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Matsuo K, Nshihara H. Rebuilding insight into the pathophysiology of Alzheimer's disease through new blood-brain barrier models. Neural Regen Res 2024; 19:1954-1960. [PMID: 38227521 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.390978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024] Open
Abstract
The blood-brain barrier is a unique function of the microvasculature in the brain parenchyma that maintains homeostasis in the central nervous system. Blood-brain barrier breakdown is a common pathology in various neurological diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease, stroke, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson's disease. Traditionally, it has been considered a consequence of neuroinflammation or neurodegeneration, but recent advanced imaging techniques and detailed studies in animal models show that blood-brain barrier breakdown occurs early in the disease process and may precede neuronal loss. Thus, the blood-brain barrier is attractive as a potential therapeutic target for neurological diseases that lack effective therapeutics. To elucidate the molecular mechanism underlying blood-brain barrier breakdown and translate them into therapeutic strategies for neurological diseases, there is a growing demand for experimental models of human origin that allow for functional assessments. Recently, several human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived blood-brain barrier models have been established and various in vitro blood-brain barrier models using microdevices have been proposed. Especially in the Alzheimer's disease field, the human evidence for blood-brain barrier dysfunction has been demonstrated and human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived blood-brain barrier models have suggested the putative molecular mechanisms of pathological blood-brain barrier. In this review, we summarize recent evidence of blood-brain barrier dysfunction in Alzheimer's disease from pathological analyses, imaging studies, animal models, and stem cell sources. Additionally, we discuss the potential future directions for blood-brain barrier research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kinya Matsuo
- Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Yamaguchi, Japan
| | - Hideaki Nshihara
- Department of Neurotherapeutics, Yamaguchi University, Ube, Japan
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2
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Cui A, Patel R, Bosco P, Akcan U, Richters E, Delgado PB, Agalliu D, Sproul AA. Generation of hiPSC-derived brain microvascular endothelial cells using a combination of directed differentiation and transcriptional reprogramming strategies. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.04.03.588012. [PMID: 38903080 PMCID: PMC11188081 DOI: 10.1101/2024.04.03.588012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
The blood-brain barrier (BBB), formed by specialized brain microvascular endothelial cells (BMECs), regulates brain function in health and disease. In vitro modeling of the human BBB is limited by the lack of robust hiPSC protocols to generate BMECs. Here, we report generation, transcriptomic and functional characterization of reprogrammed BMECs (rBMECs) by combining hiPSC differentiation into BBB-primed endothelial cells and reprogramming with two BBB transcription factors FOXF2 and ZIC3. rBMECs express a subset of the BBB gene repertoire including tight junctions and transporters, exhibit stronger paracellular barrier properties, lower caveolar-mediated transcytosis, and similar p-Glycoprotein activity compared to primary HBMECs. They can acquire an inflammatory phenotype when treated with oligomeric Aβ42. rBMECs integrate with hiPSC-derived pericytes and astrocytes to form a 3D neurovascular system using the MIMETAS microfluidics platform. This novel 3D system resembles the in vivo BBB at structural and functional levels to enable investigation of pathogenic mechanisms of neurological diseases.
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Pires CL, Moreno MJ. Improving the Accuracy of Permeability Data to Gain Predictive Power: Assessing Sources of Variability in Assays Using Cell Monolayers. MEMBRANES 2024; 14:157. [PMID: 39057665 PMCID: PMC11278619 DOI: 10.3390/membranes14070157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2024] [Revised: 07/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024]
Abstract
The ability to predict the rate of permeation of new compounds across biological membranes is of high importance for their success as drugs, as it determines their efficacy, pharmacokinetics, and safety profile. In vitro permeability assays using Caco-2 monolayers are commonly employed to assess permeability across the intestinal epithelium, with an extensive number of apparent permeability coefficient (Papp) values available in the literature and a significant fraction collected in databases. The compilation of these Papp values for large datasets allows for the application of artificial intelligence tools for establishing quantitative structure-permeability relationships (QSPRs) to predict the permeability of new compounds from their structural properties. One of the main challenges that hinders the development of accurate predictions is the existence of multiple Papp values for the same compound, mostly caused by differences in the experimental protocols employed. This review addresses the magnitude of the variability within and between laboratories to interpret its impact on QSPR modelling, systematically and quantitatively assessing the most common sources of variability. This review emphasizes the importance of compiling consistent Papp data and suggests strategies that may be used to obtain such data, contributing to the establishment of robust QSPRs with enhanced predictive power.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristiana L. Pires
- Coimbra Chemistry Center—Institute of Molecular Sciences (CQC-IMS), University of Coimbra, 3004-535 Coimbra, Portugal
- Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Coimbra, 3004-535 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria João Moreno
- Coimbra Chemistry Center—Institute of Molecular Sciences (CQC-IMS), University of Coimbra, 3004-535 Coimbra, Portugal
- Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Coimbra, 3004-535 Coimbra, Portugal
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4
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Nwokoye PN, Abilez OJ. Blood vessels in a dish: the evolution, challenges, and potential of vascularized tissues and organoids. Front Cardiovasc Med 2024; 11:1336910. [PMID: 38938652 PMCID: PMC11210405 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2024.1336910] [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: 11/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Vascular pathologies are prevalent in a broad spectrum of diseases, necessitating a deeper understanding of vascular biology, particularly in overcoming the oxygen and nutrient diffusion limit in tissue constructs. The evolution of vascularized tissues signifies a convergence of multiple scientific disciplines, encompassing the differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) into vascular cells, the development of advanced three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting techniques, and the refinement of bioinks. These technologies are instrumental in creating intricate vascular networks essential for tissue viability, especially in thick, complex constructs. This review provides broad perspectives on the past, current state, and advancements in key areas, including the differentiation of hPSCs into specific vascular lineages, the potential and challenges of 3D bioprinting methods, and the role of innovative bioinks mimicking the native extracellular matrix. We also explore the integration of biophysical cues in vascularized tissues in vitro, highlighting their importance in stimulating vessel maturation and functionality. In this review, we aim to synthesize these diverse yet interconnected domains, offering a broad, multidisciplinary perspective on tissue vascularization. Advancements in this field will help address the global organ shortage and transform patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter N. Nwokoye
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Oscar J. Abilez
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States
- Division of Pediatric CT Surgery, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States
- Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States
- Maternal and Child Health Research Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States
- Bio-X Program, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States
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5
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Porkoláb G, Mészáros M, Szecskó A, Vigh JP, Walter FR, Figueiredo R, Kálomista I, Hoyk Z, Vizsnyiczai G, Gróf I, Jan JS, Gosselet F, Pirity MK, Vastag M, Hudson N, Campbell M, Veszelka S, Deli MA. Synergistic induction of blood-brain barrier properties. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2316006121. [PMID: 38748577 PMCID: PMC11126970 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2316006121] [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: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Blood-brain barrier (BBB) models derived from human stem cells are powerful tools to improve our understanding of cerebrovascular diseases and to facilitate drug development for the human brain. Yet providing stem cell-derived endothelial cells with the right signaling cues to acquire BBB characteristics while also retaining their vascular identity remains challenging. Here, we show that the simultaneous activation of cyclic AMP and Wnt/β-catenin signaling and inhibition of the TGF-β pathway in endothelial cells robustly induce BBB properties in vitro. To target this interaction, we present a small-molecule cocktail named cARLA, which synergistically enhances barrier tightness in a range of BBB models across species. Mechanistically, we reveal that the three pathways converge on Wnt/β-catenin signaling to mediate the effect of cARLA via the tight junction protein claudin-5. We demonstrate that cARLA shifts the gene expressional profile of human stem cell-derived endothelial cells toward the in vivo brain endothelial signature, with a higher glycocalyx density and efflux pump activity, lower rates of endocytosis, and a characteristic endothelial response to proinflammatory cytokines. Finally, we illustrate how cARLA can improve the predictive value of human BBB models regarding the brain penetration of drugs and targeted nanoparticles. Due to its synergistic effect, high reproducibility, and ease of use, cARLA has the potential to advance drug development for the human brain by improving BBB models across laboratories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gergő Porkoláb
- Institute of Biophysics, Biological Research Centre, Hungarian Research Network, SzegedH-6726, Hungary
- Doctoral School of Biology, University of Szeged, SzegedH-6720, Hungary
| | - Mária Mészáros
- Institute of Biophysics, Biological Research Centre, Hungarian Research Network, SzegedH-6726, Hungary
| | - Anikó Szecskó
- Institute of Biophysics, Biological Research Centre, Hungarian Research Network, SzegedH-6726, Hungary
- Doctoral School of Biology, University of Szeged, SzegedH-6720, Hungary
| | - Judit P. Vigh
- Institute of Biophysics, Biological Research Centre, Hungarian Research Network, SzegedH-6726, Hungary
- Doctoral School of Biology, University of Szeged, SzegedH-6720, Hungary
| | - Fruzsina R. Walter
- Institute of Biophysics, Biological Research Centre, Hungarian Research Network, SzegedH-6726, Hungary
| | | | - Ildikó Kálomista
- In Vitro Metabolism Laboratory, Gedeon Richter, BudapestH-1103, Hungary
| | - Zsófia Hoyk
- Institute of Biophysics, Biological Research Centre, Hungarian Research Network, SzegedH-6726, Hungary
| | - Gaszton Vizsnyiczai
- Institute of Biophysics, Biological Research Centre, Hungarian Research Network, SzegedH-6726, Hungary
| | - Ilona Gróf
- Institute of Biophysics, Biological Research Centre, Hungarian Research Network, SzegedH-6726, Hungary
| | - Jeng-Shiung Jan
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan70101, Taiwan
| | - Fabien Gosselet
- Laboratoire de la Barriére Hémato-Encéphalique, Université d’Artois, Lens62307, France
| | - Melinda K. Pirity
- Institute of Genetics, Biological Research Centre, Hungarian Research Network, SzegedH-6726, Hungary
| | - Monika Vastag
- In Vitro Metabolism Laboratory, Gedeon Richter, BudapestH-1103, Hungary
| | - Natalie Hudson
- Smurfit Institute of Genetics, Trinity College Dublin, DublinD02 VF25, Ireland
| | - Matthew Campbell
- Smurfit Institute of Genetics, Trinity College Dublin, DublinD02 VF25, Ireland
| | - Szilvia Veszelka
- Institute of Biophysics, Biological Research Centre, Hungarian Research Network, SzegedH-6726, Hungary
| | - Mária A. Deli
- Institute of Biophysics, Biological Research Centre, Hungarian Research Network, SzegedH-6726, Hungary
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6
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Deli MA, Porkoláb G, Kincses A, Mészáros M, Szecskó A, Kocsis AE, Vigh JP, Valkai S, Veszelka S, Walter FR, Dér A. Lab-on-a-chip models of the blood-brain barrier: evolution, problems, perspectives. LAB ON A CHIP 2024; 24:1030-1063. [PMID: 38353254 DOI: 10.1039/d3lc00996c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
A great progress has been made in the development and use of lab-on-a-chip devices to model and study the blood-brain barrier (BBB) in the last decade. We present the main types of BBB-on-chip models and their use for the investigation of BBB physiology, drug and nanoparticle transport, toxicology and pathology. The selection of the appropriate cell types to be integrated into BBB-on-chip devices is discussed, as this greatly impacts the physiological relevance and translatability of findings. We identify knowledge gaps, neglected engineering and cell biological aspects and point out problems and contradictions in the literature of BBB-on-chip models, and suggest areas for further studies to progress this highly interdisciplinary field. BBB-on-chip models have an exceptional potential as predictive tools and alternatives of animal experiments in basic and preclinical research. To exploit the full potential of this technique expertise from materials science, bioengineering as well as stem cell and vascular/BBB biology is necessary. There is a need for better integration of these diverse disciplines that can only be achieved by setting clear parameters for characterizing both the chip and the BBB model parts technically and functionally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mária A Deli
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Institute of Biophysics, Szeged, Hungary.
| | - Gergő Porkoláb
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Institute of Biophysics, Szeged, Hungary.
- Doctoral School of Biology, University of Szeged, Hungary
| | - András Kincses
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Institute of Biophysics, Szeged, Hungary.
| | - Mária Mészáros
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Institute of Biophysics, Szeged, Hungary.
| | - Anikó Szecskó
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Institute of Biophysics, Szeged, Hungary.
- Doctoral School of Biology, University of Szeged, Hungary
| | - Anna E Kocsis
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Institute of Biophysics, Szeged, Hungary.
| | - Judit P Vigh
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Institute of Biophysics, Szeged, Hungary.
- Doctoral School of Biology, University of Szeged, Hungary
| | - Sándor Valkai
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Institute of Biophysics, Szeged, Hungary.
| | - Szilvia Veszelka
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Institute of Biophysics, Szeged, Hungary.
| | - Fruzsina R Walter
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Institute of Biophysics, Szeged, Hungary.
| | - András Dér
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Institute of Biophysics, Szeged, Hungary.
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Vollmuth N, Sin J, Kim BJ. Host-microbe interactions at the blood-brain barrier through the lens of induced pluripotent stem cell-derived brain-like endothelial cells. mBio 2024; 15:e0286223. [PMID: 38193670 PMCID: PMC10865987 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.02862-23] [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] [Indexed: 01/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Microbe-induced meningoencephalitis/meningitis is a life-threatening infection of the central nervous system (CNS) that occurs when pathogens are able to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and gain access to the CNS. The BBB consists of highly specialized brain endothelial cells that exhibit specific properties to allow tight regulation of CNS homeostasis and prevent pathogen crossing. However, during meningoencephalitis/meningitis, the BBB fails to protect the CNS. Modeling the BBB remains a challenge due to the specialized characteristics of these cells. In this review, we cover the induced pluripotent stem cell-derived, brain-like endothelial cell model during host-pathogen interaction, highlighting the strengths and recent work on various pathogens known to interact with the BBB. As stem cell technologies are becoming more prominent, the stem cell-derived, brain-like endothelial cell model has been able to reveal new insights in vitro, which remain challenging with other in vitro cell-based models consisting of primary human brain endothelial cells and immortalized human brain endothelial cell lines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadine Vollmuth
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA
| | - Jon Sin
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA
| | - Brandon J. Kim
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA
- Department of Microbiology, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Center for Convergent Biosciences and Medicine, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA
- Alabama Life Research Institute, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA
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8
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Jorgensen C, Ulmschneider MB, Searson PC. Modeling Substrate Entry into the P-Glycoprotein Efflux Pump at the Blood-Brain Barrier. J Med Chem 2023; 66:16615-16627. [PMID: 38097510 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c01069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
We report molecular dynamics simulations of rhodamine entry into the central binding cavity of P-gp in the inward open conformation. Rhodamine can enter the inner volume via passive transport across the luminal membrane or lateral diffusion in the lipid bilayer. Entry into the inner volume is determined by the aperture angle at the apex of the protein, with a critical angle of 27° for rhodamine. The central binding cavity has an aqueous phase with a few lipids, which significantly reduces substrate diffusion. Within the central binding cavity, we identified regions with relatively weak binding, suggesting that the combination of reduced mobility and weak substrate binding confines rhodamine to enable the completion of the efflux cycle. Tariquidar, a P-gp inhibitor, aggregates at the lower arms of the P-gp, suggesting that inhibition involves steric hindrance of entry into the inner volume and/or steric hindrance of access of ATP to the nucleotide-binding domains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Jorgensen
- Institute for NanoBioTechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
| | | | - Peter C Searson
- Institute for NanoBioTechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, United States
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9
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Lyck R, Nishihara H, Aydin S, Soldati S, Engelhardt B. Modeling Brain Vasculature Immune Interactions In Vitro. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2023; 13:a041185. [PMID: 36617644 PMCID: PMC10513158 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a041185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The endothelial blood-brain barrier (BBB) protects central nervous system (CNS) neurons from the changeable milieu of the bloodstream by strictly controlling the movement of molecules and immune cells between the blood and the CNS. Immune cell migration across the vascular wall is a multistep process regulated by the sequential interaction of different signaling and adhesion molecules on the endothelium and the immune cells. Accounting for its unique barrier properties and trafficking molecule expression profile, particular adaptions in immune cell migration across the BBB have been observed. Thus, in vitro models of the BBB are desirable to explore the precise cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in immune cell trafficking across the BBB. The challenge to overcome is that barrier properties of brain microvascular endothelial cells are not intrinsic and readily lost in culture. With a focus on human in vitro BBB models, we here discuss the suitability of available in vitro models for the BBB for exploring the specific mechanisms involved in immune cell trafficking across the BBB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Lyck
- Theodor Kocher Institute, University of Bern, CH 3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Hideaki Nishihara
- Theodor Kocher Institute, University of Bern, CH 3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Sidar Aydin
- Theodor Kocher Institute, University of Bern, CH 3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Sasha Soldati
- Theodor Kocher Institute, University of Bern, CH 3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Britta Engelhardt
- Theodor Kocher Institute, University of Bern, CH 3012 Bern, Switzerland
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Khamis ZI, Sarker DB, Xue Y, Al-Akkary N, James VD, Zeng C, Li Y, Sang QXA. Modeling Human Brain Tumors and the Microenvironment Using Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15041253. [PMID: 36831595 PMCID: PMC9954701 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15041253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Brain cancer is a group of diverse and rapidly growing malignancies that originate in the central nervous system (CNS) and have a poor prognosis. The complexity of brain structure and function makes brain cancer modeling extremely difficult, limiting pathological studies and therapeutic developments. Advancements in human pluripotent stem cell technology have opened a window of opportunity for brain cancer modeling, providing a wealth of customizable methods to simulate the disease in vitro. This is achieved with the advent of genome editing and genetic engineering technologies that can simulate germline and somatic mutations found in human brain tumors. This review investigates induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-based approaches to model human brain cancer. The applications of iPSCs as renewable sources of individual brain cell types, brain organoids, blood-brain barrier (BBB), and brain tumor models are discussed. The brain tumor models reviewed are glioblastoma and medulloblastoma. The iPSC-derived isogenic cells and three-dimensional (3D) brain cancer organoids combined with patient-derived xenografts will enhance future compound screening and drug development for these deadly human brain cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahraa I. Khamis
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA
- Department of Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32310, USA
- High-Performance Materials Institute, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32310, USA
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology and Molecular Immunology, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences-I, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Drishty B. Sarker
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA
| | - Yu Xue
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA
| | - Nancy Al-Akkary
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology and Molecular Immunology, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences-I, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Viviana D. James
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA
| | - Changchun Zeng
- Department of Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32310, USA
- High-Performance Materials Institute, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32310, USA
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA
- Institute of Molecular Biophysics, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA
| | - Qing-Xiang Amy Sang
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA
- Institute of Molecular Biophysics, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-850-644-8683; Fax: +1-850-644-8281
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11
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Zhang H, Yamaguchi T, Kawabata K. The maturation of iPS cell-derived brain microvascular endothelial cells by inducible-SOX18 expression. Fluids Barriers CNS 2023; 20:10. [PMID: 36732767 PMCID: PMC9893670 DOI: 10.1186/s12987-023-00408-5] [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: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Brain microvascular endothelial cells (BMECs) play a major role in the blood-brain barrier (BBB), and are critical for establishing an in vitro BBB model. Currently, iPSC-derived BMECs (iBMECs) have been used to construct in vitro BBB models with physiological barrier functions, such as high trans-endothelial electrical resistance (TEER) and expression of transporter proteins. However, the relatively low p-glycoprotein (P-gp) level and a decrease in the efflux ratio of its substrates in iBMECs suggest their immature nature. Therefore, more mature iBMECs by optimizing the differentiation induction protocol is beneficial for establishing a more reliable in vitro BBB model for studying central nervous system (CNS) drug transport. METHODS To identify human brain endothelial cell fate-inducing factors, HUVEC was transfected with Zic3A-, Zic3B-, and Sox18-expressing lentivirus vector. Since SOX18 was found to induce BMEC properties, we used a Dox-inducible Tet-on system to express SOX18 during iBMEC differentiation and explored the impact of SOX18 expression on iBMEC maturation. RESULTS Sox18-mediated iBMECs achieved a higher TEER value than normal iBMECs (> 3000 Ω cm2). From day 6 to day 10 (d6-10 group), the iBMECs with SOX18 expression expressed a series of tight junction markers and showed upregulation of Mfsd2a, a specific marker of the BBB. The d6-10 group also expressed SLC2A1/Glut1 at levels as high as normal iBMECs, and upregulated ABCB1/P-gp and ABCC1/MRP1 expression. Moreover, Sox18-mediated iBMECs showed higher viability than normal iBMECs after puromycin treatment, indicating that SOX18 expression could upregulate P-gp activity in iBMECs. CONCLUSIONS Inducible SOX18 expression in iBMECs gained BBB phenotypes, including high TEER values and upregulation of tight junction-related genes, endothelial cell (EC) markers, BBB transporters, and higher cell viability after treatment with puromycin. Collectively, we provide a differentiation method for the maturation of human iPS cell-derived BMECs with SOX18 expression, describing its contribution to form an in vitro BBB model for CNS drug transport studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyan Zhang
- grid.136593.b0000 0004 0373 3971Laboratory of Biomedical Innovation, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, 1-6 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871 Japan ,grid.482562.fLaboratory of Cell Model for Drug Discovery, National Institutes of Biomedical Innovation, Health, and Nutrition, Saito-Asagi 7-6-8, Ibaraki, Osaka 567-0085 Japan
| | - Tomoko Yamaguchi
- grid.482562.fLaboratory of Cell Model for Drug Discovery, National Institutes of Biomedical Innovation, Health, and Nutrition, Saito-Asagi 7-6-8, Ibaraki, Osaka 567-0085 Japan
| | - Kenji Kawabata
- grid.136593.b0000 0004 0373 3971Laboratory of Biomedical Innovation, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, 1-6 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871 Japan ,grid.482562.fLaboratory of Cell Model for Drug Discovery, National Institutes of Biomedical Innovation, Health, and Nutrition, Saito-Asagi 7-6-8, Ibaraki, Osaka 567-0085 Japan
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12
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Girard SD, Julien-Gau I, Molino Y, Combes BF, Greetham L, Khrestchatisky M, Nivet E. High and low permeability of human pluripotent stem cell-derived blood-brain barrier models depend on epithelial or endothelial features. FASEB J 2023; 37:e22770. [PMID: 36688807 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202201422r] [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: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
The search for reliable human blood-brain barrier (BBB) models represents a challenge for the development/testing of strategies aiming to enhance brain delivery of drugs. Human-induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) have raised hopes in the development of predictive BBB models. Differentiating strategies are thus required to generate endothelial cells (ECs), a major component of the BBB. Several hiPSC-based protocols have reported the generation of in vitro models with significant differences in barrier properties. We studied in depth the properties of iPSCs byproducts from two protocols that have been established to yield these in vitro barrier models. Our analysis/study reveals that iPSCs derivatives endowed with EC features yield high permeability models while the cells that exhibit outstanding barrier properties show principally epithelial cell-like (EpC) features. We found that models containing EpC-like cells express tight junction proteins, transporters/efflux pumps and display a high functional tightness with very low permeability, which are features commonly shared between BBB and epithelial barriers. Our study demonstrates that hiPSC-based BBB models need extensive characterization beforehand and that a reliable human BBB model containing EC-like cells and displaying low permeability is still needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stéphane D Girard
- Institute of NeuroPhysiopathology, INP, CNRS, Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France
- Faculty of Medicine, VECT-HORUS SAS, Marseille, France
| | | | - Yves Molino
- Faculty of Medicine, VECT-HORUS SAS, Marseille, France
| | | | - Louise Greetham
- Institute of NeuroPhysiopathology, INP, CNRS, Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France
| | - Michel Khrestchatisky
- Institute of NeuroPhysiopathology, INP, CNRS, Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France
| | - Emmanuel Nivet
- Institute of NeuroPhysiopathology, INP, CNRS, Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France
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13
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Choi JW, Youn J, Kim DS, Park TE. Human iPS-derived blood-brain barrier model exhibiting enhanced barrier properties empowered by engineered basement membrane. Biomaterials 2023; 293:121983. [PMID: 36610323 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2022.121983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2022] [Revised: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The basement membrane (BM) of the blood-brain barrier (BBB), a thin extracellular matrix (ECM) sheet underneath the brain microvascular endothelial cells (BMECs), plays crucial roles in regulating the unique physiological barrier function of the BBB, which represents a major obstacle for brain drug delivery. Owing to the difficulty in mimicking the unique biophysical and chemical features of BM in in vitro systems, current in vitro BBB models have suffered from poor physiological relevance. Here, we describe a highly ameliorated human BBB model accomplished by an ultra-thin ECM hydrogel-based engineered basement membrane (nEBM), which is supported by a sparse electrospun nanofiber scaffold that offers in vivo BM-like microenvironment to BMECs. BBB model reconstituted on a nEBM recapitulates the physical barrier function of the in vivo human BBB through ECM mechano-response to physiological relevant stiffness (∼500 kPa) and exhibits high efflux pump activity. These features of the proposed BBB model enable modelling of ischemic stroke, reproducing the dynamic changes of BBB, immune cell infiltration, and drug response. Therefore, the proposed BBB model represents a powerful tool for predicting the BBB permeation of drugs and developing therapeutic strategies for brain diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeong-Won Choi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Information and Biotechnology, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), Ulsan, 44919, Republic of Korea
| | - Jaeseung Youn
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang, 37673, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong Sung Kim
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang, 37673, Republic of Korea; Department of Chemical Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang, 37673, Republic of Korea; Institute for Convergence Research and Education in Advanced Technology, Yonsei University, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea.
| | - Tae-Eun Park
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Information and Biotechnology, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), Ulsan, 44919, Republic of Korea.
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14
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Interaction of a Homologous Series of Amphiphiles with P-glycoprotein in a Membrane Environment-Contributions of Polar and Non-Polar Interactions. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15010174. [PMID: 36678803 PMCID: PMC9862096 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15010174] [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: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The transport of drugs by efflux transporters in biomembranes limits their bioavailability and is a major determinant of drug resistance development by cancer cells and pathogens. A large number of chemically dissimilar drugs are transported, and despite extensive studies, the molecular determinants of substrate specificity are still not well understood. In this work, we explore the role of polar and non-polar interactions on the interaction of a homologous series of fluorescent amphiphiles with the efflux transporter P-glycoprotein. The interaction of the amphiphiles with P-glycoprotein is evaluated through effects on ATPase activity, efficiency in inhibition of [125I]-IAAP binding, and partition to the whole native membranes containing the transporter. The results were complemented with partition to model membranes with a representative lipid composition, and details on the interactions established were obtained from MD simulations. We show that when the total concentration of amphiphile is considered, the binding parameters obtained are apparent and do not reflect the affinity for P-gp. A new formalism is proposed that includes sequestration of the amphiphiles in the lipid bilayer and the possible binding of several molecules in P-gp's substrate-binding pocket. The intrinsic binding affinity thus obtained is essentially independent of amphiphile hydrophobicity, highlighting the importance of polar interactions. An increase in the lipophilicity and amphiphilicity led to a more efficient association with the lipid bilayer, which maintains the non-polar groups of the amphiphiles in the bilayer, while the polar groups interact with P-gp's binding pocket. The presence of several amphiphiles in this orientation is proposed as a mechanism for inhibition of P-pg function.
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15
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Nishihara H, Perriot S, Gastfriend BD, Steinfort M, Cibien C, Soldati S, Matsuo K, Guimbal S, Mathias A, Palecek SP, Shusta EV, Pasquier RD, Engelhardt B. Intrinsic blood-brain barrier dysfunction contributes to multiple sclerosis pathogenesis. Brain 2022; 145:4334-4348. [PMID: 35085379 PMCID: PMC10200307 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awac019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2021] [Revised: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 07/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Blood-brain barrier (BBB) breakdown and immune cell infiltration into the CNS are early hallmarks of multiple sclerosis (MS). The mechanisms leading to BBB dysfunction are incompletely understood and generally thought to be a consequence of neuroinflammation. Here, we have challenged this view and asked if intrinsic alterations in the BBB of MS patients contribute to MS pathogenesis. To this end, we made use of human induced pluripotent stem cells derived from healthy controls and MS patients and differentiated them into brain microvascular endothelial cell (BMEC)-like cells as in vitro model of the BBB. MS-derived BMEC-like cells showed impaired junctional integrity, barrier properties and efflux pump activity when compared to healthy controls. Also, MS-derived BMEC-like cells displayed an inflammatory phenotype with increased adhesion molecule expression and immune cell interactions. Activation of Wnt/β-catenin signalling in MS-derived endothelial progenitor cells enhanced barrier characteristics and reduced the inflammatory phenotype. Our study provides evidence for an intrinsic impairment of BBB function in MS patients that can be modelled in vitro. Human iPSC-derived BMEC-like cells are thus suitable to explore the molecular underpinnings of BBB dysfunction in MS and will assist in the identification of potential novel therapeutic targets for BBB stabilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hideaki Nishihara
- Theodor Kocher Institute, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Sylvain Perriot
- Laboratory of Neuroimmunology, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Benjamin D Gastfriend
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Marel Steinfort
- Theodor Kocher Institute, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Celine Cibien
- Theodor Kocher Institute, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Sasha Soldati
- Theodor Kocher Institute, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Kinya Matsuo
- Theodor Kocher Institute, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Sarah Guimbal
- Theodor Kocher Institute, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Amandine Mathias
- Laboratory of Neuroimmunology, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Sean P Palecek
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Eric V Shusta
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Renaud Du Pasquier
- Laboratory of Neuroimmunology, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Britta Engelhardt
- Theodor Kocher Institute, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
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16
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Human mini-blood-brain barrier models for biomedical neuroscience research: a review. Biomater Res 2022; 26:82. [PMID: 36527159 PMCID: PMC9756735 DOI: 10.1186/s40824-022-00332-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The human blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a unique multicellular structure that is in critical demand for fundamental neuroscience studies and therapeutic evaluation. Despite substantial achievements in creating in vitro human BBB platforms, challenges in generating specifics of physiopathological relevance are viewed as impediments to the establishment of in vitro models. In this review, we provide insight into the development and deployment of in vitro BBB models that allow investigation of the physiology and pathology of neurological therapeutic avenues. First, we highlight the critical components, including cell sources, biomaterial glue collections, and engineering techniques to reconstruct a miniaturized human BBB. Second, we describe recent breakthroughs in human mini-BBBs for investigating biological mechanisms in neurology. Finally, we discuss the application of human mini-BBBs to medical approaches. This review provides strategies for understanding neurological diseases, a validation model for drug discovery, and a potential approach for generating personalized medicine.
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17
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Aoki H, Yamashita M, Hashita T, Iwao T, Aoyama M, Matsunaga T. Generation of Brain Microvascular Endothelial-like Cells from Human iPS Cell-Derived Endothelial Progenitor Cells Using TGF-β Receptor Inhibitor, Laminin 511 Fragment, and Neuronal Cell Culture Supplements. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14122697. [PMID: 36559191 PMCID: PMC9785586 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14122697] [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: 11/04/2022] [Revised: 11/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain microvascular endothelial cells (BMECs) constitute the blood-brain barrier (BBB), which prevents the transfer of substances into the brain. Recently, in vitro BBB models using human-induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cell-derived brain microvascular endothelial-like cells (iBMELCs) have been created. However, it is suggested that iBMELCs differentiated by the existing methods are different from the BMECs that occur in vivo. This study aimed to establish iBMELCs generated via human iPS cell-derived endothelial progenitor cells (iEPCs) (E-iBMELCs). Expanded and cryopreserved iEPCs were thawed and differentiated into mature endothelial cells under various conditions. Intercellular barriers were significantly enhanced in E-iBMELCs using a B-27 supplement, transforming growth factor-β receptor inhibitor, and laminin 511 fragment. Expression of the endothelial cell markers was higher in the E-iBMELCs generated in this study compared with conventional methods. In addition, E-iBMELCs expressed P-glycoprotein. E-iBMELCs developed in this study will significantly contribute to drug discovery for neurodegenerative diseases and might elucidate the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases associated with BBB disruption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiromasa Aoki
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagoya City University, Nagoya 467-8603, Japan
- Department of Pathobiology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagoya City University, Nagoya 467-8603, Japan
| | - Misaki Yamashita
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagoya City University, Nagoya 467-8603, Japan
| | - Tadahiro Hashita
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagoya City University, Nagoya 467-8603, Japan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-52-836-3441; Fax: +81-52-836-3792
| | - Takahiro Iwao
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagoya City University, Nagoya 467-8603, Japan
| | - Mineyoshi Aoyama
- Department of Pathobiology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagoya City University, Nagoya 467-8603, Japan
| | - Tamihide Matsunaga
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagoya City University, Nagoya 467-8603, Japan
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18
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Petrosyan A, Montali F, Peloso A, Citro A, Byers LN, La Pointe C, Suleiman M, Marchetti A, Mcneill EP, Speer AL, Ng WH, Ren X, Bussolati B, Perin L, Di Nardo P, Cardinale V, Duisit J, Monetti AR, Savino JR, Asthana A, Orlando G. Regenerative medicine technologies applied to transplant medicine.an update. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:1015628. [PMID: 36263358 PMCID: PMC9576214 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.1015628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Regenerative medicine (RM) is changing how we think and practice transplant medicine. In regenerative medicine, the aim is to develop and employ methods to regenerate, restore or replace damaged/diseased tissues or organs. Regenerative medicine investigates using tools such as novel technologies or techniques, extracellular vesicles, cell-based therapies, and tissue-engineered constructs to design effective patient-specific treatments. This review illustrates current advancements in regenerative medicine that may pertain to transplant medicine. We highlight progress made and various tools designed and employed specifically for each tissue or organ, such as the kidney, heart, liver, lung, vasculature, gastrointestinal tract, and pancreas. By combing both fields of transplant and regenerative medicine, we can harbor a successful collaboration that would be beneficial and efficacious for the repair and design of de novo engineered whole organs for transplantations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Astgik Petrosyan
- GOFARR Laboratory for Organ Regenerative Research and Cell Therapeutics in Urology, Saban Research Institute, Division of Urology, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Filippo Montali
- Department of General Surgery, di Vaio Hospital, Fidenza, Italy
| | - Andrea Peloso
- Visceral Surgery Division, University Hospitals of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Antonio Citro
- San Raffaele Diabetes Research Institute, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Lori N. Byers
- Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston Salem, NC, United States
| | | | - Mara Suleiman
- Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston Salem, NC, United States
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Alice Marchetti
- Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston Salem, NC, United States
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Eoin P. Mcneill
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston McGovern Medical School, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Allison L Speer
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston McGovern Medical School, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Wai Hoe Ng
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Xi Ren
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Benedetta Bussolati
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Laura Perin
- GOFARR Laboratory for Organ Regenerative Research and Cell Therapeutics in Urology, Saban Research Institute, Division of Urology, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Paolo Di Nardo
- Centro Interdipartimentale per la Medicina Rigenerativa (CIMER), Università Degli Studi di Roma Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Cardinale
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Jerome Duisit
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, CHU Rennes, University of Rennes I, Rennes, France
| | | | | | - Amish Asthana
- Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston Salem, NC, United States
| | - Giuseppe Orlando
- Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston Salem, NC, United States
- *Correspondence: Giuseppe Orlando,
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19
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Simöes Da Gama C, Morin-Brureau M. Study of BBB Dysregulation in Neuropathogenicity Using Integrative Human Model of Blood-Brain Barrier. Front Cell Neurosci 2022; 16:863836. [PMID: 35755780 PMCID: PMC9226644 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2022.863836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a cellular and physical barrier with a crucial role in homeostasis of the brain extracellular environment. It controls the imports of nutrients to the brain and exports toxins and pathogens. Dysregulation of the blood-brain barrier increases permeability and contributes to pathologies, including Alzheimer's disease, epilepsy, and ischemia. It remains unclear how a dysregulated BBB contributes to these different syndromes. Initial studies on the role of the BBB in neurological disorders and also techniques to permit the entry of therapeutic molecules were made in animals. This review examines progress in the use of human models of the BBB, more relevant to human neurological disorders. In recent years, the functionality and complexity of in vitro BBB models have increased. Initial efforts consisted of static transwell cultures of brain endothelial cells. Human cell models based on microfluidics or organoids derived from human-derived induced pluripotent stem cells have become more realistic and perform better. We consider the architecture of different model generations as well as the cell types used in their fabrication. Finally, we discuss optimal models to study neurodegenerative diseases, brain glioma, epilepsies, transmigration of peripheral immune cells, and brain entry of neurotrophic viruses and metastatic cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Coraly Simöes Da Gama
- Inserm, Sorbonne University, UMRS 938 Saint-Antoine Research Center, Immune System and Neuroinflammation Laboratory, Hôpital Saint-Antoine, Paris, France
| | - Mélanie Morin-Brureau
- Inserm, Sorbonne University, UMRS 938 Saint-Antoine Research Center, Immune System and Neuroinflammation Laboratory, Hôpital Saint-Antoine, Paris, France
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20
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Challenges and opportunities in the use of transcriptomics characterization for human iPSC-derived BBB models. Toxicol In Vitro 2022; 84:105424. [PMID: 35760296 DOI: 10.1016/j.tiv.2022.105424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2022] [Revised: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is localized at the brain microvascular endothelial cells. These cells form a tight barrier, limiting the access of cells, pathogens, chemicals, and toxins to the brain due to tight junctions and efflux transporters. As the BBB plays a role in the assessment of neurotoxicity and brain uptake of drugs, human in vitro BBB models are highly needed. They allow to evaluate if compounds could reach the central nervous system across the BBB or can compromise its barrier function. Past decade, multiple induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived BBB differentiation protocols emerged. These protocols can be divided in two groups, the one-step protocols, direct differentiation from iPSC to BBB cells, or the two-step protocols, differentiation for iPSC to endothelial (progenitor) cells and further induction of BBB characteristics. While the one-step differentiation protocols display good barrier properties, reports question their endothelial nature and maturation status. Therefore protocol characterization remains important. With transcriptomics becoming cheaper, this may support iPSC-derived model characterization. Because of the constraints in obtaining human brain tissue, good human reference data is scarce and would bear inter-individual variability. Additionally, comparison across studies might be challenging due to variations in sample preparation and analysis. Hopefully, increasing use of transcriptomics will allow in-depth characterization of the current iPSC-BBB models and guide researchers to generate more relevant human BBB models.
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21
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Espinal ER, Sharp SJ, Kim BJ. Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell (iPSC)-Derived Endothelial Cells to Study Bacterial-Brain Endothelial Cell Interactions. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2492:73-101. [PMID: 35733039 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2289-6_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Bacterial meningitis is a serious infection of the central nervous system (CNS) that occurs when blood-borne bacteria are able to exit the cerebral vasculature and cause inflammation. The blood-brain barrier (BBB) and the meningeal blood-CSF barrier (mBCSFB) are composed of highly specialized brain endothelial cells (BECs) that possess unique phenotypes when compared to their peripheral endothelial counterparts. To cause meningitis, bacterial pathogens must be able to interact and penetrate these specialized BECs to gain access to the CNS. In vitro models have been employed to study bacterial-BEC interactions; however, many lack BEC phenotypes. Induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) technologies have enabled the derivation of brain endothelial-like cells that phenocopy BECs in culture. Recently, these iPSC-BECs have been employed to examine the host-pathogen interaction at the endothelial brain barriers. Using two clinically relevant human meningeal pathogens, this chapter describes the use of iPSC-BECs to study various aspects of BEC-bacterial interaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric R Espinal
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL, USA
| | - S Jerod Sharp
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL, USA
- Jacksonville State University, Jacksonville, AL, USA
| | - Brandon J Kim
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL, USA.
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22
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Gastfriend BD, Nishihara H, Canfield SG, Foreman KL, Engelhardt B, Palecek SP, Shusta EV. Wnt signaling mediates acquisition of blood-brain barrier properties in naïve endothelium derived from human pluripotent stem cells. eLife 2021; 10:70992. [PMID: 34755601 PMCID: PMC8664294 DOI: 10.7554/elife.70992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Endothelial cells (ECs) in the central nervous system (CNS) acquire their specialized blood-brain barrier (BBB) properties in response to extrinsic signals, with Wnt/β-catenin signaling coordinating multiple aspects of this process. Our knowledge of CNS EC development has been advanced largely by animal models, and human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) offer the opportunity to examine BBB development in an in vitro human system. Here we show that activation of Wnt signaling in hPSC-derived naïve endothelial progenitors, but not in matured ECs, leads to robust acquisition of canonical BBB phenotypes including expression of GLUT-1, increased claudin-5, decreased PLVAP and decreased permeability. RNA-seq revealed a transcriptome profile resembling ECs with CNS-like characteristics, including Wnt-upregulated expression of LEF1, APCDD1, and ZIC3. Together, our work defines effects of Wnt activation in naïve ECs and establishes an improved hPSC-based model for interrogation of CNS barriergenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin D Gastfriend
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, United States
| | | | - Scott G Canfield
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, United States
| | - Koji L Foreman
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, United States
| | | | - Sean P Palecek
- Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, United States
| | - Eric V Shusta
- Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, United States
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23
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Appelt-Menzel A, Oerter S, Mathew S, Haferkamp U, Hartmann C, Jung M, Neuhaus W, Pless O. Human iPSC-Derived Blood-Brain Barrier Models: Valuable Tools for Preclinical Drug Discovery and Development? ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 55:e122. [PMID: 32956578 DOI: 10.1002/cpsc.122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Translating basic biological knowledge into applications remains a key issue for effectively tackling neurodegenerative, neuroinflammatory, or neuroendocrine disorders. Efficient delivery of therapeutics across the neuroprotective blood-brain barrier (BBB) still poses a demanding challenge for drug development targeting central nervous system diseases. Validated in vitro models of the BBB could facilitate effective testing of drug candidates targeting the brain early in the drug discovery process during lead generation. We here review the potential of mono- or (isogenic) co-culture BBB models based on brain capillary endothelial cells (BCECs) derived from human-induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs), and compare them to several available BBB in vitro models from primary human or non-human cells and to rodent in vivo models, as well as to classical and widely used barrier models [Caco-2, parallel artificial membrane permeability assay (PAMPA)]. In particular, we are discussing the features and predictivity of these models and how hiPSC-derived BBB models could impact future discovery and development of novel CNS-targeting therapeutics. © 2020 The Authors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antje Appelt-Menzel
- Fraunhofer Institute for Silicate Research ISC, Translational Center Regenerative Therapies (TLC-RT), Röntgenring 11, Würzburg, Germany.,University Hospital Würzburg, Chair Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine (TERM), Röntgenring 11, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Sabrina Oerter
- Fraunhofer Institute for Silicate Research ISC, Translational Center Regenerative Therapies (TLC-RT), Röntgenring 11, Würzburg, Germany.,University Hospital Würzburg, Chair Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine (TERM), Röntgenring 11, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Sanjana Mathew
- University Hospital Würzburg, Chair Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine (TERM), Röntgenring 11, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Undine Haferkamp
- Fraunhofer IME ScreeningPort, Schnackenburgallee 114, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Carla Hartmann
- University Hospital Halle, University Clinic and Outpatient Clinic for Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, and Psychosomatic Medicine, Julius-Kuehn-Strasse 7, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Matthias Jung
- University Hospital Halle, University Clinic and Outpatient Clinic for Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, and Psychosomatic Medicine, Julius-Kuehn-Strasse 7, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Winfried Neuhaus
- AIT Austrian Institute of Technology GmbH, Center Health and Bioresources, Competence Unit Molecular Diagnostics, Giefinggasse 4, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ole Pless
- Fraunhofer IME ScreeningPort, Schnackenburgallee 114, Hamburg, Germany
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24
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Wu YC, Sonninen TM, Peltonen S, Koistinaho J, Lehtonen Š. Blood-Brain Barrier and Neurodegenerative Diseases-Modeling with iPSC-Derived Brain Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:7710. [PMID: 34299328 PMCID: PMC8307585 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22147710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Revised: 07/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The blood-brain barrier (BBB) regulates the delivery of oxygen and important nutrients to the brain through active and passive transport and prevents neurotoxins from entering the brain. It also has a clearance function and removes carbon dioxide and toxic metabolites from the central nervous system (CNS). Several drugs are unable to cross the BBB and enter the CNS, adding complexity to drug screens targeting brain disorders. A well-functioning BBB is essential for maintaining healthy brain tissue, and a malfunction of the BBB, linked to its permeability, results in toxins and immune cells entering the CNS. This impairment is associated with a variety of neurological diseases, including Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. Here, we summarize current knowledge about the BBB in neurodegenerative diseases. Furthermore, we focus on recent progress of using human-induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived models to study the BBB. We review the potential of novel stem cell-based platforms in modeling the BBB and address advances and key challenges of using stem cell technology in modeling the human BBB. Finally, we highlight future directions in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying-Chieh Wu
- Neuroscience Center, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland; (Y.-C.W.); (T.-M.S.); (S.P.); (J.K.)
| | - Tuuli-Maria Sonninen
- Neuroscience Center, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland; (Y.-C.W.); (T.-M.S.); (S.P.); (J.K.)
| | - Sanni Peltonen
- Neuroscience Center, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland; (Y.-C.W.); (T.-M.S.); (S.P.); (J.K.)
| | - Jari Koistinaho
- Neuroscience Center, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland; (Y.-C.W.); (T.-M.S.); (S.P.); (J.K.)
- A.I.Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, 70211 Kuopio, Finland
| | - Šárka Lehtonen
- Neuroscience Center, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland; (Y.-C.W.); (T.-M.S.); (S.P.); (J.K.)
- A.I.Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, 70211 Kuopio, Finland
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Wellens S, Dehouck L, Chandrasekaran V, Singh P, Loiola RA, Sevin E, Exner T, Jennings P, Gosselet F, Culot M. Evaluation of a human iPSC-derived BBB model for repeated dose toxicity testing with cyclosporine A as model compound. Toxicol In Vitro 2021; 73:105112. [PMID: 33631201 DOI: 10.1016/j.tiv.2021.105112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Revised: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a highly restrictive barrier that preserves central nervous system homeostasis and ensures optimal brain functioning. Using BBB cell assays makes it possible to investigate whether a compound is likely to compromise BBBs functionality, thereby probably resulting in neurotoxicity. Recently, several protocols to obtain human brain-like endothelial cells (BLECs) from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) have been reported. Within the framework of the European MSCA-ITN in3 project, we explored the possibility to use an iPSC-derived BBB model to assess the effects of repeated dose treatment with chemicals, using Cyclosporine A (CsA) as a model compound. The BLECs were found to exhibit important BBB characteristics up to 15 days after the end of the differentiation and could be used to assess the effects of repeated dose treatment. Although BLECs were still undergoing transcriptional changes over time, a targeted transcriptome analysis (TempO-Seq) indicated a time and concentration dependent activation of ATF4, XBP1, Nrf2 and p53 stress response pathways under CsA treatment. Taken together, these results demonstrate that this iPSC-derived BBB model and iPSC-derived models in general hold great potential to study the effects of repeated dose exposure with chemicals, allowing personalized and patient-specific studies in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Wellens
- University of Artois, UR 2465, Laboratoire de la Barrière Hémato-Encéphalique (LBHE), Faculté des sciences Jean Perrin, Rue Jean Souvraz SP18, F-62300 Lens, France
| | - Lucie Dehouck
- University of Artois, UR 2465, Laboratoire de la Barrière Hémato-Encéphalique (LBHE), Faculté des sciences Jean Perrin, Rue Jean Souvraz SP18, F-62300 Lens, France
| | - Vidya Chandrasekaran
- Division of Molecular and Computational Toxicology, Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Amsterdam Institute for Molecules, Medicines and Systems, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1108, 1081HZ Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Pranika Singh
- Edelweiss Connect GmbH, Technology Park Basel, Hochbergerstrasse 60C, 4057 Basel, Switzerland; Division of Molecular and Systems Toxicology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 50, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Rodrigo Azevedo Loiola
- University of Artois, UR 2465, Laboratoire de la Barrière Hémato-Encéphalique (LBHE), Faculté des sciences Jean Perrin, Rue Jean Souvraz SP18, F-62300 Lens, France
| | - Emmanuel Sevin
- University of Artois, UR 2465, Laboratoire de la Barrière Hémato-Encéphalique (LBHE), Faculté des sciences Jean Perrin, Rue Jean Souvraz SP18, F-62300 Lens, France
| | - Thomas Exner
- Edelweiss Connect GmbH, Technology Park Basel, Hochbergerstrasse 60C, 4057 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Paul Jennings
- Division of Molecular and Computational Toxicology, Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Amsterdam Institute for Molecules, Medicines and Systems, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1108, 1081HZ Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Fabien Gosselet
- University of Artois, UR 2465, Laboratoire de la Barrière Hémato-Encéphalique (LBHE), Faculté des sciences Jean Perrin, Rue Jean Souvraz SP18, F-62300 Lens, France
| | - Maxime Culot
- University of Artois, UR 2465, Laboratoire de la Barrière Hémato-Encéphalique (LBHE), Faculté des sciences Jean Perrin, Rue Jean Souvraz SP18, F-62300 Lens, France.
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26
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Zhang S, Wan Z, Kamm RD. Vascularized organoids on a chip: strategies for engineering organoids with functional vasculature. LAB ON A CHIP 2021; 21:473-488. [PMID: 33480945 PMCID: PMC8283929 DOI: 10.1039/d0lc01186j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 129] [Impact Index Per Article: 43.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Human organoids, self-organized and differentiated from homogenous pluripotent stem cells (PSC), replicate the key structural and functional characteristics of their in vivo counterparts. Despite the rapid advancement of organoid technology and its diverse applications, major limitations in achieving truly in vivo like functionality have been the lack of matured structural organization and constraints on tissue size, both of which are direct consequences of lacking a functional vasculature. In the absence of perfusable vessels, a core region within organoids quickly becomes necrotic during development due to increased metabolic demands that cannot be met by diffusion alone. Thus, incorporating functional vasculature in organoid models is indispensable for their growth in excess of several hundred microns and maturaturation beyond the embryonic and fetal phase. Here, we review recent advancements in vascularizing organoids and engineering in vitro capillary beds, and further explore strategies to integrate them on a microfluidic based platform, aiming for establishing perfused vasculature throughout organoids in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shun Zhang
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA.
| | - Zhengpeng Wan
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA.
| | - Roger D Kamm
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA.
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27
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Piantino M, Figarol A, Matsusaki M. Three-Dimensional in vitro Models of Healthy and Tumor Brain Microvasculature for Drug and Toxicity Screening. FRONTIERS IN TOXICOLOGY 2021; 3:656254. [PMID: 35295158 PMCID: PMC8915870 DOI: 10.3389/ftox.2021.656254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Tissue vascularization is essential for its oxygenation and the homogenous diffusion of nutrients. Cutting-edge studies are focusing on the vascularization of three-dimensional (3D) in vitro models of human tissues. The reproduction of the brain vasculature is particularly challenging as numerous cell types are involved. Moreover, the blood-brain barrier, which acts as a selective filter between the vascular system and the brain, is a complex structure to replicate. Nevertheless, tremendous advances have been made in recent years, and several works have proposed promising 3D in vitro models of the brain microvasculature. They incorporate cell co-cultures organized in 3D scaffolds, often consisting of components of the native extracellular matrix (ECM), to obtain a micro-environment similar to the in vivo physiological state. These models are particularly useful for studying adverse effects on the healthy brain vasculature. They provide insights into the molecular and cellular events involved in the pathological evolutions of this vasculature, such as those supporting the appearance of brain cancers. Glioblastoma multiform (GBM) is the most common form of brain cancer and one of the most vascularized solid tumors. It is characterized by a high aggressiveness and therapy resistance. Current conventional therapies are unable to prevent the high risk of recurrence of the disease. Most of the new drug candidates fail to pass clinical trials, despite the promising results shown in vitro. The conventional in vitro models are unable to efficiently reproduce the specific features of GBM tumors. Recent studies have indeed suggested a high heterogeneity of the tumor brain vasculature, with the coexistence of intact and leaky regions resulting from the constant remodeling of the ECM by glioma cells. In this review paper, after summarizing the advances in 3D in vitro brain vasculature models, we focus on the latest achievements in vascularized GBM modeling, and the potential applications for both healthy and pathological models as platforms for drug screening and toxicological assays. Particular attention will be paid to discuss the relevance of these models in terms of cell-cell, cell-ECM interactions, vascularization and permeability properties, which are crucial parameters for improving in vitro testing accuracy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Piantino
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Agathe Figarol
- Institut Jean Lamour, UMR 7198 CNRS, Université de Lorraine, Nancy, France
| | - Michiya Matsusaki
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
- *Correspondence: Michiya Matsusaki
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Gastfriend BD, Stebbins MJ, Du F, Shusta EV, Palecek SP. Differentiation of Brain Pericyte-Like Cells from Human Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Neural Crest. Curr Protoc 2021; 1:e21. [PMID: 33484491 PMCID: PMC7839246 DOI: 10.1002/cpz1.21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Brain pericytes regulate diverse aspects of neurovascular development and function, including blood-brain barrier (BBB) induction and maintenance. Primary brain pericytes have been widely employed in coculture-based in vitro models of the BBB, and a method to generate brain pericytes from human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) could provide a renewable, genetically tractable source of cells for BBB modeling and studying pericyte roles in development and disease. Here, we describe a protocol to differentiate hPSCs to NG2+ PDGFRβ+ αSMAlow brain pericyte-like cells in 22-25 days through a p75-NGFR+ HNK-1+ neural crest intermediate, which mimics the developmental origin of forebrain pericytes. The resulting brain pericyte-like cells have molecular and functional attributes of brain pericytes. We also provide protocols for maintenance, cryopreservation, and recovery of the neural crest intermediate, and for molecular and functional characterization of the resulting cells. © 2021 Wiley Periodicals LLC. Basic Protocol 1: Differentiation of hPSCs to neural crest Basic Protocol 2: Differentiation of neural crest to brain pericyte-like cells Support Protocol 1: Flow cytometry analysis of neural crest cells Support Protocol 2: Maintenance, cryopreservation, and recovery of neural crest cells Support Protocol 3: Molecular characterization of brain pericyte-like cells Support Protocol 4: Cord formation assay with endothelial cells and brain pericyte-like cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin D. Gastfriend
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Wisconsin–Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Matthew J. Stebbins
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Wisconsin–Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Feifan Du
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Wisconsin–Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Eric V. Shusta
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Wisconsin–Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Wisconsin–Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Sean P. Palecek
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Wisconsin–Madison, Madison, WI, USA
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29
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Conniot J, Talebian S, Simões S, Ferreira L, Conde J. Revisiting gene delivery to the brain: silencing and editing. Biomater Sci 2020; 9:1065-1087. [PMID: 33315025 DOI: 10.1039/d0bm01278e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative disorders, ischemic brain diseases, and brain tumors are debilitating diseases that severely impact a person's life and could possibly lead to their demise if left untreated. Many of these diseases do not respond to small molecule therapeutics and have no effective long-term therapy. Gene therapy offers the promise of treatment or even a cure for both genetic and acquired brain diseases, mediated by either silencing or editing disease-specific genes. Indeed, in the last 5 years, significant progress has been made in the delivery of non-coding RNAs as well as gene-editing formulations to the brain. Unfortunately, the delivery is a major limiting factor for the success of gene therapies. Both viral and non-viral vectors have been used to deliver genetic information into a target cell, but they have limitations. Viral vectors provide excellent transduction efficiency but are associated with toxic effects and have limited packaging capacity; however, non-viral vectors are less toxic and show a high packaging capacity at the price of low transfection efficiency. Herein, we review the progress made in the field of brain gene therapy, particularly in the design of non-toxic and trackable non-viral vectors, capable of controlled release of genes in response to internal/external triggers, and in the delivery of formulations for gene editing. The application of these systems in the context of various brain diseases in pre-clinical and clinical tests will be discussed. Such promising approaches could potentially pave the way for clinical realization of brain gene therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- João Conniot
- NOVA Medical School, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, 1169-056 Lisboa, Portugal.
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30
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Curtaz CJ, Schmitt C, Blecharz-Lang KG, Roewer N, Wöckel A, Burek M. Circulating MicroRNAs and Blood-Brain-Barrier Function in Breast Cancer Metastasis. Curr Pharm Des 2020; 26:1417-1427. [PMID: 32175838 PMCID: PMC7475800 DOI: 10.2174/1381612826666200316151720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2019] [Accepted: 02/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Brain metastases are a major cause of death in breast cancer patients. A key event in the metastatic progression of breast cancer in the brain is the migration of cancer cells across the blood-brain barrier (BBB). The BBB is a natural barrier with specialized functions that protect the brain from harmful substances, including anti-tumor drugs. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) sequestered by cells are mediators of cell-cell communication. EVs carry cellular components, including microRNAs that affect the cellular processes of target cells. Here, we summarize the knowledge about microRNAs known to play a significant role in breast cancer and/or in the BBB function. In addition, we describe previously established in vitro BBB models, which are a useful tool for studying molecular mechanisms involved in the formation of brain metastases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolin J Curtaz
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Constanze Schmitt
- Department of Anaesthesia and Critical Care, University of Würzburg, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Kinga G Blecharz-Lang
- Department of Experimental Neurosurgery, Charite - Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Norbert Roewer
- Department of Anaesthesia and Critical Care, University of Würzburg, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Achim Wöckel
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Malgorzata Burek
- Department of Anaesthesia and Critical Care, University of Würzburg, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
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31
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Nishihara H, Gastfriend BD, Soldati S, Perriot S, Mathias A, Sano Y, Shimizu F, Gosselet F, Kanda T, Palecek SP, Du Pasquier R, Shusta EV, Engelhardt B. Advancing human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived blood-brain barrier models for studying immune cell interactions. FASEB J 2020; 34:16693-16715. [PMID: 33124083 PMCID: PMC7686106 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202001507rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Revised: 10/10/2020] [Accepted: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)‐derived blood‐brain barrier (BBB) models established to date lack expression of key adhesion molecules involved in immune cell migration across the BBB in vivo. Here, we introduce the extended endothelial cell culture method (EECM), which differentiates hiPSC‐derived endothelial progenitor cells to brain microvascular endothelial cell (BMEC)‐like cells with good barrier properties and mature tight junctions. Importantly, EECM‐BMEC‐like cells exhibited constitutive cell surface expression of ICAM‐1, ICAM‐2, and E‐selectin. Pro‐inflammatory cytokine stimulation increased the cell surface expression of ICAM‐1 and induced cell surface expression of P‐selectin and VCAM‐1. Co‐culture of EECM‐BMEC‐like cells with hiPSC‐derived smooth muscle‐like cells or their conditioned medium further increased the induction of VCAM‐1. Functional expression of endothelial ICAM‐1 and VCAM‐1 was confirmed by T‐cell interaction with EECM‐BMEC‐like cells. Taken together, we introduce the first hiPSC‐derived BBB model that displays an adhesion molecule phenotype that is suitable for the study of immune cell interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Benjamin D Gastfriend
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Sasha Soldati
- Theodor Kocher Institute, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Sylvain Perriot
- Laboratory of Neuroimmunology, Neuroscience Research Centre, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Amandine Mathias
- Laboratory of Neuroimmunology, Neuroscience Research Centre, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Yasuteru Sano
- Department of Neurology and Clinical Neuroscience, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Ube, Japan
| | - Fumitaka Shimizu
- Department of Neurology and Clinical Neuroscience, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Ube, Japan
| | - Fabien Gosselet
- Blood Brain Barrier Laboratory, University of Artois, Lens, France
| | - Takashi Kanda
- Department of Neurology and Clinical Neuroscience, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Ube, Japan
| | - Sean P Palecek
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Renaud Du Pasquier
- Laboratory of Neuroimmunology, Neuroscience Research Centre, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Eric V Shusta
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA.,Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
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32
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Commentary on human pluripotent stem cell-based blood-brain barrier models. Fluids Barriers CNS 2020; 17:64. [PMID: 33076946 PMCID: PMC7574179 DOI: 10.1186/s12987-020-00222-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 10/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
In 2012, we provided the first published evidence that human pluripotent stem cells could be differentiated to cells exhibiting markers and phenotypes characteristic of the blood–brain barrier (BBB). In the ensuing years, the initial protocols have been refined, and the research community has identified both positive and negative attributes of this stem cell-based BBB model system. Here, we give our perspective on the current status of these models and their use in the BBB community, as well as highlight key attributes that would benefit from improvement moving forward.
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33
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Inducers of the endothelial cell barrier identified through chemogenomic screening in genome-edited hPSC-endothelial cells. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2020; 117:19854-19865. [PMID: 32759214 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1911532117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The blood-retina barrier and blood-brain barrier (BRB/BBB) are selective and semipermeable and are critical for supporting and protecting central nervous system (CNS)-resident cells. Endothelial cells (ECs) within the BRB/BBB are tightly coupled, express high levels of Claudin-5 (CLDN5), a junctional protein that stabilizes ECs, and are important for proper neuronal function. To identify novel CLDN5 regulators (and ultimately EC stabilizers), we generated a CLDN5-P2A-GFP stable cell line from human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs), directed their differentiation to ECs (CLDN5-GFP hPSC-ECs), and performed flow cytometry-based chemogenomic library screening to measure GFP expression as a surrogate reporter of barrier integrity. Using this approach, we identified 62 unique compounds that activated CLDN5-GFP. Among them were TGF-β pathway inhibitors, including RepSox. When applied to hPSC-ECs, primary brain ECs, and retinal ECs, RepSox strongly elevated barrier resistance (transendothelial electrical resistance), reduced paracellular permeability (fluorescein isothiocyanate-dextran), and prevented vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA)-induced barrier breakdown in vitro. RepSox also altered vascular patterning in the mouse retina during development when delivered exogenously. To determine the mechanism of action of RepSox, we performed kinome-, transcriptome-, and proteome-profiling and discovered that RepSox inhibited TGF-β, VEGFA, and inflammatory gene networks. In addition, RepSox not only activated vascular-stabilizing and barrier-establishing Notch and Wnt pathways, but also induced expression of important tight junctions and transporters. Taken together, our data suggest that inhibiting multiple pathways by selected individual small molecules, such as RepSox, may be an effective strategy for the development of better BRB/BBB models and novel EC barrier-inducing therapeutics.
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34
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Delsing L, Herland A, Falk A, Hicks R, Synnergren J, Zetterberg H. Models of the blood-brain barrier using iPSC-derived cells. Mol Cell Neurosci 2020; 107:103533. [PMID: 32717317 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcn.2020.103533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2020] [Revised: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 07/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The blood-brain barrier (BBB) constitutes the interface between the blood and the brain tissue. Its primary function is to maintain the tightly controlled microenvironment of the brain. Models of the BBB are useful for studying the development and maintenance of the BBB as well as diseases affecting it. Furthermore, BBB models are important tools in drug development and support the evaluation of the brain-penetrating properties of novel drug molecules. Currently used in vitro models of the BBB include immortalized brain endothelial cell lines and primary brain endothelial cells of human and animal origin. Unfortunately, many cell lines and primary cells do not recreate physiological restriction of transport in vitro. Human-induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived brain endothelial cells have proven a promising alternative source of brain endothelial-like cells that replicate tight cell layers with low paracellular permeability. Given the possibility to generate large amounts of human iPSC-derived brain endothelial cells they are a feasible alternative when modelling the BBB in vitro. iPSC-derived brain endothelial cells form tight cell layers in vitro and their barrier properties can be enhanced through coculture with other cell types of the BBB. Currently, many different models of the BBB using iPSC-derived cells are under evaluation to study BBB formation, maintenance, disruption, drug transport and diseases affecting the BBB. This review summarizes important functions of the BBB and current efforts to create iPSC-derived BBB models in both static and dynamic conditions. In addition, it highlights key model requirements and remaining challenges for human iPSC-derived BBB models in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise Delsing
- Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Department of Neurochemistry, The Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden; Systems Biology Research Centre, School of Bioscience, University of Skövde, Skövde, Sweden; Discovery Biology, Discovery Sciences, R&D, AstraZeneca, Mölndal, Sweden.
| | - Anna Herland
- Division of Micro and Nanosystems, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden; AIMES, Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anna Falk
- Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ryan Hicks
- Discovery Biology, Discovery Sciences, R&D, AstraZeneca, Mölndal, Sweden
| | - Jane Synnergren
- Systems Biology Research Centre, School of Bioscience, University of Skövde, Skövde, Sweden
| | - Henrik Zetterberg
- Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Department of Neurochemistry, The Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden; Clinical Neurochemistry Laboratory, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Mölndal, Sweden; Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, UCL Institute of Neurology, London, UK; UK Dementia Research Institute at UCL, London, UK
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35
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Vargas-Valderrama A, Messina A, Mitjavila-Garcia MT, Guenou H. The endothelium, a key actor in organ development and hPSC-derived organoid vascularization. J Biomed Sci 2020; 27:67. [PMID: 32443983 PMCID: PMC7245026 DOI: 10.1186/s12929-020-00661-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 05/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the last 4 decades, cell culture techniques have evolved towards the creation of in vitro multicellular entities that incorporate the three-dimensional complexity of in vivo tissues and organs. As a result, stem cells and adult progenitor cells have been used to derive self-organized 3D cell aggregates that mimic the morphological and functional traits of organs in vitro. These so-called organoids were first generated from primary animal and human tissues, then human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) arose as a new tool for organoid generation. Due to their self-renewal capacity and differentiation potential, hPSCs are an unlimited source of cells used for organoids. Today, hPSC-derived small intestinal, kidney, brain, liver, and pancreas organoids, among others, have been produced and are promising in vitro human models for diverse applications, including fundamental research, drug development and regenerative medicine. However, achieving in vivo-like organ complexity and maturation in vitro remains a challenge. Current hPSC-derived organoids are often limited in size and developmental state, resembling embryonic or fetal organs rather than adult organs. The use of endothelial cells to vascularize hPSC-derived organoids may represent a key to ensuring oxygen and nutrient distribution in large organoids, thus contributing to the maturation of adult-like organoids through paracrine signaling.Here, we review the current state of the art regarding vascularized hPSC-derived organoids (vhPSC-Orgs). We analyze the progress achieved in the generation of organoids derived from the three primary germ layers (endoderm, mesoderm and ectoderm) exemplified by the pancreas, liver, kidneys and brain. Special attention will be given to the role of the endothelium in the organogenesis of the aforementioned organs, the sources of endothelial cells employed in vhPSC-Org protocols and the remaining challenges preventing the creation of ex vivo functional and vascularized organs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandra Vargas-Valderrama
- INSERM UMRS-MD 1197, Université Paris Sud-Université Paris-Saclay. Hôpital Paul Brousse, Villejuif, France
- DHU Hépatinov, Villejuif, France
| | - Antonietta Messina
- DHU Hépatinov, Villejuif, France
- UMR_S1193 Inserm. Université Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France
| | - Maria Teresa Mitjavila-Garcia
- INSERM UMRS-MD 1197, Université Paris Sud-Université Paris-Saclay. Hôpital Paul Brousse, Villejuif, France
- DHU Hépatinov, Villejuif, France
| | - Hind Guenou
- INSERM UMRS-MD 1197, Université Paris Sud-Université Paris-Saclay. Hôpital Paul Brousse, Villejuif, France
- DHU Hépatinov, Villejuif, France
- Université d’Evry-Val-d’Essonne. Université Paris-Saclay, Evry, France
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36
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Curtaz CJ, Schmitt C, Herbert SL, Feldheim J, Schlegel N, Gosselet F, Hagemann C, Roewer N, Meybohm P, Wöckel A, Burek M. Serum-derived factors of breast cancer patients with brain metastases alter permeability of a human blood-brain barrier model. Fluids Barriers CNS 2020; 17:31. [PMID: 32321535 PMCID: PMC7178982 DOI: 10.1186/s12987-020-00192-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2020] [Accepted: 04/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The most threatening metastases in breast cancer are brain metastases, which correlate with a very poor overall survival, but also a limited quality of life. A key event for the metastatic progression of breast cancer into the brain is the migration of cancer cells across the blood-brain barrier (BBB). METHODS We adapted and validated the CD34+ cells-derived human in vitro BBB model (brain-like endothelial cells, BLECs) to analyse the effects of patient serum on BBB properties. We collected serum samples from healthy donors, breast cancer patients with primary cancer, and breast cancer patients with, bone, visceral or cerebral metastases. We analysed cytokine levels in these sera utilizing immunoassays and correlated them with clinical data. We used paracellular permeability measurements, immunofluorescence staining, Western blot and mRNA analysis to examine the effects of patient sera on the properties of BBB in vitro. RESULTS The BLECs cultured together with brain pericytes in transwells developed a tight monolayer with a correct localization of claudin-5 at the tight junctions (TJ). Several BBB marker proteins such as the TJ proteins claudin-5 and occludin, the glucose transporter GLUT-1 or the efflux pumps PG-P and BCRP were upregulated in these cultures. This was accompanied by a reduced paracellular permeability for fluorescein (400 Da). We then used this model for the treatment with the patient sera. Only the sera of breast cancer patients with cerebral metastases had significantly increased levels of the cytokines fractalkine (CX3CL1) and BCA-1 (CXCL13). The increased levels of fractalkine were associated with the estrogen/progesterone receptor status of the tumour. The treatment of BLECs with these sera selectively increased the expression of CXCL13 and TJ protein occludin. In addition, the permeability of fluorescein was increased after serum treatment. CONCLUSION We demonstrate that the CD34+ cell-derived human in vitro BBB model can be used as a tool to study the molecular mechanisms underlying cerebrovascular pathologies. We showed that serum from patients with cerebral metastases may affect the integrity of the BBB in vitro, associated with elevated concentrations of specific cytokines such as CX3CL1 and CXCL13.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolin J Curtaz
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Constanze Schmitt
- Department of Anaesthesia and Critical Care, University of Würzburg, Oberdürrbacher Straße 6, 97080, Würzburg, Germany
| | | | - Jonas Feldheim
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tumour Biology Laboratory, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Nicolas Schlegel
- Department of Surgery I, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Fabien Gosselet
- Blood-Brain Barrier Laboratory, Université d'Artois, UR, 2465, Lens, France
| | - Carsten Hagemann
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tumour Biology Laboratory, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Norbert Roewer
- Department of Anaesthesia and Critical Care, University of Würzburg, Oberdürrbacher Straße 6, 97080, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Patrick Meybohm
- Department of Anaesthesia and Critical Care, University of Würzburg, Oberdürrbacher Straße 6, 97080, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Achim Wöckel
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Malgorzata Burek
- Department of Anaesthesia and Critical Care, University of Würzburg, Oberdürrbacher Straße 6, 97080, Würzburg, Germany.
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Recent advances in human iPSC-derived models of the blood-brain barrier. Fluids Barriers CNS 2020; 17:30. [PMID: 32321511 PMCID: PMC7178976 DOI: 10.1186/s12987-020-00191-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Accepted: 04/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The blood–brain barrier (BBB) is a critical component of the central nervous system that protects neurons and other cells of the brain parenchyma from potentially harmful substances found in peripheral circulation. Gaining a thorough understanding of the development and function of the human BBB has been hindered by a lack of relevant models given significant species differences and limited access to in vivo tissue. However, advances in induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) and organ-chip technologies now allow us to improve our knowledge of the human BBB in both health and disease. This review focuses on the recent progress in modeling the BBB in vitro using human iPSCs.
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Abstract
Knowledge about the transport of active compounds across the blood-brain barrier is of essential importance for drug development. Systemically applied drugs for the central nervous system (CNS) must be able to cross the blood-brain barrier in order to reach their target sites, whereas drugs that are supposed to act in the periphery should not permeate the blood-brain barrier so that they do not trigger any adverse central adverse effects. A number of approaches have been pursued, and manifold in silico, in vitro, and in vivo animal models were developed in order to be able to make a better prediction for humans about the possible penetration of active substances into the CNS. In this particular case, however, in vitro models play a special role, since the data basis for in silico models is usually in need of improvement, and the predictive power of in vivo animal models has to be checked for possible species differences. The blood-brain barrier is a dynamic, highly selective barrier formed by brain capillary endothelial cells. One of its main tasks is the maintenance of homeostasis in the CNS. The function of the barrier is regulated by cells of the microenvironment and the shear stress mediated by the blood flow, which makes the model development most complex. In general, one could follow the credo "as easy as possible, as complex as necessary" for the usage of in vitro BBB models for drug development. In addition to the description of the classical cell culture models (transwell, hollow fiber) and guidance how to apply them, the latest developments (spheroids, microfluidic models) will be introduced in this chapter, as it is attempted to get more in vivo-like and to be applicable for high-throughput usage with these models. Moreover, details about the development of models based on stem cells derived from different sources with a special focus on human induced pluripotent stem cells are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Winfried Neuhaus
- Competence Unit Molecular Diagnostics, Center Health and Bioresources, AIT - Austrian Institute of Technology GmbH, Vienna, Austria.
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