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González-Cruz RD, Wan Y, Burgess A, Calvao D, Renken W, Vecchio F, Franck C, Kesari H, Hoffman-Kim D. Cortical spheroids show strain-dependent cell viability loss and neurite disruption following sustained compression injury. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0295086. [PMID: 39159236 PMCID: PMC11332998 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0295086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 08/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Sustained compressive injury (SCI) in the brain is observed in numerous injury and pathological scenarios, including tumors, ischemic stroke, and traumatic brain injury-related tissue swelling. Sustained compressive injury is characterized by tissue loading over time, and currently, there are few in vitro models suitable to study neural cell responses to strain-dependent sustained compressive injury. Here, we present an in vitro model of sustained compressive neural injury via centrifugation. Spheroids were made from neonatal rat cortical cells seeded at 4000 cells/spheroid and cultured for 14 days in vitro. A subset of spheroids was centrifuged at 104, 209, 313 or 419 rads/s for 2 minutes. Modeling the physical deformation of the spheroids via finite element analyses, we found that spheroids centrifuged at the aforementioned angular velocities experienced pressures of 10, 38, 84 and 149 kPa, respectively, and compressive (resp. tensile) strains of 10% (5%), 18% (9%), 27% (14%) and 35% (18%), respectively. Quantification of LIVE-DEAD assay and Hoechst 33342 nuclear staining showed that centrifuged spheroids subjected to pressures above 10 kPa exhibited significantly higher DNA damage than control spheroids at 2, 8, and 24 hours post-injury. Immunohistochemistry of β3-tubulin networks at 2, 8, and 24 hours post-centrifugation injury showed increasing degradation of microtubules over time with increasing strain. Our findings show that cellular injuries occur as a result of specific levels and timings of sustained tissue strains. This experimental SCI model provides a high throughput in vitro platform to examine cellular injury, to gain insights into brain injury that could be targeted with therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael D. González-Cruz
- Department of Neuroscience, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States of America
- Carney Institute for Brain Science, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States of America
- School of Engineering, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States of America
| | - Yang Wan
- School of Engineering, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States of America
| | - Amina Burgess
- Institute for Biology, Engineering, and Medicine, Brown University Providence, RI, United States of America
| | - Dominick Calvao
- Institute for Biology, Engineering, and Medicine, Brown University Providence, RI, United States of America
| | - William Renken
- Department of Neuroscience, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States of America
| | - Francesca Vecchio
- Institute for Biology, Engineering, and Medicine, Brown University Providence, RI, United States of America
| | - Christian Franck
- Center for Traumatic Brain Injury, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States of America
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States of America
| | - Haneesh Kesari
- School of Engineering, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States of America
| | - Diane Hoffman-Kim
- Department of Neuroscience, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States of America
- Carney Institute for Brain Science, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States of America
- Institute for Biology, Engineering, and Medicine, Brown University Providence, RI, United States of America
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2
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Takagi M, Yamada M, Utoh R, Seki M. A multiscale, vertical-flow perfusion system with integrated porous microchambers for upgrading multicellular spheroid culture. LAB ON A CHIP 2023; 23:2257-2267. [PMID: 37038847 DOI: 10.1039/d3lc00168g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Spheroid formation assisted by microengineered chambers is a versatile approach for morphology-controlled three-dimensional (3D) cell cultivation with physiological relevance to human tissues. However, the limitation in diffusion-based oxygen/nutrient transport has been a critical issue for the densely packed cells in spheroids, preventing maximization of cellular functions and thus limiting their biomedical applications. Here, we have developed a multiscale microfluidic system for the perfusion culture of spheroids, in which porous microchambers, connected with microfluidic channels, were engineered. A newly developed process of centrifugation-assisted replica molding and salt-leaching enabled the formation of single micrometer-sized pores on the chamber surface and in the substrate. The porous configuration generates a vertical flow to directly supply the medium to the spheroids, while avoiding the formation of stagnant flow regions. We created seamlessly integrated, all PDMS/silicone-based microfluidic devices with an array of microchambers. Spheroids of human liver cells (HepG2 cells) were formed and cultured under vertical-flow perfusion, and the proliferation ability and liver cell-specific functions were compared with those of cells cultured in non-porous chambers with a horizontal flow. The presented system realizes both size-controlled formation of spheroids and direct medium supply, making it suitable as a precision cell culture platform for drug development, disease modelling, and regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mai Takagi
- Department of Applied Chemistry and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Chiba University, 1-33 Yayoi-cho, Inage-ku, Chiba 263-8522, Japan.
| | - Masumi Yamada
- Department of Applied Chemistry and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Chiba University, 1-33 Yayoi-cho, Inage-ku, Chiba 263-8522, Japan.
| | - Rie Utoh
- Department of Applied Chemistry and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Chiba University, 1-33 Yayoi-cho, Inage-ku, Chiba 263-8522, Japan.
| | - Minoru Seki
- Department of Applied Chemistry and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Chiba University, 1-33 Yayoi-cho, Inage-ku, Chiba 263-8522, Japan.
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3
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Muzzi L, Di Lisa D, Falappa M, Pepe S, Maccione A, Pastorino L, Martinoia S, Frega M. Human-Derived Cortical Neurospheroids Coupled to Passive, High-Density and 3D MEAs: A Valid Platform for Functional Tests. Bioengineering (Basel) 2023; 10:bioengineering10040449. [PMID: 37106636 PMCID: PMC10136157 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering10040449] [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: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
With the advent of human-induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) and differentiation protocols, methods to create in-vitro human-derived neuronal networks have been proposed. Although monolayer cultures represent a valid model, adding three-dimensionality (3D) would make them more representative of an in-vivo environment. Thus, human-derived 3D structures are becoming increasingly used for in-vitro disease modeling. Achieving control over the final cell composition and investigating the exhibited electrophysiological activity is still a challenge. Thence, methodologies to create 3D structures with controlled cellular density and composition and platforms capable of measuring and characterizing the functional aspects of these samples are needed. Here, we propose a method to rapidly generate neurospheroids of human origin with control over cell composition that can be used for functional investigations. We show a characterization of the electrophysiological activity exhibited by the neurospheroids by using micro-electrode arrays (MEAs) with different types (i.e., passive, C-MOS, and 3D) and number of electrodes. Neurospheroids grown in free culture and transferred on MEAs exhibited functional activity that can be chemically and electrically modulated. Our results indicate that this model holds great potential for an in-depth study of signal transmission to drug screening and disease modeling and offers a platform for in-vitro functional testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Muzzi
- Department of Informatics, Bioengineering, Robotics, and Systems Engineering (DIBRIS), University of Genoa, 16145 Genoa, Italy
| | - Donatella Di Lisa
- Department of Informatics, Bioengineering, Robotics, and Systems Engineering (DIBRIS), University of Genoa, 16145 Genoa, Italy
| | - Matteo Falappa
- 3Brain AG, 8808 Pfäffikon, Switzerland
- Corticale Srl., 16145 Genoa, Italy
| | - Sara Pepe
- Department of Experimental Medicine (DIMES), University of Genoa, 16132 Genoa, Italy
| | | | - Laura Pastorino
- Department of Informatics, Bioengineering, Robotics, and Systems Engineering (DIBRIS), University of Genoa, 16145 Genoa, Italy
| | - Sergio Martinoia
- Department of Informatics, Bioengineering, Robotics, and Systems Engineering (DIBRIS), University of Genoa, 16145 Genoa, Italy
| | - Monica Frega
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, University of Twente, 7522 NB Enschede, The Netherlands
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboudumc, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition, and Behaviour, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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4
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Gonzales-Aloy E, Ahmed-Cox A, Tsoli M, Ziegler DS, Kavallaris M. From cells to organoids: The evolution of blood-brain barrier technology for modelling drug delivery in brain cancer. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2023; 196:114777. [PMID: 36931346 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2023.114777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023]
Abstract
Brain cancer remains the deadliest cancer. The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is impenetrable to most drugs and is a complex 3D network of multiple cell types including endothelial cells, astrocytes, and pericytes. In brain cancers, the BBB becomes disrupted during tumor progression and forms the blood-brain tumor barrier (BBTB). To advance therapeutic development, there is a critical need for physiologically relevant BBB in vitro models. 3D cell systems are emerging as valuable preclinical models to accelerate discoveries for diseases. Given the versatility and capability of 3D cell models, their potential for modelling the BBB and BBTB is reviewed. Technological advances of BBB models and challenges of in vitro modelling the BBTB, and application of these models as tools for assessing therapeutics and nano drug delivery, are discussed. Quantitative, in vitro BBB models that are predictive of effective brain cancer therapies will be invaluable for accelerating advancing new treatments to the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Estrella Gonzales-Aloy
- Children's Cancer Institute, Lowy Cancer Research Center, UNSW Sydney, NSW, Australia; Australian Center for NanoMedicine, UNSW Sydney, NSW, Australia; School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Aria Ahmed-Cox
- Children's Cancer Institute, Lowy Cancer Research Center, UNSW Sydney, NSW, Australia; Australian Center for NanoMedicine, UNSW Sydney, NSW, Australia; School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, NSW, Australia; Katharina Gaus Light Microscopy Facility, Mark Wainright Analytical Center, UNSW Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Maria Tsoli
- Children's Cancer Institute, Lowy Cancer Research Center, UNSW Sydney, NSW, Australia; School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - David S Ziegler
- Children's Cancer Institute, Lowy Cancer Research Center, UNSW Sydney, NSW, Australia; School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, NSW, Australia; Kids Cancer Center, Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick, NSW, Australia
| | - Maria Kavallaris
- Children's Cancer Institute, Lowy Cancer Research Center, UNSW Sydney, NSW, Australia; Australian Center for NanoMedicine, UNSW Sydney, NSW, Australia; School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, NSW, Australia; UNSW RNA Institute, UNSW Sydney, NSW, Australia.
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5
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Brown S, Atherton E, Borton DA. A Three-Dimensional Primary Cortical Culture System Compatible with Transgenic Disease Models, Virally Mediated Fluorescence, and Live Microscopy. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2683:153-167. [PMID: 37300773 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3287-1_12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
In vitro cell culture models can offer high-resolution and high-throughput experimentation of cellular behaviors. However, in vitro culture approaches often fail to fully recapitulate complex cell processes involving synergistic interactions between heterogeneous neural cell populations and the surrounding neural microenvironment. Here, we describe the formation of a three-dimensional primary cortical cell culture system compatible with live confocal microscopy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Brown
- Center for Biomedical Engineering, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
- School of Engineering, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Elaina Atherton
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Physiology, and Biotechnology, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - David A Borton
- Center for Biomedical Engineering, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA.
- Department of Veteran Affairs, Providence Medical Center, Center for Neurorestoration and Neurotechnology, Providence, RI, USA.
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI, USA.
- School of Engineering, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA.
- Carney Institute for Brain Science, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA.
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6
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Kim W, Gwon Y, Park S, Kim H, Kim J. Therapeutic strategies of three-dimensional stem cell spheroids and organoids for tissue repair and regeneration. Bioact Mater 2023; 19:50-74. [PMID: 35441116 PMCID: PMC8987319 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2022.03.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 44.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Three-dimensional (3D) stem cell culture systems have attracted considerable attention as a way to better mimic the complex interactions between individual cells and the extracellular matrix (ECM) that occur in vivo. Moreover, 3D cell culture systems have unique properties that help guide specific functions, growth, and processes of stem cells (e.g., embryogenesis, morphogenesis, and organogenesis). Thus, 3D stem cell culture systems that mimic in vivo environments enable basic research about various tissues and organs. In this review, we focus on the advanced therapeutic applications of stem cell-based 3D culture systems generated using different engineering techniques. Specifically, we summarize the historical advancements of 3D cell culture systems and discuss the therapeutic applications of stem cell-based spheroids and organoids, including engineering techniques for tissue repair and regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Woochan Kim
- Department of Convergence Biosystems Engineering, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, Republic of Korea
- Department of Rural and Biosystems Engineering, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, Republic of Korea
- Interdisciplinary Program in IT-Bio Convergence System, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, Republic of Korea
| | - Yonghyun Gwon
- Department of Convergence Biosystems Engineering, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, Republic of Korea
- Department of Rural and Biosystems Engineering, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, Republic of Korea
- Interdisciplinary Program in IT-Bio Convergence System, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, Republic of Korea
| | - Sunho Park
- Department of Convergence Biosystems Engineering, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, Republic of Korea
- Department of Rural and Biosystems Engineering, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, Republic of Korea
- Interdisciplinary Program in IT-Bio Convergence System, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyoseong Kim
- Department of Convergence Biosystems Engineering, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, Republic of Korea
- Department of Rural and Biosystems Engineering, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, Republic of Korea
- Interdisciplinary Program in IT-Bio Convergence System, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, Republic of Korea
| | - Jangho Kim
- Department of Convergence Biosystems Engineering, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, Republic of Korea
- Department of Rural and Biosystems Engineering, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, Republic of Korea
- Interdisciplinary Program in IT-Bio Convergence System, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, Republic of Korea
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7
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Han H, Jang J. Recent advances in biofabricated gut models to understand the gut-brain axis in neurological diseases. FRONTIERS IN MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY 2022; 4:931411. [PMID: 36188186 PMCID: PMC9515506 DOI: 10.3389/fmedt.2022.931411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Increasing evidence has accumulated that gut microbiome dysbiosis could be linked to neurological diseases, including both neurodegenerative and psychiatric diseases. With the high prevalence of neurological diseases, there is an urgent need to elucidate the underlying mechanisms between the microbiome, gut, and brain. However, the standardized aniikmal models for these studies have critical disadvantages for their translation into clinical application, such as limited physiological relevance due to interspecies differences and difficulty interpreting causality from complex systemic interactions. Therefore, alternative in vitro gut–brain axis models are highly required to understand their related pathophysiology and set novel therapeutic strategies. In this review, we outline state-of-the-art biofabrication technologies for modeling in vitro human intestines. Existing 3D gut models are categorized according to their topographical and anatomical similarities to the native gut. In addition, we deliberate future research directions to develop more functional in vitro intestinal models to study the gut–brain axis in neurological diseases rather than simply recreating the morphology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hohyeon Han
- School of Interdisciplinary Bioscience and Bioengineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang, South Korea
| | - Jinah Jang
- School of Interdisciplinary Bioscience and Bioengineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang, South Korea
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang, South Korea
- Department of Convergence IT Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang, South Korea
- Institute of Convergence Science, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea
- Correspondence: Jinah Jang
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8
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Recent Advancements in In Vitro Models of Traumatic Brain Injury. CURRENT OPINION IN BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cobme.2022.100396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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9
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Cader Z. Human Blood-Brain-Barrier In Vitro Models: Overview and Applications. Handb Exp Pharmacol 2022; 273:205-222. [PMID: 34935086 DOI: 10.1007/164_2021_562] [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: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The human blood-brain-barrier (BBB) is a vital structure for brain health. Conversely it represents a challenge in drug development programmes that require breaching of the barrier in order to access the central nervous system. Very often brain disorders have early dysfunction of the BBB implicating an important role in pathogenesis and disease progression. The development of human in vitro models is a major advance to allow experimental studies and screening assays, although there remain outstanding questions for the field. In this chapter, the current state of the art will be reviewed, with the complementary innovative approaches to in vitro modelling described, from simple 2D-cultures to more complex multi-cell type micro-physiological systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zameel Cader
- Translational Molecular Neuroscience Group, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
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10
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Sevetson JL, Theyel B, Hoffman-Kim D. Cortical spheroids display oscillatory network dynamics. LAB ON A CHIP 2021; 21:4586-4595. [PMID: 34734621 DOI: 10.1039/d1lc00737h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Three-dimensional brain cultures can facilitate the study of central nervous system function and disease, and one of the most important components that they present is neuronal activity on a network level. Here we demonstrate network activity in rodent cortical spheroids while maintaining the networks intact in their 3D state. Networks developed by nine days in culture and became more complex over time. To measure network activity, we imaged neurons in rat and mouse spheroids labelled with a calcium indicator dye, and in mouse spheroids expressing GCaMP. Network activity was evident when we electrically stimulated spheroids, was abolished with glutamatergic blockade, and was altered by GABAergic blockade or partial glutamatergic blockade. We quantified correlations and distances between somas with micron-scale spatial resolution. Spheroids seeded at as few as 4000 cells gave rise to emergent network events, including oscillations. These results are the first demonstration that self-assembled rat and mouse spheroids exhibit network activity consistent with in vivo network events. These results open the door to experiments on neuronal networks that require fewer animals and enable high throughput experiments on network-perturbing alterations in neurons and glia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica L Sevetson
- Department of Neuroscience, Brown University, Providence, RI 02906, USA.
- Robert J and Nancy D Carney Institute for Brain Science, Brown University, Providence, RI 02906, USA
- Center for the Alternatives to Animals in Testing, Brown University, Providence, RI 02906, USA
| | - Brian Theyel
- Department of Neuroscience, Brown University, Providence, RI 02906, USA.
- Robert J and Nancy D Carney Institute for Brain Science, Brown University, Providence, RI 02906, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Brown University, Providence, RI 02906, USA
| | - Diane Hoffman-Kim
- Department of Neuroscience, Brown University, Providence, RI 02906, USA.
- Robert J and Nancy D Carney Institute for Brain Science, Brown University, Providence, RI 02906, USA
- Center for the Alternatives to Animals in Testing, Brown University, Providence, RI 02906, USA
- Center for Biomedical Engineering, Brown University, Providence, RI 02906, USA
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11
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Lipopolysaccharide-induced neuroinflammation disrupts functional connectivity and community structure in primary cortical microtissues. Sci Rep 2021; 11:22303. [PMID: 34785714 PMCID: PMC8595892 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-01616-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Three-dimensional (3D) neural microtissues are a powerful in vitro paradigm for studying brain development and disease under controlled conditions, while maintaining many key attributes of the in vivo environment. Here, we used primary cortical microtissues to study the effects of neuroinflammation on neural microcircuits. We demonstrated the use of a genetically encoded calcium indicator combined with a novel live-imaging platform to record spontaneous calcium transients in microtissues from day 14-34 in vitro. We implemented graph theory analysis of calcium activity to characterize underlying functional connectivity and community structure of microcircuits, which are capable of capturing subtle changes in network dynamics during early disease states. We found that microtissues cultured for 34 days displayed functional remodeling of microcircuits and that community structure strengthened over time. Lipopolysaccharide, a neuroinflammatory agent, significantly increased functional connectivity and disrupted community structure 5-9 days after exposure. These microcircuit-level changes have broad implications for the role of neuroinflammation in functional dysregulation of neural networks.
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12
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Recapitulating the Angiogenic Switch in a Hydrogel-Based 3D In Vitro Tumor-Stroma Model. Bioengineering (Basel) 2021; 8:bioengineering8110186. [PMID: 34821752 PMCID: PMC8614676 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering8110186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Revised: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
To ensure nutrient and oxygen supply, tumors beyond a size of 1–2 mm3 need a connection to the vascular system. Thus, tumor cells modify physiological tissue homeostasis by secreting inflammatory and angiogenic cytokines. This leads to the activation of the tumor microenvironment and the turning of the angiogenic switch, resulting in tumor vascularization and growth. To inhibit tumor growth by developing efficient anti-angiogenic therapies, an in depth understanding of the molecular mechanism initiating angiogenesis is essential. Yet so far, predominantly 2D cell cultures or animal models have been used to clarify the interactions within the tumor stroma, resulting in poor transferability of the data obtained to the in vivo situation. Consequently, there is an abundant need for complex, humanized, 3D models in vitro. We established a dextran-hydrogel-based 3D organotypic in vitro model containing microtumor spheroids, macrophages, neutrophils, fibroblasts and endothelial cells, allowing for the analysis of tumor–stroma interactions in a controlled and modifiable environment. During the cultivation period of 21 days, the microtumor spheroids in the model grew in size and endothelial cells formed elongated tubular structures resembling capillary vessels, that appeared to extend towards the tumor spheroids. The tubular structures exhibited complex bifurcations and expanded without adding external angiogenic factors such as VEGF to the culture. To allow high-throughput screening of therapeutic candidates, the 3D cell culture model was successfully miniaturized to a 96-well format, while still maintaining the same level of tumor spheroid growth and vascular sprouting. The quantification of VEGF in the conditioned medium of these cultures showed a continuous increase during the cultivation period, suggesting the contribution of endogenous VEGF to the induction of the angiogenic switch and vascular sprouting. Thus, this model is highly suitable as a testing platform for novel anticancer therapeutics targeting the tumor as well as the vascular compartment.
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13
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Roth JG, Huang MS, Li TL, Feig VR, Jiang Y, Cui B, Greely HT, Bao Z, Paşca SP, Heilshorn SC. Advancing models of neural development with biomaterials. Nat Rev Neurosci 2021; 22:593-615. [PMID: 34376834 PMCID: PMC8612873 DOI: 10.1038/s41583-021-00496-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Human pluripotent stem cells have emerged as a promising in vitro model system for studying the brain. Two-dimensional and three-dimensional cell culture paradigms have provided valuable insights into the pathogenesis of neuropsychiatric disorders, but they remain limited in their capacity to model certain features of human neural development. Specifically, current models do not efficiently incorporate extracellular matrix-derived biochemical and biophysical cues, facilitate multicellular spatio-temporal patterning, or achieve advanced functional maturation. Engineered biomaterials have the capacity to create increasingly biomimetic neural microenvironments, yet further refinement is needed before these approaches are widely implemented. This Review therefore highlights how continued progression and increased integration of engineered biomaterials may be well poised to address intractable challenges in recapitulating human neural development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julien G Roth
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology & Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Michelle S Huang
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Thomas L Li
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Vivian R Feig
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Yuanwen Jiang
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Bianxiao Cui
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Henry T Greely
- Stanford Law School, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Zhenan Bao
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Sergiu P Paşca
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Sarah C Heilshorn
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
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14
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Hongjin W, Han C, Baoxiang J, Shiqi Y, Xiaoyu X. Reconstituting neurovascular unit based on the close relations between neural stem cells and endothelial cells: an effective method to explore neurogenesis and angiogenesis. Rev Neurosci 2021; 31:143-159. [PMID: 31539363 DOI: 10.1515/revneuro-2019-0023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2019] [Accepted: 06/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The discovery of neural stem cells (NSCs) and their microenvironment, the NSC niche, brought new therapeutic strategies through neurogenesis and angiogenesis for stroke and most neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease. Based on the close links between NSCs and endothelial cells, the integration of neurogenesis and angiogenesis of the NSC niche is also a promising area to the neurovascular unit (NVU) modeling and is now offering a powerful tool to advance our understanding of the brain. In this review, critical aspects of the NVU and model systems are discussed. First, we briefly describe the interaction of each part in the NSC niche. Second, we introduce the co-culture system, microfluidic platforms, and stem cell-derived 3D reconstitution used in NVU modeling based on the close relations between NSCs and endothelial cells, and various characteristics of cell interactions in these systems are also described. Finally, we address the challenges in modeling the NVU that can potentially be overcome by employing strategies for advanced biomaterials and stem cell co-culture use. Based on these approaches, researchers will continue to develop predictable technologies to control the fate of stem cells, achieve accurate screening of drugs for the nervous system, and advance the clinical application of NVU models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wang Hongjin
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Chinese Medicine, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China.,Chongqing Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening From Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing 400715, China.,Pharmacology of Chinese Materia Medica-Key Discipline Constructed by the State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Chen Han
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Chinese Medicine, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China.,Chongqing Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening From Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing 400715, China.,Pharmacology of Chinese Materia Medica-Key Discipline Constructed by the State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Jiang Baoxiang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Chinese Medicine, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China.,Chongqing Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening From Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing 400715, China.,Pharmacology of Chinese Materia Medica-Key Discipline Constructed by the State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Yu Shiqi
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Chinese Medicine, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China.,Chongqing Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening From Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing 400715, China.,Pharmacology of Chinese Materia Medica-Key Discipline Constructed by the State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Xu Xiaoyu
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Chinese Medicine, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China.,Chongqing Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening From Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing 400715, China.,Pharmacology of Chinese Materia Medica-Key Discipline Constructed by the State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing 400715, China
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15
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Jahagirdar D, Bangde P, Jain R, Dandekar P. Degenerative disease-on-a-chip: Developing microfluidic models for rapid availability of newer therapies. Biotechnol J 2021; 16:e2100154. [PMID: 34390543 DOI: 10.1002/biot.202100154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Revised: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Understanding the pathophysiology of degenerative diseases pertaining to nervous system, ocular region, bone/cartilage and muscle are still being comprehended, thus delaying the availability of targeted therapies. PURPOSE AND SCOPE Newer micro-physiological systems (organ-on-chip technology) involves development of more sophisticated devices, modelling a range of in vitro human tissues and an array of models for diseased conditions. These models expand opportunities for high throughput screening (HTS) of drugs and are likely to be rapid and cost-effective, thus reducing extensive usage of animal models. CONCLUSION Through this review article, we aim to present an overview of the degenerative disease models that are presently being developed using microfluidic platforms with the aim of mimicking in vivo tissue physiology and micro-architecture. The manuscript provides an overview of the degenerative disease models and their potential for testing and screening of possible biotherapeutic molecules and drugs. It highlights the perspective of the regulatory bodies with respect to the established-on chip models and thereby enhancing its translational potential. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devashree Jahagirdar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology, Institute of Chemical Technology, Nathalal Parekh Marg, Matunga, Mumbai, 400019, India
| | - Prachi Bangde
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology, Institute of Chemical Technology, Nathalal Parekh Marg, Matunga, Mumbai, 400019, India
| | - Ratnesh Jain
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Institute of Chemical Technology, Nathalal Parekh Marg, Matunga, Mumbai, 400019, India
| | - Prajakta Dandekar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology, Institute of Chemical Technology, Nathalal Parekh Marg, Matunga, Mumbai, 400019, India
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16
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Susaki EA, Takasato M. Perspective: Extending the Utility of Three-Dimensional Organoids by Tissue Clearing Technologies. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:679226. [PMID: 34195197 PMCID: PMC8236633 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.679226] [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: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
An organoid, a self-organizing organ-like tissue developed from stem cells, can exhibit a miniaturized three-dimensional (3D) structure and part of the physiological functions of the original organ. Due to the reproducibility of tissue complexity and ease of handling, organoids have replaced real organs and animals for a variety of uses, such as investigations of the mechanisms of organogenesis and disease onset, and screening of drug effects and/or toxicity. The recent advent of tissue clearing and 3D imaging techniques have great potential contributions to organoid studies by allowing the collection and analysis of 3D images of whole organoids with a reasonable throughput and thus can expand the means of examining the 3D architecture, cellular components, and variability among organoids. Genetic and histological cell-labeling methods, together with organoid clearing, also allow visualization of critical structures and cellular components within organoids. The collected 3D data may enable image analysis to quantitatively assess structures within organoids and sensitively/effectively detect abnormalities caused by perturbations. These capabilities of tissue/organoid clearing and 3D imaging techniques not only extend the utility of organoids in basic biology but can also be applied for quality control of clinical organoid production and large-scale drug screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Etsuo A. Susaki
- Department of Biochemistry and Systems Biomedicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Juntendo University, Tokyo, Japan
- Laboratory for Synthetic Biology, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Osaka, Japan
| | - Minoru Takasato
- Laboratory for Human Organogenesis, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe, Japan
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology and Development, Department of Animal Development and Physiology, Graduate School of Biostudies, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
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17
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Wang H, Yang H, Shi Y, Xiao Y, Yin Y, Jiang B, Ren H, Chen W, Xue Q, Xu X. Reconstituting neurovascular unit with primary neural stem cells and brain microvascular endothelial cells in three-dimensional matrix. Brain Pathol 2021; 31:e12940. [PMID: 33576166 PMCID: PMC8412118 DOI: 10.1111/bpa.12940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Revised: 12/29/2020] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurovascular dysfunction is a primary or secondary cause in the pathogenesis of several cerebrovascular and neurodegenerative disorders, including stroke. Therefore, the overall protection of the neurovascular unit (NVU) is a promising therapeutic strategy for various neurovascular diseases. However, the complexity of the NVU limits the study of the pathological mechanisms of neurovascular dysfunction. Reconstituting the in vitro NVU is important for the pathological study and drug screening of neurovascular diseases. In this study, we generated a spontaneously assembled three‐dimensional NVU (3D NVU) by employing the primary neural stem cells and brain microvascular endothelial cells in a Matrigel extracellular matrix platform. This novel model exhibits the fundamental structures and features of the NVU, including neurons, astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, vascular‐like structures, and blood–brain barrier‐like characteristics. Additionally, under oxygen‐glucose deprivation, the 3D NVU exhibits the neurovascular‐ or oxidative stress‐related pathological characteristics of cerebral ischemia and the injuries can be mitigated, respectively, by supplementing with the vascular endothelial growth factor or edaravone, which demonstrated that the availability of 3D NVU in ischemic stroke modeling. Finally, the 3D NVU promoted the angiogenesis and neurogenesis in the brain of cerebral ischemia rats. We expect that the proposed in vitro 3D NVU model will be widely used to investigate the relationships between angiogenesis and neurogenesis and to study the pathology and pharmacology of neurovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongjin Wang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences & Chinese Medicine, Southwest University, Chongqing, China.,Chongqing Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening from Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing, China.,Pharmacology of Chinese Materia Medica-the Key Discipline Constructed by the State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing, China
| | - Huan Yang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences & Chinese Medicine, Southwest University, Chongqing, China.,Chongqing Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening from Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing, China.,Pharmacology of Chinese Materia Medica-the Key Discipline Constructed by the State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing, China
| | - Yuhong Shi
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences & Chinese Medicine, Southwest University, Chongqing, China.,Chongqing Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening from Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing, China.,Pharmacology of Chinese Materia Medica-the Key Discipline Constructed by the State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing, China
| | - Yaping Xiao
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences & Chinese Medicine, Southwest University, Chongqing, China.,Chongqing Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening from Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing, China.,Pharmacology of Chinese Materia Medica-the Key Discipline Constructed by the State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing, China
| | - Yue Yin
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences & Chinese Medicine, Southwest University, Chongqing, China.,Chongqing Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening from Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing, China.,Pharmacology of Chinese Materia Medica-the Key Discipline Constructed by the State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing, China
| | - Baoxiang Jiang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences & Chinese Medicine, Southwest University, Chongqing, China.,Chongqing Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening from Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing, China.,Pharmacology of Chinese Materia Medica-the Key Discipline Constructed by the State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing, China
| | - Huijing Ren
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences & Chinese Medicine, Southwest University, Chongqing, China.,Chongqing Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening from Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing, China.,Pharmacology of Chinese Materia Medica-the Key Discipline Constructed by the State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing, China
| | - Weihai Chen
- Faculty of Psychology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Qiang Xue
- Chongqing Medical and Pharmaceutical College, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaoyu Xu
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences & Chinese Medicine, Southwest University, Chongqing, China.,Chongqing Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening from Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing, China.,Pharmacology of Chinese Materia Medica-the Key Discipline Constructed by the State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing, China
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18
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Piantino M, Figarol A, Matsusaki M. Three-Dimensional in vitro Models of Healthy and Tumor Brain Microvasculature for Drug and Toxicity Screening. FRONTIERS IN TOXICOLOGY 2021; 3:656254. [PMID: 35295158 PMCID: PMC8915870 DOI: 10.3389/ftox.2021.656254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Tissue vascularization is essential for its oxygenation and the homogenous diffusion of nutrients. Cutting-edge studies are focusing on the vascularization of three-dimensional (3D) in vitro models of human tissues. The reproduction of the brain vasculature is particularly challenging as numerous cell types are involved. Moreover, the blood-brain barrier, which acts as a selective filter between the vascular system and the brain, is a complex structure to replicate. Nevertheless, tremendous advances have been made in recent years, and several works have proposed promising 3D in vitro models of the brain microvasculature. They incorporate cell co-cultures organized in 3D scaffolds, often consisting of components of the native extracellular matrix (ECM), to obtain a micro-environment similar to the in vivo physiological state. These models are particularly useful for studying adverse effects on the healthy brain vasculature. They provide insights into the molecular and cellular events involved in the pathological evolutions of this vasculature, such as those supporting the appearance of brain cancers. Glioblastoma multiform (GBM) is the most common form of brain cancer and one of the most vascularized solid tumors. It is characterized by a high aggressiveness and therapy resistance. Current conventional therapies are unable to prevent the high risk of recurrence of the disease. Most of the new drug candidates fail to pass clinical trials, despite the promising results shown in vitro. The conventional in vitro models are unable to efficiently reproduce the specific features of GBM tumors. Recent studies have indeed suggested a high heterogeneity of the tumor brain vasculature, with the coexistence of intact and leaky regions resulting from the constant remodeling of the ECM by glioma cells. In this review paper, after summarizing the advances in 3D in vitro brain vasculature models, we focus on the latest achievements in vascularized GBM modeling, and the potential applications for both healthy and pathological models as platforms for drug screening and toxicological assays. Particular attention will be paid to discuss the relevance of these models in terms of cell-cell, cell-ECM interactions, vascularization and permeability properties, which are crucial parameters for improving in vitro testing accuracy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Piantino
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Agathe Figarol
- Institut Jean Lamour, UMR 7198 CNRS, Université de Lorraine, Nancy, France
| | - Michiya Matsusaki
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
- *Correspondence: Michiya Matsusaki
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19
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Abstract
Engineered human mini-brains, made possible by knowledge from the convergence of precision microengineering and cell biology, permit systematic studies of complex neurological processes and of pathogenesis beyond what can be done with animal models. By culturing human brain cells with physiological microenvironmental cues, human mini-brain models reconstitute the arrangement of structural tissues and some of the complex biological functions of the human brain. In this Review, we highlight the most significant developments that have led to microphysiological human mini-brain models. We introduce the history of mini-brain development, review methods for creating mini-brain models in static conditions, and discuss relevant state-of-the-art dynamic cell-culture systems. We also review human mini-brain models that reconstruct aspects of major neurological disorders under static or dynamic conditions. Engineered human mini-brains will contribute to advancing the study of the physiology and aetiology of neurological disorders, and to the development of personalized medicines for them.
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20
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Fernandes DC, Reis RL, Oliveira JM. Advances in 3D neural, vascular and neurovascular models for drug testing and regenerative medicine. Drug Discov Today 2020; 26:754-768. [PMID: 33202252 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2020.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2020] [Revised: 09/22/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Clinical trials continue to fall short regarding drugs to effectively treat brain-affecting diseases. Although there are many causes of these shortcomings, the most relevant are the inability of most therapeutic agents to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and the failure to translate effects from animal models to patients. In this review, we analyze the most recent developments in BBB, neural, and neurovascular models, analyzing their impact on the drug development process by considering their quantitative and phenotypical characterization. We offer a perspective of the state-of-the-art of the models that could revolutionize the pharmaceutical industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diogo C Fernandes
- 3Bs Research Group, I3B's - Research Institute on Biomaterials, Biodegradables and Biomimetics, University of Minho, Headquarters of the European Institute of Excellence on Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, AvePark, Zona Industrial da Gandra, 4805-017 Barco GMR, Portugal; ICVS/3B's - Portuguese Government Associate Laboratory, 4805-017 Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Rui L Reis
- 3Bs Research Group, I3B's - Research Institute on Biomaterials, Biodegradables and Biomimetics, University of Minho, Headquarters of the European Institute of Excellence on Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, AvePark, Zona Industrial da Gandra, 4805-017 Barco GMR, Portugal; ICVS/3B's - Portuguese Government Associate Laboratory, 4805-017 Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - J Miguel Oliveira
- 3Bs Research Group, I3B's - Research Institute on Biomaterials, Biodegradables and Biomimetics, University of Minho, Headquarters of the European Institute of Excellence on Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, AvePark, Zona Industrial da Gandra, 4805-017 Barco GMR, Portugal; ICVS/3B's - Portuguese Government Associate Laboratory, 4805-017 Braga/Guimarães, Portugal.
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21
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Lovett ML, Nieland TJ, Dingle YTL, Kaplan DL. Innovations in 3-Dimensional Tissue Models of Human Brain Physiology and Diseases. ADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS 2020; 30:1909146. [PMID: 34211358 PMCID: PMC8240470 DOI: 10.1002/adfm.201909146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2019] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
3-dimensional (3D) laboratory tissue cultures have emerged as an alternative to traditional 2-dimensional (2D) culture systems that do not recapitulate native cell behavior. The discrepancy between in vivo and in vitro tissue-cell-molecular responses impedes understanding of human physiology in general and creates roadblocks for the discovery of therapeutic solutions. Two parallel approaches have emerged for the design of 3D culture systems. The first is biomedical engineering methodology, including bioengineered materials, bioprinting, microfluidics and bioreactors, used alone or in combination, to mimic the microenvironments of native tissues. The second approach is organoid technology, in which stem cells are exposed to chemical and/or biological cues to activate differentiation programs that are reminiscent of human (prenatal) development. This review article describes recent technological advances in engineering 3D cultures that more closely resemble the human brain. The contributions of in vitro 3D tissue culture systems to new insights in neurophysiology, neurological diseases and regenerative medicine are highlighted. Perspectives on designing improved tissue models of the human brain are offered, focusing on an integrative approach merging biomedical engineering tools with organoid biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael L. Lovett
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, 4 Colby Street, Medford, MA 02155
| | - Thomas J.F. Nieland
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, 4 Colby Street, Medford, MA 02155
| | - Yu-Ting L. Dingle
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, 4 Colby Street, Medford, MA 02155
| | - David L. Kaplan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, 4 Colby Street, Medford, MA 02155
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22
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Nii T, Makino K, Tabata Y. A cancer invasion model of cancer-associated fibroblasts aggregates combined with TGF-β1 release system. Regen Ther 2020; 14:196-204. [PMID: 32154334 PMCID: PMC7058408 DOI: 10.1016/j.reth.2020.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2019] [Revised: 02/02/2020] [Accepted: 02/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction The objective of this study is to design a cancer invasion model where the cancer invasion rate can be regulated in vitro. Methods Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF) aggregates incorporating gelatin hydrogel microspheres (GM) containing various concentrations of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) (CAF-GM-TGF-β1) were prepared. Alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) for the CAF aggregates was measured to investigate the CAF activation level by changing the concentration of TGF-β1. An invasion assay was performed to evaluate the cancer invasion rate by co-cultured of cancer cells with various CAF-GM-TGF-β1. Results The expression level of α-SMA for CAF increased with an increased in the TGF-β1 concentration. When co-cultured with various types of CAF-GM-TGF-β1, the cancer invasion rate was well correlated with the α-SMA level. It is conceivable that the TGF-β1 concentration could modify the level of CAF activation, leading to the invasion rate of cancer cells. In addition, at the high concentrations of TGF-β1, the effect of a matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) inhibitor on the cancer invasion rate was observed. The higher invasion rate would be achieved through the higher MMP production. Conclusions The present model is promising to realize the cancer invasion whose rate can be modified by changing the TGF-β1 concentration. This invasion model would be a promising tool for anti-cancer drug screening. TGF-β1 was controlled release from gelatin hydrogel microspheres. CAF were activated by increased TGF-β1 concentration. There was a good correlation between invasion rate and TGF-β1 concentration. Higher invasion rate would be achieved through matrix metalloproteinase production.
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Key Words
- 2D, two-dimensional
- 3D, three-dimensional
- Anti-cancer drug screening
- CAF, cancer-associated fibroblasts
- Cancer invasion model
- DDW, double-distilled water
- Drug delivery system
- ELISA, enzyme-linked immunosolvent assay
- FCS, fetal calf serum
- GM, gelatin hydrogel microspheres
- Gelatin hydrogel microspheres
- MEM, minimum essential medium
- MMP, matrix metalloproteinase
- PBS, phosphate buffered-saline
- PLGA, poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid)
- PVA, poly (vinyl alcohol)
- TGF-β1, transforming growth factor-β1
- Three-dimensional cell culture
- α-SMA, alpha-smooth muscle actin
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Affiliation(s)
- Teruki Nii
- Laboratory of Biomaterials, Institute for Frontier Life and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, 53 Kawara-cho Shogoin, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8507, Japan.,Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science, 2641, Yamazaki, Noda, 278-8510, Japan
| | - Kimiko Makino
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science, 2641, Yamazaki, Noda, 278-8510, Japan.,Center for Drug Delivery Research, Tokyo University of Science, 2641, Yamazaki, Noda, 278-8510, Japan
| | - Yasuhiko Tabata
- Laboratory of Biomaterials, Institute for Frontier Life and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, 53 Kawara-cho Shogoin, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8507, Japan
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23
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Mori T, Cukelj R, Prévôt ME, Ustunel S, Story A, Gao Y, Diabre K, McDonough JA, Freeman EJ, Hegmann E, Clements RJ. 3D Porous Liquid Crystal Elastomer Foams Supporting Long-term Neuronal Cultures. Macromol Rapid Commun 2020; 41:e1900585. [PMID: 32009277 DOI: 10.1002/marc.201900585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2019] [Revised: 12/18/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
3D liquid crystal elastomer (3D-LCE) foams are used to support long-term neuronal cultures for over 60 days. Sequential imaging shows that cell density remains relatively constant throughout the culture period while the number of cells per observational area increases. In a subset of samples, retinoic acid is used to stimulate extensive neuritic outgrowth and maturation of proliferated neurons within the LCEs, inducing a threefold increase in length with cells displaying morphologies indicative of mature neurons. Designed LCEs' micro-channels have a similar diameter to endogenous parenchymal arterioles, ensuring that neurons throughout the construct have constant access to growth media during extended experiments. Here it is shown that 3D-LCEs provide a unique environment and simple method to longitudinally study spatial neuronal function, not possible in conventional culture environments, with simplistic integration into existing methodological pipelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taizo Mori
- Advanced Materials and Liquid Crystal Institute, 1425 Lefton Esplanade, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio, 44242-0001, USA
| | - Richard Cukelj
- Department of Biological Sciences, 1425 Lefton Esplanade, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio, 44242-0001, USA
| | - Marianne Estelle Prévôt
- Advanced Materials and Liquid Crystal Institute, 1425 Lefton Esplanade, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio, 44242-0001, USA
| | - Senay Ustunel
- Advanced Materials and Liquid Crystal Institute, 1425 Lefton Esplanade, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio, 44242-0001, USA.,Chemical Physics Interdisciplinary Program, 1425 Lefton Esplanade, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio, 44242-0001, USA
| | - Anna Story
- Department of Biological Sciences, 1425 Lefton Esplanade, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio, 44242-0001, USA
| | - Yunxiang Gao
- Advanced Materials and Liquid Crystal Institute, 1425 Lefton Esplanade, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio, 44242-0001, USA
| | - Karene Diabre
- Advanced Materials and Liquid Crystal Institute, 1425 Lefton Esplanade, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio, 44242-0001, USA
| | - Jennifer Ann McDonough
- Department of Biological Sciences, 1425 Lefton Esplanade, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio, 44242-0001, USA.,Biomedical Sciences Program, 1425 Lefton Esplanade, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio, 44242-0001, USA.,Brain Health Research Institute, 1425 Lefton Esplanade, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio, 44242-0001, USA
| | - Ernest Johnson Freeman
- Department of Biological Sciences, 1425 Lefton Esplanade, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio, 44242-0001, USA.,Biomedical Sciences Program, 1425 Lefton Esplanade, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio, 44242-0001, USA.,Brain Health Research Institute, 1425 Lefton Esplanade, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio, 44242-0001, USA
| | - Elda Hegmann
- Advanced Materials and Liquid Crystal Institute, 1425 Lefton Esplanade, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio, 44242-0001, USA.,Department of Biological Sciences, 1425 Lefton Esplanade, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio, 44242-0001, USA.,Biomedical Sciences Program, 1425 Lefton Esplanade, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio, 44242-0001, USA.,Brain Health Research Institute, 1425 Lefton Esplanade, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio, 44242-0001, USA.,Chemical Physics Interdisciplinary Program, 1425 Lefton Esplanade, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio, 44242-0001, USA
| | - Robert John Clements
- Department of Biological Sciences, 1425 Lefton Esplanade, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio, 44242-0001, USA.,Biomedical Sciences Program, 1425 Lefton Esplanade, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio, 44242-0001, USA.,Brain Health Research Institute, 1425 Lefton Esplanade, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio, 44242-0001, USA
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24
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Seo S, Kim H, Sung JH, Choi N, Lee K, Kim HN. Microphysiological systems for recapitulating physiology and function of blood-brain barrier. Biomaterials 2019; 232:119732. [PMID: 31901694 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2019.119732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2019] [Revised: 12/20/2019] [Accepted: 12/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Central nervous system (CNS) diseases are emerging as a major issue in an aging society. Although extensive research has focused on the development of CNS drugs, the limited transport of therapeutic agents across the blood-brain barrier (BBB) remains a major challenge. Conventional two-dimensional culture dishes do not recapitulate in vivo physiology and real-time observations of molecular transport are not possible in animal models. Recent advances in engineering techniques have enabled the generation of more physiologically relevant in vitro BBB models, and their applications have expanded from fundamental biological research to practical applications in the pharmaceutical industry. In this article, we provide an overview of recent advances in the development of in vitro BBB models, with a particular focus on the recapitulation of BBB function. The development of biomimetic BBB models is postulated to revolutionize not only fundamental biological studies but also drug screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suyeong Seo
- Center for BioMicrosystems, Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea; Program in Nano Science and Technology, Graduate School of Convergence Science and Technology, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Hwieun Kim
- Center for BioMicrosystems, Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea; Department of Chemical Engineering, Hongik University, Seoul, 04066, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong Hwan Sung
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Hongik University, Seoul, 04066, Republic of Korea
| | - Nakwon Choi
- Center for BioMicrosystems, Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea; Division of Bio-Medical Science & Technology, KIST School, Korea University of Science and Technology, Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea; KU-KIST Graduate School of Converging Science and Technology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Kangwon Lee
- Program in Nano Science and Technology, Graduate School of Convergence Science and Technology, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea.
| | - Hong Nam Kim
- Center for BioMicrosystems, Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea; Division of Bio-Medical Science & Technology, KIST School, Korea University of Science and Technology, Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea.
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Costa EC, Silva DN, Moreira AF, Correia IJ. Optical clearing methods: An overview of the techniques used for the imaging of 3D spheroids. Biotechnol Bioeng 2019; 116:2742-2763. [PMID: 31282993 DOI: 10.1002/bit.27105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2019] [Revised: 05/17/2019] [Accepted: 06/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Spheroids have emerged as in vitro models that reproduce in a great extent the architectural microenvironment found in human tissues. However, the imaging of 3D cell cultures is highly challenging due to its high thickness, which results in a light-scattering phenomenon that limits light penetration. Therefore, several optical clearing methods, widely used in the imaging of animal tissues, have been recently explored to render spheroids with enhanced transparency. These methods are aimed to homogenize the microtissue refractive index (RI) and can be grouped into four different categories, namely (a) simple immersion in an aqueous solution with high RI; (b) delipidation and dehydration followed by RI matching; (c) delipidation and hyperhydration followed by RI matching; and (d) hydrogel embedding followed by delipidation and RI matching. In this review, the main optical clearing methods, their mechanism of action, advantages, and disadvantages are described. Furthermore, the practical examples of the optical clearing methods application for the imaging of 3D spheroids are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabete C Costa
- CICS-UBI, Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade da Beira Interior, Covilha, Portugal
| | - Daniel N Silva
- CICS-UBI, Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade da Beira Interior, Covilha, Portugal
| | - André F Moreira
- CICS-UBI, Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade da Beira Interior, Covilha, Portugal
| | - Ilídio J Correia
- CICS-UBI, Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade da Beira Interior, Covilha, Portugal.,CIEPQF, Departamento de Engenharia Química, Universidade de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
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Studying Heterotypic Cell⁻Cell Interactions in the Human Brain Using Pluripotent Stem Cell Models for Neurodegeneration. Cells 2019; 8:cells8040299. [PMID: 30939814 PMCID: PMC6523455 DOI: 10.3390/cells8040299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2019] [Revised: 03/26/2019] [Accepted: 03/29/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Human cerebral organoids derived from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) provide novel tools for recapitulating the cytoarchitecture of the human brain and for studying biological mechanisms of neurological disorders. However, the heterotypic interactions of neurovascular units, composed of neurons, pericytes (i.e., the tissue resident mesenchymal stromal cells), astrocytes, and brain microvascular endothelial cells, in brain-like tissues are less investigated. In addition, most cortical organoids lack a microglia component, the resident immune cells in the brain. Impairment of the blood-brain barrier caused by improper crosstalk between neural cells and vascular cells is associated with many neurodegenerative disorders. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), with a phenotype overlapping with pericytes, have promotion effects on neurogenesis and angiogenesis, which are mainly attributed to secreted growth factors and extracellular matrices. As the innate macrophages of the central nervous system, microglia regulate neuronal activities and promote neuronal differentiation by secreting neurotrophic factors and pro-/anti-inflammatory molecules. Neuronal-microglia interactions mediated by chemokines signaling can be modulated in vitro for recapitulating microglial activities during neurodegenerative disease progression. In this review, we discussed the cellular interactions and the physiological roles of neural cells with other cell types including endothelial cells and microglia based on iPSC models. The therapeutic roles of MSCs in treating neural degeneration and pathological roles of microglia in neurodegenerative disease progression were also discussed.
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Kawauchi S, Horibe S, Sasaki N, Hirata KI, Rikitake Y. A novel in vitro co-culture model to examine contact formation between astrocytic processes and cerebral vessels. Exp Cell Res 2018; 374:333-341. [PMID: 30553966 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2018.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2018] [Revised: 12/06/2018] [Accepted: 12/10/2018] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Here, we developed a novel in vitro co-culture model, in which process-bearing astrocytes and isolated cerebral microvessels from mice were co-cultured. Astrocytes formed contacts with microvessels from both adult and neonatal mice. However, concentrated localization of the immunofluorescence signal for aquaporin-4 (AQP4) at contact sites between perivascular endfoot processes and blood vessels was only detected with neonatal mouse microvessels. Contact between astrocytic processes and microvessels was retained, whereas concentrated localization of AQP4 signal at contact sites was lost, by knockdown of dystroglycan or α-syntrophin, reflecting polarized localization of AQP4 at perivascular regions in the brain. Further, using our in vitro co-culture model, we found that astrocytes predominantly extend processes to pericytes located at the abluminal surface of microvessels, providing additional evidence that this model is representative of the in vivo situation. Altogether, we have developed a novel in vitro co-culture model that can reproduce aspects of the in vivo situation and is useful for assessing contact formation between astrocytes and blood vessels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shoji Kawauchi
- Educational and Research Center for Clinical Pharmacy, Kobe Pharmaceutical University, Kobe 658-8558, Japan
| | - Sayo Horibe
- Laboratory of Medical Pharmaceutics, Kobe Pharmaceutical University, Kobe 658-8558, Japan
| | - Naoto Sasaki
- Laboratory of Medical Pharmaceutics, Kobe Pharmaceutical University, Kobe 658-8558, Japan
| | - Ken-Ichi Hirata
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe 650-0017, Japan
| | - Yoshiyuki Rikitake
- Laboratory of Medical Pharmaceutics, Kobe Pharmaceutical University, Kobe 658-8558, Japan.
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Scimone MT, Cramer III HC, Bar-Kochba E, Amezcua R, Estrada JB, Franck C. Modular approach for resolving and mapping complex neural and other cellular structures and their associated deformation fields in three dimensions. Nat Protoc 2018; 13:3042-3064. [DOI: 10.1038/s41596-018-0077-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Lazzari G, Nicolas V, Matsusaki M, Akashi M, Couvreur P, Mura S. Multicellular spheroid based on a triple co-culture: A novel 3D model to mimic pancreatic tumor complexity. Acta Biomater 2018; 78:296-307. [PMID: 30099198 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2018.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 153] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2018] [Revised: 07/11/2018] [Accepted: 08/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The preclinical drug screening of pancreatic cancer treatments suffers from the absence of appropriate models capable to reproduce in vitro the heterogeneous tumor microenvironment and its stiff desmoplasia. Driven by this pressing need, we describe in this paper the conception and the characterization of a novel 3D tumor model consisting of a triple co-culture of pancreatic cancer cells (PANC-1), fibroblasts (MRC-5) and endothelial cells (HUVEC), which assembled to form a hetero-type multicellular tumor spheroid (MCTS). By histological analyses and Selective Plain Illumination Microscopy (SPIM) we have monitored the spatial distribution of each cell type and the evolution of the spheroid composition. Results revealed the presence of a core rich in fibroblasts and fibronectin in which endothelial cells were homogeneously distributed. The integration of the three cell types enabled to reproduce in vitro with fidelity the influence of the surrounding environment on the sensitivity of cancer cells to chemotherapy. To our knowledge, this is the first time that a scaffold-free pancreatic cancer spheroid model combining both tumor and multiple stromal components has been designed. It holds the possibility to become an advantageous tool for a pertinent assessment of the efficacy of various therapeutic strategies. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE Pancreatic tumor microenvironment is characterized by abundant fibrosis and aberrant vasculature. Aiming to reproduce in vitro these features, cancer cells have been already co-cultured with fibroblasts or endothelial cells separately but the integration of both these essential components of the pancreatic tumor microenvironment in a unique system, although urgently needed, was still missing. In this study, we successfully integrated cellular and acellular microenvironment components (i.e., fibroblasts, endothelial cells, fibronectin) in a hetero-type scaffold-free multicellular tumor spheroid. This new 3D triple co-culture model closely mimicked the resistance to treatments observed in vivo, resulting in a reduction of cancer cell sensitivity to the anticancer treatment.
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