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Lopez I, Truskey GA. Multi-cellular engineered living systems to assess reproductive toxicology. Reprod Toxicol 2024; 127:108609. [PMID: 38759876 PMCID: PMC11179964 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2024.108609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024]
Abstract
Toxicants and some drugs can negatively impact reproductive health. Many toxicants haven't been tested due to lack of available models. The impact of many drugs taken during pregnancy to address maternal health may adversely affect fetal development with life-long effects and clinical trials do not examine toxicity effects on the maternal-fetal interface, requiring indirect assessment of safety and efficacy. Due to current gaps in reproductive toxicological knowledge and limitations of animal models, multi-cellular engineered living systems may provide solutions for modeling reproductive physiology and pathology for chemical and xenobiotic toxicity studies. Multi-cellular engineered living systems, such as microphysiological systems (MPS) and organoids, model of functional units of tissues. In this review, we highlight the key functions and structures of human reproductive organs and well-known representative toxicants afflicting these systems. We then discuss current approaches and specific studies where scientists have used MPS or organoids to recreate in vivo markers and cellular responses of the female and male reproductive system, as well as pregnancy-associated placenta formation and embryo development. We provide specific examples of organoids and organ-on-chip that have been used for toxicological purposes with varied success. Finally, we address current issues related to usage of MPS, emerging techniques for improving upon these complications, and improvements needed to make MPS more capable in assessing reproductive toxicology. Overall, multi-cellular engineered living systems have considerable promise to serve as a suitable, alternative reproductive biological model compared to animal studies and 2D culture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabella Lopez
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, United States
| | - George A Truskey
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, United States.
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Plesselova S, Calar K, Axemaker H, Sahly E, de la Puente P. Multicompartmentalized microvascularized tumor-on-a-chip to study tumor-stroma interactions and drug resistance in ovarian cancer. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.29.596456. [PMID: 38853974 PMCID: PMC11160770 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.29.596456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
Introduction The majority of ovarian cancer (OC) patients receiving standard of care chemotherapy develop chemoresistance within 5 years. The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a dynamic and influential player in disease progression and therapeutic response. However, there is a lack of models that allow us to elucidate the compartmentalized nature of TME in a controllable, yet physiologically relevant manner and its critical role in modulating drug resistance. Methods We developed a 3D microvascularized multiniche tumor-on-a-chip formed by five chambers (central cancer chamber, flanked by two lateral stromal chambers and two external circulation chambers) to recapitulate OC-TME compartmentalization and study its influence on drug resistance. Stromal chambers included endothelial cells alone or cocultured with normal fibroblasts or cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF). Results The tumor-on-a-chip recapitulated spatial TME compartmentalization including vessel-like structure, stromal-mediated extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling, generation of oxygen gradients, and delayed drug diffusion/penetration from the circulation chamber towards the cancer chamber. The cancer chamber mimicked metastasis-like migration and increased drug resistance to carboplatin/paclitaxel treatment in the presence of CAF when compared to normal fibroblasts. CAF-mediated drug resistance was rescued by ECM targeted therapy. Critically, these results demonstrate that cellular crosstalk recreation and spatial organization through compartmentalization are essential to determining the effect of the compartmentalized OC-TME on drug resistance. Conclusions Our results present a functionally characterized microvascularized multiniche tumor-on-a-chip able to recapitulate TME compartmentalization influencing drug resistance. This technology holds the potential to guide the design of more effective and targeted therapeutic strategies to overcome chemoresistance in OC.
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Ogawa T, Matsumura T, Yao T, Kimura H, Hashimoto K, Ishikawa-Yamauchi Y, Sato T. Improvements in in vitro spermatogenesis: oxygen concentration, antioxidants, tissue-form design, and space control. J Reprod Dev 2024; 70:1-9. [PMID: 38143077 PMCID: PMC10902634 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2023-093] [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: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Incorporation of bovine serum-derived albumin formulation (AlbuMAX) into a basic culture medium, MEMα, enables the completion of in vitro spermatogenesis through testicular tissue culture in mice. However, this medium was not effective in other animals. Therefore, we sought an alternative approach for in vitro spermatogenesis using a synthetic medium without AlbuMAX and aimed to identify its essential components. In addition to factors known to be important for spermatogenesis, such as retinoic acid and reproductive hormones, we found that antioxidants (vitamin E, vitamin C, and glutathione) and lysophospholipids are vital for in vitro spermatogenesis. Moreover, based on our experience with microfluidic devices (MFD), we developed an alternative approach, the PDMS-ceiling method (PC method), which involves simply covering the tissue with a flat chip made of PDMS, a silicone resin material used in MFD. The PC method, while straightforward, integrates the advantages of MFD, enabling improved and uniform oxygen and nutrient supply via tissue flattening. Furthermore, our studies underscored the significance of lowering the oxygen concentration to 10-15%. Using an integrated cultivation method based on these findings, we successfully achieved in vitro spermatogenesis in rats, which has been a long-standing challenge. Further improvements in culture conditions would pave the way for spermatogenesis completion in diverse animal species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takehiko Ogawa
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama 236-0004, Japan
| | - Takafumi Matsumura
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama 236-0004, Japan
| | - Tatsuma Yao
- Research and Development Center, Fuso Pharmaceutical Industries, Ltd., Osaka 536-8523, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Kimura
- Micro/Nano Technology Center, Tokai University, Hiratsuka 259-1292, Japan
| | - Kiyoshi Hashimoto
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama 236-0004, Japan
| | - Yu Ishikawa-Yamauchi
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama 236-0004, Japan
| | - Takuya Sato
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama 236-0004, Japan
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Hawkins J, Browne EP, Arcaro KF, Sun Y. Rapid cell isolation in breastmilk in a non-clinical setting by a deterministic lateral displacement device and selective water and fat absorption. LAB ON A CHIP 2024; 24:604-614. [PMID: 38189141 DOI: 10.1039/d3lc00899a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
Breastmilk is a reliable source of biomarker-containing, sloughed breast cells that have the potential to give valuable health insights to new mothers. Furthermore, known DNA-based markers for pregnancy-associated breast cancer are chemically stable and can be safely stored on a commercially available FTA® Elute Micro (EM) card, which can subsequently be mailed to a testing facility for the cost of a stamp. In theory, this archiving process can be performed by nonprofessionals in very low-resource settings as it simply requires placing a drop of breastmilk on an EM card. Although this level of convenience is paramount for new mothers, the low cell density of breastmilk complicates archiving on an EM card as such commercial products and associated protocols were designed for high-cell density physiological fluids such as blood. In this study, we present the use of a deterministic lateral displacement (DLD) device combined with porous superabsorbent polymers and hydrophobic sponges to achieve simple and low-cost cell enrichment in breastmilk. As the critical separation diameter in a DLD device is more heavily dependent on lithographically controlled pillar layout than fluid or flow properties, our use of DLD microfluidics allowed for the accommodation of both varying viscosities in human breastmilk samples and a varying pressure of actuation resulting from manual, syringe-driven operation. We demonstrate successful cell enrichment (>11×) and a corresponding increase in the DNA concentration of EM card elutions among breastmilk samples processed with our hybrid microfluidic system. As our device achieves sufficiently high cell enrichment in breastmilk samples while only requiring the user to push a syringe for 4 min with reasonable effort, we believe that it has high potential to expand EM card DNA archiving for diagnostic applications with low-cell density physiological fluids and in low-resource settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamar Hawkins
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003, USA.
| | - Eva P Browne
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003, USA
| | - Kathleen F Arcaro
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003, USA
| | - Yubing Sun
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003, USA.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003, USA
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Bashiri Z, Gholipourmalekabadi M, Khadivi F, Salem M, Afzali A, Cham TC, Koruji M. In vitro spermatogenesis in artificial testis: current knowledge and clinical implications for male infertility. Cell Tissue Res 2023; 394:393-421. [PMID: 37721632 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-023-03824-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
Men's reproductive health exclusively depends on the appropriate maturation of certain germ cells known as sperm. Certain illnesses, such as Klinefelter syndrome, cryptorchidism, and syndrome of androgen insensitivity or absence of testis maturation in men, resulting in the loss of germ cells and the removal of essential genes on the Y chromosome, can cause non-obstructive azoospermia. According to laboratory research, preserving, proliferating, differentiating, and transplanting spermatogonial stem cells or testicular tissue could be future methods for preserving the fertility of children with cancer and men with azoospermia. Therefore, new advances in stem cell research may lead to promising therapies for treating male infertility. The rate of progression and breakthrough in the area of in vitro spermatogenesis is lower than that of SSC transplantation, but newer methods are also being developed. In this regard, tissue and cell culture, supplements, and 3D scaffolds have opened new horizons in the differentiation of stem cells in vitro, which could improve the outcomes of male infertility. Various 3D methods have been developed to produce cellular aggregates and mimic the organization and function of the testis. The production of an artificial reproductive organ that supports SSCs differentiation will certainly be a main step in male infertility treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Bashiri
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Shahid Hemmat Highway, Tehran, 1449614535, Iran.
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Shahid Hemmat Highway, Tehran, 1449614535, Iran.
- Omid Fertility & Infertility Clinic, Hamedan, Iran.
| | - Mazaher Gholipourmalekabadi
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Tissue Engineering & Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Allied Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farnaz Khadivi
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Maryam Salem
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Azita Afzali
- Hajar Hospital, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Tat-Chuan Cham
- Department of Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5B4, Canada
| | - Morteza Koruji
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Shahid Hemmat Highway, Tehran, 1449614535, Iran.
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Shahid Hemmat Highway, Tehran, 1449614535, Iran.
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Younis N, Caldeira-Brant AL, Chu T, Abdalla S, Orwig KE. Human immature testicular tissue organ culture: a step towards fertility preservation and restoration. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1242263. [PMID: 37701899 PMCID: PMC10494240 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1242263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Cryopreservation of immature testicular tissue (ITT) is currently the only option to preserve fertility of prepubertal patients. Autologous transplantation of ITT may not be safe or appropriate for all patients. Therefore, methods to mature ITT ex vivo are needed. Objectives Aim to investigate the feasibility of inducing in vitro spermatogenesis from ITT cryopreserved for pediatric patients prior to initiation of gonadotoxic therapy. Materials and methods Cryopreserved-thawed ITT from prepubertal and peripubertal patients were cultured for 7, 16, and 32 days in medium with no hormones or supplemented with 5 IU/L FSH, 1 IU/L hCG, or 5IU/L FSH+1 IU/L hCG. Samples were evaluated histologically to assess tissue integrity, and immunofluorescence staining was performed to identify VASA (DDX4)+ germ cells, UCHL1+ spermatogonia, SYCP3+ spermatocytes, CREM+ spermatids, SOX9+ Sertoli cells. Proliferation (KI67) and apoptosis (CASPASE3) of germ cells and Sertoli cells were also analyzed. Sertoli and Leydig cell maturation was evaluated by AR and INSL3 expression as well as expression of the blood testis barrier protein, CLAUDIN11, and testosterone secretion in the culture medium. Results Integrity of seminiferous tubules, VASA+ germ cells and SOX9+ Sertoli cells were maintained up to 32 days. The number of VASA+ germ cells was consistently higher in the peripubertal groups. UCHL1+ undifferentiated spermatogonia and SOX9+ Sertoli cell proliferation was confirmed in most samples. SYCP3+ primary spermatocytes began to appear by day 16 in both age groups. Sertoli cell maturation was demonstrated by AR expression but the expression of CLAUDIN11 was disorganized. Presence of mature and functional Leydig cells was verified by INSL3 expression and secretion of testosterone. Gonadotropin treatments did not consistently impact the number or proliferation of germ cells or somatic cells, but FSH was necessary to increase testosterone secretion over time in prepubertal samples. Conclusion ITT were maintained in organotypic culture for up to 32 days and spermatogonia differentiated to produce primary spermatocytes in both pre- and peripubertal age groups. However, complete spermatogenesis was not observed in either group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nagham Younis
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Science, University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Andre L. Caldeira-Brant
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Tianjiao Chu
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Shtaywy Abdalla
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Science, University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Kyle E. Orwig
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
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Hashimoto K, Odaka H, Ishikawa-Yamauchi Y, Nagata S, Nakamura H, Kimura H, Sato T, Makiyama K, Ogawa T. Culture-space control is effective in promoting haploid cell formation and spermiogenesis in vitro in neonatal mice. Sci Rep 2023; 13:12354. [PMID: 37524742 PMCID: PMC10390558 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-39323-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The classical organ culture method, in which tissue is placed at the gas‒liquid interphase, is effective at inducing mouse spermatogenesis. However, due to reginal variations in the supply of oxygen and nutrients within a tissue, the progress of spermatogenesis was observed only in limited areas of a tissue. In addition, haploid cell formation and its differentiation to spermatozoon, i.e. spermiogenesis, were infrequent and inefficient. Here, we show that the polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)-chip ceiling (PC) method, which ensures a uniform supply of nutrients and oxygen throughout the tissue by pressing it into a thin, flat shape, can provide control over the culture space. We used this method to culture testis tissue from neonatal mice, aged 1 to 4 days, and found that modulating the culture space during the experiment by replacing one chip with another that had a higher ceiling effectively increased tissue growth. This adjustment also induced more efficient spermatogenesis, with the process of spermiogenesis being particularly promoted. Meiotic cells were observed from culture day 14 onward, and haploid cells were confirmed at the end of each experiment. This technique was also shown to be a sensitive assay for testicular toxicity. Culture-space control will be a critical regulation parameter for sophisticated tissue culture experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiyoshi Hashimoto
- Department of Urology, Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, Japan
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Hisakazu Odaka
- Department of Urology, Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, Japan
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, Japan
| | | | - Shino Nagata
- Graduate School of Medical Life Science, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Hiroko Nakamura
- Micro/Nano Technology Center, Tokai University, Hiratsuka, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Kimura
- Micro/Nano Technology Center, Tokai University, Hiratsuka, Japan
| | - Takuya Sato
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Kazuhide Makiyama
- Department of Urology, Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Takehiko Ogawa
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, Japan.
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Matsumura T, Katagiri K, Yao T, Ishikawa-Yamauchi Y, Nagata S, Hashimoto K, Sato T, Kimura H, Shinohara T, Sanbo M, Hirabayashi M, Ogawa T. Generation of rat offspring using spermatids produced through in vitro spermatogenesis. Sci Rep 2023; 13:12105. [PMID: 37495678 PMCID: PMC10372019 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-39304-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023] Open
Abstract
An in vitro spermatogenesis method using mouse testicular tissue to produce fertile sperm was established more than a decade ago. Although this culture method has generally not been effective in other animal species, we recently succeeded in improving the culture condition to induce spermatogenesis of rats up to the round spermatid stage. In the present study, we introduced acrosin-EGFP transgenic rats in order to clearly monitor the production of haploid cells during spermatogenesis in vitro. In addition, a metabolomic analysis of the culture media during cultivation revealed the metabolic dynamics of the testis tissue. By modifying the culture media based on these results, we were able to induce rat spermatogenesis repeatedly up to haploid cell production, including the formation of elongating spermatids, which was confirmed histologically and immunohistochemically. Finally, we performed a microinsemination experiment with in vitro produced spermatids, which resulted in the production of healthy and fertile offspring. This is the first demonstration of the in vitro production of functional haploid cells that yielded offspring in animals other than mice. These results are expected to provide a basis for the development of an in vitro spermatogenesis system applicable to many other mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takafumi Matsumura
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 236-0004, Japan
| | - Kumiko Katagiri
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 236-0004, Japan
| | - Tatsuma Yao
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 236-0004, Japan
- Research and Development Center, Fuso Pharmaceutical Industries, Ltd., 2-3-30 Morinomiya, Joto-ku, Osaka, 536-8523, Japan
| | - Yu Ishikawa-Yamauchi
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 236-0004, Japan
| | - Shino Nagata
- Laboratory of Biopharmaceutical and Regenerative Sciences, Institute of Molecular Medicine and Life Science, Yokohama City University Association of Medical Science, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 230-0045, Japan
| | - Kiyoshi Hashimoto
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 236-0004, Japan
- Department of Urology, Yokohama City University School of Medicine, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 236-0004, Japan
| | - Takuya Sato
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 236-0004, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Kimura
- Micro/Nano Technology Center, Tokai University, Hiratsuka, Kanagawa, 259-1292, Japan
| | - Takashi Shinohara
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, 606-8501, Japan
| | - Makoto Sanbo
- Center for Genetic Analysis of Behavior, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Okazaki, Aichi, 444-8787, Japan
| | - Masumi Hirabayashi
- Center for Genetic Analysis of Behavior, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Okazaki, Aichi, 444-8787, Japan.
| | - Takehiko Ogawa
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 236-0004, Japan.
- Department of Urology, Yokohama City University School of Medicine, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 236-0004, Japan.
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Önen S, Atik AC, Gizer M, Köse S, Yaman Ö, Külah H, Korkusuz P. A pumpless monolayer microfluidic device based on mesenchymal stem cell-conditioned medium promotes neonatal mouse in vitro spermatogenesis. Stem Cell Res Ther 2023; 14:127. [PMID: 37170113 PMCID: PMC10173473 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-023-03356-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Childhood cancer treatment-induced gonadotoxicity causes permanent infertility/sub-infertility in nearly half of males. The current clinical and experimental approaches are limited to cryopreservation of prepubertal testicular strips and in vitro spermatogenesis which are inadequate to achieve the expanded spermatogonial stem/progenitor cells and spermatogenesis in vitro. Recently, we reported the supportive effect of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal cell co-culture which is inadequate after 14 days of culture in static conditions in prepubertal mouse testis due to lack of microvascular flow and diffusion. Therefore, we generated a novel, pumpless, single polydimethylsiloxane-layered testis-on-chip platform providing a continuous and stabilized microfluidic flow and real-time cellular paracrine contribution of allogeneic bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells. METHODS We aimed to evaluate the efficacy of this new setup in terms of self-renewal of stem/progenitor cells, spermatogenesis and structural and functional maturation of seminiferous tubules in vitro by measuring the number of undifferentiated and differentiating spermatogonia, spermatocytes, spermatids and tubular growth by histochemical, immunohistochemical, flow cytometric and chromatographic techniques. RESULTS Bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cell-based testis-on-chip platform supported the maintenance of SALL4(+) and PLZF(+) spermatogonial stem/progenitor cells, for 42 days. The new setup improved in vitro spermatogenesis in terms of c-Kit(+) differentiating spermatogonia, VASA(+) total germ cells, the meiotic cells including spermatocytes and spermatids and testicular maturation by increasing testosterone concentration and improved tubular growth for 42 days in comparison with hanging drop and non-mesenchymal stem cell control. CONCLUSIONS Future fertility preservation for male pediatric cancer survivors depends on the protection/expansion of spermatogonial stem/progenitor cell pool and induction of in vitro spermatogenesis. Our findings demonstrate that a novel bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cell-based microfluidic testis-on-chip device supporting the maintenance of stem cells and spermatogenesis in prepubertal mice in vitro. This new, cell therapy-based microfluidic platform may contribute to a safe, precision-based cell and tissue banking protocols for prepubertal fertility restoration in future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selin Önen
- Department of Stem Cell Sciences, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
- Department of Medical Biology, Atilim University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Ali Can Atik
- Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Middle East Technical University, Ankara, Turkey
- METU MEMS Center, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Merve Gizer
- Department of Stem Cell Sciences, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Sevil Köse
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgery, Akdeniz University, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Önder Yaman
- Department of Urology, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Haluk Külah
- Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Middle East Technical University, Ankara, Turkey
- METU MEMS Center, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Petek Korkusuz
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Hacettepe University, Sihhiye, Ankara, 06100, Turkey.
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Liu W, Lee LP. Toward Rapid and Accurate Molecular Diagnostics at Home. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023; 35:e2206525. [PMID: 36416278 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202206525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
The global outbreaks of infectious diseases have significantly driven an imperative demand for rapid and accurate molecular diagnostics. Nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) feature high sensitivity and high specificity; however, the labor-intensive sample preparation and nucleic acid amplification steps remain challenging in order to carry out rapid and precision molecular diagnostics at home. This review discusses the advances and challenges of automatic solutions of sample preparation integrated with on-chip nucleic acid amplification for effective and accurate molecular diagnostics at home. The sample preparation methods of whole blood, urine, saliva/nasal swab, and stool on chip are examined. Then, the repurposable integrated sample preparation on a chip using various biological samples is investigated. Finally, the on-chip NAATs that can be integrated with automated sample preparation are evaluated. The user-friendly approaches with combined sample preparation and NAATs can be the game changers for next-generation rapid and precision home diagnostics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenpeng Liu
- Harvard Medical School, Harvard University, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
- Division of Engineering in Medicine and Renal Division, Department of Medicine, Brigham Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Luke P Lee
- Harvard Medical School, Harvard University, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
- Division of Engineering in Medicine and Renal Division, Department of Medicine, Brigham Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, University of California at Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
- Department of Biophysics, Institute of Quantum Biophysics, Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea
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11
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Gupta U, Kumar N, Lata A, Singh P, Arun RK. Bio-inspired self-pumping microfluidic device for cleaning of urea using reduced graphene oxide (rGO) modified polymeric nanohybrid membrane. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 241:124614. [PMID: 37119905 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.124614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/01/2023]
Abstract
In vitro technology facilitates the replication of in vivo tissues more accurately than conventional cell-based artificial organs, enabling researchers to mimic both the structural and functional characteristics of natural systems. Here, we demonstrate a novel spiral-shaped self-pumping microfluidic device for the cleaning of urea by incorporating reduced graphene oxide (rGO) modified a Polyethersulfone (PES) nanohybrid membrane for efficient filtration capacity. The spiral-shaped microfluidic chip is a two-layer configuration of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) integrated with the modified filtration membrane. In essence, the device replicates the main features of the kidney (Glomerulus), i.e., a nano-porous membrane modified with reduced graphene oxide to separate the sample fluid from the upper layer and collect the biomolecule-free fluid through the bottom of the device. We have achieved a cleaning efficiency of 97.94 ± 0.6 % using this spiral shaped microfluidic system. The spiral-shaped microfluidic device integrated with nanohybrid membrane has potential for organ-on-a-chips applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Upasana Gupta
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Jammu, India
| | - Natish Kumar
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Jammu, India
| | - Akash Lata
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Jammu, India
| | - Preeti Singh
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research, New Delhi, India
| | - Ravi Kumar Arun
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Jammu, India.
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12
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Yumura Y, Takeshima T, Komeya M, Karibe J, Kuroda S, Saito T. Long-Term Fertility Function Sequelae in Young Male Cancer Survivors. World J Mens Health 2023; 41:255-271. [PMID: 36593712 PMCID: PMC10042651 DOI: 10.5534/wjmh.220102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Revised: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
With advances in cancer treatment, such as cytotoxic chemotherapy and radiotherapy, grave new sequelae of treatment have emerged for young cancer survivors. One sequela that cannot be overlooked is male infertility, with reportedly 15% to 30% of cancer survivors losing their fertility potential. Cytotoxic therapy influences spermatogenesis at least temporarily, and in some cases, permanently. The degree of spermatogenesis impairment depends on the combination of drugs used, their cumulative dose, and the level of radiation. The American Society of Clinical Oncology has created an index to classify the risks to fertility based on treatment. Medical professionals currently use this risk classification in fertility preservation (FP) programs. FP programs are currently being promoted to prevent spermatogenesis failure resulting from cancer treatment. For patients who are able to ejaculate and whose semen contains sperm, the semen (sperm) is cryopreserved. Moreover, for patients who lack the ability to ejaculate, those with azoospermia or severe oligozoospermia, and those who have not attained puberty (i.e., spermatogenesis has not begun), testicular biopsy is performed to collect the sperm or germ cells and cryopreserve them. This method of culturing germ cells to differentiate the sperm has been successful in some animal models, but not in humans. FP has recently gained popularity; however, some oncologists and medical professionals involved in cancer treatment still lack adequate knowledge of these procedures. This hinders the dissemination of information to patients and the execution of FP. Information sharing and collaboration between reproductive medicine specialists and oncologists is extremely important for the development of FP. In Japan, the network of clinics and hospitals that support FP is expanding across prefectures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasushi Yumura
- Reproduction Center, Yokohama City University Medical Center, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan.
| | - Teppei Takeshima
- Reproduction Center, Yokohama City University Medical Center, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Mitsuru Komeya
- Reproduction Center, Yokohama City University Medical Center, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Jurii Karibe
- Reproduction Center, Yokohama City University Medical Center, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Shinnosuke Kuroda
- Reproduction Center, Yokohama City University Medical Center, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Tomoki Saito
- Reproduction Center, Yokohama City University Medical Center, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
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Naeemi S, Sabetkish S, Kiani MJ, Dehghan A, Kajbafzadeh AM. Ex-Vivo and In-Vivo Expansion of Spermatogonial Stem Cells Using Cell-Seeded Microfluidic Testis Scaffolds and Animal Model. Cell Tissue Bank 2023; 24:153-166. [PMID: 35792989 DOI: 10.1007/s10561-022-10024-6] [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: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
AIMS This study was designed to provide both ex-vivo and in-vivo methods for the extraction and expansion of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs). METHODS For in-vivo experiments, azoospermic mouse model was performed with Busulfan. Isolation, culture, and characterization of neonate mouse SSC were also achieved. We performed an in-vivo injection of labeled SSCs to the testes with azoospermia. In ex-vivo experiments, extracted SSCs were seeded on the fabricated scaffold consisting of hyaluronic acid (HA) and decellularized testis tissues (DTT). Immunofluorescence staining with PLZF, TP1, and Tekt 1 was performed for SSCs differentiation and proliferation. RESULTS Several studies demonstrated efficient spermatogenic arrest in seminiferous tubules and proved the absence of spermatogenesis. Transplanted SSCs moved and settled in the basement covering the seminiferous tubules. Most of the cells were positive for Dil, after 4 weeks. An epithelium containing spermatogonia-like cells with Sertoli-like, and Leydig cells were evident in the seminiferous tubules of biopsies, and the IHC staining was significantly positive, 4 weeks after injection of SSCs. The results of the ex-vivo experiments showed positive staining for all markers, which was significantly enhanced in scaffolds of ex-vivo experiments compared with in-vitro seeded scaffolds. CONCLUSION Ex-vivo SSC differentiation and proliferation using cell-seeded microfluidic testis scaffolds maybe effective for treatment of the azoospermia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sahar Naeemi
- Pediatric Urology and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Section of Tissue Engineering and Stem Cells Therapy, Children's Hospital Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shabnam Sabetkish
- Pediatric Urology and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Section of Tissue Engineering and Stem Cells Therapy, Children's Hospital Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Javad Kiani
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Iran University of Science and Technology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amin Dehghan
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Iran University of Science and Technology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Abdol-Mohammad Kajbafzadeh
- Pediatric Urology and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Section of Tissue Engineering and Stem Cells Therapy, Children's Hospital Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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14
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Gravity-driven microfluidic device placed on a slow-tilting table enables constant unidirectional perfusion culture of human induced pluripotent stem cells. J Biosci Bioeng 2023; 135:151-159. [PMID: 36586792 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiosc.2022.11.007] [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: 03/14/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Gravity-driven microfluidics, which utilizes gravity force to drive liquid flow, offers portability and multi-condition setting flexibility because they do not require pumps or connection tubes to drive the flow. However, because the flow rate decreases with time in gravity-driven microfluidics, it is not suitable for stem cell experiments, which require long-term (at least a day) stability. In this study, gravity-driven microfluidics and a slow-tilting table were developed to culture cells under constant unidirectional perfusion. The microfluidic device was placed on a slow-tilting table, which tilts unidirectionally at a rate of approximately 7° per day to compensate for the reduction in the flow rate. Computational simulations showed that the pulsation of the flow arising from the stepwise movement of the table was less than 0.2%, and the flow was laminar. Hydrophilization of the tanks increased the flow rate, which is consistent with the theoretical values. We showed that vitronectin is better than laminin 511 fragments as a coating material for adhering human induced pluripotent stem cells on a microchamber made of polydimethylsiloxane, and succeeded in culturing the cells for 3 days. It is believed that the system offers easy-to-use cell culture tools, such as conventional multiwell culture vessels, and enables the control of the cell microenvironment.
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15
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Munyoki SK, Orwig KE. Perspectives: Methods for Evaluating Primate Spermatogonial Stem Cells. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2656:341-364. [PMID: 37249880 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3139-3_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Mammalian spermatogenesis is a complex, highly productive process generating millions of sperm per day. Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are at the foundation of spermatogenesis and can either self-renew, producing more SSCs, or differentiate to initiate spermatogenesis and produce sperm. The biological potential of SSCs to produce and maintain spermatogenesis makes them a promising tool for the treatment of male infertility. However, translating knowledge from rodents to higher primates (monkeys and humans) is challenged by different vocabularies that are used to describe stem cells and spermatogenic lineage development in those species. Furthermore, while rodent SSCs are defined by their biological potential to produce and maintain spermatogenesis in a transplant assay, there is no equivalent routine and accessible bioassay to test monkey and human SSCs or replicate their functions in vitro. This chapter describes progress characterizing, isolating, culturing, and transplanting SSCs in higher primates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah K Munyoki
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Integrative Systems Biology Graduate Program, Magee-Women's Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Kyle E Orwig
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Integrative Systems Biology Graduate Program, Magee-Women's Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
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16
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Abdelkarim M, Perez-Davalos L, Abdelkader Y, Abostait A, Labouta HI. Critical design parameters to develop biomimetic organ-on-a-chip models for the evaluation of the safety and efficacy of nanoparticles. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2023; 20:13-30. [PMID: 36440475 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2023.2152000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Organ-on-a-chip (OOC) models are based on microfluidics and can recapitulate the healthy and diseased microstructure of organs1 and tissues and the dynamic microenvironment inside the human body. However, the use of OOC models to evaluate the safety and efficacy of nanoparticles (NPs) is still in the early stages. AREAS COVERED The different design parameters of the microfluidic chip and the mechanical forces generated by fluid flow play a pivotal role in simulating the human environment. This review discusses the role of different key parameters on the performance of OOC models. These include the flow pattern, flow rate, shear stress (magnitude, rate, and distribution), viscosity of the media, and the microchannel dimensions and shape. We also discuss how the shear stress and other mechanical forces affect the transport of NPs across biological barriers, cell uptake, and their biocompatibility. EXPERT OPINION We describe several good practices and design parameters to consider for future OOC research. We submit that following these recommendations will help realize the full potential of the OOC models in the preclinical evaluation of novel therapies, including NPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmoud Abdelkarim
- Biomedical Engineering, University of Manitoba, R3T 5V6, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.,College of Pharmacy, University of Manitoba, R3E 0T5, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Luis Perez-Davalos
- College of Pharmacy, University of Manitoba, R3E 0T5, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Yasmin Abdelkader
- College of Pharmacy, University of Manitoba, R3E 0T5, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.,Department of Cell Biology, Biotechnology Research Institute, National Research Centre, 12622, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Amr Abostait
- College of Pharmacy, University of Manitoba, R3E 0T5, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Hagar I Labouta
- Biomedical Engineering, University of Manitoba, R3T 5V6, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.,College of Pharmacy, University of Manitoba, R3E 0T5, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.,Children's Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, R3E 3P4, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.,Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, 21521, Alexandria, Egypt
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17
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Kulibin AY, Malolina EA. In vitro spermatogenesis: In search of fully defined conditions. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1106111. [PMID: 36910153 PMCID: PMC9998899 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1106111] [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: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
Abstract
A complete reconstruction of spermatogenesis in vitro under fully defined conditions still has not been achieved. However, many techniques have been proposed to get closer to that aim. Here we review the current progress in the field. At first, we describe the most successful technique, the organ culture method, which allows to produce functional haploid cells. However, this method is based on the culturing of intact testis tissue with unknown factors acting inside it. Then we discuss different types of 3D-cultures where specific testicular cell populations may be aggregated and the impact of each cell population may be examined. Unfortunately, germ cell development does not proceed further than the pachytene stage of meiosis there, with rare exceptions. Finally, we describe recent studies that focus on germ cells in a conventional adherent cell culture. Such studies thoroughly examine issues with in vitro meiosis and provide insight into the mechanisms of meiotic initiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Yu Kulibin
- Koltzov Institute of Developmental Biology of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - E A Malolina
- Koltzov Institute of Developmental Biology of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
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18
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Ibtisham F, Cham TC, Fayaz MA, Honaramooz A. Long-Term In Vitro Maintenance of Piglet Testicular Tissue: Effects of Tissue Fragment Size, Preparation Method, and Serum Source. Animals (Basel) 2022; 13:ani13010128. [PMID: 36611737 PMCID: PMC9817678 DOI: 10.3390/ani13010128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Long-term culture of testicular tissue has important applications, including the preservation of fertility potential of prepubertal boys undergoing gonadotoxic cancer treatment. This study was designed to define optimal conditions for the long-term culture of neonatal porcine testicular tissue as an animal model for preadolescent individuals. Testes from 1 wk old donor piglets were used to examine the effects of tissue fragment size (~2, 4, 6, or 8 mg), preparation method (intact, semi-digested, or physically dispersed fragments), and serum source in the media (fetal bovine serum—FBS—or knockout serum replacement—KSR). Testicular fragments were examined weekly for 4 weeks for tissue integrity, seminiferous cord density and morphology, and gonocyte counts. Testicular tissue integrity was dependent on fragment size and preparation method, where the smallest size (2 mg, p < 0.05) and intact preparation method were advantageous (p < 0.05). Seminiferous cord density decreased over the culture period (p < 0.05). Although the relative number of gonocytes decreased over time for all sizes and methods (p < 0.01), smaller intact fragments (2 and 4 mg) had greater numbers of gonocytes (p < 0.05). Our findings suggest that intact or physically dispersed testicular fragments of the smallest size (2 mg) cultured in KSR-supplemented media could be effectively maintained in vitro for the duration of 4 weeks.
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19
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Rives N, Courbière B, Almont T, Kassab D, Berger C, Grynberg M, Papaxanthos A, Decanter C, Elefant E, Dhedin N, Barraud-Lange V, Béranger MC, Demoor-Goldschmidt C, Frédérique N, Bergère M, Gabrel L, Duperray M, Vermel C, Hoog-Labouret N, Pibarot M, Provansal M, Quéro L, Lejeune H, Methorst C, Saias J, Véronique-Baudin J, Giscard d'Estaing S, Farsi F, Poirot C, Huyghe É. What should be done in terms of fertility preservation for patients with cancer? The French 2021 guidelines. Eur J Cancer 2022; 173:146-166. [PMID: 35932626 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejca.2022.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2022] [Revised: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
AIM To provide practice guidelines about fertility preservation (FP) in oncology. METHODS We selected 400 articles after a PubMed review of the literature (1987-2019). RECOMMENDATIONS Any child, adolescent and adult of reproductive age should be informed about the risk of treatment gonadotoxicity. In women, systematically proposed FP counselling between 15 and 38 years of age in case of treatment including bifunctional alkylating agents, above 6 g/m2 cyclophosphamide equivalent dose (CED), and for radiation doses on the ovaries ≥3 Gy. For postmenarchal patients, oocyte cryopreservation after ovarian stimulation is the first-line FP technique. Ovarian tissue cryopreservation should be discussed as a first-line approach in case of treatment with a high gonadotoxic risk, when chemotherapy has already started and in urgent cases. Ovarian transposition is to be discussed prior to pelvic radiotherapy involving a high risk of premature ovarian failure. For prepubertal girls, ovarian tissue cryopreservation should be proposed in the case of treatment with a high gonadotoxic risk. In pubertal males, sperm cryopreservation must be systematically offered to any male who is to undergo cancer treatment, regardless of toxicity. Testicular tissue cryopreservation must be proposed in males unable to cryopreserve sperm who are to undergo a treatment with intermediate or severe risk of gonadotoxicity. In prepubertal boys, testicular tissue preservation is: - recommended for chemotherapy with a CED ≥7500 mg/m2 or radiotherapy ≥3 Gy on both testicles. - proposed for chemotherapy with a CED ≥5.000 mg/m2 or radiotherapy ≥2 Gy. If several possible strategies, the ultimate choice is made by the patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathalie Rives
- Normandie Univ, UNIROUEN, Team "Adrenal and Gonadal Physiopathology" Inserm U1239 Nordic, Rouen University Hospital, Biology of Reproduction-CECOS Laboratory, Rouen, France
| | - Blandine Courbière
- Reproductive Medicine and Biology Department, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Marseille, Marseille, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, France
| | - Thierry Almont
- Cancerology, Urology, Hematology Department, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Martinique, Fort-de-France, Martinique, France; General Cancer Registry of Martinique UF1441, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Martinique, Fort-de-France, Martinique, France
| | - Diana Kassab
- Methodology Unit, Association Française d'Urologie, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
| | - Claire Berger
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University-Hospital of Saint-Etienne, Hospital, Nord Saint-Etienne cedex 02, France 42055; Childhood Cancer Registry of the Rhône-Alpes Region, University of Saint-Etienne, 15 rue Ambroise Paré, Saint-Etienne cedex 02, France 42023
| | - Michaël Grynberg
- Reproductive Medicine and Fertility Department, Hôpital Antoine-Beclère, Clamart, Île-de-France, France
| | - Aline Papaxanthos
- Reproductive Medicine and Biology Department, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, Aquitaine, France
| | - Christine Decanter
- Medically Assisted Procreation and Fertility Preservation Department, Centre Hospitalier Régional Universitaire de Lille, Lille, Hauts-de-France, France
| | - Elisabeth Elefant
- Reference Center for Teratogenic Agents, Hôpital Armand-Trousseau Centre de Référence sur les Agents Tératogènes, Paris, Île-de-France, France
| | - Nathalie Dhedin
- Adolescents and Young Adults Unit, Hôpital Saint-Louis, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, France
| | - Virginie Barraud-Lange
- Reproductive Medicine and Biology Department, Hôpital Cochin, Paris, Île-de-France, France
| | | | | | - Nicollet Frédérique
- Information and Promotion Department, Association Laurette Fugain, Paris, France
| | - Marianne Bergère
- Human Reproduction, Embryology and Genetics Directorate, Agence de la biomédecine, La Plaine Saint-Denis, France
| | - Lydie Gabrel
- Good Practices Unit - Guidelines and Medicines Directorate, Institut National du Cancer, Billancourt, Île-de-France, France
| | - Marianne Duperray
- Guidelines and Drug Directorate, Institut National du Cancer, Billancourt, Île-de-France, France
| | - Christine Vermel
- Expertise Quality and Compliance Mission - Communication and Information Directorate, Institut National du Cancer, Billancourt, Île-de-France, France
| | - Natalie Hoog-Labouret
- Research and Innovation, Institut National du Cancer, Billancourt, Île-de-France, France
| | - Michèle Pibarot
- OncoPaca-Corse Regional Cancer Network, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Marseille, Marseille, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, France
| | - Magali Provansal
- Medical Oncology Department, Institut Paoli-Calmettes, Marseille, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, France
| | - Laurent Quéro
- Cancerology and Radiotherapy Department, Hôpital Saint Louis, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Hervé Lejeune
- Reproductive Medicine and Biology Department, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France
| | - Charlotte Methorst
- Reproductive Medicine and Biology Department, Centre Hospitalier des Quatre Villes - Site de Saint-Cloud, Saint-Cloud, France
| | - Jacqueline Saias
- Reproductive Medicine and Biology Department, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Marseille, Marseille, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, France
| | - Jacqueline Véronique-Baudin
- Cancerology, Urology, Hematology Department, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Martinique, Fort-de-France, Martinique, France; General Cancer Registry of Martinique UF1441, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Martinique, Fort-de-France, Martinique, France
| | - Sandrine Giscard d'Estaing
- Reproductive Medicine and Biology Department, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France
| | - Fadila Farsi
- Regional Cancer Network, Réseau Espace Santé Cancer, Lyon, Rhône-Alpes, France
| | - Catherine Poirot
- Adolescents and Young Adults Unit, Hôpital Saint-Louis, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, France
| | - Éric Huyghe
- Urology Department, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Toulouse, Toulouse, France; Laboratoire Développement Embryonnaire, Fertilité et Environnement (DEFE) UMR 1203, Université Toulouse 3 Paul Sabatier, Toulouse, France.
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20
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Kim J, Kim S, Choi J, Koo C. A 3D Miniaturized Glass Magnetic-Active Centrifugal Micropump Fabricated by SLE Process and Laser Welding. MICROMACHINES 2022; 13:1331. [PMID: 36014253 PMCID: PMC9413360 DOI: 10.3390/mi13081331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 08/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
A miniaturized pump to manipulate liquid flow in microchannels is the key component of microfluidic devices. Many researchers have demonstrated active microfluidic pumps, but most of them still required additional large peripherals to operate their micropumps. In addition, those micropumps were made of polymer materials so that their application may be limited to a variety of fields that require harsh conditions at high pressures and temperatures or organic solvents and acid/base. In this work, we present a 3D miniaturized magnetic-driven glass centrifugal pump for microfluidic devices. The pump consists of a volute structure and a 3D impeller integrated with two magnet disks of Φ1 mm. The 3D pump structure was 13 mm × 10.5 mm × 3 mm, and it was monolithically fabricated in a fused silica sheet by selective laser-induced etching (SLE) technology using a femtosecond laser. The pump operation requires only one motor rotating two magnets. It was Φ42 mm × 54 mm and powered by a battery. To align the shaft of the motor to the center of the 3D glass pump chip, a housing containing the motor and the chip was fabricated, and the overall size of the proposed micropump device was 95 mm × 70 mm × 75 mm. Compared with other miniaturized pumps, ours was more compact and portable. The output pressure of the fabricated micropump was between 215 Pa and 3104 Pa, and the volumetric flow rate range was 0.55 mL/min and 7.88 mL/min. The relationship between the motor RPM and the impeller RPM was analyzed, and the flow rate was able to be controlled by the RPM. With its portability, the proposed pump can be applied to produce an integrated and portable microfluidic device for point-of-care analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeongtae Kim
- Department of Electronic Engineering, Hanbat National University, Daejeon 34158, Korea
| | - Sungil Kim
- Department of Laser and Electron Beam Technologies, Korea Institute of Machinery and Materials, Daejeon 34103, Korea
- Currently with Corning Technology Center Korea, Corning Precision Materials Co., Ltd., Asan 31454, Korea
| | - Jiyeon Choi
- Department of Laser and Electron Beam Technologies, Korea Institute of Machinery and Materials, Daejeon 34103, Korea
| | - Chiwan Koo
- Department of Electronic Engineering, Hanbat National University, Daejeon 34158, Korea
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21
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Liu X, Wu K, Gao L, Wang L, Shi X. Biomaterial strategies for the application of reproductive tissue engineering. Bioact Mater 2022; 14:86-96. [PMID: 35310354 PMCID: PMC8892081 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2021.11.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2021] [Revised: 11/13/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Human reproductive organs are of vital importance to the life of an individual and the reproduction of human populations. So far, traditional methods have a limited effect in recovering the function and fertility of reproductive organs and tissues. Thus, aim to replace and facilitate the regrowth of damaged or diseased tissue, various biomaterials are developed to offer hope to overcome these difficulties and help gain further research progress in reproductive tissue engineering. In this review, we focus on the biomaterials and their four main applications in reproductive tissue engineering: in vitro generation and culture of reproductive cells; development of reproductive organoids and models; in vivo transplantation of reproductive cells or tissues; and regeneration of reproductive tissue. In reproductive tissue engineering, designing biomaterials for different applications with different mechanical properties, structure, function, and microenvironment is challenging and important, and deserves more attention. Various biomaterials have been developed and used in reproductive tissue engineering. 3D culture systems can lead to better cell-cell interactions for in vitro production of reproductive cells. Reproductive organoids and models are formed by biomaterials to simulate the environment of natural reproductive organs. Biomaterials should promote vascular regeneration and resist inflammation for in-situ reproductive tissue regeneration.
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22
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Mesenchymal stem cells promote spermatogonial stem/progenitor cell pool and spermatogenesis in neonatal mice in vitro. Sci Rep 2022; 12:11494. [PMID: 35798781 PMCID: PMC9263145 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-15358-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Prepubertal cancer treatment leads to irreversible infertility in half of the male patients. Current in vitro spermatogenesis protocols and cryopreservation techniques are inadequate to expand spermatogonial stem/progenitor cells (SSPC) from testicles. Bone marrow derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSC) bearing a close resemblance to Sertoli cells, improved spermatogenesis in animal models. We asked if a co-culture setup supported by syngeneic BM-MSC that contributes to the air–liquid interphase (ALI) could lead to survival, expansion and differentiation of SSPCs in vitro. We generated an ALI platform able to provide a real-time cellular paracrine contribution consisting of syngeneic BM-MSCs to neonatal C57BL/6 mice testes. We aimed to evaluate the efficacy of this culture system on SSPC pool expansion and spermatogenesis throughout a complete spermatogenic cycle by measuring the number of total germ cells (GC), the undifferentiated and differentiating spermatogonia, the spermatocytes and the spermatids. Furthermore, we evaluated the testicular cell cycle phases, the tubular and luminal areas using histochemical, immunohistochemical and flow cytometric techniques. Cultures in present of BM-MSCs displayed survival of ID4(+) spermatogonial stem cells (SSC), expansion of SALL4(+) and OCT4(+) SSPCs, VASA(+) total GCs and Ki67(+) proliferative cells at 42 days and an increased number of SCP3(+) spermatocytes and Acrosin(+) spermatids at 28 days. BM-MSCs increased the percentage of mitotic cells within the G2-M phase of the total testicular cell cycle increased for 7 days, preserved the cell viability for 42 days and induced testicular maturation by enlargement of the tubular and luminal area for 42 days in comparison to the control. The percentage of PLZF(+) SSPCs increased within the first 28 days of culture, after which the pool started to get smaller while the number of spermatocytes and spermatids increased simultaneously. Our findings established the efficacy of syngeneic BM-MSCs on the survival and expansion of the SSPC pool and differentiation of spermatogonia to round spermatids during in vitro culture of prepubertal mice testes for 42 days. This method may be helpful in providing alternative cures for male fertility by supporting in vitro differentiated spermatids that can be used for round spermatid injection (ROSI) to female oocyte in animal models. These findings can be further exploited for personalized cellular therapy strategies to cure male infertility of prepubertal cancer survivors in clinics.
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A modified hydrostatic microfluidic pumpless device for in vitro murine ovarian tissue culture as research model for fertility preservation. Obstet Gynecol Sci 2022; 65:376-381. [PMID: 35707972 PMCID: PMC9304444 DOI: 10.5468/ogs.22012] [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: 01/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to compare the efficacies of conventional and non-conventional (modified hydrostatic microfluidic pumpless device, MHPD) systems on ovarian tissue culture and in vitro follicle growth using a mouse model. A total of 56 ovarian cortical tissues retrieved from seven wild-type mice were divided into three groups: 1) fresh control, 2) conventional culture system (control), and 3) non-conventional system with MHPD. Ovarian tissues were cultured for 96 hours and evaluated for follicle morphology, developmental stage, intact follicle density, and relative gene expression levels (proliferating cell nuclear antigen, insulin like growth factor 1, BAX, and Bcl-2). Our major data demonstrated that the mean percentage of primary follicle development was increased by the MHPD (P<0.05). In addition, this device could maintain and support follicle development better than the conventional culture systems. However, the overall outcomes were not significantly improved by our first-design prototype. Consequently, next-generation platforms should be developed as alternative medical tools for fertility preservation research.
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Perfusion in Organ-on-Chip Models and Its Applicability to the Replication of Spermatogenesis In Vitro. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23105402. [PMID: 35628214 PMCID: PMC9141186 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23105402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Organ/organoid-on-a-chip (OoC) technologies aim to replicate aspects of the in vivo environment in vitro, at the scale of microns. Mimicking the spatial in vivo structure is important and can provide a deeper understanding of the cell–cell interactions and the mechanisms that lead to normal/abnormal function of a given organ. It is also important for disease models and drug/toxin testing. Incorporating active fluid flow in chip models enables many more possibilities. Active flow can provide physical cues, improve intercellular communication, and allow for the dynamic control of the environment, by enabling the efficient introduction of biological factors, drugs, or toxins. All of this is in addition to the fundamental role of flow in supplying nutrition and removing waste metabolites. This review presents an overview of the different types of fluid flow and how they are incorporated in various OoC models. The review then describes various methods and techniques of incorporating perfusion networks into OoC models, including self-assembly, bioprinting techniques, and utilizing sacrificial gels. The second part of the review focuses on the replication of spermatogenesis in vitro; the complex process whereby spermatogonial stem cells differentiate into mature sperm. A general overview is given of the various approaches that have been used. The few studies that incorporated microfluidics or vasculature are also described. Finally, a future perspective is given on elements from perfusion-based models that are currently used in models of other organs and can be applied to the field of in vitro spermatogenesis. For example, adopting tubular blood vessel models to mimic the morphology of the seminiferous tubules and incorporating vasculature in testis-on-a-chip models. Improving these models would improve our understanding of the process of spermatogenesis. It may also potentially provide novel therapeutic strategies for pre-pubertal cancer patients who need aggressive chemotherapy that can render them sterile, as well asfor a subset of non-obstructive azoospermic patients with maturation arrest, whose testes do not produce sperm but still contain some of the progenitor cells.
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Amirkhani Z, Movahedin M, Baheiraei N, Ghiaseddin A. Mini Bioreactor Can Support In Vitro Spermatogenesis of Mouse Testicular Tissue. CELL JOURNAL 2022; 24:277-284. [PMID: 35717571 PMCID: PMC9445517 DOI: 10.22074/cellj.2022.8053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Objective It was in the early 20th century when the quest for in vitro spermatogenesis started. In vitro spermatogenesis is critical for male cancer patients undergoing gonadotoxic treatment. Dynamic culture system creates in vivo-like conditions. In this study, it was intended to evaluate the progression of spermatogenesis after testicular tissue culture in mini-perfusion bioreactor. Materials and Methods In this experimental study, 12 six-day postpartum neonatal mouse testes were removed and fragmented, placed on an agarose gel in parallel to bioreactor culture, and incubated for 8 weeks. Histological, molecular and immunohistochemical evaluations were carried out after 8 weeks. Results Histological analysis suggested successful maintenance of spermatogenesis in tissues grown in the bioreactor but not on agarose gel, possibly because the central region did not receive sufficient oxygen and nutrients, which led to necrotic or degenerative changes. Molecular analysis indicated that Plzf, Tekt1 and Tnp1 were expressed and that their expression did not differ significantly between the bioreactor and agarose gel. Immunohistochemical evaluation of testis fragments showed that PLZF, SCP3 and ACRBP proteins were expressed in spermatogonial cells, spermatocytes and spermatozoa. PLZF expression after 8 weeks was significantly lower (P<0.05) in tissues incubated on agarose gel than in the bioreactor, but there was no significant difference between SCP3 and ACRBP expression among the bioreactor and agarose gel culture systems. Conclusion This three-dimensional (3D) dynamic culture system can provide somewhat similar conditions to the physiological environment of the testis. Our findings suggest that the perfusion bioreactor supports induction of spermatogenesis for generation of haploid cells. Further studies will be needed to address the fertility of the sperm generated in the bioreactor system..
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Amirkhani
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mansoureh Movahedin
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran,P.O.Box: 14115-331Department of Anatomical SciencesFaculty of Medical SciencesTarbiat Modares UniversityTehranIran
| | - Nafiseh Baheiraei
- Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Sciences Division, Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat
Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Ghiaseddin
- Adjunct Research Associate Professor at Chemistry Department, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
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Metabolically driven maturation of human-induced-pluripotent-stem-cell-derived cardiac microtissues on microfluidic chips. Nat Biomed Eng 2022; 6:372-388. [PMID: 35478228 DOI: 10.1038/s41551-022-00884-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2020] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The immature physiology of cardiomyocytes derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) limits their utility for drug screening and disease modelling. Here we show that suitable combinations of mechanical stimuli and metabolic cues can enhance the maturation of hiPSC-derived cardiomyocytes, and that the maturation-inducing cues have phenotype-dependent effects on the cells' action-potential morphology and calcium handling. By using microfluidic chips that enhanced the alignment and extracellular-matrix production of cardiac microtissues derived from genetically distinct sources of hiPSC-derived cardiomyocytes, we identified fatty-acid-enriched maturation media that improved the cells' mitochondrial structure and calcium handling, and observed divergent cell-source-dependent effects on action-potential duration (APD). Specifically, in the presence of maturation media, tissues with abnormally prolonged APDs exhibited shorter APDs, and tissues with aberrantly short APDs displayed prolonged APDs. Regardless of cell source, tissue maturation reduced variabilities in spontaneous beat rate and in APD, and led to converging cell phenotypes (with APDs within the 300-450 ms range characteristic of human left ventricular cardiomyocytes) that improved the modelling of the effects of pro-arrhythmic drugs on cardiac tissue.
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Tran KTD, Valli-Pulaski H, Colvin A, Orwig KE. Male fertility preservation and restoration strategies for patients undergoing gonadotoxic therapies†. Biol Reprod 2022; 107:382-405. [PMID: 35403667 PMCID: PMC9382377 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Revised: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Medical treatments for cancers or other conditions can lead to permanent infertility. Infertility is an insidious disease that impacts not only the ability to have a biological child but also the emotional well-being of the infertile individuals, relationships, finances, and overall health. Therefore, all patients should be educated about the effects of their medical treatments on future fertility and about fertility preservation options. The standard fertility preservation option for adolescent and adult men is sperm cryopreservation. Sperms can be frozen and stored for a long period, thawed at a later date, and used to achieve pregnancy with existing assisted reproductive technologies. However, sperm cryopreservation is not applicable for prepubertal patients who do not yet produce sperm. The only fertility preservation option available to prepubertal boys is testicular tissue cryopreservation. Next-generation technologies are being developed to mature those testicular cells or tissues to produce fertilization-competent sperms. When sperm and testicular tissues are not available for fertility preservation, inducing pluripotent stem cells derived from somatic cells, such as blood or skin, may provide an alternative path to produce sperms through a process call in vitro gametogenesis. This review describes standard and experimental options to preserve male fertility as well as the experimental options to produce functional spermatids or sperms from immature cryopreserved testicular tissues or somatic cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kien T D Tran
- Molecular Genetics and Developmental Biology Graduate Program, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA,Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA,Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Hanna Valli-Pulaski
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA,Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Amanda Colvin
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA,Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Kyle E Orwig
- Correspondence: Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Magee-Womens Research Institute, 204 Craft Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA. Tel: 412-641-2460; E-mail:
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Sakib S, Lara NDLEM, Huynh BC, Dobrinski I. Organotypic Rat Testicular Organoids for the Study of Testicular Maturation and Toxicology. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:892342. [PMID: 35757431 PMCID: PMC9218276 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.892342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
An in vitro system to study testicular maturation in rats, an important model organism for reproductive toxicity, could serve as a platform for high-throughput drug and toxicity screening in a tissue specific context. In vitro maturation of somatic cells and spermatogonia in organ culture systems has been reported. However, this has been a challenge for organoids derived from dissociated testicular cells. Here, we report generation and maintenance of rat testicular organoids in microwell culture for 28 days. We find that rat organoids can be maintained in vitro only at lower than ambient O2 tension of 15% and organoids cultured at 34°C have higher somatic cell maturation and spermatogonial differentiation potential compared to cultures in 37°C. Upon exposure to known toxicants, phthalic acid mono-2-ethylhexyl ester and cadmium chloride, the organoids displayed loss of tight-junction protein Claudin 11 and altered transcription levels of somatic cell markers that are consistent with previous reports in animal models. Therefore, the microwell-derived rat testicular organoids described here can serve as a novel platform for the study of testicular cell maturation and reproductive toxicity in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sadman Sakib
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
- Department of Comparative Biology and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Nathalia de Lima e Martins Lara
- Department of Comparative Biology and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Brandon Christopher Huynh
- Department of Comparative Biology and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Ina Dobrinski
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
- Department of Comparative Biology and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
- *Correspondence: Ina Dobrinski,
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Eugeni E, Arato I, Del Sordo R, Sidoni A, Garolla A, Ferlin A, Calafiore R, Brancorsini S, Mancuso F, Luca G. Fertility Preservation and Restoration Options for Pre-Pubertal Male Cancer Patients: Current Approaches. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:877537. [PMID: 35784573 PMCID: PMC9244702 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.877537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Fertility preservation for prepubertal male patients undergoing gonadotoxic therapies, potentially depleting spermatogonial cells, is an expanding necessity, yet most of the feasible options are still in the experimental phase. We present our experience and a summary of current and novel possibilities regarding the different strategies to protect or restore fertility in young male patients, before proceeding with chemotherapy or radiotherapy for malignances or other diseases. Adult oncological patients should always be counselled to cryopreserve the semen before starting treatment, however this approach is not suitable for prepubertal boys, who aren't capable to produce sperm yet. Fortunately, since the survival rate of pediatric cancer patients has skyrocketed in the last decade and it's over 84%, safeguarding their future fertility is becoming a major concern for reproductive medicine. Surgical and medical approaches to personalize treatment or protect the gonads could be a valid first step to take. Testicular tissue autologous grafting or xenografting, and spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) transplantation, are the main experimental options available, but spermatogenesis in vitro is becoming an intriguing alternative. All of these methods feature both strong and weak prospects. There is also relevant controversy regarding the type of testicular material to preserve and the cryopreservation methods. Since transplanted cells are bound to survive based on SSCs number, many ways to enrich their population in cultures have been proposed, as well as different sites of injection inside the testis. Testicular tissue graft has been experimented on mice, rabbits, rhesus macaques and porcine, allowing the birth of live offspring after performing intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), however it has never been performed on human males yet. In vitro spermatogenesis remains a mirage, although many steps in the right direction have been performed. The manufacturing of 3D scaffolds and artificial spermatogenetic niche, providing support to stem cells in cultures, seems like the best way to further advance in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Eugeni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
- Department of Medicine and Medical Specialties, Division of Medical Andrology and Endocrinology of Reproduction, University of Terni, Terni, Italy
- *Correspondence: Elena Eugeni,
| | - Iva Arato
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Rachele Del Sordo
- Division of Anatomic Pathology and Histology, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Angelo Sidoni
- Division of Anatomic Pathology and Histology, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Andrea Garolla
- Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Alberto Ferlin
- Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Riccardo Calafiore
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Stefano Brancorsini
- Section of Pathology (Terni), Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Francesca Mancuso
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Giovanni Luca
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
- Department of Medicine and Medical Specialties, Division of Medical Andrology and Endocrinology of Reproduction, University of Terni, Terni, Italy
- International Biotechnological Center for Endocrine, Metabolic and Embryo-Reproductive Translational Research (CIRTEMER), Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
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Abstract
Manipulation of fluid flow is paramount for microfluidic device operation. Conventional microfluidic pumps are often expensive, bulky, complicated, and not amenable in limited resource settings. Here, we introduce a Fully self-sufficient, RobUst, Gravity-Assisted, Low-cost (FRUGAL) microfluidic pump. The pump consists of a syringe, a syringe holder and loading masses. The system is easy to assemble, inexpensive, portable, and electrical power-free. Inside the syringe, the fluid is driven by the pressure from the weight of the loading masses. During operation, the exerted pressure is dynamically controllable and stable for hours. These features are useful for optimization of microfluidics assays and dynamic temporal studies. We demonstrate the application of this system to control the formation of water-in-oil droplet emulsion. Benefitting from its simplicity and versatility, the frugal microfluidic pump will enable global adoption of microfluidic technology in chemistry and biomedical applications, especially in limited resource environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Apresio K Fajrial
- Paul M. Rady Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80309, USA.
| | - Adam Vega
- Paul M. Rady Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80309, USA.
| | - Gazendra Shakya
- Paul M. Rady Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80309, USA.
| | - Xiaoyun Ding
- Paul M. Rady Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80309, USA.
- Biomedical Engineering Program, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80309, USA
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Bonding of Flexible Membranes for Perfusable Vascularized Networks Patch. Tissue Eng Regen Med 2021; 19:363-375. [PMID: 34870799 PMCID: PMC8971335 DOI: 10.1007/s13770-021-00409-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Revised: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND: In vitro generation of three-dimensional vessel network is crucial to investigate and possibly improve vascularization after implantation in vivo. This work has the purpose of engineering complex tissue regeneration of a vascular network including multiple cell-type, an extracellular matrix, and perfusability for clinical application. METHODS: The two electrospun membranes bonded with the vascular network shape are cultured with endothelial cells and medium flow through the engineered vascular network. The flexible membranes are bonded by amine-epoxy reaction and examined the perfusability with fluorescent beads. Also, the perfusion culture for 7 days of the endothelial cells is compared with static culture on the engineered vascular network membrane. RESULTS: The engineered membranes are showed perfusability through the vascular network, and the perfused network resulted in more cell proliferation and variation of the shear stress-related genes expression compared to the static culture. Also, for the generation of the complex vascularized network, pericytes are co-cultured with the engineered vascular network, which results in the Collagen I is expressed on the outer surface of the engineered structure. CONCLUSION: This study is showing the perfusable in vitro engineered vascular network with electrospun membrane. In further, the 3D vascularized network module can be expected as a platform for drug screening and regenerative medicine. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s13770-021-00409-1.
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Jorgensen A, Svingen T, Miles H, Chetty T, Stukenborg JB, Mitchell RT. Environmental Impacts on Male Reproductive Development: Lessons from Experimental Models. Horm Res Paediatr 2021; 96:190-206. [PMID: 34607330 DOI: 10.1159/000519964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 09/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Male reproductive development in mammals can be divided into a gonadal formation phase followed by a hormone-driven differentiation phase. Failure of these processes may result in Differences in Sex Development (DSD), which may include abnormalities of the male reproductive tract, including cryptorchidism, hypospadias, infertility, and testicular germ cell cancer (TGCC). These disorders are also considered to be part of a testicular dysgenesis syndrome (TDS) in males. Whilst DSDs are considered to result primarily from genetic abnormalities, the development of TDS disorders is frequently associated with environmental factors. SUMMARY In this review, we will discuss the development of the male reproductive system in relation to DSD and TDS. We will also describe the experimental systems, including studies involving animals and human tissues or cells that can be used to investigate the role of environmental factors in inducing male reproductive disorders. We will discuss recent studies investigating the impact of environmental chemicals (e.g., phthalates and bisphenols), lifestyle factors (e.g., smoking) and pharmaceuticals (e.g., analgesics) on foetal testis development. Finally, we will describe the evidence, involving experimental and epidemiologic approaches, for a role of environmental factors in the development of specific male reproductive disorders, including cryptorchidism, hypospadias, and TGCC. Key Messages: Environmental exposures can impact the development and function of the male reproductive system in humans. Epidemiology studies and experimental approaches using human tissues are important to translate findings from animal studies and account for species differences in response to environmental exposures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Jorgensen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital (Rigshospitalet), Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Terje Svingen
- Division of Diet, Disease Prevention and Toxicology, National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Harriet Miles
- Royal Hospital for Children and Young People, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Tarini Chetty
- Royal Hospital for Children and Young People, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Jan-Bernd Stukenborg
- NORDFERTIL Research Lab Stockholm, Childhood Cancer Research Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Rod T Mitchell
- Royal Hospital for Children and Young People, Edinburgh, United Kingdom.,MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
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Aydos K, Aydos OS. Sperm Selection Procedures for Optimizing the Outcome of ICSI in Patients with NOA. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10122687. [PMID: 34207121 PMCID: PMC8234729 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10122687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Revised: 06/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Retrieving spermatozoa from the testicles has been a great hope for patients with non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA), but relevant methods have not yet been developed to the level necessary to provide resolutions for all cases of NOA. Although performing testicular sperm extraction under microscopic magnification has increased sperm retrieval rates, in vitro selection and processing of quality sperm plays an essential role in the success of in vitro fertilization. Moreover, sperm cryopreservation is widely used in assisted reproductive technologies, whether for therapeutic purposes or for future fertility preservation. In recent years, there have been new developments using advanced technologies to freeze and preserve even very small numbers of sperm for which conventional techniques are inadequate. The present review provides an up-to-date summary of current strategies for maximizing sperm recovery from surgically obtained testicular samples and, as an extension, optimization of in vitro sperm processing techniques in the management of NOA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaan Aydos
- Department of Urology, Reproductive Health Research Center, School of Medicine, University of Ankara, 06230 Ankara, Turkey
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +90-533-748-8995
| | - Oya Sena Aydos
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Medicine, University of Ankara, 06230 Ankara, Turkey;
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Doungkamchan C, Orwig KE. Recent advances: fertility preservation and fertility restoration options for males and females. Fac Rev 2021; 10:55. [PMID: 34195694 PMCID: PMC8204761 DOI: 10.12703/r/10-55] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Fertility preservation is the process of saving gametes, embryos, gonadal tissues and/or gonadal cells for individuals who are at risk of infertility due to disease, medical treatments, age, genetics, or other circumstances. Adult patients have the options to preserve eggs, sperm, or embryos that can be used in the future to produce biologically related offspring with assisted reproductive technologies. These options are not available to all adults or to children who are not yet producing mature eggs or sperm. Gonadal cells/tissues have been frozen for several thousands of those patients worldwide with anticipation that new reproductive technologies will be available in the future. Therefore, the fertility preservation medical and research communities are obligated to responsibly develop next-generation reproductive technologies and translate them into clinical practice. We briefly describe standard options to preserve and restore fertility, but the emphasis of this review is on experimental options, including an assessment of readiness for translation to the human fertility clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chatchanan Doungkamchan
- Molecular Genetics and Developmental Biology Graduate Program, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Kyle E Orwig
- Molecular Genetics and Developmental Biology Graduate Program, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
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Organ-on-a-chip technology for the study of the female reproductive system. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2021; 173:461-478. [PMID: 33831478 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2021.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Revised: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Over the past decade, organs-on-a-chip and microphysiological systems have emerged as a disruptive in vitro technology for biopharmaceutical applications. By enabling new capabilities to engineer physiological living tissues and organ units in the precisely controlled environment of microfabricated devices, these systems offer great promise to advance the frontiers of basic and translational research in biomedical sciences. Here, we review an emerging body of interdisciplinary work directed towards harnessing the power of organ-on-a-chip technology for reproductive biology and medicine. The focus of this topical review is to provide an overview of recent progress in the development of microengineered female reproductive organ models with relevance to drug delivery and discovery. We introduce the engineering design of these advanced in vitro systems and examine their applications in the study of pregnancy, infertility, and reproductive diseases. We also present two case studies that use organ-on-a-chip design principles to model placental drug transport and hormonally regulated crosstalk between multiple female reproductive organs. Finally, we discuss challenges and opportunities for the advancement of reproductive organ-on-a-chip technology.
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Wasson EM, Dubbin K, Moya ML. Go with the flow: modeling unique biological flows in engineered in vitro platforms. LAB ON A CHIP 2021; 21:2095-2120. [PMID: 34008661 DOI: 10.1039/d1lc00014d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Interest in recapitulating in vivo phenomena in vitro using organ-on-a-chip technology has grown rapidly and with it, attention to the types of fluid flow experienced in the body has followed suit. These platforms offer distinct advantages over in vivo models with regards to human relevance, cost, and control of inputs (e.g., controlled manipulation of biomechanical cues from fluid perfusion). Given the critical role biophysical forces play in several tissues and organs, it is therefore imperative that engineered in vitro platforms capture the complex, unique flow profiles experienced in the body that are intimately tied with organ function. In this review, we outline the complex and unique flow regimes experienced by three different organ systems: blood vasculature, lymphatic vasculature, and the intestinal system. We highlight current state-of-the-art platforms that strive to replicate physiological flows within engineered tissues while introducing potential limitations in current approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa M Wasson
- Material Engineering Division, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, 7000 East Ave L-222, Livermore, CA 94551, USA.
| | - Karen Dubbin
- Material Engineering Division, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, 7000 East Ave L-222, Livermore, CA 94551, USA.
| | - Monica L Moya
- Material Engineering Division, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, 7000 East Ave L-222, Livermore, CA 94551, USA.
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Thuwanut P, Comizzoli P, Pimpin A, Srituravanich W, Sereepapong W, Pruksananonda K, Taweepolcharoen C, Tuntiviriyapun P, Suebthawinkul C, Sirayapiwat P. Influence of hydrogel encapsulation during cryopreservation of ovarian tissues and impact of post-thawing in vitro culture systems in a research animal model. Clin Exp Reprod Med 2021; 48:111-123. [PMID: 34024082 PMCID: PMC8176157 DOI: 10.5653/cerm.2020.04056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Using domestic cats as a biomedical research model for fertility preservation, the present study aimed to characterize the influences of ovarian tissue encapsulation in biodegradable hydrogel matrix (fibrinogen/thrombin) on resilience to cryopreservation, and static versus non-static culture systems following ovarian tissue encapsulation and cryopreservation on follicle quality. Methods In experiment I, ovarian tissues (n=21 animals; 567 ovarian fragments) were assigned to controls or hydrogel encapsulation with 5 or 10 mg/mL fibrinogen (5 or 10 FG). Following cryopreservation (slow freezing or vitrification), follicle viability, morphology, density, and key protein phosphorylation were assessed. In experiment II (based on the findings from experiment I), ovarian tissues (n=10 animals; 270 ovarian fragments) were encapsulated with 10 FG, cryopreserved, and in vitro cultured under static or non-static systems for 7 days followed by similar follicle quality assessments. Results In experiment I, the combination of 10 FG encapsulation/slow freezing led to greater post-thawed follicle quality than in the control group, as shown by follicle viability (66.9%±2.2% vs. 61.5%±3.1%), normal follicle morphology (62.2%±2.1% vs. 55.2%±3.5%), and the relative band intensity of vascular endothelial growth factor protein phosphorylation (0.58±0.06 vs. 0.42±0.09). Experiment II demonstrated that hydrogel encapsulation promoted follicle survival and maintenance of follicle development regardless of the culture system when compared to fresh controls. Conclusion These results provide a better understanding of the role of hydrogel encapsulation and culture systems in ovarian tissue cryopreservation and follicle quality outcomes using an animal model, paving the way for optimized approaches to human fertility preservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paweena Thuwanut
- Division of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Research Unit of Reproductive Medicine and Fertility Preservation, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Pierre Comizzoli
- Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Alongkorn Pimpin
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Weerayut Srituravanich
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Wisan Sereepapong
- Division of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Research Unit of Reproductive Medicine and Fertility Preservation, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Kamthorn Pruksananonda
- Division of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Research Unit of Reproductive Medicine and Fertility Preservation, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Charoen Taweepolcharoen
- Division of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Research Unit of Reproductive Medicine and Fertility Preservation, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Punkavee Tuntiviriyapun
- Division of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Research Unit of Reproductive Medicine and Fertility Preservation, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Chanakarn Suebthawinkul
- Division of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Research Unit of Reproductive Medicine and Fertility Preservation, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Porntip Sirayapiwat
- Division of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Research Unit of Reproductive Medicine and Fertility Preservation, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
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Pediatric and Adolescent Oncofertility in Male Patients-From Alpha to Omega. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12050701. [PMID: 34066795 PMCID: PMC8150386 DOI: 10.3390/genes12050701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 05/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
This article reviews the latest information about preserving reproductive potential that can offer enhanced prospects for future conception in the pediatric male population with cancer, whose fertility is threatened because of the gonadotoxic effects of chemotherapy and radiation. An estimated 400,000 children and adolescents aged 0–19 years will be diagnosed with cancer each year. Fertility is compromised in one-third of adult male survivors of childhood cancer. We present the latest approaches and techniques for fertility preservation, starting with fertility preservation counselling, a clinical practice guideline used around the world and finishing with recent advances in basic science and translational research. Improving strategies for the maturation of germ cells in vitro combined with new molecular techniques for gene editing could be the next scientific keystone to eradicate genetic diseases such as cancer related mutations in the offspring of cancer survivors.
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Baert Y, Ruetschle I, Cools W, Oehme A, Lorenz A, Marx U, Goossens E, Maschmeyer I. A multi-organ-chip co-culture of liver and testis equivalents: a first step toward a systemic male reprotoxicity model. Hum Reprod 2021; 35:1029-1044. [PMID: 32390056 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deaa057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2019] [Revised: 01/30/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is it possible to co-culture and functionally link human liver and testis equivalents in the combined medium circuit of a multi-organ chip? SUMMARY ANSWER Multi-organ-chip co-cultures of human liver and testis equivalents were maintained at a steady-state for at least 1 week and the co-cultures reproduced specific natural and drug-induced liver-testis systemic interactions. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Current benchtop reprotoxicity models typically do not include hepatic metabolism and interactions of the liver-testis axis. However, these are important to study the biotransformation of substances. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Testicular organoids derived from primary adult testicular cells and liver spheroids consisting of cultured HepaRG cells and hepatic stellate cells were loaded into separate culture compartments of each multi-organ-chip circuit for co-culture in liver spheroid-specific medium, testicular organoid-specific medium or a combined medium over a week. Additional multi-organ-chips (single) and well plates (static) were loaded only with testicular organoids or liver spheroids for comparison. Subsequently, the selected type of medium was supplemented with cyclophosphamide, an alkylating anti-neoplastic prodrug that has demonstrated germ cell toxicity after its bioactivation in the liver, and added to chip-based co-cultures to replicate a human liver-testis systemic interaction in vitro. Single chip-based testicular organoids were used as a control. Experiments were performed with three biological replicates unless otherwise stated. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS The metabolic activity was determined as glucose consumption and lactate production. The cell viability was measured as lactate dehydrogenase activity in the medium. Additionally, immunohistochemical and real-time quantitative PCR end-point analyses were performed for apoptosis, proliferation and cell-specific phenotypical and functional markers. The functionality of Sertoli and Leydig cells in testicular spheroids was specifically evaluated by measuring daily inhibin B and testosterone release, respectively. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Co-culture in multi-organ chips with liver spheroid-specific medium better supported the metabolic activity of the cultured tissues compared to other media tested. The liver spheroids did not show significantly different behaviour during co-culture compared to that in single culture on multi-organ-chips. The testicular organoids also developed accordingly and produced higher inhibin B but lower testosterone levels than the static culture in plates with testicular organoid-specific medium. By comparison, testosterone secretion by testicular organoids cultured individually on multi-organ-chips reached a similar level as the static culture at Day 7. This suggests that the liver spheroids have metabolised the steroids in the co-cultures, a naturally occurring phenomenon. The addition of cyclophosphamide led to upregulation of specific cytochromes in liver spheroids and loss of germ cells in testicular organoids in the multi-organ-chip co-cultures but not in single-testis culture. LARGE-SCALE DATA N/A. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The number of biological replicates included in this study was relatively small due to the limited availability of individual donor testes and the labour-intensive nature of multi-organ-chip co-cultures. Moreover, testicular organoids and liver spheroids are miniaturised organ equivalents that capture key features, but are still simplified versions of the native tissues. Also, it should be noted that only the prodrug cyclophosphamide was administered. The final concentration of the active metabolite was not measured. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS This co-culture model responds to the request of setting up a specific tool that enables the testing of candidate reprotoxic substances with the possibility of human biotransformation. It further allows the inclusion of other human tissue equivalents for chemical risk assessment on the systemic level. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by research grants from the Scientific Research Foundation Flanders (FWO), Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (scientific fund Willy Gepts) and the Vrije Universiteit Brussel. Y.B. is a postdoctoral fellow of the FWO. U.M. is founder, shareholder and CEO of TissUse GmbH, Berlin, Germany, a company commercializing the Multi-Organ-Chip platform systems used in the study. The other authors have no conflict of interest to declare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Baert
- Biology of the Testis (BITE) Research Group, Department of Reproduction, Genetics and Regenerative Medicine, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - I Ruetschle
- TissUse GmbH, Oudenarder Str. 16, 13347 Berlin, Germany
| | - W Cools
- Interfaculty Center Data Processing and Statistics (ICDS), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - A Oehme
- TissUse GmbH, Oudenarder Str. 16, 13347 Berlin, Germany
| | - A Lorenz
- TissUse GmbH, Oudenarder Str. 16, 13347 Berlin, Germany
| | - U Marx
- TissUse GmbH, Oudenarder Str. 16, 13347 Berlin, Germany
| | - E Goossens
- Biology of the Testis (BITE) Research Group, Department of Reproduction, Genetics and Regenerative Medicine, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - I Maschmeyer
- TissUse GmbH, Oudenarder Str. 16, 13347 Berlin, Germany
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40
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Tronolone JJ, Lam J, Agrawal A, Sung K. Pumpless, modular, microphysiological systems enabling tunable perfusion for long-term cultivation of endothelialized lumens. Biomed Microdevices 2021; 23:25. [PMID: 33855605 DOI: 10.1007/s10544-021-00562-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Given the increased recognition of the importance of physiologically relevant microenvironments when designing in vitro assays, microphysiological systems (MPS) that mimic the critical function and structure of tissues and organs have gained considerable attention as alternatives to traditional experimental models. Accordingly, the field is growing rapidly, and some promising MPS are being tested for use in pharmaceutical development and toxicological testing. However, most MPS are complex and require additional infrastructure, which limits their successful translation. Here, we present a pumpless, modular MPS consisting of 1) a resistance module that controls flow rate and 2) a physiologically relevant, three-dimensional blood vessel module. Flow is provided by an attached reservoir tank that feeds fluid into the resistance channel via hydrostatic pressure. The flow rate is controlled by the height of the media in the tank and the resistance channel's dimensions. The flow from the resistance module is streamed into the blood vessel module using a liquid bridge. We utilize optical coherence tomography (OCT) to measure fluid velocity at regions of interest. The endothelial cells cultured in the MPS remain viable for up to 14 days and demonstrate the functional characteristics of the human blood vessels verified by tight junction expression and diffusion assay. Our results show that a modular MPS can simulate a functional endothelium in vitro while simplifying the operation of the MPS. The simplicity of the system allows for modifications to incorporate other microenvironmental components and to build other organ-modeling systems easily.
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Affiliation(s)
- James J Tronolone
- Division of Cellular and Gene Therapies, Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, Food and Drug Administration, 10903 New Hampshire Ave, Silver Spring, Maryland, 20993-0002, USA
| | - Johnny Lam
- Division of Cellular and Gene Therapies, Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, Food and Drug Administration, 10903 New Hampshire Ave, Silver Spring, Maryland, 20993-0002, USA
| | - Anant Agrawal
- Divison of Biomedical Physics, Office of Science and Engineering Laboratories, Center for Devices and Radiological Health, Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
| | - Kyung Sung
- Division of Cellular and Gene Therapies, Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, Food and Drug Administration, 10903 New Hampshire Ave, Silver Spring, Maryland, 20993-0002, USA.
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41
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Matsumura T, Sato T, Abe T, Sanjo H, Katagiri K, Kimura H, Fujii T, Tanaka H, Hirabayashi M, Ogawa T. Rat in vitro spermatogenesis promoted by chemical supplementations and oxygen-tension control. Sci Rep 2021; 11:3458. [PMID: 33568686 PMCID: PMC7875995 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-82792-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In vitro spermatogenesis (IVS) using air-liquid interphase organ culture method is possible with mouse testis tissues. The same method, however, has been hardly applicable to animals other than mice, only producing no or limited progression of spermatogenesis. In the present study, we challenged IVS of rats with modifications of culture medium, by supplementing chemical substances, including hormones, antioxidants, and lysophospholipids. In addition, reducing oxygen tension by placing tissues in an incubator of lower oxygen concentration and/or applying silicone cover ceiling on top of the tissue were effective for improving the spermatogenic efficiency. Through these modifications of the culture condition, rat spermatogenesis up to round spermatids was maintained over 70 days in the cultured tissue. Present results demonstrated a significant progress in rat IVS, revealing conditions commonly favorable for mice and rats as well as finding rat-specific optimizations. This is an important step towards successful IVS in many animal species, including humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takafumi Matsumura
- grid.268441.d0000 0001 1033 6139Laboratory of Biopharmaceutical and Regenerative Sciences, Institute of Molecular Medicine and Life Science, Yokohama City University Association of Medical Science, Yokohama, Kanagawa Japan
| | - Takuya Sato
- grid.268441.d0000 0001 1033 6139Laboratory of Biopharmaceutical and Regenerative Sciences, Institute of Molecular Medicine and Life Science, Yokohama City University Association of Medical Science, Yokohama, Kanagawa Japan
| | - Takeru Abe
- grid.268441.d0000 0001 1033 6139Laboratory of Biopharmaceutical and Regenerative Sciences, Institute of Molecular Medicine and Life Science, Yokohama City University Association of Medical Science, Yokohama, Kanagawa Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Sanjo
- grid.268441.d0000 0001 1033 6139Department of Urology, Yokohama City University School of Medicine, Yokohama, Kanagawa Japan
| | - Kumiko Katagiri
- grid.268441.d0000 0001 1033 6139Laboratory of Biopharmaceutical and Regenerative Sciences, Institute of Molecular Medicine and Life Science, Yokohama City University Association of Medical Science, Yokohama, Kanagawa Japan
| | - Hiroshi Kimura
- grid.265061.60000 0001 1516 6626Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tokai University, Hiratsuka, Kanagawa Japan
| | - Teruo Fujii
- grid.26999.3d0000 0001 2151 536XInstitute of Industrial Science, University of Tokyo, Bunkyo, Tokyo Japan
| | - Hiromitsu Tanaka
- grid.411871.a0000 0004 0647 5488Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagasaki International University, Sasebo, Nagasaki Japan
| | - Masumi Hirabayashi
- grid.467811.d0000 0001 2272 1771Center for Genetic Analysis of Behavior, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Okazaki, Aichi Japan
| | - Takehiko Ogawa
- grid.268441.d0000 0001 1033 6139Laboratory of Biopharmaceutical and Regenerative Sciences, Institute of Molecular Medicine and Life Science, Yokohama City University Association of Medical Science, Yokohama, Kanagawa Japan ,grid.268441.d0000 0001 1033 6139Department of Urology, Yokohama City University School of Medicine, Yokohama, Kanagawa Japan
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Sharma S, Venzac B, Burgers T, Le Gac S, Schlatt S. Microfluidics in male reproduction: is ex vivo culture of primate testis tissue a future strategy for ART or toxicology research? Mol Hum Reprod 2021; 26:179-192. [PMID: 31977028 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaaa006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2019] [Revised: 01/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The significant rise in male infertility disorders over the years has led to extensive research efforts to recapitulate the process of male gametogenesis in vitro and to identify essential mechanisms involved in spermatogenesis, notably for clinical applications. A promising technology to bridge this research gap is organ-on-chip (OoC) technology, which has gradually transformed the research landscape in ART and offers new opportunities to develop advanced in vitro culture systems. With exquisite control on a cell or tissue microenvironment, customized organ-specific structures can be fabricated in in vitro OoC platforms, which can also simulate the effect of in vivo vascularization. Dynamic cultures using microfluidic devices enable us to create stimulatory effect and non-stimulatory culture conditions. Noteworthy is that recent studies demonstrated the potential of continuous perfusion in OoC systems using ex vivo mouse testis tissues. Here we review the existing literature and potential applications of such OoC systems for male reproduction in combination with novel bio-engineering and analytical tools. We first introduce OoC technology and highlight the opportunities offered in reproductive biology in general. In the subsequent section, we discuss the complex structural and functional organization of the testis and the role of the vasculature-associated testicular niche and fluid dynamics in modulating testis function. Next, we review significant technological breakthroughs in achieving in vitro spermatogenesis in various species and discuss the evidence from microfluidics-based testes culture studies in mouse. Lastly, we discuss a roadmap for the potential applications of the proposed testis-on-chip culture system in the field of primate male infertility, ART and reproductive toxicology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swati Sharma
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Bastien Venzac
- Applied Microfluidics for BioEngineering Research, MESA+ Institute for Nanotechnology and TechMed Centre, University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Thomas Burgers
- Applied Microfluidics for BioEngineering Research, MESA+ Institute for Nanotechnology and TechMed Centre, University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Séverine Le Gac
- Applied Microfluidics for BioEngineering Research, MESA+ Institute for Nanotechnology and TechMed Centre, University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Stefan Schlatt
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
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Eyni H, Ghorbani S, Nazari H, Hajialyani M, Razavi Bazaz S, Mohaqiq M, Ebrahimi Warkiani M, Sutherland DS. Advanced bioengineering of male germ stem cells to preserve fertility. J Tissue Eng 2021; 12:20417314211060590. [PMID: 34868541 PMCID: PMC8638075 DOI: 10.1177/20417314211060590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
In modern life, several factors such as genetics, exposure to toxins, and aging have resulted in significant levels of male infertility, estimated to be approximately 18% worldwide. In response, substantial progress has been made to improve in vitro fertilization treatments (e.g. microsurgical testicular sperm extraction (m-TESE), intra-cytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), and round spermatid injection (ROSI)). Mimicking the structure of testicular natural extracellular matrices (ECM) outside of the body is one clear route toward complete in vitro spermatogenesis and male fertility preservation. Here, a new wave of technological innovations is underway applying regenerative medicine strategies to cell-tissue culture on natural or synthetic scaffolds supplemented with bioactive factors. The emergence of advanced bioengineered systems suggests new hope for male fertility preservation through development of functional male germ cells. To date, few studies aimed at in vitro spermatogenesis have resulted in relevant numbers of mature gametes. However, a substantial body of knowledge on conditions that are required to maintain and mature male germ cells in vitro is now in place. This review focuses on advanced bioengineering methods such as microfluidic systems, bio-fabricated scaffolds, and 3D organ culture applied to the germline for fertility preservation through in vitro spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hossein Eyni
- Department of Anatomical Sciences,
School of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sadegh Ghorbani
- Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center
(iNANO), Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Hojjatollah Nazari
- Research Center for Advanced
Technologies in Cardiovascular Medicine, Tehran Heart Center, Tehran University of
Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Marziyeh Hajialyani
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research
Center, Health Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah,
Iran
| | - Sajad Razavi Bazaz
- School of Biomedical Engineering,
University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Mahdi Mohaqiq
- Institute of Regenerative Medicine,
School of Medicine, Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | | | - Duncan S Sutherland
- Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center
(iNANO), Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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44
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Wyns C, Kanbar M, Giudice MG, Poels J. Fertility preservation for prepubertal boys: lessons learned from the past and update on remaining challenges towards clinical translation. Hum Reprod Update 2020; 27:433-459. [PMID: 33326572 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmaa050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2020] [Revised: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Childhood cancer incidence and survivorship are both on the rise. However, many lifesaving treatments threaten the prepubertal testis. Cryopreservation of immature testicular tissue (ITT), containing spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs), as a fertility preservation (FP) option for this population is increasingly proposed worldwide. Recent achievements notably the birth of non-human primate (NHP) progeny using sperm developed in frozen-thawed ITT autografts has given proof of principle of the reproductive potential of banked ITT. Outlining the current state of the art on FP for prepubertal boys is crucial as some of the boys who have cryopreserved ITT since the early 2000s are now in their reproductive age and are already seeking answers with regards to their fertility. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE In the light of past decade achievements and observations, this review aims to provide insight into relevant questions for clinicians involved in FP programmes. Have the indications for FP for prepubertal boys changed over time? What is key for patient counselling and ITT sampling based on the latest achievements in animals and research performed with human ITT? How far are we from clinical application of methods to restore reproductive capacity with cryostored ITT? SEARCH METHODS An extensive search for articles published in English or French since January 2010 to June 2020 using keywords relevant to the topic of FP for prepubertal boys was made in the MEDLINE database through PubMed. Original articles on fertility preservation with emphasis on those involving prepubertal testicular tissue, as well as comprehensive and systematic reviews were included. Papers with redundancy of information or with an absence of a relevant link for future clinical application were excluded. Papers on alternative sources of stem cells besides SSCs were excluded. OUTCOMES Preliminary follow-up data indicate that around 27% of boys who have undergone testicular sampling as an FP measure have proved azoospermic and must therefore solely rely on their cryostored ITT to ensure biologic parenthood. Auto-transplantation of ITT appears to be the first technique that could enter pilot clinical trials but should be restricted to tissue free of malignant cells. While in vitro spermatogenesis circumvents the risk linked to cancer cell contamination and has led to offspring in mice, complete spermatogenesis has not been achieved with human ITT. However, generation of haploid germ cells paves the way to further studies aimed at completing the final maturation of germ cells and increasing the efficiency of the processes. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Despite all the research done to date, FP for prepubertal boys remains a relatively young field and is often challenging to healthcare providers, patients and parents. As cryopreservation of ITT is now likely to expand further, it is important not only to acknowledge some of the research questions raised on the topic, e.g. the epigenetic and genetic integrity of gametes derived from strategies to restore fertility with banked ITT but also to provide healthcare professionals worldwide with updated knowledge to launch proper multicollaborative care pathways in the field and address clinical issues that will come-up when aiming for the child's best interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Wyns
- Andrology lab, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium.,Department of Gynecology-Andrology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Marc Kanbar
- Andrology lab, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium.,Department of Gynecology-Andrology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Maria Grazia Giudice
- Andrology lab, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium.,Department of Gynecology-Andrology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jonathan Poels
- Andrology lab, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium.,Department of Gynecology-Andrology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
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45
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Chen Z, Zilberberg J, Lee W. Pumpless microfluidic device with open top cell culture under oscillatory shear stress. Biomed Microdevices 2020; 22:58. [PMID: 32833129 DOI: 10.1007/s10544-020-00515-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Here we developed a 96-well plate-based pumpless microfluidic device to mimic bidirectional oscillatory shear stress experienced by osteoblasts at the endosteal niche located at the interface between bone and bone marrow. The culture device was designed to be high-throughput with 32 open top culture chambers for convenient cell seeding and staining. Mathematical modeling was used to simulate the control of oscillatory shear stress with the peak stress in the range of 0.3 to 50 mPa. Osteoblasts, cultured under oscillatory shear stress, were found to be highly viable and significantly aligned along the direction of flow. The modeling and experimental results demonstrate for the first time that cells can be cultured under controllable oscillatory shear stress in the open top culture chamber and pumpless configurations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhehuan Chen
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Stevens Institute of Technology, 1 Castle Point on Hudson, Hoboken, NJ, 07030, USA
| | - Jenny Zilberberg
- Center for Discovery and Innovation, Hackensack Meridian Health, Nutley, NJ, 07110, USA
| | - Woo Lee
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Stevens Institute of Technology, 1 Castle Point on Hudson, Hoboken, NJ, 07030, USA.
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Abe T, Nishimura H, Sato T, Suzuki H, Ogawa T, Suzuki T. Transcriptome analysis reveals inadequate spermatogenesis and immediate radical immune reactions during organ culture in vitro spermatogenesis. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2020; 530:732-738. [PMID: 32782148 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2020.06.161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Cultivation of neonatal mouse testis tissue can induce spermatogenesis and produce fertile sperms. However, in vitro spermatogenesis mediated by the current organ culture method comes short in fully mimicking the in vivo counterpart, partly due to a lack of knowledge underlying molecular phenotypes of in vitro spermatogenesis. In this study, we investigated transcriptome of cultured testis tissues using microarray method. Principle component analysis of the transcriptome data revealed delay and/or arrest of spermatogenesis and immediate radical immune reactions in the cultured testis tissues. The delay/arrest of spermatogenesis occurred before and during early meiotic phase, resulting in inefficient progression of meiosis. The immune reaction, on the other hand, was drastic and overwhelming, in which TLR4-NF-kB signaling was speculated to be involved. Notably, treatment with TAK242, an inhibitor of TLR4-NF-kB signaling pathway, ameliorated the macrophage activation which otherwise would exacerbate the inflammation. Thus, the present study revealed for the first time at molecular level that the deficiency of germ cell differentiation and the immense immune reaction are major abnormalities in the cultured testis tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takeru Abe
- Biopharmaceutical and Regenerative Sciences, Graduate School of Medical Life Science, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan; Laboratory for Cellular Function Conversion Technology, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Hajime Nishimura
- Laboratory for Cellular Function Conversion Technology, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Takuya Sato
- Biopharmaceutical and Regenerative Sciences, Graduate School of Medical Life Science, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Harukazu Suzuki
- Laboratory for Cellular Function Conversion Technology, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Takehiko Ogawa
- Biopharmaceutical and Regenerative Sciences, Graduate School of Medical Life Science, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan.
| | - Takahiro Suzuki
- Laboratory for Cellular Function Conversion Technology, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan; Functional Genomics, Graduate School of Medical Life Science, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan.
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47
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Approaches and Technologies in Male Fertility Preservation. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21155471. [PMID: 32751826 PMCID: PMC7432867 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21155471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Revised: 07/21/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Male fertility preservation is required when treatment with an aggressive chemo-/-radiotherapy, which may lead to irreversible sterility. Due to new and efficient protocols of cancer treatments, surviving rates are more than 80%. Thus, these patients are looking forward to family life and fathering their own biological children after treatments. Whereas adult men can cryopreserve their sperm for future use in assistance reproductive technologies (ART), this is not an option in prepubertal boys who cannot produce sperm at this age. In this review, we summarize the different technologies for male fertility preservation with emphasize on prepubertal, which have already been examined and/or demonstrated in vivo and/or in vitro using animal models and, in some cases, using human tissues. We discuss the limitation of these technologies for use in human fertility preservation. This update review can assist physicians and patients who are scheduled for aggressive chemo-/radiotherapy, specifically prepubertal males and their parents who need to know about the risks of the treatment on their future fertility and the possible present option of fertility preservation.
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48
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Edmonds ME, Woodruff TK. Testicular organoid formation is a property of immature somatic cells, which self-assemble and exhibit long-term hormone-responsive endocrine function. Biofabrication 2020; 12:045002. [PMID: 32492667 DOI: 10.1088/1758-5090/ab9907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Testicular organoid models are tools to study testicular physiology, development, and spermatogenesis in vitro. However, few side-by-side comparisons of organoid generation method have been evaluated. Here, we directly tested whether the culture microenvironment is the prime determinant promoting testicular organoid self-assembly. Using Matrigel as a representative extracellular matrix (ECM), we compared multiple culture environments, 2D and 3D, ECM-free and ECM, for organoid self-assembly with immature murine testicular cells. De novo tissues were observed to self-assemble in all four culture environments tested within 72 h, however, these tissues only met requirements to be named organoids in 2D ECM and 3D ECM-free (3DF) culture methods. Based on these results, 3DF was selected for further study, and used to examine animal age as an independent variable. Organoid assembly was significantly delayed when using pubertal murine cells and entirely absent from adult murine and adult human cells. Organoid-conditioned medium and medium supplemented with 1% Matrigel did not improve organoid assembly in pubertal murine cells, but immature murine cells rescued the assembly of adult murine cells when cultured together as age-chimeric cell mixtures. In murine organoids cultured for 14 d, tubule-like structures exhibiting a highly biomimetic architecture were characterized, including some rare germ and spermatogonial stem cells. These structural organoids secreted high levels of testosterone and inhibin B over 12 weeks with preserved responsivity to gonadotropins. Collectively these studies, in which cellular self-assembly and organoid formation was achieved independent of the culture microenvironment, suggest that self-assembly is an innate property of immature testicular cells independent from, but capable of being promoted by, the culture environment. This study provides a template for studying testicular organoid self-assembly and endocrine function, and a platform for improving the engineering of functional testicular tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maxwell E Edmonds
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, United States of America
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49
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Goossens E, Jahnukainen K, Mitchell RT, van Pelt A, Pennings G, Rives N, Poels J, Wyns C, Lane S, Rodriguez-Wallberg KA, Rives A, Valli-Pulaski H, Steimer S, Kliesch S, Braye A, Andres MM, Medrano J, Ramos L, Kristensen SG, Andersen CY, Bjarnason R, Orwig KE, Neuhaus N, Stukenborg JB. Fertility preservation in boys: recent developments and new insights †. Hum Reprod Open 2020; 2020:hoaa016. [PMID: 32529047 PMCID: PMC7275639 DOI: 10.1093/hropen/hoaa016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2020] [Revised: 01/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infertility is an important side effect of treatments used for cancer and other non-malignant conditions in males. This may be due to the loss of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) and/or altered functionality of testicular somatic cells (e.g. Sertoli cells, Leydig cells). Whereas sperm cryopreservation is the first-line procedure to preserve fertility in post-pubertal males, this option does not exist for prepubertal boys. For patients unable to produce sperm and at high risk of losing their fertility, testicular tissue freezing is now proposed as an alternative experimental option to safeguard their fertility. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE With this review, we aim to provide an update on clinical practices and experimental methods, as well as to describe patient management inclusion strategies used to preserve and restore the fertility of prepubertal boys at high risk of fertility loss. SEARCH METHODS Based on the expertise of the participating centres and a literature search of the progress in clinical practices, patient management strategies and experimental methods used to preserve and restore the fertility of prepubertal boys at high risk of fertility loss were identified. In addition, a survey was conducted amongst European and North American centres/networks that have published papers on their testicular tissue banking activity. OUTCOMES Since the first publication on murine SSC transplantation in 1994, remarkable progress has been made towards clinical application: cryopreservation protocols for testicular tissue have been developed in animal models and are now offered to patients in clinics as a still experimental procedure. Transplantation methods have been adapted for human testis, and the efficiency and safety of the technique are being evaluated in mouse and primate models. However, important practical, medical and ethical issues must be resolved before fertility restoration can be applied in the clinic.Since the previous survey conducted in 2012, the implementation of testicular tissue cryopreservation as a means to preserve the fertility of prepubertal boys has increased. Data have been collected from 24 co-ordinating centres worldwide, which are actively offering testis tissue cryobanking to safeguard the future fertility of boys. More than 1033 young patients (age range 3 months to 18 years) have already undergone testicular tissue retrieval and storage for fertility preservation. LIMITATIONS REASONS FOR CAUTION The review does not include the data of all reproductive centres worldwide. Other centres might be offering testicular tissue cryopreservation. Therefore, the numbers might be not representative for the entire field in reproductive medicine and biology worldwide. The key ethical issue regarding fertility preservation in prepubertal boys remains the experimental nature of the intervention. WIDER IMPLICATIONS The revised procedures can be implemented by the multi-disciplinary teams offering and/or developing treatment strategies to preserve the fertility of prepubertal boys who have a high risk of fertility loss. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS The work was funded by ESHRE. None of the authors has a conflict of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Goossens
- Biology of the Testis, Research Laboratory for Reproduction, Genetics and Regenerative Medicine, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - K Jahnukainen
- NORDFERTIL Research Lab Stockholm, Childhood Cancer Research Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Solna, Sweden.,Division of Haematology-Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, New Children's Hospital, Pediatric Research Center, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - R T Mitchell
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh; and the Edinburgh Royal Hospital for Sick Children, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Amm van Pelt
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - G Pennings
- Bioethics Institute Ghent, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - N Rives
- Normandie Univ, UNIROUEN, EA 4308 "Gametogenesis and Gamete Quality", Rouen University Hospital, Biology of Reproduction-CECOS Laboratory, F 76000, Rouen, France
| | - J Poels
- Department of Gynecology and Andrology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - C Wyns
- Department of Gynecology and Andrology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - S Lane
- Department of Paediatric Oncology and Haematology, Children's Hospital Oxford, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - K A Rodriguez-Wallberg
- Department of Oncology Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, Sweden.,Section of Reproductive Medicine, Division of Gynecology and Reproduction, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - A Rives
- Normandie Univ, UNIROUEN, EA 4308 "Gametogenesis and Gamete Quality", Rouen University Hospital, Biology of Reproduction-CECOS Laboratory, F 76000, Rouen, France
| | - H Valli-Pulaski
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - S Steimer
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - S Kliesch
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Biology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - A Braye
- Biology of the Testis, Research Laboratory for Reproduction, Genetics and Regenerative Medicine, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - M M Andres
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, Hospital Universitario y Politécnico La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - J Medrano
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, Hospital Universitario y Politécnico La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - L Ramos
- Departement of Obstetrics and Gynacology, Division Reproductive Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - S G Kristensen
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, The Juliane Marie Centre for Women, Children and Reproduction, University Hospital of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - C Y Andersen
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, The Juliane Marie Centre for Women, Children and Reproduction, University Hospital of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - R Bjarnason
- Children's Medical Center, Landspítali University Hospital, Reykjavik, Iceland and Faculty of Medicine, University of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland
| | - K E Orwig
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - N Neuhaus
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Biology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - J B Stukenborg
- NORDFERTIL Research Lab Stockholm, Childhood Cancer Research Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Solna, Sweden
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50
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Delon LC, Nilghaz A, Cheah E, Prestidge C, Thierry B. Unlocking the Potential of Organ-on-Chip Models through Pumpless and Tubeless Microfluidics. Adv Healthc Mater 2020; 9:e1901784. [PMID: 32342669 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.201901784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2019] [Revised: 03/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Microfluidic organs-on-chips are rapidly being developed toward eliminating the shortcomings of static in vitro models and better addressing basic and translational research questions. A critical aspect is the dynamic culture environment they provide. However, the associated inherent requirement for controlled fluid shear stress (FSS) and therefore the need for precise pumps limits their implementation. To address this issue, here a novel approach to manufacture pumpless and tubeless organs-on-chips is reported. It relies on the use of a hydrophilic thread to provide a driving force for the perfusion of the cell culture medium through constant evaporation in the controlled conditions of a cell incubator. Well-defined and tuneable flow rates can be applied by adjusting the length and/or diameter of the thread. This approach for the preparation of an intestine-on-chip model based on the Caco-2 cell line is validated. Five days culture under 0.02 dyn·cm-2 shear conditions yield monolayers similar to those prepared using a high-precision peristaltic pump. A pumpless device can also be used to delineate the effect of FSS on the phenotype of adenocarcinomic human alveolar basal epithelial A549 cells. It is anticipated that the pumpless approach will facilitate and herefore increase the use of organs-on-chips models in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ludivine C. Delon
- Future Industries Institute and ARC Centre of Excellence Convergent Bio‐Nano Science and Technology University of South Australia Mawson Lakes Campus Adelaide SA 5095 Australia
- School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences and ARC Centre of Excellence Convergent Bio‐Nano Science and Technology University of South Australia City West Campus Adelaide SA 5000 Australia
| | - Azadeh Nilghaz
- Future Industries Institute and ARC Centre of Excellence Convergent Bio‐Nano Science and Technology University of South Australia Mawson Lakes Campus Adelaide SA 5095 Australia
| | - Edward Cheah
- Future Industries Institute and ARC Centre of Excellence Convergent Bio‐Nano Science and Technology University of South Australia Mawson Lakes Campus Adelaide SA 5095 Australia
| | - Clive Prestidge
- School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences and ARC Centre of Excellence Convergent Bio‐Nano Science and Technology University of South Australia City West Campus Adelaide SA 5000 Australia
| | - Benjamin Thierry
- Future Industries Institute and ARC Centre of Excellence Convergent Bio‐Nano Science and Technology University of South Australia Mawson Lakes Campus Adelaide SA 5095 Australia
- School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences and ARC Centre of Excellence Convergent Bio‐Nano Science and Technology University of South Australia City West Campus Adelaide SA 5000 Australia
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