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Thakku Sivakumar D, Jain K, Alfehaid N, Wang Y, Teng X, Fischer W, Engel T. The Purinergic P2X7 Receptor as a Target for Adjunctive Treatment for Drug-Refractory Epilepsy. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6894. [PMID: 39000004 PMCID: PMC11241490 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25136894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2024] [Revised: 06/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological diseases worldwide. Anti-seizure medications (ASMs) with anticonvulsants remain the mainstay of epilepsy treatment. Currently used ASMs are, however, ineffective to suppress seizures in about one third of all patients. Moreover, ASMs show no significant impact on the pathogenic mechanisms involved in epilepsy development or disease progression and may cause serious side-effects, highlighting the need for the identification of new drug targets for a more causal therapy. Compelling evidence has demonstrated a role for purinergic signalling, including the nucleotide adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP) during the generation of seizures and epilepsy. Consequently, drugs targeting specific ATP-gated purinergic receptors have been suggested as promising treatment options for epilepsy including the cationic P2X7 receptor (P27XR). P2X7R protein levels have been shown to be increased in the brain of experimental models of epilepsy and in the resected brain tissue of patients with epilepsy. Animal studies have provided evidence that P2X7R blocking can reduce the severity of acute seizures and the epileptic phenotype. The current review will provide a brief summary of recent key findings on P2X7R signalling during seizures and epilepsy focusing on the potential clinical use of treatments based on the P2X7R as an adjunctive therapeutic strategy for drug-refractory seizures and epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Divyeshz Thakku Sivakumar
- Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, University of Medicine and Health Sciences, D02 YN77 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Krishi Jain
- Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, University of Medicine and Health Sciences, D02 YN77 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Noura Alfehaid
- Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, University of Medicine and Health Sciences, D02 YN77 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Yitao Wang
- Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, University of Medicine and Health Sciences, D02 YN77 Dublin, Ireland
- International College of Pharmaceutical Innovation, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Xinchen Teng
- International College of Pharmaceutical Innovation, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | | | - Tobias Engel
- Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, University of Medicine and Health Sciences, D02 YN77 Dublin, Ireland
- FutureNeuro, Science Foundation Ireland Research Centre for Chronic and Rare Neurological Diseases, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, University of Medicine and Health Sciences, D02 YN77 Dublin, Ireland
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2
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Gaston-Breton R, Maïza Letrou A, Hamoudi R, Stonestreet BS, Mabondzo A. Brain organoids for hypoxic-ischemic studies: from bench to bedside. Cell Mol Life Sci 2023; 80:318. [PMID: 37804439 PMCID: PMC10560197 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-023-04951-0] [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: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/09/2023]
Abstract
Our current knowledge regarding the development of the human brain mostly derives from experimental studies on non-human primates, sheep, and rodents. However, these studies may not completely simulate all the features of human brain development as a result of species differences and variations in pre- and postnatal brain maturation. Therefore, it is important to supplement the in vivo animal models to increase the possibility that preclinical studies have appropriate relevance for potential future human trials. Three-dimensional brain organoid culture technology could complement in vivo animal studies to enhance the translatability of the preclinical animal studies and the understanding of brain-related disorders. In this review, we focus on the development of a model of hypoxic-ischemic (HI) brain injury using human brain organoids to complement the translation from animal experiments to human pathophysiology. We also discuss how the development of these tools provides potential opportunities to study fundamental aspects of the pathophysiology of HI-related brain injury including differences in the responses between males and females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romane Gaston-Breton
- Université Paris Saclay, CEA, INRAE, Médicaments et Technologies pour la Santé (DMTS), Laboratoire d'Etude de l'Unité Neurovasculaire & Innovation Thérapeutique, 91191, Gif-sur-Yvette Cedex, France
| | - Auriane Maïza Letrou
- Université Paris Saclay, CEA, INRAE, Médicaments et Technologies pour la Santé (DMTS), Laboratoire d'Etude de l'Unité Neurovasculaire & Innovation Thérapeutique, 91191, Gif-sur-Yvette Cedex, France
| | - Rifat Hamoudi
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, P. O. 27272, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, P. O. 27272, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, University College London, London, UK
- ASPIRE Precision Medicine Research Institute Abu Dhabi, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Barbara S Stonestreet
- Departments of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology and Biochemistry and Department of Pediatrics, Women & Infants Hospital of Rhode Island, The Alpert Medical School of Brown University, 101 Dudley Street, Providence, RI, 02905, USA
| | - Aloïse Mabondzo
- Université Paris Saclay, CEA, INRAE, Médicaments et Technologies pour la Santé (DMTS), Laboratoire d'Etude de l'Unité Neurovasculaire & Innovation Thérapeutique, 91191, Gif-sur-Yvette Cedex, France.
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3
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Yan YW, Qian ES, Woodard LE, Bejoy J. Neural lineage differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells: Advances in disease modeling. World J Stem Cells 2023; 15:530-547. [PMID: 37424945 PMCID: PMC10324500 DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v15.i6.530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Brain diseases affect 1 in 6 people worldwide. These diseases range from acute neurological conditions such as stroke to chronic neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease. Recent advancements in tissue-engineered brain disease models have overcome many of the different shortcomings associated with the various animal models, tissue culture models, and epidemiologic patient data that are commonly used to study brain disease. One innovative method by which to model human neurological disease is via the directed differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) to neural lineages including neurons, astrocytes, and oligodendrocytes. Three-dimensional models such as brain organoids have also been derived from hPSCs, offering more physiological relevance due to their incorporation of various cell types. As such, brain organoids can better model the pathophysiology of neural diseases observed in patients. In this review, we will emphasize recent developments in hPSC-based tissue culture models of neurological disorders and how they are being used to create neural disease models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan-Wei Yan
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, United States
| | - Eddie S Qian
- Nephrology and Hypertension, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, United States
| | - Lauren E Woodard
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, United States
- Department of Veterans Affairs, Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, Nashville, TN 37232, United States
- Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37232, United States
| | - Julie Bejoy
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, United States
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4
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She HQ, Sun YF, Chen L, Xiao QX, Luo BY, Zhou HS, Zhou D, Chang QY, Xiong LL. Current analysis of hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy research issues and future treatment modalities. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1136500. [PMID: 37360183 PMCID: PMC10288156 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1136500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) is the leading cause of long-term neurological disability in neonates and adults. Through bibliometric analysis, we analyzed the current research on HIE in various countries, institutions, and authors. At the same time, we extensively summarized the animal HIE models and modeling methods. There are various opinions on the neuroprotective treatment of HIE, and the main therapy in clinical is therapeutic hypothermia, although its efficacy remains to be investigated. Therefore, in this study, we discussed the progress of neural circuits, injured brain tissue, and neural circuits-related technologies, providing new ideas for the treatment and prognosis management of HIE with the combination of neuroendocrine and neuroprotection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Qing She
- Department of Anesthesiology, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
- Translational Neurology Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
- WANG TINGHUA Translation Institute, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Yi-Fei Sun
- Institute of Neurological Disease, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Li Chen
- Institute of Neurological Disease, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Qiu-Xia Xiao
- Institute of Neurological Disease, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Bo-Yan Luo
- WANG TINGHUA Translation Institute, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Hong-Su Zhou
- Department of Anesthesiology, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
- Translational Neurology Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
- WANG TINGHUA Translation Institute, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Di Zhou
- Department of Anesthesiology, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Quan-Yuan Chang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Liu-Lin Xiong
- Department of Anesthesiology, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
- Translational Neurology Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
- WANG TINGHUA Translation Institute, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
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5
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Wang L, Owusu-Hammond C, Sievert D, Gleeson JG. Stem Cell-Based Organoid Models of Neurodevelopmental Disorders. Biol Psychiatry 2023; 93:622-631. [PMID: 36759260 PMCID: PMC10022535 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2023.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
The past decade has seen an explosion in the identification of genetic causes of neurodevelopmental disorders, including Mendelian, de novo, and somatic factors. These discoveries provide opportunities to understand cellular and molecular mechanisms as well as potential gene-gene and gene-environment interactions to support novel therapies. Stem cell-based models, particularly human brain organoids, can capture disease-associated alleles in the context of the human genome, engineered to mirror disease-relevant aspects of cellular complexity and developmental timing. These models have brought key insights into neurodevelopmental disorders as diverse as microcephaly, autism, and focal epilepsy. However, intrinsic organoid-to-organoid variability, low levels of certain brain-resident cell types, and long culture times required to reach maturity can impede progress. Several recent advances incorporate specific morphogen gradients, mixtures of diverse brain cell types, and organoid engraftment into animal models. Together with nonhuman primate organoid comparisons, mechanisms of human neurodevelopmental disorders are emerging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Wang
- From the Department of Neuroscience, Rady Children's Institute for Genomic Medicine, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, California
| | - Charlotte Owusu-Hammond
- From the Department of Neuroscience, Rady Children's Institute for Genomic Medicine, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, California
| | - David Sievert
- From the Department of Neuroscience, Rady Children's Institute for Genomic Medicine, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, California
| | - Joseph G Gleeson
- From the Department of Neuroscience, Rady Children's Institute for Genomic Medicine, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, California.
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6
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Lü L, Yuan F, Fan H, Li Y, Liu J, Feng W, Zhang HG, Chen SY. Ethanol exposure disrupted the formation of radial glial processes and impaired the generation and migration of outer radial glial cells in forebrain organoids derived from human embryonic stem cells. Exp Neurol 2023; 362:114325. [PMID: 36669750 PMCID: PMC9992138 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2023.114325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Radial glial cells (RGCs) play a pivotal role in cerebral cortical development by functioning as a source of new neurons and by supporting the migration of newborn neurons. These functions are primarily dependent on the apical-basolateral structures of radial glial processes. This study aims to investigate the effects of ethanol exposure on the development of radial glial processes and the generation, migration, and transformation of outer radial glial cells (oRGCs). For this purpose, forebrain organoids were developed from human embryonic stem cells. These forebrain organoids contain abundant neural progenitor cells (SOX2+), express high levels of neural epithelial markers β-catenin and PKCλ, and dorsal forebrain marker PAX6, and display well-organized cortical architectures containing abundant apical and basal RGCs, intermediate progenitors (IPCs), and neurons. Exposure of forebrain organoids to ethanol resulted in a significant increase in apoptosis in Nestin-positive radial glial cells. Ethanol exposure also remarkably decreased the levels of radial glial process-associated proteins, including Nestin, GFAP, and Vimentin, in radial glial cells and distinctly impaired the integrity and morphologies of radial glial processes. In addition, the ethanol-induced impairment of the radial glial processes is associated with decreased migration and proliferation of radial glial cells, reduction in the generation of HOPX+ oRGCs, and the accelerated transformation of oRGCs into astrocytes. These results demonstrate that ethanol exposure can disrupt cerebral cortex development by impairing the formation of radial glial processes and the generation, migration, and transformation of oRGCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lanhai Lü
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Louisville Health Sciences Center, Louisville, KY 40292, USA; University of Louisville Alcohol Research Center, Louisville, KY 40292, USA; Department of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40292, USA
| | - Fuqiang Yuan
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Louisville Health Sciences Center, Louisville, KY 40292, USA; University of Louisville Alcohol Research Center, Louisville, KY 40292, USA
| | - Huadong Fan
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Louisville Health Sciences Center, Louisville, KY 40292, USA; University of Louisville Alcohol Research Center, Louisville, KY 40292, USA
| | - Yihong Li
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Louisville Health Sciences Center, Louisville, KY 40292, USA; University of Louisville Alcohol Research Center, Louisville, KY 40292, USA
| | - Jie Liu
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Louisville Health Sciences Center, Louisville, KY 40292, USA; University of Louisville Alcohol Research Center, Louisville, KY 40292, USA
| | - Wenke Feng
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Louisville Health Sciences Center, Louisville, KY 40292, USA; University of Louisville Alcohol Research Center, Louisville, KY 40292, USA; Department of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40292, USA
| | - Huang-Ge Zhang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40292, USA; Robley Rex Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Louisville, KY 40292, USA
| | - Shao-Yu Chen
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Louisville Health Sciences Center, Louisville, KY 40292, USA; University of Louisville Alcohol Research Center, Louisville, KY 40292, USA.
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7
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De Paola M, Pischiutta F, Comolli D, Mariani A, Kelk J, Lisi I, Cerovic M, Fumagalli S, Forloni G, Zanier ER. Neural cortical organoids from self-assembling human iPSC as a model to investigate neurotoxicity in brain ischemia. J Cereb Blood Flow Metab 2023; 43:680-693. [PMID: 36655331 PMCID: PMC10108182 DOI: 10.1177/0271678x231152023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Brain ischemia is a common acute injury resulting from impaired blood flow to the brain. Translation of effective drug candidates from experimental models to patients has systematically failed. The use of human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) offers new opportunities to gain translational insights into diseases including brain ischemia. We used a human 3D self-assembling iPSC-derived model (human cortical organoids, hCO) to characterize the effects of ischemia caused by oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD). hCO exposed to 2 h or 8 h of OGD had neuronal death and impaired neuronal network complexity, measured in whole-mounting microtubule-associated protein 2 (MAP-2) immunostaining. Neuronal vulnerability was reflected by a reduction in MAP-2 mRNA levels, and increased release of neurofilament light chain (NfL) in culture media, proportional to OGD severity. Glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) gene or protein levels did not change in hCO, but their release in medium increased after prolonged OGD. In conclusion, this human 3D iPSC-based in vitro model of brain ischemic injury is characterized by marked neuronal injury reflected by the release of the translational biomarker NfL which is relevant for testing neuroprotective strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimiliano De Paola
- Biology of Neurodegenerative Diseases Lab, Department of Neuroscience, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Milano, Italy
| | - Francesca Pischiutta
- Acute Brain Injury and Therapeutic Strategies Lab, Department of Neuroscience, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Milano, Italy
| | - Davide Comolli
- Biology of Neurodegenerative Diseases Lab, Department of Neuroscience, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Milano, Italy
| | - Alessandro Mariani
- Biology of Neurodegenerative Diseases Lab, Department of Neuroscience, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Milano, Italy
| | - Joe Kelk
- Biology of Neurodegenerative Diseases Lab, Department of Neuroscience, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Milano, Italy
| | - Ilaria Lisi
- Acute Brain Injury and Therapeutic Strategies Lab, Department of Neuroscience, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Milano, Italy
| | - Milica Cerovic
- Biology of Neurodegenerative Diseases Lab, Department of Neuroscience, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Milano, Italy
| | - Stefano Fumagalli
- Biology of Neurodegenerative Diseases Lab, Department of Neuroscience, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Milano, Italy
| | - Gianluigi Forloni
- Biology of Neurodegenerative Diseases Lab, Department of Neuroscience, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Milano, Italy
| | - Elisa R Zanier
- Acute Brain Injury and Therapeutic Strategies Lab, Department of Neuroscience, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Milano, Italy
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8
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Dixon TA, Muotri AR. Advancing preclinical models of psychiatric disorders with human brain organoid cultures. Mol Psychiatry 2023; 28:83-95. [PMID: 35948659 PMCID: PMC9812789 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-022-01708-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Revised: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Psychiatric disorders are often distinguished from neurological disorders in that the former do not have characteristic lesions or findings from cerebrospinal fluid, electroencephalograms (EEGs), or brain imaging, and furthermore do not have commonly recognized convergent mechanisms. Psychiatric disorders commonly involve clinical diagnosis of phenotypic behavioral disturbances of mood and psychosis, often with a poorly understood contribution of environmental factors. As such, psychiatric disease has been challenging to model preclinically for mechanistic understanding and pharmaceutical development. This review compares commonly used animal paradigms of preclinical testing with evolving techniques of induced pluripotent cell culture with a focus on emerging three-dimensional models. Advances in complexity of 3D cultures, recapitulating electrical activity in utero, and disease modeling of psychosis, mood, and environmentally induced disorders are reviewed. Insights from these rapidly expanding technologies are discussed as they pertain to the utility of human organoid and other models in finding novel research directions, validating pharmaceutical action, and recapitulating human disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Anthony Dixon
- grid.266100.30000 0001 2107 4242Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093 USA
| | - Alysson R. Muotri
- grid.266100.30000 0001 2107 4242Department of Pediatrics and Department of Cellular & Molecular Medicine, University of California San Diego, School of Medicine, Center for Academic Research and Training in Anthropogeny (CARTA), Kavli Institute for Brain and Mind, Archealization Center (ArchC), La Jolla, CA 92037 USA
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9
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A Comprehensive Update of Cerebral Organoids between Applications and Challenges. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2022; 2022:7264649. [DOI: 10.1155/2022/7264649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2022] [Revised: 10/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The basic technology of stem cells has been developed and created organoids, which have established a strong interest in regenerative medicine. Different cell types have been used to generate cerebral organoids, which include interneurons and oligodendrocytes (OLs). OLs are fundamental for brain development. Abundant studies have displayed that brain organoids can recapitulate fundamental and vital features of the human brain, such as cellular regulation and distribution, neuronal networks, electrical activities, and physiological structure. The organoids contain essential ventral brain domains and functional cortical interneurons, which are similar to the developing cortex and medial ganglionic eminence (MGE). So, brain organoids have provided a singular model to study and investigate neurological disorder mechanisms and therapeutics. Furthermore, the blood brain barrier (BBB) organoids modeling contributes to accelerate therapeutic discovery for the treatment of several neuropathologies. In this review, we summarized the advances of the brain organoids applications to investigate neurological disorder mechanisms such as neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders, mental disorders, brain cancer, and cerebral viral infections. We discussed brain organoids’ therapeutic application as a potential therapeutic unique method and highlighted in detail the challenges and hurdles of organoid models.
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Romero-Morales AI, Gama V. Revealing the Impact of Mitochondrial Fitness During Early Neural Development Using Human Brain Organoids. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:840265. [PMID: 35571368 PMCID: PMC9102998 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.840265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Mitochondrial homeostasis -including function, morphology, and inter-organelle communication- provides guidance to the intrinsic developmental programs of corticogenesis, while also being responsive to environmental and intercellular signals. Two- and three-dimensional platforms have become useful tools to interrogate the capacity of cells to generate neuronal and glia progeny in a background of metabolic dysregulation, but the mechanistic underpinnings underlying the role of mitochondria during human neurogenesis remain unexplored. Here we provide a concise overview of cortical development and the use of pluripotent stem cell models that have contributed to our understanding of mitochondrial and metabolic regulation of early human brain development. We finally discuss the effects of mitochondrial fitness dysregulation seen under stress conditions such as metabolic dysregulation, absence of developmental apoptosis, and hypoxia; and the avenues of research that can be explored with the use of brain organoids.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vivian Gama
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, United States
- Vanderbilt Center for Stem Cell Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, United States
- Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, United States
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11
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Martinelli I, Tayebati SK, Tomassoni D, Nittari G, Roy P, Amenta F. Brain and Retinal Organoids for Disease Modeling: The Importance of In Vitro Blood–Brain and Retinal Barriers Studies. Cells 2022; 11:cells11071120. [PMID: 35406683 PMCID: PMC8997725 DOI: 10.3390/cells11071120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain and retinal organoids are functional and dynamic in vitro three-dimensional (3D) structures derived from pluripotent stem cells that spontaneously organize themselves to their in vivo counterparts. Here, we review the main literature data of how these organoids have been developed through different protocols and how they have been technically analyzed. Moreover, this paper reviews recent advances in using organoids to model neurological and retinal diseases, considering their potential for translational applications but also pointing out their limitations. Since the blood–brain barrier (BBB) and blood–retinal barrier (BRB) are understood to play a fundamental role respectively in brain and eye functions, both in health and in disease, we provide an overview of the progress in the development techniques of in vitro models as reliable and predictive screening tools for BBB and BRB-penetrating compounds. Furthermore, we propose potential future directions for brain and retinal organoids, in which dedicated biobanks will represent a novel tool for neuroscience and ophthalmology research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilenia Martinelli
- School of Medicinal and Health Products Sciences, University of Camerino, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (S.K.T.); (G.N.); (F.A.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Seyed Khosrow Tayebati
- School of Medicinal and Health Products Sciences, University of Camerino, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (S.K.T.); (G.N.); (F.A.)
| | - Daniele Tomassoni
- School of Biosciences and Veterinary Medicine, University of Camerino, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (D.T.); (P.R.)
| | - Giulio Nittari
- School of Medicinal and Health Products Sciences, University of Camerino, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (S.K.T.); (G.N.); (F.A.)
| | - Proshanta Roy
- School of Biosciences and Veterinary Medicine, University of Camerino, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (D.T.); (P.R.)
| | - Francesco Amenta
- School of Medicinal and Health Products Sciences, University of Camerino, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (S.K.T.); (G.N.); (F.A.)
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12
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Ejlersen M, Ilieva M, Michel TM. Superoxide dismutase isozymes in cerebral organoids from autism spectrum disorder patients. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2022; 129:617-626. [PMID: 35266053 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-022-02472-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder is a pervasive neurodevelopmental disorder with a substantial contribution to the global disease burden. Despite intensive research efforts, the aetiopathogenesis remains unclear. The Janus-faced antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase 1-3 have been implicated in initiating oxidative stress and as such may constitute a potential therapeutic target. However, no measurement has been taken in human autistic brain samples. The aim of this study is to measure superoxide dismutase 1-3 in autistic cerebral organoids as an in vitro model of human foetal neurodevelopment. Whole brain organoids were created from induced pluripotent stem cells from healthy individuals (n = 5) and individuals suffering from autism (n = 4). Using Pierce bicinchoninic acid and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, the protein and superoxide dismutase 1, 2, and 3 concentrations were quantified in the cerebral organoids at days 22, 32, and 42. Measurements were normalized to the protein concentration. Results represented using medians and interquartile ranges. Using Wilcoxon matched-pairs signed-rank test, an abrupt rise in the superoxide dismutase concentration was observed at day 32 and onwards. Using Wilcoxon rank-sum test, no differences were observed between healthy (SOD1: 35.56 ng/mL ± 3.46; SOD2: 2435.80 ng/mL ± 1327.00; SOD3: 1854.88 ng/mL ± 867.94) and autistic (SOD1: 32.85 ng/mL ± 5.26; SOD2: 2717.80 ng/mL ± 1889.10; SOD3: 1690.18 ng/mL ± 615.49) organoids. Cerebral organoids recapitulate many aspects of human neurodevelopment, but the diffusion restriction may render efforts in modelling differences in oxidative stress futile due to the intrinsic hypoxia and central necrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morten Ejlersen
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Southern Denmark, J.B. Winsløws Vej 19.3, 5000, Odense, Denmark
| | - Mirolyuba Ilieva
- Research Unit of the Department of Psychiatry, University Hospital of Southern Denmark, J.B. Winsløws Vej 20, 5000, Odense, Denmark
| | - Tanja Maria Michel
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Southern Denmark, J.B. Winsløws Vej 19.3, 5000, Odense, Denmark.
- Research Unit of the Department of Psychiatry, University Hospital of Southern Denmark, J.B. Winsløws Vej 20, 5000, Odense, Denmark.
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13
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Xu J, Wen Z. Brain Organoids: Studying Human Brain Development and Diseases in a Dish. Stem Cells Int 2021; 2021:5902824. [PMID: 34539790 PMCID: PMC8448601 DOI: 10.1155/2021/5902824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
With the rapid development of stem cell technology, the advent of three-dimensional (3D) cultured brain organoids has opened a new avenue for studying human neurodevelopment and neurological disorders. Brain organoids are stem-cell-derived 3D suspension cultures that self-assemble into an organized structure with cell types and cytoarchitectures recapitulating the developing brain. In recent years, brain organoids have been utilized in various aspects, ranging from basic biology studies, to disease modeling, and high-throughput screening of pharmaceutical compounds. In this review, we overview the establishment and development of brain organoid technology, its recent progress, and translational applications, as well as existing limitations and future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Xu
- The Graduate Program in Genetics and Molecular Biology, Laney Graduate School, Emory University, GA 30322, USA
| | - Zhexing Wen
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
- Department of Neurology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
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14
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He J, Mao J, Hou L, Jin S, Wang X, Ding Z, Jin Z, Guo H, Dai R. Minocycline attenuates neuronal apoptosis and improves motor function after traumatic brain injury in rats. Exp Anim 2021; 70:563-569. [PMID: 34349080 PMCID: PMC8614018 DOI: 10.1538/expanim.21-0028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Minocycline is a type of tetracycline antibiotic with broad-spectrum antibacterial activity that has been demonstrated to protect the brain against a series of central nervous system
diseases. However, the precise mechanisms of these neuroprotective actions remain unknown. In the present study, we found that minocycline treatment significantly reduced HT22 cell apoptosis
in a mechanical cell injury model. In addition, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) staining confirmed the neuroprotective effects of minocycline in
vivo through the inhibition of apoptosis in a rat model of controlled cortical impact (CCI) brain injury. The western blotting analysis revealed that minocycline treatment
significantly downregulated the pro-apoptotic proteins BAX and cleaved caspase-3 and upregulated the anti-apoptotic protein BCL-2. Furthermore, the beam-walking test showed that the
administration of minocycline ameliorated traumatic brain injury (TBI)-induced deficits in motor function. Taken together, these findings suggested that minocycline attenuated neuronal
apoptosis and improved motor function following TBI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jihong He
- Jiading District Central Hospital Affiliated Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences
| | | | - Lei Hou
- Jiading District Central Hospital Affiliated Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences
| | - Shimin Jin
- Jiading District Central Hospital Affiliated Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences
| | - Xiaodong Wang
- Jiading District Central Hospital Affiliated Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences
| | - Zhaoqi Ding
- Jiading District Central Hospital Affiliated Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences
| | - Zhene Jin
- Jiading District Central Hospital Affiliated Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences
| | - Hua Guo
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University
| | - Rongxiao Dai
- Jiading District Central Hospital Affiliated Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences
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15
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Wörsdörfer P, Ergün S. The Impact of Oxygen Availability and Multilineage Communication on Organoid Maturation. Antioxid Redox Signal 2021; 35:217-233. [PMID: 33334234 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2020.8195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Significance: An optimal supply with oxygen is of high importance during embryogenesis and a prerequisite for proper organ development. Different tissues require varying amounts of oxygen, and even within single organs, different phases of development go alongside with either physiological hypoxia or the need for sufficient oxygen supply. Recent Advances: Human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived organoid models are state of the art cell culture platforms for the investigation of developmental processes, disease modeling, and drug testing. Organoids modeling the development of multiple tissues were developed within the past years. Critical Issues: Until now, optimization of oxygen supply and its role during organoid growth, differentiation, and maturation have only rarely been addressed. Recent publications indicate that hypoxia-induced processes play an important role in three-dimensional tissue cultures, triggering multilineage communication between mesenchymal cells, the endothelium, as well as organotypic cells. Later in culture, a sufficient supply with oxygen is of high importance to allow larger organoid sizes. Moreover, cellular stress is reduced and tissue maturation is improved. Therefore, a functional blood vessel network is required. Future Directions: In this review, we will briefly summarize aspects of the role of oxygen during embryonic development and organogenesis, present an update on novel organoid models with a special focus on organoid vascularization, and discuss the importance of complex organoids involving parenchymal cells, mesenchymal cells, inflammatory cells, and functional blood vessels for the generation of mature and fully functional tissues in vitro. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 35, 217-233.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philipp Wörsdörfer
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Julius-Maximilians-University Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Süleyman Ergün
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Julius-Maximilians-University Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
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16
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Ao Z, Cai H, Wu Z, Song S, Karahan H, Kim B, Lu HC, Kim J, Mackie K, Guo F. Tubular human brain organoids to model microglia-mediated neuroinflammation. LAB ON A CHIP 2021; 21:2751-2762. [PMID: 34021557 PMCID: PMC8493632 DOI: 10.1039/d1lc00030f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Human brain organoids, 3D brain tissue cultures derived from human pluripotent stem cells, hold promising potential in modeling neuroinflammation for a variety of neurological diseases. However, challenges remain in generating standardized human brain organoids that can recapitulate key physiological features of a human brain. Here, we present tubular organoid-on-a-chip devices to generate better organoids and model neuroinflammation. By employing 3D printed hollow mesh scaffolds, our device can be easily incorporated into multiwell-plates for reliable, scalable, and reproducible generation of tubular organoids. By introducing rocking flows through the tubular device channel, our device can perfuse nutrients and oxygen to minimize organoid necrosis and hypoxia, and incorporate immune cells into organoids to model neuro-immune interactions. Compared with conventional protocols, our method increased neural progenitor proliferation and reduced heterogeneity of human brain organoids. As a proof-of-concept application, we applied this method to model the microglia-mediated neuroinflammation after exposure to an opioid receptor agonist. We found isogenic microglia were activated after exposure to an opioid receptor agonist (DAMGO) and transformed back to the homeostatic status with further treatment by a cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2) agonist (LY2828360). Importantly, the activated microglia in tubular organoids had stronger cytokine responses compared to those in 2D microglial cultures. Our tubular organoid device is simple, versatile, inexpensive, easy-to-use, and compatible with multiwell-plates, so it can be widely used in common research and clinical laboratory settings. This technology can be broadly used for basic and translational applications in inflammatory diseases including substance use disorders, neural diseases, autoimmune disorders, and infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Ao
- Department of Intelligent Systems Engineering, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA.
| | - Hongwei Cai
- Department of Intelligent Systems Engineering, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA.
| | - Zhuhao Wu
- Department of Intelligent Systems Engineering, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA.
| | - Sunghwa Song
- Department of Intelligent Systems Engineering, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA.
| | - Hande Karahan
- Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, and Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Byungwook Kim
- Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, and Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Hui-Chen Lu
- Gill Center for Biomolecular Science, and Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA
| | - Jungsu Kim
- Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, and Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Ken Mackie
- Gill Center for Biomolecular Science, and Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA
| | - Feng Guo
- Department of Intelligent Systems Engineering, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA.
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17
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Sarieva K, Mayer S. The Effects of Environmental Adversities on Human Neocortical Neurogenesis Modeled in Brain Organoids. Front Mol Biosci 2021; 8:686410. [PMID: 34250020 PMCID: PMC8264783 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.686410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the past decades, a growing body of evidence has demonstrated the impact of prenatal environmental adversity on the development of the human embryonic and fetal brain. Prenatal environmental adversity includes infectious agents, medication, and substances of use as well as inherently maternal factors, such as diabetes and stress. These adversities may cause long-lasting effects if occurring in sensitive time windows and, therefore, have high clinical relevance. However, our knowledge of their influence on specific cellular and molecular processes of in utero brain development remains scarce. This gap of knowledge can be partially explained by the restricted experimental access to the human embryonic and fetal brain and limited recapitulation of human-specific neurodevelopmental events in model organisms. In the past years, novel 3D human stem cell-based in vitro modeling systems, so-called brain organoids, have proven their applicability for modeling early events of human brain development in health and disease. Since their emergence, brain organoids have been successfully employed to study molecular mechanisms of Zika and Herpes simplex virus-associated microcephaly, as well as more subtle events happening upon maternal alcohol and nicotine consumption. These studies converge on pathological mechanisms targeting neural stem cells. In this review, we discuss how brain organoids have recently revealed commonalities and differences in the effects of environmental adversities on human neurogenesis. We highlight both the breakthroughs in understanding the molecular consequences of environmental exposures achieved using organoids as well as the on-going challenges in the field related to variability in protocols and a lack of benchmarking, which make cross-study comparisons difficult.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kseniia Sarieva
- Hertie Institute for Clinical Brain Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- International Max Planck Research School, Graduate Training Centre of Neuroscience, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Simone Mayer
- Hertie Institute for Clinical Brain Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
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18
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Song G, Zhao M, Chen H, Zhou X, Lenahan C, Ou Y, He Y. The Application of Brain Organoid Technology in Stroke Research: Challenges and Prospects. Front Cell Neurosci 2021; 15:646921. [PMID: 34234646 PMCID: PMC8257041 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2021.646921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2020] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Stroke is a neurological disease responsible for significant morbidity and disability worldwide. However, there remains a dearth of effective therapies. The failure of many therapies for stroke in clinical trials has promoted the development of human cell-based models, such as brain organoids. Brain organoids differ from pluripotent stem cells in that they recapitulate various key features of the human central nervous system (CNS) in three-dimensional (3D) space. Recent studies have demonstrated that brain organoids could serve as a new platform to study various neurological diseases. However, there are several limitations, such as the scarcity of glia and vasculature in organoids, which are important for studying stroke. Herein, we have summarized the application of brain organoid technology in stroke research, such as for modeling and transplantation purposes. We also discuss methods to overcome the limitations of brain organoid technology, as well as future prospects for its application in stroke research. Although there are many difficulties and challenges associated with brain organoid technology, it is clear that this approach will play a critical role in the future exploration of stroke treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guini Song
- Department of Neurology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Min Zhao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Hanmin Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiangyue Zhou
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Cameron Lenahan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine, Las Cruces, NM, United States
| | - Yibo Ou
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yue He
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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19
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Jacob F, Schnoll JG, Song H, Ming GL. Building the brain from scratch: Engineering region-specific brain organoids from human stem cells to study neural development and disease. Curr Top Dev Biol 2021; 142:477-530. [PMID: 33706925 PMCID: PMC8363060 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ctdb.2020.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Human brain development is an intricate process that involves precisely timed coordination of cell proliferation, fate specification, neuronal differentiation, migration, and integration of diverse cell types. Understanding of these fundamental processes, however, has been largely constrained by limited access to fetal brain tissue and the inability to prospectively study neurodevelopment in humans at the molecular, cellular and system levels. Although non-human model organisms have provided important insights into mechanisms underlying brain development, these systems do not fully recapitulate many human-specific features that often relate to disease. To address these challenges, human brain organoids, self-assembled three-dimensional neural aggregates, have been engineered from human pluripotent stem cells to model the architecture and cellular diversity of the developing human brain. Recent advancements in neural induction and regional patterning using small molecules and growth factors have yielded protocols for generating brain organoids that recapitulate the structure and neuronal composition of distinct brain regions. Here, we first provide an overview of early mammalian brain development with an emphasis on molecular cues that guide region specification. We then focus on recent efforts in generating human brain organoids that model the development of specific brain regions and highlight endeavors to enhance the cellular complexity to better mimic the in vivo developing human brain. We also provide examples of how organoid models have enhanced our understanding of human neurological diseases and conclude by discussing limitations of brain organoids with our perspectives on future advancements to maximize their potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fadi Jacob
- Department of Neuroscience and Mahoney Institute for Neurosciences, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States; The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States; Medical Scientist Training Program, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Jordan G Schnoll
- Department of Neuroscience and Mahoney Institute for Neurosciences, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Hongjun Song
- Department of Neuroscience and Mahoney Institute for Neurosciences, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States; Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States; Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States; The Epigenetics Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Guo-Li Ming
- Department of Neuroscience and Mahoney Institute for Neurosciences, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States; Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States; Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States; Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States.
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20
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Sidhaye J, Knoblich JA. Brain organoids: an ensemble of bioassays to investigate human neurodevelopment and disease. Cell Death Differ 2021; 28:52-67. [PMID: 32483384 PMCID: PMC7853143 DOI: 10.1038/s41418-020-0566-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2020] [Revised: 05/07/2020] [Accepted: 05/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding etiology of human neurological and psychiatric diseases is challenging. Genomic changes, protracted development, and histological features unique to human brain development limit the disease aspects that can be investigated using model organisms. Hence, in order to study phenotypes associated with human brain development, function, and disease, it is necessary to use alternative experimental systems that are accessible, ethically justified, and replicate human context. Human pluripotent stem cell (hPSC)-derived brain organoids offer such a system, which recapitulates features of early human neurodevelopment in vitro, including the generation, proliferation, and differentiation of neural progenitors into neurons and glial cells and the complex interactions among the diverse, emergent cell types of the developing brain in three-dimensions (3-D). In recent years, numerous brain organoid protocols and related techniques have been developed to recapitulate aspects of embryonic and fetal brain development in a reproducible and predictable manner. Altogether, these different organoid technologies provide distinct bioassays to unravel novel, disease-associated phenotypes and mechanisms. In this review, we summarize how the diverse brain organoid methods can be utilized to enhance our understanding of brain disorders. FACTS: Brain organoids offer an in vitro approach to study aspects of human brain development and disease. Diverse brain organoid techniques offer bioassays to investigate new phenotypes associated with human brain disorders that are difficult to study in monolayer cultures. Brain organoids have been particularly useful to study phenomena and diseases associated with neural progenitor morphology, survival, proliferation, and differentiation. OPEN QUESTION: Future brain organoid research needs to aim at later stages of neurodevelopment, linked with neuronal activity and connections, to unravel further disease-associated phenotypes. Continued improvement of existing organoid protocols is required to generate standardized methods that recapitulate in vivo-like spatial diversity and complexity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaydeep Sidhaye
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of Austrian academy of sciences (IMBA), Vienna BioCenter (VBC), Dr. Bohr-Gasse 3, 1030, Vienna, Austria
| | - Jürgen A Knoblich
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of Austrian academy of sciences (IMBA), Vienna BioCenter (VBC), Dr. Bohr-Gasse 3, 1030, Vienna, Austria.
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21
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Lovett ML, Nieland TJ, Dingle YTL, Kaplan DL. Innovations in 3-Dimensional Tissue Models of Human Brain Physiology and Diseases. ADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS 2020; 30:1909146. [PMID: 34211358 PMCID: PMC8240470 DOI: 10.1002/adfm.201909146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2019] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
3-dimensional (3D) laboratory tissue cultures have emerged as an alternative to traditional 2-dimensional (2D) culture systems that do not recapitulate native cell behavior. The discrepancy between in vivo and in vitro tissue-cell-molecular responses impedes understanding of human physiology in general and creates roadblocks for the discovery of therapeutic solutions. Two parallel approaches have emerged for the design of 3D culture systems. The first is biomedical engineering methodology, including bioengineered materials, bioprinting, microfluidics and bioreactors, used alone or in combination, to mimic the microenvironments of native tissues. The second approach is organoid technology, in which stem cells are exposed to chemical and/or biological cues to activate differentiation programs that are reminiscent of human (prenatal) development. This review article describes recent technological advances in engineering 3D cultures that more closely resemble the human brain. The contributions of in vitro 3D tissue culture systems to new insights in neurophysiology, neurological diseases and regenerative medicine are highlighted. Perspectives on designing improved tissue models of the human brain are offered, focusing on an integrative approach merging biomedical engineering tools with organoid biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael L. Lovett
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, 4 Colby Street, Medford, MA 02155
| | - Thomas J.F. Nieland
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, 4 Colby Street, Medford, MA 02155
| | - Yu-Ting L. Dingle
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, 4 Colby Street, Medford, MA 02155
| | - David L. Kaplan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, 4 Colby Street, Medford, MA 02155
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22
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Shou Y, Liang F, Xu S, Li X. The Application of Brain Organoids: From Neuronal Development to Neurological Diseases. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:579659. [PMID: 33195219 PMCID: PMC7642488 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.579659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain organoids are derived from induced pluripotent stem cells and embryonic stem cells under three-dimensional culture condition. The generation of an organoid requires the self-assembly of stem cells, progenitor cells, and multiple types of differentiated cells. Organoids display structures that resemble defined brain regions and simulate specific changes of neurological disorders; thus, organoids have become an excellent model for investigating brain development and neurological diseases. In the present review, we have summarized recent advances of the methods of culturing brain organoids and the applications of brain organoids in investigating neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yikai Shou
- The Children's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,The Institute of Translational Medicine, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, China
| | - Feng Liang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shunliang Xu
- Department of Neurology, The Second Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Xuekun Li
- The Children's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,The Institute of Translational Medicine, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, China
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23
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Zhang DY, Song H, Ming GL. Modeling neurological disorders using brain organoids. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2020; 111:4-14. [PMID: 32561297 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2020.05.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Revised: 05/08/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Neurological disorders are challenging to study given the complexity and species-specific features of the organ system. Brain organoids are three dimensional structured aggregates of neural tissue that are generated by self-organization and differentiation from pluripotent stem cells under optimized culture conditions. These brain organoids exhibit similar features of structural organization and cell type diversity as the developing human brain, creating opportunities to recapitulate disease phenotypes that are not otherwise accessible. Here we review the initial attempt in the field to apply brain organoid models for the study of many different types of human neurological disorders across a wide range of etiologies and pathophysiologies. Forthcoming advancements in both brain organoid technology as well as analytical methods have significant potentials to advance the understanding of neurological disorders and to uncover opportunities for meaningful therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Y Zhang
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics Graduate Group, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Hongjun Song
- Department of Neuroscience and Mahoney Institute for Neurosciences, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA; Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA; Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA; The Epigenetics Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Guo-Li Ming
- Department of Neuroscience and Mahoney Institute for Neurosciences, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA; Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA; Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
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24
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Boisvert EM, Means RE, Michaud M, Thomson JJ, Madri JA, Katz SG. A Static Self-Directed Method for Generating Brain Organoids from Human Embryonic Stem Cells. J Vis Exp 2020. [PMID: 32202516 DOI: 10.3791/60379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Human brain organoids differentiated from embryonic stem cells offer the unique opportunity to study complicated interactions of multiple cell types in a three-dimensional system. Here we present a relatively straightforward and inexpensive method that yields brain organoids. In this protocol human pluripotent stem cells are broken into small clusters instead of single cells and grown in basic media without a heterologous basement membrane matrix or exogenous growth factors, allowing the intrinsic developmental cues to shape the organoid's growth. This simple system produces a diversity of brain cell types including glial and microglial cells, stem cells, and neurons of the forebrain, midbrain, and hindbrain. Organoids generated from this protocol also display hallmarks of appropriate temporal and spatial organization demonstrated by brightfield images, histology, immunofluorescence and real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Because these organoids contain cell types from various parts of the brain, they can be utilized for studying a multitude of diseases. For example, in a recent paper we demonstrated the use of organoids generated from this protocol for studying the effects of hypoxia on the human brain. This approach can be used to investigate an array of otherwise difficult to study conditions such as neurodevelopmental handicaps, genetic disorders, and neurologic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Robert E Means
- Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine
| | | | | | - Joseph A Madri
- Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine
| | - Samuel G Katz
- Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine;
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Chhibber T, Bagchi S, Lahooti B, Verma A, Al-Ahmad A, Paul MK, Pendyala G, Jayant RD. CNS organoids: an innovative tool for neurological disease modeling and drug neurotoxicity screening. Drug Discov Today 2020; 25:456-465. [PMID: 31783130 PMCID: PMC7039749 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2019.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2019] [Revised: 10/28/2019] [Accepted: 11/20/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The paradigm of central nervous system (CNS) drug discovery has mostly relied on traditional approaches of rodent models or cell-based in vitro models. Owing to the issues of species differences between humans and rodents, it is difficult to correlate the robustness of data for neurodevelopmental studies. With advances in the stem-cell field, 3D CNS organoids have been developed and explored owing to their resemblance to the human brain architecture and functions. Further, CNS organoids provide a unique opportunity to mimic the human brain physiology and serve as a modeling tool to study the normal versus pathological brain or the elucidation of mechanisms of neurological disorders. Here, we discuss the recent application of a CNS organoid explored for neurodevelopment disease or a screening tool for CNS drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanya Chhibber
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, JH School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC), Amarillo, TX 79106, USA
| | - Sounak Bagchi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, JH School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC), Amarillo, TX 79106, USA
| | - Behnaz Lahooti
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, JH School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC), Amarillo, TX 79106, USA
| | - Angela Verma
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, JH School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC), Amarillo, TX 79106, USA
| | - Abraham Al-Ahmad
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, JH School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC), Amarillo, TX 79106, USA
| | - Manash K Paul
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Gurudutt Pendyala
- Department of Anesthesiology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC), Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Rahul Dev Jayant
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, JH School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC), Amarillo, TX 79106, USA.
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26
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Marton RM, Pașca SP. Organoid and Assembloid Technologies for Investigating Cellular Crosstalk in Human Brain Development and Disease. Trends Cell Biol 2019; 30:133-143. [PMID: 31879153 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcb.2019.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 132] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2019] [Revised: 11/18/2019] [Accepted: 11/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The biology of the human brain, and in particular the dynamic interactions between the numerous cell types and regions of the central nervous system, has been difficult to study due to limited access to functional brain tissue. Technologies to derive brain organoids and assembloids from human pluripotent stem cells are increasingly utilized to model, in progressively complex preparations, the crosstalk between cell types in development and disease. Here, we review the use of these human cellular models to study cell-cell interactions among progenitors, neurons, astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, cancer cells, and non-central nervous system cell types, as well as efforts to study connectivity between brain regions following controlled assembly of organoids. Ultimately, the promise of these patient-derived preparations is to uncover previously inaccessible features of brain function that emerge from complex cell-cell interactions and to improve our mechanistic understanding of neuropsychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca M Marton
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA; Stanford Human Brain Organogenesis Program, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Sergiu P Pașca
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA; Stanford Human Brain Organogenesis Program, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
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