superficial nonhealing corneal ulceration. Methods Electrospun nanofibrous scaffolds were created with different blend ratios of polycaprolactone and gelatin and coated with different concentrations of Noggin protein. Morphologic, mechanical, degradation, and surface chemistry of the developed scaffold was assessed. Biocompatibility of the developed scaffold with corneal epithelial cells was evaluated by looking at cell viability, proliferation, and immunostaining. In vitro wound healing in the presence of Noggin-coated scaffold was evaluated by measuring wound closure rate after scratch. Results Uniform nanofibrous scaffolds coated with Noggin were constructed through optimization of electrospinning parameters and demonstrated mechanical properties better than or similar to commercially available contact lenses used in corneal wound healing. In the presence of Noggin-coated scaffold, corneal epithelial cells showed higher proliferation and wound-healing rate. Conclusions This Noggin-coated electrospun scaffold represents a step toward, expanding treatment options for patients with indolent corneal ulcers. Translational Relevance In this study, the feasibility of Noggin-coated electrospun scaffold as a therapeutic for indolent corneal ulcer was evaluated. This study also provides a better perspective for understanding electrospun scaffolds as a tunable platform to infuse topical therapeutics and use as a corneal bandage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nasif Mahmood
- Department of Textile Engineering, Chemistry, and Science, Wilson College of Textiles, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Eelya Sefat
- Department of Textile Engineering, Chemistry, and Science, Wilson College of Textiles, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Darby Roberts
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Brian C. Gilger
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Jessica M. Gluck
- Department of Textile Engineering, Chemistry, and Science, Wilson College of Textiles, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
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Belgodere JA, Lassiter HR, Robinson JT, Hamel KM, Rogers EL, Mohiuddin OA, Zhang L, Wu X, Gimble JM, Frazier TP, Monroe WT, Sanchez CG. Biomechanical and Biological Characterization of XGel, a Human-Derived Hydrogel for Stem Cell Expansion and Tissue Engineering. Adv Biol (Weinh) 2023; 7:e2200332. [PMID: 37236203 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.202200332] [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: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Hydrogels are 3D scaffolds used as alternatives to in vivo models for disease modeling and delivery of cells and drugs. Existing hydrogel classifications include synthetic, recombinant, chemically defined, plant- or animal-based, and tissue-derived matrices. There is a need for materials that can support both human tissue modeling and clinically relevant applications requiring stiffness tunability. Human-derived hydrogels are not only clinically relevant, but they also minimize the use of animal models for pre-clinical studies. This study aims to characterize XGel, a new human-derived hydrogel as an alternative to current murine-derived and synthetic recombinant hydrogels that features unique physiochemical, biochemical, and biological properties that support adipocyte and bone differentiation. Rheology studies determine the viscosity, stiffness, and gelation features of XGel. Quantitative studies for quality control support consistency in the protein content between lots. Proteomics studies reveal that XGel is predominantly composed of extracellular matrix proteins, including fibrillin, collagens I-VI, and fibronectin. Electron microscopy of the hydrogel provides phenotypic characteristics in terms of porosity and fiber size. The hydrogel demonstrates biocompatibility as a coating material and as a 3D scaffold for the growth of multiple cell types. The results provide insight into the biological compatibility of this human-derived hydrogel for tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge A Belgodere
- Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering, Louisiana State University and Agricultural Center, Baton Rouge, LA, 70803, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Omair A Mohiuddin
- Dr. Panjwani Center for Molecular Medicine and Drug Research, International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Karachi, 75270, Pakistan
| | - Liwen Zhang
- Campus Chemical Instrument Center Proteomics Shared Resources, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Xiying Wu
- Obatala Sciences Inc., New Orleans, LA, 70148, USA
| | | | | | - William T Monroe
- Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering, Louisiana State University and Agricultural Center, Baton Rouge, LA, 70803, USA
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Doherty EL, Aw WY, Warren EC, Hockenberry M, Whitworth CP, Krohn G, Howell S, Diekman BO, Legant WR, Nia HT, Hickey AJ, Polacheck WJ. Patient-derived extracellular matrix demonstrates role of COL3A1 in blood vessel mechanics. Acta Biomater 2023; 166:346-359. [PMID: 37187299 PMCID: PMC10330735 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2023.05.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Vascular Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (vEDS) is a rare autosomal dominant disease caused by mutations in the COL3A1 gene, which renders patients susceptible to aneurysm and arterial dissection and rupture. To determine the role of COL3A1 variants in the biochemical and biophysical properties of human arterial ECM, we developed a method for synthesizing ECM directly from vEDS donor fibroblasts. We found that the protein content of the ECM generated from vEDS donor fibroblasts differed significantly from ECM from healthy donors, including upregulation of collagen subtypes and other proteins related to ECM structural integrity. We further found that ECM generated from a donor with a glycine substitution mutation was characterized by increased glycosaminoglycan content and unique viscoelastic mechanical properties, including increased time constant for stress relaxation, resulting in a decrease in migratory speed of human aortic endothelial cells when seeded on the ECM. Collectively, these results demonstrate that vEDS patient-derived fibroblasts harboring COL3A1 mutations synthesize ECM that differs in composition, structure, and mechanical properties from healthy donors. These results further suggest that ECM mechanical properties could serve as a prognostic indicator for patients with vEDS, and the insights provided by the approach demonstrate the broader utility of cell-derived ECM in disease modeling. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: The role of collagen III ECM mechanics remains unclear, despite reported roles in diseases including fibrosis and cancer. Here, we generate fibrous, collagen-rich ECM from primary donor cells from patients with vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (vEDS), a disease caused by mutations in the gene that encodes collagen III. We observe that ECM grown from vEDS patients is characterized by unique mechanical signatures, including altered viscoelastic properties. By quantifying the structural, biochemical, and mechanical properties of patient-derived ECM, we identify potential drug targets for vEDS, while defining a role for collagen III in ECM mechanics more broadly. Furthermore, the structure/function relationships of collagen III in ECM assembly and mechanics will inform the design of substrates for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth L Doherty
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, Chapel Hill and Raleigh, NC, USA; UNC Catalyst for Rare Diseases, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Wen Yih Aw
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, Chapel Hill and Raleigh, NC, USA; UNC Catalyst for Rare Diseases, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Emily C Warren
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, Chapel Hill and Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Max Hockenberry
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA; Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Chloe P Whitworth
- Department of Genetics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Grace Krohn
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, Chapel Hill and Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Stefanie Howell
- UNC Catalyst for Rare Diseases, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Brian O Diekman
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, Chapel Hill and Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Wesley R Legant
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, Chapel Hill and Raleigh, NC, USA; Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Hadi Tavakoli Nia
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Anthony J Hickey
- UNC Catalyst for Rare Diseases, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - William J Polacheck
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, Chapel Hill and Raleigh, NC, USA; Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA; McAllister Heart Institute, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
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Pisani S, Mauri V, Negrello E, Mauramati S, Alaimo G, Auricchio F, Benazzo M, Dorati R, Genta I, Conti B, Ferretti VV, De Silvestri A, Pietrabissa A, Marconi S. Assessment of different manufacturing techniques for the production of bioartificial scaffolds as soft organ transplant substitutes. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1186351. [PMID: 37441194 PMCID: PMC10333585 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1186351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: The problem of organs' shortage for transplantation is widely known: different manufacturing techniques such as Solvent casting, Electrospinning and 3D Printing were considered to produce bioartificial scaffolds for tissue engineering purposes and possible transplantation substitutes. The advantages of manufacturing techniques' combination to develop hybrid scaffolds with increased performing properties was also evaluated. Methods: Scaffolds were produced using poly-L-lactide-co-caprolactone (PLA-PCL) copolymer and characterized for their morphological, biological, and mechanical features. Results: Hybrid scaffolds showed the best properties in terms of viability (>100%) and cell adhesion. Furthermore, their mechanical properties were found to be comparable with the reference values for soft tissues (range 1-10 MPa). Discussion: The created hybrid scaffolds pave the way for the future development of more complex systems capable of supporting, from a morphological, mechanical, and biological standpoint, the physiological needs of the tissues/organs to be transplanted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Pisani
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Valeria Mauri
- SC General Surgery 2, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Erika Negrello
- SC General Surgery 2, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Simone Mauramati
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Gianluca Alaimo
- Department of Civil Engineering and Architecture, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Ferdinando Auricchio
- Department of Civil Engineering and Architecture, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Marco Benazzo
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
- Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Rossella Dorati
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Ida Genta
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Bice Conti
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | | | - Annalisa De Silvestri
- SSD Biostatistica e Clinical Trial Center, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Andrea Pietrabissa
- SC General Surgery 2, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
- Department of Surgery, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Stefania Marconi
- Department of Civil Engineering and Architecture, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
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Hashemi SS, Mohammadi AA, Rajabi SS, Sanati P, Rafati A, Kian M, Zarei Z. Preparation and evaluation of a polycaprolactone/chitosan/propolis fibrous nanocomposite scaffold as a tissue engineering skin substitute. BIOIMPACTS : BI 2023; 13:275-287. [PMID: 37645024 PMCID: PMC10460768 DOI: 10.34172/bi.2023.26317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Revised: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
Introduction Recently, the application of nanofibrous mats for dressing skin wounds has received great attention. In this study, we aimed to fabricate and characterize an electrospun nanofibrous mat containing polycaprolactone (PCL), chitosan (CTS), and propolis for use as a tissue-engineered skin substitute. Methods Raw propolis was extracted, and its phenolic and flavonoid contents were measured. The physiochemical and biological properties of the fabricated mats, including PCL, PCL/CTS, and PCL/CTS/Propolis were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), mechanical analysis, swelling and degradation behaviors, contact angle measurement, cell attachment, DAPI staining, and MTT assay. On the other hand, the drug release pattern of propolis from the PCL/CTS/Propolis scaffold was determined. A deep second-degree burn wound model was induced in rats to investigate wound healing using macroscopical and histopathological evaluations. Results The results revealed that the propolis extract contained high amounts of phenolic and flavonoid compounds. The fabricated scaffold had suitable physicochemical and mechanical properties. Uniform, bead-free, and well-branched fibers were observed in SEM images of mats. AFM analysis indicated that the addition of CTS and propolis to PCL elevated the surface roughness. MTT results revealed that the electrospun PCL/CTS/Propolis mat was biocompatible. The presence of fibroblast cells on the PCL/CTS/Propolis mats was confirmed by DAPI staining and SEM images. Also, propolis was sustainably released from the PCL/CTS/Propolis mat. The animal study revealed that addition of propolis significantly improved wound healing. Conclusion The nanofibrous PCL/CTS/Propolis mat can be applied as a tissue-engineered skin substitute for healing cutaneous wounds, such as burn wounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyedeh-Sara Hashemi
- Burn and Wound Healing Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Fars, Iran
| | - Ali Akbar Mohammadi
- Burn and Wound Healing Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Fars, Iran
| | - Seyedeh-Somayeh Rajabi
- Department of Tissue Engineering, School of Medicine, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran
| | - Parisa Sanati
- Burn and Wound Healing Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Iran National Elite Foundation, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alireza Rafati
- Division of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Sarvestan Branch, Islamic Azad University, Sarvestan, Fars, Iran
| | - Mehdi Kian
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Fars, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Fars, Iran
| | - Zahra Zarei
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Fars, Iran
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Langwald SV, Ehrmann A, Sabantina L. Measuring Physical Properties of Electrospun Nanofiber Mats for Different Biomedical Applications. MEMBRANES 2023; 13:488. [PMID: 37233549 PMCID: PMC10220787 DOI: 10.3390/membranes13050488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Electrospun nanofiber mats are nowadays often used for biotechnological and biomedical applications, such as wound healing or tissue engineering. While most studies concentrate on their chemical and biochemical properties, the physical properties are often measured without long explanations regarding the chosen methods. Here, we give an overview of typical measurements of topological features such as porosity, pore size, fiber diameter and orientation, hydrophobic/hydrophilic properties and water uptake, mechanical and electrical properties as well as water vapor and air permeability. Besides describing typically used methods with potential modifications, we suggest some low-cost methods as alternatives in cases where special equipment is not available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Vanessa Langwald
- Faculty of Engineering and Mathematics, Bielefeld University of Applied Sciences and Arts, 33619 Bielefeld, Germany;
| | - Andrea Ehrmann
- Faculty of Engineering and Mathematics, Bielefeld University of Applied Sciences and Arts, 33619 Bielefeld, Germany;
| | - Lilia Sabantina
- Faculty of Clothing Technology and Garment Engineering, School of Culture + Design, HTW Berlin—University of Applied Sciences, 12459 Berlin, Germany
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Shakeri H, Haghbin Nazarpak M, Imani R, Tayebi L. Poly (l-lactic acid)-based modified nanofibrous membrane with dual drug release capability for GBR application. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 231:123201. [PMID: 36642362 PMCID: PMC10603761 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.123201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Revised: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Electrospun multilayer nanofibers guided bone regeneration (GBR) with a new design were developed in this study. The synthesized multilayer GBR was composed of two distinct layers. Poly l-lactic acid (PLA) incorporated with simvastatin (SIM) was designed as PLA/SIM layer to contact with a bone defect. In addition, the hydrophilic gelatin (GT) containing thymol (THY) was fabricated as GT/THY layer to contact connective tissue, potentially for bacterial gathering. Due to the different chemical nature and weak cohesion of the hydrophilic and hydrophobic layers, hybrid fibers made of PLA/SIM and GT/THY were electrospun as cohesion promoters between these layers. The microstructure and characteristics of the synthesized multilayer substrate, named GT/PLA, were evaluated, and different fibrous monolayers were fabricated to determine the optimal concentrations of drugs. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images showed continuous, smooth, randomly aligned, and bead-free fibers. In addition, there were no drug particles on the fiber surfaces which displayed the good placement of those inside the fibers. The mats exhibited satisfactory tensile strength (4.60 ± 0.14 MPa) and favorable physicochemical properties, including proper porosity percentage (<50 %) and appropriate pore size. Suitable swelling behavior (293 ± 0.05 %) and adequate degradation rates were also approved by characterizing swelling and degradability in vitro. The GT/PLA membrane exhibited a prolonged and sustained SIM release and controlled THY release with high antibacterial efficiency. Cell viability, cell attachment assay, and nuclear staining using 4',6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI) showed that the designed GT/PLA substrate had good biocompatibility and cell attachment. Cell infiltration testing also showed that the cells were finely prevented by the outer layer (GT/THY). Overall, the obtained results in this study indicated the great potential of the prepared GT/PLA for use as a GBR which can develop osteogenic and antibacterial biomimetic periosteum optimizing the clinical application of GBR strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haniyeh Shakeri
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Amirkabir University of Technology (Tehran Polytechnic), Iran
| | - Masoumeh Haghbin Nazarpak
- New Technologies Research Center (NTRC), Amirkabir University of Technology (Tehran Polytechnic), Iran.
| | - Rana Imani
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Amirkabir University of Technology (Tehran Polytechnic), Iran.
| | - Lobat Tayebi
- School of Dentistry, Marquette University, WI, United States
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Huang D, Li Y, Ma Z, Lin H, Zhu X, Xiao Y, Zhang X. Collagen hydrogel viscoelasticity regulates MSC chondrogenesis in a ROCK-dependent manner. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2023; 9:eade9497. [PMID: 36763657 PMCID: PMC9916999 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.ade9497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) chondrogenesis in three-dimensional (3D) culture involves dynamic changes in cytoskeleton architecture during mesenchymal condensation before morphogenesis. However, the mechanism linking dynamic mechanical properties of matrix to cytoskeletal changes during chondrogenesis remains unclear. Here, we investigated how viscoelasticity, a time-dependent mechanical property of collagen hydrogel, coordinates MSC cytoskeleton changes at different stages of chondrogenesis. The viscoelasticity of collagen hydrogel was modulated by controlling the gelling process without chemical cross-linking. In slower-relaxing hydrogels, although a disordered cortical actin promoted early chondrogenic differentiation, persistent myosin hyperactivation resulted in Rho-associated kinase (ROCK)-dependent apoptosis. Meanwhile, faster-relaxing hydrogels promoted cell-matrix interactions and eventually facilitated long-term chondrogenesis with mitigated myosin hyperactivation and cell apoptosis, similar to the effect of ROCK inhibitors. The current work not only reveals how matrix viscoelasticity coordinates MSC chondrogenesis and survival in a ROCK-dependent manner but also highlights viscoelasticity as a design parameter for biomaterials for chondrogenic 3D culture.
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Justin AW, Cammarata F, Guy AA, Estevez SR, Burgess S, Davaapil H, Stavropoulou-Tatla A, Ong J, Jacob AG, Saeb-Parsy K, Sinha S, Markaki AE. Densified collagen tubular grafts for human tissue replacement and disease modelling applications. BIOMATERIALS ADVANCES 2023; 145:213245. [PMID: 36549149 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioadv.2022.213245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
There is a significant need across multiple indications for an off-the-shelf bioengineered tubular graft which fulfils the mechanical and biological requirements for implantation and function but does not necessarily require cells for manufacture or deployment. Herein, we present a tissue-like tubular construct using a cell-free, materials-based method of manufacture, utilizing densified collagen hydrogel. Our tubular grafts are seamless, mechanically strong, customizable in terms of lumen diameter and wall thickness, and display a uniform fibril density across the wall thickness and along the tube length. While the method enables acellular grafts to be generated rapidly, inexpensively, and to a wide range of specifications, the cell-compatible densification process also enables a high density of cells to be incorporated uniformly into the walls of the tubes, which we show can be maintained under perfusion culture. Additionally, the method enables tubes consisting of distinct cell domains with cellular configurations at the boundaries which may be useful for modelling aortic disease. Further, we demonstrate additional steps which allow for luminal surface patterning. These results highlight the universality of this approach and its potential for developing the next generation of bioengineered grafts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander W Justin
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Trumpington Street, Cambridge CB2 1PZ, UK.
| | - Federico Cammarata
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Trumpington Street, Cambridge CB2 1PZ, UK
| | - Andrew A Guy
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Trumpington Street, Cambridge CB2 1PZ, UK
| | - Silas R Estevez
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Trumpington Street, Cambridge CB2 1PZ, UK
| | - Sebastian Burgess
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Trumpington Street, Cambridge CB2 1PZ, UK
| | - Hongorzul Davaapil
- Wellcome-Medical Research Council Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0AW, UK; Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK
| | | | - John Ong
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Trumpington Street, Cambridge CB2 1PZ, UK; East of England Gastroenterology Speciality Training Program, Cambridge, UK
| | - Aishwarya G Jacob
- Wellcome-Medical Research Council Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0AW, UK; Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Downing Site, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1QW, UK
| | - Kourosh Saeb-Parsy
- Department of Surgery, University of Cambridge, and NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK
| | - Sanjay Sinha
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK
| | - Athina E Markaki
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Trumpington Street, Cambridge CB2 1PZ, UK.
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38
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Wong FSY, Tsang KK, Chan BP, Lo ACY. Both non-coated and polyelectrolytically-coated intraocular collagen-alginate composite gels enhanced photoreceptor survival in retinal degeneration. Biomaterials 2023; 293:121948. [PMID: 36516686 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2022.121948] [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] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Treatments of vision-threatening retinal diseases are often hampered by drug delivery difficulties. Polyelectrolytically-coated alginate encapsulated-cell therapy (ECT) systems have shown therapeutic efficacy through prolonged in vivo drug delivery but still face various biocompatibility, viability, drug delivery and mechanical stability issues in clinical trials. Here, novel, injectable alginate-poly-l-lysine (AP)-coated composite alginate-collagen (CAC) ECT gels were developed for sustained ocular drug delivery, and their long-term performance was compared with non-coated CAC ECT gels. All optimised AP-coated gels (AP1- and AP5.5-CAC ECT: 2 mg/ml collagen, 1.5% high molecular weight alginate, 50,000 cells/gel, with 0.01% or 0.05% poly-l-lysine coating for 5 min, followed by 0.15% alginate coating) and non-coated gels showed effective cell proliferation control, cell viability support and continuous delivery of bioactive glial cell-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) with no significant gel degradation in vitro and in rat vitreous. Most importantly, intravitreally injected gels demonstrated therapeutic efficacy in Royal College of Surgeons rats with retinal degeneration, resulting in reduced photoreceptor apoptosis and retinal function loss. At 6 months post-implantation, no host-tissue attachment or ingrowth was detected on the retrieved gels. Non-coated gels were mechanically more stable than AP5.5-coated ones under the current cell loading. This study demonstrated that both coated and non-coated ECT gels can serve as well-controlled, sustained drug delivery platforms for treating posterior eye diseases without immunosuppression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisca Siu Yin Wong
- Department of Ophthalmology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Ken Kin Tsang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Barbara Pui Chan
- Tissue Engineering Laboratory, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Amy Cheuk Yin Lo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
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39
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de Vries JJ, Laan DM, Frey F, Koenderink GH, de Maat MPM. A systematic review and comparison of automated tools for quantification of fibrous networks. Acta Biomater 2023; 157:263-274. [PMID: 36509400 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2022.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Fibrous networks are essential structural components of biological and engineered materials. Accordingly, many approaches have been developed to quantify their structural properties, which define their material properties. However, a comprehensive overview and comparison of methods is lacking. Therefore, we systematically searched for automated tools quantifying network characteristics in confocal, stimulated emission depletion (STED) or scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images and compared these tools by applying them to fibrin, a prototypical fibrous network in thrombi. Structural properties of fibrin such as fiber diameter and alignment are clinically relevant, since they influence the risk of thrombosis. Based on a systematic comparison of the automated tools with each other, manual measurements, and simulated networks, we provide guidance to choose appropriate tools for fibrous network quantification depending on imaging modality and structural parameter. These tools are often able to reliably measure relative changes in network characteristics, but absolute numbers should be interpreted with care. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Structural properties of fibrous networks define material properties of many biological and engineered materials. Many methods exist to automatically quantify structural properties, but an overview and comparison is lacking. In this work, we systematically searched for all publicly available automated analysis tools that can quantify structural properties of fibrous networks. Next, we compared them by applying them to microscopy images of fibrin networks. We also benchmarked the automated tools against manual measurements or synthetic images. As a result, we give advice on which automated analysis tools to use for specific structural properties. We anticipate that researchers from a large variety of fields, ranging from thrombosis and hemostasis to cancer research, and materials science, can benefit from our work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judith J de Vries
- Department of Hematology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Daphne M Laan
- Department of Hematology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Felix Frey
- Department of Bionanoscience, Kavli Institute of Nanoscience, Delft University of Technology, Delft, the Netherlands
| | - Gijsje H Koenderink
- Department of Bionanoscience, Kavli Institute of Nanoscience, Delft University of Technology, Delft, the Netherlands
| | - Moniek P M de Maat
- Department of Hematology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
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40
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Fabrication and Characterization of Electrospun Poly(Caprolactone)/Tannic Acid Scaffold as an Antibacterial Wound Dressing. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:polym15030593. [PMID: 36771894 PMCID: PMC9921954 DOI: 10.3390/polym15030593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Antibacterial wound dressings are promising materials to treat infected skin wounds, which greatly affect the wound-healing process. In this study, tannic acid (TA), a natural antibacterial agent, was successfully loaded by electrospinning into poly(caprolactone) (PCL) fibers in a high concentration. It is suggested that the addition of TA was beneficial for producing uniform and continuous PCL nanofibers. Hydrogen bonds existed between the PCL and TA molecules based on the analysis of FTIR spectra and DSC results. The interactions and continuous network improved the mechanical properties of the scaffolds. Meanwhile, increasing the amount of TA also enhanced the hydrophilicity and water absorption capacity of the scaffold, both of which are beneficial for accelerating wound healing. Moreover, a burst release of the TA in the initial stage and a controlled, steady release behavior over time contributed to the highly antibacterial properties of the PCL/TA scaffolds. The fabrication of the composite scaffold supplies a facile, efficient, and controllable approach to address the issue of antibacterial treatment in wound dressing.
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41
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Moon E, Kang E, Song W, Kim BJ, Cha HJ, Choi YS. Chitosan/oleamide blended electrospun nanofiber with enhanced spinnability and moderate hydrophobicity. KOREAN J CHEM ENG 2023. [DOI: 10.1007/s11814-022-1288-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
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42
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Dou Z, Tang H, Chen K, Li D, Ying Q, Mu Z, An C, Shao F, Zhang Y, Zhang Y, Bai H, Zheng G, Zhang L, Chen T, Wang H. Highly elastic and self-healing nanostructured gelatin/clay colloidal gels with osteogenic capacity for minimally invasive and customized bone regeneration. Biofabrication 2023; 15. [PMID: 36595285 DOI: 10.1088/1758-5090/acab36] [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: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Extrusible biomaterials have recently attracted increasing attention due to the desirable injectability and printability to allow minimally invasive administration and precise construction of tissue mimics. Specifically, self-healing colloidal gels are a novel class of candidate materials as injectables or printable inks considering their fascinating viscoelastic behavior and high degree of freedom on tailoring their compositional and mechanical properties. Herein, we developed a novel class of adaptable and osteogenic composite colloidal gels via electrostatic assembly of gelatin nanoparticles and nanoclay particles. These composite gels exhibited excellent injectability and printability, and remarkable mechanical properties reflected by the maximal elastic modulus reaching ∼150 kPa combined with high self-healing efficiency, outperforming most previously reported self-healing hydrogels. Moreover, the cytocompatibility and the osteogenic capacity of the colloidal gels were demonstrated by inductive culture of MC3T3 cells seeded on the three-dimensional (3D)-printed colloidal scaffolds. Besides, the biocompatibility and biodegradability of the colloidal gels was provedin vivoby subcutaneous implantation of the 3D-printed scaffolds. Furthermore, we investigated the therapeutic capacity of the colloidal gels, either in form of injectable gels or 3D-printed bone substitutes, using rat sinus bone augmentation model or critical-sized cranial defect model. The results confirmed that the composite gels were able to adapt to the local complexity including irregular or customized defect shapes and continuous on-site mechanical stimuli, but also to realize osteointegrity with the surrounding bone tissues and eventually be replaced by newly formed bones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenzhen Dou
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, Frontiers Science Center for Smart Materials Oriented Chemical Engineering, School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, People's Republic of China
| | - Han Tang
- Stomatological Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and Biomedical Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 401147, People's Republic of China
| | - Kaiwen Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, Frontiers Science Center for Smart Materials Oriented Chemical Engineering, School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, People's Republic of China
| | - Dize Li
- Stomatological Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and Biomedical Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 401147, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiwei Ying
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, Frontiers Science Center for Smart Materials Oriented Chemical Engineering, School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhixiang Mu
- Stomatological Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and Biomedical Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 401147, People's Republic of China
| | - Chuanfeng An
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, Frontiers Science Center for Smart Materials Oriented Chemical Engineering, School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, People's Republic of China.,Central Laboratory, Longgang District People's Hospital of Shenzhen & The Third Affiliated Hospital (Provisional) of The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen 518172, People's Republic of China.,Guangdong Key Laboratory for Biomedical Measurements and Ultrasound Imaging, School of Biomedical Engineering, Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, People's Republic of China
| | - Fei Shao
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, Frontiers Science Center for Smart Materials Oriented Chemical Engineering, School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, People's Republic of China
| | - Yang Zhang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518037, People's Republic of China
| | - Yonggang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, Frontiers Science Center for Smart Materials Oriented Chemical Engineering, School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, People's Republic of China
| | - Haoliang Bai
- Stomatological Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and Biomedical Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 401147, People's Republic of China
| | - Guoshuang Zheng
- National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for the Development of Orthopedic Implant Materials, Dalian 116001, People's Republic of China
| | - Lijun Zhang
- Liyun Zhang. Third People's Hospital of Dalian, Dalian Eye Hospital, Dalian 116024, People's Republic of China
| | - Tao Chen
- Stomatological Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases and Biomedical Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 401147, People's Republic of China
| | - Huanan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, Frontiers Science Center for Smart Materials Oriented Chemical Engineering, School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, People's Republic of China
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43
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Salehi A, Salari S, Jullienne A, Daglian J, Chen K, Baram TZ, Obenaus A. Vascular topology and blood flow are acutely impacted by experimental febrile status epilepticus. J Cereb Blood Flow Metab 2023; 43:84-98. [PMID: 35912523 PMCID: PMC9875348 DOI: 10.1177/0271678x221117625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Febrile status epilepticus (FSE) is an important risk factor for temporal lobe epilepsy and early identification of those at high risk for epilepsy is vital. In a rat model of FSE, we identified an acute (2 hrs) novel MRI signal where reduced T2 relaxation values in the basolateral amygdala (BLA) predicted epilepsy in adulthood; this T2 signal remains incompletely understood and we hypothesized that it may be influenced by vascular topology. Experimental FSE induced in rat pups reduced blood vessel density of the cortical vasculature in a lateralized manner at 2 hrs post FSE. Middle cerebral artery (MCA) exhibited abnormal topology in FSE pups but not in controls. In the BLA, significant vessel junction reductions and decreased vessel diameter were observed, together with a strong trend for reduced vessel length. Perfusion weighted MRI (PWI) was acutely increased cerebral blood flow (CBF) in cortex, amygdala and hippocampus of FSE pups that correlated to decreased T2 relaxation values compared to controls. This is consistent with increased levels of deoxyhemoglobin associated with increased metabolic demand. In summary, FSE acutely modifies vascular topological and CBF in cortex and BLA that may underlie acute MRI signal changes that predict progression to future epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arjang Salehi
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine CA, USA
| | - Sirus Salari
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine CA, USA
| | - Amandine Jullienne
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine CA, USA
| | - Jennifer Daglian
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine CA, USA
| | - Kevin Chen
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine CA, USA
| | - Tallie Z Baram
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine CA, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine CA, USA
| | - Andre Obenaus
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine CA, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine CA, USA
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44
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Liu YX, Chaparro FJ, Tian Z, Jia Y, Gosser J, Gaumer J, Ross L, Tafreshi H, Lannutti JJ. Visualization of porosity and pore size gradients in electrospun scaffolds using laser metrology. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0282903. [PMID: 36893193 PMCID: PMC9997878 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0282903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/10/2023] Open
Abstract
We applied a recently developed method, laser metrology, to characterize the influence of collector rotation on porosity gradients of electrospun polycaprolactone (PCL) widely investigated for use in tissue engineering. The prior- and post-sintering dimensions of PCL scaffolds were compared to derive quantitative, spatially-resolved porosity 'maps' from net shrinkage. Deposited on a rotating mandrel (200 RPM), the central region of deposition reaches the highest porosity, ~92%, surrounded by approximately symmetrical decreases to ~89% at the edges. At 1100 RPM, a uniform porosity of ~88-89% is observed. At 2000 RPM, the lowest porosity, ~87%, is found in the middle of the deposition, rebounding to ~89% at the edges. Using a statistical model of random fiber network, we demonstrated that these relatively small changes in porosity values produce disproportionately large variations in pore size. The model predicts an exponential dependence of pore size on porosity when the scaffold is highly porous (e.g., >80%) and, accordingly, the observed porosity variation is associated with dramatic changes in pore size and ability to accommodate cell infiltration. Within the thickest regions most likely to 'bottleneck' cell infiltration, pore size decreases from ~37 to 23 μm (38%) when rotational speeds increased from 200 to 2000 RPM. This trend is corroborated by electron microscopy. While faster rotational speeds ultimately overcome axial alignment induced by cylindrical electric fields associated with the collector geometry, it does so at the cost of eliminating larger pores favoring cell infiltration. This puts the bio-mechanical advantages associated with collector rotation-induced alignment at odds with biological goals. A more significant decrease in pore size from ~54 to ~19 μm (65%), well below the minimum associated with cellular infiltration, is observed from enhanced collector biases. Finally, similar predictions show that sacrificial fiber approaches are inefficient in achieving cell-permissive pore sizes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-xiao Liu
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | | | - Ziting Tian
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States of America
| | - Yizhen Jia
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States of America
| | - John Gosser
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States of America
| | - Jeremy Gaumer
- Tosoh SMD, Inc., Grove City, OH, United States of America
| | - Liam Ross
- Columbus Academy, Gahanna, OH, United States of America
| | - Hooman Tafreshi
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States of America
| | - John J. Lannutti
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States of America
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States of America
- Center for Chronic Brain Injury Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States of America
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45
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Florczyk SJ, Hotaling NA, Simon M, Chalfoun J, Horenberg AL, Schaub NJ, Wang D, Szczypiński PM, DeFelice VL, Bajcsy P, Simon CG. Measuring dimensionality of cell-scaffold contacts of primary human bone marrow stromal cells cultured on electrospun fiber scaffolds. J Biomed Mater Res A 2023; 111:106-117. [PMID: 36194510 DOI: 10.1002/jbm.a.37449] [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: 05/13/2022] [Revised: 09/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The properties and structure of the cellular microenvironment can influence cell behavior. Sites of cell adhesion to the extracellular matrix (ECM) initiate intracellular signaling that directs cell functions such as proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. Electrospun fibers mimic the fibrous nature of native ECM proteins and cell culture in fibers affects cell shape and dimensionality, which can drive specific functions, such as the osteogenic differentiation of primary human bone marrow stromal cells (hBMSCs), by. In order to probe how scaffolds affect cell shape and behavior, cell-fiber contacts were imaged to assess their shape and dimensionality through a novel approach. Fluorescent polymeric fiber scaffolds were made so that they could be imaged by confocal fluorescence microscopy. Fluorescent polymer films were made as a planar control. hBSMCs were cultured on the fluorescent substrates and the cells and substrates were imaged. Two different image analysis approaches, one having geometrical assumptions and the other having statistical assumptions, were used to analyze the 3D structure of cell-scaffold contacts. The cells cultured in scaffolds contacted the fibers in multiple planes over the surface of the cell, while the cells cultured on films had contacts confined to the bottom surface of the cell. Shape metric analysis indicated that cell-fiber contacts had greater dimensionality and greater 3D character than the cell-film contacts. These results suggest that cell adhesion site-initiated signaling could emanate from multiple planes over the cell surface during culture in fibers, as opposed to emanating only from the cell's basal surface during culture on planar surfaces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie J Florczyk
- Biosystems and Biomaterials Division, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, Maryland, USA
| | - Nathan A Hotaling
- Biosystems and Biomaterials Division, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, Maryland, USA.,Axle Informatics, Rockville, Maryland, USA
| | - Mylene Simon
- Software and Systems Division, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, Maryland, USA
| | - Joe Chalfoun
- Software and Systems Division, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, Maryland, USA
| | - Allison L Horenberg
- Biosystems and Biomaterials Division, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, Maryland, USA
| | - Nicholas J Schaub
- Biosystems and Biomaterials Division, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, Maryland, USA.,Axle Informatics, Rockville, Maryland, USA
| | - Dongbo Wang
- Biosystems and Biomaterials Division, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Veronica L DeFelice
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Program, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Peter Bajcsy
- Software and Systems Division, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, Maryland, USA
| | - Carl G Simon
- Biosystems and Biomaterials Division, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, Maryland, USA
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46
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Chen V, Perez Pablos I, Chen JM. Acoustic characterization of nanofibers for optimization with porous substrate. THE JOURNAL OF THE ACOUSTICAL SOCIETY OF AMERICA 2023; 153:40. [PMID: 36732239 DOI: 10.1121/10.0016811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Nanofiber-porous systems comprising a porous substrate overlaid with nanofiber weave offer the potential for higher acoustic absorption than the substrate alone with negligible increase in thickness. The characterization of nanofibers from acoustic measurements is investigated in this work, and a regression model for predicting their acoustic properties from a single physical parameter is proposed to enable the design of nanofiber-porous systems directly from fabrication parameters. Characterization as a resistive screen via Johnson-Champoux-Allard and lumped element models for transfer matrix computations of absorption coefficient for nanofiber-porous systems exhibited good agreement with the measured spectra. The lumped element model was chosen as it was defined by fewer parameters and did not require nanofiber layer thickness measurements, eliminating the associated uncertainty. A regression model for lumped element parameters vs areal density established a design tool based on a single, easily measured physical property for optimized absorption at target frequencies without prior acoustic characterization of the nanofiber layer, enabling the analysis of complex acoustic networks incorporating nanofiber-porous systems. Practical considerations of applying adhesives at the nanofiber-porous interface were studied to evaluate possible enhancement of acoustic performance. For comparison with prior work by others, flow resistances from physical measurement and acoustic characterization were compared.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor Chen
- RDD Research, Dyson Technology Ltd., Malmesbury, United Kingdom
| | | | - Jer-Ming Chen
- Science, Maths and Technology (SMT), Singapore University of Technology and Design, Singapore, Singapore
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47
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Arrigo A, Aragona E, Battaglia Parodi M, Bandello F. Quantitative approaches in multimodal fundus imaging: State of the art and future perspectives. Prog Retin Eye Res 2023; 92:101111. [PMID: 35933313 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2022.101111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 07/16/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
When it first appeared, multimodal fundus imaging revolutionized the diagnostic workup and provided extremely useful new insights into the pathogenesis of fundus diseases. The recent addition of quantitative approaches has further expanded the amount of information that can be obtained. In spite of the growing interest in advanced quantitative metrics, the scientific community has not reached a stable consensus on repeatable, standardized quantitative techniques to process and analyze the images. Furthermore, imaging artifacts may considerably affect the processing and interpretation of quantitative data, potentially affecting their reliability. The aim of this survey is to provide a comprehensive summary of the main multimodal imaging techniques, covering their limitations as well as their strengths. We also offer a thorough analysis of current quantitative imaging metrics, looking into their technical features, limitations, and interpretation. In addition, we describe the main imaging artifacts and their potential impact on imaging quality and reliability. The prospect of increasing reliance on artificial intelligence-based analyses suggests there is a need to develop more sophisticated quantitative metrics and to improve imaging technologies, incorporating clear, standardized, post-processing procedures. These measures are becoming urgent if these analyses are to cross the threshold from a research context to real-life clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Arrigo
- Department of Ophthalmology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, via Olgettina 60, 20132, Milan, Italy.
| | - Emanuela Aragona
- Department of Ophthalmology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, via Olgettina 60, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Maurizio Battaglia Parodi
- Department of Ophthalmology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, via Olgettina 60, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesco Bandello
- Department of Ophthalmology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, via Olgettina 60, 20132, Milan, Italy
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48
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Thomberg T, Bulgarin H, Lust A, Nerut J, Koppel M, Romann T, Palm R, Månsson M, Flores March NM, Junninen H, Külaviir M, Paiste P, Kirsimäe K, Punapart M, Viru L, Merits A, Lust E. The anti SARS-CoV-2 activity of nanofibrous filter materials activated with metal clusters. ATMOSPHERIC ENVIRONMENT: X 2023; 17:100212. [PMID: 36915669 PMCID: PMC9984305 DOI: 10.1016/j.aeaoa.2023.100212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2022] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Nanofibrous filter materials were prepared by electrospinning a solution of 28 wt% poly(vinylidene fluoride) in N,N-dimethylacetamide with and without the addition of 2 wt% AgNO3, Cu(NO3)2·2.5H2O or ZnCl2. X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, contact angle measurement, nitrogen sorption, and mercury intrusion porosimetry methods were used for the characterization of physical structure as well as the chemical composition of the electrospun materials. Particle filtration efficiency and antiviral activity against the SARS-CoV-2 alpha variant were tested in order to estimate the suitability of the prepared electrospun filter materials for application as indoor air filtration systems with virucidal properties. All filter materials prepared with salts demonstrated very high particle filtration efficiency (≥98.0%). The best antiviral activity was demonstrated by a material containing Cu(NO3)2·2.5H2O in the spinning solution, which displayed the decrease in the number of infectious virions by three orders of magnitude after a contact time of 12 h. Materials with the addition of AgNO3 and ZnCl2 decreased the number of infectious virions after the same contact time by only ∼8 and ∼11 times, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Thomberg
- Institute of Chemistry, University of Tartu, Ravila 14a, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - H Bulgarin
- Institute of Chemistry, University of Tartu, Ravila 14a, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - A Lust
- Institute of Pharmacy, University of Tartu, Nooruse 1, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - J Nerut
- Institute of Chemistry, University of Tartu, Ravila 14a, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - M Koppel
- Institute of Chemistry, University of Tartu, Ravila 14a, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - T Romann
- Institute of Chemistry, University of Tartu, Ravila 14a, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - R Palm
- Institute of Chemistry, University of Tartu, Ravila 14a, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
- Department of Applied Physics, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, SE-10691, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - M Månsson
- Department of Applied Physics, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, SE-10691, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - N M Flores March
- Institute of Physics, University of Tartu, W. Ostwald 1, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - H Junninen
- Institute of Physics, University of Tartu, W. Ostwald 1, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - M Külaviir
- Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Tartu, Ravila 14a, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - P Paiste
- Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Tartu, Ravila 14a, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - K Kirsimäe
- Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Tartu, Ravila 14a, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - M Punapart
- Institute of Technology, University of Tartu, Nooruse 1, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - L Viru
- Institute of Technology, University of Tartu, Nooruse 1, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - A Merits
- Institute of Technology, University of Tartu, Nooruse 1, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - E Lust
- Institute of Chemistry, University of Tartu, Ravila 14a, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
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Tarrés Q, Aguado R, Zoppe JO, Mutjé P, Fiol N, Delgado-Aguilar M. Dynamic Light Scattering Plus Scanning Electron Microscopy: Usefulness and Limitations of a Simplified Estimation of Nanocellulose Dimensions. NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 12:4288. [PMID: 36500912 PMCID: PMC9739265 DOI: 10.3390/nano12234288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Revised: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Measurements of nanocellulose size usually demand very high-resolution techniques and tedious image processing, mainly in what pertains to the length of nanofibers. Aiming to ease the process, this work assesses a relatively simple method to estimate the dimensions of nanocellulose particles with an aspect ratio greater than 1. Nanocellulose suspensions, both as nanofibers and as nanocrystals, are subjected to dynamic light scattering (DLS) and to field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM). The former provides the hydrodynamic diameter, as long as the scatter angle and the consistency are adequate. Assays with different angles and concentrations compel us to recommend forward scattering (12.8°) and concentrations around 0.05-0.10 wt %. Then, FE-SEM with magnifications of ×5000-×20,000 generally suffices to obtain an acceptable approximation for the actual diameter, at least for bundles. Finally, length can be estimated by a simple geometric relationship. Regardless of whether they are collected from FE-SEM or DLS, size distributions are generally skewed to lower diameters. Width distributions from FE-SEM, in particular, are well fitted to log-normal functions. Overall, while this method is not valid for the thinnest fibrils or for single, small nanocrystals, it can be useful in lieu of very high-resolution techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quim Tarrés
- LEPAMAP-PRODIS Research Group, University of Girona, C/ Maria Aurèlia Capmany, 61, 17003 Girona, Spain
- Department of Chemical and Agricultural Engineering and Agrifood Technology, University of Girona, C/Maria Aurèlia Capmany, 61, 17003 Girona, Spain
| | - Roberto Aguado
- LEPAMAP-PRODIS Research Group, University of Girona, C/ Maria Aurèlia Capmany, 61, 17003 Girona, Spain
- Department of Chemical and Agricultural Engineering and Agrifood Technology, University of Girona, C/Maria Aurèlia Capmany, 61, 17003 Girona, Spain
| | - Justin O. Zoppe
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Universitat Politecnica de Catalunya (UPC), 08019 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Pere Mutjé
- LEPAMAP-PRODIS Research Group, University of Girona, C/ Maria Aurèlia Capmany, 61, 17003 Girona, Spain
- Department of Chemical and Agricultural Engineering and Agrifood Technology, University of Girona, C/Maria Aurèlia Capmany, 61, 17003 Girona, Spain
| | - Núria Fiol
- Department of Chemical and Agricultural Engineering and Agrifood Technology, University of Girona, C/Maria Aurèlia Capmany, 61, 17003 Girona, Spain
| | - Marc Delgado-Aguilar
- LEPAMAP-PRODIS Research Group, University of Girona, C/ Maria Aurèlia Capmany, 61, 17003 Girona, Spain
- Department of Chemical and Agricultural Engineering and Agrifood Technology, University of Girona, C/Maria Aurèlia Capmany, 61, 17003 Girona, Spain
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50
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Doğan C, Doğan N, Gungor M, Eticha AK, Akgul Y. Novel active food packaging based on centrifugally spun nanofibers containing lavender essential oil: Rapid fabrication, characterization, and application to preserve of minced lamb meat. Food Packag Shelf Life 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fpsl.2022.100942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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