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Silva B, Marques EF, Gomes AC. Recent advances in in vitro models simulating the female genital tract toward more effective intravaginal therapeutic delivery. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2024:1-21. [PMID: 39001669 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2024.2380338] [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: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Intravaginal drug delivery has emerged as a promising avenue for treating a spectrum of systemic and local female genital tract (FGT) conditions, using biomaterials as carriers or scaffolds for targeted and efficient administration. Much effort has been made to understand the natural barriers of this route and improve the delivery system to achieve an efficient therapeutic response. AREAS COVERED In this review, we conducted a comprehensive literature search using multiple databases (PubMed Scopus Web of Science Google Scholar), to discuss the potential of intravaginal therapeutic delivery, as well as the obstacles unique to this route. The in vitro cell models of the FGT and how they can be applied to probing intravaginal drug delivery are then analyzed. We further explore the limitations of the existing models and the possibilities to make them more promising for delivery studies or biomaterial validation. Complementary information is provided by in vitro acellular techniques that may shed light on mucus-drug interaction. EXPERT OPINION Advances in 3D models and cell cultures have enhanced our understanding of the FGT, but they still fail to replicate all variables. Future research should aim to use complementary methods, ensure stability, and develop consistent protocols to improve therapy evaluation and create better predictive in vitro models for women's health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruna Silva
- CBMA (Centre of Molecular and Environmental Biology), Department of Biology, Campus of Gualtar, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
- CIQUP, Departamento de Química e Bioquímica, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Eduardo F Marques
- CIQUP, Departamento de Química e Bioquímica, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Andreia C Gomes
- CBMA (Centre of Molecular and Environmental Biology), Department of Biology, Campus of Gualtar, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
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2
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Wu T, Wu Y, Yan J, Zhang J, Wang S. Microfluidic chip as a promising evaluation method in assisted reproduction: A systematic review. Bioeng Transl Med 2024; 9:e10625. [PMID: 38435817 PMCID: PMC10905557 DOI: 10.1002/btm2.10625] [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: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
The aim of assisted reproductive technology (ART) is to select the high-quality sperm, oocytes, and embryos, and finally achieve a successful pregnancy. However, functional evaluation is hindered by intra- and inter-operator variability. Microfluidic chips emerge as the one of the most powerful tools to analyze biological samples for reduced size, precise control, and flexible extension. Herein, a systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, and IEEE Xplore databases until March 2023. We displayed and prospected all detection strategies based on microfluidics in the ART field. After full-text screening, 71 studies were identified as eligible for inclusion. The percentages of human and mouse studies equaled with 31.5%. The prominent country in terms of publication number was the USA (n = 13). Polydimethylsiloxane (n = 49) and soft lithography (n = 28) were the most commonly used material and fabrication method, respectively. All articles were classified into three types: sperm (n = 38), oocytes (n = 20), and embryos (n = 13). The assessment contents included motility, counting, mechanics, permeability, impedance, secretion, oxygen consumption, and metabolism. Collectively, the microfluidic chip technology facilitates more efficient, accurate, and objective evaluation in ART. It can even be combined with artificial intelligence to assist the daily activities of embryologists. More well-designed clinical studies and affordable integrated microfluidic chips are needed to validate the safety, efficacy, and reproducibility. Trial registration: The protocol was registered in the Open Science Frame REGISTRIES (identification: osf.io/6rv4a).
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong Wu
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological DiseasesTongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of EducationTongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyTongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Yangyang Wu
- College of Animal Science and TechnologySichuan Agricultural UniversityYa'anSichuanChina
| | - Jinfeng Yan
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological DiseasesTongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of EducationTongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyTongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
- School of Materials Science and EngineeringHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Jinjin Zhang
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological DiseasesTongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of EducationTongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyTongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Shixuan Wang
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological DiseasesTongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of EducationTongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyTongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
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3
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Sardelli L, Campanile M, Boeri L, Donnaloja F, Fanizza F, Perottoni S, Petrini P, Albani D, Giordano C. A novel on-a-chip system with a 3D-bioinspired gut mucus suitable to investigate bacterial endotoxins dynamics. Mater Today Bio 2024; 24:100898. [PMID: 38204482 PMCID: PMC10776420 DOI: 10.1016/j.mtbio.2023.100898] [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: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The possible pathogenic impact of pro-inflammatory molecules produced by the gut microbiota is one of the hypotheses considered at the basis of the biomolecular dialogue governing the microbiota-gut-brain axis. Among these molecules, lipopolysaccharides (LPS) produced by Gram-negative gut microbiota strains may have a potential key role due to their toxic effects in both the gut and the brain. In this work, we engineered a new dynamic fluidic system, the MINERVA device (MI-device), with the potential to advance the current knowledge of the biological mechanisms regulating the microbiota-gut molecular crosstalk. The MI-device supported the growth of bacteria that are part of the intestinal microbiota under dynamic conditions within a 3D moving mucus model, with features comparable to the physiological conditions (storage modulus of 80 ± 19 Pa, network mesh size of 41 ± 3 nm), without affecting their viability (∼ 109 bacteria/mL). The integration of a fluidically optimized and user-friendly design with a bioinspired microenvironment enabled the sterile extraction and quantification of the LPS produced within the mucus by bacteria (from 423 ± 34 ng/mL to 1785 ± 91 ng/mL). Compatibility with commercially available Transwell-like inserts allows the user to precisely control the transport phenomena that occur between the two chambers by selecting the pore density of the insert membrane without changing the design of the system. The MI-device is able to provide the flow of sterile medium enriched with LPS directly produced by bacteria, opening up the possibility of studying the effects of bacteria-derived molecules on cells in depth, as well as the assessment and characterization of their effects in a physiological or pathological scenario.
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Affiliation(s)
- L. Sardelli
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering ‘Giulio Natta,’ Politecnico di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - M. Campanile
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering ‘Giulio Natta,’ Politecnico di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - L. Boeri
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering ‘Giulio Natta,’ Politecnico di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - F. Donnaloja
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering ‘Giulio Natta,’ Politecnico di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - F. Fanizza
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering ‘Giulio Natta,’ Politecnico di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - S. Perottoni
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering ‘Giulio Natta,’ Politecnico di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - P. Petrini
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering ‘Giulio Natta,’ Politecnico di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - D. Albani
- Department of Neuroscience, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - C. Giordano
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering ‘Giulio Natta,’ Politecnico di Milano, Milan, Italy
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4
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Jia Z, Maghaydah Y, Zdanys K, Kuchel GA, Diniz BS, Liu C. CRISPR-Powered Aptasensor for Diagnostics of Alzheimer's Disease. ACS Sens 2024; 9:398-405. [PMID: 38154140 DOI: 10.1021/acssensors.3c02167] [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: 12/30/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder and the most common cause of dementia, characterized by the accumulation of amyloid beta (Aβ) peptides in the brain. Here, we present a simple, rapid, and affordable CRISPR-powered aptasensor for the quantitative detection of Aβ40 and Aβ42 biomarkers in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples, enabling early and accurate diagnostics of AD patients. The aptasensor couples the high specificity of aptamers for Aβ biomarkers with CRISPR-Cas12a-based fluorescence detection. The CRISPR-powered aptasensor enables us to detect Aβ40 and Aβ42 in CSF samples within 60 min, achieving a detection sensitivity of 1 pg/mL and 0.1 pg/mL, respectively. To validate its clinical utility, we quantitatively detected Aβ40 and Aβ42 biomarkers in clinical CSF samples. Furthermore, by combining CSF Aβ42 levels with the c(Aβ42)/c(Aβ40) ratio, we achieved an accurate diagnostic classification of AD patients and healthy individuals, showing superior performance over the conventional ELISA method. We believe that our innovative aptasensor approach holds promise for the early diagnostic classification of AD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengyang Jia
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, Connecticut 06030, United States
| | - Yazeed Maghaydah
- Center on Aging, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, Connecticut 06030, United States
| | - Kristina Zdanys
- Department of Psychiatry, Division of Geriatric Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, Connecticut 06030, United States
| | - George A Kuchel
- Center on Aging, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, Connecticut 06030, United States
| | - Breno Satler Diniz
- Center on Aging, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, Connecticut 06030, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, Division of Geriatric Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, Connecticut 06030, United States
| | - Changchun Liu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, Connecticut 06030, United States
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5
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Miyazaki K, Sasaki A, Mizuuchi H. Advances in the Evaluation of Gastrointestinal Absorption Considering the Mucus Layer. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2714. [PMID: 38140055 PMCID: PMC10747107 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15122714] [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: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Because of the increasing sophistication of formulation technology and the increasing polymerization of compounds directed toward undruggable drug targets, the influence of the mucus layer on gastrointestinal drug absorption has received renewed attention. Therefore, understanding the complex structure of the mucus layer containing highly glycosylated glycoprotein mucins, lipids bound to the mucins, and water held by glycans interacting with each other is critical. Recent advances in cell culture and engineering techniques have led to the development of evaluation systems that closely mimic the ecological environment and have been applied to the evaluation of gastrointestinal drug absorption while considering the mucus layer. This review provides a better understanding of the mucus layer components and the gastrointestinal tract's biological defense barrier, selects an assessment system for drug absorption in the mucus layer based on evaluation objectives, and discusses the overview and features of each assessment system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaori Miyazaki
- DMPK Research Laboratories, Innovative Research Division, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation, 1000 Kamoshida, Aoba-ku, Yokohama 227-0033, Japan; (A.S.); (H.M.)
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6
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Kaya YA, de Zoete MR, Steba GS. Advanced Technologies for Studying Microbiome-Female Reproductive Tract Interactions: Organoids, Organoids-on-a-Chip, and Beyond. Semin Reprod Med 2023; 41:160-171. [PMID: 38262440 DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-1778067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
The female reproductive tract (FRT) is home to diverse microbial communities that play a pivotal role in reproductive health and disorders such as infertility, endometriosis, and cervical cancer. To understand the complex host-microbiota interactions within the FRT, models that authentically replicate the FRT's environment, including the interplay between the microbiota, mucus layer, immune system, and hormonal cycle, are key. Recent strides in organoid and microfluidic technologies are propelling research in this domain, offering insights into FRT-microbiota interactions and potential therapeutic avenues. This review delves into the current state of FRT organoid models and microbe integration techniques, evaluating their merits and challenges for specific research objectives. Emphasis is placed on innovative approaches and applications, including integrating organoids with microfluidics, and using patient-derived biobanks, as this offers potential for deeper mechanistic insights and personalized therapeutic strategies. Modeling various FRT properties in organoids is explored, from encompassing age-related epithelial features, oxygen levels, and hormonal effects to mucus layers, immune responses, and microbial interactions, highlighting their potential to transform reproductive health research and predict possible outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marcel R de Zoete
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University Medical Centre, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Gaby S Steba
- Division of Female and Baby, Department of Reproductive Medicine and Gynaecology, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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7
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Gimondi S, Ferreira H, Reis RL, Neves NM. Microfluidic Devices: A Tool for Nanoparticle Synthesis and Performance Evaluation. ACS NANO 2023; 17:14205-14228. [PMID: 37498731 PMCID: PMC10416572 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c01117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
The use of nanoparticles (NPs) in nanomedicine holds great promise for the treatment of diseases for which conventional therapies present serious limitations. Additionally, NPs can drastically improve early diagnosis and follow-up of many disorders. However, to harness their full capabilities, they must be precisely designed, produced, and tested in relevant models. Microfluidic systems can simulate dynamic fluid flows, gradients, specific microenvironments, and multiorgan complexes, providing an efficient and cost-effective approach for both NPs synthesis and screening. Microfluidic technologies allow for the synthesis of NPs under controlled conditions, enhancing batch-to-batch reproducibility. Moreover, due to the versatility of microfluidic devices, it is possible to generate and customize endless platforms for rapid and efficient in vitro and in vivo screening of NPs' performance. Indeed, microfluidic devices show great potential as advanced systems for small organism manipulation and immobilization. In this review, first we summarize the major microfluidic platforms that allow for controlled NPs synthesis. Next, we will discuss the most innovative microfluidic platforms that enable mimicking in vitro environments as well as give insights into organism-on-a-chip and their promising application for NPs screening. We conclude this review with a critical assessment of the current challenges and possible future directions of microfluidic systems in NPs synthesis and screening to impact the field of nanomedicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Gimondi
- 3B’s
Research Group, I3Bs − Research Institute on Biomaterials, Biodegradables and Biomimetics, University of Minho, Headquarters
of the European Institute of Excellence on Tissue Engineering and
Regenerative Medicine, AvePark, Parque
de Ciência e Tecnologia, Zona Industrial da Gandra, 4805-017 Barco, Guimarães, Portugal
- ICVS/3B’s−PT
Government Associate Laboratory, 4805-017 Braga, Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Helena Ferreira
- 3B’s
Research Group, I3Bs − Research Institute on Biomaterials, Biodegradables and Biomimetics, University of Minho, Headquarters
of the European Institute of Excellence on Tissue Engineering and
Regenerative Medicine, AvePark, Parque
de Ciência e Tecnologia, Zona Industrial da Gandra, 4805-017 Barco, Guimarães, Portugal
- ICVS/3B’s−PT
Government Associate Laboratory, 4805-017 Braga, Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Rui L. Reis
- 3B’s
Research Group, I3Bs − Research Institute on Biomaterials, Biodegradables and Biomimetics, University of Minho, Headquarters
of the European Institute of Excellence on Tissue Engineering and
Regenerative Medicine, AvePark, Parque
de Ciência e Tecnologia, Zona Industrial da Gandra, 4805-017 Barco, Guimarães, Portugal
- ICVS/3B’s−PT
Government Associate Laboratory, 4805-017 Braga, Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Nuno M. Neves
- 3B’s
Research Group, I3Bs − Research Institute on Biomaterials, Biodegradables and Biomimetics, University of Minho, Headquarters
of the European Institute of Excellence on Tissue Engineering and
Regenerative Medicine, AvePark, Parque
de Ciência e Tecnologia, Zona Industrial da Gandra, 4805-017 Barco, Guimarães, Portugal
- ICVS/3B’s−PT
Government Associate Laboratory, 4805-017 Braga, Guimarães, Portugal
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8
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Wright L, Wignall A, Jõemetsa S, Joyce P, Prestidge CA. A membrane-free microfluidic approach to mucus permeation for efficient differentiation of mucoadhesive and mucopermeating nanoparticulate systems. Drug Deliv Transl Res 2023; 13:1088-1101. [PMID: 36520273 DOI: 10.1007/s13346-022-01274-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The gastrointestinal mucus barrier is a widely overlooked yet essential component of the intestinal epithelium, responsible for the body's protection against harmful pathogens and particulates. This, coupled with the increasing utilisation of biological molecules as therapeutics (e.g. monoclonal antibodies, RNA vaccines and synthetic proteins) and nanoparticle formulations for drug delivery, necessitates that we consider the additional absorption barrier that the mucus layer may pose. It is imperative that in vitro permeability methods can accurately model this barrier in addition to standardised cellular testing. In this study, a mucus-on-a-chip (MOAC) microfluidic device was engineered and developed to quantify the permeation kinetics of nanoparticles through a biorelevant synthetic mucus layer. Three equivalently sized nanoparticle systems, formulated from chitosan (CSNP), mesoporous silica (MSNP) and poly (lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA-NP) were prepared to encompass various surface chemistries and nanostructures and were assessed for their mucopermeation within the MOAC. Utilising this device, the mucoadhesive behaviour of chitosan nanoparticles was clearly visualised, a phenomenon not often observed via standard permeation models. In contrast, MSNP and PLGA-NP displayed mucopermeation, with significant differences in permeation pattern due to specific mucus-nanoparticle binding. Further optimisation of the MOAC to include a more biorelevant mucus mimic resulted in 5.5-fold hindered PLGA-NP permeation compared to a mucin solution. Furthermore, tracking of PLGA-NP at a single nanoparticle resolution revealed rank-order correlations between particle diffusivity and MOAC permeation. This device, including utilisation of biosimilar mucus, provides a unique ability to quantify both mucoadhesion and mucopenetration of nano-formulations and elucidate mucus binding interactions on a microscopic scale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leah Wright
- UniSA: Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Anthony Wignall
- UniSA: Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Silver Jõemetsa
- Department of Physics, Chalmers University of Technology, Göteborg, Sweden
- Department of Integrative Structural and Computational Biology, Scripps Research, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Paul Joyce
- UniSA: Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Clive A Prestidge
- UniSA: Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia.
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9
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Izadifar Z, Sontheimer-Phelps A, Lubamba BA, Bai H, Fadel C, Stejskalova A, Ozkan A, Dasgupta Q, Bein A, Junaid A, Gulati A, Mahajan G, Kim S, LoGrande NT, Naziripour A, Ingber DE. Modeling mucus physiology and pathophysiology in human organs-on-chips. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2022; 191:114542. [PMID: 36179916 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2022.114542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Revised: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
The surfaces of human internal organs are lined by a mucus layer that ensures symbiotic relationships with commensal microbiome while protecting against potentially injurious environmental chemicals, toxins, and pathogens, and disruption of this layer can contribute to disease development. Studying mucus biology has been challenging due to the lack of physiologically relevant human in vitro models. Here we review recent progress that has been made in the development of human organ-on-a-chip microfluidic culture models that reconstitute epithelial tissue barriers and physiologically relevant mucus layers with a focus on lung, colon, small intestine, cervix and vagina. These organ-on-a-chip models that incorporate dynamic fluid flow, air-liquid interfaces, and physiologically relevant mechanical cues can be used to study mucus composition, mechanics, and structure, as well as investigate its contributions to human health and disease with a level of biomimicry not possible in the past.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zohreh Izadifar
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | | | - Bob A Lubamba
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Haiqing Bai
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Cicely Fadel
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Anna Stejskalova
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Alican Ozkan
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Queeny Dasgupta
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Amir Bein
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Abidemi Junaid
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Aakanksha Gulati
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Gautam Mahajan
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Seongmin Kim
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Nina T LoGrande
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Arash Naziripour
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Donald E Ingber
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, United States; Vascular Biology Program, Boston Children's Hospital and Department of Pathology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, United States; Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Cambridge, MA 02138, United Kingdom.
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10
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Carton F, Malatesta M. Assessing the interactions between nanoparticles and biological barriers in vitro: a new challenge for microscopy techniques in nanomedicine. Eur J Histochem 2022; 66. [DOI: 10.4081/ejh.2022.3603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Nanoconstructs intended to be used as biomedical tool must be assessed for their capability to cross biological barriers. However, studying in vivo the permeability of biological barriers to nanoparticles is quite difficult due to the many structural and functional factors involved. Therefore, the in vitro modeling of biological barriers -2D cell monocultures, 2D/3D cell co-cultures, microfluidic devices- is gaining more and more relevance in nanomedical research. Microscopy techniques play a crucial role in these studies, as they allow both visualizing nanoparticles inside the biological barrier and evaluating their impact on the barrier components. This paper provides an overview of the various microscopical approaches used to investigate nanoparticle translocation through in vitro biological barrier models. The high number of scientific articles reported highlights the great contribution of the morphological and histochemical approach to the knowledge of the dynamic interactions between nanoconstructs and the living environment.
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11
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In Vitro Models of Biological Barriers for Nanomedical Research. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23168910. [PMID: 36012181 PMCID: PMC9408841 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23168910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 08/06/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Nanoconstructs developed for biomedical purposes must overcome diverse biological barriers before reaching the target where playing their therapeutic or diagnostic function. In vivo models are very complex and unsuitable to distinguish the roles plaid by the multiple biological barriers on nanoparticle biodistribution and effect; in addition, they are costly, time-consuming and subject to strict ethical regulation. For these reasons, simplified in vitro models are preferred, at least for the earlier phases of the nanoconstruct development. Many in vitro models have therefore been set up. Each model has its own pros and cons: conventional 2D cell cultures are simple and cost-effective, but the information remains limited to single cells; cell monolayers allow the formation of cell–cell junctions and the assessment of nanoparticle translocation across structured barriers but they lack three-dimensionality; 3D cell culture systems are more appropriate to test in vitro nanoparticle biodistribution but they are static; finally, bioreactors and microfluidic devices can mimicking the physiological flow occurring in vivo thus providing in vitro biological barrier models suitable to reliably assess nanoparticles relocation. In this evolving context, the present review provides an overview of the most representative and performing in vitro models of biological barriers set up for nanomedical research.
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12
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Sardelli L, Vangosa FB, Merli M, Ziccarelli A, Visentin S, Visai L, Petrini P. Bioinspired in vitro intestinal mucus model for 3D-dynamic culture of bacteria. BIOMATERIALS ADVANCES 2022; 139:213022. [PMID: 35891596 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioadv.2022.213022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2022] [Revised: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The intestinal mucus is a biological barrier that supports the intestinal microbiota growth and filters molecules. To perform these functions, mucus possesses optimized microstructure and viscoelastic properties and it is steadily replenished thus flowing along the gut. The available in vitro intestinal mucus models are useful tools in investigating the microbiota-human cells interaction, and are used as matrices for bacterial culture or as static component of microfluidic devices like gut-on-chips. The aim of this work is to engineer an in vitro mucus models (I-Bac3Gel) addressing in a single system physiological viscoelastic properties (i.e., 2-200 Pa), 3D structure and suitability for dynamic bacterial culture. Homogeneously crosslinked alginate hydrogels are optimized in composition to obtain target viscoelastic and microstructural properties. Then, rheological tests are exploited to assess a priori the hydrogels capability to withstand the flow dynamic condition. We experimentally assess the suitability of I-Bac3Gels in the evolving field of microfluidics by applying a dynamic flow to a bacterial-loaded mucus model and by monitoring E. coli growth and survival. The engineered models represent a step forward in the modelling of the mucus, since they can answer to different urgent needs such as a 3D structure, bioinspired properties and compatibility with dynamic system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Sardelli
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering "Giulio Natta", Politecnico di Milano, Milan, Italy.
| | - Francesco Briatico Vangosa
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering "Giulio Natta", Politecnico di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Marta Merli
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering "Giulio Natta", Politecnico di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Anna Ziccarelli
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering "Giulio Natta", Politecnico di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Sonja Visentin
- Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences Department, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Livia Visai
- Molecular Medicine Department (DMM), Center for Health Technologies (CHT), UdR INSTM, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy; Department of Occupational Medicine, Toxicology and Environmental Risks, Istituti Clinici Scientifici (ICS) Maugeri, IRCCS, Pavia, Italy
| | - Paola Petrini
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering "Giulio Natta", Politecnico di Milano, Milan, Italy
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13
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Nahak BK, Mishra A, Preetam S, Tiwari A. Advances in Organ-on-a-Chip Materials and Devices. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2022; 5:3576-3607. [PMID: 35839513 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.2c00041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The organ-on-a-chip (OoC) paves a way for biomedical applications ranging from preclinical to clinical translational precision. The current trends in the in vitro modeling is to reduce the complexity of human organ anatomy to the fundamental cellular microanatomy as an alternative of recreating the entire cell milieu that allows systematic analysis of medicinal absorption of compounds, metabolism, and mechanistic investigation. The OoC devices accurately represent human physiology in vitro; however, it is vital to choose the correct chip materials. The potential chip materials include inorganic, elastomeric, thermoplastic, natural, and hybrid materials. Despite the fact that polydimethylsiloxane is the most commonly utilized polymer for OoC and microphysiological systems, substitute materials have been continuously developed for its advanced applications. The evaluation of human physiological status can help to demonstrate using noninvasive OoC materials in real-time procedures. Therefore, this Review examines the materials used for fabricating OoC devices, the application-oriented pros and cons, possessions for device fabrication and biocompatibility, as well as their potential for downstream biochemical surface alteration and commercialization. The convergence of emerging approaches, such as advanced materials, artificial intelligence, machine learning, three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting, and genomics, have the potential to perform OoC technology at next generation. Thus, OoC technologies provide easy and precise methodologies in cost-effective clinical monitoring and treatment using standardized protocols, at even personalized levels. Because of the inherent utilization of the integrated materials, employing the OoC with biomedical approaches will be a promising methodology in the healthcare industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bishal Kumar Nahak
- Institute of Advanced Materials, IAAM, Gammalkilsvägen 18, Ulrika 59053, Sweden
| | - Anshuman Mishra
- Institute of Advanced Materials, IAAM, Gammalkilsvägen 18, Ulrika 59053, Sweden
| | - Subham Preetam
- Institute of Advanced Materials, IAAM, Gammalkilsvägen 18, Ulrika 59053, Sweden
| | - Ashutosh Tiwari
- Institute of Advanced Materials, IAAM, Gammalkilsvägen 18, Ulrika 59053, Sweden
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14
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Models using native tracheobronchial mucus in the context of pulmonary drug delivery research: Composition, structure and barrier properties. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2022; 183:114141. [PMID: 35149123 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2022.114141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Revised: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Mucus covers all wet epithelia and acts as a protective barrier. In the airways of the lungs, the viscoelastic mucus meshwork entraps and clears inhaled materials and efficiently removes them by mucociliary escalation. In addition to physical and chemical interaction mechanisms, the role of macromolecular glycoproteins (mucins) and antimicrobial constituents in innate immune defense are receiving increasing attention. Collectively, mucus displays a major barrier for inhaled aerosols, also including therapeutics. This review discusses the origin and composition of tracheobronchial mucus in relation to its (barrier) function, as well as some pathophysiological changes in the context of pulmonary diseases. Mucus models that contemplate key features such as elastic-dominant rheology, composition, filtering mechanisms and microbial interactions are critically reviewed in the context of health and disease considering different collection methods of native human pulmonary mucus. Finally, the prerequisites towards a standardization of mucus models in a regulatory context and their role in drug delivery research are addressed.
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15
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Recent Development of Drug Delivery Systems through Microfluidics: From Synthesis to Evaluation. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14020434. [PMID: 35214166 PMCID: PMC8880124 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14020434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Revised: 01/29/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Conventional drug administration usually faces the problems of degradation and rapid excretion when crossing many biological barriers, leading to only a small amount of drugs arriving at pathological sites. Therapeutic drugs delivered by drug delivery systems to the target sites in a controlled manner greatly enhance drug efficacy, bioavailability, and pharmacokinetics with minimal side effects. Due to the distinct advantages of microfluidic techniques, microfluidic setups provide a powerful tool for controlled synthesis of drug delivery systems, precisely controlled drug release, and real-time observation of drug delivery to the desired location at the desired rate. In this review, we present an overview of recent advances in the preparation of nano drug delivery systems and carrier-free drug delivery microfluidic systems, as well as the construction of in vitro models on-a-chip for drug efficiency evaluation of drug delivery systems. We firstly introduce the synthesis of nano drug delivery systems, including liposomes, polymers, and inorganic compounds, followed by detailed descriptions of the carrier-free drug delivery system, including micro-reservoir and microneedle drug delivery systems. Finally, we discuss in vitro models developed on microfluidic devices for the evaluation of drug delivery systems, such as the blood–brain barrier model, vascular model, small intestine model, and so on. The opportunities and challenges of the applications of microfluidic platforms in drug delivery systems, as well as their clinical applications, are also discussed.
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16
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Boehnke N, Hammond PT. Power in Numbers: Harnessing Combinatorial and Integrated Screens to Advance Nanomedicine. JACS AU 2022; 2:12-21. [PMID: 35098219 PMCID: PMC8791056 DOI: 10.1021/jacsau.1c00313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Nanocarriers have significant potential to advance personalized medicine through targeted drug delivery. However, to date, efforts to improve nanoparticle accumulation at target disease sites have largely failed to translate clinically, stemming from an incomplete understanding of nano-bio interactions. While progress has been made to evaluate the effects of specific physical and chemical nanoparticle properties on trafficking and uptake, there is much to be gained from controlling these properties singularly and in combination to determine their interactions with different cell types. We and others have recently begun leveraging library-based nanoparticle screens to study structure-function relationships of lipid- and polymer-based drug delivery systems to guide nanoparticle design. These combinatorial screening efforts are showing promise in leading to the successful identification of critical characteristics that yield improved and specific accumulation at target sites. However, there is a crucial need to equally consider the influence of biological complexity on nanoparticle delivery, particularly in the context of clinical translation. For example, tissue and cellular heterogeneity presents an additional dimension to nanoparticle trafficking, uptake, and accumulation; applying imaging and screening tools as well as bioinformatics may further expand our understanding of how nanoparticles engage with cells and tissues. Given recent advances in the fields of omics and machine learning, there is substantial promise to revolutionize nanocarrier development through the use of integrated screens, harnessing the combinatorial parameter space afforded both by nanoparticle libraries and clinically annotated biological data sets in combination with high throughput in vivo studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie Boehnke
- Koch
Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 500 Main Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
| | - Paula T. Hammond
- Koch
Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 500 Main Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
- Department
of Chemical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute
of Technology, 25 Ames
Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142, United States
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17
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Wright L, Joyce P, Barnes TJ, Prestidge CA. Mimicking the Gastrointestinal Mucus Barrier: Laboratory-Based Approaches to Facilitate an Enhanced Understanding of Mucus Permeation. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2021. [PMID: 34784462 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.1c00814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The gastrointestinal mucus layer plays a significant role in maintaining gut homeostasis and health, offering protective capacities against the absorption of harmful pathogens as well as commensal gut bacteria and buffering stomach acid to protect the underlying epithelium. Despite this, the mucus barrier is often overlooked during preclinical pharmaceutical development and may pose a significant absorption barrier to high molecular weight or lipophilic drug species. The complex chemical and physical nature of the dynamic mucus layer has proven problematic to reliably replicate in a laboratory setting, leading to the development of multiple mucus models with varying complexity and predictive capacity. This, coupled with the wide range of analysis methods available, has led to a plethora of possible approaches to quantifying mucus permeation; however, the field remains significantly under-represented in biomedical research. For this reason, the development of a concise collation of the available approaches to mucus permeation is essential. In this review, we explore widely utilized mucus mimics ranging in complexity from simple mucin solutions to native mucus preparations for their predictive capacity in mucus permeation analysis. Furthermore, we highlight the diverse range of laboratory-based models available for the analysis of mucus interaction and permeability with a specific focus on in vitro, ex vivo, and in situ models. Finally, we highlight the predictive capacity of these models in correlation with in vivo pharmacokinetic data. This review provides a comprehensive and critical overview of the available technologies to analyze mucus permeation, facilitating the efficient selection of appropriate tools for further advancement in oral drug delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leah Wright
- UniSA: Clinical and Health Sciences, Bradley Building, North Terrace, University of South Australia, Adelaide, 5001, Australia.,ARC Centre of Excellence in Convergent Bio-Nano Science and Technology, North Terrace, University of South Australia, Adelaide, 5001, Australia
| | - Paul Joyce
- UniSA: Clinical and Health Sciences, Bradley Building, North Terrace, University of South Australia, Adelaide, 5001, Australia.,ARC Centre of Excellence in Convergent Bio-Nano Science and Technology, North Terrace, University of South Australia, Adelaide, 5001, Australia
| | - Timothy J Barnes
- UniSA: Clinical and Health Sciences, Bradley Building, North Terrace, University of South Australia, Adelaide, 5001, Australia
| | - Clive A Prestidge
- UniSA: Clinical and Health Sciences, Bradley Building, North Terrace, University of South Australia, Adelaide, 5001, Australia.,ARC Centre of Excellence in Convergent Bio-Nano Science and Technology, North Terrace, University of South Australia, Adelaide, 5001, Australia
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18
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Cecen B, Karavasili C, Nazir M, Bhusal A, Dogan E, Shahriyari F, Tamburaci S, Buyukoz M, Kozaci LD, Miri AK. Multi-Organs-on-Chips for Testing Small-Molecule Drugs: Challenges and Perspectives. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:1657. [PMID: 34683950 PMCID: PMC8540732 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13101657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Revised: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Organ-on-a-chip technology has been used in testing small-molecule drugs for screening potential therapeutics and regulatory protocols. The technology is expected to boost the development of novel therapies and accelerate the discovery of drug combinations in the coming years. This has led to the development of multi-organ-on-a-chip (MOC) for recapitulating various organs involved in the drug-body interactions. In this review, we discuss the current MOCs used in screening small-molecule drugs and then focus on the dynamic process of drug absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion. We also address appropriate materials used for MOCs at low cost and scale-up capacity suitable for high-performance analysis of drugs and commercial high-throughput screening platforms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Berivan Cecen
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Rowan University, Glassboro, NJ 08028, USA; (A.B.); (E.D.); (A.K.M.)
- Molecular Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Istinye University, Istanbul 34010, Turkey
| | - Christina Karavasili
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, School of Pharmacy, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GR-54124 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Mubashir Nazir
- Department of Microbiology, Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences, Srinagar 190011, India;
| | - Anant Bhusal
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Rowan University, Glassboro, NJ 08028, USA; (A.B.); (E.D.); (A.K.M.)
| | - Elvan Dogan
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Rowan University, Glassboro, NJ 08028, USA; (A.B.); (E.D.); (A.K.M.)
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, NJ 07102, USA
| | - Fatemeh Shahriyari
- Institute of Health Science, Department of Translational Medicine, Ankara Yildirim Beyazit University, Ankara 06800, Turkey;
| | - Sedef Tamburaci
- Izmir Institute of Technology, Graduate Program of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Gulbahce Campus, Izmir 35430, Turkey;
- Izmir Institute of Technology, Department of Chemical Engineering, Gulbahce Campus, Izmir 35430, Turkey
| | - Melda Buyukoz
- Care of Elderly Program, Vocational School of Health Services, Izmir Democracy University, Izmir 35140, Turkey;
| | - Leyla Didem Kozaci
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Ankara Yildirim Beyazit University, Ankara 06800, Turkey;
| | - Amir K. Miri
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Rowan University, Glassboro, NJ 08028, USA; (A.B.); (E.D.); (A.K.M.)
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, NJ 07102, USA
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, NJ 07102, USA
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