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Wong CA, Fraticelli Guzmán NS, Read AT, Hedberg-Buenz A, Anderson MG, Feola AJ, Sulchek T, Ethier CR. A method for analyzing AFM force mapping data obtained from soft tissue cryosections. J Biomech 2024; 168:112113. [PMID: 38648717 PMCID: PMC11128031 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2024.112113] [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: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
Atomic force microscopy (AFM) is a valuable tool for assessing mechanical properties of biological samples, but interpretations of measurements on whole tissues can be difficult due to the tissue's highly heterogeneous nature. To overcome such difficulties and obtain more robust estimates of tissue mechanical properties, we describe an AFM force mapping and data analysis pipeline to characterize the mechanical properties of cryosectioned soft tissues. We assessed this approach on mouse optic nerve head and rat trabecular meshwork, cornea, and sclera. Our data show that the use of repeated measurements, outlier exclusion, and log-normal data transformation increases confidence in AFM mechanical measurements, and we propose that this methodology can be broadly applied to measuring soft tissue properties from cryosections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cydney A Wong
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | - A Thomas Read
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Adam Hedberg-Buenz
- Department of Molecular Physiology & Biophysics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
| | - Michael G Anderson
- Department of Molecular Physiology & Biophysics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
| | - Andrew J Feola
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA; Center for Visual & Neurocognitive Rehabilitation, Atlanta Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Decatur, GA
| | - Todd Sulchek
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA; Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - C Ross Ethier
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA; Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA.
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2
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Wong CA, Fraticelli Guzmán NS, Read AT, Hedberg-Buenz A, Anderson MG, Feola AJ, Sulchek T, Ethier CR. A Method for Analyzing AFM Force Mapping Data Obtained from Soft Tissue Cryosections. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.11.08.566263. [PMID: 38014311 PMCID: PMC10680563 DOI: 10.1101/2023.11.08.566263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
Atomic force microscopy (AFM) is a valuable tool for assessing mechanical properties of biological samples, but interpretations of measurements on whole tissues can be difficult due to the tissue's highly heterogeneous nature. To overcome such difficulties and obtain more robust estimates of tissue mechanical properties, we describe an AFM force mapping and data analysis pipeline to characterize the mechanical properties of cryosectioned soft tissues. We assessed this approach on mouse optic nerve head and rat trabecular meshwork, cornea, and sclera. Our data show that the use of repeated measurements, outlier exclusion, and log-normal data transformation increases confidence in AFM mechanical measurements, and we propose that this methodology can be broadly applied to measuring soft tissue properties from cryosections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cydney A Wong
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology & Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | - A Thomas Read
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology & Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Adam Hedberg-Buenz
- Department of Molecular Physiology & Biophysics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
| | - Michael G Anderson
- Department of Molecular Physiology & Biophysics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
| | - Andrew J Feola
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology & Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA
- Center for Visual & Neurocognitive Rehabilitation, Atlanta VA Medical Center, Atlanta GA
| | - Todd Sulchek
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology & Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - C Ross Ethier
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology & Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA
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3
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da Silva Dias Babinski M, Pires LAS, Lopes EM, Fonseca A, Manaia JHM, Babinski MA. Morphological changes in the anterior vaginal wall caused by aging: a scanning electron microscopy study. Int Urogynecol J 2023; 34:2737-2741. [PMID: 37436435 DOI: 10.1007/s00192-023-05598-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS Collagen is a protein that confers robustness and resilience to several tissues. In the female reproductive system, collagen plays a critical role in maintaining the health and function of the vaginal walls. Aging leads to collagen reduction, which may cause vaginal dryness, irritation, and prolapse. We aim to analyze the structure and profile of collagen in the anterior vaginal wall of healthy pre-menopausal (pre-M) and post-menopausal (post-M) women under a scanning electron microscope (SEM). METHODS Fragments of the anterior vaginal wall were collected and processed for light and scanning electron microscopy. Histological preparations were performed at first with Weigert's resorcin-fuchsin stain. Decellularized preparations were conducted, and the specimens were placed under an SEM to allow observation of the 3D organization of collagen. RESULTS Decellularized preparations of the pre-M specimens showed a vaginal wall with an irregular subepithelial layer, organized with ECM projections. The subepithelium evidenced the network of collagen fibrils, which seemed to support the epithelium as a basal layer. In specimens of post-M, a fusion of a network of fibrils from different direction axes was evidenced, with plate formation observed in the subepithelial plane, disfiguring the structural organization of fibrils. CONCLUSIONS Older specimens showed a remodeling of collagen organization in comparison with younger samples of the anterior vaginal wall.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monique da Silva Dias Babinski
- Experimental Morphology Research Unit, Morphology Department, Fluminense Federal University, Av. Prof. Hernani Mello, 101 24.210-150, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Medical Sciences Post Graduation Program, Fluminense Federal University, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Lucas Alves Sarmento Pires
- Experimental Morphology Research Unit, Morphology Department, Fluminense Federal University, Av. Prof. Hernani Mello, 101 24.210-150, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
- Medical Sciences Post Graduation Program, Fluminense Federal University, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
| | - Evandro Mattos Lopes
- Experimental Morphology Research Unit, Morphology Department, Fluminense Federal University, Av. Prof. Hernani Mello, 101 24.210-150, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Albino Fonseca
- Experimental Morphology Research Unit, Morphology Department, Fluminense Federal University, Av. Prof. Hernani Mello, 101 24.210-150, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Medical Sciences Post Graduation Program, Fluminense Federal University, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Jorge Henrique Martins Manaia
- Experimental Morphology Research Unit, Morphology Department, Fluminense Federal University, Av. Prof. Hernani Mello, 101 24.210-150, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Medical Sciences Post Graduation Program, Fluminense Federal University, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Marcio Antonio Babinski
- Experimental Morphology Research Unit, Morphology Department, Fluminense Federal University, Av. Prof. Hernani Mello, 101 24.210-150, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Medical Sciences Post Graduation Program, Fluminense Federal University, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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4
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Martinez-Vidal L, Chighizola M, Berardi M, Alchera E, Locatelli I, Pederzoli F, Venegoni C, Lucianò R, Milani P, Bielawski K, Salonia A, Podestà A, Alfano M. Micro-mechanical fingerprints of the rat bladder change in actinic cystitis and tumor presence. Commun Biol 2023; 6:217. [PMID: 36823431 PMCID: PMC9950451 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-023-04572-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Tissue mechanics determines tissue homeostasis, disease development and progression. Bladder strongly relies on its mechanical properties to perform its physiological function, but these are poorly unveiled under normal and pathological conditions. Here we characterize the mechanical fingerprints at the micro-scale level of the three tissue layers which compose the healthy bladder wall, and identify modifications associated with the onset and progression of pathological conditions (i.e., actinic cystitis and bladder cancer). We use two indentation-based instruments (an Atomic Force Microscope and a nanoindenter) and compare the micromechanical maps with a comprehensive histological analysis. We find that the healthy bladder wall is a mechanically inhomogeneous tissue, with a gradient of increasing stiffness from the urothelium to the lamina propria, which gradually decreases when reaching the muscle outer layer. Stiffening in fibrotic tissues correlate with increased deposition of dense extracellular matrix in the lamina propria. An increase in tissue compliance is observed before the onset and invasion of the tumor. By providing high resolution micromechanical investigation of each tissue layer of the bladder, we depict the intrinsic mechanical heterogeneity of the layers of a healthy bladder as compared with the mechanical properties alterations associated with either actinic cystitis or bladder tumor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Martinez-Vidal
- Division of Experimental Oncology/Unit of Urology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, 20132, Italy
- Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Via Olgettina, 60, Milan, 20132, Italy
| | - M Chighizola
- C.I.Ma.I.Na and Dipartimento di Fisica "Aldo Pontremoli", Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, 20133, Italy
| | - M Berardi
- Optics11, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- LaserLab, Department of Physics and Astronomy, VU University, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - E Alchera
- Division of Experimental Oncology/Unit of Urology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, 20132, Italy
| | - I Locatelli
- Division of Experimental Oncology/Unit of Urology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, 20132, Italy
| | - F Pederzoli
- Division of Experimental Oncology/Unit of Urology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, 20132, Italy
- Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Via Olgettina, 60, Milan, 20132, Italy
| | - C Venegoni
- Division of Experimental Oncology/Unit of Urology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, 20132, Italy
| | - R Lucianò
- Pathology Unit, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, 20132, Italy
| | - P Milani
- C.I.Ma.I.Na and Dipartimento di Fisica "Aldo Pontremoli", Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, 20133, Italy
| | | | - A Salonia
- Division of Experimental Oncology/Unit of Urology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, 20132, Italy
- Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Via Olgettina, 60, Milan, 20132, Italy
| | - A Podestà
- C.I.Ma.I.Na and Dipartimento di Fisica "Aldo Pontremoli", Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, 20133, Italy.
| | - M Alfano
- Division of Experimental Oncology/Unit of Urology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, 20132, Italy.
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Empere M, Wang X, Prein C, Aspberg A, Moser M, Oohashi T, Clausen-Schaumann H, Aszodi A, Alberton P. Aggrecan governs intervertebral discs development by providing critical mechanical cues of the extracellular matrix. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1128587. [PMID: 36937743 PMCID: PMC10017878 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1128587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Aggrecan (ACAN) is localized in the intervertebral disc (IVD) in unique compartment-specific patterns where it contributes to the tissue structure and mechanical function together with collagens. The extracellular matrix (ECM) of the IVD undergoes degenerative changes during aging, misuse or trauma, which inevitably alter the biochemical and biomechanical properties of the tissue. A deeper understanding of these processes can be achieved in genetically engineered mouse models, taking into account the multifaceted aspects of IVD development. In this study, we generated aggrecan insertion mutant mice (Acan iE5/iE5 ) by interrupting exon 5 coding for the G1 domain of ACAN, and analyzed the morphological and mechanical properties of the different IVD compartments during embryonic development. Western blotting using an antibody against the total core protein failed to detect ACAN in cartilage extracts, whereas immunohistochemistry by a G1-specific antibody showed weak signals in vertebral tissues of Acan iE5/iE5 mice. Homozygous mutant mice are perinatally lethal and characterized by short snout, cleft palate and disproportionate dwarfism. Whole-mount skeletal staining and µ-CT analysis of Acan iE5/iE5 mice at embryonic day 18.5 revealed compressed vertebral bodies with accelerated mineralization compared to wild type controls. In Acan iE5/iE5 mice, histochemical staining revealed collapsed extracellular matrix with negligible sulfated glycosaminoglycan content accompanied by a high cellular density. Collagen type II deposition was not impaired in the IVD of Acan iE5/iE5 mice, as shown by immunohistochemistry. Mutant mice developed a severe IVD phenotype with deformed nucleus pulposus and thinned cartilaginous endplates accompanied by a disrupted growth plate structure in the vertebral body. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) imaging demonstrated a denser collagen network with thinner fibrils in the mutant IVD zones compared to wild type. Nanoscale AFM indentation revealed bimodal stiffness distribution attributable to the softer proteoglycan moiety and harder collagenous fibrils of the wild type IVD ECM. In Acan iE5/iE5 mice, loss of aggrecan resulted in a marked shift of the Young's modulus to higher values in all IVD zones. In conclusion, we demonstrated that aggrecan is pivotal for the determination and maintenance of the proper stiffness of IVD and vertebral tissues, which in turn could play an essential role in providing developmental biomechanical cues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Empere
- Musculoskeletal University Center Munich (MUM), Department of Orthopaedics and Trauma Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University (LMU), Munich, Germany
- Center for Applied Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Munich University of Applied Sciences, Munich, Germany
| | - Xujia Wang
- Musculoskeletal University Center Munich (MUM), Department of Orthopaedics and Trauma Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University (LMU), Munich, Germany
| | - Carina Prein
- Musculoskeletal University Center Munich (MUM), Department of Orthopaedics and Trauma Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University (LMU), Munich, Germany
- Center for Applied Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Munich University of Applied Sciences, Munich, Germany
| | - Anders Aspberg
- Rheumatology and Molecular Skeletal Biology, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Markus Moser
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry, Max Planck Society, Martinsried, Germany
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Toshitaka Oohashi
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama, Japan
| | - Hauke Clausen-Schaumann
- Center for Applied Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Munich University of Applied Sciences, Munich, Germany
| | - Attila Aszodi
- Musculoskeletal University Center Munich (MUM), Department of Orthopaedics and Trauma Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University (LMU), Munich, Germany
- Center for Applied Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Munich University of Applied Sciences, Munich, Germany
| | - Paolo Alberton
- Musculoskeletal University Center Munich (MUM), Department of Orthopaedics and Trauma Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University (LMU), Munich, Germany
- Center for Applied Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Munich University of Applied Sciences, Munich, Germany
- *Correspondence: Paolo Alberton,
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6
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De Pieri A, Korntner SH, Capella-Monsonis H, Tsiapalis D, Kostjuk SV, Churbanov S, Timashev P, Gorelov A, Rochev Y, Zeugolis DI. Macromolecular crowding transforms regenerative medicine by enabling the accelerated development of functional and truly three-dimensional cell assembled micro tissues. Biomaterials 2022; 287:121674. [PMID: 35835003 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2022.121674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Revised: 07/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Scaffold-free in vitro organogenesis exploits the innate ability of cells to synthesise and deposit their own extracellular matrix to fabricate tissue-like assemblies. Unfortunately, cell-assembled tissue engineered concepts require prolonged ex vivo culture periods of very high cell numbers for the development of a borderline three-dimensional implantable device, which are associated with phenotypic drift and high manufacturing costs, thus, hindering their clinical translation and commercialisation. Herein, we report the accelerated (10 days) development of a truly three-dimensional (338.1 ± 42.9 μm) scaffold-free tissue equivalent that promotes fast wound healing and induces formation of neotissue composed of mature collagen fibres, using human adipose derived stem cells seeded at only 50,000 cells/cm2 on an poly (N-isopropylacrylamide-co-N-tert-butylacrylamide (PNIPAM86-NTBA14) temperature-responsive electrospun scaffold and grown under macromolecular crowding conditions (50 μg/ml carrageenan). Our data pave the path for a new era in scaffold-free regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea De Pieri
- Regenerative, Modular & Developmental Engineering Laboratory (REMODEL), Biomedical Sciences Building, National University of Ireland Galway (NUI Galway), Galway, Ireland; Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) Centre for Research in Medical Devices (CÚRAM), Biomedical Sciences Building, National University of Ireland Galway (NUI Galway), Galway, Ireland; Proxy Biomedical Ltd., Spiddal, Galway, Ireland
| | - Stefanie H Korntner
- Regenerative, Modular & Developmental Engineering Laboratory (REMODEL), Biomedical Sciences Building, National University of Ireland Galway (NUI Galway), Galway, Ireland; Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) Centre for Research in Medical Devices (CÚRAM), Biomedical Sciences Building, National University of Ireland Galway (NUI Galway), Galway, Ireland
| | - Hector Capella-Monsonis
- Regenerative, Modular & Developmental Engineering Laboratory (REMODEL), Biomedical Sciences Building, National University of Ireland Galway (NUI Galway), Galway, Ireland; Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) Centre for Research in Medical Devices (CÚRAM), Biomedical Sciences Building, National University of Ireland Galway (NUI Galway), Galway, Ireland
| | - Dimitrios Tsiapalis
- Regenerative, Modular & Developmental Engineering Laboratory (REMODEL), Biomedical Sciences Building, National University of Ireland Galway (NUI Galway), Galway, Ireland; Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) Centre for Research in Medical Devices (CÚRAM), Biomedical Sciences Building, National University of Ireland Galway (NUI Galway), Galway, Ireland
| | - Sergei V Kostjuk
- Department of Chemistry, Belarusian State University and Research Institute for Physical Chemical Problems of the Belarusian State University, Minsk, Belarus; Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russia
| | - Semyon Churbanov
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russia
| | - Peter Timashev
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russia
| | - Alexander Gorelov
- School of Chemistry & Chemical Biology, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Yuri Rochev
- Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) Centre for Research in Medical Devices (CÚRAM), Biomedical Sciences Building, National University of Ireland Galway (NUI Galway), Galway, Ireland; Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russia
| | - Dimitrios I Zeugolis
- Regenerative, Modular & Developmental Engineering Laboratory (REMODEL), Biomedical Sciences Building, National University of Ireland Galway (NUI Galway), Galway, Ireland; Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) Centre for Research in Medical Devices (CÚRAM), Biomedical Sciences Building, National University of Ireland Galway (NUI Galway), Galway, Ireland; Regenerative, Modular & Developmental Engineering Laboratory (REMODEL), Charles Institute of Dermatology, Conway Institute of Biomolecular & Biomedical Research and School of Mechanical & Materials Engineering, University College Dublin (UCD), Dublin, Ireland.
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7
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Nanomechanical and Morphological AFM Mapping of Normal Tissues and Tumors on Live Brain Slices Using Specially Designed Embedding Matrix and Laser-Shaped Cantilevers. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10071742. [PMID: 35885046 PMCID: PMC9313344 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10071742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell and tissue nanomechanics has been intriguingly introduced into biomedical research, not only complementing traditional immunophenotyping and molecular analysis, but also bringing unexpected new insights for clinical diagnostics and bioengineering. However, despite the progress in the study of individual cells in culture by atomic force microscopy (AFM), its application for mapping live tissues has a number of technical limitations. Here, we elaborate a new technique to study live slices of normal brain tissue and tumors by combining morphological and nanomechanical AFM mapping in high throughput scanning mode, in contrast to the typically utilized force spectroscopy mode based on single-point probe application. This became possible due to the combined use of an appropriate embedding matrix for vibratomy and originally modified AFM probes. The embedding matrix composition was carefully developed by regulating the amounts of agar and collagen I to reach optimal viscoelastic properties for obtaining high-quality live slices that meet AFM requirements. AFM tips were rounded by irradiating them with focused nanosecond laser pulses, while the resulting tip morphology was verified by scanning electron microscopy. Live slices preparation and AFM investigation take only 55 min and could be combined with a vital cell tracer analysis or immunostaining, thus making it promising for biomedical research and clinical diagnostics.
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8
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Giudici A, Li Y, Yasmin, Cleary S, Connolly K, McEniery C, Wilkinson IB, Khir AW. Time-course of the human thoracic aorta ageing process assessed using uniaxial mechanical testing and constitutive modelling. J Mech Behav Biomed Mater 2022; 134:105339. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2022.105339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Revised: 06/18/2022] [Accepted: 06/25/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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9
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Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) Applications in Arrhythmogenic Cardiomyopathy. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23073700. [PMID: 35409059 PMCID: PMC8998711 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23073700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Revised: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (ACM) is an inherited heart muscle disorder characterized by progressive replacement of cardiomyocytes by fibrofatty tissue, ventricular dilatation, cardiac dysfunction, arrhythmias, and sudden cardiac death. Interest in molecular biomechanics for these disorders is constantly growing. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) is a well-established technic to study the mechanobiology of biological samples under physiological and pathological conditions at the cellular scale. However, a review which described all the different data that can be obtained using the AFM (cell elasticity, adhesion behavior, viscoelasticity, beating force, and frequency) is still missing. In this review, we will discuss several techniques that highlight the potential of AFM to be used as a tool for assessing the biomechanics involved in ACM. Indeed, analysis of genetically mutated cells with AFM reveal abnormalities of the cytoskeleton, cell membrane structures, and defects of contractility. The higher the Young’s modulus, the stiffer the cell, and it is well known that abnormal tissue stiffness is symptomatic of a range of diseases. The cell beating force and frequency provide information during the depolarization and repolarization phases, complementary to cell electrophysiology (calcium imaging, MEA, patch clamp). In addition, original data is also presented to emphasize the unique potential of AFM as a tool to assess fibrosis in cardiac tissue.
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10
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Qin Y, Yang W, Chu H, Li Y, Cai S, Yu H, Liu L. Atomic Force Microscopy for Tumor Research at Cell and Molecule Levels. MICROSCOPY AND MICROANALYSIS : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF MICROSCOPY SOCIETY OF AMERICA, MICROBEAM ANALYSIS SOCIETY, MICROSCOPICAL SOCIETY OF CANADA 2022; 28:1-18. [PMID: 35257653 DOI: 10.1017/s1431927622000290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Tumors have posed a serious threat to human life and health. Researchers can determine whether or not cells are cancerous, whether the cancer cells are invasive or metastatic, and what the effects of drugs are on cancer cells by the physical properties such as hardness, adhesion, and Young's modulus. The atomic force microscope (AFM) has emerged as a key important tool for biomechanics research on tumor cells due to its ability to image and collect force spectroscopy information of biological samples with nano-level spatial resolution and under near-physiological conditions. This article reviews the existing results of the study of cancer cells with AFM. The main foci are the operating principle of AFM and research advances in mechanical property measurement, ultra-microtopography, and molecular recognition of tumor cells, which allows us to outline what we do know it in a systematic way and to summarize and to discuss future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yitong Qin
- School of Electromechanical and Automotive Engineering, Yantai University, Yantai264005, China
| | - Wenguang Yang
- School of Electromechanical and Automotive Engineering, Yantai University, Yantai264005, China
| | - Honghui Chu
- School of Electromechanical and Automotive Engineering, Yantai University, Yantai264005, China
| | - Yan Li
- School of Electromechanical and Automotive Engineering, Yantai University, Yantai264005, China
| | - Shuxiang Cai
- School of Electromechanical and Automotive Engineering, Yantai University, Yantai264005, China
| | - Haibo Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics, Shenyang Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang110016, China
| | - Lianqing Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics, Shenyang Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang110016, China
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11
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Gedarawatte ST, Ravensdale JT, Johns ML, Li M, Al-Salami H, Dykes GA, Coorey R. Evaluation of the water-holding and anti-spoilage effect of a bacterial cellulose nanocrystal coating for the storage of vacuum-packaged beef. Food Packag Shelf Life 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fpsl.2022.100818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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12
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Assessing Collagen D-Band Periodicity with Atomic Force Microscopy. MATERIALS 2022; 15:ma15041608. [PMID: 35208148 PMCID: PMC8877100 DOI: 10.3390/ma15041608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2022] [Revised: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
The collagen superfamily includes more than fifty collagen and/or collagen-like proteins with fibril-forming collagen type I being the most abundant protein within the extracellular matrix. Collagen type I plays a crucial role in a variety of functions, it has been associated with many pathological conditions and it is widely used due to its unique properties. One unique nano-scale characteristic of natural occurring collagen type I fibers is the so-called D-band periodicity, which has been associated with collagen natural structure and properties, while it seems to play a crucial role in the interactions between cells and collagen and in various pathological conditions. An accurate characterization of the surface and structure of collagen fibers, including D-band periodicity, on collagen-based tissues and/or (nano-)biomaterials can be achieved by Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM). AFM is a scanning probe microscope and is among the few techniques that can assess D-band periodicity. This review covers issues related to collagen and collagen D-band periodicity and the use of AFM for studying them. Through a systematic search in databases (PubMed and Scopus) relevant articles were identified. The study of these articles demonstrated that AFM can offer novel information concerning D-band periodicity. This study highlights the importance of studying collagen D-band periodicity and proves that AFM is a powerful tool for investigating a number of different properties related to collagen D-band periodicity.
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Late Changes in the Extracellular Matrix of the Bladder after Radiation Therapy for Pelvic Tumors. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:diagnostics11091615. [PMID: 34573958 PMCID: PMC8468698 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11091615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Revised: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Radiation therapy is one of the cardinal approaches in the treatment of malignant tumors of the pelvis. It leads to the development of radiation-induced complications in the normal tissues. Thus, the evaluation of radiation-induced changes in the extracellular matrix of the normal tissue is deemed urgent, since connective tissue stroma degradation plays a crucial role in the development of Grade 3-4 adverse effects (hemorrhage, necrosis, and fistula). Such adverse effects not only drastically reduce the patients' quality of life but can also become life-threatening. The aim of this study is to quantitatively analyze the bladder collagen state in patients who underwent radiation therapy for cervical and endometrial cancer and in patients with chronic bacterial cystitis and compare them to the normal bladder extracellular matrix. MATERIALS AND METHODS One hundred and five patients with Grade 2-4 of radiation cystitis, 67 patients with bacterial chronic cystitis, and 20 volunteers without bladder pathology were enrolled. Collagen changes were evaluated depending on its hierarchical level: fibrils and fibers level by atomic force microscopy; fibers and bundles level by two-photon microscopy in the second harmonic generation (SHG) mode; general collagen architectonics by cross-polarization optical coherence tomography (CP OCT). RESULTS The main sign of the radiation-induced damage of collagen fibrils and fibers was the loss of the ordered "basket-weave" packing and a significant increase in the total area of ruptures deeper than 1 µm compared to the intact sample. The numerical analysis of SHG images detected that a decrease in the SHG signal intensity of collagen is correlated with the increase in the grade of radiation cystitis. The OCT signal brightness in cross-polarization images demonstrated a gradual decrease compared to the intact bladder depending on the grade of the adverse event. CONCLUSIONS The observed correspondence between the extracellular matrix changes at the microscopic level and at the level of the general organ architectonics allows for the consideration of CP OCT as a method of "optical biopsy" in the grading of radiation-induced collagen damage.
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Ben Zemzem A, Genevaux A, Wahart A, Bodey AJ, Blaise S, Romier-Crouzet B, Jonquet J, Bour C, Cogranne R, Beauseroy P, Dauchez M, Sherratt MJ, Debelle L, Almagro S. X-ray microtomography reveals a lattice-like network within aortic elastic lamellae. FASEB J 2021; 35:e21844. [PMID: 34473371 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202100323rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Revised: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
The arterial wall consists of three concentric layers: intima, media, and adventitia. Beyond their resident cells, these layers are characterized by an extracellular matrix (ECM), which provides both biochemical and mechanical support. Elastin, the major component of arterial ECM, is present in the medial layer and organized in concentric elastic lamellae that confer resilience to the wall. We explored the arterial wall structures from C57Bl6 (control), db/db (diabetic), and ApoE-/- (atherogenic) mice aged 3 months using synchrotron X-ray computed microtomography on fixed and unstained tissues with a large image field (8 mm3 ). This approach combined a good resolution (0.83 µm/voxel), large 3D imaging field. and an excellent signal to noise ratio conferred by phase-contrast imaging. We determined from 2D virtual slices that the thickness of intramural ECM structures was comparable between strains but automated image analysis of the 3D arterial volumes revealed a lattice-like network within concentric elastic lamellae. We hypothesize that this network could play a role in arterial mechanics. This work demonstrates that phase-contrast synchrotron X-ray computed microtomography is a powerful technique which to characterize unstained soft tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aïcha Ben Zemzem
- CNRS UMR7369 MEDyC, University of Reims Champagne-Ardenne, Reims, France
| | - Aline Genevaux
- CNRS UMR7369 MEDyC, University of Reims Champagne-Ardenne, Reims, France
| | - Amandine Wahart
- CNRS UMR7369 MEDyC, University of Reims Champagne-Ardenne, Reims, France
| | | | - Sébastien Blaise
- CNRS UMR7369 MEDyC, University of Reims Champagne-Ardenne, Reims, France
| | | | - Jessica Jonquet
- CNRS UMR7369 MEDyC, University of Reims Champagne-Ardenne, Reims, France
| | - Camille Bour
- CNRS UMR7369 MEDyC, University of Reims Champagne-Ardenne, Reims, France
| | - Rémi Cogranne
- Troyes University of Technology, UMR CNRS 6281 ICD/ROSAS/LM2S, Troyes, France
| | - Pierre Beauseroy
- Troyes University of Technology, UMR CNRS 6281 ICD/ROSAS/LM2S, Troyes, France
| | - Manuel Dauchez
- CNRS UMR7369 MEDyC, University of Reims Champagne-Ardenne, Reims, France
| | - Michael J Sherratt
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Laurent Debelle
- CNRS UMR7369 MEDyC, University of Reims Champagne-Ardenne, Reims, France.,Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Sébastien Almagro
- CNRS UMR7369 MEDyC, University of Reims Champagne-Ardenne, Reims, France
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Ray SK, Mukherjee S. Consequences of Extracellular Matrix Remodeling in Headway and Metastasis of Cancer along with Novel Immunotherapies: A Great Promise for Future Endeavor. Anticancer Agents Med Chem 2021; 22:1257-1271. [PMID: 34254930 DOI: 10.2174/1871520621666210712090017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Revised: 05/23/2021] [Accepted: 05/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Tissues are progressively molded by bidirectional correspondence between denizen cells and extracellular matrix (ECM) via cell-matrix connections along with ECM remodeling. The composition and association of ECM are spatiotemporally directed to control cell conduct and differentiation; however, dysregulation of ECM dynamics prompts the development of diseases, for example, cancer. Emerging information demonstrates that hypoxia may have decisive roles in metastasis. In addition, the sprawling nature of neoplastic cells and chaotic angiogenesis are increasingly influencing microcirculation as well as altering the concentration of oxygen. In various regions of the tumor microenvironment, hypoxia, an essential player in the multistep phase of cancer metastasis, is necessary. Hypoxia can be turned into an advantage for selective cancer therapy because it is much more severe in tumors than in normal tissues. Cellular matrix gives signaling cues that control cell behavior and organize cells' elements in tissue development and homeostasis. The interplay between intrinsic factors of cancer cells themselves, including their genotype and signaling networks, and extrinsic factors of tumor stroma, for example, ECM and ECM remodeling, together decide the destiny and behavior of tumor cells. Tumor matrix encourages the development, endurance, and invasion of neoplastic and immune cell activities to drive metastasis and debilitate treatment. Incipient evidence recommends essential parts of tumor ECM segments and their remodeling in controlling each progression of the cancer-immunity cycle. Scientists have discovered that tumor matrix dynamics as well as matrix remodeling in perspective to anti-tumor immune reactions are especially important for matrix-based biomarkers recognition and followed by immunotherapy and targeting specific drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suman Kumar Ray
- Department of Applied Sciences, Indira Gandhi Technological and Medical Sciences University, India
| | - Sukhes Mukherjee
- Department of Biochemistry. All India Institute of Medical Sciences Bhopal, Madhya pradesh-462020, India
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Easy ultrastructural insight into the internal morphology of biological specimens by Atomic Force Microscopy. Sci Rep 2021; 11:10214. [PMID: 33986350 PMCID: PMC8119718 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-89633-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
As a topographical technique, Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) needs to establish direct interactions between a given sample and the measurement probe in order to create imaging information. The elucidation of internal features of organisms, tissues and cells by AFM has therefore been a challenging process in the past. To overcome this hindrance, simple and fast embedding, sectioning and dehydration techniques are presented, allowing the easy access to the internal morphology of virtually any organism, tissue or cell by AFM. The study at hand shows the applicability of the proposed protocol to exemplary biological samples, the resolution currently allowed by the approach as well as advantages and shortcomings compared to classical ultrastructural microscopic techniques like electron microscopy. The presented cheap, facile, fast and non-toxic experimental protocol might introduce AFM as a universal tool for the elucidation of internal ultrastructural detail of virtually any given organism, tissue or cell.
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Travers JG, Wennersten SA, Peña B, Bagchi RA, Smith HE, Hirsch RA, Vanderlinden LA, Lin YH, Dobrinskikh E, Demos-Davies KM, Cavasin MA, Mestroni L, Steinkühler C, Lin CY, Houser SR, Woulfe KC, Lam MPY, McKinsey TA. HDAC Inhibition Reverses Preexisting Diastolic Dysfunction and Blocks Covert Extracellular Matrix Remodeling. Circulation 2021; 143:1874-1890. [PMID: 33682427 DOI: 10.1161/circulationaha.120.046462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diastolic dysfunction (DD) is associated with the development of heart failure and contributes to the pathogenesis of other cardiac maladies, including atrial fibrillation. Inhibition of histone deacetylases (HDACs) has been shown to prevent DD by enhancing myofibril relaxation. We addressed the therapeutic potential of HDAC inhibition in a model of established DD with preserved ejection fraction. METHODS Four weeks after uninephrectomy and implantation with deoxycorticosterone acetate pellets, when DD was clearly evident, 1 cohort of mice was administered the clinical-stage HDAC inhibitor ITF2357/Givinostat. Echocardiography, blood pressure measurements, and end point invasive hemodynamic analyses were performed. Myofibril mechanics and intact cardiomyocyte relaxation were assessed ex vivo. Cardiac fibrosis was evaluated by picrosirius red staining and second harmonic generation microscopy of left ventricle (LV) sections, RNA sequencing of LV mRNA, mass spectrometry-based evaluation of decellularized LV biopsies, and atomic force microscopy determination of LV stiffness. Mechanistic studies were performed with primary rat and human cardiac fibroblasts. RESULTS HDAC inhibition normalized DD without lowering blood pressure in this model of systemic hypertension. In contrast to previous models, myofibril relaxation was unimpaired in uninephrectomy/deoxycorticosterone acetate mice. Furthermore, cardiac fibrosis was not evident in any mouse cohort on the basis of picrosirius red staining or second harmonic generation microscopy. However, mass spectrometry revealed induction in the expression of >100 extracellular matrix proteins in LVs of uninephrectomy/deoxycorticosterone acetate mice, which correlated with profound tissue stiffening based on atomic force microscopy. ITF2357/Givinostat treatment blocked extracellular matrix expansion and LV stiffening. The HDAC inhibitor was subsequently shown to suppress cardiac fibroblast activation, at least in part, by blunting recruitment of the profibrotic chromatin reader protein BRD4 (bromodomain-containing protein 4) to key gene regulatory elements. CONCLUSIONS These findings demonstrate the potential of HDAC inhibition as a therapeutic intervention to reverse existing DD and establish blockade of extracellular matrix remodeling as a second mechanism by which HDAC inhibitors improve ventricular filling. Our data reveal the existence of pathophysiologically relevant covert or hidden cardiac fibrosis that is below the limit of detection of histochemical stains such as picrosirius red, highlighting the need to evaluate fibrosis of the heart using diverse methodologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua G Travers
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology (J.G.T., S.A.W., B.P., R.A.B., Y.-H.L., K.M.D.-D., M.A.C., L.M., K.C.W., M.P.Y.L., T.A.M.), University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora.,Consortium for Fibrosis Research & Translation (J.G.T., S.A.W., B.P., R.A.B., Y.-H.L., M.A.C., M.P.Y.L., T.A.M.), University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora
| | - Sara A Wennersten
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology (J.G.T., S.A.W., B.P., R.A.B., Y.-H.L., K.M.D.-D., M.A.C., L.M., K.C.W., M.P.Y.L., T.A.M.), University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora.,Consortium for Fibrosis Research & Translation (J.G.T., S.A.W., B.P., R.A.B., Y.-H.L., M.A.C., M.P.Y.L., T.A.M.), University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora
| | - Brisa Peña
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology (J.G.T., S.A.W., B.P., R.A.B., Y.-H.L., K.M.D.-D., M.A.C., L.M., K.C.W., M.P.Y.L., T.A.M.), University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora.,Consortium for Fibrosis Research & Translation (J.G.T., S.A.W., B.P., R.A.B., Y.-H.L., M.A.C., M.P.Y.L., T.A.M.), University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora
| | - Rushita A Bagchi
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology (J.G.T., S.A.W., B.P., R.A.B., Y.-H.L., K.M.D.-D., M.A.C., L.M., K.C.W., M.P.Y.L., T.A.M.), University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora.,Consortium for Fibrosis Research & Translation (J.G.T., S.A.W., B.P., R.A.B., Y.-H.L., M.A.C., M.P.Y.L., T.A.M.), University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora
| | - Harrison E Smith
- Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX (H.E.S., R.A.H., C.Y.L.).,Department of Biostatistics and Informatics (H.E.S., L.A.V.), Colorado School of Public Health, Aurora
| | - Rachel A Hirsch
- Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX (H.E.S., R.A.H., C.Y.L.)
| | - Lauren A Vanderlinden
- Department of Biostatistics and Informatics (H.E.S., L.A.V.), Colorado School of Public Health, Aurora
| | - Ying-Hsi Lin
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology (J.G.T., S.A.W., B.P., R.A.B., Y.-H.L., K.M.D.-D., M.A.C., L.M., K.C.W., M.P.Y.L., T.A.M.), University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora.,Consortium for Fibrosis Research & Translation (J.G.T., S.A.W., B.P., R.A.B., Y.-H.L., M.A.C., M.P.Y.L., T.A.M.), University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora
| | - Evgenia Dobrinskikh
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary Sciences & Critical Care (E.D.), University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora
| | - Kimberly M Demos-Davies
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology (J.G.T., S.A.W., B.P., R.A.B., Y.-H.L., K.M.D.-D., M.A.C., L.M., K.C.W., M.P.Y.L., T.A.M.), University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora
| | - Maria A Cavasin
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology (J.G.T., S.A.W., B.P., R.A.B., Y.-H.L., K.M.D.-D., M.A.C., L.M., K.C.W., M.P.Y.L., T.A.M.), University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora.,Consortium for Fibrosis Research & Translation (J.G.T., S.A.W., B.P., R.A.B., Y.-H.L., M.A.C., M.P.Y.L., T.A.M.), University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora
| | - Luisa Mestroni
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology (J.G.T., S.A.W., B.P., R.A.B., Y.-H.L., K.M.D.-D., M.A.C., L.M., K.C.W., M.P.Y.L., T.A.M.), University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora
| | | | - Charles Y Lin
- Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX (H.E.S., R.A.H., C.Y.L.).,now with Kronos Bio, Cambridge, MA (C.Y.L.)
| | - Steven R Houser
- Cardiovascular Research Center (S.R.H.), Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Kathleen C Woulfe
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology (J.G.T., S.A.W., B.P., R.A.B., Y.-H.L., K.M.D.-D., M.A.C., L.M., K.C.W., M.P.Y.L., T.A.M.), University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora
| | - Maggie P Y Lam
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology (J.G.T., S.A.W., B.P., R.A.B., Y.-H.L., K.M.D.-D., M.A.C., L.M., K.C.W., M.P.Y.L., T.A.M.), University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora.,Consortium for Fibrosis Research & Translation (J.G.T., S.A.W., B.P., R.A.B., Y.-H.L., M.A.C., M.P.Y.L., T.A.M.), University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora
| | - Timothy A McKinsey
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology (J.G.T., S.A.W., B.P., R.A.B., Y.-H.L., K.M.D.-D., M.A.C., L.M., K.C.W., M.P.Y.L., T.A.M.), University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora.,Consortium for Fibrosis Research & Translation (J.G.T., S.A.W., B.P., R.A.B., Y.-H.L., M.A.C., M.P.Y.L., T.A.M.), University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora
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Time- and Zinc-Related Changes in Biomechanical Properties of Human Colorectal Cancer Cells Examined by Atomic Force Microscopy. BIOLOGY 2020; 9:biology9120468. [PMID: 33327597 PMCID: PMC7765036 DOI: 10.3390/biology9120468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Revised: 12/10/2020] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary We aimed to study how cellular zinc status (adequate vs. deficiency), closely related to colorectal cancer, does affect the nanomechanical properties of cell lines HT-29 and HT-29-MTX during their early proliferation (24–96 h). These properties and their variations can be characterized by means of Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), a technique that allows perpendicular indentation of cells with a sharp nanometric tip, under controlled speed and load, while recording the real time variation of tip-to-cell interacting forces on approach, contact, and retraction segments. From each of these sections, complete information about the respective elastic modulus, relaxation behavior, and adhesion is extracted, thus identifying cell line- and zinc-related nanomechanical fingerprints. Our results show how the impact of zinc deficiency on the mechanical response of the cells underlines the relevance of monitoring the nutritional zinc status of tumor samples when analyzing cancerous tissues or single cells with AFM, particularly regarding the development and validation of biomechanical fingerprints as diagnostic markers for cancer. Abstract Monitoring biomechanics of cells or tissue biopsies employing atomic force microscopy (AFM) offers great potential to identify diagnostic biomarkers for diseases, such as colorectal cancer (CRC). Data on the mechanical properties of CRC cells, however, are still scarce. There is strong evidence that the individual zinc status is related to CRC risk. Thus, this study investigates the impact of differing zinc supply on the mechanical response of the in vitro CRC cell lines HT-29 and HT-29-MTX during their early proliferation (24–96 h) by measuring elastic modulus, relaxation behavior, and adhesion factors using AFM. The differing zinc supply severely altered the proliferation of these cells and markedly affected their mechanical properties. Accordingly, zinc deficiency led to softer cells, quantitatively described by 20–30% lower Young’s modulus, which was also reflected by relevant changes in adhesion and rupture event distribution compared to those measured for the respective zinc-adequate cultured cells. These results demonstrate that the nutritional zinc supply severely affects the nanomechanical response of CRC cell lines and highlights the relevance of monitoring the zinc content of cancerous cells or biopsies when studying their biomechanics with AFM in the future.
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Roig-Rosello E, Rousselle P. The Human Epidermal Basement Membrane: A Shaped and Cell Instructive Platform That Aging Slowly Alters. Biomolecules 2020; 10:E1607. [PMID: 33260936 PMCID: PMC7760980 DOI: 10.3390/biom10121607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Revised: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
One of the most important functions of skin is to act as a protective barrier. To fulfill this role, the structural integrity of the skin depends on the dermal-epidermal junction-a complex network of extracellular matrix macromolecules that connect the outer epidermal layer to the underlying dermis. This junction provides both a structural support to keratinocytes and a specific niche that mediates signals influencing their behavior. It displays a distinctive microarchitecture characterized by an undulating pattern, strengthening dermal-epidermal connectivity and crosstalk. The optimal stiffness arising from the overall molecular organization, together with characteristic anchoring complexes, keeps the dermis and epidermis layers extremely well connected and capable of proper epidermal renewal and regeneration. Due to intrinsic and extrinsic factors, a large number of structural and biological changes accompany skin aging. These changes progressively weaken the dermal-epidermal junction substructure and affect its functions, contributing to the gradual decline in overall skin physiology. Most changes involve reduced turnover or altered enzymatic or non-enzymatic post-translational modifications, compromising the mechanical properties of matrix components and cells. This review combines recent and older data on organization of the dermal-epidermal junction, its mechanical properties and role in mechanotransduction, its involvement in regeneration, and its fate during the aging process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Roig-Rosello
- Laboratoire de Biologie Tissulaire et Ingénierie Thérapeutique, UMR 5305, CNRS-Université Lyon 1, SFR BioSciences Gerland-Lyon Sud, 7 Passage du Vercors, 69367 Lyon, France;
- Roger Gallet SAS, 4 rue Euler, 75008 Paris, France
| | - Patricia Rousselle
- Laboratoire de Biologie Tissulaire et Ingénierie Thérapeutique, UMR 5305, CNRS-Université Lyon 1, SFR BioSciences Gerland-Lyon Sud, 7 Passage du Vercors, 69367 Lyon, France;
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Cauble MA, Mancini NS, Kalinowski J, Lykotrafitis G, Moss IL. Atomic force microscopy imaging for nanoscale and microscale assessments of extracellular matrix in intervertebral disc and degeneration. JOR Spine 2020; 3:e1125. [PMID: 33015582 PMCID: PMC7524250 DOI: 10.1002/jsp2.1125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2020] [Revised: 07/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Degeneration of the intervertebral disc (IVD) is a condition that is often associated with debilitating back pain. There are no disease-modifying treatments available to halt the progression of this ubiquitous disorder. This is partly due to a lack of understanding of extracellular matrix (ECM) changes that occur at the micro- and nanometer size scales as the disease progresses. Over the past decade, atomic force microscopy (AFM) has been utilized as a tool to investigate the impact of disease on nanoscale structure of ECM in bone, skin, tendon, and dentin. We have expanded this methodology to include the IVD and report the first quantitative analysis of ECM structure at submicron size scales in a murine model for progressive IVD degeneration. Collagen D-spacing, a metric of nanoscale structure at the fibril level, was observed as a distribution of values with an overall average value of 62.5 ± 2.5 nm. In degenerative discs, the fibril D-spacing distribution shifted towards higher values in both the annulus fibrosus and nucleus pulposus (NP) (P < .05). A novel microstructural feature, collagen toroids, defined by a topographical pit enclosed by fibril-forming matrix was observed in the NP. With degeneration, these microstructures became more numerous and the morphology was altered from circular (aspect ratio 1.0 ± 0.1) to oval (aspect ratio 1.5 ± 0.4), P < .005. These analyses provide ECM structural details of the IVD at size scales that have historically been missing in studies of disc degeneration. Knowledge gained from these insights may aid the development of novel disease-modifying therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meagan A Cauble
- UConn Health Department of Orthopaedic Surgery Musculoskeletal Institute Farmington Connecticut USA
| | - Nickolas S Mancini
- UConn Health Department of Orthopaedic Surgery Musculoskeletal Institute Farmington Connecticut USA
| | - Judith Kalinowski
- UConn Health Department of Orthopaedic Surgery Musculoskeletal Institute Farmington Connecticut USA
| | - George Lykotrafitis
- Department of Mechanical Engineering University of Connecticut Storrs Connecticut USA
| | - Isaac L Moss
- UConn Health Department of Orthopaedic Surgery Musculoskeletal Institute Farmington Connecticut USA
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Zanotelli MR, Chada NC, Johnson CA, Reinhart-King CA. The Physical Microenvironment of Tumors: Characterization and Clinical Impact. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020. [DOI: 10.1142/s1793048020300029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment plays a critical role in tumorigenesis and metastasis. As tightly controlled extracellular matrix homeostasis is lost during tumor progression, a dysregulated extracellular matrix can significantly alter cellular phenotype and drive malignancy. Altered physical properties of the tumor microenvironment alter cancer cell behavior, limit delivery and efficacy of therapies, and correlate with tumorigenesis and patient prognosis. The physical features of the extracellular matrix during tumor progression have been characterized; however, a wide range of methods have been used between studies and cancer types resulting in a large range of reported values. Here, we discuss the significant mechanical and structural properties of the tumor microenvironment, summarizing their reported values and clinical impact across cancer type and grade. We attempt to integrate the values in the literature to identify sources of reported differences and commonalities to better understand how aberrant extracellular matrix dynamics contribute to cancer progression. An intimate understanding of altered matrix properties during malignant transformation will be crucial in effectively detecting, monitoring, and treating cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew R. Zanotelli
- Nancy E. and Peter C. Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Weill Hall, Ithaca, NY 14583, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, 2414 Highland Avenue, Nashville, TN 37235, USA
| | - Neil C. Chada
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, 2414 Highland Avenue, Nashville, TN 37235, USA
| | - C. Andrew Johnson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, 2414 Highland Avenue, Nashville, TN 37235, USA
| | - Cynthia A. Reinhart-King
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, 2414 Highland Avenue, Nashville, TN 37235, USA
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Simpson LW, Good TA, Leach JB. Protein folding and assembly in confined environments: Implications for protein aggregation in hydrogels and tissues. Biotechnol Adv 2020; 42:107573. [PMID: 32512220 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2020.107573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2019] [Revised: 05/03/2020] [Accepted: 05/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
In the biological milieu of a cell, soluble crowding molecules and rigid confined environments strongly influence whether the protein is properly folded, intrinsically disordered proteins assemble into distinct phases, or a denatured or aggregated protein species is favored. Such crowding and confinement factors act to exclude solvent volume from the protein molecules, resulting in an increased local protein concentration and decreased protein entropy. A protein's structure is inherently tied to its function. Examples of processes where crowding and confinement may strongly influence protein function include transmembrane protein dimerization, enzymatic activity, assembly of supramolecular structures (e.g., microtubules), nuclear condensates containing transcriptional machinery, protein aggregation in the contexts of disease and protein therapeutics. Historically, most protein structures have been determined from pure, dilute protein solutions or pure crystals. However, these are not the environments in which these proteins function. Thus, there has been an increased emphasis on analyzing protein structure and dynamics in more "in vivo-like" environments. Complex in vitro models using hydrogel scaffolds to study proteins may better mimic features of the in vivo environment. Therefore, analytical techniques need to be optimized for real-time analysis of proteins within hydrogel scaffolds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura W Simpson
- Department of Chemical, Biochemical and Environmental Engineering, University of Maryland Baltimore County, Eng 314, 1000 Hilltop Circle, Baltimore, MD 21250, USA
| | - Theresa A Good
- Division of Molecular and Cellular Biosciences, National Science Foundation, 2415 Eisenhower Ave, Alexandria, VA 22314, USA
| | - Jennie B Leach
- Department of Chemical, Biochemical and Environmental Engineering, University of Maryland Baltimore County, Eng 314, 1000 Hilltop Circle, Baltimore, MD 21250, USA.
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23
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Guo X, Wang X, Li X, Jiang YC, Han S, Ma L, Guo H, Wang Z, Li Q. Endothelial Cell Migration on Poly(ε-caprolactone) Nanofibers Coated with a Nanohybrid Shish-Kebab Structure Mimicking Collagen Fibrils. Biomacromolecules 2020; 21:1202-1213. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.9b01638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Xin Guo
- School of Mechanics Science and Security Engineering, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 45001, China
- National Center for International Research of Micro-Nano Molding Technology, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 45001, China
| | - Xiaofeng Wang
- School of Mechanics Science and Security Engineering, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 45001, China
- National Center for International Research of Micro-Nano Molding Technology, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 45001, China
| | - Xuyan Li
- School of Mechanics Science and Security Engineering, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 45001, China
- National Center for International Research of Micro-Nano Molding Technology, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 45001, China
| | - Yong-Chao Jiang
- National Center for International Research of Micro-Nano Molding Technology, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 45001, China
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 45001, China
| | - Shanshan Han
- School of Mechanics Science and Security Engineering, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 45001, China
- National Center for International Research of Micro-Nano Molding Technology, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 45001, China
| | - Lei Ma
- National Center for International Research of Micro-Nano Molding Technology, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 45001, China
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 45001, China
| | - Haiyang Guo
- School of Mechanics Science and Security Engineering, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 45001, China
- National Center for International Research of Micro-Nano Molding Technology, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 45001, China
| | - Zhenxing Wang
- School of Mechanics Science and Security Engineering, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 45001, China
- National Center for International Research of Micro-Nano Molding Technology, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 45001, China
| | - Qian Li
- School of Mechanics Science and Security Engineering, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 45001, China
- National Center for International Research of Micro-Nano Molding Technology, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 45001, China
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 45001, China
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24
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Choong JK, Hampson AJ, Brody KM, Lo J, Bester CW, Gummer AW, Reynolds NP, O'Leary SJ. Nanomechanical mapping reveals localized stiffening of the basilar membrane after cochlear implantation. Hear Res 2019; 385:107846. [PMID: 31786442 DOI: 10.1016/j.heares.2019.107846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2019] [Revised: 11/02/2019] [Accepted: 11/10/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Cochlear implantation leads to many structural changes within the cochlea which can impair residual hearing. In patients with preserved low-frequency hearing, a delayed hearing loss can occur weeks-to-years post-implantation. We explore whether stiffening of the basilar membrane (BM) may be a contributory factor in an animal model. Our objective is to map changes in morphology and Young's modulus of basal and apical areas of the BM after cochlear implantation, using quantitative nanomechanical atomic force microscopy (QNM-AFM) after cochlear implant surgery. Cochlear implantation was undertaken in the guinea pig, and the BM was harvested at four time-points: 1 day, 14 days, 28 days and 84 days post-implantation for QNM-AFM analysis. Auditory brainstem response thresholds were determined prior to implantation and termination. BM tissue showed altered morphology and a progressive increase in Young's modulus, mainly in the apex, over time after implantation. BM tissue from the cochlear base demonstrated areas of extreme stiffness which are likely due to micro-calcification on the BM. In conclusion, stiffening of the BM after cochlear implantation occurs over time, even at sites far apical to a cochlear implant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica K Choong
- Otolaryngology, Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, East Melbourne, Australia
| | - Amy J Hampson
- Otolaryngology, Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, East Melbourne, Australia
| | - Kate M Brody
- Otolaryngology, Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, East Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jonathon Lo
- Otolaryngology, Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, East Melbourne, Australia
| | - Christofer W Bester
- Otolaryngology, Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, East Melbourne, Australia
| | - Anthony W Gummer
- Section of Physiological Acoustics and Communication, Department of Otolaryngology, Eberhard-Karls-University Tübingen, Elfriede-Aulhorn-Strasse 5, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Nicholas P Reynolds
- ARC Training Centre for Biodevices, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, Australia; Department of Chemistry and Physics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Australia.
| | - Stephen J O'Leary
- Otolaryngology, Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, East Melbourne, Australia.
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25
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Rusaczonek M, Zapotoczny B, Szymonski M, Konior J. Application of a layered model for determination of the elasticity of biological systems. Micron 2019; 124:102705. [PMID: 31252332 DOI: 10.1016/j.micron.2019.102705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2018] [Revised: 06/13/2019] [Accepted: 06/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Elasticity of biological systems is considered to be an important property that might be related to functional or pathological changes. Therefore, careful study and detailed understanding of cell and tissue elasticity is crucial for correct description of their functioning. Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) is a powerful technique, which allows for determination of the physical properties, such as elasticity, of soft-matter systems in nano-scale. An important step in AFM elasticity studies is a proper interpretation of experimental data. Two most frequently used theoretical schemes applied to determine elasticity are due to Hertz and Sneddon, which are effectively one-parameter models. In this work, we go beyond this approach. Firstly, as elasticity is a local property, we extract from the slope of experimental force-indentation curve an elasticity parameter, which varies with indentation depth. Then secondly, we find best approximation of this parameter by applying the two-layer model with four effective parameters, as proposed by Kovalev. This method is employed to the experimental data taken on murine liver sinusoidal endothelial cells in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease model. The obtained results show additional effects, not seen within the traditional, simplified scheme. Namely, the elasticity of the first layer does not change its value in the model of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, but the increase of stiffness is noticed in second layer. The second goal of this article is to reveal and discuss the differences between traditional approaches and the one being presented. The deviations from the original assumptions are analysed and the corresponding restrictions on utility of theoretical models are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Rusaczonek
- Marian Smoluchowski Institute of Physics, Department of Physics, Astronomy, and Applied Computer Science, Jagiellonian University, 30-059 Kraków, Poland.
| | - B Zapotoczny
- Marian Smoluchowski Institute of Physics, Department of Physics, Astronomy, and Applied Computer Science, Jagiellonian University, 30-059 Kraków, Poland
| | - M Szymonski
- Marian Smoluchowski Institute of Physics, Department of Physics, Astronomy, and Applied Computer Science, Jagiellonian University, 30-059 Kraków, Poland
| | - J Konior
- Marian Smoluchowski Institute of Physics, Department of Physics, Astronomy, and Applied Computer Science, Jagiellonian University, 30-059 Kraków, Poland
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26
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Viji Babu PK, Radmacher M. Mechanics of Brain Tissues Studied by Atomic Force Microscopy: A Perspective. Front Neurosci 2019; 13:600. [PMID: 31258462 PMCID: PMC6587663 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2019.00600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2019] [Accepted: 05/27/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Tissue morphology and mechanics are crucial to the regulation of organ function. Investigating the exceptionally complex tissue of the brain at the sub-micron scale is challenging due to the complex structure and softness of this tissue, despite the large interest of biologists, medical engineers, biophysicists, and others in this topic. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) both as an imaging and as a mechanical tool provides an excellent opportunity to study soft biological samples such as live brain tissues. Here we review the principles of AFM, the performance of AFM in tissue imaging and mechanical mapping of cells and tissues, and finally opening the prospects and challenges of probing the biophysical properties of brain tissue using AFM.
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27
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Svistushkin MV, Kotova SL, Shekhter AB, Svistushkin VM, Akovantseva AA, Frolova AA, Fayzullin AL, Starostina SV, Bezrukov EA, Sukhanov RB, Timashev SF, Butnaru DV, Timashev PS. Collagen fibrillar structures in vocal fold scarring and repair using stem cell therapy: a detailed histological, immunohistochemical and atomic force microscopy study. J Microsc 2019; 274:55-68. [PMID: 30740689 DOI: 10.1111/jmi.12784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2018] [Revised: 01/15/2019] [Accepted: 01/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Regenerative medicine opens new opportunities in the repair of cicatricial lesions of the vocal folds. Here, we present a thorough morphological study, with the focus on the collagen structures in the mucosa of the vocal folds, dedicated to the effects of stem cells on the vocal folds repair after cicatricial lesions. We used a conventional experimental model of a mature scar of the rabbit vocal folds, which was surgically excised with a simultaneous implantation of autologous bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) into the defect. The restoration of the vocal folds was studied 3 months postimplantation of stem cells and 6 months after the first surgery. The collagen structure assessment included histology, immunohistochemistry and atomic force microscopy (AFM) studies. According to the data of optical microscopy and AFM, as well as to immunohistochemical analysis, MSC implantation into the vocal fold defect leads not only to the general reduction of scarring, normal ratio of collagens type I and type III, but also to a more complete restoration of architecture and ultrastructure of collagen fibres in the mucosa, as compared to the control. The collagen structures in the scar tissue in the vocal folds with implanted MSC are more similar to those in the normal mucosa of the vocal folds than to those of the untreated scars. AFM has proven to be an instrumental technique in the assessment of the ultrastructure restoration in such studies. LAY DESCRIPTION: Regenerative medicine opens new opportunities in the repair of the vocal fold scars. Because collagen is a main component in the vocal fold mucosa responsible for the scar formation and repair, we focus on the collagen structures in the mucosa of the vocal folds, using a thorough morphological study based on histology and atomic force microscopy (AFM). Atomic force microscopy is a scanning microscopic technique which allows revealing the internal structure of a tissue with a resolution up to nanometres. We used a conventional experimental model of a mature scar of the rabbit vocal folds, surgically excised and treated with a mesenchymal stem cells transplant. Our morphological study, primarily AFM, explicitly shows that the collagen structures in the scarred vocal folds almost completely restore after the stem cell treatment. Thus, the modern microscopic methods, and especially AFM are instrumental tools for monitoring the repair of the vocal folds scars.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Svetlana L Kotova
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Sechenov University, Moscow, Russia.,N.N. Semenov Institute of Chemical Physics, Moscow, Russia
| | - Anatoly B Shekhter
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Sechenov University, Moscow, Russia
| | | | - Anastasia A Akovantseva
- Institute of Photonic Technologies, Research Center 'Crystallography and Photonics', Moscow, Russia
| | | | - Alexey L Fayzullin
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Sechenov University, Moscow, Russia
| | | | | | | | - Sergey F Timashev
- N.N. Semenov Institute of Chemical Physics, Moscow, Russia.,National Research Nuclear University MEPhI, Moscow, Russia
| | - Denis V Butnaru
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Sechenov University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Peter S Timashev
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Sechenov University, Moscow, Russia.,N.N. Semenov Institute of Chemical Physics, Moscow, Russia.,Institute of Photonic Technologies, Research Center 'Crystallography and Photonics', Moscow, Russia
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28
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Human Skin: Composition, Structure and Visualisation Methods. STUDIES IN MECHANOBIOLOGY, TISSUE ENGINEERING AND BIOMATERIALS 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-13279-8_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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29
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Stylianou A, Lekka M, Stylianopoulos T. AFM assessing of nanomechanical fingerprints for cancer early diagnosis and classification: from single cell to tissue level. NANOSCALE 2018; 10:20930-20945. [PMID: 30406223 DOI: 10.1039/c8nr06146g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Cancer development and progression are closely associated with changes both in the mechano-cellular phenotype of cancer and stromal cells and in the extracellular matrix (ECM) structure, composition, and mechanics. In this paper, we review the use of atomic force microscopy (AFM) as a tool for assessing the nanomechanical fingerprints of solid tumors, so as to be potentially used as a diagnostic biomarker for more accurate identification and early cancer grading/classification. The development of such a methodology is expected to provide new insights and a novel approach for cancer diagnosis. We propose that AFM measurements could be employed to complement standard biopsy procedures, offering an objective, novel and quantitative diagnostic approach with the properties of a blind assay, allowing unbiased evaluation of the sample.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Stylianou
- Cancer Biophysics Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Cyprus, Cyprus.
| | - Malgorzata Lekka
- Institute of Nuclear Physics, Polish Academy of Sciences, PL-31342 Kraków, Poland.
| | - Triantafyllos Stylianopoulos
- Cancer Biophysics Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Cyprus, Cyprus.
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30
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Polio SR, Kundu AN, Dougan CE, Birch NP, Aurian-Blajeni DE, Schiffman JD, Crosby AJ, Peyton SR. Cross-platform mechanical characterization of lung tissue. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0204765. [PMID: 30332434 PMCID: PMC6192579 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0204765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2018] [Accepted: 09/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Published data on the mechanical strength and elasticity of lung tissue is widely variable, primarily due to differences in how testing was conducted across individual studies. This makes it extremely difficult to find a benchmark modulus of lung tissue when designing synthetic extracellular matrices (ECMs). To address this issue, we tested tissues from various areas of the lung using multiple characterization techniques, including micro-indentation, small amplitude oscillatory shear (SAOS), uniaxial tension, and cavitation rheology. We report the sample preparation required and data obtainable across these unique but complimentary methods to quantify the modulus of lung tissue. We highlight cavitation rheology as a new method, which can measure the modulus of intact tissue with precise spatial control, and reports a modulus on the length scale of typical tissue heterogeneities. Shear rheology, uniaxial, and indentation testing require heavy sample manipulation and destruction; however, cavitation rheology can be performed in situ across nearly all areas of the lung with minimal preparation. The Young's modulus of bulk lung tissue using micro-indentation (1.4±0.4 kPa), SAOS (3.3±0.5 kPa), uniaxial testing (3.4±0.4 kPa), and cavitation rheology (6.1±1.6 kPa) were within the same order of magnitude, with higher values consistently reported from cavitation, likely due to our ability to keep the tissue intact. Although cavitation rheology does not capture the non-linear strains revealed by uniaxial testing and SAOS, it provides an opportunity to measure mechanical characteristics of lung tissue on a microscale level on intact tissues. Overall, our study demonstrates that each technique has independent benefits, and each technique revealed unique mechanical features of lung tissue that can contribute to a deeper understanding of lung tissue mechanics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel R. Polio
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Amherst, MA, United States of America
| | - Aritra Nath Kundu
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Amherst, MA, United States of America
| | - Carey E. Dougan
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Amherst, MA, United States of America
| | - Nathan P. Birch
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Amherst, MA, United States of America
| | - D. Ezra Aurian-Blajeni
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Amherst, MA, United States of America
| | - Jessica D. Schiffman
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Amherst, MA, United States of America
| | - Alfred J. Crosby
- Polymer Science and Engineering Department, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Amherst, MA, United States of America
| | - Shelly R. Peyton
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Amherst, MA, United States of America
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31
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Visualization of internal in situ cell structure by atomic force microscopy. Histochem Cell Biol 2018; 150:521-527. [PMID: 30206694 DOI: 10.1007/s00418-018-1721-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Light and electron microscopy have been used to study cell structure for many years, but atomic force microscopy is a more recent technique used to analyze cells, mainly due to the absence of techniques to prepare the samples. Isolated molecules or organelles, whole cells, and to a lesser extent in situ cell structure have been observed by different atomic force microscopy imaging modes. Here, we review efforts intended to analyze in situ the cell structures using approaches involving imaging of the surface of semithin sections of samples embedded in resin and sections prepared with an ultramicrotome. The results of such studies are discussed in relation to their implications to analyze the fine structure of organelles at the nanoscale in situ at enhanced resolution compared to light microscopy.
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32
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Extracellular Matrix Components HAPLN1, Lumican, and Collagen I Cause Hyaluronic Acid-Dependent Folding of the Developing Human Neocortex. Neuron 2018; 99:702-719.e6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2018.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2018] [Revised: 05/30/2018] [Accepted: 07/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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33
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Eisenbeis J, Saffarzadeh M, Peisker H, Jung P, Thewes N, Preissner KT, Herrmann M, Molle V, Geisbrecht BV, Jacobs K, Bischoff M. The Staphylococcus aureus Extracellular Adherence Protein Eap Is a DNA Binding Protein Capable of Blocking Neutrophil Extracellular Trap Formation. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2018; 8:235. [PMID: 30038902 PMCID: PMC6047304 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2018.00235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2018] [Accepted: 06/19/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The extracellular adherence protein (Eap) of Staphylococcus aureus is a secreted protein known to exert a number of adhesive and immunomodulatory properties. Here we describe the intrinsic DNA binding activity of this multifunctional secretory factor. By using atomic force microscopy, we provide evidence that Eap can bind and aggregate DNA. While the origin of the DNA substrate (e.g., eukaryotic, bacterial, phage, and artificial DNA) seems to not be of major importance, the DNA structure (e.g., linear or circular) plays a critical role with respect to the ability of Eap to bind and condense DNA. Further functional assays corroborated the nature of Eap as a DNA binding protein, since Eap suppressed the formation of "neutrophil extracellular traps" (NETs), composed of DNA-histone scaffolds, which are thought to function as a neutrophil-mediated extracellular trapping mechanism. The DNA binding and aggregation activity of Eap may thereby protect S. aureus against a specific anti-microbial defense reaction from the host.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janina Eisenbeis
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hygiene, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Mona Saffarzadeh
- Department of Biochemistry, Medical Faculty, Justus-Liebig-University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Henrik Peisker
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hygiene, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Philipp Jung
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hygiene, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Nicolas Thewes
- Experimental Physics, Saarland University, Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Klaus T. Preissner
- Department of Biochemistry, Medical Faculty, Justus-Liebig-University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Mathias Herrmann
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hygiene, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Virginie Molle
- Laboratoire de Dynamique des Interactions Membranaires Normales et Pathologiques, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, UMR 5235, Université de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Brian V. Geisbrecht
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, United States
| | - Karin Jacobs
- Experimental Physics, Saarland University, Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Markus Bischoff
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hygiene, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
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34
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Schierbaum N, Hack M, Betz O, Schäffer TE. Macro-SICM: A Scanning Ion Conductance Microscope for Large-Range Imaging. Anal Chem 2018; 90:5048-5054. [PMID: 29569436 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.7b04764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The scanning ion conductance microscope (SICM) is a versatile, high-resolution imaging technique that uses an electrolyte-filled nanopipet as a probe. Its noncontact imaging principle makes the SICM uniquely suited for the investigation of soft and delicate surface structures in a liquid environment. The SICM has found an ever-increasing number of applications in chemistry, physics, and biology. However, a drawback of conventional SICMs is their relatively small scan range (typically 100 μm × 100 μm in the lateral and 10 μm in the vertical direction). We have developed a Macro-SICM with an exceedingly large scan range of 25 mm × 25 mm in the lateral and 0.25 mm in the vertical direction. We demonstrate the high versatility of the Macro-SICM by imaging at different length scales: from centimeters (fingerprint, coin) to millimeters (bovine tongue tissue, insect wing) to micrometers (cellular extensions). We applied the Macro-SICM to the study of collective cell migration in epithelial wound healing.
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35
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Kotova SL, Timashev PS, Belkova GV, Kochueva MV, Babak KV, Timofeeva VA, Kiseleva EB, Vasilieva OO, Maslennikova AV, Solovieva AB. Early Effects of Ionizing Radiation on the Collagen Hierarchical Structure of Bladder and Rectum Visualized by Atomic Force Microscopy. MICROSCOPY AND MICROANALYSIS : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF MICROSCOPY SOCIETY OF AMERICA, MICROBEAM ANALYSIS SOCIETY, MICROSCOPICAL SOCIETY OF CANADA 2018; 24:38-48. [PMID: 29485022 DOI: 10.1017/s1431927618000065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Radiation therapy, widely used in the treatment of a variety of malignancies in the pelvic area, is associated with inevitable damage to the surrounding healthy tissues. We have applied atomic force microscopy (AFM) to track the early damaging effects of ionizing radiation on the collagen structures in the experimental animals' bladder and rectum. The first signs of the low-dose radiation (2 Gy) effect were detected by AFM as early as 1 week postirradiation. The observed changes were consistent with initial radiation destruction of the protein matrix. The alterations in the collagen fibers' packing 1 month postirradiation were indicative of the onset of fibrotic processes. The destructive effect of higher radiation doses was probed 1 day posttreatment. The severity of the radiation damage was proportional to the dose, from relatively minor changes in the collagen packing at 8 Gy to the growing collagen matrix destruction at higher doses and complete three-dimensional collagen network restructuring towards fibrotic-type architecture at the dose of 22 Gy. The AFM study appeared superior to the optical microscopy-based studies in its sensitivity to early radiation damage of tissues, providing valuable additional information on the onset and development of the collagen matrix destruction and remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Svetlana L Kotova
- 1Department of Polymers and Composites,N.N.Semenov Institute of Chemical Physics,4 Kosygin St.,Moscow 119991,Russia
| | - Peter S Timashev
- 3Institute for Regenerative Medicine,I. M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University,8 Trubetskaya st.,Moscow 119991,Russia
| | - Galina V Belkova
- 1Department of Polymers and Composites,N.N.Semenov Institute of Chemical Physics,4 Kosygin St.,Moscow 119991,Russia
| | - Marina V Kochueva
- 5Nizhny Novgorod State Medical Academy,10/1 Minin and Pozharsky Sq.,Nizhny Novgorod 603005,Russia
| | - Ksenia V Babak
- 6N.I.Lobachevsky Nizhny Novgorod State University,23 Gagarin Ave.,Nizhny Novgorod 603950,Russia
| | - Victoria A Timofeeva
- 1Department of Polymers and Composites,N.N.Semenov Institute of Chemical Physics,4 Kosygin St.,Moscow 119991,Russia
| | - Elena B Kiseleva
- 5Nizhny Novgorod State Medical Academy,10/1 Minin and Pozharsky Sq.,Nizhny Novgorod 603005,Russia
| | - Olga O Vasilieva
- 1Department of Polymers and Composites,N.N.Semenov Institute of Chemical Physics,4 Kosygin St.,Moscow 119991,Russia
| | - Anna V Maslennikova
- 5Nizhny Novgorod State Medical Academy,10/1 Minin and Pozharsky Sq.,Nizhny Novgorod 603005,Russia
| | - Anna B Solovieva
- 1Department of Polymers and Composites,N.N.Semenov Institute of Chemical Physics,4 Kosygin St.,Moscow 119991,Russia
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Conway JRW, Vennin C, Cazet AS, Herrmann D, Murphy KJ, Warren SC, Wullkopf L, Boulghourjian A, Zaratzian A, Da Silva AM, Pajic M, Morton JP, Cox TR, Timpson P. Three-dimensional organotypic matrices from alternative collagen sources as pre-clinical models for cell biology. Sci Rep 2017; 7:16887. [PMID: 29203823 PMCID: PMC5715059 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-17177-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2017] [Accepted: 11/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Organotypic co-cultures bridge the gap between standard two-dimensional culture and mouse models. Such assays increase the fidelity of pre-clinical studies, to better inform lead compound development and address the increasing attrition rates of lead compounds within the pharmaceutical industry, which are often a result of screening in less faithful two-dimensional models. Using large-scale acid-extraction techniques, we demonstrate a step-by-step process to isolate collagen I from commercially available animal byproducts. Using the well-established rat tail tendon collagen as a benchmark, we apply our novel kangaroo tail tendon collagen as an alternative collagen source for our screening-ready three-dimensional organotypic co-culture platform. Both collagen sources showed equal applicability for invasive, proliferative or survival assessment of well-established cancer models and clinically relevant patient-derived cancer cell lines. Additional readouts were also demonstrated when comparing these alternative collagen sources for stromal contributions to stiffness, organization and ultrastructure via atomic force microscopy, second harmonic generation imaging and scanning electron microscopy, among other vital biological readouts, where only minor differences were found between the preparations. Organotypic co-cultures represent an easy, affordable and scalable model to investigate drug responses within a physiologically relevant 3D platform.
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Affiliation(s)
- James R W Conway
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research & The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Cancer Division, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia.,St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, University of NSW, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Claire Vennin
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research & The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Cancer Division, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia.,St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, University of NSW, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Aurélie S Cazet
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research & The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Cancer Division, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia.,St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, University of NSW, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - David Herrmann
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research & The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Cancer Division, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia.,St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, University of NSW, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Kendelle J Murphy
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research & The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Cancer Division, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia.,St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, University of NSW, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Sean C Warren
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research & The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Cancer Division, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia.,St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, University of NSW, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Lena Wullkopf
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research & The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Cancer Division, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia.,St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, University of NSW, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Alice Boulghourjian
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research & The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Cancer Division, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia.,St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, University of NSW, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Anaiis Zaratzian
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research & The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Cancer Division, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia.,St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, University of NSW, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Andrew M Da Silva
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research & The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Cancer Division, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia.,St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, University of NSW, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Marina Pajic
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research & The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Cancer Division, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia.,St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, University of NSW, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Jennifer P Morton
- Beatson Institute of Cancer Research, Switchback Road, Bearsden, Glasgow, G61 1BD, UK.,Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G61 1QH, UK
| | - Thomas R Cox
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research & The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Cancer Division, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia. .,St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, University of NSW, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia.
| | - Paul Timpson
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research & The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Cancer Division, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia. .,St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, University of NSW, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia.
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Ex-Vivo Force Spectroscopy of Intestinal Mucosa Reveals the Mechanical Properties of Mucus Blankets. Sci Rep 2017; 7:7270. [PMID: 28779181 PMCID: PMC5544714 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-07552-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2017] [Accepted: 06/27/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Mucus is the viscous gel that protects mucosal surfaces. It also plays a crucial role in several diseases as well as in mucosal drug delivery. Because of technical limitations, mucus properties have mainly been addressed by in-vitro studies. However, this approach can lead to artifacts as mucus collection can alter its structure. Here we show that by using an implemented atomic force microscope it is possible to measure the interactions between micro-particles and mucus blankets ex-vivo i.e., on fresh excised mucus-covered tissues. By applying this method to study the small intestine, we were able to quantify the stiffness and adhesiveness of its mucus blanket at different pH values. We also demonstrate the ability of mucus blankets to bind and attract particles hundreds of µm away from their surface, and to trap and bury them even if their size is as big as 15 µm.
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38
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Tavakoli J, Elliott DM, Costi JJ. The ultra-structural organization of the elastic network in the intra- and inter-lamellar matrix of the intervertebral disc. Acta Biomater 2017; 58:269-277. [PMID: 28526629 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2017.05.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2017] [Revised: 05/01/2017] [Accepted: 05/15/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The inter-lamellar matrix (ILM)-located between adjacent lamellae of the annulus fibrosus-consists of a complex structure of elastic fibers, while elastic fibers of the intra-lamellar region are aligned predominantly parallel to the collagen fibers. The organization of elastic fibers under low magnification, in both inter- and intra-lamellar regions, was studied by light microscopic analysis of histologically prepared samples; however, little is known about their ultrastructure. An ultrastructural visualization of elastic fibers in the inter-lamellar matrix is crucial for describing their contribution to structural integrity, as well as mechanical properties of the annulus fibrosus. The aims of this study were twofold: first, to present an ultrastructural analysis of the elastic fiber network in the ILM and intra-lamellar region, including cross section (CS) and in-plane (IP) lamellae, of the AF using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and second, to -compare the elastic fiber orientation between the ILM and intra-lamellar region. Four samples (lumbar sheep discs) from adjacent sections (30μm thickness) of anterior annulus were partially digested by a developed NaOH-sonication method for visualization of elastic fibers by SEM. Elastic fiber orientation and distribution were quantified relative to the tangential to circumferential reference axis. Visualization of the ILM under high magnification revealed a dense network of elastic fibers that has not been previously described. Within the ILM, elastic fibers form a complex network, consisting of different size and shape fibers, which differed to those located in the intra-lamellar region. For both regions, the majority of fibers were oriented near 0° with respect to tangential to circumferential (TCD) direction and two minor symmetrical orientations of approximately±45°. Statistically, the orientation of elastic fibers between the ILM and intra-lamellar region was not different (p=0.171). The present study used extracellular matrix partial digestion to address significant gaps in understanding of disc microstructure and will contribute to multidisciplinary ultrastructure-function studies. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE Visualization of the intra-lamellar matrix under high magnification revealed a dense network of elastic fibers that has not been previously described. The present study used extracellular matrix partial digestion to address significant gaps in understanding of disc microstructure and will contribute to multidisciplinary ultrastructure-function studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Tavakoli
- Biomechanics and Implants Research Group, The Medical Device Research Institute, School of Computer Science, Engineering and Mathematics, Flinders University, GPO Box 2100, Adelaide, South Australia 5001, Australia
| | - D M Elliott
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, USA
| | - J J Costi
- Biomechanics and Implants Research Group, The Medical Device Research Institute, School of Computer Science, Engineering and Mathematics, Flinders University, GPO Box 2100, Adelaide, South Australia 5001, Australia.
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Gilbert J, Reynolds NP, Russell SM, Haylock D, McArthur S, Charnley M, Jones OG. Chitosan-coated amyloid fibrils increase adipogenesis of mesenchymal stem cells. MATERIALS SCIENCE & ENGINEERING. C, MATERIALS FOR BIOLOGICAL APPLICATIONS 2017. [PMID: 28629029 DOI: 10.1016/j.msec.2017.05.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have the potential to revolutionize medicine due to their ability to differentiate into specific lineages for targeted tissue repair. Development of materials and cell culture platforms that improve differentiation of either autologous or allogenic stem cell sources into specific lineages would enhance clinical utilization of MCSs. In this study, nanoscale amyloid fibrils were evaluated as substrate materials to encourage viability, proliferation, multipotency, and differentiation of MSCs. Fibrils assembled from the proteins lysozyme or β-lactoglobulin, with and without chitosan coatings, were deposited on planar mica surfaces. MSCs were cultured and differentiated on fibril-covered surfaces, as well as on unstructured controls and tissue culture plastic. Expression of CD44 and CD90 proteins indicated that multipotency was maintained for all fibrils, and osteogenic differentiation was similarly comparable among all tested materials. MSCs grown for 7days on fibril-covered surfaces favored multicellular spheroid formation and demonstrated a >75% increase in adipogenesis compared to tissue culture plastic controls, although this benefit could only be achieved if MSCs were transferred to TCP for the final differentiation step. The largest spheroids and greatest tendency to undergo adipogenesis was evidenced among MSCs grown on fibrils coated with the positively-charged polysaccharide chitosan, suggesting that spheroid formation is prompted by both topography and cell-surface interactivity and that there is a connection between multicellular spheroid formation and adipogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jay Gilbert
- Purdue University, Department of Food Science, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Nicholas P Reynolds
- ARC Training Centre in Biodevices, Faculty of Science, Engineering and Technology, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, Victoria 3122, Australia.
| | - Sarah M Russell
- Centre for Micro-Photonics, Faculty of Science, Engineering and Technology, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, Victoria 3122, Australia; Peter MacCallum Cancer Research Centre, Parkville, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia; The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - David Haylock
- Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), Manufacturing, Clayton, Victoria 3169, Australia
| | - Sally McArthur
- ARC Training Centre in Biodevices, Faculty of Science, Engineering and Technology, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, Victoria 3122, Australia
| | - Mirren Charnley
- Centre for Micro-Photonics, Faculty of Science, Engineering and Technology, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, Victoria 3122, Australia; Peter MacCallum Cancer Research Centre, Parkville, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia.
| | - Owen G Jones
- Purdue University, Department of Food Science, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA.
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40
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Machaliński B, Brodkiewicz A, Szumilas K, Rogińska D, Kawa MP, Stecewicz I, Trybek G, Marchlewicz M, Wiszniewska B. Morphologic Changes in the Dermis After the Single Administration of Autologous Fibroblastic Cells: A Preliminary Study. Transplant Proc 2017; 48:2833-2839. [PMID: 27788826 DOI: 10.1016/j.transproceed.2016.05.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2016] [Revised: 04/27/2016] [Accepted: 05/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Aging is a multifactorial process defined by an accumulation of damage in all tissues and organs, including the skin, throughout the lifespan of an individual. The reduction of both cellular and extracellular matrix components of the dermis during the aging process is followed by the alteration of the morphology of the skin tissue. This study was conducted to assess skin morphology in men before and 3 months after the intradermal injection of autologous fibroblastic cells. METHODS Tissue biopsies were surgically obtained before and 3 months after the treatment with autogenously harvested fibroblasts expanded in vitro, as well as after injection of phosphate-buffered saline. The thickness of collagen fiber bundles and number of fibroblasts in the dermis were analyzed in morphometric studies. The morphologic evaluation, using different methods of staining has been performed to analyze of extracellular matrix proteins, including collagen and reticular fibers, fibrillin-1-rich microfibrils, elastic fibers, and hyaluronic acid. RESULTS After administration of the cells, we found a noticeable increase in the number of fibroblasts within the dermis, a significant enlargement in diameter of the collagen fiber bundles, and an improvement in the density of reticular fibers, fibrillin-1-rich microfibrils, and elastic fibers compared with the initial, steady-state condition. CONCLUSIONS The administration of autogenous fibroblasts could be an effective and safe adjunctive therapy to conventional health care treatment to prevent and reduce the age-related accumulation of dermal tissue damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Machaliński
- Department of General Pathology, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland.
| | - A Brodkiewicz
- Department of Pediatrics, Nephrology with Dializotherapy and Management of Acute Poisoning, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | - K Szumilas
- Department of General Pathology, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | - D Rogińska
- Department of General Pathology, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | - M P Kawa
- Department of General Pathology, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | - I Stecewicz
- Department of General Pathology, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | - G Trybek
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | - M Marchlewicz
- Department of Aesthetic Dermatology, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | - B Wiszniewska
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
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41
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Chang AC, Liu BH, Shao PL, Liao JD. Structure-dependent behaviours of skin layers studied by atomic force microscopy. J Microsc 2017; 267:265-271. [PMID: 28333371 DOI: 10.1111/jmi.12562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2017] [Accepted: 03/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The multilayer skin provides the physical resistance and strength against the environmental attacks, and consequently plays a significant role in maintaining the mammalian health. Currently, optical microscopy (OM) is the most common method for the research related to skin tissues while with the drawbacks including the possibility of changing the native morphology of the sample with the addition of the chemical or immunological staining and the restricted resolution of images for the direct observation of the tissue structures. To investigate if the function of each tissue is structure-dependent and the how the injured skin returns to the intact condition, we applied atomic force microscopy (AFM) on the sectioned mice-skin to reveal the tissue structures with a nanoscale resolution. From the outermost stratum to the inner layer of the skin tissue, the respectively laminated, fibrous, and brick-like structures were observed and corresponded to various functions. Due to the mechanical differences between the tissue constituents and their boundaries, the sizes and arrangements of the components were characterised and quantified by the mechanical mapping of AFM, which enabled the analytical comparisons between tissue layers. For the wound model, the skin tissues were examined with the initial formation of blood vessels and type-I collagen, which agreed with the stage of healing process estimated by OM but showed more detail information about the evolution of proteins among the skin. In conclusion, the characterisation of the components that consist of skin tissue by AFM enables the connection of the tissue function to the corresponded ultrastructure.
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Affiliation(s)
- A C Chang
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan City, Taiwan
| | - B H Liu
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan City, Taiwan
| | - P L Shao
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan City, Taiwan
| | - J D Liao
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan City, Taiwan
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42
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Yang N, Williams J, Pekovic-Vaughan V, Wang P, Olabi S, McConnell J, Gossan N, Hughes A, Cheung J, Streuli CH, Meng QJ. Cellular mechano-environment regulates the mammary circadian clock. Nat Commun 2017; 8:14287. [PMID: 28134247 PMCID: PMC5290282 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms14287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2016] [Accepted: 12/15/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Circadian clocks drive ∼24 h rhythms in tissue physiology. They rely on transcriptional/translational feedback loops driven by interacting networks of clock complexes. However, little is known about how cell-intrinsic circadian clocks sense and respond to their microenvironment. Here, we reveal that the breast epithelial clock is regulated by the mechano-chemical stiffness of the cellular microenvironment in primary cell culture. Moreover, the mammary clock is controlled by the periductal extracellular matrix in vivo, which contributes to a dampened circadian rhythm during ageing. Mechanistically, the tension sensing cell-matrix adhesion molecule, vinculin, and the Rho/ROCK pathway, which transduces signals provided by extracellular stiffness into cells, regulate the activity of the core circadian clock complex. We also show that genetic perturbation, or age-associated disruption of self-sustained clocks, compromises the self-renewal capacity of mammary epithelia. Thus, circadian clocks are mechano-sensitive, providing a potential mechanism to explain how ageing influences their amplitude and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Yang
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
- Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
| | - Jack Williams
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
- Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
| | - Vanja Pekovic-Vaughan
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
| | - Pengbo Wang
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
- Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
| | - Safiah Olabi
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
- Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
| | - James McConnell
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
| | - Nicole Gossan
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
| | - Alun Hughes
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
| | - Julia Cheung
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
- Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
| | - Charles H. Streuli
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
- Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
| | - Qing-Jun Meng
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
- Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
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Blume-Peytavi U, Kottner J, Sterry W, Hodin MW, Griffiths TW, Watson REB, Hay RJ, Griffiths CEM. Age-Associated Skin Conditions and Diseases: Current Perspectives and Future Options. THE GERONTOLOGIST 2017; 56 Suppl 2:S230-42. [PMID: 26994263 DOI: 10.1093/geront/gnw003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The International League of Dermatological Societies (ILDS), a global, not-for-profit organization representing 157 dermatological societies worldwide, has identified the consequences of skin aging as one of the most important grand challenges in global skin health. Reduced functional capacity and increased susceptibility of the skin with development of dermatoses such as dry skin, itching, ulcers, dyspigmentation, wrinkles, fungal infections, as well as benign and malignant tumors are the most common skin conditions in aged populations worldwide. Environmental (e.g., pollution) and lifestyle factors (e.g., smoking, sunbed use) negatively affect skin health. In turn altered appearance, dry skin, chronic wounds, and other conditions decrease general health and reduce the likelihood for healthy and active aging. Preventive skin care includes primary, secondary, and tertiary interventions. Continuous sun protection from early childhood onward is most important, to avoid extrinsic skin damage and skin cancer. Exposure to irritants, allergens, or other molecules damaging the skin must be avoided or reduced to a minimum. Public health approaches are needed to implement preventive and basic skin care worldwide to reach high numbers of dermatological patients and care receivers. Education of primary caregivers and implementation of community dermatology are successful strategies in resource-poor countries. Besides specialist physicians, nurses and other health care professionals play important roles in preventing and managing age-related skin conditions in developing as well as in developed countries. Healthy skin across the life course leads to better mental and emotional health, positive impact on social engagement, and healthier, more active, and productive lives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrike Blume-Peytavi
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany.
| | - Jan Kottner
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany
| | - Wolfram Sterry
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany. The International League of Dermatological Societies, London, UK
| | | | - Tamara W Griffiths
- The Dermatology Centre, University of Manchester, Academic Health Science Centre, UK
| | - Rachel E B Watson
- The Dermatology Centre, University of Manchester, Academic Health Science Centre, UK
| | | | - Christopher E M Griffiths
- The Dermatology Centre, University of Manchester, Academic Health Science Centre, UK. The International League of Dermatological Societies, London, UK
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Stylianou A, Gkretsi V, Patrickios CS, Stylianopoulos T. Exploring the Nano-Surface of Collagenous and Other Fibrotic Tissues with AFM. Methods Mol Biol 2017; 1627:453-489. [PMID: 28836219 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-7113-8_29] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Atomic force microscope (AFM) is a powerful and invaluable tool for imaging and probing the mechanical properties of biological samples at the nanometric scale. The importance of nano-scale characterization and nanomechanics of soft biological tissues is becoming widely appreciated, and AFM offers unique advantages in this direction. In this chapter, we describe the procedure to collect data sets (imaging and mechanical properties measurement) of collagen gels and tumor tissues. We provide step-by-step instructions throughout the procedure, from sample preparation to cantilever calibration, data acquisition, analysis, and visualization, using two commercial AFM systems (PicoPlus and Cypher ES) and software that accompanied the AFM systems and/or are freeware available (WSxM, AtomicJ). Our protocols are written specifically for these two systems and the mentioned software; however, most of the general concepts can be readily translated to other AFM systems and software.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Stylianou
- Cancer Biophysics Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus, Greece.
| | - Vasiliki Gkretsi
- Cancer Biophysics Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus, Greece
| | | | - Triantafyllos Stylianopoulos
- Cancer Biophysics Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus, Greece.
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Anura A, Das D, Pal M, Paul RR, Das S, Chatterjee J. Nanomechanical signatures of oral submucous fibrosis in sub-epithelial connective tissue. J Mech Behav Biomed Mater 2017; 65:705-715. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2016.09.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2016] [Revised: 09/02/2016] [Accepted: 09/12/2016] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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Timashev PS, Kotova SL, Belkova GV, Gubar'kova EV, Timofeeva LB, Gladkova ND, Solovieva AB. Atomic Force Microscopy Study of Atherosclerosis Progression in Arterial Walls. MICROSCOPY AND MICROANALYSIS : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF MICROSCOPY SOCIETY OF AMERICA, MICROBEAM ANALYSIS SOCIETY, MICROSCOPICAL SOCIETY OF CANADA 2016; 22:311-25. [PMID: 26843417 DOI: 10.1017/s1431927616000039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of mortality worldwide. Here we suggest a novel approach for tracking atherosclerosis progression based on the use of atomic force microscopy (AFM). Using AFM, we studied cross-sections of coronary arteries with the following types of lesions: Type II-thickened intima; Type III-thickened intima with a lipid streak; Type IV-fibrotic layer over a lipid core; Type Va-unstable fibrotic layer over a lipid core; Type Vc-very thick fibrotic layer. AFM imaging revealed that the fibrotic layer of an atherosclerotic plaque is represented by a basket-weave network of collagen fibers and a subscale network of fibrils that become looser with atherosclerosis progression. In an unstable plaque (Type Va), packing of the collagen fibers and fibrils becomes even less uniform than that at the previous stages, while a stable fibrotic plaque (Vc) has significantly tighter packing. Such alterations of the collagen network morphology apparently, led to deterioration of the Type Va plaque mechanical properties, that, in turn, resulted in its instability and propensity to rupture. Thus, AFM may serve as a useful tool for tracking atherosclerosis progression in the arterial wall tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter S Timashev
- 1Institute of Laser and Information Technologies,2 Pionerskaya St.,142092 Troitsk,Moscow,Russia
| | - Svetlana L Kotova
- 2Department of Polymers and Composites,N.N.Semenov Institute of Chemical Physics,4 Kosygin St.,119991 Moscow,Russia
| | - Galina V Belkova
- 2Department of Polymers and Composites,N.N.Semenov Institute of Chemical Physics,4 Kosygin St.,119991 Moscow,Russia
| | - Ekaterina V Gubar'kova
- 3Nizhny Novgorod State Medical Academy,10/1 Minin and Pozharsky Sq.,603005 Nizhny Novgorod,Russia
| | - Lidia B Timofeeva
- 3Nizhny Novgorod State Medical Academy,10/1 Minin and Pozharsky Sq.,603005 Nizhny Novgorod,Russia
| | - Natalia D Gladkova
- 3Nizhny Novgorod State Medical Academy,10/1 Minin and Pozharsky Sq.,603005 Nizhny Novgorod,Russia
| | - Anna B Solovieva
- 2Department of Polymers and Composites,N.N.Semenov Institute of Chemical Physics,4 Kosygin St.,119991 Moscow,Russia
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Manssor NAS, Radzi Z, Yahya NA, Mohamad Yusof L, Hariri F, Khairuddin NH, Abu Kasim NH, Czernuszka JT. Characteristics and Young's Modulus of Collagen Fibrils from Expanded Skin Using Anisotropic Controlled Rate Self-Inflating Tissue Expander. Skin Pharmacol Physiol 2016; 29:55-62. [PMID: 26836267 DOI: 10.1159/000431328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2014] [Accepted: 05/11/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Mechanical properties of expanded skin tissue are different from normal skin, which is dependent mainly on the structural and functional integrity of dermal collagen fibrils. In the present study, mechanical properties and surface topography of both expanded and nonexpanded skin collagen fibrils were evaluated. Anisotropic controlled rate self-inflating tissue expanders were placed beneath the skin of sheep's forelimbs. The tissue expanders gradually increased in height and reached equilibrium in 2 weeks. They were left in situ for another 2 weeks before explantation. Expanded and normal skin samples were surgically harvested from the sheep (n = 5). Young's modulus and surface topography of collagen fibrils were measured using an atomic force microscope. A surface topographic scan showed organized hierarchical structural levels: collagen molecules, fibrils and fibers. No significant difference was detected for the D-banding pattern: 63.5 ± 2.6 nm (normal skin) and 63.7 ± 2.7 nm (expanded skin). Fibrils from expanded tissues consisted of loosely packed collagen fibrils and the width of the fibrils was significantly narrower compared to those from normal skin: 153.9 ± 25.3 and 106.7 ± 28.5 nm, respectively. Young's modulus of the collagen fibrils in the expanded and normal skin was not statistically significant: 46.5 ± 19.4 and 35.2 ± 27.0 MPa, respectively. In conclusion, the anisotropic controlled rate self-inflating tissue expander produced a loosely packed collagen network and the fibrils exhibited similar D-banding characteristics as the control group in a sheep model. However, the fibrils from the expanded skin were significantly narrower. The stiffness of the fibrils from the expanded skin was higher but it was not statistically different.
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McConnell JC, O'Connell OV, Brennan K, Weiping L, Howe M, Joseph L, Knight D, O'Cualain R, Lim Y, Leek A, Waddington R, Rogan J, Astley SM, Gandhi A, Kirwan CC, Sherratt MJ, Streuli CH. Increased peri-ductal collagen micro-organization may contribute to raised mammographic density. Breast Cancer Res 2016; 18:5. [PMID: 26747277 PMCID: PMC4706673 DOI: 10.1186/s13058-015-0664-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2015] [Accepted: 12/15/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND High mammographic density is a therapeutically modifiable risk factor for breast cancer. Although mammographic density is correlated with the relative abundance of collagen-rich fibroglandular tissue, the causative mechanisms, associated structural remodelling and mechanical consequences remain poorly defined. In this study we have developed a new collaborative bedside-to-bench workflow to determine the relationship between mammographic density, collagen abundance and alignment, tissue stiffness and the expression of extracellular matrix organising proteins. METHODS Mammographic density was assessed in 22 post-menopausal women (aged 54-66 y). A radiologist and a pathologist identified and excised regions of elevated non-cancerous X-ray density prior to laboratory characterization. Collagen abundance was determined by both Masson's trichrome and Picrosirius red staining (which enhances collagen birefringence when viewed under polarised light). The structural specificity of these collagen visualisation methods was determined by comparing the relative birefringence and ultrastructure (visualised by atomic force microscopy) of unaligned collagen I fibrils in reconstituted gels with the highly aligned collagen fibrils in rat tail tendon. Localised collagen fibril organisation and stiffness was also evaluated in tissue sections by atomic force microscopy/spectroscopy and the abundance of key extracellular proteins was assessed using mass spectrometry. RESULTS Mammographic density was positively correlated with the abundance of aligned periductal fibrils rather than with the abundance of amorphous collagen. Compared with matched tissue resected from the breasts of low mammographic density patients, the highly birefringent tissue in mammographically dense breasts was both significantly stiffer and characterised by large (>80 μm long) fibrillar collagen bundles. Subsequent proteomic analyses not only confirmed the absence of collagen fibrosis in high mammographic density tissue, but additionally identified the up-regulation of periostin and collagen XVI (regulators of collagen fibril structure and architecture) as potential mediators of localised mechanical stiffness. CONCLUSIONS These preliminary data suggest that remodelling, and hence stiffening, of the existing stromal collagen microarchitecture promotes high mammographic density within the breast. In turn, this aberrant mechanical environment may trigger neoplasia-associated mechanotransduction pathways within the epithelial cell population.
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Affiliation(s)
- James C McConnell
- Centre for Tissue Injury & Repair, Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
| | - Oliver V O'Connell
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Cell-Matrix Research and Manchester Breast Centre, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
| | - Keith Brennan
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Cell-Matrix Research and Manchester Breast Centre, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
| | - Lisa Weiping
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Cell-Matrix Research and Manchester Breast Centre, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
| | - Miles Howe
- University Hospital of South Manchester, Manchester, UK.
| | - Leena Joseph
- University Hospital of South Manchester, Manchester, UK.
| | - David Knight
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Cell-Matrix Research and Manchester Breast Centre, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
| | - Ronan O'Cualain
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Cell-Matrix Research and Manchester Breast Centre, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK. ronan.o'
| | - Yit Lim
- University Hospital of South Manchester, Manchester, UK.
| | - Angela Leek
- Manchester Cancer Research Centre Tissue Biobank, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
| | - Rachael Waddington
- Manchester Cancer Research Centre Tissue Biobank, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
| | - Jane Rogan
- Manchester Cancer Research Centre Tissue Biobank, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
| | - Susan M Astley
- Centre for Imaging Sciences, Institute of Population Health, Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
| | - Ashu Gandhi
- University Hospital of South Manchester, Manchester, UK.
| | - Cliona C Kirwan
- Institute of Cancer Sciences, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, University Hospital of South Manchester, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
| | - Michael J Sherratt
- Centre for Tissue Injury & Repair, Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
| | - Charles H Streuli
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Cell-Matrix Research and Manchester Breast Centre, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
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Lavanya Devi AL, Nongthomba U, Bobji MS. Quantitative characterization of adhesion and stiffness of corneal lens of Drosophila melanogaster using atomic force microscopy. J Mech Behav Biomed Mater 2015; 53:161-173. [PMID: 26327451 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2015.08.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2015] [Revised: 07/26/2015] [Accepted: 08/07/2015] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Atomic force Microscopy (AFM) has become a versatile tool in biology due to its advantage of high-resolution imaging of biological samples close to their native condition. Apart from imaging, AFM can also measure the local mechanical properties of the surfaces. In this study, we explore the possibility of using AFM to quantify the rough eye phenotype of Drosophila melanogaster through mechanical properties. We have measured adhesion force, stiffness and elastic modulus of the corneal lens using AFM. Various parameters affecting these measurements like cantilever stiffness and tip geometry are systematically studied and the measurement procedures are standardized. Results show that the mean adhesion force of the ommatidial surface varies from 36 nN to 16 nN based on the location. The mean stiffness is 483 ± 5 N/m, and the elastic modulus is 3.4 ± 0.05 GPa (95% confidence level) at the center of ommatidia. These properties are found to be different in corneal lens of eye expressing human mutant tau gene (mutant). The adhesion force, stiffness and elastic modulus are decreased in the mutant. We conclude that the measurement of surface and mechanical properties of D. melanogaster using AFM can be used for quantitative evaluation of 'rough eye' surface.
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Affiliation(s)
- A L Lavanya Devi
- Centre for Nanoscience and Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, Karnataka 560012, India; Department of Mechanical Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, Karnataka 560012, India
| | - Upendra Nongthomba
- Department of Molecular Reproduction and Development Genetics, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, Karnataka 560012, India.
| | - M S Bobji
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, Karnataka 560012, India.
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50
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Walton LA, Bradley RS, Withers PJ, Newton VL, Watson REB, Austin C, Sherratt MJ. Morphological Characterisation of Unstained and Intact Tissue Micro-architecture by X-ray Computed Micro- and Nano-Tomography. Sci Rep 2015; 5:10074. [PMID: 25975937 PMCID: PMC4650804 DOI: 10.1038/srep10074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2014] [Accepted: 03/27/2015] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Characterisation and quantification of tissue structures is limited by sectioning-induced artefacts and by the difficulties of visualising and segmenting 3D volumes. Here we demonstrate that, even in the absence of X-ray contrast agents, X-ray computed microtomography (microCT) and nanotomography (nanoCT) can circumvent these problems by rapidly resolving compositionally discrete 3D tissue regions (such as the collagen-rich adventitia and elastin-rich lamellae in intact rat arteries) which in turn can be segmented due to their different X-ray opacities and morphologies. We then establish, using X-ray tomograms of both unpressurised and pressurised arteries that intra-luminal pressure not only increases lumen cross-sectional area and straightens medial elastic lamellae but also induces profound remodelling of the adventitial layer. Finally we apply microCT to another human organ (skin) to visualise the cell-rich epidermis and extracellular matrix-rich dermis and to show that conventional histological and immunohistochemical staining protocols are compatible with prior X-ray exposure. As a consequence we suggest that microCT could be combined with optical microscopy to characterise the 3D structure and composition of archival paraffin embedded biological materials and of mechanically stressed dynamic tissues such as the heart, lungs and tendons.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Victoria L. Newton
- Institute of Inflammation and Repair, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Rachel E. B. Watson
- Institute of Inflammation and Repair, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Clare Austin
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences
- Faculty of Health and Social Care, Edge Hill University, Ormskirk, United Kingdom
| | - Michael J. Sherratt
- Institute of Inflammation and Repair, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
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