1
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Mohamadian Namaqi M, Moll F, Wiedemeier S, Grodrian A, Lemke K. Dynamic cell culture modulates colon cancer cell migration in a novel 3D cell culture system. Sci Rep 2024; 14:18851. [PMID: 39143115 PMCID: PMC11324956 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-69261-2] [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: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 08/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/16/2024] Open
Abstract
The progression of cancer cell migration, invasion and subsequent metastasis is the main cause of mortality in cancer patients. Through creating more accurate cancer models, we can achieve more precise results, which will lead to a better understanding of the invasion process. This holds promise for more effective prevention and treatment strategies. Although numerous 2D and 3D cell culture systems have been developed, they poorly reflect the in vivo situation and many questions have remained unanswered. This work describes a novel dynamic 3D cell culture system aimed at advancing our comprehension of cancer cell migration. With the newly designed cultivation chamber, 3D tumor spheroids were cultivated within a collagen I matrix in the presence of fluid flow to study the migration of cancer cells from spheroids in the matrix. Using light sheet microscopy and histology, we demonstrated that the morphology of spheroids is influenced by dynamic culture and that, in contrast to static culture, spheroids in dynamic culture are characterized by the absence of a large necrotic core. Additionally, this influence extends to an increase in the size of migration area, coupled with an increase in expression of some genes related to epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). The results here highlight the importance of dynamic culture in cancer research. Although the dynamic 3D cell culture system in this study was used to investigate migration of one cell type into a matrix, it has the potential to be further developed and used for more complex models consisting of different cell types or to analyze other steps of metastasis development such as transendothelial migration or extravasation.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Mohamadian Namaqi
- Department of Bioprocess Engineering, Institute for Bioprocessing and Analytical Measurement Techniques e.V. (iba), Heilbad Heiligenstadt, Germany.
| | - F Moll
- Department of Bioprocess Engineering, Institute for Bioprocessing and Analytical Measurement Techniques e.V. (iba), Heilbad Heiligenstadt, Germany
| | - S Wiedemeier
- Department of Bioprocess Engineering, Institute for Bioprocessing and Analytical Measurement Techniques e.V. (iba), Heilbad Heiligenstadt, Germany
| | - A Grodrian
- Department of Bioprocess Engineering, Institute for Bioprocessing and Analytical Measurement Techniques e.V. (iba), Heilbad Heiligenstadt, Germany
| | - K Lemke
- Department of Bioprocess Engineering, Institute for Bioprocessing and Analytical Measurement Techniques e.V. (iba), Heilbad Heiligenstadt, Germany
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2
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Cortesi M, Liu D, Powell E, Barlow E, Warton K, Ford CE. Accurate Identification of Cancer Cells in Complex Pre-Clinical Models Using a Deep-Learning Neural Network: A Transfection-Free Approach. Adv Biol (Weinh) 2024:e2400034. [PMID: 39133225 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.202400034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Revised: 07/07/2024] [Indexed: 08/13/2024]
Abstract
3D co-cultures are key tools for in vitro biomedical research as they recapitulate more closely the in vivo environment while allowing a tighter control on the culture's composition and experimental conditions. The limited technologies available for the analysis of these models, however, hamper their widespread application. The separation of the contribution of the different cell types, in particular, is a fundamental challenge. In this work, ORACLE (OvaRiAn Cancer ceLl rEcognition) is presented, a deep neural network trained to distinguish between ovarian cancer and healthy cells based on the shape of their nucleus. The extensive validation that are conducted includes multiple cell lines and patient-derived cultures to characterize the effect of all the major potential confounding factors. High accuracy and reliability are maintained throughout the analysis (F1score> 0.9 and Area under the ROC curve -ROC-AUC- score = 0.99) demonstrating ORACLE's effectiveness with this detection and classification task. ORACLE is freely available (https://github.com/MarilisaCortesi/ORACLE/tree/main) and can be used to recognize both ovarian cancer cell lines and primary patient-derived cells. This feature is unique to ORACLE and thus enables for the first time the analysis of in vitro co-cultures comprised solely of patient-derived cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marilisa Cortesi
- Gynaecological Cancer Research Group, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Kensington, NSW, 2033, Australia
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Engineering, Department of Electrical Electronic and Information Engineering "G. Marconi", Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Cesena, 47521, Italy
| | - Dongli Liu
- Gynaecological Cancer Research Group, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Kensington, NSW, 2033, Australia
| | - Elyse Powell
- Gynaecological Cancer Research Group, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Kensington, NSW, 2033, Australia
| | - Ellen Barlow
- Gynaecological Cancer Research Group, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Kensington, NSW, 2033, Australia
| | - Kristina Warton
- Gynaecological Cancer Research Group, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Kensington, NSW, 2033, Australia
| | - Caroline E Ford
- Gynaecological Cancer Research Group, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Kensington, NSW, 2033, Australia
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3
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Suurmond CAE, Leeuwenburgh SCG, van den Beucken JJJP. Modelling bone metastasis in spheroids to study cancer progression and screen cisplatin efficacy. Cell Prolif 2024:e13693. [PMID: 38899562 DOI: 10.1111/cpr.13693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2024] [Revised: 05/27/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Most bone metastases are caused by primary breast or prostate cancer cells settling in the bone microenvironment, affecting normal bone physiology and function and reducing 5-year survival rates to 10% and 6%, respectively. To expedite clinical availability of novel and effective bone metastases treatments, reliable and predictive in vitro models are urgently required to screen for novel therapies as current in vitro 2D planar mono-culture models do not accurately predict the clinical efficacy. We herein engineered a novel human in vitro 3D co-culture model based on spheroids to study dynamic cellular quantities of (breast or prostate) cancer cells and human bone marrow stromal cells and screen chemotherapeutic efficacy and specificity of the common anticancer drug cisplatin. Bone metastatic spheroids (BMSs) were formed rapidly within 24 h, while the morphology of breast versus prostate cancer BMS differed in terms of size and circularity upon prolonged culture periods. Prestaining cell types prior to BMS formation enabled confocal imaging and quantitative image analysis of in-spheroid cellular dynamics for up to 7 days of BMS culture. We found that cancer cells in BMS proliferated faster and were less susceptible to cisplatin treatment compared to 2D control cultures. Based on these findings and the versatility of our methodology, BMS represent a feasible 3D in vitro model for screening of new bone cancer metastases therapies.
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4
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Lachance-Brais C, Yao C, Reyes-Valenzuela A, Asohan J, Guettler E, Sleiman HF. Exceptional Nuclease Resistance of DNA and RNA with the Addition of Small-Molecule Nucleobase Mimics. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:5811-5822. [PMID: 38387071 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c07023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
Nucleases present a formidable barrier to the application of nucleic acids in biology, significantly reducing the lifetime of nucleic acid-based drugs. Here, we develop a novel methodology to protect DNA and RNA from nucleases by reconfiguring their supramolecular structure through the addition of a nucleobase mimic, cyanuric acid. In the presence of cyanuric acid, polyadenine strands assemble into triple helical fibers known as the polyA/CA motif. We report that this motif is exceptionally resistant to nucleases, with the constituent strands surviving for up to 1 month in the presence of serum. The conferred stability extends to adjacent non-polyA sequences, albeit with diminishing returns relative to their polyA sections due to hypothesized steric clashes. We introduce a strategy to regenerate stability through the introduction of free polyA strands or positively charged amino side chains, enhancing the stability of sequences of varied lengths. The proposed protection mechanism involves enzyme failure to recognize the unnatural polyA/CA motif, coupled with the motif's propensity to form long, bundling supramolecular fibers. The methodology provides a fundamentally new mechanism to protect nucleic acids from degradation using a supramolecular approach and increases lifetime in serum to days, weeks, or months.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Chihyu Yao
- McGill University, 801 Sherbrooke St. W., Montreal, Quebec H3A0B8, Canada
| | | | - Jathavan Asohan
- McGill University, 801 Sherbrooke St. W., Montreal, Quebec H3A0B8, Canada
| | - Elizabeth Guettler
- McGill University, 801 Sherbrooke St. W., Montreal, Quebec H3A0B8, Canada
| | - Hanadi F Sleiman
- McGill University, 801 Sherbrooke St. W., Montreal, Quebec H3A0B8, Canada
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5
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Mierke CT. Phenotypic Heterogeneity, Bidirectionality, Universal Cues, Plasticity, Mechanics, and the Tumor Microenvironment Drive Cancer Metastasis. Biomolecules 2024; 14:184. [PMID: 38397421 PMCID: PMC10887446 DOI: 10.3390/biom14020184] [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: 12/25/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Tumor diseases become a huge problem when they embark on a path that advances to malignancy, such as the process of metastasis. Cancer metastasis has been thoroughly investigated from a biological perspective in the past, whereas it has still been less explored from a physical perspective. Until now, the intraluminal pathway of cancer metastasis has received the most attention, while the interaction of cancer cells with macrophages has received little attention. Apart from the biochemical characteristics, tumor treatments also rely on the tumor microenvironment, which is recognized to be immunosuppressive and, as has recently been found, mechanically stimulates cancer cells and thus alters their functions. The review article highlights the interaction of cancer cells with other cells in the vascular metastatic route and discusses the impact of this intercellular interplay on the mechanical characteristics and subsequently on the functionality of cancer cells. For instance, macrophages can guide cancer cells on their intravascular route of cancer metastasis, whereby they can help to circumvent the adverse conditions within blood or lymphatic vessels. Macrophages induce microchannel tunneling that can possibly avoid mechanical forces during extra- and intravasation and reduce the forces within the vascular lumen due to vascular flow. The review article highlights the vascular route of cancer metastasis and discusses the key players in this traditional route. Moreover, the effects of flows during the process of metastasis are presented, and the effects of the microenvironment, such as mechanical influences, are characterized. Finally, the increased knowledge of cancer metastasis opens up new perspectives for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Tanja Mierke
- Faculty of Physics and Earth System Science, Peter Debye Institute of Soft Matter Physics, Biological Physics Division, Leipzig University, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
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6
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Mierke CT. Extracellular Matrix Cues Regulate Mechanosensing and Mechanotransduction of Cancer Cells. Cells 2024; 13:96. [PMID: 38201302 PMCID: PMC10777970 DOI: 10.3390/cells13010096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2023] [Revised: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/01/2024] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Extracellular biophysical properties have particular implications for a wide spectrum of cellular behaviors and functions, including growth, motility, differentiation, apoptosis, gene expression, cell-matrix and cell-cell adhesion, and signal transduction including mechanotransduction. Cells not only react to unambiguously mechanical cues from the extracellular matrix (ECM), but can occasionally manipulate the mechanical features of the matrix in parallel with biological characteristics, thus interfering with downstream matrix-based cues in both physiological and pathological processes. Bidirectional interactions between cells and (bio)materials in vitro can alter cell phenotype and mechanotransduction, as well as ECM structure, intentionally or unintentionally. Interactions between cell and matrix mechanics in vivo are of particular importance in a variety of diseases, including primarily cancer. Stiffness values between normal and cancerous tissue can range between 500 Pa (soft) and 48 kPa (stiff), respectively. Even the shear flow can increase from 0.1-1 dyn/cm2 (normal tissue) to 1-10 dyn/cm2 (cancerous tissue). There are currently many new areas of activity in tumor research on various biological length scales, which are highlighted in this review. Moreover, the complexity of interactions between ECM and cancer cells is reduced to common features of different tumors and the characteristics are highlighted to identify the main pathways of interaction. This all contributes to the standardization of mechanotransduction models and approaches, which, ultimately, increases the understanding of the complex interaction. Finally, both the in vitro and in vivo effects of this mechanics-biology pairing have key insights and implications for clinical practice in tumor treatment and, consequently, clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Tanja Mierke
- Biological Physics Division, Peter Debye Institute of Soft Matter Physics, Faculty of Physics and Earth Science, Leipzig University, Linnéstraße 5, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
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7
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Steinberg E, Friedman R, Goldstein Y, Friedman N, Beharier O, Demma JA, Zamir G, Hubert A, Benny O. A fully 3D-printed versatile tumor-on-a-chip allows multi-drug screening and correlation with clinical outcomes for personalized medicine. Commun Biol 2023; 6:1157. [PMID: 37957280 PMCID: PMC10643569 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-023-05531-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Optimal clinical outcomes in cancer treatments could be achieved through the development of reliable, precise ex vivo tumor models that function as drug screening platforms for patient-targeted therapies. Microfluidic tumor-on-chip technology is emerging as a preferred tool since it enables the complex set-ups and recapitulation of the physiologically relevant physical microenvironment of tumors. In order to overcome the common hindrances encountered while using this technology, a fully 3D-printed device was developed that sustains patient-derived multicellular spheroids long enough to conduct multiple drug screening tests. This tool is both cost effective and possesses four necessary characteristics of effective microfluidic devices: transparency, biocompatibility, versatility, and sample accessibility. Compelling correlations which demonstrate a clinical proof of concept were found after testing and comparing different chemotherapies on tumor spheroids, derived from ten patients, to their clinical outcomes. This platform offers a potential solution for personalized medicine by functioning as a predictive drug-performance tool.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eliana Steinberg
- The Institute for Drug Research, The School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Roy Friedman
- School of Computer Science and Engineering, Center for Interdisciplinary Data Research, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Yoel Goldstein
- The Institute for Drug Research, The School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Nethanel Friedman
- The Institute for Drug Research, The School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Ofer Beharier
- Hadassah Medical Center and The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Jonathan Abraham Demma
- Department of General Surgery, Hadassah Medical Center and Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Gideon Zamir
- Department of General Surgery, Hadassah Medical Center and Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Ayala Hubert
- Oncology Department, Hadassah Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Ofra Benny
- The Institute for Drug Research, The School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel.
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8
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Kalli M, Poskus MD, Stylianopoulos T, Zervantonakis IK. Beyond matrix stiffness: targeting force-induced cancer drug resistance. Trends Cancer 2023; 9:937-954. [PMID: 37558577 PMCID: PMC10592424 DOI: 10.1016/j.trecan.2023.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023]
Abstract
During tumor progression, mechanical abnormalities in the tumor microenvironment (TME) trigger signaling pathways in cells that activate cellular programs, resulting in tumor growth and drug resistance. In this review, we describe mechanisms of action for anti-cancer therapies and mechanotransduction programs that regulate cellular processes, including cell proliferation, apoptosis, survival and phenotype switching. We discuss how the therapeutic response is impacted by the three main mechanical TME abnormalities: high extracellular matrix (ECM) composition and stiffness; interstitial fluid pressure (IFP); and elevated mechanical forces. We also review drugs that normalize these abnormalities or block mechanosensors and mechanotransduction pathways. Finally, we discuss current challenges and perspectives for the development of new strategies targeting mechanically induced drug resistance in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Kalli
- Cancer Biophysics Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Matthew D Poskus
- Department of Bioengineering and Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Triantafyllos Stylianopoulos
- Cancer Biophysics Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus.
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9
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Strelez C, Perez R, Chlystek JS, Cherry C, Yoon AY, Haliday B, Shah C, Ghaffarian K, Sun RX, Jiang H, Lau R, Schatz A, Lenz HJ, Katz JE, Mumenthaler SM. Integration of Patient-Derived Organoids and Organ-on-Chip Systems: Investigating Colorectal Cancer Invasion within the Mechanical and GABAergic Tumor Microenvironment. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.09.14.557797. [PMID: 37745376 PMCID: PMC10515884 DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.14.557797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
Three-dimensional (3D) in vitro models are essential in cancer research, but they often neglect physical forces. In our study, we combined patient-derived tumor organoids with a microfluidic organ-on-chip system to investigate colorectal cancer (CRC) invasion in the tumor microenvironment (TME). This allowed us to create patient-specific tumor models and assess the impact of physical forces on cancer biology. Our findings showed that the organoid-on-chip models more closely resembled patient tumors at the transcriptional level, surpassing organoids alone. Using 'omics' methods and live-cell imaging, we observed heightened responsiveness of KRAS mutant tumors to TME mechanical forces. These tumors also utilized the γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) neurotransmitter as an energy source, increasing their invasiveness. This bioengineered model holds promise for advancing our understanding of cancer progression and improving CRC treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carly Strelez
- Lawrence J. Ellison Institute for Transformative Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Rachel Perez
- Lawrence J. Ellison Institute for Transformative Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - John S Chlystek
- Lawrence J. Ellison Institute for Transformative Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | | - Ah Young Yoon
- Lawrence J. Ellison Institute for Transformative Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Bethany Haliday
- Lawrence J. Ellison Institute for Transformative Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Division of Oncology, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Curran Shah
- Lawrence J. Ellison Institute for Transformative Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Viterbi School of Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Kimya Ghaffarian
- Lawrence J. Ellison Institute for Transformative Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Ren X Sun
- Lawrence J. Ellison Institute for Transformative Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Hannah Jiang
- Lawrence J. Ellison Institute for Transformative Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Viterbi School of Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Roy Lau
- Lawrence J. Ellison Institute for Transformative Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Aaron Schatz
- Lawrence J. Ellison Institute for Transformative Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Heinz-Josef Lenz
- Division of Oncology, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jonathan E Katz
- Lawrence J. Ellison Institute for Transformative Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Shannon M Mumenthaler
- Lawrence J. Ellison Institute for Transformative Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Division of Oncology, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Viterbi School of Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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10
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De Dios-Figueroa GT, Aguilera-Márquez JDR, García-Uriostegui L, Hernández-Gutiérrez R, Camacho-Villegas TA, Lugo-Fabres PH. Embedded Living HER2+ Cells in a 3D Gelatin-Alginate Hydrogel as an In Vitro Model for Immunotherapy Delivery for Breast Cancer. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:3726. [PMID: 37765581 PMCID: PMC10535529 DOI: 10.3390/polym15183726] [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: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) is the second target molecule most commonly used in breast cancer treatment. Both recurrence and metastasis are still deadly for HER2+ breast cancer patients. Hydrogels can be an option for developing three-dimensional (3D) cell culture systems that resemble tumor features better than monolayer cultures and could be used for preclinical screening for new biotherapeutics. Biopolymers (gelatin and alginate) were used to develop a hydrogel capable of encapsulating living HER2+ breast cancer cells BT-474/GFP. The hydrogel was physicochemically characterized, and the viability of embedded cells was evaluated. The hydrogel developed had suitable physical properties, with swelling of 38% of its original mass at 20 h capacity and pore sizes between 20 and 125 µm that allowed cells to maintain their morphology in a 3D environment, in addition to being biocompatible and preserving 90% of cell viability at 10 days. Furthermore, encapsulated BT-474/GFP cells maintained HER2 expression that could be detected by the Trastuzumab-fluorescent antibody, so this hydrogel could be used to evaluate new HER2-targeted therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- G. Tonantzin De Dios-Figueroa
- Unidad de Biotecnología Médica y Farmacéutica, Centro de Investigación y Asistencia en Tecnología y Diseño del Estado de Jalisco (CIATEJ), Guadalajara 44270, Jalisco, Mexico; (G.T.D.D.-F.); (J.d.R.A.-M.); (R.H.-G.)
| | - Janette del Rocío Aguilera-Márquez
- Unidad de Biotecnología Médica y Farmacéutica, Centro de Investigación y Asistencia en Tecnología y Diseño del Estado de Jalisco (CIATEJ), Guadalajara 44270, Jalisco, Mexico; (G.T.D.D.-F.); (J.d.R.A.-M.); (R.H.-G.)
| | - Lorena García-Uriostegui
- CONAHCYT—Departamento de Madera, Celulosa y Papel, Universidad de Guadalajara (UDG), Guadalajara 44100, Jalisco, Mexico;
| | - Rodolfo Hernández-Gutiérrez
- Unidad de Biotecnología Médica y Farmacéutica, Centro de Investigación y Asistencia en Tecnología y Diseño del Estado de Jalisco (CIATEJ), Guadalajara 44270, Jalisco, Mexico; (G.T.D.D.-F.); (J.d.R.A.-M.); (R.H.-G.)
| | - Tanya A. Camacho-Villegas
- CONAHCYT—Unidad de Biotecnología Médica y Farmacéutica, Centro de Investigación y Asistencia en Tecnología y Diseño del Estado de Jalisco (CIATEJ), Guadalajara 44270, Jalisco, Mexico;
| | - Pavel H. Lugo-Fabres
- CONAHCYT—Unidad de Biotecnología Médica y Farmacéutica, Centro de Investigación y Asistencia en Tecnología y Diseño del Estado de Jalisco (CIATEJ), Guadalajara 44270, Jalisco, Mexico;
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11
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Payne MC, Ho S, Hashimoto T, Imboden S, Diaz JA, Lee BS, Rupert MJ, Cai NY, Goldstein AS, Lin NYC. Microwell-based flow culture increases viability and restores drug response in prostate cancer spheroids. Biotechnol J 2023:e2200434. [PMID: 36905340 DOI: 10.1002/biot.202200434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023]
Abstract
3D cancer spheroids represent a highly promising model for study of cancer progression and therapeutic development. Wide-scale adoption of cancer spheroids, however, remains a challenge due to the lack of control over hypoxic gradients that may cloud the assessment of cell morphology and drug response. Here, we present a Microwell Flow Device (MFD) that generates in-well laminar flow around 3D tissues via repetitive tissue sedimentation. Using a prostate cancer cell line, we demonstrate the spheroids in the MFD exhibit improved cell growth, reduced necrotic core formation, enhanced structural integrity, and downregulated expression of cell stress genes. The flow-cultured spheroids also exhibit an improved sensitivity to chemotherapy with greater transcriptional response. These results demonstrate how fluidic stimuli reveal the cellular phenotype previously masked by severe necrosis. Our platform advances 3D cellular models and enables study into hypoxia modulation, cancer metabolism, and drug screening within pathophysiological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie C Payne
- Department of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - SumYat Ho
- Department of Biochemistry, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Takao Hashimoto
- Departments of Molecular, Cell & Developmental Biology and Urology, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Sara Imboden
- Department of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Johnny A Diaz
- Departments of Molecular, Cell & Developmental Biology and Urology, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Brandon S Lee
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Melissa J Rupert
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Nathan Y Cai
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Andrew S Goldstein
- Departments of Molecular, Cell & Developmental Biology and Urology, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Neil Y C Lin
- Department of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Institute for Quantitative and Computational Biosciences, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
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12
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Boinapalli Y, Shankar Pandey R, Singh Chauhan A, Sudheesh MS. Physiological relevance of in-vitro cell-nanoparticle interaction studies as a predictive tool in cancer nanomedicine research. Int J Pharm 2023; 632:122579. [PMID: 36603671 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2022.122579] [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: 10/23/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Cell uptake study is a routine experiment used as a surrogate to predict in vivo response in cancer nanomedicine research. Cell culture conditions should be designed in such a way that it emulates 'real' physiological conditions and avoid artefacts. It is critical to dissect the steps involved in cellular uptake to understand the physical, chemical, and biological factors responsible for particle internalization. The two-dimensional model (2D) of cell culture is overly simplistic to mimic the complexity of cancer tissues that exist in vivo. It cannot simulate the critical tissue-specific properties like cell-cell interaction and cell-extracellular matrix (ECM) interaction and its influences on the temporal and spatial distribution of nanoparticles (NPs). The three dimensional model organization of heterogenous cancer and normal cells with the ECM acts as a formidable barrier to NP penetration and cellular uptake. The three dimensional cell culture (3D) technology is a breakthrough in this direction that can mimic the barrier properties of the tumor microenvironment (TME). Herein, we discuss the physiological factors that should be considered to bridge the translational gap between in and vitro cell culture studies and in-vivo studies in cancer nanomedicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yamini Boinapalli
- Dept. of Pharmaceutics, Amrita School of Pharmacy, Amrita Health Science Campus, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Ponekkara, Kochi 682041, India
| | - Ravi Shankar Pandey
- SLT Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guru Ghasidas Vishwavidyalaya, Bilaspur, C.G. 495009, India
| | - Abhay Singh Chauhan
- Department of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, United States.
| | - M S Sudheesh
- Dept. of Pharmaceutics, Amrita School of Pharmacy, Amrita Health Science Campus, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Ponekkara, Kochi 682041, India.
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13
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Establishing a simple perfusion cell culture system for light-activated liposomes. Sci Rep 2023; 13:2050. [PMID: 36739469 PMCID: PMC9899206 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-29215-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The off-target effects of light-activated or targeted liposomes are difficult to distinguish in traditional well plate experiments. Additionally, the absence of fluid flow in traditional cell models can lead to overestimation of nanoparticle uptake. In this paper, we established a perfusion cell culture platform to study light-activated liposomes and determined the effect of flow on the liposomal cell uptake. The optimal cell culturing parameters for the A549 cells under flow conditions were determined by monitoring cell viability. To determine optimal liposome treatment times, particle uptake was measured with flow cytometry. The suitability of commercial QuasiVivo flow-chambers for near-infrared light activation was assessed with a calcein release study. The chamber material did not hinder the light activation and subsequent calcein release from the liposomes. Furthermore, our results show that the standard cell culturing techniques are not directly translatable to flow cultures. For non-coated liposomes, the uptake was hindered by flow. Interestingly, hyaluronic acid coating diminished the uptake differences between the flow and static conditions. The study demonstrates that flow affects the liposomal uptake by lung cancer cell line A549. The flow also complicates the cell attachment of A549 cells. Moreover, we show that the QuasiVivo platform is suitable for light-activation studies.
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14
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Nolan J, Pearce OMT, Screen HRC, Knight MM, Verbruggen SW. Organ-on-a-Chip and Microfluidic Platforms for Oncology in the UK. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:635. [PMID: 36765593 PMCID: PMC9913518 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15030635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Organ-on-chip systems are capable of replicating complex tissue structures and physiological phenomena. The fine control of biochemical and biomechanical cues within these microphysiological systems provides opportunities for cancer researchers to build complex models of the tumour microenvironment. Interest in applying organ chips to investigate mechanisms such as metastatsis and to test therapeutics has grown rapidly, and this review draws together the published research using these microfluidic platforms to study cancer. We focus on both in-house systems and commercial platforms being used in the UK for fundamental discovery science and therapeutics testing. We cover the wide variety of cancers being investigated, ranging from common carcinomas to rare sarcomas, as well as secondary cancers. We also cover the broad sweep of different matrix microenvironments, physiological mechanical stimuli and immunological effects being replicated in these models. We examine microfluidic models specifically, rather than organoids or complex tissue or cell co-cultures, which have been reviewed elsewhere. However, there is increasing interest in incorporating organoids, spheroids and other tissue cultures into microfluidic organ chips and this overlap is included. Our review includes a commentary on cancer organ-chip models being developed and used in the UK, including work conducted by members of the UK Organ-on-a-Chip Technologies Network. We conclude with a reflection on the likely future of this rapidly expanding field of oncological research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanne Nolan
- Centre for Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Materials Science, Queen Mary University of London, London E1 4NS, UK
- Centre for Predictive In Vitro Models, Queen Mary University of London, London E1 4NS, UK
- Barts Cancer Institute, School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London E1 2AD, UK
| | - Oliver M. T. Pearce
- Barts Cancer Institute, School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London E1 2AD, UK
| | - Hazel R. C. Screen
- Centre for Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Materials Science, Queen Mary University of London, London E1 4NS, UK
- Centre for Predictive In Vitro Models, Queen Mary University of London, London E1 4NS, UK
| | - Martin M. Knight
- Centre for Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Materials Science, Queen Mary University of London, London E1 4NS, UK
- Centre for Predictive In Vitro Models, Queen Mary University of London, London E1 4NS, UK
| | - Stefaan W. Verbruggen
- Centre for Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Materials Science, Queen Mary University of London, London E1 4NS, UK
- Centre for Predictive In Vitro Models, Queen Mary University of London, London E1 4NS, UK
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, INSIGNEO Institute for In Silico Medicine, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S1 3JD, UK
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15
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Shah L, Latif A, Williams KJ, Tirella A. Role of stiffness and physico-chemical properties of tumour microenvironment on breast cancer cell stemness. Acta Biomater 2022; 152:273-289. [PMID: 36087866 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2022.08.074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Revised: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Several physico-chemical properties of the tumour microenvironment (TME) are dysregulated during tumour progression, such as tissue stiffness, extracellular pH and interstitial fluid flow. Traditional preclinical models, although useful to study biological processes, do not provide sufficient control over these physico-chemical properties, hence limiting the understanding of cause-effect relationships between the TME and cancer cells. Breast cancer stem cells (B-CSCs), a dynamic population within the tumour, are known to affect tumour progression, metastasis and therapeutic resistance. With their emerging importance in disease physiology, it is essential to study the interplay between above-mentioned TME physico-chemical variables and B-CSC marker expression. In this work, 3D in vitro models with controlled physico-chemical properties (hydrogel stiffness and composition, perfusion, pH) were used to mimic normal and tumour breast tissue to study changes in proliferation, morphology and B-CSC population in two separate breast cancer cell lines (MCF-7 and MDA-MB 231). Cells encapsulated in alginate-gelatin hydrogels varying in stiffness (2-10 kPa), density and adhesion ligand (gelatin) were perfused (500 µL/min) for up to 14 days. Physiological (pH 7.4) and tumorigenic (pH 6.5) media were used to mimic changes in extracellular pH within the TME. We found that both cell lines have distinct responses to changes in physico-chemical factors in terms of proliferation, cell aggregates size and morphology. Most importantly, stiff and dense hydrogels (10 kPa) and acidic pH (6.5) play a key role in B-CSCs dynamics, increasing both epithelial (E-CSCs) and mesenchymal cancer stem cell (M-CSCs) marker expression, supporting direct impact of the physico-chemical microenvironment on disease onset and progression. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Currently no studies evaluate the impact of physico-chemical properties of the tumour microenvironment on breast cancer stem cell (B-CSC) marker expression in a single in vitro model and at the same time. In this study, 3D in vitro models with varying stiffness, extracellular pH and fluid flow are used to recapitulate the breast tumour microenvironment to evaluate for the first time their direct effect on multiple breast cancer phenotypes: cell proliferation, cell aggregate size and shape, and B-CSC markers. Results suggest these models could open new ways of monitoring disease phenotypes, from the early-onset to progression, as well as being used as testing platforms for effective identification of specific phenotypes in the presence of relevant tumour physico-chemical microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lekha Shah
- Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, M13 9PL, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Ayşe Latif
- Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, M13 9PL, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Kaye J Williams
- Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, M13 9PL, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Annalisa Tirella
- Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, M13 9PL, Manchester, United Kingdom; BIOtech - Center for Biomedical Technologies, Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Trento, Via delle Regole 101, Trento 38123, Italy.
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16
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A thermo-sensitive hydrogel composed of methylcellulose/hyaluronic acid/silk fibrin as a biomimetic extracellular matrix to simulate breast cancer malignancy. Eur Polym J 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eurpolymj.2022.111421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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17
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Morphometrical, Morphological, and Immunocytochemical Characterization of a Tool for Cytotoxicity Research: 3D Cultures of Breast Cell Lines Grown in Ultra-Low Attachment Plates. TOXICS 2022; 10:toxics10080415. [PMID: 35893848 PMCID: PMC9394479 DOI: 10.3390/toxics10080415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Three-dimensional cell cultures may better mimic avascular tumors. Yet, they still lack characterization and standardization. Therefore, this study aimed to (a) generate multicellular aggregates (MCAs) of four breast cell lines: MCF7, MDA-MB-231, and SKBR3 (tumoral) and MCF12A (non-tumoral) using ultra-low attachment (ULA) plates, (b) detail the methodology used for their formation and analysis, providing technical tips, and (c) characterize the MCAs using morphometry, qualitative cytology (at light and electron microscopy), and quantitative immunocytochemistry (ICC) analysis. Each cell line generated uniform MCAs with structural differences among cell lines: MCF7 and MDA-MB-231 MCAs showed an ellipsoid/discoid shape and compact structure, while MCF12A and SKBR3 MCAs were loose, more flattened, and presented bigger areas. MCF7 MCAs revealed glandular breast differentiation features. ICC showed a random distribution of the proliferating and apoptotic cells throughout the MCAs, not fitting in the traditional spheroid model. ICC for cytokeratin, vimentin, and E-cadherin showed different results according to the cell lines. Estrogen (ER) and progesterone (PR) receptors were positive only in MCF7 and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER-2) in SKBR3. The presented characterization of the MCAs in non-exposed conditions provided a good baseline to evaluate the cytotoxic effects of potential anticancer compounds.
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18
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Adams Y, Jensen AR. Cerebral malaria - modelling interactions at the blood-brain barrier in vitro. Dis Model Mech 2022; 15:275963. [PMID: 35815443 PMCID: PMC9302004 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.049410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The blood–brain barrier (BBB) is a continuous endothelial barrier that is supported by pericytes and astrocytes and regulates the passage of solutes between the bloodstream and the brain. This structure is called the neurovascular unit and serves to protect the brain from blood-borne disease-causing agents and other risk factors. In the past decade, great strides have been made to investigate the neurovascular unit for delivery of chemotherapeutics and for understanding how pathogens can circumvent the barrier, leading to severe and, at times, fatal complications. One such complication is cerebral malaria, in which Plasmodium falciparum-infected red blood cells disrupt the barrier function of the BBB, causing severe brain swelling. Multiple in vitro models of the BBB are available to investigate the mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of cerebral malaria and other diseases. These range from single-cell monolayer cultures to multicellular BBB organoids and highly complex cerebral organoids. Here, we review the technologies available in malaria research to investigate the interaction between P. falciparum-infected red blood cells and the BBB, and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each model. Summary: This Review discusses the available in vitro models to investigate the impact of adhesion of Plasmodium falciparum-infected red blood cells on the blood–brain barrier, a process associated with cerebral malaria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yvonne Adams
- Centre for Medical Parasitology at the Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark
| | - Anja Ramstedt Jensen
- Centre for Medical Parasitology at the Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark
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19
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Nieto D, Jiménez G, Moroni L, López-Ruiz E, Gálvez-Martín P, Marchal JA. Biofabrication approaches and regulatory framework of metastatic tumor-on-a-chip models for precision oncology. Med Res Rev 2022; 42:1978-2001. [PMID: 35707911 PMCID: PMC9545141 DOI: 10.1002/med.21914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Revised: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The complexity of the tumor microenvironment (TME) together with the development of the metastatic process are the main reasons for the failure of conventional anticancer treatment. In recent years, there is an increasing need to advance toward advanced in vitro models of cancer mimicking TME and simulating metastasis to understand the associated mechanisms that are still unknown, and to be able to develop personalized therapy. In this review, the commonly used alternatives and latest advances in biofabrication of tumor‐on‐chips, which allow the generation of the most sophisticated and optimized models for recapitulating the tumor process, are presented. In addition, the advances that have allowed these new models in the area of metastasis, cancer stem cells, and angiogenesis are summarized, as well as the recent integration of multiorgan‐on‐a‐chip systems to recapitulate natural metastasis and pharmacological screening against it. We also analyze, for the first time in the literature, the normative and regulatory framework in which these models could potentially be found, as well as the requirements and processes that must be fulfilled to be commercially implemented as in vitro study model. Moreover, we are focused on the possible regulatory pathways for their clinical application in precision medicine and decision making through the generation of personalized models with patient samples. In conclusion, this review highlights the synergistic combination of three‐dimensional bioprinting systems with the novel tumor/metastasis/multiorgan‐on‐a‐chip systems to generate models for both basic research and clinical applications to have devices useful for personalized oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Nieto
- Complex Tissue Regeneration Department, MERLN Institute for Technology Inspired Regenerative Medicine, University of Maastricht, Universiteitssingel, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,Center for Biomedical Research (CIBM)/Biopathology and Regenerative Medicine Institute (IBIMER), University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Gema Jiménez
- Center for Biomedical Research (CIBM)/Biopathology and Regenerative Medicine Institute (IBIMER), University of Granada, Granada, Spain.,Department of Human Anatomy and Embryology, University of Granada, Granada, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, University Hospitals of Granada- University of Granada, Granada, Spain.,Excellence Research Unit "Modeling Nature" (MNat), University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Lorenzo Moroni
- Complex Tissue Regeneration Department, MERLN Institute for Technology Inspired Regenerative Medicine, University of Maastricht, Universiteitssingel, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Elena López-Ruiz
- Center for Biomedical Research (CIBM)/Biopathology and Regenerative Medicine Institute (IBIMER), University of Granada, Granada, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, University Hospitals of Granada- University of Granada, Granada, Spain.,Excellence Research Unit "Modeling Nature" (MNat), University of Granada, Granada, Spain.,Department of Health Sciences, University of Jaén, Jaén, Spain
| | | | - Juan Antonio Marchal
- Center for Biomedical Research (CIBM)/Biopathology and Regenerative Medicine Institute (IBIMER), University of Granada, Granada, Spain.,Department of Human Anatomy and Embryology, University of Granada, Granada, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, University Hospitals of Granada- University of Granada, Granada, Spain.,Excellence Research Unit "Modeling Nature" (MNat), University of Granada, Granada, Spain
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20
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Monteiro MV, Zhang YS, Gaspar VM, Mano JF. 3D-bioprinted cancer-on-a-chip: level-up organotypic in vitro models. Trends Biotechnol 2022; 40:432-447. [PMID: 34556340 PMCID: PMC8916962 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2021.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Revised: 08/22/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Combinatorial conjugation of organ-on-a-chip platforms with additive manufacturing technologies is rapidly emerging as a disruptive approach for upgrading cancer-on-a-chip systems towards anatomic-sized dynamic in vitro models. This valuable technological synergy has potential for giving rise to truly physiomimetic 3D models that better emulate tumor microenvironment elements, bioarchitecture, and response to multidimensional flow dynamics. Herein, we showcase the most recent advances in bioengineering 3D-bioprinted cancer-on-a-chip platforms and provide a comprehensive discussion on design guidelines and possibilities for high-throughput analysis. Such hybrid platforms represent a new generation of highly sophisticated 3D tumor models with improved biomimicry and predictability of therapeutics performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria V Monteiro
- Department of Chemistry, CICECO - Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Yu Shrike Zhang
- Division of Engineering in Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Vítor M Gaspar
- Department of Chemistry, CICECO - Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal.
| | - João F Mano
- Department of Chemistry, CICECO - Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal.
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21
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Engel M, Belfiore L, Aghaei B, Sutija M. Enabling high throughput drug discovery in 3D cell cultures through a novel bioprinting workflow. SLAS Technol 2022; 27:32-38. [PMID: 35058203 DOI: 10.1016/j.slast.2021.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Advanced three dimensional cell culture techniques have been adopted in many laboratories to better model in vivo tissue by recapitulating multi-cellular architecture and the presence of extracellular matrix features. We describe here a 3D cell culture platform in a small molecule screening workflow that uses traditional biomarker and intracellular kinase end point assay readouts. By combining the high throughput bioprinter RASTRUM with the high throughput screening assay AlphaLISA, we demonstrate the utility of the protocol in 3D synthetic hydrogel cultures with breast cancer (MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7) and fibroblast cells. To establish and validate the workflow, we treated the breast cancer cultures with doxorubicin, while fibroblast cultures were stimulated with the pro-inflammatory lipopolysaccharide. 3D and 2D MDA-MB-231 cultures were equally susceptible to doxorubicin treatment, while showing opposite ERK phosphorylation changes. Doxorubicin readily entered embedded MCF-7 spheroids and markedly reduced intracellular GSK3β phosphorylation. Furthermore, quantifying extracellular interleukin 6 levels showed a very similar activation profile for fibroblasts in 2D and 3D cultures, with 3D fibroblast networks being more resistant against the immune challenge. Through these validation experiments we demonstrate the full compatibility of the bioprinted 3D cell cultures with several widely-used 2D culture assays. The efficiency of the workflow, minimal culture handling, and applicability of traditional screening assays, demonstrates that advanced encapsulated 3D cell cultures can be used in 2D cell culture screening workflows, while providing a more holistic view on cell biology to increase the predictability to in vivo drug response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Engel
- Inventia Life Science Operations Pty Ltd, Alexandria, NSW 2015, Australia.
| | - Lisa Belfiore
- Inventia Life Science Operations Pty Ltd, Alexandria, NSW 2015, Australia
| | - Behnaz Aghaei
- Inventia Life Science Operations Pty Ltd, Alexandria, NSW 2015, Australia
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22
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Linsley CS, Sung K, White C, Abecunas CA, Tawil BJ, Wu BM. Functionalizing Fibrin Hydrogels with Thermally Responsive Oligonucleotide Tethers for On-Demand Delivery. Bioengineering (Basel) 2022; 9:bioengineering9010025. [PMID: 35049734 PMCID: PMC8773154 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering9010025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Revised: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
There are a limited number of stimuli-responsive biomaterials that are capable of delivering customizable dosages of a therapeutic at a specific location and time. This is especially true in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine applications, where it may be desirable for the stimuli-responsive biomaterial to also serve as a scaffolding material. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to engineer a traditionally non-stimuli responsive scaffold biomaterial to be thermally responsive so it could be used for on-demand drug delivery applications. Fibrin hydrogels are frequently used for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine applications, and they were functionalized with thermally labile oligonucleotide tethers using peptides from substrates for factor XIII (FXIII). The alpha 2-plasmin inhibitor peptide had the greatest incorporation efficiency out of the FXIII substrate peptides studied, and conjugates of the peptide and oligonucleotide tethers were successfully incorporated into fibrin hydrogels via enzymatic activity. Single-strand complement oligo with either a fluorophore model drug or platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB) could be released on demand via temperature increases. These results demonstrate a strategy that can be used to functionalize traditionally non-stimuli responsive biomaterials suitable for on-demand drug delivery systems (DDS).
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Affiliation(s)
- Chase S. Linsley
- Department of Bioengineering, Samueli School of Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; (K.S.); (C.W.); (C.A.A.); (B.J.T.)
- Correspondence: (C.S.L.); (B.M.W.)
| | - Kevin Sung
- Department of Bioengineering, Samueli School of Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; (K.S.); (C.W.); (C.A.A.); (B.J.T.)
| | - Cameron White
- Department of Bioengineering, Samueli School of Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; (K.S.); (C.W.); (C.A.A.); (B.J.T.)
| | - Cara A. Abecunas
- Department of Bioengineering, Samueli School of Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; (K.S.); (C.W.); (C.A.A.); (B.J.T.)
| | - Bill J. Tawil
- Department of Bioengineering, Samueli School of Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; (K.S.); (C.W.); (C.A.A.); (B.J.T.)
| | - Benjamin M. Wu
- Department of Bioengineering, Samueli School of Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; (K.S.); (C.W.); (C.A.A.); (B.J.T.)
- Division of Advanced Prosthodontics, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Weintraub Center for Reconstructive Biotechnology, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Department of Materials Science & Engineering, Samueli School of Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Correspondence: (C.S.L.); (B.M.W.)
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23
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Ravichandran A, Clegg J, Adams MN, Hampson M, Fielding A, Bray LJ. 3D Breast Tumor Models for Radiobiology Applications. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:5714. [PMID: 34830869 PMCID: PMC8616164 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13225714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is a leading cause of cancer-associated death in women. The clinical management of breast cancers is normally carried out using a combination of chemotherapy, surgery and radiation therapy. The majority of research investigating breast cancer therapy until now has mainly utilized two-dimensional (2D) in vitro cultures or murine models of disease. However, there has been significant uptake of three-dimensional (3D) in vitro models by cancer researchers over the past decade, highlighting a complimentary model for studies of radiotherapy, especially in conjunction with chemotherapy. In this review, we underline the effects of radiation therapy on normal and malignant breast cells and tissues, and explore the emerging opportunities that pre-clinical 3D models offer in improving our understanding of this treatment modality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akhilandeshwari Ravichandran
- School of Mechanical, Medical and Process Engineering, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, QLD 4000, Australia; (A.R.); (J.C.); (M.H.)
- ARC Training Centre for Cell and Tissue Engineering Technologies, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, QLD 4000, Australia;
| | - Julien Clegg
- School of Mechanical, Medical and Process Engineering, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, QLD 4000, Australia; (A.R.); (J.C.); (M.H.)
- ARC Training Centre for Cell and Tissue Engineering Technologies, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, QLD 4000, Australia;
| | - Mark N. Adams
- ARC Training Centre for Cell and Tissue Engineering Technologies, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, QLD 4000, Australia;
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD 4000, Australia
| | - Madison Hampson
- School of Mechanical, Medical and Process Engineering, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, QLD 4000, Australia; (A.R.); (J.C.); (M.H.)
| | - Andrew Fielding
- School of Chemistry and Physics, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD 4000, Australia;
| | - Laura J. Bray
- School of Mechanical, Medical and Process Engineering, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, QLD 4000, Australia; (A.R.); (J.C.); (M.H.)
- ARC Training Centre for Cell and Tissue Engineering Technologies, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, QLD 4000, Australia;
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24
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Slay EE, Meldrum FC, Pensabene V, Amer MH. Embracing Mechanobiology in Next Generation Organ-On-A-Chip Models of Bone Metastasis. FRONTIERS IN MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY 2021; 3:722501. [PMID: 35047952 PMCID: PMC8757701 DOI: 10.3389/fmedt.2021.722501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Bone metastasis in breast cancer is associated with high mortality. Biomechanical cues presented by the extracellular matrix play a vital role in driving cancer metastasis. The lack of in vitro models that recapitulate the mechanical aspects of the in vivo microenvironment hinders the development of novel targeted therapies. Organ-on-a-chip (OOAC) platforms have recently emerged as a new generation of in vitro models that can mimic cell-cell interactions, enable control over fluid flow and allow the introduction of mechanical cues. Biomaterials used within OOAC platforms can determine the physical microenvironment that cells reside in and affect their behavior, adhesion, and localization. Refining the design of OOAC platforms to recreate microenvironmental regulation of metastasis and probe cell-matrix interactions will advance our understanding of breast cancer metastasis and support the development of next-generation metastasis-on-a-chip platforms. In this mini-review, we discuss the role of mechanobiology on the behavior of breast cancer and bone-residing cells, summarize the current capabilities of OOAC platforms for modeling breast cancer metastasis to bone, and highlight design opportunities offered by the incorporation of mechanobiological cues in these platforms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen E. Slay
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | | | - Virginia Pensabene
- School of School of Electronic and Electrical Engineering, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
- School of Medicine, Leeds Institute of Medical Research, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Mahetab H. Amer
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
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Collins T, Pyne E, Christensen M, Iles A, Pamme N, Pires IM. Spheroid-on-chip microfluidic technology for the evaluation of the impact of continuous flow on metastatic potential in cancer models in vitro. BIOMICROFLUIDICS 2021; 15:044103. [PMID: 34504636 PMCID: PMC8403013 DOI: 10.1063/5.0061373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
The majority of cancer deaths are linked to tumor spread, or metastasis, but 3D in vitro metastasis models relevant to the tumor microenvironment (including interstitial fluid flow) remain an area of unmet need. Microfluidics allows us to introduce controlled flow to an in vitro cancer model to better understand the relationship between flow and metastasis. Here, we report new hybrid spheroid-on-chip in vitro models for the impact of interstitial fluid flow on cancer spread. We designed a series of reusable glass microfluidic devices to contain one spheroid in a microwell under continuous perfusion culture. Spheroids derived from established cancer cell lines were perfused with complete media at a flow rate relevant to tumor interstitial fluid flow. Spheroid viability and migratory/invasive capabilities were maintained on-chip when compared to off-chip static conditions. Importantly, using flow conditions modeled in vitro, we are the first to report flow-induced secretion of pro-metastatic factors, in this case cytokines vascular endothelial growth factor and interleukin 6. In summary, we have developed a new, streamlined spheroid-on-chip in vitro model that represents a feasible in vitro alternative to conventional murine in vivo metastasis assays, including complex tumor environmental factors, such as interstitial fluid flow, extracellular matrices, and using 3D models to model nutrient and oxygen gradients. Our device, therefore, constitutes a robust alternative to in vivo early-metastasis models for determination of novel metastasis biomarkers as well as evaluation of therapeutically relevant molecular targets not possible in in vivo murine models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Collins
- Hypoxia and Tumour Microenvironment Lab, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Hull, Cottingham Road, Hull HU6 7RX, United Kingdom
| | - Emily Pyne
- Hypoxia and Tumour Microenvironment Lab, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Hull, Cottingham Road, Hull HU6 7RX, United Kingdom
| | - Martin Christensen
- Lab-on-a-Chip Research Group, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Hull, Cottingham Road, Hull HU6 7RX, United Kingdom
| | - Alexander Iles
- Lab-on-a-Chip Research Group, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Hull, Cottingham Road, Hull HU6 7RX, United Kingdom
| | - Nicole Pamme
- Lab-on-a-Chip Research Group, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Hull, Cottingham Road, Hull HU6 7RX, United Kingdom
| | - Isabel M. Pires
- Hypoxia and Tumour Microenvironment Lab, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Hull, Cottingham Road, Hull HU6 7RX, United Kingdom
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Pape J, Emberton M, Cheema U. 3D Cancer Models: The Need for a Complex Stroma, Compartmentalization and Stiffness. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2021; 9:660502. [PMID: 33912551 PMCID: PMC8072339 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2021.660502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of tissue-engineered 3D models of cancer has grown in popularity with recent advances in the field of cancer research. 3D models are inherently more biomimetic compared to 2D cell monolayers cultured on tissue-culture plastic. Nevertheless 3D models still lack the cellular and matrix complexity of native tissues. This review explores different 3D models currently used, outlining their benefits and limitations. Specifically, this review focuses on stiffness and collagen density, compartmentalization, tumor-stroma cell population and extracellular matrix composition. Furthermore, this review explores the methods utilized in different models to directly measure cancer invasion and growth. Of the models evaluated, with PDX and in vivo as a relative "gold standard", tumoroids were deemed as comparable 3D cancer models with a high degree of biomimicry, in terms of stiffness, collagen density and the ability to compartmentalize the tumor and stroma. Future 3D models for different cancer types are proposed in order to improve the biomimicry of cancer models used for studying disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judith Pape
- Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, Department of Targeted Intervention, Centre for 3D Models of Health and Disease, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mark Emberton
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Umber Cheema
- Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, Department of Targeted Intervention, Centre for 3D Models of Health and Disease, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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Pasini A, Lovecchio J, Cortesi M, Liverani C, Spadazzi C, Mercatali L, Ibrahim T, Giordano E. Perfusion Flow Enhances Viability and Migratory Phenotype in 3D-Cultured Breast Cancer Cells. Ann Biomed Eng 2021; 49:2103-2113. [PMID: 33543395 PMCID: PMC8455496 DOI: 10.1007/s10439-021-02727-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [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: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 01/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Conventional 2D cell culture, a traditional tool in pre-clinical studies, can hardly be regarded as a representation of a natural cell microenvironment. In this respect, it might result in altered cellular behaviors. To overcome such a limitation, different approaches have been tested to conduct more representative in vitro studies. In particular, the use of 3D cell culture introduces variables, such as cell-cell and cell-extracellular matrix interactions; cell features such as survival, proliferation and migration are consequently influenced. For an example, an enhanced drug resistance and increased invasiveness are shown by cancer cells when cultured in 3D versus 2D conventional culture models. In this setting however, non-uniform cell distribution and biological behaviors appear throughout the scaffold, due to reduced diffusion of oxygen and nutrients. Perfusion in bioreactor systems can be used to improve medium transport. In this line of reasoning, this study proposes a breast cancer cell culture model sustained by an integrated approach that couples a 3D environment and a fluid perfusion. This model improves viability and uniformness of cell distribution, while inducing morphological, functional and molecular cancer cell remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Pasini
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Engineering "Silvio Cavalcanti", Department of Electrical, Electronic and Information Engineering "G. Marconi" (DEI), Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Cesena, FC, Italy
| | - Joseph Lovecchio
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Engineering "Silvio Cavalcanti", Department of Electrical, Electronic and Information Engineering "G. Marconi" (DEI), Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Cesena, FC, Italy.
| | - Marilisa Cortesi
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Engineering "Silvio Cavalcanti", Department of Electrical, Electronic and Information Engineering "G. Marconi" (DEI), Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Cesena, FC, Italy
| | - Chiara Liverani
- Osteoncology and Rare Tumors Center, Istituto Scientifico Romagnolo per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori (IRST) IRCCS, Meldola, Italy
| | - Chiara Spadazzi
- Osteoncology and Rare Tumors Center, Istituto Scientifico Romagnolo per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori (IRST) IRCCS, Meldola, Italy
| | - Laura Mercatali
- Osteoncology and Rare Tumors Center, Istituto Scientifico Romagnolo per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori (IRST) IRCCS, Meldola, Italy
| | - Toni Ibrahim
- Osteoncology and Rare Tumors Center, Istituto Scientifico Romagnolo per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori (IRST) IRCCS, Meldola, Italy
| | - Emanuele Giordano
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Engineering "Silvio Cavalcanti", Department of Electrical, Electronic and Information Engineering "G. Marconi" (DEI), Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Cesena, FC, Italy
- BioEngLab, Health Science and Technology, Interdepartmental Center for Industrial Research (HST-CIRI), Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Ozzano Emilia, Italy
- Advanced Research Center on Electronic Systems (ARCES), Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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