1
|
Piszker W, Simunovic M. The fusion of physics and biology in early mammalian embryogenesis. Curr Top Dev Biol 2024; 160:31-64. [PMID: 38937030 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ctdb.2024.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
Biomechanics in embryogenesis is a dynamic field intertwining the physical forces and biological processes that shape the first days of a mammalian embryo. From the first cell fate bifurcation during blastulation to the complex symmetry breaking and tissue remodeling in gastrulation, mechanical cues appear critical in cell fate decisions and tissue patterning. Recent strides in mouse and human embryo culture, stem cell modeling of mammalian embryos, and biomaterial design have shed light on the role of cellular forces, cell polarization, and the extracellular matrix in influencing cell differentiation and morphogenesis. This chapter highlights the essential functions of biophysical mechanisms in blastocyst formation, embryo implantation, and early gastrulation where the interplay between the cytoskeleton and extracellular matrix stiffness orchestrates the intricacies of embryogenesis and placenta specification. The advancement of in vitro models like blastoids, gastruloids, and other types of embryoids, has begun to faithfully recapitulate human development stages, offering new avenues for exploring the biophysical underpinnings of early development. The integration of synthetic biology and advanced biomaterials is enhancing the precision with which we can mimic and study these processes. Looking ahead, we emphasize the potential of CRISPR-mediated genomic perturbations coupled with live imaging to uncover new mechanosensitive pathways and the application of engineered biomaterials to fine-tune the mechanical conditions conducive to embryonic development. This synthesis not only bridges the gap between experimental models and in vivo conditions to advancing fundamental developmental biology of mammalian embryogenesis, but also sets the stage for leveraging biomechanical insights to inform regenerative medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Walter Piszker
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States; Columbia Stem Cell Initiative, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, United States
| | - Mijo Simunovic
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States; Columbia Stem Cell Initiative, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, United States; Department of Genetics and Development, Columbia Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Schmidt L, Saynisch M, Hoegsbjerg C, Schmidt A, Mackey A, Lackmann JW, Müller S, Koch M, Brachvogel B, Kjaer M, Antczak P, Krüger M. Spatial proteomics of skeletal muscle using thin cryosections reveals metabolic adaptation at the muscle-tendon transition zone. Cell Rep 2024; 43:114374. [PMID: 38900641 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.114374] [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: 12/07/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Morphological studies of skeletal muscle tissue provide insights into the architecture of muscle fibers, the surrounding cells, and the extracellular matrix (ECM). However, a spatial proteomics analysis of the skeletal muscle including the muscle-tendon transition zone is lacking. Here, we prepare cryotome muscle sections of the mouse soleus muscle and measure each slice using short liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) gradients. We generate 3,000 high-resolution protein profiles that serve as the basis for a network analysis to reveal the complex architecture of the muscle-tendon junction. Among the protein profiles that increase from muscle to tendon, we find proteins related to neuronal activity, fatty acid biosynthesis, and the renin-angiotensin system (RAS). Blocking the RAS in cultured mouse tenocytes using losartan reduces the ECM synthesis. Overall, our analysis of thin cryotome sections provides a spatial proteome of skeletal muscle and reveals that the RAS acts as an additional regulator of the matrix within muscle-tendon junctions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luisa Schmidt
- Institute for Genetics, Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), Cologne, Germany
| | - Michael Saynisch
- Institute for Genetics, Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), Cologne, Germany
| | - Christian Hoegsbjerg
- Institute of Sports Medicine Copenhagen, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark; Part of IOC Research Center Copenhagen and Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Abigail Mackey
- Institute of Sports Medicine Copenhagen, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark; Part of IOC Research Center Copenhagen and Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jan-Wilm Lackmann
- Institute for Genetics, Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), Cologne, Germany
| | - Stefan Müller
- Institute for Genetics, Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), Cologne, Germany
| | - Manuel Koch
- Institute for Dental Research and Oral Musculoskeletal Biology, Center for Biochemistry, Medical Faculty, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Bent Brachvogel
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Experimental Neonatology, Medical Faculty, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Center for Biochemistry, Medical Faculty, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Michael Kjaer
- Institute of Sports Medicine Copenhagen, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark; Part of IOC Research Center Copenhagen and Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Philipp Antczak
- Institute for Genetics, Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), Cologne, Germany; Center for Molecular Medicine (CMMC), University of Cologne, 50931 Cologne, Germany.
| | - Marcus Krüger
- Institute for Genetics, Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), Cologne, Germany; Center for Molecular Medicine (CMMC), University of Cologne, 50931 Cologne, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Lau K, Reichheld S, Xian M, Sharpe SJ, Cerruti M. Directed Assembly of Elastic Fibers via Coacervate Droplet Deposition on Electrospun Templates. Biomacromolecules 2024; 25:3519-3531. [PMID: 38742604 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.4c00180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Elastic fibers provide critical elasticity to the arteries, lungs, and other organs. Elastic fiber assembly is a process where soluble tropoelastin is coacervated into liquid droplets, cross-linked, and deposited onto and into microfibrils. While much progress has been made in understanding the biology of this process, questions remain regarding the timing of interactions during assembly. Furthermore, it is unclear to what extent fibrous templates are needed to guide coacervate droplets into the correct architecture. The organization and shaping of coacervate droplets onto a fiber template have never been previously modeled or employed as a strategy for shaping elastin fiber materials. Using an in vitro system consisting of elastin-like polypeptides (ELPs), genipin cross-linker, electrospun polylactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) fibers, and tannic acid surface coatings for fibers, we explored ELP coacervation, cross-linking, and deposition onto fiber templates. We demonstrate that integration of coacervate droplets into a fibrous template is primarily influenced by two factors: (1) the balance of coacervation and cross-linking and (2) the surface energy of the fiber templates. The success of this integration affects the mechanical properties of the final fiber network. Our resulting membrane materials exhibit highly tunable morphologies and a range of elastic moduli (0.8-1.6 MPa) comparable to native elastic fibers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kirklann Lau
- Department of Mining and Materials Engineering, McGill University, 3610 University Street, Wong Building 2250, Montreal, Quebec H3A 0C5, Canada
| | - Sean Reichheld
- Molecular Medicine, Hospital for Sick Children, Peter Gilgan Center for Research and Learning, 686 Bay Street, Room 20.9714, Toronto, Ontario M5G 1X8, Canada
| | - Mingqian Xian
- Department of Mining and Materials Engineering, McGill University, 3610 University Street, Wong Building 2250, Montreal, Quebec H3A 0C5, Canada
| | - Simon J Sharpe
- Molecular Medicine, Hospital for Sick Children, Peter Gilgan Center for Research and Learning, 686 Bay Street, Room 20.9714, Toronto, Ontario M5G 1X8, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Toronto, 1 King's College Circle, Medical Sciences Building, Room 5207, Toronto, Ontario M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Marta Cerruti
- Department of Mining and Materials Engineering, McGill University, 3610 University Street, Wong Building 2250, Montreal, Quebec H3A 0C5, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Meek KM, Knupp C, Lewis PN, Morgan SR, Hayes S. Structural control of corneal transparency, refractive power and dynamics. Eye (Lond) 2024:10.1038/s41433-024-02969-7. [PMID: 38396030 DOI: 10.1038/s41433-024-02969-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The cornea needs to be transparent to visible light and precisely curved to provide the correct refractive power. Both properties are governed by its structure. Corneal transparency arises from constructive interference of visible light due to the relatively ordered arrangement of collagen fibrils in the corneal stroma. The arrangement is controlled by the negatively charged proteoglycans surrounding the fibrils. Small changes in fibril organisation can be tolerated but larger changes cause light scattering. Corneal keratocytes do not scatter light because their refractive index matches that of the surrounding matrix. When activated, however, they become fibroblasts that have a lower refractive index. Modelling shows that this change in refractive index significantly increases light scatter. At the microscopic level, the corneal stroma has a lamellar structure, the parallel collagen fibrils within each lamella making a large angle with those of adjacent lamellae. X-ray scattering has shown that the lamellae have preferred orientations in the human cornea: inferior-superior and nasal-temporal in the central cornea and circumferential at the limbus. The directions at the centre of the cornea may help withstand the pull of the extraocular muscles whereas the pseudo-circular arrangement at the limbus supports the change in curvature between the cornea and sclera. Elastic fibres are also present; in the limbus they contain fibrillin microfibrils surrounding an elastin core, whereas at the centre of the cornea, they exist as thin bundles of fibrillin-rich microfibrils. We present a model based on the structure described above that may explain how the cornea withstands repeated pressure changes due to the ocular pulse.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Keith M Meek
- Structural Biophysics Group, School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University, Maindy Road, Cardiff, CF24 4HQ, UK.
| | - Carlo Knupp
- Structural Biophysics Group, School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University, Maindy Road, Cardiff, CF24 4HQ, UK
| | - Philip N Lewis
- Structural Biophysics Group, School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University, Maindy Road, Cardiff, CF24 4HQ, UK
| | - Siân R Morgan
- Structural Biophysics Group, School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University, Maindy Road, Cardiff, CF24 4HQ, UK
| | - Sally Hayes
- Structural Biophysics Group, School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University, Maindy Road, Cardiff, CF24 4HQ, UK
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Eckersley A, Morais MR, Ozols M, Lennon R. Peptide location fingerprinting identifies structural alterations within basement membrane components in ageing kidney. Matrix Biol 2023; 121:167-178. [PMID: 37437747 DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2023.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Revised: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
During ageing, the glomerular and tubular basement membranes (BM) of the kidney undergo a progressive decline in function that is underpinned by histological changes, including glomerulosclerosis and tubular interstitial fibrosis and atrophy. This BM-specific ageing is thought to result from damage accumulation to long-lived extracellular matrix (ECM) protein structures. Determining which BM proteins are susceptible to these structure-associated changes, and the possible mechanisms and downstream consequences, is critical to understand age-related kidney degeneration and to identify markers for therapeutic intervention. Peptide location fingerprinting (PLF) is an emerging proteomic mass spectrometry analysis technique capable of identifying ECM proteins with structure-associated differences that may occur by damage modifications in ageing. Here, we apply PLF as a bioinformatic screening tool to identify BM proteins with structure-associated differences between young and aged human glomerular and tubulointerstitial compartments. Several functional regions within key BM components displayed alterations in tryptic peptide yield, reflecting potential age-dependent shifts in molecular (e.g. laminin-binding regions in agrin) and cellular (e.g. integrin-binding regions in laminins 521 and 511) interactions, oxidation (e.g. collagen IV) and the fragmentation and release of matrikines (e.g. canstatin and endostatin from collagens IV and XVIII). Furthermore, we found that periostin and the collagen IV α2 chain exhibited structure-associated differences in ageing that were conserved between human kidney and previously analysed mouse lung, revealing BM components that harbour shared susceptibilities across species and organs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Eckersley
- Division of Musculoskeletal & Dermatological Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK; Division of Cell Matrix Biology & Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
| | - Mychel Rpt Morais
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology & Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK; Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Matiss Ozols
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology & Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK; Department of Human Genetics, Wellcome Sanger Institute, Genome Campus, Hinxton, UK; British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Rachel Lennon
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology & Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK; Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK; Department of Paediatric Nephrology, Royal Manchester Children's Hospital, Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Juin SK, Ouseph R, Gondim DD, Jala VR, Sen U. Diabetic Nephropathy and Gaseous Modulators. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:antiox12051088. [PMID: 37237955 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12051088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Revised: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetic nephropathy (DN) remains the leading cause of vascular morbidity and mortality in diabetes patients. Despite the progress in understanding the diabetic disease process and advanced management of nephropathy, a number of patients still progress to end-stage renal disease (ESRD). The underlying mechanism still needs to be clarified. Gaseous signaling molecules, so-called gasotransmitters, such as nitric oxide (NO), carbon monoxide (CO), and hydrogen sulfide (H2S), have been shown to play an essential role in the development, progression, and ramification of DN depending on their availability and physiological actions. Although the studies on gasotransmitter regulations of DN are still emerging, the evidence revealed an aberrant level of gasotransmitters in patients with diabetes. In studies, different gasotransmitter donors have been implicated in ameliorating diabetic renal dysfunction. In this perspective, we summarized an overview of the recent advances in the physiological relevance of the gaseous molecules and their multifaceted interaction with other potential factors, such as extracellular matrix (ECM), in the severity modulation of DN. Moreover, the perspective of the present review highlights the possible therapeutic interventions of gasotransmitters in ameliorating this dreaded disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Subir Kumar Juin
- Department of Physiology, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Brown Cancer Center, Center for Microbiomics, Inflammation and Pathogenicity, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
| | - Rosemary Ouseph
- Division of Nephrology & Hypertension, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
| | - Dibson Dibe Gondim
- Department of Pathology, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
| | - Venkatakrishna Rao Jala
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Brown Cancer Center, Center for Microbiomics, Inflammation and Pathogenicity, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
| | - Utpal Sen
- Department of Physiology, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Șulea CM, Mártonfalvi Z, Csányi C, Haluszka D, Pólos M, Ágg B, Stengl R, Benke K, Szabolcs Z, Kellermayer MSZ. Nanoscale Structural Comparison of Fibrillin-1 Microfibrils Isolated from Marfan and Non-Marfan Syndrome Human Aorta. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24087561. [PMID: 37108724 PMCID: PMC10145871 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24087561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibrillin-1 microfibrils are essential elements of the extracellular matrix serving as a scaffold for the deposition of elastin and endowing connective tissues with tensile strength and elasticity. Mutations in the fibrillin-1 gene (FBN1) are linked to Marfan syndrome (MFS), a systemic connective tissue disorder that, besides other heterogeneous symptoms, usually manifests in life-threatening aortic complications. The aortic involvement may be explained by a dysregulation of microfibrillar function and, conceivably, alterations in the microfibrils' supramolecular structure. Here, we present a nanoscale structural characterization of fibrillin-1 microfibrils isolated from two human aortic samples with different FBN1 gene mutations by using atomic force microscopy, and their comparison with microfibrillar assemblies purified from four non-MFS human aortic samples. Fibrillin-1 microfibrils displayed a characteristic "beads-on-a-string" appearance. The microfibrillar assemblies were investigated for bead geometry (height, length, and width), interbead region height, and periodicity. MFS fibrillin-1 microfibrils had a slightly higher mean bead height, but the bead length and width, as well as the interbead height, were significantly smaller in the MFS group. The mean periodicity varied around 50-52 nm among samples. The data suggest an overall thinner and presumably more frail structure for the MFS fibrillin-1 microfibrils, which may play a role in the development of MFS-related aortic symptomatology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cristina M Șulea
- Department of Biophysics and Radiation Biology, Semmelweis University, 1094 Budapest, Hungary
- Heart and Vascular Center, Semmelweis University, 1122 Budapest, Hungary
- Hungarian Marfan Foundation, 1122 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Zsolt Mártonfalvi
- Department of Biophysics and Radiation Biology, Semmelweis University, 1094 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Csilla Csányi
- Department of Biophysics and Radiation Biology, Semmelweis University, 1094 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Dóra Haluszka
- Department of Biophysics and Radiation Biology, Semmelweis University, 1094 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Miklós Pólos
- Heart and Vascular Center, Semmelweis University, 1122 Budapest, Hungary
- Hungarian Marfan Foundation, 1122 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Bence Ágg
- Heart and Vascular Center, Semmelweis University, 1122 Budapest, Hungary
- Hungarian Marfan Foundation, 1122 Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Semmelweis University, 1089 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Roland Stengl
- Heart and Vascular Center, Semmelweis University, 1122 Budapest, Hungary
- Hungarian Marfan Foundation, 1122 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Kálmán Benke
- Heart and Vascular Center, Semmelweis University, 1122 Budapest, Hungary
- Hungarian Marfan Foundation, 1122 Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, University Hospital Halle (Saale), 06120 Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Zoltán Szabolcs
- Heart and Vascular Center, Semmelweis University, 1122 Budapest, Hungary
- Hungarian Marfan Foundation, 1122 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Miklós S Z Kellermayer
- Department of Biophysics and Radiation Biology, Semmelweis University, 1094 Budapest, Hungary
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Trębacz H, Barzycka A. Mechanical Properties and Functions of Elastin: An Overview. Biomolecules 2023; 13:biom13030574. [PMID: 36979509 PMCID: PMC10046833 DOI: 10.3390/biom13030574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Human tissues must be elastic, much like other materials that work under continuous loads without losing functionality. The elasticity of tissues is provided by elastin, a unique protein of the extracellular matrix (ECM) of mammals. Its function is to endow soft tissues with low stiffness, high and fully reversible extensibility, and efficient elastic-energy storage. Depending on the mechanical functions, the amount and distribution of elastin-rich elastic fibers vary between and within tissues and organs. The article presents a concise overview of the mechanical properties of elastin and its role in the elasticity of soft tissues. Both the occurrence of elastin and the relationship between its spatial arrangement and mechanical functions in a given tissue or organ are overviewed. As elastin in tissues occurs only in the form of elastic fibers, the current state of knowledge about their mechanical characteristics, as well as certain aspects of degradation of these fibers and their mechanical performance, is presented. The overview also outlines the latest understanding of the molecular basis of unique physical characteristics of elastin and, in particular, the origin of the driving force of elastic recoil after stretching.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hanna Trębacz
- Department of Biophysics, Medical University of Lublin, Al. Racławickie 1, 20-059 Lublin, Poland
| | - Angelika Barzycka
- Department of Biophysics, Medical University of Lublin, Al. Racławickie 1, 20-059 Lublin, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Dooling LJ, Saini K, Anlaş AA, Discher DE. Tissue mechanics coevolves with fibrillar matrisomes in healthy and fibrotic tissues. Matrix Biol 2022; 111:153-188. [PMID: 35764212 PMCID: PMC9990088 DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2022.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Revised: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Fibrillar proteins are principal components of extracellular matrix (ECM) that confer mechanical properties to tissues. Fibrosis can result from wound repair in nearly every tissue in adults, and it associates with increased ECM density and crosslinking as well as increased tissue stiffness. Such fibrotic tissues are a major biomedical challenge, and an emerging view posits that the altered mechanical environment supports both synthetic and contractile myofibroblasts in a state of persistent activation. Here, we review the matrisome in several fibrotic diseases, as well as normal tissues, with a focus on physicochemical properties. Stiffness generally increases with the abundance of fibrillar collagens, the major constituent of ECM, with similar mathematical trends for fibrosis as well as adult tissues from soft brain to stiff bone and heart development. Changes in expression of other core matrisome and matrisome-associated proteins or proteoglycans contribute to tissue stiffening in fibrosis by organizing collagen, crosslinking ECM, and facilitating adhesion of myofibroblasts. Understanding how ECM composition and mechanics coevolve during fibrosis can lead to better models and help with antifibrotic therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lawrence J Dooling
- Molecular and Cellular Biophysics Lab, University of Pennsylvania,Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Karanvir Saini
- Molecular and Cellular Biophysics Lab, University of Pennsylvania,Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Alişya A Anlaş
- Molecular and Cellular Biophysics Lab, University of Pennsylvania,Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Dennis E Discher
- Molecular and Cellular Biophysics Lab, University of Pennsylvania,Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Munawar MA, Schubert DW. Thermal-Induced Percolation Phenomena and Elasticity of Highly Oriented Electrospun Conductive Nanofibrous Biocomposites for Tissue Engineering. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23158451. [PMID: 35955588 PMCID: PMC9369359 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23158451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Highly oriented electrospun conductive nanofibrous biocomposites (CNBs) of polylactic acid (PLA) and polyaniline (PANi) are fabricated using electrospinning. At the percolation threshold (φc), the growth of continuous paths between PANi particles leads to a steep increase in the electrical conductivity of fibers, and the McLachlan equation is fitted to identify φc. Annealing generates additional conductive channels, which lead to higher conductivity for dynamic percolation. For the first time, dynamic percolation is investigated for revealing time-temperature superposition in oriented conductive nanofibrous biocomposites. The crystallinity (χc) displays a linear dependence on annealing temperature within the confined fiber of CNBs. The increase in crystallinity due to annealing also increases the Young’s modulus E of CNBs. The present study outlines a reliable approach to determining the conductivity and elasticity of nanofibers that are highly desirable for a wide range of biological tissue applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad A. Munawar
- Institute of Polymer Materials, Department of Material Science, Faculty of Engineering, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Martensstrasse 7, 91058 Erlangen, Germany
- KeyLab Advanced Fiber Technology, Bavarian Polymer Institute, Dr.-Mack-Strasse 77, 90762 Fürth, Germany
- Correspondence: (M.A.M.); (D.W.S.)
| | - Dirk W. Schubert
- Institute of Polymer Materials, Department of Material Science, Faculty of Engineering, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Martensstrasse 7, 91058 Erlangen, Germany
- KeyLab Advanced Fiber Technology, Bavarian Polymer Institute, Dr.-Mack-Strasse 77, 90762 Fürth, Germany
- Correspondence: (M.A.M.); (D.W.S.)
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Matrikines as mediators of tissue remodelling. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2022; 185:114240. [PMID: 35378216 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2022.114240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Revised: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins confer biomechanical properties, maintain cell phenotype and mediate tissue repair (via release of sequestered cytokines and proteases). In contrast to intracellular proteomes, where proteins are monitored and replaced over short time periods, many ECM proteins function for years (decades in humans) without replacement. The longevity of abundant ECM proteins, such as collagen I and elastin, leaves them vulnerable to damage accumulation and their host organs prone to chronic, age-related diseases. However, ECM protein fragmentation can potentially produce peptide cytokines (matrikines) which may exacerbate and/or ameliorate age- and disease-related ECM remodelling. In this review, we discuss ECM composition, function and degradation and highlight examples of endogenous matrikines. We then critically and comprehensively analyse published studies of matrix-derived peptides used as topical skin treatments, before considering the potential for improvements in the discovery and delivery of novel matrix-derived peptides to skin and internal organs. From this, we conclude that while the translational impact of matrix-derived peptide therapeutics is evident, the mechanisms of action of these peptides are poorly defined. Further, well-designed, multimodal studies are required.
Collapse
|
12
|
Xu T, Ji W, Wang X, Zhang Y, Zeng H, Mao L, Zhang M. Support‐Free PEDOT:PSS Fibers as Multifunctional Microelectrodes for In Vivo Neural Recording and Modulation. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2022; 61:e202115074. [DOI: 10.1002/anie.202115074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Tianci Xu
- Department of Chemistry Renmin University of China Beijing 100872 China
| | - Wenliang Ji
- Department of Chemistry Renmin University of China Beijing 100872 China
| | - Xiaofang Wang
- Department of Chemistry Renmin University of China Beijing 100872 China
| | - Yue Zhang
- Department of Chemistry Renmin University of China Beijing 100872 China
| | - Hui Zeng
- Department of Chemistry Renmin University of China Beijing 100872 China
| | - Lanqun Mao
- College of Chemistry Beijing Normal University Beijing 100875 China
| | - Meining Zhang
- Department of Chemistry Renmin University of China Beijing 100872 China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
The micro-structure and biomechanics of eyelid tarsus. J Biomech 2022; 133:110911. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2021.110911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Revised: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
|
14
|
Xu T, Ji W, Wang X, Zhang Y, Zeng H, Mao L, Zhang M. Support‐Free PEDOT:PSS Fibers as Multifunctional Microelectrodes for In Vivo Neural Recording and Modulation. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.202115074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Tianci Xu
- Department of Chemistry Renmin University of China Beijing 100872 China
| | - Wenliang Ji
- Department of Chemistry Renmin University of China Beijing 100872 China
| | - Xiaofang Wang
- Department of Chemistry Renmin University of China Beijing 100872 China
| | - Yue Zhang
- Department of Chemistry Renmin University of China Beijing 100872 China
| | - Hui Zeng
- Department of Chemistry Renmin University of China Beijing 100872 China
| | - Lanqun Mao
- College of Chemistry Beijing Normal University Beijing 100875 China
| | - Meining Zhang
- Department of Chemistry Renmin University of China Beijing 100872 China
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Jawde SB, Karrobi K, Roblyer D, Vicario F, Herrmann J, Casey D, Lutchen KR, Stamenović D, Bates JHT, Suki B. Inflation instability in the lung: an analytical model of a thick-walled alveolus with wavy fibres under large deformations. J R Soc Interface 2021; 18:20210594. [PMID: 34637644 DOI: 10.1098/rsif.2021.0594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflation of hollow elastic structures can become unstable and exhibit a runaway phenomenon if the tension in their walls does not rise rapidly enough with increasing volume. Biological systems avoid such inflation instability for reasons that remain poorly understood. This is best exemplified by the lung, which inflates over its functional volume range without instability. The goal of this study was to determine how the constituents of lung parenchyma determine tissue stresses that protect alveoli from instability-related overdistension during inflation. We present an analytical model of a thick-walled alveolus composed of wavy elastic fibres, and investigate its pressure-volume behaviour under large deformations. Using second-harmonic generation imaging, we found that collagen waviness follows a beta distribution. Using this distribution to fit human pressure-volume curves, we estimated collagen and elastin effective stiffnesses to be 1247 kPa and 18.3 kPa, respectively. Furthermore, we demonstrate that linearly elastic but wavy collagen fibres are sufficient to achieve inflation stability within the physiological pressure range if the alveolar thickness-to-radius ratio is greater than 0.05. Our model thus identifies the constraints on alveolar geometry and collagen waviness required for inflation stability and provides a multiscale link between alveolar pressure and stresses on fibres in healthy and diseased lungs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samer Bou Jawde
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, 44 Cummington Mall, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Kavon Karrobi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, 44 Cummington Mall, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Darren Roblyer
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, 44 Cummington Mall, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | | | - Jacob Herrmann
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, 44 Cummington Mall, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Dylan Casey
- Pulmonary/Critical Care Division, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - Kenneth R Lutchen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, 44 Cummington Mall, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Dimitrije Stamenović
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, 44 Cummington Mall, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Jason H T Bates
- Pulmonary/Critical Care Division, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - Béla Suki
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, 44 Cummington Mall, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Sternberg AK, Buck VU, Classen-Linke I, Leube RE. How Mechanical Forces Change the Human Endometrium during the Menstrual Cycle in Preparation for Embryo Implantation. Cells 2021; 10:2008. [PMID: 34440776 PMCID: PMC8391722 DOI: 10.3390/cells10082008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Revised: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The human endometrium is characterized by exceptional plasticity, as evidenced by rapid growth and differentiation during the menstrual cycle and fast tissue remodeling during early pregnancy. Past work has rarely addressed the role of cellular mechanics in these processes. It is becoming increasingly clear that sensing and responding to mechanical forces are as significant for cell behavior as biochemical signaling. Here, we provide an overview of experimental evidence and concepts that illustrate how mechanical forces influence endometrial cell behavior during the hormone-driven menstrual cycle and prepare the endometrium for embryo implantation. Given the fundamental species differences during implantation, we restrict the review to the human situation. Novel technologies and devices such as 3D multifrequency magnetic resonance elastography, atomic force microscopy, organ-on-a-chip microfluidic systems, stem-cell-derived organoid formation, and complex 3D co-culture systems have propelled the understanding how endometrial receptivity and blastocyst implantation are regulated in the human uterus. Accumulating evidence has shown that junctional adhesion, cytoskeletal rearrangement, and extracellular matrix stiffness affect the local force balance that regulates endometrial differentiation and blastocyst invasion. A focus of this review is on the hormonal regulation of endometrial epithelial cell mechanics. We discuss potential implications for embryo implantation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Rudolf E. Leube
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Anatomy, RWTH Aachen University, Wendlingweg 2, 52074 Aachen, Germany; (A.K.S.); (V.U.B.); (I.C.-L.)
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Ortega MA, Asúnsolo Á, Fraile-Martínez O, Sainz F, Saez MA, Bravo C, De León-Luis JA, Alvarez-Mon MA, Coca S, Álvarez-Mon M, Buján J, García-Honduvilla N. An increase in elastogenic components in the placental villi of women with chronic venous disease during pregnancy is associated with decreased EGFL7 expression level. Mol Med Rep 2021; 24:556. [PMID: 34080027 PMCID: PMC8188638 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2021.12195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic venous disease (CVD) is the response to a series of hemodynamic changes in the venous system and the onset of this disease is often triggered by pregnancy. Placental tissue is particularly sensitive to the characteristic changes which occurs in venous hypertension. In this regard, changes in the extracellular matrix (ECM), that occur to adapt to this situation, are fundamental to controlling elastogenesis. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to analyze the changes that occur in the mRNA and protein expression level of proteins related to elastogenesis in the placental villi of women diagnosed with CVD, in the third trimester of pregnancy. An observational, analytical and prospective cohort study was conducted, in which the placenta from 62 women with CVD were compared with that in placenta from 52 women without a diagnosis of CVD. Gene and protein expression levels were analyzed using reverse transcription-quantitative PCR and immunohistochemistry, respectively. The results showed a significant decrease in the gene and protein expression level of EGFL7 in the placental villi of women with CVD. By contrast, significant increases in the gene and protein expression level of ECM-related proteins, such as tropoelastin, fibulin 4, fibrillin 1 and members of the lysyl oxidase family (LOX and LOXL-1) were also found in the placental villi of women with CVD. To the best of our knowledge, the results from the present study showed for the first time that CVD during pregnancy was associated with changes in the mRNA and protein expression level in essential components of the EGFL7-modulated elastogenesis process in placental villi.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Miguel A Ortega
- Department of Medicine and Medical Specialties, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, 28801 Madrid, Spain
| | - Ángel Asúnsolo
- Ramón y Cajal Institute of Healthcare Research, 28034 Madrid, Spain
| | - Oscar Fraile-Martínez
- Department of Medicine and Medical Specialties, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, 28801 Madrid, Spain
| | - Felipe Sainz
- University Center for The Defense of Madrid, 28047 Madrid, Spain
| | - Miguel A Saez
- Department of Medicine and Medical Specialties, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, 28801 Madrid, Spain
| | - Coral Bravo
- University Center for The Defense of Madrid, 28047 Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan A De León-Luis
- Service of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Section of Fetal Maternal Medicine, Central University Hospital of Defence‑University of Alcalá, 28047 Madrid, Spain
| | - Miguel A Alvarez-Mon
- Department of Medicine and Medical Specialties, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, 28801 Madrid, Spain
| | - Santiago Coca
- Department of Medicine and Medical Specialties, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, 28801 Madrid, Spain
| | - Melchor Álvarez-Mon
- Department of Medicine and Medical Specialties, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, 28801 Madrid, Spain
| | - Julia Buján
- Department of Medicine and Medical Specialties, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, 28801 Madrid, Spain
| | - Natalio García-Honduvilla
- Department of Medicine and Medical Specialties, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, 28801 Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Feneck EM, Lewis PN, Meek KM. Identification of a Primary Stroma and Novel Endothelial Cell Projections in the Developing Human Cornea. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2021; 61:5. [PMID: 32492106 PMCID: PMC7415898 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.61.6.5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To investigate the initial events in the development of the human cornea, focusing on cell migration, and extracellular matrix synthesis and organization. To determine whether elastic fibers are present in the extracellular matrix during early human corneal development. Methods Human corneas were collected from week 7 to week 17 of development. An elastic fiber-enhancing stain, tannic acid–uranyl acetate, was applied to all tissue. Three-dimensional serial block-face scanning electron microscopy combined with conventional transmission electron microscopy was used to analyze the corneal stroma. Results An acellular collagenous primary stroma with an orthogonal arrangement of fibrils was identified in the central cornea from week 7 of corneal development. At week 7.5, mesenchymal cells migrated toward the central cornea and associated with the acellular collagenous matrix. Novel cell extensions from the endothelium were identified. Elastic fibers were found concentrated in the posterior peripheral corneal stroma from week 12 of corneal development. Conclusions This study provides novel evidence of an acellular primary stroma in the early development of the embryonic human cornea. Cell extensions exist as part of a communication system and are hypothesized to assist in the migration of the mesenchymal cells and the development of the mature cornea. Elastic fibers identified in early corneal development may play an important role in establishing corneal shape.
Collapse
|
19
|
Investigation of structural proteins in sea cucumber (Apostichopus japonicus) body wall. Sci Rep 2020; 10:18744. [PMID: 33127976 PMCID: PMC7599334 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-75580-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 10/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Structural proteins play critical roles in the food quality, especially texture properties, of sea cucumbers and their products. Most of the previous studies on sea cucumbers focused on few individual proteins, which limited our understanding of how structural proteins influenced the quality of sea cucumbers. Inspired by the clarification of sea cucumber (Apostichopus japonicus) genome, we established an integrated data of structural proteins in the sea cucumber body wall. A portfolio of 2018 structural proteins was screened out from the sea cucumber annotated proteome by bioinformatics analysis. The portfolio was divided into three divisions, including extracellular matrix proteins, muscle proteins, and proteases, and further classified into 18 categories. The presence of 472 proteins in the sea cucumber body wall was confirmed by using a proteomics approach. Moreover, comparative proteomics analysis revealed the spatial distribution heterogeneity of structural proteins in the sea cucumber body wall at a molecular scale. This study suggested that future researches on sea cucumbers could be performed from an integrated perspective, which would reshape the component map of sea cucumber and provide novel insights into the understanding of how the food quality of sea cucumber was determined on a molecular level.
Collapse
|
20
|
Abstract
The Zonule of Zinn, or ciliary zonule, is the elaborate system of extracellular fibers that centers the lens in the eye. In humans, the fibers transmit forces that flatten the lens during the process of disaccommodation, thereby bringing distant objects into focus. Zonular fibers are composed almost entirely of 10-12 nm-wide microfibrils, of which polymerized fibrillin is the most abundant component. The thickest fibers have a fascicular organization, where hundreds or thousands of microfibrils are gathered into micrometer-wide bundles. Many such bundles are aggregated to form a fiber. Dozens of proteins comprise the zonule. Most are derived from cells of the non-pigmented ciliary epithelium in the pars plana region, although some are probably contributed by the lens and perhaps other tissues of the anterior segment. Zonular fibers are viscoelastic cables but their component microfibrils are rather stiff structures. Thus, the elastic properties of the fibers likely stem from lateral interactions between microfibrils. Rupture of zonular fibers and subsequent lens dislocation (ectopia lentis) can result from blunt force trauma or be a sequela of other eye diseases, notably exfoliation syndrome. Ectopia lentis is also a feature of syndromic conditions caused typically by mutations in microfibril-associated genes. The resulting ocular phenotypes raise the possibility that the zonule regulates lens size and shape, globe size, and even corneal topology, in addition to its well-recognized role in accommodation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Steven Bassnett
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, 660 South Euclid Avenue, Campus Box 8096, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Abbas Y, Carnicer-Lombarte A, Gardner L, Thomas J, Brosens JJ, Moffett A, Sharkey AM, Franze K, Burton GJ, Oyen ML. Tissue stiffness at the human maternal-fetal interface. Hum Reprod 2020; 34:1999-2008. [PMID: 31579915 PMCID: PMC6809602 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dez139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2019] [Revised: 06/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION What is the stiffness (elastic modulus) of human nonpregnant secretory phase endometrium, first trimester decidua, and placenta? SUMMARY ANSWER The stiffness of decidua basalis, the site of placental invasion, was an order of magnitude higher at 103 Pa compared to 102 Pa for decidua parietalis, nonpregnant endometrium and placenta. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Mechanical forces have profound effects on cell behavior, regulating both cell differentiation and migration. Despite their importance, very little is known about their effects on blastocyst implantation and trophoblast migration during placental development because of the lack of mechanical characterization at the human maternal–fetal interface. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION An observational study was conducted to measure the stiffness of ex vivo samples of human nonpregnant secretory endometrium (N = 5) and first trimester decidua basalis (N = 6), decidua parietalis (N = 5), and placenta (N = 5). The stiffness of the artificial extracellular matrix (ECM), Matrigel®, commonly used to study migration of extravillous trophoblast (EVT) in three dimensions and to culture endometrial and placental organoids, was also determined (N = 5). PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Atomic force microscopy was used to perform ex vivo direct measurements to determine the stiffness of fresh tissue samples. Decidua was stained by immunohistochemistry (IHC) for HLA-G+ EVT to confirm whether samples were decidua basalis or decidua parietalis. Endometrium was stained with hematoxylin and eosin to confirm the presence of luminal epithelium. Single-cell RNA sequencing data were analyzed to determine expression of ECM transcripts by decidual and placental cells. Fibrillin 1, a protein identified by these data, was stained by IHC in decidua basalis. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE We observed that decidua basalis was significantly stiffer than decidua parietalis, at 1250 and 171 Pa, respectively (P < 0.05). The stiffness of decidua parietalis was similar to nonpregnant endometrium and placental tissue (250 and 232 Pa, respectively). These findings suggest that it is the presence of invading EVT that is driving the increase in stiffness in decidua basalis. The stiffness of Matrigel® was found to be 331 Pa, significantly lower than decidua basalis (P < 0.05). LARGE SCALE DATA N/A LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Tissue stiffness was derived by ex vivo measurements on blocks of fresh tissue in the absence of blood flow. The nonpregnant endometrium samples were obtained from women undergoing treatment for infertility. These may not reflect the stiffness of endometrium from normal fertile women. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS These results provide direct measurements of tissue stiffness during the window of implantation and first trimester of human pregnancy. They serve as a basis of future studies exploring the impact of mechanics on embryo implantation and development of the placenta. The findings provide important baseline data to inform matrix stiffness requirements when developing in vitro models of trophoblast stem cell development and migration that more closely resemble the decidua in vivo. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by the Centre for Trophoblast Research, the Wellcome Trust (090108/Z/09/Z, 085992/Z/08/Z), the Medical Research Council (MR/P001092/1), the European Research Council (772426), an Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council Doctoral Training Award (1354760), a UK Medical Research Council and Sackler Foundation Doctoral Training Grant (RG70550) and a Wellcome Trust Doctoral Studentship (215226/Z/19/Z).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yassen Abbas
- The Nanoscience Centre, Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB3 0FF, UK
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QP, UK
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK
| | - Alejandro Carnicer-Lombarte
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK
- John Van Geest Centre for Brain Repair, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0PY, UK
| | - Lucy Gardner
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QP, UK
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK
| | - Jake Thomas
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QP, UK
| | - Jan J Brosens
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK
| | - Ashley Moffett
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QP, UK
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK
| | - Andrew M Sharkey
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QP, UK
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK
| | - Kristian Franze
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK
| | - Graham J Burton
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK
| | - Michelle L Oyen
- The Nanoscience Centre, Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB3 0FF, UK
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK
- Department of Engineering, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27858-4353, USA
- Correspondence address: Department of Engineering, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27858-4353, USA. Tel: +1 (252) 737-7753. E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Investigation of fibrillin microfibrils in the canine cruciate ligament in dogs with different predispositions to ligament rupture. Res Vet Sci 2020; 133:53-58. [PMID: 32937286 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2020.09.006] [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: 02/27/2020] [Revised: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Cranial cruciate ligament disease (CCLD) is the most common cause of pelvic limb lameness in dogs but its precise aetiopathogenesis is uncertain. Fibrillin microfibrils (FM) are complex macro-molecular assemblies found in many tissues including ligaments, where they are thought to play an important mechanical role. We hypothesised that FM ultrastructural variation correlates with the differing predisposition of canine breeds to CCLD. Non-diseased cranial and caudal cruciate ligaments (CCLs and CaCLs) were obtained from Greyhound (GH) and Staffordshire Bull Terrier (SBT) cadavers. Fibrillin microfibrils were extracted from the ligaments by bacterial collagenase digestion, purified by size-exclusion chromatography and subsequently visualized by atomic force microscopy (AFM). With AFM, FMs have a characteristic beads-on-a-string appearance. For each FM, periodicity (bead-bead distance) and length (number of beads/FM) was measured. Fibrillin microfibril length was found to be similar for GH and SBT, with non-significant inter-breed and inter-ligament differences. Fibrillin microfibril periodicity varied when comparing GH and SBT for CCL (GH 60.2 ± 1.4 nm; SBT 56.2 ± 0.8 nm) and CaCL (GH 55.5 ± 1.6 nm; SBT 61.2 ± 1.2 nm). A significant difference was found in the periodicity distribution when comparing CCL for both breeds (P < 0.00001), further, intra-breed differences in CCL vs CaCL were statistically significant within both breeds (P < 0.00001). The breed at low risk of CCLD exhibited a periodicity profile which may be suggestive of a repair and remodelling within the CCL.
Collapse
|
23
|
Langton AK, Tsoureli-Nikita E, Merrick H, Zhao X, Antoniou C, Stratigos A, Akhtar R, Derby B, Sherratt MJ, Watson RE, Griffiths CE. The systemic influence of chronic smoking on skin structure and mechanical function. J Pathol 2020; 251:420-428. [PMID: 32472631 DOI: 10.1002/path.5476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Revised: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
One of the major functions of human skin is to provide protection from the environment. Although we cannot entirely avoid, for example, sun exposure, it is likely that exposure to other environmental factors could affect cutaneous function. A number of studies have identified smoking as one such factor that leads to both facial wrinkle formation and a decline in skin function. In addition to the direct physical effects of tobacco smoke on skin, its inhalation has additional profound systemic effects for the smoker. The adverse effects on the respiratory and cardiovascular systems from smoking are well known. Central to the pathological changes associated with smoking is the elastic fibre, a key component of the extracellular matrices of lungs. In this study we examined the systemic effect of chronic smoking (>40 cigarettes/day; >5 years) on the histology of the cutaneous elastic fibre system, the nanostructure and mechanics of one of its key components, the fibrillin-rich microfibril, and the micromechanical stiffness of the dermis and epidermis. We show that photoprotected skin of chronic smokers exhibits significant remodelling of the elastic fibre network (both elastin and fibrillin-rich microfibrils) as compared to the skin of age- and sex-matched non-smokers. This remodelling is not associated with increased gelatinase activity (as identified by in situ zymography). Histological remodelling is accompanied by significant ultrastructural changes to extracted fibrillin-rich microfibrils. Finally, using scanning acoustic microscopy, we demonstrated that chronic smoking significantly increases the stiffness of both the dermis and the epidermis. Taken together, these data suggest an unappreciated systemic effect of chronic inhalation of tobacco smoke on the cutaneous elastic fibre network. Such changes may in part underlie the skin wrinkling and loss of skin elasticity associated with smoking. © 2020 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abigail K Langton
- Centre for Dermatology Research, The University of Manchester & Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK.,NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Evridiki Tsoureli-Nikita
- First Department of Dermatology, Andreas Syggros Hospital of Cutaneous & Venereal Diseases, Athens University Medical School, Athens, Greece
| | - Holly Merrick
- Centre for Dermatology Research, The University of Manchester & Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Xuegen Zhao
- School of Materials, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Christina Antoniou
- First Department of Dermatology, Andreas Syggros Hospital of Cutaneous & Venereal Diseases, Athens University Medical School, Athens, Greece
| | - Alexander Stratigos
- First Department of Dermatology, Andreas Syggros Hospital of Cutaneous & Venereal Diseases, Athens University Medical School, Athens, Greece
| | - Riaz Akhtar
- Department of Mechanical, Materials and Aerospace Engineering, School of Engineering, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Brian Derby
- School of Materials, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Michael J Sherratt
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology & Regenerative Medicine, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Rachel Eb Watson
- Centre for Dermatology Research, The University of Manchester & Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK.,NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Christopher Em Griffiths
- Centre for Dermatology Research, The University of Manchester & Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK.,NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Kang V, Lengerer B, Wattiez R, Flammang P. Molecular insights into the powerful mucus-based adhesion of limpets ( Patella vulgata L.). Open Biol 2020; 10:200019. [PMID: 32543352 PMCID: PMC7333891 DOI: 10.1098/rsob.200019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Limpets (Patella vulgata L.) are renowned for their powerful attachments to rocks on wave-swept seashores. Unlike adult barnacles and mussels, limpets do not adhere permanently; instead, they repeatedly transition between long-term adhesion and locomotive adhesion depending on the tide. Recent studies on the adhesive secretions (bio-adhesives) of marine invertebrates have expanded our knowledge on the composition and function of temporary and permanent bio-adhesives. In comparison, our understanding of the limpets' transitory adhesion remains limited. In this study, we demonstrate that suction is not the primary attachment mechanism in P. vulgata; rather, they secrete specialized pedal mucus for glue-like adhesion. Through combined transcriptomics and proteomics, we identified 171 protein sequences from the pedal mucus. Several of these proteins contain conserved domains found in temporary bio-adhesives from sea stars, sea urchins, marine flatworms and sea anemones. Many of these proteins share homology with fibrous gel-forming glycoproteins, including fibrillin, hemolectin and SCO-spondin. Moreover, proteins with potential protein- and glycan-degrading domains could have an immune defence role or assist degrading adhesive mucus to facilitate the transition from stationary to locomotive states. We also discovered glycosylation patterns unique to the pedal mucus, indicating that specific sugars may be involved in transitory adhesion. Our findings elucidate the mechanisms underlying P. vulgata adhesion and provide opportunities for future studies on bio-adhesives that form strong attachments and resist degradation until necessary for locomotion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Victor Kang
- Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Birgit Lengerer
- Biology of Marine Organisms and Biomimetics Unit, Research Institute for Biosciences, University of Mons, Mons 7000, Belgium.,Institute of Zoology, University of Innsbruck, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Ruddy Wattiez
- Laboratory of Proteomics and Microbiology, Research Institute for Biosciences, University of Mons, Mons 7000, Belgium
| | - Patrick Flammang
- Biology of Marine Organisms and Biomimetics Unit, Research Institute for Biosciences, University of Mons, Mons 7000, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Eckersley A, Ozols M, O'Cualain R, Keevill EJ, Foster A, Pilkington S, Knight D, Griffiths CEM, Watson REB, Sherratt MJ. Proteomic fingerprints of damage in extracellular matrix assemblies. Matrix Biol Plus 2020; 5:100027. [PMID: 33543016 PMCID: PMC7852314 DOI: 10.1016/j.mbplus.2020.100027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2019] [Revised: 01/21/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
In contrast to the dynamic intracellular environment, structural extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins with half-lives measured in decades, are susceptible to accumulating damage. Whilst conventional approaches such as histology, immunohistochemistry and mass spectrometry are able to identify age- and disease-related changes in protein abundance or distribution, these techniques are poorly suited to characterising molecular damage. We have previously shown that mass spectrometry can detect tissue-specific differences in the proteolytic susceptibility of protein regions within fibrillin-1 and collagen VI alpha-3. Here, we present a novel proteomic approach to detect damage-induced “peptide fingerprints” within complex multi-component ECM assemblies (fibrillin and collagen VI microfibrils) following their exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UVR) by broadband UVB or solar simulated radiation (SSR). These assemblies were chosen because, in chronically photoaged skin, fibrillin and collagen VI microfibril architectures are differentially susceptible to UVR. In this study, atomic force microscopy revealed that fibrillin microfibril ultrastructure was significantly altered by UVR exposure whereas the ultrastructure of collagen VI microfibrils was resistant. UVR-induced molecular damage was further characterised by proteolytic peptide generation with elastase followed by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Peptide mapping revealed that UVR exposure increased regional proteolytic susceptibility within the protein structures of fibrillin-1 and collagen VI alpha-3. This allowed the identification of UVR-induced molecular changes within these two key ECM assemblies. Additionally, similar changes were observed within protein regions of co-purifying, microfibril-associated receptors integrins αv and β1. This study demonstrates that LC-MS/MS mapping of peptides enables the characterisation of molecular post-translational damage (via direct irradiation and radiation-induced oxidative mechanisms) within a complex in vitro model system. This peptide fingerprinting approach reliably allows both the identification of UVR-induced molecular damage in and between proteins and the identification of specific protein domains with increased proteolytic susceptibility as a result of photo-denaturation. This has the potential to serve as a sensitive method of identifying accumulated molecular damage in vivo using conventional mass spectrometry data-sets. Mass spectrometry “peptide fingerprinting” can detect post-translational damage within extracellular matrix proteins. UVR-induced FBN1 and COL6A3 peptide fingerprints are reproducibly identified from purified microfibrils. Peptide mapping reveals increased regional susceptibilities to proteolysis in FBN1 and COL6A3 proteins. Regional changes are also observed in protein structures of microfibril-associated receptor integrins αv and β1. This “peptide fingerprinting” approach is applicable to conventional LC-MS/MS datasets.
Collapse
Key Words
- AFM, atomic force microscopy
- COL6A3, collagen VI alpha 3 chain
- Collagen VI microfibril
- ECM, extracellular matrix
- EGF, epidermal growth factor domain
- Fibrillin microfibril
- HDF, human dermal fibroblast
- LC-MS/MS, liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry
- Mass spectrometry
- PSM, peptide spectrum match
- Photodamage
- ROS, reactive oxygen species
- SSR, solar simulated radiation
- TGFβ, transforming growth factor beta
- UVR, ultraviolet radiation
- Ultraviolet radiation
- vWA, von Willebrand factor type A domain
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Eckersley
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology & Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Matiss Ozols
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology & Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Ronan O'Cualain
- Biological Mass Spectrometry Core Research Facility, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Emma-Jayne Keevill
- Biological Mass Spectrometry Core Research Facility, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - April Foster
- Division of Musculoskeletal & Dermatological Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Suzanne Pilkington
- Division of Musculoskeletal & Dermatological Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - David Knight
- Biological Mass Spectrometry Core Research Facility, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Christopher E M Griffiths
- Division of Musculoskeletal & Dermatological Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.,NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Rachel E B Watson
- Division of Musculoskeletal & Dermatological Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.,NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Michael J Sherratt
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology & Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Langton AK, Hann M, Costello P, Halai P, Griffiths CEM, Sherratt MJ, Watson REB. Remodelling of fibrillin-rich microfibrils by solar-simulated radiation: impact of skin ethnicity. Photochem Photobiol Sci 2020; 19:1160-1167. [DOI: 10.1039/d0pp00188k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Cutaneous fibrillin-rich microfibrils (FRMs) should be considered as two distinct populations that differentially accrue damage in response to SSR. Furthermore, FRMs derived from black African skin show greater change following UVR challenge.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abigail K. Langton
- Centre for Dermatology Research
- The University of Manchester & Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust
- Manchester Academic Health Science Centre
- UK
- NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre
| | - Mark Hann
- Centre for Biostatistics
- The University of Manchester
- Manchester Academic Health Science Centre
- UK
| | - Patrick Costello
- Centre for Dermatology Research
- The University of Manchester & Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust
- Manchester Academic Health Science Centre
- UK
| | - Poonam Halai
- Centre for Dermatology Research
- The University of Manchester & Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust
- Manchester Academic Health Science Centre
- UK
| | - Christopher E. M. Griffiths
- Centre for Dermatology Research
- The University of Manchester & Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust
- Manchester Academic Health Science Centre
- UK
- NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre
| | - Michael J. Sherratt
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine
- The University of Manchester
- UK
| | - Rachel E. B. Watson
- Centre for Dermatology Research
- The University of Manchester & Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust
- Manchester Academic Health Science Centre
- UK
- NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Godwin ARF, Singh M, Lockhart-Cairns MP, Alanazi YF, Cain SA, Baldock C. The role of fibrillin and microfibril binding proteins in elastin and elastic fibre assembly. Matrix Biol 2019; 84:17-30. [PMID: 31226403 PMCID: PMC6943813 DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2019.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2019] [Revised: 06/16/2019] [Accepted: 06/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Fibrillin is a large evolutionarily ancient extracellular glycoprotein that assembles to form beaded microfibrils which are essential components of most extracellular matrices. Fibrillin microfibrils have specific biomechanical properties to endow animal tissues with limited elasticity, a fundamental feature of the durable function of large blood vessels, skin and lungs. They also form a template for elastin deposition and provide a platform for microfibril-elastin binding proteins to interact in elastic fibre assembly. In addition to their structural role, fibrillin microfibrils mediate cell signalling via integrin and syndecan receptors, and microfibrils sequester transforming growth factor (TGF)β family growth factors within the matrix to provide a tissue store which is critical for homeostasis and remodelling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alan R F Godwin
- Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, Division of Cell-Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
| | - Mukti Singh
- Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, Division of Cell-Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
| | - Michael P Lockhart-Cairns
- Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, Division of Cell-Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
| | - Yasmene F Alanazi
- Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, Division of Cell-Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
| | - Stuart A Cain
- Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, Division of Cell-Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester M13 9PT, UK.
| | - Clair Baldock
- Wellcome Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, Division of Cell-Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester M13 9PT, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Human Skin: Composition, Structure and Visualisation Methods. STUDIES IN MECHANOBIOLOGY, TISSUE ENGINEERING AND BIOMATERIALS 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-13279-8_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
|
29
|
Hibbert SA, Watson REB, Griffiths CEM, Gibbs NK, Sherratt MJ. Selective proteolysis by matrix metalloproteinases of photo-oxidised dermal extracellular matrix proteins. Cell Signal 2018; 54:191-199. [PMID: 30521860 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2018.11.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2018] [Revised: 11/30/2018] [Accepted: 11/30/2018] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Photodamage in chronically sun-exposed skin manifests clinically as deep wrinkles and histologically as extensive remodelling of the dermal extracellular matrix (ECM) and in particular, the elastic fibre system. We have shown previously that loss of fibrillin microfibrils, a key elastic fibre component, is a hallmark of early photodamage and that these ECM assemblies are susceptible in vitro to physiologically attainable doses of ultraviolet radiation (UVR). Here, we test the hypotheses that UVR-mediated photo-oxidation is the primary driver of fibrillin microfibril and fibronectin degradation and that prior UVR exposure will enhance the subsequent proteolytic activity of UVR-upregulated matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). We confirmed that UVB (280-315 nm) irradiation in vitro induced structural changes to both fibrillin microfibrils and fibronectin and these changes were largely reactive oxygen species (ROS)-driven, with increased ROS lifetime (D2O) enhancing protein damage and depleted O2 conditions abrogating it. Furthermore, we show that although exposure to UVR alone increased microfibril structural heterogeneity, exposure to purified MMPs (1, -3, -7 and - 9) alone had minimal effect on microfibril bead-to-bead periodicity; however, microfibril suspensions exposed to UVR and then MMPs were more structurally homogenous. In contrast, the susceptibly of fibronectin to proteases was unaffected by prior UVR exposure. These observations suggest that both direct photon absorption and indirect production of ROS are important mediators of ECM remodelling in photodamage. We also show that fibrillin microfibrils are relatively resistant to proteolysis by MMPs -1, -3, -7 and - 9 but that these MMPs may selectively remove damaged microfibril assemblies. These latter observations have implications for predicting the mechanisms of tissue remodelling and targeted repair.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A Hibbert
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology & Regenerative Medicine, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
| | - Rachel E B Watson
- Centre for Dermatology Research, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester & Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK; NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, UK
| | - Christopher E M Griffiths
- Centre for Dermatology Research, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester & Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK; NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, UK
| | - Neil K Gibbs
- Centre for Dermatology Research, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester & Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Michael J Sherratt
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology & Regenerative Medicine, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Feneck EM, Lewis PN, Ralphs J, Meek KM. A comparative study of the elastic fibre system within the mouse and human cornea. Exp Eye Res 2018; 177:35-44. [PMID: 30053442 PMCID: PMC6280038 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2018.07.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2018] [Revised: 06/11/2018] [Accepted: 07/21/2018] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
The cornea relies on its organised extracellular matrix for maintaining transparency and biomechanical strength. Studies have identified an elastic fibre system within the human posterior cornea, thought to allow for slight deformations in response to internal pressure fluctuations within the eye. However, the type of elastic fibres that exist within the cornea and their roles remain elusive. The aim of this study was to compare the distribution and organisation of the elastic fibres within the posterior peripheral mouse and human cornea, and elucidate how these fibres integrate with the trabecular meshwork, whilst characterising the distribution of their main likely components (fibrillin-1, elastin and type VI collagen) in different parts of the cornea and adjacent sclera. We identified key differences in the elastic fibre system between the human and mouse cornea. True elastic fibres (containing elastin) were identified within the human posterior peripheral cornea. Elastic fibres appeared to present as an extensive network throughout the mouse corneal stroma, but as fibrillin-rich microfibril bundles rather than true elastic fibres. However, tropoelastin staining indicated the possibility that true elastic fibres had yet to develop in the young mice studied. Differences were also apparent within the anatomy of the trabecular meshwork. The human trabecular meshwork appeared to insert between the corneal stroma and Descemet's membrane, with elastic fibres continuing into the stroma from the trabecular meshwork anterior to Descemet's membrane. Within the mouse cornea, no clear insertion point of the trabecular meshwork was seen, instead the elastic fibres within the trabecular meshwork continued into Descemet's membrane, with the trabecular meshwork joining posterior to Descemet's membrane. True Elastic fibres (containing elastin) occur within the human posterior peripheral cornea. A fibrillin-rich microfibril system was found throughout the mouse corneal stroma, with no apparent true elastic fibres. Human trabecular meshwork inserts between the posterior corneal stroma and Descemet's membrane. A continuity of elastic fibres was identified between cornea and trabecular meshwork in both species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eleanor M Feneck
- Structural Biophysics Research Group, School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University, Maindy Road, Cardiff, CF24 4HQ, UK
| | - Philip N Lewis
- Structural Biophysics Research Group, School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University, Maindy Road, Cardiff, CF24 4HQ, UK
| | - Jim Ralphs
- School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cathays Park, Cardiff, CF10 3AX, UK
| | - Keith M Meek
- Structural Biophysics Research Group, School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University, Maindy Road, Cardiff, CF24 4HQ, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Dolmatov IY, Afanasyev SV, Boyko AV. Molecular mechanisms of fission in echinoderms: Transcriptome analysis. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0195836. [PMID: 29649336 PMCID: PMC5897022 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0195836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2017] [Accepted: 04/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Echinoderms are capable of asexual reproduction by fission. An individual divides into parts due to changes in the strength of connective tissue of the body wall. The structure of connective tissue and the mechanisms of variations in its strength in echinoderms remain poorly studied. An analysis of transcriptomes of individuals during the process of fission provides a new opportunity to understand the mechanisms of connective tissue mutability. In the holothurian Cladolabes schmeltzii, we have found a rather complex organization of connective tissue. Transcripts of genes encoding a wide range of structural proteins of extracellular matrix, as well as various proteases and their inhibitors, have been discovered. All these molecules may constitute a part of the mechanism of connective tissue mutability. According to our data, the extracellular matrix of echinoderms is substantially distinguished from that of vertebrates by the lack of elastin, fibronectins, and tenascins. In case of fission, a large number of genes of transcription factors and components of different signaling pathways are expressed. Products of these genes are probably involved in regulation of asexual reproduction, connective tissue mutability, and preparation of tissues for subsequent regeneration. It has been shown that holothurian tensilins are a special group of tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases, which has formed within the class Holothuroidea and is absent from other echinoderms. Our data can serve a basis for the further study of the mechanisms of extracellular matrix mutability, as well as the mechanisms responsible for asexual reproduction in echinoderms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Igor Yu. Dolmatov
- A.V. Zhirmunsky Institute of Marine Biology, National Scientific Center of Marine Biology, Far Eastern Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences, Vladivostok, Russia
- Far Eastern Federal University, Vladivostok, Russia
- * E-mail:
| | - Sergey V. Afanasyev
- Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary Physiology and Biochemistry, Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Alexey V. Boyko
- A.V. Zhirmunsky Institute of Marine Biology, National Scientific Center of Marine Biology, Far Eastern Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences, Vladivostok, Russia
- Far Eastern Federal University, Vladivostok, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Eckersley A, Mellody KT, Pilkington S, Griffiths CEM, Watson REB, O'Cualain R, Baldock C, Knight D, Sherratt MJ. Structural and compositional diversity of fibrillin microfibrils in human tissues. J Biol Chem 2018; 293:5117-5133. [PMID: 29453284 PMCID: PMC5892578 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra117.001483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2017] [Revised: 02/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Elastic fibers comprising fibrillin microfibrils and elastin are present in many tissues, including the skin, lungs, and arteries, where they confer elasticity and resilience. Although fibrillin microfibrils play distinct and tissue-specific functional roles, it is unclear whether their ultrastructure and composition differ between elastin-rich (skin) and elastin-poor (ciliary body and zonule) organs or after in vitro synthesis by cultured cells. Here, we used atomic force microscopy, which revealed that the bead morphology of fibrillin microfibrils isolated from the human eye differs from those isolated from the skin. Using newly developed pre-MS preparation methods and LC-MS/MS, we detected tissue-specific regions of the fibrillin-1 primary structure that were differentially susceptible to proteolytic extraction. Comparing tissue- and culture-derived microfibrils, we found that dermis- and dermal fibroblast–derived fibrillin microfibrils differ in both bead morphology and periodicity and also exhibit regional differences in fibrillin-1 proteolytic susceptibility. In contrast, collagen VI microfibrils from the same dermal or fibroblast samples were invariant in ultrastructure (periodicity) and protease susceptibility. Finally, we observed that skin- and eye-derived microfibril suspensions were enriched in elastic fiber– and basement membrane–associated proteins, respectively. LC-MS/MS also identified proteins (such as calreticulin and protein-disulfide isomerase) that are potentially fundamental to fibrillin microfibril biology, regardless of their tissue source. Fibrillin microfibrils synthesized in cell culture lacked some of these key proteins (MFAP2 and -4 and fibrillin-2). These results showcase the structural diversity of these key extracellular matrix assemblies, which may relate to their distinct roles in the tissues where they reside.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Kieran T Mellody
- From the Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine
| | | | - Christopher E M Griffiths
- the Division of Musculoskeletal and Dermatological Sciences.,the NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester M13 9PT, United Kingdom
| | - Rachel E B Watson
- the Division of Musculoskeletal and Dermatological Sciences.,the NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester M13 9PT, United Kingdom
| | | | - Clair Baldock
- From the Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine.,the Wellcome Trust Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PT, United Kingdom and
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Kielty CM. Fell-Muir Lecture: Fibrillin microfibrils: structural tensometers of elastic tissues? Int J Exp Pathol 2017; 98:172-190. [PMID: 28905442 PMCID: PMC5639267 DOI: 10.1111/iep.12239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2017] [Accepted: 07/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibrillin microfibrils are indispensable structural elements of connective tissues in multicellular organisms from early metazoans to humans. They have an extensible periodic beaded organization, and support dynamic tissues such as ciliary zonules that suspend the lens. In tissues that express elastin, including blood vessels, skin and lungs, microfibrils support elastin deposition and shape the functional architecture of elastic fibres. The vital contribution of microfibrils to tissue form and function is underscored by the heritable fibrillinopathies, especially Marfan syndrome with severe elastic, ocular and skeletal tissue defects. Research since the early 1990s has advanced our knowledge of biology of microfibrils, yet understanding of their mechanical and homeostatic contributions to tissues remains far from complete. This review is a personal reflection on key insights, and puts forward the conceptual hypothesis that microfibrils are structural 'tensometers' that direct cells to monitor and respond to altered tissue mechanics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cay M Kielty
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Hibbert SA, Costello P, O'Connor C, Bell M, Griffiths CEM, Watson REB, Sherratt MJ. A new in vitro assay to test UVR protection of dermal extracellular matrix components by a flat spectrum sunscreen. JOURNAL OF PHOTOCHEMISTRY AND PHOTOBIOLOGY B-BIOLOGY 2017; 175:58-64. [PMID: 28846936 DOI: 10.1016/j.jphotobiol.2017.08.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2017] [Revised: 07/10/2017] [Accepted: 08/14/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The efficacy of topical sunscreens is currently assessed by crude, costly and time consuming in vivo assays. We have previously demonstrated that components of the dermal extracellular matrix (ECM), rich in UV-absorbing amino acids, are susceptible to damage by solar simulated radiation (SSR) in vitro. Here we developed an in vitro method to test the ability of sunscreens to protect fibrillin-rich microfibrils (FRM) and fibronectin, key components of the dermal ECM from UV-induced damage. Solutions of FRM or fibronectin were irradiated without protection, in the presence of a vehicle or a commercially-available flat-spectrum sunscreen. The effect of SSR on molecular structure was determined by atomic force microscopy (FRM) and SDS-PAGE (fibronectin). Following irradiation, FRM periodicity became bi-modally distributed (peaks: 40nm & 59nm) compared to the unimodal distribution in unexposed controls (peak: 50nm). Irradiation in the presence of flat-spectrum sunscreen protected against this change, maintaining the unimodal distribution. SSR induced significant aggregation of fibronectin (p=0.005), which was abrogated by sunscreen. These results demonstrate that this in vitro assay system is sufficiently sensitive to act as an initial/additional screen of sunscreen efficacy. We conclude that sunscreen can reduce UV-mediated damage of key dermal ECM in vitro and thereby prevent remodelling associated with photoageing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S A Hibbert
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology & Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - P Costello
- Centre for Dermatology Research, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK; NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, UK; Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - C O'Connor
- Walgreens Boots Alliance, Thane Road, Nottingham, UK
| | - M Bell
- Walgreens Boots Alliance, Thane Road, Nottingham, UK
| | - C E M Griffiths
- Centre for Dermatology Research, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK; NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, UK; Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - R E B Watson
- Centre for Dermatology Research, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK; NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, UK; Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK.
| | - M J Sherratt
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology & Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
De Maria A, Wilmarth PA, David LL, Bassnett S. Proteomic Analysis of the Bovine and Human Ciliary Zonule. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2017; 58:573-585. [PMID: 28125844 PMCID: PMC5283081 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.16-20866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose The zonule of Zinn (ciliary zonule) is a system of fibers that centers the crystalline lens on the optical axis of the eye. Mutations in zonule components underlie syndromic conditions associated with a broad range of ocular pathologies, including microspherophakia and ectopia lentis. Here, we used HPLC-mass spectrometry to determine the molecular composition of the zonule. Methods Tryptic digests of human and bovine zonular samples were analyzed by HPLC-mass spectrometry. The distribution of selected components was confirmed by immunofluorescence confocal microscopy. In bovine samples, the composition of the equatorial zonule was compared to that of the hyaloid zonule and vitreous humor. Results The 52 proteins common to the zonules of both species accounted for >95% of the zonular protein. Glycoproteins constituted the main structural components, with two proteins, FBN1 and LTBP2, constituting 70%-80% of the protein. Other abundant components were MFAP2, EMILIN-1, and ADAMTSL-6. Lysyl oxidase-like 1, a crosslinking enzyme implicated in collagen and elastin biogenesis, was detected at significant levels. The equatorial and hyaloid zonular samples were compositionally similar to each other, although the hyaloid sample was relatively enriched in the proteoglycan opticin and the fibrillar collagens COL2A1, COL11A1, COL5A2, and COL5A3. Conclusions The zonular proteome was surprisingly complex. In addition to structural components, it contained signaling proteins, protease inhibitors, and crosslinking enzymes. The equatorial and hyaloid zonules were similar in composition, but the latter may form part of a composite structure, the hyaloid membrane, that stabilizes the vitreous face.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alicia De Maria
- Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United States
| | - Phillip A Wilmarth
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, United States
| | - Larry L David
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, United States
| | - Steven Bassnett
- Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United States
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
White TL, Lewis PN, Young RD, Kitazawa K, Inatomi T, Kinoshita S, Meek KM. Elastic microfibril distribution in the cornea: Differences between normal and keratoconic stroma. Exp Eye Res 2017; 159:40-48. [PMID: 28315339 PMCID: PMC5451143 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2017.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2016] [Revised: 02/15/2017] [Accepted: 03/12/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The optical and biomechanical properties of the cornea are largely governed by the collagen-rich stroma, a layer that represents approximately 90% of the total thickness. Within the stroma, the specific arrangement of superimposed lamellae provides the tissue with tensile strength, whilst the spatial arrangement of individual collagen fibrils within the lamellae confers transparency. In keratoconus, this precise stromal arrangement is lost, resulting in ectasia and visual impairment. In the normal cornea, we previously characterised the three-dimensional arrangement of an elastic fiber network spanning the posterior stroma from limbus-to-limbus. In the peripheral cornea/limbus there are elastin-containing sheets or broad fibers, most of which become microfibril bundles (MBs) with little or no elastin component when reaching the central cornea. The purpose of the current study was to compare this network with the elastic fiber distribution in post-surgical keratoconic corneal buttons, using serial block face scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. We have demonstrated that the MB distribution is very different in keratoconus. MBs are absent from a region of stroma anterior to Descemet's membrane, an area that is densely populated in normal cornea, whilst being concentrated below the epithelium, an area in which they are absent in normal cornea. We contend that these latter microfibrils are produced as a biomechanical response to provide additional strength to the anterior stroma in order to prevent tissue rupture at the apex of the cone. A lack of MBs anterior to Descemet's membrane in keratoconus would alter the biomechanical properties of the tissue, potentially contributing to the pathogenesis of the disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tomas L White
- Structural Biophysics Research Group, School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University, Maindy Road, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK
| | - Philip N Lewis
- Structural Biophysics Research Group, School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University, Maindy Road, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK
| | - Robert D Young
- Structural Biophysics Research Group, School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University, Maindy Road, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK
| | - Koji Kitazawa
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kyoto Prefectural University, Kyoto, Japan; Department of Frontier Medical Science and Technology for Ophthalmology, Kyoto Prefectural University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Tsutomu Inatomi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kyoto Prefectural University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Shigeru Kinoshita
- Department of Frontier Medical Science and Technology for Ophthalmology, Kyoto Prefectural University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Keith M Meek
- Structural Biophysics Research Group, School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University, Maindy Road, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Goh KL, Holmes DF. Collagenous Extracellular Matrix Biomaterials for Tissue Engineering: Lessons from the Common Sea Urchin Tissue. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:ijms18050901. [PMID: 28441344 PMCID: PMC5454814 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18050901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2017] [Revised: 04/05/2017] [Accepted: 04/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Scaffolds for tissue engineering application may be made from a collagenous extracellular matrix (ECM) of connective tissues because the ECM can mimic the functions of the target tissue. The primary sources of collagenous ECM material are calf skin and bone. However, these sources are associated with the risk of having bovine spongiform encephalopathy or transmissible spongiform encephalopathy. Alternative sources for collagenous ECM materials may be derived from livestock, e.g., pigs, and from marine animals, e.g., sea urchins. Collagenous ECM of the sea urchin possesses structural features and mechanical properties that are similar to those of mammalian ones. However, even more intriguing is that some tissues such as the ligamentous catch apparatus can exhibit mutability, namely rapid reversible changes in the tissue mechanical properties. These tissues are known as mutable collagenous tissues (MCTs). The mutability of these tissues has been the subject of on-going investigations, covering the biochemistry, structural biology and mechanical properties of the collagenous components. Recent studies point to a nerve-control system for regulating the ECM macromolecules that are involved in the sliding action of collagen fibrils in the MCT. This review discusses the key attributes of the structure and function of the ECM of the sea urchin ligaments that are related to the fibril-fibril sliding action-the focus is on the respective components within the hierarchical architecture of the tissue. In this context, structure refers to size, shape and separation distance of the ECM components while function is associated with mechanical properties e.g., strength and stiffness. For simplicity, the components that address the different length scale from the largest to the smallest are as follows: collagen fibres, collagen fibrils, interfibrillar matrix and collagen molecules. Application of recent theories of stress transfer and fracture mechanisms in fibre reinforced composites to a wide variety of collagen reinforcing (non-mutable) connective tissue, has allowed us to draw general conclusions concerning the mechanical response of the MCT at specific mechanical states, namely the stiff and complaint states. The intent of this review is to provide the latest insights, as well as identify technical challenges and opportunities, that may be useful for developing methods for effective mechanical support when adapting decellularised connective tissues from the sea urchin for tissue engineering or for the design of a synthetic analogue.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kheng Lim Goh
- Newcastle University Singapore, SIT Building at Nanyang Polytechnic, 172A Ang Mo Kio Avenue 8 #05-01, Singapore 567739, Singapore.
- Newcastle University, School of Mechanical & Systems Engineering, Stephenson Building, Claremont Road, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7RU, UK.
| | - David F Holmes
- Manchester University, Wellcome Trust Centre for Cell Matrix Research, B.3016 Michael Smith Building, Faculty of Life Sciences, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Muiznieks LD, Keeley FW. Biomechanical Design of Elastic Protein Biomaterials: A Balance of Protein Structure and Conformational Disorder. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2016; 3:661-679. [DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.6b00469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Lisa D. Muiznieks
- Molecular
Structure and Function Program, Research Institute, The Hospital for Sick Children, 686 Bay Street, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5G 0A4
| | - Fred W. Keeley
- Molecular
Structure and Function Program, Research Institute, The Hospital for Sick Children, 686 Bay Street, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5G 0A4
- Department
of Biochemistry and Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, 1 King’s College Circle, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5S 1A8
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Abstract
Tendons among connective tissue, mainly collagen, contain also elastic fibers (EF) made of fibrillin 1, fibrillin 2 and elastin that are broadly distributed in tendons and represent 1-2% of the dried mass of the tendon. Only in the last years, studies on structure and function of EF in tendons have been performed. Aim of this review is to revise data on the organization of EF in tendons, in particular fibrillin structure and function, and on the clinical manifestations associated to alterations of EF in tendons. Indeed, microfibrils may contribute to tendon mechanics; therefore, their alterations may cause joint hypermobility and contractures which have been found to be clinical features in patients with Marfan syndrome (MFS) and Beals syndrome. The two diseases are caused by mutations in genes FBN1 and FBN2 encoding fibrillin 1 and fibrillin 2, respectively.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Betti Giusti
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Excellence Centre for Research, Transfer and High Education for the Development of De Novo Therapies (DENOTHE), University of FlorenceFlorence, Italy
- Marfan Syndrome and Related Disorders Regional (Tuscany) Referral Center, Careggi HospitalFlorence, Italy
| | - Guglielmina Pepe
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Excellence Centre for Research, Transfer and High Education for the Development of De Novo Therapies (DENOTHE), University of FlorenceFlorence, Italy
- Marfan Syndrome and Related Disorders Regional (Tuscany) Referral Center, Careggi HospitalFlorence, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Uriarte JJ, Meirelles T, Gorbenko del Blanco D, Nonaka PN, Campillo N, Sarri E, Navajas D, Egea G, Farré R. Early Impairment of Lung Mechanics in a Murine Model of Marfan Syndrome. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0152124. [PMID: 27003297 PMCID: PMC4803219 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0152124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2015] [Accepted: 03/09/2016] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Early morbidity and mortality in patients with Marfan syndrome (MFS) -a connective tissue disease caused by mutations in fibrillin-1 gene- are mainly caused by aorta aneurysm and rupture. However, the increase in the life expectancy of MFS patients recently achieved by reparatory surgery promotes clinical manifestations in other organs. Although some studies have reported respiratory alterations in MFS, our knowledge of how this connective tissue disease modifies lung mechanics is scarce. Hence, we assessed whether the stiffness of the whole lung and of its extracellular matrix (ECM) is affected in a well-characterized MFS mouse model (FBN1C1039G/+). The stiffness of the whole lung and of its ECM were measured by conventional mechanical ventilation and atomic force microscopy, respectively. We studied 5-week and 9-month old mice, whose ages are representative of early and late stages of the disease. At both ages, the lungs of MFS mice were significantly more compliant than in wild type (WT) mice. By contrast, no significant differences were found in local lung ECM stiffness. Moreover, histopathological lung evaluation showed a clear emphysematous-like pattern in MFS mice since alveolar space enlargement was significantly increased compared with WT mice. These data suggest that the mechanism explaining the increased lung compliance in MFS is not a direct consequence of reduced ECM stiffness, but an emphysema-like alteration in the 3D structural organization of the lung. Since lung alterations in MFS are almost fully manifested at an early age, it is suggested that respiratory monitoring could provide early biomarkers for diagnosis and/or follow-up of patients with the Marfan syndrome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juan J. Uriarte
- Unitat Biofísica i Bioenginyeria, Facultat de Medicina, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- CIBER Enfermedades Respiratorias, Madrid, Spain
| | - Thayna Meirelles
- Departament de Biologia Cel·lular, Immunologia i Neurociències, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Darya Gorbenko del Blanco
- Departament de Biologia Cel·lular, Immunologia i Neurociències, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Paula N. Nonaka
- Unitat Biofísica i Bioenginyeria, Facultat de Medicina, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Master's and Doctoral Degree Programs in Rehabilitation Sciences, Nove de Julho University, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Noelia Campillo
- Unitat Biofísica i Bioenginyeria, Facultat de Medicina, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- CIBER Enfermedades Respiratorias, Madrid, Spain
- Institut de Bioenginyeria de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Elisabet Sarri
- Departament de Biologia Cel·lular, Immunologia i Neurociències, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Daniel Navajas
- Unitat Biofísica i Bioenginyeria, Facultat de Medicina, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- CIBER Enfermedades Respiratorias, Madrid, Spain
- Institut de Bioenginyeria de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Gustavo Egea
- Departament de Biologia Cel·lular, Immunologia i Neurociències, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Institut de Nanociències i Nanotecnologia, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi Sunyer, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ramon Farré
- Unitat Biofísica i Bioenginyeria, Facultat de Medicina, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- CIBER Enfermedades Respiratorias, Madrid, Spain
- Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi Sunyer, Barcelona, Spain
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Handorf AM, Zhou Y, Halanski MA, Li WJ. Tissue stiffness dictates development, homeostasis, and disease progression. Organogenesis 2016; 11:1-15. [PMID: 25915734 DOI: 10.1080/15476278.2015.1019687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 378] [Impact Index Per Article: 47.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Tissue development is orchestrated by the coordinated activities of both chemical and physical regulators. While much attention has been given to the role that chemical regulators play in driving development, researchers have recently begun to elucidate the important role that the mechanical properties of the extracellular environment play. For instance, the stiffness of the extracellular environment has a role in orienting cell division, maintaining tissue boundaries, directing cell migration, and driving differentiation. In addition, extracellular matrix stiffness is important for maintaining normal tissue homeostasis, and when matrix mechanics become imbalanced, disease progression may ensue. In this article, we will review the important role that matrix stiffness plays in dictating cell behavior during development, tissue homeostasis, and disease progression.
Collapse
Key Words
- ECM, Extracellular matrix
- EPC, Endothelial progenitor cell
- FA, Focal adhesion
- FAK, Focal adhesion kinase
- LOX, Lysyl oxidase
- MKL1, Megakaryoblastic leukemia factor-1
- MMP, Matrix metalloproteinase
- MSC, Mesenchymal stem cell
- ROCK, Rho-associated protein kinase
- VSMC, Vascular smooth muscle cell.
- cancer
- extracellular matrix
- fibrosis
- stiffness
- tissue development
- tissue homeostasis
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew M Handorf
- a Department of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation; University of Wisconsin-Madison ; Madison , WI , USA
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
42
|
Lewis PN, White TL, Young RD, Bell JS, Winlove CP, Meek KM. Three-dimensional arrangement of elastic fibers in the human corneal stroma. Exp Eye Res 2015; 146:43-53. [PMID: 26704458 PMCID: PMC4889784 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2015.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2015] [Revised: 12/09/2015] [Accepted: 12/10/2015] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
The cornea is the main refracting lens in the eye. As part of the outer tunic it has to be resilient, a property conferred by the organisation of the constituent collagen. It also has to be sufficiently elastic to regain its exact shape when deformed, in order not to distort the retinal image. The basis of this elasticity is not fully understood. The purpose of this study was to characterise in three dimensions the arrangement and distribution of elastic fibers in the human corneal stroma, using serial block face scanning electron microscopy. We have demonstrated that there exists a complex network of elastic fibers that appear to originate in the sclera or limbus. These appear as elastic sheets in the limbus and peripheral cornea immediately above the trabecular meshwork which itself appears to extend above Descemet's membrane in the peripheral stroma. From these sheets, elastic fibers extend into the cornea; moving centrally they bifurcate and trifurcate into narrower fibers and are concentrated in the posterior stroma immediately above Descemet's membrane. We contend that elastic sheets will play an important role in the biomechanical deformation and recovery of the peripheral cornea. The network may also have practical implications for understanding the structural basis behind a number of corneal surgeries. We have characterised a complex system of elastic fibers in the posterior cornea. These exist as sheets in the limbus that fenestrate and become fibers in the cornea. We believe these fibers provide the elastic restoring force in the peripheral tissue. This system should help explain some surgical properties of the cornea.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Philip N Lewis
- Structural Biophysics Research Group, School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University, Maindy Road, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK
| | - Tomas L White
- Structural Biophysics Research Group, School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University, Maindy Road, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK
| | - Robert D Young
- Structural Biophysics Research Group, School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University, Maindy Road, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK
| | - James S Bell
- Structural Biophysics Research Group, School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University, Maindy Road, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK
| | - C Peter Winlove
- Department of Physics, University of Exeter, Stocker Road, Exeter EX4 4QL, UK
| | - Keith M Meek
- Structural Biophysics Research Group, School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University, Maindy Road, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Wong WLE, Joyce TJ, Goh KL. Resolving the viscoelasticity and anisotropy dependence of the mechanical properties of skin from a porcine model. Biomech Model Mechanobiol 2015; 15:433-46. [PMID: 26156308 DOI: 10.1007/s10237-015-0700-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2015] [Accepted: 06/29/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The mechanical response of skin to external loads is influenced by anisotropy and viscoelasticity of the tissue, but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Here, we report a study of the main effects of tissue orientation (TO, which is linked to anisotropy) and strain rate (SR, a measure of viscoelasticity), as well as the interaction effects between the two factors, on the tensile properties of skin from a porcine model. Tensile testing to rupture of porcine skin tissue was conducted to evaluate the sensitivity of the tissue modulus of elasticity (E) and fracture-related properties, namely maximum stress (σU) and strain (εU) at σU, to varying SR and TO. Specimens were excised from the abdominal skin in two orientations, namely parallel (P) and right angle (R) to the torso midline. Each TO was investigated at three SR levels, namely 0.007-0.015 s(-1) (low), 0.040 s(-1) (mid) and 0.065 s(-1) (high). Two-factor analysis of variance revealed that the respective parameters responded differently to varying SR and TO. Significant changes in the σU were observed with different TOs but not with SR. The εU decreased significantly with increasing SR, but no significant variation was observed for different TOs. Significant changes in E were observed with different TOs; E increased significantly with increasing SR. More importantly, the respective mechanical parameters were not significantly influenced by interactions between SR and TO. These findings suggest that the trends associated with the changes in the skin mechanical properties may be attributed partly to differences in the anisotropy and viscoelasticity but not through any interaction between viscoelasticity and anisotropy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- W L E Wong
- NUInternational Singapore Pte Ltd, Singapore, 569830, Singapore.,School of Mechanical and Systems Engineering, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE1 7RU, England, UK
| | - T J Joyce
- School of Mechanical and Systems Engineering, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE1 7RU, England, UK
| | - K L Goh
- NUInternational Singapore Pte Ltd, Singapore, 569830, Singapore. .,School of Mechanical and Systems Engineering, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE1 7RU, England, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
A potential role for endogenous proteins as sacrificial sunscreens and antioxidants in human tissues. Redox Biol 2015; 5:101-113. [PMID: 25911998 PMCID: PMC4412910 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2015.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2015] [Revised: 04/07/2015] [Accepted: 04/08/2015] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Excessive ultraviolet radiation (UVR) exposure of the skin is associated with adverse clinical outcomes. Although both exogenous sunscreens and endogenous tissue components (including melanins and tryptophan-derived compounds) reduce UVR penetration, the role of endogenous proteins in absorbing environmental UV wavelengths is poorly defined. Having previously demonstrated that proteins which are rich in UVR-absorbing amino acid residues are readily degraded by broadband UVB-radiation (containing UVA, UVB and UVC wavelengths) here we hypothesised that UV chromophore (Cys, Trp and Tyr) content can predict the susceptibility of structural proteins in skin and the eye to damage by physiologically relevant doses (up to 15.4 J/cm2) of solar UVR (95% UVA, 5% UVB). We show that: i) purified suspensions of UV-chromophore-rich fibronectin dimers, fibrillin microfibrils and β- and γ-lens crystallins undergo solar simulated radiation (SSR)-induced aggregation and/or decomposition and ii) exposure to identical doses of SSR has minimal effect on the size or ultrastructure of UV chromophore-poor tropoelastin, collagen I, collagen VI microfibrils and α-crystallin. If UV chromophore content is a factor in determining protein stability in vivo, we would expect that the tissue distribution of Cys, Trp and Tyr-rich proteins would correlate with regional UVR exposure. From bioinformatic analysis of 244 key structural proteins we identified several biochemically distinct, yet UV chromophore-rich, protein families. The majority of these putative UV-absorbing proteins (including the late cornified envelope proteins, keratin associated proteins, elastic fibre-associated components and β- and γ-crystallins) are localised and/or particularly abundant in tissues that are exposed to the highest doses of environmental UVR, specifically the stratum corneum, hair, papillary dermis and lens. We therefore propose that UV chromophore-rich proteins are localised in regions of high UVR exposure as a consequence of an evolutionary pressure to express sacrificial protein sunscreens which reduce UVR penetration and hence mitigate tissue damage. Major structural proteins such as collagen I and tropoelastin are UVA-resistant. In contrast, proteins which are rich in Cys, Trp and Tyr residues are UV-susceptible. These proteins are concentrated in UV exposed tissues. UV-chromophore (Cys, Trp, Tyr)-rich proteins may act as endogenous sunscreens.
Collapse
|
45
|
Effects of shear force on intervertebral disc: an in vivo rabbit study. EUROPEAN SPINE JOURNAL : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE EUROPEAN SPINE SOCIETY, THE EUROPEAN SPINAL DEFORMITY SOCIETY, AND THE EUROPEAN SECTION OF THE CERVICAL SPINE RESEARCH SOCIETY 2015; 24:1711-9. [PMID: 25784595 DOI: 10.1007/s00586-015-3816-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2014] [Revised: 02/13/2015] [Accepted: 02/13/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE A new in vivo rabbit model was developed to investigate the effects of shear force on intervertebral disc (IVD). METHODS Japanese white rabbits (n = 38) were used for this study. The L4/5 discs in Group A (n = 10) were subjected to a constant shear force (50 N) using a custom-made external loading device for 1 month; in Group B (n = 10) for 2 months; whereas in Group C (n = 10), loading device was attached to the spine but the discs remained unloaded. Group D (n = 8) was a non-operated intact control group. After loading, the loading devices were taken out and the animals were given X-ray and MRI examination. After X-ray and MRI examination, the animals were euthanized for histological analysis. RESULTS After 1 and 2 months of loading, radiographic findings showed significant disc height narrowing in L4/5 discs of the animals in loading groups, and slight lumbar spondylolisthesis in some animals of Group B. MRI showed a significant decrease in nucleus pulposus (NP) area and signal intensity from T2-weighted images. Histologically, loss of normal NP cells and disorganization of the architecture of the annulus occurred, and proteoglycan stain decreased. CONCLUSIONS The results of this study suggest that disc degeneration can be induced by hyper-physiological shear loading in the rabbit IVD. Long-term shear loading may result in structural disc failure inducing lumbar spondylolisthesis and progressive disc degeneration, which, however, has to be proven by further studies.
Collapse
|
46
|
Saliba E, Sia Y. The ascending aortic aneurysm: When to intervene? IJC HEART & VASCULATURE 2015; 6:91-100. [PMID: 38598654 PMCID: PMC5497177 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcha.2015.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2014] [Revised: 01/10/2015] [Accepted: 01/13/2015] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Background Thoracic ascending aorta aneurysms (TAA) are an important cause of mortality in adults but are a relatively less studied subject compared to abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA). The purpose of this review is to explain the main aspects (etiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis) of this disease and to summarize the most recent developments in its management. Methodology Literature was obtained through online health related search engines (PubMed, MEDLINE) by including the following keywords: ascending aorta aneurysm, thoracic aneurysms, Marfan syndrome, bicuspid aortic valve, familial thoracic syndrome, aortic dissection, aorta imaging and aortic aneurysm guidelines. We included articles dating from 1980 to 2014. Findings Literature revealed how lethal this disease can be and how simple steps such as follow-up and prophylactic surgery can significantly reduce morbidity and mortality. This review also allowed us to realize the many developments that have been made in recent years in the understanding of pathologic mechanisms of this disease. Conclusion TAA is a silent disease that needs to be recognized early in its course and followed closely in order to recommend appropriate preventive and prophylactic therapy in a timely manner.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emile Saliba
- Hôtel Dieu de Montreal, CHUM — Centre Hospitalier de
l'Université de Montréal, 3840 St Urbain St, Montreal, QC H2W 1T8,
Canada
| | - Ying Sia
- Hôtel Dieu de Montreal, CHUM — Centre Hospitalier de
l'Université de Montréal, 3840 St Urbain St, Montreal, QC H2W 1T8,
Canada
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Hanlon SD, Behzad AR, Sakai LY, Burns AR. Corneal stroma microfibrils. Exp Eye Res 2015; 132:198-207. [PMID: 25613072 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2015.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2014] [Revised: 01/15/2015] [Accepted: 01/17/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Elastic tissue was first described well over a hundred years ago and has since been identified in nearly every part of the body. In this review, we examine elastic tissue in the corneal stroma with some mention of other ocular structures which have been more thoroughly described in the past. True elastic fibers consist of an elastin core surrounded by fibrillin microfibrils. However, the presence of elastin fibers is not a requirement and some elastic tissue is comprised of non-elastin-containing bundles of microfibrils. Fibers containing a higher relative amount of elastin are associated with greater elasticity and those without elastin, with structural support. Recently it has been shown that the microfibrils, not only serve mechanical roles, but are also involved in cell signaling through force transduction and the release of TGF-β. A well characterized example of elastin-free microfibril bundles (EFMBs) is found in the ciliary zonules which suspend the crystalline lens in the eye. Through contraction of the ciliary muscle they exert enough force to reshape the lens and thereby change its focal point. It is believed that the molecules comprising these fibers do not turn-over and yet retain their tensile strength for the life of the animal. The mechanical properties of the cornea (strength, elasticity, resiliency) would suggest that EFMBs are present there as well. However, many authors have reported that, although present during embryonic and early postnatal development, EFMBs are generally not present in adults. Serial-block-face imaging with a scanning electron microscope enabled 3D reconstruction of elements in murine corneas. Among these elements were found fibers that formed an extensive network throughout the cornea. In single sections these fibers appeared as electron dense patches. Transmission electron microscopy provided additional detail of these patches and showed them to be composed of fibrils (∼10 nm diameter). Immunogold evidence clearly identified these fibrils as fibrillin EFMBs and EFMBs were also observed with TEM (without immunogold) in adult mammals of several species. Evidence of the presence of EFMBs in adult corneas will hopefully pique an interest in further studies that will ultimately improve our understanding of the cornea's biomechanical properties and its capacity to repair.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samuel D Hanlon
- College of Optometry, University of Houston, Houston, TX, 97204, USA.
| | - Ali R Behzad
- Imaging and Characterization Core Lab, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Thuwal, Saudi Arabia
| | - Lynn Y Sakai
- Shiners Hospital for Children and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
| | - Alan R Burns
- College of Optometry, University of Houston, Houston, TX, 97204, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Localized micro- and nano-scale remodelling in the diabetic aorta. Acta Biomater 2014; 10:4843-4851. [PMID: 25014552 PMCID: PMC4199142 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2014.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2014] [Revised: 05/22/2014] [Accepted: 07/01/2014] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Diabetes is strongly associated with cardiovascular disease, but the mechanisms, structural and biomechanical consequences of aberrant blood vessel remodelling remain poorly defined. Using an experimental (streptozotocin, STZ) rat model of diabetes, we hypothesized that diabetes enhances extracellular protease activity in the aorta and induces morphological, compositional and localized micromechanical tissue remodelling. We found that the medial aortic layer underwent significant thickening in diabetic animals but without significant changes in collagen or elastin (abundance). Scanning acoustic microscopy demonstrated that such tissue remodelling was associated with a significant decrease in acoustic wave speed (an indicator of reduced material stiffness) in the inter-lamellar spaces of the vessel wall. This index of decreased stiffness was also linked to increased extracellular protease activity (assessed by semi-quantitative in situ gelatin zymography). Such a proteolytically active environment may affect the macromolecular structure of long-lived extracellular matrix molecules. To test this hypothesis, we also characterized the effects of diabetes on the ultrastructure of an important elastic fibre component: the fibrillin microfibril. Using size exclusion chromatography and atomic force microscopy, we isolated and imaged microfibrils from both healthy and diabetic aortas. Microfibrils derived from diabetic tissues were fragmented, morphologically disrupted and weakened (as assessed following molecular combing). These structural and functional abnormalities were not replicated by in vitro glycation. Our data suggest that proteolysis may be a key driver of localized mechanical change in the inter-lamellar space of diabetic rat aortas and that structural proteins (such as fibrillin microfbrils) may be biomarkers of diabetes induced damage.
Collapse
|
49
|
Nimeskern L, van Osch GJ, Müller R, Stok KS. Quantitative Evaluation of Mechanical Properties in Tissue-Engineered Auricular Cartilage. TISSUE ENGINEERING PART B-REVIEWS 2014; 20:17-27. [DOI: 10.1089/ten.teb.2013.0117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Luc Nimeskern
- Institute for Biomechanics, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Gerjo J.V.M. van Osch
- Departments of Otorhinolaryngology and Orthopaedics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ralph Müller
- Institute for Biomechanics, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | |
Collapse
|
50
|
Akhtar R. In vitro characterisation of arterial stiffening: From the macro- to the nano-scale. Artery Res 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/j.artres.2014.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
|