1
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Khoonkari M, Liang D, Kamperman M, van Rijn P, Kruyt FAE. The unfolded protein response sensor PERK mediates mechanical stress-induced maturation of focal adhesion complexes in glioblastoma cells. FEBS Lett 2024; 598:3021-3035. [PMID: 39152526 PMCID: PMC11665954 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.14996] [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: 05/01/2024] [Revised: 06/21/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 08/19/2024]
Abstract
Stiffening of the brain extracellular matrix (ECM) in glioblastoma promotes tumor progression. Previously, we discovered that protein kinase R (PKR)-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK) plays a role in glioblastoma stem cell (GSC) adaptation to matrix stiffness through PERK/FLNA-dependent F-actin remodeling. Here, we examined the involvement of PERK in detecting stiffness changes via focal adhesion complex (FAC) formation. Compared to control GSCs, PERK-deficient GSCs show decreased vinculin and tensin expression, while talin and integrin-β1 remain constant. Furthermore, vimentin was also reduced while tubulin increased, and a stiffness-dependent increase of the differentiation marker GFAP expression was absent in PERK-deficient GSCs. In conclusion, our study reveals a novel role for PERK in FAC formation during matrix stiffening, which is likely linked to its regulation of F-actin remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Khoonkari
- Department of Medical OncologyUniversity of Groningen, University Medical Center GroningenThe Netherlands
- Zernike Institute for Advanced MaterialsUniversity of GroningenThe Netherlands
| | - Dong Liang
- Department of Medical OncologyUniversity of Groningen, University Medical Center GroningenThe Netherlands
| | - Marleen Kamperman
- Zernike Institute for Advanced MaterialsUniversity of GroningenThe Netherlands
| | - Patrick van Rijn
- Department of Biomedical Engineering‐FB40University of Groningen, University Medical Center GroningenThe Netherlands
- W.J. Kolff Institute for Biomedical Engineering and Materials Science‐FB41, University of Groningen, University Medical Center GroningenThe Netherlands
| | - Frank A. E. Kruyt
- Department of Medical OncologyUniversity of Groningen, University Medical Center GroningenThe Netherlands
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2
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Yang YJ, Yeo D, Shin SJ, Lee JH, Lee JH. Influence of Soft and Stiff Matrices on Cytotoxicity in Gingival Fibroblasts: Implications for Soft Tissue Biocompatibility. Cells 2024; 13:1932. [PMID: 39682682 DOI: 10.3390/cells13231932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2024] [Revised: 11/08/2024] [Accepted: 11/19/2024] [Indexed: 12/18/2024] Open
Abstract
The biocompatibility of dental materials is critical for ensuring safety in clinical applications. However, standard in vitro cytotoxicity assays often rely on stiff tissue culture plastic (TCP), which does not accurately replicate the biomechanical properties of soft oral tissues. In this study, we compared human gingival fibroblasts (HGFs) cultured on soft, gel-based substrates mimicking gingival tissue stiffness (0.2 kPa) with those cultured on conventional TCP (3 GPa) to assess the influence of substrate stiffness on the cytotoxicity of methyl methacrylate (MMA), as well as other cytotoxic agents, including DMSO and H2O2. The results demonstrated that cells cultured on softer substrates exhibited enhanced resistance to cytotoxic stress, with increased viability and decreased apoptosis and DNA damage following exposure to MMA, DMSO, and H2O2. Notably, HGFs on soft substrates showed significantly greater resilience to MMA-induced cytotoxicity compared to those cultured on TCP. These findings emphasize the critical role of substrate stiffness in modulating cellular responses to toxic agents and highlight the necessity of using physiologically relevant models for cytotoxicity testing of dental materials. This study provides valuable insights for improving biocompatibility assessment protocols in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ye-Jin Yang
- Institute of Tissue Regeneration Engineering (ITREN), Dankook University, 119 Dandae-ro, Cheonan 31116, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biomaterials Science, College of Dentistry, Dankook University, 119 Dandae-ro, Cheonan 31116, Republic of Korea
| | - Donghyeon Yeo
- Institute of Tissue Regeneration Engineering (ITREN), Dankook University, 119 Dandae-ro, Cheonan 31116, Republic of Korea
- Department of Nanobiomedical Science & BK21 FOUR NBM Global Research Center for Regenerative Medicine, Dankook University, 119 Dandae-ro, Cheonan 31116, Republic of Korea
| | - Seong-Jin Shin
- Institute of Tissue Regeneration Engineering (ITREN), Dankook University, 119 Dandae-ro, Cheonan 31116, Republic of Korea
- Mechanobiology Dental Medicine Research Center, Dankook University, 119 Dandae-ro, Cheonan 31116, Republic of Korea
| | - Jun Hee Lee
- Institute of Tissue Regeneration Engineering (ITREN), Dankook University, 119 Dandae-ro, Cheonan 31116, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biomaterials Science, College of Dentistry, Dankook University, 119 Dandae-ro, Cheonan 31116, Republic of Korea
- Department of Nanobiomedical Science & BK21 FOUR NBM Global Research Center for Regenerative Medicine, Dankook University, 119 Dandae-ro, Cheonan 31116, Republic of Korea
- Mechanobiology Dental Medicine Research Center, Dankook University, 119 Dandae-ro, Cheonan 31116, Republic of Korea
- UCL Eastman-Korea Dental Medicine Innovation Centre, Dankook University, 119 Dandae-ro, Cheonan 31116, Republic of Korea
- Cell & Matter Institute, Dankook University, 119 Dandae-ro, Cheonan 31116, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung-Hwan Lee
- Institute of Tissue Regeneration Engineering (ITREN), Dankook University, 119 Dandae-ro, Cheonan 31116, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biomaterials Science, College of Dentistry, Dankook University, 119 Dandae-ro, Cheonan 31116, Republic of Korea
- Department of Nanobiomedical Science & BK21 FOUR NBM Global Research Center for Regenerative Medicine, Dankook University, 119 Dandae-ro, Cheonan 31116, Republic of Korea
- Mechanobiology Dental Medicine Research Center, Dankook University, 119 Dandae-ro, Cheonan 31116, Republic of Korea
- UCL Eastman-Korea Dental Medicine Innovation Centre, Dankook University, 119 Dandae-ro, Cheonan 31116, Republic of Korea
- Cell & Matter Institute, Dankook University, 119 Dandae-ro, Cheonan 31116, Republic of Korea
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3
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Llewellyn J, Charrier A, Cuciniello R, Helfer E, Dono R. Substrate stiffness alters layer architecture and biophysics of human induced pluripotent stem cells to modulate their differentiation potential. iScience 2024; 27:110557. [PMID: 39175774 PMCID: PMC11340605 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.110557] [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: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 07/17/2024] [Indexed: 08/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Lineage-specific differentiation of human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) relies on complex interactions between biochemical and physical cues. Here we investigated the ability of hiPSCs to undergo lineage commitment in response to inductive signals and assessed how this competence is modulated by substrate stiffness. We showed that Activin A-induced hiPSC differentiation into mesendoderm and its derivative, definitive endoderm, is enhanced on gel-based substrates softer than glass. This correlated with changes in tight junction formation and extensive cytoskeletal remodeling. Further, live imaging and biophysical studies suggested changes in cell motility and interfacial contacts underlie hiPSC layer reshaping on soft substrates. Finally, we repurposed an ultra-soft silicone gel, which may provide a suitable substrate for culturing hiPSCs at physiological stiffnesses. Our results provide mechanistic insight into how epithelial mechanics dictate the hiPSC response to chemical signals and provide a tool for their efficient differentiation in emerging stem cell therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack Llewellyn
- Aix Marseille University, CNRS, IBDM, Turing Centre for Living Systems, NeuroMarseille, Marseille, France
- Aix Marseille University, CNRS, CINAM, Turing Centre for Living Systems, 13009 Marseille, France
| | - Anne Charrier
- Aix Marseille University, CNRS, CINAM, Turing Centre for Living Systems, 13009 Marseille, France
| | - Rossana Cuciniello
- Aix Marseille University, CNRS, IBDM, Turing Centre for Living Systems, NeuroMarseille, Marseille, France
| | - Emmanuèle Helfer
- Aix Marseille University, CNRS, CINAM, Turing Centre for Living Systems, 13009 Marseille, France
| | - Rosanna Dono
- Aix Marseille University, CNRS, IBDM, Turing Centre for Living Systems, NeuroMarseille, Marseille, France
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4
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Younesi FS, Hinz B. The Myofibroblast Fate of Therapeutic Mesenchymal Stromal Cells: Regeneration, Repair, or Despair? Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:8712. [PMID: 39201399 PMCID: PMC11354465 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25168712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2024] [Revised: 07/31/2024] [Accepted: 08/06/2024] [Indexed: 09/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) can be isolated from various tissues of healthy or patient donors to be retransplanted in cell therapies. Because the number of MSCs obtained from biopsies is typically too low for direct clinical application, MSC expansion in cell culture is required. However, ex vivo amplification often reduces the desired MSC regenerative potential and enhances undesired traits, such as activation into fibrogenic myofibroblasts. Transiently activated myofibroblasts restore tissue integrity after organ injury by producing and contracting extracellular matrix into scar tissue. In contrast, persistent myofibroblasts cause excessive scarring-called fibrosis-that destroys organ function. In this review, we focus on the relevance and molecular mechanisms of myofibroblast activation upon contact with stiff cell culture plastic or recipient scar tissue, such as hypertrophic scars of large skin burns. We discuss cell mechanoperception mechanisms such as integrins and stretch-activated channels, mechanotransduction through the contractile actin cytoskeleton, and conversion of mechanical signals into transcriptional programs via mechanosensitive co-transcription factors, such as YAP, TAZ, and MRTF. We further elaborate how prolonged mechanical stress can create persistent myofibroblast memory by direct mechanotransduction to the nucleus that can evoke lasting epigenetic modifications at the DNA level, such as histone methylation and acetylation. We conclude by projecting how cell culture mechanics can be modulated to generate MSCs, which epigenetically protected against myofibroblast activation and transport desired regeneration potential to the recipient tissue environment in clinical therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fereshteh Sadat Younesi
- Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1G6, Canada;
- Keenan Research Institute for Biomedical Science, St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, ON M5B 1T8, Canada
| | - Boris Hinz
- Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1G6, Canada;
- Keenan Research Institute for Biomedical Science, St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, ON M5B 1T8, Canada
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5
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Liu Y, Okesola BO, Osuna de la Peña D, Li W, Lin M, Trabulo S, Tatari M, Lawlor RT, Scarpa A, Wang W, Knight M, Loessner D, Heeschen C, Mata A, Pearce OMT. A Self-Assembled 3D Model Demonstrates How Stiffness Educates Tumor Cell Phenotypes and Therapy Resistance in Pancreatic Cancer. Adv Healthc Mater 2024; 13:e2301941. [PMID: 38471128 PMCID: PMC11468796 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202301941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is characterized by a dense and stiff extracellular matrix (ECM) associated with tumor progression and therapy resistance. To further the understanding of how stiffening of the tumor microenvironment (TME) contributes to aggressiveness, a three-dimensional (3D) self-assembling hydrogel disease model is developed based on peptide amphiphiles (PAs, PA-E3Y) designed to tailor stiffness. The model displays nanofibrous architectures reminiscent of native TME and enables the study of the invasive behavior of PDAC cells. Enhanced tuneability of stiffness is demonstrated by interacting thermally annealed aqueous solutions of PA-E3Y (PA-E3Yh) with divalent cations to create hydrogels with mechanical properties and ultrastructure similar to native tumor ECM. It is shown that stiffening of PA-E3Yh hydrogels to levels found in PDAC induces ECM deposition, promotes epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), enriches CD133+/CXCR4+ cancer stem cells (CSCs), and subsequently enhances drug resistance. The findings reveal how a stiff 3D environment renders PDAC cells more aggressive and therefore more faithfully recapitulates in vivo tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Liu
- Barts Cancer InstituteQueen Mary University of LondonLondonEC1M 6BQUK
- School of Engineering and Materials ScienceQueen Mary University of LondonLondonE1 4NSUK
| | - Babatunde O. Okesola
- School of Life SciencesFaculty of Medicine and Health SciencesUniversity of NottinghamNottinghamNG7 2RDUK
| | - David Osuna de la Peña
- Barts Cancer InstituteQueen Mary University of LondonLondonEC1M 6BQUK
- School of Engineering and Materials ScienceQueen Mary University of LondonLondonE1 4NSUK
| | - Weiqi Li
- School of Engineering and Materials ScienceQueen Mary University of LondonLondonE1 4NSUK
| | - Meng‐Lay Lin
- Barts Cancer InstituteQueen Mary University of LondonLondonEC1M 6BQUK
| | - Sara Trabulo
- Barts Cancer InstituteQueen Mary University of LondonLondonEC1M 6BQUK
| | - Marianthi Tatari
- Barts Cancer InstituteQueen Mary University of LondonLondonEC1M 6BQUK
| | - Rita T. Lawlor
- Department of Diagnostics and Public HealthSection of PathologyUniversity of VeronaVerona37134Italy
- ARC‐NetApplied Research on Cancer CentreUniversity of VeronaVerona37134Italy
| | - Aldo Scarpa
- Department of Diagnostics and Public HealthSection of PathologyUniversity of VeronaVerona37134Italy
- ARC‐NetApplied Research on Cancer CentreUniversity of VeronaVerona37134Italy
| | - Wen Wang
- School of Engineering and Materials ScienceQueen Mary University of LondonLondonE1 4NSUK
| | - Martin Knight
- Centre for BioengineeringSchool of Engineering and Materials ScienceQueen Mary University of LondonLondonE1 4NSUK
- Centre for Predictive in vitro ModelsQueen Mary University of LondonLondonE1 4NSUK
| | - Daniela Loessner
- Barts Cancer InstituteQueen Mary University of LondonLondonEC1M 6BQUK
- Department of Chemical and Biological EngineeringFaculty of EngineeringMonash UniversityMelbourneVIC3800Australia
- Department of Materials Science and EngineeringFaculty of EngineeringMonash UniversityMelbourneVIC3800Australia
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental BiologyFaculty of MedicineNursing and Health SciencesMonash UniversityMelbourneVIC3800Australia
| | - Christopher Heeschen
- Pancreatic Cancer HeterogeneityCandiolo Cancer Institute – FPO – IRCCSCandiolo (TO)10060Italy
| | - Alvaro Mata
- School of PharmacyUniversity of NottinghamUniversity ParkNottinghamNG7 2RDUK
- Biodiscovery InstituteUniversity of NottinghamUniversity ParkNottinghamNG7 2RDUK
- Department of Chemical and Environmental EngineeringUniversity of NottinghamUniversity ParkNottinghamNG7 2RDUK
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6
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Ferrai C, Schulte C. Mechanotransduction in stem cells. Eur J Cell Biol 2024; 103:151417. [PMID: 38729084 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejcb.2024.151417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Nowadays, it is an established concept that the capability to reach a specialised cell identity via differentiation, as in the case of multi- and pluripotent stem cells, is not only determined by biochemical factors, but that also physical aspects of the microenvironment play a key role; interpreted by the cell through a force-based signalling pathway called mechanotransduction. However, the intricate ties between the elements involved in mechanotransduction, such as the extracellular matrix, the glycocalyx, the cell membrane, Integrin adhesion complexes, Cadherin-mediated cell/cell adhesion, the cytoskeleton, and the nucleus, are still far from being understood in detail. Here we report what is currently known about these elements in general and their specific interplay in the context of multi- and pluripotent stem cells. We furthermore merge this overview to a more comprehensive picture, that aims to cover the whole mechanotransductive pathway from the cell/microenvironment interface to the regulation of the chromatin structure in the nucleus. Ultimately, with this review we outline the current picture of the interplay between mechanotransductive cues and epigenetic regulation and how these processes might contribute to stem cell dynamics and fate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmelo Ferrai
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Centre Göttingen, Germany.
| | - Carsten Schulte
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences and Department of Physics "Aldo Pontremoli", University of Milan, Italy.
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7
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Desa DE, Amitrano MJ, Murphy WL, Skala MC. Optical redox imaging to screen synthetic hydrogels for stem cell-derived cardiomyocyte differentiation and maturation. BIOPHOTONICS DISCOVERY 2024; 1:015002. [PMID: 39036366 PMCID: PMC11258857 DOI: 10.1117/1.bios.1.1.015002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
Significance Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, yet research is limited by the inability to culture primary cardiac cells. Cardiomyocytes (CMs) derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are a promising solution for drug screening and disease modeling. Aim Induced pluripotent stem cell-derived CM (iPSC-CM) differentiation and maturation studies typically use heterogeneous substrates for growth and destructive verification methods. Reproducible, tunable substrates and touch-free monitoring are needed to identify ideal conditions to produce homogenous, functional CMs. Approach We generated synthetic polyethylene glycol-based hydrogels for iPSC-CM differentiation and maturation. Peptide concentrations, combinations, and gel stiffness were tuned independently. Label-free optical redox imaging (ORI) was performed on a widefield microscope in a 96-well screen of gel formulations. We performed live-cell imaging throughout differentiation and early to late maturation to identify key metabolic shifts. Results Label-free ORI confirmed the expected metabolic shifts toward oxidative phosphorylation throughout the differentiation and maturation processes of iPSC-CMs on synthetic hydrogels. Furthermore, ORI distinguished high and low differentiation efficiency cell batches in the cardiac progenitor stage. Conclusions We established a workflow for medium throughput screening of synthetic hydrogel conditions with the ability to perform repeated live-cell measurements and confirm expected metabolic shifts. These methods have implications for reproducible iPSC-CM generation in biomanufacturing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle E. Desa
- Morgridge Institute for Research, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
| | - Margot J. Amitrano
- University of Wisconsin-Madison, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
| | - William L. Murphy
- University of Wisconsin-Madison, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
- University of Wisconsin-Madison, Department of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
| | - Melissa C. Skala
- Morgridge Institute for Research, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
- University of Wisconsin-Madison, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
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8
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Jiang N, Tian X, Wang Q, Hao J, Jiang J, Wang H. Regulation Mechanisms and Maintenance Strategies of Stemness in Mesenchymal Stem Cells. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2024; 20:455-483. [PMID: 38010581 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-023-10658-3] [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] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
Stemness pertains to the intrinsic ability of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) to undergo self-renewal and differentiate into multiple lineages, while simultaneously impeding their differentiation and preserving crucial differentiating genes in a state of quiescence and equilibrium. Owing to their favorable attributes, including uncomplicated isolation protocols, ethical compliance, and ease of procurement, MSCs have become a focal point of inquiry in the domains of regenerative medicine and tissue engineering. As age increases or ex vivo cultivation is prolonged, the functionality of MSCs decreases and their stemness gradually diminishes, thereby limiting their potential therapeutic applications. Despite the existence of several uncertainties surrounding the comprehension of MSC stemness, considerable advancements have been achieved in the clarification of the potential mechanisms that lead to stemness loss, as well as the associated strategies for stemness maintenance. This comprehensive review provides a systematic overview of the factors influencing the preservation of MSC stemness, the molecular mechanisms governing it, the strategies for its maintenance, and the therapeutic potential associated with stemness. Finally, we underscore the obstacles and prospective avenues in present investigations, providing innovative perspectives and opportunities for the preservation and therapeutic utilization of MSC stemness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nizhou Jiang
- Central Hospital of Dalian University of Technology Department of Spine Surgery, Dalian, China
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Xiliang Tian
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Quanxiang Wang
- Hongqi Hospital Affiliated to Mudanjiang Medical University, Mudanjiang, China
| | - Jiayu Hao
- Central Hospital of Dalian University of Technology Department of Spine Surgery, Dalian, China
| | - Jian Jiang
- Central Hospital of Dalian University of Technology Department of Spine Surgery, Dalian, China.
| | - Hong Wang
- Central Hospital of Dalian University of Technology Department of Spine Surgery, Dalian, China.
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9
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Chui JS, Izuel‐Idoype T, Qualizza A, de Almeida RP, Piessens L, van der Veer BK, Vanmarcke G, Malesa A, Athanasouli P, Boon R, Vriens J, van Grunsven L, Koh KP, Verfaillie CM, Lluis F. Osmolar Modulation Drives Reversible Cell Cycle Exit and Human Pluripotent Cell Differentiation via NF-κВ and WNT Signaling. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2307554. [PMID: 38037844 PMCID: PMC10870039 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202307554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
Terminally differentiated cells are commonly regarded as the most stable cell state in adult organisms, characterized by growth arrest while fulfilling their specialized functions. A better understanding of the mechanisms involved in promoting cell cycle exit will improve the ability to differentiate pluripotent cells into mature tissues for both pharmacological and therapeutic use. Here, it demonstrates that a hyperosmolar environment enforces a protective p53-independent quiescent state in immature hepatoma cells and in pluripotent stem cell-derived models of human hepatocytes and endothelial cells. Prolonged culture in hyperosmolar conditions stimulates changes in gene expression promoting functional cell maturation. Interestingly, hyperosmolar conditions do not only trigger growth arrest and cellular maturation but are also necessary to maintain this maturated state, as switching back to plasma osmolarity reverses the changes in expression of maturation and proliferative markers. Transcriptome analysis revealed sequential stages of osmolarity-regulated growth arrest followed by cell maturation, mediated by activation of NF-κВ, and repression of WNT signaling, respectively. This study reveals that a modulated increase in osmolarity serves as a biochemical signal to promote long-term growth arrest and cellular maturation into different lineages, providing a practical method to generate differentiated hiPSCs that resemble their mature counterpart more closely.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Sai‐Hong Chui
- KU LeuvenDepartment of Development and RegenerationStem Cell InstituteHerestraat 49Leuven3000Belgium
| | - Teresa Izuel‐Idoype
- KU LeuvenDepartment of Development and RegenerationStem Cell InstituteHerestraat 49Leuven3000Belgium
| | - Alessandra Qualizza
- KU LeuvenDepartment of Development and RegenerationStem Cell InstituteHerestraat 49Leuven3000Belgium
| | - Rita Pires de Almeida
- KU LeuvenDepartment of Development and RegenerationStem Cell InstituteHerestraat 49Leuven3000Belgium
| | - Lindsey Piessens
- KU LeuvenDepartment of Development and RegenerationStem Cell InstituteHerestraat 49Leuven3000Belgium
| | - Bernard K. van der Veer
- KU LeuvenDepartment of Development and RegenerationStem Cell InstituteHerestraat 49Leuven3000Belgium
| | - Gert Vanmarcke
- KU LeuvenDepartment of Development and RegenerationStem Cell InstituteHerestraat 49Leuven3000Belgium
| | - Aneta Malesa
- KU LeuvenDepartment of Development and RegenerationStem Cell InstituteHerestraat 49Leuven3000Belgium
| | - Paraskevi Athanasouli
- KU LeuvenDepartment of Development and RegenerationStem Cell InstituteHerestraat 49Leuven3000Belgium
| | - Ruben Boon
- KU LeuvenDepartment of Development and RegenerationStem Cell InstituteHerestraat 49Leuven3000Belgium
| | - Joris Vriens
- Laboratory of Endometrium, Endometriosis and Reproductive MedicineDepartment of Development and RegenerationKU LeuvenHerestraat 49Leuven3000Belgium
| | - Leo van Grunsven
- Liver Cell Biology Research GroupVrije Universiteit BrusselLaarbeeklaan 103Brussels1090Belgium
| | - Kian Peng Koh
- KU LeuvenDepartment of Development and RegenerationStem Cell InstituteHerestraat 49Leuven3000Belgium
| | - Catherine M. Verfaillie
- KU LeuvenDepartment of Development and RegenerationStem Cell InstituteHerestraat 49Leuven3000Belgium
| | - Frederic Lluis
- KU LeuvenDepartment of Development and RegenerationStem Cell InstituteHerestraat 49Leuven3000Belgium
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10
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Cho Y, Choi Y, Seong H. Nanoscale surface coatings and topographies for neural interfaces. Acta Biomater 2024; 175:55-75. [PMID: 38141934 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2023.12.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/25/2023]
Abstract
With the lack of minimally invasive tools for probing neuronal systems across spatiotemporal scales, understanding the working mechanism of the nervous system and limited assessments available are imperative to prevent or treat neurological disorders. In particular, nanoengineered neural interfaces can provide a solution to this technological barrier. This review covers recent surface engineering approaches, including nanoscale surface coatings, and a range of topographies from the microscale to the nanoscale, primarily focusing on neural-interfaced biosystems. Specifically, the immobilization of bioactive molecules to fertilize the neural cell lineage, topographical engineering to induce mechanotransduction in neural cells, and enhanced cell-chip coupling using three-dimensional structured surfaces are highlighted. Advances in neural interface design will help us understand the nervous system, thereby achieving the effective treatments for neurological disorders. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: • This review focuses on designing bioactive neural interface with a nanoscale chemical modification and topographical engineering at multiscale perspective. • Versatile nanoscale surface coatings and topographies for neural interface are summarized. • Recent advances in bioactive materials applicable for neural cell culture, electrophysiological sensing, and neural implants are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Younghak Cho
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Yunyoung Choi
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, Republic of Korea; Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyejeong Seong
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, Republic of Korea; Division of Bio-Medical Science and Technology, KIST School, Korea University of Science and Technology (UST), Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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11
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Castro Nava A, Doolaar IC, Labude-Weber N, Malyaran H, Babu S, Chandorkar Y, Di Russo J, Neuss S, De Laporte L. Actuation of Soft Thermoresponsive Hydrogels Mechanically Stimulates Osteogenesis in Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells without Biochemical Factors. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024; 16:30-43. [PMID: 38150508 PMCID: PMC10789260 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c11808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have the potential to differentiate into multiple lineages and can be harvested relatively easily from adults, making them a promising cell source for regenerative therapies. While it is well-known how to consistently differentiate MSCs into adipose, chondrogenic, and osteogenic lineages by treatment with biochemical factors, the number of studies exploring how to achieve this with mechanical signals is limited. A relatively unexplored area is the effect of cyclic forces on the MSC differentiation. Recently, our group developed a thermoresponsive N-ethyl acrylamide/N-isopropylacrylamide (NIPAM/NEAM) hydrogel supplemented with gold nanorods that are able to convert near-infrared light into heat. Using light pulses allows for local hydrogel collapse and swelling with physiologically relevant force and frequency. In this study, MSCs are cultured on this hydrogel system with a patterned surface and exposed to intermittent or continuous actuation of the hydrogel for 3 days to study the effect of actuation on MSC differentiation. First, cells are harvested from the bone marrow of three donors and tested for their MSC phenotype, meeting the following criteria: the harvested cells are adherent and demonstrate a fibroblast-like bipolar morphology. They lack the expression of CD34 and CD45 but do express CD73, CD90, and CD105. Additionally, their differentiation potential into adipogenic, chondrogenic, and osteogenic lineages is validated by the addition of standardized differentiation media. Next, MSCs are exposed to intermittent or continuous actuation, which leads to a significantly enhanced cell spreading compared to nonactuated cells. Moreover, actuation results in nuclear translocation of Runt-related transcription factor 2 and the Yes-associated protein. Together, these results indicate that cyclic mechanical stimulation on a soft, ridged substrate modulates the MSC fate commitment in the direction of osteogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arturo Castro Nava
- DWI—Leibniz
Institute for Interactive Materials, Forckenbeckstrasse 50, Aachen D-52074, Germany
- Institute
for Technical and Macromolecular Chemistry, RWTH Aachen University, Worringerweg 1-2, Aachen D-52074, Germany
| | - Iris C. Doolaar
- DWI—Leibniz
Institute for Interactive Materials, Forckenbeckstrasse 50, Aachen D-52074, Germany
- Institute
for Technical and Macromolecular Chemistry, RWTH Aachen University, Worringerweg 1-2, Aachen D-52074, Germany
| | - Norina Labude-Weber
- Helmholtz
Institute for Biomedical Engineering, BioInterface Group, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelsstrasse 20, Aachen D-52074, Germany
| | - Hanna Malyaran
- Helmholtz
Institute for Biomedical Engineering, BioInterface Group, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelsstrasse 20, Aachen D-52074, Germany
- Interdisciplinary
Centre for Clinical Research, RWTH Aachen
University, Pauwelsstrasse
30, Aachen D-52074, Germany
| | - Susan Babu
- DWI—Leibniz
Institute for Interactive Materials, Forckenbeckstrasse 50, Aachen D-52074, Germany
- Institute
for Technical and Macromolecular Chemistry, RWTH Aachen University, Worringerweg 1-2, Aachen D-52074, Germany
| | - Yashoda Chandorkar
- DWI—Leibniz
Institute for Interactive Materials, Forckenbeckstrasse 50, Aachen D-52074, Germany
| | - Jacopo Di Russo
- DWI—Leibniz
Institute for Interactive Materials, Forckenbeckstrasse 50, Aachen D-52074, Germany
- Interdisciplinary
Centre for Clinical Research, RWTH Aachen
University, Pauwelsstrasse
30, Aachen D-52074, Germany
- Institute
of Molecular and Cellular Anatomy, RWTH
Aachen University, Pauwelsstrasse
30, Aachen D-52074, Germany
| | - Sabine Neuss
- Helmholtz
Institute for Biomedical Engineering, BioInterface Group, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelsstrasse 20, Aachen D-52074, Germany
- Institute
of Pathology, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Pauwelsstrasse 30, Aachen D-52074, Germany
| | - Laura De Laporte
- DWI—Leibniz
Institute for Interactive Materials, Forckenbeckstrasse 50, Aachen D-52074, Germany
- Institute
for Technical and Macromolecular Chemistry, RWTH Aachen University, Worringerweg 1-2, Aachen D-52074, Germany
- Institute
of Applied Medical Engineering, Department of Advanced Materials for
Biomedicine, RWTH Aachen University, Forckenbeckstraße 55, Aachen D-52074, Germany
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12
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Dhanjal DS, Singh R, Sharma V, Nepovimova E, Adam V, Kuca K, Chopra C. Advances in Genetic Reprogramming: Prospects from Developmental Biology to Regenerative Medicine. Curr Med Chem 2024; 31:1646-1690. [PMID: 37138422 DOI: 10.2174/0929867330666230503144619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2022] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
The foundations of cell reprogramming were laid by Yamanaka and co-workers, who showed that somatic cells can be reprogrammed into pluripotent cells (induced pluripotency). Since this discovery, the field of regenerative medicine has seen advancements. For example, because they can differentiate into multiple cell types, pluripotent stem cells are considered vital components in regenerative medicine aimed at the functional restoration of damaged tissue. Despite years of research, both replacement and restoration of failed organs/ tissues have remained elusive scientific feats. However, with the inception of cell engineering and nuclear reprogramming, useful solutions have been identified to counter the need for compatible and sustainable organs. By combining the science underlying genetic engineering and nuclear reprogramming with regenerative medicine, scientists have engineered cells to make gene and stem cell therapies applicable and effective. These approaches have enabled the targeting of various pathways to reprogramme cells, i.e., make them behave in beneficial ways in a patient-specific manner. Technological advancements have clearly supported the concept and realization of regenerative medicine. Genetic engineering is used for tissue engineering and nuclear reprogramming and has led to advances in regenerative medicine. Targeted therapies and replacement of traumatized , damaged, or aged organs can be realized through genetic engineering. Furthermore, the success of these therapies has been validated through thousands of clinical trials. Scientists are currently evaluating induced tissue-specific stem cells (iTSCs), which may lead to tumour-free applications of pluripotency induction. In this review, we present state-of-the-art genetic engineering that has been used in regenerative medicine. We also focus on ways that genetic engineering and nuclear reprogramming have transformed regenerative medicine and have become unique therapeutic niches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daljeet Singh Dhanjal
- School of Bioengineering and Biosciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab, India
| | - Reena Singh
- School of Bioengineering and Biosciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab, India
| | - Varun Sharma
- Head of Bioinformatic Division, NMC Genetics India Pvt. Ltd., Gurugram, India
| | - Eugenie Nepovimova
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, 50003, Czech Republic
| | - Vojtech Adam
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Mendel University in Brno, Zemedelska 1, Brno, CZ 613 00, Czech Republic
- Central European Institute of Technology, Brno University of Technology, Purkynova 123, Brno, CZ-612 00, Czech Republic
| | - Kamil Kuca
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, 50003, Czech Republic
- Biomedical Research Center, University Hospital Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, 50005, Czech Republic
| | - Chirag Chopra
- School of Bioengineering and Biosciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab, India
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13
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Murugan NJ, Cariba S, Abeygunawardena S, Rouleau N, Payne SL. Biophysical control of plasticity and patterning in regeneration and cancer. Cell Mol Life Sci 2023; 81:9. [PMID: 38099951 PMCID: PMC10724343 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-023-05054-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
Cells and tissues display a remarkable range of plasticity and tissue-patterning activities that are emergent of complex signaling dynamics within their microenvironments. These properties, which when operating normally guide embryogenesis and regeneration, become highly disordered in diseases such as cancer. While morphogens and other molecular factors help determine the shapes of tissues and their patterned cellular organization, the parallel contributions of biophysical control mechanisms must be considered to accurately predict and model important processes such as growth, maturation, injury, repair, and senescence. We now know that mechanical, optical, electric, and electromagnetic signals are integral to cellular plasticity and tissue patterning. Because biophysical modalities underly interactions between cells and their extracellular matrices, including cell cycle, metabolism, migration, and differentiation, their applications as tuning dials for regenerative and anti-cancer therapies are being rapidly exploited. Despite this, the importance of cellular communication through biophysical signaling remains disproportionately underrepresented in the literature. Here, we provide a review of biophysical signaling modalities and known mechanisms that initiate, modulate, or inhibit plasticity and tissue patterning in models of regeneration and cancer. We also discuss current approaches in biomedical engineering that harness biophysical control mechanisms to model, characterize, diagnose, and treat disease states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nirosha J Murugan
- Department of Health Sciences, Wilfrid Laurier University, Waterloo, ON, Canada.
- Allen Discovery Center, Tufts University, Medford, MA, USA.
| | - Solsa Cariba
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | | | - Nicolas Rouleau
- Department of Health Sciences, Wilfrid Laurier University, Waterloo, ON, Canada
- Allen Discovery Center, Tufts University, Medford, MA, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, MA, USA
| | - Samantha L Payne
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
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14
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Rosalia M, Giacomini M, Tottoli EM, Dorati R, Bruni G, Genta I, Chiesa E, Pisani S, Sampaolesi M, Conti B. Investigation on Electrospun and Solvent-Casted PCL-PLGA Blends Scaffolds Embedded with Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells for Tissue Engineering. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2736. [PMID: 38140077 PMCID: PMC10747843 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15122736] [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: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The design, production, and characterisation of tissue-engineered scaffolds made of polylactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA), polycaprolactone (PCL) and their blends obtained through electrospinning (ES) or solvent casting/particulate leaching (SC) manufacturing techniques are presented here. The polymer blend composition was chosen to always obtain a prevalence of one of the two polymers, in order to investigate the contribution of the less concentrated polymer on the scaffolds' properties. Physical-chemical characterization of ES scaffolds demonstrated that tailoring of fibre diameter and Young modulus (YM) was possible by controlling PCL concentration in PLGA-based blends, increasing the fibre diameter from 0.6 to 1.0 µm and reducing the YM from about 22 to 9 MPa. SC scaffolds showed a "bubble-like" topography, caused by the porogen spherical particles, which is responsible for decreasing the contact angles from about 110° in ES scaffolds to about 74° in SC specimens. Nevertheless, due to phase separation within the blend, solvent-casted samples displayed less reproducible properties. Furthermore, ES samples were characterised by 10-fold higher water uptake than SC scaffolds. The scaffolds suitability as iPSCs culturing support was evaluated using XTT assay, and pluripotency and integrin gene expression were investigated using RT-PCR and RT-qPCR. Thanks to their higher wettability and appropriate YM, SC scaffolds seemed to be superior in ensuring high cell viability over 5 days, whereas the ability to maintain iPSCs pluripotency status was found to be similar for ES and SC scaffolds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariella Rosalia
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Pavia, Viale Taramelli 12, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (M.R.); (M.G.); (E.M.T.); (R.D.); (I.G.); (E.C.); (S.P.)
| | - Martina Giacomini
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Pavia, Viale Taramelli 12, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (M.R.); (M.G.); (E.M.T.); (R.D.); (I.G.); (E.C.); (S.P.)
| | - Erika Maria Tottoli
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Pavia, Viale Taramelli 12, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (M.R.); (M.G.); (E.M.T.); (R.D.); (I.G.); (E.C.); (S.P.)
| | - Rossella Dorati
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Pavia, Viale Taramelli 12, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (M.R.); (M.G.); (E.M.T.); (R.D.); (I.G.); (E.C.); (S.P.)
| | - Giovanna Bruni
- Consorzio Interuniversitario per lo Sviluppo dei Sistemi a Grande Interfase (C.S.G.I.), Department of Chemistry, Physical Chemistry Section, University of Pavia, Via Taramelli 10, 27100 Pavia, Italy;
| | - Ida Genta
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Pavia, Viale Taramelli 12, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (M.R.); (M.G.); (E.M.T.); (R.D.); (I.G.); (E.C.); (S.P.)
| | - Enrica Chiesa
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Pavia, Viale Taramelli 12, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (M.R.); (M.G.); (E.M.T.); (R.D.); (I.G.); (E.C.); (S.P.)
| | - Silvia Pisani
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Pavia, Viale Taramelli 12, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (M.R.); (M.G.); (E.M.T.); (R.D.); (I.G.); (E.C.); (S.P.)
| | - Maurilio Sampaolesi
- Translational Cardiomyology Laboratory, Head Unit of Stem Cell and Developmental Biology (SCDB), Head Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, ON4 Herestraat 49, Box 804, 3000 Leuven, Belgium;
| | - Bice Conti
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Pavia, Viale Taramelli 12, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (M.R.); (M.G.); (E.M.T.); (R.D.); (I.G.); (E.C.); (S.P.)
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15
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Guidotti G, Duelen R, Bloise N, Soccio M, Gazzano M, Aluigi A, Visai L, Sampaolesi M, Lotti N. The ad hoc chemical design of random PBS-based copolymers influences the activation of cardiac differentiation while altering the HYPPO pathway target genes in hiPSCs. BIOMATERIALS ADVANCES 2023; 154:213583. [PMID: 37604040 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioadv.2023.213583] [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: 04/22/2023] [Revised: 07/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023]
Abstract
Cardiac tissue engineering is a cutting-edge technology aiming to replace irreversibly damaged cardiac tissue and restore contractile functionality. However, cardiac tissue engineering porous and perfusable scaffolds to enable oxygen supply in vitro and eventually promote angiogenesis in vivo are still desirable. Two fully-aliphatic random copolymers of poly(butylene succinate) (PBS), poly(butylene succinate/Pripol), P(BSBPripol), and poly(butylene/neopentyl glycol succinate), P(BSNS), containing two different subunits, neopentyl glycol and Pripol 1009, were successfully synthesized and then electrospun in tridimentional fibrous mats. The copolymers show different thermal and mechanical behaviours as result of their chemical structure. In particular, copolymerization led to a reduction in crystallinity and consequently PBS stiffness, reaching values of elastic modulus very close to those of soft tissues. Then, to check the biological suitability, human induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (hiPSCs) were directly seeded on both PBS-based copolymeric scaffolds. The results confirmed the ability of both the scaffolds to sustain cell viability and to maintain their stemness during cell expansion. Furthermore, gene expression and immunofluorescence analysis showed that P(BSBPripol) scaffold promoted an upregulation of the early cardiac progenitor and later-stage markers with a simultaneously upregulation of HYPPO pathway gene expression, crucial for mechanosensing of cardiac progenitor cells. These results suggest that the correct ad-hoc chemical design and, in turn, the mechanical properties of the matrix, such as substrate stiffness, together with surface porosity, play a critical role in regulating the behaviour of cardiac progenitors, which ultimately offers valuable insights into the development of novel bio-inspired scaffolds for cardiac tissue regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Guidotti
- Department of Civil, Chemical, Environmental and Materials Engineering, University of Bologna, Via Terracini 28, 40131 Bologna, Italy
| | - Robin Duelen
- Translational Cardiomyology Laboratory, Stem Cell Biology and Embryology, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Nora Bloise
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Centre for Health Technologies (CHT), INSTM UdR of Pavia, University of Pavia, Viale Taramelli 3/B, 27100 Pavia, Italy; Medicina Clinica-Specialistica, UOR5 Laboratorio di Nanotecnologie, ICS Maugeri, IRCCS, Via Salvatore Maugeri 4, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Michelina Soccio
- Department of Civil, Chemical, Environmental and Materials Engineering, University of Bologna, Via Terracini 28, 40131 Bologna, Italy
| | - Massimo Gazzano
- Organic Synthesis and Photoreactivity Institute, CNR, Via Gobetti 101, 40129 Bologna, Italy
| | - Annalisa Aluigi
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Piazza del Rinascimento, 6, 61029 Urbino, (PU), Italy
| | - Livia Visai
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Centre for Health Technologies (CHT), INSTM UdR of Pavia, University of Pavia, Viale Taramelli 3/B, 27100 Pavia, Italy; Medicina Clinica-Specialistica, UOR5 Laboratorio di Nanotecnologie, ICS Maugeri, IRCCS, Via Salvatore Maugeri 4, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Maurilio Sampaolesi
- Translational Cardiomyology Laboratory, Stem Cell Biology and Embryology, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Histology and Medical Embryology Unit, Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedics, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
| | - Nadia Lotti
- Department of Civil, Chemical, Environmental and Materials Engineering, University of Bologna, Via Terracini 28, 40131 Bologna, Italy.
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16
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Hodge JG, Robinson JL, Mellott AJ. Mesenchymal Stem Cell Extracellular Vesicles from Tissue-Mimetic System Enhance Epidermal Regeneration via Formation of Migratory Cell Sheets. Tissue Eng Regen Med 2023; 20:993-1013. [PMID: 37515738 PMCID: PMC10519905 DOI: 10.1007/s13770-023-00565-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/31/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The secretome of adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ASCs) offers a unique approach to understanding and treating wounds, including the critical process of epidermal regeneration orchestrated by keratinocytes. However, 2D culture techniques drastically alter the secretory dynamics of ASCs, which has led to ambiguity in understanding which secreted compounds (e.g., growth factors, exosomes, reactive oxygen species) may be driving epithelialization. METHODS A novel tissue-mimetic 3D hydrogel system was utilized to enhance the retainment of a more regenerative ASC phenotype and highlight the functional secretome differences between 2D and 3D. Subsequently, the ASC-secretome was stratified by molecular weight and the presence/absence of extracellular vesicles (EVs). The ASC-secretome fractions were then evaluated to assess for the capacity to augment specific keratinocyte activities. RESULTS Culture of ASCs within the tissue-mimetic system enhanced protein secretion ~ 50%, exclusively coming from the > 100 kDa fraction. The ASC-secretome ability to modulate epithelialization functions, including migration, proliferation, differentiation, and morphology, resided within the "> 100 kDa" fraction, with the 3D ASC-secretome providing the greatest improvement. 3D ASC EV secretion was enhanced two-fold and exhibited dose-dependent effects on epidermal regeneration. Notably, ASC-EVs induced morphological changes in keratinocytes reminiscent of native regeneration, including formation of stratified cell sheets. However, only 3D-EVs promoted collective cell sheet migration and an epithelial-to-mesenchymal-like transition in keratinocytes, whereas 2D-EVs contained an anti-migratory stimulus. CONCLUSION This study demonstrates how critical the culture environment is on influencing ASC-secretome regenerative capabilities. Additionally, the critical role of EVs in modulating epidermal regeneration is revealed and their translatability for future clinical therapies is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob G Hodge
- Bioengineering Graduate Program, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, USA
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University of Kansas Medical Center, 3901 Rainbow Blvd., Mail Stop: 3051, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | - Jennifer L Robinson
- Bioengineering Graduate Program, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, USA
- Department of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, USA
- Department of Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Adam J Mellott
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University of Kansas Medical Center, 3901 Rainbow Blvd., Mail Stop: 3051, Kansas City, KS, USA.
- Ronawk Inc., Olathe, KS, USA.
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17
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Huang X, Xing Y, Cui Y, Ji B, Ding B, Zhong J, Jiu Y. Actomyosin-dependent cell contractility orchestrates Zika virus infection. J Cell Sci 2023; 136:jcs261301. [PMID: 37622381 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.261301] [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: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Emerging pathogen infections, such as Zika virus (ZIKV), pose an increasing threat to human health, but the role of mechanobiological attributes of host cells during ZIKV infection is largely unknown. Here, we reveal that ZIKV infection leads to increased contractility of host cells. Importantly, we investigated whether host cell contractility contributes to ZIKV infection efficacy, from both the intracellular and extracellular perspective. By performing drug perturbation and gene editing experiments, we confirmed that disruption of contractile actomyosin compromises ZIKV infection efficiency, viral genome replication and viral particle production. By culturing on compliant matrix, we further demonstrate that a softer substrate, leading to less contractility of host cells, compromises ZIKV infection, which resembles the effects of disrupting intracellular actomyosin organization. Together, our work provides evidence to support a positive correlation between host cell contractility and ZIKV infection efficacy, thus unveiling an unprecedented layer of interplay between ZIKV and the host cell.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyi Huang
- Guangzhou Institute of Pediatrics, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510623, China
- Unit of Cell Biology and Imaging Study of Pathogen Host Interaction, The Center for Microbes, Development and Health, Key Laboratory of Molecular Virology and Immunology, Shanghai Institute of Immunity and Infection, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Yifan Xing
- Unit of Viral Hepatitis, Key Laboratory of Molecular Virology and Immunology, Institut Pasteur of Shanghai, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Yuquan Road No. 19(A), Shijingshan District, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yanqin Cui
- Guangzhou Institute of Pediatrics, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510623, China
| | - Baohua Ji
- Biomechanics and Mechanomedicine Laboratory, Department of Engineering Mechanics, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Binbin Ding
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Jin Zhong
- Unit of Viral Hepatitis, Key Laboratory of Molecular Virology and Immunology, Institut Pasteur of Shanghai, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Yuquan Road No. 19(A), Shijingshan District, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yaming Jiu
- Unit of Cell Biology and Imaging Study of Pathogen Host Interaction, The Center for Microbes, Development and Health, Key Laboratory of Molecular Virology and Immunology, Shanghai Institute of Immunity and Infection, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Yuquan Road No. 19(A), Shijingshan District, Beijing 100049, China
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18
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Donnaloja F, Raimondi MT, Messa L, Barzaghini B, Carnevali F, Colombo E, Mazza D, Martinelli C, Boeri L, Rey F, Cereda C, Osellame R, Cerullo G, Carelli S, Soncini M, Jacchetti E. 3D photopolymerized microstructured scaffolds influence nuclear deformation, nucleo/cytoskeletal protein organization, and gene regulation in mesenchymal stem cells. APL Bioeng 2023; 7:036112. [PMID: 37692376 PMCID: PMC10491463 DOI: 10.1063/5.0153215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Mechanical stimuli from the extracellular environment affect cell morphology and functionality. Recently, we reported that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) grown in a custom-made 3D microscaffold, the Nichoid, are able to express higher levels of stemness markers. In fact, the Nichoid is an interesting device for autologous MSC expansion in clinical translation and would appear to regulate gene activity by altering intracellular force transmission. To corroborate this hypothesis, we investigated mechanotransduction-related nuclear mechanisms, and we also treated spread cells with a drug that destroys the actin cytoskeleton. We observed a roundish nuclear shape in MSCs cultured in the Nichoid and correlated the nuclear curvature with the import of transcription factors. We observed a more homogeneous euchromatin distribution in cells cultured in the Nichoid with respect to the Flat sample, corresponding to a standard glass coverslip. These results suggest a different gene regulation, which we confirmed by an RNA-seq analysis that revealed the dysregulation of 1843 genes. We also observed a low structured lamina mesh, which, according to the implemented molecular dynamic simulations, indicates reduced damping activity, thus supporting the hypothesis of low intracellular force transmission. Also, our investigations regarding lamin expression and spatial organization support the hypothesis that the gene dysregulation induced by the Nichoid is mainly related to a reduction in force transmission. In conclusion, our findings revealing the Nichoid's effects on MSC behavior is a step forward in the control of stem cells via mechanical manipulation, thus paving the way to new strategies for MSC translation to clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Donnaloja
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering “Giulio Natta,” Politecnico di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Manuela Teresa Raimondi
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering “Giulio Natta,” Politecnico di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Bianca Barzaghini
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering “Giulio Natta,” Politecnico di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Federica Carnevali
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering “Giulio Natta,” Politecnico di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Davide Mazza
- Istituto Scientifico Ospedale San Raffaele, Centro di Imaging Sperimentale, Milan, Italy
| | - Chiara Martinelli
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering “Giulio Natta,” Politecnico di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Lucia Boeri
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering “Giulio Natta,” Politecnico di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Federica Rey
- Pediatric Research Center “Romeo ed Enrica Invernizzi,” Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Cristina Cereda
- Center of Functional Genomic and Rare Diseases, “V. Buzzi” Children's Hospital, 20154 Milan, Italy
| | - Roberto Osellame
- Institute for Photonics and Nanotechnologies—CNR, and Physics Department, Politecnico di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Giulio Cerullo
- Institute for Photonics and Nanotechnologies—CNR, and Physics Department, Politecnico di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Monica Soncini
- Department of Electronics, Information and Bioengineering, Politecnico di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Emanuela Jacchetti
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering “Giulio Natta,” Politecnico di Milano, Milan, Italy
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19
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Mereness JA, Piraino L, Chen CY, Moyston T, Song Y, Shubin A, DeLouise LA, Ovitt CE, Benoit DSW. Slow hydrogel matrix degradation enhances salivary gland mimetic phenotype. Acta Biomater 2023; 166:187-200. [PMID: 37150277 PMCID: PMC10330445 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2023.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
We recently developed a salivary gland tissue mimetic (SGm), comprised of salivary gland cells encapsulated in matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-degradable poly(ethylene glycol) hydrogels within arrays of ∼320 µm diameter spherical cavities molded in PDMS. The SGm provides a functional and physiologically relevant platform well-suited to high-throughput drug screening for radioprotective compounds. However, the utility of the SGm would benefit from improved retention of acinar cell phenotype and function. We hypothesized that tuning biochemical cues presented within the PEG hydrogel matrix would improve maintenance of acinar cell phenotype and function by mimicking the natural extracellular matrix microenvironment of the intact gland. Hydrogels formed using slower-degrading MMP-sensitive peptide crosslinkers showed >2-fold increase in sphere number formed at 48 h, increased expression of acinar cell markers, and more robust response to calcium stimulation by the secretory agonist, carbachol, with reduced SGm tissue cluster disruption and outgrowth during prolonged culture. The incorporation of adhesive peptides containing RGD or IKVAV improved calcium flux response to secretory agonists at 14 days of culture. Tuning the hydrogel matrix improved cell aggregation, and promoted acinar cell phenotype, and stability of the SGm over 14 days of culture. Furthermore, combining this matrix with optimized media conditions synergistically prolonged the retention of the acinar cell phenotype in SGm. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Salivary gland (SG) dysfunction occurs due to off-target radiation due to head and neck cancer treatments. Progress in understanding gland dysfunction and developing therapeutic strategies for the SG are hampered by the lack of in vitro models, as salivary gland cells rapidly lose critical secretory function within 24 hours in vitro. Herein, we identify properties of poly(ethylene glycol) hydrogel matrices that enhance the secretory phenotype of SG tissue mimetics within the previously-described SG-microbubble tissue chip environment. Combining slow-degrading hydrogels with media conditions optimized for secretory marker expression further enhanced functional secretory response and secretory marker expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jared A Mereness
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Rochester, United States
| | - Lindsay Piraino
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Rochester, United States; Department of Dermatology, University of Rochester, United States; Materials Science Program, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Chiao Yun Chen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Rochester, United States
| | - Tracey Moyston
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Rochester, United States
| | - Yuanhui Song
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Rochester, United States; Knight Campus Department of Bioengineering, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY, United States
| | - Andrew Shubin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Rochester, United States; Department of General Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Lisa A DeLouise
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Rochester, United States; Department of Dermatology, University of Rochester, United States; Materials Science Program, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Catherine E Ovitt
- Department of Biomedical Genetics, University of Rochester, United States
| | - Danielle S W Benoit
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Rochester, United States; Department of Dermatology, University of Rochester, United States; Materials Science Program, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, United States; Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Rochester, United States; Center for Musculoskeletal Research, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, United States; Knight Campus Bioengineering Department, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, United States.
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20
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Hodge JG, Robinson JL, Mellott AJ. Tailoring the secretome composition of mesenchymal stem cells to augment specific functions of epidermal regeneration: an in vitro diabetic model. FRONTIERS IN MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY 2023; 5:1194314. [PMID: 37378005 PMCID: PMC10291509 DOI: 10.3389/fmedt.2023.1194314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Wound healing consists of a dynamic series of events that are highly dependent on paracrine factors for proper progression through the phases of wound healing. Inappropriate progression through the phases is associated with insufficient epidermal regeneration (i.e., re-epithelialization) of wounds and subsequent propagation of chronic wounds, such as diabetic ulcers, which are associated with increased patient morbidity. Recently, investigation into the dynamic secretome of Adipose-derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells (ASCs), have shown promise in augmenting the wound healing response of chronic diabetic wounds. However, currently utilized 2D culture techniques are known to drastically alter the regenerative phenotype of ASCs. In this study a novel tissue-mimetic 3D system was utilized as a means to culture ASCs. Methods The capacity for the ASC secretome to augment epidermal regeneration activity was then evaluated after exposure of ASCs to "wound priming stimuli" in 2D and 3D. The priming stimuli consisted of coating the 2D and 3D systems with the wound matrix proteins, collagen type I, fibronectin, and fibrin. To understand the potential benefit of the ASC secretome in the context of diabetic wounds, keratinocytes (KCs) were exposed to super-physiological glucose levels to induce a diabetic-like phenotype (idKCs). Results Relative to KCs, idKC exhibited a 52% and 23% decline in proliferation and migration, respectively. Subsequently, analyses of the ASC secretome were performed. ASC conditioned media (ASC-CM) from tissue-mimetic culture demonstrated a > 50% increase secretion of proteins and a 2-fold increase in secreted EVs, relative to 2D culture. Interestingly, the different priming stimuli did not alter the total amount of protein or EVs secreted within the tissue-mimetic system. However, evaluation of specific soluble proteins via ELISA revealed significant differences in key epidermal regeneration factors, such as EGF, IGF-1, FGF-2, MMP-1, TIMP-1, and TGFβ-1. Additionally, the relative effect of ASC-EVs from the 2D and 3D system on idKCs epidermal regeneration functionality varied significantly, with EVs from 3D-Collagen culture providing the most significant benefit on idKC activity. Discussion Together, these data support the utilization of tissue-mimetic culture system to enhance the adaptability and secretory activity of MSC-like populations in order to generate tailored biologics, via priming stimuli, for specific wound healing applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob G. Hodge
- Bioengineering Graduate Program, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, United States
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, United States
| | - Jennifer L. Robinson
- Bioengineering Graduate Program, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, United States
- Department of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, United States
- Department of Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Adam J. Mellott
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, United States
- Ronawk Inc., Olathe, KS, United States
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21
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Jetta D, Shireen T, Hua SZ. Epithelial cells sense local stiffness via Piezo1 mediated cytoskeletal reorganization. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1198109. [PMID: 37293127 PMCID: PMC10244755 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1198109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Local substrate stiffness is one of the major mechanical inputs for tissue organization during its development and remodeling. It is widely recognized that adherent cells use transmembrane proteins (integrins) at focal adhesions to translate ECM mechanical cues into intracellular bioprocess. Here we show that epithelial cells respond to substrate stiffening primarily via actin cytoskeleton organization, that requires activation of mechanosensitive Piezo1 channels. Piezo1 Knockdown cells eliminated the actin stress fibers that formed on stiff substrates, while it had minimal effect on cell morphology and spreading area. Inhibition of Piezo1 channels with GsMTx4 also significantly reduced stiffness-induced F-actin reorganization, suggesting Piezo1 mediated cation current plays a role. Activation of Piezo1 channels with specific agonist (Yoda1) resulted in thickening of F-actin fibers and enlargement of FAs on stiffer substrates, whereas it did not affect the formation of nascent FAs that facilitate spreading on the soft substrates. These results demonstrate that Piezo1 functions as a force sensor that couples with actin cytoskeleton to distinguish the substrate stiffness and facilitate epithelial adaptive remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deekshitha Jetta
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, United States
| | - Tasnim Shireen
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, United States
| | - Susan Z. Hua
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, United States
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, United States
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22
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Miyoshi H, Yamazaki M, Fujie H, Kidoaki S. Guideline for design of substrate stiffness for mesenchymal stem cell culture based on heterogeneity of YAP and RUNX2 responses. Biophys Physicobiol 2023; 20:e200018. [PMID: 38496240 PMCID: PMC10941962 DOI: 10.2142/biophysico.bppb-v20.0018] [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: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have the potential for self-renewal and multipotency to differentiate into various lineages. Thus, they are of great interest in regenerative medicine as a cell source for tissue engineering. Substrate stiffness is one of the most extensively studied exogenous physical factors; however, consistent results have not always been reported for controlling MSCs. Conventionally used stiff culture substrates, such as tissue-culture polystyrene and glass, enhance nuclear localization of a mechanotransducer YAP and a pre-osteogenic transcription factor RUNX2, and bias MSCs towards the osteogenic lineage, even without osteogenic-inducing soluble factors. The mechanosensitive nature and intrinsic heterogeneity present challenges for obtaining reproducible results. This review summarizes the heterogeneity in human MSC response, specifically, nuclear/cytoplasmic localization changes in the mechanotransducer yes-associated protein (YAP) and the osteogenic transcription factor RUNX2, in response to substrate stiffness. In addition, a perspective on the intracellular factors attributed to response heterogeneity is discussed. The optimal range of stiffness parameters, Young's modulus, for MSC expansion culture to suppress osteogenic differentiation bias through the suppression of YAP and RUNX2 nuclear localization, and cell cycle progression is likely to be surprisingly narrow for a cell population from an identical donor and vary among cell populations from different donors. We believe that characterization of the heterogeneity of MSCs and understanding their biological meaning is an exciting research direction to establish guidelines for the design of culture substrates for the sophisticated control of MSC properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiromi Miyoshi
- Department of Mechanical Systems Engineering, Graduate School of Systems Design, Tokyo Metropolitan University, Hachioji, Tokyo 192-0397, Japan
| | - Masashi Yamazaki
- Department of Mechanical Systems Engineering, Graduate School of Systems Design, Tokyo Metropolitan University, Hachioji, Tokyo 192-0397, Japan
| | - Hiromichi Fujie
- Department of Mechanical Systems Engineering, Graduate School of Systems Design, Tokyo Metropolitan University, Hachioji, Tokyo 192-0397, Japan
| | - Satoru Kidoaki
- Institute for Materials Chemistry and Engineering, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan
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23
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Pittokopitou S, Mavrogianni D, Pergialiotis V, Pappa KI, Antsaklis P, Theodora M, Sindos M, Papapanagiotou A, Domali A, Stavros S, Drakakis P, Daskalakis G. Expression of Stemness Markers in the Cervical Smear of Patients with Cervical Insufficiency. Cells 2023; 12:cells12081183. [PMID: 37190092 DOI: 10.3390/cells12081183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The presence of stem cells has been previously described in human precancerous and malignant cervical cultures. Previous studies have shown a direct interplay of the stem cell niche, which is present in practically every tissue with the extracellular matrix. In the present study, we sought to determine the expression of stemness markers in cytological specimens collected from the ectocervix among women with cervical insufficiency during the second trimester of pregnancy and women with normal cervical length. A prospective cohort of 59 women was enrolled of whom 41 were diagnosed with cervical insufficiency. The expression of OCT-4 and NANOG was higher in the cervical insufficiency group compared to the control group (-5.03 (-6.27, -3.72) vs. -5.81 (-7.67, -5.02) p = 0.040 for OCT4) and (-7.47 (-8.78, -6.27) vs. -8.5 (-10.75, -7.14), p = 0.035 for NANOG. Differences in the DAZL gene were not significantly different (5.94 (4.82, 7.14) vs. 6.98 (5.87, 7.43) p = 0.097). Pearson correlation analysis indicated the existence of a moderate correlation of OCT-4 and Nanog with cervical length. Considering this information, the enhanced activity of stemness biomarkers among pregnant women diagnosed with cervical insufficiency may be predisposed to cervical insufficiency, and its predictive accuracy remains to be noted in larger population sizes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Savvia Pittokopitou
- 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Alexandra Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Despina Mavrogianni
- 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Alexandra Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Vasilios Pergialiotis
- 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Alexandra Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Kalliopi I Pappa
- 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Alexandra Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Panagiotis Antsaklis
- 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Alexandra Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Marianna Theodora
- 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Alexandra Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Michail Sindos
- 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Alexandra Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Angeliki Papapanagiotou
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrial University of Athens, 11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Aikaterini Domali
- 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Alexandra Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Sofoklis Stavros
- 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Alexandra Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Peter Drakakis
- 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Alexandra Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11528 Athens, Greece
| | - George Daskalakis
- 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Alexandra Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11528 Athens, Greece
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24
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Kornmuller A, Cooper TT, Jani A, Lajoie GA, Flynn LE. Probing the effects of matrix-derived microcarrier composition on human adipose-derived stromal cells cultured dynamically within spinner flask bioreactors. J Biomed Mater Res A 2023; 111:415-434. [PMID: 36210786 DOI: 10.1002/jbm.a.37459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Revised: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Recognizing the cell-instructive capacity of the extracellular matrix (ECM), this study investigated the effects of expanding human adipose-derived stromal cells (hASCs) on ECM-derived microcarriers fabricated from decellularized adipose tissue (DAT) or decellularized cartilage tissue (DCT) within spinner flask bioreactors. Protocols were established for decellularizing porcine auricular cartilage and electrospraying methods were used to generate microcarriers comprised exclusively of DAT or DCT, which were compositionally distinct, but had matching Young's moduli. Both microcarrier types supported hASC attachment and growth over 14 days within a low-shear spinner culture system, with a significantly higher cell density observed on the DCT microcarriers at 7 and 14 days. Irrespective of the ECM source, dynamic culture on the microcarriers altered the expression of genes and proteins associated with cell adhesion and ECM remodeling. Label-free mass spectrometry analysis showed upregulation of proteins associated with cartilage development and ECM in the hASCs expanded on the DCT microcarriers. Based on Luminex analysis, the hASCs expanded on the DCT microcarriers secreted significantly higher levels of IL-8 and PDGFAA, supporting that the ECM source can modulate hASC paracrine factor secretion. Finally, the hASCs expanded on the microcarriers were extracted for analysis of adipogenic and chondrogenic differentiation relative to baseline controls. The microcarrier-cultured hASCs showed enhanced intracellular lipid accumulation at 7 days post-induction of adipogenic differentiation. In the chondrogenic studies, a low level of differentiation was observed in all groups. Future studies are warranted using alternative cell sources with greater chondrogenic potential to further assess the chondro-inductive properties of the DCT microcarriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Kornmuller
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, The University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
| | - Tyler T Cooper
- Department of Biochemistry, Don Rix Protein Identification Facility, The University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
| | - Ammi Jani
- Department of Chemical & Biochemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, The University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
| | - Gilles A Lajoie
- Department of Biochemistry, Don Rix Protein Identification Facility, The University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
| | - Lauren E Flynn
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, The University of Western Ontario, London, Canada.,Department of Chemical & Biochemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, The University of Western Ontario, London, Canada.,Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, The University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
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25
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Skinner WS, Zhang S, Garcia JR, Guldberg RE, Ong KG. Magnetoelastic Monitoring System for Tracking Growth of Human Mesenchymal Stromal Cells. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 23:1832. [PMID: 36850431 PMCID: PMC9960728 DOI: 10.3390/s23041832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Magnetoelastic sensors, which undergo mechanical resonance when interrogated with magnetic fields, can be functionalized to measure various physical quantities and chemical/biological analytes by tracking their resonance behaviors. The unique wireless and functionalizable nature of these sensors makes them good candidates for biological sensing applications, from the detection of specific bacteria to tracking force loading inside the human body. In this study, we evaluate the viability of magnetoelastic sensors based on a commercially available magnetoelastic material (Metglas 2826 MB) for wirelessly monitoring the attachment and growth of human mesenchymal stromal cells (hMSCs) in 2D in vitro cell culture. The results indicate that the changes in sensor resonance are linearly correlated with cell quantity. Experiments using a custom-built monitoring system also demonstrated the ability of this technology to collect temporal profiles of cell growth, which could elucidate key stages of cell proliferation based on acute features in the profile. Additionally, there was no observed change in the morphology of cells after they were subjected to magnetic and mechanical stimuli from the monitoring system, indicating that this method for tracking cell growth may have minimal impact on cell quality and potency.
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26
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Conde-González A, Glinka M, Dutta D, Wallace R, Callanan A, Oreffo ROC, Bradley M. Rapid fabrication and screening of tailored functional 3D biomaterials: Validation in bone tissue repair - Part II. BIOMATERIALS ADVANCES 2023; 145:213250. [PMID: 36563509 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioadv.2022.213250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Regenerative medicine strategies place increasingly sophisticated demands on 3D biomaterials to promote tissue formation at sites where tissue would otherwise not form. Ideally, the discovery/fabrication of the 3D scaffolds needs to be high-throughput and uniform to ensure quick and in-depth analysis in order to pinpoint appropriate chemical and mechanical properties of a biomaterial. Herein we present a versatile technique to screen new potential biocompatible acrylate-based 3D scaffolds with the ultimate aim of application in tissue repair. As part of this process, we identified an acrylate-based 3D porous scaffold that promoted cell proliferation followed by accelerated tissue formation, pre-requisites for tissue repair. Scaffolds were fabricated by a facile freeze-casting and an in-situ photo-polymerization route, embracing a high-throughput synthesis, screening and characterization protocol. The current studies demonstrate the dependence of cellular growth and vascularization on the porosity and intrinsic chemical nature of the scaffolds, with tuneable 3D scaffolds generated with large, interconnected pores suitable for cellular growth applied to skeletal reparation. Our studies showed increased cell proliferation, collagen and ALP expression, while chorioallantoic membrane assays indicated biocompatibility and demonstrated the angiogenic nature of the scaffolds. VEGRF2 expression in vivo observed throughout the 3D scaffolds in the absence of growth factor supplementation demonstrates a potential for angiogenesis. This novel platform provides an innovative approach to 3D scanning of synthetic biomaterials for tissue regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Michael Glinka
- Bone and Joint Research Group, Centre for Human Development, Stem Cells and Regeneration, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK
| | - Deepanjalee Dutta
- EaStCHEM School of Chemistry, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3FJ, UK
| | - Robert Wallace
- Orthopaedics and Trauma, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK
| | - Anthony Callanan
- School of Engineering, Institute for Bioengineering, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3DW, UK
| | - Richard O C Oreffo
- Bone and Joint Research Group, Centre for Human Development, Stem Cells and Regeneration, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK.
| | - Mark Bradley
- EaStCHEM School of Chemistry, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3FJ, UK.
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27
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Hodge JG, Robinson JL, Mellott AJ. Novel hydrogel system eliminates subculturing and improves retention of nonsenescent mesenchymal stem cell populations. Regen Med 2023; 18:23-36. [PMID: 36222003 PMCID: PMC9732917 DOI: 10.2217/rme-2022-0140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: To compare the physiological behavior of mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) within an expandable tissue-mimetic 3D system relative to in vitro expansion in a traditional 2D system. Methods: Adipose-derived MSCs (ASCs) were continuously cultured for 6 weeks on either 2D culture plastic or in a 3D hydrogel system that eliminated subculturing. ASCs were assessed for senescence, 'stem-like' MSC markers, and ability for their secretome to augment a secondary cell population. Results: The 3D hydrogel system resulted in an enhanced retention of more regenerative, nonsenescent ASC populations that exhibited increased expression of 'stem-like' MSC surface markers. Conclusion: This study introduces a proof-of-concept design for a novel modular 3D system that can improve in vitro expansion of stem-like cell populations for future regenerative therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob G Hodge
- Bioengineering Graduate Program, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66045, USA
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
| | - Jennifer L Robinson
- Bioengineering Graduate Program, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66045, USA
- Department of Chemical & Petroleum Engineering, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66045, USA
| | - Adam J Mellott
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
- Ronawk, LLC, Olathe, KS 66062, USA
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28
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Jin Y, Kim H, Min S, Choi YS, Seo SJ, Jeong E, Kim SK, Lee HA, Jo SH, Park JH, Park BW, Sim WS, Kim JJ, Ban K, Kim YG, Park HJ, Cho SW. Three-dimensional heart extracellular matrix enhances chemically induced direct cardiac reprogramming. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eabn5768. [PMID: 36516259 PMCID: PMC9750148 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abn5768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Direct cardiac reprogramming has emerged as a promising therapeutic approach for cardiac regeneration. Full chemical reprogramming with small molecules to generate cardiomyocytes may be more amenable than genetic reprogramming for clinical applications as it avoids safety concerns associated with genetic manipulations. However, challenges remain regarding low conversion efficiency and incomplete cardiomyocyte maturation. Furthermore, the therapeutic potential of chemically induced cardiomyocytes (CiCMs) has not been investigated. Here, we report that a three-dimensional microenvironment reconstituted with decellularized heart extracellular matrix can enhance chemical reprogramming and cardiac maturation of fibroblasts to cardiomyocytes. The resultant CiCMs exhibit elevated cardiac marker expression, sarcomeric organization, and improved electrophysiological features and drug responses. We investigated the therapeutic potential of CiCMs reprogrammed in three-dimensional heart extracellular matrix in a rat model of myocardial infarction. Our platform can facilitate the use of CiCMs for regenerative medicine, disease modeling, and drug screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoonhee Jin
- Department of Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
- Department of Physiology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyeok Kim
- Department of Biomedicine and Health Sciences, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Republic of Korea
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Republic of Korea
| | - Sungjin Min
- Department of Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Yi Sun Choi
- Department of Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung Ju Seo
- Department of Physiology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Eunseon Jeong
- Department of Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Su Kyeom Kim
- Department of Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyang-Ae Lee
- Korea Institute of Toxicology, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, Daejeon 34114, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung-Hyun Jo
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Soongsil University, Seoul 06978, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Hyun Park
- Department of Biomedicine and Health Sciences, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Republic of Korea
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Republic of Korea
| | - Bong-Woo Park
- Department of Biomedicine and Health Sciences, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Republic of Korea
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Republic of Korea
| | - Woo-Sup Sim
- Department of Biomedicine and Health Sciences, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Republic of Korea
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin-Ju Kim
- Department of Biomedicine and Health Sciences, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Republic of Korea
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Republic of Korea
| | - Kiwon Ban
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon 999077, Hong Kong
| | - Yun-Gon Kim
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Soongsil University, Seoul 06978, Republic of Korea
| | - Hun-Jun Park
- Department of Biomedicine and Health Sciences, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Republic of Korea
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Republic of Korea
- Cell Death Disease Research Center, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung-Woo Cho
- Department of Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
- Center for Nanomedicine, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
- Graduate Program of Nano Biomedical Engineering (NanoBME), Advanced Science Institute, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
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Bax M, Romanov V, Junday K, Giannoulatou E, Martinac B, Kovacic JC, Liu R, Iismaa SE, Graham RM. Arterial dissections: Common features and new perspectives. Front Cardiovasc Med 2022; 9:1055862. [PMID: 36561772 PMCID: PMC9763901 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2022.1055862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Arterial dissections, which involve an abrupt tear in the wall of a major artery resulting in the intramural accumulation of blood, are a family of catastrophic disorders causing major, potentially fatal sequelae. Involving diverse vascular beds, including the aorta or coronary, cervical, pulmonary, and visceral arteries, each type of dissection is devastating in its own way. Traditionally they have been studied in isolation, rather than collectively, owing largely to the distinct clinical consequences of dissections in different anatomical locations - such as stroke, myocardial infarction, and renal failure. Here, we review the shared and unique features of these arteriopathies to provide a better understanding of this family of disorders. Arterial dissections occur commonly in the young to middle-aged, and often in conjunction with hypertension and/or migraine; the latter suggesting they are part of a generalized vasculopathy. Genetic studies as well as cellular and molecular investigations of arterial dissections reveal striking similarities between dissection types, particularly their pathophysiology, which includes the presence or absence of an intimal tear and vasa vasorum dysfunction as a cause of intramural hemorrhage. Pathway perturbations common to all types of dissections include disruption of TGF-β signaling, the extracellular matrix, the cytoskeleton or metabolism, as evidenced by the finding of mutations in critical genes regulating these processes, including LRP1, collagen genes, fibrillin and TGF-β receptors, or their coupled pathways. Perturbances in these connected signaling pathways contribute to phenotype switching in endothelial and vascular smooth muscle cells of the affected artery, in which their physiological quiescent state is lost and replaced by a proliferative activated phenotype. Of interest, dissections in various anatomical locations are associated with distinct sex and age predilections, suggesting involvement of gene and environment interactions in disease pathogenesis. Importantly, these cellular mechanisms are potentially therapeutically targetable. Consideration of arterial dissections as a collective pathology allows insight from the better characterized dissection types, such as that involving the thoracic aorta, to be leveraged to inform the less common forms of dissections, including the potential to apply known therapeutic interventions already clinically available for the former.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monique Bax
- Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Darlinghurst, NSW, Australia
- UNSW Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW, Australia
| | - Valentin Romanov
- Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Darlinghurst, NSW, Australia
- UNSW Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW, Australia
| | - Keerat Junday
- Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Darlinghurst, NSW, Australia
- UNSW Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW, Australia
| | - Eleni Giannoulatou
- Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Darlinghurst, NSW, Australia
- UNSW Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW, Australia
| | - Boris Martinac
- Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Darlinghurst, NSW, Australia
- UNSW Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW, Australia
| | - Jason C. Kovacic
- Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Darlinghurst, NSW, Australia
- UNSW Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW, Australia
- St. Vincent’s Hospital, Darlinghurst, NSW, Australia
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Cardiovascular Research Institute, New York, NY, United States
| | - Renjing Liu
- Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Darlinghurst, NSW, Australia
- UNSW Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW, Australia
| | - Siiri E. Iismaa
- Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Darlinghurst, NSW, Australia
- UNSW Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW, Australia
| | - Robert M. Graham
- Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Darlinghurst, NSW, Australia
- UNSW Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW, Australia
- St. Vincent’s Hospital, Darlinghurst, NSW, Australia
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30
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Yang Z, Liu X, Cribbin EM, Kim AM, Li JJ, Yong KT. Liver-on-a-chip: Considerations, advances, and beyond. BIOMICROFLUIDICS 2022; 16:061502. [PMID: 36389273 PMCID: PMC9646254 DOI: 10.1063/5.0106855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
The liver is the largest internal organ in the human body with largest mass of glandular tissue. Modeling the liver has been challenging due to its variety of major functions, including processing nutrients and vitamins, detoxification, and regulating body metabolism. The intrinsic shortfalls of conventional two-dimensional (2D) cell culture methods for studying pharmacokinetics in parenchymal cells (hepatocytes) have contributed to suboptimal outcomes in clinical trials and drug development. This prompts the development of highly automated, biomimetic liver-on-a-chip (LOC) devices to simulate native liver structure and function, with the aid of recent progress in microfluidics. LOC offers a cost-effective and accurate model for pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and toxicity studies. This review provides a critical update on recent developments in designing LOCs and fabrication strategies. We highlight biomimetic design approaches for LOCs, including mimicking liver structure and function, and their diverse applications in areas such as drug screening, toxicity assessment, and real-time biosensing. We capture the newest ideas in the field to advance the field of LOCs and address current challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Elise M. Cribbin
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, New South Wales 2007, Australia
| | - Alice M. Kim
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, New South Wales 2007, Australia
| | - Jiao Jiao Li
- Authors to whom correspondence should be addressed: and
| | - Ken-Tye Yong
- Authors to whom correspondence should be addressed: and
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31
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Han SJ, Kwon S, Kim KS. Contribution of mechanical homeostasis to epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Cell Oncol (Dordr) 2022; 45:1119-1136. [PMID: 36149601 DOI: 10.1007/s13402-022-00720-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Metastasis refers to the spread of cancer cells from a primary tumor to other parts of the body via the lymphatic system and bloodstream. With tremendous effort over the past decades, remarkable progress has been made in understanding the molecular and cellular basis of metastatic processes. Metastasis occurs through five steps, including infiltration and migration, intravasation, survival, extravasation, and colonization. Various molecular and cellular factors involved in the metastatic process have been identified, such as epigenetic factors of the extracellular matrix (ECM), cell-cell interactions, soluble signaling, adhesion molecules, and mechanical stimuli. However, the underlying cause of cancer metastasis has not been elucidated. CONCLUSION In this review, we have focused on changes in the mechanical properties of cancer cells and their surrounding environment to understand the causes of cancer metastasis. Cancer cells have unique mechanical properties that distinguish them from healthy cells. ECM stiffness is involved in cancer cell growth, particularly in promoting the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). During tumorigenesis, the mechanical properties of cancer cells change in the direction opposite to their environment, resulting in a mechanical stress imbalance between the intracellular and extracellular domains. Disruption of mechanical homeostasis may be one of the causes of EMT that triggers the metastasis of cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Se Jik Han
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Korea.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sangwoo Kwon
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kyung Sook Kim
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Korea.
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32
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Brudnicki PAP, Gonsalves MA, Spinella SM, Kaufman LJ, Lu HH. Engineering collagenous analogs of connective tissue extracellular matrix. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:925838. [PMID: 36312546 PMCID: PMC9613959 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.925838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Connective tissue extracellular matrix (ECM) consists of an interwoven network of contiguous collagen fibers that regulate cell activity, direct biological function, and guide tissue homeostasis throughout life. Recently, ECM analogs have emerged as a unique ex vivo culture platform for studying healthy and diseased tissues and in the latter, enabling the screening for and development of therapeutic regimen. Since these tissue models can mitigate the concern that observations from animal models do not always translate clinically, the design and production of a collagenous ECM analogue with relevant chemistry and nano- to micro-scale architecture remains a frontier challenge in the field. Therefore, the objectives of this study are two-fold— first, to apply green electrospinning approaches to the fabrication of an ECM analog with nanoscale mimicry and second, to systematically optimize collagen crosslinking in order to produce a stable, collagen-like substrate with continuous fibrous architecture that supports human cell culture and phenotypic expression. Specifically, the “green” electrospinning solvent acetic acid was evaluated for biofabrication of gelatin-based meshes, followed by the optimization of glutaraldehyde (GTA) crosslinking under controlled ambient conditions. These efforts led to the production of a collagen-like mesh with nano- and micro-scale cues, fibrous continuity with little batch-to-batch variability, and proven stability in both dry and wet conditions. Moreover, the as-fabricated mesh architecture and native chemistry were preserved with augmented mechanical properties. These meshes supported the in vitro expansion of stem cells and the production of a mineralized matrix by human osteoblast-like cells. Collectively these findings demonstrate the potential of green fabrication in the production of a collagen-like ECM analog with physiological relevance. Future studies will explore the potential of this high-fidelity platform for elucidating cell-matrix interactions and their relevance in connective tissue healing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip A. P. Brudnicki
- Biomaterials and Interface Tissue Engineering Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Matthew A. Gonsalves
- Biomaterials and Interface Tissue Engineering Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | | | - Laura J. Kaufman
- Department of Chemistry, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Helen H. Lu
- Biomaterials and Interface Tissue Engineering Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
- *Correspondence: Helen H. Lu,
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33
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Abstract
The efficacy of implanted biomaterials is largely dependent on the response of the host's immune and stromal cells. Severe foreign body response (FBR) can impede the integration of the implant into the host tissue and compromise the intended mechanical and biochemical function. Many features of FBR, including late-stage fibrotic encapsulation of implants, parallel the formation of fibrotic scar tissue after tissue injury. Regenerative organisms like zebrafish and salamanders can avoid fibrosis after injury entirely, but FBR in these research organisms is rarely investigated because their immune competence is much lower than humans. The recent characterization of a regenerative mammal, the spiny mouse (Acomys), has inspired us to take a closer look at cellular regulation in regenerative organisms across the animal kingdom for insights into avoiding FBR in humans. Here, we highlight how major features of regeneration, such as blastema formation, macrophage polarization, and matrix composition, can be modulated across a range of regenerative research organisms to elucidate common features that may be harnessed to minimize FBR. Leveraging a deeper understanding of regenerative biology for biomaterial design may help to reduce FBR and improve device integration and performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunaina Sapru
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611, United States
| | - Michele N Dill
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611, United States
| | - Chelsey S Simmons
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611, United States.,J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611, United States
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34
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Li Q, Qi G, Lutter D, Beard W, Souza CRS, Highland MA, Wu W, Li P, Zhang Y, Atala A, Sun X. Injectable Peptide Hydrogel Encapsulation of Mesenchymal Stem Cells Improved Viability, Stemness, Anti-Inflammatory Effects, and Early Stage Wound Healing. Biomolecules 2022; 12:1317. [PMID: 36139156 PMCID: PMC9496061 DOI: 10.3390/biom12091317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Human-adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hADMSCs) are adult stem cells and are relatively easy to access compared to other sources of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). They have shown immunomodulation properties as well as effects in improving tissue regeneration. To better stimulate and preserve the therapeutic properties of hADMSCs, biomaterials for cell delivery have been studied extensively. To date, hyaluronic acid (HA)-based materials have been most widely adopted by researchers around the world. PGmatrix is a new peptide-based hydrogel that has shown superior functional properties in 3D cell cultures. Here, we reported the in vitro and in vivo functional effects of PGmatrix on hADMSCs in comparison with HA and HA-based Hystem hydrogels. Our results showed that PGmatrix was far superior in maintaining hADMSC viability during prolonged incubation and stimulated expression of SSEA4 (stage-specific embryonic antigen-4) in hADMSCs. hADMSCs encapsulated in PGmatrix secreted more immune-responsive proteins than those in HA or Hystem, though similar VEGF-A and TGFβ1 release levels were observed in all three hydrogels. In vivo studies revealed that hADMSCs encapsulated with PGmatrix showed improved skin wound healing in diabetic-induced mice at an early stage, suggesting possible anti-inflammatory effects, though similar re-epithelialization and collagen density were observed among PGmatrix and HA or Hystem hydrogels by day 21.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quan Li
- Carl and Melinda Helwig Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA
| | - Guangyan Qi
- Department of Grain Science and Industry, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA
| | - Dylan Lutter
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA
| | - Warren Beard
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA
| | | | - Margaret A. Highland
- Wisconsin Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Wei Wu
- Department of Chemistry, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA
| | - Ping Li
- Department of Chemistry, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA
| | - Yuanyuan Zhang
- Wake Forest Institute Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem, NC 27151, USA
| | - Anthony Atala
- Wake Forest Institute Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem, NC 27151, USA
| | - Xiuzhi Sun
- Carl and Melinda Helwig Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA
- Department of Grain Science and Industry, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA
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35
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Stager MA, Thomas SM, Rotello-Kuri N, Payne KA, Krebs MD. Polyelectrolyte Complex Hydrogels with Controlled Mechanics Affect Mesenchymal Stem Cell Differentiation Relevant to Growth Plate Injuries. Macromol Biosci 2022; 22:e2200126. [PMID: 35836324 PMCID: PMC9481665 DOI: 10.1002/mabi.202200126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Revised: 06/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
The growth plate is a complex cartilage structure in long bones that mediates growth in children. When injured, the formation of a "bony bar" can occur which impedes normal growth and can cause angular deformities or growth arrest. Current treatments for growth plate injuries are limited and result in poor patient outcomes, necessitating research toward novel treatments that can prevent bony bar formation and stimulate cartilage regeneration. This study investigates alginate-chitosan polyelectrolyte complex (PEC) hydrogels as an injectable biomaterial system to prevent bony bar formation. Biomaterial properties including stiffness and degradation are quantified, and the effect that material properties have on mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) fate is quantified in vitro. Specifically, this study aims to elucidate the effectiveness of biomaterial-based control over the differentiation behavior of MSCs toward osteogenic or chondrogenic lineages using biochemical metabolite assays and quantitative real time PCR. Further, the PEC hydrogels are employed in a rat growth plate injury model to determine their effectiveness in preventing bony bar formation in vivo. Results indicate that hydrogel composition and material properties affect the differentiation tendency of MSCs in vitro, and the PEC hydrogels show promise as an injectable biomaterial for growth plate injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael A Stager
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Colorado School of Mines, Golden, CO, 80401, USA
| | - Stacey M Thomas
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Nicholas Rotello-Kuri
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Karin A Payne
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Melissa D Krebs
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Colorado School of Mines, Golden, CO, 80401, USA
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36
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Su T, Xu M, Lu F, Chang Q. Adipogenesis or osteogenesis: destiny decision made by mechanical properties of biomaterials. RSC Adv 2022; 12:24501-24510. [PMID: 36128379 PMCID: PMC9425444 DOI: 10.1039/d2ra02841g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Regenerative medicine affords an effective approach for restoring defect-associated diseases, and biomaterials play a pivotal role as cell niches to support the cell behavior and decide the destiny of cell differentiation. Except for chemical inducers, mechanical properties such as stiffness, pore size and topography of biomaterials play a crucial role in the regulation of cell behaviors and functions. Stiffness may determine the adipogenesis or osteogenesis of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) via the translocation of yes-associated protein (YAP) and the transcriptional coactivator with a PDZ-binding motif (TAZ). External forces transmit through cytoskeleton reorientation to assist nuclear deformation and molecule transport, meanwhile, signal pathways including the Hippo, FAK/RhoA/ROCK, and Wnt/β-catenin have been evidenced to participate in the mechanotransduction. Different pore sizes not only tailor the scaffold stiffness but also conform to the requirements of cell migration and vessels in-growth. Topography guides cell geometry along with mobility and determines the cell fate ascribed to micro/nano-scale contact. Herein, we highlight the recent progress in exploring the regulation mechanism by the physical properties of biomaterials, which might lead to more innovative regenerative strategies for adipose or bone tissue repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Su
- Department of Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University 510515 China
| | - Mimi Xu
- Department of Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University 510515 China
| | - Feng Lu
- Department of Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University 510515 China
| | - Qiang Chang
- Department of Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University 510515 China
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37
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Xu Z, Li Y, Li P, Sun Y, Lv S, Wang Y, He X, Xu J, Xu Z, Li L, Li Y. Soft substrates promote direct chemical reprogramming of fibroblasts into neurons. Acta Biomater 2022; 152:255-272. [PMID: 36041647 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2022.08.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Revised: 08/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Fibroblasts can be directly reprogrammed via a combination of small molecules to generate induced neurons (iNs), bypassing intermediate stages. This method holds great promise for regenerative medicine; however, it remains inefficient. Recently, studies have suggested that physical cues may improve the direct reprogramming of fibroblasts into neurons, but the underlying mechanisms remain to be further explored, and the physical factors reported to date do not exhibit the full properties of the extracellular matrix (ECM). Previous in vitro studies mainly used rigid polystyrene dishes, while one of the characteristics of the native in-vivo environment of neurons is the soft nature of brain ECM. The reported stiffness of brain tissue is very soft ranging between 100 Pa and 3 kPa, and the effect of substrate stiffness on direct neuronal reprogramming has not been explored. Here, we show for the first time that soft substrates substantially improved the production efficiency and quality of iNs, without needing to co-culture with glial cells during reprogramming, producing more glutamatergic neurons with electrophysiological functions in a shorter time. Transcriptome sequencing indicated that soft substrates might promote glutamatergic neuron reprogramming through integrins, actin cytoskeleton, Hippo signalling pathway, and regulation of mesenchymal-to-epithelial transition, and competing endogenous RNA network analysis provided new targets for neuronal reprogramming. We demonstrated that soft substrates may promote neuronal reprogramming by inhibiting microRNA-615-3p-targeting integrin subunit beta 4. Our findings can aid the development of regenerative therapies and help improve our understanding of neuronal reprogramming. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: : First, we have shown that low stiffness promotes direct reprogramming on the basis of small molecule combinations. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on this type of method, which may greatly promote the progress of neural reprogramming. Second, we found that miR-615-3p may interact with ITGB4, and the soft substrates may promote neural reprogramming by inhibiting microRNA (miR)-615-3p targeting integrin subunit beta 4 (ITGB4). We are the first to report on this mechanism. Our findings will provide more functional neurons for subsequent basic and clinical research in neurological regenerative medicine, and will help to improve the overall understanding of neural reprogramming. This work also provides new ideas for the design of medical biomaterials for nerve regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziran Xu
- The Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China.
| | - Yan Li
- Division of Orthopedics and Biotechnology, Department for Clinical Intervention and Technology (CLINTEC), Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Pengdong Li
- The Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China; The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Qingyuan People's Hospital, Qingyuan 511518, Guangdong, China.
| | - Yingying Sun
- The Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China; Department of Stomatology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China.
| | - Shuang Lv
- The Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China.
| | - Yin Wang
- The Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China.
| | - Xia He
- The Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China; Department of Pathology, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Taiyuan 030032, China.
| | - Jinying Xu
- The Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China; Department of Burns Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130000, China.
| | - Zhixiang Xu
- The Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China.
| | - Lisha Li
- The Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China.
| | - Yulin Li
- The Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China.
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38
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Rhodes ADY, Duran-Mota JA, Oliva N. Current progress in bionanomaterials to modulate the epigenome. Biomater Sci 2022; 10:5081-5091. [PMID: 35880652 DOI: 10.1039/d2bm01027e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Recent advances in genomics during the 1990s have made it possible to study and identify genetic and epigenetic responses of cells and tissues to various drugs and environmental factors. This has accelerated the number of targets available to treat a range of diseases from cancer to wound healing disorders. Equally interesting is the understanding of how bio- and nanomaterials alter gene expression through epigenetic mechanisms, and whether they have the potential to elicit a positive therapeutic response without requiring additional biomolecule delivery. In fact, from a cell's perspective, a biomaterial is nothing more than an environmental factor, and so it has the power to epigenetically modulate gene expression of cells in contact with it. Understanding these epigenetic interactions between biomaterials and cells will open new avenues in the development of technologies that can not only provide biological signals (i.e. drugs, growth factors) necessary for therapy and regeneration, but also intimately interact with cells to promote the expression of genes of interest. This review article aims to summarise the current state-of-the-art and progress on the development of bio- and nanomaterials to modulate the epigenome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna D Y Rhodes
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London W12 0BZ, UK.
| | - Jose Antonio Duran-Mota
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London W12 0BZ, UK. .,Materials Engineering Group (GEMAT), IQS Barcelona, Barcelona 08017, Spain
| | - Nuria Oliva
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London W12 0BZ, UK.
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Olmedo-Moreno L, Aguilera Y, Baliña-Sánchez C, Martín-Montalvo A, Capilla-González V. Heterogeneity of In Vitro Expanded Mesenchymal Stromal Cells and Strategies to Improve Their Therapeutic Actions. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:1112. [PMID: 35631698 PMCID: PMC9146397 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14051112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Revised: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Beneficial properties of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) have prompted their use in preclinical and clinical research. Accumulating evidence has been provided for the therapeutic effects of MSCs in several pathologies, including neurodegenerative diseases, myocardial infarction, skin problems, liver disorders and cancer, among others. Although MSCs are found in multiple tissues, the number of MSCs is low, making in vitro expansion a required step before MSC application. However, culture-expanded MSCs exhibit notable differences in terms of cell morphology, physiology and function, which decisively contribute to MSC heterogeneity. The changes induced in MSCs during in vitro expansion may account for the variability in the results obtained in different MSC-based therapy studies, including those using MSCs as living drug delivery systems. This review dissects the different changes that occur in culture-expanded MSCs and how these modifications alter their therapeutic properties after transplantation. Furthermore, we discuss the current strategies developed to improve the beneficial effects of MSCs for successful clinical implementation, as well as potential therapeutic alternatives.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Vivian Capilla-González
- Department of Regeneration and Cell Therapy, Andalusian Molecular Biology and Regenerative Medicine Centre (CABIMER)-CSIC-US-UPO, 41092 Seville, Spain; (L.O.-M.); (Y.A.); (C.B.-S.); (A.M.-M.)
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40
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Abbasi A, Imaichi S, Ling V, Shukla A. Mesenchymal Stem Cell Behavior on Soft Hydrogels with Aligned Surface Topographies. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2022; 5:1890-1900. [PMID: 35199983 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.1c01260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Human mesenchymal stem cells (HMSCs) are important for cell-based therapies. However, the success of HMSC therapy requires large-scale in vitro expansion of these multipotent cells. The traditional expansion of HMSCs on tissue-culture-treated stiff polystyrene induces significant changes in their shape, multipotency, and secretome, leading to early senescence and subdued paracrine activity. To enhance their therapeutic potential, here, we have developed two-dimensional soft hydrogels with imprinted microscale aligned grooves for use as HMSC culture substrates. We showed that, depending on the dimensions of the topographical features, these substrates led to lower cellular spreading and cytoskeletal tension, maintaining multipotency and osteogenic and adipogenic differentiate potential, while lowering cellular senescence. We also observed a greater capacity of HMSCs to produce anti-inflammatory cytokines after short-term priming on these hydrogel substrates. Overall, these soft hydrogels with unique surface topography have shown great promise as in vitro culture substrates to maximize the therapeutic potential of HMSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akram Abbasi
- School of Engineering, Center for Biomedical Engineering, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912, United States
| | - Sachiko Imaichi
- Takeda Pharmaceuticals, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Vincent Ling
- Takeda Pharmaceuticals, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Anita Shukla
- School of Engineering, Center for Biomedical Engineering, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912, United States
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Li S, Yoshioka M, Li J, Liu L, Ye S, Kamei KI, Chen Y. Nanocasting of fibrous morphology on a substrate for long-term propagation of human induced pluripotent stem cells. Biomed Mater 2022; 17. [PMID: 35114658 DOI: 10.1088/1748-605x/ac51b8] [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] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Human-induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) can be self-renewed for many generations on nanofibrous substrates. Herein, a casting method is developed to replicate the nanofibrous morphology into a thin layer of polymethylsiloxane (PDMS). The template is obtained by electrospinning and chemical crosslinking of gelatin nanofibers on a glass slide. The replicas of the template are surface-functionalized by gelatin and used for propagation of hiPSCs over tenth generations. The performance of the propagated hiPSCs is checked by immunofluorescence imaging, flowcytometry, and RT-PCR, confirming the utility of the method. The results are also compared with those obtained using electrospun nanofiber substrates. Inherently, the PDMS replicas is of low stiffness and can be reproduced easily. Compared to other patterning techniques, casting is more flexible and cost-effective, suggesting that this method might find applications in cell-based assays that rely on stringent consideration of both substrate stiffness and surface morphology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sisi Li
- Chemistry, Ecole Normale Superieure, 24 rue Lhomond, Paris, Île-de-France, 75230, FRANCE
| | - Momoko Yoshioka
- Kyoto University, Yoshida Ushinomiya-cho, Kyoto, 606-8501, JAPAN
| | - Junjun Li
- Institute for Integrated Cell-Material Sciences, Yoshida Ushinomiya-cho, Kyoto, 606-8501, JAPAN
| | - Li Liu
- Kyoto University, Yoshida Ushinomiya-cho, Kyoto, 606-8501, JAPAN
| | - Sixin Ye
- University of Paris, 94276 Le Kremlin Bicêtre, Paris, 75006, FRANCE
| | - Ken-Ichiro Kamei
- Institute for Integrated Cell-Material Sciences, Yoshida Ushinomiya-cho, Kyoto, 606-8501, JAPAN
| | - Yong Chen
- Chemistry, Ecole Normale Superieure, 24 rue Lhomond, F-75231 Paris Cedex 05, Paris, Île-de-France, 75230, FRANCE
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Hu X, Xia Z, Cai K. Recent advances of 3D hydrogel culture systems for mesenchymal stem cell-based therapy and cell behavior regulation. J Mater Chem B 2022; 10:1486-1507. [DOI: 10.1039/d1tb02537f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been increasingly recognized as resources for disease treatments and regenerative medicine. Meanwhile, the unique chemical and physical properties of hydrogels provide innate advantages to achieve...
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Goelzer M, Goelzer J, Ferguson ML, Neu CP, Uzer G. Nuclear envelope mechanobiology: linking the nuclear structure and function. Nucleus 2021; 12:90-114. [PMID: 34455929 PMCID: PMC8432354 DOI: 10.1080/19491034.2021.1962610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Revised: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The nucleus, central to cellular activity, relies on both direct mechanical input as well as its molecular transducers to sense external stimuli and respond by regulating intra-nuclear chromatin organization that determines cell function and fate. In mesenchymal stem cells of musculoskeletal tissues, changes in nuclear structures are emerging as a key modulator of their differentiation and proliferation programs. In this review we will first introduce the structural elements of the nucleoskeleton and discuss the current literature on how nuclear structure and signaling are altered in relation to environmental and tissue level mechanical cues. We will focus on state-of-the-art techniques to apply mechanical force and methods to measure nuclear mechanics in conjunction with DNA, RNA, and protein visualization in living cells. Ultimately, combining real-time nuclear deformations and chromatin dynamics can be a powerful tool to study mechanisms of how forces affect the dynamics of genome function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Goelzer
- Materials Science and Engineering, Boise State University, Boise, ID, US
| | | | - Matthew L. Ferguson
- Biomolecular Science, Boise State University, Boise, ID, US
- Physics, Boise State University, Boise, ID, US
| | - Corey P. Neu
- Paul M. Rady Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO, US
| | - Gunes Uzer
- Mechanical and Biomedical Engineering, Boise State University, Boise, ID, US
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Walker CJ, Crocini C, Ramirez D, Killaars AR, Grim JC, Aguado BA, Clark K, Allen MA, Dowell RD, Leinwand LA, Anseth KS. Nuclear mechanosensing drives chromatin remodelling in persistently activated fibroblasts. Nat Biomed Eng 2021; 5:1485-1499. [PMID: 33875841 PMCID: PMC9102466 DOI: 10.1038/s41551-021-00709-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Accepted: 03/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Fibrotic disease is caused by the continuous deposition of extracellular matrix by persistently activated fibroblasts (also known as myofibroblasts), even after the resolution of the injury. Using fibroblasts from porcine aortic valves cultured on hydrogels that can be softened via exposure to ultraviolet light, here we show that increased extracellular stiffness activates the fibroblasts, and that cumulative tension on the nuclear membrane and increases in the activity of histone deacetylases transform transiently activated fibroblasts into myofibroblasts displaying condensed chromatin with genome-wide alterations. The condensed structure of the myofibroblasts is associated with cytoskeletal stability, as indicated by the inhibition of chromatin condensation and myofibroblast persistence after detachment of the nucleus from the cytoskeleton via the displacement of endogenous nesprins from the nuclear envelope. We also show that the chromatin structure of myofibroblasts from patients with aortic valve stenosis is more condensed than that of myofibroblasts from healthy donors. Our findings suggest that nuclear mechanosensing drives distinct chromatin signatures in persistently activated fibroblasts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cierra J Walker
- Materials Science and Engineering Program, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
- BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
| | - Claudia Crocini
- BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
| | - Daniel Ramirez
- BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
| | - Anouk R Killaars
- Materials Science and Engineering Program, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
- BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
| | - Joseph C Grim
- BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
| | - Brian A Aguado
- BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
| | - Kyle Clark
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
| | - Mary A Allen
- BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
| | - Robin D Dowell
- BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
| | - Leslie A Leinwand
- BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA.
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA.
| | - Kristi S Anseth
- BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA.
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA.
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Li S, Ding C, Guo Y, Zhang Y, Wang H, Sun X, Zhang J, Cui Z, Chen J. Mechanotransduction Regulates Reprogramming Enhancement in Adherent 3D Keratocyte Cultures. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2021; 9:709488. [PMID: 34568299 PMCID: PMC8460903 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2021.709488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Suspended spheroid culture using ultralow attachment plates (ULAPs) is reported to effect corneal fibroblast reprogramming. Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), with hydrophobic and soft substrate properties, facilitates adherent spheroid formation that promotes cellular physical reprogramming into stem-like cells without using transcription factors. However, it is still unknown whether the biophysical properties of PDMS have the same effect on adult human corneal keratocyte reprogramming. Here, PDMS and essential 8 (E8) medium were utilized to culture keratocyte spheroids and fibroblast spheroids, and the reprogramming results were compared. We provide insights into the probable mechanisms of the PDMS effect on spheroids. qPCR analysis showed that the expression of some stem cell marker genes (OCT4, NANOG, SOX2, KLF4, CMYC, ABCG2 and PAX6) was significantly greater in keratocyte spheroids than in fibroblast spheroids. The endogenous level of stemness transcription factors (OCT4, NANOG, SOX2, KLF4 and CMYC) was higher in keratocytes than in fibroblasts. Immunofluorescence staining revealed Klf4, Nanog, Sox2, ABCG2 and Pax6 were positively stained in adherent 3D spheroids but weakly or negatively stained in adherent 2D cells. Furthermore, OCT4, NANOG, SOX2, KLF4, HNK1, ABCG2 and PAX6 gene expression was significantly higher in adherent 3D spheroids than in adherent 2D cells. Meanwhile, SOX2, ABCG2 and PAX6 were more upregulated in adherent 3D spheroids than in suspended 3D spheroids. The RNA-seq analysis suggested that regulation of the actin cytoskeleton, TGFβ/BMP and HIF-1 signaling pathways induced changes in mechanotransduction, the mesenchymal-to-epithelial transition and hypoxia, which might be responsible for the effect of PDMS on facilitating reprogramming. In conclusion, compared to corneal fibroblasts, keratocytes were more susceptible to reprogramming due to higher levels of endogenous stemness transcription factors. Spheroid culture of keratocytes using PDMS had a positive impact on promoting the expression of some stem cell markers. PDMS, as a substrate to form spheroids, was better able to promote reprogramming than ULAPs. These results indicated that the physiological cells and culture conditions herein enhance reprogramming. Therefore, adherent spheroid culture of keratocytes using PDMS is a promising strategy to more safely promote reprogramming, suggesting its potential application for developing clinical implants in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shenyang Li
- Aier School of Ophthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | | | - Yonglong Guo
- Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine of Ministry of Education, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yanan Zhang
- Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine of Ministry of Education, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hao Wang
- Aier School of Ophthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xihao Sun
- Aier School of Ophthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jun Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Information and Sensing Technologies of Guangdong Higher Educational Institutes, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zekai Cui
- Aier School of Ophthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Aier Eye Institute, Changsha, China
| | - Jiansu Chen
- Aier School of Ophthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Aier Eye Institute, Changsha, China.,Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine of Ministry of Education, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
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Wang L, Zheng F, Song R, Zhuang L, Yang M, Suo J, Li L. Integrins in the Regulation of Mesenchymal Stem Cell Differentiation by Mechanical Signals. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2021; 18:126-141. [PMID: 34536203 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-021-10260-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can sense and convert mechanical stimuli signals into a chemical response. Integrins are involved in the mechanotransduction from inside to outside and from outside to inside, and ultimately affect the fate of MSCs responding to different mechanical signals. Different integrins participate in different signaling pathways to regulate MSCs multi-differentiation. In this review, we summarize the latest advances in the effects of mechanical signals on the differentiation of MSCs, the importance of integrins in mechanotransduction, the relationship between integrin heterodimers and different mechanical signals, and the interaction among mechanical signals. We put forward our views on the prospect and challenges of developing mechanical biology in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Wang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Jilin University First Hospital, Jilin University, 130021, Changchun, People's Republic of China
| | - Fuwen Zheng
- Norman Bethune College of Medicine, Jilin University, 130021, Changchun, People's Republic of China
| | - Ruixue Song
- Norman Bethune College of Medicine, Jilin University, 130021, Changchun, People's Republic of China
| | - Lequan Zhuang
- Norman Bethune College of Medicine, Jilin University, 130021, Changchun, People's Republic of China
| | - Ming Yang
- Department of Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, 130021, Changchun, People's Republic of China.
| | - Jian Suo
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Jilin University First Hospital, Jilin University, 130021, Changchun, People's Republic of China.
| | - Lisha Li
- The Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, 130021, Changchun, People's Republic of China.
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Jin Y, Cho SW. Bioengineering platforms for cell therapeutics derived from pluripotent and direct reprogramming. APL Bioeng 2021; 5:031501. [PMID: 34258498 PMCID: PMC8263070 DOI: 10.1063/5.0040621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Pluripotent and direct reprogramming technologies hold great potential for tissue repair and restoration of tissue and organ function. The implementation of induced pluripotent stem cells and directly reprogrammed cells in biomedical research has resulted in a significant leap forward in the highly promising area of regenerative medicine. While these therapeutic strategies are promising, there are several obstacles to overcome prior to the introduction of these therapies into clinical settings. Bioengineering technologies, such as biomaterials, bioprinting, microfluidic devices, and biostimulatory systems, can enhance cell viability, differentiation, and function, in turn the efficacy of cell therapeutics generated via pluripotent and direct reprogramming. Therefore, cellular reprogramming technologies, in combination with tissue-engineering platforms, are poised to overcome current bottlenecks associated with cell-based therapies and create new ways of producing engineered tissue substitutes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoonhee Jin
- Department of Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
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48
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Zhong Y, Saleh A, Inal S. Decoding Electrophysiological Signals with Organic Electrochemical Transistors. Macromol Biosci 2021; 21:e2100187. [PMID: 34463019 DOI: 10.1002/mabi.202100187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The organic electrochemical transistor (OECT) has unique characteristics that distinguish it from other transistors and make it a promising electronic transducer of biological events. High transconductance, flexibility, and biocompatibility render OECTs ideal for detecting electrophysiological signals. Device properties such as transconductance, response time, and noise level should, however, be optimized to adapt to the needs of various application environments including in vitro cell culture, human skin, and inside of a living system. This review includes an overview of the origin of electrophysiological signals, the working principles of OECTs, and methods for performance optimization. While covering recent research examples of the use of OECTs in electrophysiology, a perspective is provided for next-generation bioelectric sensors and amplifiers for electrophysiology applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yizhou Zhong
- Organic Bioelectronics Laboratory, Biological and Environmental Sciences and Engineering Division, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal, 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulelah Saleh
- Organic Bioelectronics Laboratory, Biological and Environmental Sciences and Engineering Division, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal, 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sahika Inal
- Organic Bioelectronics Laboratory, Biological and Environmental Sciences and Engineering Division, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal, 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
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49
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Mesenchymal stem cells from biology to therapy. Emerg Top Life Sci 2021; 5:539-548. [PMID: 34355761 PMCID: PMC8639183 DOI: 10.1042/etls20200303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Revised: 05/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cells are as fascinating as they are enigmatic. They appear capable of performing a wide array of functions that cross skeletal biology, immunology and haematology. As therapeutics, mesenchymal stem cells or even just their secreted products may be used to regenerate tissue lost through injury or disease and suppress damaging immune reactions. However, these cells lack unique markers and are hard to identify and isolate as pure cell populations. They are often grown in laboratories using basic and undefined culture conditions. We cannot even agree on their name. While mesenchymal stem cells may lack the developmental understanding and defined differentiation hierarchies of their more illustrious stem cell cousins, they offer a compelling scientific challenge. In depth understanding of mesenchymal stem cell biology will enable us to exploit fully one of the most clinically valuable cell sources.
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50
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Development of a decellularized meniscus matrix-based nanofibrous scaffold for meniscus tissue engineering. Acta Biomater 2021; 128:175-185. [PMID: 33823327 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2021.03.074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2020] [Revised: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
The meniscus plays a critical role in knee mechanical function but is commonly injured given its central load bearing role. In the adult, meniscus repair is limited, given the low number of endogenous cells, the density of the matrix, and the limited vascularity. Menisci are fibrocartilaginous tissues composed of a micro-/nano- fibrous extracellular matrix (ECM) and a mixture of chondrocyte-like and fibroblast-like cells. Here, we developed a fibrous scaffold system that consists of bioactive components (decellularized meniscus ECM (dME) within a poly(e-caprolactone) material) fashioned into a biomimetic morphology (via electrospinning) to support and enhance meniscus cell function and matrix production. This work supports that the incorporation of dME into synthetic nanofibers increased hydrophilicity of the scaffold, leading to enhanced meniscus cell spreading, proliferation, and fibrochondrogenic gene expression. This work identifies a new biomimetic scaffold for therapeutic strategies to substitute or replace injured meniscus tissue. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: In this study, we show that a scaffold electrospun from a combination of synthetic materials and bovine decellularized meniscus ECM provides appropriate signals and a suitable template for meniscus fibrochondrocyte spreading, proliferation, and secretion of collagen and proteoglycans. Material characterization and in vitro cell studies support that this new bioactive material is susceptible to enzymatic digestion and supports meniscus-like tissue formation.
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