1
|
Han R, Luo L, Wei C, Qiao Y, Xie J, Pan X, Xing J. Stiffness-tunable biomaterials provide a good extracellular matrix environment for axon growth and regeneration. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:1364-1376. [PMID: 39075897 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-23-01874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Neuronal growth, extension, branching, and formation of neural networks are markedly influenced by the extracellular matrix-a complex network composed of proteins and carbohydrates secreted by cells. In addition to providing physical support for cells, the extracellular matrix also conveys critical mechanical stiffness cues. During the development of the nervous system, extracellular matrix stiffness plays a central role in guiding neuronal growth, particularly in the context of axonal extension, which is crucial for the formation of neural networks. In neural tissue engineering, manipulation of biomaterial stiffness is a promising strategy to provide a permissive environment for the repair and regeneration of injured nervous tissue. Recent research has fine-tuned synthetic biomaterials to fabricate scaffolds that closely replicate the stiffness profiles observed in the nervous system. In this review, we highlight the molecular mechanisms by which extracellular matrix stiffness regulates axonal growth and regeneration. We highlight the progress made in the development of stiffness-tunable biomaterials to emulate in vivo extracellular matrix environments, with an emphasis on their application in neural repair and regeneration, along with a discussion of the current limitations and future prospects. The exploration and optimization of the stiffness-tunable biomaterials has the potential to markedly advance the development of neural tissue engineering.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ronglin Han
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Lanxin Luo
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Caiyan Wei
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Yaru Qiao
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Jiming Xie
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Xianchao Pan
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Juan Xing
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan Province, China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Scaccini L, Battisti A, Convertino D, Puppi D, Gagliardi M, Cecchini M, Tonazzini I. Glycerol-blended chitosan membranes with directional micro-grooves and reduced stiffness improve Schwann cell wound healing. Biomed Mater 2024; 19:065005. [PMID: 39208844 DOI: 10.1088/1748-605x/ad7562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 08/29/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Regenerative medicine is continuously looking for new natural, biocompatible and possibly biodegradable materials, but also mechanically compliant. Chitosan is emerging as a promising FDA-approved biopolymer for tissue engineering, however, its exploitation in regenerative devices is limited by its brittleness and can be further improved, for example by blending it with other materials or by tuning its superficial microstructure. Here, we developed membranes made of chitosan (Chi) and glycerol, by solvent casting, and micro-patterned them with directional geometries having different levels of axial symmetry. These membranes were characterized by light microscopies, atomic force microscopy (AFM), by thermal, mechanical and degradation assays, and also testedin vitroas scaffolds with Schwann cells (SCs). The glycerol-blended Chi membranes are optimized in terms of mechanical properties, and present a physiological-grade Young's modulus (≈0.7 MPa). The directional topographies are effective in directing cell polarization and migration and in particular are highly performant substrates for collective cell migration. Here, we demonstrate that a combination of a soft compliant biomaterial and a topographical micropatterning can improve the integration of these scaffolds with SCs, a fundamental step in the peripheral nerve regeneration process.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L Scaccini
- Laboratorio NEST, Scuola Normale Superiore, Piazza San Silvestro 12, 56127 Pisa, Italy
| | - A Battisti
- INEST, Istituto Nanoscienze - Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR) , Piazza San Silvestro 12, 56127 Pisa, Italy
| | - D Convertino
- Center for Nanotechnology Innovation @NEST, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia , Piazza San Silvestro 12, 56127 Pisa, Italy
| | - D Puppi
- BIOLab Research Group, Department of Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry, University of Pisa, UdR INSTM-Pisa , Via G. Moruzzi 13, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - M Gagliardi
- INEST, Istituto Nanoscienze - Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR) , Piazza San Silvestro 12, 56127 Pisa, Italy
| | - M Cecchini
- INEST, Istituto Nanoscienze - Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR) , Piazza San Silvestro 12, 56127 Pisa, Italy
| | - I Tonazzini
- INEST, Istituto Nanoscienze - Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR) , Piazza San Silvestro 12, 56127 Pisa, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Xiao B. Mechanisms of mechanotransduction and physiological roles of PIEZO channels. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol 2024:10.1038/s41580-024-00773-5. [PMID: 39251883 DOI: 10.1038/s41580-024-00773-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/02/2024] [Indexed: 09/11/2024]
Abstract
Mechanical force is an essential physical element that contributes to the formation and function of life. The discovery of the evolutionarily conserved PIEZO family, including PIEZO1 and PIEZO2 in mammals, as bona fide mechanically activated cation channels has transformed our understanding of how mechanical forces are sensed and transduced into biological activities. In this Review, I discuss recent structure-function studies that have illustrated how PIEZO1 and PIEZO2 adopt their unique structural design and curvature-based gating dynamics, enabling their function as dedicated mechanotransduction channels with high mechanosensitivity and selective cation conductivity. I also discuss our current understanding of the physiological and pathophysiological roles mediated by PIEZO channels, including PIEZO1-dependent regulation of development and functional homeostasis and PIEZO2-dominated mechanosensation of touch, tactile pain, proprioception and interoception of mechanical states of internal organs. Despite the remarkable progress in PIEZO research, this Review also highlights outstanding questions in the field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bailong Xiao
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.
- Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.
- Beijing Frontier Research Center of Biological Structure, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.
- IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Jiang D, Zhao J, Zheng J, Zhao Y, Le M, Qin D, Huang Q, Huang J, Zhao Q, Wang L, Dong X. LOX-mediated ECM mechanical stress induces Piezo1 activation in hypoxic-ischemic brain damage and identification of novel inhibitor of LOX. Redox Biol 2024; 76:103346. [PMID: 39260063 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2024.103346] [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: 08/22/2024] [Accepted: 09/05/2024] [Indexed: 09/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) poses a significant challenge in neonatal medicine, often resulting in profound and lasting neurological deficits. Current therapeutic strategies for hypoxia-ischemia brain damage (HIBD) remain limited. Ferroptosis has been reported to play a crucial role in HIE and serves as a potential therapeutic target. However, the mechanisms underlying ferroptosis in HIBD remain largely unclear. In this study, we found that elevated lysyl oxidase (LOX) expression correlates closely with the severity of HIE, suggesting LOX as a potential biomarker for HIE. LOX expression levels and enzymatic activity were significantly increased in HI-induced neuronal models both in vitro and in vivo. Notably, we discovered that HI-induced brain tissue injury results in increased stiffness and observed a selective upregulation of the mechanosensitive ion channel Piezo1 in both brain tissue of HIBD and primary cortex neurons. Mechanistically, LOX increases its catalytic substrates, the Collagen I/III components, promoting extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling and possibly mediating ECM cross-linking, which leads to increased stiffness at the site of injury and subsequent activation of the Piezo1 channel. Piezo1 senses these stiffness stimuli and then induces neuronal ferroptosis in a GPX4-dependent manner. Pharmacological inhibition of LOX or Piezo1 ameliorated brain neuronal ferroptosis and improved learning and memory impairments. Furthermore, we identified traumatic acid (TA) as a novel LOX inhibitor that effectively suppresses LOX enzymatic activity, mitigating neuronal ferroptosis and promoting synaptic plasticity. In conclusion, our findings elucidate a critical role for LOX-mediated ECM mechanical stress-induced Piezo1 activation in regulating ferroptotic cell death in HIBD. This mechanistic insight provides a basis for developing targeted therapies aimed at ameliorating neurological outcomes in neonates affected by HIBD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dongya Jiang
- Model Animal Research Center, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jing Zhao
- Hongqiao International Institute of Medicine, Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jie Zheng
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, and Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yingmin Zhao
- Department of Pediatric, Jingjiang People's Hospital Affiliated to Yangzhou University, Jingjiang, China
| | - Meini Le
- Hongqiao International Institute of Medicine, Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Dani Qin
- Department of Pediatrics, Yixing People's Hospital, Yixing, China
| | - Qiong Huang
- Hongqiao International Institute of Medicine, Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jinyu Huang
- Department of Cardiology, Translational Medicine Research Center, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Westlake University
| | - Qingshun Zhao
- Model Animal Research Center, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Long Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Translational Medicine Research Center, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Westlake University.
| | - Xiaohua Dong
- Hongqiao International Institute of Medicine, Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Weißenbruch K, Mayor R. Actomyosin forces in cell migration: Moving beyond cell body retraction. Bioessays 2024:e2400055. [PMID: 39093597 DOI: 10.1002/bies.202400055] [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: 03/12/2024] [Revised: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
In textbook illustrations of migrating cells, actomyosin contractility is typically depicted as the contraction force necessary for cell body retraction. This dogma has been transformed by the molecular clutch model, which acknowledges that actomyosin traction forces also generate and transmit biomechanical signals at the leading edge, enabling cells to sense and shape their migratory path in mechanically complex environments. To fulfill these complementary functions, the actomyosin system assembles a gradient of contractile energy along the front-rear axis of migratory cells. Here, we highlight the hierarchic assembly and self-regulatory network structure of the actomyosin system and explain how the kinetics of different nonmuscle myosin II (NM II) paralogs synergize during contractile force generation. Our aim is to emphasize how protrusion formation, cell adhesion, contraction, and retraction are spatiotemporally integrated during different modes of migration, including chemotaxis and durotaxis. Finally, we hypothesize how different NM II paralogs might tune aspects of migration in vivo, highlighting future research directions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kai Weißenbruch
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Roberto Mayor
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Mim MS, Kumar N, Levis M, Unger MF, Miranda G, Gazzo D, Robinett T, Zartman JJ. Piezo regulates epithelial topology and promotes precision in organ size control. Cell Rep 2024; 43:114398. [PMID: 38935502 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.114398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Mechanosensitive Piezo channels regulate cell division, cell extrusion, and cell death. However, systems-level functions of Piezo in regulating organogenesis remain poorly understood. Here, we demonstrate that Piezo controls epithelial cell topology to ensure precise organ growth by integrating live-imaging experiments with pharmacological and genetic perturbations and computational modeling. Notably, the knockout or knockdown of Piezo increases bilateral asymmetry in wing size. Piezo's multifaceted functions can be deconstructed as either autonomous or non-autonomous based on a comparison between tissue-compartment-level perturbations or between genetic perturbation populations at the whole-tissue level. A computational model that posits cell proliferation and apoptosis regulation through modulation of the cutoff tension required for Piezo channel activation explains key cell and tissue phenotypes arising from perturbations of Piezo expression levels. Our findings demonstrate that Piezo promotes robustness in regulating epithelial topology and is necessary for precise organ size control.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mayesha Sahir Mim
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, USA; Bioengineering Graduate Program, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, USA
| | - Nilay Kumar
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, USA
| | - Megan Levis
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, USA; Bioengineering Graduate Program, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, USA
| | - Maria F Unger
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, USA
| | - Gabriel Miranda
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, USA
| | - David Gazzo
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, USA; Bioengineering Graduate Program, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, USA
| | - Trent Robinett
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, USA
| | - Jeremiah J Zartman
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, USA; Bioengineering Graduate Program, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, USA; Department of Biological Sciences, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Wan S, Aregueta Robles U, Poole-Warren L, Esrafilzadeh D. Advances in 3D tissue models for neural engineering: self-assembled versus engineered tissue models. Biomater Sci 2024; 12:3522-3549. [PMID: 38829222 DOI: 10.1039/d4bm00317a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
Neural tissue engineering has emerged as a promising field that aims to create functional neural tissue for therapeutic applications, drug screening, and disease modelling. It is becoming evident in the literature that this goal requires development of three-dimensional (3D) constructs that can mimic the complex microenvironment of native neural tissue, including its biochemical, mechanical, physical, and electrical properties. These 3D models can be broadly classified as self-assembled models, which include spheroids, organoids, and assembloids, and engineered models, such as those based on decellularized or polymeric scaffolds. Self-assembled models offer advantages such as the ability to recapitulate neural development and disease processes in vitro, and the capacity to study the behaviour and interactions of different cell types in a more realistic environment. However, self-assembled constructs have limitations such as lack of standardised protocols, inability to control the cellular microenvironment, difficulty in controlling structural characteristics, reproducibility, scalability, and lengthy developmental timeframes. Integrating biomimetic materials and advanced manufacturing approaches to present cells with relevant biochemical, mechanical, physical, and electrical cues in a controlled tissue architecture requires alternate engineering approaches. Engineered scaffolds, and specifically 3D hydrogel-based constructs, have desirable properties, lower cost, higher reproducibility, long-term stability, and they can be rapidly tailored to mimic the native microenvironment and structure. This review explores 3D models in neural tissue engineering, with a particular focus on analysing the benefits and limitations of self-assembled organoids compared with hydrogel-based engineered 3D models. Moreover, this paper will focus on hydrogel based engineered models and probe their biomaterial components, tuneable properties, and fabrication techniques that allow them to mimic native neural tissue structures and environment. Finally, the current challenges and future research prospects of 3D neural models for both self-assembled and engineered models in neural tissue engineering will be discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shuqian Wan
- Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia.
| | - Ulises Aregueta Robles
- Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia.
| | - Laura Poole-Warren
- Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia.
- Tyree Foundation Institute of Health Engineering, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Dorna Esrafilzadeh
- Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
van Tartwijk FW, Wunderlich LCS, Mela I, Makarchuk S, Jakobs MAH, Qamar S, Franze K, Kaminski Schierle GS, St George-Hyslop PH, Lin JQ, Holt CE, Kaminski CF. Mutation of the ALS-/FTD-Associated RNA-Binding Protein FUS Affects Axonal Development. J Neurosci 2024; 44:e2148232024. [PMID: 38692734 PMCID: PMC7616130 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2148-23.2024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Aberrant condensation and localization of the RNA-binding protein (RBP) fused in sarcoma (FUS) occur in variants of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD). Changes in RBP function are commonly associated with changes in axonal cytoskeletal organization and branching in neurodevelopmental disorders. Here, we asked whether branching defects also occur in vivo in a model of FUS-associated disease. We use two reported Xenopus models of ALS/FTD (of either sex), the ALS-associated mutant FUS(P525L) and a mimic of hypomethylated FUS, FUS(16R). Both mutants strongly reduced axonal complexity in vivo. We also observed an axon looping defect for FUS(P525L) in the target area, which presumably arises due to errors in stop cue signaling. To assess whether the loss of axon complexity also had a cue-independent component, we assessed axonal cytoskeletal integrity in vitro. Using a novel combination of fluorescence and atomic force microscopy, we found that mutant FUS reduced actin density in the growth cone, altering its mechanical properties. Therefore, FUS mutants may induce defects during early axonal development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesca W van Tartwijk
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB3 0AS, United Kingdom
| | - Lucia C S Wunderlich
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB3 0AS, United Kingdom
| | - Ioanna Mela
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB3 0AS, United Kingdom
| | - Stanislaw Makarchuk
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, UK Dementia Research Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 OAH, United Kingdom
| | - Maximilian A H Jakobs
- Department of Physiology, Development, and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3DY, United Kingdom
| | - Seema Qamar
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Cambridge Institute for Medical Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0XY, United Kingdom
| | - Kristian Franze
- Department of Physiology, Development, and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3DY, United Kingdom
| | - Gabriele S Kaminski Schierle
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB3 0AS, United Kingdom
| | - Peter H St George-Hyslop
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Cambridge Institute for Medical Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0XY, United Kingdom
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto and University Health Network and Tanz Centre for Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5T 0S8, Canada
- Department of Neurology, Taub Institute For Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University Irvine Medical Center, New York, New York 10032
| | - Julie Qiaojin Lin
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, UK Dementia Research Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 OAH, United Kingdom
- UK Dementia Research Institute Centre and Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, Maurice Wohl Clinical Neuroscience Institute, London SE5 9NU, United Kingdom
| | - Christine E Holt
- Department of Physiology, Development, and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3DY, United Kingdom
| | - Clemens F Kaminski
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB3 0AS, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Sripinun P, See LP, Nikonov S, Chavali VRM, Vrathasha V, He J, O'Brien JM, Xia J, Lu W, Mitchell CH. Piezo1 and Piezo2 channels in retinal ganglion cells and the impact of Piezo1 stimulation on light-dependent neural activity. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.06.25.599602. [PMID: 38979351 PMCID: PMC11230181 DOI: 10.1101/2024.06.25.599602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
Piezo channels are associated with neuropathology in diseases like traumatic brain injury and glaucoma, but pathways linking tissue stretch to aberrant neural signaling remain unclear. The present study demonstrates that Piezo1 activation increases action potential frequency in response to light and the spontaneous dark signal from mouse retinal explants. Piezo1 stimulation was sufficient to increase cytoplasmic Ca 2+ in soma and neurites, while stretch increased spiking activity in current clamp recordings from of isolated retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). Axon-marker beta-tubulin III colocalized with both Piezo1 and Piezo2 protein in the mouse optic nerve head, while RGC nuclear marker BRN3A colocalized with Piezo channels in the soma. Piezo1 was also present on GFAP-positive regions in the optic nerve head and colocalized with glutamine synthetase in the nerve fiber layer, suggesting expression in optic nerve head astrocytes and Müller glia end feet, respectively. Human RGCs from induced pluripotent stem cells also expressed Piezo1 and Piezo2 in soma and axons, while staining patterns in rats resembled those in mice. mRNA message for Piezo1 was greatest in the RPE/choroid tissue, while Piezo2 levels were highest in the optic nerve, with both channels also expressed in the retina. Increased expression of Piezo1 and Piezo2 occurred both 1 and 10 days after a single stretch in vivo; this increase suggests a potential role in rising sensitivity to repeated nerve stretch. In summary, Piezo1 and Piezo2 were detected in the soma and axons of RGCs, and stimulation affected the light-dependent output of RGCs. The rise in RGCs excitability induced by Piezo stimulation may have parallels to the early disease progression in models of glaucoma and other retinal degenerations. Highlights Activation of Piezo1 excites retinal ganglion cells, paralleling the early neurodegenerative progression in glaucoma mouse models and retinal degeneration.Piezo1 and Piezo2 were expressed in axons and soma of retinal ganglion cells in mice, rats, and human iPSC-RGCs.Functional assays confirmed Piezo1 in soma and neurites of neurons. Sustained elevation of Piezo1 and Piezo2 occurred after a single transient stretch may enhance damage from repeated traumatic nerve injury. Abstract Figure
Collapse
|
10
|
Lei L, Wen Z, Cao M, Zhang H, Ling SKK, Fu BSC, Qin L, Xu J, Yung PSH. The emerging role of Piezo1 in the musculoskeletal system and disease. Theranostics 2024; 14:3963-3983. [PMID: 38994033 PMCID: PMC11234281 DOI: 10.7150/thno.96959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Piezo1, a mechanosensitive ion channel, has emerged as a key player in translating mechanical stimuli into biological signaling. Its involvement extends beyond physiological and pathological processes such as lymphatic vessel development, axon growth, vascular development, immunoregulation, and blood pressure regulation. The musculoskeletal system, responsible for structural support, movement, and homeostasis, has recently attracted attention regarding the significance of Piezo1. This review aims to provide a comprehensive summary of the current research on Piezo1 in the musculoskeletal system, highlighting its impact on bone formation, myogenesis, chondrogenesis, intervertebral disc homeostasis, tendon matrix cross-linking, and physical activity. Additionally, we explore the potential of targeting Piezo1 as a therapeutic approach for musculoskeletal disorders, including osteoporosis, muscle atrophy, intervertebral disc degeneration, and osteoarthritis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lei Lei
- Musculoskeletal Research Laboratory and Centre of Musculoskeletal Aging and Regeneration, Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Zhenkang Wen
- Musculoskeletal Research Laboratory and Centre of Musculoskeletal Aging and Regeneration, Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Mingde Cao
- Musculoskeletal Research Laboratory and Centre of Musculoskeletal Aging and Regeneration, Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Haozhi Zhang
- Musculoskeletal Research Laboratory and Centre of Musculoskeletal Aging and Regeneration, Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Samuel Ka-Kin Ling
- Musculoskeletal Research Laboratory and Centre of Musculoskeletal Aging and Regeneration, Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Bruma Sai-Chuen Fu
- Musculoskeletal Research Laboratory and Centre of Musculoskeletal Aging and Regeneration, Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Ling Qin
- Musculoskeletal Research Laboratory and Centre of Musculoskeletal Aging and Regeneration, Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- The Sir Yue-Kong Pao Cancer Centre, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Joint Laboratory of Chinese Academic of Science and Hong Kong for Biomaterials, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Jiankun Xu
- Musculoskeletal Research Laboratory and Centre of Musculoskeletal Aging and Regeneration, Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- The Sir Yue-Kong Pao Cancer Centre, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Joint Laboratory of Chinese Academic of Science and Hong Kong for Biomaterials, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Patrick Shu-Hang Yung
- Musculoskeletal Research Laboratory and Centre of Musculoskeletal Aging and Regeneration, Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Li B, Zhao A, Tian T, Yang X. Mechanobiological insight into brain diseases based on mechanosensitive channels: Common mechanisms and clinical potential. CNS Neurosci Ther 2024; 30:e14809. [PMID: 38923822 PMCID: PMC11197048 DOI: 10.1111/cns.14809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 06/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND As physical signals, mechanical cues regulate the neural cells in the brain. The mechanosensitive channels (MSCs) perceive the mechanical cues and transduce them by permeating specific ions or molecules across the plasma membrane, and finally trigger a series of intracellular bioelectrical and biochemical signals. Emerging evidence supports that wide-distributed, high-expressed MSCs like Piezo1 play important roles in several neurophysiological processes and neurological disorders. AIMS To systematically conclude the functions of MSCs in the brain and provide a novel mechanobiological perspective for brain diseases. METHOD We summarized the mechanical cues and MSCs detected in the brain and the research progress on the functional roles of MSCs in physiological conditions. We then concluded the pathological activation and downstream pathways triggered by MSCs in two categories of brain diseases, neurodegenerative diseases and place-occupying damages. Finally, we outlined the methods for manipulating MSCs and discussed their medical potential with some crucial outstanding issues. RESULTS The MSCs present underlying common mechanisms in different brain diseases by acting as the "transportation hubs" to transduce the distinct signal patterns: the upstream mechanical cues and the downstream intracellular pathways. Manipulating the MSCs is feasible to alter the complicated downstream processes, providing them promising targets for clinical treatment. CONCLUSIONS Recent research on MSCs provides a novel insight into brain diseases. The common mechanisms mediated by MSCs inspire a wide range of therapeutic potentials targeted on MSCs in different brain diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bolong Li
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Brain Diseases, the Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced TechnologyChinese Academy of SciencesShenzhenGuangdongChina
- College of Life SciencesUniversity of Chinese Academy of ScienceBeijingChina
| | - An‐ran Zhao
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Brain Diseases, the Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced TechnologyChinese Academy of SciencesShenzhenGuangdongChina
- College of Life SciencesUniversity of Chinese Academy of ScienceBeijingChina
- Faculty of Life and Health SciencesShenzhen University of Advanced TechnologyShenzhenGuangdongChina
| | - Tian Tian
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Brain Diseases, the Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced TechnologyChinese Academy of SciencesShenzhenGuangdongChina
- Faculty of Life and Health SciencesShenzhen University of Advanced TechnologyShenzhenGuangdongChina
| | - Xin Yang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Brain Diseases, the Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced TechnologyChinese Academy of SciencesShenzhenGuangdongChina
- Faculty of Life and Health SciencesShenzhen University of Advanced TechnologyShenzhenGuangdongChina
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Kasuba KC, Buccino AP, Bartram J, Gaub BM, Fauser FJ, Ronchi S, Kumar SS, Geissler S, Nava MM, Hierlemann A, Müller DJ. Mechanical stimulation and electrophysiological monitoring at subcellular resolution reveals differential mechanosensation of neurons within networks. NATURE NANOTECHNOLOGY 2024; 19:825-833. [PMID: 38378885 PMCID: PMC11186759 DOI: 10.1038/s41565-024-01609-1] [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: 04/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
A growing consensus that the brain is a mechanosensitive organ is driving the need for tools that mechanically stimulate and simultaneously record the electrophysiological response of neurons within neuronal networks. Here we introduce a synchronized combination of atomic force microscopy, high-density microelectrode array and fluorescence microscopy to monitor neuronal networks and to mechanically characterize and stimulate individual neurons at piconewton force sensitivity and nanometre precision while monitoring their electrophysiological activity at subcellular spatial and millisecond temporal resolution. No correlation is found between mechanical stiffness and electrophysiological activity of neuronal compartments. Furthermore, spontaneously active neurons show exceptional functional resilience to static mechanical compression of their soma. However, application of fast transient (∼500 ms) mechanical stimuli to the neuronal soma can evoke action potentials, which depend on the anchoring of neuronal membrane and actin cytoskeleton. Neurons show higher responsivity, including bursts of action potentials, to slower transient mechanical stimuli (∼60 s). Moreover, transient and repetitive application of the same compression modulates the neuronal firing rate. Seemingly, neuronal networks can differentiate and respond to specific characteristics of mechanical stimulation. Ultimately, the developed multiparametric tool opens the door to explore manifold nanomechanobiological responses of neuronal systems and new ways of mechanical control.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Julian Bartram
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Benjamin M Gaub
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Felix J Fauser
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | | | - Sydney Geissler
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Michele M Nava
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Andreas Hierlemann
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Daniel J Müller
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Basel, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Suong DNA, Imamura K, Kato Y, Inoue H. Design of neural organoids engineered by mechanical forces. IBRO Neurosci Rep 2024; 16:190-195. [PMID: 38328799 PMCID: PMC10847990 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibneur.2024.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Neural organoids consist of three-dimensional tissue derived from pluripotent stem cells that could recapitulate key features of the human brain. During the past decade, organoid technology has evolved in the field of human brain science by increasing the quality and applicability of its products. Among them, a novel approach involving the design of neural organoids engineered by mechanical forces has emerged. This review describes previous approaches for the generation of neural organoids, the engineering of neural organoids by mechanical forces, and future challenges for the application of mechanical forces in the design of neural organoids.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dang Ngoc Anh Suong
- iPSC‑Based Drug Discovery and Development Team, RIKEN BioResource Research Center (BRC), Kyoto, Japan
- Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA), Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Keiko Imamura
- iPSC‑Based Drug Discovery and Development Team, RIKEN BioResource Research Center (BRC), Kyoto, Japan
- Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA), Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
- Medical‑Risk Avoidance Based On iPS Cells Team, RIKEN Center for Advanced Intelligence Project (AIP), Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yoshikazu Kato
- Mixing Technology Laboratory, SATAKE MultiMix Corporation, Saitama, Japan
| | - Haruhisa Inoue
- iPSC‑Based Drug Discovery and Development Team, RIKEN BioResource Research Center (BRC), Kyoto, Japan
- Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA), Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
- Medical‑Risk Avoidance Based On iPS Cells Team, RIKEN Center for Advanced Intelligence Project (AIP), Kyoto, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Gomez-Cruz C, Fernandez-de la Torre M, Lachowski D, Prados-de-Haro M, Del Río Hernández AE, Perea G, Muñoz-Barrutia A, Garcia-Gonzalez D. Mechanical and Functional Responses in Astrocytes under Alternating Deformation Modes Using Magneto-Active Substrates. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2312497. [PMID: 38610101 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202312497] [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: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Abstract
This work introduces NeoMag, a system designed to enhance cell mechanics assays in substrate deformation studies. NeoMag uses multidomain magneto-active materials to mechanically actuate the substrate, transmitting reversible mechanical cues to cells. The system boasts full flexibility in alternating loading substrate deformation modes, seamlessly adapting to both upright and inverted microscopes. The multidomain substrates facilitate mechanobiology assays on 2D and 3D cultures. The integration of the system with nanoindenters allows for precise evaluation of cellular mechanical properties under varying substrate deformation modes. The system is used to study the impact of substrate deformation on astrocytes, simulating mechanical conditions akin to traumatic brain injury and ischemic stroke. The results reveal local heterogeneous changes in astrocyte stiffness, influenced by the orientation of subcellular regions relative to substrate strain. These stiffness variations, exceeding 50% in stiffening and softening, and local deformations significantly alter calcium dynamics. Furthermore, sustained deformations induce actin network reorganization and activate Piezo1 channels, leading to an initial increase followed by a long-term inhibition of calcium events. Conversely, fast and dynamic deformations transiently activate Piezo1 channels and disrupt the actin network, causing long-term cell softening. These findings unveil mechanical and functional alterations in astrocytes during substrate deformation, illustrating the multiple opportunities this technology offers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Clara Gomez-Cruz
- Department of Continuum Mechanics and Structural Analysis, Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, Avda. de la Universidad 30, 28911, Leganés, Madrid, Spain
- Departamento de Bioingeniería, Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, Avda. de la Universidad 30, 28911, Leganés, Madrid, Spain
| | - Miguel Fernandez-de la Torre
- Department of Continuum Mechanics and Structural Analysis, Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, Avda. de la Universidad 30, 28911, Leganés, Madrid, Spain
| | - Dariusz Lachowski
- Department of Continuum Mechanics and Structural Analysis, Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, Avda. de la Universidad 30, 28911, Leganés, Madrid, Spain
- Cellular and Molecular Biomechanics Laboratory, Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Martin Prados-de-Haro
- Department of Continuum Mechanics and Structural Analysis, Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, Avda. de la Universidad 30, 28911, Leganés, Madrid, Spain
| | - Armando E Del Río Hernández
- Cellular and Molecular Biomechanics Laboratory, Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Gertrudis Perea
- Department of Functional and Systems Neurobiology, Instituto Cajal, CSIC, Av. Doctor Arce, 37., 28002, Leganés, Madrid, Spain
| | - Arrate Muñoz-Barrutia
- Departamento de Bioingeniería, Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, Avda. de la Universidad 30, 28911, Leganés, Madrid, Spain
- Área de Ingeniería Biomédica, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón, Calle del Doctor Esquerdo 46, Leganés, Madrid, ES28007, Spain
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, 3400 N Charles St, Baltimore, Maryland, 21218, USA
| | - Daniel Garcia-Gonzalez
- Department of Continuum Mechanics and Structural Analysis, Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, Avda. de la Universidad 30, 28911, Leganés, Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Suzuki M, Yasue N, Ueno N. Differential cellular stiffness across tissues that contribute to Xenopus neural tube closure. Dev Growth Differ 2024; 66:320-328. [PMID: 38925637 DOI: 10.1111/dgd.12936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
During the formation of the neural tube, the primordium of the vertebrate central nervous system, the actomyosin activity of cells in different regions drives neural plate bending. However, how the stiffness of the neural plate and surrounding tissues is regulated and mechanically influences neural plate bending has not been elucidated. Here, we used atomic force microscopy to reveal the relationship between the stiffness of the neural plate and the mesoderm during Xenopus neural tube formation. Measurements with intact embryos revealed that the stiffness of the neural plate was consistently higher compared with the non-neural ectoderm and that it increased in an actomyosin activity-dependent manner during neural plate bending. Interestingly, measurements of isolated tissue explants also revealed that the relationship between the stiffness of the apical and basal sides of the neural plate was reversed during bending and that the stiffness of the mesoderm was lower than that of the basal side of the neural plate. The experimental elevation of mesoderm stiffness delayed neural plate bending, suggesting that low mesoderm stiffness mechanically supports neural tube closure. This study provides an example of mechanical interactions between tissues during large-scale morphogenetic movements.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Makoto Suzuki
- Amphibian Research Center, Graduate School of Integrated Sciences for Life, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
- Division of Morphogenesis, National Institute for Basic Biology, National Institutes of Natural Sciences, Aichi, Japan
- Basic Biology Program, the Graduate University of Advanced Studies, Aichi, Japan
| | - Naoko Yasue
- Division of Morphogenesis, National Institute for Basic Biology, National Institutes of Natural Sciences, Aichi, Japan
| | - Naoto Ueno
- Division of Morphogenesis, National Institute for Basic Biology, National Institutes of Natural Sciences, Aichi, Japan
- Basic Biology Program, the Graduate University of Advanced Studies, Aichi, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Ouzounidis VR, Green M, van Capelle CDC, Gebhardt C, Crellin H, Finlayson C, Prevo B, Cheerambathur DK. The outer kinetochore components KNL-1 and Ndc80 complex regulate axon and neuronal cell body positioning in the C. elegans nervous system. Mol Biol Cell 2024; 35:ar83. [PMID: 38656792 PMCID: PMC11238089 DOI: 10.1091/mbc.e23-08-0325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The KMN (Knl1/Mis12/Ndc80) network at the kinetochore, primarily known for its role in chromosome segregation, has been shown to be repurposed during neurodevelopment. Here, we investigate the underlying neuronal mechanism and show that the KMN network promotes the proper axonal organization within the C. elegans head nervous system. Postmitotic degradation of KNL-1, which acts as a scaffold for signaling and has microtubule-binding activities at the kinetochore, led to disorganized ganglia and aberrant placement and organization of axons in the nerve ring - an interconnected axonal network. Through gene-replacement approaches, we demonstrate that the signaling motifs within KNL-1, responsible for recruiting protein phosphatase 1, and activating the spindle assembly checkpoint are required for neurodevelopment. Interestingly, while the microtubule-binding activity is crucial to KMN's neuronal function, microtubule dynamics and organization were unaffected in the absence of KNL-1. Instead, the NDC-80 microtubule-binding mutant displayed notable defects in axon bundling during nerve ring formation, indicating its role in facilitating axon-axon contacts. Overall, these findings provide evidence for a noncanonical role for the KMN network in shaping the structure and connectivity of the nervous system in C. elegans during brain development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vasileios R. Ouzounidis
- Wellcome Centre for Cell Biology & Institute of Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH9 3BF, UK
| | - Mattie Green
- Wellcome Centre for Cell Biology & Institute of Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH9 3BF, UK
| | - Charlotte de Ceuninck van Capelle
- Wellcome Centre for Cell Biology & Institute of Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH9 3BF, UK
| | - Clara Gebhardt
- Wellcome Centre for Cell Biology & Institute of Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH9 3BF, UK
| | - Helena Crellin
- Wellcome Centre for Cell Biology & Institute of Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH9 3BF, UK
| | - Cameron Finlayson
- Wellcome Centre for Cell Biology & Institute of Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH9 3BF, UK
| | - Bram Prevo
- Wellcome Centre for Cell Biology & Institute of Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH9 3BF, UK
| | - Dhanya K. Cheerambathur
- Wellcome Centre for Cell Biology & Institute of Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH9 3BF, UK
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Toma K, Zhao M, Zhang S, Wang F, Graham HK, Zou J, Modgil S, Shang WH, Tsai NY, Cai Z, Liu L, Hong G, Kriegstein AR, Hu Y, Körbelin J, Zhang R, Liao YJ, Kim TN, Ye X, Duan X. Perivascular neurons instruct 3D vascular lattice formation via neurovascular contact. Cell 2024; 187:2767-2784.e23. [PMID: 38733989 PMCID: PMC11223890 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2024.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
The vasculature of the central nervous system is a 3D lattice composed of laminar vascular beds interconnected by penetrating vessels. The mechanisms controlling 3D lattice network formation remain largely unknown. Combining viral labeling, genetic marking, and single-cell profiling in the mouse retina, we discovered a perivascular neuronal subset, annotated as Fam19a4/Nts-positive retinal ganglion cells (Fam19a4/Nts-RGCs), directly contacting the vasculature with perisomatic endfeet. Developmental ablation of Fam19a4/Nts-RGCs led to disoriented growth of penetrating vessels near the ganglion cell layer (GCL), leading to a disorganized 3D vascular lattice. We identified enriched PIEZO2 expression in Fam19a4/Nts-RGCs. Piezo2 loss from all retinal neurons or Fam19a4/Nts-RGCs abolished the direct neurovascular contacts and phenocopied the Fam19a4/Nts-RGC ablation deficits. The defective vascular structure led to reduced capillary perfusion and sensitized the retina to ischemic insults. Furthermore, we uncovered a Piezo2-dependent perivascular granule cell subset for cerebellar vascular patterning, indicating neuronal Piezo2-dependent 3D vascular patterning in the brain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kenichi Toma
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Mengya Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Shaobo Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Fei Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Hannah K Graham
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jun Zou
- Department of Discovery Oncology, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Shweta Modgil
- Department of Ophthalmology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Wenhao H Shang
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Nicole Y Tsai
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Zhishun Cai
- Suzhou Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou, China
| | - Liping Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Guiying Hong
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Arnold R Kriegstein
- Department of Neurology and The Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Yang Hu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Jakob Körbelin
- ENDomics Lab, Department of Oncology, Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Ruobing Zhang
- Suzhou Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou, China
| | - Yaping Joyce Liao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Tyson N Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Xin Ye
- Department of Discovery Oncology, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Xin Duan
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA; Department of Physiology and Kavli Institute for Fundamental Neuroscience, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Mukhopadhyay U, Mandal T, Chakraborty M, Sinha B. The Plasma Membrane and Mechanoregulation in Cells. ACS OMEGA 2024; 9:21780-21797. [PMID: 38799362 PMCID: PMC11112598 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.4c01962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Cells inhabit a mechanical microenvironment that they continuously sense and adapt to. The plasma membrane (PM), serving as the boundary of the cell, plays a pivotal role in this process of adaptation. In this Review, we begin by examining well-studied processes where mechanoregulation proves significant. Specifically, we highlight examples from the immune system and stem cells, besides discussing processes involving fibroblasts and other cell types. Subsequently, we discuss the common molecular players that facilitate the sensing of the mechanical signal and transform it into a chemical response covering integrins YAP/TAZ and Piezo. We then review how this understanding of molecular elements is leveraged in drug discovery and tissue engineering alongside a discussion of the methodologies used to measure mechanical properties. Focusing on the processes of endocytosis, we discuss how cells may respond to altered membrane mechanics using endo- and exocytosis. Through the process of depleting/adding the membrane area, these could also impact membrane mechanics. We compare pathways from studies illustrating the involvement of endocytosis in mechanoregulation, including clathrin-mediated endocytosis (CME) and the CLIC/GEEC (CG) pathway as central examples. Lastly, we review studies on cell-cell fusion during myogenesis, the mechanical integrity of muscle fibers, and the reported and anticipated roles of various molecular players and processes like endocytosis, thereby emphasizing the significance of mechanoregulation at the PM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Upasana Mukhopadhyay
- Department of Biological
Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education
and Research Kolkata, Mohanpur, West Bengal 741246, India
| | - Tithi Mandal
- Department of Biological
Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education
and Research Kolkata, Mohanpur, West Bengal 741246, India
| | | | - Bidisha Sinha
- Department of Biological
Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education
and Research Kolkata, Mohanpur, West Bengal 741246, India
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Bi Y, Duan W, Silver J. Collagen I is a critical organizer of scarring and CNS regeneration failure. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.07.592424. [PMID: 38766123 PMCID: PMC11100746 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.07.592424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Although axotomized neurons retain the ability to initiate the formation of growth cones and attempt to regenerate after spinal cord injury, the scar area formed as a result of the lesion in most adult mammals contains a variety of reactive cells that elaborate multiple extracellular matrix and enzyme components that are not suitable for regrowth 1,2 . Newly migrating axons in the vicinity of the scar utilize upregulated LAR family receptor protein tyrosine phosphatases, such as PTPσ, to associate with extracellular chondroitin sulphate proteoglycans (CSPGs), which have been discovered to tightly entrap the regrowing axon tip and transform it into a dystrophic non-growing endball. The scar is comprised of two compartments, one in the lesion penumbra, the glial scar, composed of reactive microglia, astrocytes and OPCs; and the other in the lesion epicenter, the fibrotic scar, which is made up of fibroblasts, pericytes, endothelial cells and inflammatory cells. While the fibrotic scar is known to be strongly inhibitory, even more so than the glial scar, the molecular determinants that curtail axon elongation through the injury core are largely uncharacterized. Here, we show that one sole member of the entire family of collagens, collagen I, creates an especially potent inducer of endball formation and regeneration failure. The inhibitory signaling is mediated by mechanosensitive ion channels and RhoA activation. Staggered systemic administration of two blood-brain barrier permeable-FDA approved drugs, aspirin and pirfenidone, reduced fibroblast incursion into the complete lesion and dramatically decreased collagen I, as well as CSPG deposition which were accompanied by axonal growth and considerable functional recovery. The anatomical substrate for robust axonal regeneration was provided by laminin producing GFAP + and NG2 + bridging cells that spanned the wound. Our results reveal a collagen I-mechanotransduction axis that regulates axonal regrowth in spinal cord injury and raise a promising strategy for rapid clinical application.
Collapse
|
20
|
North HF, Weissleder C, Bitar M, Barry G, Fullerton JM, Webster MJ, Weickert CS. RNA-sequencing suggests extracellular matrix and vasculature dysregulation could impair neurogenesis in schizophrenia cases with elevated inflammation. SCHIZOPHRENIA (HEIDELBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 10:50. [PMID: 38704390 PMCID: PMC11069512 DOI: 10.1038/s41537-024-00466-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
A subgroup of schizophrenia cases with elevated inflammation have reduced neurogenesis markers and increased macrophage density in the human subependymal zone (SEZ; also termed subventricular zone or SVZ) neurogenic niche. Inflammation can impair neurogenesis; however, it is unclear which other pathways are associated with reduced neurogenesis. This research aimed to discover transcriptomic differences between inflammatory subgroups of schizophrenia in the SEZ. Total RNA sequencing was performed on SEZ tissue from schizophrenia cases, designated into low inflammation (n = 13) and high inflammation (n = 14) subgroups, based on cluster analysis of inflammation marker gene expression. 718 genes were differentially expressed in high compared to low inflammation schizophrenia (FDR p < 0.05) and were most significantly over-represented in the pathway 'Hepatic Fibrosis/Hepatic Stellate-Cell Activation'. Genes in this pathway relate to extracellular matrix stability (including ten collagens) and vascular remodelling suggesting increased angiogenesis. Collagen-IV, a key element of the basement membrane and fractones, had elevated gene expression. Immunohistochemistry revealed novel collagen-IV+ fractone bulbs within the human SEZ hypocellular gap. Considering the extracellular matrix's regulatory role in SEZ neurogenesis, fibrosis-related alterations in high inflammation schizophrenia may disrupt neurogenesis. Increased angiogenesis could facilitate immune cell transmigration, potentially explaining elevated macrophages in high inflammation schizophrenia. This discovery-driven analysis sheds light on how inflammation may contribute to schizophrenia neuropathology in the neurogenic niche.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hayley F North
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Discipline of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Christin Weissleder
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Mechanism and therapy for genetic brain diseases, Institut Imagine, Paris, France
| | | | - Guy Barry
- OncoLife Therapeutics, Yeronga, QLD, Australia
| | - Janice M Fullerton
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Maree J Webster
- Laboratory of Brain Research, Stanley Medical Research Institute, 9800, Medical Center Drive, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Cynthia Shannon Weickert
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
- Discipline of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
- Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Hartmann B, Fleischhauer L, Nicolau M, Jensen THL, Taran FA, Clausen-Schaumann H, Reuten R. Profiling native pulmonary basement membrane stiffness using atomic force microscopy. Nat Protoc 2024; 19:1498-1528. [PMID: 38429517 DOI: 10.1038/s41596-024-00955-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
Mammalian cells sense and react to the mechanics of their immediate microenvironment. Therefore, the characterization of the biomechanical properties of tissues with high spatial resolution provides valuable insights into a broad variety of developmental, homeostatic and pathological processes within living organisms. The biomechanical properties of the basement membrane (BM), an extracellular matrix (ECM) substructure measuring only ∼100-400 nm across, are, among other things, pivotal to tumor progression and metastasis formation. Although the precise assignment of the Young's modulus E of such a thin ECM substructure especially in between two cell layers is still challenging, biomechanical data of the BM can provide information of eminent diagnostic potential. Here we present a detailed protocol to quantify the elastic modulus of the BM in murine and human lung tissue, which is one of the major organs prone to metastasis. This protocol describes a streamlined workflow to determine the Young's modulus E of the BM between the endothelial and epithelial cell layers shaping the alveolar wall in lung tissues using atomic force microscopy (AFM). Our step-by-step protocol provides instructions for murine and human lung tissue extraction, inflation of these tissues with cryogenic cutting medium, freezing and cryosectioning of the tissue samples, and AFM force-map recording. In addition, it guides the reader through a semi-automatic data analysis procedure to identify the pulmonary BM and extract its Young's modulus E using an in-house tailored user-friendly AFM data analysis software, the Center for Applied Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine processing toolbox, which enables automatic loading of the recorded force maps, conversion of the force versus piezo-extension curves to force versus indentation curves, calculation of Young's moduli and generation of Young's modulus maps, where the pulmonary BM can be identified using a semi-automatic spatial filtering tool. The entire protocol takes 1-2 d.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bastian Hartmann
- Munich University of Applied Sciences, Center for Applied Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine - CANTER, Munich, Germany
- Center for Nanoscience, Munich, Germany
| | - Lutz Fleischhauer
- Munich University of Applied Sciences, Center for Applied Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine - CANTER, Munich, Germany
- Center for Nanoscience, Munich, Germany
| | - Monica Nicolau
- Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical Faculty, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Center, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Hartvig Lindkær Jensen
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Pathology, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Florin-Andrei Taran
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Center, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Hauke Clausen-Schaumann
- Munich University of Applied Sciences, Center for Applied Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine - CANTER, Munich, Germany.
- Center for Nanoscience, Munich, Germany.
| | - Raphael Reuten
- Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical Faculty, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Center, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Lin G, Rennie M, Adeeko A, Scarlata S. The role of calcium in neuronal membrane tension and synaptic plasticity. Biochem Soc Trans 2024; 52:937-945. [PMID: 38533899 DOI: 10.1042/bst20231518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
Calcium is a primary second messenger that plays a role in cellular functions including growth, movement and responses to drugs. The role that calcium plays in mediating communication between neurons by synaptic vesicle release is well established. This review focuses on the dependence of the physical properties of neuronal plasma membranes on calcium levels. After describing the key features of synaptic plasticity, we summarize the general role of calcium in cell function and the signaling pathways responsible for intracellular increase in calcium levels. We then present findings showing that increases in intracellular calcium levels cause neurites to contract and break synaptic connections by changes in membrane tension.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guanyu Lin
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, 100 Institute Rd., Worcester, MA 01609, U.S.A
| | - Madison Rennie
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, 100 Institute Rd., Worcester, MA 01609, U.S.A
| | - Ayobami Adeeko
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, 100 Institute Rd., Worcester, MA 01609, U.S.A
| | - Suzanne Scarlata
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, 100 Institute Rd., Worcester, MA 01609, U.S.A
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Mathieu M, Isomursu A, Ivaska J. Positive and negative durotaxis - mechanisms and emerging concepts. J Cell Sci 2024; 137:jcs261919. [PMID: 38647525 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.261919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Cell migration is controlled by the coordinated action of cell adhesion, cytoskeletal dynamics, contractility and cell extrinsic cues. Integrins are the main adhesion receptors to ligands of the extracellular matrix (ECM), linking the actin cytoskeleton to the ECM and enabling cells to sense matrix rigidity and mount a directional cell migration response to stiffness gradients. Most models studied show preferred migration of single cells or cell clusters towards increasing rigidity. This is referred to as durotaxis, and since its initial discovery in 2000, technical advances and elegant computational models have provided molecular level details of stiffness sensing in cell migration. However, modeling has long predicted that, depending on cell intrinsic factors, such as the balance of cell adhesion molecules (clutches) and the motor proteins pulling on them, cells might also prefer adhesion to intermediate rigidity. Recently, experimental evidence has supported this notion and demonstrated the ability of cells to migrate towards lower rigidity, in a process called negative durotaxis. In this Review, we discuss the significant conceptual advances that have been made in our appreciation of cell plasticity and context dependency in stiffness-guided directional cell migration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mathilde Mathieu
- Turku Bioscience Centre, University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University, FI-20520 Turku, Finland
- InFLAMES Research Flagship Center, University of Turku, FI-20520 Turku, Finland
| | - Aleksi Isomursu
- Turku Bioscience Centre, University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University, FI-20520 Turku, Finland
- InFLAMES Research Flagship Center, University of Turku, FI-20520 Turku, Finland
| | - Johanna Ivaska
- Turku Bioscience Centre, University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University, FI-20520 Turku, Finland
- InFLAMES Research Flagship Center, University of Turku, FI-20520 Turku, Finland
- Department of Life Technologies, University of Turku, FI-20520 Turku, Finland
- Western Finnish Cancer Center (FICAN West), University of Turku, FI-20520 Turku, Finland
- Foundation for the Finnish Cancer Institute, Tukholmankatu 8, FI-00014 Helsinki, Finland
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Huang J, Hu X, Chen Z, Ouyang F, Li J, Hu Y, Zhao Y, Wang J, Yao F, Jing J, Cheng L. Fascin-1 limits myosin activity in microglia to control mechanical characterization of the injured spinal cord. J Neuroinflammation 2024; 21:88. [PMID: 38600569 PMCID: PMC11005239 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-024-03089-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mechanical softening of the glial scar region regulates axonal regeneration to impede neurological recovery in central nervous system (CNS) injury. Microglia, a crucial cellular component of the glial scar, facilitate neuronal survival and neurological recovery after spinal cord injury (SCI). However, the critical mechanical characterization of injured spinal cord that harmonizes neuroprotective function of microglia remains poorly understood. METHODS Spinal cord tissue stiffness was assessed using atomic force microscopy (AFM) in a mouse model of crush injury. Pharmacological depletion of microglia using PLX5622 was used to explore the effect of microglia on mechanical characterization. Conditional knockout of Fascin-1 in microglia (Fascin-1 CKO) alone or in combination with inhibition of myosin activity was performed to delve into relevant mechanisms of microglia regulating mechanical signal. Immunofluorescence staining was performed to evaluate the related protein levels, inflammatory cells, and neuron survival after SCI. The Basso mouse scale score was calculated to assess functional recovery. RESULTS Spinal cord tissue significantly softens after SCI. Microglia depletion or Fascin-1 knockout in microglia limits tissue softening and alters mechanical characterization, which leads to increased tissue pathology and impaired functional recovery. Mechanistically, Fascin-1 inhibits myosin activation to promote microglial migration and control mechanical characterization after SCI. CONCLUSIONS We reveal that Fascin-1 limits myosin activity to regulate mechanical characterization after SCI, and this mechanical signal should be considered in future approaches for the treatment of CNS diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jinxin Huang
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230601, China
- Institute of Orthopaedics, Research Center for Translational Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230601, China
| | - Xuyang Hu
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230601, China
- Institute of Orthopaedics, Research Center for Translational Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230601, China
| | - Zeqiang Chen
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230601, China
- Institute of Orthopaedics, Research Center for Translational Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230601, China
| | - Fangru Ouyang
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230601, China
- Institute of Orthopaedics, Research Center for Translational Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230601, China
| | - Jianjian Li
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230601, China
- Institute of Orthopaedics, Research Center for Translational Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230601, China
| | - Yixue Hu
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230601, China
- Institute of Orthopaedics, Research Center for Translational Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230601, China
| | - Yuanzhe Zhao
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230601, China
- Institute of Orthopaedics, Research Center for Translational Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230601, China
| | - Jingwen Wang
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230601, China
- Institute of Orthopaedics, Research Center for Translational Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230601, China
| | - Fei Yao
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230601, China.
- Institute of Orthopaedics, Research Center for Translational Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230601, China.
| | - Juehua Jing
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230601, China.
- Institute of Orthopaedics, Research Center for Translational Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230601, China.
| | - Li Cheng
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230601, China.
- Institute of Orthopaedics, Research Center for Translational Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230601, China.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Cifuentes LP, Athamneh AIM, Efremov Y, Raman A, Kim T, Suter DM. A modified motor-clutch model reveals that neuronal growth cones respond faster to soft substrates. Mol Biol Cell 2024; 35:ar47. [PMID: 38354034 PMCID: PMC11064671 DOI: 10.1091/mbc.e23-09-0364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Neuronal growth cones sense a variety of cues including chemical and mechanical ones to establish functional connections during nervous system development. Substrate-cytoskeletal coupling is an established model for adhesion-mediated growth cone advance; however, the detailed molecular and biophysical mechanisms underlying the mechanosensing and mechanotransduction process remain unclear. Here, we adapted a motor-clutch model to better understand the changes in clutch and cytoskeletal dynamics, traction forces, and substrate deformation when a growth cone interacts with adhesive substrates of different stiffnesses. Model parameters were optimized using experimental data from Aplysia growth cones probed with force-calibrated glass microneedles. We included a reinforcement mechanism at both motor and clutch level. Furthermore, we added a threshold for retrograde F-actin flow that indicates when the growth cone is strongly coupled to the substrate. Our modeling results are in strong agreement with experimental data with respect to the substrate deformation and the latency time after which substrate-cytoskeletal coupling is strong enough for the growth cone to advance. Our simulations show that it takes the shortest time to achieve strong coupling when substrate stiffness was low at 4 pN/nm. Taken together, these results suggest that Aplysia growth cones respond faster and more efficiently to soft than stiff substrates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Yuri Efremov
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907
- Birck Nanotechnology Center, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Sechenov University, Moscow 119991, Russia
| | - Arvind Raman
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907
- Birck Nanotechnology Center, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907
| | - Taeyoon Kim
- Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907
| | - Daniel M. Suter
- Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907
- Birck Nanotechnology Center, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907
- Purdue Institute for Integrative Neuroscience, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907
- Purdue Institute for Inflammation, Immunology, and Infectious Disease, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907
- Bindley Bioscience Center, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Campàs O, Noordstra I, Yap AS. Adherens junctions as molecular regulators of emergent tissue mechanics. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol 2024; 25:252-269. [PMID: 38093099 DOI: 10.1038/s41580-023-00688-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
Tissue and organ development during embryogenesis relies on the collective and coordinated action of many cells. Recent studies have revealed that tissue material properties, including transitions between fluid and solid tissue states, are controlled in space and time to shape embryonic structures and regulate cell behaviours. Although the collective cellular flows that sculpt tissues are guided by tissue-level physical changes, these ultimately emerge from cellular-level and subcellular-level molecular mechanisms. Adherens junctions are key subcellular structures, built from clusters of classical cadherin receptors. They mediate physical interactions between cells and connect biochemical signalling to the physical characteristics of cell contacts, hence playing a fundamental role in tissue morphogenesis. In this Review, we take advantage of the results of recent, quantitative measurements of tissue mechanics to relate the molecular and cellular characteristics of adherens junctions, including adhesion strength, tension and dynamics, to the emergent physical state of embryonic tissues. We focus on systems in which cell-cell interactions are the primary contributor to morphogenesis, without significant contribution from cell-matrix interactions. We suggest that emergent tissue mechanics is an important direction for future research, bridging cell biology, developmental biology and mechanobiology to provide a holistic understanding of morphogenesis in health and disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Otger Campàs
- Cluster of Excellence Physics of Life, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany.
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, Dresden, Germany.
- Center for Systems Biology Dresden, Dresden, Germany.
| | - Ivar Noordstra
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Alpha S Yap
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Queensland, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Nemoz-Billet L, Balland M, Gilquin L, Gillet B, Stévant I, Guillon E, Hughes S, Carpentier G, Vaganay E, Sohm F, Misiak V, Gonzalez-Melo MJ, Koch M, Ghavi-Helm Y, Bretaud S, Ruggiero F. Dual topologies of myotomal collagen XV and Tenascin C act in concert to guide and shape developing motor axons. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2314588121. [PMID: 38502691 PMCID: PMC10990108 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2314588121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024] Open
Abstract
During development, motor axons are guided toward muscle target by various extrinsic cues including extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins whose identities and cellular source remain poorly characterized. Here, using single-cell RNAseq of sorted GFP+ cells from smyhc1:gfp-injected zebrafish embryos, we unravel the slow muscle progenitors (SMP) pseudotemporal trajectory at the single-cell level and show that differentiating SMPs are a major source of ECM proteins. The SMP core-matrisome was characterized and computationally predicted to form a basement membrane-like structure tailored for motor axon guidance, including basement membrane-associated ECM proteins, as collagen XV-B, one of the earliest core-matrisome gene transcribed in differentiating SMPs and the glycoprotein Tenascin C. To investigate how contact-mediated guidance cues are organized along the motor path to exert their function in vivo, we used microscopy-based methods to analyze and quantify motor axon navigation in tnc and col15a1b knock-out fish. We show that motor axon shape and growth rely on the timely expression of the attractive cue Collagen XV-B that locally provides axons with a permissive soft microenvironment and separately organizes the repulsive cue Tenascin C into a unique functional dual topology. Importantly, bioprinted micropatterns that mimic this in vivo ECM topology were sufficient to drive directional motor axon growth. Our study offers evidence that not only the composition of ECM cues but their topology critically influences motor axon navigation in vertebrates with potential applications in regenerative medicine for peripheral nerve injury as regenerating nerves follow their original path.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laurie Nemoz-Billet
- Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle de Lyon, Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, UMR5242 CNRS, Université Claude Bernard-Lyon1, National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and the Environment (INRAe) Unit under Contract (USC) 1370, Lyon69007, France
| | - Martial Balland
- LIPphy: Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Physics, Université Grenoble Alpes, CNRS, GrenobleF-38000, France
| | - Laurent Gilquin
- Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle de Lyon, Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, UMR5242 CNRS, Université Claude Bernard-Lyon1, National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and the Environment (INRAe) Unit under Contract (USC) 1370, Lyon69007, France
| | - Benjamin Gillet
- Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle de Lyon, Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, UMR5242 CNRS, Université Claude Bernard-Lyon1, National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and the Environment (INRAe) Unit under Contract (USC) 1370, Lyon69007, France
| | - Isabelle Stévant
- Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle de Lyon, Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, UMR5242 CNRS, Université Claude Bernard-Lyon1, National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and the Environment (INRAe) Unit under Contract (USC) 1370, Lyon69007, France
| | - Emilie Guillon
- Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle de Lyon, Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, UMR5242 CNRS, Université Claude Bernard-Lyon1, National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and the Environment (INRAe) Unit under Contract (USC) 1370, Lyon69007, France
| | - Sandrine Hughes
- Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle de Lyon, Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, UMR5242 CNRS, Université Claude Bernard-Lyon1, National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and the Environment (INRAe) Unit under Contract (USC) 1370, Lyon69007, France
| | - Gilles Carpentier
- Gly-CRRET: Glycobiology, Cell Growth and Tissue Repair Research Unit, Laboratoire Gly-CRRET Faculté des Sciences et Technologie, Université Paris Est-Créteil-Val de Marne, Créteil Cedex94010, France
| | - Elisabeth Vaganay
- Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle de Lyon, Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, UMR5242 CNRS, Université Claude Bernard-Lyon1, National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and the Environment (INRAe) Unit under Contract (USC) 1370, Lyon69007, France
| | - Frédéric Sohm
- Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle de Lyon, Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, UMR5242 CNRS, Université Claude Bernard-Lyon1, National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and the Environment (INRAe) Unit under Contract (USC) 1370, Lyon69007, France
| | - Vladimir Misiak
- LIPphy: Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Physics, Université Grenoble Alpes, CNRS, GrenobleF-38000, France
| | - Mary-Julieth Gonzalez-Melo
- Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle de Lyon, Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, UMR5242 CNRS, Université Claude Bernard-Lyon1, National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and the Environment (INRAe) Unit under Contract (USC) 1370, Lyon69007, France
| | - Manuel Koch
- Institute for Experimental Dental Research and Oral Musculoskeletal Biology, Center for Biochemistry, Medical Faculty, University of Cologne, Cologne50931, Germany
| | - Yad Ghavi-Helm
- Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle de Lyon, Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, UMR5242 CNRS, Université Claude Bernard-Lyon1, National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and the Environment (INRAe) Unit under Contract (USC) 1370, Lyon69007, France
| | - Sandrine Bretaud
- Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle de Lyon, Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, UMR5242 CNRS, Université Claude Bernard-Lyon1, National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and the Environment (INRAe) Unit under Contract (USC) 1370, Lyon69007, France
| | - Florence Ruggiero
- Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle de Lyon, Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, UMR5242 CNRS, Université Claude Bernard-Lyon1, National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and the Environment (INRAe) Unit under Contract (USC) 1370, Lyon69007, France
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Blake TCA, Fox HM, Urbančič V, Ravishankar R, Wolowczyk A, Allgeyer ES, Mason J, Danuser G, Gallop JL. Filopodial protrusion driven by density-dependent Ena-TOCA-1 interactions. J Cell Sci 2024; 137:jcs261057. [PMID: 38323924 PMCID: PMC11006392 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.261057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Filopodia are narrow actin-rich protrusions with important roles in neuronal development where membrane-binding adaptor proteins, such as I-BAR- and F-BAR-domain-containing proteins, have emerged as upstream regulators that link membrane interactions to actin regulators such as formins and proteins of the Ena/VASP family. Both the adaptors and their binding partners are part of diverse and redundant protein networks that can functionally compensate for each other. To explore the significance of the F-BAR domain-containing neuronal membrane adaptor TOCA-1 (also known as FNBP1L) in filopodia we performed a quantitative analysis of TOCA-1 and filopodial dynamics in Xenopus retinal ganglion cells, where Ena/VASP proteins have a native role in filopodial extension. Increasing the density of TOCA-1 enhances Ena/VASP protein binding in vitro, and an accumulation of TOCA-1, as well as its coincidence with Ena, correlates with filopodial protrusion in vivo. Two-colour single-molecule localisation microscopy of TOCA-1 and Ena supports their nanoscale association. TOCA-1 clusters promote filopodial protrusion and this depends on a functional TOCA-1 SH3 domain and activation of Cdc42, which we perturbed using the small-molecule inhibitor CASIN. We propose that TOCA-1 clusters act independently of membrane curvature to recruit and promote Ena activity for filopodial protrusion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas C. A. Blake
- Wellcome/Cancer Research UK Gurdon Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QN, UK
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QW, UK
| | - Helen M. Fox
- Wellcome/Cancer Research UK Gurdon Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QN, UK
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QW, UK
| | - Vasja Urbančič
- Wellcome/Cancer Research UK Gurdon Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QN, UK
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QW, UK
| | - Roshan Ravishankar
- Lyda Hill Department of Bioinformatics, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Adam Wolowczyk
- Wellcome/Cancer Research UK Gurdon Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QN, UK
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QW, UK
| | - Edward S. Allgeyer
- Wellcome/Cancer Research UK Gurdon Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QN, UK
- Department of Genetics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EH, UK
| | - Julia Mason
- Wellcome/Cancer Research UK Gurdon Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QN, UK
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QW, UK
| | - Gaudenz Danuser
- Lyda Hill Department of Bioinformatics, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Jennifer L. Gallop
- Wellcome/Cancer Research UK Gurdon Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QN, UK
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QW, UK
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Xiao Y, Zhang Y, Yuan W, Wang C, Ge Y, Huang T, Gao J. Piezo2 Contributes to Traumatic Brain Injury by Activating the RhoA/ROCK1 Pathways. Mol Neurobiol 2024:10.1007/s12035-024-04058-y. [PMID: 38388773 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-024-04058-y] [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: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) can lead to short-term and long-term physical and cognitive impairments, which have significant impacts on patients, families, and society. Currently, treatment outcomes for this disease are often unsatisfactory, due at least in part to the fact that the molecular mechanisms underlying the development of TBI are largely unknown. Here, we observed significant upregulation of Piezo2, a key mechanosensitive ion channel protein, in the injured brain tissue of a mouse model of TBI induced by controlled cortical impact. Pharmacological inhibition and genetic knockdown of Piezo2 after TBI attenuated neuronal death, brain edema, brain tissue necrosis, and deficits in neural function and cognitive function. Mechanistically, the increase in Piezo2 expression contributed to TBI-induced neuronal death and subsequent production of TNF-α and IL-1β, likely through activation of the RhoA/ROCK1 pathways in the central nervous system. Our findings suggest that Piezo2 is a key player in and a potential therapeutic target for TBI.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yinggang Xiao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Northern Jiangsu People's Hospital Affiliated to Yangzhou University/Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
- Yangzhou Key Laboratory of Anaesthesiology, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yang Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Northern Jiangsu People's Hospital Affiliated to Yangzhou University/Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
- Yangzhou Key Laboratory of Anaesthesiology, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Wenjuan Yuan
- Department of Anesthesiology, Northern Jiangsu People's Hospital Affiliated to Yangzhou University/Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
- Yangzhou Key Laboratory of Anaesthesiology, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Cunjin Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Northern Jiangsu People's Hospital Affiliated to Yangzhou University/Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
- Yangzhou Key Laboratory of Anaesthesiology, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yali Ge
- Department of Anesthesiology, Northern Jiangsu People's Hospital Affiliated to Yangzhou University/Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
- Yangzhou Key Laboratory of Anaesthesiology, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Tianfeng Huang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Northern Jiangsu People's Hospital Affiliated to Yangzhou University/Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China.
- Yangzhou Key Laboratory of Anaesthesiology, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Ju Gao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Northern Jiangsu People's Hospital Affiliated to Yangzhou University/Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China.
- Yangzhou Key Laboratory of Anaesthesiology, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Du Y, Xu B, Li Q, Peng C, Yang K. The role of mechanically sensitive ion channel Piezo1 in bone remodeling. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2024; 12:1342149. [PMID: 38390363 PMCID: PMC10882629 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2024.1342149] [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: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Piezo1 (2010) was identified as a mechanically activated cation channel capable of sensing various physical forces, such as tension, osmotic pressure, and shear force. Piezo1 mediates mechanosensory transduction in different organs and tissues, including its role in maintaining bone homeostasis. This review aimed to summarize the function and possible mechanism of Piezo1 in the mechanical receptor cells in bone tissue. We found that it is a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of bone diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yugui Du
- Department of Orthodontics, School of Stomatology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Bowen Xu
- Department of Orthodontics, School of Stomatology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Quiying Li
- Department of Orthodontics, School of Stomatology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Chuhan Peng
- Department of Orthodontics, School of Stomatology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Kai Yang
- Department of Orthodontics, School of Stomatology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Pillai EK, Franze K. Mechanics in the nervous system: From development to disease. Neuron 2024; 112:342-361. [PMID: 37967561 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2023.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023]
Abstract
Physical forces are ubiquitous in biological processes across scales and diverse contexts. This review highlights the significance of mechanical forces in nervous system development, homeostasis, and disease. We provide an overview of mechanical signals present in the nervous system and delve into mechanotransduction mechanisms translating these mechanical cues into biochemical signals. During development, mechanical cues regulate a plethora of processes, including cell proliferation, differentiation, migration, network formation, and cortex folding. Forces then continue exerting their influence on physiological processes, such as neuronal activity, glial cell function, and the interplay between these different cell types. Notably, changes in tissue mechanics manifest in neurodegenerative diseases and brain tumors, potentially offering new diagnostic and therapeutic target opportunities. Understanding the role of cellular forces and tissue mechanics in nervous system physiology and pathology adds a new facet to neurobiology, shedding new light on many processes that remain incompletely understood.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eva K Pillai
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge CB2 3DY, UK; Cell Biology and Biophysics Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Meyerhofstraße 1, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany; Developmental Biology Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Meyerhofstraße 1, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Kristian Franze
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge CB2 3DY, UK; Institute of Medical Physics and Microtissue Engineering, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Henkestraße 91, 91052 Erlangen, Germany; Max-Planck-Zentrum für Physik und Medizin, Kussmaulallee 1, 91054 Erlangen, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Chapla R, Katz RR, West JL. Neurogenic Cell Behavior in 3D Culture Enhanced Within a Highly Compliant Synthetic Hydrogel Platform Formed via Competitive Crosslinking. Cell Mol Bioeng 2024; 17:35-48. [PMID: 38435792 PMCID: PMC10901766 DOI: 10.1007/s12195-024-00794-2] [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: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose Scaffold materials that better support neurogenesis are still needed to improve cell therapy outcomes for neural tissue damage. We have used a modularly tunable, highly compliant, degradable hydrogel to explore the impacts of hydrogel compliance stiffness on neural differentiation. Here we implemented competitive matrix crosslinking mechanics to finely tune synthetic hydrogel moduli within soft tissue stiffnesses, a range much softer than typically achievable in synthetic crosslinked hydrogels, providing a modularly controlled and ultrasoft 3D culture model which supports and enhances neurogenic cell behavior. Methods Soluble competitive allyl monomers were mixed with proteolytically-degradable poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate derivatives and crosslinked to form a matrix, and resultant hydrogel stiffness and diffusive properties were evaluated. Neural PC12 cells or primary rat fetal neural stem cells (NSCs) were encapsulated within the hydrogels, and cell morphology and phenotype were investigated to understand cell-matrix interactions and the effects of environmental stiffness on neural cell behavior within this model. Results Addition of allyl monomers caused a concentration-dependent decrease in hydrogel compressive modulus from 4.40 kPa to 0.26 kPa (natural neural tissue stiffness) without influencing soluble protein diffusion kinetics through the gel matrix. PC12 cells encapsulated in the softest hydrogels showed significantly enhanced neurite extension in comparison to PC12s in all other hydrogel stiffnesses tested. Encapsulated neural stem cells demonstrated significantly greater spreading and elongation in 0.26 kPa alloc hydrogels than in 4.4 kPa hydrogels. When soluble growth factor deprivation (for promotion of neural differentiation) was evaluated within the neural stiffness gels (0.26 kPa), NSCs showed increased neuronal marker expression, indicating early enhancement of neurogenic differentiation. Conclusions Implementing allyl-acrylate crosslinking competition reduced synthetic hydrogel stiffness to provide a supportive environment for 3D neural tissue culture, resulting in enhanced neurogenic behavior of encapsulated cells. These results indicate the potential suitability of this ultrasoft hydrogel system as a model platform for further investigating environmental factors on neural cell behavior. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12195-024-00794-2.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Chapla
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708 USA
| | - Rachel R. Katz
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708 USA
| | - Jennifer L. West
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708 USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22904 USA
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Yan Y, Li X, Gao Y, Mathivanan S, Kong L, Tao Y, Dong Y, Li X, Bhattacharyya A, Zhao X, Zhang SC. 3D bioprinting of human neural tissues with functional connectivity. Cell Stem Cell 2024; 31:260-274.e7. [PMID: 38306994 PMCID: PMC10883639 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2023.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Revised: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2024]
Abstract
Probing how human neural networks operate is hindered by the lack of reliable human neural tissues amenable to the dynamic functional assessment of neural circuits. We developed a 3D bioprinting platform to assemble tissues with defined human neural cell types in a desired dimension using a commercial bioprinter. The printed neuronal progenitors differentiate into neurons and form functional neural circuits within and between tissue layers with specificity within weeks, evidenced by the cortical-to-striatal projection, spontaneous synaptic currents, and synaptic response to neuronal excitation. Printed astrocyte progenitors develop into mature astrocytes with elaborated processes and form functional neuron-astrocyte networks, indicated by calcium flux and glutamate uptake in response to neuronal excitation under physiological and pathological conditions. These designed human neural tissues will likely be useful for understanding the wiring of human neural networks, modeling pathological processes, and serving as platforms for drug testing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuanwei Yan
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Xueyan Li
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Yu Gao
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Sakthikumar Mathivanan
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA; Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, 20815
| | - Linghai Kong
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Yunlong Tao
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA; State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center (ChemBIC), Nanjing University, Nanjing, China; Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, 20815
| | - Yi Dong
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Xiang Li
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Anita Bhattacharyya
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA; Department of Cell and Regenerative Biology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Xinyu Zhao
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA; Department of Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Su-Chun Zhang
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA; Department of Neuroscience, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA; Department of Neurology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA; Program in Neuroscience and Behavioral Disorders, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore; GK Goh Centre for Neuroscience, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore; Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) Collaborative Research Network, Chevy Chase, MD, 20815.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Li M, Sun H, Hou Z, Hao S, Jin L, Wang B. Engineering the Physical Microenvironment into Neural Organoids for Neurogenesis and Neurodevelopment. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2306451. [PMID: 37771182 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202306451] [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: 07/29/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023]
Abstract
Understanding the signals from the physical microenvironment is critical for deciphering the processes of neurogenesis and neurodevelopment. The discovery of how surrounding physical signals shape human developing neurons is hindered by the bottleneck of conventional cell culture and animal models. Notwithstanding neural organoids provide a promising platform for recapitulating human neurogenesis and neurodevelopment, building neuronal physical microenvironment that accurately mimics the native neurophysical features is largely ignored in current organoid technologies. Here, it is discussed how the physical microenvironment modulates critical events during the periods of neurogenesis and neurodevelopment, such as neural stem cell fates, neural tube closure, neuronal migration, axonal guidance, optic cup formation, and cortical folding. Although animal models are widely used to investigate the impacts of physical factors on neurodevelopment and neuropathy, the important roles of human stem cell-derived neural organoids in this field are particularly highlighted. Considering the great promise of human organoids, building neural organoid microenvironments with mechanical forces, electrophysiological microsystems, and light manipulation will help to fully understand the physical cues in neurodevelopmental processes. Neural organoids combined with cutting-edge techniques, such as advanced atomic force microscopes, microrobots, and structural color biomaterials might promote the development of neural organoid-based research and neuroscience.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Minghui Li
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400045, China
- Southwest Hospital/Southwest Eye Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Heng Sun
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400045, China
| | - Zongkun Hou
- Key Laboratory of Infectious Immune and Antibody Engineering of Guizhou Province, Engineering Research Center of Cellular Immunotherapy of Guizhou Province, School of Biology and Engineering/School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, China
| | - Shilei Hao
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400045, China
| | - Liang Jin
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400045, China
| | - Bochu Wang
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400045, China
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
López-León CF, Planet R, Soriano J. Preparation and Mechano-Functional Characterization of PEGylated Fibrin Hydrogels: Impact of Thrombin Concentration. Gels 2024; 10:116. [PMID: 38391447 PMCID: PMC10888336 DOI: 10.3390/gels10020116] [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: 01/03/2024] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Three-dimensional (3D) neuronal cultures grown in hydrogels are promising platforms to design brain-like neuronal networks in vitro. However, the optimal properties of such cultures must be tuned to ensure a hydrogel matrix sufficiently porous to promote healthy development but also sufficiently rigid for structural support. Such an optimization is difficult since it implies the exploration of different hydrogel compositions and, at the same time, a functional analysis to validate neuronal culture viability. To advance in this quest, here we present a combination of a rheological protocol and a network-based functional analysis to investigate PEGylated fibrin hydrogel networks with gradually higher stiffness, achieved by increasing the concentration of thrombin. We observed that moderate thrombin concentrations of 10% and 25% in volume shaped healthy networks, although the functional traits depended on the hydrogel stiffness, which was much higher for the latter concentration. Thrombin concentrations of 65% or higher led to networks that did not survive. Our results illustrate the difficulties and limitations in preparing 3D neuronal networks, and stress the importance of combining a mechano-structural characterization of a biomaterial with a functional one.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Clara F López-León
- Departament de Física de la Matèria Condensada, Universitat de Barcelona, E-08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Universitat de Barcelona Institute of Complex Systems (UBICS), Universitat de Barcelon, E-08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ramon Planet
- Departament de Física de la Matèria Condensada, Universitat de Barcelona, E-08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Universitat de Barcelona Institute of Complex Systems (UBICS), Universitat de Barcelon, E-08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jordi Soriano
- Departament de Física de la Matèria Condensada, Universitat de Barcelona, E-08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Universitat de Barcelona Institute of Complex Systems (UBICS), Universitat de Barcelon, E-08028 Barcelona, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Claude-Taupin A, Dupont N. To squeeze or not: Regulation of cell size by mechanical forces in development and human diseases. Biol Cell 2024; 116:e2200101. [PMID: 38059665 DOI: 10.1111/boc.202200101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
Physical constraints, such as compression, shear stress, stretching and tension play major roles during development and tissue homeostasis. Mechanics directly impact physiology, and their alteration is also recognized as having an active role in driving human diseases. Recently, growing evidence has accumulated on how mechanical forces are translated into a wide panel of biological responses, including metabolism and changes in cell morphology. The aim of this review is to summarize and discuss our knowledge on the impact of mechanical forces on cell size regulation. Other biological consequences of mechanical forces will not be covered by this review. Moreover, wherever possible, we also discuss mechanosensors and molecular and cellular signaling pathways upstream of cell size regulation. We finally highlight the relevance of mechanical forces acting on cell size in physiology and human diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aurore Claude-Taupin
- Institut Necker Enfants Malades (INEM), INSERM UMR-S1151, CNRS UMR-S8253, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Nicolas Dupont
- Institut Necker Enfants Malades (INEM), INSERM UMR-S1151, CNRS UMR-S8253, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Shan F, Zhang N, Yao X, Li Y, Wang Z, Zhang C, Wang Y. Mechanosensitive channel of large conductance enhances the mechanical stretching-induced upregulation of glycolysis and oxidative metabolism in Schwann cells. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:93. [PMID: 38302971 PMCID: PMC10835878 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-024-01497-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Physical exercise directly stretching the peripheral nerve promotes nerve regeneration; however, its action mechanism remains elusive. Our present study aimed to investigate the effects of mechanosensitive channel of large conductance (MscL) activated by mechanical stretching on the cultured Schwann cells (SCs) and explore the possible mechanism. METHODS Primary SCs from neonatal mice at 3-5 days of age were derived and transfected with the lentivirus vector expressing a mutant version of MscL, MscL-G22S. We first detected the cell viability and calcium ion (Ca2+) influx in the MscL-G22S-expressing SCs with low-intensity mechanical stretching and the controls. Proteomic and energy metabolomics analyses were performed to investigate the comprehensive effects of MscL-G22S activation on SCs. Measurement of glycolysis- and oxidative phosphorylation-related molecules and ATP production were respectively performed to further validate the effects of MscL-G22S activation on SCs. Finally, the roles of phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway in the mechanism of energy metabolism modulation of SCs by MscL-G22S activation was investigated. RESULTS Mechanical stretching-induced MscL-G22S activation significantly increased the cell viability and Ca2+ influx into the SCs. Both the proteomic and targeted energy metabolomics analysis indicated the upregulation of energy metabolism as the main action mechanism of MscL-G22S-activation on SCs. MscL-G22S-activated SCs showed significant upregulation of glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation when SCs with stretching alone had only mild upregulation of energy metabolism than those without stimuli. MscL-G22S activation caused significant phosphorylation of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway and upregulation of HIF-1α/c-Myc. Inhibition of PI3K abolished the MscL-G22S activation-induced upregulation of HIF-1α/c-Myc signaling in SCs and reduced the levels of glycolysis- and oxidative phosphorylation-related substrates and mitochondrial activity. CONCLUSION Mechanical stretching activates MscL-G22S to significantly promote the energy metabolism of SCs and the production of energic substrates, which may be applied to enhance nerve regeneration via the glia-axonal metabolic coupling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fangzhen Shan
- Medical Research Centre, Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical University, Jining, Shandong Province, China
| | - Nannan Zhang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care, Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical University, Jining, Shandong Province, China
| | - Xiaoying Yao
- Medical Research Centre, Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical University, Jining, Shandong Province, China
| | - Yi Li
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical University, 89 Guhuai Road, Jining City, Shandong Province, 272029, China
| | - Zihao Wang
- Cheeloo Medical College, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
| | - Chuanji Zhang
- College of Rehabilitation Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
| | - Yuzhong Wang
- Medical Research Centre, Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical University, Jining, Shandong Province, China.
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical University, 89 Guhuai Road, Jining City, Shandong Province, 272029, China.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Yan Y, Li X, Gao Y, Mathivanan S, Kong L, Tao Y, Dong Y, Li X, Bhattacharyya A, Zhao X, Zhang SC. 3D Bioprinting of Human Neural Tissues with Functional Connectivity. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.01.18.576289. [PMID: 38328181 PMCID: PMC10849546 DOI: 10.1101/2024.01.18.576289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
Probing how the human neural networks operate is hindered by the lack of reliable human neural tissues amenable for dynamic functional assessment of neural circuits. We developed a 3D bioprinting platform to assemble tissues with defined human neural cell types in a desired dimension using a commercial bioprinter. The printed neuronal progenitors differentiate to neurons and form functional neural circuits in and between tissue layers with specificity within weeks, evidenced by the cortical-to-striatal projection, spontaneous synaptic currents and synaptic response to neuronal excitation. Printed astrocyte progenitors develop into mature astrocytes with elaborated processes and form functional neuron-astrocyte networks, indicated by calcium flux and glutamate uptake in response to neuronal excitation under physiological and pathological conditions. These designed human neural tissues will likely be useful for understanding the wiring of human neural networks, modeling pathological processes, and serving as platforms for drug testing.
Collapse
|
39
|
Cui CP, Xiong X, Zhao JX, Fu DH, Zhang Y, Ma PB, Wu D, Li BY. Piezo1 channel activation facilitates baroreflex afferent neurotransmission with subsequent blood pressure reduction in control and hypertension rats. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2024; 45:76-86. [PMID: 37670136 PMCID: PMC10770313 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-023-01154-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Mechanosensitive cation channels such as Piezo1 and Piezo2 are activated by mechanical force like a starched wall of the aorta while blood pressure (BP) rising, which helps to elucidate the underlying mechanism of mechanotransduction of baroreceptor endings. In this study we investigated how Piezo1 channel activation-mediated gender- and afferent-specific BP regulation in rats. We established high-fat diet and fructose drink-induced hypertension model rats (HFD-HTN) and deoxycorticosterone (DOCA)-sensitive hypertension model rats. We showed that the expression levels of Piezo1 and Piezo2 were significantly up-regulated in left ventricle of HFD and DOCA hypertensive rats, whereas the down-regulation of Piezo1 was likely to be compensated by Piezo2 up-regulation in the aorta. Likewise, down-regulated Piezo1 was observed in the nodose ganglion (NG), while up-regulated Piezo2 was found in the nucleus tractus solitarius (NTS), which might synergistically reduce the excitatory neurotransmitter release from the presynaptic membrane. Notably, microinjection of Yoda1 (0.025-2.5 mg/ml) into the NG concentration-dependently reduced BP in both hypertensive rat models as well as in control rats with similar EC50; the effect of Yoda1 was abolished by microinjection of a Piezo1 antagonist GsMTx4 (1.0 μM). Functional analysis in an in vitro aortic arch preparation showed that instantaneous firing frequency of single Ah-fiber of aortic depressor nerve was dramatically increased by Yoda1 (0.03-1.0 μM) and blocked by GsMTx4 (1.0 μM). Moreover, spontaneous synaptic currents recorded from identified 2nd-order Ah-type baroreceptive neurons in the NTS was also facilitated over 100% by Yoda1 (1.0 μM) and completely blocked by GsMTx4 (3.0 μM). These results demonstrate that Piezo1 expressed on Ah-type baroreceptor and baroreceptive neurons in the NG and NTS plays a key role in a sexual-dimorphic BP regulation under physiological and hypertensive condition through facilitation of baroreflex afferent neurotransmission, which is presumably collaborated by Piezo2 expression at different level of baroreflex afferent pathway via compensatory and synergistic mechanisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chang-Peng Cui
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Medicine Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Xue Xiong
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Medicine Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Jia-Xin Zhao
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Medicine Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Dong-Hong Fu
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Medicine Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Medicine Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Peng-Bo Ma
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Medicine Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Di Wu
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Medicine Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116023, China
| | - Bai-Yan Li
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Medicine Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China.
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Forsthofer M, Gordy C, Kolluri M, Straka H. Bilateral Retinofugal Pathfinding Impairments Limit Behavioral Compensation in Near-Congenital One-Eyed Xenopus laevis. eNeuro 2024; 11:ENEURO.0371-23.2023. [PMID: 38164595 PMCID: PMC10849038 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0371-23.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
To generate a coherent visual percept, information from both eyes must be appropriately transmitted into the brain, where binocular integration forms the substrate for visuomotor behaviors. To establish the anatomical substrate for binocular integration, the presence of bilateral eyes and interaction of both optic nerves during retinotectal development play a key role. However, the extent to which embryonic monocularly derived visual circuits can convey visuomotor behaviors is unknown. In this study, we assessed the retinotectal anatomy and visuomotor performance of embryonically generated one-eyed tadpoles. In one-eyed animals, the axons of retinal ganglion cells from the singular remaining eye exhibited striking irregularities in their central projections in the brain, generating a noncanonical ipsilateral retinotectal projection. This data is indicative of impaired pathfinding abilities. We further show that these novel projections are correlated with an impairment of behavioral compensation for the loss of one eye.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Forsthofer
- Faculty of Biology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Planegg 82152, Germany
- Graduate School of Systemic Neurosciences, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Planegg 82152, Germany
| | - Clayton Gordy
- Faculty of Biology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Planegg 82152, Germany
- Graduate School of Systemic Neurosciences, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Planegg 82152, Germany
| | - Meghna Kolluri
- Faculty of Biology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Planegg 82152, Germany
| | - Hans Straka
- Faculty of Biology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Planegg 82152, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Loffet EA, Durel JF, Nerurkar NL. Evo-Devo Mechanobiology: The Missing Link. Integr Comp Biol 2023; 63:1455-1473. [PMID: 37193661 DOI: 10.1093/icb/icad033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2023] Open
Abstract
While the modern framework of evolutionary development (evo-devo) has been decidedly genetic, historic analyses have also considered the importance of mechanics in the evolution of form. With the aid of recent technological advancements in both quantifying and perturbing changes in the molecular and mechanical effectors of organismal shape, how molecular and genetic cues regulate the biophysical aspects of morphogenesis is becoming increasingly well studied. As a result, this is an opportune time to consider how the tissue-scale mechanics that underlie morphogenesis are acted upon through evolution to establish morphological diversity. Such a focus will enable a field of evo-devo mechanobiology that will serve to better elucidate the opaque relations between genes and forms by articulating intermediary physical mechanisms. Here, we review how the evolution of shape is measured and related to genetics, how recent strides have been made in the dissection of developmental tissue mechanics, and how we expect these areas to coalesce in evo-devo studies in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elise A Loffet
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, 351 Engineering Terrace, 1210 Amsterdam Avenue, New York, NY 10027, USA
| | - John F Durel
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, 351 Engineering Terrace, 1210 Amsterdam Avenue, New York, NY 10027, USA
| | - Nandan L Nerurkar
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, 351 Engineering Terrace, 1210 Amsterdam Avenue, New York, NY 10027, USA
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Joy MSH, Nall DL, Emon B, Lee KY, Barishman A, Ahmed M, Rahman S, Selvin PR, Saif MTA. Synapses without tension fail to fire in an in vitro network of hippocampal neurons. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2311995120. [PMID: 38113266 PMCID: PMC10756289 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2311995120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurons in the brain communicate with each other at their synapses. It has long been understood that this communication occurs through biochemical processes. Here, we reveal that mechanical tension in neurons is essential for communication. Using in vitro rat hippocampal neurons, we find that 1) neurons become tout/tensed after forming synapses resulting in a contractile neural network, and 2) without this contractility, neurons fail to fire. To measure time evolution of network contractility in 3D (not 2D) extracellular matrix, we developed an ultrasensitive force sensor with 1 nN resolution. We employed Multi-Electrode Array and iGluSnFR, a glutamate sensor, to quantify neuronal firing at the network and at the single synapse scale, respectively. When neuron contractility is relaxed, both techniques show significantly reduced firing. Firing resumes when contractility is restored. This finding highlights the essential contribution of neural contractility in fundamental brain functions and has implications for our understanding of neural physiology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Md Saddam Hossain Joy
- Department of Mechanical Science and Engineering, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL61801
| | - Duncan L. Nall
- Department of Physics and Center for Biophysics and Quantitative Biology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL61801
| | - Bashar Emon
- Department of Mechanical Science and Engineering, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL61801
| | - Ki Yun Lee
- Department of Mechanical Science and Engineering, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL61801
| | - Alexandra Barishman
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL61801
| | - Movviz Ahmed
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL61801
| | - Saeedur Rahman
- Department of Mechanical Science and Engineering, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL61801
| | - Paul R. Selvin
- Department of Physics and Center for Biophysics and Quantitative Biology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL61801
| | - M. Taher A. Saif
- Department of Mechanical Science and Engineering, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL61801
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Lei M, Wang W, Zhang H, Gong J, Wang Z, Cai H, Yang X, Wang S, Ma C. Cell-cell and cell-matrix adhesion regulated by Piezo1 is critical for stiffness-dependent DRG neuron aggregation. Cell Rep 2023; 42:113522. [PMID: 38048221 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.113522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 10/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The dorsal root ganglion (DRG) is characterized by the dense clustering of primary sensory neuron bodies, with their axons extending to target tissues for sensory perception. The close physical proximity of DRG neurons facilitates the integration and amplification of somatosensation, ensuring normal physiological functioning. However, the mechanism underlying DRG neuron aggregation was unclear. In our study, we culture DRG neurons from newborn rats on substrates with varying stiffness and observe that the aggregation of DRG neurons is influenced by mechanical signals arising from substrate stiffness. Moreover, we identify Piezo1 as the mechanosensor responsible for DRG neurons' ability to sense different substrate stiffness. We further demonstrate that the Piezo1-calpain-integrin-β1/E-cadherin signaling cascade regulates the aggregation of DRG neurons. These findings deepen our understanding of the mechanisms involved in histogenesis and potential disease development, as mechanical signals arising from substrate stiffness play a crucial role in these processes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mengshi Lei
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Weiyou Wang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Hong Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Jihong Gong
- Key Laboratory of Cognitive Science, Laboratory of Membrane Ion Channels and Medicine, College of Biomedical Engineering, South-Central Minzu University, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhili Wang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Hanmian Cai
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Xiaofei Yang
- Key Laboratory of Cognitive Science, Laboratory of Membrane Ion Channels and Medicine, College of Biomedical Engineering, South-Central Minzu University, Wuhan, China
| | - Shen Wang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Cong Ma
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China.
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Raha A, Wu Y, Zhong L, Raveenthiran J, Hong M, Taiyab A, Wang L, Wang B, Geng F. Exploring Piezo1, Piezo2, and TMEM150C in human brain tissues and their correlation with brain biomechanical characteristics. Mol Brain 2023; 16:83. [PMID: 38124148 PMCID: PMC10731887 DOI: 10.1186/s13041-023-01071-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Unraveling the intricate relationship between mechanical factors and brain activity is a pivotal endeavor, yet the underlying mechanistic model of signaling pathways in brain mechanotransduction remains enigmatic. To bridge this gap, we introduced an in situ multi-scale platform, through which we delineate comprehensive brain biomechanical traits in white matter (WM), grey-white matter junctions (GW junction), and the pons across human brain tissue from four distinct donors. We investigate the three-dimensional expression patterns of Piezo1, Piezo2, and TMEM150C, while also examining their associated histological features and mechanotransduction signaling networks, particularly focusing on the YAP/β-catenin axis. Our results showed that the biomechanical characteristics (including stiffness, spring term, and equilibrium stress) associated with Piezo1 vary depending on the specific region. Moving beyond Piezo1, our result demonstrated the significant positive correlations between Piezo2 expression and stiffness in the WM. Meanwhile, the expression of Piezo2 and TMEM150C was shown to be correlated to viscoelastic properties in the pons and WM. Given the heterogeneity of brain tissue, we investigated the three-dimensional expression of Piezo1, Piezo2, and TMEM150C. Our results suggested that three mechanosensitive proteins remained consistent across different vertical planes within the tissue sections. Our findings not only establish Piezo1, Piezo2, and TMEM150C as pivotal mechanosensors that regulate the region-specific mechanotransduction activities but also unveil the paradigm connecting brain mechanical properties and mechanotransduction activities and the variations between individuals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arjun Raha
- School of Biomedical Engineering, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Yuning Wu
- School of Biomedical Engineering, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Lily Zhong
- Integrated Biomedical Engineering and Health Sciences Program, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Jatheeshan Raveenthiran
- Integrated Biomedical Engineering and Health Sciences Program, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Minji Hong
- Integrated Biomedical Engineering and Health Sciences Program, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Aftab Taiyab
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Li Wang
- Department of Anesthesia, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Bill Wang
- Department of Surgery, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Fei Geng
- W Booth School of Engineering Practice and Technology, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Böhringer D, Bauer A, Moravec I, Bischof L, Kah D, Mark C, Grundy TJ, Görlach E, O'Neill GM, Budday S, Strissel PL, Strick R, Malandrino A, Gerum R, Mak M, Rausch M, Fabry B. Fiber alignment in 3D collagen networks as a biophysical marker for cell contractility. Matrix Biol 2023; 124:39-48. [PMID: 37967726 PMCID: PMC10872942 DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2023.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 10/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023]
Abstract
Cells cultured in 3D fibrous biopolymer matrices exert traction forces on their environment that induce deformations and remodeling of the fiber network. By measuring these deformations, the traction forces can be reconstructed if the mechanical properties of the matrix and the force-free matrix configuration are known. These requirements limit the applicability of traction force reconstruction in practice. In this study, we test whether force-induced matrix remodeling can instead be used as a proxy for cellular traction forces. We measure the traction forces of hepatic stellate cells and different glioblastoma cell lines and quantify matrix remodeling by measuring the fiber orientation and fiber density around these cells. In agreement with simulated fiber networks, we demonstrate that changes in local fiber orientation and density are directly related to cell forces. By resolving Rho-kinase (ROCK) inhibitor-induced changes of traction forces, fiber alignment, and fiber density in hepatic stellate cells, we show that the method is suitable for drug screening assays. We conclude that differences in local fiber orientation and density, which are easily measurable, can be used as a qualitative proxy for changes in traction forces. The method is available as an open-source Python package with a graphical user interface.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David Böhringer
- Department of Physics, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany; Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Andreas Bauer
- Department of Physics, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Ivana Moravec
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Lars Bischof
- Department of Physics, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Delf Kah
- Department of Physics, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Christoph Mark
- Department of Physics, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Thomas J Grundy
- Children's Cancer Research Unit, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, University of Sydney, Australia
| | | | - Geraldine M O'Neill
- Children's Cancer Research Unit, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, University of Sydney, Australia
| | - Silvia Budday
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Pamela L Strissel
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany; Department of Pathology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Reiner Strick
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Andrea Malandrino
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Universitat Politécnica de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Richard Gerum
- Department of Physics, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany; Department of Physics and Astronomy, York University, Toronto, Canada
| | - Michael Mak
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, USA.
| | - Martin Rausch
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Ben Fabry
- Department of Physics, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Carnicer-Lombarte A, Barone DG, Wronowski F, Malliaras GG, Fawcett JW, Franze K. Regenerative capacity of neural tissue scales with changes in tissue mechanics post injury. Biomaterials 2023; 303:122393. [PMID: 37977006 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2023.122393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Spinal cord injuries have devastating consequences for humans, as mammalian neurons of the central nervous system (CNS) cannot regenerate. In the peripheral nervous system (PNS), however, neurons may regenerate to restore lost function following injury. While mammalian CNS tissue softens after injury, how PNS tissue mechanics changes in response to mechanical trauma is currently poorly understood. Here we characterised mechanical rat nerve tissue properties before and after in vivo crush and transection injuries using atomic force microscopy-based indentation measurements. Unlike CNS tissue, PNS tissue significantly stiffened after both types of tissue damage. This nerve tissue stiffening strongly correlated with an increase in collagen I levels. Schwann cells, which crucially support PNS regeneration, became more motile and proliferative on stiffer substrates in vitro, suggesting that changes in tissue stiffness may play a key role in facilitating or impeding nervous system regeneration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alejandro Carnicer-Lombarte
- John van Geest Centre for Brain Repair, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 0PY, UK; Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 3DY, UK; Electrical Engineering Division, Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB3 0FA, UK.
| | - Damiano G Barone
- John van Geest Centre for Brain Repair, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 0PY, UK
| | - Filip Wronowski
- Electrical Engineering Division, Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB3 0FA, UK
| | - George G Malliaras
- Electrical Engineering Division, Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB3 0FA, UK
| | - James W Fawcett
- John van Geest Centre for Brain Repair, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 0PY, UK; Centre for Reconstructive Neuroscience, Institute for Experimental Medicine CAS, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Kristian Franze
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 3DY, UK; Institute of Medical Physics and Micro-Tissue Engineering, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91052, Erlangen, Germany; Max-Planck-Zentrum für Physik und Medizin, 91054, Erlangen, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Saeidi S, Kainz MP, Dalbosco M, Terzano M, Holzapfel GA. Histology-informed multiscale modeling of human brain white matter. Sci Rep 2023; 13:19641. [PMID: 37949949 PMCID: PMC10638412 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-46600-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
In this study, we propose a novel micromechanical model for the brain white matter, which is described as a heterogeneous material with a complex network of axon fibers embedded in a soft ground matrix. We developed this model in the framework of RVE-based multiscale theories in combination with the finite element method and the embedded element technique for embedding the fibers. Microstructural features such as axon diameter, orientation and tortuosity are incorporated into the model through distributions derived from histological data. The constitutive law of both the fibers and the matrix is described by isotropic one-term Ogden functions. The hyperelastic response of the tissue is derived by homogenizing the microscopic stress fields with multiscale boundary conditions to ensure kinematic compatibility. The macroscale homogenized stress is employed in an inverse parameter identification procedure to determine the hyperelastic constants of axons and ground matrix, based on experiments on human corpus callosum. Our results demonstrate the fundamental effect of axon tortuosity on the mechanical behavior of the brain's white matter. By combining histological information with the multiscale theory, the proposed framework can substantially contribute to the understanding of mechanotransduction phenomena, shed light on the biomechanics of a healthy brain, and potentially provide insights into neurodegenerative processes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Saeideh Saeidi
- Institute of Biomechanics, Graz University of Technology, Graz, Austria
| | - Manuel P Kainz
- Institute of Biomechanics, Graz University of Technology, Graz, Austria
| | - Misael Dalbosco
- Institute of Biomechanics, Graz University of Technology, Graz, Austria
- GRANTE - Department of Mechanical Engineering, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC, Brazil
| | - Michele Terzano
- Institute of Biomechanics, Graz University of Technology, Graz, Austria
| | - Gerhard A Holzapfel
- Institute of Biomechanics, Graz University of Technology, Graz, Austria.
- Department of Structural Engineering, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway.
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Yang F, Ding W, Fu X, Chen W, Tang J. Photoacoustic elasto-viscography and optical coherence microscopy for multi-parametric ex vivo brain imaging. BIOMEDICAL OPTICS EXPRESS 2023; 14:5615-5628. [PMID: 38021134 PMCID: PMC10659785 DOI: 10.1364/boe.503847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Revised: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Optical coherence microscopy (OCM) has shown the importance of imaging ex vivo brain slices at the microscopic level for a better understanding of the disease pathology and mechanism. However, the current OCM-based techniques are mainly limited to providing the tissue's optical properties, such as the attenuation coefficient, scattering coefficient, and cell architecture. Imaging the tissue's mechanical properties, including the elasticity and viscosity, in addition to the optical properties, to provide a comprehensive multi-parametric assessment of the sample has remained a challenge. Here, we present an integrated photoacoustic elasto-viscography (PAEV) and OCM imaging system to measure the sample's optical absorption coefficient, attenuation coefficient, and mechanical properties, including elasticity and viscosity. The obtained mechanical and optical properties were consistent with anatomical features observed in the PAEV and OCM images. The elasticity and viscosity maps showed rich variations of microstructural mechanical properties of mice brain. In the reconstructed elasto-viscogram of brain slices, greater elasticity, and lower viscosity were observed in white matter than in gray matter. With the ability to provide multi-parametric properties of the sample, the PAEV-OCM system holds the potential for a more comprehensive study of brain disease pathology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fen Yang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Advanced Biomaterials, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518055, China
| | - Wenguo Ding
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Advanced Biomaterials, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518055, China
| | - Xinlei Fu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Advanced Biomaterials, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518055, China
| | - Wei Chen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Advanced Biomaterials, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518055, China
| | - Jianbo Tang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Advanced Biomaterials, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518055, China
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Walsh CM, Wychowaniec JK, Costello L, Brougham DF, Dooley D. An In Vitro and Ex Vivo Analysis of the Potential of GelMA Hydrogels as a Therapeutic Platform for Preclinical Spinal Cord Injury. Adv Healthc Mater 2023; 12:e2300951. [PMID: 37114899 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202300951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a devastating condition with no curative therapy currently available. Immunomodulation can be applied as a therapeutic strategy to drive alternative immune cell activation and promote a proregenerative injury microenvironment. Locally injected hydrogels carrying immunotherapeutic cargo directly to injured tissue offer an encouraging treatment approach from an immunopharmacological perspective. Gelatin methacrylate (GelMA) hydrogels are promising in this regard, however, detailed analysis on the immunogenicity of GelMA in the specific context of the SCI microenvironment is lacking. Here, the immunogenicity of GelMA hydrogels formulated with a translationally relevant photoinitiator is analyzed in vitro and ex vivo. 3% (w/v) GelMA, synthesized from gelatin type-A, is first identified as the optimal hydrogel formulation based on mechanical properties and cytocompatibility. Additionally, 3% GelMA-A does not alter the expression profile of key polarization markers in BV2 microglia or RAW264.7 macrophages after 48 h. Finally, it is shown for the first time that 3% GelMA-A can support the ex vivo culture of primary murine organotypic spinal cord slices for 14 days with no direct effect on glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP+ ) astrocyte or ionized calcium-binding adaptor molecule 1 (Iba-1+ ) microglia reactivity. This provides evidence that GelMA hydrogels can act as an immunotherapeutic hydrogel-based platform for preclinical SCI.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ciara M Walsh
- School of Medicine, Health Sciences Centre, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, D04 V1W8, Ireland
- UCD Conway Institute of Biomolecular & Biomedical Research, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, D04 V1W8, Ireland
| | - Jacek K Wychowaniec
- School of Chemistry, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, D04 V1W8, Ireland
- AO Research Institute Davos, Clavadelerstrasse 8, Davos, 7270, Switzerland
| | - Louise Costello
- School of Medicine, Health Sciences Centre, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, D04 V1W8, Ireland
| | - Dermot F Brougham
- School of Chemistry, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, D04 V1W8, Ireland
| | - Dearbhaile Dooley
- School of Medicine, Health Sciences Centre, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, D04 V1W8, Ireland
- UCD Conway Institute of Biomolecular & Biomedical Research, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, D04 V1W8, Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Sáez P, Borau C, Antonovaite N, Franze K. Brain tissue mechanics is governed by microscale relations of the tissue constituents. Biomaterials 2023; 301:122273. [PMID: 37639974 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2023.122273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
Local mechanical tissue properties are a critical regulator of cell function in the central nervous system (CNS) during development and disorder. However, we still don't fully understand how the mechanical properties of individual tissue constituents, such as cell nuclei or myelin, determine tissue mechanics. Here we developed a model predicting local tissue mechanics, which induces non-affine deformations of the tissue components. Using the mouse hippocampus and cerebellum as model systems, we show that considering individual tissue components alone, as identified by immunohistochemistry, is not sufficient to reproduce the local mechanical properties of CNS tissue. Our results suggest that brain tissue shows a universal response to applied forces that depends not only on the amount and stiffness of the individual tissue constituents but also on the way how they assemble. Our model may unify current incongruences between the mechanics of soft biological tissues and the underlying constituents and facilitate the design of better biomedical materials and engineered tissues. To this end, we provide a freely-available platform to predict local tissue elasticity upon providing immunohistochemistry images and stiffness values for the constituents of the tissue.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- P Sáez
- Laboratori de Càlcul Numèric (LaCàN), Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain; Institute of Mathematics of UPC-BarcelonaTech (IMTech), Barcelona, Spain
| | - C Borau
- Multiscale in Mechanical and Biological Engineering, Aragon Institute of Engineering Research (I3A), Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Zaragoza, 50018, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - N Antonovaite
- Department of Physics and Astronomy and LaserLab Amsterdam, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1085, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - K Franze
- Department of Physiology, Development, and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge, CB2 3DY, UK; Institute of Medical Physics and Microtissue Engineering, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91052, Erlangen, Germany; Max-Planck-Zentrum für Physik und Medizin, 91054, Erlangen, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|