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Cao X, Cai L, Guo D, Zhang D, Zhou X, Xie J. Fibroblast growth factor 8 facilitates cell-cell communication in chondrocytes via p38-MAPK signaling. Tissue Cell 2023; 83:102155. [PMID: 37451010 DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2023.102155] [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: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 06/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Gap junction intercellular communication (GJIC) is essential for regulating the development of the organism and sustaining the internal environmental homeostasis of multi-cellular tissue. Fibroblast growth factor 8 (FGF8), an indispensable regulator of the skeletal system, is implicated in regulating chondrocyte growth, differentiation, and disease occurrence. However, the influence of FGF8 on GJIC in chondrocytes is not yet known. The study aims to investigate the role of FGF8 on cell-cell communication in chondrocytes and its underlying biomechanism. We found that FGF8 facilitated cell-cell communication in living chondrocytes by the up-regulation of connexin43 (Cx43), the major fundamental component unit of gap junction channels in chondrocytes. FGF8 activated p38-MAPK signaling to increase the expression of Cx43 and promote the cell-cell communication. Inhibition of p38-MAPK signaling impaired the increase of Cx43 expression and cell-cell communication induced by FGF8, indicating the importance of p38-MAPK signaling. These results help to understand the role of FGF8 on cell communication and provide a potential cue for the treatment of cartilage diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoling Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Lang Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Daimo Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Demao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Xuedong Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; Department of Cariology and Endodontics, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
| | - Jing Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
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Rodríguez-Pereira C, Lagunas A, Casanellas I, Vida Y, Pérez-Inestrosa E, Andrades JA, Becerra J, Samitier J, Blanco FJ, Magalhães J. RGD-Dendrimer-Poly(L-lactic) Acid Nanopatterned Substrates for the Early Chondrogenesis of Human Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Derived from Osteoarthritic and Healthy Donors. MATERIALS 2020; 13:ma13102247. [PMID: 32414175 PMCID: PMC7287591 DOI: 10.3390/ma13102247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2020] [Revised: 05/09/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Aiming to address a stable chondrogenesis derived from mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) to be applied in cartilage repair strategies at the onset of osteoarthritis (OA), we analyzed the effect of arginine–glycine–aspartate (RGD) density on cell condensation that occurs during the initial phase of chondrogenesis. For this, we seeded MSC-derived from OA and healthy (H) donors in RGD-dendrimer-poly(L-lactic) acid (PLLA) nanopatterned substrates (RGD concentrations of 4 × 10−9, 10−8, 2.5 × 10−8, and 10−2 w/w), during three days and compared to a cell pellet conventional three-dimensional culture system. Molecular gene expression (collagens type-I and II–COL1A1 and COL2A1, tenascin-TNC, sex determining region Y-box9-SOX9, and gap junction protein alpha 1–GJA1) was determined as well as the cell aggregates and pellet size, collagen type-II and connexin 43 proteins synthesis. This study showed that RGD-tailored first generation dendrimer (RGD-Cys-D1) PLLA nanopatterned substrates supported the formation of pre-chondrogenic condensates from OA- and H-derived human bone marrow-MSCs with enhanced chondrogenesis regarding the cell pellet conventional system (presence of collagen type-II and connexin 43, both at the gene and protein level). A RGD-density dependent trend was observed for aggregates size, in concordance with previous studies. Moreover, the nanopatterns’ had a higher effect on OA-derived MSC morphology, leading to the formation of bigger and more compact aggregates with improved expression of early chondrogenic markers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Rodríguez-Pereira
- Unidad de Medicina Regenerativa, Grupo de Investigación en Reumatología (GIR), Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de A Coruña (INIBIC), Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de A Coruña (CHUAC), Sergas, 15006 A Coruña, Spain; (C.R.-P.); (F.J.B.)
- Centro de Investigaciones Científicas Avanzadas (CICA), Universidade da Coruña (UDC), As Carballeiras S/N, Campus de Elviña, 15071 A Coruña, Spain
| | - Anna Lagunas
- Networking Biomedical Research Center in Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), 28029 Madrid, Spain; (A.L.); (I.C.); (J.A.A.); (J.B.); (J.S.)
- Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ignasi Casanellas
- Networking Biomedical Research Center in Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), 28029 Madrid, Spain; (A.L.); (I.C.); (J.A.A.); (J.B.); (J.S.)
- Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Electronics and Biomedical Engineering, University of Barcelona (UB), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Yolanda Vida
- Dpto. Química Orgánica, Universidad de Málaga-IBIMA, Campus de Teatinos s/n, 29071 Málaga, Spain; (Y.V.); (E.P.-I.)
- Centro Andaluz de Nanomedicina y Biotecnología (BIONAND), Parque Tecnológico de Andalucía, C/Severo Ochoa, 35, 29590 Campanillas, 29590 Málaga, Spain
| | - Ezequiel Pérez-Inestrosa
- Dpto. Química Orgánica, Universidad de Málaga-IBIMA, Campus de Teatinos s/n, 29071 Málaga, Spain; (Y.V.); (E.P.-I.)
- Centro Andaluz de Nanomedicina y Biotecnología (BIONAND), Parque Tecnológico de Andalucía, C/Severo Ochoa, 35, 29590 Campanillas, 29590 Málaga, Spain
| | - José A. Andrades
- Networking Biomedical Research Center in Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), 28029 Madrid, Spain; (A.L.); (I.C.); (J.A.A.); (J.B.); (J.S.)
- Cell Biology, Genetics and Physiology Department, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga (IBIMA), University of Malaga (UMA), 29071 Málaga, Spain
| | - José Becerra
- Networking Biomedical Research Center in Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), 28029 Madrid, Spain; (A.L.); (I.C.); (J.A.A.); (J.B.); (J.S.)
- Centro Andaluz de Nanomedicina y Biotecnología (BIONAND), Parque Tecnológico de Andalucía, C/Severo Ochoa, 35, 29590 Campanillas, 29590 Málaga, Spain
- Cell Biology, Genetics and Physiology Department, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga (IBIMA), University of Malaga (UMA), 29071 Málaga, Spain
| | - Josep Samitier
- Networking Biomedical Research Center in Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), 28029 Madrid, Spain; (A.L.); (I.C.); (J.A.A.); (J.B.); (J.S.)
- Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Electronics and Biomedical Engineering, University of Barcelona (UB), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Francisco J. Blanco
- Unidad de Medicina Regenerativa, Grupo de Investigación en Reumatología (GIR), Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de A Coruña (INIBIC), Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de A Coruña (CHUAC), Sergas, 15006 A Coruña, Spain; (C.R.-P.); (F.J.B.)
- Centro de Investigaciones Científicas Avanzadas (CICA), Universidade da Coruña (UDC), As Carballeiras S/N, Campus de Elviña, 15071 A Coruña, Spain
- Departamento de Medicina, Facultad Ciencias de la Salud, Campus de Oza, Universidade da Coruña (UDC), Campus de Oza, 15006 A Coruña, Spain
| | - Joana Magalhães
- Unidad de Medicina Regenerativa, Grupo de Investigación en Reumatología (GIR), Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de A Coruña (INIBIC), Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de A Coruña (CHUAC), Sergas, 15006 A Coruña, Spain; (C.R.-P.); (F.J.B.)
- Centro de Investigaciones Científicas Avanzadas (CICA), Universidade da Coruña (UDC), As Carballeiras S/N, Campus de Elviña, 15071 A Coruña, Spain
- Networking Biomedical Research Center in Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), 28029 Madrid, Spain; (A.L.); (I.C.); (J.A.A.); (J.B.); (J.S.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-981-176-413
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Abstract
Connexons form the basis of hemichannels and gap junctions. They are composed of six tetraspan proteins called connexins. Connexons can function as individual hemichannels, releasing cytosolic factors (such as ATP) into the pericellular environment. Alternatively, two hemichannel connexons from neighbouring cells can come together to form gap junctions, membrane-spanning channels that facilitate cell-cell communication by enabling signalling molecules of approximately 1 kDa to pass from one cell to an adjacent cell. Connexins are expressed in joint tissues including bone, cartilage, skeletal muscle and the synovium. Indicative of their importance as gap junction components, connexins are also known as gap junction proteins, but individual connexin proteins are gaining recognition for their channel-independent roles, which include scaffolding and signalling functions. Considerable evidence indicates that connexons contribute to the function of bone and muscle, but less is known about the function of connexons in other joint tissues. However, the implication that connexins and gap junctional channels might be involved in joint disease, including age-related bone loss, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, emphasizes the need for further research into these areas and highlights the therapeutic potential of connexins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry J Donahue
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Virginia Commonwealth University, 601 West Main Street, Richmond, Virginia 23284, USA
| | - Roy W Qu
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Cell Biology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California at Davis, One Shields Avenue, Davis, California 95616, USA
| | - Damian C Genetos
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Cell Biology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California at Davis, One Shields Avenue, Davis, California 95616, USA
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Esseltine JL, Shao Q, Brooks C, Sampson J, Betts DH, Séguin CA, Laird DW. Connexin43 Mutant Patient-Derived Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells Exhibit Altered Differentiation Potential. J Bone Miner Res 2017; 32:1368-1385. [PMID: 28177159 DOI: 10.1002/jbmr.3098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2016] [Revised: 01/26/2017] [Accepted: 02/01/2017] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
We present for the first time the generation of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) from a patient with a connexin-linked disease. The importance of gap junctional intercellular communication in bone homeostasis is exemplified by the autosomal dominant developmental disorder oculodentodigital dysplasia (ODDD), which is linked to mutations in the GJA1 (Cx43) gene. ODDD is characterized by craniofacial malformations, ophthalmic deficits, enamel hypoplasia, and syndactyly. In addition to harboring a Cx43 p.V216L mutation, ODDD iPSCs exhibit reduced Cx43 mRNA and protein abundance when compared to control iPSCs and display impaired channel function. Osteogenic differentiation involved an early, and dramatic downregulation of Cx43 followed by a slight upregulation during the final stages of differentiation. Interestingly, osteoblast differentiation was delayed in ODDD iPSCs. Moreover, Cx43 subcellular localization was altered during chondrogenic differentiation of ODDD iPSCs compared to controls and this may have contributed to the more compact cartilage pellet morphology found in differentiated ODDD iPSCs. These studies highlight the importance of Cx43 expression and function during osteoblast and chondrocyte differentiation, and establish a potential mechanism for how ODDD-associated Cx43 mutations may have altered cell lineages involved in bone and cartilage development. © 2017 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica L Esseltine
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario. London, ON, Canada
| | - Qing Shao
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario. London, ON, Canada
| | - Courtney Brooks
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Jacinda Sampson
- Department of Neurology, Stanford University Medical Center, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Dean H Betts
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Cheryle A Séguin
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Dale W Laird
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario. London, ON, Canada.,Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
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Sart S, Tsai AC, Li Y, Ma T. Three-dimensional aggregates of mesenchymal stem cells: cellular mechanisms, biological properties, and applications. TISSUE ENGINEERING PART B-REVIEWS 2013; 20:365-80. [PMID: 24168395 DOI: 10.1089/ten.teb.2013.0537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 285] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are primary candidates in cell therapy and tissue engineering and are being tested in clinical trials for a wide range of diseases. Originally isolated and expanded as plastic adherent cells, MSCs have intriguing properties of in vitro self-assembly into three-dimensional (3D) aggregates reminiscent of skeletal condensation in vivo. Recent studies have shown that MSC 3D aggregation improved a range of biological properties, including multilineage potential, secretion of therapeutic factors, and resistance against ischemic condition. Hence, the formation of 3D MSC aggregates has been explored as a novel strategy to improve cell delivery, functional activation, and in vivo retention to enhance therapeutic outcomes. This article summarizes recent reports of MSC aggregate self-assembly, characterization of biological properties, and their applications in preclinical models. The cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying MSC aggregate formation and functional activation are discussed, and the areas that warrant further investigation are highlighted. These analyses are combined to provide perspectives for identifying the controlling mechanisms and refining the methods of aggregate fabrication and expansion for clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sébastien Sart
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Florida State University , Tallahassee, Florida
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Hieda K, Hayashi S, Kim JH, Murakami G, Cho BH, Matsubara A. Spatial relationship between expression of cytokeratin-19 and that of connexin-43 in human fetal kidney. Anat Cell Biol 2013; 46:32-8. [PMID: 23560234 PMCID: PMC3615610 DOI: 10.5115/acb.2013.46.1.32] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2013] [Revised: 02/04/2013] [Accepted: 02/04/2013] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Connexin-43, a major gap junction protein, and cytokeratin-19, one of the intermediate filament keratins, are known to be markers of well-differentiated epithelium. In this study, we investigated the expression of these markers in the head region, lungs, and abdominal organs of 10 human mid-term fetuses. The expression of connexin-43 was found to be restricted to the dura mater, kidney, and adrenal cortex. In the kidney, we found a clear site-dependent difference in the expression pattern of these markers: connexin-43 expression was observed in the tubules of the renal cortex whereas cytokeratin-19 was strongly expressed in the collecting ducts and renal pelvis. This difference remained unchanged throughout the fetal stages examined. Immunoreactivity was not observed for either of the markers in the intrarenal vessels, including the glomeruli, and mesangial cells. Connexin-43 expression seemed to be restricted to the metanephric vesicle-derived structures that differentiate in the urogenital ridge of the splanchnic mesoderm. The adrenal cortex also originates from the same para-aortic mesoderm. In contrast, in the urogenital organs, cytokeratin-19 seemed to be expressed in ducts derived from the urogenital sinus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keisuke Hieda
- Department of Urology, Hiroshima University School of Medicine, Hiroshima, Japan
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Loiselle AE, Paul EM, Lewis GS, Donahue HJ. Osteoblast and osteocyte-specific loss of Connexin43 results in delayed bone formation and healing during murine fracture healing. J Orthop Res 2013; 31:147-54. [PMID: 22718243 PMCID: PMC3640531 DOI: 10.1002/jor.22178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2012] [Accepted: 06/01/2012] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Connexin43 (Cx43) plays an important role in osteoblastic differentiation in vitro, and bone formation in vivo. Mice with osteoblast/osteocyte-specific loss of Cx43 display decreased gap junctional intercellular communication (GJIC), bone density, and cortical thickness. To determine the role of Cx43 in fracture healing, a closed femur fracture was induced in Osteocalcin-Cre+; Cx43(flox/flox) (Cx43cKO) and Cre-; Cx43(flox/flox) (WT) mice. We tested the hypothesis that loss of Cx43 results in decreased bone formation and impaired healing following fracture. Here, we show that osteoblast and osteocyte-specific deletion of Cx43 results in decreased bone formation, bone remodeling, and mechanical properties during fracture healing. Cx43cKO mice display decreased bone volume, total volume, and fewer TRAP+ osteoclasts. Furthermore, loss of Cx43 in mature osteoblasts and osteocytes results in a significant decrease in torsional rigidity between 21 and 35 days post-fracture, compared to WT mice. These studies identify a novel role for the gap junction protein Cx43 during fracture healing, suggesting that loss of Cx43 can result in both decreased bone formation and bone resorption. Therefore, enhancing Cx43 expression or GJIC may provide a novel means to enhance bone formation during fracture healing.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Henry J. Donahue
- Corresponding Author: Penn State College of Medicine 500 University Dr. Mail Code H089 Hershey, PA 17033 717-531-4809
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Brisby H, Papadimitriou N, Runesson E, Sasaki N, Lindahl A, Henriksson H. Moderate Physical Exercise Results in Increased Cell Activity in Articular Cartilage of the Knee Joint in Rats. Cells Tissues Organs 2013; 198:237-48. [DOI: 10.1159/000355919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/17/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
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In vitro and in vivo neo-cartilage formation by heterotopic chondrocytes seeded on PGA scaffolds. Histochem Cell Biol 2011; 136:57-69. [DOI: 10.1007/s00418-011-0822-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/19/2011] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
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10
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Sayed KE, Haisch A, John T, Marzahn U, Lohan A, Müller RD, Kohl B, Ertel W, Stoelzel K, Schulze-Tanzil G. Heterotopic Autologous Chondrocyte Transplantation—A Realistic Approach to Support Articular Cartilage Repair? TISSUE ENGINEERING PART B-REVIEWS 2010; 16:603-16. [DOI: 10.1089/ten.teb.2010.0167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Karym El Sayed
- Department of Trauma and Reconstructive Surgery, Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Andreas Haisch
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Thilo John
- Department of Trauma and Reconstructive Surgery, Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ulrike Marzahn
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Anke Lohan
- Department of Trauma and Reconstructive Surgery, Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Riccarda D. Müller
- Department of Trauma and Reconstructive Surgery, Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Benjamin Kohl
- Department of Trauma and Reconstructive Surgery, Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Ertel
- Department of Trauma and Reconstructive Surgery, Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Katharina Stoelzel
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Gundula Schulze-Tanzil
- Department of Trauma and Reconstructive Surgery, Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany
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Nayak BP, Goh JCH, Toh SL, Satpathy GR. In vitro study of stem cell communication via gap junctions for fibrocartilage regeneration at entheses. Regen Med 2010; 5:221-9. [PMID: 20210582 DOI: 10.2217/rme.09.86] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Entheses are fibrocartilaginous organs that bridge ligament with bone at their interface and add significant insertional strength. To replace a severely damaged ligament, a tissue-engineered graft preinstalled with interfacial fibrocartilage, which is being regenerated from stem cells, appears to be more promising than ligament-alone graft. Such a concept can be realized by a biomimetic approach of establishing a dynamic communication of stem cells with bone cells and/or ligament fibroblasts in vitro. AIM The current study has two objectives. The first objective is to demonstrate functional coculture of bone marrow-derived stem cells (BMSCs) with mature bone cells/ligament fibroblasts as evidenced by gap-junctional communication in vitro. The second objective is to investigate the role of BMSCs in the regeneration of fibrocartilage within the coculture. MATERIALS & METHODS Rabbit bone/ligament fibroblasts were dual-stained with DiI-Red and calcein (gap-junction permeable dye), and cocultured with unlabeled BMSCs at fixed ratio (1:10). The functional gap junction was demonstrated by the transfer of calcein from donor to recipient cells that was confirmed and quantified by flow cytometry. Type 2 collagen (cartilage extracellular matrix-specific protein) expressed by the mixed cell lines in the cocultures were estimated by real-time reverse transcription PCR and compared with that of the ligament-bone coculture (control). RESULTS Significant transfer of calcein into BMSCs was observed and flow cytometry analyses showed a gradual increase in the percentage of BMSCs acquiring calcein with time. Cocultures that included BMSCs expressed significantly more type 2 collagen compared with the control. CONCLUSION The current study, for the first time, reported the expression of gap-junctional communication of BMSCs with two adherent cell lines of musculoskeletal system in vitro and also confirmed that incorporation of stem cells augments fibrocartilage regeneration. The results open up a path to envisage a composite graft preinstalled with enthesial fibrocartilage using a stem cell-based coculture system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bibhukalyan Prasad Nayak
- Department of Biotechnology & Medical Engineering, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela, India.
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Schulze-Tanzil G. Activation and dedifferentiation of chondrocytes: implications in cartilage injury and repair. Ann Anat 2009; 191:325-38. [PMID: 19541465 DOI: 10.1016/j.aanat.2009.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 151] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2009] [Revised: 05/19/2009] [Accepted: 05/20/2009] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Cartilage injury remains a major challenge in orthopedic surgery due to the fact that articular cartilage has only a limited capacity for intrinsic healing. Cartilage impaction is followed by a post-traumatic inflammatory response. Chondrocytes and synoviocytes are activated to produce inflammatory mediators and degradative enzymes which can induce a progradient cartilage self-destruction finally leading to secondary osteoarthritis (OA). However, an anti-inflammatory compensatory response is also detectable in cartilage by up-regulation of anti-inflammatory cytokines, probably a temporary attempt by chondrocytes to restore cartilage homeostasis. Matrix-assisted autologous chondrocyte transplantation (MACT) is a suitable technique for improving the rate of repair of larger articular cartilage defects. For MACT, autologous chondrocytes were isolated from a cartilage biopsy of a non-load bearing joint area. This technique requires sufficient expansion of differentiated autologous chondrocytes, which were then seeded on suitable biodegradable three-dimensional (3D) matrices to preform an extracellular cartilage matrix (ECM) before implantation into the defect. Cell expansion is accompanied by chondrocyte dedifferentiation, whereby substantial changes occur at multiple levels of chondrocyte synthetic profiles: including the ECM, cell surface receptors and cytoskeletal proteins. Since these dedifferentiated chondrocytes produce a non-specific mechanically inferior ECM, they are not suitable for MACT. 3D cultures are means of inducing and maintaining chondrocyte (re)differentiation and to preform ECM. The combination of MACT with anabolic growth factors and anti-inflammatory strategies using anti-inflammatory mediators might be useful for stabilizing the differentiated chondrocyte phenotype, to support neocartilage formation and inhibit post-traumatic cartilage inflammation and hence, the development of secondary OA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gundula Schulze-Tanzil
- Department of Trauma and Reconstructive Surgery, Charité-University of Medicine, Campus Benjamin Franklin, FEM, Krahmerstrasse 6-10, Berlin, Germany
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13
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The regulation of the gap junction of human mesenchymal stem cells through the internalization of quantum dots. Biomaterials 2009; 30:1937-46. [PMID: 19135246 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2008.12.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2008] [Accepted: 12/16/2008] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
The delivery mechanism of CdSe/ZnS quantum dots (QDs) into cells was previously found to critically determine the biocompatibility of QDs to human adult mesenchymal stem cells, but the associated mechanism remained unknown. The present study tried to establish a link between the above phenomenon and the change in gap junction upon QD internalization. By comparing Pep-1- and PolyFect-mediated QD internalizations, the connexin 43 (Cx43)-mediated gap junction intercellular communication (GJIC) of human adipose-derived adult stem cells was investigated in monolayer and in three-dimensional (3D) culture (alginate hollow spheres). The latter system offered cells more mobility, which was more similar as in vivo. The results showed that Pep-1-coated QDs, which escaped from the endo-/lysosome degradation, could activate the F-actin assembly and the ERK-dependent phosphorylation of Cx43. The consequence was a reduction in Cx43-mediated GJIC. When the cells were grown in high density 3D alginate hollow spheres instead of in monolayer, the decrease of GJIC caused by the QD internalization was restored. These results indicated that the adaptability in QDs-mediated regulation of GJIC with different delivery coatings depended on the culture systems. The study also suggested that the regulation of gap junction may play a key role in QD cytotoxicity.
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Hoben GM, Athanasiou KA. Use of staurosporine, an actin-modifying agent, to enhance fibrochondrocyte matrix gene expression and synthesis. Cell Tissue Res 2008; 334:469-76. [DOI: 10.1007/s00441-008-0705-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2008] [Accepted: 09/16/2008] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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15
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Lefaix H, Asselin A, Vermaut P, Sautier JM, Berdal A, Portier R, Prima F. On the biocompatibility of a novel Ti-based amorphous composite: structural characterization and in-vitro osteoblasts response. JOURNAL OF MATERIALS SCIENCE. MATERIALS IN MEDICINE 2008; 19:1861-9. [PMID: 17914625 DOI: 10.1007/s10856-007-3248-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2007] [Accepted: 07/26/2007] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Titanium and its alloys are frequently used as dental and orthopaedic implants due to their high mechanical strength, low elastic modulus and biocompatibility. However, as these materials have a poor wear resistance, tribo-chemical reactions during use produce debris accumulation, resulting in adverse cellular responses. In that sense, amorphous based materials are potential candidates, considering their hardness and crack growth resistance. This paper reports on the structural characterization of the as-quenched Ti45Zr38Ni17 alloy. This system displays a duplex structure never mentioned before with a low dispersion of nanometric beta-phase particles in an amorphous matrix. Moreover, in order to explore the biocompatibility of such composite, primary osteoblasts cultures are used to analyse cell behaviour around and upon the metallic surface. Osteoblasts attach and proliferate on the material as demonstrated by scanning electron microscopy. Cell proliferation and bone nodule formation are also observed in cultures with Ti45Zr38Ni17 particles by phase contrast microscope. In addition, transmission electron microscopy reveals ultrastructural features very close to those observed in vivo during intramembranous ossification with active osteoblasts surrounded by an extracellular matrix and a mineralized one. In conclusion, these results demonstrate that osteoblasts, cultured in presence of Ti45Zr38Ni17 alloy, proliferate, differentiate and synthesize bone matrix.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Lefaix
- Laboratoire de Physico-Chimie des Surfaces, CNRS-ENSCP (UMR 7045), Ecole Nationale Supérieure de Chimie de Paris, 11 rue Pierre et Marie Curie, Paris cedex 05, 75231, France.
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16
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Oliveira JT, Crawford A, Mundy JM, Moreira AR, Gomes ME, Hatton PV, Reis RL. A cartilage tissue engineering approach combining starch-polycaprolactone fibre mesh scaffolds with bovine articular chondrocytes. JOURNAL OF MATERIALS SCIENCE. MATERIALS IN MEDICINE 2007; 18:295-302. [PMID: 17323161 DOI: 10.1007/s10856-006-0692-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2006] [Accepted: 09/25/2006] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
In the present work we originally tested the suitability of corn starch-polycaprolactone (SPCL) scaffolds for pursuing a cartilage tissue engineering approach. Bovine articular chondrocytes were seeded on SPCL scaffolds under dynamic conditions using spinner flasks (total of 4 scaffolds per spinner flask using cell suspensions of 0.5 x 10(6) cells/ml) and cultured under orbital agitation for a total of 6 weeks. Poly(glycolic acid) (PGA) non-woven scaffolds and bovine native articular cartilage were used as standard controls for the conducted experiments. PGA is a kind of standard in tissue engineering approaches and it was used as a control in that sense. The tissue engineered constructs were characterized at different time periods by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), hematoxylin-eosin (H&E) and toluidine blue stainings, immunolocalisation of collagen types I and II, and dimethylmethylene blue (DMB) assay for glycosaminoglycans (GAG) quantification assay. SEM results for SPCL constructs showed that the chondrocytes presented normal morphological features, with extensive cells presence at the surface of the support structures, and penetrating the scaffolds pores. These observations were further corroborated by H&E staining. Toluidine blue and immunohistochemistry exhibited extracellular matrix deposition throughout the 3D structure. Glycosaminoglycans, and collagen types I and II were detected. However, stronger staining for collagen type II was observed when compared to collagen type I. The PGA constructs presented similar features to SPCL at the end of the 6 weeks. PGA constructs exhibited higher amounts of matrix glycosaminoglycans when compared to the SPCL scaffolds. However, we also observed a lack of tissue in the central area of the PGA scaffolds. Reasons for these occurrences may include inefficient cells penetration, necrosis due to high cell densities, or necrosis related with acidic by-products degradation. Such situation was not detected in the SPCL scaffolds, indicating the much better biocompatibility of the starch based scaffolds.
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Affiliation(s)
- J T Oliveira
- 3B's Research Group-Biomaterials, Biodegradables, and Biomimetics, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal.
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17
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Waggett AD, Benjamin M, Ralphs JR. Connexin 32 and 43 gap junctions differentially modulate tenocyte response to cyclic mechanical load. Eur J Cell Biol 2006; 85:1145-54. [PMID: 16859807 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejcb.2006.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2005] [Revised: 06/07/2006] [Accepted: 06/12/2006] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Gap junctions allow rapid exchange of ions and small metabolites between cells. They can occur between connective tissue cells, and in tendons there are two prominent types, composed of connexin 32 or 43. These form distinct networks - tenocyte rows are linked by both longitudinally, but only by connexin 43 laterally. We hypothesised that the junctions had different roles in cell response to mechanical loading, and measured the effects of inhibitors of gap junction function on secretion of collagen by tenocyte cultures exposed to mechanical strain. Chicken tendon fibroblasts were exposed to cyclic tensile loading in the presence or absence of general gap junction inhibitors (halothane or the biomimetic peptide gap27), or antisense oligonucleotides to chicken connexin 32 or 43. Untreated cultures increased collagen secretion by around 25% under load. Halothane eliminated this response but caused cell damage. Gap27 peptide reduced secretion but maintained loading effects - strained cultures secreting more collagen than unstrained. Antisense downregulation showed major differences between connexins: antisense 32 reduced, and antisense 43 increased, collagen secretion. In both cases loading effects were maintained. This shows that (i) gap junctional integration of signals is important in load response of tenocyte populations - mechanotransduction occurs in individual cells but integration of signals markedly enhances it and (ii) communication via connexin 32 and 43 have differential effects on the load response, with connexin 32 being stimulatory and connexin 43 being inhibitory. Cells coordinate and control their response to mechanical signals at least in part by differential actions of these two types of gap junction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew D Waggett
- Connective Tissue Biology Laboratory, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Biomedical Sciences Building, Museum Avenue, PO Box 911, Cardiff CF10 3US, UK
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18
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Shakibaei M, Seifarth C, John T, Rahmanzadeh M, Mobasheri A. Igf-I extends the chondrogenic potential of human articular chondrocytes in vitro: Molecular association between Sox9 and Erk1/2. Biochem Pharmacol 2006; 72:1382-95. [PMID: 17010943 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2006.08.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2006] [Revised: 08/21/2006] [Accepted: 08/22/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Expansion of articular chondrocytes in monolayer culture leads to loss of the unique chondrocyte phenotype and the cells' redifferentiation capacity. Dedifferentiation of chondrocytes in monolayer culture is a challenging problem for autologous chondrocyte transplantation (ACT). It is well established that Igf-I exerts positive anabolic effects on chondrocytes in vivo and in vitro. Accordingly, in this study, we examined whether the anabolic insulin-like growth factor-I (Igf-I) is capable of extending the chondrogenic potential of dedifferentiated chondrocytes in vitro. Chondrocyte monolayers were cultured up to 10 passages. At each passage chondrocytes were stimulated with Igf-I (10ng/ml) and introduced to high-density cultures for up to 7 days. Expression of collagen type II, cartilage-specific proteoglycans, activated caspase-3, integrin beta1, extracellular signal-regulated kinase (Erk) and Sox9 was examined by Western blotting, immunoprecipitation and immunomorphological techniques. Monolayer chondrocytes rapidly lost their differentiated phenotype. When introduced to high-density cultures, only chondrocytes from P1-P4 redifferentiated. In contrast, Igf-I treated cells from P1 up to P7 redifferentiated and formed cartilage-like tissue in high-density culture. P8-P10 cells exhibited apoptotic alterations and produced significantly less matrix. Igf-I markedly increased expression of integrin beta1, Erk and Sox9. Immunoprecipitation revealed that phosphorylated Erk1/2 physically interacts with Sox9 in chondrocyte nuclei, suggesting a previously unreported functional association which was markedly enhanced by Igf-I. Treatment of chondrocyte cultures with Igf-I stabilizes chondrogenic potential, stimulates Sox9 and promotes molecular interactions between Erk and Sox9. These effects appear to be regulated by the integrin/MAPK signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehdi Shakibaei
- Institute of Anatomy, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Pettenkoferstrasse 11, 80336 Munich, Germany.
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19
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Bazou D, Dowthwaite GP, Khan IM, Archer CW, Ralphs JR, Coakley WT. Gap junctional intercellular communication and cytoskeletal organization in chondrocytes in suspension in an ultrasound trap. Mol Membr Biol 2006; 23:195-205. [PMID: 16754362 DOI: 10.1080/09687860600555906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Particles or cells suspended in an appropriately designed ultrasound standing wave field can be aggregated at a node to form a single monolayer in a plane that can be interrogated microscopically. The approach is applied here to investigate the temporal development of F-actin and Cx43 distribution and of gap junctional intercellular communication in 2-D chondrocyte aggregates (monolayers) rapidly and synchronously formed and held in suspension in an ultrasound trap. Development of the F-actin cytoskeleton in the confluent single layer of 'cuboidal' cells forming the aggregate was completed within 1 h. Chondrocytes levitated in the trap synchronously formed functional gap junctions (as assessed by CMFDA dye transfer assays) in less than 1 h of initiation of cell-cell contact in the trap. It was shown that Cx43 gene expression was retained in isolated chondrocytes in suspension. Preincubation of cells with the protein synthesis inhibitor cycloheximide caused a six-fold decrease in Cx43 accumulation (as assessed by immunofluorescence) at the interfaces of chondrocytes in the aggregate. It is shown that the ultrasound trap provides an approach to studying the early stages of cytoskeletal and gap junction development as cells progress from physical aggregation, through molecular adhesion, to display the intracellular consequences of receptor interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Despina Bazou
- Cardiff University, School of Biosciences, Cardiff, Wales, UK
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20
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Banu N, Tsuchiya T. Markedly different effects of hyaluronic acid and chondroitin sulfate-A on the differentiation of human articular chondrocytes in micromass and 3-D honeycomb rotation cultures. J Biomed Mater Res A 2006; 80:257-67. [PMID: 16941596 DOI: 10.1002/jbm.a.30931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
A source of morphologically and functionally available human cartilagenous tissue for implantation is required in the field of tissue engineering. To achieve this goal, we evaluated the effects of hyaluronic acid (HA-810 and 1680 kDa), and chondroitin sulfate (CS-A 16 and C-34 kDa) on human articular chondrocytes (HC) in micromass and rotation culture conditions. Cell proliferation was increased by CS-A 16 kDa under micromass and rotation cultures, while cell differentiation was increased under rotation but not micromass conditions. Proliferation and differentiation due to CS-C 34 kDa were very similar to the control under both culture conditions. With HA, cell proliferation was increased depending on the molecular weight under micromass and rotation conditions. In contrast, chondrocyte differentiation was enhanced under rotation conditions, but decreased under micromass conditions depending on the molecular weight of HA. In both culture conditions, aggrecan gene was continuously expressed. However, the collagen type II gene was more weakly expressed in rotation than the micromass culture conditions. Thus, the chemical structures of polysaccharides, and the culture condition, rotation or micromass, caused differences in chondrogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nasreen Banu
- Division of Medical Devices, National Institute of Health Sciences, 1-18-1, Kamiyoga, Tokyo 158-8501, Japan
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21
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Banu N, Banu Y, Sakai M, Mashino T, Tsuchiya T. Biodegradable polymers in chondrogenesis of human articular chondrocytes. J Artif Organs 2005; 8:184-91. [PMID: 16235035 DOI: 10.1007/s10047-005-0302-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2005] [Accepted: 06/08/2005] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential role of polyglycolic acid (PGA), poly(glycolic acid-epsilon-caprolactone) (PGCL), poly(L-lactic acid-glycolic acid) (PLGA), poly(L-lactic acid-epsilon-caprolactone, 75:25 (w/w)) [P(LA-CL)25], poly-epsilon-caprolactone (tetrabutoxy titanium) [PCL(Ti)], and fullerene C-60 dimalonic acid (DMA) in cartilage transplants. After 4 weeks of culture of human articular cartilage, the levels of cell proliferation and differentiation and the expression of cartilage-specific matrix genes were estimated. The relationship between cell differentiation and gap junction protein connexin 43 (Cx43) was also evaluated. All materials except PCL(Ti) retained cell proliferation activities similar to the controls. Cell differentiation levels from the highest to the lowest were in the following order: PGA >> PLGA > PGCL > Control = DMSO > P(LA-CL)25 = PCL(Ti) >> fullerene C-60 DMA. Expression of the collagen type II gene was selectively upregulated for PGA, PGCL, and PLGA and slightly increased for P(LA-CL)25 polymers but was downregulated for fullerene C-60 DMA. Aggrecan gene expression was strongest with PGA and was consistently expressed with other matrices, especially with PGCL and PLGA. However, the expression patterns of the connexin 43 gene were different from the former two genes. Multiple regression analysis revealed a high correlation between cartilage proteoglycans production and expression levels of these three genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nasreen Banu
- Division of Medical Devices, National Institute of Health Sciences, 1-18-1 Kamiyoga, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, 158-8501, Japan
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22
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Vascotto SG, Beug S, Liversage RA, Tsilfidis C. Identification of cDNAs associated with late dedifferentiation in adult newt forelimb regeneration. Dev Dyn 2005; 233:347-55. [PMID: 15789445 DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.20304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Epimorphic limb regeneration in the adult newt involves the dedifferentiation of differentiated cells to yield a pluripotent blastemal cell. These mesenchymal-like cells proliferate and subsequently respond to patterning and differentiation cues to form a new limb. Understanding the dedifferentiation process requires the selective identification of dedifferentiating cells within the heterogeneous population of cells in the regenerate. In this study, representational differences analysis was used to produce an enriched population of dedifferentiation-associated cDNA fragments. Fifty-nine unique cDNA fragments were identified, sequenced, and analyzed using bioinformatics tools and databases. Some of these clones demonstrate significant similarity to known genes in other species. Other clones can be linked by homology to pathways previously implicated in the dedifferentiation process. These data will form the basis for further analyses to elucidate the role of candidate genes in the dedifferentiation process during newt forelimb regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandy G Vascotto
- University of Ottawa Eye Institute, Ottawa Health Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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23
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Furue M, Myoishi Y, Fukui Y, Ariizumi T, Okamoto T, Asashima M. Activin A induces craniofacial cartilage from undifferentiated Xenopus ectoderm in vitro. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2002; 99:15474-9. [PMID: 12424341 PMCID: PMC137741 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.242597399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2001] [Accepted: 10/03/2002] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Activin A has potent mesoderm-inducing activity in amphibian embryos and induces various mesodermal tissues in vitro from the isolated presumptive ectoderm. By using a sandwich culture method established to examine activin A activity, we previously demonstrated that activin-treated ectoderm can function as both a head and trunk-tail organizer, depending on the concentration of activin A. By using activin A and undifferentiated presumptive ectoderm, it is theoretically possible to reproduce embryonic induction. Here, we test this hypothesis by studying the induction of cartilage tissue by using the sandwich-culture method. In the sandwiched explants, the mesenchymal cell condensation expressed type II collagen and cartilage homeoprotein-1 mRNA, and subsequently, cartilage were induced as they are in vivo. goosecoid (gsc) mRNA was prominently expressed in the cartilage in the explants. Xenopus distal-less 4 (X-dll4) mRNA was expressed throughout the explants. In Xenopus embryos, gsc expression is restricted to the cartilage of the lower jaw, and X-dll4 is widely expressed in the ventral head region, including craniofacial cartilage. These finding suggest that the craniofacial cartilage, especially lower jaw cartilage, was induced in the activin-treated sandwiched explants. In addition, a normal developmental pattern was recapitulated at the histological and genetic level. This work also suggests that the craniofacial cartilage-induction pathway is downstream of activin A. This study presents a model system suitable for the in vitro analysis of craniofacial cartilage induction in vertebrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miho Furue
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Kanagawa Dental College, Yokosuka 238-8580, Japan
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