1
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Xiao Z, Postma RJ, van Zonneveld AJ, van den Berg BM, Sol WM, White NA, van de Stadt HJ, Mirza A, Wen J, Bijkerk R, Rotmans JI. A bypass flow model to study endothelial cell mechanotransduction across diverse flow environments. Mater Today Bio 2024; 27:101121. [PMID: 38988818 PMCID: PMC11234155 DOI: 10.1016/j.mtbio.2024.101121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Disturbed flow is one of the pathological initiators of endothelial dysfunction in intimal hyperplasia (IH) which is commonly seen in vascular bypass grafts, and arteriovenous fistulas. Various in vitro disease models have been designed to simulate the hemodynamic conditions found in the vasculature. Nonetheless, prior investigations have encountered challenges in establishing a robust disturbed flow model, primarily attributed to the complex bifurcated geometries and distinctive flow dynamics. In the present study, we aim to address this gap by introducing an in vitro bypass flow model capable of inducing disturbed flow and other hemodynamics patterns through a pulsatile flow in the same model. To assess the model's validity, we employed computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to simulate hemodynamics and compared the morphology and functions of human umbilical venous endothelial cells (HUVECs) under disturbed flow conditions to those in physiological flow or stagnant conditions. CFD analysis revealed the generation of disturbed flow within the model, pinpointing the specific location in the channel where the effects of disturbed flow were observed. High-content screening, a single-cell morphological profile assessment, demonstrated that HUVECs in the disturbed flow area exhibited random orientation, and morphological features were significantly distinct compared to cells in the physiological flow or stagnant condition after a two days of flow exposure. Furthermore, HUVECs exposed to disturbed flow underwent extensive remodeling of the adherens junctions and expressed higher levels of endothelial cell activation markers compared to other hemodynamic conditions. In conclusion, our in vitro bypass flow model provides a robust platform for investigating the associations between disturbed flow pattern and vascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuotao Xiao
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology) and the Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, 2333, ZA, Netherlands
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215000, China
| | - Rudmer J. Postma
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology) and the Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, 2333, ZA, Netherlands
| | - Anton Jan van Zonneveld
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology) and the Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, 2333, ZA, Netherlands
| | - Bernard M. van den Berg
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology) and the Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, 2333, ZA, Netherlands
| | - Wendy M.P.J. Sol
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology) and the Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, 2333, ZA, Netherlands
| | - Nicholas A. White
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology) and the Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, 2333, ZA, Netherlands
- Department of BioMechanical Engineering, Delft University of Technology, Delft, 2628, CN, Netherlands
| | - Huybert J.F. van de Stadt
- Department of Medical Technology, Design & Prototyping, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, 2333, ZA, Netherlands
| | - Asad Mirza
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Florida International University, Miami, FL, 33199, United States
| | - Jun Wen
- Department of Computer Science and Technology, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang, 621010, China
| | - Roel Bijkerk
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology) and the Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, 2333, ZA, Netherlands
| | - Joris I. Rotmans
- Department of Internal Medicine (Nephrology) and the Einthoven Laboratory for Vascular and Regenerative Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, 2333, ZA, Netherlands
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2
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Royse MK, Fowler M, Mai AK, He Y, Durante MR, Buist N, Procopio A, Xu J, Veiseh O. Development of a 3D printed perfusable in vitro blood-brain barrier model for use as a scalable screening tool. Biomater Sci 2024. [PMID: 39023223 DOI: 10.1039/d4bm00663a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
Despite recent technological advances in drug discovery, the success rate for neurotherapeutics remains alarmingly low compared to treatments for other areas of the body. One of the biggest challenges for delivering therapeutics to the central nervous system (CNS) is the presence of the blood-brain barrier (BBB). In vitro blood-brain barrier models with high predictability are essential to aid in designing parameters for new therapeutics, assess their ability to cross the BBB, and investigate therapeutic strategies that can be employed to enhance transport. Here, we demonstrate the development of a 3D printable hydrogel blood-brain barrier model that mimics the cellular composition and structure of the blood-brain barrier with human brain endothelial cells lining the surface, pericytes in direct contact with the endothelial cells on the abluminal side of the endothelium, and astrocytes in the surrounding printed bulk matrix. We introduce a simple, static printed hemi-cylinder model to determine design parameters such as media selection, co-culture ratios, and cell incorporation timing in a resource-conservative and high-throughput manner. Presence of cellular adhesion junction, VE-Cadherin, efflux transporters, P-glycoprotein (P-gp) and Breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP), and receptor-mediated transporters, Transferrin receptor (TfR) and low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1 (LRP1) were confirmed via immunostaining demonstrating the ability of this model for screening in therapeutic strategies that rely on these transport systems. Design parameters determined in the hemi-cylinder model were translated to a more complex, perfusable vessel model to demonstrate its utility for determining barrier function and assessing permeability to model therapeutic compounds. This 3D-printed blood-brain barrier model represents one of the first uses of projection stereolithography to fabricate a perfusable blood-brain barrier model, enabling the patterning of complex vessel geometries and precise arrangement of cell populations. This model demonstrates potential as a new platform to investigate the delivery of neurotherapeutic compounds and drug delivery strategies through the blood-brain barrier, providing a useful in vitro screening tool in central nervous system drug discovery and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madison K Royse
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, 6100 Main St., Houston, TX 77005, USA.
| | - Martha Fowler
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, 6100 Main St., Houston, TX 77005, USA.
| | - A Kristen Mai
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, 6100 Main St., Houston, TX 77005, USA.
| | - Yufang He
- Division of Technology, Infrastructure, Operations & Experience, Merck & Co., Inc. Rahway, NJ 07065, USA
| | - Marc R Durante
- Division of Technology, Infrastructure, Operations & Experience, Merck & Co., Inc. Rahway, NJ 07065, USA
| | - Nicole Buist
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences & Clinical Supply, Merck & Co., Inc. Rahway, NJ 07065, USA.
| | - Adam Procopio
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences & Clinical Supply, Merck & Co., Inc. Rahway, NJ 07065, USA.
| | - Jun Xu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences & Clinical Supply, Merck & Co., Inc. Rahway, NJ 07065, USA.
| | - Omid Veiseh
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, 6100 Main St., Houston, TX 77005, USA.
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3
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Choi Y, Jakob R, Ehret AE, von Bohemer L, Cesarovic N, Falk V, Emmert MY, Mazza E, Giampietro C. Stretch-induced damage in endothelial monolayers. BIOMATERIALS ADVANCES 2024; 163:213938. [PMID: 38959650 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioadv.2024.213938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 06/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024]
Abstract
Endothelial cells are constantly exposed to mechanical stimuli, of which mechanical stretch has shown various beneficial or deleterious effects depending on whether loads are within physiological or pathological levels, respectively. Vascular properties change with age, and on a cell-scale, senescence elicits changes in endothelial cell mechanical properties that together can impair its response to stretch. Here, high-rate uniaxial stretch experiments were performed to quantify and compare the stretch-induced damage of monolayers consisting of young, senescent, and aged endothelial populations. The aged and senescent phenotypes were more fragile to stretch-induced damage. Prominent damage was detected by immunofluorescence and scanning electron microscopy as intercellular and intracellular void formation. Damage increased proportionally to the applied level of deformation and, for the aged and senescent phenotype, induced significant detachment of cells at lower levels of stretch compared to the young counterpart. Based on the phenotypic difference in cell-substrate adhesion of senescent cells indicating more mature focal adhesions, a discrete network model of endothelial cells being stretched was developed. The model showed that the more affine deformation of senescent cells increased their intracellular energy, thus enhancing the tendency for cellular damage and impending detachment. Next to quantifying for the first-time critical levels of endothelial stretch, the present results indicate that young cells are more resilient to deformation and that the fragility of senescent cells may be associated with their stronger adhesion to the substrate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young Choi
- ETH Zürich, Dep. of Mechanical and Process Engineering, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Raphael Jakob
- ETH Zürich, Dep. of Mechanical and Process Engineering, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Alexander E Ehret
- ETH Zürich, Dep. of Mechanical and Process Engineering, Zürich, Switzerland; Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Dübendorf, Switzerland
| | - Lisa von Bohemer
- University of Zurich, Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Nikola Cesarovic
- ETH Zürich, Dep. of Health Sciences and Technology, Zürich, Switzerland; Deutsches Herzzentrum der Charité (DHZC), Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, Berlin, Germany; Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Volkmar Falk
- ETH Zürich, Dep. of Health Sciences and Technology, Zürich, Switzerland; Deutsches Herzzentrum der Charité (DHZC), Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, Berlin, Germany; Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Maximilian Y Emmert
- University of Zurich, Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Schlieren, Switzerland; Deutsches Herzzentrum der Charité (DHZC), Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, Berlin, Germany; Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Edoardo Mazza
- ETH Zürich, Dep. of Mechanical and Process Engineering, Zürich, Switzerland; Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Dübendorf, Switzerland.
| | - Costanza Giampietro
- ETH Zürich, Dep. of Mechanical and Process Engineering, Zürich, Switzerland; Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Dübendorf, Switzerland.
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4
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Blazeski A, Floryan MA, Zhang Y, Fajardo Ramírez OR, Meibalan E, Ortiz-Urbina J, Angelidakis E, Shelton SE, Kamm RD, García-Cardeña G. Engineering microvascular networks using a KLF2 reporter to probe flow-dependent endothelial cell function. Biomaterials 2024; 311:122686. [PMID: 38971122 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2024.122686] [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: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 06/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/08/2024]
Abstract
Shear stress generated by the flow of blood in the vasculature is a potent regulator of endothelial cell function and vascular structure. While vascular responses to flow are complex and context-dependent, endothelial cell signaling in response to shear stress induced by laminar flows is coordinated by the transcription factor KLF2. The flow-dependent expression of KLF2 in endothelial cells is associated with a quiescent, anti-inflammatory phenotype and has been well characterized in two-dimensional systems but has not been studied in three-dimensional in vitro systems. Here we develop engineered microvascular networks (MVNs) that incorporate a KLF2-based endothelial cell flow sensor within a microfluidic chip, apply continuous flow using an attached microfluidic pump, and study the effects of this flow on vascular structure and function. We found that application of flow to MVNs for 48 h resulted in increased expression of the KLF2 reporter, larger vessel diameters, and decreased vascular branching and resistance. Notably, vessel diameters after the application of flow were independent of initial MVN morphologies. Finally, we found that MVNs exposed to flow have improved vascular barrier function and decreased platelet adhesion. MVNs with KLF2-based flow sensors represent a novel, powerful tool for evaluating the structural and functional effects of flow on engineered three-dimensional vascular systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Blazeski
- Center for Excellence in Vascular Biology, Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, USA and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Cardiovascular Disease Initiative, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Marie A Floryan
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Yuzhi Zhang
- Center for Excellence in Vascular Biology, Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, USA and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Oscar R Fajardo Ramírez
- Center for Excellence in Vascular Biology, Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, USA and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Elamaran Meibalan
- Center for Excellence in Vascular Biology, Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, USA and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jesús Ortiz-Urbina
- Center for Excellence in Vascular Biology, Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, USA and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Emmanouil Angelidakis
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Sarah E Shelton
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA; Department of Medical Oncology, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Roger D Kamm
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA; Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Guillermo García-Cardeña
- Center for Excellence in Vascular Biology, Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, USA and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Cardiovascular Disease Initiative, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA.
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5
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Wyle Y, Lu N, Hepfer J, Sayal R, Martinez T, Wang A. The Role of Biophysical Factors in Organ Development: Insights from Current Organoid Models. Bioengineering (Basel) 2024; 11:619. [PMID: 38927855 PMCID: PMC11200479 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering11060619] [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: 04/17/2024] [Revised: 05/26/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Biophysical factors play a fundamental role in human embryonic development. Traditional in vitro models of organogenesis focused on the biochemical environment and did not consider the effects of mechanical forces on developing tissue. While most human tissue has a Young's modulus in the low kilopascal range, the standard cell culture substrate, plasma-treated polystyrene, has a Young's modulus of 3 gigapascals, making it 10,000-100,000 times stiffer than native tissues. Modern in vitro approaches attempt to recapitulate the biophysical niche of native organs and have yielded more clinically relevant models of human tissues. Since Clevers' conception of intestinal organoids in 2009, the field has expanded rapidly, generating stem-cell derived structures, which are transcriptionally similar to fetal tissues, for nearly every organ system in the human body. For this reason, we conjecture that organoids will make their first clinical impact in fetal regenerative medicine as the structures generated ex vivo will better match native fetal tissues. Moreover, autologously sourced transplanted tissues would be able to grow with the developing embryo in a dynamic, fetal environment. As organoid technologies evolve, the resultant tissues will approach the structure and function of adult human organs and may help bridge the gap between preclinical drug candidates and clinically approved therapeutics. In this review, we discuss roles of tissue stiffness, viscoelasticity, and shear forces in organ formation and disease development, suggesting that these physical parameters should be further integrated into organoid models to improve their physiological relevance and therapeutic applicability. It also points to the mechanotransductive Hippo-YAP/TAZ signaling pathway as a key player in the interplay between extracellular matrix stiffness, cellular mechanics, and biochemical pathways. We conclude by highlighting how frontiers in physics can be applied to biology, for example, how quantum entanglement may be applied to better predict spontaneous DNA mutations. In the future, contemporary physical theories may be leveraged to better understand seemingly stochastic events during organogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yofiel Wyle
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of California-Davis, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA; (Y.W.); (N.L.); (J.H.); (R.S.); (T.M.)
- Institute for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Shriners Children’s, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
| | - Nathan Lu
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of California-Davis, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA; (Y.W.); (N.L.); (J.H.); (R.S.); (T.M.)
| | - Jason Hepfer
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of California-Davis, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA; (Y.W.); (N.L.); (J.H.); (R.S.); (T.M.)
| | - Rahul Sayal
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of California-Davis, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA; (Y.W.); (N.L.); (J.H.); (R.S.); (T.M.)
| | - Taylor Martinez
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of California-Davis, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA; (Y.W.); (N.L.); (J.H.); (R.S.); (T.M.)
| | - Aijun Wang
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of California-Davis, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA; (Y.W.); (N.L.); (J.H.); (R.S.); (T.M.)
- Institute for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Shriners Children’s, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA
- Center for Surgical Bioengineering, Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, 4625 2nd Ave., Research II, Suite 3005, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
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6
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Seetharaman S, Devany J, Kim HR, van Bodegraven E, Chmiel T, Tzu-Pin S, Chou WH, Fang Y, Gardel ML. Mechanosensitive FHL2 tunes endothelial function. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.06.16.599227. [PMID: 38948838 PMCID: PMC11212908 DOI: 10.1101/2024.06.16.599227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
Endothelial tissues are essential mechanosensors in the vasculature and facilitate adaptation to various blood flow-induced mechanical cues. Defects in endothelial mechanoresponses can perturb tissue remodelling and functions leading to cardiovascular disease progression. In this context, the precise mechanisms of endothelial mechanoresponses contributing to normal and diseased tissue functioning remain elusive. Here, we sought to uncover how flow-mediated transcriptional regulation drives endothelial mechanoresponses in healthy and atherosclerotic-prone tissues. Using bulk RNA sequencing, we identify novel mechanosensitive genes in response to healthy unidirectional flow (UF) and athero-prone disturbed flow (DF). We find that the transcription as well as protein expression of Four-and-a-half LIM protein 2 (FHL2) are enriched in athero-prone DF both in vitro and in vivo. We then demonstrate that the exogenous expression of FHL2 is necessary and sufficient to drive discontinuous adherens junction morphology and increased tissue permeability. This athero-prone phenotype requires the force-sensitive binding of FHL2 to actin. In turn, the force-dependent localisation of FHL2 to stress fibres promotes microtubule dynamics to release the RhoGEF, GEF-H1, and activate the Rho-ROCK pathway. Thus, we unravelled a novel mechanochemical feedback wherein force-dependent FHL2 localisation promotes hypercontractility. This misregulated mechanoresponse creates highly permeable tissues, depicting classic hallmarks of atherosclerosis progression. Overall, we highlight crucial functions for the FHL2 force-sensitivity in tuning multi-scale endothelial mechanoresponses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shailaja Seetharaman
- Department of Physics, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- James Franck Institute, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Institute for Biophysical Dynamics, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - John Devany
- Department of Physics, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- James Franck Institute, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Institute for Biophysical Dynamics, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Ha Ram Kim
- Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Department of Medicine, Biological Sciences Division, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - Emma van Bodegraven
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Brain Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Theresa Chmiel
- Department of Physics, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- James Franck Institute, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Shentu Tzu-Pin
- Department of Medicine, Biological Sciences Division, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - Wen-hung Chou
- James Franck Institute, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Institute for Biophysical Dynamics, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Graduate Program in Biophysical Sciences, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Yun Fang
- Department of Medicine, Biological Sciences Division, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - Margaret Lise Gardel
- Department of Physics, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- James Franck Institute, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Institute for Biophysical Dynamics, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
- Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
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7
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Lim J, Fang HW, Bupphathong S, Sung PC, Yeh CE, Huang W, Lin CH. The Edifice of Vasculature-On-Chips: A Focused Review on the Key Elements and Assembly of Angiogenesis Models. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2024; 10:3548-3567. [PMID: 38712543 PMCID: PMC11167599 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.3c01978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
The conception of vascularized organ-on-a-chip models provides researchers with the ability to supply controlled biological and physical cues that simulate the in vivo dynamic microphysiological environment of native blood vessels. The intention of this niche research area is to improve our understanding of the role of the vasculature in health or disease progression in vitro by allowing researchers to monitor angiogenic responses and cell-cell or cell-matrix interactions in real time. This review offers a comprehensive overview of the essential elements, including cells, biomaterials, microenvironmental factors, microfluidic chip design, and standard validation procedures that currently govern angiogenesis-on-a-chip assemblies. In addition, we emphasize the importance of incorporating a microvasculature component into organ-on-chip devices in critical biomedical research areas, such as tissue engineering, drug discovery, and disease modeling. Ultimately, advances in this area of research could provide innovative solutions and a personalized approach to ongoing medical challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua Lim
- Graduate
Institute of Nanomedicine and Medical Engineering, College of Biomedical
Engineering, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Hsu-Wei Fang
- High-value
Biomaterials Research and Commercialization Center, National Taipei University of Technology, Taipei 10608, Taiwan
- Department
of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, National Taipei University of Technology, Taipei 10608, Taiwan
- Institute
of Biomedical Engineering and Nanomedicine, National Health Research Institutes, Zhunan 35053, Taiwan
| | - Sasinan Bupphathong
- Graduate
Institute of Nanomedicine and Medical Engineering, College of Biomedical
Engineering, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- High-value
Biomaterials Research and Commercialization Center, National Taipei University of Technology, Taipei 10608, Taiwan
| | - Po-Chan Sung
- School
of Biomedical Engineering, College of Biomedical Engineering, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Chen-En Yeh
- School
of Biomedical Engineering, College of Biomedical Engineering, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Wei Huang
- Department
of Orthodontics, Rutgers School of Dental
Medicine, Newark, New Jersey 07103, United States
| | - Chih-Hsin Lin
- Graduate
Institute of Nanomedicine and Medical Engineering, College of Biomedical
Engineering, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
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8
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Nawara TJ, Yuan J, Seeley LD, Sztul E, Mattheyses AL. Fluidic shear stress alters clathrin dynamics and vesicle formation in endothelial cells. Biophys J 2024:S0006-3495(24)00390-4. [PMID: 38853434 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2024.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Endothelial cells (ECs) experience a variety of highly dynamic mechanical stresses. Among others, cyclic stretch and increased plasma membrane tension inhibit clathrin-mediated endocytosis (CME) in non-ECs. It remains elusive how ECs maintain CME in these biophysically unfavorable conditions. Previously, we have used simultaneous two-wavelength axial ratiometry (STAR) microscopy to show that endocytic dynamics are similar between statically cultured human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and fibroblast-like Cos-7 cells. Here, we asked whether biophysical stresses generated by blood flow influence CME. We used our data processing platform-DrSTAR-to examine if clathrin dynamics are altered in HUVECs after experiencing fluidic shear stress (FSS). We found that HUVECs cultivated under a physiological level of FSS had increased clathrin dynamics compared with static controls. FSS increased both clathrin-coated vesicle formation and nonproductive flat clathrin lattices by 2.3-fold and 1.9-fold, respectively. The curvature-positive events had significantly delayed curvature initiation relative to clathrin recruitment in flow-stimulated cells, highlighting a shift toward flat-to-curved clathrin transitions in vesicle formation. Overall, our findings indicate that clathrin dynamics and clathrin-coated vesicle formation can be modulated by the local physiological environment and represent an important regulatory mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomasz J Nawara
- Department of Cell, Developmental, and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Jie Yuan
- Department of Cell, Developmental, and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Leslie D Seeley
- Department of Cell, Developmental, and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Elizabeth Sztul
- Department of Cell, Developmental, and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Alexa L Mattheyses
- Department of Cell, Developmental, and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama.
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9
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Sachs D, Jakob R, Thumm B, Bajka M, Ehret AE, Mazza E. Sustained Physiological Stretch Induces Abdominal Skin Growth in Pregnancy. Ann Biomed Eng 2024; 52:1576-1590. [PMID: 38424309 PMCID: PMC11081934 DOI: 10.1007/s10439-024-03472-6] [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: 10/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Supraphysiological stretches are exploited in skin expanders to induce tissue growth for autologous implants. As pregnancy is associated with large levels of sustained stretch, we investigated whether skin growth occurs in pregnancy. Therefore, we combined a mechanical model of skin and the observations from suction experiments on several body locations of five pregnant women at different gestational ages. The measurements show a continuous increase in stiffness, with the largest change observed during the last trimester. A comparison with numerical simulations indicates that the measured increase in skin stiffness is far below the level expected for the corresponding deformation of abdominal skin. A new set of simulations accounting for growth could rationalize all observations. The predicted amount of tissue growth corresponds to approximately 40% area increase before delivery. The results of the simulations also offered the opportunity to investigate the biophysical cues present in abdominal skin along gestation and to compare them with those arising in skin expanders. Alterations of the skin mechanome were quantified, including tissue stiffness, hydrostatic and osmotic pressure of the interstitial fluid, its flow velocity and electrical potential. The comparison between pregnancy and skin expansion highlights similarities as well as differences possibly influencing growth and remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Sachs
- Institute for Mechanical Systems, ETH Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Raphael Jakob
- Institute for Mechanical Systems, ETH Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Bettina Thumm
- Institute for Mechanical Systems, ETH Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Michael Bajka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Alexander E Ehret
- Institute for Mechanical Systems, ETH Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Dubendorf, Switzerland
| | - Edoardo Mazza
- Institute for Mechanical Systems, ETH Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Dubendorf, Switzerland
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10
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Chandra Sekar N, Khoshmanesh K, Baratchi S. Bioengineered models of cardiovascular diseases. Atherosclerosis 2024; 393:117565. [PMID: 38714426 DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2024.117565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2023] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/09/2024]
Abstract
Age-associated cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), predominantly resulting from artery-related disorders such as atherosclerosis, stand as a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among the elderly population. Consequently, there is a growing interest in the development of clinically relevant bioengineered models of CVDs. Recent developments in bioengineering and material sciences have paved the way for the creation of intricate models that closely mimic the structure and surroundings of native cardiac tissues and blood vessels. These models can be utilized for basic research purposes and for identifying pharmaceutical interventions and facilitating drug discovery. The advancement of vessel-on-a-chip technologies and the development of bioengineered and humanized in vitro models of the cardiovascular system have the potential to revolutionize CVD disease modelling. These technologies offer pathophysiologically relevant models at a fraction of the cost and time required for traditional experimentation required in vivo. This progress signifies a significant advancement in the field, transitioning from conventional 2D cell culture models to advanced 3D organoid and vessel-on-a-chip models. These innovative models are specifically designed to explore the complexities of vascular aging and stiffening, crucial factors in the development of cardiovascular diseases. This review summarizes the recent progress of various bioengineered in vitro platforms developed for investigating the pathophysiology of human cardiovascular system with more focus on advanced 3D vascular platforms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Chandra Sekar
- School of Health & Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, 3082, Australia; Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, 3004, Australia
| | - Khashayar Khoshmanesh
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, 3004, Australia; School of Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria, 3000, Australia
| | - Sara Baratchi
- School of Health & Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, 3082, Australia; Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, 3004, Australia; Department of Cardiometabolic Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3010, Australia.
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11
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Roghani AK, Garcia RI, Roghani A, Reddy A, Khemka S, Reddy RP, Pattoor V, Jacob M, Reddy PH, Sehar U. Treating Alzheimer's disease using nanoparticle-mediated drug delivery strategies/systems. Ageing Res Rev 2024; 97:102291. [PMID: 38614367 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2024.102291] [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: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/15/2024]
Abstract
The administration of promising medications for the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders (NDDs), such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), Huntington's disease (HD), and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is significantly hampered by the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Nanotechnology has recently come to light as a viable strategy for overcoming this obstacle and improving drug delivery to the brain. With a focus on current developments and prospects, this review article examines the use of nanoparticles to overcome the BBB constraints to improve drug therapy for AD The potential for several nanoparticle-based approaches, such as those utilizing lipid-based, polymeric, and inorganic nanoparticles, to enhance drug transport across the BBB are highlighted. To shed insight on their involvement in aiding effective drug transport to the brain, methods of nanoparticle-mediated drug delivery, such as surface modifications, functionalization, and particular targeting ligands, are also investigated. The article also discusses the most recent findings on innovative medication formulations encapsulated within nanoparticles and the therapeutic effects they have shown in both preclinical and clinical testing. This sector has difficulties and restrictions, such as the need for increased safety, scalability, and translation to clinical applications. However, the major emphasis of this review aims to provide insight and contribute to the knowledge of how nanotechnology can potentially revolutionize the worldwide treatment of NDDs, particularly AD, to enhance clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aryan Kia Roghani
- Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA; Frenship High School, Lubbock, TX 79382, USA.
| | - Ricardo Isaiah Garcia
- Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA.
| | - Ali Roghani
- Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA.
| | - Aananya Reddy
- Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA; Lubbock High School, Lubbock, TX 79401, USA.
| | - Sachi Khemka
- Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA.
| | - Ruhananhad P Reddy
- Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA; Lubbock High School, Lubbock, TX 79401, USA.
| | - Vasanthkumar Pattoor
- Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA; University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33620, USA.
| | - Michael Jacob
- Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA; Department of Biology, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA.
| | - P Hemachandra Reddy
- Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA; Nutritional Sciences Department, College of Human Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA; Public Health Department of Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA; Department of Speech, Language and Hearing Services, School Health Professions, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA.
| | - Ujala Sehar
- Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA.
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12
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Hossen F, Geng X, Sun GY, Yao X, Lee JC. Oligomeric Amyloid-β and Tau Alter Cell Adhesion Properties and Induce Inflammatory Responses in Cerebral Endothelial Cells Through the RhoA/ROCK Pathway. Mol Neurobiol 2024:10.1007/s12035-024-04138-z. [PMID: 38561558 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-024-04138-z] [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: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Dysfunction of cerebral endothelial cells (CECs) has been implicated in the pathology of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Despite evidence showing cytotoxic effects of oligomeric amyloid-β (oAβ) and Tau (oTau) in the central nervous system, their direct effects on CECs have not been fully investigated. In this study, we examined the direct effects of oAβ, oTau, and their combination on cell adhesion properties and inflammatory responses in CECs. We found that both oAβ and oTau increased cell stiffness, as well as the p-selectin/Sialyl-LewisX (sLeX) bonding-mediated membrane tether force and probability of adhesion in CECs. Consistent with these biomechanical alterations, treatments with oAβ or oTau also increased actin polymerization and the expression of p-selectin at the cell surface. These toxic oligomeric peptides also triggered inflammatory responses, including upregulations of p-NF-kB p65, IL-1β, and TNF-α. In addition, they rapidly activated the RhoA/ROCK pathway. These biochemical and biomechanical changes were further enhanced by the treatment with the combination of oAβ and oTau, which were significantly suppressed by Fasudil, a specific inhibitor for the RhoA/ROCK pathway. In conclusion, our data suggest that oAβ, oTau, and their combination triggered subcellular mechanical alterations and inflammatory responses in CECs through the RhoA/ROCK pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faruk Hossen
- Richard and Loan Hill Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60607, USA
| | - Xue Geng
- Richard and Loan Hill Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60607, USA
| | - Grace Y Sun
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA
| | - Xincheng Yao
- Richard and Loan Hill Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60607, USA
| | - James C Lee
- Richard and Loan Hill Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60607, USA.
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13
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Li X, Zou J, He Z, Sun Y, Song X, He W. The interaction between particles and vascular endothelium in blood flow. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2024; 207:115216. [PMID: 38387770 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2024.115216] [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: 09/10/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
Particle-based drug delivery systems have shown promising application potential to treat human diseases; however, an incomplete understanding of their interactions with vascular endothelium in blood flow prevents their inclusion into mainstream clinical applications. The flow performance of nano/micro-sized particles in the blood are disturbed by many external/internal factors, including blood constituents, particle properties, and endothelium bioactivities, affecting the fate of particles in vivo and therapeutic effects for diseases. This review highlights how the blood constituents, hemodynamic environment and particle properties influence the interactions and particle activities in vivo. Moreover, we briefly summarized the structure and functions of endothelium and simulated devices for studying particle performance under blood flow conditions. Finally, based on particle-endothelium interactions, we propose future opportunities for novel therapeutic strategies and provide solutions to challenges in particle delivery systems for accelerating their clinical translation. This review helps provoke an increasing in-depth understanding of particle-endothelium interactions and inspires more strategies that may benefit the development of particle medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaotong Li
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 2111198, PR China
| | - Jiahui Zou
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 2111198, PR China
| | - Zhongshan He
- Department of Critical Care Medicine and Department of Biotherapy, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610000, PR China
| | - Yanhua Sun
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Microparticles Drug Delivery Technology, Qilu Pharmaceutical Co., LtD., Jinan 250000, PR China
| | - Xiangrong Song
- Department of Critical Care Medicine and Department of Biotherapy, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610000, PR China.
| | - Wei He
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 2111198, PR China.
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14
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Laowpanitchakorn P, Zeng J, Piantino M, Uchida K, Katsuyama M, Matsusaki M. Biofabrication of engineered blood vessels for biomedical applications. SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY OF ADVANCED MATERIALS 2024; 25:2330339. [PMID: 38633881 PMCID: PMC11022926 DOI: 10.1080/14686996.2024.2330339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
To successfully engineer large-sized tissues, establishing vascular structures is essential for providing oxygen, nutrients, growth factors and cells to prevent necrosis at the core of the tissue. The diameter scale of the biofabricated vasculatures should range from 100 to 1,000 µm to support the mm-size tissue while being controllably aligned and spaced within the diffusion limit of oxygen. In this review, insights regarding biofabrication considerations and techniques for engineered blood vessels will be presented. Initially, polymers of natural and synthetic origins can be selected, modified, and combined with each other to support maturation of vascular tissue while also being biocompatible. After they are shaped into scaffold structures by different fabrication techniques, surface properties such as physical topography, stiffness, and surface chemistry play a major role in the endothelialization process after transplantation. Furthermore, biological cues such as growth factors (GFs) and endothelial cells (ECs) can be incorporated into the fabricated structures. As variously reported, fabrication techniques, especially 3D printing by extrusion and 3D printing by photopolymerization, allow the construction of vessels at a high resolution with diameters in the desired range. Strategies to fabricate of stable tubular structures with defined channels will also be discussed. This paper provides an overview of the many advances in blood vessel engineering and combinations of different fabrication techniques up to the present time.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jinfeng Zeng
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Marie Piantino
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
- The Consortium for Future Innovation by Cultured Meat, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Kentaro Uchida
- Materials Solution Department, Product Analysis Center, Panasonic Holdings Corporation, Kadoma, Osaka, Japan
| | - Misa Katsuyama
- Materials Solution Department, Product Analysis Center, Panasonic Holdings Corporation, Kadoma, Osaka, Japan
| | - Michiya Matsusaki
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
- The Consortium for Future Innovation by Cultured Meat, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
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15
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Thomasy SM, Leonard BC, Greiner MA, Skeie JM, Raghunathan VK. Squishy matters - Corneal mechanobiology in health and disease. Prog Retin Eye Res 2024; 99:101234. [PMID: 38176611 PMCID: PMC11193890 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2023.101234] [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: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
The cornea, as a dynamic and responsive tissue, constantly interacts with mechanical forces in order to maintain its structural integrity, barrier function, transparency and refractive power. Cells within the cornea sense and respond to various mechanical forces that fundamentally regulate their morphology and fate in development, homeostasis and pathophysiology. Corneal cells also dynamically regulate their extracellular matrix (ECM) with ensuing cell-ECM crosstalk as the matrix serves as a dynamic signaling reservoir providing biophysical and biochemical cues to corneal cells. Here we provide an overview of mechanotransduction signaling pathways then delve into the recent advances in corneal mechanobiology, focusing on the interplay between mechanical forces and responses of the corneal epithelial, stromal, and endothelial cells. We also identify species-specific differences in corneal biomechanics and mechanotransduction to facilitate identification of optimal animal models to study corneal wound healing, disease, and novel therapeutic interventions. Finally, we identify key knowledge gaps and therapeutic opportunities in corneal mechanobiology that are pressing for the research community to address especially pertinent within the domains of limbal stem cell deficiency, keratoconus and Fuchs' endothelial corneal dystrophy. By furthering our understanding corneal mechanobiology, we can contextualize discoveries regarding corneal diseases as well as innovative treatments for them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara M Thomasy
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California - Davis, Davis, CA, United States; Department of Ophthalmology & Vision Science, School of Medicine, University of California - Davis, Davis, CA, United States; California National Primate Research Center, Davis, CA, United States.
| | - Brian C Leonard
- Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California - Davis, Davis, CA, United States; Department of Ophthalmology & Vision Science, School of Medicine, University of California - Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Mark A Greiner
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States; Iowa Lions Eye Bank, Coralville, IA, United States
| | - Jessica M Skeie
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States; Iowa Lions Eye Bank, Coralville, IA, United States
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16
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Zhang H, Rahman T, Lu S, Adam AP, Wan LQ. Helical vasculogenesis driven by cell chirality. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2024; 10:eadj3582. [PMID: 38381835 PMCID: PMC10881055 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adj3582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
The cellular helical structure is well known for its crucial role in development and disease. Nevertheless, the underlying mechanism governing this phenomenon remains largely unexplored, particularly in recapitulating it in well-controlled engineering systems. Leveraging advanced microfluidics, we present compelling evidence of the spontaneous emergence of helical endothelial tubes exhibiting robust right-handedness governed by inherent cell chirality. To strengthen our findings, we identify a consistent bias toward the same chirality in mouse vascular tissues. Manipulating endothelial cell chirality using small-molecule drugs produces a dose-dependent reversal of the handedness in engineered vessels, accompanied by non-monotonic changes in vascular permeability. Moreover, our three-dimensional cell vertex model provides biomechanical insights into the chiral morphogenesis process, highlighting the role of cellular torque and tissue fluidity in its regulation. Our study unravels an intriguing mechanism underlying vascular chiral morphogenesis, shedding light on the broader implications and distinctive perspectives of tubulogenesis within biological systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haokang Zhang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY 12180, USA
- Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY 12180, USA
| | - Tasnif Rahman
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY 12180, USA
- Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY 12180, USA
| | - Shuhan Lu
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY 12208, USA
| | - Alejandro Pablo Adam
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY 12208, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY 12208, USA
| | - Leo Q. Wan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY 12180, USA
- Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY 12180, USA
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY 12208, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY 12180, USA
- Center for Modeling, Simulation and Imaging in Medicine, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY 12180, USA
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17
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Sun H, Zhang Y, Shi L. Advances in exercise-induced vascular adaptation: mechanisms, models, and methods. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2024; 12:1370234. [PMID: 38456010 PMCID: PMC10917942 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2024.1370234] [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: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Insufficient physical activity poses a significant risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. Exercise plays a crucial role in influencing the vascular system and is essential for maintaining vascular health. Hemodynamic stimuli generated by exercise, such as shear stress and circumferential stress, directly impact vascular structure and function, resulting in adaptive changes. In clinical settings, incorporating appropriate exercise interventions has become a powerful supplementary approach for treating and rehabilitating various cardiovascular conditions. However, existing models for studying exercise-induced vascular adaptation primarily rely on in vivo animal and in vitro cellular models, each with its inherent limitations. In contrast, human research faces challenges in conducting mechanistic analyses due to ethics issues. Therefore, it is imperative to develop highly biomimetic in vitro/ex vivo vascular models that can replicate exercise stimuli in human systems. Utilizing various vascular assessment techniques is also crucial to comprehensively evaluate the effects of exercise on the vasculature and uncover the molecular mechanisms that promote vascular health. This article reviews the hemodynamic mechanisms that underlie exercise-induced vascular adaptation. It explores the advancements in current vascular models and measurement techniques, while addressing their future development and challenges. The overarching goal is to unravel the molecular mechanisms that drive the positive effects of exercise on the cardiovascular system. By providing a scientific rationale and offering novel perspectives, the aim is to contribute to the formulation of precise cardiovascular rehabilitation exercise prescriptions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hualing Sun
- Department of Exercise Physiology, Beijing Sport University, Beijing, China
| | - Yanyan Zhang
- Department of Exercise Physiology, Beijing Sport University, Beijing, China
- Laboratory of Sports Stress and Adaptation of General Administration of Sport, Beijing Sport University, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Physical Fitness and Exercise, Ministry of Education, Beijing Sport University, Beijing, China
| | - Lijun Shi
- Department of Exercise Physiology, Beijing Sport University, Beijing, China
- Laboratory of Sports Stress and Adaptation of General Administration of Sport, Beijing Sport University, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Physical Fitness and Exercise, Ministry of Education, Beijing Sport University, Beijing, China
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18
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Wu ZB, Wan XY, Zhou MH, Liu YC, Maalim AA, Miao ZZ, Guo X, Zeng Y, Liao P, Gao LP, Xiang JP, Zhang HQ, Shu K, Lei T, Zhu MX. Classification and hemodynamic characteristics of delayed intracerebral hemorrhage following stent-assisted coil embolism in unruptured intracranial aneurysms. Front Neurol 2024; 15:1268433. [PMID: 38440116 PMCID: PMC10910101 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2024.1268433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Background and objective Stent-assisted coil (SAC) embolization is a commonly used endovascular treatment for unruptured intracranial aneurysms (UIAs) but can be associated with symptomatic delayed intracerebral hemorrhage (DICH). Our study aimed to investigate the hemodynamic risk factors contributing to DICH following SAC embolization and to establish a classification for DICH predicated on hemodynamic profiles. Methods This retrospective study included patients with UIAs located in the internal carotid artery (ICA) treated with SAC embolization at our institution from January 2021 to January 2022. We focused on eight patients who developed postoperative DICH and matched them with sixteen control patients without DICH. Using computational fluid dynamics, we evaluated the hemodynamic changes in distal arteries [terminal ICA, the anterior cerebral artery (ACA), and middle cerebral artery (MCA)] pre-and post-embolization. We distinguished DICH-related arteries from unrelated ones (ACA or MCA) and compared their hemodynamic alterations. An imbalance index, quantifying the differential in flow velocity changes between ACA and MCA post-embolization, was employed to gauge the flow distribution in distal arteries was used to assess distal arterial flow distribution. Results We identified two types of DICH based on postoperative flow alterations. In type 1, there was a significant lower in the mean velocity increase rate of the DICH-related artery compared to the unrelated artery (-47.25 ± 3.88% vs. 42.85 ± 3.03%; p < 0.001), whereas, in type 2, there was a notable higher (110.58 ± 9.42% vs. 17.60 ± 4.69%; p < 0.001). Both DICH types demonstrated a higher imbalance index than the control group, suggesting an association between altered distal arterial blood flow distribution and DICH occurrence. Conclusion DICH in SAC-treated UIAs can manifest as either a lower (type 1) or higher (type 2) in the rate of velocity in DICH-related arteries. An imbalance in distal arterial blood flow distribution appears to be a significant factor in DICH development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeng-Bao Wu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xue-Yan Wan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ming-Hui Zhou
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yan-Chao Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ali Abdi Maalim
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhuang-Zhuang Miao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiao Guo
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ying Zeng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Pu Liao
- Department of Pathology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Li-Ping Gao
- ArteryFlow Technology Co., Ltd., Hangzhou, China
| | | | - Hua-Qiu Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Kai Shu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ting Lei
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ming-Xin Zhu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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19
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Kiseleva D, Kolmogorov V, Cherednichenko V, Khovantseva U, Bogatyreva A, Markina Y, Gorelkin P, Erofeev A, Markin A. Effect of LDL Extracted from Human Plasma on Membrane Stiffness in Living Endothelial Cells and Macrophages via Scanning Ion Conductance Microscopy. Cells 2024; 13:358. [PMID: 38391971 PMCID: PMC10887070 DOI: 10.3390/cells13040358] [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: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Mechanical properties of living cells play a crucial role in a wide range of biological functions and pathologies, including atherosclerosis. We used low-stress Scanning Ion-Conductance Microscopy (SICM) correlated with confocal imaging and demonstrated the topographical changes and mechanical properties alterations in EA.hy926 and THP-1 exposed to LDL extracted from CVD patients' blood samples. We show that the cells stiffened in the presence of LDL, which also triggered caveolae formation. Endothelial cells accumulated less cholesterol in the form of lipid droplets in comparison to THP-1 cells based on fluorescence intensity data and biochemical analysis; however, the effect on Young's modulus is higher. The cell stiffness is closely connected to the distribution of lipid droplets along the z-axis. In conclusion, we show that the sensitivity of endothelial cells to LDL is higher compared to that of THP-1, triggering changes in the cytoskeleton and membrane stiffness which may result in the increased permeability of the intima layer due to loss of intercellular connections and adhesion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Kiseleva
- Department of Biophysics, Faculty of Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119991 Moscow, Russia
- Petrovsky National Research Center of Surgery, 119991 Moscow, Russia; (V.C.); (A.B.); (Y.M.)
| | - Vasilii Kolmogorov
- Laboratory of Biophysics, National University of Science and Technology MISIS, Leninskiy Prospect, 4, 119049 Moscow, Russia
| | - Vadim Cherednichenko
- Petrovsky National Research Center of Surgery, 119991 Moscow, Russia; (V.C.); (A.B.); (Y.M.)
| | - Ulyana Khovantseva
- Petrovsky National Research Center of Surgery, 119991 Moscow, Russia; (V.C.); (A.B.); (Y.M.)
| | - Anastasia Bogatyreva
- Petrovsky National Research Center of Surgery, 119991 Moscow, Russia; (V.C.); (A.B.); (Y.M.)
| | - Yuliya Markina
- Petrovsky National Research Center of Surgery, 119991 Moscow, Russia; (V.C.); (A.B.); (Y.M.)
| | - Petr Gorelkin
- Laboratory of Biophysics, National University of Science and Technology MISIS, Leninskiy Prospect, 4, 119049 Moscow, Russia
| | - Alexander Erofeev
- Laboratory of Biophysics, National University of Science and Technology MISIS, Leninskiy Prospect, 4, 119049 Moscow, Russia
| | - Alexander Markin
- Petrovsky National Research Center of Surgery, 119991 Moscow, Russia; (V.C.); (A.B.); (Y.M.)
- Medical Institute, Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia named after Patrice Lumumba (RUDN University), 117198 Moscow, Russia
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20
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Antonyshyn JA, MacQuarrie KD, McFadden MJ, Gramolini AO, Hofer SOP, Santerre JP. Paracrine cross-talk between human adipose tissue-derived endothelial cells and perivascular cells accelerates the endothelialization of an electrospun ionomeric polyurethane scaffold. Acta Biomater 2024; 175:214-225. [PMID: 38158104 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2023.12.037] [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: 08/25/2023] [Revised: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
The ex vivo endothelialization of small diameter vascular prostheses can prolong their patency. Here, we demonstrate that heterotypic interactions between human adipose tissue-derived endothelial cells and perivascular cells can be exploited to accelerate the endothelialization of an electrospun ionomeric polyurethane scaffold. The scaffold was used to physically separate endothelial cells from perivascular cells to prevent their diffuse neo-intimal hyperplasia and spontaneous tubulogenesis, yet enable their paracrine cross-talk to accelerate the integration of the endothelial cells into a temporally stable endothelial lining of a continuous, elongated, and aligned morphology. Perivascular cells stimulated endothelial basement membrane protein production and suppressed their angiogenic and inflammatory activation to accelerate this biomimetic morphogenesis of the endothelium. These findings demonstrate the feasibility and underscore the value of exploiting heterotypic interactions between endothelial cells and perivascular cells for the fabrication of an endothelial lining intended for small diameter arterial reconstruction. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Adipose tissue is an abundant, accessible, and uniquely dispensable source of endothelial cells and perivascular cells for vascular tissue engineering. While their spontaneous self-assembly into microvascular networks is routinely exploited for the vascularization of engineered tissues, it threatens the temporal stability of an endothelial lining intended for small diameter arterial reconstruction. Here, we demonstrate that an electrospun polyurethane scaffold can be used to physically separate endothelial cells from perivascular cells to prevent their spontaneous capillary morphogenesis, yet enable their cross-talk to promote the formation of a stable endothelium. Our findings demonstrate the feasibility of engineering an endothelial lining from human adipose tissue, poising it for the rapid ex vivo endothelialization of small diameter vascular prostheses in an autologous, patient-specific manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy A Antonyshyn
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Translational Biology and Engineering Program, Ted Rogers Centre for Heart Research, Toronto, Canada
| | - Kate D MacQuarrie
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Translational Biology and Engineering Program, Ted Rogers Centre for Heart Research, Toronto, Canada
| | - Meghan J McFadden
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Translational Biology and Engineering Program, Ted Rogers Centre for Heart Research, Toronto, Canada
| | - Anthony O Gramolini
- Translational Biology and Engineering Program, Ted Rogers Centre for Heart Research, Toronto, Canada; Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Stefan O P Hofer
- Division of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Departments of Surgery and Surgical Oncology, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
| | - J Paul Santerre
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Translational Biology and Engineering Program, Ted Rogers Centre for Heart Research, Toronto, Canada; Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
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21
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Shi Y, Li D, Yi B, Tang H, Xu T, Zhang Y. Physiological cyclic stretching potentiates the cell-cell junctions in vascular endothelial layer formed on aligned fiber substrate. BIOMATERIALS ADVANCES 2024; 157:213751. [PMID: 38219418 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioadv.2023.213751] [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: 10/04/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
In vascular tissue engineering, formation of stable endothelial cell-cell and cell-substrate adhesions is essential for maintaining long-term patency of the tissue-engineered vascular grafts (TEVGs). In this study, sheet-like aligned fibrous substrates of poly(l-lactide-co-caprolactone) (PLCL) were prepared by electrospinning to provide basement membrane-resembling structural support to endothelial cells (ECs). Cyclic stretching at physiological and pathological levels was then applied to human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) cultured on chosen fibrous substrate using a force-loading device, from which effects of the cyclic stretching on cell-cell and cell-substrate adhesions were examined. It was found that applying uniaxial 1 Hz cyclic stretch at physiological levels (5 % and 10 % elongation) strengthened the cell-cell junctions, thus leading to improved structural integrity, functional expression and resistance to thrombin-induced damaging impacts in the formed endothelial layer. The cell-cell junctions were disrupted at pathological level (15 % elongation) cyclic stretching, which however facilitated the formation of focal adhesions (FAs) at cell-substrate interface. Mechanistically, the effects of cyclic stretching on endothelial cell-cell and cell-substrate adhesions were identified to be correlated with the RhoA/ROCK signaling pathway. Results from this study highlight the relevance between applying dynamic mechanical stimulation and maintaining the structural integrity of the formed endothelial layer, and implicate a necessity to implement appropriate dynamic mechanical training (i.e., preconditioning) to obtain tissue-engineered blood vessels with long-term patency post-implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Shi
- College of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, China
| | - Donghong Li
- College of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, China
| | - Bingcheng Yi
- School of Rehabilitation Sciences and Engineering, University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Qingdao, China
| | - Han Tang
- College of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, China
| | - Tingting Xu
- College of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanzhong Zhang
- College of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Nano-Biomaterials and Regenerative Medicine, Donghua University, Shanghai, China.
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22
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Huang Y, Huang B, Ye D, Luo X, Xiong X, Xiong H, Wang H, Zou Q, Liang J, Wang S, Wu L. Nano-induced endothelial leakiness-reversing nanoparticles for targeting, penetration and restoration of endothelial cell barrier. Acta Biomater 2024; 175:226-239. [PMID: 38159897 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2023.12.040] [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: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Nano-induced endothelial leakiness (NanoEL) can improve the ability of nanoparticles (NPs) to enter the tumor environment, nevertheless, it can inadvertently trigger adverse effects such as tumor metastasis. To overcome these concerns, it becomes important to develop a NPs design strategy that capitalizes on the NanoEL effect while averting unwanted side effects during the drug delivery process. Herein, we introduce the PLGA-ICG-PEI-Ang1@M NP which has a core comprising poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) and the inner shell with a highly positively charged polyethyleneimine (PEI) and the anti-permeability growth factor Angiopoietin 1 (Ang1), while the outer shell is camouflaged with a Jurkat cell membrane. During the drug delivery process, our NPs exhibit their capability to selectively target and penetrate endothelial cell layers. Once the NPs penetrate the endothelial layer, the proton sponge effect triggered by PEI in the acidic environment surrounding the tumor site can rupture the cell membrane on the NPs' surface. This rupture, in turn, enables the positively charged Ang1 to be released due to the electrostatic repulsion from PEI and the disrupted endothelial layer can be restored. Consequently, the designed NPs can penetrate endothelial layers, promote the cell layer recovery, restrict the tumor metastasis, and facilitate efficient cancer therapy. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Huang
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Advanced Organic Chemical Materials Co-constructed by the Province and Ministry, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for the Synthesis and Application of Organic Functional Molecules, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, PR China
| | - Bo Huang
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Advanced Organic Chemical Materials Co-constructed by the Province and Ministry, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for the Synthesis and Application of Organic Functional Molecules, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, PR China
| | - Dong Ye
- Molecular Profiling and Drug Delivery, Small Molecule CMC Development, AbbVie Deutschland GmbH & Co. KG, Knollstraße 50, Ludwigshafen 67061 , Germany
| | - Xinxin Luo
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Advanced Organic Chemical Materials Co-constructed by the Province and Ministry, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for the Synthesis and Application of Organic Functional Molecules, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, PR China
| | - Xilin Xiong
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Advanced Organic Chemical Materials Co-constructed by the Province and Ministry, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for the Synthesis and Application of Organic Functional Molecules, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, PR China
| | - Huayu Xiong
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Advanced Organic Chemical Materials Co-constructed by the Province and Ministry, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for the Synthesis and Application of Organic Functional Molecules, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, PR China
| | - Hangxing Wang
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Advanced Organic Chemical Materials Co-constructed by the Province and Ministry, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for the Synthesis and Application of Organic Functional Molecules, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, PR China
| | - Qichao Zou
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Advanced Organic Chemical Materials Co-constructed by the Province and Ministry, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for the Synthesis and Application of Organic Functional Molecules, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, PR China
| | - Jichao Liang
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Advanced Organic Chemical Materials Co-constructed by the Province and Ministry, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for the Synthesis and Application of Organic Functional Molecules, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, PR China.
| | - Suxiao Wang
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Advanced Organic Chemical Materials Co-constructed by the Province and Ministry, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for the Synthesis and Application of Organic Functional Molecules, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, PR China.
| | - Limin Wu
- Department of Materials Science and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China.
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23
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Wu X, Cesarovic N, Falk V, Mazza E, Giampietro C. Mechanical factors influence β-catenin localization and barrier properties. Integr Biol (Camb) 2024; 16:zyae013. [PMID: 38952079 DOI: 10.1093/intbio/zyae013] [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: 02/15/2024] [Revised: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024]
Abstract
Mechanical forces are of major importance in regulating vascular homeostasis by influencing endothelial cell behavior and functions. Adherens junctions are critical sites for mechanotransduction in endothelial cells. β-catenin, a component of adherens junctions and the canonical Wnt signaling pathway, plays a role in mechanoactivation. Evidence suggests that β-catenin is involved in flow sensing and responds to tensional forces, impacting junction dynamics. The mechanoregulation of β-catenin signaling is context-dependent, influenced by the type and duration of mechanical loads. In endothelial cells, β-catenin's nuclear translocation and signaling are influenced by shear stress and strain, affecting endothelial permeability. The study investigates how shear stress, strain, and surface topography impact adherens junction dynamics, regulate β-catenin localization, and influence endothelial barrier properties. Insight box Mechanical loads are potent regulators of endothelial functions through not completely elucidated mechanisms. Surface topography, wall shear stress and cyclic wall deformation contribute overlapping mechanical stimuli to which endothelial monolayer respond to adapt and maintain barrier functions. The use of custom developed flow chamber and bioreactor allows quantifying the response of mature human endothelial to well-defined wall shear stress and gradients of strain. Here, the mechanoregulation of β-catenin by substrate topography, wall shear stress, and cyclic stretch is analyzed and linked to the monolayer control of endothelial permeability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Wu
- ETH Zürich, DMAVT, Experimental Continuum Mechanics, Leonhardstrasse 21, Zurich 8092, Switzerland
| | - Nikola Cesarovic
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zürich, Leopold-Ruzicka-Weg 4, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
- Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, Deutsches Herzzentrum der Charité (DHZC), Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Volkmar Falk
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zürich, Leopold-Ruzicka-Weg 4, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
- Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, Deutsches Herzzentrum der Charité (DHZC), Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Edoardo Mazza
- ETH Zürich, DMAVT, Experimental Continuum Mechanics, Leonhardstrasse 21, Zurich 8092, Switzerland
- EMPA, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Experimental Continuum Mechanics, Überlandstrasse 129, Dübendorf 8600, Switzerland
| | - Costanza Giampietro
- ETH Zürich, DMAVT, Experimental Continuum Mechanics, Leonhardstrasse 21, Zurich 8092, Switzerland
- EMPA, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Experimental Continuum Mechanics, Überlandstrasse 129, Dübendorf 8600, Switzerland
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24
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Nawara TJ, Sztul E, Mattheyses AL. Fluidic shear stress alters clathrin dynamics and vesicle formation in endothelial cells. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.01.02.572628. [PMID: 38260513 PMCID: PMC10802377 DOI: 10.1101/2024.01.02.572628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
Endothelial cells (ECs) experience a variety of highly dynamic mechanical stresses. Among others, cyclic stretch and increased plasma membrane tension inhibit clathrin-mediated endocytosis (CME) in non-ECs cells. How ECs overcome such unfavorable, from biophysical perspective, conditions and maintain CME remains elusive. Previously, we have used simultaneous two-wavelength axial ratiometry (STAR) microscopy to show that endocytic dynamics are similar between statically cultured human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and fibroblast-like Cos-7 cells. Here we asked whether biophysical stresses generated by blood flow could favor one mechanism of clathrin-coated vesicle formation to overcome environment present in vasculature. We used our data processing platform - DrSTAR - to examine if clathrin dynamics are altered in HUVECs grown under fluidic sheer stress (FSS). Surprisingly, we found that FSS led to an increase in clathrin dynamics. In HUVECs grown under FSS we observed a 2.3-fold increase in clathrin-coated vesicle formation and a 1.9-fold increase in non-productive flat clathrin lattices compared to cells grown in static conditions. The curvature-positive events had significantly delayed curvature initiation in flow-stimulated cells, highlighting a shift toward flat-to-curved clathrin transitions in vesicle formation. Overall, our findings indicate that clathrin dynamics and CCV formation can be modulated by the local physiological environment and represents an important regulatory mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomasz J. Nawara
- Department of Cell, Developmental, and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Elizabeth Sztul
- Department of Cell, Developmental, and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Alexa L. Mattheyses
- Department of Cell, Developmental, and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
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25
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Aazmi A, Zhang D, Mazzaglia C, Yu M, Wang Z, Yang H, Huang YYS, Ma L. Biofabrication methods for reconstructing extracellular matrix mimetics. Bioact Mater 2024; 31:475-496. [PMID: 37719085 PMCID: PMC10500422 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2023.08.018] [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: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
In the human body, almost all cells interact with extracellular matrices (ECMs), which have tissue and organ-specific compositions and architectures. These ECMs not only function as cellular scaffolds, providing structural support, but also play a crucial role in dynamically regulating various cellular functions. This comprehensive review delves into the examination of biofabrication strategies used to develop bioactive materials that accurately mimic one or more biophysical and biochemical properties of ECMs. We discuss the potential integration of these ECM-mimics into a range of physiological and pathological in vitro models, enhancing our understanding of cellular behavior and tissue organization. Lastly, we propose future research directions for ECM-mimics in the context of tissue engineering and organ-on-a-chip applications, offering potential advancements in therapeutic approaches and improved patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdellah Aazmi
- State Key Laboratory of Fluid Power and Mechatronic Systems, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Duo Zhang
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- School of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 51817, China
| | - Corrado Mazzaglia
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Mengfei Yu
- The Affiliated Stomatologic Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Zhen Wang
- Center for Laboratory Medicine, Allergy Center, Department of Transfusion Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, China
| | - Huayong Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Fluid Power and Mechatronic Systems, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Yan Yan Shery Huang
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Liang Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Fluid Power and Mechatronic Systems, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
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26
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Davidson CD, Midekssa FS, DePalma SJ, Kamen JL, Wang WY, Jayco DKP, Wieger ME, Baker BM. Mechanical Intercellular Communication via Matrix-Borne Cell Force Transmission During Vascular Network Formation. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2306210. [PMID: 37997199 PMCID: PMC10797481 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202306210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
Intercellular communication is critical to the formation and homeostatic function of all tissues. Previous work has shown that cells can communicate mechanically via the transmission of cell-generated forces through their surrounding extracellular matrix, but this process is not well understood. Here, mechanically defined, synthetic electrospun fibrous matrices are utilized in conjunction with a microfabrication-based cell patterning approach to examine mechanical intercellular communication (MIC) between endothelial cells (ECs) during their assembly into interconnected multicellular networks. It is found that cell force-mediated matrix displacements in deformable fibrous matrices underly directional extension and migration of neighboring ECs toward each other prior to the formation of stable cell-cell connections enriched with vascular endothelial cadherin (VE-cadherin). A critical role is also identified for calcium signaling mediated by focal adhesion kinase and mechanosensitive ion channels in MIC that extends to multicellular assembly of 3D vessel-like networks when ECs are embedded within fibrin hydrogels. These results illustrate a role for cell-generated forces and ECM mechanical properties in multicellular assembly of capillary-like EC networks and motivates the design of biomaterials that promote MIC for vascular tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Firaol S. Midekssa
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMI48109USA
| | - Samuel J. DePalma
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMI48109USA
| | - Jordan L. Kamen
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMI48109USA
| | - William Y. Wang
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMI48109USA
| | | | - Megan E. Wieger
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMI48109USA
| | - Brendon M. Baker
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMI48109USA
- Department of Chemical EngineeringUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMI48109USA
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27
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Blazeski A, Floryan MA, Fajardo-Ramírez OR, Meibalan E, Ortiz-Urbina J, Angelidakis E, Shelton SE, Kamm RD, García-Cardeña G. Engineering microvascular networks using a KLF2 reporter to probe flow-dependent endothelial cell function. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.10.31.565021. [PMID: 37961543 PMCID: PMC10635035 DOI: 10.1101/2023.10.31.565021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
Shear stress generated by the flow of blood in the vasculature is a potent regulator of endothelial cell phenotype and vascular structure. While vascular responses to flow are complex and context-dependent, endothelial cell signaling in response to shear stress induced by laminar flows is coordinated by the transcription factor KLF2. The expression of KLF2 in endothelial cells is associated with a quiescent, anti-inflammatory phenotype and has been well characterized in two-dimensional systems, but has not been studied in three-dimensional in vitro systems. Here we develop engineered microvascular networks (MVNs) with a KLF2-based endothelial cell sensor within a microfluidic chip, apply continuous flow using an attached microfluidic pump, and study the effects of this flow on vascular structure and function. We found that culture of MVNs exposed to flow for 48 hours that resulted in increased expression of the KLF2-GFP-reporter display larger vessel diameters and decreased vascular branching and resistance. Additionally, vessel diameters after the application of flow were independent of initial MVN morphologies. Finally, we found that MVNs exposed to flow have improved vascular barrier function and decreased platelet adhesion. The MVNs with KLF2-based flow sensors represent a powerful tool for evaluating the structural and functional effects of flow on engineered three-dimensional vascular systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Blazeski
- Center for Excellence in Vascular Biology, Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Cardiovascular Disease Initiative, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Marie A. Floryan
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Oscar R. Fajardo-Ramírez
- Center for Excellence in Vascular Biology, Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Elamaran Meibalan
- Center for Excellence in Vascular Biology, Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jesús Ortiz-Urbina
- Center for Excellence in Vascular Biology, Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Cardiovascular Disease Initiative, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Emmanouil Angelidakis
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Sarah E. Shelton
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Roger D. Kamm
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Guillermo García-Cardeña
- Center for Excellence in Vascular Biology, Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Cardiovascular Disease Initiative, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
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28
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Schoch L, Alcover S, Padró T, Ben-Aicha S, Mendieta G, Badimon L, Vilahur G. Update of HDL in atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. CLINICA E INVESTIGACION EN ARTERIOSCLEROSIS : PUBLICACION OFICIAL DE LA SOCIEDAD ESPANOLA DE ARTERIOSCLEROSIS 2023; 35:297-314. [PMID: 37940388 DOI: 10.1016/j.arteri.2023.10.002] [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: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
Epidemiologic evidence supported an inverse association between HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol (HDL-C) levels and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), identifying HDL-C as a major cardiovascular risk factor and postulating diverse HDL vascular- and cardioprotective functions beyond their ability to drive reverse cholesterol transport. However, the failure of several clinical trials aimed at increasing HDL-C in patients with overt cardiovascular disease brought into question whether increasing the cholesterol cargo of HDL was an effective strategy to enhance their protective properties. In parallel, substantial evidence supports that HDLs are complex and heterogeneous particles whose composition is essential for maintaining their protective functions, subsequently strengthening the "HDL quality over quantity" hypothesis. The following state-of-the-art review covers the latest understanding as per the roles of HDL in ASCVD, delves into recent advances in understanding the complexity of HDL particle composition, including proteins, lipids and other HDL-transported components and discusses on the clinical outcomes after the administration of HDL-C raising drugs with particular attention to CETP (cholesteryl ester transfer protein) inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonie Schoch
- Cardiovascular Program, Institut de Recerca, Hospital de la Santa Creu I Sant Pau, IIB Sant Pau, 08025 Barcelona, Spain; Faculty of Medicine, University of Barcelona (UB), 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sebastián Alcover
- Cardiovascular Program, Institut de Recerca, Hospital de la Santa Creu I Sant Pau, IIB Sant Pau, 08025 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Teresa Padró
- Cardiovascular Program, Institut de Recerca, Hospital de la Santa Creu I Sant Pau, IIB Sant Pau, 08025 Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Guiomar Mendieta
- Cardiology Unit, Cardiovascular Clinical Institute, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Lina Badimon
- Cardiovascular Program, Institut de Recerca, Hospital de la Santa Creu I Sant Pau, IIB Sant Pau, 08025 Barcelona, Spain; Cardiovascular Research Chair, UAB, 08025 Barcelona, Spain; CiberCV, Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Gemma Vilahur
- Cardiovascular Program, Institut de Recerca, Hospital de la Santa Creu I Sant Pau, IIB Sant Pau, 08025 Barcelona, Spain; CiberCV, Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.
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29
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Hülsmann J, Fraune T, Dodawatta B, Reuter F, Beutner M, Beck V, Hackert-Oschätzchen M, Ohl CD, Bettenbrock K, Janiga G, Wippermann J, Wacker M. Integrated biophysical matching of bacterial nanocellulose coronary artery bypass grafts towards bioinspired artery typical functions. Sci Rep 2023; 13:18274. [PMID: 37880281 PMCID: PMC10600183 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-45451-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Revascularization via coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) to treat cardiovascular disease is established as one of the most important lifesaving surgical techniques worldwide. But the shortage in functionally self-adaptive autologous arteries leads to circumstances where the clinical reality must deal with fighting pathologies coming from the mismatching biophysical functionality of more available venous grafts. Synthetic biomaterial-based CABG grafts did not make it to the market yet, what is mostly due to technical hurdles in matching biophysical properties to the complex demands of the CABG niche. But bacterial Nanocellulose (BNC) Hydrogels derived by growing biofilms hold a naturally integrative character in function-giving properties by its freedom in designing form and intrinsic fiber architecture. In this study we use this integral to combine impacts on the luminal fiber matrix, biomechanical properties and the reciprocal stimulation of microtopography and induced flow patterns, to investigate biomimetic and artificial designs on their bio-functional effects. Therefore, we produced tubular BNC-hydrogels at distinctive designs, characterized the structural and biomechanical properties and subjected them to in vitro endothelial colonization in bioreactor assisted perfusion cultivation. Results showed clearly improved functional properties and gave an indication of successfully realized stimulation by artery-typical helical flow patterns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jörn Hülsmann
- Department for Cardiac Surgery, Medical Faculty, Otto von Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany.
| | - Theresa Fraune
- Department for Cardiac Surgery, Medical Faculty, Otto von Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Baratha Dodawatta
- Laboratory of Fluid Dynamics and Technical Flows, Otto von Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Fabian Reuter
- Department Soft Matter, Otto von Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Martin Beutner
- Chair of Manufacturing Technology with Focus Machining, Institute of Manufacturing Technology and Quality Management, Otto von Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Viktoria Beck
- Department for Cardiac Surgery, Medical Faculty, Otto von Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Matthias Hackert-Oschätzchen
- Chair of Manufacturing Technology with Focus Machining, Institute of Manufacturing Technology and Quality Management, Otto von Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Claus Dieter Ohl
- Department Soft Matter, Otto von Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Katja Bettenbrock
- Max Plank Institute for Dynamics of Complex Technical Systems, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Gabor Janiga
- Laboratory of Fluid Dynamics and Technical Flows, Otto von Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Jens Wippermann
- Department for Cardiac Surgery, Medical Faculty, Otto von Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Max Wacker
- Department for Cardiac Surgery, Medical Faculty, Otto von Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
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Ma Y, Dai T, Lei Y, Zhang L, Ma L, Liu M, An S, Zheng J, Zhuo K, Kong L, Gao P. Panoramic quantitative phase imaging of adherent live cells in a microfluidic environment. BIOMEDICAL OPTICS EXPRESS 2023; 14:5182-5198. [PMID: 37854568 PMCID: PMC10581813 DOI: 10.1364/boe.498602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Revised: 08/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
Understanding how cells respond to external stimuli is crucial. However, there are a lack of inspection systems capable of simultaneously stimulating and imaging cells, especially in their natural states. This study presents a novel microfluidic stimulation and observation system equipped with flat-fielding quantitative phase contrast microscopy (FF-QPCM). This system allowed us to track the behavior of organelles in live cells experiencing controlled microfluidic stimulation. Using this innovative imaging platform, we successfully quantified the cellular response to shear stress including directional cellular shrinkage and mitochondrial distribution change in a label-free manner. Additionally, we detected and characterized the cellular response, particularly mitochondrial behavior, under varying fluidic conditions such as temperature and drug induction time. The proposed imaging platform is highly suitable for various microfluidic applications at the organelle level. We advocate that this platform will significantly facilitate life science research in microfluidic environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Ma
- School of Physics, Xidian University, Xi'an 710071, China
- Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Perception of Complex Environment, Ministry of Education, China
- Engineering Research Center of Functional Nanomaterials, Universities of Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Taiqiang Dai
- State Key Laboratory of Military Stomatology &National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & Shaanxi Engineering Research Center for Dental Materials and Advanced Manufacture, School of Stomatology, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710000, China
| | - Yunze Lei
- School of Physics, Xidian University, Xi'an 710071, China
- Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Perception of Complex Environment, Ministry of Education, China
- Engineering Research Center of Functional Nanomaterials, Universities of Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Linlin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Military Stomatology &National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & Shaanxi Engineering Research Center for Dental Materials and Advanced Manufacture, School of Stomatology, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710000, China
| | - Lin Ma
- School of Physics, Xidian University, Xi'an 710071, China
- Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Perception of Complex Environment, Ministry of Education, China
- Engineering Research Center of Functional Nanomaterials, Universities of Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Min Liu
- School of Physics, Xidian University, Xi'an 710071, China
- Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Perception of Complex Environment, Ministry of Education, China
- Engineering Research Center of Functional Nanomaterials, Universities of Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Sha An
- School of Physics, Xidian University, Xi'an 710071, China
- Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Perception of Complex Environment, Ministry of Education, China
- Engineering Research Center of Functional Nanomaterials, Universities of Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Juanjuan Zheng
- School of Physics, Xidian University, Xi'an 710071, China
- Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Perception of Complex Environment, Ministry of Education, China
- Engineering Research Center of Functional Nanomaterials, Universities of Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Kequn Zhuo
- School of Physics, Xidian University, Xi'an 710071, China
- Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Perception of Complex Environment, Ministry of Education, China
- Engineering Research Center of Functional Nanomaterials, Universities of Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Liang Kong
- State Key Laboratory of Military Stomatology &National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & Shaanxi Engineering Research Center for Dental Materials and Advanced Manufacture, School of Stomatology, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an 710000, China
| | - Peng Gao
- School of Physics, Xidian University, Xi'an 710071, China
- Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Perception of Complex Environment, Ministry of Education, China
- Engineering Research Center of Functional Nanomaterials, Universities of Shaanxi Province, China
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Zhang F, Lin DSY, Rajasekar S, Sotra A, Zhang B. Pump-Less Platform Enables Long-Term Recirculating Perfusion of 3D Printed Tubular Tissues. Adv Healthc Mater 2023; 12:e2300423. [PMID: 37543836 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202300423] [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: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/07/2023]
Abstract
The direction and pattern of fluid flow affect vascular structure and function, in which vessel-lining endothelial cells exhibit variable cellular morphologies and vessel remodeling by mechanosensing. To recapitulate this microenvironment, some approaches have been reported to successfully apply unidirectional flow on endothelial cells in organ-on-a-chip systems. However, these platforms encounter drawbacks such as the dependency on pumps or confinement to closed microfluidic channels. These constraints impede their synergy with advanced biofabrication techniques like 3D bioprinting, thereby curtailing the potential to introduce greater complexity into engineered tissues. Herein, a pumpless recirculating platform (UniPlate) that enables unidirectional media recirculation through 3D printed tubular tissues, is demonstrated.The device is made of polystyrene via injection molding in combination with 3D printed sacrifical gelatin templates. Tubular blood vessels with unidirectional perfusion are firstly engineered. Then the design is expanded to incorporate duo-recirculating flow for culturing vascularized renal proximal tubules with glucose reabsorption function. In addition to media recirculation, human monocyte recirculation in engineered blood vessels is also demonstrated for over 24 h, with minimal loss of cells, cell viability, and inflammatory activation. UniPlate can be a valuable tool to more precisely control the cellular microenvironment of organ-on-a-chip systems for drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Zhang
- School of Biomedical Engineering, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4L8, Canada
| | - Dawn S Y Lin
- Department of Chemical Engineering, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4L8, Canada
| | - Shravanthi Rajasekar
- Department of Chemical Engineering, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4L8, Canada
| | - Alexander Sotra
- School of Biomedical Engineering, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4L8, Canada
| | - Boyang Zhang
- School of Biomedical Engineering, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4L8, Canada
- Department of Chemical Engineering, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4L8, Canada
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32
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Huang D, Chen S, Xiong D, Wang H, Zhu L, Wei Y, Li Y, Zou S. Mitochondrial Dynamics: Working with the Cytoskeleton and Intracellular Organelles to Mediate Mechanotransduction. Aging Dis 2023; 14:1511-1532. [PMID: 37196113 PMCID: PMC10529762 DOI: 10.14336/ad.2023.0201] [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: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Cells are constantly exposed to various mechanical environments; therefore, it is important that they are able to sense and adapt to changes. It is known that the cytoskeleton plays a critical role in mediating and generating extra- and intracellular forces and that mitochondrial dynamics are crucial for maintaining energy homeostasis. Nevertheless, the mechanisms by which cells integrate mechanosensing, mechanotransduction, and metabolic reprogramming remain poorly understood. In this review, we first discuss the interaction between mitochondrial dynamics and cytoskeletal components, followed by the annotation of membranous organelles intimately related to mitochondrial dynamic events. Finally, we discuss the evidence supporting the participation of mitochondria in mechanotransduction and corresponding alterations in cellular energy conditions. Notable advances in bioenergetics and biomechanics suggest that the mechanotransduction system composed of mitochondria, the cytoskeletal system, and membranous organelles is regulated through mitochondrial dynamics, which may be a promising target for further investigation and precision therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Yuyu Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Shujuan Zou
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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Zhang W, Zhu D, Tong Z, Peng B, Cheng X, Esser L, Voelcker NH. Influence of Surface Ligand Density and Particle Size on the Penetration of the Blood-Brain Barrier by Porous Silicon Nanoparticles. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2271. [PMID: 37765240 PMCID: PMC10534822 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15092271] [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: 06/25/2023] [Revised: 07/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Overcoming the blood-brain barrier (BBB) remains a significant challenge with regard to drug delivery to the brain. By incorporating targeting ligands, and by carefully adjusting particle sizes, nanocarriers can be customized to improve drug delivery. Among these targeting ligands, transferrin stands out due to the high expression level of its receptor (i.e., transferrin receptor) on the BBB. Porous silicon nanoparticles (pSiNPs) are a promising drug nanocarrier to the brain due to their biodegradability, biocompatibility, and exceptional drug-loading capacity. However, an in-depth understanding of the optimal nanoparticle size and transferrin surface density, in order to maximize BBB penetration, is still lacking. To address this gap, a diverse library of pSiNPs was synthesized using bifunctional poly(ethylene glycol) linkers with methoxy or/and carboxyl terminal groups. These variations allowed us to explore different transferrin surface densities in addition to particle sizes. The effects of these parameters on the cellular association, uptake, and transcytosis in immortalized human brain microvascular endothelial cells (hCMEC/D3) were investigated using multiple in vitro systems of increasing degrees of complexity. These systems included the following: a 2D cell culture, a static Transwell model, and a dynamic BBB-on-a-chip model. Our results revealed the significant impact of both the ligand surface density and size of pSiNPs on their ability to penetrate the BBB, wherein intermediate-level transferrin densities and smaller pSiNPs exhibited the highest BBB transportation efficiency in vitro. Moreover, notable discrepancies emerged between the tested in vitro assays, further emphasizing the necessity of using more physiologically relevant assays, such as a microfluidic BBB-on-a-chip model, for nanocarrier testing and evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weisen Zhang
- Drug Delivery, Disposition and Dynamics, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia (Z.T.)
| | - Douer Zhu
- Drug Delivery, Disposition and Dynamics, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia (Z.T.)
| | - Ziqiu Tong
- Drug Delivery, Disposition and Dynamics, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia (Z.T.)
| | - Bo Peng
- Drug Delivery, Disposition and Dynamics, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia (Z.T.)
- Frontiers Science Center for Flexible Electronics, Xi’an Institute of Flexible Electronics (IFE), Xi’an Institute of Biomedical Materials & Engineering (IBME), Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi’an 710072, China
| | - Xuan Cheng
- Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia;
| | - Lars Esser
- Drug Delivery, Disposition and Dynamics, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia (Z.T.)
- Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia;
| | - Nicolas H. Voelcker
- Drug Delivery, Disposition and Dynamics, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia (Z.T.)
- Melbourne Centre for Nanofabrication, Victorian Node of the Australian National Fabrication Facility, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
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Lahooti B, Akwii RG, Zahra FT, Sajib MS, Lamprou M, Alobaida A, Lionakis MS, Mattheolabakis G, Mikelis CM. Targeting endothelial permeability in the EPR effect. J Control Release 2023; 361:212-235. [PMID: 37517543 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2023.07.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/23/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
The characteristics of the primary tumor blood vessels and the tumor microenvironment drive the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect, which confers an advantage towards enhanced delivery of anti-cancer nanomedicine and has shown beneficial effects in preclinical models. Increased vascular permeability is a landmark feature of the tumor vessels and an important driver of the EPR. The main focus of this review is the endothelial regulation of vascular permeability. We discuss current challenges of targeting vascular permeability towards clinical translation and summarize the structural components and mechanisms of endothelial permeability, the principal mediators and signaling players, the targeted approaches that have been used and their outcomes to date. We also critically discuss the effects of the tumor-infiltrating immune cells, their interplay with the tumor vessels and the impact of immune responses on nanomedicine delivery, the impact of anti-angiogenic and tumor-stroma targeting approaches, and desirable nanoparticle design approaches for greater translational benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Behnaz Lahooti
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, TX 79106, USA
| | - Racheal G Akwii
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, TX 79106, USA
| | - Fatema Tuz Zahra
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, TX 79106, USA
| | - Md Sanaullah Sajib
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, TX 79106, USA
| | - Margarita Lamprou
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacy, University of Patras, Patras 26504, Greece
| | - Ahmed Alobaida
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Ha'il, Ha'il 81442, Saudi Arabia
| | - Michail S Lionakis
- Fungal Pathogenesis Section, Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - George Mattheolabakis
- School of Basic Pharmaceutical and Toxicological Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Louisiana at Monroe, Monroe, LA 71201, USA.
| | - Constantinos M Mikelis
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, TX 79106, USA; Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacy, University of Patras, Patras 26504, Greece.
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35
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Deshmukh K, Mitra K, Bit A. Influence of Non-Newtonian Viscosity on Flow Structures and Wall Deformation in Compliant Serpentine Microchannels: A Numerical Study. MICROMACHINES 2023; 14:1661. [PMID: 37763824 PMCID: PMC10536915 DOI: 10.3390/mi14091661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
The viscosity of fluid plays a major role in the flow dynamics of microchannels. Viscous drag and shear forces are the primary tractions for microfluidic fluid flow. Capillary blood vessels with a few microns diameter are impacted by the rheology of blood flowing through their conduits. Hence, regenerated capillaries should be able to withstand such impacts. Consequently, there is a need to understand the flow physics of culture media through the lumen of the substrate as it is one of the vital promoting factors for vasculogenesis under optimal shear conditions at the endothelial lining of the regenerated vessel. Simultaneously, considering the diffusive role of capillaries for ion exchange with the surrounding tissue, capillaries have been found to reorient themselves in serpentine form for modulating the flow conditions while developing sustainable shear stress. In the current study, S-shaped (S1) and delta-shaped (S2) serpentine models of capillaries were considered to evaluate the shear stress distribution and the oscillatory shear index (OSI) and relative residual time (RRT) of the derivatives throughout the channel (due to the phenomena of near-wall stress fluctuation), along with the influence of culture media rheology on wall stress parameters. The non-Newtonian power-law formulation was implemented for defining rheological viscosity of the culture media. The flow actuation of the media was considered to be sinusoidal and physiological, realizing the pulsatile blood flow behavior in the circulatory network. A distinct difference in shear stress distributions was observed in both the serpentine models. The S1 model showed higher change in shear stress in comparison to the S2 model. Furthermore, the non-Newtonian viscosity formulation was found to produce more sustainable shear stress near the serpentine walls compared to the Newtonian formulation fluid, emphasizing the influence of rheology on stress generation. Further, cell viability improved in the bending regions of serpentine channels compared to the long run section of the same channel.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khemraj Deshmukh
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National Institute of Technology, Raipur 492010, India;
| | - Kunal Mitra
- Biomedical Engineering, Florida Tech, Melbourne, FL 32901, USA
| | - Arindam Bit
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National Institute of Technology, Raipur 492010, India;
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Fumadó Navarro J, Lomora M. Mechanoresponsive Drug Delivery Systems for Vascular Diseases. Macromol Biosci 2023; 23:e2200466. [PMID: 36670512 DOI: 10.1002/mabi.202200466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Mechanoresponsive drug delivery systems (DDS) have emerged as promising candidates to improve the current effectiveness and lower the side effects typically associated with direct drug administration in the context of vascular diseases. Despite tremendous research efforts to date, designing drug delivery systems able to respond to mechanical stimuli to potentially treat these diseases is still in its infancy. By understanding relevant biological forces emerging in healthy and pathological vascular endothelium, it is believed that better-informed design strategies can be deduced for the fabrication of simple-to-complex macromolecular assemblies capable of sensing mechanical forces. These responsive systems are discussed through insights into essential parameter design (composition, size, shape, and aggregation state) , as well as their functionalization with (macro)molecules that are intrinsically mechanoresponsive (e.g., mechanosensitive ion channels and mechanophores). Mechanical forces, including the pathological shear stress and exogenous stimuli (e.g., ultrasound, magnetic fields), used for the activation of mechanoresponsive DDS are also introduced, followed by in vitro and in vivo experimental models used to investigate and validate such novel therapies. Overall, this review aims to propose a fresh perspective through identified challenges and proposed solutions that could be of benefit for the further development of this exciting field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josep Fumadó Navarro
- School of Biological and Chemical Sciences, University of Galway, University Road, Galway, H91 TK33, Ireland
- CÚRAM, SFI Research Centre for Medical Devices, University of Galway, Upper Newcastle, Galway, H91 W2TY, Ireland
| | - Mihai Lomora
- School of Biological and Chemical Sciences, University of Galway, University Road, Galway, H91 TK33, Ireland
- CÚRAM, SFI Research Centre for Medical Devices, University of Galway, Upper Newcastle, Galway, H91 W2TY, Ireland
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37
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Lother A, Kohl P. The heterocellular heart: identities, interactions, and implications for cardiology. Basic Res Cardiol 2023; 118:30. [PMID: 37495826 PMCID: PMC10371928 DOI: 10.1007/s00395-023-01000-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
The heterocellular nature of the heart has been receiving increasing attention in recent years. In addition to cardiomyocytes as the prototypical cell type of the heart, non-myocytes such as endothelial cells, fibroblasts, or immune cells are coming more into focus. The rise of single-cell sequencing technologies enables identification of ever more subtle differences and has reignited the question of what defines a cell's identity. Here we provide an overview of the major cardiac cell types, describe their roles in homeostasis, and outline recent findings on non-canonical functions that may be of relevance for cardiology. We highlight modes of biochemical and biophysical interactions between different cardiac cell types and discuss the potential implications of the heterocellular nature of the heart for basic research and therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Achim Lother
- Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Albertstr. 25, 79104, Freiburg, Germany.
- Interdisciplinary Medical Intensive Care, Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.
| | - Peter Kohl
- Institute for Experimental Cardiovascular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University Heart Center, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- CIBSS Centre for Integrative Biological Signalling Studies, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
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38
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Georgieva I, Tchekalarova J, Iliev D, Tzoneva R. Endothelial Senescence and Its Impact on Angiogenesis in Alzheimer's Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11344. [PMID: 37511104 PMCID: PMC10379128 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241411344] [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: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Endothelial cells are constantly exposed to environmental stress factors that, above a certain threshold, trigger cellular senescence and apoptosis. The altered vascular function affects new vessel formation and endothelial fitness, contributing to the progression of age-related diseases. This narrative review highlights the complex interplay between senescence, oxidative stress, extracellular vesicles, and the extracellular matrix and emphasizes the crucial role of angiogenesis in aging and Alzheimer's disease. The interaction between the vascular and nervous systems is essential for the development of a healthy brain, especially since neurons are exceptionally dependent on nutrients carried by the blood. Therefore, anomalies in the delicate balance between pro- and antiangiogenic factors and the consequences of disrupted angiogenesis, such as misalignment, vascular leakage and disturbed blood flow, are responsible for neurodegeneration. The implications of altered non-productive angiogenesis in Alzheimer's disease due to dysregulated Delta-Notch and VEGF signaling are further explored. Additionally, potential therapeutic strategies such as exercise and caloric restriction to modulate angiogenesis and vascular aging and to mitigate the associated debilitating symptoms are discussed. Moreover, both the roles of extracellular vesicles in stress-induced senescence and as an early detection marker for Alzheimer's disease are considered. The intricate relationship between endothelial senescence and angiogenesis provides valuable insights into the mechanisms underlying angiogenesis-related disorders and opens avenues for future research and therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irina Georgieva
- Institute of Biophysics and Biomedical Engineering, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Acad. George Bonchev, Str. Bl. 21, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Jana Tchekalarova
- Institute of Neurobiology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Acad. George Bonchev, Str. Bl. 23, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Dimitar Iliev
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Acad. George Bonchev, Str. Bl. 21, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Rumiana Tzoneva
- Institute of Biophysics and Biomedical Engineering, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Acad. George Bonchev, Str. Bl. 21, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria
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39
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Yu F, Duan Y, Liu C, Huang H, Xiao X, He Z. Extracellular vesicles in atherosclerosis and vascular calcification: the versatile non-coding RNAs from endothelial cells and vascular smooth muscle cells. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1193660. [PMID: 37469665 PMCID: PMC10352799 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1193660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis (AS) is characterized by the accumulation of lipids, fibrous elements, and calcification in the innermost layers of arteries. Vascular calcification (VC), the deposition of calcium and phosphate within the arterial wall, is an important characteristic of AS natural history. However, medial arterial calcification (MAC) differs from intimal calcification and cannot simply be explained as the consequence of AS. Endothelial cells (ECs) and vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) are directly involved in AS and VC processes. Understanding the communication between ECs and VSMCs is critical in revealing mechanisms underlying AS and VC. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are found as intercellular messengers in kinds of physiological processes and pathological progression. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) encapsulated in EVs are involved in AS and VC, including microRNAs (miRNAs), long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs). The effects of ncRNAs have not been comprehensively understood, especially encapsulated in EVs. Some ncRNAs have demonstrated significant roles in AS and VC, but it remains unclear the functions of the majority ncRNAs detected in EVs. In this review, we summarize ncRNAs encapsulated in EC-EVs and VSMC-EVs, and the signaling pathways that are involved in AS and VC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fengyi Yu
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Yingjie Duan
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Chongmei Liu
- Department of Pathology, Yueyang People's Hospital, Yueyang, Hunan, China
| | - Hong Huang
- Hengyang Medical School, The First Affiliated Hospital, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Xiangcheng Xiao
- Department of Nephrology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Zhangxiu He
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
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40
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Zhu H, Özkayar G, Lötters J, Tichem M, Ghatkesar MK. Portable and integrated microfluidic flow control system using off-the-shelf components towards organs-on-chip applications. Biomed Microdevices 2023; 25:19. [PMID: 37266714 DOI: 10.1007/s10544-023-00657-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Organ-on-a-chip (OoC) devices require the precise control of various media. This is mostly done using several fluid control components, which are much larger than the typical OoC device and connected through fluidic tubing, i.e., the fluidic system is not integrated, which inhibits the system's portability. Here, we explore the limits of fluidic system integration using off-the-shelf fluidic control components. A flow control configuration is proposed that uses a vacuum to generate a fluctuation-free flow and minimizes the number of components used in the system. 3D printing is used to fabricate a custom-designed platform box for mounting the chosen smallest footprint components. It provides flexibility in arranging the various components to create experiment-specific systems. A demonstrator system is realized for lung-on-a-chip experiments. The 3D-printed platform box is 290 mm long, 240 mm wide and 37 mm tall. After integrating all the components, it weighs 4.8 kg. The system comprises of a switch valve, flow and pressure controllers, and a vacuum pump to control the diverse media flows. The system generates liquid flow rates ranging from 1.5 [Formula: see text]Lmin[Formula: see text] to 68 [Formula: see text]Lmin[Formula: see text] in the cell chambers, and a cyclic vacuum of 280 mbar below atmospheric pressure with 0.5 Hz frequency in the side channels to induce mechanical strain on the cells-substrate. The components are modular for easy exchange. The battery operated platform box can be mounted on either upright or inverted microscopes and fits in a standard incubator. Overall, it is shown that a compact integrated and portable fluidic system for OoC experiments can be constructed using off-the-shelf components. For further down-scaling, the fluidic control components, like the pump, switch valves, and flow controllers, require significant miniaturization while having a wide flow rate range with high resolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haoyu Zhu
- Department of Precision and Microsystems Engineering, Delft University of Technology, Mekelweg 2, Zuid-Holland, 2628CD, Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Gürhan Özkayar
- Department of Precision and Microsystems Engineering, Delft University of Technology, Mekelweg 2, Zuid-Holland, 2628CD, Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Joost Lötters
- Department of Precision and Microsystems Engineering, Delft University of Technology, Mekelweg 2, Zuid-Holland, 2628CD, Delft, The Netherlands
- Bronkhorst High-Tech BV, Nijverheidsstraat 1A, Ruurlo, 7261 AK, Gelderland, The Netherlands
- Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science, Integrated Devices and Systems, University of Twente, Drienerlolaan 5, Enschede, 7522 NB, Overijssel, The Netherlands
| | - Marcel Tichem
- Department of Precision and Microsystems Engineering, Delft University of Technology, Mekelweg 2, Zuid-Holland, 2628CD, Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Murali Krishna Ghatkesar
- Department of Precision and Microsystems Engineering, Delft University of Technology, Mekelweg 2, Zuid-Holland, 2628CD, Delft, The Netherlands.
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41
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Shou Y, Teo XY, Wu KZ, Bai B, Kumar ARK, Low J, Le Z, Tay A. Dynamic Stimulations with Bioengineered Extracellular Matrix-Mimicking Hydrogels for Mechano Cell Reprogramming and Therapy. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023:e2300670. [PMID: 37119518 PMCID: PMC10375194 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202300670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Cells interact with their surrounding environment through a combination of static and dynamic mechanical signals that vary over stimulus types, intensity, space, and time. Compared to static mechanical signals such as stiffness, porosity, and topography, the current understanding on the effects of dynamic mechanical stimulations on cells remains limited, attributing to a lack of access to devices, the complexity of experimental set-up, and data interpretation. Yet, in the pursuit of emerging translational applications (e.g., cell manufacturing for clinical treatment), it is crucial to understand how cells respond to a variety of dynamic forces that are omnipresent in vivo so that they can be exploited to enhance manufacturing and therapeutic outcomes. With a rising appreciation of the extracellular matrix (ECM) as a key regulator of biofunctions, researchers have bioengineered a suite of ECM-mimicking hydrogels, which can be fine-tuned with spatiotemporal mechanical cues to model complex static and dynamic mechanical profiles. This review first discusses how mechanical stimuli may impact different cellular components and the various mechanobiology pathways involved. Then, how hydrogels can be designed to incorporate static and dynamic mechanical parameters to influence cell behaviors are described. The Scopus database is also used to analyze the relative strength in evidence, ranging from strong to weak, based on number of published literatures, associated citations, and treatment significance. Additionally, the impacts of static and dynamic mechanical stimulations on clinically relevant cell types including mesenchymal stem cells, fibroblasts, and immune cells, are evaluated. The aim is to draw attention to the paucity of studies on the effects of dynamic mechanical stimuli on cells, as well as to highlight the potential of using a cocktail of various types and intensities of mechanical stimulations to influence cell fates (similar to the concept of biochemical cocktail to direct cell fate). It is envisioned that this progress report will inspire more exciting translational development of mechanoresponsive hydrogels for biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yufeng Shou
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117583, Singapore
- Institute for Health Innovation and Technology, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117599, Singapore
| | - Xin Yong Teo
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117583, Singapore
| | - Kenny Zhuoran Wu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117583, Singapore
| | - Bingyu Bai
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117583, Singapore
| | - Arun R K Kumar
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117583, Singapore
- Institute for Health Innovation and Technology, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117599, Singapore
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117597, Singapore
| | - Jessalyn Low
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117583, Singapore
| | - Zhicheng Le
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117583, Singapore
- Institute for Health Innovation and Technology, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117599, Singapore
| | - Andy Tay
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117583, Singapore
- Institute for Health Innovation and Technology, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117599, Singapore
- NUS Tissue Engineering Program, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117510, Singapore
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42
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Ferrari D, Sengupta A, Heo L, Pethö L, Michler J, Geiser T, de Jesus Perez VA, Kuebler WM, Zeinali S, Guenat OT. Effects of biomechanical and biochemical stimuli on angio- and vasculogenesis in a complex microvasculature-on-chip. iScience 2023; 26:106198. [PMID: 36879808 PMCID: PMC9985038 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.106198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Revised: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The endothelium of blood vessels is a vital organ that reacts differently to subtle changes in stiffness and mechanical forces exerted on its environment (extracellular matrix (ECM)). Upon alteration of these biomechanical cues, endothelial cells initiate signaling pathways that govern vascular remodeling. The emerging organs-on-chip technologies allow the mimicking of complex microvasculature networks, identifying the combined or singular effects of these biomechanical or biochemical stimuli. Here, we present a microvasculature-on-chip model to investigate the singular effect of ECM stiffness and mechanical cyclic stretch on vascular development. Following two different approaches for vascular growth, the effect of ECM stiffness on sprouting angiogenesis and the effect of cyclic stretch on endothelial vasculogenesis are studied. Our results indicate that ECM hydrogel stiffness controls the size of the patterned vasculature and the density of sprouting angiogenesis. RNA sequencing shows that the cellular response to stretching is characterized by the upregulation of certain genes such as ANGPTL4+5, PDE1A, and PLEC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dario Ferrari
- Organs-on-chip Technologies Laboratory, ARTORG Center, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Arunima Sengupta
- Organs-on-chip Technologies Laboratory, ARTORG Center, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Lyong Heo
- Stanford Center for Genomics and Personalized Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Laszlo Pethö
- Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Laboratory for Mechanics of Materials and Nanostructures, Thun, Switzerland
| | - Johann Michler
- Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Laboratory for Mechanics of Materials and Nanostructures, Thun, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Geiser
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Inselspital, University Hospital of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department for BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Vinicio A. de Jesus Perez
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, Stanford University Medical Center, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Wolfgang M. Kuebler
- Institute of Physiology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Soheila Zeinali
- Organs-on-chip Technologies Laboratory, ARTORG Center, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Olivier T. Guenat
- Organs-on-chip Technologies Laboratory, ARTORG Center, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Inselspital, University Hospital of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department of General Thoracic Surgery, Inselspital, University Hospital of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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43
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Salipante PF. Microfluidic techniques for mechanical measurements of biological samples. BIOPHYSICS REVIEWS 2023; 4:011303. [PMID: 38505816 PMCID: PMC10903441 DOI: 10.1063/5.0130762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
The use of microfluidics to make mechanical property measurements is increasingly common. Fabrication of microfluidic devices has enabled various types of flow control and sensor integration at micrometer length scales to interrogate biological materials. For rheological measurements of biofluids, the small length scales are well suited to reach high rates, and measurements can be made on droplet-sized samples. The control of flow fields, constrictions, and external fields can be used in microfluidics to make mechanical measurements of individual bioparticle properties, often at high sampling rates for high-throughput measurements. Microfluidics also enables the measurement of bio-surfaces, such as the elasticity and permeability properties of layers of cells cultured in microfluidic devices. Recent progress on these topics is reviewed, and future directions are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul F. Salipante
- National Institute of Standards and Technology, Polymers and Complex Fluids Group, Gaithersburg, Maryland 20899, USA
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Busek M, Aizenshtadt A, Koch T, Frank A, Delon L, Martinez MA, Golovin A, Dumas C, Stokowiec J, Gruenzner S, Melum E, Krauss S. Pump-less, recirculating organ-on-a-chip (rOoC) platform. LAB ON A CHIP 2023; 23:591-608. [PMID: 36655405 DOI: 10.1039/d2lc00919f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
We developed a novel, pump-less directional flow recirculating organ-on-a-chip (rOoC) platform that creates controlled unidirectional gravity-driven flow by a combination of a 3D-tilting system and an optimized microfluidic layout. The rOoC platform was assembled utilizing a layer-to-layer fabrication technology based on thermoplastic materials. It features two organoid compartments supported by two independent perfusion channels and separated by a hydrogel barrier. We developed a computational model to predict wall shear stress values and then measured the flow rate in the microfluidic channels with micro-Particle-Image-Velocimetry (μPIV). The suitability of the rOoC for functional culture of endothelial cells was tested using HUVECs seeded in the perfusion channels. HUVECs aligned in response to the directional flow, formed a barrier and were able to sprout into the organoid compartments. Next, we demonstrated the viability of human stem-cell derived liver organoids in the organoid compartments. Finally, we show the possibility to circulate immune cells in the microfluidic channels that retain viability without being trapped or activated. The rOoC platform allows growing and connecting of two or more tissue or organ representations on-chip with the possibility of applying gradients, endothelial barriers, microvasculature and circulating cells independent of external tubing and support systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathias Busek
- Hybrid Technology Hub - Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Science, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1110, 0317 Oslo, Norway
- Dep. of Immunology and Transfusion Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, P.O. Box 4950, 0424 Oslo, Norway.
| | - Aleksandra Aizenshtadt
- Hybrid Technology Hub - Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Science, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1110, 0317 Oslo, Norway
| | - Timo Koch
- Dep. of Mathematics, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1083, 0316 Oslo, Norway
| | - Anna Frank
- Hybrid Technology Hub - Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Science, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1110, 0317 Oslo, Norway
- Norwegian PSC Research Center, Division of Surgery, Inflammatory Diseases and Transplantation, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Research Institute of Internal Medicine, Division of Surgery, Inflammatory Diseases and Transplantation, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Ludivine Delon
- Dep. of Immunology and Transfusion Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, P.O. Box 4950, 0424 Oslo, Norway.
| | - Mikel Amirola Martinez
- Hybrid Technology Hub - Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Science, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1110, 0317 Oslo, Norway
| | - Alexey Golovin
- Dep. of Immunology and Transfusion Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, P.O. Box 4950, 0424 Oslo, Norway.
| | - Clotilde Dumas
- Hybrid Technology Hub - Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Science, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1110, 0317 Oslo, Norway
| | - Justyna Stokowiec
- Hybrid Technology Hub - Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Science, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1110, 0317 Oslo, Norway
| | - Stefan Gruenzner
- Chair of Microsystems, Technische Universität Dresden, 01069 Dresden, Germany
| | - Espen Melum
- Hybrid Technology Hub - Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Science, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1110, 0317 Oslo, Norway
- Norwegian PSC Research Center, Division of Surgery, Inflammatory Diseases and Transplantation, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Research Institute of Internal Medicine, Division of Surgery, Inflammatory Diseases and Transplantation, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1110, 0317 Oslo, Norway
- Section of Gastroenterology, Department of Transplantation Medicine, Division of Surgery, Inflammatory Diseases and Transplantation, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Stefan Krauss
- Hybrid Technology Hub - Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Science, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1110, 0317 Oslo, Norway
- Dep. of Immunology and Transfusion Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, P.O. Box 4950, 0424 Oslo, Norway.
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45
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Patel A, Pietromicca JG, Venkatesan M, Maity S, Bard JE, Madesh M, Alevriadou BR. Modulation of the mitochondrial Ca 2+ uniporter complex subunit expression by different shear stress patterns in vascular endothelial cells. Physiol Rep 2023; 11:e15588. [PMID: 36754446 PMCID: PMC9908435 DOI: 10.14814/phy2.15588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Mitochondrial calcium (m Ca2+ ) uptake occurs via the Mitochondrial Ca2+ Uniporter (MCU) complex and plays a critical role in mitochondrial dynamics, mitophagy, and apoptosis. MCU complex activity is in part modulated by the expression of its regulatory subunits. Cardiovascular disease models demonstrated altered gene/protein expression of one or multiple subunits in different cells, including vascular endothelial cells (ECs). MCU complex activity was found necessary for stable flow (s-flow)-induced mitophagy and promotion of an atheroprotective EC phenotype. Disturbed flow (d-flow) is known to lead to an atheroprone phenotype. Despite the role of MCU in flow-regulated EC function, flow-induced alterations in MCU complex subunit expression are currently unknown. We exposed cultured human ECs to atheroprotective (steady shear stress, SS) or atheroprone flow (oscillatory shear stress, OS) and measured mRNA and protein levels of the MCU complex members. SS and OS differentially modulated subunit expression at gene/protein levels. Protein expression changes of the core MCU, m Ca2+ uptake 1 (MICU1) and MCU regulator 1 (MCUR1) subunits in SS- and OS-exposed, compared to static, ECs suggested an enhanced m Ca2+ influx under each flow and a potential contribution to EC dysfunction under OS. In silico analysis of a single-cell RNA-sequencing dataset was employed to extract transcript values of MCU subunits in mouse carotid ECs from regions exposed to s-flow or d-flow. Mcu and Mcur1 genes showed significant differences in expression after prolonged exposure to each flow. The differential expression of MCU complex subunits indicated a tight regulation of the complex activity under physiological and pathological hemodynamic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akshar Patel
- Vascular Mechanobiology Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, and Center for Cell, Gene, and Tissue EngineeringUniversity at Buffalo – The State University of New YorkBuffaloNew YorkUSA
| | - Julia G. Pietromicca
- Vascular Mechanobiology Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, and Center for Cell, Gene, and Tissue EngineeringUniversity at Buffalo – The State University of New YorkBuffaloNew YorkUSA
| | - Manigandan Venkatesan
- Department of Medicine, Center for Mitochondrial MedicineUniversity of Texas Health San AntonioSan AntonioTexasUSA
| | - Soumya Maity
- Department of Medicine, Center for Mitochondrial MedicineUniversity of Texas Health San AntonioSan AntonioTexasUSA
| | - Jonathan E. Bard
- Genomics and Bioinformatics Core, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical SciencesUniversity at Buffalo – The State University of New YorkBuffaloNew YorkUSA
| | - Muniswamy Madesh
- Department of Medicine, Center for Mitochondrial MedicineUniversity of Texas Health San AntonioSan AntonioTexasUSA
| | - B. Rita Alevriadou
- Vascular Mechanobiology Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, and Center for Cell, Gene, and Tissue EngineeringUniversity at Buffalo – The State University of New YorkBuffaloNew YorkUSA
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46
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Hamrangsekachaee M, Wen K, Bencherif SA, Ebong EE. Atherosclerosis and endothelial mechanotransduction: current knowledge and models for future research. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2023; 324:C488-C504. [PMID: 36440856 PMCID: PMC10069965 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00449.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Endothelium health is essential to the regulation of physiological vascular functions. Because of the critical capability of endothelial cells (ECs) to sense and transduce chemical and mechanical signals in the local vascular environment, their dysfunction is associated with a vast variety of vascular diseases and injuries, especially atherosclerosis and subsequent cardiovascular diseases. This review describes the mechanotransduction events that are mediated through ECs, the EC subcellular components involved, and the pathways reported to be potentially involved. Up-to-date research efforts involving in vivo animal models and in vitro biomimetic models are also discussed, including their advantages and drawbacks, with recommendations on future modeling approaches to aid the development of novel therapies targeting atherosclerosis and related cardiovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ke Wen
- Chemical Engineering Department, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Sidi A Bencherif
- Chemical Engineering Department, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts
- Bioengineering Department, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts
- Laboratoire de BioMécanique et BioIngénierie, UMR CNRS 7388, Sorbonne Universités, Université de Technologie of Compiègne, Compiègne, France
- Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Eno E Ebong
- Chemical Engineering Department, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts
- Bioengineering Department, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts
- Neuroscience Department, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, New York
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47
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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: 6.5] [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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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Aging is an important risk factor for cardiovascular disease and is associated with increased vessel wall stiffness. Pathophysiological stiffening, notably in arteries, disturbs the integrity of the vascular endothelium and promotes permeability and transmigration of immune cells, thereby driving the development of atherosclerosis and related vascular diseases. Effective therapeutic strategies for arterial stiffening are still lacking. RECENT FINDINGS Here, we overview the literature on age-related arterial stiffening, from patient-derived data to preclinical in-vivo and in-vitro findings. First, we overview the common techniques that are used to measure stiffness and discuss the observed stiffness values in atherosclerosis and aging. Next, the endothelial response to stiffening and possibilities to attenuate this response are discussed. SUMMARY Future research that will define the endothelial contribution to stiffness-related cardiovascular disease may provide new targets for intervention to restore endothelial function in atherosclerosis and complement the use of currently applied lipid-lowering, antihypertensive, and anti-inflammatory drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aukie Hooglugt
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Department of Medical Biochemistry, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences
- Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center, Department of Physiology, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Olivia Klatt
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Department of Medical Biochemistry, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences
| | - Stephan Huveneers
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Department of Medical Biochemistry, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences
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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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50
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Barrasa-Ramos S, Dessalles CA, Hautefeuille M, Barakat AI. Mechanical regulation of the early stages of angiogenesis. J R Soc Interface 2022; 19:20220360. [PMID: 36475392 PMCID: PMC9727679 DOI: 10.1098/rsif.2022.0360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Favouring or thwarting the development of a vascular network is essential in fields as diverse as oncology, cardiovascular disease or tissue engineering. As a result, understanding and controlling angiogenesis has become a major scientific challenge. Mechanical factors play a fundamental role in angiogenesis and can potentially be exploited for optimizing the architecture of the resulting vascular network. Largely focusing on in vitro systems but also supported by some in vivo evidence, the aim of this Highlight Review is dual. First, we describe the current knowledge with particular focus on the effects of fluid and solid mechanical stimuli on the early stages of the angiogenic process, most notably the destabilization of existing vessels and the initiation and elongation of new vessels. Second, we explore inherent difficulties in the field and propose future perspectives on the use of in vitro and physics-based modelling to overcome these difficulties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Barrasa-Ramos
- LadHyX, CNRS, Ecole Polytechnique, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, Palaiseau, France
| | - Claire A. Dessalles
- LadHyX, CNRS, Ecole Polytechnique, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, Palaiseau, France
| | - Mathieu Hautefeuille
- Laboratoire de Biologie du Développement (UMR7622), Institut de Biologie Paris Seine, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France,Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, CDMX, Mexico
| | - Abdul I. Barakat
- LadHyX, CNRS, Ecole Polytechnique, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, Palaiseau, France
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