1
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Lu Z, Yuan Y, Han Q, Wang Y, Liang Q. Lab-on-a-chip: an advanced technology for the modernization of traditional Chinese medicine. Chin Med 2024; 19:80. [PMID: 38853247 PMCID: PMC11163804 DOI: 10.1186/s13020-024-00956-4] [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: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 06/01/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Benefiting from the complex system composed of various constituents, medicament portions, species, and places of origin, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) possesses numerous customizable and adaptable efficacies in clinical practice guided by its theories. However, these unique features are also present challenges in areas such as quality control, screening active ingredients, studying cell and organ pharmacology, and characterizing the compatibility between different Chinese medicines. Drawing inspiration from the holistic concept, an integrated strategy and pattern more aligned with TCM research emerges, necessitating the integration of novel technology into TCM modernization. The microfluidic chip serves as a powerful platform for integrating technologies in chemistry, biology, and biophysics. Microfluidics has given rise to innovative patterns like lab-on-a-chip and organoids-on-a-chip, effectively challenging the conventional research paradigms of TCM. This review provides a systematic summary of the nature and advanced utilization of microfluidic chips in TCM, focusing on quality control, active ingredient screening/separation, pharmaceutical analysis, and pharmacological/toxicological assays. Drawing on these remarkable references, the challenges, opportunities, and future trends of microfluidic chips in TCM are also comprehensively discussed, providing valuable insights into the development of TCM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zenghui Lu
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine-X, State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine Third-Level Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Chemistry, Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Yue Yuan
- Beijing Key Laboratory of TCM Pharmacology, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Qiang Han
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine-X, State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine Third-Level Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Chemistry, Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Yu Wang
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine-X, State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine Third-Level Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Chemistry, Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Qionglin Liang
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine-X, State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine Third-Level Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Chemistry, Modern Research Center for Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China.
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2
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Wu J, Ji H, Li T, Guo H, Xu H, Zhu J, Tian J, Gao M, Wang X, Zhang A. Targeting the prostate tumor microenvironment by plant-derived natural products. Cell Signal 2024; 115:111011. [PMID: 38104704 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2023.111011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Prostate cancer is among the most common malignancies for men, with limited therapy options for last stages of the tumor. There are some different options for treatment and control of prostate tumor growth. However, targeting some specific molecules and cells within tumors has been attracted interests in recent years. The tumor microenvironment (TME) has an important role in the initiation of various malignancies, which can also expand the progression of tumor and facilitate invasion of malignant cells. By regulating immune responses and distinct changes in the metabolism of cells in the tumor, TME has substantial effects in the resistance of cancer cells to therapy. TME in various solid cancers like prostate cancer includes various cells, including cancer cells, supportive stromal cells, immunosuppressive cells, and anticancer inflammatory cells. Natural products including herbal-derived agents and also other natural compounds have been well studied for their anti-tumor potentials. These compounds may modulate various signaling pathways involved in TME, such as immune responses, the metabolism of cells, epigenetics, angiogenesis, and extracellular matrix (ECM). This paper provides a review of the current knowledge of prostate TME and complex interactions in this environment. Additionally, the potential use of natural products and also nanoparticles loaded with natural products as therapeutic adjuvants on different cells and therapeutic targets within prostate TME will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiacheng Wu
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Nantong University & Nantong Tumor Hospital, 226361, China
| | - Hao Ji
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Nantong University & Nantong Tumor Hospital, 226361, China
| | - Tiantian Li
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Nantong University & Nantong Tumor Hospital, 226361, China
| | - Haifeng Guo
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Nantong University & Nantong Tumor Hospital, 226361, China
| | - HaiFei Xu
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Nantong University & Nantong Tumor Hospital, 226361, China
| | - Jinfeng Zhu
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Nantong University & Nantong Tumor Hospital, 226361, China
| | - Jiale Tian
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Nantong University & Nantong Tumor Hospital, 226361, China
| | - Mingde Gao
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Nantong University & Nantong Tumor Hospital, 226361, China
| | - Xiaolin Wang
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Nantong University & Nantong Tumor Hospital, 226361, China.
| | - Aihua Zhang
- The operating room of Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Nantong University & Nantong Tumor Hospital, 226361, China.
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3
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Rao Malla R, Bhamidipati P, Adem M. Insights into the potential of Sanguinarine as a promising therapeutic option for breast cancer. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 212:115565. [PMID: 37086811 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115565] [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: 02/18/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/24/2023]
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in women worldwide. The tumor microenvironment (TME) plays a crucial role in the progression and metastasis of BC. A significant proportion of BC is characterized by a hypoxic TME, which contributes to the development of drug resistance and cancer recurrence. Sanguinarine (SAN), an isoquinoline alkaloid found in Papaver plants, has shown promise as an anticancer agent. The present review focuses on exploring the molecular mechanisms of hypoxic TME in BC and the potential of SAN as a therapeutic option. The review presents the current understanding of the hypoxic TME, its signaling pathways, and its impact on the progression of BC. Additionally, the review elaborates on the mechanisms of action of SAN in BC, including its effects on vital cellular processes such as proliferation, migration, drug resistance, and tumor-induced immune suppression. The review highlights the importance of addressing hypoxic TME in treating BC and the potential of SAN as a promising therapeutic option.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rama Rao Malla
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry and Bioinformatics, School of Science, GITAM (Deemed to be University), Visakhapatnam-530045, Andhra Pradesh, India
| | - Priyamvada Bhamidipati
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry and Bioinformatics, School of Science, GITAM (Deemed to be University), Visakhapatnam-530045, Andhra Pradesh, India
| | - Meghapriya Adem
- Department of Biotechnology, Sri Padmavathi Mahila Visva vidhyalayam, Tirupati-517502, Andhra Pradesh, India
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4
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Qing LS, Wang TT, Luo HY, Du JL, Wang RY, Luo P. Microfluidic strategies for natural products in drug discovery: Current status and future perspectives. Trends Analyt Chem 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.trac.2022.116832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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5
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Li X, Fan X, Li Z, Shi L, Liu J, Luo H, Wang L, Du X, Chen W, Guo J, Li C, Liu S. Application of Microfluidics in Drug Development from Traditional Medicine. BIOSENSORS 2022; 12:bios12100870. [PMID: 36291008 PMCID: PMC9599478 DOI: 10.3390/bios12100870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Revised: 09/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
While there are many clinical drugs for prophylaxis and treatment, the search for those with low or no risk of side effects for the control of infectious and non-infectious diseases is a dilemma that cannot be solved by today's traditional drug development strategies. The need for new drug development strategies is becoming increasingly important, and the development of new drugs from traditional medicines is the most promising strategy. Many valuable clinical drugs have been developed based on traditional medicine, including drugs with single active ingredients similar to modern drugs and those developed from improved formulations of traditional drugs. However, the problems of traditional isolation and purification and drug screening methods should be addressed for successful drug development from traditional medicine. Advances in microfluidics have not only contributed significantly to classical drug development but have also solved many of the thorny problems of new strategies for developing new drugs from traditional drugs. In this review, we provide an overview of advanced microfluidics and its applications in drug development (drug compound synthesis, drug screening, drug delivery, and drug carrier fabrication) with a focus on its applications in conventional medicine, including the separation and purification of target components in complex samples and screening of active ingredients of conventional drugs. We hope that our review gives better insight into the potential of traditional medicine and the critical role of microfluidics in the drug development process. In addition, the emergence of new ideas and applications will bring about further advances in the field of drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Li
- Sichuan Hanyuan County People’s Hospital, Hanyuan 625300, China
| | - Xiaoming Fan
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences and Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China
| | - Zhu Li
- College of Medical Technology, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 610075, China
| | - Lina Shi
- School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610054, China
| | - Jinkuan Liu
- School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610054, China
| | - Hongzhi Luo
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University (The First People’s Hospital of Zunyi), Zunyi 563002, China
| | - Lijun Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Third People’s Hospital of Chengdu, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 610031, China
| | - Xiaoxin Du
- Office of Scientific Research & Development, University of Electronic Science and Technology, Chengdu 610054, China
| | - Wenzhu Chen
- Department of Blood Transfusion, The First People’s Hospital of Longquanyi District, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Jiuchuan Guo
- The M.O.E. Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medical Diagnostics, The College of Laboratory Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, #1 Yixueyuan Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing 400016, China
- Correspondence: (J.G.); (C.L.); (S.L.)
| | - Chenzhong Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
- Correspondence: (J.G.); (C.L.); (S.L.)
| | - Shan Liu
- Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Disease Gene Study, Department of Medical Genetics, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China
- Correspondence: (J.G.); (C.L.); (S.L.)
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6
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From organ-on-chip to body-on-chip: The next generation of microfluidics platforms for in vitro drug efficacy and toxicity testing. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2022; 187:41-91. [PMID: 35094781 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2021.07.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The high failure rate in drug development is often attributed to the lack of accurate pre-clinical models that may lead to false discoveries and inconclusive data when the compounds are eventually tested in clinical phase. With the evolution of cell culture technologies, drug testing systems have widely improved, and today, with the emergence of microfluidics devices, drug screening seems to be at the dawn of an important revolution. An organ-on-chip allows the culture of living cells in continuously perfused microchambers to reproduce physiological functions of a particular tissue or organ. The advantages of such systems are not only their ability to recapitulate the complex biochemical interactions between different human cell types but also to incorporate physical forces, including shear stress and mechanical stretching or compression. To improve this model, and to reproduce the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination process of an exogenous compound, organ-on-chips can even be linked fluidically to mimic physiological interactions between different organs, leading to the development of body-on-chips. Although these technologies are still at a young age and need to address a certain number of limitations, they already demonstrated their relevance to study the effect of drugs or toxins on organs, displaying a similar response to what is observed in vivo. The purpose of this review is to present the evolution from organ-on-chip to body-on-chip, examine their current use for drug testing and discuss their advantages and future challenges they will face in order to become an essential pillar of pharmaceutical research.
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7
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Zhou Z, Cong L, Cong X. Patient-Derived Organoids in Precision Medicine: Drug Screening, Organoid-on-a-Chip and Living Organoid Biobank. Front Oncol 2021; 11:762184. [PMID: 35036354 PMCID: PMC8755639 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.762184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Organoids are in vitro self-assembling, organ-like, three-dimensional cellular structures that stably retain key characteristics of the respective organs. Organoids can be generated from healthy or pathological tissues derived from patients. Cancer organoid culture platforms have several advantages, including conservation of the cellular composition that captures the heterogeneity and pharmacotypic signatures of the parental tumor. This platform has provided new opportunities to fill the gap between cancer research and clinical outcomes. Clinical trials have been performed using patient-derived organoids (PDO) as a tool for personalized medical decisions to predict patients' responses to therapeutic regimens and potentially improve treatment outcomes. Living organoid biobanks encompassing several cancer types have been established, providing a representative collection of well-characterized models that will facilitate drug development. In this review, we highlight recent developments in the generation of organoid cultures and PDO biobanks, in preclinical drug discovery, and methods to design a functional organoid-on-a-chip combined with microfluidic. In addition, we discuss the advantages as well as limitations of human organoids in patient-specific therapy and highlight possible future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zilong Zhou
- Biobank, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Lele Cong
- Department of Dermatology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xianling Cong
- Department of Dermatology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
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8
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Biofabrication of advanced in vitro and ex vivo cancer models for disease modeling and drug screening. FUTURE DRUG DISCOVERY 2021. [DOI: 10.4155/fdd-2020-0034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Bioengineered in vitro models have advanced from 2D cultures and simple 3D cell aggregates to more complex organoids and organ-on-a-chip platforms. This shift has been substantial in cancer research; while simple systems remain in use, multi-tissue type tumor and tissue chips and patient-derived tumor organoids have grown rapidly. These more advanced models offer new tools to cancer researchers based on human tumor physiology and the potential for interactions with nontumor tissue physiology while avoiding critical differences between human and animal biology. In this focused review, the authors discuss the importance of organoid and organ-on-a-chip platforms, with a particular focus on modeling cancer, to highlight oncology-focused in vitro model platform technologies that improve upon the simple 2D cultures and 3D spheroid models of the past.
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9
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Bai J, Fu H, Bazinet L, Birsner AE, D'Amato RJ. A Method for Developing Novel 3D Cornea-on-a-Chip Using Primary Murine Corneal Epithelial and Endothelial Cells. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:453. [PMID: 32410987 PMCID: PMC7198819 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.00453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2019] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Microfluidic-based organ-on-a-chip assays with simultaneous coculture of multi-cell types have been widely utilized for basic research and drug development. Here we describe a novel method for a primary cell-based corneal microphysiological system which aims to recapitulate the basic functions of the in vivo cornea and to study topically applied ocular drug permeation. In this study, the protocols for isolating and cultivating primary corneal epithelial cells and endothelial cells from mouse inbred strain C57BL/6J were optimized, to allow for the development of a primary-cell based microfluidic 3D micro-engineered cornea. This tissue unit, by overcoming the limitations of 2D conventional cell culture, supports new investigations on cornea function and facilitates drug delivery testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Bai
- The Vascular Biology Program and Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States.,Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, United States
| | - Haojie Fu
- The Vascular Biology Program and Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Lauren Bazinet
- The Vascular Biology Program and Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Amy E Birsner
- The Vascular Biology Program and Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Robert J D'Amato
- The Vascular Biology Program and Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States.,Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
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10
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Bai J, Wang C. Organoids and Microphysiological Systems: New Tools for Ophthalmic Drug Discovery. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:407. [PMID: 32317971 PMCID: PMC7147294 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.00407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2019] [Accepted: 03/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Organoids are adept at preserving the inherent complexity of a given cellular environment and when integrated with engineered micro-physiological systems (MPS) present distinct advantages for simulating a precisely controlled geometrical, physical, and biochemical micro-environment. This then allows for real-time monitoring of cell-cell interactions. As a result, the two aforementioned technologies hold significant promise and potential in studying ocular physiology and diseases by replicating specific eye tissue microstructures in vitro. This miniaturized review begins with defining the science behind organoids/MPS and subsequently introducing methods for generating organoids and engineering MPS. Furthermore, we will discuss the current state of organoids and MPS models in retina, cornea surrogates, and other ocular tissue, in regards to physiological/disease conditions. Finally, future prospective on organoid/MPS will be covered here. Organoids and MPS technologies closely recapture the in vivo microenvironment and thusly will continue to provide new understandings in organ functions and novel approaches to drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Bai
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, United States
| | - Chunming Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau
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11
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Abstract
Cancer is a heterogeneous disease that requires a multimodal approach to diagnose, manage and treat. A better understanding of the disease biology can lead to identification of novel diagnostic/prognostic biomarkers and the discovery of the novel therapeutics with the goal of improving patient outcomes. Employing advanced technologies can facilitate this, enabling better diagnostic and treatment for cancer patients. In this regard, microfluidic technology has emerged as a promising tool in the studies of cancer, including single cancer cell analysis, modeling angiogenesis and metastasis, drug screening and liquid biopsy. Microfluidic technologies have opened new ways to study tumors in the preclinical and clinical settings. In this chapter, we highlight novel application of this technology in area of fundamental, translational and clinical cancer research.
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12
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Koens R, Tabata Y, Serrano JC, Aratake S, Yoshino D, Kamm RD, Funamoto K. Microfluidic platform for three-dimensional cell culture under spatiotemporal heterogeneity of oxygen tension. APL Bioeng 2020; 4:016106. [PMID: 32161836 PMCID: PMC7060087 DOI: 10.1063/1.5127069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2019] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cells in a tumor microenvironment are exposed to spatial and temporal variations in oxygen tension due to hyperproliferation and immature vascularization. Such spatiotemporal oxygen heterogeneity affects the behavior of cancer cells, leading to cancer growth and metastasis, and thus, it is essential to clarify the cellular responses of cancer cells to oxygen tension. Herein, we describe a new double-layer microfluidic device allowing the control of oxygen tension and the behavior of cancer cells under spatiotemporal oxygen heterogeneity. Two parallel gas channels were located above the media and gel channels to enhance gas exchange, and a gas-impermeable polycarbonate film was embedded in the device to prevent the diffusion of atmospheric oxygen. Variations in oxygen tension in the device with the experimental parameters and design variables were investigated computationally and validated by using oxygen-sensitive nanoparticles. The present device can generate a uniform hypoxic condition at oxygen levels down to 0.3% O2, as well as a linear oxygen gradient from 3% O2 to 17% O2 across the gel channel within 15 min. Moreover, human breast cancer cells suspended in type I collagen gel were introduced in the gel channel to observe their response under controlled oxygen tension. Hypoxic exposure activated the proliferation and motility of the cells, which showed a local maximum increase at 5% O2. Under the oxygen gradient condition, the increase in the cell number was relatively high in the central mild hypoxia region. These findings demonstrate the utility of the present device to study cellular responses in an oxygen-controlled microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rei Koens
- Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, Tohoku University, 6-6-12 Aramaki-aza Aoba, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Miyagi 980-8579, Japan
| | | | - Jean C. Serrano
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 77 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, USA
| | | | | | - Roger D. Kamm
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 77 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, USA
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13
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Raimondi L, De Luca A, Giavaresi G, Barone A, Tagliaferri P, Tassone P, Amodio N. Impact of Natural Dietary Agents on Multiple Myeloma Prevention and Treatment: Molecular Insights and Potential for Clinical Translation. Curr Med Chem 2020; 27:187-215. [PMID: 29956610 DOI: 10.2174/0929867325666180629153141] [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: 03/22/2018] [Revised: 04/17/2018] [Accepted: 05/08/2018] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Chemoprevention is based on the use of non-toxic, pharmacologically active agents to prevent tumor progression. In this regard, natural dietary agents have been described by the most recent literature as promising tools for controlling onset and progression of malignancies. Extensive research has been so far performed to shed light on the effects of natural products on tumor growth and survival, disclosing the most relevant signal transduction pathways targeted by such compounds. Overall, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and cytotoxic effects of dietary agents on tumor cells are supported either by results from epidemiological or animal studies and even by clinical trials. Multiple myeloma is a hematologic malignancy characterized by abnormal proliferation of bone marrow plasma cells and subsequent hypercalcemia, renal dysfunction, anemia, or bone disease, which remains incurable despite novel emerging therapeutic strategies. Notably, increasing evidence supports the capability of dietary natural compounds to antagonize multiple myeloma growth in preclinical models of the disease, underscoring their potential as candidate anti-cancer agents. In this review, we aim at summarizing findings on the anti-tumor activity of dietary natural products, focusing on their molecular mechanisms, which include inhibition of oncogenic signal transduction pathways and/or epigenetic modulating effects, along with their potential clinical applications against multiple myeloma and its related bone disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Agnese Barone
- Hospice Cascina Brandezzata-Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy
| | - Pierosandro Tagliaferri
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine Catanzaro, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Pierfrancesco Tassone
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine Catanzaro, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Nicola Amodio
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine Catanzaro, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
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14
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Bai J, Kwok WC, Thiery JP. Traditional Chinese Medicine and regulatory roles on epithelial-mesenchymal transitions. Chin Med 2019; 14:34. [PMID: 31558913 PMCID: PMC6755703 DOI: 10.1186/s13020-019-0257-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Accepted: 09/11/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a critical biological process allowing epithelial cells to de-differentiate into mesenchymal cells. Orchestrated signaling pathways cooperatively induce EMT and effect physiological, sometimes pathological outcomes. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has been clinically prescribed for thousands of years and recent studies have found that TCM therapies can participate in EMT regulation. In this review, the historical discovery of EMT will be introduced, followed by a brief overview of its major roles in development and diseases. The second section will focus on EMT in organ fibrosis and tissue regeneration. The third section discusses EMT-induced cancer metastasis, and details how EMT contribute to distant dissemination. Finally, new EMT players are described, namely microRNA, epigenetic modifications, and alternative splicing. TCM drugs that affect EMT proven through an evidence-based research approach will be presented in each section.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Bai
- 1Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, USA
| | - Wee Chiew Kwok
- 2Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jean-Paul Thiery
- Guangzhou Regenerative Medicine and Health, Guangdong Laboratory, Guangzhou, China
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15
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Liu T, Yao R, Pang Y, Sun W. Review on biofabrication and applications of heterogeneous tumor models. J Tissue Eng Regen Med 2019; 13:2101-2120. [PMID: 31359625 DOI: 10.1002/term.2949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2018] [Revised: 07/08/2019] [Accepted: 07/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Resolving the origin and development of tumor heterogeneity has proven to be a crucial challenge in cancer research. In vitro tumor models have been widely used for both scientific and clinical research. Currently, tumor models based on 2D cell culture, animal models, and 3D cell-laden constructs are widely used. Heterogeneous tumor models, which consist of more than one cell type and mimic cell-cell as well as cell-matrix interactions, are attracting increasing attention. Heterogeneous tumor models can serve as pathological models to study the microenvironment and tumor development such as tumorigenesis, invasiveness, and malignancy. They also provide disease models for drug screening and personalized therapy. In this review, the current techniques, models, and oncological applications regarding 3D heterogeneous tumor models are summarized and discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiankun Liu
- Tsinghua University, Biomanufacturing and Rapid Forming Technology Key Laboratory of Beijing, Beijing, People's Republic of China.,Biomanufacturing Center, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, People's Republic of China.,Tsinghua University, 111 "Biomanufacturing and Engineering Living Systems" Innovation International Talents Base, Beijing, People's Republic of China.,Key Laboratory of Advanced Forming and Manufacturing, Ministry of Education, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Rui Yao
- Tsinghua University, Biomanufacturing and Rapid Forming Technology Key Laboratory of Beijing, Beijing, People's Republic of China.,Biomanufacturing Center, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, People's Republic of China.,Tsinghua University, 111 "Biomanufacturing and Engineering Living Systems" Innovation International Talents Base, Beijing, People's Republic of China.,Key Laboratory of Advanced Forming and Manufacturing, Ministry of Education, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuan Pang
- Tsinghua University, Biomanufacturing and Rapid Forming Technology Key Laboratory of Beijing, Beijing, People's Republic of China.,Biomanufacturing Center, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, People's Republic of China.,Tsinghua University, 111 "Biomanufacturing and Engineering Living Systems" Innovation International Talents Base, Beijing, People's Republic of China.,Key Laboratory of Advanced Forming and Manufacturing, Ministry of Education, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Sun
- Tsinghua University, Biomanufacturing and Rapid Forming Technology Key Laboratory of Beijing, Beijing, People's Republic of China.,Biomanufacturing Center, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, People's Republic of China.,Tsinghua University, 111 "Biomanufacturing and Engineering Living Systems" Innovation International Talents Base, Beijing, People's Republic of China.,Key Laboratory of Advanced Forming and Manufacturing, Ministry of Education, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, People's Republic of China.,Department of Mechanical Engineering, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA
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16
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Sung JH, Wang YI, Narasimhan Sriram N, Jackson M, Long C, Hickman JJ, Shuler ML. Recent Advances in Body-on-a-Chip Systems. Anal Chem 2019; 91:330-351. [PMID: 30472828 PMCID: PMC6687466 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.8b05293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 134] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jong Hwan Sung
- Department of Chemical Engineering , Hongik University , Seoul , 04066 , Republic of Korea
| | - Ying I Wang
- Nancy E. and Peter C. Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering , Cornell University , Ithaca , New York 14853 , United States
| | | | - Max Jackson
- Hesperos, Inc. Orlando , Florida 32836 , United States
| | | | - James J Hickman
- Hesperos, Inc. Orlando , Florida 32836 , United States
- NanoScience Technology Center , University of Central Florida , Orlando , Florida 32828 , United States
| | - Michael L Shuler
- Nancy E. and Peter C. Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering , Cornell University , Ithaca , New York 14853 , United States
- Hesperos, Inc. Orlando , Florida 32836 , United States
- Robert Frederick Smith School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering , Cornell University , Ithaca , New York 14853 , United States
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17
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Deng JD, Lei S, Jiang Y, Zhang HH, Hu XL, Wen HX, Tan W, Wang Z. A concise synthesis and biological study of evodiamine and its analogues. Chem Commun (Camb) 2019; 55:3089-3092. [DOI: 10.1039/c9cc00434c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Efficient access to evodiamine and its analogues is presented via Lewis acid catalysis. In this reaction, three chemical bonds and two heterocyclic-fused rings are constructed in one step.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie-Dan Deng
- School of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University
- Lanzhou 730000
- China
- Institution State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University
- Lanzhou 730000
| | - Shuai Lei
- School of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University
- Lanzhou 730000
- China
| | - Yi Jiang
- School of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University
- Lanzhou 730000
- China
| | - Hong-Hua Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University
- Lanzhou 730000
- China
| | - Xiao-Ling Hu
- School of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University
- Lanzhou 730000
- China
| | - Huai-Xiu Wen
- Key Laboratory of Tibetan Medicine Research, Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences
- Xining
- P. R. China
| | - Wen Tan
- School of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University
- Lanzhou 730000
- China
| | - Zhen Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University
- Lanzhou 730000
- China
- Institution State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University
- Lanzhou 730000
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18
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Mollica H, Coclite A, Miali ME, Pereira RC, Paleari L, Manneschi C, DeCensi A, Decuzzi P. Deciphering the relative contribution of vascular inflammation and blood rheology in metastatic spreading. BIOMICROFLUIDICS 2018; 12:042205. [PMID: 29861816 PMCID: PMC5957635 DOI: 10.1063/1.5022879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2018] [Accepted: 04/02/2018] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Vascular adhesion of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) is a key step in cancer spreading. If inflammation is recognized to favor the formation of vascular "metastatic niches," little is known about the contribution of blood rheology to CTC deposition. Herein, a microfluidic chip, covered by a confluent monolayer of endothelial cells, is used for analyzing the adhesion and rolling of colorectal (HCT-15) and breast (MDA-MB-231) cancer cells under different biophysical conditions. These include the analysis of cell transport in a physiological solution and whole blood over a healthy and a TNF-α inflamed endothelium with a flow rate of 50 and 100 nl/min. Upon stimulation of the endothelial monolayer with TNF-α (25 ng/ml), CTC adhesion increases from 2 to 4 times whilst cell rolling velocity only slightly reduces. Notably, whole blood also enhances cancer cell deposition from 2 to 3 times, but only on the unstimulated vasculature. For all tested conditions, no statistically significant difference is observed between the two cancer cell types. Finally, a computational model for CTC transport demonstrates that a rigid cell approximation reasonably predicts rolling velocities while cell deformability is needed to model adhesion. These results would suggest that, within microvascular networks, blood rheology and inflammation contribute similarly to CTC deposition, thereby facilitating the formation of metastatic niches along the entire network, including the healthy endothelium. In microfluidic-based assays, neglecting blood rheology would significantly underestimate the metastatic potential of cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alessandro Coclite
- Laboratory of Nanotechnology for Precision Medicine, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Morego 30, Genoa 16163, Italy
| | | | - Rui C. Pereira
- Laboratory of Nanotechnology for Precision Medicine, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Morego 30, Genoa 16163, Italy
| | | | - Chiara Manneschi
- Laboratory of Nanotechnology for Precision Medicine, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Morego 30, Genoa 16163, Italy
| | | | - Paolo Decuzzi
- Laboratory of Nanotechnology for Precision Medicine, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Morego 30, Genoa 16163, Italy
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed: . Tel.: +39 010 71781 941. Fax: +39 010 71781 228
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19
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Mazzocchi A, Soker S, Skardal A. Biofabrication Technologies for Developing In Vitro Tumor Models. CANCER DRUG DISCOVERY AND DEVELOPMENT 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-60511-1_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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20
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Tumor cells and their crosstalk with endothelial cells in 3D spheroids. Sci Rep 2017; 7:10428. [PMID: 28874803 PMCID: PMC5585367 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-10699-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2017] [Accepted: 08/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Recapitulating the tumor microenvironment is a central challenge in the development of experimental model for cancer. To provide a reliable tool for drug development and for personalized cancer therapy, it is critical to maintain key features that exist in the original tumor. Along with this effort, 3-dimentional (3D) cellular models are being extensively studied. Spheroids are self-assembled cell aggregates that possess many important components of the physiological spatial growth and cell-cell interactions. In this study we aimed to investigate the interconnection between tumor and endothelial cells (EC) in hybrid spheroids containing either tumor cell (TC) lines or patient derived cancer cells. Preparation protocols of hybrid spheroids were optimized and their morphology and tissue-like features were analyzed. Our finding show that capillary-like structures are formed upon assembly and growth of TC:EC spheroids and that spheroids’ shape and surface texture may be an indication of spatial invasiveness of cells in the extra-cellular matrix (ECM). Establishing a model of hybrid tumor/stroma spheroids has a crucial importance in the experimental approach for personalized medicine, and may offer a reliable and low-cost method for the goal of predicting drug effects.
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21
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Ravi M, Ramesh A, Pattabhi A. Contributions of 3D Cell Cultures for Cancer Research. J Cell Physiol 2017; 232:2679-2697. [PMID: 27791270 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.25664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2016] [Accepted: 10/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Cancer cell lines have contributed immensely in understanding the complex physiology of cancers. They are excellent material for studies as they offer homogenous samples without individual variations and can be utilised with ease and flexibility. Also, the number of assays and end-points one can study is almost limitless; with the advantage of improvising, modifying or altering several variables and methods. Literally, a new dimension to cancer research has been achieved by the advent of 3Dimensional (3D) cell culture techniques. This approach increased many folds the ways in which cancer cell lines can be utilised for understanding complex cancer biology. 3D cell culture techniques are now the preferred way of using cancer cell lines to bridge the gap between the 'absolute in vitro' and 'true in vivo'. The aspects of cancer biology that 3D cell culture systems have contributed include morphology, microenvironment, gene and protein expression, invasion/migration/metastasis, angiogenesis, tumour metabolism and drug discovery, testing chemotherapeutic agents, adaptive responses and cancer stem cells. We present here, a comprehensive review on the applications of 3D cell culture systems for these aspects of cancers. J. Cell. Physiol. 232: 2679-2697, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maddaly Ravi
- Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Technology and Research, Department of Human Genetics, Sri Ramachandra University, Porur, Chennai, India
| | - Aarthi Ramesh
- Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Technology and Research, Department of Human Genetics, Sri Ramachandra University, Porur, Chennai, India
| | - Aishwarya Pattabhi
- Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Technology and Research, Department of Human Genetics, Sri Ramachandra University, Porur, Chennai, India
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22
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Zubair H, Azim S, Ahmad A, Khan MA, Patel GK, Singh S, Singh AP. Cancer Chemoprevention by Phytochemicals: Nature's Healing Touch. Molecules 2017; 22:molecules22030395. [PMID: 28273819 PMCID: PMC6155418 DOI: 10.3390/molecules22030395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2017] [Revised: 02/27/2017] [Accepted: 02/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Phytochemicals are an important part of traditional medicine and have been investigated in detail for possible inclusion in modern medicine as well. These compounds often serve as the backbone for the synthesis of novel therapeutic agents. For many years, phytochemicals have demonstrated encouraging activity against various human cancer models in pre-clinical assays. Here, we discuss select phytochemicals—curcumin, epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), resveratrol, plumbagin and honokiol—in the context of their reported effects on the processes of inflammation and oxidative stress, which play a key role in tumorigenesis. We also discuss the emerging evidence on modulation of tumor microenvironment by these phytochemicals which can possibly define their cancer-specific action. Finally, we provide recent updates on how low bioavailability, a major concern with phytochemicals, is being circumvented and the general efficacy being improved, by synthesis of novel chemical analogs and nanoformulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haseeb Zubair
- Department of Oncologic Sciences, Mitchell Cancer Institute, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL 36604, USA.
| | - Shafquat Azim
- Department of Oncologic Sciences, Mitchell Cancer Institute, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL 36604, USA.
| | - Aamir Ahmad
- Department of Oncologic Sciences, Mitchell Cancer Institute, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL 36604, USA.
| | - Mohammad Aslam Khan
- Department of Oncologic Sciences, Mitchell Cancer Institute, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL 36604, USA.
| | - Girijesh Kumar Patel
- Department of Oncologic Sciences, Mitchell Cancer Institute, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL 36604, USA.
| | - Seema Singh
- Department of Oncologic Sciences, Mitchell Cancer Institute, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL 36604, USA.
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, College of Medicine, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL 36688, USA.
| | - Ajay Pratap Singh
- Department of Oncologic Sciences, Mitchell Cancer Institute, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL 36604, USA.
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, College of Medicine, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL 36688, USA.
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23
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Advances of Microfluidic Technologies Applied in Bio-analytical Chemistry. CHINESE JOURNAL OF ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/s1872-2040(16)60982-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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24
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Skardal A, Shupe T, Atala A. Organoid-on-a-chip and body-on-a-chip systems for drug screening and disease modeling. Drug Discov Today 2016; 21:1399-1411. [PMID: 27422270 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2016.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 303] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2016] [Revised: 06/30/2016] [Accepted: 07/05/2016] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, advances in tissue engineering and microfabrication technologies have enabled rapid growth in the areas of in vitro organoid development as well as organoid-on-a-chip platforms. These 3D model systems often are able to mimic human physiology more accurately than traditional 2D cultures and animal models. In this review, we describe the progress that has been made to generate organ-on-a-chip platforms and, more recently, more complex multi-organoid body-on-a-chip platforms and their applications. Importantly, these systems have the potential to dramatically impact biomedical applications in the areas of drug development, drug and toxicology screening, disease modeling, and the emerging area of personalized precision medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksander Skardal
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Medical Center Boulevard, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA; Virginia Tech-Wake Forest University School of Biomedical Engineering and Sciences, Wake Forest Baptist Health, Medical Center Boulevard, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA; Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Medical Center Boulevard, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA.
| | - Thomas Shupe
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Medical Center Boulevard, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA
| | - Anthony Atala
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Medical Center Boulevard, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA; Virginia Tech-Wake Forest University School of Biomedical Engineering and Sciences, Wake Forest Baptist Health, Medical Center Boulevard, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA; Department of Urology, Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center, Medical Center Boulevard, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA
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25
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Abstract
The current state of screening methods for drug discovery is still riddled with several inefficiencies. Although some widely used high-throughput screening platforms may enhance the drug screening process, their cost and oversimplification of cell-drug interactions pose a translational difficulty. Microfluidic cell-chips resolve many issues found in conventional HTS technology, providing benefits such as reduced sample quantity and integration of 3D cell culture physically more representative of the physiological/pathological microenvironment. In this review, we introduce the advantages of microfluidic devices in drug screening, and outline the critical factors which influence device design, highlighting recent innovations and advances in the field including a summary of commercialization efforts on microfluidic cell chips. Future perspectives of microfluidic cell devices are also provided based on considerations of present technological limitations and translational barriers.
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26
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Song W, Kaufman DS, Shen W. Efficient generation of endothelial cells from human pluripotent stem cells and characterization of their functional properties. J Biomed Mater Res A 2015; 104:678-687. [PMID: 26519950 DOI: 10.1002/jbm.a.35607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2015] [Revised: 10/24/2015] [Accepted: 10/29/2015] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Although endothelial cells (ECs) have been derived from human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs), large-scale generation of hPSC-ECs remains challenging and their functions are not well characterized. Here we report a simple and efficient three-stage method that allows generation of approximately 98 and 9500 ECs on day 16 and day 34, respectively, from each human embryonic stem cell (hESC) input. The functional properties of hESC-ECs derived in the presence and absence of a TGFβ-inhibitory molecule SB431542 were characterized and compared with those of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Confluent monolayers formed by SB431542 + hESC-ECs, SB431542- hESC-ECs, and HUVECs showed similar permeability to 10,000 Da dextran, but these cells exhibited striking differences in forming tube-like structures in 3D fibrin gels. The SB431542 + hESC-ECs were most potent in forming tube-like structures regardless of whether VEGF and bFGF were present in the medium; less potent SB431542- hESC-ECs and HUVECs responded differently to VEGF and bFGF, which significantly enhanced the ability of HUVECs to form tube-like structures but had little impact on SB431542- hESC-ECs. This study offers an efficient approach to large-scale hPSC-EC production and suggests that the phenotypes and functions of hPSC-ECs derived under different conditions need to be thoroughly examined before their use in technology development. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 104A: 678-687, 2016.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Song
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, 55455
| | - Dan S Kaufman
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, 55455
| | - Wei Shen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, 55455
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27
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Chong Seow Khoon M. Experimental models of bone metastasis: Opportunities for the study of cancer dormancy. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2015; 94:141-50. [PMID: 25572003 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2014.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2014] [Revised: 12/22/2014] [Accepted: 12/30/2014] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Skeletal metastasis is prevalent in many cancers, and has been the subject of intense research, yielding innovative models to study the multiple stages of metastasis. It is now evident that, in the early stages of metastatic spread, disseminated tumour cells in the bone undergo an extended period of growth arrest in response to the microenvironment, a phenomenon known as "dormancy". Dormancy has been implicated with drug resistance, while enforced dormancy has also been seen as a radical method to control cancer, and engineering of dormant states has emerged as a novel clinical strategy. Understanding of the subject, however, is limited by the availability of models to describe early stages of metastatic spread. This mini-review provides a summary of experimental models currently being used in the study of bone metastasis and the applications of these models in the study of dormancy. Current research in developing improved models is described, leading to a discussion of challenges involved in future developments.
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28
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Cox MC, Reese LM, Bickford LR, Verbridge SS. Toward the Broad Adoption of 3D Tumor Models in the Cancer Drug Pipeline. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2015; 1:877-894. [PMID: 33429520 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.5b00172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Despite a cost of approximately $1 billion to develop a new cancer drug, about 90% of drugs that enter clinical trials fail. A tremendous opportunity exists to streamline the drug selection and testing process, and innovative approaches promise to reduce the burdensome cost of health care for those suffering from cancer. There is great potential for 3D models of human tumors to complement more traditional testing methods; however, the shift from 2D to 3D assays at early stages of the drug discovery and development process is far from widely accepted. 3D platforms range from simple tumor spheroids to more complex microfluidic hydrogels that better mimic the tumor microenvironment. While several companies have developed and patented advanced high-throughput 3D platforms for drug screening, their cost and complexity have limited their adoption as an industry standard. In this review, we will highlight the various tumor platforms that have been developed, emphasizing the approaches that have successfully led to commercial products. We will then consider potential directions toward more relevant tumor models, advantages of the adoption of such platforms within the drug development and screening process, and new opportunities in personalized medicine that such platforms will uniquely enable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan C Cox
- School of Biomedical Engineering and Sciences, Virginia Tech-Wake Forest University, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061, United States
| | - Laura M Reese
- School of Biomedical Engineering and Sciences, Virginia Tech-Wake Forest University, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061, United States
| | - Lissett R Bickford
- School of Biomedical Engineering and Sciences, Virginia Tech-Wake Forest University, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061, United States
| | - Scott S Verbridge
- School of Biomedical Engineering and Sciences, Virginia Tech-Wake Forest University, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061, United States
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29
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Das V, Bruzzese F, Konečný P, Iannelli F, Budillon A, Hajdúch M. Pathophysiologically relevant in vitro tumor models for drug screening. Drug Discov Today 2015; 20:848-55. [PMID: 25908576 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2015.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2014] [Revised: 03/16/2015] [Accepted: 04/13/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The alarming rate of failure of clinical trials is a major hurdle in cancer therapy that partly results from the inadequate use of in vitro tumor models for the screening of promising hits and leads in preclinical studies. 2D cultures of cancer cell lines that are primarily used for drug screening do not adequately recapitulate tumor microenvironment (TME) complexities compared with 3D cancer cell cultures and tumor-derived primary cell cultures. In this review, we focus on the potential use of in vitro tumor models that reproduce in vivo tumor complexities for effective drug selection in the preclinical stages of drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viswanath Das
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University Olomouc, Hněvotínská 5, 779 00 Olomouc, Czech Republic; EATRIS Headquarters, Giovanni Migliaccio, De Boelelaan 1118, 1081 HZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Francesca Bruzzese
- Experimental Pharmacology Unit, Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori Fondazioni Giovanni Pascale - IRCCS, 80131 Naples, Italy; EATRIS Headquarters, Giovanni Migliaccio, De Boelelaan 1118, 1081 HZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Petr Konečný
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University Olomouc, Hněvotínská 5, 779 00 Olomouc, Czech Republic; EATRIS Headquarters, Giovanni Migliaccio, De Boelelaan 1118, 1081 HZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Federica Iannelli
- Experimental Pharmacology Unit, Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori Fondazioni Giovanni Pascale - IRCCS, 80131 Naples, Italy; EATRIS Headquarters, Giovanni Migliaccio, De Boelelaan 1118, 1081 HZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Alfredo Budillon
- Experimental Pharmacology Unit, Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori Fondazioni Giovanni Pascale - IRCCS, 80131 Naples, Italy; EATRIS Headquarters, Giovanni Migliaccio, De Boelelaan 1118, 1081 HZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marián Hajdúch
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University Olomouc, Hněvotínská 5, 779 00 Olomouc, Czech Republic; EATRIS Headquarters, Giovanni Migliaccio, De Boelelaan 1118, 1081 HZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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30
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Ramadan Q, Gijs MAM. In vitro micro-physiological models for translational immunology. LAB ON A CHIP 2015; 15:614-36. [PMID: 25501670 DOI: 10.1039/c4lc01271b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
The immune system is a source of regulation of the human body and is key for its stable functioning. Animal models have been successfully used for many years to study human immunity and diseases and provided significant contributions to the development of powerful new therapies. However, such models inevitably display differences from the human metabolism and disease state and therefore may correlate poorly with the human conditions. This explains the interest for the use of in vitro models of human cells, which have better potential to assist in understanding the physiological events that characterize the immune response in humans. Microfluidic technologies offer great capabilities to create miniaturized in vivo-like physiological models that mimic tissue-tissue interactions and simulate the body metabolism in both the healthy and diseased states. The micro-scale features of these microfluidic systems allow positioning heterogeneous cellular cultures in close proximity to each other in a dynamic fluidic environment, thereby allowing efficient cell-cell interactions and effectively narrowing the gap between in vivo and in vitro conditions. Due to the relative simplicity of these systems, compared to animal models, it becomes possible to investigate cell signaling by monitoring the metabolites transported from one tissue to another in real time. This allows studying detailed physiological events and in consequence understanding the influence of metabolites on a specific tissue/organ function as well as on the healthy/diseased state modulation. Numerous in vitro models of human organs have been developed during the last few years, aiming to mimic as closely as possible the in vivo characteristics of such organs. This technology is still in its infancy, but is promised a bright future in industrial and medical applications. Here we review the recent literature, in which functional microphysiological models have been developed to mimic tissues and to explore multi-tissue interactions, focusing in particular on the study of immune reactions, inflammation and the development of diseases. Also, an outlook on the opportunities and issues for further translational development of functional in vitro models in immunology will be presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qasem Ramadan
- Bioelectronics Laboratory, Institute of Microelectronics, 11 Science Park II, Singapore 117685.
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