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Chen M, Shan H, Tao Q, Hu R, Sun Q, Zheng M, Chen Z, Lin Q, Yin M, Zhao S, Chen X, Chen Z. Mimicking Tumor Metastasis Using a Transwell-Integrated Organoids-On-a-Chip Platform. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2308525. [PMID: 38308351 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202308525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/04/2024]
Abstract
The mortality rate among cancer patients is primarily attributed to tumor metastasis. The evaluation of metastasis potential provides a powerful framework for personalized therapies. However, little work has so far been undertaken to precisely model tumor metastasis in vitro, hindering the development of preventive and therapeutic interventions. In this work, a tumor-metastasis-mimicked Transwell-integrated organoids-on-a-chip platform (TOP) for precisely evaluating tumor metastatic potential is developed. Unlike the conventional Transwell device for detecting cell migration, the engineered device facilitates the assessment of metastasis in patient-derived organoids (PDO). Furthermore, a novel Transwell chamber with a hexagon-shaped structure is developed to mimic the migration of tumor cells into surrounding tissues, allowing for the evaluation of tumor metastasis in a horizontal direction. As a proof-of-concept demonstration, tumor organoids and metastatic clusters are further evaluated at the protein, genetic, and phenotypic levels. In addition, preliminary drug screening is undertaken to highlight the potential for using the device to combat cancers. In summary, the tumor-metastasis-mimicked TOP offers unique capabilities for evaluating the metastasis potential of tumor organoids and contributes to the development of personalized cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maike Chen
- Department of Dermatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
- National Engineering Research Center of Personalized Diagnostic and Therapeutic Technology, Changsha, 410008, China
- Furong Laboratory, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Han Shan
- Department of Dermatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
- National Engineering Research Center of Personalized Diagnostic and Therapeutic Technology, Changsha, 410008, China
- Furong Laboratory, Changsha, 410008, China
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Manufacturing for Extreme Service Performance, College of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, 410083, China
| | - Qian Tao
- Department of Dermatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
- National Engineering Research Center of Personalized Diagnostic and Therapeutic Technology, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Rui Hu
- Department of Dermatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
- National Engineering Research Center of Personalized Diagnostic and Therapeutic Technology, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Qi Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Manufacturing for Extreme Service Performance, College of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, 410083, China
| | - Mingde Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Manufacturing for Extreme Service Performance, College of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, 410083, China
| | - Ziyan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Manufacturing for Extreme Service Performance, College of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, 410083, China
| | - Qibo Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Manufacturing for Extreme Service Performance, College of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, 410083, China
| | - Mingzhu Yin
- Clinical Research Center (CRC), Medical Pathology Center (MPC), Cancer Early Detection and Treatment Center (CEDTC), Translational Medicine Research Center (TMRC), Chongqing University Three Gorges Hospital, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 404000, China
| | - Shuang Zhao
- Department of Dermatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
- National Engineering Research Center of Personalized Diagnostic and Therapeutic Technology, Changsha, 410008, China
- Furong Laboratory, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Xiang Chen
- Department of Dermatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
- Furong Laboratory, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Zeyu Chen
- Department of Dermatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
- National Engineering Research Center of Personalized Diagnostic and Therapeutic Technology, Changsha, 410008, China
- Furong Laboratory, Changsha, 410008, China
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Manufacturing for Extreme Service Performance, College of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, 410083, China
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2
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Newton JD, Song Y, Park S, Kanagarajah KR, Wong AP, Young EWK. Tunable In Situ Synthesis of Ultrathin Extracellular Matrix-Derived Membranes in Organ-on-a-Chip Devices. Adv Healthc Mater 2024:e2401158. [PMID: 38587309 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202401158] [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: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
Thin cell culture membranes in organ-on-a-chip (OOC) devices are used to model a wide range of thin tissues. While early and most current platforms use microporous or fibrous elastomeric or thermoplastic membranes, there is an emerging class of devices using extra-cellular matrix (ECM) protein-based membranes to improve their biological relevance. These ECM-based membranes present physiologically relevant properties, but they are difficult to integrate into OOC devices due to their relative fragility. Additionally, the specialized fabrication methods developed to date make comparison between methods difficult. This work presents the development and characterization of a method to produce ultrathin matrix-derived membranes (UMM) in OOC devices that requires only a preassembled thermoplastic device and a micropipette, decoupling the device and UMM fabrication processes. Control over the thickness and permeability of the UMM is demonstrated, along with integration of the UMM in a device enabling high-resolution on-chip microscopy. The reliability of the UMM fabrication method is leveraged to develop a medium-throughput well-plate format device with 32 independent UMM-integrated samples. Finally, proof-of-concept cell culture experiments are demonstrated. Due to its simplicity and controllability, the presented method has the potential to overcome technical barriers preventing wider adoption of physiologically relevant ECM-based membranes in OOC devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy D Newton
- Department of Mechanical & Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, 5 King's College Road, Toronto, ON, M5S 3G8, Canada
| | - Yuetong Song
- Program in Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, Hospital for Sick Children, 656 Bay Street, Toronto, ON, M5G 0A4, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, 1 King's College Road, Toronto, ON, M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Siwan Park
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, 164 College Street, Toronto, ON, M5S 3G9, Canada
| | - Kayshani R Kanagarajah
- Program in Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, Hospital for Sick Children, 656 Bay Street, Toronto, ON, M5G 0A4, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, 1 King's College Road, Toronto, ON, M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Amy P Wong
- Program in Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, Hospital for Sick Children, 656 Bay Street, Toronto, ON, M5G 0A4, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, 1 King's College Road, Toronto, ON, M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Edmond W K Young
- Department of Mechanical & Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, 5 King's College Road, Toronto, ON, M5S 3G8, Canada
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, 164 College Street, Toronto, ON, M5S 3G9, Canada
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3
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Mancinelli E, Zushi N, Takuma M, Cheng Chau CC, Parpas G, Fujie T, Pensabene V. Porous Polymeric Nanofilms for Recreating the Basement Membrane in an Endothelial Barrier-on-Chip. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024; 16:13006-13017. [PMID: 38414331 PMCID: PMC10941076 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c16134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
Organs-on-chips (OoCs) support an organotypic human cell culture in vitro. Precise representation of basement membranes (BMs) is critical for mimicking physiological functions of tissue interfaces. Artificial membranes in polyester (PES) and polycarbonate (PC) commonly used in in vitro models and OoCs do not replicate the characteristics of the natural BMs, such as submicrometric thickness, selective permeability, and elasticity. This study introduces porous poly(d,l-lactic acid) (PDLLA) nanofilms for replicating BMs in in vitro models and demonstrates their integration into microfluidic chips. Using roll-to-roll gravure coating and polymer phase separation, we fabricated transparent ∼200 nm thick PDLLA films. These nanofilms are 60 times thinner and 27 times more elastic than PES membranes and show uniformly distributed pores of controlled diameter (0.4 to 1.6 μm), which favor cell compartmentalization and exchange of large water-soluble molecules. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) on PDLLA nanofilms stretched across microchannels exhibited 97% viability, enhanced adhesion, and a higher proliferation rate compared to their performance on PES membranes and glass substrates. After 5 days of culture, HUVECs formed a functional barrier on suspended PDLLA nanofilms, confirmed by a more than 10-fold increase in transendothelial electrical resistance and blocked 150 kDa dextran diffusion. When integrated between two microfluidic channels and exposed to physiological shear stress, despite their ultrathin thickness, PDLLA nanofilms upheld their integrity and efficiently maintained separation of the channels. The successful formation of an adherent endothelium and the coculture of HUVECs and human astrocytes on either side of the suspended nanofilm validate it as an artificial BM for OoCs. Its submicrometric thickness guarantees intimate contact, a key feature to mimic the blood-brain barrier and to study paracrine signaling between the two cell types. In summary, porous PDLLA nanofilms hold the potential for improving the accuracy and physiological relevance of the OoC as in vitro models and drug discovery tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Mancinelli
- School
of Electronic and Electrical Engineering and Pollard Institute, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, United Kingdom
- Bragg
Centre for Materials Research, University
of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, United Kingdom
| | - Nanami Zushi
- School
of Life Science and Technology, Tokyo Institute
of Technology, B-50, Nagatsuta-cho, Midori-ku, Yokohama 226-8501, Japan
| | - Megumi Takuma
- School
of Life Science and Technology, Tokyo Institute
of Technology, B-50, Nagatsuta-cho, Midori-ku, Yokohama 226-8501, Japan
| | - Chalmers Chi Cheng Chau
- School
of Electronic and Electrical Engineering and Pollard Institute, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, United Kingdom
- Bragg
Centre for Materials Research, University
of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, United Kingdom
- School
of Molecular and Cellular Biology and Astbury Centre for Structural
Molecular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, United Kingdom
| | - George Parpas
- School
of Electronic and Electrical Engineering and Pollard Institute, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, United Kingdom
- Bragg
Centre for Materials Research, University
of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, United Kingdom
- Leeds
Institute of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, United
Kingdom
| | - Toshinori Fujie
- School
of Life Science and Technology, Tokyo Institute
of Technology, B-50, Nagatsuta-cho, Midori-ku, Yokohama 226-8501, Japan
- Living Systems
Materialogy (LiSM) Research Group, International Research Frontiers
Initiative (IRFI), Tokyo Institute of Technology, R3-23, 4259 Nagatsuta-cho, Midori-ku, Yokohama 226-8503, Japan
| | - Virginia Pensabene
- School
of Electronic and Electrical Engineering and Pollard Institute, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, United Kingdom
- Bragg
Centre for Materials Research, University
of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, United Kingdom
- Faculty
of Medicine and Health, Leeds Institute of Medical Research at St
James’s University Hospital, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, United Kingdom
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4
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Juste-Lanas Y, Hervas-Raluy S, García-Aznar JM, González-Loyola A. Fluid flow to mimic organ function in 3D in vitro models. APL Bioeng 2023; 7:031501. [PMID: 37547671 PMCID: PMC10404142 DOI: 10.1063/5.0146000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Many different strategies can be found in the literature to model organ physiology, tissue functionality, and disease in vitro; however, most of these models lack the physiological fluid dynamics present in vivo. Here, we highlight the importance of fluid flow for tissue homeostasis, specifically in vessels, other lumen structures, and interstitium, to point out the need of perfusion in current 3D in vitro models. Importantly, the advantages and limitations of the different current experimental fluid-flow setups are discussed. Finally, we shed light on current challenges and future focus of fluid flow models applied to the newest bioengineering state-of-the-art platforms, such as organoids and organ-on-a-chip, as the most sophisticated and physiological preclinical platforms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Silvia Hervas-Raluy
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Engineering Research Institute of Aragón (I3A), University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
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5
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Corral-Nájera K, Chauhan G, Serna-Saldívar SO, Martínez-Chapa SO, Aeinehvand MM. Polymeric and biological membranes for organ-on-a-chip devices. MICROSYSTEMS & NANOENGINEERING 2023; 9:107. [PMID: 37649779 PMCID: PMC10462672 DOI: 10.1038/s41378-023-00579-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
Membranes are fundamental elements within organ-on-a-chip (OOC) platforms, as they provide adherent cells with support, allow nutrients (and other relevant molecules) to permeate/exchange through membrane pores, and enable the delivery of mechanical or chemical stimuli. Through OOC platforms, physiological processes can be studied in vitro, whereas OOC membranes broaden knowledge of how mechanical and chemical cues affect cells and organs. OOCs with membranes are in vitro microfluidic models that are used to replace animal testing for various applications, such as drug discovery and disease modeling. In this review, the relevance of OOCs with membranes is discussed as well as their scaffold and actuation roles, properties (physical and material), and fabrication methods in different organ models. The purpose was to aid readers with membrane selection for the development of OOCs with specific applications in the fields of mechanistic, pathological, and drug testing studies. Mechanical stimulation from liquid flow and cyclic strain, as well as their effects on the cell's increased physiological relevance (IPR), are described in the first section. The review also contains methods to fabricate synthetic and ECM (extracellular matrix) protein membranes, their characteristics (e.g., thickness and porosity, which can be adjusted depending on the application, as shown in the graphical abstract), and the biological materials used for their coatings. The discussion section joins and describes the roles of membranes for different research purposes and their advantages and challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kendra Corral-Nájera
- School of Engineering and Science, Tecnológico de Monterrey, Ave. Eugenio Garza Sada 2501, Monterrey, 64849 Mexico
| | - Gaurav Chauhan
- School of Engineering and Science, Tecnológico de Monterrey, Ave. Eugenio Garza Sada 2501, Monterrey, 64849 Mexico
| | - Sergio O. Serna-Saldívar
- School of Engineering and Science, Tecnológico de Monterrey, Ave. Eugenio Garza Sada 2501, Monterrey, 64849 Mexico
| | - Sergio O. Martínez-Chapa
- School of Engineering and Science, Tecnológico de Monterrey, Ave. Eugenio Garza Sada 2501, Monterrey, 64849 Mexico
| | - Mohammad Mahdi Aeinehvand
- School of Engineering and Science, Tecnológico de Monterrey, Ave. Eugenio Garza Sada 2501, Monterrey, 64849 Mexico
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6
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Kutluk H, Bastounis EE, Constantinou I. Integration of Extracellular Matrices into Organ-on-Chip Systems. Adv Healthc Mater 2023; 12:e2203256. [PMID: 37018430 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202203256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Revised: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023]
Abstract
The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a complex, dynamic network present within all tissues and organs that not only acts as a mechanical support and anchorage point but can also direct fundamental cell behavior, function, and characteristics. Although the importance of the ECM is well established, the integration of well-controlled ECMs into Organ-on-Chip (OoC) platforms remains challenging and the methods to modulate and assess ECM properties on OoCs remain underdeveloped. In this review, current state-of-the-art design and assessment of in vitro ECM environments is discussed with a focus on their integration into OoCs. Among other things, synthetic and natural hydrogels, as well as polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) used as substrates, coatings, or cell culture membranes are reviewed in terms of their ability to mimic the native ECM and their accessibility for characterization. The intricate interplay among materials, OoC architecture, and ECM characterization is critically discussed as it significantly complicates the design of ECM-related studies, comparability between works, and reproducibility that can be achieved across research laboratories. Improving the biomimetic nature of OoCs by integrating properly considered ECMs would contribute to their further adoption as replacements for animal models, and precisely tailored ECM properties would promote the use of OoCs in mechanobiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hazal Kutluk
- Institute of Microtechnology (IMT), Technical University of Braunschweig, Alte Salzdahlumer Str. 203, 38124, Braunschweig, Germany
- Center of Pharmaceutical Engineering (PVZ), Technical University of Braunschweig, Franz-Liszt-Str. 35a, 38106, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Effie E Bastounis
- Institute of Microbiology and Infection Medicine (IMIT), Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 28, E8, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence "Controlling Microbes to Fight Infections" EXC 2124, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 28, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Iordania Constantinou
- Institute of Microtechnology (IMT), Technical University of Braunschweig, Alte Salzdahlumer Str. 203, 38124, Braunschweig, Germany
- Center of Pharmaceutical Engineering (PVZ), Technical University of Braunschweig, Franz-Liszt-Str. 35a, 38106, Braunschweig, Germany
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7
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Advances in cell coculture membranes recapitulating in vivo microenvironments. Trends Biotechnol 2023; 41:214-227. [PMID: 36030108 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2022.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Porous membranes play a critical role in in vitro heterogeneous cell coculture systems because they recapitulate the in vivo microenvironment to mediate physical and biochemical crosstalk between cells. While the conventionally available Transwell® system has been widely used for heterogeneous cell coculture, there are drawbacks to precise control over cell-cell interactions and separation for implantation. The size and numbers of the pores and the thickness of the porous membranes are crucial in determining the efficiency of paracrine signaling and direct junctions between cocultured cells, and significantly impact on the performance of heterogeneous cell cultures. These opportunities and challenges have motivated the design of advanced coculture platforms through improvement of the structural and functional properties of porous membranes.
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8
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Zommiti M, Connil N, Tahrioui A, Groboillot A, Barbey C, Konto-Ghiorghi Y, Lesouhaitier O, Chevalier S, Feuilloley MGJ. Organs-on-Chips Platforms Are Everywhere: A Zoom on Biomedical Investigation. Bioengineering (Basel) 2022; 9:646. [PMID: 36354557 PMCID: PMC9687856 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering9110646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 08/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the decades, conventional in vitro culture systems and animal models have been used to study physiology, nutrient or drug metabolisms including mechanical and physiopathological aspects. However, there is an urgent need for Integrated Testing Strategies (ITS) and more sophisticated platforms and devices to approach the real complexity of human physiology and provide reliable extrapolations for clinical investigations and personalized medicine. Organ-on-a-chip (OOC), also known as a microphysiological system, is a state-of-the-art microfluidic cell culture technology that sums up cells or tissue-to-tissue interfaces, fluid flows, mechanical cues, and organ-level physiology, and it has been developed to fill the gap between in vitro experimental models and human pathophysiology. The wide range of OOC platforms involves the miniaturization of cell culture systems and enables a variety of novel experimental techniques. These range from modeling the independent effects of biophysical forces on cells to screening novel drugs in multi-organ microphysiological systems, all within microscale devices. As in living biosystems, the development of vascular structure is the salient feature common to almost all organ-on-a-chip platforms. Herein, we provide a snapshot of this fast-evolving sophisticated technology. We will review cutting-edge developments and advances in the OOC realm, discussing current applications in the biomedical field with a detailed description of how this technology has enabled the reconstruction of complex multi-scale and multifunctional matrices and platforms (at the cellular and tissular levels) leading to an acute understanding of the physiopathological features of human ailments and infections in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Zommiti
- Research Unit Bacterial Communication and Anti-infectious Strategies (CBSA, UR4312), University of Rouen Normandie, 27000 Evreux, France
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Marc G. J. Feuilloley
- Research Unit Bacterial Communication and Anti-infectious Strategies (CBSA, UR4312), University of Rouen Normandie, 27000 Evreux, France
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9
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Youn J, Kim DS. Engineering porous membranes mimicking in vivo basement membrane for organ-on-chips applications. BIOMICROFLUIDICS 2022; 16:051301. [PMID: 36275917 PMCID: PMC9586704 DOI: 10.1063/5.0101397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Porous membrane-based microfluidic chips are frequently used for developing in vitro tissue-barrier models, the so-called tissue barriers-on-chips (TBoCs). The porous membrane in a TBoC plays a crucial role as an alternative to an in vivo basement membrane (BM). To improve the physiological relevance of an artificial porous membrane, it should possess complex BM-like characteristics from both biophysical and biochemical perspectives. For practical use, artificial membranes should have high mechanical robustness, and their fabrication processes should be conducive to mass production. There have been numerous approaches to accomplishing these requirements in BM-like porous membranes. Extracellular matrix (ECM) hydrogels have emerged as physiologically relevant materials for developing artificial BMs; they remarkably improve the phenotypes and functions of both cells and their layers when compared to previous synthetic porous membranes. However, for practical use, the poor mechanical robustness of ECM membranes needs to be improved. Recently, an advanced ECM membrane reinforced with a nanofiber scaffold has been introduced that possesses both BM-like characteristics and practical applicability. This advanced ECM membrane is expected to promote not only in vivo-like cellular functions but also cellular responses to drugs, which in turn further facilitates the practical applications of TBoCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaeseung Youn
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang 37673, Republic of Korea
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10
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Yang H, Sinha N, Rand U, Hauser H, Köster M, de Greef TFA, Tel J. A universal microfluidic approach for integrated analysis of temporal homocellular and heterocellular signaling and migration dynamics. Biosens Bioelectron 2022; 211:114353. [PMID: 35594624 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2022.114353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Revised: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Microfluidics offers precise and dynamic control of microenvironments for the study of temporal cellular responses. However, recent research focusing solely on either homocellular (single-cell, population) or heterocellular response may yield insufficient output, which possibly leads to partial comprehension about the underlying mechanisms of signaling events and corresponding cellular behaviors. Here, a universal microfluidic approach is developed for integrated analysis of temporal signaling and cell migration dynamics in multiple cellular contexts (single-cell, population and coculture). This approach allows to confine the desired number or mixture of specific cell sample types in a single device. Precise single cell seeding was achieved manually with bidirectional controllability. Coupled with time-lapse imaging, temporal cellular responses can be observed with single-cell resolution. Using NIH3T3 cells stably expressing signal transducer and activator of transcription 1/2 (STAT1/2) activity biosensors, temporal STAT1/2 activation and cell migration dynamics were explored in isolated single cells, populations and cocultures stimulated with temporal inputs, such as single-pulse and continuous signals of interferon γ (IFNγ) or lipopolysaccharide (LPS). We demonstrate distinct dynamic responses of fibroblasts in different cellular contexts. Our presented approach facilitates a multi-dimensional understanding of STAT signaling and corresponding migration behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haowen Yang
- Laboratory of Immunoengineering, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, 5600MB, the Netherlands; Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, 5600 MB, the Netherlands
| | - Nidhi Sinha
- Laboratory of Immunoengineering, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, 5600MB, the Netherlands; Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, 5600 MB, the Netherlands
| | - Ulfert Rand
- Model Systems for Infection and Immunity, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, 38124, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Hansjörg Hauser
- Model Systems for Infection and Immunity, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, 38124, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Mario Köster
- Model Systems for Infection and Immunity, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, 38124, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Tom F A de Greef
- Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, 5600 MB, the Netherlands; Computational Biology Group, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, 5600MB, Eindhoven, the Netherlands
| | - Jurjen Tel
- Laboratory of Immunoengineering, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, 5600MB, the Netherlands; Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, 5600 MB, the Netherlands.
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11
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Haque MR, Wessel CR, Leary DD, Wang C, Bhushan A, Bishehsari F. Patient-derived pancreatic cancer-on-a-chip recapitulates the tumor microenvironment. MICROSYSTEMS & NANOENGINEERING 2022; 8:36. [PMID: 35450328 PMCID: PMC8971446 DOI: 10.1038/s41378-022-00370-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Revised: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 02/20/2022] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
The patient population suffering from pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) presents, as a whole, with a high degree of molecular tumor heterogeneity. The heterogeneity of PDAC tumor composition has complicated treatment and stalled success in clinical trials. Current in vitro techniques insufficiently replicate the intricate stromal components of PDAC tumor microenvironments (TMEs) and fail to model a given tumor's unique genetic phenotype. The development of patient-derived organoids (PDOs) has opened the door for improved personalized medicine since PDOs are derived directly from patient tumors, thus preserving the tumors' unique behaviors and genetic phenotypes. This study developed a tumor-chip device engineered to mimic the PDAC TME by incorporating PDOs and stromal cells, specifically pancreatic stellate cells and macrophages. Establishing PDOs in a multicellular microfluidic chip device prolongs cellular function and longevity and successfully establishes a complex organotypic tumor environment that incorporates desmoplastic stroma and immune cells. When primary cancer cells in monoculture were subjected to stroma-depleting agents, there was no effect on cancer cell viability. However, targeting stroma in our tumor-chip model resulted in a significant increase in the chemotherapy effect on cancer cells, thus validating the use of this tumor-chip device for drug testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad R. Haque
- Division of Digestive Diseases, Rush Center for Integrated Microbiome & Chronobiology Research, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612 USA
| | - Caitlin R. Wessel
- University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY 40202 USA
| | - Daniel D. Leary
- Division of Digestive Diseases, Rush Center for Integrated Microbiome & Chronobiology Research, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612 USA
| | - Chengyao Wang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Illinois Institute of Technology, Chicago, IL 60616 USA
| | - Abhinav Bhushan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Illinois Institute of Technology, Chicago, IL 60616 USA
| | - Faraz Bishehsari
- Division of Digestive Diseases, Rush Center for Integrated Microbiome & Chronobiology Research, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612 USA
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12
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Engineering Hydrogels for the Development of Three-Dimensional In Vitro Models. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23052662. [PMID: 35269803 PMCID: PMC8910155 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23052662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 02/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The superiority of in vitro 3D cultures over conventional 2D cell cultures is well recognized by the scientific community for its relevance in mimicking the native tissue architecture and functionality. The recent paradigm shift in the field of tissue engineering toward the development of 3D in vitro models can be realized with its myriad of applications, including drug screening, developing alternative diagnostics, and regenerative medicine. Hydrogels are considered the most suitable biomaterial for developing an in vitro model owing to their similarity in features to the extracellular microenvironment of native tissue. In this review article, recent progress in the use of hydrogel-based biomaterial for the development of 3D in vitro biomimetic tissue models is highlighted. Discussions of hydrogel sources and the latest hybrid system with different combinations of biopolymers are also presented. The hydrogel crosslinking mechanism and design consideration are summarized, followed by different types of available hydrogel module systems along with recent microfabrication technologies. We also present the latest developments in engineering hydrogel-based 3D in vitro models targeting specific tissues. Finally, we discuss the challenges surrounding current in vitro platforms and 3D models in the light of future perspectives for an improved biomimetic in vitro organ system.
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13
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Youn J, Hong H, Shin W, Kim D, Kim HJ, Kim DS. Thin and stretchable extracellular matrix (ECM) membrane reinforced by nanofiber scaffolds for developing in vitro barrier models. Biofabrication 2022; 14. [DOI: 10.1088/1758-5090/ac4dd7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
An extracellular matrix (ECM) membrane made up of ECM hydrogels has great potentials to develop a physiologically relevant organ-on-a-chip because of its biochemical and biophysical similarity to in vivo basement membranes (BMs). However, the limited mechanical stability of the ECM hydrogels makes it difficult to utilize the ECM membrane in long-term and dynamic cell/tissue cultures. This study proposes an ultra-thin but robust and transparent ECM membrane reinforced with silk fibroin (SF)/polycaprolactone (PCL) nanofibers, which is achieved by in situ self-assembly throughout a freestanding SF/PCL nanofiber scaffold. The SF/PCL nanofiber-reinforced ECM (NaRE) membrane shows biophysical characteristics reminiscent of native BMs, including small thickness (< 5 μm), high permeability (< 9 × 10−5 cm s-1), and nanofibrillar architecture (~10 to 100 nm). With the BM-like characteristics, the nanofiber reinforcement ensured that the NaRE membrane stably supported the construction of various types of in vitro barrier models, from epithelial or endothelial barrier models to complex co-culture models, even over two weeks of cell culture periods. Furthermore, the stretchability of the NaRE membrane allowed emulating the native organ-like cyclic stretching motions (10 to 15%) and was demonstrated to manipulate the cell and tissue-level functions of the in vitro barrier model.
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14
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Wang C, Dang T, Baste J, Anil Joshi A, Bhushan A. A novel standalone microfluidic device for local control of oxygen tension for intestinal-bacteria interactions. FASEB J 2021; 35:e21291. [PMID: 33506497 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202001600rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2020] [Revised: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The intestinal environment is unique because it supports the intestinal epithelial cells under a normal oxygen environment and the microbiota under an anoxic environment. Due to importance of understanding the interactions between the epithelium and the microbiota, there is a strong need for developing representative and simple experimental models. Current approaches do not capture the partitioned oxygen environment, require external anaerobic chambers, or are complex. Another major limitation is that with the solutions that can mimic this oxygen environment, the oxygenation level of the epithelial cells is not known, raising the question whether the cells are hypoxic or not. We report standalone microfluidic devices that form a partitioned oxygen environment without the use of an external anaerobic chamber or oxygen scavengers to coculture intestinal epithelial and bacterial cells. By changing the thickness of the device cover, the oxygen tension in the chamber was modulated. We verified the oxygen levels using several tests: microscale oxygen sensitive sensors which were integrated within the devices, immunostaining of Caco-2 cells to determine hypoxia levels, and genetically encoded bacteria to visualize the growth. Collectively, these methods monitored oxygen concentrations in the devices more comprehensively than previous reports and allowed for control of oxygen tension to match the requirements of both intestinal cells and anaerobic bacteria. Our experimental model is supported by the mathematical model that considered diffusion of oxygen into the top chamber. This allowed us to experimentally determine the oxygen consumption rate of the intestinal epithelial cells under perfusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengyao Wang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Illinois Institute of Technology, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Thao Dang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Illinois Institute of Technology, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Jasmine Baste
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Illinois Institute of Technology, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Advait Anil Joshi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Illinois Institute of Technology, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Abhinav Bhushan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Illinois Institute of Technology, Chicago, IL, USA
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15
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Guttenplan APM, Tahmasebi Birgani Z, Giselbrecht S, Truckenmüller RK, Habibović P. Chips for Biomaterials and Biomaterials for Chips: Recent Advances at the Interface between Microfabrication and Biomaterials Research. Adv Healthc Mater 2021; 10:e2100371. [PMID: 34033239 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202100371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Revised: 05/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, the use of microfabrication techniques has allowed biomaterials studies which were originally carried out at larger length scales to be miniaturized as so-called "on-chip" experiments. These miniaturized experiments have a range of advantages which have led to an increase in their popularity. A range of biomaterial shapes and compositions are synthesized or manufactured on chip. Moreover, chips are developed to investigate specific aspects of interactions between biomaterials and biological systems. Finally, biomaterials are used in microfabricated devices to replicate the physiological microenvironment in studies using so-called "organ-on-chip," "tissue-on-chip" or "disease-on-chip" models, which can reduce the use of animal models with their inherent high cost and ethical issues, and due to the possible use of human cells can increase the translation of research from lab to clinic. This review gives an overview of recent developments at the interface between microfabrication and biomaterials science, and indicates potential future directions that the field may take. In particular, a trend toward increased scale and automation is apparent, allowing both industrial production of micron-scale biomaterials and high-throughput screening of the interaction of diverse materials libraries with cells and bioengineered tissues and organs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander P. M. Guttenplan
- Department of Instructive Biomaterials Engineering MERLN Institute for Technology‐Inspired Regenerative Medicine Maastricht University Universiteitssingel 40 Maastricht 6229ER The Netherlands
| | - Zeinab Tahmasebi Birgani
- Department of Instructive Biomaterials Engineering MERLN Institute for Technology‐Inspired Regenerative Medicine Maastricht University Universiteitssingel 40 Maastricht 6229ER The Netherlands
| | - Stefan Giselbrecht
- Department of Instructive Biomaterials Engineering MERLN Institute for Technology‐Inspired Regenerative Medicine Maastricht University Universiteitssingel 40 Maastricht 6229ER The Netherlands
| | - Roman K. Truckenmüller
- Department of Instructive Biomaterials Engineering MERLN Institute for Technology‐Inspired Regenerative Medicine Maastricht University Universiteitssingel 40 Maastricht 6229ER The Netherlands
| | - Pamela Habibović
- Department of Instructive Biomaterials Engineering MERLN Institute for Technology‐Inspired Regenerative Medicine Maastricht University Universiteitssingel 40 Maastricht 6229ER The Netherlands
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16
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Tronolone JJ, Jain A. Engineering new microvascular networks on-chip: ingredients, assembly, and best practices. ADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS 2021; 31:2007199. [PMID: 33994903 PMCID: PMC8114943 DOI: 10.1002/adfm.202007199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Tissue engineered grafts show great potential as regenerative implants for diseased or injured tissues within the human body. However, these grafts suffer from poor nutrient perfusion and waste transport, thus decreasing their viability post-transplantation. Graft vascularization is therefore a major area of focus within tissue engineering because biologically relevant conduits for nutrient and oxygen perfusion can improve viability post-implantation. Many researchers utilize microphysiological systems as testing platforms for potential grafts due to an ability to integrate vascular networks as well as biological characteristics such as fluid perfusion, 3D architecture, compartmentalization of tissue-specific materials, and biophysical and biochemical cues. While many methods of vascularizing these systems exist, microvascular self-assembly has great potential for bench-to-clinic translation as it relies on naturally occurring physiological events. In this review, we highlight the past decade of literature and critically discuss the most important and tunable components yielding a self-assembled vascular network on chip: endothelial cell source, tissue-specific supporting cells, biomaterial scaffolds, biochemical cues, and biophysical forces. This article discusses the bioengineered systems of angiogenesis, vasculogenesis, and lymphangiogenesis, and includes a brief overview of multicellular systems. We conclude with future avenues of research to guide the next generation of vascularized microfluidic models and future tissue engineered grafts.
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Affiliation(s)
- James J Tronolone
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Abhishek Jain
- Department of Medical Physiology, College of Medicine, Texas A&M Health Science Center, Bryan, TX 77808, USA
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17
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Zamprogno P, Thoma G, Cencen V, Ferrari D, Putz B, Michler J, Fantner GE, Guenat OT. Mechanical Properties of Soft Biological Membranes for Organ-on-a-Chip Assessed by Bulge Test and AFM. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2021; 7:2990-2997. [PMID: 33651947 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.0c00515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Advanced in vitro models called "organ-on-a-chip" can mimic the specific cellular environment found in various tissues. Many of these models include a thin, sometimes flexible, membrane aimed at mimicking the extracellular matrix (ECM) scaffold of in vivo barriers. These membranes are often made of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), a silicone rubber that poorly mimics the chemical and physical properties of the basal membrane. However, the ECM and its mechanical properties play a key role in the homeostasis of a tissue. Here, we report about biological membranes with a composition and mechanical properties similar to those found in vivo. Two types of collagen-elastin (CE) membranes were produced: vitrified and nonvitrified (called "hydrogel membrane"). Their mechanical properties were characterized using the bulge test method. The results were compared using atomic force microscopy (AFM), a standard technique used to evaluate the Young's modulus of soft materials at the nanoscale. Our results show that CE membranes with stiffnesses ranging from several hundred of kPa down to 1 kPa can be produced by tuning the CE ratio, the production mode (vitrified or not), and/or certain parameters such as temperature. The Young's modulus can easily be determined using the bulge test. This method is a robust and reproducible to determine membrane stiffness, even for soft membranes, which are more difficult to assess by AFM. Assessment of the impact of substrate stiffness on the spread of human fibroblasts on these surfaces showed that cell spread is lower on softer surfaces than on stiffer surfaces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pauline Zamprogno
- Organs-on-Chip Technologies Laboratory, ARTORG Center, University of Bern, Bern 3008, Switzerland
| | - Giuditta Thoma
- Organs-on-Chip Technologies Laboratory, ARTORG Center, University of Bern, Bern 3008, Switzerland
| | - Veronika Cencen
- Laboratory for Bio- and Nano- Instrumentation, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne 1015, Switzerland
| | - Dario Ferrari
- Organs-on-Chip Technologies Laboratory, ARTORG Center, University of Bern, Bern 3008, Switzerland
| | - Barbara Putz
- Laboratory for Mechanics of Materials and Nanostructures, EMPA Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Thun 3602, Switzerland
| | - Johann Michler
- Laboratory for Mechanics of Materials and Nanostructures, EMPA Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Thun 3602, Switzerland
| | - Georg E Fantner
- Laboratory for Bio- and Nano- Instrumentation, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne 1015, Switzerland
| | - Olivier T Guenat
- Organs-on-Chip Technologies Laboratory, ARTORG Center, University of Bern, Bern 3008, Switzerland.,Department of Pulmonary Medicine, University Hospital of Bern, Bern 3008, Switzerland.,Department of General Thoracic Surgery, University Hospital of Bern, Bern 3008, Switzerland
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18
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Aguilar-Rojas A, Olivo-Marin JC, Guillen N. Human intestinal models to study interactions between intestine and microbes. Open Biol 2020; 10:200199. [PMID: 33081633 PMCID: PMC7653360 DOI: 10.1098/rsob.200199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Implementations of suitable in vitro cell culture systems of the human intestine have been essential tools in the study of the interaction among organs, commensal microbiota, pathogens and parasites. Due to the great complexity exhibited by the intestinal tissue, researchers have been developing in vitro/ex vivo systems to diminish the gap between conventional cell culture models and the human intestine. These models are able to reproduce different structures and functional aspects of the tissue. In the present review, information is recapitulated on the most used models, such as cell culture, intestinal organoids, scaffold-based three-dimensional models, and organ-on-a-chip and their use in studying the interaction between human intestine and microbes, and their advantages and limitations are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arturo Aguilar-Rojas
- Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Unidad de Investigación Médica en Medicina Reproductiva, Unidad Médica de Alta Especialidad en Ginecología y Obstetricia No. 4 ‘Dr. Luis Castelazo Ayala’, Av. Río Magdalena No. 289, Col. Tizapán San Ángel, C.P. 01090 Ciudad de México, México
- Institut Pasteur, Unité d'Analyse d'Images Biologiques, 25 Rue du Dr Roux, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Jean-Christophe Olivo-Marin
- Institut Pasteur, Unité d'Analyse d'Images Biologiques, 25 Rue du Dr Roux, 75015 Paris, France
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, UMR3691, 25 Rue du Dr Roux, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Nancy Guillen
- Institut Pasteur, Unité d'Analyse d'Images Biologiques, 25 Rue du Dr Roux, 75015 Paris, France
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, ERL9195, 25 Rue du Dr Roux, 75015 Paris, France
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19
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Hewes SA, Wilson RL, Estes MK, Shroyer NF, Blutt SE, Grande-Allen KJ. In Vitro Models of the Small Intestine: Engineering Challenges and Engineering Solutions. TISSUE ENGINEERING. PART B, REVIEWS 2020; 26:313-326. [PMID: 32046599 PMCID: PMC7462033 DOI: 10.1089/ten.teb.2019.0334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Pathologies affecting the small intestine contribute significantly to the disease burden of both the developing and the developed world, which has motivated investigation into the disease mechanisms through in vitro models. Although existing in vitro models recapitulate selected features of the intestine, various important aspects have often been isolated or omitted due to the anatomical and physiological complexity. The small intestine's intricate microanatomy, heterogeneous cell populations, steep oxygen gradients, microbiota, and intestinal wall contractions are often not included in in vitro experimental models of the small intestine, despite their importance in both intestinal biology and pathology. Known and unknown interdependencies between various physiological aspects necessitate more complex in vitro models. Microfluidic technology has made it possible to mimic the dynamic mechanical environment, signaling gradients, and other important aspects of small intestinal biology. This review presents an overview of the complexity of small intestinal anatomy and bioengineered models that recapitulate some of these physiological aspects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A. Hewes
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Reid L. Wilson
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, Texas, USA
- Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
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20
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Li H, Cheng F, Robledo-Lara JA, Liao J, Wang Z, Zhang YS. Fabrication of paper-based devices for in vitro tissue modeling. Biodes Manuf 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s42242-020-00077-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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21
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Morales Navarrete P, Yuan J. A Single-Layer PDMS Chamber for On-Chip Bacteria Culture. MICROMACHINES 2020; 11:E395. [PMID: 32290319 PMCID: PMC7231344 DOI: 10.3390/mi11040395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2020] [Revised: 04/04/2020] [Accepted: 04/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
On-chip cell culture devices have been actively developed for both mammalian cells and bacteria. Most designs are based on PDMS multi-layer microfluidic valves, which require complicated fabrication and operation. In this work, single-layer PDMS microfluidic valves are introduced in the design of an on-chip culture chamber for E. coli bacteria. To enable the constant flow of culturing medium, we have developed a (semi-)always-closed single-layer microfluidic valve. As a result, the growth chamber can culture bacteria over long duration. The device is applied for the whole-cell detection of heavy metal ions with genetically modified E. coli. The platform is tested with culturing period of 3 h. It is found to achieve a limit-of-detection (LoD) of 44.8 ppb for Cadmium ions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Morales Navarrete
- Department of Electronic and Computer Engineering, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Jie Yuan
- Department of Electronic and Computer Engineering, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Kowloon, Hong Kong
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22
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Liu H, Wang Y, Cui K, Guo Y, Zhang X, Qin J. Advances in Hydrogels in Organoids and Organs-on-a-Chip. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2019; 31:e1902042. [PMID: 31282047 DOI: 10.1002/adma.201902042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 173] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2019] [Revised: 05/25/2019] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Significant advances in materials, microscale technology, and stem cell biology have enabled the construction of 3D tissues and organs, which will ultimately lead to more effective diagnostics and therapy. Organoids and organs-on-a-chip (OOC), evolved from developmental biology and bioengineering principles, have emerged as major technological breakthrough and distinct model systems to revolutionize biomedical research and drug discovery by recapitulating the key structural and functional complexity of human organs in vitro. There is growing interest in the development of functional biomaterials, especially hydrogels, for utilization in these promising systems to build more physiologically relevant 3D tissues with defined properties. The remarkable properties of defined hydrogels as proper extracellular matrix that can instruct cellular behaviors are presented. The recent trend where functional hydrogels are integrated into organoids and OOC systems for the construction of 3D tissue models is highlighted. Future opportunities and perspectives in the development of advanced hydrogels toward accelerating organoids and OOC research in biomedical applications are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haitao Liu
- Division of Biotechnology, CAS Key Laboratory of Separation Sciences for Analytical Chemistry, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, 116023, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Yaqing Wang
- Division of Biotechnology, CAS Key Laboratory of Separation Sciences for Analytical Chemistry, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, 116023, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Kangli Cui
- Division of Biotechnology, CAS Key Laboratory of Separation Sciences for Analytical Chemistry, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, 116023, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Yaqiong Guo
- Division of Biotechnology, CAS Key Laboratory of Separation Sciences for Analytical Chemistry, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, 116023, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Xu Zhang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, 27708, USA
| | - Jianhua Qin
- Division of Biotechnology, CAS Key Laboratory of Separation Sciences for Analytical Chemistry, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, 116023, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China
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