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Chinnakorn A, Soi-Ngoen Y, Weeranantanapan O, Pakawanit P, Maensiri S, Srisom K, Janphuang P, Radacsi N, Nuansing W. Fabrication of 3D Polycaprolactone Macrostructures by 3D Electrospinning. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2024; 10:5336-5351. [PMID: 38776479 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.4c00302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Building 3D electrospun macrostructures and monitoring the biological activities inside them are challenging. In this study, 3D fibrous polycaprolactone (PCL) macrostructures were successfully fabricated using in-house 3D electrospinning. The main factors supporting the 3D self-assembled nanofiber fabrication are the H3PO4 additives, flow rate, and initial distance. The effects of solution concentration, solvent, H3PO4 concentration, flow rate, initial distance, voltage, and nozzle speed on the 3D macrostructures were examined. The optimal conditions of 4 mL/h flow rate, 4 cm initial nozzle-collector distance, 14 kV voltage, and 1 mm/s nozzle speed provided a rapid buildup of cylinder macrostructures with 6 cm of diameter, reaching a final height of 16.18 ± 2.58 mm and a wall thickness of 3.98 ± 1.01 mm on one perimeter with uniform diameter across different sections (1.40 ± 1.10 μm average). Oxygen plasma treatment with 30-50 W for 5 min significantly improved the hydrophilicity of the PCL macrostructures, proving a suitable scaffold for in vitro cell cultures. Additionally, 3D images obtained by synchrotron radiation X-ray tomographic microscopy (SRXTM) presented cell penetration and cell growth within the scaffolds. This breakthrough in 3D electrospinning surpasses current scaffold fabrication limitations, opening new possibilities in various fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atchara Chinnakorn
- School of Physics, Institute of Science, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand
| | - Yanawarut Soi-Ngoen
- School of Physics, Institute of Science, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand
| | - Oratai Weeranantanapan
- School of Preclinical Sciences, Institute of Science, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand
- Center of Excellence on Advanced Functional Materials (CoE-AFM), Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand
| | | | - Santi Maensiri
- School of Physics, Institute of Science, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand
- Center of Excellence on Advanced Functional Materials (CoE-AFM), Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand
| | - Kriettisak Srisom
- Synchrotron Light Research Institute, Muang, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand
| | | | - Norbert Radacsi
- School of Engineering, Institute for Materials and Processes, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3FB, U.K
| | - Wiwat Nuansing
- School of Physics, Institute of Science, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand
- Center of Excellence on Advanced Functional Materials (CoE-AFM), Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand
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Parrilli A, Grassi A, Orellana F, Lolli R, Marchiori G, Berni M, Fini M, Lopomo NF, Zaffagnini S. 3D visualization of the human anterior cruciate ligament combining micro-CT and histological analysis. Surg Radiol Anat 2024; 46:249-258. [PMID: 38265490 PMCID: PMC10861685 DOI: 10.1007/s00276-023-03295-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE The study aimed to obtain a comprehensive 3D visualization of knee specimens, including the cruciate ligaments and corresponding femoral and tibial bone insertions using a non-destructive micro-CT method. METHODS Knee specimens were fixed in anatomical positions and chemically dehydrated before being scanned using micro-CT with a voxel size of 17.5 μm. RGBA (red, green, blue, alpha) transfer functions were applied to virtually colorize each structure. Following micro-CT scanning, the samples were rehydrated, decalcified, and trimmed based on micro-CT 3D reconstructions as references. Histological evaluations were performed on the trimmed samples. Histological and micro-CT images were registered to morphologically and densitometrically assess the 4-layer insertion of the ACL into the bone. RESULTS The output of the micro-CT images of the knee in extension and flexion allowed a clear differentiation of the morphologies of both soft and hard tissues, such as the ACL, femoral and tibial bones, and cartilage, and the subsequent creation of 3D composite models useful for accurately tracing the entire morphology of the ligament, including its fiber and bundle components, the trajectory between the femur and tibia, and the size, extension, and morphology of its insertions into the bones. CONCLUSION The implementation of the non-destructive micro-CT method allowed complete visualization of all the different components of the knee specimens. This allowed correlative imaging by micro-CT and histology, accurate planning of histological sections, and virtual anatomical and microstructural analysis. The micro-CT approach provided an unprecedented 3D level of detail, offering a viable means to study ACL anatomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annapaola Parrilli
- Center for X-Ray Analytics, Empa - Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Überlandstrasse 129, 8600, Dübendorf, Switzerland.
| | | | - Federica Orellana
- Center for X-Ray Analytics, Empa - Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Überlandstrasse 129, 8600, Dübendorf, Switzerland
- University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | | | | | - Matteo Berni
- IRCCS - Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Bologna, Italy
| | - Milena Fini
- IRCCS - Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Bologna, Italy
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Kalacheva NV, Ginanova TT, Kamenev YO, Maslennikov SI, Dolmatov IY. Morphology and ultrastructure of digestive system in pre-zoea and zoea I larvae of red king crab, Paralithodes camtschaticus (Tilesius, 1815). Cell Tissue Res 2024; 395:1-20. [PMID: 38041000 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-023-03843-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023]
Abstract
The digestive system structure in pre-zoea and zoea I larvae of the red king crab Paralithodes camtschaticus has been examined. During this development period, the digestive system consists of an esophagus, a stomach, a midgut (where the hepatopancreas ducts open), and a hindgut. The esophagus begins from the oral slit on the animal's ventral side and extends vertically up to the junction with the cardiac stomach. The latter is followed by the pyloric stomach. At the stages under study, crabs have a cardiac-pyloric valve and a pyloric filter in the stomach already developed. The midgut begins with an expansion in the cephalothorax, enters the pleon, grows narrower there, and extends to somite 3 of pleon. The hepatopancreas is represented by a symmetrical paired gland which occupies almost the entire cephalothorax space and opens with its ducts at the junction of the pyloric stomach with the midgut. The hepatopancreas is divided into the anterior and posterior lobes. At the pre-zoea stage, the anterior lobes are large and filled with yolk. At the zoea I stage, the anterior lobes are smaller relative to the entire hepatopancreas, and the posterior lobes increase and form tubular outgrowths. It has been shown that during the transition from pre-zoea to zoea I, the number of mitochondria in enterocytes increases and a peritrophic membrane forms in the midgut. These changes are probably associated with the transition to independent living and feeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadezhda V Kalacheva
- A.V. Zhirmunsky National Scientific Center of Marine Biology, Far Eastern Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences, ul. Palchevskogo 17, 690041, Vladivostok, Russia.
| | - Talia T Ginanova
- A.V. Zhirmunsky National Scientific Center of Marine Biology, Far Eastern Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences, ul. Palchevskogo 17, 690041, Vladivostok, Russia
| | - Yaroslav O Kamenev
- A.V. Zhirmunsky National Scientific Center of Marine Biology, Far Eastern Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences, ul. Palchevskogo 17, 690041, Vladivostok, Russia
| | - Sergey I Maslennikov
- A.V. Zhirmunsky National Scientific Center of Marine Biology, Far Eastern Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences, ul. Palchevskogo 17, 690041, Vladivostok, Russia
| | - Igor Yu Dolmatov
- A.V. Zhirmunsky National Scientific Center of Marine Biology, Far Eastern Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences, ul. Palchevskogo 17, 690041, Vladivostok, Russia
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Windfelder AG, Steinbart J, Flögel U, Scherberich J, Kampschulte M, Krombach GA, Vilcinskas A. A quantitative micro-tomographic gut atlas of the lepidopteran model insect Manduca sexta. iScience 2023; 26:106801. [PMID: 37378344 PMCID: PMC10291339 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.106801] [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: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 03/26/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The tobacco hornworm is used extensively as a model system for ecotoxicology, immunology and gut physiology. Here, we established a micro-computed tomography approach based on the oral application of the clinical contrast agent iodixanol, allowing for a high-resolution quantitative analysis of the Manduca sexta gut. This technique permitted the identification of previously unknown and understudied structures, such as the crop or gastric ceca, and revealed the underlying complexity of the hindgut folding pattern, which is involved in fecal pellet formation. The acquired data enabled the volume rendering of all gut parts, the reliable calculation of their volumes, and the virtual endoscopy of the entire alimentary tract. It can provide information for accurate orientation in histology uses, enable quantitative anatomical phenotyping in three dimensions, and allow the calculation of locally effective midgut concentrations of applied chemicals. This atlas will provide critical insights into the evolution of the alimentary tract in lepidopterans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anton G. Windfelder
- Branch Bioresources, Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology IME, Giessen, Germany
- Laboratory of Experimental Radiology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Jessica Steinbart
- Laboratory of Experimental Radiology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University-Hospital Giessen, Germany
| | - Ulrich Flögel
- Experimental Cardiovascular Imaging, Molecular Cardiology, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Jan Scherberich
- Laboratory of Experimental Radiology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Marian Kampschulte
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University-Hospital Giessen, Germany
| | - Gabriele A. Krombach
- Laboratory of Experimental Radiology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University-Hospital Giessen, Germany
| | - Andreas Vilcinskas
- Branch Bioresources, Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology IME, Giessen, Germany
- Institute for Insect Biotechnology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
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Scherberich J, Windfelder AG, Krombach GA. Analysis of fixation materials in micro-CT: It doesn't always have to be styrofoam. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0286039. [PMID: 37315002 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0286039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Good fixation of filigree specimens for micro-CT examinations is often a challenge. Movement artefacts, over-radiation or even crushing of the specimen can easily occur. Since different specimens have different requirements, we scanned, analysed and compared 19 possible fixation materials under the same conditions in the micro-CT. We focused on radiodensity, porosity and reversibility of these fixation materials. Furthermore, we have made sure that all materials are cheap and easily available. The scans were performed with a SkyScan 1173 micro-CT. All dry fixation materials tested were punched into 5 mm diameter cylinders and clamped into 0.2 ml reaction vessels. A voxel size of 5.33 μm was achieved in a 180° scan in 0.3° steps. Ideally, fixation materials should not be visible in the reconstructed image, i.e., barely binarised. Besides common micro-CT fixation materials such as styrofoam (-935 Hounsfield Units) or Basotect foam (-943 Hounsfield Units), polyethylene air cushions (-944 Hounsfield Units), Micropor foam (-926 Hounsfield Units) and polyurethane foam, (-960 Hounsfield Units to -470 Hounsfield Units) have proved to be attractive alternatives. Furthermore, more radiopaque materials such as paraffin wax granulate (-640 Hounsfield Units) and epoxy resin (-190 Hounsfield Units) are also suitable as fixation materials. These materials often can be removed in the reconstructed image by segmentation. Sample fixations in the studies of recent years are almost all limited to fixation in Parafilm, Styrofoam, or Basotect foam if the fixation type is mentioned at all. However, these are not always useful, as styrofoam, for example, dissolves in some common media such as methylsalicylate. We show that micro-CT laboratories should be equipped with various fixation materials to achieve high-level image quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Scherberich
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology (Experimental Radiology), University Hospital Giessen, Giessen, Hesse, Germany
| | - Anton G Windfelder
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology (Experimental Radiology), University Hospital Giessen, Giessen, Hesse, Germany
- Branch for Bioresources, Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology IME, Giessen, Hesse, Germany
| | - Gabriele A Krombach
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology (Experimental Radiology), University Hospital Giessen, Giessen, Hesse, Germany
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Castejón D, Rotllant G, Ribes E, Guerao G. Morphological description of the midgut tract and midgut-hindgut junction in the larvae of the spider crab Maja brachydactyla Balss, 1922 (Malacostraca: Decapoda). ARTHROPOD STRUCTURE & DEVELOPMENT 2022; 70:101168. [PMID: 35839738 DOI: 10.1016/j.asd.2022.101168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2021] [Revised: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The midgut tract of decapods is a digestive organ involved in the synthesis of peritrophic membrane, food transport, absorption of nutrients, and osmoregulation. The midgut tract has been described in detail in adult decapods, but little information is available regarding the morphology and ultrastructure of the midgut tract in larval stages. The present study describes the midgut tract and the midgut-hindgut junction of the larvae of the common spider crab Maja brachydactyla Balss, 1922 using techniques that included dissection, light microscopy, and electron microscopy. The study is mainly focused on the stages of zoea I and megalopa. The results obtained in this study show that the larval midgut tract is a short and simple tube positioned anteriorly, between the stomach and the hindgut tract. During larval development, the maximum length of the midgut tract increases significantly, but no differences were found on either the maximum diameter or the morphological traits of the organ. The midgut tract is active at least ca. 12 h after hatching, as suggested by the presence of the peritrophic membrane in the lumen, the presence of abundant electro-dense vesicles in the cell apex, and the release of the vesicle content on the organ lumen. The midgut-hindgut junction forms an abrupt transition between the midgut tract and the hindgut tract in which epithelial cells with mixed features of midgut and hindgut do not occur.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego Castejón
- Centro de Maricultura da Calheta, 9370-135, Calheta, Madeira, Portugal; IRTA, Centre d' Aqüicultura, Ctra. Del Poble Nou, 43540, Sant Carles de La Ràpita, Tarragona, Spain.
| | | | - Enric Ribes
- Unitat de Biologia Cel·lular, Departament de Biologia Cel·lular, Fisiologia I Immunologia, Facultat de Biologia, Universitat de Barcelona, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
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Rivera-Quiroz FA, Miller JA. Micro-CT visualization of the CNS: Performance of different contrast-enhancing techniques for documenting the spider brain. J Comp Neurol 2022; 530:2474-2485. [PMID: 35598086 PMCID: PMC9540357 DOI: 10.1002/cne.25343] [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: 05/25/2021] [Revised: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Spider brain and central nervous system (CNS) have remained unexplored, due in part to the difficulty of observing these organs, usually only possible through histological preparations. Recently, internal anatomy studies have been supplemented by the inclusion of X‐ ray micro‐CT. Unmineralized tissue such as the body of invertebrates requires a staining process to enhance tissue X‐ray absorption and improve contrast during observation. Many current protocols are based on iodine staining requiring critical point drying (CPD) of the sample for optimal contrast. This process induces shrinking of the soft tissue generating artifacts in the morphology, volume, and even position of internal structures. Phosphotungstic acid (PTA) is an alternative staining agent recently used in marine invertebrate and plant studies. Here, we used several specimens of the common spider Araneus diadematus to visualize the spider brain and compare both contrast‐enhancing ethanol‐based solutions. We assessed a gradient of staining times, observed and tested the repercussions of CPD, and examined the use of vacuum to accelerate PTA diffusion. We show that PTA provides the best contrast on micro‐CT scans in ethanol eliminating the need for CPD, and offering more realistic in situ visualizations of the internal organs. In combination with different scanning settings, PTA allowed observation of internal organs like the CNS, digestive system, muscles, and finer structures like the retina, visual nerves, and optic neuropiles. This fast and less invasive method could facilitate the proper documentation of the internal anatomy in the context of evolutionary, developmental and functional studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Andres Rivera-Quiroz
- Understanding Evolution Research Group, Naturalis Biodiversity Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.,Institute for Biology Leiden (IBL), Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Jeremy A Miller
- Understanding Evolution Research Group, Naturalis Biodiversity Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
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8
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Castejón D, Rotllant G, Alba-Tercedor J, Ribes E, Durfort M, Guerao G. Morphological and histological description of the midgut caeca in true crabs (Malacostraca: Decapoda: Brachyura): origin, development and potential role. BMC ZOOL 2022; 7:9. [PMID: 37170150 PMCID: PMC10127032 DOI: 10.1186/s40850-022-00108-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
The decapods are a major group of crustaceans that includes shrimps, prawns, crayfishes, lobsters, and crabs. Several studies focused on the study of the digestive system of the decapods, constituted by the oesophagus, stomach, midgut tract, midgut gland, and hindgut. Nevertheless, in the midgut tract there are associated a set of organs called “midgut caeca”, which are among the most controversial and less studied digestive organs of this group. This work used the common spider crab Maja brachydactyla Balss, 1922 as a model to resolve the origin, development, and potential role of the midgut caeca. Such organs were studied in the larvae (zoea I, zoea II, megalopa), first juveniles, and adult phases, being employed traditional and modern techniques: dissection, micro-computed tomography (Micro-CT), and light and electron microscopical analyses (TEM and SEM).
Results
The common spider crab has a pair of anterior midgut caeca and a single posterior caecum that originate from the endoderm germ layer: they develop from the midgut tract, and their epithelium is composed by secretory cells while lacking a cuticle lining. The midgut caeca are small buds in the newly hatched larvae, enlarge linearly during the larval development, and then continue growing until became elongated and coiled blind-tubules in adults. The adult midgut caeca are internally folded to increase their inner surface. The electron microscopy observations showed that the midgut caeca are highly active organs with important macroapocrine and microapocrine secretory activity. Our results suggest that the role of the caeca might be related to the digestive enzyme secretion. The secretory activity should increase as the animal grows in size.
Conclusion
The present study resolves the embryonic origin of the midgut caeca (endoderm derived organs), development (general lengthening starting from small buds), and role (active secretory organs). The secretory activity of the midgut caeca should be incorporated in the current models of the digestive physiology in different decapod taxa.
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Old Brains in Alcohol: The Usability of Legacy Collection Material to Study the Spider Neuroarchitecture. DIVERSITY 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/d13110601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Natural history collections include rare and significant taxa that might otherwise be unavailable for comparative studies. However, curators must balance the needs of current and long-term research. Methods of data extraction that minimize the impact on specimens are therefore favored. Micro-CT has the potential to expose new character systems based on internal anatomy to taxonomic and phylogenetic analysis without dissection or thin sectioning for histology. However, commonly applied micro-CT protocols involve critical point drying, which permanently changes the specimen. Here, we apply a minimally destructive method of specimen preparation for micro-CT investigation of spider neuroanatomy suitable for application to legacy specimens in natural history collections. We used two groups of female spiders of the common species Araneus diadematus—freshly captured (n = 11) vs. legacy material between 70 and 90 years old (n = 10)—to qualitatively and quantitatively assess the viability of micro-CT scanning and the impact of aging on their neuroarchitecture. We statistically compared the volumes of the supraesophageal ganglion (syncerebrum) and used 2D geometric morphometrics to analyze variations in the gross shape of the brain. We found no significant differences in the brain shape or the brain volume relative to the cephalothorax size. Nonetheless, a significant difference was observed in the spider size. We considered such differences to be explained by environmental factors rather than preservation artifacts. Comparison between legacy and freshly collected specimens indicates that museum specimens do not degrade over time in a way that might bias the study results, as long as the basic preservation conditions are consistently maintained, and where lapses in preservation have occurred, these can be identified. This, together with the relatively low-impact nature of the micro-CT protocol applied here, could facilitate the use of old, rare, and valuable material from collections in studies of internal morphology.
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Rother L, Kraft N, Smith DB, El Jundi B, Gill RJ, Pfeiffer K. A micro-CT-based standard brain atlas of the bumblebee. Cell Tissue Res 2021; 386:29-45. [PMID: 34181089 PMCID: PMC8526489 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-021-03482-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2020] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, bumblebees have become a prominent insect model organism for a variety of biological disciplines, particularly to investigate learning behaviors as well as visual performance. Understanding these behaviors and their underlying neurobiological principles requires a clear understanding of brain anatomy. Furthermore, to be able to compare neuronal branching patterns across individuals, a common framework is required, which has led to the development of 3D standard brain atlases in most of the neurobiological insect model species. Yet, no bumblebee 3D standard brain atlas has been generated. Here we present a brain atlas for the buff-tailed bumblebee Bombus terrestris using micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) scans as a source for the raw data sets, rather than traditional confocal microscopy, to produce the first ever micro-CT-based insect brain atlas. We illustrate the advantages of the micro-CT technique, namely, identical native resolution in the three cardinal planes and 3D structure being better preserved. Our Bombus terrestris brain atlas consists of 30 neuropils reconstructed from ten individual worker bees, with micro-CT allowing us to segment neuropils completely intact, including the lamina, which is a tissue structure often damaged when dissecting for immunolabeling. Our brain atlas can serve as a platform to facilitate future neuroscience studies in bumblebees and illustrates the advantages of micro-CT for specific applications in insect neuroanatomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Rother
- Department of Behavioral Physiology and Sociobiology, Biocenter, University of Würzburg, 97074, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Nadine Kraft
- Department of Behavioral Physiology and Sociobiology, Biocenter, University of Würzburg, 97074, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Dylan B Smith
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, Silwood Park, Buckhurst Road, Ascot, Berkshire, SL5 7PY, UK
| | - Basil El Jundi
- Department of Behavioral Physiology and Sociobiology, Biocenter, University of Würzburg, 97074, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Richard J Gill
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, Silwood Park, Buckhurst Road, Ascot, Berkshire, SL5 7PY, UK
| | - Keram Pfeiffer
- Department of Behavioral Physiology and Sociobiology, Biocenter, University of Würzburg, 97074, Würzburg, Germany.
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Castejón D, Rotllant G, Ribes E, Durfort M, Guerao G. Description of the larval and adult hindgut tract of the common spider crab Maja brachydactyla Balss, 1922 (Brachyura, Decapoda, Malacostraca). Cell Tissue Res 2021; 384:703-720. [PMID: 33835258 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-021-03446-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Arthropods are the most diversified animals on Earth. The morphology of the digestive system has been widely studied in insects; however, crustaceans have received comparatively little attention. This study describes the hindgut tract of the common spider crab Maja brachydactyla Balss, 1922, in larvae and adults using dissection, light and electron microscopical analyses. The hindgut tract maintains a similar general shape in larvae and adults. Major differences among stages are found in the morphology of epithelial cells and microspines, the thickness of the cuticle and connective-like tissue, and the presence of rosette glands (only in adults). Here, we provide the description of the sub-cellular structure of the folds, epithelium (conformed by tendon cells), musculature, and microspines of the hindgut of larvae and adults of M. brachydactyla. The morphological features of the hindgut of M. brachydactyla are compared with those of other arthropods (Insecta, Myriapoda and Arachnida). Our results suggest that the morphology of the hindgut is associated mainly with transport of faeces. In adults, the hindgut may also exert an osmoregulatory function, as described in other arthropods. At difference from holometabolous insets, the hindgut of M. brachydactyla (Decapoda) does not undergo a true metamorphic change during development, but major changes observed between larval and adult stages might respond to the different body size between life stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego Castejón
- Centro de Maricultura da Calheta, Av. D. Manuel I 7, 9370-135, Calheta, Madeira, Portugal. .,Centre d'Aqüicultura, IRTA, Ctra. del Poble Nou Km 5.5.Sant Carles de la Rapita, 43540, Tarragona, Spain.
| | - Guiomar Rotllant
- Institut de Ciències del Mar, CSIC, Passeig Marítim de la Barceloneta 37-49, 08003, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Enric Ribes
- Unitat de Biologia Cel·lular, Departament de Biologia Cel·lular, Fisiologia i Immunologia, Facultat de Biologia, Universitat de Barcelona, Diagonal 645, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mercè Durfort
- Unitat de Biologia Cel·lular, Departament de Biologia Cel·lular, Fisiologia i Immunologia, Facultat de Biologia, Universitat de Barcelona, Diagonal 645, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
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Wolfe JM, Luque J, Bracken-Grissom HD. How to become a crab: Phenotypic constraints on a recurring body plan. Bioessays 2021; 43:e2100020. [PMID: 33751651 DOI: 10.1002/bies.202100020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
A fundamental question in biology is whether phenotypes can be predicted by ecological or genomic rules. At least five cases of convergent evolution of the crab-like body plan (with a wide and flattened shape, and a bent abdomen) are known in decapod crustaceans, and have, for over 140 years, been known as "carcinization." The repeated loss of this body plan has been identified as "decarcinization." In reviewing the field, we offer phylogenetic strategies to include poorly known groups, and direct evidence from fossils, that will resolve the history of crab evolution and the degree of phenotypic variation within crabs. Proposed ecological advantages of the crab body are summarized into a hypothesis of phenotypic integration suggesting correlated evolution of the carapace shape and abdomen. Our premise provides fertile ground for future studies of the genomic and developmental basis, and the predictability, of the crab-like body form.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna M Wolfe
- Museum of Comparative Zoology and Department of Organismic & Evolutionary Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Javier Luque
- Museum of Comparative Zoology and Department of Organismic & Evolutionary Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA.,Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, Balboa-Ancon, Panama.,Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Heather D Bracken-Grissom
- Institute of Environment and Department of Biological Sciences, Florida International University, North Miami, Florida, USA
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Zhang M, Zhang D, Ren J, Pu S, Wu H, Ma Z. Target verification of allyl isothiocyanate on the core subunits of cytochrome c oxidase in Sitophilus zeamais by RNAi. PEST MANAGEMENT SCIENCE 2021; 77:1292-1302. [PMID: 33063911 DOI: 10.1002/ps.6142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2020] [Revised: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 10/16/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Allyl isothiocyanate (AITC) is a volatile organic compound with a potent insecticidal activity to the stored-grain pest Sitophilus zeamais Motschulsky, which severely damages grain storage and container transport worldwide. Our previous study showed that mitochondrial complex IV was the primary target of AITC in adult Sitophilus zeamais. To further verify the targets of AITC, we employed RNA interference (RNAi) by using double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) to knockdown three core subunits of cytochrome c oxidase (COX)-I, -II and -III in 18-day-old larvae prior to their exposure to AITC to detect susceptibility changes. RESULTS The susceptibility of dsRNACOX-I and -II injection treatments to AITC significantly increased at 72 h while the mortality reached up to 85.56% and 67.78%, respectively, and dsRNACOX-I and dsRNACOX-II injection showed the same subcellular structural characteristics showing vacuolization and vague mitochondrial cristae and decrease of COX activity during AITC fumigation treatment, suggesting the potential of COX-I and COX-II as the targets of AITC. High mortality reached up to 75.55%, 71.88% and 82.22%, respectively, and the phenotype of larvae turning from milky white to dark brown in the thorax and death eventually was confirmed after dsRNACOX-I, -II and -III injection. CONCLUSION COX-I and -II were elucidated as the potential targets of AITC and dsRNACOX-I, -II and -III have the potential to be developed into nucleic acid pesticides for their robust lethal effects and are worth pursuing for improving AITC fumigation activity in Sitophilus zeamais control. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Zhang
- College of Plant Protection, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Dan Zhang
- College of Plant Protection, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Jingjing Ren
- College of Plant Protection, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Shi Pu
- College of Plant Protection, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Hua Wu
- College of Plant Protection, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
- Shaanxi Research Center of Biopesticide Engineering and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Zhiqing Ma
- College of Plant Protection, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
- Shaanxi Research Center of Biopesticide Engineering and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
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Immunolocalization of Neurotransmitters and Neuromodulators in the Developing Crayfish Brain. Methods Mol Biol 2020; 2047:271-291. [PMID: 31552660 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-9732-9_15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
In the field of neurosciences, the crayfish nervous system is an important model for understanding how arthropods process sensory stimuli and generate specific behaviors. Furthermore, crayfish embryos have been important study objects for well over 200 years. Immunohistochemistry against neurotransmitters, neuromodulators, and neurohormones is widely used to analyze the ontogeny of neurons in the emerging brain of several crustacean species and to date represents one of the most powerful approaches to analyze aspects of brain development in this group of organisms. In recent years, the analysis of brain development in crustaceans has gained new momentum by the establishment of the Marmorkrebs Procambarus virginalis (Marbled Crayfish), a parthenogenetic crayfish, as new model system. The embryonic development of marbled crayfish is well characterized and these animals can be easily cultivated in the lab. This chapter describes protocols for immunolocalization of neuroactive substances in the developing crayfish brain.
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Serafim A, Cecoltan S, Olăreț E, Dragusin DM, Vasile E, Popescu V, Manolescu Mastalier BS, Iovu H, Stancu IC. Bioinspired Hydrogel Coating Based on Methacryloyl Gelatin Bioactivates Polypropylene Meshes for Abdominal Wall Repair. Polymers (Basel) 2020; 12:E1677. [PMID: 32731362 PMCID: PMC7464529 DOI: 10.3390/polym12081677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2020] [Accepted: 07/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Considering the potential of hydrogels to mimic the cellular microenvironment, methacryloyl gelatin (GelMA) and methacryloyl mucin (MuMA) were selected and compared as bioinspired coatings for commercially available polypropylene (PP) meshes for ventral hernia repair. Thin, elastic hydrated hydrogel layers were obtained through network-forming photo-polymerization, after immobilization of derivatives on the surface of the PP fibers. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) proved the successful coating while the surface morphology and homogeneity were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and micro-computed tomography (micro-CT). The stability of the hydrogel layers was evaluated through biodynamic tests performed on the coated meshes for seven days, followed by inspection of surface morphology through SEM and micro-CT. Taking into account that platelet-rich plasma (PRP) may improve healing due to its high concentration of growth factors, this extract was used as pre-treatment for the hydrogel coating to additionally stimulate cell interactions. The performed advanced characterization proved that GelMA and MuMA coatings can modulate fibroblasts response on PP meshes, either as such or supplemented with PRP extract as a blood-derived bioactivator. GelMA supported the best cellular response. These findings may extend the applicative potential of functionalized gelatin opening a new path on the research and engineering of a new generation of bioactive meshes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrada Serafim
- Advanced Polymer Materials Group, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 1-7 Gh. Polizu Street, 011061 Bucharest, Romania; (A.S.); (S.C.); (E.O.); (D.-M.D.); (H.I.)
| | - Sergiu Cecoltan
- Advanced Polymer Materials Group, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 1-7 Gh. Polizu Street, 011061 Bucharest, Romania; (A.S.); (S.C.); (E.O.); (D.-M.D.); (H.I.)
| | - Elena Olăreț
- Advanced Polymer Materials Group, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 1-7 Gh. Polizu Street, 011061 Bucharest, Romania; (A.S.); (S.C.); (E.O.); (D.-M.D.); (H.I.)
| | - Diana-Maria Dragusin
- Advanced Polymer Materials Group, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 1-7 Gh. Polizu Street, 011061 Bucharest, Romania; (A.S.); (S.C.); (E.O.); (D.-M.D.); (H.I.)
| | - Eugeniu Vasile
- Department of Science and Engineering of Oxide Materials and Nanomaterials, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 1-7 Gh. Polizu Street, 011061 Bucharest, Romania;
| | - Valentin Popescu
- Department of General Surgery, Colentina Clinical Hospital, 19–21 Stefan cel Mare, 72202 Bucharest, Romania; (V.P.); (B.S.M.M.)
| | | | - Horia Iovu
- Advanced Polymer Materials Group, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 1-7 Gh. Polizu Street, 011061 Bucharest, Romania; (A.S.); (S.C.); (E.O.); (D.-M.D.); (H.I.)
| | - Izabela-Cristina Stancu
- Advanced Polymer Materials Group, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 1-7 Gh. Polizu Street, 011061 Bucharest, Romania; (A.S.); (S.C.); (E.O.); (D.-M.D.); (H.I.)
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Basu DN, Kunte K. Tools of the trade: MicroCT reveals native structure and functional morphology of organs that drive caterpillar-ant interactions. Sci Rep 2020; 10:10593. [PMID: 32601351 PMCID: PMC7324400 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-67486-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2020] [Accepted: 06/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Caterpillars of many lycaenid butterflies are tended by ants that offer protection from predators and parasitoids. Specialized structures such as glands, ciliary organs and chitinous ornamentation in caterpillars play key roles in the underlying tactile, acoustic, and chemical communication between caterpillars and ants. Although the ecological, evolutionary, and behavioural aspects of these interactions are well studied, the mechanisms (i.e., the functional morphology) that drive the specialized interactive organs are poorly characterized. We used advanced X-ray microtomography (MicroCT) to delineate internal, native morphology of specialized larval dew patches, nectar glands, and tactile ciliary organs that mediate interactions between Crematogaster ants and caterpillars of the obligate myrmecophilous Apharitis lilacinus butterfly. Our non-destructive MicroCT analysis provided novel 3-D insights into the native structure and positions of these specialized organs in unmatched detail. This analysis also suggested a functional relationship between organ structures and surrounding muscles and nervation that operate the glands and tactile organs, including a ‘lasso bag’ control mechanism for dew patches and muscle control for other organs. This provided a holistic understanding of the organs that drive very close caterpillar–ant interactions. Our MicroCT analysis opens a door for similar structural and functional analysis of adaptive insect morphology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dipendra Nath Basu
- National Centre for Biological Sciences, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, GKVK Campus, Bellary Road, Bangalore, 560065, India. .,SASTRA University, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, 613401, India.
| | - Krushnamegh Kunte
- National Centre for Biological Sciences, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, GKVK Campus, Bellary Road, Bangalore, 560065, India.
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Vogt G. Functional cytology of the hepatopancreas of decapod crustaceans. J Morphol 2019; 280:1405-1444. [DOI: 10.1002/jmor.21040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2019] [Revised: 06/25/2019] [Accepted: 06/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Günter Vogt
- Faculty of BiosciencesUniversity of Heidelberg Heidelberg Germany
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Castejón D, Rotllant G, Alba-Tercedor J, Font-I-Furnols M, Ribes E, Durfort M, Guerao G. Morphology and ultrastructure of the midgut gland ("hepatopancreas") during ontogeny in the common spider crab Maja brachydactyla Balss, 1922 (Brachyura, Majidae). ARTHROPOD STRUCTURE & DEVELOPMENT 2019; 49:137-151. [PMID: 30557625 DOI: 10.1016/j.asd.2018.11.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2018] [Revised: 11/25/2018] [Accepted: 11/27/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
We studied the anatomy and cytology of the midgut gland (MGl) of the common spider crab Maja brachydactyla Balss, 1922 at several life stages (zoea, megalopa, first juvenile, and adult) using dissection, histology, electron microscopy, computed tomography, and micro-computed tomography (micro-CT). In newly hatched larvae, 14 blind-end tubules form the MGl. The length of the tubules increases during the larval development. In the late megalopa, the number of tubules also increases. In adults, 35,000 to 60,000 blind-ending tubules comprise the MGl. In all life stages, a square-net network of muscle fibers surround the tubules. We describe five cell types in the MGl in all larval stages, which have a similar location, histology, and ultrastructure in larvae and adults: embryonary (E-) cells, resorptive (R-) cells, fibrillar (F-) cells, blister-like (B-) cells, and midget (M-) cells. Major difference between larval and adult cells is the larger size of the adult cells. Microapocrine secretion occurs from the microvilli of the B-cells. No ultrastructural changes were observed during larval development, which suggests that the function of each cell type might be similar in all life stages. The role of each epithelial cell type in larvae and adults is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego Castejón
- CSIC, Institut de Ciències del Mar, Passeig Marítim de la Barceloneta 37-49, 08003 Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Guiomar Rotllant
- CSIC, Institut de Ciències del Mar, Passeig Marítim de la Barceloneta 37-49, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Javier Alba-Tercedor
- Departamento de Zoología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Granada, Campus de Fuentenueva, Av. de Fuente Nueva s/n, 18071 Granada, Spain
| | | | - Enric Ribes
- Unitat de Biologia Cel·lular, Departament de Biologia Cel·lular, Fisiologia i Immunologia, Facultat de Biologia, Universitat de Barcelona, Diagonal 645, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mercè Durfort
- Unitat de Biologia Cel·lular, Departament de Biologia Cel·lular, Fisiologia i Immunologia, Facultat de Biologia, Universitat de Barcelona, Diagonal 645, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
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