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Collins NJ, Campbell TS, Bozeman AL, Martes AC, Ross SE, Doherty TS, Brumley MR, Roth TL. Epigenetic processes associated with neonatal spinal transection. Dev Psychobiol 2024; 66:e22466. [PMID: 38388192 DOI: 10.1002/dev.22466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
In early development, the spinal cord in healthy or disease states displays remarkable activity-dependent changes in plasticity, which may be in part due to the increased activity of brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Indeed, BDNF delivery has been efficacious in partially ameliorating many of the neurobiological and behavioral consequences of spinal cord injury (SCI), making elucidating the role of BDNF in the normative developing and injured spinal cord a critical research focus. Recent work in our laboratory provided evidence for aberrant global and locus-specific epigenetic changes in methylation of the Bdnf gene as a consequence of SCI. In the present study, animals underwent thoracic lesions on P1, with cervical and lumbar tissue being later collected on P7, P14, and P21. Levels of Bdnf expression and methylation (exon IX and exon IV), in addition to global methylation levels were quantified at each timepoint. Results indicated locus-specific reductions of Bdnf expression that was accompanied by a parallel increase in methylation caudal to the injury site, with animals displaying increased Bdnf expression at the P14 timepoint. Together, these findings suggest that epigenetic activity of the Bdnf gene may act as biomarker in the etiology and intervention effort efficacy following SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas J Collins
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware, USA
| | - Taylor S Campbell
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware, USA
| | - Aimee L Bozeman
- Department of Psychology, Idaho State University, Pocatello, Idaho, USA
| | - Alleyna C Martes
- Department of Psychology, Idaho State University, Pocatello, Idaho, USA
| | - Sydney E Ross
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware, USA
| | - Tiffany S Doherty
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware, USA
| | - Michele R Brumley
- Department of Psychology, Idaho State University, Pocatello, Idaho, USA
| | - Tania L Roth
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware, USA
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2
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Smith CS, Álvarez Z, Qiu R, Sasselli IR, Clemons T, Ortega JA, Vilela-Picos M, Wellman H, Kiskinis E, Stupp SI. Enhanced Neuron Growth and Electrical Activity by a Supramolecular Netrin-1 Mimetic Nanofiber. ACS NANO 2023; 17:19887-19902. [PMID: 37793046 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c04572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
Neurotrophic factors are essential not only for guiding the organization of the developing nervous system but also for supporting the survival and growth of neurons after traumatic injury. In the central nervous system (CNS), inhibitory factors and the formation of a glial scar after injury hinder the functional recovery of neurons, requiring exogenous therapies to promote regeneration. Netrin-1, a neurotrophic factor, can initiate axon guidance, outgrowth, and branching, as well as synaptogenesis, through activation of deleted in colorectal cancer (DCC) receptors. We report here the development of a nanofiber-shaped supramolecular mimetic of netrin-1 with monomers that incorporate a cyclic peptide sequence as the bioactive component. The mimetic structure was found to activate the DCC receptor in primary cortical neurons using low molar ratios of the bioactive comonomer. The supramolecular nanofibers enhanced neurite outgrowth and upregulated maturation as well as pre- and postsynaptic markers over time, resulting in differences in electrical activity similar to neurons treated with the recombinant netrin-1 protein. The results suggest the possibility of using the supramolecular structure as a therapeutic to promote regenerative bioactivity in CNS injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cara S Smith
- Simpson Querrey Institute for BioNanotechnology, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois 60611, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
| | - Zaida Álvarez
- Simpson Querrey Institute for BioNanotechnology, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois 60611, United States
- Department of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois 60611, United States
- Biomaterials for Neural Regeneration, Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), Barcelona 08028, Spain
| | - Ruomeng Qiu
- Simpson Querrey Institute for BioNanotechnology, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois 60611, United States
- Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
| | - Ivan R Sasselli
- Centro de Fisica de Materiales (CFM), CSIC-UPV/EHU, San Sebastián 20018, Spain
| | - Tristan Clemons
- Simpson Querrey Institute for BioNanotechnology, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois 60611, United States
- Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
| | - J Alberto Ortega
- Simpson Querrey Institute for BioNanotechnology, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois 60611, United States
- The Ken & Ruth Davee Department of Neurology, Department of Physiology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois 60611, United States
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Therapeutics, Institute of Neurosciences, University of Barcelona, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona 08907, Spain
| | - Marcos Vilela-Picos
- Simpson Querrey Institute for BioNanotechnology, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois 60611, United States
| | - Haley Wellman
- Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
| | - Evangelos Kiskinis
- Simpson Querrey Institute for BioNanotechnology, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois 60611, United States
- The Ken & Ruth Davee Department of Neurology, Department of Physiology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois 60611, United States
- Department of Neuroscience, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois 60611, United States
| | - Samuel I Stupp
- Simpson Querrey Institute for BioNanotechnology, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois 60611, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
- Department of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois 60611, United States
- Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
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Lambrichts I, Wolfs E, Bronckaers A, Gervois P, Vangansewinkel T. The Effect of Leukocyte- and Platelet-Rich Fibrin on Central and Peripheral Nervous System Neurons-Implications for Biomaterial Applicability. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14314. [PMID: 37762617 PMCID: PMC10532231 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241814314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Leukocyte- and Platelet-Rich Fibrin (L-PRF) is a second-generation platelet concentrate that is prepared directly from the patient's own blood. It is widely used in the field of regenerative medicine, and to better understand its clinical applicability we aimed to further explore the biological properties and effects of L-PRF on cells from the central and peripheral nervous system. To this end, L-PRF was prepared from healthy human donors, and confocal, transmission, and scanning electron microscopy as well as secretome analysis were performed on these clots. In addition, functional assays were completed to determine the effect of L-PRF on neural stem cells (NSCs), primary cortical neurons (pCNs), and peripheral dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons. We observed that L-PRF consists of a dense but porous fibrin network, containing leukocytes and aggregates of activated platelets that are distributed throughout the clot. Antibody array and ELISA confirmed that it is a reservoir for a plethora of growth factors. Key molecules that are known to have an effect on neuronal cell functions such as brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), nerve growth factor (NGF), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) were slowly released over time from the clots. Next, we found that the L-PRF secretome had no significant effect on the proliferative and metabolic activity of NSCs, but it did act as a chemoattractant and improved the migration of these CNS-derived stem cells. More importantly, L-PRF growth factors had a detrimental effect on the survival of pCNs, and consequently, also interfered with their neurite outgrowth. In contrast, we found a positive effect on peripheral DRG neurons, and L-PRF growth factors improved their survival and significantly stimulated the outgrowth and branching of their neurites. Taken together, our study demonstrates the positive effects of the L-PRF secretome on peripheral neurons and supports its use in regenerative medicine but care should be taken when using it for CNS applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivo Lambrichts
- Cardio and Organ Systems, Biomedical Research Institute, UHasselt—Hasselt University, 3590 Diepenbeek, Belgium; (E.W.); (A.B.); (P.G.)
| | - Esther Wolfs
- Cardio and Organ Systems, Biomedical Research Institute, UHasselt—Hasselt University, 3590 Diepenbeek, Belgium; (E.W.); (A.B.); (P.G.)
| | - Annelies Bronckaers
- Cardio and Organ Systems, Biomedical Research Institute, UHasselt—Hasselt University, 3590 Diepenbeek, Belgium; (E.W.); (A.B.); (P.G.)
| | - Pascal Gervois
- Cardio and Organ Systems, Biomedical Research Institute, UHasselt—Hasselt University, 3590 Diepenbeek, Belgium; (E.W.); (A.B.); (P.G.)
| | - Tim Vangansewinkel
- Cardio and Organ Systems, Biomedical Research Institute, UHasselt—Hasselt University, 3590 Diepenbeek, Belgium; (E.W.); (A.B.); (P.G.)
- VIB, Center for Brain & Disease Research, Laboratory of Neurobiology, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
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Puhl DL, Funnell JL, Fink TD, Swaminathan A, Oudega M, Zha RH, Gilbert RJ. Electrospun fiber-mediated delivery of neurotrophin-3 mRNA for neural tissue engineering applications. Acta Biomater 2023; 155:370-385. [PMID: 36423820 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2022.11.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2022] [Revised: 10/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Aligned electrospun fibers provide topographical cues and local therapeutic delivery to facilitate robust peripheral nerve regeneration. mRNA delivery enables transient expression of desired proteins that promote axonal regeneration. However, no prior work delivers mRNA from electrospun fibers for peripheral nerve regeneration applications. Here, we developed the first aligned electrospun fibers to deliver pseudouridine-modified (Ψ) neurotrophin-3 (NT-3) mRNA (ΨNT-3mRNA) to primary Schwann cells and assessed NT-3 secretion and bioactivity. We first electrospun aligned poly(L-lactic acid) (PLLA) fibers and coated them with the anionic substrates dextran sulfate sodium salt (DSS) or poly(3,4-dihydroxy-L-phenylalanine) (pDOPA). Cationic lipoplexes containing ΨNT-3mRNA complexed to JetMESSENGER® were then immobilized to the fibers, resulting in detectable ΨNT-3mRNA release for 28 days from all fiber groups investigated (PLLA+mRNA, 0.5DSS4h+mRNA, and 2pDOPA4h+mRNA). The 2pDOPA4h+mRNA group significantly increased Schwann cell secretion of NT-3 for 21 days compared to control PLLA fibers (p < 0.001-0.05) and, on average, increased Schwann cell secretion of NT-3 by ≥ 2-fold compared to bolus mRNA delivery from the 1µgBolus+mRNA and 3µgBolus+mRNA groups. The 2pDOPA4h+mRNA fibers supported Schwann cell secretion of NT-3 at levels that significantly increased dorsal root ganglia (DRG) neurite extension by 44% (p < 0.0001) and neurite area by 64% (p < 0.001) compared to control PLLA fibers. The data show that the 2pDOPA4h+mRNA fibers enhance the ability of Schwann cells to promote neurite growth from DRG, demonstrating this platform's potential capability to improve peripheral nerve regeneration. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Aligned electrospun fibers enhance axonal regeneration by providing structural support and guidance cues, but further therapeutic stimulation is necessary to improve functional outcomes. mRNA delivery enables the transient expression of therapeutic proteins, yet achieving local, sustained delivery remains challenging. Previous work shows that genetic material delivery from electrospun fibers improves regeneration; however, mRNA delivery has not been explored. Here, we examine mRNA delivery from aligned electrospun fibers to enhance neurite outgrowth. We show that immobilization of NT-3mRNA/JetMESSENGER® lipoplexes to aligned electrospun fibers functionalized with pDOPA enables local, sustained NT-3mRNA delivery to Schwann cells, increasing Schwann cell secretion of NT-3 and enhancing DRG neurite outgrowth. This study displays the potential benefits of electrospun fiber-mediated mRNA delivery platforms for neural tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devan L Puhl
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA; Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA
| | - Jessica L Funnell
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA; Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA
| | - Tanner D Fink
- Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA; Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA
| | - Anuj Swaminathan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA; Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA
| | - Martin Oudega
- Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, Chicago, IL, USA; Department of Physical Therapy and Human Movement Sciences, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA; Edward Hines Jr VA Hospital, Hines, IL, USA
| | - R Helen Zha
- Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA; Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA
| | - Ryan J Gilbert
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA; Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA.
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Merli M, Sardelli L, Baranzini N, Grimaldi A, Jacchetti E, Raimondi MT, Briatico-Vangosa F, Petrini P, Tunesi M. Pectin-based bioinks for 3D models of neural tissue produced by a pH-controlled kinetics. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:1032542. [PMID: 36619394 PMCID: PMC9815771 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.1032542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: In the view of 3D-bioprinting with cell models representative of neural cells, we produced inks to mimic the basic viscoelastic properties of brain tissue. Moving from the concept that rheology provides useful information to predict ink printability, this study improves and expands the potential of the previously published 3D-reactive printing approach by introducing pH as a key parameter to be controlled, together with printing time. Methods: The viscoelastic properties, printability, and microstructure of pectin gels crosslinked with CaCO3 were investigated and their composition was optimized (i.e., by including cell culture medium, HEPES buffer, and collagen). Different cell models representative of the major brain cell populations (i.e., neurons, astrocytes, microglial cells, and oligodendrocytes) were considered. Results and Discussion: The outcomes of this study propose a highly controllable method to optimize the printability of internally crosslinked polysaccharides, without the need for additives or post-printing treatments. By introducing pH as a further parameter to be controlled, it is possible to have multiple (pH-dependent) crosslinking kinetics, without varying hydrogel composition. In addition, the results indicate that not only cells survive and proliferate following 3D-bioprinting, but they can also interact and reorganize hydrogel microstructure. Taken together, the results suggest that pectin-based hydrogels could be successfully applied for neural cell culture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Merli
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering "G. Natta", Politecnico di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Sardelli
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering "G. Natta", Politecnico di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Nicolò Baranzini
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Annalisa Grimaldi
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Emanuela Jacchetti
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering "G. Natta", Politecnico di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Manuela Teresa Raimondi
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering "G. Natta", Politecnico di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesco Briatico-Vangosa
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering "G. Natta", Politecnico di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Paola Petrini
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering "G. Natta", Politecnico di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Marta Tunesi
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering "G. Natta", Politecnico di Milano, Milan, Italy
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Lv Z, Dong C, Zhang T, Zhang S. Hydrogels in Spinal Cord Injury Repair: A Review. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:931800. [PMID: 35800332 PMCID: PMC9253563 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.931800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Traffic accidents and falling objects are responsible for most spinal cord injuries (SCIs). SCI is characterized by high disability and tends to occur among the young, seriously affecting patients' lives and quality of life. The key aims of repairing SCI include preventing secondary nerve injury, inhibiting glial scarring and inflammatory response, and promoting nerve regeneration. Hydrogels have good biocompatibility and degradability, low immunogenicity, and easy-to-adjust mechanical properties. While providing structural scaffolds for tissues, hydrogels can also be used as slow-release carriers in neural tissue engineering to promote cell proliferation, migration, and differentiation, as well as accelerate the repair of damaged tissue. This review discusses the characteristics of hydrogels and their advantages as delivery vehicles, as well as expounds on the progress made in hydrogel therapy (alone or combined with cells and molecules) to repair SCI. In addition, we discuss the prospects of hydrogels in clinical research and provide new ideas for the treatment of SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenshan Lv
- The Department of Spinal Surgery, 1st Hospital, Jilin University, Jilin Engineering Research Center for Spine and Spine Cord Injury, Changchun, China
| | - Chao Dong
- Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Tianjiao Zhang
- Medical Insurance Management Department, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Shaokun Zhang
- The Department of Spinal Surgery, 1st Hospital, Jilin University, Jilin Engineering Research Center for Spine and Spine Cord Injury, Changchun, China
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Zastosowanie fibryny w inżynierii tkankowej. Osiągnięcia i perspektywy. POSTEP HIG MED DOSW 2021. [DOI: 10.2478/ahem-2021-0017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstrakt
W ostatnich latach istotnym obszarem zastosowania fibryny stała się inżynieria tkankowa, w której wykorzystuje się naturalne właściwości biostatyczne i bioaktywne fibryny, a także możliwość pułapkowania i wiązania w jej strukturze czynników wzrostu. Fibryna jest najczęściej stosowana w postaci żeli i dysków. Jednak każda postać wskutek pochłaniania wody docelowo przyjmuje postać żelu. Białko to w warunkach in vivo spełnia rolę rusztowania dla komórek, a także może być aplikowane w miejsca trudno dostępne – może wypełniać ubytki tkanek i podtrzymywać tkanki okalające, zapobiegając ich zapadaniu się. Ponadto fibryna hamuje krwawienie i inicjuje proces odnowy, jak również pełni rolę stymulatora wzrostu komórek. Przez modyfikacje struktury fibryny cząsteczkami adhezyjnymi, można przyspieszyć odbudowę prawidłowej struktury tkanek. Jej właściwości strukturalne mogą być także wykorzystywane jako rezerwuar czynników wzrostu i system ich przedłużonego uwalniania. Fibryna jest materiałem biodegradowalnym, umożliwiając skorelowanie ubytku matrycy fibrynowej z odbudową tkanek własnych pacjenta. Wprowadzenie metod druku 3D i elektroprzędzenia umożliwia formulację dopasowanych do uszkodzeń kształtek oraz włóknin bez utraty bioaktywnych funkcji fibryny. Metody te umożliwiają także poprawę właściwości mechanicznych przez otrzymywanie m.in. włóknin fibryny z innymi polimerami, co jest szczególnie uzasadnione w przypadku materiałów stosowanych w odbudowie takich struktur jak ścięgna czy kości. Biotechnologiczna synteza fibrynogenu może w przyszłości uniezależnić pozyskiwanie go z krwi i zwiększyć popularność wyrobów medycznych otrzymywanych z fibryny.
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Sudhadevi T, Vijayakumar HS, Hariharan EV, Sandhyamani S, Krishnan LK. Optimizing fibrin hydrogel toward effective neural progenitor cell delivery in spinal cord injury. Biomed Mater 2021; 17. [PMID: 34736245 DOI: 10.1088/1748-605x/ac3680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Transplantation of neural progenitor cell (NPC) possessing the potential to differentiate into neurons may guard against spinal cord injury (SCI)- associated neuronal trauma. We propose that autologous-like NPC may reduce post-transplant immune response. The study used the rat SCI model to prove this concept. For isolation and expansion of rat NPC for cell-based SCI therapy, thein vitroprotocol standardized with human NPC seemed suitable. The primary aim of this study is to select a cell/neural tissue-compatible biomaterial for improving NPC survivalin vivo. The composition of the fibrin hydrogel is adjusted to obtain degradable, porous, and robust fibrin strands for supporting neural cell attachment, migration, and tissue regeneration. This study employed NPC culture to evaluate the cytocompatibility and suitability of the hydrogel, composed by adding graded concentrations of thrombin to a fixed fibrinogen concentration. The microstructure evaluation by scanning electron microscope guided the selection of a suitable composition for delivering the embedded cells. On adding more thrombin, fibrinogen clotted quickly but reduced porosity, pore size, and fiber strand thickness. The high activity of thrombin also affected NPC morphology and thein vitrocell survival. The selected hydrogel carried viable NPC and retained them at the injury site post-transplantation. The fibrin hydrogel played a protective role throughout the transfer process by providing cell attachment sites and survival signals. The fibrin and NPC together regulated the immune response at the SCI site reducing ED1+ve/ED2+vemacrophages in the early period of 8-16 d after injury. Migration ofβ-III tubulin+veneural-like cells into the fibrin-injected control SCI is evident. The continuous use of a non-neurotoxic fibrin matrix could be a convenient strategy forin vitroNPC preparation, minimally invasive cell delivery, and better transplantation outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tara Sudhadevi
- Retd. Senior Grade Scientist G, Division of Thrombosis Research, Department of Applied Biology, Biomedical Technology Wing, Thrombosis Research Unit, SCTIMST, Trivandrum 695 012, India
| | - Harikrishnan S Vijayakumar
- Laboratory for Animal Science, Biomedical Technology Wing, Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences & Technology, Trivandrum 695012 Kerala, India
| | - Easwer V Hariharan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences & Technology, Trivandrum 695012 Kerala, India
| | - Samavedam Sandhyamani
- Department of Pathology, Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences & Technology, Trivandrum 695012 Kerala, India
| | - Lissy K Krishnan
- Retd. Senior Grade Scientist G, Division of Thrombosis Research, Department of Applied Biology, Biomedical Technology Wing, Thrombosis Research Unit, SCTIMST, Trivandrum 695 012, India
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9
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Man W, Yang S, Cao Z, Lu J, Kong X, Sun X, Zhao L, Guo Y, Yao S, Wang G, Wang X. A multi-modal delivery strategy for spinal cord regeneration using a composite hydrogel presenting biophysical and biochemical cues synergistically. Biomaterials 2021; 276:120971. [PMID: 34242812 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2021.120971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2020] [Revised: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Extensive tissue engineering studies have supported the enhanced spinal cord regeneration by implantable scaffolds loaded with bioactive cues. However, scaffolds with single-cue delivery showed unsatisfactory effects, most likely due to the complex nature of hostile niches in the lesion area. In this regard, strategies of multi-modal delivery of multiple heterogeneous cell-regulatory cues are unmet needs for enhancing spinal cord repair, which requires a thorough understanding of the regenerative niche associated with spinal cord injury. Here, by combining hierarchically aligned fibrin hydrogel (AFG) and functionalized self-assembling peptides (fSAP), a novel multifunctional nanofiber composite hydrogel AFG/fSAP characterized with interpenetrating network is designed. Serving as a source of both biophysical and biochemical cues, AFG/fSAP can facilitate spinal cord regeneration via guiding regenerated tissues, accelerating axonal regrowth and remyelination, and promoting angiogenesis. Giving the synergistic effect of multiple cues, AFG/fSAP implantation contributes to anatomical, electrophysiological, and motor functional restorations in rats with spinal cord hemisection. This study provides a novel multi-modal approach for regeneration in central nervous system, which has potentials for clinical practice of spinal cord injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weitao Man
- State Key Laboratory of New Ceramics and Fine Processing, Key Laboratory of Advanced Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China; Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 102218, China
| | - Shuhui Yang
- State Key Laboratory of New Ceramics and Fine Processing, Key Laboratory of Advanced Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Zheng Cao
- State Key Laboratory of New Ceramics and Fine Processing, Key Laboratory of Advanced Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Jiaju Lu
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, 310018, China; Zhejiang-Mauritius Joint Research Center for Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
| | - Xiangdong Kong
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, 310018, China; Zhejiang-Mauritius Joint Research Center for Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
| | - Xiaodan Sun
- State Key Laboratory of New Ceramics and Fine Processing, Key Laboratory of Advanced Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Lingyun Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of New Ceramics and Fine Processing, Key Laboratory of Advanced Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Yi Guo
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
| | - Shenglian Yao
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Guihuai Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 102218, China.
| | - Xiumei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of New Ceramics and Fine Processing, Key Laboratory of Advanced Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China.
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10
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Tejeda G, Ciciriello AJ, Dumont CM. Biomaterial Strategies to Bolster Neural Stem Cell-Mediated Repair of the Central Nervous System. Cells Tissues Organs 2021; 211:655-669. [PMID: 34120118 DOI: 10.1159/000515351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Stem cell therapies have the potential to not only repair, but to regenerate tissue of the central nervous system (CNS). Recent studies demonstrate that transplanted stem cells can differentiate into neurons and integrate with the intact circuitry after traumatic injury. Unfortunately, the positive findings described in rodent models have not been replicated in clinical trials, where the burden to maintain the cell viability necessary for tissue repair becomes more challenging. Low transplant survival remains the greatest barrier to stem cell-mediated repair of the CNS, often with fewer than 1-2% of the transplanted cells remaining after 1 week. Strategic transplantation parameters, such as injection location, cell concentration, and transplant timing achieve only modest improvements in stem cell transplant survival and appear inconsistent across studies. Biomaterials provide researchers with a means to significantly improve stem cell transplant survival through two mechanisms: (1) a vehicle to deliver and protect the stem cells and (2) a substrate to control the cytotoxic injury environment. These biomaterial strategies can alleviate cell death associated with delivery to the injury and can be used to limit cell death after transplantation by limiting cell exposure to cytotoxic signals. Moreover, it is likely that control of the injury environment with biomaterials will lead to a more reliable support for transplanted cell populations. This review will highlight the challenges associated with cell delivery in the CNS and the advances in biomaterial development and deployment for stem cell therapies necessary to bolster stem cell-mediated repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giancarlo Tejeda
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida, USA.,Biomedical Nanotechnology Institute at the University of Miami (BioNIUM), University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Andrew J Ciciriello
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida, USA.,Biomedical Nanotechnology Institute at the University of Miami (BioNIUM), University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Courtney M Dumont
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida, USA.,Biomedical Nanotechnology Institute at the University of Miami (BioNIUM), University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA
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11
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Muheremu A, Shu L, Liang J, Aili A, Jiang K. Sustained delivery of neurotrophic factors to treat spinal cord injury. Transl Neurosci 2021; 12:494-511. [PMID: 34900347 PMCID: PMC8633588 DOI: 10.1515/tnsci-2020-0200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2021] [Revised: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute spinal cord injury (SCI) is a devastating condition that results in tremendous physical and psychological harm and a series of socioeconomic problems. Although neurons in the spinal cord need neurotrophic factors for their survival and development to reestablish their connections with their original targets, endogenous neurotrophic factors are scarce and the sustainable delivery of exogeneous neurotrophic factors is challenging. The widely studied neurotrophic factors such as brain-derived neurotrophic factor, neurotrophin-3, nerve growth factor, ciliary neurotrophic factor, basic fibroblast growth factor, and glial cell-derived neurotrophic factor have a relatively short cycle that is not sufficient enough for functionally significant neural regeneration after SCI. In the past decades, scholars have tried a variety of cellular and viral vehicles as well as tissue engineering scaffolds to safely and sustainably deliver those necessary neurotrophic factors to the injury site, and achieved satisfactory neural repair and functional recovery on many occasions. Here, we review the neurotrophic factors that have been used in trials to treat SCI, and vehicles that were commonly used for their sustained delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aikeremujiang Muheremu
- Department of Spine Surgery, Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, 39 Wuxing Nan Rd, Tianshan District, Urumqi, Xinjiang, 86830001, People’s Republic of China
| | - Li Shu
- Department of Orthopedics, Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, Xinjiang, 86830001, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jing Liang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, 39, Wuxing Nan Rd, Tianshan District, Urumqi, Xinjiang, 86830001, People’s Republic of China
| | - Abudunaibi Aili
- Department of Spine Surgery, Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, 39 Wuxing Nan Rd, Tianshan District, Urumqi, Xinjiang, 86830001, People’s Republic of China
| | - Kan Jiang
- Department of Orthopedics, Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, Xinjiang, 86830001, People’s Republic of China
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12
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Abstract
Spinal cord injury results in significant loss of motor, sensory, and autonomic functions. Although a wide range of therapeutic agents have been shown to attenuate secondary injury or promote regeneration/repair in animal models of spinal cord injury, clinical translation of these strategies has been limited, in part due to difficulty in safely and effectively achieving therapeutic concentrations in the injured spinal cord tissue. Hydrogel-based drug delivery systems offer unique opportunities to locally deliver drugs to the injured spinal cord with sufficient dose and duration, while avoiding deleterious side effects associated with systemic drug administration. Such local drug delivery systems can be readily fabricated from biocompatible and biodegradable materials. In this review, hydrogel-based strategies for local drug delivery to the injured spinal cord are extensively reviewed, and recommendations are made for implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert B Shultz
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Science and Health Systems, Drexel University; Department of Neurosurgery; Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania; New Jersey Center for Biomaterials, Rutgers - The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ; Center for Neurotrauma, Neurodegeneration & Restoration, Corporal Michael J. Crescenz Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Yinghui Zhong
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Science and Health Systems, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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13
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Mukherjee N, Adak A, Ghosh S. Recent trends in the development of peptide and protein-based hydrogel therapeutics for the healing of CNS injury. SOFT MATTER 2020; 16:10046-10064. [PMID: 32724981 DOI: 10.1039/d0sm00885k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) and spinal cord injury (SCI) cause millions of deaths and permanent or prolonged physical disabilities around the globe every year. It generally happens due to various incidents, such as accidents during sports, war, physical assault, and strokes which result in severe damage to brain and spinal cord. If this remains untreated, traumatic CNS injuries may lead to early development of several neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's, Parkinson, multiple sclerosis, and other mental illnesses. The initial physical reaction, which is also termed as the primary phase, includes swelling, followed by inflammation as a result of internal haemorrhage causing damage to indigenous tissue, i.e., axonal shear injury, rupture of blood vessels, and partial impaired supply of oxygen and essential nutrients in the neurons, thereby initiating a cascade of events causing secondary injuries such as hypoxia, hypotension, cognitive impairment, seizures, imbalanced calcium homeostasis and glutamate-induced excitotoxicity resulting in concomitant neuronal cell death and cumulative permanent tissue damage. In the modern era of advanced biomedical technology, we are still living with scarcity of the clinically applicable comparative non-invasive therapeutic strategies for regeneration or functional recovery of neurons or neural networks after a massive CNS injury. One of the key reasons for this scarcity is the limited regenerative ability of neurons in CNS. Growth-impermissive glial scar and the lack of a synthetic biocompatible platform for proper neural tissue engineering and controlled supply of drugs further retard the healing process. Injectable or implantable hydrogel materials, consisting majorly of water in its porous three-dimensional (3D) structure, can serve as an excellent drug delivery platform as well as a transplanted cell-supporting scaffold medium. Among the various neuro-compatible bioinspired materials, we are limiting our discussion to the recent advancement of engineered biomaterials comprising mainly of peptides and proteins due to their growing demand, low immunogenicity and versatility in the fabrication of neuro regenerative medicine. In this article, we try to explore all the recent scientific avenues that are developing gradually to make peptide and peptide-conjugated biomaterial hydrogels as a therapeutic and supporting scaffold for treating CNS injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nabanita Mukherjee
- Department of Bioscience & Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Jodhpur, NH 65, Surpura Bypass Road, Karwar, Rajasthan 342037, India.
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14
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Gottipati MK, D'Amato AR, Ziemba AM, Popovich PG, Gilbert RJ. TGFβ3 is neuroprotective and alleviates the neurotoxic response induced by aligned poly-l-lactic acid fibers on naïve and activated primary astrocytes. Acta Biomater 2020; 117:273-282. [PMID: 33035696 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2020.09.057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2020] [Revised: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Following spinal cord injury, astrocytes at the site of injury become reactive and exhibit a neurotoxic (A1) phenotype, which leads to neuronal death. In addition, the glial scar, which is composed of reactive astrocytes, acts as a chemical and physical barrier to subsequent axonal regeneration. Biomaterials, specifically electrospun fibers, induce a migratory phenotype of astrocytes and promote regeneration of axons following acute spinal cord injury in preclinical models. However, no study has examined the potential of electrospun fibers or biomaterials in general to modulate neurotoxic (A1) or neuroprotective (A2) astrocytic phenotypes. To assess astrocyte reactivity in response to aligned poly-l-lactic acid microfibers, naïve spinal cord astrocytes or spinal cord astrocytes primed towards the neurotoxic phenotype (A1) were cultured on fibrous scaffolds. Gene expression analysis of the pan-reactive astrocyte makers (GFAP, Lcn2, SerpinA3), A1 specific markers (H2-D1, SerpinG1), and A2 specific makers (Emp1, S100a10) was done using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Electrospun fibers mildly increased the expression of the pan-reactive and A1-specific markers, showing the ability of fibrous materials to induce a more reactive, A1 phenotype. However, when naïve or activated astrocytes were cultured on fibers in the presence of transforming growth factor β3 (TGFβ3), the expression of A1-specific markers was greatly reduced, which in turn improved neuronal survival in culture.
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15
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Gottipati MK, Zuidema JM, Gilbert RJ. Biomaterial strategies for creating in vitro astrocyte cultures resembling in vivo astrocyte morphologies and phenotypes. CURRENT OPINION IN BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING 2020; 14:67-74. [PMID: 34296048 DOI: 10.1016/j.cobme.2020.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Astrocytes are dynamic cells residing in the central nervous system exhibiting many diverse functions. Astrocytes quickly change and present unique phenotypes in response to injury or disease. Here, we briefly summarize recent information regarding astrocyte morphology and function and provide brief insight into their phenotypic changes following injury or disease. We also present the utility of in vitro astrocyte cultures and present recent advances in biomaterial development that enable better recapitulation of their in vivo behavior and morphology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manoj K Gottipati
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 8 Street, Troy, NY. 12180.,Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 8 Street, Troy, NY. 12180.,Center for Brain and Spinal Cord Repair, Department of Neuroscience, The Ohio State University, 460 W. 12 Avenue, Columbus, OH. 43210
| | - Jonathan M Zuidema
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA. 92093
| | - Ryan J Gilbert
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 8 Street, Troy, NY. 12180.,Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 8 Street, Troy, NY. 12180
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16
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Exploitation of fibrin-based signaling niche for deriving progenitors from human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells towards potential neural engineering applications. Sci Rep 2020; 10:7116. [PMID: 32346006 PMCID: PMC7188903 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-63445-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2019] [Accepted: 03/19/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hADMSC) retaining proliferation and multi-differentiation potential may support the central nervous system (CNS) regeneration. Multipotency of MSC may result in both desirable and undesirable cells, post-transplantation. A better strategy to attain desired cells may be in vitro commitment of hADMSCs to uni-/bi- potent neural progenitor cells (NPCs), prior to transplantation. Derivation of stable NPCs may require a suitable niche eliciting proliferation and differentiation signals. The present study designed a biomimetic niche comprising insoluble fibrin supported adhesion matrix and exogenously added growth factors (GFs) for deriving different neural cells and established the role of Notch and Wnt signals for proliferation and differentiation of hADMSCs, respectively. The stable transformation of hADMSCs into neurospheres (NS) comprising Nestin+ve NPCs was achieved consistently. Slight modifications of niche enable differentiation of NS to NPCs; NPCs to neurons; NPCs to oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs); and OPCs to oligodendrocytes (OLG). Fibrin plays a crucial role in the conversion of hADMSC to NS and NPCs to OPCs; but, not essential for OPC to OLG maturation. Co-survival and cell-cell interaction of NPC derived neurons and OPCs promoting OLG maturation is illustrated. The designed biomimetic niche shows the potential for directing autologous ADMSCs to neural cells for applications in regenerative medicine.
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17
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Ren Y, Geng R, Lu Q, Tan X, Rao R, Zhou H, Yang X, Liu W. Involvement of TGF-β and ROS in G1 Cell Cycle Arrest Induced by Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles Under UVA Irradiation in a 3D Spheroid Model. Int J Nanomedicine 2020; 15:1997-2010. [PMID: 32273698 PMCID: PMC7102912 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s238145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2019] [Accepted: 02/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background As one of the most widely produced engineered nanomaterials, titanium dioxide nanoparticles (nano-TiO2) are used in biomedicine and healthcare products, and as implant scaffolds; therefore, the toxic mechanism of nano-TiO2 has been extensively investigated with a view to guiding application. Three-dimensional (3D) spheroid models can simplify the complex physiological environment and mimic the in vivo architecture of tissues, which is optimal for the assessment of nano-TiO2 toxicity under ultraviolet A (UVA) irradiation. Methods and Results In the present study, the toxicity of nano-TiO2 under UVA irradiation was investigated in 3D H22 spheroids cultured in fibrin gels. A significant reduction of approximately 25% in spheroid diameter was observed following treatment with 100 μg/mL nano-TiO2 under UVA irradiation after seven days of culture. Nano-TiO2 under UVA irradiation triggered the initiation of the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway, increasing the expression levels of TGF-β1, Smad3, Cdkn1a, and Cdkn2b at both the mRNA and protein level, which resulted in cell cycle arrest in the G1 phase. In addition, nano-TiO2 under UVA irradiation also triggered the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which were shown to be involved in cell cycle regulation and the induction of TGF-β1 expression. Conclusion Nano-TiO2 under UVA irradiation induced cell cycle arrest in the G1 phase and the formation of smaller spheroids, which were associated with TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway activation and ROS generation. These results reveal the toxic mechanism of nano-TiO2 under UVA irradiation, providing the possibility for 3D spheroid models to be used in nanotoxicology studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyuan Ren
- College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, People's Republic of China
| | - Runqing Geng
- College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, People's Republic of China
| | - Qunwei Lu
- College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, People's Republic of China.,Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Center for Human Genome Research, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, People's Republic of China
| | - Xi Tan
- College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, People's Republic of China
| | - Rong Rao
- College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, People's Republic of China
| | - Hong Zhou
- College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiangliang Yang
- College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, People's Republic of China.,National Engineering Research Center for Nanomedicine, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Liu
- College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, People's Republic of China.,National Engineering Research Center for Nanomedicine, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, People's Republic of China
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18
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Madhusudanan P, Raju G, Shankarappa S. Hydrogel systems and their role in neural tissue engineering. J R Soc Interface 2020; 17:20190505. [PMID: 31910776 PMCID: PMC7014813 DOI: 10.1098/rsif.2019.0505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2019] [Accepted: 12/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Neural tissue engineering (NTE) is a rapidly progressing field that promises to address several serious neurological conditions that are currently difficult to treat. Selecting the right scaffolding material to promote neural and non-neural cell differentiation as well as axonal growth is essential for the overall design strategy for NTE. Among the varieties of scaffolds, hydrogels have proved to be excellent candidates for culturing and differentiating cells of neural origin. Considering the intrinsic resistance of the nervous system against regeneration, hydrogels have been abundantly used in applications that involve the release of neurotrophic factors, antagonists of neural growth inhibitors and other neural growth-promoting agents. Recent developments in the field include the utilization of encapsulating hydrogels in neural cell therapy for providing localized trophic support and shielding neural cells from immune activity. In this review, we categorize and discuss the various hydrogel-based strategies that have been examined for neural-specific applications and also highlight their strengths and weaknesses. We also discuss future prospects and challenges ahead for the utilization of hydrogels in NTE.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sahadev Shankarappa
- Centre for Nanosciences and Molecular Medicine, Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Center, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Kochi 682041, India
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19
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George J, Hsu CC, Nguyen LTB, Ye H, Cui Z. Neural tissue engineering with structured hydrogels in CNS models and therapies. Biotechnol Adv 2019; 42:107370. [PMID: 30902729 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2019.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2018] [Revised: 02/25/2019] [Accepted: 03/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
The development of techniques to create and use multiphase microstructured hydrogels (granular hydrogels or microgels) has enabled the generation of cultures with more biologically relevant architecture and use of structured hydrogels is especially pertinent to the development of new types of central nervous system (CNS) culture models and therapies. We review material choice and the customisation of hydrogel structure, as well as the use of hydrogels in developmental models. Combining the use of structured hydrogel techniques with developmentally relevant tissue culture approaches will enable the generation of more relevant models and treatments to repair damaged CNS tissue architecture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julian George
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Engineering Science, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Chia-Chen Hsu
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Engineering Science, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Linh Thuy Ba Nguyen
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Engineering Science, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Hua Ye
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Engineering Science, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom.
| | - Zhanfeng Cui
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Engineering Science, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom.
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20
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Johnson CDL, Ganguly D, Zuidema JM, Cardinal TJ, Ziemba AM, Kearns KR, McCarthy SM, Thompson DM, Ramanath G, Borca-Tasciuc DA, Dutz S, Gilbert RJ. Injectable, Magnetically Orienting Electrospun Fiber Conduits for Neuron Guidance. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2019; 11:356-372. [PMID: 30516370 PMCID: PMC6520652 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.8b18344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Magnetic electrospun fibers are of interest for minimally invasive biomaterial applications that also strive to provide cell guidance. Magnetic electrospun fibers can be injected and then magnetically positioned in situ, and the aligned fiber scaffolds provide consistent topographical guidance to cells. In this study, magnetically responsive aligned poly-l-lactic acid electrospun fiber scaffolds were developed and tested for neural applications. Incorporating oleic acid-coated iron oxide nanoparticles significantly increased neurite outgrowth, reduced the fiber alignment, and increased the surface nanotopography of the electrospun fibers. After verifying neuron viability on two-dimensional scaffolds, the system was tested as an injectable three-dimensional scaffold. Small conduits of aligned magnetic fibers were easily injected in a collagen or fibrinogen hydrogel solution and repositioned using an external magnetic field. The aligned magnetic fibers provided internal directional guidance to neurites within a three-dimensional collagen or fibrin model hydrogel, supplemented with Matrigel. Neurites growing from dorsal root ganglion explants extended 1.4-3× farther on the aligned fibers compared with neurites extending in the hydrogel alone. Overall, these results show that magnetic electrospun fiber scaffolds can be injected and manipulated with a magnetic field in situ to provide directional guidance to neurons inside an injectable hydrogel. Most importantly, this injectable guidance system increased both neurite alignment and neurite length within the hydrogel scaffold.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher D. L. Johnson
- Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 8th Street, Troy, New York 12180-3590, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 8th Street, Troy, New York 12180-3590, United States
| | - Debmalya Ganguly
- Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 8th Street, Troy, New York 12180-3590, United States
- Department of Mechanical, Aerospace, and Nuclear Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York 12180, United States
| | - Jonathan M. Zuidema
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California at San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
| | - Thomas J. Cardinal
- Department of Materials Science, Aerospace, and Nuclear Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York 12180, United States
| | - Alexis M. Ziemba
- Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 8th Street, Troy, New York 12180-3590, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 8th Street, Troy, New York 12180-3590, United States
| | - Kathryn R. Kearns
- Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 8th Street, Troy, New York 12180-3590, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 8th Street, Troy, New York 12180-3590, United States
| | - Simon M. McCarthy
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 8th Street, Troy, New York 12180-3590, United States
| | - Deanna M. Thompson
- Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 8th Street, Troy, New York 12180-3590, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 8th Street, Troy, New York 12180-3590, United States
| | - Ganpati Ramanath
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California at San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
| | - Diana A. Borca-Tasciuc
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 8th Street, Troy, New York 12180-3590, United States
| | - Silvio Dutz
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Informatics, Technische Universität Ilmenau, Gustav-Kirchhoff-Straße, 298693 Ilmenau, Germany
| | - Ryan J. Gilbert
- Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 8th Street, Troy, New York 12180-3590, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 8th Street, Troy, New York 12180-3590, United States
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21
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Zuidema JM, Gilbert RJ, Gottipati MK. Biomaterial Approaches to Modulate Reactive Astroglial Response. Cells Tissues Organs 2018; 205:372-395. [PMID: 30517922 PMCID: PMC6397084 DOI: 10.1159/000494667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2018] [Accepted: 10/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Over several decades, biomaterial scientists have developed materials to spur axonal regeneration and limit secondary injury and tested these materials within preclinical animal models. Rarely, though, are astrocytes examined comprehensively when biomaterials are placed into the injury site. Astrocytes support neuronal function in the central nervous system. Following an injury, astrocytes undergo reactive gliosis and create a glial scar. The astrocytic glial scar forms a dense barrier which restricts the extension of regenerating axons through the injury site. However, there are several beneficial effects of the glial scar, including helping to reform the blood-brain barrier, limiting the extent of secondary injury, and supporting the health of regenerating axons near the injury site. This review provides a brief introduction to the role of astrocytes in the spinal cord, discusses astrocyte phenotypic changes that occur following injury, and highlights studies that explored astrocyte changes in response to biomaterials tested within in vitro or in vivo environments. Overall, we suggest that in order to improve biomaterial designs for spinal cord injury applications, investigators should more thoroughly consider the astrocyte response to such designs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan M Zuidema
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Ryan J Gilbert
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York, USA
- Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York, USA
| | - Manoj K Gottipati
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York, USA,
- Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York, USA,
- Center for Brain and Spinal Cord Repair, Department of Neuroscience, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA,
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22
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Dumont CM, Munsell MK, Carlson MA, Cummings BJ, Anderson AJ, Shea LD. Spinal Progenitor-Laden Bridges Support Earlier Axon Regeneration Following Spinal Cord Injury. Tissue Eng Part A 2018; 24:1588-1602. [PMID: 30215293 DOI: 10.1089/ten.tea.2018.0053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
IMPACT STATEMENT Spinal cord injury (SCI) results in loss of tissue innervation below the injury. Spinal progenitors have a greater ability to repair the damage and can be injected into the injury, but their regenerative potential is hampered by their poor survival after transplantation. Biomaterials can create a cell delivery platform and generate a more hospitable microenvironment for the progenitors within the injury. In this work, polymeric bridges are used to deliver embryonic spinal progenitors to the injury, resulting in increased progenitor survival and subsequent regeneration and functional recovery, thus demonstrating the importance of combined therapeutic approaches for SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Courtney M Dumont
- 1 Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan , Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Mary K Munsell
- 1 Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan , Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Mitchell A Carlson
- 1 Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan , Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Brian J Cummings
- 2 Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders (iMIND), University of California , Irvine, California.,3 Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California , Irvine, California.,4 Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology and University of California , Irvine, California.,5 Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of California , Irvine, California
| | - Aileen J Anderson
- 2 Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders (iMIND), University of California , Irvine, California.,3 Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, University of California , Irvine, California.,4 Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology and University of California , Irvine, California.,5 Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of California , Irvine, California
| | - Lonnie D Shea
- 1 Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan , Ann Arbor, Michigan.,6 Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Michigan , Ann Arbor, Michigan
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23
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González-Nieto D, Fernández-García L, Pérez-Rigueiro J, Guinea GV, Panetsos F. Hydrogels-Assisted Cell Engraftment for Repairing the Stroke-Damaged Brain: Chimera or Reality. Polymers (Basel) 2018; 10:polym10020184. [PMID: 30966220 PMCID: PMC6415003 DOI: 10.3390/polym10020184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2017] [Revised: 02/06/2018] [Accepted: 02/11/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The use of advanced biomaterials as a structural and functional support for stem cells-based therapeutic implants has boosted the development of tissue engineering applications in multiple clinical fields. In relation to neurological disorders, we are still far from the clinical reality of restoring normal brain function in neurodegenerative diseases and cerebrovascular disorders. Hydrogel polymers show unique mechanical stiffness properties in the range of living soft tissues such as nervous tissue. Furthermore, the use of these polymers drastically enhances the engraftment of stem cells as well as their capacity to produce and deliver neuroprotective and neuroregenerative factors in the host tissue. Along this article, we review past and current trends in experimental and translational research to understand the opportunities, benefits, and types of tentative hydrogel-based applications for the treatment of cerebral disorders. Although the use of hydrogels for brain disorders has been restricted to the experimental area, the current level of knowledge anticipates an intense development of this field to reach clinics in forthcoming years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel González-Nieto
- Center for Biomedical Technology, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain.
- Departamento de Tecnología Fotónica y Bioingeniería, ETSI Telecomunicaciones, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain.
- Biomedical Research Networking Center in Bioengineering Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), 28040 Madrid, Spain.
| | - Laura Fernández-García
- Center for Biomedical Technology, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain.
| | - José Pérez-Rigueiro
- Center for Biomedical Technology, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain.
- Biomedical Research Networking Center in Bioengineering Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), 28040 Madrid, Spain.
- Departamento de Ciencia de Materiales, ETSI Caminos, Canales y Puertos, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid 28040 Madrid, Spain.
| | - Gustavo V Guinea
- Center for Biomedical Technology, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain.
- Biomedical Research Networking Center in Bioengineering Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), 28040 Madrid, Spain.
- Departamento de Ciencia de Materiales, ETSI Caminos, Canales y Puertos, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid 28040 Madrid, Spain.
| | - Fivos Panetsos
- Neurocomputing and Neurorobotics Research Group: Faculty of Biology and Faculty of Optics, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain.
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria, Hospital Clínico San Carlos Madrid, IdISSC, 28040 Madrid, Spain.
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24
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Thompson R, Sakiyama-Elbert S. Using biomaterials to promote pro-regenerative glial phenotypes after nervous system injuries. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 13:024104. [PMID: 29186011 DOI: 10.1088/1748-605x/aa9e23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Trauma to either the central or peripheral nervous system (PNS) often leads to significant loss of function and disability in patients. This high rate of long-term disability is due to the overall limited regenerative potential of nervous tissue, even though the PNS has more regenerative potential than the central nervous system (CNS). The supporting glial cells in the periphery, Schwann cells, are part of the reason for the improved recovery observed in the PNS. In the CNS, the glial populations, astrocytes and oligodendrocytes (OLs), do not have as much potential to promote regeneration and are at times inhibitory to neuronal growth. In particular, the inhibitory roles astrocytes play following trauma has led to a historical focus on neurons and OLs instead of astrocytes. Recently, this focus has shifted as new, regenerative astrocyte phenotypes have been described. From these observations, glial cells clearly play critical roles in native recovery pathways in both the CNS and PNS. This makes the ability to manipulate both transplanted and native glial cell phenotypes a potentially successful strategy to improve nerve injury outcomes. This review focuses on factors that cause glial cells to adopt repair phenotypes and biomaterials that manipulate and/or harness these glial phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Russell Thompson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Texas at Austin 107 W Dean Keeton, Austin, TX 78712, United States of America. Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, 1 Brooking Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130, United States of America
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25
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Ziemba AM, Gilbert RJ. Biomaterials for Local, Controlled Drug Delivery to the Injured Spinal Cord. Front Pharmacol 2017; 8:245. [PMID: 28539887 PMCID: PMC5423911 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2017.00245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2017] [Accepted: 04/19/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Affecting approximately 17,000 new people each year, spinal cord injury (SCI) is a devastating injury that leads to permanent paraplegia or tetraplegia. Current pharmacological approaches are limited in their ability to ameliorate this injury pathophysiology, as many are not delivered locally, for a sustained duration, or at the correct injury time point. With this review, we aim to communicate the importance of combinatorial biomaterial and pharmacological approaches that target certain aspects of the dynamically changing pathophysiology of SCI. After reviewing the pathophysiology timeline, we present experimental biomaterial approaches to provide local sustained doses of drug. In this review, we present studies using a variety of biomaterials, including hydrogels, particles, and fibers/conduits for drug delivery. Subsequently, we discuss how each may be manipulated to optimize drug release during a specific time frame following SCI. Developing polymer biomaterials that can effectively release drug to target specific aspects of SCI pathophysiology will result in more efficacious approaches leading to better regeneration and recovery following SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ryan J. Gilbert
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Sciences, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, TroyNY, USA
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26
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Yin L, Yuvienco C, Montclare JK. Protein based therapeutic delivery agents: Contemporary developments and challenges. Biomaterials 2017; 134:91-116. [PMID: 28458031 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2017.04.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2017] [Revised: 04/18/2017] [Accepted: 04/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
As unique biopolymers, proteins can be employed for therapeutic delivery. They bear important features such as bioavailability, biocompatibility, and biodegradability with low toxicity serving as a platform for delivery of various small molecule therapeutics, gene therapies, protein biologics and cells. Depending on size and characteristic of the therapeutic, a variety of natural and engineered proteins or peptides have been developed. This, coupled to recent advances in synthetic and chemical biology, has led to the creation of tailor-made protein materials for delivery. This review highlights strategies employing proteins to facilitate the delivery of therapeutic matter, addressing the challenges for small molecule, gene, protein and cell transport.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liming Yin
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, NYU Tandon School of Engineering, Brooklyn, NY 11201, United States
| | - Carlo Yuvienco
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, NYU Tandon School of Engineering, Brooklyn, NY 11201, United States
| | - Jin Kim Montclare
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, NYU Tandon School of Engineering, Brooklyn, NY 11201, United States; Department of Chemistry, New York University, New York, NY 10003, United States; Department of Biomaterials, NYU College of Dentistry, New York, NY 10010, United States; Department of Biochemistry, SUNY Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY 11203, United States.
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27
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Targeting Neurotrophins to Specific Populations of Neurons: NGF, BDNF, and NT-3 and Their Relevance for Treatment of Spinal Cord Injury. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:ijms18030548. [PMID: 28273811 PMCID: PMC5372564 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18030548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 199] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2016] [Revised: 02/23/2017] [Accepted: 02/24/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurotrophins are a family of proteins that regulate neuronal survival, synaptic function, and neurotransmitter release, and elicit the plasticity and growth of axons within the adult central and peripheral nervous system. Since the 1950s, these factors have been extensively studied in traumatic injury models. Here we review several members of the classical family of neurotrophins, the receptors they bind to, and their contribution to axonal regeneration and sprouting of sensory and motor pathways after spinal cord injury (SCI). We focus on nerve growth factor (NGF), brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and neurotrophin-3 (NT-3), and their effects on populations of neurons within diverse spinal tracts. Understanding the cellular targets of neurotrophins and the responsiveness of specific neuronal populations will allow for the most efficient treatment strategies in the injured spinal cord.
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28
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Nguyen LH, Gao M, Lin J, Wu W, Wang J, Chew SY. Three-dimensional aligned nanofibers-hydrogel scaffold for controlled non-viral drug/gene delivery to direct axon regeneration in spinal cord injury treatment. Sci Rep 2017; 7:42212. [PMID: 28169354 PMCID: PMC5294639 DOI: 10.1038/srep42212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2016] [Accepted: 01/06/2017] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injuries (SCI) often lead to persistent neurological dysfunction due to failure in axon regeneration. Unfortunately, currently established treatments, such as direct drug administration, do not effectively treat SCI due to rapid drug clearance from our bodies. Here, we introduce a three-dimensional aligned nanofibers-hydrogel scaffold as a bio-functionalized platform to provide sustained non-viral delivery of proteins and nucleic acid therapeutics (small non-coding RNAs), along with synergistic contact guidance for nerve injury treatment. A hemi-incision model at cervical level 5 in the rat spinal cord was chosen to evaluate the efficacy of this scaffold design. Specifically, aligned axon regeneration was observed as early as one week post-injury. In addition, no excessive inflammatory response and scar tissue formation was triggered. Taken together, our results demonstrate the potential of our scaffold for neural tissue engineering applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lan Huong Nguyen
- School of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 637459, Singapore
| | - Mingyong Gao
- School of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 637459, Singapore
- Department of Spine Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China
| | - Junquan Lin
- School of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 637459, Singapore
| | - Wutian Wu
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Hong Kong Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Research Center of Reproduction, Development and Growth, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
- State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, PR China
| | - Jun Wang
- The CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Life Sciences and Medical Center, University of Science & Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230027, PR China
| | - Sing Yian Chew
- School of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 637459, Singapore
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 308232, Singapore
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29
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Iyer NR, Wilems TS, Sakiyama-Elbert SE. Stem cells for spinal cord injury: Strategies to inform differentiation and transplantation. Biotechnol Bioeng 2017; 114:245-259. [PMID: 27531038 PMCID: PMC5642909 DOI: 10.1002/bit.26074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2016] [Revised: 06/20/2016] [Accepted: 08/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The complex pathology of spinal cord injury (SCI), involving a cascade of secondary events and the formation of inhibitory barriers, hampers regeneration across the lesion site and often results in irreversible loss of motor function. The limited regenerative capacity of endogenous cells after SCI has led to a focus on the development of cell therapies that can confer both neuroprotective and neuroregenerative benefits. Stem cells have emerged as a candidate cell source because of their ability to self-renew and differentiate into a multitude of specialized cell types. While ethical and safety concerns impeded the use of stem cells in the past, advances in isolation and differentiation methods have largely mitigated these issues. A confluence of work in stem cell biology, genetics, and developmental neurobiology has informed the directed differentiation of specific spinal cell types. After transplantation, these stem cell-derived populations can replace lost cells, provide trophic support, remyelinate surviving axons, and form relay circuits that contribute to functional recovery. Further refinement of stem cell differentiation and transplantation methods, including combinatorial strategies that involve biomaterial scaffolds and drug delivery, is critical as stem cell-based treatments enter clinical trials. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2017;114: 245-259. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nisha R Iyer
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, 107 W Dean Keeton St., Stop C0800 BME 3.314, Austin, Texas 78712
| | - Thomas S Wilems
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, 107 W Dean Keeton St., Stop C0800 BME 3.314, Austin, Texas 78712
| | - Shelly E Sakiyama-Elbert
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, 107 W Dean Keeton St., Stop C0800 BME 3.314, Austin, Texas 78712
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30
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31
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Hodgetts SI, Harvey AR. Neurotrophic Factors Used to Treat Spinal Cord Injury. VITAMINS AND HORMONES 2016; 104:405-457. [PMID: 28215303 DOI: 10.1016/bs.vh.2016.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The application of neurotrophic factors as a therapy to improve morphological and behavioral outcomes after experimental spinal cord injury (SCI) has been the focus of many studies. These studies vary markedly in the type of neurotrophic factor that is delivered, the mode of administration, and the location, timing, and duration of the treatment. Generally, the majority of studies have had significant success if neurotrophic factors are applied in or close to the lesion site during the acute or the subacute phase after SCI. Comparatively fewer studies have administered neurotrophic factors in order to directly target the somata of injured neurons. The mode of delivery varies between acute injection of recombinant proteins, subacute or chronic delivery using a variety of strategies including osmotic minipumps, cell-mediated delivery, delivery using polymer release vehicles or supporting bridges of some sort, or the use of gene therapy to modify neurons, glial cells, or precursor/stem cells. In this brief review, we summarize the state of play of many of the therapies using these factors, most of which have been undertaken in rodent models of SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- S I Hodgetts
- School of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia; Western Australian Neuroscience Research Institute, Perth, WA, Australia.
| | - A R Harvey
- School of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia; Western Australian Neuroscience Research Institute, Perth, WA, Australia
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32
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Effect of controlled release of brain-derived neurotrophic factor and neurotrophin-3 from collagen gel on neural stem cells. Neuroreport 2016; 27:116-23. [PMID: 26656937 DOI: 10.1097/wnr.0000000000000507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to examine the effect of controlled release of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and neurotrophin-3 (NT-3) from collagen gel on rat neural stem cells (NSCs). With three groups of collagen gel, BDNF/collagen gel, and NT-3/collagen gel as controls, BDNF and NT-3 were tested in the BDNF-NT-3/collagen gel group at different time points. The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay results showed that BDNF and NT-3 were steadily released from collagen gels for 10 days. The cell viability test and the bromodeoxyuridine incorporation assay showed that BDNF-NT-3/collagen gel supported the survival and proliferation of NSCs. The results also showed that the length of processes was markedly longer and differentiation percentage from NSCs into neurons was much higher in the BDNF-NT-3/collagen gel group than those in the collagen gel, BDNF/collagen gel, and NT-3/collagen gel groups. These findings suggest that BDNF-NT-3/collagen gel could significantly improve the ability of NSCs proliferation and differentiation.
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33
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Johnson CD, D’Amato AR, Gilbert RJ. Electrospun Fibers for Drug Delivery after Spinal Cord Injury and the Effects of Drug Incorporation on Fiber Properties. Cells Tissues Organs 2016; 202:116-135. [PMID: 27701153 PMCID: PMC5067174 DOI: 10.1159/000446621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
There is currently no cure for individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI). While many promising approaches are being tested in clinical trials, the complexity of SCI limits several of these approaches from aiding complete functional recovery. Several different categories of biomaterials are investigated for their ability to guide axonal regeneration, to deliver proteins or small molecules locally, or to improve the viability of transplanted stem cells. The purpose of this study is to provide a brief overview of SCI, present the different categories of biomaterial scaffolds that direct and guide axonal regeneration, and then focus specifically on electrospun fiber guidance scaffolds. Much like other polymer guidance approaches, electrospun fibers can retain and deliver therapeutic drugs. The experimental section presents new data showing the incorporation of two therapeutic drugs into electrospun poly-L-lactic acid fibers. Two different concentrations of either riluzole or neurotrophin-3 were loaded into the electrospun fibers to examine the effect of drug concentration on the physical characteristics of the fibers (fiber alignment and fiber diameter). Overall, the drugs were successfully incorporated into the fibers and the release was related to the loading concentration. The fiber diameter decreased with the inclusion of the drug, and the decreased diameter was correlated with a decrease in fiber alignment. Subsequently, the study includes considerations for successful incorporation of a therapeutic drug without changing the physical properties of the fibers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher D.L. Johnson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 8th Street, Troy, NY, 12180-3590, USA
- Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 8th Street, Troy, NY. 12180-3590, USA
| | - Anthony R. D’Amato
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 8th Street, Troy, NY, 12180-3590, USA
- Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 8th Street, Troy, NY. 12180-3590, USA
| | - Ryan J. Gilbert
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 8th Street, Troy, NY, 12180-3590, USA
- Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 8th Street, Troy, NY. 12180-3590, USA
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Dumont CM, Margul DJ, Shea LD. Tissue Engineering Approaches to Modulate the Inflammatory Milieu following Spinal Cord Injury. Cells Tissues Organs 2016; 202:52-66. [PMID: 27701152 PMCID: PMC5067186 DOI: 10.1159/000446646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Tissue engineering strategies have shown promise in promoting healing and regeneration after spinal cord injury (SCI); however, these strategies are limited by inflammation and the immune response. Infiltration of cells of the innate and adaptive immune responses and the inflammation that follows cause secondary damage adjacent to the injury, increased scarring, and a potently inhibitory environment for the regeneration of damaged neurons. While the inflammation that ensues is typically associated with limited regeneration, the immune response is a crucial element in the closing of the blood-brain barrier, minimizing the spread of injury, and initiating healing. This review summarizes the strategies that have been developed to modulate the immune response towards an anti-inflammatory environment that is permissive to the regeneration of neurons, glia, and parenchyma. We focus on the use of biomaterials, biologically active molecules, gene therapy, nanoparticles, and stem cells to modulate the immune response, and illustrate concepts for future therapies. Current clinical treatments for SCI are limited to systemic hypothermia or methylprednisolone, which both act by systemically mitigating the effects of immune response but have marginal efficacy. Herein, we discuss emerging research strategies to further enhance these clinical treatments by directly targeting specific aspects of the immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Courtney. M. Dumont
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
| | - Daniel J. Margul
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
| | - Lonnie. D. Shea
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
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35
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Milbreta U, Nguyen LH, Diao H, Lin J, Wu W, Sun CY, Wang J, Chew SY. Three-Dimensional Nanofiber Hybrid Scaffold Directs and Enhances Axonal Regeneration after Spinal Cord Injury. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2016; 2:1319-1329. [DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.6b00248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ulla Milbreta
- School
of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 637459, Singapore
| | - Lan Huong Nguyen
- School
of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 637459, Singapore
| | - Huajia Diao
- School
of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 637459, Singapore
| | - Junquan Lin
- School
of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 637459, Singapore
| | - Wutian Wu
- Department
of Anatomy, The University of Hong Kong, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Research
Center of Reproduction, Development and Growth, Li Ka Shing Faculty
of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
- State
Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty
of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau
Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, P. R. China
| | - Chun-Yang Sun
- The CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Life Sciences and Medical Center, University of Science & Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230027, P. R. China
| | - Jun Wang
- The CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Life Sciences and Medical Center, University of Science & Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230027, P. R. China
| | - Sing Yian Chew
- School
of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 637459, Singapore
- Lee
Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, 308232, Singapore
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36
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Elliott Donaghue I, Tator CH, Shoichet MS. Local Delivery of Neurotrophin-3 and Anti-NogoA Promotes Repair After Spinal Cord Injury. Tissue Eng Part A 2016; 22:733-41. [PMID: 27056081 DOI: 10.1089/ten.tea.2015.0471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Tissue and functional repair after spinal cord injury (SCI) continue to elude researchers. Neurotrophin-3 (NT-3) and anti-NogoA have been shown to promote axonal regeneration in animal models of SCI; however, localized and sustained delivery to the central nervous system (CNS) remains a critical challenge for these and other macromolecular therapeutics. An injectable drug delivery system (DDS) has previously been developed, which can provide safe local delivery to the spinal cord. This DDS, composed of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles (nps) dispersed in a hyaluronan methylcellulose hydrogel, was adapted for the tunable bioactive delivery of NT-3 and anti-NogoA. Furthermore, the combined delivery of NT-3 and anti-NogoA from the DDS in an impact/compression model of SCI increases axon density and improves locomotor function. The benefits of this np/hydrogel DDS observed for NT-3 and anti-NogoA demonstrate the utility of the DDS as a local delivery strategy for protein therapeutics to the CNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irja Elliott Donaghue
- 1 Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, University of Toronto , Toronto, Canada .,2 Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto , Toronto, Canada
| | - Charles H Tator
- 3 Division of Genetics and Development, Toronto Western Research Institute, University of Toronto , Toronto, Canada .,4 Krembil Neuroscience Centre, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network , Toronto, Canada .,5 Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto , Toronto, Canada
| | - Molly S Shoichet
- 1 Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, University of Toronto , Toronto, Canada .,2 Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto , Toronto, Canada .,6 Donnelly Centre for Cellular & Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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Rosch JC, Hollmann EK, Lippmann ES. In vitro selection technologies to enhance biomaterial functionality. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2016; 241:962-71. [PMID: 27188514 DOI: 10.1177/1535370216647182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Cells make decisions and fate choices based in part on cues they receive from their external environment. Factors that affect the interpretation of these cues include the soluble proteins that are present at any given time, the cell surface receptors that are available to bind these proteins, and the relative affinities of the soluble proteins for their cognate receptors. Researchers have identified many of the biological motifs responsible for the high-affinity interactions between proteins and their receptors, and subsequently incorporated these motifs into biomaterials to elicit control over cell behavior. Common modes of control include localized sequestration of proteins to improve bioavailability and direct inhibition or activation of a receptor by an immobilized peptide or protein. However, naturally occurring biological motifs often possess promiscuous affinity for multiple proteins and receptors or lack programmable actuation in response to dynamic stimuli, thereby limiting the amount of control they can exert over cellular decisions. These natural motifs only represent a small fraction of the biological diversity that can be assayed by in vitro selection strategies, and the discovery of "artificial" motifs with varying affinity, specificity, and functionality could greatly expand the repertoire of engineered biomaterial properties. This minireview provides a brief summary of classical and emerging techniques in peptide phage display and nucleic acid aptamer selections and discusses prospective applications in the areas of cell adhesion, angiogenesis, neural regeneration, and immune modulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonah C Rosch
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37235, USA
| | - Emma K Hollmann
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37235, USA
| | - Ethan S Lippmann
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37235, USA
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Ahuja CS, Fehlings M. Concise Review: Bridging the Gap: Novel Neuroregenerative and Neuroprotective Strategies in Spinal Cord Injury. Stem Cells Transl Med 2016; 5:914-24. [PMID: 27130222 DOI: 10.5966/sctm.2015-0381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 145] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2015] [Accepted: 03/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED Spinal cord injuries (SCIs) result in devastating lifelong disability for patients and their families. The initial mechanical trauma is followed by a damaging secondary injury cascade involving proapoptotic signaling, ischemia, and inflammatory cell infiltration. Ongoing cellular necrosis releases ATP, DNA, glutamate, and free radicals to create a cytotoxic postinjury milieu. Long-term regeneration of lost or injured networks is further impeded by cystic cavitation and the formation of an inhibitory glial-chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan scar. In this article, we discuss important neuroprotective interventions currently applied in clinical practice, including surgical decompression, blood pressure augmentation, and i.v. methylprednisolone. We then explore exciting translational therapies on the horizon, such as riluzole, minocycline, fibroblast growth factor, magnesium, and hypothermia. Finally, we summarize the key neuroregenerative strategies of the next decade, including glial scar degradation, Rho-ROCK inhibition, cell-based therapies, and novel bioengineered adjuncts. Throughout, we emphasize the need for combinatorial approaches to this multifactorial problem and discuss relevant studies at the forefront of translation. We conclude by providing our perspectives on the future direction of SCI research. SIGNIFICANCE Spinal cord injuries (SCIs) result in devastating, lifelong disability for patients and their families. This article discusses important neuroprotective interventions currently applied in clinical practice, including surgical decompression, blood pressure augmentation, and i.v. methylprednisolone. Translational therapies on the horizon are discussed, such as riluzole, minocycline, fibroblast growth factor, magnesium, and hypothermia. The key neuroregenerative strategies of the next decade are summarized, including glial scar degradation, Rho-ROCK inhibition, cell-based therapies, and novel bioengineered adjuncts. The need for combinatorial approaches to this multifactorial problem is emphasized, relevant studies at the forefront of translation are discussed, and perspectives on the future direction of SCI research are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher S Ahuja
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Michael Fehlings
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada McEwen Centre for Regenerative Medicine, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada Spine Program, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada McLaughlin Centre for Molecular Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Ge L, Liu K, Liu Z, Lu M. Co-transplantation of autologous OM-MSCs and OM-OECs: a novel approach for spinal cord injury. Rev Neurosci 2016; 27:259-70. [PMID: 26574889 DOI: 10.1515/revneuro-2015-0030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2015] [Accepted: 10/09/2015] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
AbstractSpinal cord injury (SCI) is a disastrous injury that leads to motor and sensory dysfunctions in patients. In recent years, co-transplantation has become an increasingly used therapeutic treatment for patients with SCI. Both mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and olfactory-ensheathing cells (OECs) have been adopted to ameliorate SCI, with promising outcomes. Remarkable effects on the rehabilitation of patients with SCI have been achieved using MSCs. Olfactory mucosa (OM) MSCs from human OM are one of the most ideal cell resources for auto-transplantation in clinical application owing to their a high proliferation rate and multipotent capability. In addition, OECs derived from OM have been used to improve functional recovery of SCI and resulted in promising functional recovery in years. Accordingly, co-transplantation of OM-MSCs coupled with OM-OECs has been adopted to improve the recovery of SCI. Here we reviewed the reported applications of OM-MSCs and OM-OECs for SCI treatment and proposed that a novel combined strategy using both autologous OM-MSCs and OM-OECs would achieve a better approach for the treatment of SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Zhonghua Liu
- 2College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha 410008, P.R. China
| | - Ming Lu
- 1Department of Neurosurgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University (163 Hospital of PLA), Changsha 410003, P.R. China
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Moloney TC, Ní Fhlathartaigh M, Kulkarni M, Pandit A, Dowd E. Fibrin As a Scaffold for Delivery of GDNF Overexpressing Stem Cells to the Adult Rat Brain. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2015; 1:559-566. [DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.5b00049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Teresa C. Moloney
- Departments of Pharmacology & Therapeutics and ‡Network of Excellence for Functional Biomaterials, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
| | - Mary Ní Fhlathartaigh
- Departments of Pharmacology & Therapeutics and ‡Network of Excellence for Functional Biomaterials, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
| | - Mangesh Kulkarni
- Departments of Pharmacology & Therapeutics and ‡Network of Excellence for Functional Biomaterials, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
| | - Abhay Pandit
- Departments of Pharmacology & Therapeutics and ‡Network of Excellence for Functional Biomaterials, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
| | - Eilís Dowd
- Departments of Pharmacology & Therapeutics and ‡Network of Excellence for Functional Biomaterials, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
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Hydrogels and Cell Based Therapies in Spinal Cord Injury Regeneration. Stem Cells Int 2015; 2015:948040. [PMID: 26124844 PMCID: PMC4466497 DOI: 10.1155/2015/948040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2014] [Accepted: 12/14/2014] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a central nervous system- (CNS-) related disorder for which there is yet no successful treatment. Within the past several years, cell-based therapies have been explored for SCI repair, including the use of pluripotent human stem cells, and a number of adult-derived stem and mature cells such as mesenchymal stem cells, olfactory ensheathing cells, and Schwann cells. Although promising, cell transplantation is often overturned by the poor cell survival in the treatment of spinal cord injuries. Alternatively, the therapeutic role of different cells has been used in tissue engineering approaches by engrafting cells with biomaterials. The latter have the advantages of physically mimicking the CNS tissue, while promoting a more permissive environment for cell survival, growth, and differentiation. The roles of both cell- and biomaterial-based therapies as single therapeutic approaches for SCI repair will be discussed in this review. Moreover, as the multifactorial inhibitory environment of a SCI suggests that combinatorial approaches would be more effective, the importance of using biomaterials as cell carriers will be herein highlighted, as well as the recent advances and achievements of these promising tools for neural tissue regeneration.
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Elliott Donaghue I, Tator CH, Shoichet MS. Sustained delivery of bioactive neurotrophin-3 to the injured spinal cord. Biomater Sci 2015. [DOI: 10.1039/c4bm00311j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The sustained release of neurotrophin-3 from a nanoparticle/hydrogel composite resulted in functional and tissue benefit after compressive spinal cord injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irja Elliott Donaghue
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry
- University of Toronto
- Toronto
- Canada M5S 3E5
- Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering
| | - Charles H. Tator
- Division of Genetics and Development
- Toronto Western Research Institute
- University of Toronto
- Toronto
- Canada M5 T 2S8
| | - Molly S. Shoichet
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry
- University of Toronto
- Toronto
- Canada M5S 3E5
- Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering
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Abstract
Growth factors (GFs) are major regulatory proteins that can govern cell fate, migration, and organization. Numerous aspects of the cell milieu can modulate cell responses to GFs, and GF regulation is often achieved by the native extracellular matrix (ECM). For example, the ECM can sequester GFs and thereby control GF bioavailability. In addition, GFs can exert distinct effects depending on whether they are sequestered in solution, at two-dimensional interfaces, or within three-dimensional matrices. Understanding how the context of GF sequestering impacts cell function in the native ECM can instruct the design of soluble or insoluble GF sequestering moieties, which can then be used in a variety of bioengineering applications. This Feature Article provides an overview of the natural mechanisms of GF sequestering in the cell milieu, and reviews the recent bioengineering approaches that have sequestered GFs to modulate cell function. Results to date demonstrate that the cell response to GF sequestering depends on the affinity of the sequestering interaction, the spatial proximity of sequestering in relation to cells, the source of the GF (supplemented or endogenous), and the phase of the sequestering moiety (soluble or insoluble). We highlight the importance of context for the future design of biomaterials that can leverage endogenous molecules in the cell milieu and mitigate the need for supplemented factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- David G. Belair
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI USA
| | - Ngoc Nhi Le
- Department of Material Science, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI USA
| | - William L. Murphy
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI USA
- Department of Material Science, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI USA
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Harvey AR, Lovett SJ, Majda BT, Yoon JH, Wheeler LPG, Hodgetts SI. Neurotrophic factors for spinal cord repair: Which, where, how and when to apply, and for what period of time? Brain Res 2014; 1619:36-71. [PMID: 25451132 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2014.10.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2014] [Revised: 10/20/2014] [Accepted: 10/23/2014] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
A variety of neurotrophic factors have been used in attempts to improve morphological and behavioural outcomes after experimental spinal cord injury (SCI). Here we review many of these factors, their cellular targets, and their therapeutic impact on spinal cord repair in different, primarily rodent, models of SCI. A majority of studies report favourable outcomes but results are by no means consistent, thus a major aim of this review is to consider how best to apply neurotrophic factors after SCI to optimize their therapeutic potential. In addition to which factors are chosen, many variables need be considered when delivering trophic support, including where and when to apply a given factor or factors, how such factors are administered, at what dose, and for how long. Overall, the majority of studies have applied neurotrophic support in or close to the spinal cord lesion site, in the acute or sub-acute phase (0-14 days post-injury). Far fewer chronic SCI studies have been undertaken. In addition, comparatively fewer studies have administered neurotrophic factors directly to the cell bodies of injured neurons; yet in other instructive rodent models of CNS injury, for example optic nerve crush or transection, therapies are targeted directly at the injured neurons themselves, the retinal ganglion cells. The mode of delivery of neurotrophic factors is also an important variable, whether delivered by acute injection of recombinant proteins, sub-acute or chronic delivery using osmotic minipumps, cell-mediated delivery, delivery using polymer release vehicles or supporting bridges of some sort, or the use of gene therapy to modify neurons, glial cells or precursor/stem cells. Neurotrophic factors are often used in combination with cell or tissue grafts and/or other pharmacotherapeutic agents. Finally, the dose and time-course of delivery of trophic support should ideally be tailored to suit specific biological requirements, whether they relate to neuronal survival, axonal sparing/sprouting, or the long-distance regeneration of axons ending in a different mode of growth associated with terminal arborization and renewed synaptogenesis. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled SI: Spinal cord injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan R Harvey
- School of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology, The University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia.
| | - Sarah J Lovett
- School of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology, The University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Bernadette T Majda
- School of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology, The University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Jun H Yoon
- School of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology, The University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Lachlan P G Wheeler
- School of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology, The University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Stuart I Hodgetts
- School of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology, The University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia
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Elliott Donaghue I, Tam R, Sefton MV, Shoichet MS. Cell and biomolecule delivery for tissue repair and regeneration in the central nervous system. J Control Release 2014; 190:219-27. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2014.05.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2014] [Revised: 05/12/2014] [Accepted: 05/20/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Sakiyama-Elbert SE. Incorporation of heparin into biomaterials. Acta Biomater 2014; 10:1581-7. [PMID: 24021232 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2013.08.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 133] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2013] [Revised: 08/27/2013] [Accepted: 08/29/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
This review provides an overview of the incorporation of heparin into biomaterials with a focus on drug delivery and the use of heparin-based biomaterials for self-assembly of polymer networks. Heparin conjugation to biomaterials was originally explored to reduce the thrombogenicity of materials in contact with blood. Many of the conjugation strategies that were developed for these applications are still popular today for other applications. More recently heparin has been conjugated to biomaterials for drug delivery applications. Many of the delivery approaches have taken advantage of the ability of heparin to bind to a wide variety of growth factors, protecting them from degradation and potentiating interactions with cell surface receptors. More recently, the use of heparin as a base polymer for scaffold fabrication has also been explored, often utilizing non-covalent binding of heparin with peptides or proteins to promote self-assembly of hydrogel networks. This review will highlight recent advances in each of these areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shelly E Sakiyama-Elbert
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University, 1 Brookings Drive, Campus Box 1097, St Louis, MO 63130, USA.
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McCreedy DA, Wilems TS, Xu H, Butts JC, Brown CR, Smith AW, Sakiyama-Elbert SE. Survival, Differentiation, and Migration of High-Purity Mouse Embryonic Stem Cell-derived Progenitor Motor Neurons in Fibrin Scaffolds after Sub-Acute Spinal Cord Injury. Biomater Sci 2014; 2:1672-1682. [PMID: 25346848 DOI: 10.1039/c4bm00106k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Embryonic stem (ES) cells can be differentiated into many neural cell types that hold great potential as cell replacement therapies following spinal cord injury (SCI). Coupling stem cell transplantation with biomaterial scaffolds can produce a unified combination therapy with several potential advantages including enhanced cell survival, greater transplant retention, reduced scarring, and improved integration at the transplant/host interface. Undesired cell types, however, are commonly present in ES-cell derived cultures due to the limited efficiency of most ES cell induction protocols. Heterogeneous cell populations can confound the interaction between the biomaterial and specific neural populations leading to undesired outcomes. In particular, biomaterials scaffolds may enhance tumor formation by promoting survival and proliferation of undifferentiated ES cells that can persist after induction. Methods for purification of specific ES cell-derived neural populations are necessary to recognize the full potential of combination therapies involving biomaterials and ES cell-derived neural populations. We previously developed a method for enriching ES cell-derived progenitor motor neurons (pMNs) induced from mouse ES cells via antibiotic selection and showed that the enriched cell populations are depleted of pluripotent stem cells. In this study, we demonstrate the survival and differentiation of enriched pMNs within three dimensional (3D) fibrin scaffolds in vitro and when transplanted into a sub-acute dorsal hemisection model of SCI into neurons, oligodendrocytes and astrocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- D A McCreedy
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63112, USA
| | - T S Wilems
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63112, USA
| | - H Xu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63112, USA
| | - J C Butts
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63112, USA
| | - C R Brown
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63112, USA
| | - A W Smith
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63112, USA
| | - S E Sakiyama-Elbert
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63112, USA
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Abstract
The consequence of numerous neurological disorders is the significant loss of neural cells, which further results in multilevel dysfunction or severe functional deficits. The extracellular matrix (ECM) is of tremendous importance for neural regeneration mediating ambivalent functions: ECM serves as a growth-promoting substrate for neurons but, on the other hand, is a major constituent of the inhibitory scar, which results from traumatic injuries of the central nervous system. Therefore, cell and tissue replacement strategies on the basis of ECM mimetics are very promising therapeutic interventions. Numerous synthetic and natural materials have proven effective both in vitro and in vivo. The closer a material's physicochemical and molecular properties are to the original extracellular matrix, the more promising its effectiveness may be. Relevant factors that need to be taken into account when designing such materials for neural repair relate to receptor-mediated cell-matrix interactions, which are dependent on chemical and mechanical sensing. This chapter outlines important characteristics of natural and synthetic ECM materials (scaffolds) and provides an overview of recent advances in design and application of ECM materials for neural regeneration, both in therapeutic applications and in basic biological research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Estrada
- Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, Department of Neurology, Heinrich-Heine-University Medical Center Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Ayse Tekinay
- UNAM-National Nanotechnology Research Center, Institute of Materials Science and Nanotechnology, Bilkent University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Hans Werner Müller
- Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, Department of Neurology, Heinrich-Heine-University Medical Center Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany.
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Tam RY, Fuehrmann T, Mitrousis N, Shoichet MS. Regenerative therapies for central nervous system diseases: a biomaterials approach. Neuropsychopharmacology 2014; 39:169-88. [PMID: 24002187 PMCID: PMC3857664 DOI: 10.1038/npp.2013.237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 172] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2013] [Revised: 07/09/2013] [Accepted: 07/12/2013] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The central nervous system (CNS) has a limited capacity to spontaneously regenerate following traumatic injury or disease, requiring innovative strategies to promote tissue and functional repair. Tissue regeneration strategies, such as cell and/or drug delivery, have demonstrated promising results in experimental animal models, but have been difficult to translate clinically. The efficacy of cell therapy, which involves stem cell transplantation into the CNS to replace damaged tissue, has been limited due to low cell survival and integration upon transplantation, while delivery of therapeutic molecules to the CNS using conventional methods, such as oral and intravenous administration, have been limited by diffusion across the blood-brain/spinal cord-barrier. The use of biomaterials to promote graft survival and integration as well as localized and sustained delivery of biologics to CNS injury sites is actively being pursued. This review will highlight recent advances using biomaterials as cell- and drug-delivery vehicles for CNS repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roger Y Tam
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, University of Toronto, Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, Toronto, ON, Canada,Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Tobias Fuehrmann
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, University of Toronto, Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, Toronto, ON, Canada,Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Nikolaos Mitrousis
- Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Molly S Shoichet
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, University of Toronto, Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, Toronto, ON, Canada,Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering, Toronto, ON, Canada,Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada,Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, University of Toronto, Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, 160 College Street, Room 514, Toronto, ON, Canada, Tel: +416 978 1460, Fax: +416 978 4317, E-mail:
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50
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Rajangam T, An SSA. Fibrinogen and fibrin based micro and nano scaffolds incorporated with drugs, proteins, cells and genes for therapeutic biomedical applications. Int J Nanomedicine 2013; 8:3641-62. [PMID: 24106425 PMCID: PMC3792008 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s43945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the past two decades, many types of natural and synthetic polymer-based micro- and nanocarriers, with exciting properties and applications, have been developed for application in various types of tissue regeneration, including bone, cartilage, nerve, blood vessels, and skin. The development of suitable polymers scaffold designs to aid the repair of specific cell types have created diverse and important potentials in tissue restoration. Fibrinogen (Fbg)- and fibrin (Fbn)-based micro- and nanostructures can provide suitable natural matrix environments. Since these primary materials are abundantly available in blood as the main coagulation proteins, they can easily interact with damaged tissues and cells through native biochemical interactions. Fbg- and Fbn-based micro and nanostructures can also be consecutively furnished/or encapsulated and specifically delivered, with multiple growth factors, proteins, and stem cells, in structures designed to aid in specific phases of the tissue regeneration process. The present review has been carried out to demonstrate the progress made with micro and nanoscaffold applications and features a number of applications of Fbg- and Fbn-based carriers in the field of biomaterials, including the delivery of drugs, active biomolecules, cells, and genes, that have been effectively used in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thanavel Rajangam
- Department of Bionanotechnology, Gachon University, Seongnam-Si, Republic of Korea
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