In the beginning there were soft collagen-cell gels: towards better 3D connective tissue models?

Trabecular meshwork cell differentiation in response to collagen and TGFβ-2 spatial interactions

Primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) is currently the most prevalent cause of irreversible blindness globally. To date, few in vitro models that can faithfully recapitulate the complex architecture of the trabecular meshwork (TM) and the specialised trabecular meshwork cell (TMC) characteristics that are local to the structurally opposing regions. This study aimed to investigate the parameters that govern TMC phenotype by adapting the extracellular matrix structure to mimic the juxtacanalicular tissue (JCT) region of the TM. Initially, TMC phenotypic characteristics were investigated within type I collagen matrices of controlled fiber density and anisotropy, generated through confined plastic compression (PC). Notably, PC-collagen presented biophysical cues that induced JCT cellular characteristics (elastin, α-β-Crystallin protein expression, cytoskeletal remodelling, increased mesenchymal markers and JCT-specific genetic markers). In parallel, a pathological mesenchymal phenotype associated with POAG was induced through localised transforming growth factor -beta 2 (TGFβ-2) exposure. This resulted in a profile of alternative mesenchymal states (fibroblast/smooth muscle or myofibroblast) displayed by the TMC in vitro. Overall, the study provides an advanced insight into the biophysical cues that modulate TMC fate, inducing a JCT-specific phenotype and transient mesenchymal characteristics that reflect healthy and pathological scenarios. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness, with a lack of long-term efficacy within current drug candidates. Reliable trabecular meshwork (TM) in vitro models will be critical for enhancing the fields understanding of healthy and disease states for pre-clinical testing. Trabecular meshwork cells (TMCs) display heterogeneity throughout the hierarchical TM, however our understanding into recapitulating these phenotypes in vitro, remains elusive. This study hypothesizes the importance of specific matrix/growth factor spatial stimuli in governing TMCs phenotype. By emulating certain biophysical/biochemical in vivo parameters, we introduce an advanced profile of distinct TMC phenotypic states, reflecting healthy and disease scenarios. A notion that has not be stated prior and a fundamental consideration for future 3D TM in vitro modelling.

Imaging Diffusion and Stability of Single-Chain Polymeric Nanoparticles in a Multi-Gel Tumor-on-a-Chip Microfluidic Device

The performance of single-chain polymeric nanoparticles (SCPNs) in biomedical applications highly depends on their conformational stability in cellular environments. Until now, such stability studies are limited to 2D cell culture models, which do not recapitulate the 3D tumor microenvironment well. Here, a microfluidic tumor-on-a-chip model is introduced that recreates the tumor milieu and allows in-depth insights into the diffusion, cellular uptake, and stability of SCPNs. The chip contains Matrigel/collagen-hyaluronic acid as extracellular matrix (ECM) models and is seeded with cancer cell MCF7 spheroids. With this 3D platform, it is assessed how the polymer's microstructure affects the SCPN's behavior when crossing the ECM, and evaluates SCPN internalization in 3D cancer cells. A library of SCPNs varying in microstructure is prepared. All SCPNs show efficient ECM penetration but their cellular uptake/stability behavior depends on the microstructure. Glucose-based nanoparticles display the highest spheroid uptake, followed by charged nanoparticles. Charged nanoparticles possess an open conformation while nanoparticles stabilized by internal hydrogen bonding retain a folded structure inside the tumor spheroids. The 3D microfluidic tumor-on-a-chip platform is an efficient tool to elucidate the interplay between polymer microstructure and SCPN's stability, a key factor for the rational design of nanoparticles for targeted biological applications.

Fibroblast alignment and matrix remodeling induced by a stiffness gradient in a skin-derived extracellular matrix hydrogel

Large skin injuries heal as scars. Stiffness gradually increases from normal skin to scar tissue (20x higher), due to excessive deposition and crosslinking of extracellular matrix (ECM) mostly produced by (myo)fibroblasts. Using a custom mold, skin-derived ECM hydrogels (dECM) were UV crosslinked after diffusion of ruthenium (Ru) to produce a Ru-dECM gradient hydrogel. The Ru diffusion gradient equates to a stiffness gradient and models physiology of the scarred skin. Crosslinking in Ru-dECM hydrogels results in a 23-fold increase in stiffness from a stiffness similar to that of normal skin. Collagen fiber density increases in a stiffness-dependent fashion while stress relaxation also alters, with one additional Maxwell element necessary for characterizing Ru-dECM. Alignment of fibroblasts encapsulated in hydrogels suggests that the stiffness gradient directs fibroblasts to orientate at ∼45 ° in regions below 120 kPa. In areas above 120 kPa, fibroblasts decrease the stiffness prior to adjusting their orientation. Furthermore, fibroblasts remodel their surrounding ECM in a gradient-dependent fashion, with rearrangement of cell-surrounding ECM in high-stiffness areas, and formation of interlaced collagen bundles in low-stiffness areas. Overall, this study shows that fibroblasts remodel their local environment to generate an optimal ECM mechanical and topographical environment. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: This study developed a versatile in vitro model with a gradient stiffness using skin-derived ECM hydrogel with unchanged biochemical environment. Using Ruthenium crosslinking, a 20-fold stiffness increase was achieved as observed in fibrotic skin. The interaction between fibroblasts and matrix depends on changes in the matrix stiffness. The stiffness gradient directed the alignment of fibroblasts with ∼45° in regions with≤ 120 kPa. The cells in regions with the higher stiffness decreased stiffness first and then oriented themselves. Furthermore, fibroblasts remodeled surrounding ECM and regulated its mechanics in a gradient-dependent fashion to reach an optimal condition. Our study highlights the dynamic interplay between cells and surrounding matrix, shedding light on potential mechanisms and strategies to target scar formation and remodeling.

Reaching the Tumor: Mobility of Polymeric Micelles Inside an In Vitro Tumor-on-a-Chip Model with Dual ECM

Degradable polymeric micelles are promising drug delivery systems due to their hydrophobic core and responsive design. When applying micellar nanocarriers for tumor delivery, one of the bottlenecks encountered in vivo is the tumor tissue barrier: crossing the dense mesh of cells and the extracellular matrix (ECM). Sometimes overlooked, the extracellular matrix can trap nanoformulations based on charge, size, and hydrophobicity. Here, we used a simple design of a microfluidic chip with two types of ECM and MCF7 spheroids to allow "high-throughput" screening of the interactions between biological interfaces and polymeric micelles. To demonstrate the applicability of the chip, a small library of fluorescently labeled polymeric micelles varying in their hydrophilic shell and hydrophobic core forming blocks was studied. Three widely used hydrophilic shells were tested and compared, namely, poly(ethylene glycol), poly(2-ethyl-2-oxazoline), and poly(acrylic acid), along with two enzymatically degradable dendritic hydrophobic cores (based on hexyl or nonyl end groups). Using ratiometric imaging of unimer:micelle fluorescence and FRAP inside the chip model, we obtained the local assembly state and dynamics inside the chip. Notably, we observed different micelle behaviors in the basal lamina ECM, from avoidance of the ECM structure to binding of the poly(acrylic acid) formulations. Binding to the basal lamina correlated with higher uptake into MCF7 spheroids. Overall, we proposed a simple microfluidic chip containing dual ECM and spheroids for the assessment of the interactions of polymeric nanocarriers with biological interfaces and evaluating nanoformulations' capacity to cross the tumor tissue barrier.

Multiscale mechanical analysis of the elastic modulus of skin

The mechanical properties of the skin determine tissue function and regulate dermal cell behavior. Yet measuring these properties remains challenging, as evidenced by the large range of elastic moduli reported in the literature-from below one kPa to hundreds of MPa. Here, we reconcile these disparate results by dedicated experiments at both tissue and cellular length scales and by computational models considering the multiscale and multiphasic tissue structure. At the macroscopic tissue length scale, the collective behavior of the collagen fiber network under tension provides functional tissue stiffness, and its properties determine the corresponding elastic modulus (100-200 kPa). The compliant microscale environment (0.1-10 kPa), probed by atomic force microscopy, arises from the ground matrix without engaging the collagen fiber network. Our analysis indicates that indentation-based elasticity measurements, although probing tissue properties at the cell-relevant length scale, do not assess the deformation mechanisms activated by dermal cells when exerting traction forces on the extracellular matrix. Using dermal-equivalent collagen hydrogels, we demonstrate that indentation measurements of tissue stiffness do not correlate with the behavior of embedded dermal fibroblasts. These results provide a deeper understanding of tissue mechanics across length scales with important implications for skin mechanobiology and tissue engineering. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Measuring the mechanical properties of the skin is essential for understanding dermal cell mechanobiology and designing tissue-engineered skin substitutes. However, previous results reported for the elastic modulus of skin vary by six orders of magnitude. We show that two distinct deformation mechanisms, related to the tension-compression nonlinearity of the collagen fiber network, can explain the large variations in elastic moduli. Furthermore, we show that microscale indentation, which is frequently used to assess the stiffness perceived by cells, fails to engage the fiber network, and therefore cannot predict the behavior of dermal fibroblasts in stiffness-tunable fibrous hydrogels. This has important implications for how to measure and interpret the mechanical properties of soft tissues across length scales.

Instant Assembly of Collagen for Scaffolding, Tissue Engineering, and Bioprinting

Controllable assembly of cells and tissues offers potential for advancing disease and development modeling and regenerative medicine. The body's natural scaffolding material is the extracellular matrix, composed largely of collagen I. However, challenges in precisely controlling collagen assembly limit collagen's applicability as a primary bioink or glue for biofabrication. Here, we introduce a set of biopatterning methods, termed Tunable Rapid Assembly of Collagenous Elements (TRACE), that enables instant gelation and rapid patterning of collagen I solutions with wide range of concentrations. Our methods are based on accelerating the gelation of collagen solutions to instantaneous speeds via macromolecular crowding, allowing versatile patterning of both cell-free and cell-laden collagen-based bioinks. We demonstrate notable applications, including macroscopic organoid engineering, rapid free-form 3D bioprinting, contractile cardiac ventricle model, and patterning of high-resolution (below 5 (m) collagen filament. Our findings enable more controllable and versatile applications for multi-scale collagen-based biofabrication.

Material Stiffness in Cooperation with Macrophage Paracrine Signals Determines the Tenogenic Differentiation of Mesenchymal Stem Cells

Stiffness is an important physical property of biomaterials that determines stem cell fate. Guiding stem cell differentiation via stiffness modulation has been considered in tissue engineering. However, the mechanism by which material stiffness regulates stem cell differentiation into the tendon lineage remains controversial. Increasing evidence demonstrates that immune cells interact with implanted biomaterials and regulate stem cell behaviors via paracrine signaling; however, the role of this mechanism in tendon differentiation is not clear. In this study, polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) substrates with different stiffnesses are developed, and the tenogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) exposed to different stiffnesses and macrophage paracrine signals is investigated. The results reveal that lower stiffnesses facilitates tenogenic differentiation of MSCs, while macrophage paracrine signals at these stiffnesses suppress the differentiation. When exposed to these two stimuli, MSCs still exhibit enhanced tendon differentiation, which is further elucidated by global proteomic analysis. Following subcutaneous implantation in rats for 2 weeks, soft biomaterial induces only low inflammation and promotes tendon-like tissue formation. In conclusion, the study demonstrates that soft, rather than stiff, material has a greater potential to guide tenogenic differentiation of stem cells, which provides comprehensive evidence for optimized bioactive scaffold design in tendon tissue engineering.

Hypovolemia with peripheral edema: What is wrong?

Fluid normally exchanges freely between the plasma and interstitial space and is returned primarily via the lymphatic system. This balance can be disturbed by diseases and medications. In inflammatory disease states, such as sepsis, the return flow of fluid from the interstitial space to the plasma seems to be very slow, which promotes the well-known triad of hypovolemia, hypoalbuminemia, and peripheral edema. Similarly, general anesthesia, for example, even without mechanical ventilation, increases accumulation of infused crystalloid fluid in a slowly equilibrating fraction of the extravascular compartment. Herein, we have combined data from fluid kinetic trials with previously unconnected mechanisms of inflammation, interstitial fluid physiology and lymphatic pathology to synthesize a novel explanation for common and clinically relevant examples of circulatory dysregulation. Experimental studies suggest that two key mechanisms contribute to the combination of hypovolemia, hypoalbuminemia and edema; (1) acute lowering of the interstitial pressure by inflammatory mediators such as TNFα, IL-1β, and IL-6 and, (2) nitric oxide-induced inhibition of intrinsic lymphatic pumping.

Quantification of cell contractile behavior based on non-destructive macroscopic measurement of tension forces on bioprinted hydrogel

Contraction assay based on surface measurement have been widely used to evaluate cell contractility in 3D models. This method is straightforward and requires no specific equipment, but it does not provide quantitative data about contraction forces generated by cells. We expanded this method with a new biomechanical model, based on the work-energy theorem, to provide non-destructive longitudinal monitoring of contraction forces generated by cells in 3D. We applied this method on hydrogels seeded with either fibroblasts or osteoblasts. Hydrogel mechanical characteristics were modulated to enhance (condition HCA_High: hydrogel contraction assay high contraction) or limit (condition HCA_Low: hydrogel contraction assay low contraction) cell contractile behaviors. Macroscopic measures were further correlated with cell contractile behavior and descriptive analysis of their physiology in response to different mechanical environments. Fibroblasts and osteoblasts contracted their matrix up to 47% and 77% respectively. Contraction stress peaked at day 5 with 1.1 10^-14 Pa for fibroblasts and 3.5 10^-14 Pa for osteoblasts, which correlated with cell attachment and spreading. Negligible contraction was seen in HCA_Low. Both fibroblasts and osteoblasts expressed α-SMA contractile fibers in HCA_High and HCA_Low. Failure to contract HCA_Low was attributed to increased cross-linking and resistance to proteolytic degradation of the hydrogel.

Collagen- and hyaluronic acid-based hydrogels and their biomedical applications

Hydrogels have been widely investigated in biomedical fields due to their similar physical and biochemical properties to the extracellular matrix (ECM). Collagen and hyaluronic acid (HA) are the main components of the ECM in many tissues. As a result, hydrogels prepared from collagen and HA hold inherent advantages in mimicking the structure and function of the native ECM. Numerous studies have focused on the development of collagen and HA hydrogels and their biomedical applications. In this extensive review, we provide a summary and analysis of the sources, features, and modifications of collagen and HA. Specifically, we highlight the fabrication, properties, and potential biomedical applications as well as promising commercialization of hydrogels based on these two natural polymers.

Finding Solutions for Fibrosis: Understanding the Innate Mechanisms Used by Super-Regenerator Vertebrates to Combat Scarring

Soft tissue fibrosis and cutaneous scarring represent massive clinical burdens to millions of patients per year and the therapeutic options available are currently quite limited. Despite what is known about the process of fibrosis in mammals, novel approaches for combating fibrosis and scarring are necessary. It is hypothesized that scarring has evolved as a solution to maximize healing speed to reduce fluid loss and infection. This hypothesis, however, is complicated by regenerative animals, which have arguably the most remarkable healing abilities and are capable of scar-free healing. This review explores the differences observed between adult mammalian healing that typically results in fibrosis versus healing in regenerative animals that heal scarlessly. Each stage of wound healing is surveyed in depth from the perspective of many regenerative and fibrotic healers so as to identify the most important molecular and physiological variances along the way to disparate injury repair outcomes. Understanding how these powerful model systems accomplish the feat of scar-free healing may provide critical therapeutic approaches to the treatment or prevention of fibrosis.

Challenges and solutions for fabrication of three-dimensional cocultures of neural cell-loaded biomimetic constructs

Fabrication of three-dimensional (3D) constructs to model body tissues and organs can contribute to research into tissue development and models for studying disease, as well as supporting preclinical drug screening in vitro. Furthermore, 3D constructs can also be used for diagnosis and therapy of disease conditions via lab on a chip and microarrays for diagnosis and engineered products for tissue repair, replacement, and regeneration. While cell culture approaches for studying tissue development and disease in two dimensions are long-established, the translation of this knowledge into 3D environments remains a fertile field of research. In this Tutorial, we specifically focus on the application of biosynthetic hydrogels for neural cell encapsulation. The Tutorial briefly covers background on using biosynthetic hydrogels for cell encapsulation, as well as common fabrication techniques. The Methods section focuses on the hydrogel design and characterization, highlighting key elements and tips for more effective approaches. Coencapsulation of different cell types, and the challenges associated with different growth and maintenance requirements, is the main focus of this Tutorial. Much care is needed to blend different cell types, and this Tutorial provides tips and insights that have proven successful for 3D coculture in biosynthetic hydrogels.

Quantifying cellular forces: Practical considerations of traction force microscopy for dermal fibroblasts

Traction force microscopy (TFM) is a well-established technique traditionally used by biophysicists to quantify the forces adherent biological cells exert on their microenvironment. As image processing software becomes increasingly user-friendly, TFM is being adopted by broader audiences to quantify contractility of (myo)fibroblasts. While many technical reviews of TFM's computational mechanics are available, this review focuses on practical experimental considerations for dermatology researchers new to cell mechanics and TFM who may wish to implement a higher throughput and less expensive alternative to collagen compaction assays. Here, we describe implementation of experimental methods, analysis using open-source software and troubleshooting of common issues to enable researchers to leverage TFM for their investigations into skin fibroblasts.

Preparation and characterization of amnion hydrogel and its synergistic effect with adipose derived stem cells towards IL1β activated chondrocytes

Inflammation leads to chondrocyte senescence and cartilage degeneration, resulting in osteoarthritis (OA). Adipose‐derived stem cells (ADSCs) exert paracrine effects protecting chondrocytes from degenerative changes. However, the lack of optimum delivery systems for ADSCs limits its use in the clinic. The use of extracellular matrix based injectable hydrogels has gained increased attention due to their unique properties. In the present study, we developed hydrogels from amnion tissue as a delivery system for ADSCs. We investigated the potential of amnion hydrogel to maintain ADSC functions, the synergistic effect of AM with ADSC in preventing the catabolic responses of inflammation in stimulated chondrocytes. We also investigated the role of Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in IL-1β induced inflammation in chondrocytes and the ability of AM-ADSC to inhibit Wnt/β-catenin signaling. Our results showed that AM hydrogels supported cell viability, proliferation, and stemness. ADSCs, AM hydrogels and AM-ADSCs inhibited the catabolic responses of IL-1β and inhibited the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, indicating possible involvement of Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathways in IL-1β induced inflammation. The results also showed that the synergistic effect of AM-ADSCs was more pronounced in preventing catabolic responses in activated chondrocytes. In conclusion, we showed that AM hydrogels can be used as a potential carrier for ADSCs, and can be developed as a potential therapeutic agent for treating OA.

Distinct differences in hypoxic responses between human oral mucosa and skin fibroblasts in a 3D collagen matrix

The differences between oral mucosa and skin wound healing involving hypoxic responses of fibroblasts are poorly elucidated. In this study, we aimed to study the different hypoxic responses between oral and skin fibroblasts embedded in a three-dimensional (3D) collagen matrix to address the early stage of wound healing. Primary oral mucosa fibroblasts (OMFs) obtained from the retromolar area and skin fibroblasts (SFs) obtained from the abdomen were cultured in the 3D 'floating model' under either 21%, 5% or 1% O₂ for 2 days. Cell viability under hypoxia was higher in the OMFs than in the SFs. Collagen gel contraction was suppressed under hypoxic conditions in both fibroblasts, consistent with the reduction of alpha smooth muscle actin expression, except for SFs under 1% O₂. Subsequently, their gene expression profiles between 21 and 1% O₂ concentrations were compared via microarray technology, and the expression profiles of the extracellular matrix (ECM)-associated proteins, including matrix metalloproteinases and collagens, were evaluated. The OMFs were more susceptible to 1% O₂, and more of their genes were downregulated than the SFs'. Although the production and expression levels of ECM-associated proteins in both fibroblasts diminished under hypoxia, those levels in OMFs were significantly higher than those in SFs. In the case of single origin OMFs and SFs, our findings suggest that OMFs possess a higher baseline production capacity of several ECM-associated proteins than SFs, except type III collagen. The intrinsic hypoxic responses of OMFs may be attributed to a more favourable wound healing in oral mucosa.

Modulating Mechanical Properties of Collagen-Lignin Composites

Three-dimensional matrices of collagen type I (Col I) are widely used in tissue engineering applications for its abundance in many tissues, bioactivity with many cell types, and excellent biocompatibility. Inspired by the structural role of lignin in a plant tissue, we found that sodium lignosulfonate (SLS) and an alkali-extracted lignin from switchgrass (SG) increased the stiffness of Col I gels. SLS and SG enhanced the stiffness of Col I gels from 52 to 670 Pa and 52 to 320 Pa, respectively, and attenuated shear-thinning properties, with the formulation of 1.8 mg/mL Col I and 5.0 mg/mL SLS or SG. In 2D cultures, the cytotoxicity of collagen-SLS to adipose-derived stromal cells was not observed and the cell viability was maintained over 7 days in 3D cultures. Collagen-SLS composites did not elicit immunogenicity when compared to SLS-only groups. Our collagen-SLS composites present a case that exploits lignins as an enhancer of mechanical properties of Col I without adverse cytotoxicity and immunogenicity for in vitro scaffolds or in vivo tissue repairs.

Predictable fibroblast tension generation by measuring compaction of anchored collagen matrices using microscopy and optical coherence tomography

The anchored fibroblast-populated collagen matrix (aFPCM) is an appropriate model to study fibrocontractive disease mechanisms. Our goal was to determine if aFPCM height reduction (compaction) during development is sufficient to predict tension generation. Compaction was quantified daily by both traditional light microscopy and an optical coherence tomography (OCT) system. Contraction in aFPCM was revealed by releasing them from anchorage. We found that aFPCM contraction increase was correlated to the compaction increase. Cytochalasin D treatment reversibly inhibited compaction. Therefore, we demonstrated that aFPCM height reduction efficiently measures compaction, contraction, and relative maturity of the collagen matrix during development or treatment. In addition, we showed that OCT is suitable for effectively imaging the cross-sectional morphology of the aFPCM in culture. This study will pave the way for more efficient studies on the mechanisms of (and treatments that target) migration and contraction in wound healing and Dupuytren’s contracture in a tissue environment.

Non-woven bilayered biodegradable chitosan-gelatin-polylactide scaffold for bioengineering of tracheal epithelium

OBJECTIVES

The conversion of tissue engineering into a routine clinical tool cannot be achieved without a deep understanding of the interaction between cells and scaffolds during the process of tissue formation in an artificial environment. Here, we have investigated the cultivation conditions and structural features of the biodegradable non-woven material in order to obtain a well-differentiated human airway epithelium.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The bilayered scaffold was fabricated by electrospinning technology. The efficiency of the scaffold has been evaluated using MTT cell proliferation assay, histology, immunofluorescence and electron microscopy.

RESULTS

With the use of a copolymer of chitosan-gelatin-poly-l-lactide, a bilayered non-woven scaffold was generated and characterized. The optimal structural parameters of both layers for cell proliferation and differentiation were determined. The basal airway epithelial cells differentiated into ciliary and goblet cells and formed pseudostratified epithelial layer on the surface of the scaffold. In addition, keratinocytes formed a skin equivalent when seeded on the same scaffold. A comparative analysis of growth and differentiation for both types of epithelium was performed.

CONCLUSIONS

The structural parameters of nanofibres should be selected experimentally depending on polymer composition. The major challenges on the way to obtain the well-differentiated equivalent of respiratory epithelium on non-woven scaffold include the following: the balance between scaffold permeability and thickness, proper combination of synthetic and natural components, and culture conditions sufficient for co-culturing of airway epithelial cells and fibroblasts. For generation of skin equivalent, the lack of diffusion is not so critical as for pseudostratified airway epithelium.

Mechanical regulation of myofibroblast phenoconversion and collagen contraction

Activated fibroblasts promote physiological wound repair following tissue injury. However, dysregulation of fibroblast activation contributes to the development of fibrosis by enhanced production and contraction of collagen-rich extracellular matrix. At the peak of their activities, fibroblasts undergo phenotypic conversion into highly contractile myofibroblasts by developing muscle-like features, including formation of contractile actin-myosin bundles. The phenotype and function of fibroblasts and myofibroblasts are mechanically regulated by matrix stiffness using a feedback control system that is integrated with the progress of tissue remodelling. The actomyosin contraction machinery and cell-matrix adhesion receptors are critical elements that are needed for mechanosensing by fibroblasts and the translation of mechanical signals into biological responses. Here, we focus on mechanical and chemical regulation of collagen contraction by fibroblasts and the involvement of these factors in their phenotypic conversion to myofibroblasts.

Development of a 3D Collagen Model for the In Vitro Evaluation of Magnetic-assisted Osteogenesis

Magnetic stimulation has been applied to bone regeneration, however, the cellular and molecular mechanisms of repair still require a better understanding. A three-dimensional (3D) collagen model was developed using plastic compression, which produces dense, cellular, mechanically strong native collagen structures. Osteoblast cells (MG-63) and magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) were incorporated into collagen gels to produce a range of cell-laden models. A magnetic bio-reactor to support cell growth under static magnetic fields (SMFs) was designed and fabricated by 3D printing. The influences of SMFs on cell proliferation, differentiation, extracellular matrix production, mineralisation and gene expression were evaluated. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) further determined the effects of SMFs on the expression of runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2), osteonectin (ON), and bone morphogenic proteins 2 and 4 (BMP-2 and BMP-4). Results demonstrate that SMFs, IONPs and the collagen matrix can stimulate the proliferation, alkaline phosphatase production and mineralisation of MG-63 cells, by influencing matrix/cell interactions and encouraging the expression of Runx2, ON, BMP-2 and BMP-4. Therefore, the collagen model developed here not only offers a novel 3D bone model to better understand the effect of magnetic stimulation on osteogenesis, but also paves the way for further applications in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.

Unique behavior of dermal cells from regenerative mammal, the African Spiny Mouse, in response to substrate stiffness

The African Spiny Mouse (Acomys spp.) is a unique outbred mammal capable of full, scar-free skin regeneration. In vivo, we have observed rapid reepithelialization and deposition of normal dermis in Acomys after wounding. Acomys skin also has a lower modulus and lower elastic energy storage than normal lab mice, Mus musculus. To see if the different in vivo mechanical microenvironments retained an effect on dermal cells and contributed to regenerative behavior, we examined isolated keratinocytes in response to physical wounding and fibroblasts in response to varying substrate stiffness. Classic mechanobiology paradigms suggest stiffer substrates will promote myofibroblast activation, but we do not see this in Acomys dermal fibroblasts (DFs). Though Mus DFs increase organization of α-smooth muscle actin (αSMA)-positive stress fibers as substrate stiffness increases, Acomys DFs assemble very few αSMA-positive stress fibers upon changes in substrate stiffness. Acomys DFs generate lower traction forces than Mus DFs on pliable surfaces, and Acomys DFs produce and modify matrix proteins differently than Mus in 2D and 3D culture systems. In contrast to Acomys DFs "relaxed" behavior, we found that freshly isolated Acomys keratinocytes retain the ability to close wounds faster than Mus in an in vitro scratch assay. Taken together, these preliminary observations suggest that Acomys dermal cells retain unique biophysical properties in vitro that may reflect their altered in vivo mechanical microenvironment and may promote scar-free wound healing.

The Role of Network Architecture in Collagen Mechanics

Collagen forms fibrous networks that reinforce tissues and provide an extracellular matrix for cells. These networks exhibit remarkable strain-stiffening properties that tailor the mechanical functions of tissues and regulate cell behavior. Recent models explain this nonlinear behavior as an intrinsic feature of disordered networks of stiff fibers. Here, we experimentally validate this theoretical framework by measuring the elastic properties of collagen networks over a wide range of self-assembly conditions. We show that the model allows us to quantitatively relate both the linear and nonlinear elastic behavior of collagen networks to their underlying architecture. Specifically, we identify the local coordination number (or connectivity) 〈z〉 as a key architectural parameter that governs the elastic response of collagen. The network elastic response reveals that 〈z〉 decreases from 3.5 to 3 as the polymerization temperature is raised from 26 to 37°C while being weakly dependent on concentration. We furthermore infer a Young's modulus of 1.1 MPa for the collagen fibrils from the linear modulus. Scanning electron microscopy confirms that 〈z〉 is between three and four but is unable to detect the subtle changes in 〈z〉 with polymerization conditions that rheology is sensitive to. Finally, we show that, consistent with the model, the initial stress-stiffening response of collagen networks is controlled by the negative normal stress that builds up under shear. Our work provides a predictive framework to facilitate future studies of the regulatory effect of extracellular matrix molecules on collagen mechanics. Moreover, our findings can aid mechanobiological studies of wound healing, fibrosis, and cancer metastasis, which require collagen matrices with tunable mechanical properties.

Modelling The Combined Effects Of Collagen and Cyclic Strain On Cellular Orientation In Collagenous Tissues

Adherent cells are generally able to reorient in response to cyclic strain. In three-dimensional tissues, however, extracellular collagen can affect this cellular response. In this study, a computational model able to predict the combined effects of mechanical stimuli and collagen on cellular (re)orientation was developed. In particular, a recently proposed computational model (which only accounts for mechanical stimuli) was extended by considering two hypotheses on how collagen influences cellular (re)orientation: collagen contributes to cell alignment by providing topographical cues (contact guidance); or collagen causes a spatial obstruction for cellular reorientation (steric hindrance). In addition, we developed an evolution law to predict cell-induced collagen realignment. The hypotheses were tested by simulating bi- or uniaxially constrained cell-populated collagen gels with different collagen densities, subjected to immediate or delayed uniaxial cyclic strain with varying strain amplitudes. The simulation outcomes are in agreement with previous experimental reports. Taken together, our computational approach is a promising tool to understand and predict the remodeling of collagenous tissues, such as native or tissue-engineered arteries and heart valves.

Noninvasive imaging of nanoparticle-labeled transplant populations within polymer matrices for neural cell therapy

AIM

To develop a 3D neural cell construct for encapsulated delivery of transplant cells; develop hydrogels seeded with magnetic nanoparticle (MNP)-labeled cells suitable for cell tracking by MRI.

MATERIALS & METHODS

Astrocytes were exogenously labeled with MRI-compatible iron-oxide MNPs prior to intra-construct incorporation within a 3D collagen hydrogel.

RESULTS

A connective, complex cellular network was clearly observable within the 3D constructs, with high cellular viability. MNP accumulation in astrocytes provided a hypointense MRI signal at 24 h & 14 days.

CONCLUSION

Our findings support the concept of developing a 3D construct possessing the dual advantages of (i) support of long-term cell survival of neural populations with (ii) the potential for noninvasive MRI-tracking of intra-construct cells for neuroregenerative applications.

Engineered cell and tissue models of pulmonary fibrosis

Pulmonary fibrosis includes several lung disorders characterized by scar formation and Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) is a particularly severe form of pulmonary fibrosis of unknown etiology with a mean life expectancy of 3years' post-diagnosis. Treatments for IPF are limited to two FDA approved drugs, pirfenidone and nintedanib. Most lead candidate drugs that are identified in pre-clinical animal studies fail in human clinical trials. Thus, there is a need for advanced humanized in vitro models of the lung to improve candidate treatments prior to moving to human clinical trials. The development of 3D tissue models has created systems capable of emulating human lung structure, function, and cell and matrix interactions. The specific models accomplish these features and preliminary studies conducted using some of these systems have shown potential for in vitro anti-fibrotic drug testing. Further characterization and improvements will enable these tissue models to extend their utility for in vitro drug testing, to help identify signaling pathways and mechanisms for new drug targets, and potentially reduce animal models as standard pre-clinical models of study. In the current review, we contrast different in vitro models based on increasing dimensionality (2D, 2.5D and 3D), with added focus on contemporary 3D pulmonary models of fibrosis.

Regulation of fibrotic changes by the synergistic effects of cytokines, dimensionality and matrix: Towards the development of an in vitro human dermal hypertrophic scar model

Current therapeutic strategies to reduce scarring in full thickness skin defect offer limited success due to poor understanding of scar tissue formation and the underlying signaling pathways. There is an urgent need to develop human cell based in vitro scar tissue models as animal testing is associated with ethical and logistic complications and inter-species variations. Pro-inflammatory cytokines play critical role in regulating scar development through complex interplay and interaction with the ECM and corresponding signaling pathways. In this context, we assessed the responses of cultured fibroblasts with respect to their differentiation into myofibroblasts using optimised cytokines (TGF-β1, IL-6 and IL-8) for scar formation in 2D (tissue culture plate, collagen type I coated plate) vs 3D collagen type I gel based constructs. We attempted to deduce the role of dimensionality of cell culture matrix in modulating differentiation, function and phenotype of cultured fibroblasts. Validation of the developed model showed similarity to etiology and pathophysiology of in vivo hypertrophic scar with respect to several features: 1) transition of fibroblasts to myofibroblasts with convincing expression of α-SMA stress fibers; 2) contraction; 3) excessive collagen and fibronectin secretion; 4) expression of fibrotic ECM proteins (SPARC and Tenascin); 5) low MMP secretion. Most importantly, we elucidated the involvement of TGF-β/SMAD and Wnt/β-catenin pathways in developing in vitro dermal scar. Hence, this relatively simple in vitro human scar tissue equivalent may serve as an alternative for testing and designing of novel therapeutics and help in extending our understanding of the complex interplay of cytokines and related dermal scar specific signaling.

STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE

Scarring of the skin affects almost millions of people per year in the developed world alone, nevertheless the complex pathophysiology and the precise signaling mechanisms responsible for this phenomenon of skin scarring are still unknown. A number of anti-scar drugs are being developed and being tested on animals and monolayer models. However, testing the efficacy of these drugs on lab based 3D in vitro models may prove extremely useful in recapitulating the 3D microenvironment of the native scar tissue. In that context in this study we have demonstrated the development of 3D in vitro dermal scar model, by optimizing a constellation of factors, such as combination of cytokines (TGF-β1,IL-6,IL-8) and cellular dimensionality in inducing the differentiation of dermal fibroblasts to myofibroblasts. This in vitro scar model was successful in replicating hallmark features of hypertrophic scar such as excessive synthesis of fibrotic extracellular matrix, perturbed matrix homeostasis, contraction, diminished MMP synthesis. The study also highlighted significant involvement of TGF-β/SMAD and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathways in in vitro scar formation.

Hindrances to precise recovery of cellular forces in fibrous biopolymer networks

How cells move through the three-dimensional extracellular matrix (ECM) is of increasing interest in attempts to understand important biological processes such as cancer metastasis. Just as in motion on flat surfaces, it is expected that experimental measurements of cell-generated forces will provide valuable information for uncovering the mechanisms of cell migration. However, the recovery of forces in fibrous biopolymer networks may suffer from large errors. Here, within the framework of lattice-based models, we explore possible issues in force recovery by solving the inverse problem: how can one determine the forces cells exert to their surroundings from the deformation of the ECM? Our results indicate that irregular cell traction patterns, the uncertainty of local fiber stiffness, the non-affine nature of ECM deformations and inadequate knowledge of network topology will all prevent the precise force determination. At the end, we discuss possible ways of overcoming these difficulties.

Fabrication of dense anisotropic collagen scaffolds using biaxial compression

We developed a new method to manufacture dense, aligned, and porous collagen scaffolds using biaxial plastic compression of type I collagen gels. Using a novel compression apparatus that constricts like an iris diaphragm, low density collagen gels were compressed to yield a permanently densified, highly aligned collagen material. Micro-porosity scaffolds were created using hydrophilic elastomer porogens that can be selectively removed following biaxial compression, with porosity modulated by using different porogen concentrations. The resulting scaffolds exhibit collagen densities that are similar to native connective tissues (∼10% collagen by weight), pronounced collagen alignment across multiple length scales, and an interconnected network of pores, making them highly relevant for use in tissue culture, the study of physiologically relevant cell-matrix interactions, and tissue engineering applications. The scaffolds exhibited highly anisotropic material behavior, with the modulus of the scaffolds in the fiber direction over 100 times greater than the modulus in the transverse direction. Adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells were seeded onto the biaxially compressed scaffolds with minimal cell death over seven days of culture, along with cell proliferation and migration into the pore spaces. This fabrication method provides new capabilities to manufacture structurally and mechanically relevant cytocompatible scaffolds that will enable more physiologically relevant cell culture studies. Further improvement of manufacturing techniques has the potential to produce engineered scaffolds for direct replacement of dense connective tissues such as meniscus and annulus fibrosus.

STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE

In vitro studies of cell-matrix interactions and the engineering of replacement materials for collagenous connective tissues require biocompatible scaffolds that replicate the high collagen density (15-25%/wt), aligned fibrillar organization, and anisotropic mechanical properties of native tissues. However, methods for creating scaffolds with these characteristics are currently lacking. We developed a new apparatus and method to create high density, aligned, and porous collagen scaffolds using a biaxial compression with porogens technique. These scaffolds have a highly directional structure and mechanical properties, with the tensile strength and modulus up to 100 times greater in the direction of alignment. We also demonstrated that the scaffolds are a suitable material for cell culture, promoting cell adhesion, viability, and an aligned cell morphology comparable to the cell morphology observed in native aligned tissues.

Three-dimensional hierarchical cultivation of human skin cells on bio-adaptive hybrid fibers

The human skin comprises a complex multi-scale layered structure with hierarchical organization of different cells within the extracellular matrix (ECM). This supportive fiber-reinforced structure provides a dynamically changing microenvironment with specific topographical, mechanical and biochemical cell recognition sites to facilitate cell attachment and proliferation. Current advances in developing artificial matrices for cultivation of human cells concentrate on surface functionalizing of biocompatible materials with different biomolecules like growth factors to enhance cell attachment. However, an often neglected aspect for efficient modulation of cell-matrix interactions is posed by the mechanical characteristics of such artificial matrices. To address this issue, we fabricated biocompatible hybrid fibers simulating the complex biomechanical characteristics of native ECM in human skin. Subsequently, we analyzed interactions of such fibers with human skin cells focusing on the identification of key fiber characteristics for optimized cell-matrix interactions. We successfully identified the mediating effect of bio-adaptive elasto-plastic stiffness paired with hydrophilic surface properties as key factors for cell attachment and proliferation, thus elucidating the synergistic role of these parameters to induce cellular responses. Co-cultivation of fibroblasts and keratinocytes on such fiber mats representing the specific cells in dermis and epidermis resulted in a hierarchical organization of dermal and epidermal tissue layers. In addition, terminal differentiation of keratinocytes at the air interface was observed. These findings provide valuable new insights into cell behaviour in three-dimensional structures and cell-material interactions which can be used for rational development of bio-inspired functional materials for advanced biomedical applications.

Stress-induced plasticity of dynamic collagen networks

The structure and mechanics of tissues is constantly perturbed by endogenous forces originated from cells, and at the same time regulate many important cellular functions such as migration, differentiation, and growth. Here we show that 3D collagen gels, major components of connective tissues and extracellular matrix (ECM), are significantly and irreversibly remodeled by cellular traction forces, as well as by macroscopic strains. To understand this ECM plasticity, we develop a computational model that takes into account the sliding and merging of ECM fibers. We have confirmed the model predictions with experiment. Our results suggest the profound impacts of cellular traction forces on their host ECM during development and cancer progression, and suggest indirect mechanical channels of cell-cell communications in 3D fibrous matrices.The structure and mechanics of tissues is constantly perturbed by endogenous forces originated from cells. Here the authors show that 3D collagen gels, major components of connective tissues and extracellular matrix, are significantly and irreversibly remodelled by cellular traction forces and by macroscopic strains.

Extracellular Matrix Hydrogel Derived from Human Umbilical Cord as a Scaffold for Neural Tissue Repair and Its Comparison with Extracellular Matrix from Porcine Tissues

Extracellular matrix (ECM) hydrogels prepared by tissue decellularization have been reported as natural injectable materials suitable for neural tissue repair. In this study, we prepared ECM hydrogel derived from human umbilical cord (UC) and evaluated its composition and mechanical and biological properties in comparison with the previously described ECM hydrogels derived from porcine urinary bladder (UB), brain, and spinal cord. The ECM hydrogels did not differ from each other in the concentration of collagen, while the highest content of glycosaminoglycans as well as the shortest gelation time was found for UC-ECM. The elastic modulus was then found to be the highest for UB-ECM. In spite of a different origin, topography, and composition, all ECM hydrogels similarly promoted the migration of human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and differentiation of neural stem cells, as well as axonal outgrowth in vitro. However, only UC-ECM significantly improved proliferation of tissue-specific UC-derived MSCs when compared with the other ECMs. Injection of UC-ECM hydrogels into a photothrombotic cortical ischemic lesion in rats proved its in vivo gelation and infiltration with host macrophages. In summary, this study proposes UC-ECM hydrogel as an easily accessible biomaterial of human origin, which has the potential for neural as well as other soft tissue reconstruction.

The mighty fibroblast and its utility in scleroderma research

Fibroblasts are the effector cells of fibrosis characteristic of systemic sclerosis (SSc, scleroderma) and other fibrosing conditions. The excess production of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins is the hallmark of fibrosis in different organs, such as skin and lung. Experiments designed to assess the pro-fibrotic capacity of factors, their signaling pathways, and potential inhibitors of their effects that are conducted in fibroblasts have paved the way for planning clinical trials in SSc. As such, fibroblasts have proven to be valuable tools in the search for effective anti-fibrotic therapies for fibrosis. Herein we highlight the characteristics of fibroblasts, their role in the etiology of fibrosis, utility in experimental assays, and contribution to drug development and clinical trials in SSc.

3D modeling of keloid scars in vitro by cell and tissue engineering

Keloids are pathologic scars defined as dermal fibrotic tumors resulting from a disturbance of skin wound healing process. Treatments against keloids are multiple, sometimes empirical and none of them really provides an effective tool for physicians. The lack of effective treatments is correlated with the poor understanding of keloid pathogenesis. To fill this gap, researchers need strong models mimicking keloids as closely as possible. The objective of this study was to establish in vitro a new reconstructed keloid model (RKM), by combining fibroblasts extracted from the three major area of a keloid (center, periphery, non-lesional) in a three-dimensional biomaterial. To this aim, fibroblasts of three keloid locations were extracted and characterized, and then integrated in a hydrated collagen gel matrix during a three-step procedure. The heterogeneity of fibroblasts was assessed according to their proliferative and remodeling capacities. RKMs were further visualized and characterized by both light and scanning electron microscopy. This reconstructed keloid model should be very useful for investigating keloid fibroblasts function in conditions mimicking in vivo situation. Moreover, RKM should also be a suitable model for either drug study and discovery or innovative approaches using medical devices both during cancer and cancer-like disease investigation.

Injectable Extracellular Matrix Hydrogels as Scaffolds for Spinal Cord Injury Repair

Restoration of lost neuronal function after spinal cord injury (SCI) still remains a big challenge for current medicine. One important repair strategy is bridging the SCI lesion with a supportive and stimulatory milieu that would enable axonal rewiring. Injectable extracellular matrix (ECM)-derived hydrogels have been recently reported to have neurotrophic potential in vitro. In this study, we evaluated the presumed neuroregenerative properties of ECM hydrogels in vivo in the acute model of SCI. ECM hydrogels were prepared by decellularization of porcine spinal cord (SC) or porcine urinary bladder (UB), and injected into a spinal cord hemisection cavity. Histological analysis and real-time qPCR were performed at 2, 4, and 8 weeks postinjection. Both types of hydrogels integrated into the lesion and stimulated neovascularization and axonal ingrowth into the lesion. On the other hand, massive infiltration of macrophages into the lesion and rapid hydrogel degradation did not prevent cyst formation, which progressively developed over 8 weeks. No significant differences were found between SC-ECM and UB-ECM. Gene expression analysis revealed significant downregulation of genes related to immune response and inflammation in both hydrogel types at 2 weeks post SCI. A combination of human mesenchymal stem cells with SC-ECM did not further promote ingrowth of axons and blood vessels into the lesion, when compared with the SC-ECM hydrogel alone. In conclusion, both ECM hydrogels bridged the lesion cavity, modulated the innate immune response, and provided the benefit of a stimulatory substrate for in vivo neural tissue regeneration. However, fast hydrogel degradation might be a limiting factor for the use of native ECM hydrogels in the treatment of acute SCI.

Intrinsic Cell Stress is Independent of Organization in Engineered Cell Sheets

Understanding cell contractility is of fundamental importance for cardiovascular tissue engineering, due to its major impact on the tissue’s mechanical properties as well as the development of permanent dimensional changes, e.g., by contraction or dilatation of the tissue. Previous attempts to quantify contractile cellular stresses mostly used strongly aligned monolayers of cells, which might not represent the actual organization in engineered cardiovascular tissues such as heart valves. In the present study, therefore, we investigated whether differences in organization affect the magnitude of intrinsic stress generated by individual myofibroblasts, a frequently used cell source for in vitro engineered heart valves. Four different monolayer organizations were created via micro-contact printing of fibronectin lines on thin PDMS films, ranging from strongly anisotropic to isotropic. Thin film curvature, cell density, and actin stress fiber distribution were quantified, and subsequently, intrinsic stress and contractility of the monolayers were determined by incorporating these data into sample-specific finite element models. Our data indicate that the intrinsic stress exerted by the monolayers in each group correlates with cell density. Additionally, after normalizing for cell density and accounting for differences in alignment, no consistent differences in intrinsic contractility were found between the different monolayer organizations, suggesting that the intrinsic stress exerted by individual myofibroblasts is independent of the organization. Consequently, this study emphasizes the importance of choosing proper architectural properties for scaffolds in cardiovascular tissue engineering, as these directly affect the stresses in the tissue, which play a crucial role in both the functionality and remodeling of (engineered) cardiovascular tissues.

In vitro models for evaluating safety and efficacy of novel technologies for skin drug delivery

For preclinical testing of novel therapeutics, predictive in vitro models of the human skin are required to assess efficacy, absorption and safety. Simple as well as more sophisticated three-dimensional organotypic models of the human skin emerged as versatile and powerful tools simulating healthy as well as diseased skin states. Besides addressing the demands of research and industry, such models serve as valid alternative to animal testing. Recently, the acceptance of several models by regulatory authorities corroborates their role as important building block for preclinical development. However, valid assessment of readout parameters derived from these models requires suitable analytical techniques. Standard analytical methods are mostly destructive and limited regarding in-depth investigation on molecular level. The combination of adequate in vitro models with modern non-invasive analytical modalities bears a great potential to address important skin drug delivery related questions. Topics of interest are for instance the assessment of repeated dosing effects and xenobiotic biotransformation, which cannot be analyzed by destructive techniques. This review provides a comprehensive overview of current in vitro skin models differing in functional complexity and mimicking healthy as well as diseased skin states. Further, benefits and limitations regarding analytical evaluation of efficacy, absorption and safety of novel drug carrier systems applied to such models are discussed along with a prospective view of anticipated future directions. In addition, emerging non-invasive imaging modalities are introduced and their significance and potential to advance current knowledge in the field of skin drug delivery is explored.

Three-Dimensional Reflectance Traction Microscopy

Cells in three-dimensional (3D) environments exhibit very different biochemical and biophysical phenotypes compared to the behavior of cells in two-dimensional (2D) environments. As an important biomechanical measurement, 2D traction force microscopy can not be directly extended into 3D cases. In order to quantitatively characterize the contraction field, we have developed 3D reflectance traction microscopy which combines confocal reflection imaging and partial volume correlation postprocessing. We have measured the deformation field of collagen gel under controlled mechanical stress. We have also characterized the deformation field generated by invasive breast cancer cells of different morphologies in 3D collagen matrix. In contrast to employ dispersed tracing particles or fluorescently-tagged matrix proteins, our methods provide a label-free, computationally effective strategy to study the cell mechanics in native 3D extracellular matrix.

Recreating the Human Limbal Epithelial Stem Cell Niche with Bioengineered Limbal Crypts

PURPOSE

Creation of an in vitro model incorporating specific features that characterize a particular stem niche would allow researchers to study stem cell behavior in a more physiological environment.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We have developed a tissue engineering process (RAFT) that rapidly and reliably creates bioengineered limbal crypts (BLCs) in the surface of collagen-based tissue equivalents (TEs). These BLCs mimic the three-dimensional topography of the limbal crypts (LCs), located in the limbal region of the human cornea, which are home to a population of limbal epithelial stem cells (LESCs).

RESULTS

Human limbal epithelial (hLE) cells occupying our BLCs expressed putative LESC markers such as ΔNp63α and Bmi1 and produced basement membrane proteins such as laminin β1 and laminin γ3; expression patterns are very similar to those seen in native LCs. Human limbal stromal cells elongate and align along the edge of native LCs and in our RAFT TEs, human limbal fibroblasts (hLFs) also appeared to exhibit this alignment and elongation behavior in response to the BLC topography.

CONCLUSIONS

We have demonstrated that we can maintain an immature population of hLE cells and aligned stromal cells in our BLCs to mimic some elements of the complexity of the human LESC niche.

Label-free mapping of microstructural organisation in self-aligning cellular collagen hydrogels using image correlation spectroscopy

Hydrogels have emerged as promising biomaterials for regenerative medicine. Despite major advances, tissue engineers have faced challenges in studying the complex dynamics of cell-mediated hydrogel remodelling. Second harmonic generation (SHG) microscopy has been a pivotal tool for non-invasive visualization of collagen type I hydrogels. By taking into account the typical polarization SHG effect, we recently proposed an alternative image correlation spectroscopy (ICS) model to quantify characteristics of randomly oriented collagen fibrils. However, fibril alignment is an important feature in many tissues that needs to be monitored for effective assembly of anisotropic tissue constructs. Here we extended our previous approach to include the orientation distribution of fibrils in cellular hydrogels and show the power of this model in two biologically relevant applications. Using a collagen hydrogel contraction assay, we were able to capture cell-induced hydrogel modifications at the microscopic scale and link these to changes in overall gel dimensions over time. After 24h, the collagen density was about 3 times higher than the initial density, which was of the same order as the decrease in hydrogel area. We also showed that the orientation parameters recovered from our automated ICS model match values obtained from manual measurements. Furthermore, regions axial to cellular processes aligned at least 1.5 times faster compared with adjacent zones. Being able to capture minor temporal and spatial changes in hydrogel density and collagen fibril orientation, we demonstrated the sensitivity of this extended ICS model to deconstruct a complex environment and support its potential for tissue engineering research.

STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE

It is generally accepted that looking beyond bulk hydrogel composition is key in understanding the mechanisms that influence the mechanical and biological properties of artificial tissues. In this manuscript, we performed label-free non-invasive imaging and extended a robust automated analysis method to characterize the microstructural organisation of cellular hydrogel systems. We underpin the sensitivity of this technique by capturing minor changes in collagen density and fibril orientation in biologically relevant systems over time. Therefore, we believe that this method is applicable in fundamental cell-matrix research and has high-throughput potential in screening arrays of hydrogel scaffolds, making it an interesting tool for future tissue engineering research.

Mechanobiology of cell migration in the context of dynamic two-way cell-matrix interactions

Migration of cells is integral in various physiological processes in all facets of life. These range from embryonic development, morphogenesis, and wound healing, to disease pathology such as cancer metastasis. While cell migratory behavior has been traditionally studied using simple assays on culture dishes, in recent years it has been increasingly realized that the physical, mechanical, and chemical aspects of the matrix are key determinants of the migration mechanism. In this paper, we will describe the mechanobiological changes that accompany the dynamic cell-matrix interactions during cell migration. Furthermore, we will review what is to date known about how these changes feed back to the dynamics and biomechanical properties of the cell and the matrix. Elucidating the role of these intimate cell-matrix interactions will provide not only a better multi-scale understanding of cell motility in its physiological context, but also a more holistic perspective for designing approaches to regulate cell behavior.

Modelling the regenerative niche: a major challenge in biomaterials research

By definition, biomaterials are developed for clinical application. In the field of regenerative medicine their principal function is to play a significant, and, if possible, an instructive role in tissue healing. In the last analysis the latter involves targeting the ‘regenerative niche’. The present paper will address the problem of simulating this niche in the laboratory and adopts a life science approach involving the harnessing of heterotypic cellular communication to achieve this, that is, the ability of cells of different types to mutually influence cellular functions. Thus, co-culture systems using human cells are the methodological focus and will concern four exemplary fields of regeneration, namely, bone, soft tissue, lower respiratory tract and airway regeneration. The working hypothesis underlying this approach is that in vitro models of higher complexity will be more clinically relevant than simple monolayer cultures of transformed cell lines in testing innovative strategies with biomaterials for regeneration.

Micromechanics of cellularized biopolymer networks

Collagen gels are widely used in experiments on cell mechanics because they mimic the extracellular matrix in physiological conditions. Collagen gels are often characterized by their bulk rheology; however, variations in the collagen fiber microstructure and cell adhesion forces cause the mechanical properties to be inhomogeneous at the cellular scale. We study the mechanics of type I collagen on the scale of tens to hundreds of microns by using holographic optical tweezers to apply pN forces to microparticles embedded in the collagen fiber network. We find that in response to optical forces, particle displacements are inhomogeneous, anisotropic, and asymmetric. Gels prepared at 21 °C and 37 °C show qualitative difference in their micromechanical characteristics. We also demonstrate that contracting cells remodel the micromechanics of their surrounding extracellular matrix in a strain- and distance-dependent manner. To further understand the micromechanics of cellularized extracellular matrix, we have constructed a computational model which reproduces the main experiment findings.

Optimising contraction and alignment of cellular collagen hydrogels to achieve reliable and consistent engineered anisotropic tissue

Engineered anisotropic tissue constructs containing aligned cell and extracellular matrix structures are useful as in vitro models and for regenerative medicine. They are of particular interest for nervous system modelling and regeneration, where tracts of aligned neurons and glia are required. The self-alignment of cells and matrix due to tension within tethered collagen gels is a useful tool for generating anisotropic tissues, but requires an optimal balance between cell density, matrix concentration and time to be achieved for each specific cell type. The aim of this study was to develop an assay system based on contraction of free-floating cellular gels in 96-well plates that could be used to investigate cell–matrix interactions and to establish optimal parameters for subsequent self-alignment of cells in tethered gels. Using C6 glioma cells, the relationship between contraction and alignment was established, with 60–80% contraction in the 96-well plate assay corresponding to alignment throughout tethered gels made using the same parameters. The assay system was used to investigate the effect of C6 cell density, collagen concentration and time. It was also used to show that blocking α1 integrin reduced the contraction and self-alignment of these cells, whereas blocking α2 integrin had little effect. The approach was validated by using primary astrocytes in the assay system under culture conditions that modified their ability to contract collagen gels. This detailed investigation describes a robust assay for optimising cellular self-alignment and provides a useful reference framework for future development of self-aligned artificial tissue.

Novel insights into the function and dynamics of extracellular matrix in liver fibrosis

Emerging evidence suggests that altered components and posttranslational modifications of proteins in the extracellular matrix (ECM) may both initiate and drive disease progression. The ECM is a complex grid consisting of multiple proteins, most of which play a vital role in containing the essential information needed for maintenance of a sophisticated structure anchoring the cells and sustaining normal function of tissues. Therefore, the matrix itself may be considered as a paracrine/endocrine entity, with more complex functions than previously appreciated. The aims of this review are to 1) explore key structural and functional components of the ECM as exemplified by monogenetic disorders leading to severe pathologies, 2) discuss selected pathological posttranslational modifications of ECM proteins resulting in altered functional (signaling) properties from the original structural proteins, and 3) discuss how these findings support the novel concept that an increasing number of components of the ECM harbor signaling functions that can modulate fibrotic liver disease. The ECM entails functions in addition to anchoring cells and modulating their migratory behavior. Key ECM components and their posttranslational modifications often harbor multiple domains with different signaling potential, in particular when modified during inflammation or wound healing. This signaling by the ECM should be considered a paracrine/endocrine function, as it affects cell phenotype, function, fate, and finally tissue homeostasis. These properties should be exploited to establish novel biochemical markers and antifibrotic treatment strategies for liver fibrosis as well as other fibrotic diseases.

The extracellular matrix and transforming growth factor-β1: Tale of a strained relationship

Physiological tissue repair aims at restoring the mechano-protective properties of the extracellular matrix. Consequently, redundant regulatory mechanisms are in place ensuring that tissue remodeling terminates once matrix homeostasis is re-established. If these mechanisms fail, stromal cells become continuously activated, accumulate excessive amounts of stiff matrix, and fibrosis develops. In this mini-review, I develop the hypothesis that the mechanical state of the extracellular matrix and the pro-fibrotic transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 cooperate to regulate the remodeling activities of stromal cells. TGF-β1 is stored in the matrix as part of a large latent complex and can be activated by cell contractile force that is transmitted by integrins. Matrix straining and stiffening lower the threshold for TGF-β1 activation by increasing the mechanical resistance to cell pulling. Different elements of this mechanism can be pharmacologically targeted to interrupt the mechanical positive feedback loop of fibrosis, including specific integrins and matrix protein interactions.

Hepatic fibrosis: Concept to treatment

Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying liver fibrogenesis is fundamentally relevant to developing new treatments that are independent of the underlying etiology. The increasing success of antiviral treatments in blocking or reversing the fibrogenic progression of chronic liver disease has unearthed vital information about the natural history of fibrosis regression, and has established important principles and targets for antifibrotic drugs. Although antifibrotic activity has been demonstrated for many compounds in vitro and in animal models, none has been thoroughly validated in the clinic or commercialized as a therapy for fibrosis. In addition, it is likely that combination therapies that affect two or more key pathogenic targets and/or pathways will be needed. To accelerate the preclinical development of these combination therapies, reliable single target validation is necessary, followed by the rational selection and systematic testing of combination approaches. Improved noninvasive tools for the assessment of fibrosis content, fibrogenesis and fibrolysis must accompany in vivo validation in experimental fibrosis models, and especially in clinical trials. The rapidly changing landscape of clinical trial design for liver disease is recognized by regulatory agencies in the United States (FDA) and Western Europe (EMA), who are working together with the broad range of stakeholders to standardize approaches to testing antifibrotic drugs in cohorts of patients with chronic liver diseases.