1
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Chu J, Yu X, Jiang G, Tao Y, Wu W, Han S. Bacterial imaging in tumour diagnosis. Microb Biotechnol 2024; 17:e14474. [PMID: 38808743 PMCID: PMC11135020 DOI: 10.1111/1751-7915.14474] [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: 01/16/2024] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Some bacteria, such as Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Salmonella typhimurium (S. typhimurium), have an inherent ability to locate solid tumours, making them a versatile platform that can be combined with other tools to improve the tumour diagnosis and treatment. In anti-cancer therapy, bacteria function by carrying drugs directly or expressing exogenous therapeutic genes. The application of bacterial imaging in tumour diagnosis, a novel and promising research area, can indeed provide dynamic and real-time monitoring in both pre-treatment assessment and post-treatment detection. Different imaging techniques, including optical technology, acoustic imaging, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and nuclear medicine imaging, allow us to observe and track tumour-associated bacteria. Optical imaging, including bioluminescence and fluorescence, provides high-sensitivity and high-resolution imaging. Acoustic imaging is a real-time and non-invasive imaging technique with good penetration depth and spatial resolution. MRI provides high spatial resolution and radiation-free imaging. Nuclear medicine imaging, including positron emission tomography (PET) and single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) can provide information on the distribution and dynamics of bacterial population. Moreover, strategies of synthetic biology modification and nanomaterial engineering modification can improve the viability and localization ability of bacteria while maintaining their autonomy and vitality, thus aiding the visualization of gut bacteria. However, there are some challenges, such as the relatively low bacterial abundance and heterogeneously distribution within the tumour, the high dimensionality of spatial datasets and the limitations of imaging labeling tools. In summary, with the continuous development of imaging technology and nanotechnology, it is expected to further make in-depth study on tumour-associated bacteria and develop new bacterial imaging methods for tumour diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Chu
- Huzhou Central HospitalAffiliated Central Hospital Huzhou UniversityHuzhouChina
- Key Laboratory of Multiomics Research and Clinical Transformation of Digestive CancerHuzhouChina
- Fifth School of Clinical Medicine of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Huzhou Central Hospital)HuzhouChina
| | - Xiang Yu
- Huzhou Central HospitalAffiliated Central Hospital Huzhou UniversityHuzhouChina
- Key Laboratory of Multiomics Research and Clinical Transformation of Digestive CancerHuzhouChina
- Fifth School of Clinical Medicine of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Huzhou Central Hospital)HuzhouChina
| | - Gaofei Jiang
- Key Lab of Organic‐Based Fertilizers of China, Jiangsu Provincial Key Lab for Solid Organic Waste UtilizationNanjing Agricultural UniversityNanjingChina
| | - Ye Tao
- Shanghai BIOZERON Biotechnology Co., Ltd.ShanghaiChina
| | - Wei Wu
- Huzhou Central HospitalAffiliated Central Hospital Huzhou UniversityHuzhouChina
- Key Laboratory of Multiomics Research and Clinical Transformation of Digestive CancerHuzhouChina
- Fifth School of Clinical Medicine of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Huzhou Central Hospital)HuzhouChina
| | - Shuwen Han
- Huzhou Central HospitalAffiliated Central Hospital Huzhou UniversityHuzhouChina
- Key Laboratory of Multiomics Research and Clinical Transformation of Digestive CancerHuzhouChina
- Fifth School of Clinical Medicine of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Huzhou Central Hospital)HuzhouChina
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2
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Xing C, Zhou B, Yan D, Fang W. Integrating Full-Color 2D Optical Waveguide and Heterojunction Engineering in Halide Microsheets for Multichannel Photonic Logical Gates. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2310262. [PMID: 38425136 PMCID: PMC11077683 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202310262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Ensuring information security has emerged as a paramount concern in contemporary human society. Substantial advancements in this regard can be achieved by leveraging photonic signals as the primary information carriers, utilizing photonic logical gates capable of wavelength tunability across various time and spatial domains. However, the challenge remains in the rational design of materials possessing space-time-color multiple-resolution capabilities. In this work, a facile approach is proposed for crafting metal-organic halides (MOHs) that offer space-time-color resolution. These MOHs integrate time-resolved room temperature phosphorescence and color-resolved excitation wavelength dependencies with both space-resolved ex situ optical waveguides and in situ heterojunctions. Capitalizing on these multifaceted properties, MOHs-based two-dimensional (2D) optical waveguides and heterojunctions exhibit the ability to tune full-color emissions across the spectra from blue to red, operating within different spatial and temporal scales. Therefore, this work introduces an effective methodology for engineering space-time-color resolved MOH microstructures, holding significant promise for the development of high-density photonic logical devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang Xing
- Key Laboratory of Theoretical and Computational Photochemistry, Ministry of Education, College of ChemistryBeijing Normal UniversityBeijing100875P. R. China
| | - Bo Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Theoretical and Computational Photochemistry, Ministry of Education, College of ChemistryBeijing Normal UniversityBeijing100875P. R. China
| | - Dongpeng Yan
- Key Laboratory of Theoretical and Computational Photochemistry, Ministry of Education, College of ChemistryBeijing Normal UniversityBeijing100875P. R. China
| | - Wei‐Hai Fang
- Key Laboratory of Theoretical and Computational Photochemistry, Ministry of Education, College of ChemistryBeijing Normal UniversityBeijing100875P. R. China
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3
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Li Z, Shen Q, Usher ET, Anderson AP, Iburg M, Lin R, Zimmer B, Meyer MD, Holehouse AS, You L, Chilkoti A, Dai Y, Lu GJ. Phase transition of GvpU regulates gas vesicle clustering in bacteria. Nat Microbiol 2024; 9:1021-1035. [PMID: 38553608 DOI: 10.1038/s41564-024-01648-3] [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: 07/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
Gas vesicles (GVs) are microbial protein organelles that support cellular buoyancy. GV engineering has multiple applications, including reporter gene imaging, acoustic control and payload delivery. GVs often cluster into a honeycomb pattern to minimize occupancy of the cytosol. The underlying molecular mechanism and the influence on cellular physiology remain unknown. Using genetic, biochemical and imaging approaches, here we identify GvpU from Priestia megaterium as a protein that regulates GV clustering in vitro and upon expression in Escherichia coli. GvpU binds to the C-terminal tail of the core GV shell protein and undergoes a phase transition to form clusters in subsaturated solution. These properties of GvpU tune GV clustering and directly modulate bacterial fitness. GV variants can be designed with controllable sensitivity to GvpU-mediated clustering, enabling design of genetically tunable biosensors. Our findings elucidate the molecular mechanisms and functional roles of GV clustering, enabling its programmability for biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zongru Li
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Qionghua Shen
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Emery T Usher
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Center for Biomolecular Condensates, Washington University in St. Louis, Saint Louis, MO, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Washington University in St. Louis, Saint Louis, MO, USA
| | | | - Manuel Iburg
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Richard Lin
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Brandon Zimmer
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Matthew D Meyer
- Shared Equipment Authority, Rice University, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Alex S Holehouse
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Center for Biomolecular Condensates, Washington University in St. Louis, Saint Louis, MO, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Washington University in St. Louis, Saint Louis, MO, USA
| | - Lingchong You
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA.
- Center for Quantitative BioDesign, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA.
| | - Ashutosh Chilkoti
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA.
| | - Yifan Dai
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Center for Biomolecular Condensates, Washington University in St. Louis, Saint Louis, MO, USA.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA.
| | - George J Lu
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, USA.
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4
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Shen Q, Li Z, Wang Y, Meyer MD, De Guzman MT, Lim JC, Xiao H, Bouchard RR, Lu GJ. 50-nm Gas-Filled Protein Nanostructures to Enable the Access of Lymphatic Cells by Ultrasound Technologies. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024:e2307123. [PMID: 38533973 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202307123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
Ultrasound imaging and ultrasound-mediated gene and drug delivery are rapidly advancing diagnostic and therapeutic methods; however, their use is often limited by the need for microbubbles, which cannot transverse many biological barriers due to their large size. Here, the authors introduce 50-nm gas-filled protein nanostructures derived from genetically engineered gas vesicles(GVs) that are referred to as 50 nmGVs. These diamond-shaped nanostructures have hydrodynamic diameters smaller than commercially available 50-nm gold nanoparticles and are, to the authors' knowledge, the smallest stable, free-floating bubbles made to date. 50 nmGVs can be produced in bacteria, purified through centrifugation, and remain stable for months. Interstitially injected 50 nmGVs can extravasate into lymphatic tissues and gain access to critical immune cell populations, and electron microscopy images of lymph node tissues reveal their subcellular location in antigen-presenting cells adjacent to lymphocytes. The authors anticipate that 50 nmGVs can substantially broaden the range of cells accessible to current ultrasound technologies and may generate applications beyond biomedicine as ultrasmall stable gas-filled nanomaterials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qionghua Shen
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Zongru Li
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Yixian Wang
- Department of Chemistry, Rice University, Houston, TX, 77005, USA
| | - Matthew D Meyer
- Shared Equipment Authority, Rice University, Houston, TX, 77005, USA
| | - Marc T De Guzman
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Janie C Lim
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Han Xiao
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Department of Chemistry, Rice University, Houston, TX, 77005, USA
- SynthX Center, Rice University, Houston, TX, 77005, USA
| | - Richard R Bouchard
- Department of Imaging Physics, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - George J Lu
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Department of BioSciences, Rice University, Houston, TX, 77005, USA
- Rice Synthetic Biology Institute, Rice University, Houston, TX, 77005, USA
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5
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Fu M, Wang Y, Wang J, Hao Y, Zeng F, Zhang Z, Du J, Long H, Yan F. Genetic Modulation of Biosynthetic Gas Vesicles for Ultrasound Imaging. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024:e2310008. [PMID: 38533968 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202310008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
Gas vesicles (GVs) from microorganisms are genetically air-filled protein nanostructures, and serve as a new class of nanoscale contrast agents for ultrasound imaging. Recently, the genetically encoded GV gene clusters have been heterologously expressed in Escherichia coli, allowing these genetically engineered bacteria to be visualized in vivo in a real-time manner by ultrasound. However, most of the GV genes remained functionally uncharacterized, which makes it difficult to regulate and modify GVs for broad medical applications. Here, the impact of GV proteins on GV formation is systematically investigated. The results first uncovered that the deletions of GvpR or GvpU resulted in the formation of a larger proportion of small, biconical GVs compared to the full-length construct, and the deletion of GvpT resulted in a larger portion of large GVs. Meanwhile, the combination of gene deletions has resulted in several genotypes of ultrasmall GVs that span from 50 to 20 nm. Furthermore, the results showed that E. coli carrying the ΔGvpCRTU mutant can produce strong ultrasound contrast signals in mouse liver. In conclusion, the study provides new insights into the roles of GV proteins in GV formation and produce ultrasmall GVs with a wide range of in vivo research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meijun Fu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Yuanyuan Wang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Jieqiong Wang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 201206, China
| | - Yongsheng Hao
- CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Fengyi Zeng
- Department of Ultrasound, The Second People's Hospital of Shenzhen, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518061, China
| | | | - Jianxiong Du
- CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Huan Long
- Key Laboratory of Algal Biology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, Hubei Province, 430072, China
| | - Fei Yan
- CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
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6
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Batarchuk V, Shepelytskyi Y, Grynko V, Kovacs AH, Hodgson A, Rodriguez K, Aldossary R, Talwar T, Hasselbrink C, Ruset IC, DeBoef B, Albert MS. Hyperpolarized Xenon-129 Chemical Exchange Saturation Transfer (HyperCEST) Molecular Imaging: Achievements and Future Challenges. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1939. [PMID: 38339217 PMCID: PMC10856220 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2024] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 01/28/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Molecular magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an emerging field that is set to revolutionize our perspective of disease diagnosis, treatment efficacy monitoring, and precision medicine in full concordance with personalized medicine. A wide range of hyperpolarized (HP) 129Xe biosensors have been recently developed, demonstrating their potential applications in molecular settings, and achieving notable success within in vitro studies. The favorable nuclear magnetic resonance properties of 129Xe, coupled with its non-toxic nature, high solubility in biological tissues, and capacity to dissolve in blood and diffuse across membranes, highlight its superior role for applications in molecular MRI settings. The incorporation of reporters that combine signal enhancement from both hyperpolarized 129Xe and chemical exchange saturation transfer holds the potential to address the primary limitation of low sensitivity observed in conventional MRI. This review provides a summary of the various applications of HP 129Xe biosensors developed over the last decade, specifically highlighting their use in MRI. Moreover, this paper addresses the evolution of in vivo applications of HP 129Xe, discussing its potential transition into clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viktoriia Batarchuk
- Chemistry Department, Lakehead University, Thunder Bay, ON P7B 5E1, Canada; (V.B.)
- Thunder Bay Regional Health Research Institute, Thunder Bay, ON P7B 6V4, Canada
| | - Yurii Shepelytskyi
- Chemistry Department, Lakehead University, Thunder Bay, ON P7B 5E1, Canada; (V.B.)
- Thunder Bay Regional Health Research Institute, Thunder Bay, ON P7B 6V4, Canada
| | - Vira Grynko
- Thunder Bay Regional Health Research Institute, Thunder Bay, ON P7B 6V4, Canada
- Chemistry and Materials Science Program, Lakehead University, Thunder Bay, ON P7B 5E1, Canada
| | - Antal Halen Kovacs
- Applied Life Science Program, Lakehead University, Thunder Bay, ON P7B 5E1, Canada
| | - Aaron Hodgson
- Physics Program, Lakehead University, Thunder Bay, ON P7B 5E1, Canada
| | - Karla Rodriguez
- Chemistry Department, Lakehead University, Thunder Bay, ON P7B 5E1, Canada; (V.B.)
| | - Ruba Aldossary
- Thunder Bay Regional Health Research Institute, Thunder Bay, ON P7B 6V4, Canada
| | - Tanu Talwar
- Chemistry Department, Lakehead University, Thunder Bay, ON P7B 5E1, Canada; (V.B.)
| | - Carson Hasselbrink
- Chemistry & Biochemistry Department, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, CA 93407-005, USA
| | | | - Brenton DeBoef
- Department of Chemistry, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881, USA
| | - Mitchell S. Albert
- Chemistry Department, Lakehead University, Thunder Bay, ON P7B 5E1, Canada; (V.B.)
- Thunder Bay Regional Health Research Institute, Thunder Bay, ON P7B 6V4, Canada
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, Northern Ontario School of Medicine, Thunder Bay, ON P7B 5E1, Canada
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7
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Wu Z, Cai H, Tian C, Ao Z, Jiang L, Guo F. Exploiting Sound for Emerging Applications of Extracellular Vesicles. NANO RESEARCH 2024; 17:462-475. [PMID: 38712329 PMCID: PMC11073796 DOI: 10.1007/s12274-023-5840-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles are nano- to microscale, membrane-bound particles released by cells into extracellular space, and act as carriers of biomarkers and therapeutics, holding promising potential in translational medicine. However, the challenges remain in handling and detecting extracellular vesicles for disease diagnosis as well as exploring their therapeutic capability for disease treatment. Here, we review the recent engineering and technology advances by leveraging the power of sound waves to address the challenges in diagnostic and therapeutic applications of extracellular vesicles and biomimetic nanovesicles. We first introduce the fundamental principles of sound waves for understanding different acoustic-assisted extracellular vesicle technologies. We discuss the acoustic-assisted diagnostic methods including the purification, manipulation, biosensing, and bioimaging of extracellular vesicles. Then, we summarize the recent advances in acoustically enhanced therapeutics using extracellular vesicles and biomimetic nanovesicles. Finally, we provide perspectives into current challenges and future clinical applications of the promising extracellular vesicles and biomimetic nanovesicles powered by sound.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuhao Wu
- Department of Intelligent Systems Engineering, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, United States
| | - Hongwei Cai
- Department of Intelligent Systems Engineering, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, United States
| | - Chunhui Tian
- Department of Intelligent Systems Engineering, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, United States
| | - Zheng Ao
- Department of Intelligent Systems Engineering, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, United States
| | - Lei Jiang
- Department of Intelligent Systems Engineering, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, United States
| | - Feng Guo
- Department of Intelligent Systems Engineering, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, United States
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8
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Liu J, You Q, Liang F, Ma L, Zhu L, Wang C, Yang Y. Ultrasound-nanovesicles interplay for theranostics. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2024; 205:115176. [PMID: 38199256 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2023.115176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/31/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Nanovesicles (NVs) are widely used in the treatment and diagnosis of diseases due to their excellent vascular permeability, good biocompatibility, high loading capacity, and easy functionalization. However, their yield and in vivo penetration depth limitations and their complex preparation processes still constrain their application and development. Ultrasound, as a fundamental external stimulus with deep tissue penetration, concentrated energy sources, and good safety, has been proven to be a patient-friendly and highly efficient strategy to overcome the restrictions of traditional clinical medicine. Recent research has shown that ultrasound can drive the generation of NVs, increase their yield, simplify their preparation process, and provide direct therapeutic effects and intelligent control to enhance the therapeutic effect of NVs. In addition, NVs, as excellent drug carriers, can enhance the targeting efficiency of ultrasound-based sonodynamic therapy or sonogenetic regulation and improve the accuracy of ultrasound imaging. This review provides a detailed introduction to the classification, generation, and modification strategies of NVs, emphasizing the impact of ultrasound on the formation of NVs and summarizing the enhanced treatment and diagnostic effects of NVs combined with ultrasound for various diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingyi Liu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Standardization and Measurement for Nanotechnology, CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Beijing 100190, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Qing You
- CAS Key Laboratory of Standardization and Measurement for Nanotechnology, CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Beijing 100190, China
| | - Fuming Liang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Standardization and Measurement for Nanotechnology, CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Beijing 100190, China; Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Lilusi Ma
- CAS Key Laboratory of Standardization and Measurement for Nanotechnology, CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Beijing 100190, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Ling Zhu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Standardization and Measurement for Nanotechnology, CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Beijing 100190, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.
| | - Chen Wang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Standardization and Measurement for Nanotechnology, CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Beijing 100190, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.
| | - Yanlian Yang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Standardization and Measurement for Nanotechnology, CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Beijing 100190, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.
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9
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Kim WS, Min S, Kim SK, Kang S, An S, Criado-Hidalgo E, Davis H, Bar-Zion A, Malounda D, Kim YH, Lee JH, Bae SH, Lee JG, Kwak M, Cho SW, Shapiro MG, Cheon J. Magneto-acoustic protein nanostructures for non-invasive imaging of tissue mechanics in vivo. NATURE MATERIALS 2024; 23:290-300. [PMID: 37845321 PMCID: PMC10837075 DOI: 10.1038/s41563-023-01688-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
Measuring cellular and tissue mechanics inside intact living organisms is essential for interrogating the roles of force in physiological and disease processes. Current agents for studying the mechanobiology of intact, living organisms are limited by poor light penetration and material stability. Magnetomotive ultrasound is an emerging modality for real-time in vivo imaging of tissue mechanics. Nonetheless, it has poor sensitivity and spatiotemporal resolution. Here we describe magneto-gas vesicles (MGVs), protein nanostructures based on gas vesicles and magnetic nanoparticles that produce differential ultrasound signals in response to varying mechanical properties of surrounding tissues. These hybrid nanomaterials significantly improve signal strength and detection sensitivity. Furthermore, MGVs enable non-invasive, long-term and quantitative measurements of mechanical properties within three-dimensional tissues and in vivo fibrosis models. Using MGVs as novel contrast agents, we demonstrate their potential for non-invasive imaging of tissue elasticity, offering insights into mechanobiology and its application to disease diagnosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Whee-Soo Kim
- Center for Nanomedicine, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
- Department of Nano Biomedical Engineering (NanoBME), Advanced Science Institute, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sungjin Min
- Department of Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Su Kyeom Kim
- Department of Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sunghwi Kang
- Center for Nanomedicine, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Nano Biomedical Engineering (NanoBME), Advanced Science Institute, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Chemistry, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Soohwan An
- Department of Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ernesto Criado-Hidalgo
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Hunter Davis
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Avinoam Bar-Zion
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Dina Malounda
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Yu Heun Kim
- Department of Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Hyun Lee
- Center for Nanomedicine, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Nano Biomedical Engineering (NanoBME), Advanced Science Institute, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Soo Han Bae
- Severance Biomedical Science Institute, Yonsei Biomedical Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Severance Biomedical Science Institute, Graduate School of Medical Science, Brain Korea 21 Project, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Gu Lee
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Minsuk Kwak
- Center for Nanomedicine, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Nano Biomedical Engineering (NanoBME), Advanced Science Institute, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung-Woo Cho
- Center for Nanomedicine, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Seoul, Republic of Korea.
- Department of Nano Biomedical Engineering (NanoBME), Advanced Science Institute, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
- Department of Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
| | - Mikhail G Shapiro
- Center for Nanomedicine, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Seoul, Republic of Korea.
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA.
- Department of Nano Biomedical Engineering (NanoBME), Advanced Science Institute, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
- Andrew and Peggy Cherng Department of Medical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA.
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Pasadena, CA, USA.
| | - Jinwoo Cheon
- Center for Nanomedicine, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Seoul, Republic of Korea.
- Department of Nano Biomedical Engineering (NanoBME), Advanced Science Institute, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
- Department of Chemistry, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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10
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Lee S, Nouraein S, Kwon JJ, Huang Z, Wojick JA, Xia B, Corder G, Szablowski JO. Engineered serum markers for non-invasive monitoring of gene expression in the brain. Nat Biotechnol 2024:10.1038/s41587-023-02087-x. [PMID: 38200117 DOI: 10.1038/s41587-023-02087-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: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Measurement of gene expression in the brain requires invasive analysis of brain tissue or non-invasive methods that are limited by low sensitivity. Here we introduce a method for non-invasive, multiplexed, site-specific monitoring of endogenous gene or transgene expression in the brain through engineered reporters called released markers of activity (RMAs). RMAs consist of an easily detectable reporter and a receptor-binding domain that enables transcytosis across the brain endothelium. RMAs are expressed in the brain but exit into the blood, where they can be easily measured. We show that expressing RMAs at a single mouse brain site representing approximately 1% of the brain volume provides up to a 100,000-fold signal increase over the baseline. Expression of RMAs in tens to hundreds of neurons is sufficient for their reliable detection. We demonstrate that chemogenetic activation of cells expressing Fos-responsive RMA increases serum RMA levels >6-fold compared to non-activated controls. RMAs provide a non-invasive method for repeatable, multiplexed monitoring of gene expression in the intact animal brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sangsin Lee
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, USA
- Rice Neuroengineering Initiative, Rice University, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Shirin Nouraein
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, USA
- Rice Neuroengineering Initiative, Rice University, Houston, TX, USA
- Systems, Synthetic, and Physical Biology Program, Rice University, Houston, TX, USA
| | - James J Kwon
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Zhimin Huang
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, USA
- Rice Neuroengineering Initiative, Rice University, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jessica A Wojick
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Boao Xia
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, USA
- Rice Neuroengineering Initiative, Rice University, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Gregory Corder
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Jerzy O Szablowski
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, USA.
- Rice Neuroengineering Initiative, Rice University, Houston, TX, USA.
- Systems, Synthetic, and Physical Biology Program, Rice University, Houston, TX, USA.
- Applied Physics Program, Rice University, Houston, TX, USA.
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11
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Wang HC, Phan TN, Kao CL, Yeh CK, Lin YC. Genetically encoded mediators for sonogenetics and their applications in neuromodulation. Front Cell Neurosci 2023; 17:1326279. [PMID: 38188668 PMCID: PMC10766825 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2023.1326279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Sonogenetics is an emerging approach that harnesses ultrasound for the manipulation of genetically modified cells. The great penetrability of ultrasound waves enables the non-invasive application of external stimuli to deep tissues, particularly advantageous for brain stimulation. Genetically encoded ultrasound mediators, a set of proteins that respond to ultrasound-induced bio-effects, play a critical role in determining the effectiveness and applications of sonogenetics. In this context, we will provide an overview of these ultrasound-responsive mediators, delve into the molecular mechanisms governing their response to ultrasound stimulation, and summarize their applications in neuromodulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsien-Chu Wang
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Thi-Nhan Phan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Environmental Sciences, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Ling Kao
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Kuang Yeh
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Environmental Sciences, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Chun Lin
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Science, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
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12
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Ling B, Ko JH, Stordy B, Zhang Y, Didden TF, Malounda D, Swift MB, Chan WCW, Shapiro MG. Gas Vesicle-Blood Interactions Enhance Ultrasound Imaging Contrast. NANO LETTERS 2023; 23:10748-10757. [PMID: 37983479 PMCID: PMC10722532 DOI: 10.1021/acs.nanolett.3c02780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
Gas vesicles (GVs) are genetically encoded, air-filled protein nanostructures of broad interest for biomedical research and clinical applications, acting as imaging and therapeutic agents for ultrasound, magnetic resonance, and optical techniques. However, the biomedical applications of GVs as systemically injectable nanomaterials have been hindered by a lack of understanding of GVs' interactions with blood components, which can significantly impact in vivo behavior. Here, we investigate the dynamics of GVs in the bloodstream using a combination of ultrasound and optical imaging, surface functionalization, flow cytometry, and mass spectrometry. We find that erythrocytes and serum proteins bind to GVs and shape their acoustic response, circulation time, and immunogenicity. We show that by modifying the GV surface we can alter these interactions and thereby modify GVs' in vivo performance. These results provide critical insights for the development of GVs as agents for nanomedicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bill Ling
- Division
of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California
Institute of Technology, Pasadena, California 91125, United States
| | - Jeong Hoon Ko
- Division
of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California
Institute of Technology, Pasadena, California 91125, United States
| | - Benjamin Stordy
- Institute
of Biomedical Engineering, University of
Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3G9, Canada
- Terrence
Donnelly Centre for Cellular & Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S
3E1, Canada
| | - Yuwei Zhang
- Institute
of Biomedical Engineering, University of
Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3G9, Canada
- Terrence
Donnelly Centre for Cellular & Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S
3E1, Canada
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3H6, Canada
| | - Tighe F. Didden
- Division
of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California
Institute of Technology, Pasadena, California 91125, United States
| | - Dina Malounda
- Division
of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California
Institute of Technology, Pasadena, California 91125, United States
| | - Margaret B. Swift
- Division
of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California
Institute of Technology, Pasadena, California 91125, United States
| | - Warren C. W. Chan
- Institute
of Biomedical Engineering, University of
Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3G9, Canada
- Terrence
Donnelly Centre for Cellular & Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S
3E1, Canada
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3H6, Canada
| | - Mikhail G. Shapiro
- Division
of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California
Institute of Technology, Pasadena, California 91125, United States
- Division
of Engineering and Applied Science, California
Institute of Technology, Pasadena, California 91125, United States
- Howard Hughes
Medical Institute, California Institute
of Technology, Pasadena, California 91125, United States
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13
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Lin S, Wu F, Zhang Y, Chen H, Guo H, Chen Y, Liu J. Surface-modified bacteria: synthesis, functionalization and biomedical applications. Chem Soc Rev 2023; 52:6617-6643. [PMID: 37724854 DOI: 10.1039/d3cs00369h] [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: 09/21/2023]
Abstract
The past decade has witnessed a great leap forward in bacteria-based living agents, including imageable probes, diagnostic reagents, and therapeutics, by virtue of their unique characteristics, such as genetic manipulation, rapid proliferation, colonization capability, and disease site targeting specificity. However, successful translation of bacterial bioagents to clinical applications remains challenging, due largely to their inherent susceptibility to environmental insults, unavoidable toxic side effects, and limited accumulation at the sites of interest. Cell surface components, which play critical roles in shaping bacterial behaviors, provide an opportunity to chemically modify bacteria and introduce different exogenous functions that are naturally unachievable. With the help of surface modification, a wide range of functionalized bacteria have been prepared over the past years and exhibit great potential in various biomedical applications. In this article, we mainly review the synthesis, functionalization, and biomedical applications of surface-modified bacteria. We first introduce the approaches of chemical modification based on the bacterial surface structure and then highlight several advanced functions achieved by modifying specific components on the surface. We also summarize the advantages as well as limitations of surface chemically modified bacteria in the applications of bioimaging, diagnosis, and therapy and further discuss the current challenges and possible solutions in the future. This work will inspire innovative design thinking for the development of chemical strategies for preparing next-generation biomedical bacterial agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sisi Lin
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Nucleic Acid Chemistry and Nanomedicine, Institute of Molecular Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China.
| | - Feng Wu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Nucleic Acid Chemistry and Nanomedicine, Institute of Molecular Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China.
| | - Yifan Zhang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Nucleic Acid Chemistry and Nanomedicine, Institute of Molecular Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China.
| | - Huan Chen
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Nucleic Acid Chemistry and Nanomedicine, Institute of Molecular Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China.
| | - Haiyan Guo
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Nucleic Acid Chemistry and Nanomedicine, Institute of Molecular Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China.
| | - Yanmei Chen
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Nucleic Acid Chemistry and Nanomedicine, Institute of Molecular Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China.
| | - Jinyao Liu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Nucleic Acid Chemistry and Nanomedicine, Institute of Molecular Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China.
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14
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Bok I, Vareberg A, Gokhale Y, Bhatt S, Masterson E, Phillips J, Zhu T, Ren X, Hai A. Wireless agents for brain recording and stimulation modalities. Bioelectron Med 2023; 9:20. [PMID: 37726851 PMCID: PMC10510192 DOI: 10.1186/s42234-023-00122-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023] Open
Abstract
New sensors and modulators that interact wirelessly with medical modalities unlock uncharted avenues for in situ brain recording and stimulation. Ongoing miniaturization, material refinement, and sensitization to specific neurophysiological and neurochemical processes are spurring new capabilities that begin to transcend the constraints of traditional bulky and invasive wired probes. Here we survey current state-of-the-art agents across diverse realms of operation and evaluate possibilities depending on size, delivery, specificity and spatiotemporal resolution. We begin by describing implantable and injectable micro- and nano-scale electronic devices operating at or below the radio frequency (RF) regime with simple near field transmission, and continue with more sophisticated devices, nanoparticles and biochemical molecular conjugates acting as dynamic contrast agents in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), ultrasound (US) transduction and other functional tomographic modalities. We assess the ability of some of these technologies to deliver stimulation and neuromodulation with emerging probes and materials that provide minimally invasive magnetic, electrical, thermal and optogenetic stimulation. These methodologies are transforming the repertoire of readily available technologies paired with compatible imaging systems and hold promise toward broadening the expanse of neurological and neuroscientific diagnostics and therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilhan Bok
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of WI - Madison, 1550 Engineering Dr, Madison, WI, Rm 2112, USA
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of WI - Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Wisconsin Institute for Translational Neuroengineering (WITNe), Madison, WI, USA
| | - Adam Vareberg
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of WI - Madison, 1550 Engineering Dr, Madison, WI, Rm 2112, USA
- Wisconsin Institute for Translational Neuroengineering (WITNe), Madison, WI, USA
| | - Yash Gokhale
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of WI - Madison, 1550 Engineering Dr, Madison, WI, Rm 2112, USA
- Wisconsin Institute for Translational Neuroengineering (WITNe), Madison, WI, USA
| | - Suyash Bhatt
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of WI - Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Wisconsin Institute for Translational Neuroengineering (WITNe), Madison, WI, USA
| | - Emily Masterson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of WI - Madison, 1550 Engineering Dr, Madison, WI, Rm 2112, USA
- Wisconsin Institute for Translational Neuroengineering (WITNe), Madison, WI, USA
| | - Jack Phillips
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of WI - Madison, 1550 Engineering Dr, Madison, WI, Rm 2112, USA
| | - Tianxiang Zhu
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of WI - Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Wisconsin Institute for Translational Neuroengineering (WITNe), Madison, WI, USA
| | - Xiaoxuan Ren
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of WI - Madison, 1550 Engineering Dr, Madison, WI, Rm 2112, USA
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of WI - Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Aviad Hai
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of WI - Madison, 1550 Engineering Dr, Madison, WI, Rm 2112, USA.
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of WI - Madison, Madison, WI, USA.
- Wisconsin Institute for Translational Neuroengineering (WITNe), Madison, WI, USA.
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15
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Dan Q, Jiang X, Wang R, Dai Z, Sun D. Biogenic Imaging Contrast Agents. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2207090. [PMID: 37401173 PMCID: PMC10477908 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202207090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2023]
Abstract
Imaging contrast agents are widely investigated in preclinical and clinical studies, among which biogenic imaging contrast agents (BICAs) are developing rapidly and playing an increasingly important role in biomedical research ranging from subcellular level to individual level. The unique properties of BICAs, including expression by cells as reporters and specific genetic modification, facilitate various in vitro and in vivo studies, such as quantification of gene expression, observation of protein interactions, visualization of cellular proliferation, monitoring of metabolism, and detection of dysfunctions. Furthermore, in human body, BICAs are remarkably helpful for disease diagnosis when the dysregulation of these agents occurs and can be detected through imaging techniques. There are various BICAs matched with a set of imaging techniques, including fluorescent proteins for fluorescence imaging, gas vesicles for ultrasound imaging, and ferritin for magnetic resonance imaging. In addition, bimodal and multimodal imaging can be realized through combining the functions of different BICAs, which helps overcome the limitations of monomodal imaging. In this review, the focus is on the properties, mechanisms, applications, and future directions of BICAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Dan
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Drug Addiction and Medication SafetyDepartment of UltrasoundInstitute of Ultrasonic MedicinePeking University Shenzhen HospitalShenzhen Peking University‐The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Medical CenterShenzhen518036P. R. China
| | - Xinpeng Jiang
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringCollege of Future TechnologyPeking UniversityBeijing100871P. R. China
| | - Run Wang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Drug Addiction and Medication SafetyDepartment of UltrasoundInstitute of Ultrasonic MedicinePeking University Shenzhen HospitalShenzhen Peking University‐The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Medical CenterShenzhen518036P. R. China
| | - Zhifei Dai
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringCollege of Future TechnologyPeking UniversityBeijing100871P. R. China
| | - Desheng Sun
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Drug Addiction and Medication SafetyDepartment of UltrasoundInstitute of Ultrasonic MedicinePeking University Shenzhen HospitalShenzhen Peking University‐The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Medical CenterShenzhen518036P. R. China
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16
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Ling B, Ko JH, Stordy B, Zhang Y, Didden TF, Malounda D, Swift MB, Chan WC, Shapiro MG. Gas vesicle-blood interactions enhance ultrasound imaging contrast. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.07.24.550434. [PMID: 37546852 PMCID: PMC10402017 DOI: 10.1101/2023.07.24.550434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
Gas vesicles (GVs) are genetically encoded, air-filled protein nanostructures of broad interest for biomedical research and clinical applications, acting as imaging and therapeutic agents for ultrasound, magnetic resonance, and optical techniques. However, the biomedical applications of GVs as a systemically injectable nanomaterial have been hindered by a lack of understanding of GVs' interactions with blood components, which can significantly impact in vivo performance. Here, we investigate the dynamics of GVs in the bloodstream using a combination of ultrasound and optical imaging, surface functionalization, flow cytometry, and mass spectrometry. We find that erythrocytes and serum proteins bind to GVs and shape their acoustic response, circulation time, and immunogenicity. We show that by modifying the GV surface, we can alter these interactions and thereby modify GVs' in vivo performance. These results provide critical insights for the development of GVs as agents for nanomedicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bill Ling
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology; Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
- These authors contributed equally to this work
| | - Jeong Hoon Ko
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology; Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
- These authors contributed equally to this work
| | - Benjamin Stordy
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto; Toronto, ON M5S 3G9, Canada
- Terence Donnelly Centre for Cellular & Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto; Toronto, ON M5S 3E1, Canada
| | - Yuwei Zhang
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto; Toronto, ON M5S 3G9, Canada
- Terence Donnelly Centre for Cellular & Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto; Toronto, ON M5S 3E1, Canada
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto; Toronto, ON M5S 3H6, Canada
| | - Tighe F. Didden
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology; Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Dina Malounda
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology; Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Margaret B. Swift
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology; Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Warren C.W. Chan
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto; Toronto, ON M5S 3G9, Canada
- Terence Donnelly Centre for Cellular & Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto; Toronto, ON M5S 3E1, Canada
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto; Toronto, ON M5S 3H6, Canada
| | - Mikhail G. Shapiro
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology; Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
- Division of Engineering and Applied Science, California Institute of Technology; Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute; Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
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17
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Shen Q, Li Z, Meyer MD, De Guzman MT, Lim JC, Bouchard RR, Lu GJ. 50-nm gas-filled protein nanostructures to enable the access of lymphatic cells by ultrasound technologies. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.06.27.546433. [PMID: 37425762 PMCID: PMC10327079 DOI: 10.1101/2023.06.27.546433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/11/2023]
Abstract
Ultrasound imaging and ultrasound-mediated gene and drug delivery are rapidly advancing diagnostic and therapeutic methods; however, their use is often limited by the need of microbubbles, which cannot transverse many biological barriers due to their large size. Here we introduce 50-nm gas-filled protein nanostructures derived from genetically engineered gas vesicles that we referred to as 50nm GVs. These diamond-shaped nanostructures have hydrodynamic diameters smaller than commercially available 50-nm gold nanoparticles and are, to our knowledge, the smallest stable, free-floating bubbles made to date. 50nm GVs can be produced in bacteria, purified through centrifugation, and remain stable for months. Interstitially injected 50nm GVs can extravasate into lymphatic tissues and gain access to critical immune cell populations, and electron microscopy images of lymph node tissues reveal their subcellular location in antigen-presenting cells adjacent to lymphocytes. We anticipate that 50nm GVs can substantially broaden the range of cells accessible to current ultrasound technologies and may generate applications beyond biomedicine as ultrasmall stable gas-filled nanomaterials.
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18
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Yun J, Baldini L, Huang Y, Li E, Li H, Chacko AN, Miller AD, Wan J, Mukherjee A. Engineering ligand stabilized aquaporin reporters for magnetic resonance imaging. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.06.02.543364. [PMID: 37333371 PMCID: PMC10274688 DOI: 10.1101/2023.06.02.543364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
Imaging transgene expression in live tissues requires reporters that are detectable with deeply penetrant modalities, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Here, we show that LSAqp1, a water channel engineered from aquaporin-1, can be used to create background-free, drug-gated, and multiplex images of gene expression using MRI. LSAqp1 is a fusion protein composed of aquaporin-1 and a degradation tag that is sensitive to a cell-permeable ligand, which allows for dynamic small molecule modulation of MRI signals. LSAqp1 improves specificity for imaging gene expression by allowing reporter signals to be conditionally activated and distinguished from the tissue background by difference imaging. In addition, by engineering destabilized aquaporin-1 variants with different ligand requirements, it is possible to image distinct cell types simultaneously. Finally, we expressed LSAqp1 in a tumor model and showed successful in vivo imaging of gene expression without background activity. LSAqp1 provides a conceptually unique approach to accurately measure gene expression in living organisms by combining the physics of water diffusion and biotechnology tools to control protein stability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason Yun
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA
| | - Logan Baldini
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA
| | - Yimeng Huang
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA
| | - Eugene Li
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA
| | - Honghao Li
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA
| | - Asish N. Chacko
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA
| | - Austin D.C. Miller
- Biomolecular Science and Engineering, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA
| | - Jinyang Wan
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA
| | - Arnab Mukherjee
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA
- Biomolecular Science and Engineering, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA
- Biological Engineering, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA
- Neuroscience Research Institute, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA
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19
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Dutka P, Metskas LA, Hurt RC, Salahshoor H, Wang TY, Malounda D, Lu GJ, Chou TF, Shapiro MG, Jensen GJ. Structure of Anabaena flos-aquae gas vesicles revealed by cryo-ET. Structure 2023; 31:518-528.e6. [PMID: 37040766 PMCID: PMC10185304 DOI: 10.1016/j.str.2023.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 04/13/2023]
Abstract
Gas vesicles (GVs) are gas-filled protein nanostructures employed by several species of bacteria and archaea as flotation devices to enable access to optimal light and nutrients. The unique physical properties of GVs have led to their use as genetically encodable contrast agents for ultrasound and MRI. Currently, however, the structure and assembly mechanism of GVs remain unknown. Here we employ cryoelectron tomography to reveal how the GV shell is formed by a helical filament of highly conserved GvpA subunits. This filament changes polarity at the center of the GV cylinder, a site that may act as an elongation center. Subtomogram averaging reveals a corrugated pattern of the shell arising from polymerization of GvpA into a β sheet. The accessory protein GvpC forms a helical cage around the GvpA shell, providing structural reinforcement. Together, our results help explain the remarkable mechanical properties of GVs and their ability to adopt different diameters and shapes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Przemysław Dutka
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA; Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Lauren Ann Metskas
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Robert C Hurt
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Hossein Salahshoor
- Division of Engineering and Applied Science, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Ting-Yu Wang
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA; Proteome Exploration Laboratory, Beckman Institute, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Dina Malounda
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - George J Lu
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Tsui-Fen Chou
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA; Proteome Exploration Laboratory, Beckman Institute, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Mikhail G Shapiro
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA.
| | - Grant J Jensen
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA; College of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA.
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20
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Wu D, Baresch D, Cook C, Ma Z, Duan M, Malounda D, Maresca D, Abundo MP, Lee J, Shivaei S, Mittelstein DR, Qiu T, Fischer P, Shapiro MG. Biomolecular actuators for genetically selective acoustic manipulation of cells. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2023; 9:eadd9186. [PMID: 36812320 PMCID: PMC9946353 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.add9186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
The ability to physically manipulate specific cells is critical for the fields of biomedicine, synthetic biology, and living materials. Ultrasound has the ability to manipulate cells with high spatiotemporal precision via acoustic radiation force (ARF). However, because most cells have similar acoustic properties, this capability is disconnected from cellular genetic programs. Here, we show that gas vesicles (GVs)-a unique class of gas-filled protein nanostructures-can serve as genetically encodable actuators for selective acoustic manipulation. Because of their lower density and higher compressibility relative to water, GVs experience strong ARF with opposite polarity to most other materials. When expressed inside cells, GVs invert the cells' acoustic contrast and amplify the magnitude of their ARF, allowing the cells to be selectively manipulated with sound waves based on their genotype. GVs provide a direct link between gene expression and acoustomechanical actuation, opening a paradigm for selective cellular control in a broad range of contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Di Wu
- Division of Engineering and Applied Science, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Diego Baresch
- University of Bordeaux, CNRS, Bordeaux INP, I2M, UMR 5295, F-33400 Talence, France
| | - Colin Cook
- Division of Engineering and Applied Science, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Zhichao Ma
- Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, Heisenbergstr. 3, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Mengtong Duan
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Dina Malounda
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - David Maresca
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Maria P. Abundo
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Justin Lee
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Shirin Shivaei
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - David R. Mittelstein
- Division of Engineering and Applied Science, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Tian Qiu
- Institute of Physical Chemistry, University of Stuttgart, Pfaffenwaldring 55, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Peer Fischer
- Max Planck Institute for Medical Research, Jahnstrasse 29, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- Institute for Molecular Systems Engineering and Advanced Materials, Heidelberg University, INF 225, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Mikhail G. Shapiro
- Division of Engineering and Applied Science, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
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21
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Zeng W, Yue X, Dai Z. Ultrasound contrast agents from microbubbles to biogenic gas vesicles. MEDICAL REVIEW (2021) 2023; 3:31-48. [PMID: 37724107 PMCID: PMC10471104 DOI: 10.1515/mr-2022-0020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/11/2022] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Abstract
Microbubbles have been the earliest and most widely used ultrasound contrast agents by virtue of their unique features: such as non-toxicity, intravenous injectability, ability to cross the pulmonary capillary bed, and significant enhancement of echo signals for the duration of the examination, resulting in essential preclinical and clinical applications. The use of microbubbles functionalized with targeting ligands to bind to specific targets in the bloodstream has further enabled ultrasound molecular imaging. Nevertheless, it is very challenging to utilize targeted microbubbles for molecular imaging of extravascular targets due to their size. A series of acoustic nanomaterials have been developed for breaking free from this constraint. Especially, biogenic gas vesicles, gas-filled protein nanostructures from microorganisms, were engineered as the first biomolecular ultrasound contrast agents, opening the door for more direct visualization of cellular and molecular function by ultrasound imaging. The ordered protein shell structure and unique gas filling mechanism of biogenic gas vesicles endow them with excellent stability and attractive acoustic responses. What's more, their genetic encodability enables them to act as acoustic reporter genes. This article reviews the upgrading progresses of ultrasound contrast agents from microbubbles to biogenic gas vesicles, and the opportunities and challenges for the commercial and clinical translation of the nascent field of biomolecular ultrasound.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenlong Zeng
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Future Technology, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiuli Yue
- School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
| | - Zhifei Dai
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Future Technology, Peking University, Beijing, China
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22
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Zhang J, Yan F, Zhang W, He L, Li Y, Zheng S, Wang Y, Yu T, Du L, Shen Y, He W. Biosynthetic Gas Vesicles Combined with Focused Ultrasound for Blood-Brain Barrier Opening. Int J Nanomedicine 2022; 17:6759-6772. [PMID: 36597431 PMCID: PMC9805716 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s374039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Focused ultrasound (FUS) combined with microbubbles (MBs) has emerged as a potential approach for opening the blood-brain barrier (BBB) for delivering drugs into the brain. However, MBs range in size of microns and thus can hardly extravasate into the brain parenchyma. Recently, growing attention has been paid to gas vesicles (GVs), which are genetically encoded gas-filled nanostructures with protein shells, due to their potential for extravascular targeting in ultrasound imaging and therapy. However, the use of GVs as agents for BBB opening has not yet been investigated. Methods In this study, GVs were extracted and purified from Halobacterium NRC-1. Ultrasound imaging performance of GVs was assessed in vitro and in vivo. Then, FUS/GVs-mediated BBB opening for small molecular Evans blue or large molecular liposome delivery across the BBB was examined. Results The results showed a good contrast performance of GVs for brain perfusion ultrasound imaging in vivo. At the acoustic negative pressure of 1.5 MPa, FUS/GVs opened the BBB safely, and effectively enhanced Evans blue and 200-nm liposome delivery into the brain parenchyma. Conclusion Our study suggests that biosynthetic GVs hold great potential to serve as local BBB-opening agents in the development of new targeted drug delivery strategies for central nervous system disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinghan Zhang
- Department of Ultrasound, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Fei Yan
- Center for Cell and Gene Circuit Design, CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Ultrasound, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lei He
- Department of Ultrasound, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yi Li
- Department of Radiology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shuai Zheng
- Department of Ultrasound, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yuanyuan Wang
- Department of Ultrasound, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, People’s Republic of China
| | - Tengfei Yu
- Department of Ultrasound, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lijuan Du
- Department of Ultrasound, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yuanyuan Shen
- National-Regional Key Technology Engineering Laboratory for Medical Ultrasound, School of Bio Medical Engineering, Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, People’s Republic of China,Correspondence: Yuanyuan Shen; Wen He, Email ;
| | - Wen He
- Department of Ultrasound, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
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23
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McHugh CT, Durham PG, Atalla S, Kelley M, Bryden NJ, Dayton PA, Branca RT. Low-boiling Point Perfluorocarbon Nanodroplets as Dual-Phase Dual-Modality MR/US Contrast Agent. Chemphyschem 2022; 23:e202200438. [PMID: 36037034 PMCID: PMC10087365 DOI: 10.1002/cphc.202200438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Detection of bare gas microbubbles by magnetic resonance (MR) at low concentrations typically used in clinical contrast-ultrasound studies was recently demonstrated using hyperCEST. Despite the enhanced sensitivity achieved with hyperCEST, in vivo translation is challenging as on-resonance saturation of the gas-phase core of microbubbles consequently results in saturation of the gas-phase hyperpolarized 129 Xe within the lungs. Alternatively, microbubbles can be condensed into the liquid phase to form perfluorocarbon nanodroplets, where 129 Xe resonates at a chemical shift that is separated from the gas-phase signal in the lungs. For ultrasound applications, nanodroplets can be acoustically reverted back into their microbubble form to act as a phase-change contrast agent. Here, we show that low-boiling point perfluorocarbons, both in their liquid and gas form, generate phase-dependent hyperCEST contrast. Magnetic resonance detection of ultrasound-mediated phase transition demonstrates that these perfluorocarbons could be used as a dual-phase dual-modality MR/US contrast agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian T. McHugh
- Department of Physics & AstronomyThe University of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillNC 27599US
- Biomedical Research Imaging CenterThe University of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillNC 27599USA
| | - Phillip G. Durham
- Department of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular PharmaceuticsThe University of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillNC 27599USA
| | - Sebastian Atalla
- Department of Physics & AstronomyThe University of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillNC 27599US
- Biomedical Research Imaging CenterThe University of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillNC 27599USA
| | - Michele Kelley
- Department of Physics & AstronomyThe University of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillNC 27599US
- Biomedical Research Imaging CenterThe University of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillNC 27599USA
| | - Nicholas J. Bryden
- Department of Physics & AstronomyThe University of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillNC 27599US
- Biomedical Research Imaging CenterThe University of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillNC 27599USA
| | - Paul A. Dayton
- Biomedical Research Imaging CenterThe University of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillNC 27599USA
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringThe University of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillNC 27599USA
| | - Rosa T. Branca
- Department of Physics & AstronomyThe University of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillNC 27599US
- Biomedical Research Imaging CenterThe University of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillNC 27599USA
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24
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Brindle KM. Gene reporters for magnetic resonance imaging. Trends Genet 2022; 38:996-998. [PMID: 35641343 DOI: 10.1016/j.tig.2022.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Revised: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
MRI-based gene reporters allow imaging of gene expression at depth (tens of centimetres) and at relatively high resolution (~10-100 μm) and have the potential to be translated to the clinic. The reporters exploit either endogenous contrast mechanisms or they modulate the response to an introduced exogenous contrast agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin M Brindle
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, Li Ka Shing Centre, Robinson Way and Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge, UK.
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25
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Ahmad A, Prakash R, Khan MS, Altwaijry N, Asghar MN, Raza SS, Khan R. Enhanced Antioxidant Effects of Naringenin Nanoparticles Synthesized using the High-Energy Ball Milling Method. ACS OMEGA 2022; 7:34476-34484. [PMID: 36188293 PMCID: PMC9521026 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.2c04148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Naringenin, one of the flavonoid components, is majorly found in and obtained from grapefruits and oranges. Naringenin also acts as a potent antioxidant, which possesses hypolipidemic as well as anti-inflammatory potential. Naringenin reduces the expressions of several inflammatory mediators, viz., NF-κB, cycloxygenase-2, and other cytokine mediators. In spite of having various biological effects, the clinical application of naringenin is restricted due to its very poor aqueous solubility. In the present study, the high-energy ball milling method was employed for the preparation of naringenin nanoparticles without using any chemical with an aim to enhance the anti-oxidant potential of naringenin. The milled naringenin nanoparticles were characterized for their physicochemical properties using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction. Additionally, the effects of milling time and temperature were further assessed on the solubility of crude and milled naringenin samples. The antioxidant potential of milled naringenin was evaluated with various assays such as DHE, DCFDA, and cleaved caspase-3 using SH-SY5Y human neuroblastoma cells. The nanoparticle size of naringenin after milling was confirmed using SEM analysis. Crystalline peaks for milled and crude samples of naringenin also established that both the naringenin forms were in the crystalline form. The solubility of naringenin was enhanced depending on the milling time and temperature. Moreover, crude and milled naringenin were found to be cytocompatible up to doses of 120 μM each for the duration of 24 and 48 h. It was also observed that milled naringenin at the doses of 1, 2, and 5 μM significantly reduced the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated by H2O2 and exhibited superior ROS scavenging effects as compared to those of crude or un-milled forms of naringenin. Furthermore, milled naringenin at the doses of 1 and 2 μM inhibited H2O2-induced cell death, as shown by immunofluorescence staining of cleaved caspase-3 and Annexin-V PI flow cytometry analysis. Conclusively, it could be suggested that the size reduction of naringenin using high-energy ball milling techniques substantially enhanced the antioxidant potential as compared to naïve or crude naringenin, which may be attributed to its enhanced solubility due to reduced size.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anas Ahmad
- Chemical
Biology Unit, Institute of Nano Science
and Technology, Knowledge City, Sector 81, Mohali, Punjab 140306, India
| | - Ravi Prakash
- Laboratory
for Stem Cell & Restorative Neurology, Department of Biotechnology, Era’s Lucknow Medical College Hospital, Sarfarazganj, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh 226003, India
| | - Mohd Shahnawaz Khan
- Department
of Biochemistry, College of Sciences, King
Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nojood Altwaijry
- Department
of Biochemistry, College of Sciences, King
Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muhammad Nadeem Asghar
- Department
of Medical Biology, University of Québec
at Trois-Rivieres, Trois-Rivieres, Québec G9A 5H7, Canada
| | - Syed Shadab Raza
- Laboratory
for Stem Cell & Restorative Neurology, Department of Biotechnology, Era’s Lucknow Medical College Hospital, Sarfarazganj, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh 226003, India
| | - Rehan Khan
- Chemical
Biology Unit, Institute of Nano Science
and Technology, Knowledge City, Sector 81, Mohali, Punjab 140306, India
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26
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Kim S, Yoon S, Zhang S. Multiplexed Ultrasound Imaging Using Spectral Analysis on Gas Vesicles. Adv Healthc Mater 2022; 11:e2200568. [PMID: 35765741 PMCID: PMC9463101 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202200568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Revised: 06/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Current advances in ultrasound imaging techniques combined with the next generation contrast agents such as gas vesicles (GV) revolutionize the visualization of biological tissues with spatiotemporal precision. In optics, fluorescent proteins enable understanding of molecular and cellular functions in biological systems due to their multiplexed imaging capability. Here, a panel of GVs is investigated using mid-band fit (MBF) spectral imaging to realize multiplexed ultrasound imaging to uniquely visualize locations of different types of stationary GVs. The MBF spectral imaging technique demonstrates that stationary clustered GVs are efficiently localized and distinguished from unclustered GVs in agarose gel phantom and 3D vessel structures are visualized in ex vivo mouse liver specimens. Mouse macrophages serve as carriers of clustered and unclustered GVs and multiplexing beacons to report cells' spatial locations by emitting distinct spectral signals. 2D MBF spectral images are reconstructed, and pixels in these images are classified depending on MBF values by comparing predetermined filters that predict the existence of cells with clustered and unclustered GVs. This pseudo-coloring scheme clearly distinguishes the locations of two classes of cells like pseudo-color images in fluorescence microscopy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sangnam Kim
- Department of Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, USA
| | - Sangpil Yoon
- Department of Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, USA
| | - Siyuan Zhang
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, USA
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27
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Reporter Genes for Brain Imaging Using MRI, SPECT and PET. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23158443. [PMID: 35955578 PMCID: PMC9368793 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23158443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 07/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The use of molecular imaging technologies for brain imaging can not only play an important supporting role in disease diagnosis and treatment but can also be used to deeply study brain functions. Recently, with the support of reporter gene technology, optical imaging has achieved a breakthrough in brain function studies at the molecular level. Reporter gene technology based on traditional clinical imaging modalities is also expanding. By benefiting from the deeper imaging depths and wider imaging ranges now possible, these methods have led to breakthroughs in preclinical and clinical research. This article focuses on the applications of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), and positron emission tomography (PET) reporter gene technologies for use in brain imaging. The tracking of cell therapies and gene therapies is the most successful and widely used application of these techniques. Meanwhile, breakthroughs have been achieved in the research and development of reporter genes and their imaging probe pairs with respect to brain function research. This paper introduces the imaging principles and classifications of the reporter gene technologies of these imaging modalities, lists the relevant brain imaging applications, reviews their characteristics, and discusses the opportunities and challenges faced by clinical imaging modalities based on reporter gene technology. The conclusion is provided in the last section.
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28
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Wen H, Närvänen A, Jokivarsi K, Poutiainen P, Xu W, Lehto VP. A robust approach to make inorganic nanovectors biotraceable. Int J Pharm 2022; 624:122040. [PMID: 35902052 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2022.122040] [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: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Nuclear medicine imaging plays an important role in nanomedicine. However, it is still challenging to develop a versatile platform to make the nonviral nanovectors used in cancer therapy biotraceable. In the present study, a robust approach to radiolabel inorganic nanovectors for SPECT and PET imaging was developed. The approach was based on the bisphosphonates (BP) conjugated on the nanovector, mesoporous silicon (PSi) nanoparticles. BP served as an efficient chelator for various radionuclides. For both of the 99mTc and 68Ga radionuclides utilized, the radiochemical purity and radiochemical yield were ∼99% and ∼90%, respectively. Because of the short decay time of the radionuclides, an easy, fast and effective PEGylation method was developed to improve the residence time in systemic circulation. Both PEG-99mTc-BP-PSi and PEG-68Ga-BP-PSi NPs, where PEGylation was performed after the labeling, had excellent colloidal and radiochemical stability in vitro. The plain particles without PEGylation accumulated fast in the reticuloendothelial system organs upon intravenous administration, while PEGylation prolonged the residence time of the particles in systemic circulation. Overall, the developed approach proved to be applicable for labeling nonviral nanovectors with various radionuclides easily and robustly. Considering the nature of mesoporous nanoparticles, the approach does not hamper the addition of other functionalities on the vector, nor its capability to carry high payloads.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huang Wen
- Department of Applied Physics, University of Eastern Finland, Yliopistonranta 1F, 70211 Kuopio, Finland
| | - Ale Närvänen
- School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, Yliopistonranta 1B, 70211 Kuopio, Finland
| | - Kimmo Jokivarsi
- A.I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Neulaniementie 2, 70211 Kuopio, Finland
| | - Pekka Poutiainen
- Kuopio University Hospital, University of Eastern Finland, Puijonlaaksontie 2, 70210 Kuopio, Finland
| | - Wujun Xu
- Department of Applied Physics, University of Eastern Finland, Yliopistonranta 1F, 70211 Kuopio, Finland.
| | - Vesa-Pekka Lehto
- Department of Applied Physics, University of Eastern Finland, Yliopistonranta 1F, 70211 Kuopio, Finland.
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29
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Li Z, Meng Z, Tian F, Ye Z, Zhou X, Zhong X, Chen Q, Yang M, Liu Z, Yin Y. Fast Fourier Transform-weighted Photoacoustic Imaging by In Vivo Magnetic Alignment of Hybrid Nanorods. NANO LETTERS 2022; 22:5158-5166. [PMID: 35762802 DOI: 10.1021/acs.nanolett.2c00854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Photoacoustic (PA) imaging uses photon-phonon conversion for high-resolution tomography of biological tissues and functions. Exogenous contrast agents are often added to improve the image quality, but the interference from endogenous molecules diminishes the imaging sensitivity and specificity. We report a background-free PA imaging technique based on the active modulation of PA signals via magnetic alignment of Fe3O4@Au hybrid nanorods. Switching the field direction creates enhanced and deactivated PA imaging modalities, enabling a simple pixel subtraction to effectively minimize background noises. Under an alternating magnetic field, the nanorods exhibit PA signals of coherently periodic changes that can be converted into a sharp peak in a frequency domain via the fast Fourier transform. Automatic pixel-wise screening of nanorod signals performed using a computational algorithm across a time-sequence set of PA images regenerates a background-free PA image with significantly improved contrast, specificity, and fidelity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiwei Li
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Riverside, California 92521, United States
| | - Zhouqi Meng
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, China
| | - Feng Tian
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Riverside, California 92521, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon 999077, Hong Kong China
| | - Zuyang Ye
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Riverside, California 92521, United States
| | - Xuanfang Zhou
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, China
| | - Xingjian Zhong
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon 999077, Hong Kong China
| | - Qian Chen
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, China
| | - Mo Yang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon 999077, Hong Kong China
| | - Zhuang Liu
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, China
| | - Yadong Yin
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Riverside, California 92521, United States
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30
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Wan Y, Zong C, Li X, Wang A, Li Y, Yang T, Bao Q, Dubow M, Yang M, Rodrigo LA, Mao C. New Insights for Biosensing: Lessons from Microbial Defense Systems. Chem Rev 2022; 122:8126-8180. [PMID: 35234463 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.1c01063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Microorganisms have gained defense systems during the lengthy process of evolution over millions of years. Such defense systems can protect them from being attacked by invading species (e.g., CRISPR-Cas for establishing adaptive immune systems and nanopore-forming toxins as virulence factors) or enable them to adapt to different conditions (e.g., gas vesicles for achieving buoyancy control). These microorganism defense systems (MDS) have inspired the development of biosensors that have received much attention in a wide range of fields including life science research, food safety, and medical diagnosis. This Review comprehensively analyzes biosensing platforms originating from MDS for sensing and imaging biological analytes. We first describe a basic overview of MDS and MDS-inspired biosensing platforms (e.g., CRISPR-Cas systems, nanopore-forming proteins, and gas vesicles), followed by a critical discussion of their functions and properties. We then discuss several transduction mechanisms (optical, acoustic, magnetic, and electrical) involved in MDS-inspired biosensing. We further detail the applications of the MDS-inspired biosensors to detect a variety of analytes (nucleic acids, peptides, proteins, pathogens, cells, small molecules, and metal ions). In the end, we propose the key challenges and future perspectives in seeking new and improved MDS tools that can potentially lead to breakthrough discoveries in developing a new generation of biosensors with a combination of low cost; high sensitivity, accuracy, and precision; and fast detection. Overall, this Review gives a historical review of MDS, elucidates the principles of emulating MDS to develop biosensors, and analyzes the recent advancements, current challenges, and future trends in this field. It provides a unique critical analysis of emulating MDS to develop robust biosensors and discusses the design of such biosensors using elements found in MDS, showing that emulating MDS is a promising approach to conceptually advancing the design of biosensors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Wan
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Resource Utilization in the South China Sea, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Marine College, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, P. R. China
| | - Chengli Zong
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Resource Utilization in the South China Sea, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Marine College, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, P. R. China
| | - Xiangpeng Li
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, Schools of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of California, San Francisco, 1700 Fourth Street, Byers Hall 303C, San Francisco, California 94158, United States
| | - Aimin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Resource Utilization in the South China Sea, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Marine College, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, P. R. China
| | - Yan Li
- College of Animal Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, P. R. China
| | - Tao Yang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, P. R. China
| | - Qing Bao
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, P. R. China
| | - Michael Dubow
- Institute for Integrative Biology of the Cell (I2BC), UMR 9198 CNRS, CEA, Université Paris-Saclay, Campus C.N.R.S, Bâtiment 12, Avenue de la Terrasse, 91190 Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Mingying Yang
- College of Animal Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, P. R. China
| | - Ledesma-Amaro Rodrigo
- Imperial College Centre for Synthetic Biology, Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, United Kingdom
| | - Chuanbin Mao
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, Stephenson Life Science Research Center, University of Oklahoma, 101 Stephenson Parkway, Norman, Oklahoma 73019, United States.,School of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, P. R. China
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31
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Computationally designed dual-color MRI reporters for noninvasive imaging of transgene expression. Nat Biotechnol 2022; 40:1143-1149. [PMID: 35102291 DOI: 10.1038/s41587-021-01162-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2020] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Imaging of gene-expression patterns in live animals is difficult to achieve with fluorescent proteins because tissues are opaque to visible light. Imaging of transgene expression with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which penetrates to deep tissues, has been limited by single reporter visualization capabilities. Moreover, the low-throughput capacity of MRI limits large-scale mutagenesis strategies to improve existing reporters. Here we develop an MRI system, called GeneREFORM, comprising orthogonal reporters for two-color imaging of transgene expression in deep tissues. Starting from two promiscuous deoxyribonucleoside kinases, we computationally designed highly active, orthogonal enzymes ('reporter genes') that specifically phosphorylate two MRI-detectable synthetic deoxyribonucleosides ('reporter probes'). Systemically administered reporter probes exclusively accumulate in cells expressing the designed reporter genes, and their distribution is displayed as pseudo-colored MRI maps based on dynamic proton exchange for noninvasive visualization of transgene expression. We envision that future extensions of GeneREFORM will pave the way to multiplexed deep-tissue mapping of gene expression in live animals.
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32
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Hu C, Hou B, Xie S. Application of nanosonosensitizer materials in cancer sono-dynamic therapy. RSC Adv 2022; 12:22722-22747. [PMID: 36105955 PMCID: PMC9376763 DOI: 10.1039/d2ra03786f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Sonodynamic therapy (SDT) is a novel non-invasive treatment for cancer combining low-intensity ultrasound and sonosensitizers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaotao Hu
- Department of Hand and Foot Microsurgery, The Affiliated Nanhua Hospital, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, China
| | - Biao Hou
- Department of Hand and Foot Microsurgery, The Affiliated Nanhua Hospital, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, China
| | - Songlin Xie
- Department of Hand and Foot Microsurgery, The Affiliated Nanhua Hospital, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, China
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33
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Bar-Zion A, Nourmahnad A, Mittelstein DR, Shivaei S, Yoo S, Buss MT, Hurt RC, Malounda D, Abedi MH, Lee-Gosselin A, Swift MB, Maresca D, Shapiro MG. Acoustically triggered mechanotherapy using genetically encoded gas vesicles. NATURE NANOTECHNOLOGY 2021; 16:1403-1412. [PMID: 34580468 DOI: 10.1038/s41565-021-00971-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2020] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Recent advances in molecular engineering and synthetic biology provide biomolecular and cell-based therapies with a high degree of molecular specificity, but limited spatiotemporal control. Here we show that biomolecules and cells can be engineered to deliver potent mechanical effects at specific locations inside the body through ultrasound-induced inertial cavitation. This capability is enabled by gas vesicles, a unique class of genetically encodable air-filled protein nanostructures. We show that low-frequency ultrasound can convert these biomolecules into micrometre-scale cavitating bubbles, unleashing strong local mechanical effects. This enables engineered gas vesicles to serve as remotely actuated cell-killing and tissue-disrupting agents, and allows genetically engineered cells to lyse, release molecular payloads and produce local mechanical damage on command. We demonstrate the capabilities of biomolecular inertial cavitation in vitro, in cellulo and in vivo, including in a mouse model of tumour-homing probiotic therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avinoam Bar-Zion
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Atousa Nourmahnad
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - David R Mittelstein
- Division of Engineering and Applied Science, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Shirin Shivaei
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Sangjin Yoo
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Marjorie T Buss
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Robert C Hurt
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Dina Malounda
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Mohamad H Abedi
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Audrey Lee-Gosselin
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Margaret B Swift
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - David Maresca
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Mikhail G Shapiro
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA.
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34
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Wang R, Zhang L, Xie M, Wang L, Jin Q, Chen Y, Xie Y, He M, Zhu Y, Xu L, Han Z, Chen D. Biogenic Gas Vesicles for Ultrasound Imaging and Targeted Therapeutics. Curr Med Chem 2021; 29:1316-1330. [PMID: 34225604 DOI: 10.2174/0929867328666210705145642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Revised: 05/01/2021] [Accepted: 05/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Ultrasound is not only the most widely used medical imaging mode for diagnostics owing to its real-time, non-radiation, portable, and low-cost merits, but also a promising targeted drug/gene delivery technique by exhibiting a series of powerful bioeffects. The development of micron-sized or nanometer-sized ultrasound agents or delivery carriers further makes ultrasound a distinctive modality in accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. In this review, we introduce one kind of unique biogenic gas-filled protein nanostructures called gas vesicles, presenting some unique characteristics than the conventional microbubbles. Gas vesicles can not only serve as ultrasound contrast agents with innovative imaging methods such as cross-amplitude modulation harmonic imaging but also can further be adjusted and optimized via genetic engineering techniques. Moreover, they could not only serve as acoustic gene reporters, acoustic biosensors to monitor the cell metabolism, but also serve as cavitation nuclei and drug carriers for therapeutic purposes. In this study, we focus on the latest development and applications in the area of ultrasound imaging and targeted therapeutics, and also provide a brief introduction of the corresponding mechanisms. In summary, these biogenic gas vesicles show some advantages over conventional MBs that deserve more efforts to promote their development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Wang
- Department of Ultrasound, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Ultrasound, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Mingxing Xie
- Department of Ultrasound, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Lufang Wang
- Department of Ultrasound, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Qiaofeng Jin
- Department of Ultrasound, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yihan Chen
- Department of Ultrasound, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yuji Xie
- Department of Ultrasound, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Mengrong He
- Department of Ultrasound, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ye Zhu
- Department of Ultrasound, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Lingling Xu
- Department of Ultrasound, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhengyang Han
- Department of Ultrasound, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Dandan Chen
- Department of Ultrasound, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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35
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Self-assembly of protein superstructures by physical interactions under cytoplasm-like conditions. Biophys J 2021; 120:2701-2709. [PMID: 34022233 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2021.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Revised: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The structure-driven assembly of multimeric protein complexes and the formation of intracellular phase-like protein condensates have been the subject of intense research. However, the assembly of larger superstructures comprising cellular components, such as protein nanoparticles driven by general physical rather than specific biochemical interactions, remains relatively uncharacterized. Here, we use gas vesicles (GVs)-genetically encoded protein nanoparticles that form ordered intracellular clusters-as a model system to study the forces driving multiparticle assembly under cytoplasm-like conditions. Our calculations and experimental results show that the ordered assembly of GVs can be achieved by screening their mutual electrostatic repulsion with electrolytes and creating a crowding force with dissolved macromolecules. The precise balance of these forces results in different packing configurations. Biomacromolecules such as polylysine and DNA are capable of driving GV clustering. These results provide basic insights into how physically driven interactions affect the formation of protein superstructures, offer guidance for manipulating nanoparticle assembly in cellular environments through synthetic biology methods, and inform research on the biotechnology applications of GVs.
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36
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Cosco ED, Arús BA, Spearman AL, Atallah TL, Lim I, Leland OS, Caram JR, Bischof TS, Bruns OT, Sletten EM. Bright Chromenylium Polymethine Dyes Enable Fast, Four-Color In Vivo Imaging with Shortwave Infrared Detection. J Am Chem Soc 2021; 143:6836-6846. [PMID: 33939921 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.0c11599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Optical imaging within the shortwave infrared (SWIR, 1000-2000 nm) region of the electromagnetic spectrum has enabled high-resolution and high-contrast imaging in mice, non-invasively. Polymethine dyes, with their narrow absorption spectra and high absorption coefficients, are optimal probes for fast and multiplexed SWIR imaging. Here, we expand upon the multiplexing capabilities in SWIR imaging by obtaining brighter polymethine dyes with varied excitation wavelengths spaced throughout the near-infrared (700-1000 nm) region. Building on the flavylium polymethine dye scaffold, we explored derivatives with functional group substitution at the 2-position, deemed chromenylium polymethine dyes. The reported dyes have reduced nonradiative rates and enhanced emissive properties, enabling non-invasive imaging in mice in a single color at 300 fps and in three colors at 100 fps. Combined with polymethine dyes containing a red-shifted julolidine flavylium heterocycle and indocyanine green, distinct channels with well-separated excitation wavelengths provide non-invasive video-rate in vivo imaging in four colors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily D Cosco
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States.,Helmholtz Pioneer Campus, Helmholtz Zentrum München, D-85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Bernardo A Arús
- Helmholtz Pioneer Campus, Helmholtz Zentrum München, D-85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Anthony L Spearman
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
| | - Timothy L Atallah
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
| | - Irene Lim
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
| | - Olivia S Leland
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
| | - Justin R Caram
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
| | - Thomas S Bischof
- Helmholtz Pioneer Campus, Helmholtz Zentrum München, D-85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Oliver T Bruns
- Helmholtz Pioneer Campus, Helmholtz Zentrum München, D-85764 Neuherberg, Germany.,School of Medicine, Technical University Munich, D-80333 München, Germany
| | - Ellen M Sletten
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
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37
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Dutka P, Malounda D, Metskas LA, Chen S, Hurt RC, Lu GJ, Jensen GJ, Shapiro MG. Measuring gas vesicle dimensions by electron microscopy. Protein Sci 2021; 30:1081-1086. [PMID: 33641210 PMCID: PMC8040859 DOI: 10.1002/pro.4056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Gas vesicles (GVs) are cylindrical or spindle-shaped protein nanostructures filled with air and used for flotation by various cyanobacteria, heterotrophic bacteria, and Archaea. Recently, GVs have gained interest in biotechnology applications due to their ability to serve as imaging agents and actuators for ultrasound, magnetic resonance and several optical techniques. The diameter of GVs is a crucial parameter contributing to their mechanical stability, buoyancy function and evolution in host cells, as well as their properties in imaging applications. Despite its importance, reported diameters for the same types of GV differ depending on the method used for its assessment. Here, we provide an explanation for these discrepancies and utilize electron microscopy (EM) techniques to accurately estimate the diameter of the most commonly studied types of GVs. We show that during air drying on the EM grid, GVs flatten, leading to a ~1.5-fold increase in their apparent diameter. We demonstrate that GVs' diameter can be accurately determined by direct measurements from cryo-EM samples or alternatively indirectly derived from widths of flat collapsed and negatively stained GVs. Our findings help explain the inconsistency in previously reported data and provide accurate methods to measure GVs dimensions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Przemysław Dutka
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical EngineeringCalifornia Institute of TechnologyPasadenaCaliforniaUSA
| | - Dina Malounda
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical EngineeringCalifornia Institute of TechnologyPasadenaCaliforniaUSA
| | - Lauren Ann Metskas
- Division of Biology and Biological EngineeringCalifornia Institute of TechnologyPasadenaCaliforniaUSA
| | - Songye Chen
- Division of Biology and Biological EngineeringCalifornia Institute of TechnologyPasadenaCaliforniaUSA
- Beckman InstituteCalifornia Institute of TechnologyPasadenaCaliforniaUSA
| | - Robert C. Hurt
- Division of Biology and Biological EngineeringCalifornia Institute of TechnologyPasadenaCaliforniaUSA
| | - George J. Lu
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical EngineeringCalifornia Institute of TechnologyPasadenaCaliforniaUSA
- Present address:
Department of BioengineeringRice UniversityHoustonTX77030USA
| | - Grant J. Jensen
- Division of Biology and Biological EngineeringCalifornia Institute of TechnologyPasadenaCaliforniaUSA
- Department of Chemistry and BiochemistryBrigham Young UniversityProvoUtahUSA
| | - Mikhail G. Shapiro
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical EngineeringCalifornia Institute of TechnologyPasadenaCaliforniaUSA
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38
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Farhadi A, Sigmund F, Westmeyer GG, Shapiro MG. Genetically encodable materials for non-invasive biological imaging. NATURE MATERIALS 2021; 20:585-592. [PMID: 33526879 PMCID: PMC8606175 DOI: 10.1038/s41563-020-00883-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2019] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Many questions in basic biology and medicine require the ability to visualize the function of specific cells and molecules inside living organisms. In this context, technologies such as ultrasound, optoacoustics and magnetic resonance provide non-invasive imaging access to deep-tissue regions, as used in many laboratories and clinics to visualize anatomy and physiology. In addition, recent work has enabled these technologies to image the location and function of specific cells and molecules inside the body by coupling the physics of sound waves, nuclear spins and light absorption to unique protein-based materials. These materials, which include air-filled gas vesicles, capsid-like nanocompartments, pigment-producing enzymes and transmembrane transporters, enable new forms of biomolecular and cellular contrast. The ability of these protein-based contrast agents to be genetically encoded and produced by cells creates opportunities for unprecedented in vivo studies of cellular function, while their amenability to genetic engineering enables atomic-level design of their physical, chemical and biological properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arash Farhadi
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
- Synthetic Biology Center, Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Felix Sigmund
- Department of Chemistry and TUM School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- Institute for Synthetic Biomedicine, Helmholtz Zentrum Muenchen, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Gil Gregor Westmeyer
- Department of Chemistry and TUM School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany.
- Institute for Synthetic Biomedicine, Helmholtz Zentrum Muenchen, Neuherberg, Germany.
| | - Mikhail G Shapiro
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA.
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39
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Lin FC, Xie Y, Deng T, Zink JI. Magnetism, Ultrasound, and Light-Stimulated Mesoporous Silica Nanocarriers for Theranostics and Beyond. J Am Chem Soc 2021; 143:6025-6036. [PMID: 33857372 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.0c10098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Stimuli-responsive multifunctional mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) have been studied intensively during the past decade. A large variety of mesopore capping systems have been designed, initially to show that it could be done and later for biomedical applications such as drug delivery and imaging. On-command release of cargo molecules such as drugs from the pores can be activated by a variety of stimuli. This paper focuses on three noninvasive, biologically usable external stimuli: magnetism, ultrasound, and light. We survey the variety of MSNs that have been and are being used and assess capping designs and the advantages and drawbacks of the nanoplatforms' responses to the various stimuli. We discuss important recent advances, their basic mechanisms, and their requirements for stimulation. On the basis of our survey, we identify fundamental challenges and suggest future directions for research that will unleash the full potential of these fascinating nanosystems for clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang-Chu Lin
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States.,California NanoSystems Institute, University of California Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
| | - Yijun Xie
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States.,California NanoSystems Institute, University of California Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
| | - Tian Deng
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States.,California NanoSystems Institute, University of California Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
| | - Jeffrey I Zink
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States.,California NanoSystems Institute, University of California Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
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40
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Kaku TS, Lim S. Protein nanoparticles in molecular, cellular, and tissue imaging. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS-NANOMEDICINE AND NANOBIOTECHNOLOGY 2021; 13:e1714. [PMID: 33821568 DOI: 10.1002/wnan.1714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2020] [Revised: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
The quest to develop ideal nanoparticles capable of molecular, cellular, and tissue level imaging is ongoing. Since certain imaging probes and nanoparticles face drawbacks such as low aqueous solubility, increased ROS generation leading to DNA damage, apoptosis, and high cellular/organ toxicities, the development of versatile and biocompatible nanocarriers becomes necessary. Protein nanoparticles (PNPs) are one such promising class of nanocarriers that possess most of the desirable properties of an ideal nanocarrier for bioimaging applications. PNPs demonstrate high aqueous solubility, minimal cytotoxicity, and multi-cargo loading capacity. They are also amenable to surface-functionalization, as well as modulation of their hydrophobicity and hydrophilicity. The use of PNPs for bioimaging applications has made rapid advancements in the past two decades. Being comparatively less explored, the field opens up a plethora of opportunities and focus areas to engineer ideal bioimaging protein nanocarriers. The use of PNPs as carriers of their natural ligands as well as other heavy metals and fluorescent probes, along with drug molecules for combined theranostic applications has been reported. In addition, surface functionalization to impart specificity of targeting the PNPs has been shown to reduce nonspecific cellular interactions, thus reducing systemic toxicity. PNPs have been explored for their application in imaging of numerous cancers, cardiovascular diseases as well as imaging of the brain using near infrared fluorescence (NIRF) imaging, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), X-ray computed tomography (CT), positron emission tomography (PET), single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), ultrasound (US), and photoacoustic (PA) imaging. This article is categorized under: Biology-Inspired Nanomaterials > Protein and Virus-Based Structures Diagnostic Tools > In Vivo Nanodiagnostics and Imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanvi Sushil Kaku
- School of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
| | - Sierin Lim
- School of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
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41
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Abstract
In this review, we summarized recent advances in the development and biological applications of polymeric nanoparticles embedded with superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs). Superparamagnetic polymeric nanoparticles include core-shell nanoparticles, superparamagnetic polymeric micelles and superparamagnetic polymersomes. They have potential for various biomedical applications, including magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agents, drug delivery, detection of bacteria, viruses and proteins, etc. Finally, the challenges in the design and preparation of superparamagnetic nanoparticles towards clinical applications are explored and the prospects in this field are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yufen Xiao
- Department of Polymeric Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tongji University, 4800 Caoan Road, Shanghai 201804, China.
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42
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Del Valle I, Fulk EM, Kalvapalle P, Silberg JJ, Masiello CA, Stadler LB. Translating New Synthetic Biology Advances for Biosensing Into the Earth and Environmental Sciences. Front Microbiol 2021; 11:618373. [PMID: 33633695 PMCID: PMC7901896 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.618373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The rapid diversification of synthetic biology tools holds promise in making some classically hard-to-solve environmental problems tractable. Here we review longstanding problems in the Earth and environmental sciences that could be addressed using engineered microbes as micron-scale sensors (biosensors). Biosensors can offer new perspectives on open questions, including understanding microbial behaviors in heterogeneous matrices like soils, sediments, and wastewater systems, tracking cryptic element cycling in the Earth system, and establishing the dynamics of microbe-microbe, microbe-plant, and microbe-material interactions. Before these new tools can reach their potential, however, a suite of biological parts and microbial chassis appropriate for environmental conditions must be developed by the synthetic biology community. This includes diversifying sensing modules to obtain information relevant to environmental questions, creating output signals that allow dynamic reporting from hard-to-image environmental materials, and tuning these sensors so that they reliably function long enough to be useful for environmental studies. Finally, ethical questions related to the use of synthetic biosensors in environmental applications are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilenne Del Valle
- Systems, Synthetic, and Physical Biology Graduate Program, Rice University, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Emily M. Fulk
- Systems, Synthetic, and Physical Biology Graduate Program, Rice University, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Prashant Kalvapalle
- Systems, Synthetic, and Physical Biology Graduate Program, Rice University, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Jonathan J. Silberg
- Department of BioSciences, Rice University, Houston, TX, United States
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, United States
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Caroline A. Masiello
- Department of BioSciences, Rice University, Houston, TX, United States
- Department of Earth, Environmental and Planetary Sciences, Rice University, Houston, TX, United States
- Department of Chemistry, Rice University, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Lauren B. Stadler
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, United States
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43
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Wang Q, Chan KF, Schweizer K, Du X, Jin D, Yu SCH, Nelson BJ, Zhang L. Ultrasound Doppler-guided real-time navigation of a magnetic microswarm for active endovascular delivery. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2021; 7:7/9/eabe5914. [PMID: 33637532 PMCID: PMC7909881 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abe5914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Swarming micro/nanorobots offer great promise in performing targeted delivery inside diverse hard-to-reach environments. However, swarm navigation in dynamic environments challenges delivery capability and real-time swarm localization. Here, we report a strategy to navigate a nanoparticle microswarm in real time under ultrasound Doppler imaging guidance for active endovascular delivery. A magnetic microswarm was formed and navigated near the boundary of vessels, where the reduced drag of blood flow and strong interactions between nanoparticles enable upstream and downstream navigation in flowing blood (mean velocity up to 40.8 mm/s). The microswarm-induced three-dimensional blood flow enables Doppler imaging from multiple viewing configurations and real-time tracking in different environments (i.e., stagnant, flowing blood, and pulsatile flow). We also demonstrate the ultrasound Doppler-guided swarm formation and navigation in the porcine coronary artery ex vivo. Our strategy presents a promising connection between swarm control and real-time imaging of microrobotic swarms for localized delivery in dynamic environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qianqian Wang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), Shatin, NT, Hong Kong, China
| | - Kai Fung Chan
- Chow Yuk Ho Technology Centre for Innovative Medicine, CUHK, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong, China
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, CUHK, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong, China
| | - Kathrin Schweizer
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), Shatin, NT, Hong Kong, China
- Institute of Robotics and Intelligent Systems, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Xingzhou Du
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), Shatin, NT, Hong Kong, China
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, CUHK, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong, China
| | - Dongdong Jin
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), Shatin, NT, Hong Kong, China
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, CUHK, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong, China
| | - Simon Chun Ho Yu
- Department of Imaging and Interventional Radiology, CUHK, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong, China
| | - Bradley J Nelson
- Institute of Robotics and Intelligent Systems, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), Shatin, NT, Hong Kong, China.
- Chow Yuk Ho Technology Centre for Innovative Medicine, CUHK, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong, China
- CUHK T Stone Robotics Institute, CUHK, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong, China
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44
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Shapiro MG. Reporter Genes for Ultrasound and MRI. Mol Imaging 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-816386-3.00051-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
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45
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Perlman O, Ito H, Gilad AA, McMahon MT, Chiocca EA, Nakashima H, Farrar CT. Redesigned reporter gene for improved proton exchange-based molecular MRI contrast. Sci Rep 2020; 10:20664. [PMID: 33244130 PMCID: PMC7692519 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-77576-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Reporter gene imaging allows for non-invasive monitoring of molecular processes in living cells, providing insights on the mechanisms underlying pathology and therapy. A lysine-rich protein (LRP) chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) MRI reporter gene has previously been developed and used to image tumor cells, cardiac viral gene transfer, and oncolytic virotherapy. However, the highly repetitive nature of the LRP reporter gene sequence leads to DNA recombination events and the expression of a range of truncated LRP protein fragments, thereby greatly limiting the CEST sensitivity. Here we report the use of a redesigned LRP reporter (rdLRP), aimed to provide excellent stability and CEST sensitivity. The rdLRP contains no DNA repeats or GC rich regions and 30% less positively charged amino-acids. RT-PCR of cell lysates transfected with rdLRP demonstrated a stable reporter gene with a single distinct band corresponding to full-length DNA. A distinct increase in CEST-MRI contrast was obtained in cell lysates of rdLRP transfected cells and in in vivo LRP expressing mouse brain tumors ([Formula: see text], n = 10).
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Affiliation(s)
- Or Perlman
- Department of Radiology, Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, 149 13th Street, Suite 2301, Charlestown, MA, 02129, USA
| | - Hirotaka Ito
- Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Assaf A Gilad
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
- The Institute of Quantitative Health Science and Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
- Department of Radiology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Michael T McMahon
- F.M. Kirby Research Center for Functional Brain Imaging, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Division of MR Research, The Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - E Antonio Chiocca
- Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Hiroshi Nakashima
- Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Christian T Farrar
- Department of Radiology, Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, 149 13th Street, Suite 2301, Charlestown, MA, 02129, USA.
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Farhadi A, Bedrossian M, Lee J, Ho GH, Shapiro MG, Nadeau JL. Genetically Encoded Phase Contrast Agents for Digital Holographic Microscopy. NANO LETTERS 2020; 20:8127-8134. [PMID: 33118828 DOI: 10.1101/833830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Quantitative phase imaging and digital holographic microscopy have shown great promise for visualizing the motion, structure, and physiology of microorganisms and mammalian cells in three dimensions. However, these imaging techniques currently lack molecular contrast agents analogous to the fluorescent dyes and proteins that have revolutionized fluorescence microscopy. Here we introduce the first genetically encodable phase contrast agents based on gas vesicles. The relatively low index of refraction of the air-filled core of gas vesicles results in optical phase advancement relative to aqueous media, making them a "positive" phase contrast agent easily distinguished from organelles, dyes, or microminerals. We demonstrate this capability by identifying and tracking the motion of gas vesicles and gas vesicle-expressing bacteria using digital holographic microscopy, and by imaging the uptake of engineered gas vesicles by mammalian cells. These results give phase imaging a biomolecular contrast agent, expanding the capabilities of this powerful technology for three-dimensional biological imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arash Farhadi
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, California 91125, United States
| | - Manuel Bedrossian
- Division of Engineering and Applied Science, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, California 91125, United States
| | - Justin Lee
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, California 91125, United States
| | - Gabrielle H Ho
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, California 91125, United States
| | - Mikhail G Shapiro
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, California 91125, United States
| | - Jay L Nadeau
- Department of Physics, Portland State University, Portland, Oregon 97207, United States
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Farhadi A, Bedrossian M, Lee J, Ho GH, Shapiro MG, Nadeau JL. Genetically Encoded Phase Contrast Agents for Digital Holographic Microscopy. NANO LETTERS 2020; 20:8127-8134. [PMID: 33118828 PMCID: PMC7685204 DOI: 10.1021/acs.nanolett.0c03159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Quantitative phase imaging and digital holographic microscopy have shown great promise for visualizing the motion, structure, and physiology of microorganisms and mammalian cells in three dimensions. However, these imaging techniques currently lack molecular contrast agents analogous to the fluorescent dyes and proteins that have revolutionized fluorescence microscopy. Here we introduce the first genetically encodable phase contrast agents based on gas vesicles. The relatively low index of refraction of the air-filled core of gas vesicles results in optical phase advancement relative to aqueous media, making them a "positive" phase contrast agent easily distinguished from organelles, dyes, or microminerals. We demonstrate this capability by identifying and tracking the motion of gas vesicles and gas vesicle-expressing bacteria using digital holographic microscopy, and by imaging the uptake of engineered gas vesicles by mammalian cells. These results give phase imaging a biomolecular contrast agent, expanding the capabilities of this powerful technology for three-dimensional biological imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arash Farhadi
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, California 91125, United States
| | - Manuel Bedrossian
- Division of Engineering and Applied Science, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, California 91125, United States
| | - Justin Lee
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, California 91125, United States
| | - Gabrielle H Ho
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, California 91125, United States
| | - Mikhail G Shapiro
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, California 91125, United States
| | - Jay L Nadeau
- Department of Physics, Portland State University, Portland, Oregon 97207, United States
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Jayapaul J, Schröder L. Molecular Sensing with Host Systems for Hyperpolarized 129Xe. Molecules 2020; 25:E4627. [PMID: 33050669 PMCID: PMC7587211 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25204627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Revised: 09/27/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Hyperpolarized noble gases have been used early on in applications for sensitivity enhanced NMR. 129Xe has been explored for various applications because it can be used beyond the gas-driven examination of void spaces. Its solubility in aqueous solutions and its affinity for hydrophobic binding pockets allows "functionalization" through combination with host structures that bind one or multiple gas atoms. Moreover, the transient nature of gas binding in such hosts allows the combination with another signal enhancement technique, namely chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST). Different systems have been investigated for implementing various types of so-called Xe biosensors where the gas binds to a targeted host to address molecular markers or to sense biophysical parameters. This review summarizes developments in biosensor design and synthesis for achieving molecular sensing with NMR at unprecedented sensitivity. Aspects regarding Xe exchange kinetics and chemical engineering of various classes of hosts for an efficient build-up of the CEST effect will also be discussed as well as the cavity design of host molecules to identify a pool of bound Xe. The concept is presented in the broader context of reporter design with insights from other modalities that are helpful for advancing the field of Xe biosensors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Leif Schröder
- Molecular Imaging, Leibniz-Forschungsinstitut für Molekulare Pharmakologie (FMP), 13125 Berlin, Germany;
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Lu GJ, Chou LD, Malounda D, Patel AK, Welsbie DS, Chao DL, Ramalingam T, Shapiro MG. Genetically Encodable Contrast Agents for Optical Coherence Tomography. ACS NANO 2020; 14:7823-7831. [PMID: 32023037 PMCID: PMC7685218 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.9b08432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Optical coherence tomography (OCT) has gained wide adoption in biological research and medical imaging due to its exceptional tissue penetration, 3D imaging speed, and rich contrast. However, OCT plays a relatively small role in molecular and cellular imaging due to the lack of suitable biomolecular contrast agents. In particular, while the green fluorescent protein has provided revolutionary capabilities to fluorescence microscopy by connecting it to cellular functions such as gene expression, no equivalent reporter gene is currently available for OCT. Here, we introduce gas vesicles, a class of naturally evolved gas-filled protein nanostructures, as genetically encodable OCT contrast agents. The differential refractive index of their gas compartments relative to surrounding aqueous tissue and their nanoscale motion enables gas vesicles to be detected by static and dynamic OCT. Furthermore, the OCT contrast of gas vesicles can be selectively erased in situ with ultrasound, allowing unambiguous assignment of their location. In addition, gas vesicle clustering modulates their temporal signal, enabling the design of dynamic biosensors. We demonstrate the use of gas vesicles as reporter genes in bacterial colonies and as purified contrast agents in vivo in the mouse retina. Our results expand the utility of OCT to image a wider variety of cellular and molecular processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- George J. Lu
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Li-dek Chou
- OCT Medical Imaging Inc., 9272 Jeronimo Road, Irvine, CA 92618, USA
| | - Dina Malounda
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Amit K. Patel
- Shiley Eye Institute, Andrew Viterbi Department of Ophthalmology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Derek S. Welsbie
- Shiley Eye Institute, Andrew Viterbi Department of Ophthalmology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Daniel L. Chao
- Shiley Eye Institute, Andrew Viterbi Department of Ophthalmology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | | | - Mikhail G. Shapiro
- Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
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Hill AM, Salmond GPC. Microbial gas vesicles as nanotechnology tools: exploiting intracellular organelles for translational utility in biotechnology, medicine and the environment. MICROBIOLOGY (READING, ENGLAND) 2020; 166:501-509. [PMID: 32324529 PMCID: PMC7376271 DOI: 10.1099/mic.0.000912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2020] [Accepted: 03/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
A range of bacteria and archaea produce gas vesicles as a means to facilitate flotation. These gas vesicles have been purified from a number of species and their applications in biotechnology and medicine are reviewed here. Halobacterium sp. NRC-1 gas vesicles have been engineered to display antigens from eukaryotic, bacterial and viral pathogens. The ability of these recombinant nanoparticles to generate an immune response has been quantified both in vitro and in vivo. These gas vesicles, along with those purified from Anabaena flos-aquae and Bacillus megaterium, have been developed as an acoustic reporter system. This system utilizes the ability of gas vesicles to retain gas within a stable, rigid structure to produce contrast upon exposure to ultrasound. The susceptibility of gas vesicles to collapse when exposed to excess pressure has also been proposed as a biocontrol mechanism to disperse cyanobacterial blooms, providing an environmental function for these structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy M. Hill
- Department of Biochemistry, Tennis Court Road, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 1QW, UK
| | - George P. C. Salmond
- Department of Biochemistry, Tennis Court Road, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 1QW, UK
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