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Russo M, Chen M, Mariella E, Peng H, Rehman SK, Sancho E, Sogari A, Toh TS, Balaban NQ, Batlle E, Bernards R, Garnett MJ, Hangauer M, Leucci E, Marine JC, O'Brien CA, Oren Y, Patton EE, Robert C, Rosenberg SM, Shen S, Bardelli A. Cancer drug-tolerant persister cells: from biological questions to clinical opportunities. Nat Rev Cancer 2024:10.1038/s41568-024-00737-z. [PMID: 39223250 DOI: 10.1038/s41568-024-00737-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
The emergence of drug resistance is the most substantial challenge to the effectiveness of anticancer therapies. Orthogonal approaches have revealed that a subset of cells, known as drug-tolerant 'persister' (DTP) cells, have a prominent role in drug resistance. Although long recognized in bacterial populations which have acquired resistance to antibiotics, the presence of DTPs in various cancer types has come to light only in the past two decades, yet several aspects of their biology remain enigmatic. Here, we delve into the biological characteristics of DTPs and explore potential strategies for tracking and targeting them. Recent findings suggest that DTPs exhibit remarkable plasticity, being capable of transitioning between different cellular states, resulting in distinct DTP phenotypes within a single tumour. However, defining the biological features of DTPs has been challenging, partly due to the complex interplay between clonal dynamics and tissue-specific factors influencing their phenotype. Moreover, the interactions between DTPs and the tumour microenvironment, including their potential to evade immune surveillance, remain to be discovered. Finally, the mechanisms underlying DTP-derived drug resistance and their correlation with clinical outcomes remain poorly understood. This Roadmap aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the field of DTPs, encompassing past achievements and current endeavours in elucidating their biology. We also discuss the prospect of future advancements in technologies in helping to unveil the features of DTPs and propose novel therapeutic strategies that could lead to their eradication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariangela Russo
- Department of Oncology, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, Torino, Italy.
- IFOM ETS, The AIRC Institute of Molecular Oncology, Milano, Italy.
| | - Mengnuo Chen
- Division of Molecular Carcinogenesis, Oncode Institute, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Elisa Mariella
- Department of Oncology, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
- IFOM ETS, The AIRC Institute of Molecular Oncology, Milano, Italy
| | - Haoning Peng
- Institute of Thoracic Oncology and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Sumaiyah K Rehman
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Elena Sancho
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Alberto Sogari
- Department of Oncology, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
- IFOM ETS, The AIRC Institute of Molecular Oncology, Milano, Italy
| | - Tzen S Toh
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Hinxton, Cambridgeshire, UK
| | - Nathalie Q Balaban
- Racah Institute of Physics, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Eduard Batlle
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Barcelona, Spain
- Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats (ICREA), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Rene Bernards
- Division of Molecular Carcinogenesis, Oncode Institute, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Matthew Hangauer
- Department of Dermatology, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | | | - Jean-Christophe Marine
- Department of Oncology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Center for Cancer Biology, VIB, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Catherine A O'Brien
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Surgery, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Yaara Oren
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - E Elizabeth Patton
- MRC Human Genetics Unit, and CRUK Scotland Centre and Edinburgh Cancer Research, Institute of Genetics and Cancer, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Caroline Robert
- Oncology Department, Dermatology Unit, Villejuif, France
- Oncology Department and INSERM U981, Villejuif, France
- Paris Saclay University, Villejuif, France
| | - Susan M Rosenberg
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Shensi Shen
- Institute of Thoracic Oncology and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Alberto Bardelli
- Department of Oncology, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, Torino, Italy.
- IFOM ETS, The AIRC Institute of Molecular Oncology, Milano, Italy.
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Moro-López M, Farré R, Otero J, Sunyer R. Trusting the forces of our cell lines. Cells Dev 2024; 179:203931. [PMID: 38852676 DOI: 10.1016/j.cdev.2024.203931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2024] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
Cells isolated from their native tissues and cultured in vitro face different selection pressures than those cultured in vivo. These pressures induce a profound transformation that reshapes the cell, alters its genome, and transforms the way it senses and generates forces. In this perspective, we focus on the evidence that cells cultured on conventional polystyrene substrates display a fundamentally different mechanobiology than their in vivo counterparts. We explore the role of adhesion reinforcement in this transformation and to what extent it is reversible. We argue that this mechanoadaptation is often understood as a mechanical memory. We propose some strategies to mitigate the effects of on-plastic culture on mechanobiology, such as organoid-inspired protocols or mechanical priming. While isolating cells from their native tissues and culturing them on artificial substrates has revolutionized biomedical research, it has also transformed cellular forces. Only by understanding and controlling them, we can improve their truthfulness and validity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Moro-López
- Unit of Biophysics and Bioengineering, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ramon Farré
- Unit of Biophysics and Bioengineering, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Respiratorias (CIBER-RES), Barcelona, Spain; Institut Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jorge Otero
- Unit of Biophysics and Bioengineering, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Respiratorias (CIBER-RES), Barcelona, Spain; Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (IN2UB), University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Raimon Sunyer
- Unit of Biophysics and Bioengineering, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (IN2UB), University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Bioingeniería (CIBER-BBN), Barcelona, Spain.
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3
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Ghosh R, Herberg S. The role of YAP/TAZ mechanosignaling in trabecular meshwork and Schlemm's canal cell dysfunction. Vision Res 2024; 224:108477. [PMID: 39208753 DOI: 10.1016/j.visres.2024.108477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2024] [Revised: 08/22/2024] [Accepted: 08/23/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
This focused review highlights the importance of yes-associated protein (YAP)/transcriptional coactivator with PDZ binding motif (TAZ) mechanosignaling in human trabecular meshwork and Schlemm's canal cells in response to glaucoma-associated extracellular matrix stiffening and cyclic mechanical stretch, as well as biochemical pathway modulators (with signaling crosstalk) including transforming growth factor beta 2, glucocorticoids, Wnt, lysophosphatidic acid, vascular endothelial growth factor, and oxidative stress. We provide a comprehensive overview of relevant literature from the last decade, highlight intriguing research avenues with translational potential, and close with an outlook on future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajanya Ghosh
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Center for Vision Research, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA
| | - Samuel Herberg
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Center for Vision Research, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA; Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA; BioInspired Institute, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY 13244, USA; Department of Biomedical and Chemical Engineering, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY 13244, USA.
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4
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Casotti MC, Meira DD, Zetum ASS, Campanharo CV, da Silva DRC, Giacinti GM, da Silva IM, Moura JAD, Barbosa KRM, Altoé LSC, Mauricio LSR, Góes LSBDB, Alves LNR, Linhares SSG, Ventorim VDP, Guaitolini YM, dos Santos EDVW, Errera FIV, Groisman S, de Carvalho EF, de Paula F, de Sousa MVP, Fechine PBA, Louro ID. Integrating frontiers: a holistic, quantum and evolutionary approach to conquering cancer through systems biology and multidisciplinary synergy. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1419599. [PMID: 39224803 PMCID: PMC11367711 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1419599] [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: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 07/31/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer therapy is facing increasingly significant challenges, marked by a wide range of techniques and research efforts centered around somatic mutations, precision oncology, and the vast amount of big data. Despite this abundance of information, the quest to cure cancer often seems more elusive, with the "war on cancer" yet to deliver a definitive victory. A particularly pressing issue is the development of tumor treatment resistance, highlighting the urgent need for innovative approaches. Evolutionary, Quantum Biology and System Biology offer a promising framework for advancing experimental cancer research. By integrating theoretical studies, translational methods, and flexible multidisciplinary clinical research, there's potential to enhance current treatment strategies and improve outcomes for cancer patients. Establishing stronger links between evolutionary, quantum, entropy and chaos principles and oncology could lead to more effective treatments that leverage an understanding of the tumor's evolutionary dynamics, paving the way for novel methods to control and mitigate cancer. Achieving these objectives necessitates a commitment to multidisciplinary and interprofessional collaboration at the heart of both research and clinical endeavors in oncology. This entails dismantling silos between disciplines, encouraging open communication and data sharing, and integrating diverse viewpoints and expertise from the outset of research projects. Being receptive to new scientific discoveries and responsive to how patients react to treatments is also crucial. Such strategies are key to keeping the field of oncology at the forefront of effective cancer management, ensuring patients receive the most personalized and effective care. Ultimately, this approach aims to push the boundaries of cancer understanding, treating it as a manageable chronic condition, aiming to extend life expectancy and enhance patient quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matheus Correia Casotti
- Núcleo de Genética Humana e Molecular, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo (UFES), Vitória, ES, Brazil
| | - Débora Dummer Meira
- Núcleo de Genética Humana e Molecular, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo (UFES), Vitória, ES, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Giulia Maria Giacinti
- Núcleo de Genética Humana e Molecular, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo (UFES), Vitória, ES, Brazil
| | - Iris Moreira da Silva
- Núcleo de Genética Humana e Molecular, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo (UFES), Vitória, ES, Brazil
| | - João Augusto Diniz Moura
- Laboratório de Oncologia Clínica e Experimental, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo (UFES), Vitória, ES, Brazil
| | - Karen Ruth Michio Barbosa
- Núcleo de Genética Humana e Molecular, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo (UFES), Vitória, ES, Brazil
| | - Lorena Souza Castro Altoé
- Núcleo de Genética Humana e Molecular, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo (UFES), Vitória, ES, Brazil
| | | | | | - Lyvia Neves Rebello Alves
- Núcleo de Genética Humana e Molecular, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo (UFES), Vitória, ES, Brazil
| | | | - Vinícius do Prado Ventorim
- Núcleo de Genética Humana e Molecular, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo (UFES), Vitória, ES, Brazil
| | - Yasmin Moreto Guaitolini
- Núcleo de Genética Humana e Molecular, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo (UFES), Vitória, ES, Brazil
| | | | | | - Sonia Groisman
- Instituto de Biologia Roberto Alcântara Gomes (IBRAG), Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (UERJ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Elizeu Fagundes de Carvalho
- Instituto de Biologia Roberto Alcântara Gomes (IBRAG), Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (UERJ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Flavia de Paula
- Núcleo de Genética Humana e Molecular, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo (UFES), Vitória, ES, Brazil
| | | | - Pierre Basílio Almeida Fechine
- Group of Chemistry of Advanced Materials (GQMat), Department of Analytical Chemistry and Physical-Chemistry, Federal University of Ceará (UFC), Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | - Iuri Drumond Louro
- Núcleo de Genética Humana e Molecular, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo (UFES), Vitória, ES, Brazil
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5
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Younesi FS, Miller AE, Barker TH, Rossi FMV, Hinz B. Fibroblast and myofibroblast activation in normal tissue repair and fibrosis. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol 2024; 25:617-638. [PMID: 38589640 DOI: 10.1038/s41580-024-00716-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
The term 'fibroblast' often serves as a catch-all for a diverse array of mesenchymal cells, including perivascular cells, stromal progenitor cells and bona fide fibroblasts. Although phenotypically similar, these subpopulations are functionally distinct, maintaining tissue integrity and serving as local progenitor reservoirs. In response to tissue injury, these cells undergo a dynamic fibroblast-myofibroblast transition, marked by extracellular matrix secretion and contraction of actomyosin-based stress fibres. Importantly, whereas transient activation into myofibroblasts aids in tissue repair, persistent activation triggers pathological fibrosis. In this Review, we discuss the roles of mechanical cues, such as tissue stiffness and strain, alongside cell signalling pathways and extracellular matrix ligands in modulating myofibroblast activation and survival. We also highlight the role of epigenetic modifications and myofibroblast memory in physiological and pathological processes. Finally, we discuss potential strategies for therapeutically interfering with these factors and the associated signal transduction pathways to improve the outcome of dysregulated healing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fereshteh Sadat Younesi
- Keenan Research Institute for Biomedical Science of the St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andrew E Miller
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Thomas H Barker
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Fabio M V Rossi
- School of Biomedical Engineering and Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Boris Hinz
- Keenan Research Institute for Biomedical Science of the St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
- Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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6
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Lee JWN, Holle AW. Engineering approaches for understanding mechanical memory in cancer metastasis. APL Bioeng 2024; 8:021503. [PMID: 38605886 PMCID: PMC11008915 DOI: 10.1063/5.0194539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Understanding cancer metastasis is crucial for advancing therapeutic strategies and improving clinical outcomes. Cancer cells face dynamic changes in their mechanical microenvironment that occur on timescales ranging from minutes to years and exhibit a spectrum of cellular transformations in response to these mechanical cues. A crucial facet of this adaptive response is the concept of mechanical memory, in which mechanosensitive cell behavior and function persists even when mechanical cues are altered. This review explores the evolving mechanical landscape during metastasis, emphasizing the significance of mechanical memory and its influence on cell behavior. We then focus on engineering techniques that are being utilized to probe mechanical memory of cancer cells. Finally, we highlight promising translational approaches poised to harness mechanical memory for new therapies, thereby advancing the frontiers of bioengineering applications in cancer research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Wen Nicole Lee
- Mechanobiology Institute, National University of Singapore, 117411 Singapore, Singapore
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7
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Cheng P, Zhao X, Han M, Zhuang Y, Ning F, Hu Y, Lu W, Miao S, Zhao C, Jia L, Hao X, Sun M, Wang J, Chen F, Yang L, Jie Q. Periodic static compression of micro-strain pattern regulates endochondral bone formation. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2024; 12:1356135. [PMID: 38600948 PMCID: PMC11004279 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2024.1356135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Developmental engineering based on endochondral ossification has been proposed as a potential strategy for repairing of critical bone defects. Bone development is driven by growth plate-mediated endochondral ossification. Under physiological conditions, growth plate chondrocytes undergo compressive forces characterized by micro-mechanics, but the regulatory effect of micro-mechanical loading on endochondral bone formation has not been investigated. Methods: In this study, a periodic static compression (PSC) model characterized by micro-strain (with 0.5% strain) was designed to clarify the effects of biochemical/mechanical cues on endochondral bone formation. Hydrogel scaffolds loaded with bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) were incubated in proliferation medium or chondrogenic medium, and PSC was performed continuously for 14 or 28 days. Subsequently, the scaffold pretreated for 28 days was implanted into rat femoral muscle pouches and femoral condylar defect sites. The chondrogenesis and bone defect repair were evaluated 4 or 10 weeks post-operation. Results: The results showed that PSC stimulation for 14 days significantly increased the number of COL II positive cells in proliferation medium. However, the chondrogenic efficiency of BMSCs was significantly improved in chondrogenic medium, with or without PSC application. The induced chondrocytes (ichondrocytes) spontaneously underwent hypertrophy and maturation, but long-term mechanical stimulation (loading for 28 days) significantly inhibited hypertrophy and mineralization in ichondrocytes. In the heterotopic ossification model, no chondrocytes were found and no significant difference in terms of mineral deposition in each group; However, 4 weeks after implantation into the femoral defect site, all scaffolds that were subjected to biochemical/mechanical cues, either solely or synergistically, showed typical chondrocytes and endochondral bone formation. In addition, simultaneous biochemical induction/mechanical loading significantly accelerated the bone regeneration. Discussion: Our findings suggest that microstrain mechanics, biochemical cues, and in vivo microenvironment synergistically regulate the differentiation fate of BMSCs. Meanwhile, this study shows the potential of micro-strain mechanics in the treatment of critical bone defects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengzhen Cheng
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi’an, China
- Pediatric Orthopaedic Hospital, Honghui Hospital, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
- Department of Orthopedics, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
- Xi’an Key Laboratory of Skeletal Developmental Deformity and Injury Repair, Xi’an, China
| | - Xueyi Zhao
- Department of Orthopedics, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Meige Han
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi’an, China
- Pediatric Orthopaedic Hospital, Honghui Hospital, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Yaping Zhuang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Prevention and Treatment of Bone and Joint Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedics, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Fenru Ning
- Department of Neonatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Yaqian Hu
- Department of Orthopedics, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Weiguang Lu
- Department of Orthopedics, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Sheng Miao
- Department of Orthopedics, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Chengxiang Zhao
- Department of Orthopedics, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Liyuan Jia
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi’an, China
| | - Xue Hao
- Pediatric Orthopaedic Hospital, Honghui Hospital, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
- Xi’an Key Laboratory of Skeletal Developmental Deformity and Injury Repair, Xi’an, China
| | - Meng Sun
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi’an, China
| | - Junxiang Wang
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi’an, China
- Pediatric Orthopaedic Hospital, Honghui Hospital, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Fulin Chen
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi’an, China
- Xi’an Key Laboratory of Skeletal Developmental Deformity and Injury Repair, Xi’an, China
- Research Center for Skeletal Developmental Deformity and Injury Repair, School of Life Science and Medicine, Northwest University, Xi’an, China
| | - Liu Yang
- Department of Orthopedics, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Qiang Jie
- Pediatric Orthopaedic Hospital, Honghui Hospital, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
- Xi’an Key Laboratory of Skeletal Developmental Deformity and Injury Repair, Xi’an, China
- Research Center for Skeletal Developmental Deformity and Injury Repair, School of Life Science and Medicine, Northwest University, Xi’an, China
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Cambria E, Coughlin MF, Floryan MA, Offeddu GS, Shelton SE, Kamm RD. Linking cell mechanical memory and cancer metastasis. Nat Rev Cancer 2024; 24:216-228. [PMID: 38238471 PMCID: PMC11146605 DOI: 10.1038/s41568-023-00656-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/01/2024]
Abstract
Metastasis causes most cancer-related deaths; however, the efficacy of anti-metastatic drugs is limited by incomplete understanding of the biological mechanisms that drive metastasis. Focusing on the mechanics of metastasis, we propose that the ability of tumour cells to survive the metastatic process is enhanced by mechanical stresses in the primary tumour microenvironment that select for well-adapted cells. In this Perspective, we suggest that biophysical adaptations favourable for metastasis are retained via mechanical memory, such that the extent of memory is influenced by both the magnitude and duration of the mechanical stress. Among the mechanical cues present in the primary tumour microenvironment, we focus on high matrix stiffness to illustrate how it alters tumour cell proliferation, survival, secretion of molecular factors, force generation, deformability, migration and invasion. We particularly centre our discussion on potential mechanisms of mechanical memory formation and retention via mechanotransduction and persistent epigenetic changes. Indeed, we propose that the biophysical adaptations that are induced by this process are retained throughout the metastatic process to improve tumour cell extravasation, survival and colonization in the distant organ. Deciphering mechanical memory mechanisms will be key to discovering a new class of anti-metastatic drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Cambria
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA.
| | - Mark F Coughlin
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Marie A Floryan
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Giovanni S Offeddu
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Sarah E Shelton
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Roger D Kamm
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA.
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA.
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9
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Jeffreys N, Brockman JM, Zhai Y, Ingber DE, Mooney DJ. Mechanical forces amplify TCR mechanotransduction in T cell activation and function. APPLIED PHYSICS REVIEWS 2024; 11:011304. [PMID: 38434676 PMCID: PMC10848667 DOI: 10.1063/5.0166848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
Adoptive T cell immunotherapies, including engineered T cell receptor (eTCR) and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell immunotherapies, have shown efficacy in treating a subset of hematologic malignancies, exhibit promise in solid tumors, and have many other potential applications, such as in fibrosis, autoimmunity, and regenerative medicine. While immunoengineering has focused on designing biomaterials to present biochemical cues to manipulate T cells ex vivo and in vivo, mechanical cues that regulate their biology have been largely underappreciated. This review highlights the contributions of mechanical force to several receptor-ligand interactions critical to T cell function, with central focus on the TCR-peptide-loaded major histocompatibility complex (pMHC). We then emphasize the role of mechanical forces in (i) allosteric strengthening of the TCR-pMHC interaction in amplifying ligand discrimination during T cell antigen recognition prior to activation and (ii) T cell interactions with the extracellular matrix. We then describe approaches to design eTCRs, CARs, and biomaterials to exploit TCR mechanosensitivity in order to potentiate T cell manufacturing and function in adoptive T cell immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Yunhao Zhai
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
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10
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Mierke CT. Extracellular Matrix Cues Regulate Mechanosensing and Mechanotransduction of Cancer Cells. Cells 2024; 13:96. [PMID: 38201302 PMCID: PMC10777970 DOI: 10.3390/cells13010096] [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: 11/12/2023] [Revised: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/01/2024] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Extracellular biophysical properties have particular implications for a wide spectrum of cellular behaviors and functions, including growth, motility, differentiation, apoptosis, gene expression, cell-matrix and cell-cell adhesion, and signal transduction including mechanotransduction. Cells not only react to unambiguously mechanical cues from the extracellular matrix (ECM), but can occasionally manipulate the mechanical features of the matrix in parallel with biological characteristics, thus interfering with downstream matrix-based cues in both physiological and pathological processes. Bidirectional interactions between cells and (bio)materials in vitro can alter cell phenotype and mechanotransduction, as well as ECM structure, intentionally or unintentionally. Interactions between cell and matrix mechanics in vivo are of particular importance in a variety of diseases, including primarily cancer. Stiffness values between normal and cancerous tissue can range between 500 Pa (soft) and 48 kPa (stiff), respectively. Even the shear flow can increase from 0.1-1 dyn/cm2 (normal tissue) to 1-10 dyn/cm2 (cancerous tissue). There are currently many new areas of activity in tumor research on various biological length scales, which are highlighted in this review. Moreover, the complexity of interactions between ECM and cancer cells is reduced to common features of different tumors and the characteristics are highlighted to identify the main pathways of interaction. This all contributes to the standardization of mechanotransduction models and approaches, which, ultimately, increases the understanding of the complex interaction. Finally, both the in vitro and in vivo effects of this mechanics-biology pairing have key insights and implications for clinical practice in tumor treatment and, consequently, clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Tanja Mierke
- Biological Physics Division, Peter Debye Institute of Soft Matter Physics, Faculty of Physics and Earth Science, Leipzig University, Linnéstraße 5, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
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11
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Dudaryeva OY, Bernhard S, Tibbitt MW, Labouesse C. Implications of Cellular Mechanical Memory in Bioengineering. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2023; 9:5985-5998. [PMID: 37797187 PMCID: PMC10646820 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.3c01007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
The ability to maintain and differentiate cells in vitro is critical to many advances in the field of bioengineering. However, on traditional, stiff (E ≈ GPa) culture substrates, cells are subjected to sustained mechanical stress that can lead to phenotypic changes. Such changes may remain even after transferring the cells to another scaffold or engrafting them in vivo and bias the outcomes of the biological investigation or clinical treatment. This persistence─or mechanical memory─was initially observed for sustained myofibroblast activation of pulmonary fibroblasts after culturing them on stiff (E ≈ 100 kPa) substrates. Aspects of mechanical memory have now been described in many in vitro contexts. In this Review, we discuss the stiffness-induced effectors of mechanical memory: structural changes in the cytoskeleton and activity of transcription factors and epigenetic modifiers. We then focus on how mechanical memory impacts cell expansion and tissue regeneration outcomes in bioengineering applications relying on prolonged 2D plastic culture, such as stem cell therapies and disease models. We propose that alternatives to traditional cell culture substrates can be used to mitigate or erase mechanical memory and improve the efficiency of downstream cell-based bioengineering applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oksana Y Dudaryeva
- Macromolecular Engineering Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering, ETH Zurich, Zurich 8092, Switzerland
- Department of Orthopedics, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht 3584, Netherlands
| | - Stéphane Bernhard
- Macromolecular Engineering Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering, ETH Zurich, Zurich 8092, Switzerland
| | - Mark W Tibbitt
- Macromolecular Engineering Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering, ETH Zurich, Zurich 8092, Switzerland
| | - Céline Labouesse
- Macromolecular Engineering Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering, ETH Zurich, Zurich 8092, Switzerland
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12
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Jain P, Pillai M, Duddu AS, Somarelli JA, Goyal Y, Jolly MK. Dynamical hallmarks of cancer: Phenotypic switching in melanoma and epithelial-mesenchymal plasticity. Semin Cancer Biol 2023; 96:48-63. [PMID: 37788736 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2023.09.007] [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: 04/19/2023] [Revised: 09/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
Phenotypic plasticity was recently incorporated as a hallmark of cancer. This plasticity can manifest along many interconnected axes, such as stemness and differentiation, drug-sensitive and drug-resistant states, and between epithelial and mesenchymal cell-states. Despite growing acceptance for phenotypic plasticity as a hallmark of cancer, the dynamics of this process remains poorly understood. In particular, the knowledge necessary for a predictive understanding of how individual cancer cells and populations of cells dynamically switch their phenotypes in response to the intensity and/or duration of their current and past environmental stimuli remains far from complete. Here, we present recent investigations of phenotypic plasticity from a systems-level perspective using two exemplars: epithelial-mesenchymal plasticity in carcinomas and phenotypic switching in melanoma. We highlight how an integrated computational-experimental approach has helped unravel insights into specific dynamical hallmarks of phenotypic plasticity in different cancers to address the following questions: a) how many distinct cell-states or phenotypes exist?; b) how reversible are transitions among these cell-states, and what factors control the extent of reversibility?; and c) how might cell-cell communication be able to alter rates of cell-state switching and enable diverse patterns of phenotypic heterogeneity? Understanding these dynamic features of phenotypic plasticity may be a key component in shifting the paradigm of cancer treatment from reactionary to a more predictive, proactive approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paras Jain
- Department of Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012, India
| | - Maalavika Pillai
- Department of Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012, India; Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; Center for Synthetic Biology, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | | | - Jason A Somarelli
- Department of Medicine, Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Yogesh Goyal
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; Center for Synthetic Biology, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Mohit Kumar Jolly
- Department of Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012, India.
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13
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Beedle AE, Roca-Cusachs P. The reversibility of cellular mechano-activation. Curr Opin Cell Biol 2023; 84:102229. [PMID: 37633090 DOI: 10.1016/j.ceb.2023.102229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2023] [Revised: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/28/2023]
Abstract
The cellular microenvironment is highly heterogeneous and dynamic. Therefore, cells must be equipped with molecular tools to adapt and respond to constantly fluctuating inputs. One such input is mechanical force, which activates signalling and regulates cell behaviour in the process of mechanotransduction. Whereas the mechanisms activating mechanotransduction are well studied, the reversibility of this process, whereby cells disassemble and reverse force-activated signalling pathways upon cessation of mechanical stimulation is far less understood. In this review we will outline some of the key experimental techniques to investigate the reversibility of mechanical signalling, and key discoveries arising from them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Em Beedle
- Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), 08028 Barcelona, Spain; Department of Physics, King's College London, London WC2R 2LS, UK.
| | - Pere Roca-Cusachs
- Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), 08028 Barcelona, Spain; University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain.
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14
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Madl CM. Accelerating aging with dynamic biomaterials: Recapitulating aged tissue phenotypes in engineered platforms. iScience 2023; 26:106825. [PMID: 37250776 PMCID: PMC10213044 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.106825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Aging is characterized by progressive decline in tissue function and represents the greatest risk factor for many diseases. Nevertheless, many fundamental mechanisms driving human aging remain poorly understood. Aging studies using model organisms are often limited in their applicability to humans. Mechanistic studies of human aging rely on relatively simple cell culture models that fail to replicate mature tissue function, making them poor surrogates for aged tissues. These culture systems generally lack well-controlled cellular microenvironments that capture the changes in tissue mechanics and microstructure that occur during aging. Biomaterial platforms presenting dynamic, physiologically relevant mechanical, structural, and biochemical cues can capture the complex changes in the cellular microenvironment in a well-defined manner, accelerating the process of cellular aging in model laboratory systems. By enabling selective tuning of relevant microenvironmental parameters, these biomaterials systems may enable identification of new therapeutic approaches to slow or reverse the detrimental effects of aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher M. Madl
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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15
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Almeida JA, Mathur J, Lee YL, Sarker B, Pathak A. Mechanically primed cells transfer memory to fibrous matrices for invasion across environments of distinct stiffness and dimensionality. Mol Biol Cell 2023; 34:ar54. [PMID: 36696158 PMCID: PMC10208097 DOI: 10.1091/mbc.e22-10-0469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Cells sense and migrate across mechanically dissimilar environments throughout development and disease progression. However, it remains unclear whether mechanical memory of past environments empowers cells to navigate new, three-dimensional extracellular matrices. Here, we show that cells previously primed on stiff, compared with soft, matrices generate a higher level of forces to remodel collagen fibers and promote invasion. This priming advantage persists in dense or stiffened collagen. We explain this memory-dependent, cross-environment cell invasion through a lattice-based model wherein stiff-primed cellular forces remodel collagen and minimize energy required for future cell invasion. According to our model, cells transfer their mechanical memory to the matrix via collagen alignment and tension, and this remodeled matrix informs future cell invasion. Thus, memory-laden cells overcome mechanosensing of softer or challenging future environments via a cell-matrix transfer of memory. Consistent with model predictions, depletion of yes-associated protein destabilizes the cellular memory required for collagen remodeling before invasion. We release tension in collagen fibers via laser ablation and disable fiber remodeling by lysyl-oxidase inhibition, both of which disrupt cell-to-matrix transfer of memory and hamper cross-environment invasion. These results have implications for cancer, fibrosis, and aging, where a potential cell-to-matrix transfer of mechanical memory of cells may generate a prolonged cellular response.
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Affiliation(s)
- José A. Almeida
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University, St. Louis, MO 63130
| | - Jairaj Mathur
- Department of Mechanical Engineering & Materials Science, Washington University, St. Louis, MO 63130
| | - Ye Lim Lee
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University, St. Louis, MO 63130
| | - Bapi Sarker
- Department of Mechanical Engineering & Materials Science, Washington University, St. Louis, MO 63130
| | - Amit Pathak
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University, St. Louis, MO 63130
- Department of Mechanical Engineering & Materials Science, Washington University, St. Louis, MO 63130
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16
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Alisafaei F, Moheimani H, Elson EL, Genin GM. A nuclear basis for mechanointelligence in cells. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2303569120. [PMID: 37126697 PMCID: PMC10175757 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2303569120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Farid Alisafaei
- NSF Science and Technology Center for Engineering MechanoBiology and Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, NJ07102
| | - Hamidreza Moheimani
- NSF Science and Technology Center for Engineering MechanoBiology, and Department of Mechanical Engineering & Materials Science, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO63130
| | - Elliot L. Elson
- NSF Science and Technology Center for Engineering MechanoBiology, and Department of Mechanical Engineering & Materials Science, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO63130
| | - Guy M. Genin
- NSF Science and Technology Center for Engineering MechanoBiology, and Department of Mechanical Engineering & Materials Science, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO63130
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17
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Kao TW, Liu YS, Yang CY, Lee OKS. Mechanotransduction of mesenchymal stem cells and hemodynamic implications. CHINESE J PHYSIOL 2023; 66:55-64. [PMID: 37082993 DOI: 10.4103/cjop.cjop-d-22-00144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) possess the capacity for self-renewal and multipotency. The traditional approach to manipulating MSC's fate choice predominantly relies on biochemical stimulation. Accumulating evidence also suggests the role of physical input in MSCs differentiation. Therefore, investigating mechanotransduction at the molecular level and related to tissue-specific cell functions sheds light on the responses secondary to mechanical forces. In this review, a new frontier aiming to optimize the cultural parameters was illustrated, i.e. spatial boundary condition, which recapitulates in vivo physiology and facilitates the investigations of cellular behavior. The concept of mechanical memory was additionally addressed to appreciate how MSCs store imprints from previous culture niches. Besides, different types of forces as physical stimuli were of interest based on the association with the respective signaling pathways and the differentiation outcome. The downstream mechanoreceptors and their corresponding effects were further pinpointed. The cardiovascular system or immune system may share similar mechanisms of mechanosensing and mechanotransduction; for example, resident stem cells in a vascular wall and recruited MSCs in the bloodstream experience mechanical forces such as stretch and fluid shear stress. In addition, baroreceptors or mechanosensors of endothelial cells detect changes in blood flow, pass over signals induced by mechanical stimuli and eventually maintain arterial pressure at the physiological level. These mechanosensitive receptors transduce pressure variation and regulate endothelial barrier functions. The exact signal transduction is considered context dependent but still elusive. In this review, we summarized the current evidence of how mechanical stimuli impact MSCs commitment and the underlying mechanisms. Future perspectives are anticipated to focus on the application of cardiovascular bioengineering and regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting-Wei Kao
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Shiuan Liu
- School of Medicine, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Yu Yang
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University; Faculty of Medicine, School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University; Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Oscar Kuang-Sheng Lee
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University; Stem Cell Research Center, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University; Department of Medical Research, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei; Department of Orthopedics, China Medical University Hospital; Center for Translational Genomics and Regenerative Medicine Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
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18
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Kim MH, Thanuthanakhun N, Kino-Oka M. Novel strategy to improve hepatocyte differentiation stability through synchronized behavior-driven mechanical memory of iPSCs. Biotechnol Bioeng 2023; 120:593-607. [PMID: 36369977 DOI: 10.1002/bit.28285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Cellular homeostasis is assumed to be regulated by the coordination of dynamic behaviors. Lack of efficient methods for synchronizing large quantities of cells makes studying cell culture strategies for bioprocess development challenging. Here, we demonstrate a novel application of botulinum hemagglutinin (HA), an E-cadherin function-blocking agent, to synchronize behavior-driven mechanical memory in human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) cultures. Application of HA to hiPSCs resulted in a decrease in actin bundling and disruption of colony formation in a concentration-and time-dependent manner. Interestingly, cytoskeleton rearrangement in cells with prolonged exposure to HA resulted in mechanical memory synchronization with Yes-associated protein, which increased pluripotent cell homogeneity. Synchronized hiPSCs have higher capability to differentiate into functional hepatocytes than unsynchronized hiPSCs, resulting in improved efficiency and robustness of hepatocyte differentiation. Thus, our strategy for cell behavior synchronization before differentiation induction provides an approach against the instability of differentiation of pluripotent cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mee-Hae Kim
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Naruchit Thanuthanakhun
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Masahiro Kino-Oka
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan.,Research Base for Cell Manufacturability, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
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19
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Understanding How Cells Probe the World: A Preliminary Step towards Modeling Cell Behavior? Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032266. [PMID: 36768586 PMCID: PMC9916635 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032266] [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: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Cell biologists have long aimed at quantitatively modeling cell function. Recently, the outstanding progress of high-throughput measurement methods and data processing tools has made this a realistic goal. The aim of this paper is twofold: First, to suggest that, while much progress has been done in modeling cell states and transitions, current accounts of environmental cues driving these transitions remain insufficient. There is a need to provide an integrated view of the biochemical, topographical and mechanical information processed by cells to take decisions. It might be rewarding in the near future to try to connect cell environmental cues to physiologically relevant outcomes rather than modeling relationships between these cues and internal signaling networks. The second aim of this paper is to review exogenous signals that are sensed by living cells and significantly influence fate decisions. Indeed, in addition to the composition of the surrounding medium, cells are highly sensitive to the properties of neighboring surfaces, including the spatial organization of anchored molecules and substrate mechanical and topographical properties. These properties should thus be included in models of cell behavior. It is also suggested that attempts at cell modeling could strongly benefit from two research lines: (i) trying to decipher the way cells encode the information they retrieve from environment analysis, and (ii) developing more standardized means of assessing the quality of proposed models, as was done in other research domains such as protein structure prediction.
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20
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Schuster R, Younesi F, Ezzo M, Hinz B. The Role of Myofibroblasts in Physiological and Pathological Tissue Repair. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Biol 2023; 15:cshperspect.a041231. [PMID: 36123034 PMCID: PMC9808581 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a041231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 44.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Myofibroblasts are the construction workers of wound healing and repair damaged tissues by producing and organizing collagen/extracellular matrix (ECM) into scar tissue. Scar tissue effectively and quickly restores the mechanical integrity of lost tissue architecture but comes at the price of lost tissue functionality. Fibrotic diseases caused by excessive or persistent myofibroblast activity can lead to organ failure. This review defines myofibroblast terminology, phenotypic characteristics, and functions. We will focus on the central role of the cell, ECM, and tissue mechanics in regulating tissue repair by controlling myofibroblast action. Additionally, we will discuss how therapies based on mechanical intervention potentially ameliorate wound healing outcomes. Although myofibroblast physiology and pathology affect all organs, we will emphasize cutaneous wound healing and hypertrophic scarring as paradigms for normal tissue repair versus fibrosis. A central message of this review is that myofibroblasts can be activated from multiple cell sources, varying with local environment and type of injury, to either restore tissue integrity and organ function or create an inappropriate mechanical environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronen Schuster
- Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, M5S 3E2 Ontario, Canada
| | - Fereshteh Younesi
- Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, M5S 3E2 Ontario, Canada.,Laboratory of Tissue Repair and Regeneration, Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science of the St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario M5B 1T8, Canada
| | - Maya Ezzo
- Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, M5S 3E2 Ontario, Canada.,Laboratory of Tissue Repair and Regeneration, Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science of the St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario M5B 1T8, Canada
| | - Boris Hinz
- Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, M5S 3E2 Ontario, Canada.,Laboratory of Tissue Repair and Regeneration, Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science of the St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario M5B 1T8, Canada
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21
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Yang L, Li J, Zang G, Song S, Sun Z, Li X, Li Y, Xie Z, Zhang G, Gui N, Zhu S, Chen T, Cai Y, Zhao Y. Pin1/YAP pathway mediates matrix stiffness-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition driving cervical cancer metastasis via a non-Hippo mechanism. Bioeng Transl Med 2023; 8:e10375. [PMID: 36684109 PMCID: PMC9842039 DOI: 10.1002/btm2.10375] [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: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Cervical cancer metastasis is an important cause of death in cervical cancer. Previous studies have shown that epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of tumors promotes its invasive and metastatic capacity. Alterations in the extracellular matrix (ECM) and mechanical signaling are closely associated with cancer cell metastasis. However, it is unclear how matrix stiffness as an independent cue triggers EMT and promotes cervical cancer metastasis. Using collagen-coated polyacrylamide hydrogel models and animal models, we investigated the effect of matrix stiffness on EMT and metastasis in cervical cancer. Our data showed that high matrix stiffness promotes EMT and migration of cervical cancer hela cell lines in vitro and in vivo. Notably, we found that matrix stiffness regulates yes-associated protein (YAP) activity via PPIase non-mitotic a-interaction 1 (Pin1) with a non-Hippo mechanism. These data indicate that matrix stiffness of the tumor microenvironment positively regulates EMT in cervical cancer through the Pin1/YAP pathway, and this study deepens our understanding of cervical cancer biomechanics and may provide new ideas for the treatment of cervical cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Long Yang
- Laboratory of Tissue and Cell BiologyLab Teaching & Management Center, Chongqing Medical UniversityYuzhong District, ChongqingChina
| | - Jingwen Li
- Laboratory of Tissue and Cell BiologyLab Teaching & Management Center, Chongqing Medical UniversityYuzhong District, ChongqingChina
| | - Guangchao Zang
- Laboratory of Tissue and Cell BiologyLab Teaching & Management Center, Chongqing Medical UniversityYuzhong District, ChongqingChina
| | - Sijie Song
- Laboratory of Tissue and Cell BiologyLab Teaching & Management Center, Chongqing Medical UniversityYuzhong District, ChongqingChina
| | - Zhengwen Sun
- Laboratory of Tissue and Cell BiologyLab Teaching & Management Center, Chongqing Medical UniversityYuzhong District, ChongqingChina
| | - Xinyue Li
- Laboratory of Tissue and Cell BiologyLab Teaching & Management Center, Chongqing Medical UniversityYuzhong District, ChongqingChina
| | - Yuanzhu Li
- Laboratory of Tissue and Cell BiologyLab Teaching & Management Center, Chongqing Medical UniversityYuzhong District, ChongqingChina
| | - Zhenhong Xie
- Laboratory of Tissue and Cell BiologyLab Teaching & Management Center, Chongqing Medical UniversityYuzhong District, ChongqingChina
| | - Guangyuan Zhang
- Laboratory of Tissue and Cell BiologyLab Teaching & Management Center, Chongqing Medical UniversityYuzhong District, ChongqingChina
| | - Ni Gui
- Laboratory of Tissue and Cell BiologyLab Teaching & Management Center, Chongqing Medical UniversityYuzhong District, ChongqingChina
| | - Shu Zhu
- Laboratory of Tissue and Cell BiologyLab Teaching & Management Center, Chongqing Medical UniversityYuzhong District, ChongqingChina
| | - Tingting Chen
- Laboratory of Tissue and Cell BiologyLab Teaching & Management Center, Chongqing Medical UniversityYuzhong District, ChongqingChina
| | - Yikui Cai
- Laboratory of Tissue and Cell BiologyLab Teaching & Management Center, Chongqing Medical UniversityYuzhong District, ChongqingChina
| | - Yinping Zhao
- Laboratory of Tissue and Cell BiologyLab Teaching & Management Center, Chongqing Medical UniversityYuzhong District, ChongqingChina
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22
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Jain P, Corbo S, Mohammad K, Sahoo S, Ranganathan S, George JT, Levine H, Taube J, Toneff M, Jolly MK. Epigenetic memory acquired during long-term EMT induction governs the recovery to the epithelial state. J R Soc Interface 2023; 20:20220627. [PMID: 36628532 PMCID: PMC9832289 DOI: 10.1098/rsif.2022.0627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and its reverse mesenchymal-epithelial transition (MET) are critical during embryonic development, wound healing and cancer metastasis. While phenotypic changes during short-term EMT induction are reversible, long-term EMT induction has been often associated with irreversibility. Here, we show that phenotypic changes seen in MCF10A cells upon long-term EMT induction by TGFβ need not be irreversible, but have relatively longer time scales of reversibility than those seen in short-term induction. Next, using a phenomenological mathematical model to account for the chromatin-mediated epigenetic silencing of the miR-200 family by ZEB family, we highlight how the epigenetic memory gained during long-term EMT induction can slow the recovery to the epithelial state post-TGFβ withdrawal. Our results suggest that epigenetic modifiers can govern the extent and time scale of EMT reversibility and advise caution against labelling phenotypic changes seen in long-term EMT induction as 'irreversible'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paras Jain
- Centre for BioSystems Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru 560012, India
| | - Sophia Corbo
- Department of Biology, Widener University, Chester, PA 19013, USA
| | - Kulsoom Mohammad
- Department of Biology, Widener University, Chester, PA 19013, USA
| | - Sarthak Sahoo
- Centre for BioSystems Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru 560012, India
| | | | - Jason T. George
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 76798, USA
| | - Herbert Levine
- Center for Theoretical Biological Physics and Departments of Physics and Bioengineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Joseph Taube
- Department of Biology, Baylor University, Waco, TX 76706, USA
| | - Michael Toneff
- Department of Biology, Widener University, Chester, PA 19013, USA
| | - Mohit Kumar Jolly
- Centre for BioSystems Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru 560012, India
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23
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Strat AN, Kirschner A, Yoo H, Singh A, Bagué T, Li H, Herberg S, Ganapathy PS. Engineering a 3D hydrogel system to study optic nerve head astrocyte morphology and behavior. Exp Eye Res 2022; 220:109102. [PMID: 35525298 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2022.109102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2022] [Revised: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ana N Strat
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, 13210, USA; Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, 13210, USA; BioInspired Institute, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY, 13244, USA
| | - Alexander Kirschner
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, 13210, USA
| | - Hannah Yoo
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, 13210, USA
| | - Ayushi Singh
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, 13210, USA; BioInspired Institute, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY, 13244, USA; Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, 13210, USA
| | - Tyler Bagué
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, 13210, USA
| | - Haiyan Li
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, 13210, USA; BioInspired Institute, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY, 13244, USA; Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, 13210, USA
| | - Samuel Herberg
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, 13210, USA; BioInspired Institute, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY, 13244, USA; Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, 13210, USA; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, 13210, USA; Department of Biomedical and Chemical Engineering, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY, 13244, USA
| | - Preethi S Ganapathy
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, 13210, USA; Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, 13210, USA; BioInspired Institute, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY, 13244, USA.
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24
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Subbalakshmi AR, Ashraf B, Jolly MK. Biophysical and biochemical attributes of hybrid epithelial/mesenchymal phenotypes. Phys Biol 2022; 19. [PMID: 34986465 DOI: 10.1088/1478-3975/ac482c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
The Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT) is a biological phenomenon associated with explicit phenotypic and molecular changes in cellular traits. Unlike the earlier-held popular belief of it being a binary process, EMT is now thought of as a landscape including diverse hybrid E/M phenotypes manifested by varying degrees of the transition. These hybrid cells can co-express both epithelial and mesenchymal markers and/or functional traits, and can possess the property of collective cell migration, enhanced tumor-initiating ability, and immune/targeted therapy-evasive features, all of which are often associated with worse patient outcomes. These characteristics of the hybrid E/M cells have led to a surge in studies that map their biophysical and biochemical hallmarks that can be helpful in exploiting their therapeutic vulnerabilities. This review discusses recent advances made in investigating hybrid E/M phenotype(s) from diverse biophysical and biochemical aspects by integrating live cell-imaging, cellular morphology quantification and mathematical modelling, and highlights a set of questions that remain unanswered about the dynamics of hybrid E/M states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayalur Raghu Subbalakshmi
- Indian Institute of Science, Centre for BioSystems Science and Engineering, Bangalore, 560012, INDIA
| | - Bazella Ashraf
- Central University of Kashmir, Department of Biotechnology, Ganderbal, Jammu and Kashmir, 191201, INDIA
| | - Mohit Kumar Jolly
- Indian Institute of Science, Centre for BioSystems Science and Engineering, Bangalore, 560012, INDIA
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