1
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Qiao N, Dumas V, Bergheau A, Ouillon L, Laroche N, Privet-Thieulin C, Perrot JL, Zahouani H. Contactless mechanical stimulation of the skin using shear waves. J Mech Behav Biomed Mater 2024; 156:106597. [PMID: 38810542 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2024.106597] [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: 12/12/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
The skin, the outermost organ of the human body, is vital for sensing and responding to stimuli through mechanotransduction. It is constantly exposed to mechanical stress. Consequently, various mechanical therapies, including compression, massage, and microneedling, have become routine practices for skin healing and regeneration. However, these traditional methods require direct skin contact, restricting their applicability. To address this constraint, we developed shear wave stimulation (SWS), a contactless mechanical stimulation technique. The effectiveness of SWS was compared with that of a commercial compression bioreactor used on reconstructed skin at various stages of maturity. Despite the distinct stimulus conditions applied by the two methods, SWS yielded remarkable outcomes, similar to the effects of the compression bioreactor. It significantly increased the shear modulus of tissue-engineered skin, heightened the density of collagen and elastin fibers, and resulted in an augmentation of fibroblasts in terms of their number and length. Notably, SWS exhibited diverse effects in the low- and high-frequency modes, highlighting the importance of fine-tuning the stimulus intensity. These results unequivocally demonstrated the capability of SWS to enhance the mechanical functions of the skin in vitro, making it a promising option for addressing wound healing and stretch mark recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Qiao
- Univ Lyon, Ecole Centrale de Lyon, CNRS, ENTPE, LTDS, UMR5513, 69130, Ecully, France.
| | - Virginie Dumas
- Univ Lyon, Ecole Centrale de Lyon, CNRS, ENTPE, LTDS, UMR5513, ENISE, 42023, Saint Etienne, France
| | - Alexandre Bergheau
- Univ Lyon, Ecole Centrale de Lyon, CNRS, ENTPE, LTDS, UMR5513, 69130, Ecully, France
| | - Lucas Ouillon
- Univ Lyon, Ecole Centrale de Lyon, CNRS, ENTPE, LTDS, UMR5513, 69130, Ecully, France
| | - Norbert Laroche
- INSERM U1059-SAINBIOSE, University of Lyon, Jean Monnet University, 42270 Saint Priest en Jarez, France
| | | | - Jean-Luc Perrot
- Département de Dermatologie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Saint-Etienne, 42055, Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Hassan Zahouani
- Univ Lyon, Ecole Centrale de Lyon, CNRS, ENTPE, LTDS, UMR5513, 69130, Ecully, France.
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2
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Mao Y, Wickström SA. Mechanical state transitions in the regulation of tissue form and function. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol 2024; 25:654-670. [PMID: 38600372 DOI: 10.1038/s41580-024-00719-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
From embryonic development, postnatal growth and adult homeostasis to reparative and disease states, cells and tissues undergo constant changes in genome activity, cell fate, proliferation, movement, metabolism and growth. Importantly, these biological state transitions are coupled to changes in the mechanical and material properties of cells and tissues, termed mechanical state transitions. These mechanical states share features with physical states of matter, liquids and solids. Tissues can switch between mechanical states by changing behavioural dynamics or connectivity between cells. Conversely, these changes in tissue mechanical properties are known to control cell and tissue function, most importantly the ability of cells to move or tissues to deform. Thus, tissue mechanical state transitions are implicated in transmitting information across biological length and time scales, especially during processes of early development, wound healing and diseases such as cancer. This Review will focus on the biological basis of tissue-scale mechanical state transitions, how they emerge from molecular and cellular interactions, and their roles in organismal development, homeostasis, regeneration and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanlan Mao
- Laboratory for Molecular Cell Biology, University College London, London, UK.
- Institute for the Physics of Living Systems, University College London, London, UK.
| | - Sara A Wickström
- Department of Cell and Tissue Dynamics, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Münster, Germany.
- Stem Cells and Metabolism Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.
- Helsinki Institute of Life Science, Biomedicum Helsinki, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.
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3
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Cao H, Wang M, Ding J, Lin Y. Hydrogels: a promising therapeutic platform for inflammatory skin diseases treatment. J Mater Chem B 2024. [PMID: 39045804 DOI: 10.1039/d4tb00887a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/25/2024]
Abstract
Inflammatory skin diseases, such as psoriasis and atopic dermatitis, pose significant health challenges due to their long-lasting nature, potential for serious complications, and significant health risks, which requires treatments that are both effective and exhibit minimal side effects. Hydrogels offer an innovative solution due to their biocompatibility, tunability, controlled drug delivery capabilities, enhanced treatment adherence and minimized side effects risk. This review explores the mechanisms that guide the design of hydrogel therapeutic platforms from multiple perspectives, focusing on the components of hydrogels, their adjustable physical and chemical properties, and their interactions with cells and drugs to underscore their clinical potential. We also examine various therapeutic agents for psoriasis and atopic dermatitis that can be integrated into hydrogels, including traditional drugs, novel compounds targeting oxidative stress, small molecule drugs, biologics, and emerging therapies, offering insights into their mechanisms and advantages. Additionally, we review clinical trial data to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of hydrogel-based treatments in managing psoriasis and atopic dermatitis under complex disease conditions. Lastly, we discuss the current challenges and future opportunities for hydrogel therapeutics in treating psoriasis and atopic dermatitis, such as improving skin barrier penetration and developing multifunctional hydrogels, and highlight emerging opportunities to enhance long-term safety and stability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huali Cao
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, National University of Singapore, 4 Engineering Drive 4, 117585, Singapore.
- Department of Dermatology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Ming Wang
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, National University of Singapore, 4 Engineering Drive 4, 117585, Singapore.
| | - Jianwei Ding
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, National University of Singapore, 4 Engineering Drive 4, 117585, Singapore.
| | - Yiliang Lin
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, National University of Singapore, 4 Engineering Drive 4, 117585, Singapore.
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4
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Eliahoo P, Setayesh H, Hoffman T, Wu Y, Li S, Treweek JB. Viscoelasticity in 3D Cell Culture and Regenerative Medicine: Measurement Techniques and Biological Relevance. ACS MATERIALS AU 2024; 4:354-384. [PMID: 39006396 PMCID: PMC11240420 DOI: 10.1021/acsmaterialsau.3c00038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 10/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
The field of mechanobiology is gaining prominence due to recent findings that show cells sense and respond to the mechanical properties of their environment through a process called mechanotransduction. The mechanical properties of cells, cell organelles, and the extracellular matrix are understood to be viscoelastic. Various technologies have been researched and developed for measuring the viscoelasticity of biological materials, which may provide insight into both the cellular mechanisms and the biological functions of mechanotransduction. Here, we explain the concept of viscoelasticity and introduce the major techniques that have been used to measure the viscoelasticity of various soft materials in different length- and timescale frames. The topology of the material undergoing testing, the geometry of the probe, the magnitude of the exerted stress, and the resulting deformation should be carefully considered to choose a proper technique for each application. Lastly, we discuss several applications of viscoelasticity in 3D cell culture and tissue models for regenerative medicine, including organoids, organ-on-a-chip systems, engineered tissue constructs, and tunable viscoelastic hydrogels for 3D bioprinting and cell-based therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Payam Eliahoo
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90089 United States
| | - Hesam Setayesh
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90089 United States
| | - Tyler Hoffman
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095 United States
| | - Yifan Wu
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095 United States
| | - Song Li
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095 United States
| | - Jennifer B Treweek
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90089 United States
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5
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Pathni A, Wagh K, Rey-Suarez I, Upadhyaya A. Mechanical regulation of lymphocyte activation and function. J Cell Sci 2024; 137:jcs219030. [PMID: 38995113 PMCID: PMC11267459 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.219030] [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: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Mechanosensing, or how cells sense and respond to the physical environment, is crucial for many aspects of biological function, ranging from cell movement during development to cancer metastasis, the immune response and gene expression driving cell fate determination. Relevant physical stimuli include the stiffness of the extracellular matrix, contractile forces, shear flows in blood vessels, complex topography of the cellular microenvironment and membrane protein mobility. Although mechanosensing has been more widely studied in non-immune cells, it has become increasingly clear that physical cues profoundly affect the signaling function of cells of the immune system. In this Review, we summarize recent studies on mechanical regulation of immune cells, specifically lymphocytes, and explore how the force-generating cytoskeletal machinery might mediate mechanosensing. We discuss general principles governing mechanical regulation of lymphocyte function, spanning from the molecular scale of receptor activation to cellular responses to mechanical stimuli.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aashli Pathni
- Biological Sciences Graduate Program, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA
| | - Kaustubh Wagh
- Department of Physics, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA
- Laboratory of Receptor Biology and Gene Expression, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Ivan Rey-Suarez
- Insitute for Physical Science and Technology, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA
- Microcore, Universidad de Los Andes, Bogota, DC 111711, USA
| | - Arpita Upadhyaya
- Biological Sciences Graduate Program, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA
- Department of Physics, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA
- Insitute for Physical Science and Technology, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA
- Biophysics Program, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA
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6
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Ding S, Chen Y, Huang C, Song L, Liang Z, Wei B. Perception and response of skeleton to mechanical stress. Phys Life Rev 2024; 49:77-94. [PMID: 38564907 DOI: 10.1016/j.plrev.2024.03.011] [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: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Mechanical stress stands as a fundamental factor in the intricate processes governing the growth, development, morphological shaping, and maintenance of skeletal mass. The profound influence of stress in shaping the skeletal framework prompts the assertion that stress essentially births the skeleton. Despite this acknowledgment, the mechanisms by which the skeleton perceives and responds to mechanical stress remain enigmatic. In this comprehensive review, our scrutiny focuses on the structural composition and characteristics of sclerotin, leading us to posit that it serves as the primary structure within the skeleton responsible for bearing and perceiving mechanical stress. Furthermore, we propose that osteocytes within the sclerotin emerge as the principal mechanical-sensitive cells, finely attuned to perceive mechanical stress. And a detailed analysis was conducted on the possible transmission pathways of mechanical stress from the extracellular matrix to the nucleus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sicheng Ding
- Department of Minimally invasive spine surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang 524001, China
| | - Yiren Chen
- Department of Minimally invasive spine surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang 524001, China
| | - Chengshuo Huang
- Department of Minimally invasive spine surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang 524001, China
| | - Lijun Song
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang 524001, China
| | - Zhen Liang
- Department of Minimally invasive spine surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang 524001, China.
| | - Bo Wei
- Department of Minimally invasive spine surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang 524001, China.
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7
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Lu Z, Tenjimbayashi M, Zhou J, Nakanishi J. Ultimately Adaptive Fluid Interfacial Phospholipid Membranes Unveiled Unanticipated High Cellular Mechanical Work. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2403396. [PMID: 38613213 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202403396] [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: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Abstract
Living cells actively interact biochemically and mechanically with the surrounding extracellular matrices (ECMs) and undergo dramatic morphological and dimensional transitions, concomitantly remodeling ECMs. However, there is no suitable method to quantitatively discuss the contribution of mechanical interactions in such mutually adaptive processes. Herein, a highly deformable "living" cellular scaffold is developed to evaluate overall mechanical energy transfer between cell and ECMs. It is based on the water-perfluorocarbon interface decorated with phospholipids bearing a cell-adhesive ligand and fluorescent tag. The bioinert nature of the phospholipid membranes prevents the formation of solid-like protein nanofilms at the fluid interface, enabling to visualize and quantify cellular mechanical work against the ultimately adaptive model ECM. A new cellular wetting regime is identified, wherein interface deformation proceeds to cell flattening, followed by its eventual restoration. The cellular mechanical work during this adaptive wetting process is one order of magnitude higher than those reported with conventional elastic platforms. The behavior of viscous liquid drops at the air-water interface can simulate cellular adaptive wetting, suggesting that overall viscoelasticity of the cell body predominates the emergent wetting regime and regulates mechanical output. Cellular-force-driven high-energy states on the adaptive platform can be useful for cell fate manipulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhou Lu
- Research Center for Macromolecules and Biomaterials, National Institute for Materials Science (NIMS), 1-1 Namiki, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-0044, Japan
| | - Mizuki Tenjimbayashi
- Research Center for Materials Nanoarchitectonics (MANA), NIMS, 1-1 Namiki, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-0044, Japan
| | - Junhong Zhou
- Research Center for Macromolecules and Biomaterials, National Institute for Materials Science (NIMS), 1-1 Namiki, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-0044, Japan
- Graduate School of Advanced Science and Engineering, Waseda University, 3-4-1 Okubo, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 169-8555, Japan
| | - Jun Nakanishi
- Research Center for Macromolecules and Biomaterials, National Institute for Materials Science (NIMS), 1-1 Namiki, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-0044, Japan
- Graduate School of Advanced Science and Engineering, Waseda University, 3-4-1 Okubo, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 169-8555, Japan
- Graduate School of Advanced Engineering, Tokyo University of Science, 6-3-1 Niijuku, Katsushika-ku, Tokyo, 125-8585, Japan
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8
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de Jesus M, Settle AH, Vorselen D, Gaetjens TK, Galiano M, Romin Y, Lee E, Wong YY, Fu TM, Santosa E, Winer BY, Tamzalit F, Wang MS, Santella A, Bao Z, Sun JC, Shah P, Theriot JA, Abel SM, Huse M. Single-cell topographical profiling of the immune synapse reveals a biomechanical signature of cytotoxicity. Sci Immunol 2024; 9:eadj2898. [PMID: 38941478 DOI: 10.1126/sciimmunol.adj2898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/30/2024]
Abstract
Immune cells have intensely physical lifestyles characterized by structural plasticity and force exertion. To investigate whether specific immune functions require stereotyped mechanical outputs, we used super-resolution traction force microscopy to compare the immune synapses formed by cytotoxic T cells with contacts formed by other T cell subsets and by macrophages. T cell synapses were globally compressive, which was fundamentally different from the pulling and pinching associated with macrophage phagocytosis. Spectral decomposition of force exertion patterns from each cell type linked cytotoxicity to compressive strength, local protrusiveness, and the induction of complex, asymmetric topography. These features were validated as cytotoxic drivers by genetic disruption of cytoskeletal regulators, live imaging of synaptic secretion, and in silico analysis of interfacial distortion. Synapse architecture and force exertion were sensitive to target stiffness and size, suggesting that the mechanical potentiation of killing is biophysically adaptive. We conclude that cellular cytotoxicity and, by implication, other effector responses are supported by specialized patterns of efferent force.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel de Jesus
- Louis V. Gerstner, Jr., Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Alexander H Settle
- Louis V. Gerstner, Jr., Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Daan Vorselen
- Cell Biology and Immunology Group, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
- Department of Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Thomas K Gaetjens
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA
| | - Michael Galiano
- Molecular Cytology Core Facility, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Yevgeniy Romin
- Molecular Cytology Core Facility, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Esther Lee
- Immunology & Molecular Pathogenesis Program, Weill Cornell Medicine Graduate School of Medical Sciences, New York, NY, USA
| | - Yung Yu Wong
- Louis V. Gerstner, Jr., Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Tian-Ming Fu
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA
| | - Endi Santosa
- Immunology & Molecular Pathogenesis Program, Weill Cornell Medicine Graduate School of Medical Sciences, New York, NY, USA
| | - Benjamin Y Winer
- Immunology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Fella Tamzalit
- Immunology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Mitchell S Wang
- Pharmacology Program, Weill Cornell Medicine Graduate School of Medical Sciences, New York, NY, USA
| | - Anthony Santella
- Molecular Cytology Core Facility, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Zhirong Bao
- Developmental Biology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Joseph C Sun
- Immunology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Pavak Shah
- Department of Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Julie A Theriot
- Department of Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Steven M Abel
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA
| | - Morgan Huse
- Immunology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
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9
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Elblová P, Lunova M, Dejneka A, Jirsa M, Lunov O. Impact of mechanical cues on key cell functions and cell-nanoparticle interactions. DISCOVER NANO 2024; 19:106. [PMID: 38907808 PMCID: PMC11193707 DOI: 10.1186/s11671-024-04052-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/24/2024]
Abstract
In recent years, it has been recognized that mechanical forces play an important regulative role in living organisms and possess a direct impact on crucial cell functions, ranging from cell growth to maintenance of tissue homeostasis. Advancements in mechanobiology have revealed the profound impact of mechanical signals on diverse cellular responses that are cell type specific. Notably, numerous studies have elucidated the pivotal role of different mechanical cues as regulatory factors influencing various cellular processes, including cell spreading, locomotion, differentiation, and proliferation. Given these insights, it is unsurprising that the responses of cells regulated by physical forces are intricately linked to the modulation of nanoparticle uptake kinetics and processing. This complex interplay underscores the significance of understanding the mechanical microenvironment in shaping cellular behaviors and, consequently, influencing how cells interact with and process nanoparticles. Nevertheless, our knowledge on how localized physical forces affect the internalization and processing of nanoparticles by cells remains rather limited. A significant gap exists in the literature concerning a systematic analysis of how mechanical cues might bias the interactions between nanoparticles and cells. Hence, our aim in this review is to provide a comprehensive and critical analysis of the existing knowledge regarding the influence of mechanical cues on the complicated dynamics of cell-nanoparticle interactions. By addressing this gap, we would like to contribute to a detailed understanding of the role that mechanical forces play in shaping the complex interplay between cells and nanoparticles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petra Elblová
- Department of Optical and Biophysical Systems, Institute of Physics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, 18200, Prague, Czech Republic
- Faculty of Mathematics and Physics, Charles University, Ke Karlovu 3, 121 16, Prague 2, Czech Republic
| | - Mariia Lunova
- Department of Optical and Biophysical Systems, Institute of Physics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, 18200, Prague, Czech Republic
- Institute for Clinical & Experimental Medicine (IKEM), 14021, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Alexandr Dejneka
- Department of Optical and Biophysical Systems, Institute of Physics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, 18200, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Milan Jirsa
- Institute for Clinical & Experimental Medicine (IKEM), 14021, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Oleg Lunov
- Department of Optical and Biophysical Systems, Institute of Physics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, 18200, Prague, Czech Republic.
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10
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Hu Y, Li H, Zhang C, Feng J, Wang W, Chen W, Yu M, Liu X, Zhang X, Liu Z. DNA-based ForceChrono probes for deciphering single-molecule force dynamics in living cells. Cell 2024; 187:3445-3459.e15. [PMID: 38838668 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2024.05.008] [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: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
Understanding cellular force transmission dynamics is crucial in mechanobiology. We developed the DNA-based ForceChrono probe to measure force magnitude, duration, and loading rates at the single-molecule level within living cells. The ForceChrono probe circumvents the limitations of in vitro single-molecule force spectroscopy by enabling direct measurements within the dynamic cellular environment. Our findings reveal integrin force loading rates of 0.5-2 pN/s and durations ranging from tens of seconds in nascent adhesions to approximately 100 s in mature focal adhesions. The probe's robust and reversible design allows for continuous monitoring of these dynamic changes as cells undergo morphological transformations. Additionally, by analyzing how mutations, deletions, or pharmacological interventions affect these parameters, we can deduce the functional roles of specific proteins or domains in cellular mechanotransduction. The ForceChrono probe provides detailed insights into the dynamics of mechanical forces, advancing our understanding of cellular mechanics and the molecular mechanisms of mechanotransduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuru Hu
- The Institute for Advanced Studies, TaiKang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei Province 430072, China
| | - Hongyun Li
- The Institute for Advanced Studies, TaiKang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei Province 430072, China.
| | - Chen Zhang
- The Institute for Advanced Studies, TaiKang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei Province 430072, China
| | - Jingjing Feng
- The Institute for Advanced Studies, TaiKang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei Province 430072, China
| | - Wenxu Wang
- The Institute for Advanced Studies, TaiKang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei Province 430072, China
| | - Wei Chen
- The Institute for Advanced Studies, TaiKang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei Province 430072, China
| | - Miao Yu
- The Institute for Advanced Studies, TaiKang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei Province 430072, China
| | - Xinping Liu
- The Institute for Advanced Studies, TaiKang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei Province 430072, China
| | - Xinghua Zhang
- The Institute for Advanced Studies, TaiKang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei Province 430072, China.
| | - Zheng Liu
- The Institute for Advanced Studies, TaiKang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei Province 430072, China.
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11
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Shen Y, Ori-McKenney KM. Microtubule-associated protein MAP7 promotes tubulin posttranslational modifications and cargo transport to enable osmotic adaptation. Dev Cell 2024; 59:1553-1570.e7. [PMID: 38574732 PMCID: PMC11187767 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2024.03.022] [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: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
Cells remodel their cytoskeletal networks to adapt to their environment. Here, we analyze the mechanisms utilized by the cell to tailor its microtubule landscape in response to changes in osmolarity that alter macromolecular crowding. By integrating live-cell imaging, ex vivo enzymatic assays, and in vitro reconstitution, we probe the impact of cytoplasmic density on microtubule-associated proteins (MAPs) and tubulin posttranslational modifications (PTMs). We find that human epithelial cells respond to fluctuations in cytoplasmic density by modulating microtubule acetylation, detyrosination, or MAP7 association without differentially affecting polyglutamylation, tyrosination, or MAP4 association. These MAP-PTM combinations alter intracellular cargo transport, enabling the cell to respond to osmotic challenges. We further dissect the molecular mechanisms governing tubulin PTM specification and find that MAP7 promotes acetylation and inhibits detyrosination. Our data identify MAP7 in modulating the tubulin code, resulting in microtubule cytoskeleton remodeling and alteration of intracellular transport as an integrated mechanism of cellular adaptation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusheng Shen
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Kassandra M Ori-McKenney
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA.
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12
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Moro-López M, Farré R, Otero J, Sunyer R. Trusting the forces of our cell lines. Cells Dev 2024:203931. [PMID: 38852676 DOI: 10.1016/j.cdev.2024.203931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2024] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
Cells isolated from their native tissues and cultured in vitro face different selection pressures than those cultured in vivo. These pressures induce a profound transformation that reshapes the cell, alters its genome, and transforms the way it senses and generates forces. In this perspective, we focus on the evidence that cells cultured on conventional polystyrene substrates display a fundamentally different mechanobiology than their in vivo counterparts. We explore the role of adhesion reinforcement in this transformation and to what extent it is reversible. We argue that this mechanoadaptation is often understood as a mechanical memory. We propose some strategies to mitigate the effects of on-plastic culture on mechanobiology, such as organoid-inspired protocols or mechanical priming. While isolating cells from their native tissues and culturing them on artificial substrates has revolutionized biomedical research, it has also transformed cellular forces. Only by understanding and controlling them, we can improve their truthfulness and validity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Moro-López
- Unit of Biophysics and Bioengineering, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ramon Farré
- Unit of Biophysics and Bioengineering, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Respiratorias (CIBER-RES), Barcelona, Spain; Institut Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jorge Otero
- Unit of Biophysics and Bioengineering, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Respiratorias (CIBER-RES), Barcelona, Spain; Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (IN2UB), University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Raimon Sunyer
- Unit of Biophysics and Bioengineering, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (IN2UB), University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Bioingeniería (CIBER-BBN), Barcelona, Spain.
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13
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Torabizadeh F, Talaei-Khozani T, Yaghobi A, Walker M, Mirzaei E. Enhancing chondrogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells through synergistic effects of cellulose nanocrystals and plastic compression in collagen-based hydrogel for cartilage formation. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 272:132848. [PMID: 38830491 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.132848] [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: 03/17/2024] [Revised: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
Collagen-based (COL) hydrogels could be a promising treatment option for injuries to the articular cartilage (AC) becuase of their similarity to AC native extra extracellular matrix. However, the high hydration of COL hydrogels poses challenges for AC's mechanical properties. To address this, we developed a hydrogel platform that incorporating cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) within COL and followed by plastic compression (PC) procedure to expel the excessive fluid out. This approach significantly improved the mechanical properties of the hydrogels and enhanced the chondrogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Radially confined PC resulted in higher collagen fibrillar densities together with reducing fibril-fibril distances. Compressed hydrogels containing CNCs exhibited the highest compressive modulus and toughness. MSCs encapsulated in these hydrogels were initially affected by PC, but their viability improved after 7 days. Furthermore, the morphology of the cells and their secretion of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) were positively influenced by the compressed COL-CNC hydrogel. Our findings shed light on the combined effects of PC and CNCs in improving the physical and mechanical properties of COL and their role in promoting chondrogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farid Torabizadeh
- Department of Medical Nanotechnology, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Tahereh Talaei-Khozani
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Atefeh Yaghobi
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Matthew Walker
- Centre for the Cellular Microenvironment, University of Glasgow, UK
| | - Esmaeil Mirzaei
- Department of Medical Nanotechnology, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
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14
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Tapia-Rojo R, Mora M, Garcia-Manyes S. Single-molecule magnetic tweezers to probe the equilibrium dynamics of individual proteins at physiologically relevant forces and timescales. Nat Protoc 2024; 19:1779-1806. [PMID: 38467905 PMCID: PMC7616092 DOI: 10.1038/s41596-024-00965-5] [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: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
The reversible unfolding and refolding of proteins is a regulatory mechanism of tissue elasticity and signalling used by cells to sense and adapt to extracellular and intracellular mechanical forces. However, most of these proteins exhibit low mechanical stability, posing technical challenges to the characterization of their conformational dynamics under force. Here, we detail step-by-step instructions for conducting single-protein nanomechanical experiments using ultra-stable magnetic tweezers, which enable the measurement of the equilibrium conformational dynamics of single proteins under physiologically relevant low forces applied over biologically relevant timescales. We report the basic principles determining the functioning of the magnetic tweezer instrument, review the protein design strategy and the fluid chamber preparation and detail the procedure to acquire and analyze the unfolding and refolding trajectories of individual proteins under force. This technique adds to the toolbox of single-molecule nanomechanical techniques and will be of particular interest to those interested in proteins involved in mechanosensing and mechanotransduction. The procedure takes 4 d to complete, plus an additional 6 d for protein cloning and production, requiring basic expertise in molecular biology, surface chemistry and data analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Tapia-Rojo
- Single Molecule Mechanobiology Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK.
- Department of Physics, Randall Centre for Cell and Molecular Biophysics, Centre for the Physical Science of Life and London Centre for Nanotechnology, King's College London, London, UK.
| | - Marc Mora
- Single Molecule Mechanobiology Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK.
- Department of Physics, Randall Centre for Cell and Molecular Biophysics, Centre for the Physical Science of Life and London Centre for Nanotechnology, King's College London, London, UK.
| | - Sergi Garcia-Manyes
- Single Molecule Mechanobiology Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK.
- Department of Physics, Randall Centre for Cell and Molecular Biophysics, Centre for the Physical Science of Life and London Centre for Nanotechnology, King's College London, London, UK.
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15
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Brooks JR, Heiman TC, Lorenzen SR, Mungloo I, Mirfendereski S, Park JS, Yang R. Transepithelial Electrical Impedance Increase Following Porous Substrate Electroporation Enables Label-Free Delivery. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2310221. [PMID: 38396158 PMCID: PMC11186731 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202310221] [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: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
Porous substrate electroporation (PSEP) is a promising new method for intracellular delivery, yet fundamentals of PSEP are not well understood, especially the intermediate processes leading to delivery. PSEP is an electrical method, yet the relationship between PSEP and electrical impedance remains underexplored. In this study, a device capable of measuring impedance and performing PSEP is developed and the changes in transepithelial electrical impedance (TEEI) are monitored. These measurements show TEEI increases following PSEP, unlike other electroporation methods. The authors then demonstrate how cell culture conditions and electrical waveforms influence this response. More importantly, TEEI response features are correlated with viability and delivery efficiency, allowing prediction of outcomes without fluorescent cargo, imaging, or image processing. This label-free delivery also allows improved temporal resolution of transient processes following PSEP, which the authors expect will aid PSEP optimization for new cell types and cargos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin R. Brooks
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, 68588, USA
| | - Tyler C. Heiman
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, 68588, USA
| | - Sawyer R. Lorenzen
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, 68588, USA
| | - Ikhlaas Mungloo
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, 68588, USA
| | - Siamak Mirfendereski
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, 68588, USA
| | - Jae Sung Park
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, 68588, USA
| | - Ruiguo Yang
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, 68588, USA
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16
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Ross R, Guo Y, Walker RN, Bergamaschi D, Shaw TJ, Connelly JT. Biomechanical Activation of Keloid Fibroblasts Promotes Lysosomal Remodeling and Exocytosis. J Invest Dermatol 2024:S0022-202X(24)00374-9. [PMID: 38763173 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2024.04.015] [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: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024]
Abstract
Keloids are a severe form of scarring for which the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood, and treatment options are limited or inconsistent. Although biomechanical forces are potential drivers of keloid scarring, the direct cellular responses to mechanical cues have yet to be defined. The aim of this study was to examine the distinct responses of normal dermal fibroblasts and keloid-derived fibroblasts (KDFs) to changes in extracellular matrix stiffness. When cultured on hydrogels mimicking the elasticity of normal or scarred skin, KDFs displayed greater stiffness-dependent increases in cell spreading, F-actin stress fiber formation, and focal adhesion assembly. Elevated actomyosin contractility in KDFs disrupted the normal mechanical regulation of extracellular matrix deposition and conferred resistance on myosin inhibitors. Transcriptional profiling identified mechanically regulated pathways in normal dermal fibroblasts and KDFs, including the actin cytoskeleton, Hippo signaling, and autophagy. Further analysis of the autophagy pathway revealed that autophagic flux was intact in both fibroblast populations and depended on actomyosin contractility. However, KDFs displayed marked changes in lysosome organization and an increase in lysosomal exocytosis, which was mediated by actomyosin contractility. Together, these findings demonstrate that KDFs possess an intrinsic increase in cytoskeletal tension, which heightens the response to extracellular matrix mechanics and promotes lysosomal exocytosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosie Ross
- Centre for Cell Biology and Cutaneous Research, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom; Centre for Inflammation Biology and Cancer Immunology, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Yiyang Guo
- Centre for Cell Biology and Cutaneous Research, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Rebecca N Walker
- Centre for Cell Biology and Cutaneous Research, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Daniele Bergamaschi
- Centre for Cell Biology and Cutaneous Research, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Tanya J Shaw
- Centre for Inflammation Biology and Cancer Immunology, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - John T Connelly
- Centre for Cell Biology and Cutaneous Research, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom.
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17
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Panagaki F, Tapia-Rojo R, Zhu T, Milmoe N, Paracuellos P, Board S, Mora M, Walker J, Rostkova E, Stannard A, Infante E, Garcia-Manyes S. Structural anisotropy results in mechano-directional transport of proteins across nuclear pores. NATURE PHYSICS 2024; 20:1180-1193. [PMID: 39036650 PMCID: PMC11254768 DOI: 10.1038/s41567-024-02438-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
The nuclear pore complex regulates nucleocytoplasmic transport by means of a tightly synchronized suite of biochemical reactions. The physicochemical properties of the translocating cargos are emerging as master regulators of their shuttling dynamics. As well as being affected by molecular weight and surface-exposed amino acids, the kinetics of the nuclear translocation of protein cargos also depend on their nanomechanical properties, yet the mechanisms underpinning the mechanoselectivity of the nuclear pore complex are unclear. Here we show that proteins with locally soft regions in the vicinity of the nuclear-localization sequence exhibit higher nuclear-import rates, and that such mechanoselectivity is specifically impaired upon knocking down nucleoporin 153, a key protein in the nuclear pore complex. This allows us to design a short, easy-to-express and chemically inert unstructured peptide tag that accelerates the nuclear-import rate of stiff protein cargos. We also show that U2OS osteosarcoma cells expressing the peptide-tagged myocardin-related transcription factor import this mechanosensitive protein to the nucleus at higher rates and display faster motility. Locally unstructured regions lower the free-energy barrier of protein translocation and might offer a control mechanism for nuclear mechanotransduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fani Panagaki
- Single Molecule Mechanobiology Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
- Department of Physics, Randall Centre for Cell and Molecular Biophysics, Centre for the Physical Science of Life and London Centre for Nanotechnology, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Rafael Tapia-Rojo
- Single Molecule Mechanobiology Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
- Department of Physics, Randall Centre for Cell and Molecular Biophysics, Centre for the Physical Science of Life and London Centre for Nanotechnology, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Tong Zhu
- Single Molecule Mechanobiology Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
- Department of Physics, Randall Centre for Cell and Molecular Biophysics, Centre for the Physical Science of Life and London Centre for Nanotechnology, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Natalie Milmoe
- Single Molecule Mechanobiology Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
- Department of Physics, Randall Centre for Cell and Molecular Biophysics, Centre for the Physical Science of Life and London Centre for Nanotechnology, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Patricia Paracuellos
- Single Molecule Mechanobiology Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
- Department of Physics, Randall Centre for Cell and Molecular Biophysics, Centre for the Physical Science of Life and London Centre for Nanotechnology, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Stephanie Board
- Single Molecule Mechanobiology Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
- Department of Physics, Randall Centre for Cell and Molecular Biophysics, Centre for the Physical Science of Life and London Centre for Nanotechnology, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Marc Mora
- Single Molecule Mechanobiology Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
- Department of Physics, Randall Centre for Cell and Molecular Biophysics, Centre for the Physical Science of Life and London Centre for Nanotechnology, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Jane Walker
- Single Molecule Mechanobiology Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
- Department of Physics, Randall Centre for Cell and Molecular Biophysics, Centre for the Physical Science of Life and London Centre for Nanotechnology, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Elena Rostkova
- Department of Physics, Randall Centre for Cell and Molecular Biophysics, Centre for the Physical Science of Life and London Centre for Nanotechnology, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Andrew Stannard
- Department of Physics, Randall Centre for Cell and Molecular Biophysics, Centre for the Physical Science of Life and London Centre for Nanotechnology, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Elvira Infante
- Single Molecule Mechanobiology Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
- Department of Physics, Randall Centre for Cell and Molecular Biophysics, Centre for the Physical Science of Life and London Centre for Nanotechnology, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Sergi Garcia-Manyes
- Single Molecule Mechanobiology Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
- Department of Physics, Randall Centre for Cell and Molecular Biophysics, Centre for the Physical Science of Life and London Centre for Nanotechnology, King’s College London, London, UK
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18
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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.
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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.
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19
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Huang Y, Chen T, Chen X, Chen X, Zhang J, Liu S, Lu M, Chen C, Ding X, Yang C, Huang R, Song Y. Decoding Biomechanical Cues Based on DNA Sensors. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2310330. [PMID: 38185740 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202310330] [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: 11/11/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
Biological systems perceive and respond to mechanical forces, generating mechanical cues to regulate life processes. Analyzing biomechanical forces has profound significance for understanding biological functions. Therefore, a series of molecular mechanical techniques have been developed, mainly including single-molecule force spectroscopy, traction force microscopy, and molecular tension sensor systems, which provide indispensable tools for advancing the field of mechanobiology. DNA molecules with a programmable structure and well-defined mechanical characteristics have attached much attention to molecular tension sensors as sensing elements, and are designed for the study of biomechanical forces to present biomechanical information with high sensitivity and resolution. In this work, a comprehensive overview of molecular mechanical technology is presented, with a particular focus on molecular tension sensor systems, specifically those based on DNA. Finally, the future development and challenges of DNA-based molecular tension sensor systems are looked upon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yihao Huang
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Spectrochemical Analysis and Instrumentation, the Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology of Fujian Province, State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, Department of Chemical Biology, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361005, China
| | - Ting Chen
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Spectrochemical Analysis and Instrumentation, the Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology of Fujian Province, State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, Department of Chemical Biology, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361005, China
| | - Xiaodie Chen
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Spectrochemical Analysis and Instrumentation, the Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology of Fujian Province, State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, Department of Chemical Biology, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361005, China
| | - Ximing Chen
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Spectrochemical Analysis and Instrumentation, the Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology of Fujian Province, State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, Department of Chemical Biology, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361005, China
| | - Jialu Zhang
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Spectrochemical Analysis and Instrumentation, the Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology of Fujian Province, State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, Department of Chemical Biology, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361005, China
| | - Sinong Liu
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Spectrochemical Analysis and Instrumentation, the Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology of Fujian Province, State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, Department of Chemical Biology, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361005, China
| | - Menghao Lu
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Spectrochemical Analysis and Instrumentation, the Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology of Fujian Province, State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, Department of Chemical Biology, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361005, China
| | - Chong Chen
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Spectrochemical Analysis and Instrumentation, the Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology of Fujian Province, State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, Department of Chemical Biology, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361005, China
| | - Xiangyu Ding
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Spectrochemical Analysis and Instrumentation, the Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology of Fujian Province, State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, Department of Chemical Biology, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361005, China
| | - Chaoyong Yang
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Spectrochemical Analysis and Instrumentation, the Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology of Fujian Province, State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, Department of Chemical Biology, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361005, China
- Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Ruiyun Huang
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Spectrochemical Analysis and Instrumentation, the Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology of Fujian Province, State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, Department of Chemical Biology, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361005, China
| | - Yanling Song
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Spectrochemical Analysis and Instrumentation, the Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology of Fujian Province, State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, Department of Chemical Biology, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361005, China
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20
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Hou YJ, Yang XX, He L, Meng HX. Pathological mechanisms of cold and mechanical stress in modulating cancer progression. Hum Cell 2024; 37:593-606. [PMID: 38538930 DOI: 10.1007/s13577-024-01049-y] [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: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/15/2024]
Abstract
Environmental temperature and cellular mechanical force are the inherent factors that participate in various biological processes and regulate cancer progress, which have been hot topics worldwide. They occupy a dominant part in the cancer tissues through different approaches. However, extensive investigation regarding pathological mechanisms in the carcinogenic field. After research, we found cold stress via two means to manipulate tumors: neuroscience and mechanically sensitive ion channels (MICHs) such as TRP families to regulate the physiological and pathological activities. Excessive cold stimulation mediated neuroscience acting on every cancer stage through the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenocorticoid (HPA) to reach the target organs. Comparatively speaking, mechanical force via Piezo of MICHs controls cancer development. The progression of cancer depends on the internal activation of proto-oncogenes and the external tumorigenic factors; the above two means eventually lead to genetic disorders at the molecular level. This review summarizes the interaction of bidirectional communication between them and the tumor. It covers the main processes from cytoplasm to nucleus related to metastasis cascade and tumor immune escape.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun-Jing Hou
- Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
- Department of Precision Medicine Center, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
| | - Xin-Xin Yang
- Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
- Department of Precision Medicine Center, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
| | - Lin He
- Department of Stomatology, Heilongjiang Provincial Hospital, Harbin, China
| | - Hong-Xue Meng
- Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China.
- Department of Pathology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, 150 Haping Road, Harbin, China.
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21
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Pan C, Hao X, Deng X, Lu F, Liu J, Hou W, Xu T. The roles of Hippo/YAP signaling pathway in physical therapy. Cell Death Discov 2024; 10:197. [PMID: 38670949 PMCID: PMC11053014 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-024-01972-x] [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: 01/24/2024] [Revised: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Cellular behavior is regulated by mechanical signals within the cellular microenvironment. Additionally, changes of temperature, blood flow, and muscle contraction also affect cellular state and the development of diseases. In clinical practice, physical therapy techniques such as ultrasound, vibration, exercise, cold therapy, and hyperthermia are commonly employed to alleviate pain and treat diseases. However, the molecular mechanism about how these physiotherapy methods stimulate local tissues and control gene expression remains unknow. Fortunately, the discovery of YAP filled this gap, which has been reported has the ability to sense and convert a wide variety of mechanical signals into cell-specific programs for transcription, thereby offering a fresh perspective on the mechanisms by which physiotherapy treat different diseases. This review examines the involvement of Hippo/YAP signaling pathway in various diseases and its role in different physical therapy approaches on diseases. Furthermore, we explore the potential therapeutic implications of the Hippo/YAP signaling pathway and address the limitations and controversies surrounding its application in physiotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunran Pan
- Department of Rehabilitation, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaoxia Hao
- Department of Rehabilitation, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaofeng Deng
- Department of Rehabilitation, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Fan Lu
- Department of Orthopedics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiawei Liu
- Department of Rehabilitation, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Wenjie Hou
- Department of Rehabilitation, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Tao Xu
- Department of Rehabilitation, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
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22
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Xia Y, Sun M, Huang H, Jin WL. Drug repurposing for cancer therapy. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:92. [PMID: 38637540 PMCID: PMC11026526 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-024-01808-1] [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: 02/06/2023] [Revised: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer, a complex and multifactorial disease, presents a significant challenge to global health. Despite significant advances in surgical, radiotherapeutic and immunological approaches, which have improved cancer treatment outcomes, drug therapy continues to serve as a key therapeutic strategy. However, the clinical efficacy of drug therapy is often constrained by drug resistance and severe toxic side effects, and thus there remains a critical need to develop novel cancer therapeutics. One promising strategy that has received widespread attention in recent years is drug repurposing: the identification of new applications for existing, clinically approved drugs. Drug repurposing possesses several inherent advantages in the context of cancer treatment since repurposed drugs are typically cost-effective, proven to be safe, and can significantly expedite the drug development process due to their already established safety profiles. In light of this, the present review offers a comprehensive overview of the various methods employed in drug repurposing, specifically focusing on the repurposing of drugs to treat cancer. We describe the antitumor properties of candidate drugs, and discuss in detail how they target both the hallmarks of cancer in tumor cells and the surrounding tumor microenvironment. In addition, we examine the innovative strategy of integrating drug repurposing with nanotechnology to enhance topical drug delivery. We also emphasize the critical role that repurposed drugs can play when used as part of a combination therapy regimen. To conclude, we outline the challenges associated with repurposing drugs and consider the future prospects of these repurposed drugs transitioning into clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Xia
- Center for Clinical Laboratories, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550004, PR China
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, 550001, PR China
- School of Clinical Laboratory Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550004, PR China
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine and, Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA
| | - Ming Sun
- Center for Clinical Laboratories, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550004, PR China
- School of Clinical Laboratory Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550004, PR China
| | - Hai Huang
- Center for Clinical Laboratories, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550004, PR China.
- School of Clinical Laboratory Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550004, PR China.
| | - Wei-Lin Jin
- Institute of Cancer Neuroscience, Medical Frontier Innovation Research Center, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, The First Clinical Medical College of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, PR China.
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23
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Goyal RK, Rattan S. Role of mechanoregulation in mast cell-mediated immune inflammation of the smooth muscle in the pathophysiology of esophageal motility disorders. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2024; 326:G398-G410. [PMID: 38290993 PMCID: PMC11213482 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00258.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
Major esophageal disorders involve obstructive transport of bolus to the stomach, causing symptoms of dysphagia and impaired clearing of the refluxed gastric contents. These may occur due to mechanical constriction of the esophageal lumen or loss of relaxation associated with deglutitive inhibition, as in achalasia-like disorders. Recently, immune inflammation has been identified as an important cause of esophageal strictures and the loss of inhibitory neurotransmission. These disorders are also associated with smooth muscle hypertrophy and hypercontractility, whose cause is unknown. This review investigated immune inflammation in the causation of smooth muscle changes in obstructive esophageal bolus transport. Findings suggest that smooth muscle hypertrophy occurs above the obstruction and is due to mechanical stress on the smooth muscles. The mechanostressed smooth muscles release cytokines and other molecules that may recruit and microlocalize mast cells to smooth muscle bundles, so that their products may have a close bidirectional effect on each other. Acting in a paracrine fashion, the inflammatory cytokines induce genetic and epigenetic changes in the smooth muscles, leading to smooth muscle hypercontractility, hypertrophy, and impaired relaxation. These changes may worsen difficulty in the esophageal transport. Immune processes differ in the first phase of obstructive bolus transport, and the second phase of muscle hypertrophy and hypercontractility. Moreover, changes in the type of mechanical stress may change immune response and effect on smooth muscles. Understanding immune signaling in causes of obstructive bolus transport, type of mechanical stress, and associated smooth muscle changes may help pathophysiology-based prevention and targeted treatment of esophageal motility disorders.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Esophageal disorders such as esophageal stricture or achalasia, and diffuse esophageal spasm are associated with smooth muscle hypertrophy and hypercontractility, above the obstruction, yet the cause of such changes is unknown. This review suggests that smooth muscle obstructive disorders may cause mechanical stress on smooth muscle, which then secretes chemicals that recruit, microlocalize, and activate mast cells to initiate immune inflammation, producing functional and structural changes in smooth muscles. Understanding the immune signaling in these changes may help pathophysiology-based prevention and targeted treatment of esophageal motility disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raj K Goyal
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Veterans Affairs Boston Healthcare System, West Roxbury, Massachusetts, United States
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Endoscopy, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Satish Rattan
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Sidney Kummel Medical College of Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States
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24
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Swiatlowska P, Iskratsch T. Cardiovascular Mechano-Epigenetics: Force-Dependent Regulation of Histone Modifications and Gene Regulation. Cardiovasc Drugs Ther 2024; 38:215-222. [PMID: 36653625 PMCID: PMC10959834 DOI: 10.1007/s10557-022-07422-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
The local mechanical microenvironment impacts on the cell behavior. In the cardiovascular system, cells in both the heart and the vessels are exposed to continuous blood flow, blood pressure, stretching forces, and changing extracellular matrix stiffness. The force-induced signals travel all the way to the nucleus regulating epigenetic changes such as chromatin dynamics and gene expression. Mechanical cues are needed at the very early stage for a faultless embryological development, while later in life, aberrant mechanical signaling can lead to a range of pathologies, including diverse cardiovascular diseases. Hence, an investigation of force-generated epigenetic alteration at different time scales is needed to understand fully the phenotypic changes in disease onset and progression. That being so, cardiovascular mechano-epigenetics emerges as an attractive field of study. Given the rapid advances in this emergent field of research, this short review aims to provide an analysis of the state of knowledge of force-induced epigenetic changes in the cardiovascular field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamela Swiatlowska
- School of Engineering and Materials Science, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Thomas Iskratsch
- School of Engineering and Materials Science, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK.
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25
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Zhou M, Liu C, Li B, Li J, Zhang P, Huang Y, Li L. Cell surface patching via CXCR4-targeted nanothreads for cancer metastasis inhibition. Nat Commun 2024; 15:2763. [PMID: 38553476 PMCID: PMC10980815 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-47111-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024] Open
Abstract
The binding of therapeutic antagonists to their receptors often fail to translate into adequate manipulation of downstream pathways. To fix this 'bug', here we report a strategy that stitches cell surface 'patches' to promote receptor clustering, thereby synchronizing subsequent mechano-transduction. The "patches" are sewn with two interactable nanothreads. In sequence, Nanothread-1 strings together adjacent receptors while presenting decoy receptors. Nanothread-2 then targets these decoys multivalently, intertwining with Nanothread-1 into a coiled-coil supramolecular network. This stepwise actuation clusters an extensive vicinity of receptors, integrating mechano-transduction to disrupt signal transmission. When applied to antagonize chemokine receptors CXCR4 expressed in metastatic breast cancer of female mice, this strategy elicits and consolidates multiple events, including interception of metastatic cascade, reversal of immunosuppression, and potentiation of photodynamic immunotherapy, reducing the metastatic burden. Collectively, our work provides a generalizable tool to spatially rearrange cell-surface receptors to improve therapeutic outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minglu Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Chendong Liu
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Bo Li
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Junlin Li
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Ping Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yuan Huang
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Lian Li
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
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26
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Streutker EM, Devamoglu U, Vonk MC, Verdurmen WPR, Le Gac S. Fibrosis-on-Chip: A Guide to Recapitulate the Essential Features of Fibrotic Disease. Adv Healthc Mater 2024:e2303991. [PMID: 38536053 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202303991] [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: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024]
Abstract
Fibrosis, which is primarily marked by excessive extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition, is a pathophysiological process associated with many disorders, which ultimately leads to organ dysfunction and poor patient outcomes. Despite the high prevalence of fibrosis, currently there exist few therapeutic options, and importantly, there is a paucity of in vitro models to accurately study fibrosis. This review discusses the multifaceted nature of fibrosis from the viewpoint of developing organ-on-chip (OoC) disease models, focusing on five key features: the ECM component, inflammation, mechanical cues, hypoxia, and vascularization. The potential of OoC technology is explored for better modeling these features in the context of studying fibrotic diseases and the interplay between various key features is emphasized. This paper reviews how organ-specific fibrotic diseases are modeled in OoC platforms, which elements are included in these existing models, and the avenues for novel research directions are highlighted. Finally, this review concludes with a perspective on how to address the current gap with respect to the inclusion of multiple features to yield more sophisticated and relevant models of fibrotic diseases in an OoC format.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma M Streutker
- Department of Medical BioSciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein 28, Nijmegen, 6525 GA, The Netherlands
| | - Utku Devamoglu
- Applied Microfluidics for BioEngineering Research, MESA+ Institute for Nanotechnoloygy and TechMed Centre, Organ-on-Chip Centre, University of Twente, Drienerlolaan 5, Enschede, 7522 NB, The Netherlands
| | - Madelon C Vonk
- Department of Rheumatology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, PO Box 9101, Nijmegen, 6500 HB, The Netherlands
| | - Wouter P R Verdurmen
- Department of Medical BioSciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein 28, Nijmegen, 6525 GA, The Netherlands
| | - Séverine Le Gac
- Applied Microfluidics for BioEngineering Research, MESA+ Institute for Nanotechnoloygy and TechMed Centre, Organ-on-Chip Centre, University of Twente, Drienerlolaan 5, Enschede, 7522 NB, The Netherlands
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27
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Stilgoe A, Favre-Bulle IA, Watson ML, Gomez-Godinez V, Berns MW, Preece D, Rubinsztein-Dunlop H. Shining Light in Mechanobiology: Optical Tweezers, Scissors, and Beyond. ACS PHOTONICS 2024; 11:917-940. [PMID: 38523746 PMCID: PMC10958612 DOI: 10.1021/acsphotonics.4c00064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2024] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024]
Abstract
Mechanobiology helps us to decipher cell and tissue functions by looking at changes in their mechanical properties that contribute to development, cell differentiation, physiology, and disease. Mechanobiology sits at the interface of biology, physics and engineering. One of the key technologies that enables characterization of properties of cells and tissue is microscopy. Combining microscopy with other quantitative measurement techniques such as optical tweezers and scissors, gives a very powerful tool for unraveling the intricacies of mechanobiology enabling measurement of forces, torques and displacements at play. We review the field of some light based studies of mechanobiology and optical detection of signal transduction ranging from optical micromanipulation-optical tweezers and scissors, advanced fluorescence techniques and optogenentics. In the current perspective paper, we concentrate our efforts on elucidating interesting measurements of forces, torques, positions, viscoelastic properties, and optogenetics inside and outside a cell attained when using structured light in combination with optical tweezers and scissors. We give perspective on the field concentrating on the use of structured light in imaging in combination with tweezers and scissors pointing out how novel developments in quantum imaging in combination with tweezers and scissors can bring to this fast growing field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander
B. Stilgoe
- School of
Mathematics and Physics, The University
of Queensland, Brisbane, 4074, Australia
- ARC
CoE for Engineered Quantum Systems, The
University of Queensland, Brisbane, 4074, Australia
- ARC
CoE in Quantum Biotechnology, The University
of Queensland, 4074, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Itia A. Favre-Bulle
- School of
Mathematics and Physics, The University
of Queensland, Brisbane, 4074, Australia
- Queensland
Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, 4074, Australia
| | - Mark L. Watson
- School of
Mathematics and Physics, The University
of Queensland, Brisbane, 4074, Australia
- ARC
CoE for Engineered Quantum Systems, The
University of Queensland, Brisbane, 4074, Australia
| | - Veronica Gomez-Godinez
- Institute
of Engineering and Medicine, University
of California San Diego, San Diego, California 92093, United States
| | - Michael W. Berns
- Institute
of Engineering and Medicine, University
of California San Diego, San Diego, California 92093, United States
- Beckman
Laser Institute, University of California
Irvine, Irvine, California 92612, United States
| | - Daryl Preece
- Beckman
Laser Institute, University of California
Irvine, Irvine, California 92612, United States
| | - Halina Rubinsztein-Dunlop
- School of
Mathematics and Physics, The University
of Queensland, Brisbane, 4074, Australia
- ARC
CoE for Engineered Quantum Systems, The
University of Queensland, Brisbane, 4074, Australia
- ARC
CoE in Quantum Biotechnology, The University
of Queensland, 4074, Brisbane, Australia
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28
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Kumar N, Rangel Ambriz J, Tsai K, Mim MS, Flores-Flores M, Chen W, Zartman JJ, Alber M. Balancing competing effects of tissue growth and cytoskeletal regulation during Drosophila wing disc development. Nat Commun 2024; 15:2477. [PMID: 38509115 PMCID: PMC10954670 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-46698-7] [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: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
How a developing organ robustly coordinates the cellular mechanics and growth to reach a final size and shape remains poorly understood. Through iterations between experiments and model simulations that include a mechanistic description of interkinetic nuclear migration, we show that the local curvature, height, and nuclear positioning of cells in the Drosophila wing imaginal disc are defined by the concurrent patterning of actomyosin contractility, cell-ECM adhesion, ECM stiffness, and interfacial membrane tension. We show that increasing cell proliferation via different growth-promoting pathways results in two distinct phenotypes. Triggering proliferation through insulin signaling increases basal curvature, but an increase in growth through Dpp signaling and Myc causes tissue flattening. These distinct phenotypic outcomes arise from differences in how each growth pathway regulates the cellular cytoskeleton, including contractility and cell-ECM adhesion. The coupled regulation of proliferation and cytoskeletal regulators is a general strategy to meet the multiple context-dependent criteria defining tissue morphogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nilay Kumar
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN, USA
| | - Jennifer Rangel Ambriz
- Department of Mathematics, University of California, Riverside, CA, USA
- Interdisciplinary Center for Quantitative Modeling in Biology, University of California, Riverside, CA, USA
| | - Kevin Tsai
- Department of Mathematics, University of California, Riverside, CA, USA
- Interdisciplinary Center for Quantitative Modeling in Biology, University of California, Riverside, CA, USA
| | - Mayesha Sahir Mim
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN, USA
| | - Marycruz Flores-Flores
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN, USA
| | - Weitao Chen
- Department of Mathematics, University of California, Riverside, CA, USA
- Interdisciplinary Center for Quantitative Modeling in Biology, University of California, Riverside, CA, USA
| | - Jeremiah J Zartman
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN, USA.
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN, USA.
| | - Mark Alber
- Department of Mathematics, University of California, Riverside, CA, USA.
- Interdisciplinary Center for Quantitative Modeling in Biology, University of California, Riverside, CA, USA.
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29
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Ebrahim T, Ebrahim AS, Kandouz M. Diversity of Intercellular Communication Modes: A Cancer Biology Perspective. Cells 2024; 13:495. [PMID: 38534339 DOI: 10.3390/cells13060495] [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: 01/05/2024] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/10/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
From the moment a cell is on the path to malignant transformation, its interaction with other cells from the microenvironment becomes altered. The flow of molecular information is at the heart of the cellular and systemic fate in tumors, and various processes participate in conveying key molecular information from or to certain cancer cells. For instance, the loss of tight junction molecules is part of the signal sent to cancer cells so that they are no longer bound to the primary tumors and are thus free to travel and metastasize. Upon the targeting of a single cell by a therapeutic drug, gap junctions are able to communicate death information to by-standing cells. The discovery of the importance of novel modes of cell-cell communication such as different types of extracellular vesicles or tunneling nanotubes is changing the way scientists look at these processes. However, are they all actively involved in different contexts at the same time or are they recruited to fulfill specific tasks? What does the multiplicity of modes mean for the overall progression of the disease? Here, we extend an open invitation to think about the overall significance of these questions, rather than engage in an elusive attempt at a systematic repertory of the mechanisms at play.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thanzeela Ebrahim
- Department of Pathology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
| | - Abdul Shukkur Ebrahim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Visual and Anatomical Sciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
| | - Mustapha Kandouz
- Department of Pathology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
- Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
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30
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Yang S, Wang M, Tian D, Zhang X, Cui K, Lü S, Wang HH, Long M, Nie Z. DNA-functionalized artificial mechanoreceptor for de novo force-responsive signaling. Nat Chem Biol 2024:10.1038/s41589-024-01572-x. [PMID: 38448735 DOI: 10.1038/s41589-024-01572-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
Synthetic signaling receptors enable programmable cellular responses coupling with customized inputs. However, engineering a designer force-sensing receptor to rewire mechanotransduction remains largely unexplored. Herein, we introduce nongenetically engineered artificial mechanoreceptors (AMRs) capable of reprogramming non-mechanoresponsive receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) to sense user-defined force cues, enabling de novo-designed mechanotransduction. AMR is a modular DNA-protein chimera comprising a mechanosensing-and-transmitting DNA nanodevice grafted on natural RTKs via aptameric anchors. AMR senses intercellular tensile force via an allosteric DNA mechano-switch with tunable piconewton-sensitive force tolerance, actuating a force-triggered dynamic DNA assembly to manipulate RTK dimerization and activate intracellular signaling. By swapping the force-reception ligands, we demonstrate the AMR-mediated activation of c-Met, a representative RTK, in response to the cellular tensile forces mediated by cell-adhesion proteins (integrin, E-cadherin) or membrane protein endocytosis (CI-M6PR). Moreover, AMR also allows the reprogramming of FGFR1, another RTK, to customize mechanobiological function, for example, adhesion-mediated neural stem cell maintenance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sihui Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomacromolecular Chemical Biology, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, College of Biology, Hunan University, Changsha, China
| | - Miao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomacromolecular Chemical Biology, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, College of Biology, Hunan University, Changsha, China
| | - Dawei Tian
- Center of Biomechanics and Bioengineering, Key Laboratory of Microgravity (National Microgravity Laboratory), Beijing Key Laboratory of Engineered Construction and Mechanobiology, Institute of Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- School of Engineering Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoyu Zhang
- Center of Biomechanics and Bioengineering, Key Laboratory of Microgravity (National Microgravity Laboratory), Beijing Key Laboratory of Engineered Construction and Mechanobiology, Institute of Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- School of Engineering Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Kaiqing Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomacromolecular Chemical Biology, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, College of Biology, Hunan University, Changsha, China
| | - Shouqin Lü
- Center of Biomechanics and Bioengineering, Key Laboratory of Microgravity (National Microgravity Laboratory), Beijing Key Laboratory of Engineered Construction and Mechanobiology, Institute of Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- School of Engineering Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Hong-Hui Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomacromolecular Chemical Biology, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, College of Biology, Hunan University, Changsha, China
| | - Mian Long
- Center of Biomechanics and Bioengineering, Key Laboratory of Microgravity (National Microgravity Laboratory), Beijing Key Laboratory of Engineered Construction and Mechanobiology, Institute of Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- School of Engineering Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zhou Nie
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomacromolecular Chemical Biology, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, College of Biology, Hunan University, Changsha, China.
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31
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Nguyen J, Gilbert PM. Decoding the forces that shape muscle stem cell function. Curr Top Dev Biol 2024; 158:279-306. [PMID: 38670710 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ctdb.2024.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Skeletal muscle is a force-producing organ composed of muscle tissues, connective tissues, blood vessels, and nerves, all working in synergy to enable movement and provide support to the body. While robust biomechanical descriptions of skeletal muscle force production at the body or tissue level exist, little is known about force application on microstructures within the muscles, such as cells. Among various cell types, skeletal muscle stem cells reside in the muscle tissue environment and play a crucial role in driving the self-repair process when muscle damage occurs. Early evidence indicates that the fate and function of skeletal muscle stem cells are controlled by both biophysical and biochemical factors in their microenvironments, but much remains to accomplish in quantitatively describing the biophysical muscle stem cell microenvironment. This book chapter aims to review current knowledge on the influence of biophysical stresses and landscape properties on muscle stem cells in heath, aging, and diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jo Nguyen
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; Donnelly Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Penney M Gilbert
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; Donnelly Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; Department of Cell and Systems Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
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32
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Hernández-Espinosa LC, Hernández-Muñoz R. Blood flow-bearing physical forces, endothelial glycocalyx, and liver enzyme mobilization: A hypothesis. J Gen Physiol 2024; 156:e202313462. [PMID: 38231124 PMCID: PMC10794122 DOI: 10.1085/jgp.202313462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Numerous elements involved in shear stress-induced signaling have been identified, recognizing their functions as mechanotransducing ion channels situated at cellular membranes. This form of mechanical signaling relies on transmembrane proteins and cytoplasmic proteins that restructure the cytoskeleton, contributing to mechanotransduction cascades. Notably, blood flow generates mechanical forces that significantly impact the structure and remodeling of blood vessels. The primary regulation of blood vessel responses occurs through hemodynamic forces acting on the endothelium. These mechanical events intricately govern endothelial biophysical, biochemical, and genetic responses. Endothelial cells, positioned on the intimal surface of blood vessels, have the capability to express components of the glycocalyx. This endothelial structure emerges as a pivotal factor in mechanotransduction and the regulation of vascular tone. The endothelial glycocalyx assumes diverse roles in both health and disease. Our findings propose a connection between the release of specific enzymes from the rat liver and variations in the hepatic blood flow/mass ratio. Importantly, this phenomenon is not correlated with liver necrosis. Consequently, this review serves as an exploration of the potential involvement of membrane proteins in a hypothetical mechanotransducing phenomenon capable of controlling the release of liver enzymes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorena Carmina Hernández-Espinosa
- Department of Cell Biology and Development, Institute of Cellular Physiology, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Rolando Hernández-Muñoz
- Department of Cell Biology and Development, Institute of Cellular Physiology, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Mexico City, Mexico
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33
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Swiatlowska P, Tipping W, Marhuenda E, Severi P, Fomin V, Yang Z, Xiao Q, Graham D, Shanahan C, Iskratsch T. Hypertensive Pressure Mechanosensing Alone Triggers Lipid Droplet Accumulation and Transdifferentiation of Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells to Foam Cells. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2308686. [PMID: 38145971 PMCID: PMC10916670 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202308686] [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: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/27/2023]
Abstract
Arterial Vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) play a central role in the onset and progression of atherosclerosis. Upon exposure to pathological stimuli, they can take on alternative phenotypes that, among others, have been described as macrophage like, or foam cells. VSMC foam cells make up >50% of all arterial foam cells and have been suggested to retain an even higher proportion of the cell stored lipid droplets, further leading to apoptosis, secondary necrosis, and an inflammatory response. However, the mechanism of VSMC foam cell formation is still unclear. Here, it is identified that mechanical stimulation through hypertensive pressure alone is sufficient for the phenotypic switch. Hyperspectral stimulated Raman scattering imaging demonstrates rapid lipid droplet formation and changes to lipid metabolism and changes are confirmed in ABCA1, KLF4, LDLR, and CD68 expression, cell proliferation, and migration. Further, a mechanosignaling route is identified involving Piezo1, phospholipid, and arachidonic acid signaling, as well as epigenetic regulation, whereby CUT&Tag epigenomic analysis confirms changes in the cells (lipid) metabolism and atherosclerotic pathways. Overall, the results show for the first time that VSMC foam cell formation can be triggered by mechanical stimulation alone, suggesting modulation of mechanosignaling can be harnessed as potential therapeutic strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamela Swiatlowska
- School of Engineering and Materials ScienceQueen Mary University of LondonLondonE1 4NSUK
| | - William Tipping
- Department of Pure and Applied ChemistryUniversity of StrathclydeGlasgowG1 1QAUK
| | - Emilie Marhuenda
- School of Engineering and Materials ScienceQueen Mary University of LondonLondonE1 4NSUK
| | - Paolo Severi
- School of Engineering and Materials ScienceQueen Mary University of LondonLondonE1 4NSUK
- Department of Translational MedicineLaboratory for Technologies of Advanced Therapies (LTTA)University of FerraraFerrara44121Italy
| | | | - Zhisheng Yang
- William Harvey Research InstituteQueen Mary University of LondonLondonEC1M 6BQUK
| | - Qingzhong Xiao
- William Harvey Research InstituteQueen Mary University of LondonLondonEC1M 6BQUK
| | - Duncan Graham
- Department of Pure and Applied ChemistryUniversity of StrathclydeGlasgowG1 1QAUK
| | - Cathy Shanahan
- School of Cardiovascular Medicine and SciencesKing's College LondonLondonSE5 9NUUK
| | - Thomas Iskratsch
- School of Engineering and Materials ScienceQueen Mary University of LondonLondonE1 4NSUK
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Wang F, Li S, Kong L, Feng K, Zuo R, Zhang H, Yu Y, Zhang K, Cao Y, Chai Y, Kang Q, Xu J. Tensile Stress-Activated and Exosome-Transferred YAP/TAZ-Notch Circuit Specifies Type H Endothelial Cell for Segmental Bone Regeneration. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2309133. [PMID: 38225729 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202309133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
The Ilizarov technique has been continuously innovated to utilize tensile stress (TS) for inducing a bone development-like regenerative process, aiming to achieve skeletal elongation and reconstruction. However, it remains uncertain whether this distraction osteogenesis (DO) process induced by TS involves the pivotal coupling of angiogenesis and osteogenesis mediated by type H endothelial cells (THECs). In this study, it is demonstrated that the Ilizarov technique induces the formation of a metaphysis-like architecture composed of THECs, leading to segmental bone regeneration during the DO process. Mechanistically, cell-matrix interactions-mediated activation of yes-associated protein (YAP)/transcriptional co-activator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ) transcriptionally upregulates the expression of Notch1 and Delta-like ligand 4, which act as direct positive regulators of THECs phenotype, in bone marrow endothelial cells (BMECs) upon TS stimulation. Simultaneously, the Notch intracellular domain enhances YAP/TAZ activity by transcriptionally upregulating YAP expression and stabilizing TAZ protein, thus establishing the YAP/TAZ-Notch circuit. Additionally, TS-stimulated BMECs secrete exosomes enriched with vital molecules in this positive feedback pathway, which can be utilized to promote segmental bone defect healing, mimicking the therapeutic effects of Ilizarov technique. The findings advance the understanding of TS-induced segmental bone regeneration and establish the foundation for innovative biological therapeutic strategies aimed at activating THECs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200233, China
| | - Shanyu Li
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200233, China
| | - Lingchi Kong
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200233, China
| | - Kai Feng
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200233, China
| | - Rongtai Zuo
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200233, China
| | - Hanzhe Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200233, China
| | - Yifan Yu
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200233, China
| | - Kunqi Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200233, China
| | - Yuting Cao
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200233, China
| | - Yimin Chai
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200233, China
| | - Qinglin Kang
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200233, China
| | - Jia Xu
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200233, China
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35
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Cao R, Tian H, Tian Y, Fu X. A Hierarchical Mechanotransduction System: From Macro to Micro. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2302327. [PMID: 38145330 PMCID: PMC10953595 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202302327] [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: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023]
Abstract
Mechanotransduction is a strictly regulated process whereby mechanical stimuli, including mechanical forces and properties, are sensed and translated into biochemical signals. Increasing data demonstrate that mechanotransduction is crucial for regulating macroscopic and microscopic dynamics and functionalities. However, the actions and mechanisms of mechanotransduction across multiple hierarchies, from molecules, subcellular structures, cells, tissues/organs, to the whole-body level, have not been yet comprehensively documented. Herein, the biological roles and operational mechanisms of mechanotransduction from macro to micro are revisited, with a focus on the orchestrations across diverse hierarchies. The implications, applications, and challenges of mechanotransduction in human diseases are also summarized and discussed. Together, this knowledge from a hierarchical perspective has the potential to refresh insights into mechanotransduction regulation and disease pathogenesis and therapy, and ultimately revolutionize the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Cao
- Department of Endocrinology and MetabolismCenter for Diabetes Metabolism ResearchState Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer CenterWest China Medical SchoolWest China HospitalSichuan University and Collaborative Innovation CenterChengduSichuan610041China
| | - Huimin Tian
- Department of Endocrinology and MetabolismCenter for Diabetes Metabolism ResearchState Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer CenterWest China Medical SchoolWest China HospitalSichuan University and Collaborative Innovation CenterChengduSichuan610041China
| | - Yan Tian
- Department of Endocrinology and MetabolismCenter for Diabetes Metabolism ResearchState Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer CenterWest China Medical SchoolWest China HospitalSichuan University and Collaborative Innovation CenterChengduSichuan610041China
| | - Xianghui Fu
- Department of Endocrinology and MetabolismCenter for Diabetes Metabolism ResearchState Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer CenterWest China Medical SchoolWest China HospitalSichuan University and Collaborative Innovation CenterChengduSichuan610041China
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36
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Thomasy SM, Leonard BC, Greiner MA, Skeie JM, Raghunathan VK. Squishy matters - Corneal mechanobiology in health and disease. Prog Retin Eye Res 2024; 99:101234. [PMID: 38176611 PMCID: PMC11193890 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2023.101234] [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: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
The cornea, as a dynamic and responsive tissue, constantly interacts with mechanical forces in order to maintain its structural integrity, barrier function, transparency and refractive power. Cells within the cornea sense and respond to various mechanical forces that fundamentally regulate their morphology and fate in development, homeostasis and pathophysiology. Corneal cells also dynamically regulate their extracellular matrix (ECM) with ensuing cell-ECM crosstalk as the matrix serves as a dynamic signaling reservoir providing biophysical and biochemical cues to corneal cells. Here we provide an overview of mechanotransduction signaling pathways then delve into the recent advances in corneal mechanobiology, focusing on the interplay between mechanical forces and responses of the corneal epithelial, stromal, and endothelial cells. We also identify species-specific differences in corneal biomechanics and mechanotransduction to facilitate identification of optimal animal models to study corneal wound healing, disease, and novel therapeutic interventions. Finally, we identify key knowledge gaps and therapeutic opportunities in corneal mechanobiology that are pressing for the research community to address especially pertinent within the domains of limbal stem cell deficiency, keratoconus and Fuchs' endothelial corneal dystrophy. By furthering our understanding corneal mechanobiology, we can contextualize discoveries regarding corneal diseases as well as innovative treatments for them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara M Thomasy
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California - Davis, Davis, CA, United States; Department of Ophthalmology & Vision Science, School of Medicine, University of California - Davis, Davis, CA, United States; California National Primate Research Center, Davis, CA, United States.
| | - Brian C Leonard
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California - Davis, Davis, CA, United States; Department of Ophthalmology & Vision Science, School of Medicine, University of California - Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Mark A Greiner
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States; Iowa Lions Eye Bank, Coralville, IA, United States
| | - Jessica M Skeie
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States; Iowa Lions Eye Bank, Coralville, IA, United States
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37
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Hosawi MM, Cheng J, Fankhaenel M, Przewloka MR, Elias S. Interplay between the plasma membrane and cell-cell adhesion maintains epithelial identity for correct polarised cell divisions. J Cell Sci 2024; 137:jcs261701. [PMID: 37888135 PMCID: PMC10729819 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.261701] [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: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Polarised epithelial cell divisions represent a fundamental mechanism for tissue maintenance and morphogenesis. Morphological and mechanical changes in the plasma membrane influence the organisation and crosstalk of microtubules and actin at the cell cortex, thereby regulating the mitotic spindle machinery and chromosome segregation. Yet, the precise mechanisms linking plasma membrane remodelling to cell polarity and cortical cytoskeleton dynamics to ensure accurate execution of mitosis in mammalian epithelial cells remain poorly understood. Here, we manipulated the density of mammary epithelial cells in culture, which led to several mitotic defects. Perturbation of cell-cell adhesion formation impairs the dynamics of the plasma membrane, affecting the shape and size of mitotic cells and resulting in defects in mitotic progression and the generation of daughter cells with aberrant architecture. In these conditions, F- actin-astral microtubule crosstalk is impaired, leading to mitotic spindle misassembly and misorientation, which in turn contributes to chromosome mis-segregation. Mechanistically, we identify S100 Ca2+-binding protein A11 (S100A11) as a key membrane-associated regulator that forms a complex with E-cadherin (CDH1) and the leucine-glycine-asparagine repeat protein LGN (also known as GPSM2) to coordinate plasma membrane remodelling with E-cadherin-mediated cell adhesion and LGN-dependent mitotic spindle machinery. Thus, plasma membrane-mediated maintenance of mammalian epithelial cell identity is crucial for correct execution of polarised cell divisions, genome maintenance and safeguarding tissue integrity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manal M. Hosawi
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK
- Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK
| | - Jiaoqi Cheng
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK
- Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK
| | - Maria Fankhaenel
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK
- Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK
| | - Marcin R. Przewloka
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK
- Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK
| | - Salah Elias
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK
- Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK
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38
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Ma J, Sun R, Xia K, Xia Q, Liu Y, Zhang X. Design and Application of Fluorescent Probes to Detect Cellular Physical Microenvironments. Chem Rev 2024; 124:1738-1861. [PMID: 38354333 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.3c00573] [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: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
The microenvironment is indispensable for functionality of various biomacromolecules, subcellular compartments, living cells, and organisms. In particular, physical properties within the biological microenvironment could exert profound effects on both the cellular physiology and pathology, with parameters including the polarity, viscosity, pH, and other relevant factors. There is a significant demand to directly visualize and quantitatively measure the fluctuation in the cellular microenvironment with spatiotemporal resolution. To satisfy this need, analytical methods based on fluorescence probes offer great opportunities due to the facile, sensitive, and dynamic detection that these molecules could enable in varying biological settings from in vitro samples to live animal models. Herein, we focus on various types of small molecule fluorescent probes for the detection and measurement of physical parameters of the microenvironment, including pH, polarity, viscosity, mechanical force, temperature, and electron potential. For each parameter, we primarily describe the chemical mechanisms underlying how physical properties are correlated with changes of various fluorescent signals. This review provides both an overview and a perspective for the development of small molecule fluorescent probes to visualize the dynamic changes in the cellular environment, to expand the knowledge for biological process, and to enrich diagnostic tools for human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junbao Ma
- Department of Chemistry and Research Center for Industries of the Future, Westlake University, 600 Dunyu Road, Hangzhou 310030, Zhejiang Province, China
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, 18 Shilongshan Road, Hangzhou 310024, Zhejiang Province, China
- Institute of Natural Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou 310030, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Rui Sun
- CAS Key Laboratory of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, Liaoning 116023, China
- University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, 19 A Yuquan Road, Shijingshan District, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Kaifu Xia
- Department of Chemistry and Research Center for Industries of the Future, Westlake University, 600 Dunyu Road, Hangzhou 310030, Zhejiang Province, China
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, 18 Shilongshan Road, Hangzhou 310024, Zhejiang Province, China
- Institute of Natural Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou 310030, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Qiuxuan Xia
- CAS Key Laboratory of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, Liaoning 116023, China
- University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, 19 A Yuquan Road, Shijingshan District, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yu Liu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Separation Science for Analytical Chemistry, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, Liaoning 116023, China
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Proteomics, National Chromatographic R. & A. Center, Chinese Academy of Sciences Dalian Liaoning 116023, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- Department of Chemistry and Research Center for Industries of the Future, Westlake University, 600 Dunyu Road, Hangzhou 310030, Zhejiang Province, China
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, 18 Shilongshan Road, Hangzhou 310024, Zhejiang Province, China
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39
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Kwak M. Magnetic nano-tweezer for interrogating mechanosensitive signaling proteins in space and time. Methods Enzymol 2024; 694:303-320. [PMID: 38492956 DOI: 10.1016/bs.mie.2024.01.009] [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: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
Spatiotemporal interrogation of signal transduction at the single-cell level is necessary to understand how extracellular cues are converted into biochemical signals and differentially regulate cellular responses. Using single-cell perturbation tools such as optogenetics, specific biochemical cues can be delivered to selective molecules or cells at any desired location and time. By measuring cellular responses to provided perturbations, investigators have decoded and deconstructed the working mechanisms of a variety of neuroelectric and biochemical signaling processes. However, analogous methods for deciphering the working mechanisms of mechanosensitive signaling by regulating mechanical inputs to cell receptors have remained elusive. To address this unmet need, we have recently developed a nanotechnology-based single-cell and single-molecule perturbation tool, termed mechanogenetics, that enables precise spatial and mechanical control over genetically encoded cell-surface receptors in live cells. This tool combines a magnetofluorescent nanoparticle (MFN) actuator, which provides precise spatial and mechanical signals to receptors via target-specific one-to-one interaction, with a micromagnetic tweezers that remotely controls the force exerted on a single nanoparticle. This chapter provides comprehensive experimental protocols of mechanogenetics consisting of four stages: (i) chemical synthesis of MFNs, (ii) bio-conjugation and purification of monovalent MFNs, (iii) establishment of cells with genetically encoded mechanosensitive proteins, and (iv) modular targeting and control of cell-surface receptors in live cells. The entire procedure takes up to 1 week. This mechanogenetic tool can be generalized to study many outstanding questions related to the dynamics of cell signaling and transcriptional control, including the mechanism of mechanically activated receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minsuk Kwak
- Center for Nanomedicine, Institute for Basic Science, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Department of Nano Biomedical Engineering, Advanced Science Institute, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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40
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Jiao Y, Yang X, Li Y, Wang F, Wang L, Li C. Spider-Silk-like Fiber Mat-Covered Polypropylene Warp-Knitted Hernia Mesh for Inhibition of Fibrosis under Dynamic Environment. Biomacromolecules 2024; 25:1214-1227. [PMID: 38295271 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.3c01181] [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: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
Hernia surgery is a widely performed procedure, and the use of a polypropylene mesh is considered the standard approach. However, the mesh often leads to complications, including the development of scar tissue that wraps around the mesh and causes it to shrink. Consequently, there is a need to investigate the relationship between the mesh and scar formation as well as to develop a hernia mesh that can prevent fibrosis. In this study, three different commercial polypropylene hernia meshes were examined to explore the connection between the fabric structure and mechanical properties. In vitro dynamic culture was used to investigate the mechanism by which the mechanical properties of the mesh in a dynamic environment affect cell differentiation. Additionally, electrospinning was employed to create polycaprolactone spider-silk-like fiber mats to achieve mechanical energy dissipation in dynamic conditions. These fiber mats were then combined with the preferred hernia mesh. The results demonstrated that the composite mesh could reduce the activation of fibroblast mechanical signaling pathways and inhibit its differentiation into myofibroblasts in dynamic environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongjie Jiao
- Key Laboratory of Textile Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Textiles, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Xiaowei Yang
- Key Laboratory of Textile Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Textiles, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Yan Li
- Key Laboratory of Textile Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Textiles, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Fujun Wang
- Key Laboratory of Textile Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Textiles, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Lu Wang
- Key Laboratory of Textile Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Textiles, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Chaojing Li
- Key Laboratory of Textile Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Textiles, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
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41
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Popkova A, Andrenšek U, Pagnotta S, Ziherl P, Krajnc M, Rauzi M. A mechanical wave travels along a genetic guide to drive the formation of an epithelial furrow during Drosophila gastrulation. Dev Cell 2024; 59:400-414.e5. [PMID: 38228140 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2023.12.016] [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: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
Epithelial furrowing is a fundamental morphogenetic process during gastrulation, neurulation, and body shaping. A furrow often results from a fold that propagates along a line. How fold formation and propagation are controlled and driven is poorly understood. To shed light on this, we study the formation of the cephalic furrow, a fold that runs along the embryo dorsal-ventral axis during Drosophila gastrulation and the developmental role of which is still unknown. We provide evidence of its function and show that epithelial furrowing is initiated by a group of cells. This cellular cluster works as a pacemaker, triggering a bidirectional morphogenetic wave powered by actomyosin contractions and sustained by de novo medial apex-to-apex cell adhesion. The pacemaker's Cartesian position is under the crossed control of the anterior-posterior and dorsal-ventral gene patterning systems. Thus, furrow formation is driven by a mechanical trigger wave that travels under the control of a multidimensional genetic guide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Popkova
- Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS, Inserm, iBV, Nice, France.
| | - Urška Andrenšek
- Faculty of Mathematics and Physics, University of Ljubljana, Jadranska 19, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; Jožef Stefan Institute, Jamova 39, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Sophie Pagnotta
- Université Côte d'Azur, Centre Commun de Microscopie Appliquée, Nice, France
| | - Primož Ziherl
- Faculty of Mathematics and Physics, University of Ljubljana, Jadranska 19, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; Jožef Stefan Institute, Jamova 39, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Matej Krajnc
- Jožef Stefan Institute, Jamova 39, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Matteo Rauzi
- Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS, Inserm, iBV, Nice, France.
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42
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Buckley M, Kramer M, Johnson B, Huskin G, Berry J, Sewell-Loftin MK. Mechanical activation and expression of HSP27 in epithelial ovarian cancer. Sci Rep 2024; 14:2856. [PMID: 38310132 PMCID: PMC10838328 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-52992-7] [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: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Understanding the complex biomechanical tumor microenvironment (TME) is of critical importance in developing the next generation of anti-cancer treatment strategies. This is especially true in epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC), the deadliest of the gynecologic cancers due to recurrent disease or chemoresistance. However, current models of EOC progression provide little control or ability to monitor how changes in biomechanical parameters alter EOC cell behaviors. In this study, we present a microfluidic device designed to permit biomechanical investigations of the ovarian TME. Using this microtissue system, we describe how biomechanical stimulation in the form of tensile strains upregulate phosphorylation of HSP27, a heat shock protein implicated in ovarian cancer chemoresistance. Furthermore, EOC cells treated with strain demonstrate decreased response to paclitaxel in the in vitro vascularized TME model. The results provide a direct link to biomechanical regulation of HSP27 as a mediator of EOC chemoresistance, possibly explaining the failure of such therapies in some patients. The work presented here lays a foundation to elucidating mechanobiological regulation of EOC progression, including chemoresistance and could provide novel targets for anti-cancer therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Molly Buckley
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1824 6thAvenue South, Wallace Tumor Institute, Room 630A, Birmingham, AL, 35294, UK
| | - Maranda Kramer
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1824 6thAvenue South, Wallace Tumor Institute, Room 630A, Birmingham, AL, 35294, UK
| | - Bronte Johnson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1824 6thAvenue South, Wallace Tumor Institute, Room 630A, Birmingham, AL, 35294, UK
| | - Gillian Huskin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1824 6thAvenue South, Wallace Tumor Institute, Room 630A, Birmingham, AL, 35294, UK
| | - Joel Berry
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1824 6thAvenue South, Wallace Tumor Institute, Room 630A, Birmingham, AL, 35294, UK
- O'Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, 35233, UK
| | - Mary Kathryn Sewell-Loftin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1824 6thAvenue South, Wallace Tumor Institute, Room 630A, Birmingham, AL, 35294, UK.
- O'Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, 35233, UK.
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43
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Pfaff BN, Flanagan CC, Griffin DR. Microporous Annealed Particle (MAP) Scaffold Pore Size Influences Mesenchymal Stem Cell Metabolism and Proliferation Without Changing CD73, CD90, and CD105 Expression Over Two Weeks. Adv Biol (Weinh) 2024; 8:e2300482. [PMID: 37955859 PMCID: PMC10922193 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.202300482] [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: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
Scaffold pore architecture is shown to influence stem cell fate through various avenues. It is demonstrated that microporous annealed particle (MAP) microgel diameter can be tuned to control scaffold pore size and, in turn, modulate mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) survivability, proliferation, metabolism, and migration, thereby enhancing bioactivity and guiding future applications of MAP for regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blaise N Pfaff
- University of Virginia, 415 Lane Road, Charlottesville, VA, 22903, USA
| | - Clare C Flanagan
- University of Virginia, 415 Lane Road, Charlottesville, VA, 22903, USA
| | - Donald R Griffin
- University of Virginia, 415 Lane Road, Charlottesville, VA, 22903, USA
- Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia, 415 Lane Road, Charlottesville, VA, 22903-3390, USA
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44
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Singh Y, Hocky GM. Improved Prediction of Molecular Response to Pulling by Combining Force Tempering with Replica Exchange Methods. J Phys Chem B 2024; 128:706-715. [PMID: 38230998 PMCID: PMC10823473 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpcb.3c07081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
Small mechanical forces play important functional roles in many crucial cellular processes, including in the dynamic behavior of the cytoskeleton and in the regulation of osmotic pressure through membrane-bound proteins. Molecular simulations offer the promise of being able to design the behavior of proteins that sense and respond to these forces. However, it is difficult to predict and identify the effect of the relevant piconewton (pN) scale forces due to their small magnitude. Previously, we introduced the Infinite Switch Simulated Tempering in Force (FISST) method, which allows one to estimate the effect of a range of applied forces from a single molecular dynamics simulation, and also demonstrated that FISST additionally accelerates sampling of a molecule's conformational landscape. For some problems, we find that this acceleration is not sufficient to capture all relevant conformational fluctuations, and hence, here we demonstrate that FISST can be combined with either temperature replica exchange or solute tempering approaches to produce a hybrid method that enables more robust prediction of the effect of small forces on molecular systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuvraj Singh
- Department
of Chemistry, New York University, New York, New York 10003, United States
| | - Glen M. Hocky
- Department
of Chemistry, New York University, New York, New York 10003, United States
- Simons
Center for Computational Physical Chemistry, New York University, New York, New York 10003, United States
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45
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Schmitt MS, Colen J, Sala S, Devany J, Seetharaman S, Caillier A, Gardel ML, Oakes PW, Vitelli V. Machine learning interpretable models of cell mechanics from protein images. Cell 2024; 187:481-494.e24. [PMID: 38194965 PMCID: PMC11225795 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2023.11.041] [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: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
Cellular form and function emerge from complex mechanochemical systems within the cytoplasm. Currently, no systematic strategy exists to infer large-scale physical properties of a cell from its molecular components. This is an obstacle to understanding processes such as cell adhesion and migration. Here, we develop a data-driven modeling pipeline to learn the mechanical behavior of adherent cells. We first train neural networks to predict cellular forces from images of cytoskeletal proteins. Strikingly, experimental images of a single focal adhesion (FA) protein, such as zyxin, are sufficient to predict forces and can generalize to unseen biological regimes. Using this observation, we develop two approaches-one constrained by physics and the other agnostic-to construct data-driven continuum models of cellular forces. Both reveal how cellular forces are encoded by two distinct length scales. Beyond adherent cell mechanics, our work serves as a case study for integrating neural networks into predictive models for cell biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew S Schmitt
- James Franck Institute, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA; Department of Physics, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA; Kadanoff Center for Theoretical Physics, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Jonathan Colen
- James Franck Institute, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA; Department of Physics, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA; Kadanoff Center for Theoretical Physics, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Stefano Sala
- Department of Cell & Molecular Physiology, Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL 60153, USA
| | - John Devany
- James Franck Institute, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA; Department of Physics, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Shailaja Seetharaman
- James Franck Institute, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA; Department of Physics, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Alexia Caillier
- Department of Cell & Molecular Physiology, Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL 60153, USA
| | - Margaret L Gardel
- James Franck Institute, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA; Department of Physics, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA.
| | - Patrick W Oakes
- Department of Cell & Molecular Physiology, Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL 60153, USA.
| | - Vincenzo Vitelli
- James Franck Institute, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA; Department of Physics, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA; Kadanoff Center for Theoretical Physics, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA.
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46
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Collinet C, Bailles A, Dehapiot B, Lecuit T. Mechanical regulation of substrate adhesion and de-adhesion drives a cell-contractile wave during Drosophila tissue morphogenesis. Dev Cell 2024; 59:156-172.e7. [PMID: 38103554 PMCID: PMC10783558 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2023.11.022] [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: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
During morphogenesis, mechanical forces induce large-scale deformations; yet, how forces emerge from cellular contractility and adhesion is unclear. In Drosophila embryos, a tissue-scale wave of actomyosin contractility coupled with adhesion to the surrounding vitelline membrane drives polarized tissue invagination. We show that this process emerges subcellularly from the mechanical coupling between myosin II activation and sequential adhesion/de-adhesion to the vitelline membrane. At the wavefront, integrin clusters anchor the actin cortex to the vitelline membrane and promote activation of myosin II, which in turn enhances adhesion in a positive feedback. Following cell detachment, cortex contraction and advective flow amplify myosin II. Prolonged contact with the vitelline membrane prolongs the integrin-myosin II feedback, increases integrin adhesion, and thus slows down cell detachment and wave propagation. The angle of cell detachment depends on adhesion strength and sets the tensile forces required for detachment. Thus, we document how the interplay between subcellular mechanochemical feedback and geometry drives tissue morphogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio Collinet
- Aix Marseille Université & CNRS, IBDM - UMR7288 & Turing Centre for Living Systems, Campus de Luminy Case 907, 13288 Marseille, France.
| | - Anaïs Bailles
- Aix Marseille Université & CNRS, IBDM - UMR7288 & Turing Centre for Living Systems, Campus de Luminy Case 907, 13288 Marseille, France
| | - Benoit Dehapiot
- Aix Marseille Université & CNRS, IBDM - UMR7288 & Turing Centre for Living Systems, Campus de Luminy Case 907, 13288 Marseille, France
| | - Thomas Lecuit
- Aix Marseille Université & CNRS, IBDM - UMR7288 & Turing Centre for Living Systems, Campus de Luminy Case 907, 13288 Marseille, France; Collège de France, 11 Place Marcelin Berthelot, Paris, France.
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47
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Mierke CT. Magnetic tweezers in cell mechanics. Methods Enzymol 2024; 694:321-354. [PMID: 38492957 DOI: 10.1016/bs.mie.2023.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
The chapter provides an overview of the applications of magnetic tweezers in living cells. It discusses the advantages and disadvantages of magnetic tweezers technology with a focus on individual magnetic tweezers configurations, such as electromagnetic tweezers. Solutions to the disadvantages identified are also outlined. The specific role of magnetic tweezers in the field of mechanobiology, such as mechanosensitivity, mechano-allostery and mechanotransduction are also emphasized. The specific usage of magnetic tweezers in mechanically probing cells via specific cell surface receptors, such as mechanosensitive channels is discussed and why mechanical probing has revealed the opening and closing of the channels. Finally, the future direction of magnetic tweezers is presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Tanja Mierke
- Faculty of Physics and Earth System Sciences, Peter Debye Institute for Soft Matter Physics, Biological Physics Division, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany.
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48
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Hernández-Oliveras A, Zarain-Herzberg A. The role of Ca 2+-signaling in the regulation of epigenetic mechanisms. Cell Calcium 2024; 117:102836. [PMID: 37988873 DOI: 10.1016/j.ceca.2023.102836] [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: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
Epigenetic mechanisms regulate multiple cell functions like gene expression and chromatin conformation and stability, and its misregulation could lead to several diseases including cancer. Epigenetic drugs are currently under investigation in a broad range of diseases, but the cellular processes involved in regulating epigenetic mechanisms are not fully understood. Calcium (Ca2+) signaling regulates several cellular mechanisms such as proliferation, gene expression, and metabolism, among others. Moreover, Ca2+ signaling is also involved in diseases such as neurological disorders, cardiac, and cancer. Evidence indicates that Ca2+ signaling and epigenetics are involved in the same cellular functions, which suggests a possible interplay between both mechanisms. Ca2+-activated transcription factors regulate the recruitment of chromatin remodeling complexes into their target genes, and Ca2+-sensing proteins modulate their activity and intracellular localization. Thus, Ca2+ signaling is an important regulator of epigenetic mechanisms. Moreover, Ca2+ signaling activates epigenetic mechanisms that in turn regulate genes involved in Ca2+ signaling, suggesting possible feedback between both mechanisms. The understanding of how epigenetics are regulated could lead to developing better therapeutical approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrés Hernández-Oliveras
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, 04510, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Angel Zarain-Herzberg
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, 04510, Mexico City, Mexico.
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49
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Aba G, Scheeren FA, Sharp TH. Design and Synthesis of DNA Origami Nanostructures to Control TNF Receptor Activation. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2800:35-53. [PMID: 38709476 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3834-7_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
Clustering of type II tumor necrosis factor (TNF) receptors (TNFRs) is essential for their activation, yet currently available drugs fail to activate signaling. Some strategies aim to cluster TNFR by using multivalent streptavidin or scaffolds based on dextran or graphene. However, these strategies do not allow for control of the valency or spatial organization of the ligands, and consequently control of the TNFR activation is not optimal. DNA origami nanostructures allow nanometer-precise control of the spatial organization of molecules and complexes, with defined spacing, number and valency. Here, we demonstrate the design and characterization of a DNA origami nanostructure that can be decorated with engineered single-chain TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (SC-TRAIL) complexes, which show increased cell killing compared to SC-TRAIL alone on Jurkat cells. The information in this chapter can be used as a basis to decorate DNA origami nanostructures with various proteins, complexes, or other biomolecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Göktuğ Aba
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Ferenc A Scheeren
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Thomas H Sharp
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.
- School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.
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50
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Migulina N, de Hilster RHJ, Bartel S, Vedder RHJ, van den Berge M, Nagelkerke A, Timens W, Harmsen MC, Hylkema MN, Brandsma CA, Burgess JK. 3-D culture of human lung fibroblasts decreases proliferative and increases extracellular matrix remodeling genes. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2024; 326:C177-C193. [PMID: 37955339 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00374.2023] [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: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
Fibroblasts are the main producers of extracellular matrix (ECM) responsible for ECM maintenance and repair, a process often disrupted in chronic lung diseases. The accompanying mechanical changes adversely affect resident cells and overall lung function. Numerous models have been used to elucidate fibroblast behavior that are now evolving toward complex three-dimensional (3-D) models incorporating ECM, aiming to replicate the cells' native environment. Little is known about the cellular changes that occur when moving from two-dimensional (2-D) to 3-D cell culture. This study compared the gene expression profiles of primary human lung fibroblasts from seven subjects with normal lung function, that were cultured for 24 h on 2-D collagen I-coated tissue culture plastic and in 3-D collagen I hydrogels, which are commonly used to mimic ECM in various models, from contraction assays to intricate organ-on-a-chip models. Comparing 3-D with 2-D cell culture, 6,771 differentially expressed genes (2,896 up, 3,875 down) were found; enriched gene sets within the downregulated genes, identified through Gene Set Enrichment Analysis and Ingenuity Pathway Analysis, were involved in the initiation of DNA replication which implied downregulation of fibroblast proliferation in 3-D. Observation of cells for 72 h in 2-D and 3-D environments confirmed the reduced progression through the cell cycle in 3-D. A focused analysis, examining the Hippo pathway and ECM-associated genes, showed differential patterns of gene expression in the 3-D versus 2-D culture. Altogether, the transcriptional response of fibroblasts cultured in 3-D indicated inhibition of proliferation, and alterations in Hippo and ECM pathways indicating a complete switch from proliferation to ECM remodeling.NEW & NOTEWORTHY With the introduction of complex three-dimensional (3-D) lung models, comes a need for understanding cellular behavior in these models. We compared gene expression profiles of human lung fibroblasts grown on two-dimensional (2-D) collagen I-coated surfaces with those in 3-D collagen I hydrogels. RNA sequencing and subsequent pathway analyses showed decreased proliferation, increased extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling, and altered Hippo signaling and ECM deposition-related gene signatures. These findings highlight unique responses of fibroblasts in 3-D models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nataliya Migulina
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD (GRIAC), University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Roderick H J de Hilster
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD (GRIAC), University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Sabine Bartel
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD (GRIAC), University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Rolf H J Vedder
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD (GRIAC), University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Maarten van den Berge
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD (GRIAC), University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Anika Nagelkerke
- Pharmaceutical Analysis, Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy, Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Wim Timens
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD (GRIAC), University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Martin C Harmsen
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, Groningen, The Netherlands
- W.J. Kolff Institute for Biomedical Engineering and Materials Science-FB41, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Machteld N Hylkema
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD (GRIAC), University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Corry-Anke Brandsma
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD (GRIAC), University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Janette K Burgess
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD (GRIAC), University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- W.J. Kolff Institute for Biomedical Engineering and Materials Science-FB41, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
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