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Zhao N, Pessell AF, Zhu N, Searson PC. Tissue-Engineered Microvessels: A Review of Current Engineering Strategies and Applications. Adv Healthc Mater 2024; 13:e2303419. [PMID: 38686434 PMCID: PMC11338730 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202303419] [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: 10/07/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Microvessels, including arterioles, capillaries, and venules, play an important role in regulating blood flow, enabling nutrient and waste exchange, and facilitating immune surveillance. Due to their important roles in maintaining normal function in human tissues, a substantial effort has been devoted to developing tissue-engineered models to study endothelium-related biology and pathology. Various engineering strategies have been developed to recapitulate the structural, cellular, and molecular hallmarks of native human microvessels in vitro. In this review, recent progress in engineering approaches, key components, and culture platforms for tissue-engineered human microvessel models is summarized. Then, tissue-specific models, and the major applications of tissue-engineered microvessels in development, disease modeling, drug screening and delivery, and vascularization in tissue engineering, are reviewed. Finally, future research directions for the field are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Zhao
- Institute for Nanobiotechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
| | - Alexander F Pessell
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
| | - Ninghao Zhu
- Institute for Nanobiotechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
| | - Peter C Searson
- Institute for Nanobiotechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
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2
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Martier A, Chen Z, Schaps H, Mondrinos MJ, Fang JS. Capturing physiological hemodynamic flow and mechanosensitive cell signaling in vessel-on-a-chip platforms. Front Physiol 2024; 15:1425618. [PMID: 39135710 PMCID: PMC11317428 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2024.1425618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Recent advances in organ chip (or, "organ-on-a-chip") technologies and microphysiological systems (MPS) have enabled in vitro investigation of endothelial cell function in biomimetic three-dimensional environments under controlled fluid flow conditions. Many current organ chip models include a vascular compartment; however, the design and implementation of these vessel-on-a-chip components varies, with consequently varied impact on their ability to capture and reproduce hemodynamic flow and associated mechanosensitive signaling that regulates key characteristics of healthy, intact vasculature. In this review, we introduce organ chip and vessel-on-a-chip technology in the context of existing in vitro and in vivo vascular models. We then briefly discuss the importance of mechanosensitive signaling for vascular development and function, with focus on the major mechanosensitive signaling pathways involved. Next, we summarize recent advances in MPS and organ chips with an integrated vascular component, with an emphasis on comparing both the biomimicry and adaptability of the diverse approaches used for supporting and integrating intravascular flow. We review current data showing how intravascular flow and fluid shear stress impacts vessel development and function in MPS platforms and relate this to existing work in cell culture and animal models. Lastly, we highlight new insights obtained from MPS and organ chip models of mechanosensitive signaling in endothelial cells, and how this contributes to a deeper understanding of vessel growth and function in vivo. We expect this review will be of broad interest to vascular biologists, physiologists, and cardiovascular physicians as an introduction to organ chip platforms that can serve as viable model systems for investigating mechanosensitive signaling and other aspects of vascular physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. Martier
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Science and Engineering, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Z. Chen
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, School of Science and Engineering, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - H. Schaps
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, School of Science and Engineering, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - M. J. Mondrinos
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Science and Engineering, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, United States
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - J. S. Fang
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, School of Science and Engineering, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, United States
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, United States
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3
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Hansen SH. TruD technology for the study of epi- and endothelial tubes in vitro. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0301099. [PMID: 38728291 PMCID: PMC11086873 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0301099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Beyond the smallest organisms, animals rely on tubes to transport cells, oxygen, nutrients, waste products, and a great variety of secretions. The cardiovascular system, lungs, gastrointestinal and genitourinary tracts, as well as major exocrine glands, are all composed of tubes. Paradoxically, despite their ubiquitous importance, most existing devices designed to study tubes are relatively complex to manufacture and/or utilize. The present work describes a simple method for generating tubes in vitro using nothing more than a low-cost 3D printer along with general lab supplies. The technology is termed "TruD", an acronym for true dimensional. Using this technology, it is readily feasible to cast tubes embedded in ECM with easy access to the lumen. The design is modular to permit more complex tube arrangements and to sustain flow. Importantly, by virtue of its simplicity, TruD technology enables typical molecular cell biology experiments where multiple conditions are assayed in replicate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steen H. Hansen
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Gastroenterology, GI Cell Biology Laboratory, Hepatology and Nutrition, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
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4
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Carlantoni C, Liekfeld LMH, Hemkemeyer SA, Schreier D, Saygi C, Kurelic R, Cardarelli S, Kalucka J, Schulte C, Beerens M, Mailer RK, Schäffer TE, Naro F, Pellegrini M, Nikolaev VO, Renné T, Frye M. The phosphodiesterase 2A controls lymphatic junctional maturation via cGMP-dependent notch signaling. Dev Cell 2024; 59:308-325.e11. [PMID: 38159569 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2023.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Revised: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
The molecular mechanisms by which lymphatic vessels induce cell contact inhibition are not understood. Here, we identify the cGMP-dependent phosphodiesterase 2A (PDE2A) as a selective regulator of lymphatic but not of blood endothelial contact inhibition. Conditional deletion of Pde2a in mouse embryos reveals severe lymphatic dysplasia, whereas blood vessel architecture remains unaltered. In the absence of PDE2A, human lymphatic endothelial cells fail to induce mature junctions and cell cycle arrest, whereas cGMP levels, but not cAMP levels, are increased. Loss of PDE2A-mediated cGMP hydrolysis leads to the activation of p38 signaling and downregulation of NOTCH signaling. However, DLL4-induced NOTCH activation restores junctional maturation and contact inhibition in PDE2A-deficient human lymphatic endothelial cells. In postnatal mouse mesenteries, PDE2A is specifically enriched in collecting lymphatic valves, and loss of Pde2a results in the formation of abnormal valves. Our data demonstrate that PDE2A selectively finetunes a crosstalk of cGMP, p38, and NOTCH signaling during lymphatic vessel maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Carlantoni
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg 20246, Germany; German Centre of Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Hamburg/Luebeck/Kiel, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Leon M H Liekfeld
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg 20246, Germany
| | - Sandra A Hemkemeyer
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg 20246, Germany; German Centre of Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Hamburg/Luebeck/Kiel, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Danny Schreier
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg 20246, Germany
| | - Ceren Saygi
- Bioinformatics Core, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg 20246, Germany
| | - Roberta Kurelic
- Institute of Experimental Cardiovascular Research, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg 20246, Germany
| | - Silvia Cardarelli
- DAHFMO-Unit of Histology and Medical Embryology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Joanna Kalucka
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Christian Schulte
- German Centre of Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Hamburg/Luebeck/Kiel, Hamburg, Germany; Department of Cardiology, University Heart & Vascular Center Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Manu Beerens
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg 20246, Germany; German Centre of Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Hamburg/Luebeck/Kiel, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Reiner K Mailer
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg 20246, Germany
| | - Tilman E Schäffer
- Institute of Applied Physics, University of Tuebingen, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Fabio Naro
- DAHFMO-Unit of Histology and Medical Embryology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Manuela Pellegrini
- DAHFMO-Unit of Histology and Medical Embryology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy; Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, IBBC-CNR, Campus A. Buzzati Traverso, Monterotondo Scalo, Rome 00015, Italy
| | - Viacheslav O Nikolaev
- German Centre of Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Hamburg/Luebeck/Kiel, Hamburg, Germany; Institute of Experimental Cardiovascular Research, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg 20246, Germany
| | - Thomas Renné
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg 20246, Germany; Center for Thrombosis and Hemostasis (CTH), Johannes Gutenberg University Medical Center, Mainz, Germany; Irish Centre for Vascular Biology, School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Maike Frye
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg 20246, Germany; German Centre of Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Hamburg/Luebeck/Kiel, Hamburg, Germany.
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5
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Kraus S, Lee E. A human initial lymphatic chip reveals distinct mechanisms of primary lymphatic valve dysfunction in acute and chronic inflammation. LAB ON A CHIP 2023; 23:5180-5194. [PMID: 37981867 PMCID: PMC10908576 DOI: 10.1039/d3lc00486d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2023]
Abstract
Interstitial fluid uptake and retention by lymphatic vessels (LVs) play a role in maintaining interstitial fluid homeostasis. While it is well-established that intraluminal lymphatic valves in the collecting LVs prevent fluid backflow (secondary lymphatic valves), a separate valve system in the initial LVs that only permits interstitial fluid influx into the LVs, preventing fluid leakage back to the interstitium (primary lymphatic valves), remains incompletely understood. Although lymphatic dysfunction is commonly observed in inflammation and autoimmune diseases, how the primary lymphatic valves are affected by acute and chronic inflammation has scarcely been explored and even less so using in vitro lymphatic models. Here, we developed a human initial lymphatic vessel chip where interstitial fluid pressure and luminal fluid pressure are controlled to examine primary lymph valve function. In normal conditions, lymphatic drainage (fluid uptake) and permeability (fluid leakage) in engineered LVs were maintained high and low, respectively, which was consistent with our understanding of healthy primary lymph valves. Next, we examined the effects of acute and chronic inflammation. Under the acute inflammation condition with a TNF-α treatment (2 hours), degradation of fibrillin and impeded lymphatic drainage were observed, which were reversed by treatment with anti-inflammatory dexamethasone. Surprisingly, the chronic inflammation condition (repeated TNF-α treatments during 48 hours) deposited fibrillin to compensate for the fibrillin loss, showing no change in lymphatic drainage. Instead, the chronic inflammation condition led to cell death and disruption of lymphatic endothelial cell-cell junctions, increasing lymphatic permeability and fluid leakage. Our human lymphatic model shows two distinct mechanisms by which primary lymphatic valve dysfunction occurs in acute and chronic inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Kraus
- Nancy E. and Peter C. Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA.
| | - Esak Lee
- Nancy E. and Peter C. Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA.
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6
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Margolis EA, Friend NE, Rolle MW, Alsberg E, Putnam AJ. Manufacturing the multiscale vascular hierarchy: progress toward solving the grand challenge of tissue engineering. Trends Biotechnol 2023; 41:1400-1416. [PMID: 37169690 PMCID: PMC10593098 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2023.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
In human vascular anatomy, blood flows from the heart to organs and tissues through a hierarchical vascular tree, comprising large arteries that branch into arterioles and further into capillaries, where gas and nutrient exchange occur. Engineering a complete, integrated vascular hierarchy with vessels large enough to suture, strong enough to withstand hemodynamic forces, and a branching structure to permit immediate perfusion of a fluidic circuit across scales would be transformative for regenerative medicine (RM), enabling the translation of engineered tissues of clinically relevant size, and perhaps whole organs. How close are we to solving this biological plumbing problem? In this review, we highlight advances in engineered vasculature at individual scales and focus on recent strategies to integrate across scales.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily A Margolis
- University of Michigan, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Nicole E Friend
- University of Michigan, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Marsha W Rolle
- Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Eben Alsberg
- University of Illinois at Chicago, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Andrew J Putnam
- University of Michigan, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
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7
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Bertoldi G, Caputo I, Calò L, Rossitto G. Lymphatic vessels and the renin-angiotensin-system. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2023; 325:H837-H855. [PMID: 37565265 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00023.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
The lymphatic system is an integral part of the circulatory system and plays an important role in the fluid homeostasis of the human body. Accumulating evidence has recently suggested the involvement of lymphatic dysfunction in the pathogenesis of cardio-reno-vascular (CRV) disease. However, how the sophisticated contractile machinery of lymphatic vessels is modulated and, possibly impaired in CRV disease, remains largely unknown. In particular, little attention has been paid to the effect of the renin-angiotensin-system (RAS) on lymphatics, despite the high concentration of RAS mediators that these tissue-draining vessels are exposed to and the established role of the RAS in the development of classic microvascular dysfunction and overt CRV disease. We herein review recent studies linking RAS to lymphatic function and/or plasticity and further highlight RAS-specific signaling pathways, previously shown to drive adverse arterial remodeling and CRV organ damage that have potential for direct modulation of the lymphatic system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Bertoldi
- Emergency and Hypertension Unit, DIMED, Università degli Studi di Padova, Padova, Italy
- Nephrology Unit, DIMED, Università degli Studi di Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Ilaria Caputo
- Emergency and Hypertension Unit, DIMED, Università degli Studi di Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Calò
- Nephrology Unit, DIMED, Università degli Studi di Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Giacomo Rossitto
- Emergency and Hypertension Unit, DIMED, Università degli Studi di Padova, Padova, Italy
- School of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Health, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
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8
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Ejazi SA, Louisthelmy R, Maisel K. Mechanisms of Nanoparticle Transport across Intestinal Tissue: An Oral Delivery Perspective. ACS NANO 2023. [PMID: 37410891 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c02403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/08/2023]
Abstract
Oral drug administration has been a popular choice due to patient compliance and limited clinical resources. Orally delivered drugs must circumvent the harsh gastrointestinal (GI) environment to effectively enter the systemic circulation. The GI tract has a number of structural and physiological barriers that limit drug bioavailability including mucus, the tightly regulated epithelial layer, immune cells, and associated vasculature. Nanoparticles have been used to enhance oral bioavailability of drugs, as they can act as a shield to the harsh GI environment and prevent early degradation while also increasing uptake and transport of drugs across the intestinal epithelium. Evidence suggests that different nanoparticle formulations may be transported via different intracellular mechanisms to cross the intestinal epithelium. Despite the existence of a significant body of work on intestinal transport of nanoparticles, many key questions remain: What causes the poor bioavailability of the oral drugs? What factors contribute to the ability of a nanoparticle to cross different intestinal barriers? Do nanoparticle properties such as size and charge influence the type of endocytic pathways taken? In this Review, we summarize the different components of intestinal barriers and the types of nanoparticles developed for oral delivery. In particular, we focus on the various intracellular pathways used in nanoparticle internalization and nanoparticle or cargo translocation across the epithelium. Understanding the gut barrier, nanoparticle characteristics, and transport pathways may lead to the development of more therapeutically useful nanoparticles as drug carriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarfaraz Ahmad Ejazi
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, 3120 A. James Clark Hall, College Park, Maryland 20742, United States
| | - Rebecca Louisthelmy
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, 3120 A. James Clark Hall, College Park, Maryland 20742, United States
| | - Katharina Maisel
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, 3120 A. James Clark Hall, College Park, Maryland 20742, United States
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9
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Bogseth A, Ramirez A, Vaughan E, Maisel K. In Vitro Models of Blood and Lymphatic Vessels-Connecting Tissues and Immunity. Adv Biol (Weinh) 2023; 7:e2200041. [PMID: 35751460 PMCID: PMC9790046 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.202200041] [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: 02/18/2022] [Revised: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Blood and lymphatic vessels are regulators of physiological processes, including oxygenation and fluid transport. Both vessels are ubiquitous throughout the body and are critical for sustaining tissue homeostasis. The complexity of each vessel's processes has limited the understanding of exactly how the vessels maintain their functions. Both vessels have been shown to be involved in the pathogenesis of many diseases, including cancer metastasis, and it is crucial to probe further specific mechanisms involved. In vitro models are developed to better understand blood and lymphatic physiological functions and their mechanisms. In this review, blood and lymphatic in vitro model systems, including 2D and 3D designs made using Transwells, microfluidic devices, organoid cultures, and various other methods, are described. Models studying endothelial cell-extracellular matrix interactions, endothelial barrier properties, transendothelial transport and cell migration, lymph/angiogenesis, vascular inflammation, and endothelial-cancer cell interactions are particularly focused. While the field has made significant progress in modeling and understanding lymphatic and blood vasculature, more models that include coculture of multiple cell types, complex extracellular matrix, and 3D morphologies, particularly for models mimicking disease states, will help further the understanding of the role of blood and lymphatic vasculature in health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Bogseth
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742
| | - Ann Ramirez
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742
| | - Erik Vaughan
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742
| | - Katharina Maisel
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742
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10
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Abstract
Despite enormous advances, cardiovascular disorders are still a major threat to global health and are responsible for one-third of deaths worldwide. Research for new therapeutics and the investigation of their effects on vascular parameters is often limited by species-specific pathways and a lack of high-throughput methods. The complex 3-dimensional environment of blood vessels, intricate cellular crosstalks, and organ-specific architectures further complicate the quest for a faithful human in vitro model. The development of novel organoid models of various tissues such as brain, gut, and kidney signified a leap for the field of personalized medicine and disease research. By utilizing either embryonic- or patient-derived stem cells, different developmental and pathological mechanisms can be modeled and investigated in a controlled in vitro environment. We have recently developed self-organizing human capillary blood vessel organoids that recapitulate key processes of vasculogenesis, angiogenesis, and diabetic vasculopathy. Since then, this organoid system has been utilized as a model for other disease processes, refined, and adapted for organ specificity. In this review, we will discuss novel and alternative approaches to blood vessel engineering and explore the cellular identity of engineered blood vessels in comparison to in vivo vasculature. Future perspectives and the therapeutic potential of blood vessel organoids will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirill Salewskij
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna (K.S., J.M.P.).,Vienna BioCenter PhD Program, Doctoral School of the University of Vienna and Medical University of Vienna, Austria (K.S.)
| | - Josef M Penninger
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna (K.S., J.M.P.).,Department of Medical Genetics, Life Sciences Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada (J.M.P.)
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11
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Seibel AJ, Kelly OM, Dance YW, Nelson CM, Tien J. Role of Lymphatic Endothelium in Vascular Escape of Engineered Human Breast Microtumors. Cell Mol Bioeng 2022; 15:553-569. [PMID: 36531861 PMCID: PMC9751254 DOI: 10.1007/s12195-022-00745-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Lymphatic vasculature provides a route for metastasis to secondary sites in the body. The role of the lymphatic endothelium in mediating the entry of breast cancer cells into the vasculature remains unclear. Methods In this study, we formed aggregates of MDA-MB-231 human breast carcinoma cells next to human microvascular lymphatic endothelial cell (LEC)-lined cavities in type I collagen gels to model breast microtumors and lymphatic vessels, respectively. We tracked invasion and escape of breast microtumors into engineered lymphatics or empty cavities under matched flow rates for up to sixteen days. Results After coming into contact with a lymphatic vessel, tumor cells escape by moving between the endothelium and the collagen wall, between endothelial cells, and/or into the endothelial lumen. Over time, tumor cells replace the LECs within the vessel wall and create regions devoid of endothelium. The presence of lymphatic endothelium slows breast tumor invasion and escape, and addition of LEC-conditioned medium to tumors is sufficient to reproduce nearly all of these inhibitory effects. Conclusions This work sheds light on the interactions between breast cancer cells and lymphatic endothelium during vascular escape and reveals an inhibitory role for the lymphatic endothelium in breast tumor invasion and escape. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12195-022-00745-9.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex J. Seibel
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, 44 Cummington Mall, Boston, MA 02215 USA
| | - Owen M. Kelly
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, 44 Cummington Mall, Boston, MA 02215 USA
| | - Yoseph W. Dance
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, 44 Cummington Mall, Boston, MA 02215 USA
| | - Celeste M. Nelson
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Princeton University, 303 Hoyt Laboratory, 25 William Street, Princeton, NJ 08544 USA
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ USA
| | - Joe Tien
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, 44 Cummington Mall, Boston, MA 02215 USA
- Division of Materials Science and Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA USA
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12
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Selahi A, Fernando T, Chakraborty S, Muthuchamy M, Zawieja DC, Jain A. Lymphangion-chip: a microphysiological system which supports co-culture and bidirectional signaling of lymphatic endothelial and muscle cells. LAB ON A CHIP 2021; 22:121-135. [PMID: 34850797 PMCID: PMC9761984 DOI: 10.1039/d1lc00720c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
The pathophysiology of several lymphatic diseases, such as lymphedema, depends on the function of lymphangions that drive lymph flow. Even though the signaling between the two main cellular components of a lymphangion, endothelial cells (LECs) and muscle cells (LMCs), is responsible for crucial lymphatic functions, there are no in vitro models that have included both cell types. Here, a fabrication technique (gravitational lumen patterning or GLP) is developed to create a lymphangion-chip. This organ-on-chip consists of co-culture of a monolayer of endothelial lumen surrounded by multiple and uniformly thick layers of muscle cells. The platform allows construction of a wide range of luminal diameters and muscular layer thicknesses, thus providing a toolbox to create variable anatomy. In this device, lymphatic muscle cells align circumferentially while endothelial cells aligned axially under flow, as only observed in vivo in the past. This system successfully characterizes the dynamics of cell size, density, growth, alignment, and intercellular gap due to co-culture and shear. Finally, exposure to pro-inflammatory cytokines reveals that the device could facilitate the regulation of endothelial barrier function through the lymphatic muscle cells. Therefore, this bioengineered platform is suitable for use in preclinical research of lymphatic and blood mechanobiology, inflammation, and translational outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amirali Selahi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, Texas A&M University, 101 Bizzell Street College Station, TX, 77843, USA.
| | - Teshan Fernando
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, Texas A&M University, 101 Bizzell Street College Station, TX, 77843, USA.
| | - Sanjukta Chakraborty
- Department of Medical Physiology, College of Medicine, Texas A&M Health Science Center, Bryan, TX, USA
| | - Mariappan Muthuchamy
- Department of Medical Physiology, College of Medicine, Texas A&M Health Science Center, Bryan, TX, USA
| | - David C Zawieja
- Department of Medical Physiology, College of Medicine, Texas A&M Health Science Center, Bryan, TX, USA
| | - Abhishek Jain
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, Texas A&M University, 101 Bizzell Street College Station, TX, 77843, USA.
- Department of Medical Physiology, College of Medicine, Texas A&M Health Science Center, Bryan, TX, USA
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Houston Methodist Academic Institute, Houston, TX, USA
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13
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Henderson AR, Ilan IS, Lee E. A bioengineered lymphatic vessel model for studying lymphatic endothelial cell-cell junction and barrier function. Microcirculation 2021; 28:e12730. [PMID: 34569678 DOI: 10.1111/micc.12730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Revised: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Lymphatic vessels (LVs) maintain fluid homeostasis by draining interstitial fluid. A failure in lymphatic drainage triggers lymphatic diseases such as lymphedema. Since lymphatic drainage is regulated by lymphatic barrier function, developing experimental models that assess lymphatic barrier function is critical for better understanding of lymphatic physiology and disease. METHODS We built a lymphatic vessel-on-chip (LV-on-chip) by fabricating a microfluidic device that includes a hollow microchannel embedded in three-dimensional (3D) hydrogel. Employing luminal flow in the microchannel, human lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs) seeded in the microchannel formed an engineered LV exhibiting 3D conduit structure. RESULTS Lymphatic endothelial cells formed relatively permeable junctions in 3D collagen 1. However, adding fibronectin to the collagen 1 apparently tightened LEC junctions. We tested lymphatic barrier function by introducing dextran into LV lumens. While LECs in collagen 1 showed permeable barriers, LECs in fibronectin/collagen 1 showed reduced permeability, which was reversed by integrin α5 inhibition. Mechanistically, LECs expressed inactivated integrin α5 in collagen 1. However, integrin α5 is activated in fibronectin and enhances barrier function. Integrin α5 activation itself also tightened LEC junctions in the absence of fibronectin. CONCLUSIONS Lymphatic vessel-on-chip reveals integrin α5 as a regulator of lymphatic barrier function and provides a platform for studying lymphatic barrier function in various conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aria R Henderson
- Nancy E. and Peter C. Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Isabelle S Ilan
- College of Human Ecology, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Esak Lee
- Nancy E. and Peter C. Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
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14
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Abstract
Since their initial description in 2005, biomaterials that are patterned to contain microfluidic networks ("microfluidic biomaterials") have emerged as promising scaffolds for a variety of tissue engineering and related applications. This class of materials is characterized by the ability to be readily perfused. Transport and exchange of solutes within microfluidic biomaterials is governed by convection within channels and diffusion between channels and the biomaterial bulk. Numerous strategies have been developed for creating microfluidic biomaterials, including micromolding, photopatterning, and 3D printing. In turn, these materials have been used in many applications that benefit from the ability to perfuse a scaffold, including the engineering of blood and lymphatic microvessels, epithelial tubes, and cell-laden tissues. This article reviews the current state of the field and suggests new areas of exploration for this unique class of materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joe Tien
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Division of Materials Science and Engineering, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Yoseph W. Dance
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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15
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Silvestri VL, Henriet E, Linville RM, Wong AD, Searson PC, Ewald AJ. A Tissue-Engineered 3D Microvessel Model Reveals the Dynamics of Mosaic Vessel Formation in Breast Cancer. Cancer Res 2020; 80:4288-4301. [PMID: 32665356 PMCID: PMC7541732 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-19-1564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2019] [Revised: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 07/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
In solid tumors, vascular structure and function varies from the core to the periphery. This structural heterogeneity has been proposed to influence the mechanisms by which tumor cells enter the circulation. Blood vessels exhibit regional defects in endothelial coverage, which can result in cancer cells directly exposed to flow and potentially promoting intravasation. Consistent with prior reports, we observed in human breast tumors and in a mouse model of breast cancer that approximately 6% of vessels consisted of both endothelial cells and tumor cells, so-called mosaic vessels. Due, in part, to the challenges associated with observing tumor-vessel interactions deep within tumors in real-time, the mechanisms by which mosaic vessels form remain incompletely understood. We developed a tissue-engineered model containing a physiologically realistic microvessel in coculture with mammary tumor organoids. This approach allows real-time and quantitative assessment of tumor-vessel interactions under conditions that recapitulate many in vivo features. Imaging revealed that tumor organoids integrate into the endothelial cell lining, resulting in mosaic vessels with gaps in the basement membrane. While mosaic vessel formation was the most frequently observed interaction, tumor organoids also actively constricted and displaced vessels. Furthermore, intravasation of cancer cell clusters was observed following the formation of a mosaic vessel. Taken together, our data reveal that cancer cells can rapidly reshape, destroy, or integrate into existing blood vessels, thereby affecting oxygenation, perfusion, and systemic dissemination. Our novel assay also enables future studies to identify targetable mechanisms of vascular recruitment and intravasation. SIGNIFICANCE: A tissue-engineered microdevice that recapitulates the tumor-vascular microenvironment enables real-time imaging of the cellular mechanisms of mosaic vessel formation and vascular defect generation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanesa L Silvestri
- Department of Cell Biology, Center for Cell Dynamics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Elodie Henriet
- Department of Cell Biology, Center for Cell Dynamics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Raleigh M Linville
- Institute for Nanobiotechnology (INBT), Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Andrew D Wong
- Institute for Nanobiotechnology (INBT), Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Peter C Searson
- Institute for Nanobiotechnology (INBT), Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Andrew J Ewald
- Department of Cell Biology, Center for Cell Dynamics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
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16
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Virumbrales-Muñoz M, Ayuso JM, Gong MM, Humayun M, Livingston MK, Lugo-Cintrón KM, McMinn P, Álvarez-García YR, Beebe DJ. Microfluidic lumen-based systems for advancing tubular organ modeling. Chem Soc Rev 2020; 49:6402-6442. [PMID: 32760967 PMCID: PMC7521761 DOI: 10.1039/d0cs00705f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Microfluidic lumen-based systems are microscale models that recapitulate the anatomy and physiology of tubular organs. These technologies can mimic human pathophysiology and predict drug response, having profound implications for drug discovery and development. Herein, we review progress in the development of microfluidic lumen-based models from the 2000s to the present. The core of the review discusses models for mimicking blood vessels, the respiratory tract, the gastrointestinal tract, renal tubules, and liver sinusoids, and their application to modeling organ-specific diseases. We also highlight emerging application areas, such as the lymphatic system, and close the review discussing potential future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Virumbrales-Muñoz
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA. and University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center, Madison, WI, USA
| | - José M Ayuso
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA. and University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center, Madison, WI, USA and Morgridge Institute for Research, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Max M Gong
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA. and University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center, Madison, WI, USA and Department of Biomedical Engineering, Trine University, Angola, IN, USA
| | - Mouhita Humayun
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA. and University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Megan K Livingston
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA. and University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Karina M Lugo-Cintrón
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA. and University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Patrick McMinn
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA. and University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Yasmín R Álvarez-García
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA. and University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center, Madison, WI, USA
| | - David J Beebe
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA. and University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center, Madison, WI, USA and Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
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17
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Campbell KT, Silva EA. Biomaterial Based Strategies for Engineering New Lymphatic Vasculature. Adv Healthc Mater 2020; 9:e2000895. [PMID: 32734721 PMCID: PMC8985521 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202000895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2020] [Revised: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The lymphatic system is essential for tissue regeneration and repair due to its pivotal role in resolving inflammation, immune cell surveillance, lipid transport, and maintaining tissue homeostasis. Loss of functional lymphatic vasculature is directly implicated in a variety of diseases, including lymphedema, obesity, and the progression of cardiovascular diseases. Strategies that stimulate the formation of new lymphatic vessels (lymphangiogenesis) could provide an appealing new approach to reverse the progression of these diseases. However, lymphangiogenesis is relatively understudied and stimulating therapeutic lymphangiogenesis faces challenges in precise control of lymphatic vessel formation. Biomaterial delivery systems could be used to unleash the therapeutic potential of lymphangiogenesis for a variety of tissue regenerative applications due to their ability to achieve precise spatial and temporal control of multiple therapeutics, direct tissue regeneration, and improve the survival of delivered cells. In this review, the authors begin by introducing therapeutic lymphangiogenesis as a target for tissue regeneration, then an overview of lymphatic vasculature will be presented followed by a description of the mechanisms responsible for promoting new lymphatic vessels. Importantly, this work will review and discuss current biomaterial applications for stimulating lymphangiogenesis. Finally, challenges and future directions for utilizing biomaterials for lymphangiogenic based treatments are considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin T Campbell
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Eduardo A Silva
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
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18
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Luque‐González MA, Reis RL, Kundu SC, Caballero D. Human Microcirculation‐on‐Chip Models in Cancer Research: Key Integration of Lymphatic and Blood Vasculatures. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 4:e2000045. [DOI: 10.1002/adbi.202000045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2020] [Revised: 03/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Angélica Luque‐González
- 3B’s Research Group, I3Bs—Research Institute on Biomaterials Biodegradables and BiomimeticsUniversity of MinhoHeadquarters of the European Institute of Excellence on Tissue Engineering and Regenerative MedicineICVS/3B’s—PT Government Associate Laboratory AvePark, Parque de Ciência e Tecnologia, Zona Industrial da Gandra 4805‐017 Barco Braga/Guimarães Portugal
| | - Rui Luis Reis
- 3B’s Research Group, I3Bs—Research Institute on Biomaterials Biodegradables and BiomimeticsUniversity of MinhoHeadquarters of the European Institute of Excellence on Tissue Engineering and Regenerative MedicineICVS/3B’s—PT Government Associate Laboratory AvePark, Parque de Ciência e Tecnologia, Zona Industrial da Gandra 4805‐017 Barco Braga/Guimarães Portugal
| | - Subhas Chandra Kundu
- 3B’s Research Group, I3Bs—Research Institute on Biomaterials Biodegradables and BiomimeticsUniversity of MinhoHeadquarters of the European Institute of Excellence on Tissue Engineering and Regenerative MedicineICVS/3B’s—PT Government Associate Laboratory AvePark, Parque de Ciência e Tecnologia, Zona Industrial da Gandra 4805‐017 Barco Braga/Guimarães Portugal
| | - David Caballero
- 3B’s Research Group, I3Bs—Research Institute on Biomaterials Biodegradables and BiomimeticsUniversity of MinhoHeadquarters of the European Institute of Excellence on Tissue Engineering and Regenerative MedicineICVS/3B’s—PT Government Associate Laboratory AvePark, Parque de Ciência e Tecnologia, Zona Industrial da Gandra 4805‐017 Barco Braga/Guimarães Portugal
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19
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Bittner KR, Jiménez JM, Peyton SR. Vascularized Biomaterials to Study Cancer Metastasis. Adv Healthc Mater 2020; 9:e1901459. [PMID: 31977160 PMCID: PMC7899188 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.201901459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2019] [Revised: 12/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Cancer metastasis, the spread of cancer cells to distant organs, is responsible for 90% of cancer-related deaths. Cancer cells need to enter and exit circulation in order to form metastases, and the vasculature and endothelial cells are key regulators of this process. While vascularized 3D in vitro systems have been developed, few have been used to study cancer, and many lack key features of vessels that are necessary to study metastasis. This review focuses on current methods of vascularizing biomaterials for the study of cancer, and three main factors that regulate intravasation and extravasation: endothelial cell heterogeneity, hemodynamics, and the extracellular matrix of the perivascular niche.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharine R Bittner
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Graduate Program, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, 01003, USA
| | - Juan M Jiménez
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Graduate Program, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, 01003, USA
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, 01003, USA
| | - Shelly R Peyton
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Graduate Program, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, 01003, USA
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, 01003, USA
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20
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Kempe S, Fois G, Brunner C, Hoffmann TK, Hahn J, Greve J. Bradykinin signaling regulates solute permeability and cellular junction organization in lymphatic endothelial cells. Microcirculation 2019; 27:e12592. [PMID: 31550055 DOI: 10.1111/micc.12592] [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: 12/08/2018] [Revised: 09/11/2019] [Accepted: 09/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Determine the effect of bradykinin on solute permeability and cellular junctional proteins in human dermis microvascular endothelial cells. METHODS Cells were characterized by immunofluorescence and fluorescence-activated cell sorting. Macromolecular transport of dextran and albumin was monitored. Junctional protein expression and phosphorylation were determined by immunoblot analyses. Intracellular calcium and cAMP levels were evaluated. Target gene expression at mRNA and protein levels was determined. RESULTS Human dermis microvascular endothelial cells comprised 97% lymphatic endothelial cells. Bradykinin increased the permeability to dextran in a concentration-dependent manner, while reduced the permeability to albumin. Bradykinin treatment down-regulated VE-cadherin expression and affected its phosphorylation status at Tyr731. It also down-regulated claudin-5 expression at the transcriptional level through bradykinin-2-receptor signaling. An increase in the intracellular calcium levels and a reduction in the cAMP concentration were associated effects. Finally, bradykinin induced the up-regulation of vascular endothelial growth factor-C protein which was found increased in BK-induced human dermis microvascular endothelial cells culture supernates. CONCLUSIONS Human dermis microvascular endothelial cells represent a model of lymphatic endothelial cells, in which bradykinin-2-receptor is expressed. Bradykinin-induced bradykinin-2-receptor signaling through intracellular calcium mobilization and reduction in cAMP levels, triggered changes in solute permeability and cellular junction expression. It further up-regulated vascular endothelial growth factors-C protein expression, which is a key modulator of lymphatic vessels function and lymphangiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sybille Kempe
- Department of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
| | - Giorgio Fois
- Institute of General Physiology, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Cornelia Brunner
- Department of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
| | - Thomas K Hoffmann
- Department of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
| | - Janina Hahn
- Department of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
| | - Jens Greve
- Department of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
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21
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Abstract
The ability to generate new microvessels in desired numbers and at desired locations has been a long-sought goal in vascular medicine, engineering, and biology. Historically, the need to revascularize ischemic tissues nonsurgically (so-called therapeutic vascularization) served as the main driving force for the development of new methods of vascular growth. More recently, vascularization of engineered tissues and the generation of vascularized microphysiological systems have provided additional targets for these methods, and have required adaptation of therapeutic vascularization to biomaterial scaffolds and to microscale devices. Three complementary strategies have been investigated to engineer microvasculature: angiogenesis (the sprouting of existing vessels), vasculogenesis (the coalescence of adult or progenitor cells into vessels), and microfluidics (the vascularization of scaffolds that possess the open geometry of microvascular networks). Over the past several decades, vascularization techniques have grown tremendously in sophistication, from the crude implantation of arteries into myocardial tunnels by Vineberg in the 1940s, to the current use of micropatterning techniques to control the exact shape and placement of vessels within a scaffold. This review provides a broad historical view of methods to engineer the microvasculature, and offers a common framework for organizing and analyzing the numerous studies in this area of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. © 2019 American Physiological Society. Compr Physiol 9:1155-1212, 2019.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joe Tien
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Division of Materials Science and Engineering, Boston University, Brookline, Massachusetts, USA
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22
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Gong MM, Lugo-Cintron KM, White BR, Kerr SC, Harari PM, Beebe DJ. Human organotypic lymphatic vessel model elucidates microenvironment-dependent signaling and barrier function. Biomaterials 2019; 214:119225. [PMID: 31154151 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2019.119225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2018] [Revised: 05/20/2019] [Accepted: 05/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The lymphatic system is an active player in the pathogenesis of several human diseases, including lymphedema and cancer. Relevant models are needed to advance our understanding of lymphatic biology in disease progression to improve therapy and patient outcomes. Currently, there are few 3D in vitro lymphatic models that can recapitulate the physiological structure, function, and interactions of lymphatic vessels in normal and diseased microenvironments. Here, we developed a 3D microscale lymphatic vessel (μLYMPH) system for generating human lymphatic vessels with physiological tubular structure and function. Consistent with characteristics of lymphatic vessels in vivo, the endothelium of cultured vessels was leaky with an average permeability of 1.38 × 10-5 ± 0.29 × 10-5 cm/s as compared to 0.68 × 10-5 ± 0.13 × 10-5 cm/s for blood vessels. This leakiness also resulted in higher uptake of solute by the lymphatic vessels under interstitial flow, demonstrating recapitulation of their natural draining function. The vessels secreted appropriate growth factors and inflammatory mediators. Our system identified the follistatin/activin axis as a novel pathway in lymphatic vessel maintenance and inflammation. Moreover, the μLYMPH system provided a platform for examining crosstalk between lymphatic vessels and tumor microenvironmental components, such as breast cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs). In co-culture with CAFs, vessel barrier function was significantly impaired by CAF-secreted IL-6, a possible pro-metastatic mechanism of lymphatic metastasis. Targeted blocking of the IL-6/IL-6R signaling pathway with an IL-6 neutralizing antibody fully rescued the vessels, demonstrating the potential of our system for screening therapeutic targets. These results collectively demonstrate the μLYMPH system as a powerful model for advancing lymphatic biology in health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Max M Gong
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1451 Engineering Dr., Madison, WI, 53706, USA
| | - Karina M Lugo-Cintron
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1451 Engineering Dr., Madison, WI, 53706, USA
| | - Bridget R White
- Department of Engineering Physics, University of Wisconsin-Platteville, 1 University Plaza, Platteville, WI, 53818, USA
| | - Sheena C Kerr
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1451 Engineering Dr., Madison, WI, 53706, USA
| | - Paul M Harari
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 600 Highland Ave., Madison, WI, 53792, USA
| | - David J Beebe
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1451 Engineering Dr., Madison, WI, 53706, USA; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1685 Highland Ave., Madison, WI, 53705, USA.
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23
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Chang CW, Seibel AJ, Song JW. Application of microscale culture technologies for studying lymphatic vessel biology. Microcirculation 2019; 26:e12547. [PMID: 30946511 DOI: 10.1111/micc.12547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2018] [Revised: 03/04/2019] [Accepted: 04/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Immense progress in microscale engineering technologies has significantly expanded the capabilities of in vitro cell culture systems for reconstituting physiological microenvironments that are mediated by biomolecular gradients, fluid transport, and mechanical forces. Here, we examine the innovative approaches based on microfabricated vessels for studying lymphatic biology. To help understand the necessary design requirements for microfluidic models, we first summarize lymphatic vessel structure and function. Next, we provide an overview of the molecular and biomechanical mediators of lymphatic vessel function. Then we discuss the past achievements and new opportunities for microfluidic culture models to a broad range of applications pertaining to lymphatic vessel physiology. We emphasize the unique attributes of microfluidic systems that enable the recapitulation of multiple physicochemical cues in vitro for studying lymphatic pathophysiology. Current challenges and future outlooks of microscale technology for studying lymphatics are also discussed. Collectively, we make the assertion that further progress in the development of microscale models will continue to enrich our mechanistic understanding of lymphatic biology and physiology to help realize the promise of the lymphatic vasculature as a therapeutic target for a broad spectrum of diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia-Wen Chang
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Alex J Seibel
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Jonathan W Song
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio.,The Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
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24
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Breslin JW, Yang Y, Scallan JP, Sweat RS, Adderley SP, Murfee WL. Lymphatic Vessel Network Structure and Physiology. Compr Physiol 2018; 9:207-299. [PMID: 30549020 PMCID: PMC6459625 DOI: 10.1002/cphy.c180015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 174] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The lymphatic system is comprised of a network of vessels interrelated with lymphoid tissue, which has the holistic function to maintain the local physiologic environment for every cell in all tissues of the body. The lymphatic system maintains extracellular fluid homeostasis favorable for optimal tissue function, removing substances that arise due to metabolism or cell death, and optimizing immunity against bacteria, viruses, parasites, and other antigens. This article provides a comprehensive review of important findings over the past century along with recent advances in the understanding of the anatomy and physiology of lymphatic vessels, including tissue/organ specificity, development, mechanisms of lymph formation and transport, lymphangiogenesis, and the roles of lymphatics in disease. © 2019 American Physiological Society. Compr Physiol 9:207-299, 2019.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerome W. Breslin
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL
| | - Ying Yang
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL
| | - Joshua P. Scallan
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL
| | - Richard S. Sweat
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA
| | - Shaquria P. Adderley
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL
| | - W. Lee Murfee
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
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25
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Thompson RL, Margolis EA, Ryan TJ, Coisman BJ, Price GM, Wong KHK, Tien J. Design principles for lymphatic drainage of fluid and solutes from collagen scaffolds. J Biomed Mater Res A 2017; 106:106-114. [PMID: 28879690 DOI: 10.1002/jbm.a.36211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2017] [Revised: 08/04/2017] [Accepted: 08/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
In vivo, tissues are drained of excess fluid and macromolecules by the lymphatic vascular system. How to engineer artificial lymphatics that can provide equivalent drainage in biomaterials remains an open question. This study elucidates design principles for engineered lymphatics, by comparing the rates of removal of fluid and solute through type I collagen gels that contain lymphatic vessels or unseeded channels, or through gels without channels. Surprisingly, no difference was found between the fluid drainage rates for gels that contained vessels or bare channels. Moreover, solute drainage rates were greater in collagen gels that contained lymphatic vessels than in those that had bare channels. The enhancement of solute drainage by lymphatic endothelium was more pronounced in longer scaffolds and with smaller solutes. Whole-scaffold imaging revealed that endothelialization aided in solute drainage by impeding solute reflux into the gel without hindering solute entry into the vessel lumen. These results were reproduced by computational models of drainage with a flow-dependent endothelial hydraulic conductivity. This study shows that endothelialization of bare channels does not impede the drainage of fluid from collagen gels and can increase the drainage of macromolecules by preventing solute transport back into the scaffold. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 106A: 106-114, 2018.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca L Thompson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, 44 Cummington Mall, Boston, Massachusetts, 02215
| | - Emily A Margolis
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, 44 Cummington Mall, Boston, Massachusetts, 02215
| | - Tyler J Ryan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, 44 Cummington Mall, Boston, Massachusetts, 02215
| | - Brent J Coisman
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, 44 Cummington Mall, Boston, Massachusetts, 02215
| | - Gavrielle M Price
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, 44 Cummington Mall, Boston, Massachusetts, 02215
| | - Keith H K Wong
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, 44 Cummington Mall, Boston, Massachusetts, 02215
| | - Joe Tien
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, 44 Cummington Mall, Boston, Massachusetts, 02215.,Division of Materials Science and Engineering, Boston University, 15 St. Mary's Street, Brookline, Massachusetts, 02446
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26
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Ifegwu OC, Awale G, Rajpura K, Lo KWH, Laurencin CT. Harnessing cAMP signaling in musculoskeletal regenerative engineering. Drug Discov Today 2017; 22:1027-1044. [PMID: 28359841 PMCID: PMC7440772 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2017.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2016] [Revised: 03/08/2017] [Accepted: 03/20/2017] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
This paper reviews the most recent findings in the search for small molecule cyclic AMP analogues regarding their potential use in musculoskeletal regenerative engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Okechukwu Clinton Ifegwu
- Institute for Regenerative Engineering, University of Connecticut Health Center, School of Medicine, Farmington, CT 06030, USA; The Raymond and Beverly Sackler Center for Biomedical, Biological, Physical and Engineering Sciences, University of Connecticut Health Center, School of Medicine, Farmington, CT 06030, USA; Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT 06030, USA
| | - Guleid Awale
- Institute for Regenerative Engineering, University of Connecticut Health Center, School of Medicine, Farmington, CT 06030, USA; The Raymond and Beverly Sackler Center for Biomedical, Biological, Physical and Engineering Sciences, University of Connecticut Health Center, School of Medicine, Farmington, CT 06030, USA; Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Connecticut, School of Engineering, Storrs, CT 06030, USA
| | - Komal Rajpura
- Institute for Regenerative Engineering, University of Connecticut Health Center, School of Medicine, Farmington, CT 06030, USA; The Raymond and Beverly Sackler Center for Biomedical, Biological, Physical and Engineering Sciences, University of Connecticut Health Center, School of Medicine, Farmington, CT 06030, USA; Connecticut Institute for Clinical and Translational Science, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT 06030, USA
| | - Kevin W-H Lo
- Institute for Regenerative Engineering, University of Connecticut Health Center, School of Medicine, Farmington, CT 06030, USA; The Raymond and Beverly Sackler Center for Biomedical, Biological, Physical and Engineering Sciences, University of Connecticut Health Center, School of Medicine, Farmington, CT 06030, USA; Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT 06030, USA; Connecticut Institute for Clinical and Translational Science, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT 06030, USA; UConn Stem Cell Institute, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT 06030, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Connecticut, School of Engineering, Storrs, CT 06268, USA
| | - Cato T Laurencin
- Institute for Regenerative Engineering, University of Connecticut Health Center, School of Medicine, Farmington, CT 06030, USA; The Raymond and Beverly Sackler Center for Biomedical, Biological, Physical and Engineering Sciences, University of Connecticut Health Center, School of Medicine, Farmington, CT 06030, USA; Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT 06030, USA; Connecticut Institute for Clinical and Translational Science, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT 06030, USA; Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, University of Connecticut Health Center, School of Medicine, Farmington, CT 06030, USA; UConn Stem Cell Institute, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT 06030, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Connecticut, School of Engineering, Storrs, CT 06268, USA.
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DeStefano JG, Williams A, Wnorowski A, Yimam N, Searson PC, Wong AD. Real-time quantification of endothelial response to shear stress and vascular modulators. Integr Biol (Camb) 2017; 9:362-374. [PMID: 28345713 PMCID: PMC5490251 DOI: 10.1039/c7ib00023e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Quiescence is commonly used to describe the inactive state of endothelial cells (ECs) in monolayers that have reached homeostasis. Experimentally quiescence is usually described in terms of the relative change in cell activity (e.g. turnover, speed, etc.) in response to a perturbation (e.g. solute, shear stress, etc.). The objective of this study is to provide new insight into EC quiescence by quantitatively defining the morphology and activity of confluent cell monolayers in response to shear stress and vascular modulators. Confluent monolayers of human umbilical vein ECs (HUVECs) were subjected to a range of shear stresses (4-16 dyne cm-2) under steady flow. Using phase contrast, time-lapse microscopy and image analysis, we quantified EC morphology, speed, proliferation, and apoptosis rates over time and detected differences in monolayer responses under various media conditions: basal media supplemented with growth factors, interleukin-8, or cyclic AMP. In all conditions, we observed a transition from cobblestone to spindle-like morphology in a dose-dependent manner due to shear stress. Cyclic AMP enhanced the elongation and alignment of HUVECs due to shear stress and reduced steady state cell speed. We observed the lowest proliferation rates below 8 dyne cm-2 and found that growth factors and cyclic AMP reduced proliferation and apoptosis; interleukin-8 similarly decreased proliferation, but increased apoptosis. We have quantified the response of ECs in confluent monolayers to shear stress and vascular modulators in terms of morphology, speed, proliferation and apoptosis and have established quantifiable metrics of cell activity to define vascular quiescence under shear stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jackson G DeStefano
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, USA.
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Abstract
Microfluidics is invaluable for studying microvasculature, development of organ-on-chip models and engineering microtissues. Microfluidic design can cleverly control geometry, biochemical gradients and mechanical stimuli, such as shear and interstitial flow, to more closely mimic in vivo conditions. In vitro vascular networks are generated by two distinct approaches: via endothelial-lined patterned channels, or by self-assembled networks. Each system has its own benefits and is amenable to the study of angiogenesis, vasculogenesis and cancer metastasis. Various techniques are employed in order to generate rapid perfusion of these networks within a variety of tissue and organ-mimicking models, some of which have shown recent success following implantation in vivo. Combined with tuneable hydrogels, microfluidics holds great promise for drug screening as well as in the development of prevascularized tissues for regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristina Haase
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Roger D Kamm
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Biological Engineering, MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Singapore MIT Alliance for Research & Technology, Singapore, Singapore
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29
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Ho YT, Adriani G, Beyer S, Nhan PT, Kamm RD, Kah JCY. A Facile Method to Probe the Vascular Permeability of Nanoparticles in Nanomedicine Applications. Sci Rep 2017; 7:707. [PMID: 28386096 PMCID: PMC5429672 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-00750-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2016] [Accepted: 03/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The effectiveness of nanoparticles (NP) in nanomedicine depends on their ability to extravasate from vasculature towards the target tissue. This is determined by their permeability across the endothelial barrier. Unfortunately, a quantitative study of the diffusion permeability coefficients (Pd) of NPs is difficult with in vivo models. Here, we utilize a relevant model of vascular-tissue interface with tunable endothelial permeability in vitro based on microfluidics. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) grown in microfluidic devices were treated with Angiopoietin 1 and cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) to vary the Pd of the HUVECs monolayer towards fluorescent polystyrene NPs (pNPs) of different sizes, which was determined from image analysis of their fluorescence intensity when diffusing across the monolayer. Using 70 kDa dextran as a probe, untreated HUVECs yielded a Pd that approximated tumor vasculature while HUVECs treated with 25 μg/mL cAMP had Pd that approximated healthy vasculature in vivo. As the size of pNPs increased, its Pd decreased in tumor vasculature, but remained largely unchanged in healthy vasculature, demonstrating a trend similar to tumor selectivity for smaller NPs. This microfluidic model of vascular-tissue interface can be used in any laboratory to perform quantitative assessment of the tumor selectivity of nanomedicine-based systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Teck Ho
- NUS Graduate School for Integrative Sciences and Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Giulia Adriani
- BioSyM Interdisciplinary Research Group, Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Sebastian Beyer
- BioSyM Interdisciplinary Research Group, Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology, Singapore, Singapore.,Federal Institute for Materials Research and Testing, Germany, Germany
| | - Phan-Thien Nhan
- NUS Graduate School for Integrative Sciences and Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.,Department of Mechanical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Roger D Kamm
- BioSyM Interdisciplinary Research Group, Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology, Singapore, Singapore. .,Department of Biological Engineering and Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Massachusetts, USA.
| | - James Chen Yong Kah
- NUS Graduate School for Integrative Sciences and Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore. .,Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.
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30
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Takei T, Sakai S, Yoshida M. In vitro formation of vascular-like networks using hydrogels. J Biosci Bioeng 2016; 122:519-527. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiosc.2016.03.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2016] [Revised: 03/22/2016] [Accepted: 03/29/2016] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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31
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Kinstlinger IS, Miller JS. 3D-printed fluidic networks as vasculature for engineered tissue. LAB ON A CHIP 2016; 16:2025-43. [PMID: 27173478 DOI: 10.1039/c6lc00193a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Fabrication of vascular networks within engineered tissue remains one of the greatest challenges facing the fields of biomaterials and tissue engineering. Historically, the structural complexity of vascular networks has limited their fabrication in tissues engineered in vitro. Recently, however, key advances have been made in constructing fluidic networks within biomaterials, suggesting a strategy for fabricating the architecture of the vasculature. These techniques build on emerging technologies within the microfluidics community as well as on 3D printing. The freeform fabrication capabilities of 3D printing are allowing investigators to fabricate fluidic networks with complex architecture inside biomaterial matrices. In this review, we examine the most exciting 3D printing-based techniques in this area. We also discuss opportunities for using these techniques to address open questions in vascular biology and biophysics, as well as for engineering therapeutic tissue substitutes in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jordan S Miller
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, USA.
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Abstract
Proper vascularization remains critical to the clinical application of engineered tissues. To engineer microvessels in vitro, we and others have delivered endothelial cells through preformed channels into patterned extracellular matrix-based gels. This approach has been limited by the size of endothelial cells in suspension, and results in plugging of channels below ~30 μm in diameter. Here, we examine physical and chemical signals that can augment direct seeding, with the aim of rapidly vascularizing capillary-scale channels. By studying tapered microchannels in type I collagen gels under various conditions, we establish that stiff scaffolds, forward pressure, and elevated cyclic AMP levels promote endothelial stability and that reverse pressure promotes endothelial migration. We applied these results to uniform 20-μm-diameter channels and optimized the magnitudes of pressure, flow, and shear stress to best support endothelial migration and vascular stability. This vascularization strategy is able to form millimeter-long perfusable capillaries within three days. Our results indicate how to manipulate the physical and chemical environment to promote rapid vascularization of capillary-scale channels within type I collagen gels.
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SASAKI N, SATO K. Analytical Applications of Microfluidic Vascular Models. BUNSEKI KAGAKU 2016. [DOI: 10.2116/bunsekikagaku.65.241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Naoki SASAKI
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Toyo University
| | - Kae SATO
- Department of Chemical and Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Japan Women’s University
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Bogorad MI, DeStefano J, Karlsson J, Wong AD, Gerecht S, Searson PC. Review: in vitro microvessel models. LAB ON A CHIP 2015; 15:4242-55. [PMID: 26364747 PMCID: PMC9397147 DOI: 10.1039/c5lc00832h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
A wide range of perfusable microvessel models have been developed, exploiting advances in microfabrication, microfluidics, biomaterials, stem cell technology, and tissue engineering. These models vary in complexity and physiological relevance, but provide a diverse tool kit for the study of vascular phenomena and methods to vascularize artificial organs. Here we review the state-of-the-art in perfusable microvessel models, summarizing the different fabrication methods and highlighting advantages and limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Max I Bogorad
- Institute for Nanobiotechnology (INBT), 100 Croft Hall, Johns Hopkins University, 3400 North Charles Street, Baltimore, MD 21218, Maryland 21218, USA.
| | - Jackson DeStefano
- Institute for Nanobiotechnology (INBT), 100 Croft Hall, Johns Hopkins University, 3400 North Charles Street, Baltimore, MD 21218, Maryland 21218, USA.
| | - Johan Karlsson
- Institute for Nanobiotechnology (INBT), 100 Croft Hall, Johns Hopkins University, 3400 North Charles Street, Baltimore, MD 21218, Maryland 21218, USA.
| | - Andrew D Wong
- Institute for Nanobiotechnology (INBT), 100 Croft Hall, Johns Hopkins University, 3400 North Charles Street, Baltimore, MD 21218, Maryland 21218, USA.
| | - Sharon Gerecht
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, USA
| | - Peter C Searson
- Institute for Nanobiotechnology (INBT), 100 Croft Hall, Johns Hopkins University, 3400 North Charles Street, Baltimore, MD 21218, Maryland 21218, USA. and Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, USA
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35
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Sato M, Sasaki N, Ato M, Hirakawa S, Sato K, Sato K. Microcirculation-on-a-Chip: A Microfluidic Platform for Assaying Blood- and Lymphatic-Vessel Permeability. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0137301. [PMID: 26332321 PMCID: PMC4558006 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0137301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2015] [Accepted: 08/14/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
We developed a microfluidic model of microcirculation containing both blood and lymphatic vessels for examining vascular permeability. The designed microfluidic device harbors upper and lower channels that are partly aligned and are separated by a porous membrane, and on this membrane, blood vascular endothelial cells (BECs) and lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs) were cocultured back-to-back. At cell-cell junctions of both BECs and LECs, claudin-5 and VE-cadherin were detected. The permeability coefficient measured here was lower than the value reported for isolated mammalian venules. Moreover, our results showed that the flow culture established in the device promoted the formation of endothelial cell-cell junctions, and that treatment with histamine, an inflammation-promoting substance, induced changes in the localization of tight and adherens junction-associated proteins and an increase in vascular permeability in the microdevice. These findings indicated that both BECs and LECs appeared to retain their functions in the microfluidic coculture platform. Using this microcirculation device, the vascular damage induced by habu snake venom was successfully assayed, and the assay time was reduced from 24 h to 30 min. This is the first report of a microcirculation model in which BECs and LECs were cocultured. Because the micromodel includes lymphatic vessels in addition to blood vessels, the model can be used to evaluate both vascular permeability and lymphatic return rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miwa Sato
- Department of Chemical and Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Japan Women’s University, Bunkyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Naoki Sasaki
- Department of Chemical and Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Japan Women’s University, Bunkyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Manabu Ato
- Department of Immunology, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Satoshi Hirakawa
- Department of Dermatology at Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu city, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Kiichi Sato
- Division of Molecular Science, School of Science and Technology, Gunma University, Kiryu, Gunma, Japan
| | - Kae Sato
- Department of Chemical and Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Japan Women’s University, Bunkyo, Tokyo, Japan
- * E-mail:
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36
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Liu J, Zheng H, Poh PSP, Machens HG, Schilling AF. Hydrogels for Engineering of Perfusable Vascular Networks. Int J Mol Sci 2015; 16:15997-6016. [PMID: 26184185 PMCID: PMC4519935 DOI: 10.3390/ijms160715997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 162] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2015] [Revised: 06/09/2015] [Accepted: 07/07/2015] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Hydrogels are commonly used biomaterials for tissue engineering. With their high-water content, good biocompatibility and biodegradability they resemble the natural extracellular environment and have been widely used as scaffolds for 3D cell culture and studies of cell biology. The possible size of such hydrogel constructs with embedded cells is limited by the cellular demand for oxygen and nutrients. For the fabrication of large and complex tissue constructs, vascular structures become necessary within the hydrogels to supply the encapsulated cells. In this review, we discuss the types of hydrogels that are currently used for the fabrication of constructs with embedded vascular networks, the key properties of hydrogels needed for this purpose and current techniques to engineer perfusable vascular structures into these hydrogels. We then discuss directions for future research aimed at engineering of vascularized tissue for implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Liu
- Department of Plastic Surgery and Hand Surgery, Klinikum Rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, D-81675 Munich, Germany.
- Department of Hand Surgery, Wuhan Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China.
| | - Huaiyuan Zheng
- Department of Plastic Surgery and Hand Surgery, Klinikum Rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, D-81675 Munich, Germany.
- Department of Hand Surgery, Wuhan Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China.
| | - Patrina S P Poh
- Department of Plastic Surgery and Hand Surgery, Klinikum Rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, D-81675 Munich, Germany.
| | - Hans-Günther Machens
- Department of Plastic Surgery and Hand Surgery, Klinikum Rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, D-81675 Munich, Germany.
| | - Arndt F Schilling
- Department of Plastic Surgery and Hand Surgery, Klinikum Rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, D-81675 Munich, Germany.
- Center for Applied Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine (CANTER), Munich University of Applied Science, D-80335 Munich, Germany.
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37
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Scallan JP, Hill MA, Davis MJ. Lymphatic vascular integrity is disrupted in type 2 diabetes due to impaired nitric oxide signalling. Cardiovasc Res 2015; 107:89-97. [PMID: 25852084 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvv117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2014] [Accepted: 03/14/2015] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS Lymphatic vessel dysfunction is an emerging component of metabolic diseases and can lead to tissue lipid accumulation, dyslipidaemia, and oedema. While lymph leakage has been implicated in obesity and hypercholesterolaemia, whether similar lymphatic dysfunction exists in diabetes has not been investigated. METHODS AND RESULTS To measure the lymphatic integrity of transgenic mice, we developed a new assay that quantifies the solute permeability of murine collecting lymphatic vessels. Compared with age-matched wild-type (WT) controls, the permeability of collecting lymphatics from diabetic, leptin receptor-deficient (db/db) mice was elevated >130-fold. Augmenting nitric oxide (NO) production by suffusion of l-arginine rescued this defect. Using pharmacological tools and eNOS(-/-) mice, we found that NO increased WT lymphatic permeability, but reduced db/db lymphatic permeability. These conflicting actions of NO were reconciled by the finding that phosphodiesterase 3 (PDE3), normally inhibited by NO signalling, was active in db/db lymphatics and inhibition of this enzyme restored barrier function. CONCLUSION In conclusion, we identified the first lymphatic vascular defect in type 2 diabetes, an enhanced permeability caused by low NO bioavailability. Further, this demonstrates that PDE3 inhibition is required to maintain lymphatic vessel integrity and represents a viable therapeutic target for lymphatic endothelial dysfunction in metabolic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua P Scallan
- Department of Medical Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Missouri, One Hospital Drive, MA415 Medical Sciences Building, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Michael A Hill
- Department of Medical Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Missouri, One Hospital Drive, MA415 Medical Sciences Building, Columbia, MO, USA Dalton Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Michael J Davis
- Department of Medical Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Missouri, One Hospital Drive, MA415 Medical Sciences Building, Columbia, MO, USA
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38
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Kakei Y, Akashi M, Shigeta T, Hasegawa T, Komori T. Alteration of cell-cell junctions in cultured human lymphatic endothelial cells with inflammatory cytokine stimulation. Lymphat Res Biol 2014; 12:136-43. [PMID: 25166264 DOI: 10.1089/lrb.2013.0035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To maintain normal function, the lymphatic endothelium is regulated by cell-cell junctions. There have been few studies of lymphatic endothelial cell junctions using standard cell biological methods. This study had two purposes: to characterize cell junctions in cultured lymphatic endothelial cells and to investigate the effects of the inflammatory cytokine TNF-α on altered cell-cell junctions. METHODS AND RESULTS Cultured human dermal lymphatic endothelial cells (HDLEC) were immunostained with the tight junction marker, ZO-1, and adherens junction markers, VE-cadherin and PECAM-1. In TNF-α-treated HDLEC, we evaluated changes in endothelial cell junctions by immunostaining and through the use of transendothelial electrical resistance (TER). Immunofluorescence staining of HDLEC revealed heterogeneity among the endothelial cell junctions, which could be classified into continuous and discontinuous junctions. In these cell junctions, ZO-1 and VE-cadherin were co-localized. Double immunofluorescence staining revealed the broad distribution of VE-cadherin at the cell periphery, where VE-cadherin and PECAM-1 were co-localized. TNF-α treatment decreased TER, caused a predominance in the appearance of discontinuous junctions with a reduction in the broad distribution of VE-cadherin at the cell periphery in HDLEC. CONCLUSIONS The results indicate a heterogeneous distribution of cell junctions in HDLEC involving continuous and discontinuous junctions. Our data also suggest that TNF-α alters the normal distribution of cell junctions and affects the endothelial barrier of cultured lymphatic endothelial cells. The broad distribution of VE-cadherin at the cell periphery may reflect the lymphatic permeability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasumasa Kakei
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine , Kobe, Japan
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G. Romanova L, A. Hansen E, Lam CH. Generation and Preliminary Characterization of Immortalized Cell Line Derived from Rat Lymphatic Capillaries. Microcirculation 2014; 21:551-61. [DOI: 10.1111/micc.12134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2013] [Accepted: 03/18/2014] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Eric A. Hansen
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center Minneapolis; Minneapolis Minnesota USA
| | - Cornelius H. Lam
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center Minneapolis; Minneapolis Minnesota USA
- Department of Neurosurgery; University of Minnesota; Minneapolis Minnesota USA
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40
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Breslin JW. Mechanical forces and lymphatic transport. Microvasc Res 2014; 96:46-54. [PMID: 25107458 DOI: 10.1016/j.mvr.2014.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2014] [Accepted: 07/29/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
This review examines the current understanding of how the lymphatic vessel network can optimize lymph flow in response to various mechanical forces. Lymphatics are organized as a vascular tree, with blind-ended initial lymphatics, precollectors, prenodal collecting lymphatics, lymph nodes, postnodal collecting lymphatics and the larger trunks (thoracic duct and right lymph duct) that connect to the subclavian veins. The formation of lymph from interstitial fluid depends heavily on oscillating pressure gradients to drive fluid into initial lymphatics. Collecting lymphatics are segmented vessels with unidirectional valves, with each segment, called a lymphangion, possessing an intrinsic pumping mechanism. The lymphangions propel lymph forward against a hydrostatic pressure gradient. Fluid is returned to the central circulation both at lymph nodes and via the larger lymphatic trunks. Several recent developments are discussed, including evidence for the active role of endothelial cells in lymph formation; recent developments on how inflow pressure, outflow pressure, and shear stress affect the pump function of the lymphangion; lymphatic valve gating mechanisms; collecting lymphatic permeability; and current interpretations of the molecular mechanisms within lymphatic endothelial cells and smooth muscle. An improved understanding of the physiological mechanisms by which lymphatic vessels sense mechanical stimuli, integrate the information, and generate the appropriate response is key for determining the pathogenesis of lymphatic insufficiency and developing treatments for lymphedema.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerome W Breslin
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA.
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41
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Hasan A, Paul A, Vrana NE, Zhao X, Memic A, Hwang YS, Dokmeci MR, Khademhosseini A. Microfluidic techniques for development of 3D vascularized tissue. Biomaterials 2014; 35:7308-25. [PMID: 24906345 PMCID: PMC4118596 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2014.04.091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 184] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2014] [Accepted: 04/19/2014] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Development of a vascularized tissue is one of the key challenges for the successful clinical application of tissue engineered constructs. Despite the significant efforts over the last few decades, establishing a gold standard to develop three dimensional (3D) vascularized tissues has still remained far from reality. Recent advances in the application of microfluidic platforms to the field of tissue engineering have greatly accelerated the progress toward the development of viable vascularized tissue constructs. Numerous techniques have emerged to induce the formation of vascular structure within tissues which can be broadly classified into two distinct categories, namely (1) prevascularization-based techniques and (2) vasculogenesis and angiogenesis-based techniques. This review presents an overview of the recent advancements in the vascularization techniques using both approaches for generating 3D vascular structure on microfluidic platforms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anwarul Hasan
- Biomedical Engineering, and Department of Mechanical Engineering, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon; Biomaterials Innovation Research Center, Division of Biomedical Engineering, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 65 Landsdowne Street, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Harvard-MIT Division of Health Sciences and Technology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA.
| | - Arghya Paul
- Biomaterials Innovation Research Center, Division of Biomedical Engineering, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 65 Landsdowne Street, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Harvard-MIT Division of Health Sciences and Technology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Nihal E Vrana
- INSERM, UMR-S 1121, Biomatériaux et Bioingénierie, 11 rue Humann, F-67085 Strasbourg Cedex, France
| | - Xin Zhao
- Biomaterials Innovation Research Center, Division of Biomedical Engineering, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 65 Landsdowne Street, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Harvard-MIT Division of Health Sciences and Technology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Adnan Memic
- Center of Nanotechnology, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Yu-Shik Hwang
- Department of Maxillofacial Biomedical Engineering, School of Dentistry, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 130-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Mehmet R Dokmeci
- Biomaterials Innovation Research Center, Division of Biomedical Engineering, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 65 Landsdowne Street, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Harvard-MIT Division of Health Sciences and Technology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Ali Khademhosseini
- Biomaterials Innovation Research Center, Division of Biomedical Engineering, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 65 Landsdowne Street, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Harvard-MIT Division of Health Sciences and Technology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, USA; World Premier International - Advanced Institute for Materials Research (WPI-AIMR), Tohoku University, Sendai 980-8577, Japan; Department of Physics, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia.
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Chan KLS, Khankhel AH, Thompson RL, Coisman BJ, Wong KHK, Truslow JG, Tien J. Crosslinking of collagen scaffolds promotes blood and lymphatic vascular stability. J Biomed Mater Res A 2013; 102:3186-3195. [PMID: 24151175 DOI: 10.1002/jbm.a.34990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2013] [Revised: 09/11/2013] [Accepted: 10/02/2013] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The low stiffness of reconstituted collagen hydrogels has limited their use as scaffolds for engineering implantable tissues. Although chemical crosslinking has been used to stiffen collagen and protect it against enzymatic degradation in vivo, it remains unclear how crosslinking alters the vascularization of collagen hydrogels. In this study, we examine how the crosslinking agents genipin and 1-ethyl-3-(3-dimethylaminopropyl) carbodiimide alter vascular stability and function in microfluidic type I collagen gels in vitro. Under moderate perfusion (∼10 dyn/cm(2) shear stress), tubes of blood endothelial cells (ECs) exhibited indistinguishable stability and barrier function in untreated and crosslinked scaffolds. Surprisingly, under low perfusion (∼5 dyn/cm(2) shear stress) or nearly zero transmural pressure, microvessels in crosslinked scaffolds remained stable, while those in untreated gels rapidly delaminated and became poorly perfused. Similarly, tubes of lymphatic ECs under intermittent flow were more stable in crosslinked gels than in untreated ones. These effects correlated well with the degree of mechanical stiffening, as predicted by analysis of fracture energies at the cell-scaffold interface. This work demonstrates that crosslinking of collagen scaffolds does not hinder normal EC physiology; instead, crosslinked scaffolds promote vascular stability. Thus, routine crosslinking of scaffolds may assist in vascularization of engineered tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelvin L S Chan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, 44 Cummington Mall, Boston, MA 02215
| | - Aimal H Khankhel
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, 44 Cummington Mall, Boston, MA 02215
| | - Rebecca L Thompson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, 44 Cummington Mall, Boston, MA 02215
| | - Brent J Coisman
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, 44 Cummington Mall, Boston, MA 02215
| | - Keith H K Wong
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, 44 Cummington Mall, Boston, MA 02215
| | - James G Truslow
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, 44 Cummington Mall, Boston, MA 02215
| | - Joe Tien
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, 44 Cummington Mall, Boston, MA 02215.,Division of Materials Science and Engineering, Boston University, 15 St. Mary's Street, Brookline, MA 02446
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The effects of inflammatory cytokines on lymphatic endothelial barrier function. Angiogenesis 2013; 17:395-406. [PMID: 24141404 DOI: 10.1007/s10456-013-9393-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2013] [Accepted: 09/23/2013] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Proper lymphatic function is necessary for the transport of fluids, macromolecules, antigens and immune cells out of the interstitium. The lymphatic endothelium plays important roles in the modulation of lymphatic contractile activity and lymph transport, but it's role as a barrier between the lymph and interstitial compartments is less well understood. Alterations in lymphatic function have long been associated with edema and inflammation although the integrity of the lymphatic endothelial barrier during inflammation is not well-defined. In this paper we evaluated the integrity of the lymphatic barrier in response to inflammatory stimuli commonly associated with increased blood endothelial permeability. We utilized in vitro assays of lymphatic endothelial cell (LEC) monolayer barrier function after treatment with different inflammatory cytokines and signaling molecules including TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, IFN-γ and LPS. Moderate increases in an index of monolayer barrier dysfunction were noted with all treatments (20-60 % increase) except IFN-γ which caused a greater than 2.5-fold increase. Cytokine-induced barrier dysfunction was blocked or reduced by the addition of LNAME, except for IL-1β and LPS treatments, suggesting a regulatory role for nitric oxide. The decreased LEC barrier was associated with modulation of both intercellular adhesion and intracellular cytoskeletal activation. Cytokine treatments reduced the expression of VE-cadherin and increased scavenging of β-catenin in the LECs and this was partially reversed by LNAME. Likewise the phosphorylation of myosin light chain 20 at the regulatory serine 19 site, which accompanied the elevated monolayer barrier dysfunction in response to cytokine treatment, was also blunted by LNAME application. This suggests that the lymphatic barrier is regulated during inflammation and that certain inflammatory signals may induce large increases in permeability.
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Wong KHK, Truslow JG, Khankhel AH, Chan KLS, Tien J. Artificial lymphatic drainage systems for vascularized microfluidic scaffolds. J Biomed Mater Res A 2012; 101:2181-90. [PMID: 23281125 DOI: 10.1002/jbm.a.34524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2012] [Accepted: 11/09/2012] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The formation of a stably perfused microvasculature continues to be a major challenge in tissue engineering. Previous work has suggested the importance of a sufficiently large transmural pressure in maintaining vascular stability and perfusion. Here we show that a system of empty channels that provides a drainage function analogous to that of lymphatic microvasculature in vivo can stabilize vascular adhesion and maintain perfusion rate in dense, hydraulically resistive fibrin scaffolds in vitro. In the absence of drainage, endothelial delamination increased as scaffold density increased from 6 to 30 mg/mL and scaffold hydraulic conductivity decreased by a factor of 20. Single drainage channels exerted only localized vascular stabilization, the extent of which depended on the distance between vessel and drainage as well as scaffold density. Computational modeling of these experiments yielded an estimate of 0.40-1.36 cm H2O for the minimum transmural pressure required for vascular stability. We further designed and constructed fibrin patches (0.8 × 0.9 cm(2)) that were perfused by a parallel array of vessels and drained by an orthogonal array of drainage channels; only with the drainage did the vessels display long-term stability and perfusion. This work underscores the importance of drainage in vascularization, especially when a dense, hydraulically resistive scaffold is used.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keith H K Wong
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts 02215, USA
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Abstract
In vitro studies of vascular physiology have traditionally relied on cultures of endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells, and pericytes grown on centimeter-scale plates, filters, and flow chambers. The introduction of microfluidic tools has revolutionized the study of vascular physiology by allowing researchers to create physiologically relevant culture models, at the same time greatly reducing the consumption of expensive reagents. By taking advantage of the small dimensions and laminar flow inherent in microfluidic systems, recent studies have created in vitro models that reproduce many features of the in vivo vascular microenvironment with fine spatial and temporal resolution. In this review, we highlight the advantages of microfluidics in four areas: the investigation of hemodynamics on a capillary length scale, the modulation of fluid streams over vascular cells, angiogenesis induced by the exposure of vascular cells to well-defined gradients in growth factors or pressure, and the growth of microvascular networks in biomaterials. Such unique capabilities at the microscale are rapidly advancing the understanding of microcirculatory dynamics, shear responses, and angiogenesis in health and disease as well as the ability to create in vivo-like blood vessels in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keith H K Wong
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts 02215, USA
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Abstract
Mast cells (MCs) promote a wide range of localized and systemic inflammatory responses. Their involvement in immediate as well as chronic inflammatory reactions at both local and distal sites points to an extraordinarily powerful immunoregulatory capacity with spatial and temporal versatility. MCs are preferentially found in close proximity to both vascular and lymphatic vessels. On activation, they undergo a biphasic secretory response involving the rapid release of prestored vasoactive mediators followed by de novo synthesized products. Many actions of MCs are related to their capacity to regulate vascular flow and permeability and to the recruitment of various inflammatory cells from the vasculature into inflammatory sites. These mediators often work in an additive fashion and achieve their inflammatory effects locally by directly acting on the vascular and lymphatic endothelia, but they also can affect distal sites. Along these lines, the lymphatic and endothelial vasculatures of the host act as a conduit for the dissemination of MC signals during inflammation. The central role of the MC-endothelial cell axis to immune homeostasis is emphasized by the fact that some of the most effective current treatments for inflammatory disorders are directed at interfering with this interaction.
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Breslin JW. ROCK and cAMP promote lymphatic endothelial cell barrier integrity and modulate histamine and thrombin-induced barrier dysfunction. Lymphat Res Biol 2011; 9:3-11. [PMID: 21417762 DOI: 10.1089/lrb.2010.0016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is recent evidence that inflammatory signals can modulate lymphatic vessel permeability, but current understanding of the mechanisms regulating lymphatic endothelial barrier function is limited. The objectives of this study were to 1) investigate whether inflammatory mediators that increase microvascular permeability also cause barrier dysfunction of lymphatic endothelial cell monolayers, and 2) determine the roles of signaling pathways that affect intercellular junctions and cell contraction in lymphatic endothelial barrier function. METHODS AND RESULTS Transendothelial electrical resistance (TER) of confluent adult human microlymphatic endothelial cells of dermal origin (HMLEC-d) served as an indicator of lymphatic endothelial barrier function. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) were used to model blood-tissue barrier function. The inflammatory mediators histamine and thrombin each caused a decrease in TER of HMLEC-d and HUVEC monolayers, with notable differences between the two cell types. Treatment with 8-Br-cAMP enhanced HMLEC-d barrier function, which limited histamine and thrombin-induced decreases in TER. Blockade of myosin light chain kinase (MLCK) with ML-7 did not affect histamine or thrombin-induced decreases in TER. Treatment with the Rho kinase (ROCK) inhibitor Y-27632 caused a decrease in HMLEC-d barrier function. CONCLUSIONS These data show that inflammatory mediators can cause lymphatic endothelial barrier dysfunction, although the responses are not identical to those seen with blood endothelial cells. ROCK and cAMP both promote lymphatic endothelial barrier function, however ROCK appears to also serve as a mediator of histamine and thrombin-induced barrier dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerome W Breslin
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisiana 70112, USA.
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Huang GY, Zhou LH, Zhang QC, Chen YM, Sun W, Xu F, Lu TJ. Microfluidic hydrogels for tissue engineering. Biofabrication 2011; 3:012001. [DOI: 10.1088/1758-5082/3/1/012001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 148] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
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Price GM, Tien J. Methods for forming human microvascular tubes in vitro and measuring their macromolecular permeability. Methods Mol Biol 2011; 671:281-93. [PMID: 20967637 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-59745-551-0_17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
This chapter describes a protocol for forming open endothelial tubes in vitro and quantifying their permeability to macromolecules. These tubes consist of confluent monolayers of human microvascular endothelial cells in perfused microfluidic collagen gels. The cylindrical geometry of the tubes mimics the shape of microvessels in vivo; it allows simultaneous and/or repeated measurements of permeability coefficients and detection of focal leaks. We have used these in vitro models to test the effects of agonists on microvascular permeability and are developing arrays of microvascular tubes to enable large-scale testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gavrielle M Price
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
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PDE8 regulates rapid Teff cell adhesion and proliferation independent of ICER. PLoS One 2010; 5:e12011. [PMID: 20711499 PMCID: PMC2918507 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0012011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2010] [Accepted: 07/01/2010] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Abolishing the inhibitory signal of intracellular cAMP by phosphodiesterases (PDEs) is a prerequisite for effector T (Teff) cell function. While PDE4 plays a prominent role, its control of cAMP levels in Teff cells is not exclusive. T cell activation has been shown to induce PDE8, a PDE isoform with 40- to 100-fold greater affinity for cAMP than PDE4. Thus, we postulated that PDE8 is an important regulator of Teff cell functions. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS We found that Teff cells express PDE8 in vivo. Inhibition of PDE8 by the PDE inhibitor dipyridamole (DP) activates cAMP signaling and suppresses two major integrins involved in Teff cell adhesion. Accordingly, DP as well as the novel PDE8-selective inhibitor PF-4957325-00 suppress firm attachment of Teff cells to endothelial cells. Analysis of downstream signaling shows that DP suppresses proliferation and cytokine expression of Teff cells from Crem-/- mice lacking the inducible cAMP early repressor (ICER). Importantly, endothelial cells also express PDE8. DP treatment decreases vascular adhesion molecule and chemokine expression, while upregulating the tight junction molecule claudin-5. In vivo, DP reduces CXCL12 gene expression as determined by in situ probing of the mouse microvasculature by cell-selective laser-capture microdissection. CONCLUSION/SIGNIFICANCE Collectively, our data identify PDE8 as a novel target for suppression of Teff cell functions, including adhesion to endothelial cells.
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