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Sgualdino F, Mattolini L, Jimenez BD, Patrick K, Abdel Fattah AR, Ranga A. Mechanical Actuation of Organoids in Synthetic Microenvironments. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2764:225-245. [PMID: 38393598 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3674-9_15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
Organoids are a powerful model system to explore the role of mechanical forces in sculpting emergent tissue cytoarchitecture. The modulation of the mechanical microenvironment is most readily performed using synthetic extracellular matrices (ECM); however, such materials provide passive, rather than active force modulation. Actuation technologies enable the active tuning of mechanical forces in both time and magnitude. Using such instruments, our group has shown that extrinsically imposed stretching on human neural tube organoids (hNTOs) enhanced patterning of the floor plate domain. Here, we provide a detailed protocol on the implementation of mechanical actuation of organoids embedded in synthetic 3D microenvironments, with additional details on methods to characterize organoid fate and behavior. Our protocol is easy to reproduce and is expected to be broadly applicable to investigate the role of active mechanics with in vitro model systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Sgualdino
- Laboratory of Bioengineering and Morphogenesis, Biomechanics Section, Department of Mechanical Engineering, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Lorenzo Mattolini
- Laboratory of Bioengineering and Morphogenesis, Biomechanics Section, Department of Mechanical Engineering, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Brian Daza Jimenez
- Laboratory of Bioengineering and Morphogenesis, Biomechanics Section, Department of Mechanical Engineering, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Kieran Patrick
- Laboratory of Bioengineering and Morphogenesis, Biomechanics Section, Department of Mechanical Engineering, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Abdel Rahman Abdel Fattah
- Laboratory of Bioengineering and Morphogenesis, Biomechanics Section, Department of Mechanical Engineering, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
- CeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Adrian Ranga
- Laboratory of Bioengineering and Morphogenesis, Biomechanics Section, Department of Mechanical Engineering, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
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2
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Castillo Ransanz L, Van Altena PFJ, Heine VM, Accardo A. Engineered cell culture microenvironments for mechanobiology studies of brain neural cells. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:1096054. [PMID: 36588937 PMCID: PMC9794772 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.1096054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The biomechanical properties of the brain microenvironment, which is composed of different neural cell types, the extracellular matrix, and blood vessels, are critical for normal brain development and neural functioning. Stiffness, viscoelasticity and spatial organization of brain tissue modulate proliferation, migration, differentiation, and cell function. However, the mechanical aspects of the neural microenvironment are largely ignored in current cell culture systems. Considering the high promises of human induced pluripotent stem cell- (iPSC-) based models for disease modelling and new treatment development, and in light of the physiological relevance of neuromechanobiological features, applications of in vitro engineered neuronal microenvironments should be explored thoroughly to develop more representative in vitro brain models. In this context, recently developed biomaterials in combination with micro- and nanofabrication techniques 1) allow investigating how mechanical properties affect neural cell development and functioning; 2) enable optimal cell microenvironment engineering strategies to advance neural cell models; and 3) provide a quantitative tool to assess changes in the neuromechanobiological properties of the brain microenvironment induced by pathology. In this review, we discuss the biological and engineering aspects involved in studying neuromechanobiology within scaffold-free and scaffold-based 2D and 3D iPSC-based brain models and approaches employing primary lineages (neural/glial), cell lines and other stem cells. Finally, we discuss future experimental directions of engineered microenvironments in neuroscience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucía Castillo Ransanz
- Department of Child and Adolescence Psychiatry, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Emma Children’s Hospital, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Pieter F. J. Van Altena
- Department of Precision and Microsystems Engineering, Delft University of Technology, Delft, Netherlands
| | - Vivi M. Heine
- Department of Child and Adolescence Psychiatry, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Emma Children’s Hospital, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Department of Complex Trait Genetics, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Angelo Accardo
- Department of Precision and Microsystems Engineering, Delft University of Technology, Delft, Netherlands
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3
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Microfabricated Stretching Devices for Studying the Effects of Tensile Stress on Cells and Tissues. BIOCHIP JOURNAL 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s13206-022-00073-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
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4
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Development of an Aged Full-Thickness Skin Model Using Flexible Skin-on-a-Chip Subjected to Mechanical Stimulus Reflecting the Circadian Rhythm. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222312788. [PMID: 34884594 PMCID: PMC8657468 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222312788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The skin is subject to both intrinsic aging caused by metabolic processes in the body and extrinsic aging caused by exposure to environmental factors. Intrinsic aging is an important obstacle to in vitro experimentation as its long-term progression is difficult to replicate. Here, we accelerated aging of a full-thickness skin equivalent by applying periodic mechanical stimulation, replicating the circadian rhythm for 28 days. This aging skin model was developed by culturing a full-thickness, three-dimensional skin equivalent with human fibroblasts and keratinocytes to produce flexible skin-on-a-chip. Accelerated aging associated with periodic compressive stress was evidenced by reductions in the epidermal layer thickness, contraction rate, and secretion of Myb. Increases in β-galactosidase gene expression and secretion of reactive oxygen species and transforming growth factor-β1 were also observed. This in vitro aging skin model is expected to greatly accelerate drug development for skin diseases and cosmetics that cannot be tested on animals.
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Luo Y, Li J, Li B, Xia Y, Wang H, Fu C. Physical Cues of Matrices Reeducate Nerve Cells. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:731170. [PMID: 34646825 PMCID: PMC8502847 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.731170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The behavior of nerve cells plays a crucial role in nerve regeneration. The mechanical, topographical, and electrical microenvironment surrounding nerve cells can activate cellular signaling pathways of mechanical transduction to affect the behavior of nerve cells. Recently, biological scaffolds with various physical properties have been developed as extracellular matrix to regulate the behavior conversion of nerve cell, such as neuronal neurite growth and directional differentiation of neural stem cells, providing a robust driving force for nerve regeneration. This review mainly focused on the biological basis of nerve cells in mechanical transduction. In addition, we also highlighted the effect of the physical cues, including stiffness, mechanical tension, two-dimensional terrain, and electrical conductivity, on neurite outgrowth and differentiation of neural stem cells and predicted their potential application in clinical nerve tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiqian Luo
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jie Li
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Baoqin Li
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yuanliang Xia
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Hengyi Wang
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Changfeng Fu
- Department of Spine Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
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6
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Guo R, Liao M, Ma X, Hu Y, Qian X, Xiao M, Gao X, Chai R, Tang M. Cochlear implant-based electric-acoustic stimulation modulates neural stem cell-derived neural regeneration. J Mater Chem B 2021; 9:7793-7804. [PMID: 34586130 DOI: 10.1039/d1tb01029h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Cochlear implantation is considered to be the best therapeutic method for profound sensorineural hearing loss, but insufficient numbers of functional spiral ganglion neurons hinder the clinical effects of cochlear implantation. Stem cell transplantation has the potential to provide novel strategies for spiral ganglion neuron regeneration after injury. However, some obstacles still need to be overcome, such as low survival and uncontrolled differentiation. Several novel technologies show promise for modulating neural stem cell behaviors to address these issues. Here, a device capable of electrical stimulation was designed by combining a cochlear implant with a graphene substrate. Neural stem cells (NSCs) were cultured on the graphene substrate and subjected to electrical stimulation transduced from sound waves detected by the cochlear implant. Cell behaviors were studied, and this device showed good biocompatibility for NSCs. More importantly, electric-acoustic stimulation with higher frequencies and amplitudes induced NSC death and apoptosis, and electric-acoustic stimulation could promote NSCs to proliferate and differentiate into neurons only when low-frequency stimulation was supplied. The present study provides experimental evidence for understanding the regulatory role of electric-acoustic stimulation on NSCs and highlights the potentials of the above-mentioned device in stem cell therapy for hearing loss treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rongrong Guo
- Institute for Cardiovascular Science & Department of Cardiovascular Surgery of the First Affiliated Hospital, Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215000, China. .,State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Institute of Primate Translational Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, 650500, China.,Key Laboratory for Developmental Genes and Human Disease, Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China.
| | - Menghui Liao
- Key Laboratory for Developmental Genes and Human Disease, Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China. .,Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Xiaofeng Ma
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210008, China.,Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Jiangsu Provincial Key Medical Discipline (Laboratory), Nanjing, Jiangsu 210008, China. .,Research Institution of Otorhinolaryngology, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210008, P. R. China
| | - Yangnan Hu
- Key Laboratory for Developmental Genes and Human Disease, Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China. .,Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Xiaoyun Qian
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Jiangsu Provincial Key Medical Discipline (Laboratory), Nanjing, Jiangsu 210008, China. .,Research Institution of Otorhinolaryngology, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210008, P. R. China
| | - Miao Xiao
- Institute for Cardiovascular Science & Department of Cardiovascular Surgery of the First Affiliated Hospital, Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215000, China.
| | - Xia Gao
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Jiangsu Provincial Key Medical Discipline (Laboratory), Nanjing, Jiangsu 210008, China. .,Research Institution of Otorhinolaryngology, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210008, P. R. China
| | - Renjie Chai
- Key Laboratory for Developmental Genes and Human Disease, Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China. .,Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
| | - Mingliang Tang
- Institute for Cardiovascular Science & Department of Cardiovascular Surgery of the First Affiliated Hospital, Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215000, China. .,Key Laboratory for Developmental Genes and Human Disease, Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China. .,Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China
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7
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Kim J, Tamura A, Tsukita S, Park S. Uniaxial stretching device for studying maturity-dependent morphological response of epithelial cell monolayers to tensile strain. J IND ENG CHEM 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jiec.2021.04.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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8
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Wan Q, Qin W, Ma Y, Shen M, Li J, Zhang Z, Chen J, Tay FR, Niu L, Jiao K. Crosstalk between Bone and Nerves within Bone. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2021; 8:2003390. [PMID: 33854888 PMCID: PMC8025013 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202003390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Revised: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
For the past two decades, the function of intrabony nerves on bone has been a subject of intense research, while the function of bone on intrabony nerves is still hidden in the corner. In the present review, the possible crosstalk between bone and intrabony peripheral nerves will be comprehensively analyzed. Peripheral nerves participate in bone development and repair via a host of signals generated through the secretion of neurotransmitters, neuropeptides, axon guidance factors and neurotrophins, with additional contribution from nerve-resident cells. In return, bone contributes to this microenvironmental rendezvous by housing the nerves within its internal milieu to provide mechanical support and a protective shelf. A large ensemble of chemical, mechanical, and electrical cues works in harmony with bone marrow stromal cells in the regulation of intrabony nerves. The crosstalk between bone and nerves is not limited to the physiological state, but also involved in various bone diseases including osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, heterotopic ossification, psychological stress-related bone abnormalities, and bone related tumors. This crosstalk may be harnessed in the design of tissue engineering scaffolds for repair of bone defects or be targeted for treatment of diseases related to bone and peripheral nerves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian‐Qian Wan
- State Key Laboratory of Military Stomatology and National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases and Shaanxi Key Laboratory of StomatologyDepartment of ProsthodonticsSchool of StomatologyThe Fourth Military Medical UniversityXi'anShaanxi710032China
| | - Wen‐Pin Qin
- State Key Laboratory of Military Stomatology and National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases and Shaanxi Key Laboratory of StomatologyDepartment of ProsthodonticsSchool of StomatologyThe Fourth Military Medical UniversityXi'anShaanxi710032China
| | - Yu‐Xuan Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Military Stomatology and National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases and Shaanxi Key Laboratory of StomatologyDepartment of ProsthodonticsSchool of StomatologyThe Fourth Military Medical UniversityXi'anShaanxi710032China
| | - Min‐Juan Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Military Stomatology and National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases and Shaanxi Key Laboratory of StomatologyDepartment of ProsthodonticsSchool of StomatologyThe Fourth Military Medical UniversityXi'anShaanxi710032China
| | - Jing Li
- State Key Laboratory of Military Stomatology and National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases and Shaanxi Key Laboratory of StomatologyDepartment of ProsthodonticsSchool of StomatologyThe Fourth Military Medical UniversityXi'anShaanxi710032China
| | - Zi‐Bin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Military Stomatology and National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases and Shaanxi Key Laboratory of StomatologyDepartment of ProsthodonticsSchool of StomatologyThe Fourth Military Medical UniversityXi'anShaanxi710032China
| | - Ji‐Hua Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Military Stomatology and National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases and Shaanxi Key Laboratory of StomatologyDepartment of ProsthodonticsSchool of StomatologyThe Fourth Military Medical UniversityXi'anShaanxi710032China
| | - Franklin R. Tay
- College of Graduate StudiesAugusta UniversityAugustaGA30912USA
| | - Li‐Na Niu
- State Key Laboratory of Military Stomatology and National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases and Shaanxi Key Laboratory of StomatologyDepartment of ProsthodonticsSchool of StomatologyThe Fourth Military Medical UniversityXi'anShaanxi710032China
| | - Kai Jiao
- State Key Laboratory of Military Stomatology and National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases and Shaanxi Key Laboratory of StomatologyDepartment of ProsthodonticsSchool of StomatologyThe Fourth Military Medical UniversityXi'anShaanxi710032China
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9
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Momin A, Bahrampour S, Min HK, Chen X, Wang X, Sun Y, Huang X. Channeling Force in the Brain: Mechanosensitive Ion Channels Choreograph Mechanics and Malignancies. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2021; 42:367-384. [PMID: 33752907 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2021.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Revised: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Force is everywhere. Through cell-intrinsic activities and interactions with the microenvironment, cells generate, transmit, and sense mechanical forces, such as compression, tension, and shear stress. These forces shape the mechanical properties of cells and tissues. Akin to how balanced biochemical signaling safeguards physiological processes, a mechanical optimum is required for homeostasis. The brain constructs a mechanical optimum from its cellular and extracellular constituents. However, in brain cancer, the mechanical properties are disrupted: tumor and nontumoral cells experience dysregulated solid and fluid stress, while tumor tissue develops altered stiffness. Mechanosensitive (MS) ion channels perceive mechanical cues to govern ion flux and cellular signaling. In this review, we describe the mechanical properties of the brain in healthy and cancer states and illustrate MS ion channels as sensors of mechanical cues to regulate malignant growth. Targeting MS ion channels offers disease insights at the interface of cancer, neuroscience, and mechanobiology to reveal therapeutic opportunities in brain tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Momin
- Program in Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ONT, M5G 1X8, Canada; Arthur and Sonia Labatt Brain Tumour Research Centre, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ONT, M5G 1X8, Canada; Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ONT, M5S 3E1, Canada.
| | - Shahrzad Bahrampour
- Program in Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ONT, M5G 1X8, Canada; Arthur and Sonia Labatt Brain Tumour Research Centre, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ONT, M5G 1X8, Canada; Department of Cell and Molecular Biology (CMB), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, 171 77, Sweden
| | - Hyun-Kee Min
- Program in Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ONT, M5G 1X8, Canada; Arthur and Sonia Labatt Brain Tumour Research Centre, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ONT, M5G 1X8, Canada; Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ONT, M5S 3E1, Canada
| | - Xin Chen
- Program in Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ONT, M5G 1X8, Canada; Arthur and Sonia Labatt Brain Tumour Research Centre, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ONT, M5G 1X8, Canada
| | - Xian Wang
- Program in Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ONT, M5G 1X8, Canada; Arthur and Sonia Labatt Brain Tumour Research Centre, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ONT, M5G 1X8, Canada
| | - Yu Sun
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ONT, M5S 3G8, Canada
| | - Xi Huang
- Program in Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ONT, M5G 1X8, Canada; Arthur and Sonia Labatt Brain Tumour Research Centre, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ONT, M5G 1X8, Canada; Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ONT, M5S 3E1, Canada.
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10
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Yang CY, Huang WY, Chen LH, Liang NW, Wang HC, Lu J, Wang X, Wang TW. Neural tissue engineering: the influence of scaffold surface topography and extracellular matrix microenvironment. J Mater Chem B 2021; 9:567-584. [DOI: 10.1039/d0tb01605e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Strategies using surface topography, contact guidance and biomechanical cues in the design of scaffolds as an ECM support for neural tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Yi Yang
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine and Biomimetic Materials
- School of Materials Science and Engineering
- Tsinghua University
- Beijing
- China
| | - Wei-Yuan Huang
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering
- National Tsing Hua University
- Hsinchu
- Taiwan
| | - Liang-Hsin Chen
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering
- National Tsing Hua University
- Hsinchu
- Taiwan
| | - Nai-Wen Liang
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering
- National Tsing Hua University
- Hsinchu
- Taiwan
| | - Huan-Chih Wang
- Division of Neurosurgery
- Department of Surgery
- National Taiwan University Hospital
- Taipei
- Taiwan
| | - Jiaju Lu
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine and Biomimetic Materials
- School of Materials Science and Engineering
- Tsinghua University
- Beijing
- China
| | - Xiumei Wang
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine and Biomimetic Materials
- School of Materials Science and Engineering
- Tsinghua University
- Beijing
- China
| | - Tzu-Wei Wang
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering
- National Tsing Hua University
- Hsinchu
- Taiwan
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11
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Kampanis V, Tolou-Dabbaghian B, Zhou L, Roth W, Puttagunta R. Cyclic Stretch of Either PNS or CNS Located Nerves Can Stimulate Neurite Outgrowth. Cells 2020; 10:cells10010032. [PMID: 33379276 PMCID: PMC7824691 DOI: 10.3390/cells10010032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Revised: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The central nervous system (CNS) does not recover from traumatic axonal injury, but the peripheral nervous system (PNS) does. We hypothesize that this fundamental difference in regenerative capacity may be based upon the absence of stimulatory mechanical forces in the CNS due to the protective rigidity of the vertebral column and skull. We developed a bioreactor to apply low-strain cyclic axonal stretch to adult rat dorsal root ganglia (DRG) connected to either the peripheral or central nerves in an explant model for inducing axonal growth. In response, larger diameter DRG neurons, mechanoreceptors and proprioceptors showed enhanced neurite outgrowth as well as increased Activating Transcription Factor 3 (ATF3).
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasileios Kampanis
- Laboratory for Experimental Neuroregeneration, Spinal Cord Injury Center, Heidelberg University Hospital, 69118 Heidelberg, Germany; (V.K.); (B.T.-D.)
| | - Bahardokht Tolou-Dabbaghian
- Laboratory for Experimental Neuroregeneration, Spinal Cord Injury Center, Heidelberg University Hospital, 69118 Heidelberg, Germany; (V.K.); (B.T.-D.)
| | - Luming Zhou
- Laboratory of NeuroRegeneration and Repair, Hertie Institute for Clinical Brain Research, University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany;
| | - Wolfgang Roth
- Laboratory for Experimental Neurorehabilitation, Heidelberg University Hospital, 69118 Heidelberg, Germany;
| | - Radhika Puttagunta
- Laboratory for Experimental Neuroregeneration, Spinal Cord Injury Center, Heidelberg University Hospital, 69118 Heidelberg, Germany; (V.K.); (B.T.-D.)
- Correspondence:
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12
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Lin J, Li X, Yin J, Qian J. Effect of Cyclic Stretch on Neuron Reorientation and Axon Outgrowth. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2020; 8:597867. [PMID: 33425865 PMCID: PMC7793818 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2020.597867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The directional alignment and outgrowth of neurons is a critical step of nerve regeneration and functional recovery of nerve systems, where neurons are exposed to a complex mechanical environment with subcellular structures such as stress fibers and focal adhesions acting as the key mechanical transducer. In this paper, we investigate the effects of cyclic stretch on neuron reorientation and axon outgrowth with a feasible stretching device that controls stretching amplitude and frequency. Statistical results indicate an evident frequency and amplitude dependence of neuron reorientation, that is, neurons tend to align away from stretch direction when stretching amplitude and frequency are large enough. On the other hand, axon elongation under cyclic stretch is very close to the reference case where neurons are not stretched. A mechanochemical framework is proposed by connecting the evolution of cellular configuration to the microscopic dynamics of subcellular structures, including stress fiber, focal adhesion, and microtubule, yielding theoretical predictions that are consistent with the experimental observations. The theoretical work provides an explanation of the neuron's mechanical response to cyclic stretch, suggesting that the contraction force generated by stress fiber plays an essential role in both neuron reorientation and axon elongation. This combined experimental and theoretical study on stretch-induced neuron reorientation may have potential applications in neurodevelopment and neuron regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji Lin
- Key Laboratory of Soft Machines and Smart Devices of Zhejiang Province, Department of Engineering Mechanics, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaokeng Li
- State Key Laboratory of Fluid Power and Mechatronic Systems, Key Laboratory of 3D Printing Process and Equipment of Zhejiang Province, School of Mechanical Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jun Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Fluid Power and Mechatronic Systems, Key Laboratory of 3D Printing Process and Equipment of Zhejiang Province, School of Mechanical Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jin Qian
- Key Laboratory of Soft Machines and Smart Devices of Zhejiang Province, Department of Engineering Mechanics, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
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13
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Jeong YJ, Kim DS, Kim JY, Oyunbaatar NE, Shanmugasundaram A, Kim ES, Lee DW. On-stage bioreactor platform integrated with nano-patterned and gold-coated PDMS diaphragm for live cell stimulation and imaging. MATERIALS SCIENCE & ENGINEERING. C, MATERIALS FOR BIOLOGICAL APPLICATIONS 2020; 118:111355. [PMID: 33254975 DOI: 10.1016/j.msec.2020.111355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2020] [Revised: 07/03/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Over the years, several in-vitro biosensing platforms have been developed for enhancing the maturation of the cultured cells. However, most of the proposed platforms met with limited success due to its inability for live-cell imaging, complicated fabrication, and not being advantageous from an economic perspective due to a higher price. To overcome the drawbacks of the current state-of-the-art, herein, we developed a next-generation stage-top incubator (STI) incorporated with nano grooves patterned PDMS diaphragm (NGPPD). The proposed device consists of a miniatured STI, the NGPPD functional well plates, and a mechanical stimulator. A thin layer of gold (Au) is deposited on the NGPPD to enhanced myogenic differentiation, cell maturation, and cell-cell interactions. The nano grooves are integrated on the PDMS surface to align the cardiomyocytes in the grooved direction during the culture period. The cardiomyocytes cultivated on the Au-deposited NGPPD are stimulated topographically and mechanically during the cultivation period. The enhanced cardiomyocytes maturation cultured on the Au-deposited NGPPD is experimentally demonstrated using immunofluorescence staining and PCR analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun-Jin Jeong
- MEMS and Nanotechnology Laboratory, School of Mechanical Engineering, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong-Su Kim
- MEMS and Nanotechnology Laboratory, School of Mechanical Engineering, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong Yun Kim
- MEMS and Nanotechnology Laboratory, School of Mechanical Engineering, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, Republic of Korea
| | - Nomin-Erdene Oyunbaatar
- MEMS and Nanotechnology Laboratory, School of Mechanical Engineering, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, Republic of Korea
| | - Arunkumar Shanmugasundaram
- MEMS and Nanotechnology Laboratory, School of Mechanical Engineering, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, Republic of Korea
| | - Eung-Sam Kim
- Department of Biological Sciences, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, Republic of Korea; Center for Next-Generation Sensor Research and Development, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong-Weon Lee
- MEMS and Nanotechnology Laboratory, School of Mechanical Engineering, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, Republic of Korea; Center for Next-Generation Sensor Research and Development, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, Republic of Korea.
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14
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Potekhina Y, Filatova A, Tregubova E, Mokhov D. Mechanosensitivity of Cells and Its Role in the Regulation of Physiological Functions and the Implementation of Physiotherapeutic Effects (Review). Sovrem Tekhnologii Med 2020; 12:77-89. [PMID: 34795996 PMCID: PMC8596276 DOI: 10.17691/stm2020.12.4.10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Regulatory signals in the body are not limited to chemical and electrical ones. There is another type of important signals for cells: those are mechanical signals (coming from the environment or arising from within the body), which have been less known in the literature. The review summarizes new information on the mechanosensitivity of various cells of connective tissue and nervous system. Participation of mechanical stimuli in the regulation of growth, development, differentiation, and functioning of tissues is described. The data focus on bone remodeling, wound healing, neurite growth, and the formation of neural networks. Mechanotransduction, cellular organelles, and mechanosensitive molecules involved in these processes are discussed as well as the role of the extracellular matrix. The importance of mechanical characteristics of cells in the pathogenesis of diseases is highlighted. Finally, the possible role of mechanosensitivity in mediating the physiotherapeutic effects is addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu.P. Potekhina
- Professor, Department of Normal Physiology named after N.Y. Belenkov; Privolzhsky Research Medical University, 10/1 Minin and Pozharsky Square, Nizhny Novgorod, 603005, Russia
| | - A.I. Filatova
- Student, Faculty of Pediatrics; Privolzhsky Research Medical University, 10/1 Minin and Pozharsky Square, Nizhny Novgorod, 603005, Russia
| | - E.S. Tregubova
- Professor, Department of Osteopathy; North-Western State Medical University named after I.I. Mechnikov, 41 Kirochnaya St., Saint Petersburg, 191015, Russia; Associate Professor, Institute of Osteopathy; Saint Petersburg State University, 7/9 Universitetskaya naberezhnaya, Saint Petersburg, 199034, Russia
| | - D.E. Mokhov
- Head of the Department of Osteopathy; North-Western State Medical University named after I.I. Mechnikov, 41 Kirochnaya St., Saint Petersburg, 191015, Russia; Director of the Institute of Osteopathy Saint Petersburg State University, 7/9 Universitetskaya naberezhnaya, Saint Petersburg, 199034, Russia
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15
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Esworthy TJ, Miao S, Lee SJ, Zhou X, Cui H, Zuo YY, Zhang LG. Advanced 4D Bioprinting Technologies for Brain Tissue Modeling and Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SMART AND NANO MATERIALS 2019; 10:177-204. [PMID: 32864037 PMCID: PMC7451241 DOI: 10.1080/19475411.2019.1631899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2018] [Accepted: 06/10/2019] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Although the process by which the cortical tissues of the brain fold has been the subject of considerable study and debate over the past few decades, a single mechanistic description of the phenomenon has yet to be fully accepted. Rather, two competing explanations of cortical folding have arisen in recent years; known as the axonal tension and the differential tangential expansion models. In the present review, these two models are introduced by analyzing the computational, theoretical, materials-based, and cell studies which have yielded them. Then Four-dimensional bioprinting is presented as a powerful technology which can not only be used to test both models of cortical folding de novo, but can also be used to explore the reciprocal effects that folding associated mechanical stresses may have on neural development. Therein, the fabrication of "smart" tissue models which can accurately simulate the in vivo folding process and recapitulate physiologically relevant stresses are introduced. We also provide a general description of both cortical neurobiology as well as the cellular basis of cortical folding. Our discussion also entails an overview of both 3D and 4D bioprinting technologies, as well as a brief commentary on recent advancements in printed central nervous system tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy J Esworthy
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, The George Washington University, Washington DC 20052, USA
| | - Shida Miao
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, The George Washington University, Washington DC 20052, USA
| | - Se-Jun Lee
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, The George Washington University, Washington DC 20052, USA
| | - Xuan Zhou
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, The George Washington University, Washington DC 20052, USA
| | - Haitao Cui
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, The George Washington University, Washington DC 20052, USA
| | - Yi Y Zuo
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA
| | - Lijie Grace Zhang
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, The George Washington University, Washington DC 20052, USA
- Department of Medicine, The George Washington University, Washington DC 20052, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The George Washington University, Washington DC 20052, USA
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, The George Washington University, Washington DC 20052, USA
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16
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Yildirimer L, Zhang Q, Kuang S, Cheung CWJ, Chu KA, He Y, Yang M, Zhao X. Engineering three-dimensional microenvironments towards
in vitro
disease models of the central nervous system. Biofabrication 2019; 11:032003. [DOI: 10.1088/1758-5090/ab17aa] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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17
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Llinares-Benadero C, Borrell V. Deconstructing cortical folding: genetic, cellular and mechanical determinants. Nat Rev Neurosci 2019; 20:161-176. [DOI: 10.1038/s41583-018-0112-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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18
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Garcia KE, Kroenke CD, Bayly PV. Mechanics of cortical folding: stress, growth and stability. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2018; 373:rstb.2017.0321. [PMID: 30249772 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2017.0321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Cortical folding, or gyrification, coincides with several important developmental processes. The folded shape of the human brain allows the cerebral cortex, the thin outer layer of neurons and their associated projections, to attain a large surface area relative to brain volume. Abnormal cortical folding has been associated with severe neurological, cognitive and behavioural disorders, such as epilepsy, autism and schizophrenia. However, despite decades of study, the mechanical forces that lead to cortical folding remain incompletely understood. Leading hypotheses have focused on the roles of (i) tangential growth of the outer cortex, (ii) spatio-temporal patterns in the birth and migration of neurons, and (iii) internal tension in axons. Recent experimental studies have illuminated not only the fundamental cellular and molecular processes underlying cortical development, but also the stress state, mechanical properties and spatio-temporal patterns of growth in the developing brain. The combination of mathematical modelling and physical measurements has allowed researchers to evaluate hypothesized mechanisms of folding, to determine whether each is consistent with physical laws. This review summarizes what physical scientists have learned from models and recent experimental observations, in the context of recent neurobiological discoveries regarding cortical development. Here, we highlight evidence of a combined mechanism, in which spatio-temporal patterns bias the locations of primary folds (i), but tangential growth of the cortical plate induces mechanical instability (ii) to propagate primary and higher-order folds.This article is part of the Theo Murphy meeting issue 'Mechanics of development'.
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Affiliation(s)
- K E Garcia
- Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, Washington University in Saint Louis, Saint Louis, MO, USA.,Engineering, University of Southern Indiana, Evansville, IN, USA
| | - C D Kroenke
- Advanced Imaging Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - P V Bayly
- Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, Washington University in Saint Louis, Saint Louis, MO, USA
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19
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Prevedello L, Michielin F, Balcon M, Savio E, Pavan P, Elvassore N. A Novel Microfluidic Platform for Biomechano-Stimulations on a Chip. Ann Biomed Eng 2018; 47:231-242. [PMID: 30218223 DOI: 10.1007/s10439-018-02121-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2018] [Accepted: 08/20/2018] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Mechanical stress has been proven to be an important factor interfering with many biological functions through mechano-sensitive elements within the cells. Despite the current interest in mechano-transduction, the development of suitable experimental tools is still characterized by the strife to design a compact device that allows high-magnification real-time imaging of the stretched cells, thus enabling to follow the dynamics of cellular response to mechanical stimulations. Here we present a microfluidic multi-layered chip that allows mechanical deformation of adherent cells maintaining a fixed focal plane, while allowing independent control of the soluble microenvironment. The device was optimized with the aid of FEM simulation and fully characterized in terms of mechanical deformation. Different cell lines were exposed to tunable mechanical strain, which results in continuous area deformation up to 20%. Thanks to the coupling of chemical glass etching, 2-dimensional deformation of a thin elastomeric membrane and microfluidic cell culture, the developed device allows a unique combination of cell mechanical stimulation, in line imaging and accurate control of cell culture microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lia Prevedello
- Department of Industrial Engineering (DII), University of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Federica Michielin
- Department of Industrial Engineering (DII), University of Padova, Padua, Italy.,Venetian Institute of Molecular Medicine (VIMM), Padua, Italy
| | - Manuel Balcon
- Department of Industrial Engineering (DII), University of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Enrico Savio
- Department of Industrial Engineering (DII), University of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Piero Pavan
- Department of Industrial Engineering (DII), University of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Nicola Elvassore
- Department of Industrial Engineering (DII), University of Padova, Padua, Italy. .,Venetian Institute of Molecular Medicine (VIMM), Padua, Italy. .,Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK. .,Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies (SIAIS), ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China.
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20
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Acevedo JP, Angelopoulos I, van Noort D, Khoury M. Microtechnology applied to stem cells research and development. Regen Med 2018; 13:233-248. [PMID: 29557299 DOI: 10.2217/rme-2017-0123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Microfabrication and microfluidics contribute to the research of cellular functions of cells and their interaction with their environment. Previously, it has been shown that microfluidics can contribute to the isolation, selection, characterization and migration of cells. This review aims to provide stem cell researchers with a toolkit of microtechnology (mT) instruments for elucidating complex stem cells functions which are challenging to decipher with traditional assays and animal models. These microdevices are able to investigate about the differentiation and niche interaction, stem cells transcriptomics, therapeutic functions and the capture of their secreted microvesicles. In conclusion, microtechnology will allow a more realistic assessment of stem cells properties, driving and accelerating the translation of regenerative medicine approaches to the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Pablo Acevedo
- Laboratory of Nano-Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de Los Andes, Santiago, Chile.,Cells for Cells, Santiago, Chile
| | - Ioannis Angelopoulos
- Laboratory of Nano-Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de Los Andes, Santiago, Chile.,Cells for Cells, Santiago, Chile
| | - Danny van Noort
- Facultad de Ingeniería y Ciencias Aplicadas Universidad de los Andes, Santiago, Chile.,Biotechnology, IFM, Linköping University, Sweden
| | - Maroun Khoury
- Laboratory of Nano-Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de Los Andes, Santiago, Chile.,Cells for Cells, Santiago, Chile.,Consorcio Regenero, Santiago, Chile
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21
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Kamble H, Vadivelu R, Barton M, Shiddiky MJA, Nguyen NT. Pneumatically actuated cell-stretching array platform for engineering cell patterns in vitro. LAB ON A CHIP 2018; 18:765-774. [PMID: 29410989 DOI: 10.1039/c7lc01316g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Cellular response to mechanical stimuli is a well-known phenomenon known as mechanotransduction. It is widely accepted that mechanotransduction plays an important role in cell alignment which is critical for cell homeostasis. Although many approaches have been developed in recent years to study the effect of external mechanical stimuli on cell behaviour, most of them have not explored the ability of mechanical stimuli to engineer cell alignment to obtain patterned cell cultures. This paper introduces a simple, yet effective pneumatically actuated 4 × 2 cell stretching array for concurrently inducing a range of cyclic normal strains onto cell cultures to achieve predefined cell alignment. We utilised a ring-shaped normal strain pattern to demonstrate the growth of in vitro patterned cell cultures with predefined circumferential cellular alignment. Furthermore, to ensure the compatibility of the developed cell stretching platform with general tools and existing protocols, the dimensions of the developed cell-stretching platform follow the standard F-bottom 96-well plate. In this study, we report the principle design, simulation and characterisation of the cell-stretching platform with preliminary observations using fibroblast cells. Our experimental results of cytoskeleton reorganisation such as perpendicular cellular alignment of the cells to the direction of normal strain are consistent with those reported in the literature. After two hours of stretching, the circumferential alignment of fibroblast cells confirms the capability of the developed system to achieve patterned cell culture. The cell-stretching platform reported is potentially a useful tool for drug screening in 2D mechanobiology experiments, tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harshad Kamble
- QLD Micro- and Nanotechnology Centre, Nathan Campus, Griffith University, 170 Kessels Road, Brisbane, QLD 4111, Australia.
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22
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Cei D, Costa J, Gori G, Frediani G, Domenici C, Carpi F, Ahluwalia A. A bioreactor with an electro-responsive elastomeric membrane for mimicking intestinal peristalsis. BIOINSPIRATION & BIOMIMETICS 2016; 12:016001. [PMID: 27918289 DOI: 10.1088/1748-3190/12/1/016001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
This study describes an actuated bioreactor which mimics the pulsatile contractile motion of the intestinal barrier using electro-responsive elastomers as smart materials that undergo deformation upon electrical stimulation. The device consists of an annular dielectric elastomer actuator working as a radial artificial muscle able to rhythmically contract and relax a central cell culture well. The bioreactor maintained up to 4 h of actuation at a frequency of 0.15 Hz and a strain of 8%-10%, to those of the cyclic contraction and relaxation of the small intestine. In vitro tests demonstrated that the device was biocompatible and cell-adhesive for Caco-2 cells, which formed a confluent monolayer following 21 days of culture in the central well. In addition, cellular adhesion and cohesion were maintained after 4 h of continuous cyclic strain. These preliminary results encourage further investigations on the use of dielectric elastomer actuation as a versatile technology that might overcome the limitations of commercially available pneumatic driving systems to obtain bioreactors that can cyclically deform cell cultures in a biomimetic fashion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Cei
- Research Center 'E.Piaggio' and Department of Information Engineering, University of Pisa, Largo L Lazzarino, I-56126 Pisa, Italy
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23
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Kamble H, Barton MJ, Jun M, Park S, Nguyen NT. Cell stretching devices as research tools: engineering and biological considerations. LAB ON A CHIP 2016; 16:3193-203. [PMID: 27440436 DOI: 10.1039/c6lc00607h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Cells within the human body are subjected to continuous, cyclic mechanical strain caused by various organ functions, movement, and growth. Cells are well known to have the ability to sense and respond to mechanical stimuli. This process is referred to as mechanotransduction. A better understanding of mechanotransduction is of great interest to clinicians and scientists alike to improve clinical diagnosis and understanding of medical pathology. However, the complexity involved in in vivo biological systems creates a need for better in vitro technologies, which can closely mimic the cells' microenvironment using induced mechanical strain. This technology gap motivates the development of cell stretching devices for better understanding of the cell response to mechanical stimuli. This review focuses on the engineering and biological considerations for the development of such cell stretching devices. The paper discusses different types of stretching concepts, major design consideration and biological aspects of cell stretching and provides a perspective for future development in this research area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harshad Kamble
- Queensland Micro- and Nanotechnology Centre, Griffith University, Nathan Campus, 170 Kessels Road, QLD 4111, Australia.
| | - Matthew J Barton
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | - Myeongjun Jun
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, Korea
| | - Sungsu Park
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, Korea
| | - Nam-Trung Nguyen
- Queensland Micro- and Nanotechnology Centre, Griffith University, Nathan Campus, 170 Kessels Road, QLD 4111, Australia.
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24
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A novel perspective on neuron study: damaging and promoting effects in different neurons induced by mechanical stress. Biomech Model Mechanobiol 2015; 15:1019-27. [DOI: 10.1007/s10237-015-0743-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2015] [Accepted: 10/29/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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25
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Kilinc D, Blasiak A, Lee GU. Microtechnologies for studying the role of mechanics in axon growth and guidance. Front Cell Neurosci 2015; 9:282. [PMID: 26283918 PMCID: PMC4515553 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2015.00282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2015] [Accepted: 07/10/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The guidance of axons to their proper targets is not only a crucial event in neurodevelopment, but also a potential therapeutic target for neural repair. Axon guidance is mediated by various chemo- and haptotactic cues, as well as the mechanical interactions between the cytoskeleton and the extracellular matrix (ECM). Axonal growth cones, dynamic ends of growing axons, convert external stimuli to biochemical signals, which, in turn, are translated into behavior, e.g., turning or retraction, via cytoskeleton-matrix linkages. Despite the inherent mechanical nature of the problem, the role of mechanics in axon guidance is poorly understood. Recent years has witnessed the application of a range of microtechnologies in neurobiology, from microfluidic circuits to single molecule force spectroscopy. In this mini-review, we describe microtechnologies geared towards dissecting the mechanical aspects of axon guidance, divided into three categories: controlling the growth cone microenvironment, stimulating growth cones with externally applied forces, and measuring forces exerted by the growth cones. A particular emphasis is given to those studies that combine multiple techniques, as dictated by the complexity of the problem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devrim Kilinc
- Bionanosciences Group, School of Chemisty and Chemical Biology, University College Dublin Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Agata Blasiak
- Bionanosciences Group, School of Chemisty and Chemical Biology, University College Dublin Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Gil U Lee
- Bionanosciences Group, School of Chemisty and Chemical Biology, University College Dublin Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
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26
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Pires F, Ferreira Q, Rodrigues CA, Morgado J, Ferreira FC. Neural stem cell differentiation by electrical stimulation using a cross-linked PEDOT substrate: Expanding the use of biocompatible conjugated conductive polymers for neural tissue engineering. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2015; 1850:1158-68. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2015.01.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 157] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2014] [Revised: 01/24/2015] [Accepted: 01/30/2015] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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27
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Static stretch affects neural stem cell differentiation in an extracellular matrix-dependent manner. Sci Rep 2015; 5:8499. [PMID: 25686615 PMCID: PMC4330529 DOI: 10.1038/srep08499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2014] [Accepted: 01/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Neural stem and progenitor cell (NSPC) fate is strongly influenced by mechanotransduction as modulation of substrate stiffness affects lineage choice. Other types of mechanical stimuli, such as stretch (tensile strain), occur during CNS development and trauma, but their consequences for NSPC differentiation have not been reported. We delivered a 10% static equibiaxial stretch to NSPCs and examined effects on differentiation. We found static stretch specifically impacts NSPC differentiation into oligodendrocytes, but not neurons or astrocytes, and this effect is dependent on particular extracellular matrix (ECM)-integrin linkages. Generation of oligodendrocytes from NSPCs was reduced on laminin, an outcome likely mediated by the α6 laminin-binding integrin, whereas similar effects were not observed for NSPCs on fibronectin. Our data demonstrate a direct role for tensile strain in dictating the lineage choice of NSPCs and indicate the dependence of this phenomenon on specific substrate materials, which should be taken into account for the design of biomaterials for NSPC transplantation.
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28
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Wang B, Jedlicka S, Cheng X. Maintenance and neuronal cell differentiation of neural stem cells C17.2 correlated to medium availability sets design criteria in microfluidic systems. PLoS One 2014; 9:e109815. [PMID: 25310508 PMCID: PMC4195690 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0109815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2014] [Accepted: 09/12/2014] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neural stem cells (NSCs) play an important role in developing potential cell-based therapeutics for neurodegenerative disease. Microfluidics has proven a powerful tool in mechanistic studies of NSC differentiation. However, NSCs are prone to differentiate when the nutrients are limited, which occurs unfavorable by fast medium consumption in miniaturized culture environment. For mechanistic studies of NSCs in microfluidics, it is vital that neuronal cell differentiation is triggered by controlled factors only. Thus, we studied the correlation between available cell medium and spontaneous neuronal cell differentiation of C17.2 NSCs in standard culture medium, and proposed the necessary microfluidic design criteria to prevent undesirable cell phenotype changes. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS A series of microchannels with specific geometric parameters were designed to provide different amount of medium to the cells over time. A medium factor (MF, defined as the volume of stem cell culture medium divided by total number of cells at seeding and number of hours between medium replacement) successfully correlated the amount of medium available to each cell averaged over time to neuronal cell differentiation. MF smaller than 8.3×10(4) µm3/cell⋅hour produced significant neuronal cell differentiation marked by cell morphological change and significantly more cells with positive β-tubulin-III and MAP2 staining than the control. When MF was equal or greater than 8.3×10(4) µm3/cell⋅hour, minimal spontaneous neuronal cell differentiation happened relative to the control. MF had minimal relation with the average neurite length. SIGNIFICANCE MFs can be controlled easily to maintain the stem cell status of C17.2 NSCs or to induce spontaneous neuronal cell differentiation in standard stem cell culture medium. This finding is useful in designing microfluidic culture platforms for controllable NSC maintenance and differentiation. This study also offers insight about consumption rate of serum molecules involved in maintaining the stemness of NSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bu Wang
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Sabrina Jedlicka
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- BioEngineering Program, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Xuanhong Cheng
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- BioEngineering Program, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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29
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Abstract
The development of the nervous system has so far, to a large extent, been considered in the context of biochemistry, molecular biology and genetics. However, there is growing evidence that many biological systems also integrate mechanical information when making decisions during differentiation, growth, proliferation, migration and general function. Based on recent findings, I hypothesize that several steps during nervous system development, including neural progenitor cell differentiation, neuronal migration, axon extension and the folding of the brain, rely on or are even driven by mechanical cues and forces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristian Franze
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3DY, UK.
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