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Camacho-Gomez D, Movilla N, Borau C, Martin A, Oñate Salafranca C, Pardo J, Gomez-Benito MJ, Garcia-Aznar JM. An agent-based method to estimate 3D cell migration trajectories from 2D measurements: Quantifying and comparing T vs CAR-T 3D cell migration. COMPUTER METHODS AND PROGRAMS IN BIOMEDICINE 2024; 255:108331. [PMID: 39068872 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmpb.2024.108331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2024] [Revised: 07/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Immune cell migration is one of the key features that enable immune cells to find invading pathogens, control tissue damage, and eliminate primary developing tumors. Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy is a novel strategy in the battle against various cancers. It has been successful in treating hematological tumors, yet it still faces many challenges in the case of solid tumors. In this work, we evaluate the three-dimensional (3D) migration capacity of T and CAR-T cells within dense collagen-based hydrogels. Quantifying three-dimensional (3D) cell migration requires microscopy techniques that may not be readily accessible. Thus, we introduce a straightforward mathematical model designed to infer 3D trajectories of cells from two-dimensional (2D) cell trajectories. METHODS We develop a 3D agent-based model (ABM) that simulates the temporal changes in the direction of migration with an inverse transform sampling method. Then, we propose an optimization procedure to accurately orient cell migration over time to reproduce cell migration from 2D experimental cell trajectories. With this model, we simulate cell migration assays of T and CAR-T cells in microfluidic devices conducted under hydrogels with different concentrations of type I collagen and validate our 3D cell migration predictions with light-sheet microscopy. RESULTS Our findings indicate that CAR-T cell migration is more sensitive to collagen concentration increases than T cells, resulting in a more pronounced reduction in their invasiveness. Moreover, our computational model reveals significant differences in 3D movement patterns between T and CAR-T cells. T cells exhibit migratory behavior in 3D whereas that CAR-T cells predominantly move within the XY plane, with limited movement in the Z direction. However, upon the introduction of a CXCL12 chemical gradient, CAR-T cells present migration patterns that closely resemble those of T cells. CONCLUSIONS This framework demonstrates that 2D projections of 3D trajectories may not accurately represent real migration patterns. Moreover, it offers a tool to estimate 3D migration patterns from 2D experimental data, which can be easily obtained with automatic quantification algorithms. This approach helps reduce the need for sophisticated and expensive microscopy equipment required in laboratories, as well as the computational burden involved in producing and analyzing 3D experimental data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Camacho-Gomez
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Multiscale in Mechanical and Biological Engineering (M2BE), Aragon Institute of Engineering Research (I3A), University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Nieves Movilla
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Multiscale in Mechanical and Biological Engineering (M2BE), Aragon Institute of Engineering Research (I3A), University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Carlos Borau
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Multiscale in Mechanical and Biological Engineering (M2BE), Aragon Institute of Engineering Research (I3A), University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain; Centro Universitario de la Defensa de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, 50090, Spain
| | - Alejandro Martin
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Multiscale in Mechanical and Biological Engineering (M2BE), Aragon Institute of Engineering Research (I3A), University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | | | - Julian Pardo
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Zaragoza/IIS Aragon, Spain; CIBER of Infectious diseases, IS Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Maria Jose Gomez-Benito
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Multiscale in Mechanical and Biological Engineering (M2BE), Aragon Institute of Engineering Research (I3A), University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Jose Manuel Garcia-Aznar
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Multiscale in Mechanical and Biological Engineering (M2BE), Aragon Institute of Engineering Research (I3A), University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain.
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Liu P, Wang J, Xue Y, Zou L, Tian Y, Sun R, Zhang W, Li Y, Lv L, Gao Q, Fan B. Perfusion in vivo bioreactor promotes regeneration of vascularized tissue-engineered bone. Regen Med 2023; 18:707-718. [PMID: 37589274 DOI: 10.2217/rme-2023-0101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Aim: This study improved the in vivo bioreactor (IVB) for bone regeneration by enhancing stem cell survival and promoting vascularized tissue-engineered bone. Methods: 12 New Zealand rabbits received β-TCP scaffolds with rabbit bone mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) implanted. Perfusion IVB with a perfusion electronic pump was compared with the control group using micro-CT, Microfil perfusion, histological staining and RT-PCR for gene expression. Results: Perfusion IVB demonstrated good biocompatibility, increased neoplastic bone tissue, neovascularization and upregulated osteogenic and angiogenesis-related genes in rabbits (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Perfusion IVB holds promise for bone regeneration and tissue engineering in orthopedics and maxillofacial surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Liu
- Orthopedic Centre, The 940 Hospital of Joint Logistics Support Force of Chinese People's Liberation Army, Lanzhou, Gansu Province, 730050, China
- Gansu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, Gansu Province, 730050, China
| | - Jian Wang
- Orthopedic Centre, The 940 Hospital of Joint Logistics Support Force of Chinese People's Liberation Army, Lanzhou, Gansu Province, 730050, China
| | - Yun Xue
- Orthopedic Centre, The 940 Hospital of Joint Logistics Support Force of Chinese People's Liberation Army, Lanzhou, Gansu Province, 730050, China
| | - Lei Zou
- Orthopedic Centre, The 940 Hospital of Joint Logistics Support Force of Chinese People's Liberation Army, Lanzhou, Gansu Province, 730050, China
| | - Yongzheng Tian
- Gansu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, Gansu Province, 730050, China
| | - Ruilong Sun
- Gansu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, Gansu Province, 730050, China
| | - Wenhua Zhang
- Orthopedic Centre, The 940 Hospital of Joint Logistics Support Force of Chinese People's Liberation Army, Lanzhou, Gansu Province, 730050, China
| | - Yunfei Li
- Orthopedic Centre, The 940 Hospital of Joint Logistics Support Force of Chinese People's Liberation Army, Lanzhou, Gansu Province, 730050, China
| | - Lijun Lv
- Orthopedic Centre, The 940 Hospital of Joint Logistics Support Force of Chinese People's Liberation Army, Lanzhou, Gansu Province, 730050, China
| | - Qiuming Gao
- Orthopedic Centre, The 940 Hospital of Joint Logistics Support Force of Chinese People's Liberation Army, Lanzhou, Gansu Province, 730050, China
| | - Bo Fan
- Orthopedic Centre, The 940 Hospital of Joint Logistics Support Force of Chinese People's Liberation Army, Lanzhou, Gansu Province, 730050, China
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Juste-Lanas Y, Hervas-Raluy S, García-Aznar JM, González-Loyola A. Fluid flow to mimic organ function in 3D in vitro models. APL Bioeng 2023; 7:031501. [PMID: 37547671 PMCID: PMC10404142 DOI: 10.1063/5.0146000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Many different strategies can be found in the literature to model organ physiology, tissue functionality, and disease in vitro; however, most of these models lack the physiological fluid dynamics present in vivo. Here, we highlight the importance of fluid flow for tissue homeostasis, specifically in vessels, other lumen structures, and interstitium, to point out the need of perfusion in current 3D in vitro models. Importantly, the advantages and limitations of the different current experimental fluid-flow setups are discussed. Finally, we shed light on current challenges and future focus of fluid flow models applied to the newest bioengineering state-of-the-art platforms, such as organoids and organ-on-a-chip, as the most sophisticated and physiological preclinical platforms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Silvia Hervas-Raluy
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Engineering Research Institute of Aragón (I3A), University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
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3D collagen migration patterns reveal a SMAD3-dependent and TGF-β1-independent mechanism of recruitment for tumour-associated fibroblasts in lung adenocarcinoma. Br J Cancer 2023; 128:967-981. [PMID: 36572730 PMCID: PMC10006167 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-022-02093-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Revised: 11/19/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The TGF-β1 transcription factor SMAD3 is epigenetically repressed in tumour-associated fibroblasts (TAFs) from lung squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) but not adenocarcinoma (ADC) patients, which elicits a compensatory increase in SMAD2 that renders SCC-TAFs less fibrotic. Here we examined the effects of altered SMAD2/3 in fibroblast migration and its impact on the desmoplastic stroma formation in lung cancer. METHODS We used a microfluidic device to examine descriptors of early protrusions and subsequent migration in 3D collagen gels upon knocking down SMAD2 or SMAD3 by shRNA in control fibroblasts and TAFs. RESULTS High SMAD3 conditions as in shSMAD2 fibroblasts and ADC-TAFs exhibited a migratory advantage in terms of protrusions (fewer and longer) and migration (faster and more directional) selectively without TGF-β1 along with Erk1/2 hyperactivation. This enhanced migration was abrogated by TGF-β1 as well as low glucose medium and the MEK inhibitor Trametinib. In contrast, high SMAD2 fibroblasts were poorly responsive to TGF-β1, high glucose and Trametinib, exhibiting impaired migration in all conditions. CONCLUSIONS The basal migration advantage of high SMAD3 fibroblasts provides a straightforward mechanism underlying the larger accumulation of TAFs previously reported in ADC compared to SCC. Moreover, our results encourage using MEK inhibitors in ADC-TAFs but not SCC-TAFs.
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Irandoust S, Müftü S. On computational predictions of fluid flow and its effects on bone healing in dental implant treatments: an investigation of spatiotemporal fluid flow in cyclic loading. Biomech Model Mechanobiol 2023; 22:85-104. [PMID: 36329356 DOI: 10.1007/s10237-022-01633-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Fluid flow in (porous) bone plays an important role in its maintenance, adaptation, and healing after an injury. Experimental and computational studies apply mechanical loading on bone to predict fluid flow development and/or to find its material properties. In most cases, mechanical loading is applied as a linear function in time. Multiple loading functions-with identical peak load and loading frequency-were used to investigate load-induced fluid flow and predict bone healing surrounding a dental implant. Implementing an instantaneous healing stimulus led to major differences in healing predictions for slightly different loading functions. Load-induced fluid flow was found to be displacement-rate dependent with complex spatial-temporal variations and not necessarily symmetrical during loading and unloading phases. Haversine loading resulted in more numerical stability compared to ramped/triangular loading, providing the opportunity for further investigation of the effects of various physiological masticatory loadings. It was concluded that using the average healing stimulus during cyclic loading gives the most robust bone healing predictions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soroush Irandoust
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
| | - Sinan Müftü
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
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Alamán‐Díez P, García‐Gareta E, Arruebo M, Pérez MÁ. A bone-on-a-chip collagen hydrogel-based model using pre-differentiated adipose-derived stem cells for personalized bone tissue engineering. J Biomed Mater Res A 2023; 111:88-105. [PMID: 36205241 PMCID: PMC9828068 DOI: 10.1002/jbm.a.37448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cells have contributed to the continuous progress of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Adipose-derived stem cells (ADSC) possess many advantages compared to other origins including easy tissue harvesting, self-renewal potential, and fast population doubling time. As multipotent cells, they can differentiate into osteoblastic cell linages. In vitro bone models are needed to carry out an initial safety assessment in the study of novel bone regeneration therapies. We hypothesized that 3D bone-on-a-chip models containing ADSC could closely recreate the physiological bone microenvironment and promote differentiation. They represent an intermedium step between traditional 2D-in vitro and in vivo experiments facilitating the screening of therapeutic molecules while saving resources. Herein, we have differentiated ADSC for 7 and 14 days and used them to fabricate in vitro bone models by embedding the pre-differentiated cells in a 3D collagen matrix placed in a microfluidic chip. Osteogenic markers such as alkaline phosphatase activity, calcium mineralization, changes on cell morphology, and expression of specific proteins (bone sialoprotein 2, dentin matrix acidic phosphoprotein-1, and osteocalcin) were evaluated to determine cell differentiation potential and evolution. This is the first miniaturized 3D-in vitro bone model created from pre-differentiated ADSC embedded in a hydrogel collagen matrix which could be used for personalized bone tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pilar Alamán‐Díez
- Multiscale in Mechanical and Biological Engineering, Aragón Institute of Engineering Research (I3A), Aragón Institute of Healthcare Research (IIS Aragón)University of ZaragozaZaragozaSpain
| | - Elena García‐Gareta
- Multiscale in Mechanical and Biological Engineering, Aragón Institute of Engineering Research (I3A), Aragón Institute of Healthcare Research (IIS Aragón)University of ZaragozaZaragozaSpain,Division of Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering, UCL Eastman Dental InstituteUniversity College LondonLondonUK
| | - Manuel Arruebo
- Aragón Institute of Nanoscience and Materials (INMA), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC)University of ZaragozaZaragozaSpain,Department of Chemical EngineeringUniversity of ZaragozaZaragozaSpain
| | - María Ángeles Pérez
- Multiscale in Mechanical and Biological Engineering, Aragón Institute of Engineering Research (I3A), Aragón Institute of Healthcare Research (IIS Aragón)University of ZaragozaZaragozaSpain
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Collagen Remodeling along Cancer Progression Providing a Novel Opportunity for Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231810509. [PMID: 36142424 PMCID: PMC9502421 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231810509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a significant factor in cancer progression. Collagens, as the main component of the ECM, are greatly remodeled alongside cancer development. More and more studies have confirmed that collagens changed from a barrier to providing assistance in cancer development. In this course, collagens cause remodeling alongside cancer progression, which in turn, promotes cancer development. The interaction between collagens and tumor cells is complex with biochemical and mechanical signals intervention through activating diverse signal pathways. As the mechanism gradually clears, it becomes a new target to find opportunities to diagnose and treat cancer. In this review, we investigated the process of collagen remodeling in cancer progression and discussed the interaction between collagens and cancer cells. Several typical effects associated with collagens were highlighted in the review, such as fibrillation in precancerous lesions, enhancing ECM stiffness, promoting angiogenesis, and guiding invasion. Then, the values of cancer diagnosis and prognosis were focused on. It is worth noting that several generated fragments in serum were reported to be able to be biomarkers for cancer diagnosis and prognosis, which is beneficial for clinic detection. At a glance, a variety of reported biomarkers were summarized. Many collagen-associated targets and drugs have been reported for cancer treatment in recent years. The new targets and related drugs were discussed in the review. The mass data were collected and classified by mechanism. Overall, the interaction of collagens and tumor cells is complicated, in which the mechanisms are not completely clear. A lot of collagen-associated biomarkers are excavated for cancer diagnosis. However, new therapeutic targets and related drugs are almost in clinical trials, with merely a few in clinical applications. So, more efforts are needed in collagens-associated studies and drug development for cancer research and treatment.
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Diwu W, Hu G, Zhou M, Bi L, Yan M, Wei H, Fan J. Effects of different intensities of intermittent pneumatic soft-tissue compression on bone defect repair. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2022; 23:403. [PMID: 35490215 PMCID: PMC9055722 DOI: 10.1186/s12891-022-05341-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background To estimate the effects of different intensities of intermittent pneumatic soft-tissue compression on bone defect repair in an animal model. Methods Five mm radial bone defect in length was made in 64 mature New Zealand rabbits and all animals randomly assigned into four groups: Group A (control group without compression), Group B (5–7 kPa intensity), Group C (8–10 kPa intensity) and Group D (11–13 kPa intensity). On the fourth day after surgery, their legs were intermittently pneumatic compressed for 4 weeks. The stimulation lasted 30 min every day and the frequency of compression was 15 Hz. New bone formation in 4 groups was evaluated by gross observation, X-ray, Micro-CT, and histological staining at 2 and 4 weeks after surgery. Result There was more new bony callus in the bone defect in group C than in other groups by gross observation and X-ray radiography at 2 and 4 weeks. The Micro-CT results showed more new bony callus, bone trabecula and higher bone mineral density in group C. Fluorescent labeling results showed the speed of new bone formation in Group C was faster than that in other groups, among which the control group had the slowest speed of new bone formation. The result of histology had shown that the trabeculae in bone callus in group C had a regular form, the trabeculae were wide and had a more become osteoblast around them. Conclusion The intermittent pneumatic soft-tissue compression can accelerate new bone formation of bone defects and the optimal intensity is 8–10 kPa for repairing the rabbit radial bone defect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weilong Diwu
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Gang Hu
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Minghao Zhou
- Department of Oral Implants, School of Stomatology, State Key Laboratory of Military Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & Shaanxi Engineering Research Center for Dental Materials and Advanced Manufacture, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Long Bi
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Ming Yan
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Hongbo Wei
- Department of Oral Implants, School of Stomatology, State Key Laboratory of Military Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & Shaanxi Engineering Research Center for Dental Materials and Advanced Manufacture, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China.
| | - Junjun Fan
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China.
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Gommes CJ, Louis T, Bourgot I, Noël A, Blacher S, Maquoi E. Remodelling of the fibre-aggregate structure of collagen gels by cancer-associated fibroblasts: A time-resolved grey-tone image analysis based on stochastic modelling. Front Immunol 2022; 13:988502. [PMID: 36818478 PMCID: PMC9936192 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.988502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Solid tumors consist of tumor cells associated with stromal and immune cells, secreted factors and extracellular matrix (ECM), which together constitute the tumor microenvironment. Among stromal cells, activated fibroblasts, known as cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are of particular interest. CAFs secrete a plethora of ECM components including collagen and modulate the architecture of the ECM, thereby influencing cancer cell migration. The characterization of the collagen fibre network and its space and time-dependent microstructural modifications is key to investigating the interactions between cells and the ECM. Developing image analysis tools for that purpose is still a challenge because the structural complexity of the collagen network calls for specific statistical descriptors. Moreover, the low signal-to-noise ratio of imaging techniques available for time-resolved studies rules out standard methods based on image segmentation. Methods In this work, we develop a novel approach based on the stochastic modelling of the gel structure and on grey-tone image analysis. The method is then used to study the remodelling of a collagen matrix by migrating breast cancer-derived CAFs in a three-dimensional spheroid model of cellular invasion imaged by time-lapse confocal microscopy. Results The structure of the collagen at the scale of a few microns consists in regions with high fibre density separated by depleted regions, which can be thought of as aggregates and pores. The approach developped captures this two-scale structure with a clipped Gaussian field model to describe the aggregates-and-pores large-scale structure, and a homogeneous Boolean model to describe the small-scale fibre network within the aggregates. The model parameters are identified by fitting the grey-tone histograms and correlation functions of the images. The method applies to unprocessed grey-tone images, and it can therefore be used with low magnification, noisy time-lapse reflectance images. When applied to the CAF spheroid time-resolved images, the method reveals different matrix densification mechanisms for the matrix in direct contact or far from the cells. Conclusion We developed a novel and multidisciplinary image analysis approach to investigate the remodelling of fibrillar collagen in a 3D spheroid model of cellular invasion. The specificity of the method is that it applies to the unprocessed grey-tone images, and it can therefore be used with noisy time-lapse reflectance images of non-fluorescent collagen. When applied to the CAF spheroid time-resolved images, the method reveals different matrix densification mechanisms for the matrix in direct contact or far from the cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cedric J Gommes
- Department of Chemical Engineering, School of Engineering, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Thomas Louis
- Laboratory of Tumor and Development Biology, GIGA-Cancer, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Isabelle Bourgot
- Laboratory of Tumor and Development Biology, GIGA-Cancer, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Agnès Noël
- Laboratory of Tumor and Development Biology, GIGA-Cancer, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Silvia Blacher
- Laboratory of Tumor and Development Biology, GIGA-Cancer, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Erik Maquoi
- Laboratory of Tumor and Development Biology, GIGA-Cancer, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
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Juste-Lanas Y, Guerrero PE, Camacho-Gomez D, Hervas-Raluy S, García-Aznar JM, Gómez-Benito MJ. Confined Cell Migration and Asymmetric Hydraulic Environments to Evaluate The Metastatic Potential of Cancer Cells. J Biomech Eng 2021; 144:1129080. [PMID: 34864878 DOI: 10.1115/1.4053143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Metastasis, a hallmark of cancer development, is also the leading reason for most cancer-related deaths. Furthermore, cancer cells are highly adaptable to microenvironments and can migrate along pre-existing channel-like tracks of anatomical structures. However, more representative three-dimensional models are required to reproduce the heterogeneity of metastatic cell migration in vivo to further understand the metastasis mechanism and develop novel therapeutic strategies against it. Here, we designed and fabricated different microfluidic-based devices that recreate confined migration and diverse environments with asymmetric hydraulic resistances. Our results show different migratory potential between metastatic and nonmetastatic cancer cells in confined environments. Moreover, although nonmetastatic cells have not been tested against barotaxis due to their low migration capacity, metastatic cells present an enhanced preference to migrate through the lowest resistance path, being sensitive to barotaxis. This device, approaching the study of metastasis capability based on confined cell migration and barotactic cell decisions, may pave the way for the implementation of such technology to determine and screen the metastatic potential of certain cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yago Juste-Lanas
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Pedro E Guerrero
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Daniel Camacho-Gomez
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Silvia Hervas-Raluy
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - J M García-Aznar
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - María José Gómez-Benito
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
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Matsuzaka T, Matsugaki A, Nakano T. Control of osteoblast arrangement by osteocyte mechanoresponse through prostaglandin E2 signaling under oscillatory fluid flow stimuli. Biomaterials 2021; 279:121203. [PMID: 34717197 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2021.121203] [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: 11/10/2020] [Revised: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Anisotropic collagen/apatite microstructure is a prominent determinant of bone tissue functionalization; in particular, bone matrix modulates its anisotropic microstructure depending on the surrounding mechanical condition. Although mechanotransduction in bones is governed by osteocyte function, the precise mechanisms linking mechanical stimuli and anisotropic formation of collagen/apatite microstructure are poorly understood. Here we developed a novel anisotropic mechano-coculture system which enables the understanding of the biological mechanisms regulating the oriented bone matrix formation, which is constructed by aligned osteoblasts. The developed model provides bone-mimetic coculture platform that enables simultaneous control of mechanical condition and osteoblast-osteocyte communication with an anisotropic culture scaffold. The engineered coculture device helps in understanding the relationship between osteocyte mechanoresponses and osteoblast arrangement, which is a significant contributor to anisotropic organization of bone tissue. Our study showed that osteocyte responses to oscillatory flow stimuli regulated osteoblast arrangement through soluble molecular interactions. Importantly, we found that prostaglandin E2 is a novel determinant for oriented collagen/apatite organization of bone matrix, through controlling osteoblast arrangement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tadaaki Matsuzaka
- Division of Materials and Manufacturing Science, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamada-oka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Aira Matsugaki
- Division of Materials and Manufacturing Science, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamada-oka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Takayoshi Nakano
- Division of Materials and Manufacturing Science, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamada-oka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan.
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12
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Lafuente-Gracia L, Borgiani E, Nasello G, Geris L. Towards in silico Models of the Inflammatory Response in Bone Fracture Healing. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2021; 9:703725. [PMID: 34660547 PMCID: PMC8514728 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2021.703725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
In silico modeling is a powerful strategy to investigate the biological events occurring at tissue, cellular and subcellular level during bone fracture healing. However, most current models do not consider the impact of the inflammatory response on the later stages of bone repair. Indeed, as initiator of the healing process, this early phase can alter the regenerative outcome: if the inflammatory response is too strongly down- or upregulated, the fracture can result in a non-union. This review covers the fundamental information on fracture healing, in silico modeling and experimental validation. It starts with a description of the biology of fracture healing, paying particular attention to the inflammatory phase and its cellular and subcellular components. We then discuss the current state-of-the-art regarding in silico models of the immune response in different tissues as well as the bone regeneration process at the later stages of fracture healing. Combining the aforementioned biological and computational state-of-the-art, continuous, discrete and hybrid modeling technologies are discussed in light of their suitability to capture adequately the multiscale course of the inflammatory phase and its overall role in the healing outcome. Both in the establishment of models as in their validation step, experimental data is required. Hence, this review provides an overview of the different in vitro and in vivo set-ups that can be used to quantify cell- and tissue-scale properties and provide necessary input for model credibility assessment. In conclusion, this review aims to provide hands-on guidance for scientists interested in building in silico models as an additional tool to investigate the critical role of the inflammatory phase in bone regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Lafuente-Gracia
- Biomechanics Section, Department of Mechanical Engineering, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Prometheus: Division of Skeletal Tissue Engineering, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Edoardo Borgiani
- Biomechanics Section, Department of Mechanical Engineering, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Prometheus: Division of Skeletal Tissue Engineering, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Biomechanics Research Unit, GIGA in silico Medicine, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Gabriele Nasello
- Biomechanics Section, Department of Mechanical Engineering, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Prometheus: Division of Skeletal Tissue Engineering, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Center, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Liesbet Geris
- Biomechanics Section, Department of Mechanical Engineering, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Prometheus: Division of Skeletal Tissue Engineering, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Biomechanics Research Unit, GIGA in silico Medicine, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium.,Skeletal Biology and Engineering Research Center, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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13
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Designing Hydrogel-Based Bone-On-Chips for Personalized Medicine. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/app11104495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The recent development of bone-on-chips (BOCs) holds the main advantage of requiring a low quantity of cells and material, compared to traditional In Vitro models. By incorporating hydrogels within BOCs, the culture system moved to a three dimensional culture environment for cells which is more representative of bone tissue matrix and function. The fundamental components of hydrogel-based BOCs, namely the cellular sources, the hydrogel and the culture chamber, have been tuned to mimic the hematopoietic niche in the bone aspirate marrow, cancer bone metastasis and osteo/chondrogenic differentiation. In this review, we examine the entire process of developing hydrogel-based BOCs to model In Vitro a patient specific situation. First, we provide bone biological understanding for BOCs design and then how hydrogel structural and mechanical properties can be tuned to meet those requirements. This is followed by a review on hydrogel-based BOCs, developed in the last 10 years, in terms of culture chamber design, hydrogel and cell source used. Finally, we provide guidelines for the definition of personalized pathological and physiological bone microenvironments. This review covers the information on bone, hydrogel and BOC that are required to develop personalized therapies for bone disease, by recreating clinically relevant scenarii in miniaturized devices.
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14
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Gonçalves IG, Garcia-Aznar JM. Extracellular matrix density regulates the formation of tumour spheroids through cell migration. PLoS Comput Biol 2021; 17:e1008764. [PMID: 33635856 PMCID: PMC7968691 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1008764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Revised: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
In this work, we show how the mechanical properties of the cellular microenvironment modulate the growth of tumour spheroids. Based on the composition of the extracellular matrix, its stiffness and architecture can significantly vary, subsequently influencing cell movement and tumour growth. However, it is still unclear exactly how both of these processes are regulated by the matrix composition. Here, we present a centre-based computational model that describes how collagen density, which modulates the steric hindrance properties of the matrix, governs individual cell migration and, consequently, leads to the formation of multicellular clusters of varying size. The model was calibrated using previously published experimental data, replicating a set of experiments in which cells were seeded in collagen matrices of different collagen densities, hence producing distinct mechanical properties. At an initial stage, we tracked individual cell trajectories and speeds. Subsequently, the formation of multicellular clusters was also analysed by quantifying their size. Overall, the results showed that our model could accurately replicate what was previously seen experimentally. Specifically, we showed that cells seeded in matrices with low collagen density tended to migrate more. Accordingly, cells strayed away from their original cluster and thus promoted the formation of small structures. In contrast, we also showed that high collagen densities hindered cell migration and produced multicellular clusters with increased volume. In conclusion, this model not only establishes a relation between matrix density and individual cell migration but also showcases how migration, or its inhibition, modulates tumour growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inês G. Gonçalves
- Multiscale in Mechanical and Biological Engineering, Aragon Institute of Engineering Research, Mechanical Engineering Department, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Jose Manuel Garcia-Aznar
- Multiscale in Mechanical and Biological Engineering, Aragon Institute of Engineering Research, Mechanical Engineering Department, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
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15
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Refaaq FM, Chen X, Pang SW. Effects of topographical guidance cues on osteoblast cell migration. Sci Rep 2020; 10:20003. [PMID: 33203986 PMCID: PMC7672072 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-77103-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell migration is a fundamental process that is crucial for many biological functions in the body such as immune responses and tissue regeneration. Dysregulation of this process is associated with cancer metastasis. In this study, polydimethylsiloxane platforms with various topographical features were engineered to explore the influence of guiding patterns on MC3T3-E1 osteoblast cell migration. Focusing on the guiding effects of grating patterns, variations such as etch depth, pattern discontinuity, and bending angles were investigated. In all experiments, MC3T3-E1 cells on patterned surfaces demonstrated a higher migration speed and alignment when compared to flat surfaces. The study revealed that an increase in etch depth from 150 nm to 4.5 μm enhanced cell alignment and elongation along the grating patterns. In the presence of discontinuous elements, cell migration speed was accelerated when compared to gratings of the same etch depth. These results indicated that cell directionality preference was influenced by a high level of pattern discontinuity. On patterns with bends, cells were more inclined to reverse on 45° bends, with 69% of cells reversing at least once, compared to 54% on 135° bends. These results are attributed to cell morphology and motility mechanisms that are associated with surface topography, where actin filament structures such as filopodia and lamellipodia are essential in sensing the surrounding environment and controlling cell displacement. Knowledge of geometric guidance cues could provide a better understanding on how cell migration is influenced by extracellular matrix topography in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- F M Refaaq
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Centre for Biosystems, Neuroscience, and Nanotechnology, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - X Chen
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Centre for Biosystems, Neuroscience, and Nanotechnology, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - S W Pang
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Centre for Biosystems, Neuroscience, and Nanotechnology, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China.
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16
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Movilla N, Valero C, Borau C, García-Aznar JM. Matrix degradation regulates osteoblast protrusion dynamics and individual migration. Integr Biol (Camb) 2020; 11:404-413. [PMID: 31922533 DOI: 10.1093/intbio/zyz035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2019] [Revised: 09/06/2019] [Accepted: 10/19/2019] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Protrusions are one of the structures that cells use to sense their surrounding environment in a probing and exploratory manner as well as to communicate with other cells. In particular, osteoblasts embedded within a 3D matrix tend to originate a large number of protrusions compared to other type of cells. In this work, we study the role that mechanochemical properties of the extracellular matrix (ECM) play on the dynamics of these protrusions, namely, the regulation of the size and number of emanating structures. In addition, we also determine how the dynamics of the protrusions may lead the 3D movement of the osteoblasts. Significant differences were found in protrusion size and cell velocity, when degradation activity due to metalloproteases was blocked by means of an artificial broad-spectrum matrix metalloproteinase inhibitor, whereas stiffening of the matrix by introducing transglutaminase crosslinking, only induced slight changes in both protrusion size and cell velocity, suggesting that the ability of cells to create a path through the matrix is more critical than the matrix mechanical properties themselves. To confirm this, we developed a cell migration computational model in 3D including both the mechanical and chemical properties of the ECM as well as the protrusion mechanics, obtaining good agreement with experimental results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nieves Movilla
- Multiscale in Mechanical and Biological Engineering, Aragon Institute of Engineering Research, Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Clara Valero
- Multiscale in Mechanical and Biological Engineering, Aragon Institute of Engineering Research, Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Carlos Borau
- Multiscale in Mechanical and Biological Engineering, Aragon Institute of Engineering Research, Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Jose Manuel García-Aznar
- Multiscale in Mechanical and Biological Engineering, Aragon Institute of Engineering Research, Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
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17
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Nasello G, Alamán-Díez P, Schiavi J, Pérez MÁ, McNamara L, García-Aznar JM. Primary Human Osteoblasts Cultured in a 3D Microenvironment Create a Unique Representative Model of Their Differentiation Into Osteocytes. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2020; 8:336. [PMID: 32391343 PMCID: PMC7193048 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2020.00336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2019] [Accepted: 03/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Microengineered systems provide an in vitro strategy to explore the variability of individual patient response to tissue engineering products, since they prefer the use of primary cell sources representing the phenotype variability. Traditional in vitro systems already showed that primary human osteoblasts embedded in a 3D fibrous collagen matrix differentiate into osteocytes under specific conditions. Here, we hypothesized that translating this environment to the organ-on-a-chip scale creates a minimal functional unit to recapitulate osteoblast maturation toward osteocytes and matrix mineralization. Primary human osteoblasts were seeded in a type I collagen hydrogel, to establish the role of lower (2.5 × 105 cells/ml) and higher (1 × 106 cells/ml) cell density on their differentiation into osteocytes. A custom semi-automatic image analysis software was used to extract quantitative data on cellular morphology from brightfield images. The results are showing that cells cultured at a high density increase dendrite length over time, stop proliferating, exhibit dendritic morphology, upregulate alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, and express the osteocyte marker dental matrix protein 1 (DMP1). On the contrary, cells cultured at lower density proliferate over time, do not upregulate ALP and express the osteoblast marker bone sialoprotein 2 (BSP2) at all timepoints. Our work reveals that microengineered systems create unique conditions to capture the major aspects of osteoblast differentiation into osteocytes with a limited number of cells. We propose that the microengineered approach is a functional strategy to create a patient-specific bone tissue model and investigate the individual osteogenic potential of the patient bone cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriele Nasello
- Multiscale in Mechanical and Biological Engineering (M2BE), University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain.,Biomechanics Section, Department of Mechanical Engineering, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Pilar Alamán-Díez
- Multiscale in Mechanical and Biological Engineering (M2BE), University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Jessica Schiavi
- Mechanobiology and Medical Device Research Group (MMDRG), National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - María Ángeles Pérez
- Multiscale in Mechanical and Biological Engineering (M2BE), University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Laoise McNamara
- Mechanobiology and Medical Device Research Group (MMDRG), National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - José Manuel García-Aznar
- Multiscale in Mechanical and Biological Engineering (M2BE), University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
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18
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Olivares V, Cóndor M, Del Amo C, Asín J, Borau C, García-Aznar JM. Image-based Characterization of 3D Collagen Networks and the Effect of Embedded Cells. MICROSCOPY AND MICROANALYSIS : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF MICROSCOPY SOCIETY OF AMERICA, MICROBEAM ANALYSIS SOCIETY, MICROSCOPICAL SOCIETY OF CANADA 2019; 25:971-981. [PMID: 31210124 DOI: 10.1017/s1431927619014570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Collagen microstructure is closely related to the mechanical properties of tissues and affects cell migration through the extracellular matrix. To study these structures, three-dimensional (3D) in vitro collagen-based gels are often used, attempting to mimic the natural environment of cells. Some key parameters of the microstructure of these gels are fiber orientation, fiber length, or pore size, which define the mechanical properties of the network and therefore condition cell behavior. In the present study, an automated tool to reconstruct 3D collagen networks is used to extract the aforementioned parameters of gels of different collagen concentration and determine how their microstructure is affected by the presence of cells. Two different experiments are presented to test the functionality of the method: first, collagen gels are embedded within a microfluidic device and collagen fibers are imaged by using confocal fluorescence microscopy; second, collagen gels are directly polymerized in a cell culture dish and collagen fibers are imaged by confocal reflection microscopy. Finally, we investigate and compare the collagen microstructure far from and in the vicinities of MDA-MB 23 cells, finding that cell activity during migration was able to strongly modify the orientation of the collagen fibers and the porosity-related values.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanesa Olivares
- Multiscale in Mechanical and Biological Engineering (Department of Mechanical Engineering),University of Zaragoza,Zaragoza,Spain
| | - Mar Cóndor
- Multiscale in Mechanical and Biological Engineering (Department of Mechanical Engineering),University of Zaragoza,Zaragoza,Spain
| | - Cristina Del Amo
- Multiscale in Mechanical and Biological Engineering (Department of Mechanical Engineering),University of Zaragoza,Zaragoza,Spain
| | - Jesús Asín
- Department of Statistical Methods,University of Zaragoza,Zaragoza,Spain
| | - Carlos Borau
- Multiscale in Mechanical and Biological Engineering (Department of Mechanical Engineering),University of Zaragoza,Zaragoza,Spain
| | - José Manuel García-Aznar
- Multiscale in Mechanical and Biological Engineering (Department of Mechanical Engineering),University of Zaragoza,Zaragoza,Spain
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19
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3D Cell Migration Studies for Chemotaxis on Microfluidic-Based Chips: A Comparison between Cardiac and Dermal Fibroblasts. Bioengineering (Basel) 2018; 5:bioengineering5020045. [PMID: 29895736 PMCID: PMC6027294 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering5020045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2018] [Revised: 06/07/2018] [Accepted: 06/09/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibroblast migration to damaged zones in different tissues is crucial to regenerate and recuperate their functional activity. However, fibroblast migration patterns have hardly been studied in disease terms. Here, we study this fundamental process in dermal and cardiac fibroblasts by means of microfluidic-based experiments, which simulate a three-dimensional matrix in which fibroblasts are found in physiological conditions. Cardiac fibroblasts show a higher mean and effective speed, as well as greater contractile force, in comparison to dermal fibroblasts. In addition, we generate chemical gradients to study fibroblast response to platelet derived growth factor (PDGF) and transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) gradients. Dermal fibroblasts were attracted to PDGF, whereas cardiac fibroblasts are not. Notwithstanding, cardiac fibroblasts increased their mean and effective velocity in the presence of TGF-β. Therefore, given that we observe that the application of these growth factors does not modify fibroblasts’ morphology, these alterations in the migration patterns may be due to an intracellular regulation.
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