1
|
Chandran Suja V, Qi QM, Halloran K, Zhang J, Shaha S, Prakash S, Kumbhojkar N, Deslandes A, Huille S, Gokarn YR, Mitragotri S. A biomimetic chip to assess subcutaneous bioavailability of monoclonal antibodies in humans. PNAS NEXUS 2023; 2:pgad317. [PMID: 37901442 PMCID: PMC10612570 DOI: 10.1093/pnasnexus/pgad317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023]
Abstract
Subcutaneous (subQ) injection is a common route for delivering biotherapeutics, wherein pharmacokinetics is largely influenced by drug transport in a complex subQ tissue microenvironment. The selection of good drug candidates with beneficial pharmacokinetics for subQ injections is currently limited by a lack of reliable testing models. To address this limitation, we report here a Subcutaneous Co-Culture Tissue-on-a-chip for Injection Simulation (SubCuTIS). SubCuTIS possesses a 3D coculture tissue architecture, and it allows facile quantitative determination of relevant scale independent drug transport rate constants. SubCuTIS captures key in vivo physiological characteristics of the subQ tissues, and it differentiates the transport behavior of various chemically distinct molecules. We supplemented the transport measurements with theoretical modeling, which identified subtle differences in the local absorption rate constants of seven clinically available mAbs. Accounting for first-order proteolytic catabolism, we established a mathematical framework to assess clinical bioavailability using the local absorption rate constants obtained from SubCuTIS. Taken together, the technology described here broadens the applicability of organs-on-chips as a standardized and easy-to-use device for quantitative analysis of subQ drug transport.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vineeth Chandran Suja
- School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02134, USA
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, 3 Blackfan Circle, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Qin M Qi
- School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02134, USA
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, 3 Blackfan Circle, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | | | | | - Suyog Shaha
- School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02134, USA
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, 3 Blackfan Circle, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Supriya Prakash
- School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02134, USA
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, 3 Blackfan Circle, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Ninad Kumbhojkar
- School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02134, USA
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, 3 Blackfan Circle, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | | | - Sylvain Huille
- Sanofi R&D, Impasse Des Ateliers, Vitry-sur-Seine 94400 France
| | | | - Samir Mitragotri
- School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02134, USA
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, 3 Blackfan Circle, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Rauff A, Manning JC, Hoying JB, LaBelle SA, Strobel HA, Stoddard GJ, Weiss JA. Dynamic Biophysical Cues Near the Tip Cell Microenvironment Provide Distinct Guidance Signals to Angiogenic Neovessels. Ann Biomed Eng 2023; 51:1835-1846. [PMID: 37149511 DOI: 10.1007/s10439-023-03202-4] [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: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
The formation of new vascular networks via angiogenesis is a crucial biological mechanism to balance tissue metabolic needs, yet the coordination of factors that influence the guidance of growing neovessels remain unclear. This study investigated the influence of extracellular cues within the immediate environment of sprouting tips over multiple hours and obtained quantitative relationships describing their effects on the growth trajectories of angiogenic neovessels. Three distinct microenvironmental cues-fibril tracks, ECM density, and the presence of nearby cell bodies-were extracted from 3D time series image data. The prominence of each cue was quantified along potential sprout trajectories to predict the response to multiple microenvironmental factors simultaneously. Sprout trajectories significantly correlated with the identified microenvironmental cues. Specifically, ECM density and nearby cellular bodies were the strongest predictors of the trajectories taken by neovessels (p < 0.001 and p = 0.016). Notwithstanding, direction changing trajectories, deviating from the initial neovessel orientation, were significantly correlated with fibril tracks (p = 0.003). Direction changes also occurred more frequently with strong microenvironmental cues. This provides evidence for the first time that local matrix fibril alignment influences changes in sprout trajectories but does not materially contribute to persistent sprouting. Together, our results suggest the microenvironmental cues significantly contribute to guidance of sprouting trajectories. Further, the presented methods quantitatively distinguish the influence of individual microenvironmental stimuli during guidance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adam Rauff
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Utah, 36 S. Wasatch Drive, Rm. 3100, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Scientific Computing and Imaging Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Jason C Manning
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Utah, 36 S. Wasatch Drive, Rm. 3100, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Scientific Computing and Imaging Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | | | - Steven A LaBelle
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Utah, 36 S. Wasatch Drive, Rm. 3100, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Scientific Computing and Imaging Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | | | - Gregory J Stoddard
- Study Design and Biostatistics Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Jeffrey A Weiss
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Utah, 36 S. Wasatch Drive, Rm. 3100, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
- Scientific Computing and Imaging Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Solbu AA, Caballero D, Damigos S, Kundu SC, Reis RL, Halaas Ø, Chahal AS, Strand BL. Assessing cell migration in hydrogels: An overview of relevant materials and methods. Mater Today Bio 2022; 18:100537. [PMID: 36659998 PMCID: PMC9842866 DOI: 10.1016/j.mtbio.2022.100537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell migration is essential in numerous living processes, including embryonic development, wound healing, immune responses, and cancer metastasis. From individual cells to collectively migrating epithelial sheets, the locomotion of cells is tightly regulated by multiple structural, chemical, and biological factors. However, the high complexity of this process limits the understanding of the influence of each factor. Recent advances in materials science, tissue engineering, and microtechnology have expanded the toolbox and allowed the development of biomimetic in vitro assays to investigate the mechanisms of cell migration. Particularly, three-dimensional (3D) hydrogels have demonstrated a superior ability to mimic the extracellular environment. They are therefore well suited to studying cell migration in a physiologically relevant and more straightforward manner than in vivo approaches. A myriad of synthetic and naturally derived hydrogels with heterogeneous characteristics and functional properties have been reported. The extensive portfolio of available hydrogels with different mechanical and biological properties can trigger distinct biological responses in cells affecting their locomotion dynamics in 3D. Herein, we describe the most relevant hydrogels and their associated physico-chemical characteristics typically employed to study cell migration, including established cell migration assays and tracking methods. We aim to give the reader insight into existing literature and practical details necessary for performing cell migration studies in 3D environments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anita Akbarzadeh Solbu
- Department of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, NOBIPOL, NTNU- Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - David Caballero
- 3B's Research Group, I3Bs – Research Institute on Biomaterials, Biodegradables and Biomimetics, University of Minho, Headquarters of the European Institute of Excellence on Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, 4805-017, Barco, Guimarães, Portugal,ICVS/3B's – PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4805-017, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Spyridon Damigos
- Department of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, NOBIPOL, NTNU- Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Subhas C. Kundu
- 3B's Research Group, I3Bs – Research Institute on Biomaterials, Biodegradables and Biomimetics, University of Minho, Headquarters of the European Institute of Excellence on Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, 4805-017, Barco, Guimarães, Portugal,ICVS/3B's – PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4805-017, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Rui L. Reis
- 3B's Research Group, I3Bs – Research Institute on Biomaterials, Biodegradables and Biomimetics, University of Minho, Headquarters of the European Institute of Excellence on Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, 4805-017, Barco, Guimarães, Portugal,ICVS/3B's – PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4805-017, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Øyvind Halaas
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, NTNU- Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Aman S. Chahal
- Department of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, NOBIPOL, NTNU- Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway,Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, NTNU- Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway,Department of Biotechnology and Nanomedicine, SINTEF Industry, Trondheim, Norway,Corresponding author. Department of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, NOBIPOL, NTNU- Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway.
| | - Berit L. Strand
- Department of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, NOBIPOL, NTNU- Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway,Corresponding author.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Chen C, Li P, Guo T, Chen S, Xu D, Chen H. Generation of Dynamic Concentration Profile Using A Microfluidic Device Integrating Pneumatic Microvalves. BIOSENSORS 2022; 12:bios12100868. [PMID: 36291005 PMCID: PMC9599525 DOI: 10.3390/bios12100868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 10/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Generating and maintaining the concentration dilutions of diffusible molecules in microchannels is critical for high-throughput chemical and biological analysis. Conventional serial network microfluidic technologies can generate high orders of arbitrary concentrations by a predefined microchannel network. However, a previous design requires a large occupancy area and is unable to dynamically generate different profiles in the same chip, limiting its applications. This study developed a microfluidic device enabling dynamic variations of both the concentration in the same channel and the concentration distribution in multiple channels by adjusting the flow resistance using programmable pneumatic microvalves. The key component (the pneumatic microvalve) allowed dynamic adjustment of the concentration profile but occupied a tiny space. Additionally, a Matlab program was developed to calculate the flow rates and flow resistance of various sections of the device, which provided theoretical guidance for dimension design. In silico investigations were conducted to evaluate the microvalve deformation with widths from 100 to 300 µm and membrane thicknesses of 20 and 30 µm under the activation pressures between 0 and 2000 mbar. The flow resistance of the deformed valve was studied both numerically and experimentally and an empirical model for valve flow resistance with the form of Rh=aebP was proposed. Afterward, the fluid flow in the valve region was characterized using Micro PIV to further demonstrate the adjustment mechanism of the flow resistance. Then, the herringbone structures were employed for fast mixing to allow both quick variation of concentration and minor space usage of the channel network. Finally, an empirical formula-supported computational program was developed to provide the activation pressures required for the specific concentration profile. Both linear (Ck = -0.2k + 1) and nonlinear (Ck = (110)k) concentration distribution in four channels were varied using the same device by adjusting microvalves. The device demonstrated the capability to control the concentration profile dynamically in a small space, offering superior application potentials in analytical chemistry, drug screening, and cell biology research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chang Chen
- School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Harbin Institute of Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Panpan Li
- School of Science, Harbin Institute of Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Tianruo Guo
- Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Siyuan Chen
- School of Science, Harbin Institute of Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Dong Xu
- School of Science, Harbin Institute of Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Huaying Chen
- School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Harbin Institute of Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Joshi A, Choudhury S, Gugulothu SB, Visweswariah SS, Chatterjee K. Strategies to Promote Vascularization in 3D Printed Tissue Scaffolds: Trends and Challenges. Biomacromolecules 2022; 23:2730-2751. [PMID: 35696326 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.2c00423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Three-dimensional (3D) printing techniques for scaffold fabrication have shown promising advancements in recent years owing to the ability of the latest high-performance printers to mimic the native tissue down to submicron scales. Nevertheless, host integration and performance of scaffolds in vivo have been severely limited owing to the lack of robust strategies to promote vascularization in 3D printed scaffolds. As a result, researchers over the past decade have been exploring strategies that can promote vascularization in 3D printed scaffolds toward enhancing scaffold functionality and ensuring host integration. Various emerging strategies to enhance vascularization in 3D printed scaffolds are discussed. These approaches include simple strategies such as the enhancement of vascular in-growth from the host upon implantation by scaffold modifications to complex approaches wherein scaffolds are fabricated with their own vasculature that can be directly anastomosed or microsurgically connected to the host vasculature, thereby ensuring optimal integration. The key differences among the techniques, their pros and cons, and the future opportunities for utilizing each technique are highlighted here. The Review concludes with the current limitations and future directions that can help 3D printing emerge as an effective biofabrication technique to realize tissues with physiologically relevant vasculatures to ultimately accelerate clinical translation.
Collapse
|
6
|
Sakaguchi K, Akimoto K, Takaira M, Tanaka RI, Shimizu T, Umezu S. Cell-Based Microfluidic Device Utilizing Cell Sheet Technology. CYBORG AND BIONIC SYSTEMS 2022; 2022:9758187. [PMID: 36285307 PMCID: PMC9494697 DOI: 10.34133/2022/9758187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of microelectromechanical systems has resulted in the rapid development of polydimethylpolysiloxane (PDMS) microfluidic devices for drug screening models. Various cell functions, such as the response of endothelial cells to fluids, have been elucidated using microfluidic devices. Additionally, organ-on-a-chip systems that include organs that are important for biological circulation, such as the heart, liver, pancreas, kidneys, and brain, have been developed. These organs realize the biological circulation system in a manner that cannot be reproduced by artificial organs; however, the flow channels between the organs are often artificially created by PDMS. In this study, we developed a microfluidic device consisting only of cells, by combining cell sheet technology with microtitanium wires. Microwires were placed between stacked fibroblast cell sheets, and the cell sheets adhered to each other, after which the microwires were removed leaving a luminal structure with a size approximately equal to the arteriolar size. The lumen structure was constructed using wires with diameters of 50, 100, 150, and 200 μm, which were approximations of the arteriole diameters. Furthermore, using a perfusion device, we successfully perfused the luminal structure created inside the cell sheets. The results revealed that a culture solution can be supplied to a cell sheet with a very high cell density. The biofabrication technology proposed in this study can contribute to the development of organ-on-a-chip systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katsuhisa Sakaguchi
- Department of Integrative Bioscience and Biomedical Engineering, Graduate School of Advanced Science and Engineering, TWIns, Waseda University, 2-2 Wakamatsu-Cho, Shinju-Ku, Tokyo 162-8480, Japan
| | - Kei Akimoto
- Department of Modern Mechanical Engineering, Graduate School of Creative Science and Engineering, Waseda University, 1-104 Totsuka-Cho, Shinju-Ku, Tokyo 169-8555, Japan
| | - Masanori Takaira
- Department of Modern Mechanical Engineering, Graduate School of Creative Science and Engineering, Waseda University, 1-104 Totsuka-Cho, Shinju-Ku, Tokyo 169-8555, Japan
| | - Ryu-ichiro Tanaka
- Institute of Advanced Biomedical Engineering and Science, TWIns, Tokyo Women’s Medical University, 8-1 Kawada-Cho, Shinju-Ku, Tokyo 162-8666, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Shimizu
- Institute of Advanced Biomedical Engineering and Science, TWIns, Tokyo Women’s Medical University, 8-1 Kawada-Cho, Shinju-Ku, Tokyo 162-8666, Japan
| | - Shinjiro Umezu
- Department of Integrative Bioscience and Biomedical Engineering, Graduate School of Advanced Science and Engineering, TWIns, Waseda University, 2-2 Wakamatsu-Cho, Shinju-Ku, Tokyo 162-8480, Japan
- Department of Modern Mechanical Engineering, Graduate School of Creative Science and Engineering, Waseda University, 1-104 Totsuka-Cho, Shinju-Ku, Tokyo 169-8555, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Effects of Dual Purinoceptor-dependent Approach on Release of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor From Human Microvascular Endothelial Cell (HMEC-1) and Endothelial Cell Condition. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol 2021; 76:349-359. [PMID: 32569015 DOI: 10.1097/fjc.0000000000000866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
In the recent years, the awareness of the role purinergic signaling plays as a therapeutic target has increased considerably. The purinoceptor allows the action of extracellular nucleotides (P2 receptors) and intermediary products of their metabolism, such as adenosine (P1 receptors), regulating pivotal processes occurring in the cardiovascular system. This study focuses on a dual purinoreceptor-dependent approach, based on the activation of adenosine P1 receptors with the simultaneous inhibition of P2Y12 receptors that can be used as novel platelet inhibitors in antithrombotic therapy. Endothelial cells are directly exposed to the drugs circulating in the bloodstream. That is why effects of our concept on human microvascular endothelial cells (HMEC-1) were examined in in vitro studies, such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and scratch assays. In response to adenosine receptor agonists, levels of secreted vascular endothelial growth factor varied. Two of them, 5'-N-ethylcarboxamidoadenosine and MRE0094 remarkably increased vascular endothelial growth factor release. The elevated levels were reduced when used together with the P2Y12 receptor antagonist. Also, rates of wound closure in a scratch assay were significantly reduced in these cases. The results suggest that the proposed treatment does not impair endothelial cell condition. In addition, it is suggested as a collateral benefit, namely solving the problem of excessive activation of endothelial cells during antiplatelet therapy.
Collapse
|
8
|
Strategies for inclusion of growth factors into 3D printed bone grafts. Essays Biochem 2021; 65:569-585. [PMID: 34156062 DOI: 10.1042/ebc20200130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Revised: 04/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
There remains a critical need to develop new technologies and materials that can meet the demands of treating large bone defects. The advancement of 3-dimensional (3D) printing technologies has allowed the creation of personalized and customized bone grafts, with specific control in both macro- and micro-architecture, and desired mechanical properties. Nevertheless, the biomaterials used for the production of these bone grafts often possess poor biological properties. The incorporation of growth factors (GFs), which are the natural orchestrators of the physiological healing process, into 3D printed bone grafts, represents a promising strategy to achieve the bioactivity required to enhance bone regeneration. In this review, the possible strategies used to incorporate GFs to 3D printed constructs are presented with a specific focus on bone regeneration. In particular, the strengths and limitations of different methods, such as physical and chemical cross-linking, which are currently used to incorporate GFs to the engineered constructs are critically reviewed. Different strategies used to present one or more GFs to achieve simultaneous angiogenesis and vasculogenesis for enhanced bone regeneration are also covered in this review. In addition, the possibility of combining several manufacturing approaches to fabricate hybrid constructs, which better mimic the complexity of biological niches, is presented. Finally, the clinical relevance of these approaches and the future steps that should be taken are discussed.
Collapse
|
9
|
Wang A, Boroujeni SM, Schneider PJ, Christie LB, Mancuso KA, Andreadis ST, Oh KW. An Integrated Centrifugal Degassed PDMS-Based Microfluidic Device for Serial Dilution. MICROMACHINES 2021; 12:482. [PMID: 33922553 PMCID: PMC8145514 DOI: 10.3390/mi12050482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
We propose an integrated serial dilution generator utilizing centrifugal force with a degassed polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) microfluidic device. Using gas-soluble PDMS as a centrifugal microfluidic device material, the sample can be dragged in any arbitrary direction using vacuum-driven force, as opposed to in a single direction, without adding further actuation components. The vacuum-driven force allows the device to avoid the formation of air bubbles and exhibit high tolerance in the surface condition. The device was then used for sample metering and sample transferring. In addition, centrifugal force was used for sample loading and sample mixing. In this study, a series of ten-fold serial dilutions ranging from 100 to 10-4 with about 8 μL in each chamber was achieved, while the serial dilution ratio and chamber volume could easily be altered by changing the geometrical designs of the device. As a proof of concept of our hybrid approach with the centrifugal and vacuum-driven forces, ten-fold serial dilutions of a cDNA (complementary DNA) sample were prepared using the device. Then, the diluted samples were collected by fine needles and subject to a quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), and the results were found to be in good agreement with those for samples prepared by manual pipetting.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anyang Wang
- Sensors and MicroActuators Learning Lab (SMALL), Department of Electrical Engineering, The State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14260, USA; (A.W.); (P.J.S.); (L.B.C.); (K.A.M.)
| | - Samaneh Moghadasi Boroujeni
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University at Buffalo, State University of New York (SUNY-Buffalo), Buffalo, NY 14260, USA; (S.M.B.); (S.T.A.)
| | - Philip J. Schneider
- Sensors and MicroActuators Learning Lab (SMALL), Department of Electrical Engineering, The State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14260, USA; (A.W.); (P.J.S.); (L.B.C.); (K.A.M.)
| | - Liam B. Christie
- Sensors and MicroActuators Learning Lab (SMALL), Department of Electrical Engineering, The State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14260, USA; (A.W.); (P.J.S.); (L.B.C.); (K.A.M.)
| | - Kyle A. Mancuso
- Sensors and MicroActuators Learning Lab (SMALL), Department of Electrical Engineering, The State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14260, USA; (A.W.); (P.J.S.); (L.B.C.); (K.A.M.)
| | - Stelios T. Andreadis
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University at Buffalo, State University of New York (SUNY-Buffalo), Buffalo, NY 14260, USA; (S.M.B.); (S.T.A.)
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University at Buffalo, State University of New York (SUNY-Buffalo), Buffalo, NY 14260, USA
- Center of Excellence in Bioinformatics and Life Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York (SUNY-Buffalo), Buffalo, NY 14263, USA
| | - Kwang W. Oh
- Sensors and MicroActuators Learning Lab (SMALL), Department of Electrical Engineering, The State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14260, USA; (A.W.); (P.J.S.); (L.B.C.); (K.A.M.)
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University at Buffalo, State University of New York (SUNY-Buffalo), Buffalo, NY 14260, USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Aoun L, Nègre P, Gonsales C, Seveau de Noray V, Brustlein S, Biarnes-Pelicot M, Valignat MP, Theodoly O. Leukocyte transmigration and longitudinal forward-thrusting force in a microfluidic Transwell device. Biophys J 2021; 120:2205-2221. [PMID: 33838136 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2021.03.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Revised: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Transmigration of leukocytes across blood vessels walls is a critical step of the immune response. Transwell assays examine transmigration properties in vitro by counting cells passages through a membrane; however, the difficulty of in situ imaging hampers a clear disentanglement of the roles of adhesion, chemokinesis, and chemotaxis. We used here microfluidic Transwells to image the cells' transition from 2D migration on a surface to 3D migration in a confining microchannel and measure cells longitudinal forward-thrusting force in microchannels. Primary human effector T lymphocytes adhering with integrins LFA-1 (αLβ2) had a marked propensity to transmigrate in Transwells without chemotactic cue. Both adhesion and contractility were important to overcome the critical step of nucleus penetration but were remarkably dispensable for 3D migration in smooth microchannels deprived of topographic features. Transmigration in smooth channels was qualitatively consistent with a propulsion by treadmilling of cell envelope and squeezing of cell trailing edge. Stalling conditions of 3D migration were then assessed by imposing pressure drops across microchannels. Without specific adhesion, the cells slid backward with subnanonewton forces, showing that 3D migration under stress is strongly limited by a lack of adhesion and friction with channels. With specific LFA-1 mediated adhesion, stalling occurred at around 3 and 6 nN in 2 × 4 and 4 × 4 μm2 channels, respectively, supporting that stalling of adherent cells was under pressure control rather than force control. The stall pressure of 4 mbar is consistent with the pressure of actin filament polymerization that mediates lamellipod growth. The arrest of adherent cells under stress therefore seems controlled by the compression of the cell leading edge, which perturbs cells front-rear polarization and triggers adhesion failure or polarization reversal. Although stalling assays in microfluidic Transwells do not mimic in vivo transmigration, they provide a powerful tool to scrutinize 2D and 3D migration, barotaxis, and chemotaxis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laurene Aoun
- LAI, Aix-Marseille Univ, CNRS, INSERM, Turing Centre for Living Systems, Marseille, France
| | - Paulin Nègre
- LAI, Aix-Marseille Univ, CNRS, INSERM, Turing Centre for Living Systems, Marseille, France
| | - Cristina Gonsales
- LAI, Aix-Marseille Univ, CNRS, INSERM, Turing Centre for Living Systems, Marseille, France
| | | | - Sophie Brustlein
- LAI, Aix-Marseille Univ, CNRS, INSERM, Turing Centre for Living Systems, Marseille, France
| | | | - Marie-Pierre Valignat
- LAI, Aix-Marseille Univ, CNRS, INSERM, Turing Centre for Living Systems, Marseille, France
| | - Olivier Theodoly
- LAI, Aix-Marseille Univ, CNRS, INSERM, Turing Centre for Living Systems, Marseille, France.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Jaberi A, Esfahani AM, Aghabaglou F, Park JS, Ndao S, Tamayol A, Yang R. Microfluidic Systems with Embedded Cell Culture Chambers for High-Throughput Biological Assays. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2020; 3:6661-6671. [PMID: 35019392 PMCID: PMC10081828 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.0c00439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The ability to generate chemical and mechanical gradients on chips is important for either creating biomimetic designs or enabling high-throughput assays. However, there is still a significant knowledge gap in the generation of mechanical and chemical gradients in a single device. In this study, we developed gradient-generating microfluidic circuits with integrated microchambers to allow cell culture and to introduce chemical and mechanical gradients to cultured cells. A chemical gradient is generated across the microchambers, exposing cells to a uniform concentration of drugs. The embedded microchamber also produces a mechanical gradient in the form of varied shear stresses induced upon cells among different chambers as well as within the same chamber. Cells seeded within the chambers remain viable and show a normal morphology throughout the culture time. To validate the effect of different drug concentrations and shear stresses, doxorubicin is flowed into chambers seeded with skin cancer cells at different flow rates (from 0 to 0.2 μL/min). The experimental results show that increasing doxorubicin concentration (from 0 to 30 μg/mL) within chambers not only prohibits cell growth but also induces cell death. In addition, the increased shear stress (0.005 Pa) at high flow rates poses a synergistic effect on cell viability by inducing cell damage and detachment. Moreover, the ability of the device to seed cells in a 3D microenvironment was also examined and confirmed. Collectively, the study demonstrates the potential of microchamber-embedded microfluidic gradient generators in 3D cell culture and high-throughput drug screening.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arian Jaberi
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE 68588, USA
| | - Amir Monemian Esfahani
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE 68588, USA
| | - Fariba Aghabaglou
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE 68588, USA
| | - Jae Sung Park
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE 68588, USA
| | - Sidy Ndao
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE 68588, USA
| | - Ali Tamayol
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE 68588, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA
| | - Ruiguo Yang
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE 68588, USA
- Nebraska Center for Integrated Biomolecular Communications (NCIBC), University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68516, USA
- Mary & Dick Holland Regenerative Medicine Program, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Freeman FE, Pitacco P, van Dommelen LHA, Nulty J, Browe DC, Shin JY, Alsberg E, Kelly DJ. 3D bioprinting spatiotemporally defined patterns of growth factors to tightly control tissue regeneration. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2020; 6:eabb5093. [PMID: 32851179 PMCID: PMC7428335 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abb5093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Accepted: 07/02/2020] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Therapeutic growth factor delivery typically requires supraphysiological dosages, which can cause undesirable off-target effects. The aim of this study was to 3D bioprint implants containing spatiotemporally defined patterns of growth factors optimized for coupled angiogenesis and osteogenesis. Using nanoparticle functionalized bioinks, it was possible to print implants with distinct growth factor patterns and release profiles spanning from days to weeks. The extent of angiogenesis in vivo depended on the spatial presentation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Higher levels of vessel invasion were observed in implants containing a spatial gradient of VEGF compared to those homogenously loaded with the same total amount of protein. Printed implants containing a gradient of VEGF, coupled with spatially defined BMP-2 localization and release kinetics, accelerated large bone defect healing with little heterotopic bone formation. This demonstrates the potential of growth factor printing, a putative point of care therapy, for tightly controlled tissue regeneration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fiona E. Freeman
- Trinity Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland
- Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, School of Engineering, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland
| | - Pierluca Pitacco
- Trinity Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland
- Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, School of Engineering, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland
| | - Lieke H. A. van Dommelen
- Orthopaedic Biomechanics, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, P.O. Box 513, 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Jessica Nulty
- Trinity Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland
- Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, School of Engineering, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland
| | - David C. Browe
- Trinity Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland
- Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, School of Engineering, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland
| | - Jung-Youn Shin
- Departments of Biomedical Engineering and Orthopaedic Surgery, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Eben Alsberg
- Departments of Biomedical Engineering and Orthopaedic Surgery, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
- Departments of Biomedical Engineering, Pharmacology, Orthopaedics, and Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60607, USA
| | - Daniel J. Kelly
- Trinity Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland
- Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, School of Engineering, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland
- Department of Anatomy, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
- Advanced Materials and Bioengineering Research Centre (AMBER), Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland and Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Peña JS, Vazquez M. VEGF Upregulates EGFR Expression to Stimulate Chemotactic Behaviors in the rMC-1 Model of Müller Glia. Brain Sci 2020; 10:E330. [PMID: 32485834 PMCID: PMC7348795 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci10060330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2020] [Revised: 03/28/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Progressive vision loss in adults has become increasingly prevalent worldwide due to retinopathies associated with aging, genetics, and epigenetic factors that damage the retinal microvasculature. Insufficient supply of oxygen and/or nutrients upregulates factors such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and epidermal growth factor (EGF), which can induce abnormal angiogenesis and damage the structural arrangement of the retinal blood barrier (BRB). Müller glia (MG) regulate the diffusion of essential compounds across the BRB and respond to retinal insults via reactive gliosis, which includes cell hypertrophy, migration, and/or proliferation near areas of elevated VEGF concentration. Increasing concentrations of exogenous VEGF, upregulated by retinal pigmented epithelium cells, and endogenous epidermal growth factor receptor (EGF-R) stimulation in MG, implicated in MG proliferative and migratory behavior, often lead to progressive and permanent vision loss. Our project examined the chemotactic responses of the rMC-1 cell line, a mammalian MG model, toward VEGF and EGF signaling fields in transwell assays, and within respective concentration gradient fields produced in the glia line (gLL) microfluidic system previously described by our group. rMC-1 receptor expression in defined ligand fields was also evaluated using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and immunocytochemical staining. Results illustrate dramatic increases in rMC-1 chemotactic responses towards EGF gradient fields after pre-treatment with VEGF. In addition, qPCR illustrated significant upregulation of EGF-R upon VEGF pre-treatment, which was higher than that induced by its cognate ligand, EGF. These results suggest interplay of molecular pathways between VEGF and EGF-R that have remained understudied in MG but are significant to the development of effective anti-VEGF treatments needed for a variety of retinopathies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Maribel Vazquez
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA;
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Garcia-Seyda N, Aoun L, Tishkova V, Seveau V, Biarnes-Pelicot M, Bajénoff M, Valignat MP, Theodoly O. Microfluidic device to study flow-free chemotaxis of swimming cells. LAB ON A CHIP 2020; 20:1639-1647. [PMID: 32249280 DOI: 10.1039/d0lc00045k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Microfluidic devices have been used in the last two decades to study in vitro cell chemotaxis, but few existing devices generate gradients in flow-free conditions. Flow can bias cell directionality of adherent cells and precludes the study of swimming cells like naïve T lymphocytes, which only migrate in a non-adherent fashion. We developed two devices that create stable, flow-free, diffusion-based gradients and are adapted for adherent and swimming cells. The flow-free environment is achieved by using agarose gel barriers between a central channel with cells and side channels with chemoattractants. These barriers insulate cells from injection/rinsing cycles of chemoattractants, they dampen residual drift across the device, and they allow co-culture of cells without physical interaction, to study contactless paracrine communication. Our devices were used here to investigate neutrophil and naïve T lymphocyte chemotaxis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Garcia-Seyda
- Aix Marseille Univ, Inserm, CNRS, Turing Center for Living Systems, LAI, Marseille, France.
| | - Laurene Aoun
- Aix Marseille Univ, Inserm, CNRS, Turing Center for Living Systems, LAI, Marseille, France.
| | | | - Valentine Seveau
- Aix Marseille Univ, Inserm, CNRS, Turing Center for Living Systems, LAI, Marseille, France.
| | | | - Marc Bajénoff
- Aix Marseille Univ, Inserm, CNRS, CIML, Marseille, France
| | - Marie-Pierre Valignat
- Aix Marseille Univ, Inserm, CNRS, Turing Center for Living Systems, LAI, Marseille, France.
| | - Olivier Theodoly
- Aix Marseille Univ, Inserm, CNRS, Turing Center for Living Systems, LAI, Marseille, France.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Dravid A, Raos B, Aqrawe Z, Parittotokkaporn S, O'Carroll SJ, Svirskis D. A Macroscopic Diffusion-Based Gradient Generator to Establish Concentration Gradients of Soluble Molecules Within Hydrogel Scaffolds for Cell Culture. Front Chem 2019; 7:638. [PMID: 31620430 PMCID: PMC6759698 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2019.00638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2019] [Accepted: 09/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Concentration gradients of soluble molecules are ubiquitous within the living body and known to govern a number of key biological processes. This has motivated the development of numerous in vitro gradient-generators allowing researchers to study cellular response in a precise, controlled environment. Despite this, there remains a current paucity of simplistic, convenient devices capable of generating biologically relevant concentration gradients for cell culture assays. Here, we present the design and fabrication of a compartmentalized polydimethylsiloxane diffusion-based gradient generator capable of sustaining concentration gradients of soluble molecules within thick (5 mm) and thin (2 mm) agarose and agarose-collagen co-gel matrices. The presence of collagen within the agarose-collagen co-gel increased the mechanical properties of the gel. Our model molecules sodium fluorescein (376 Da) and FITC-Dextran (10 kDa) quickly established a concentration gradient that was maintained out to 96 h, with 24 hourly replenishment of the source and sink reservoirs. FITC-Dextran (40 kDa) took longer to establish in all hydrogel setups. The steepness of gradients generated are within appropriate range to elicit response in certain cell types. The compatibility of our platform with cell culture was demonstrated using a LIVE/DEAD® assay on terminally differentiated SH-SY5Y neurons. We believe this device presents as a convenient and useful tool that can be easily adopted for study of cellular response in gradient-based assays.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anusha Dravid
- Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Brad Raos
- Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Zaid Aqrawe
- Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Department of Anatomy and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Sam Parittotokkaporn
- Department of Anatomy and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Simon J. O'Carroll
- Department of Anatomy and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Darren Svirskis
- Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Zheng Y, Wu Z, Khan M, Mao S, Manibalan K, Li N, Lin JM, Lin L. Multifunctional Regulation of 3D Cell-Laden Microsphere Culture on an Integrated Microfluidic Device. Anal Chem 2019; 91:12283-12289. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.9b02434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Yajing Zheng
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Microanalytical Methods and Instrumentation, MOE Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
- CAS Key Laboratory of Standardization and Measurement for Nanotechnology, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Beijing 100190, China
| | - Zengnan Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Resource Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, 100029, China
- CAS Key Laboratory of Standardization and Measurement for Nanotechnology, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Beijing 100190, China
| | - Mashooq Khan
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Microanalytical Methods and Instrumentation, MOE Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Sifeng Mao
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Microanalytical Methods and Instrumentation, MOE Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Kesavan Manibalan
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Microanalytical Methods and Instrumentation, MOE Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Nan Li
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Microanalytical Methods and Instrumentation, MOE Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Jin-Ming Lin
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Microanalytical Methods and Instrumentation, MOE Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Ling Lin
- CAS Key Laboratory of Standardization and Measurement for Nanotechnology, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Beijing 100190, China
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Rauff A, LaBelle SA, Strobel HA, Hoying JB, Weiss JA. Imaging the Dynamic Interaction Between Sprouting Microvessels and the Extracellular Matrix. Front Physiol 2019; 10:1011. [PMID: 31507428 PMCID: PMC6713949 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2019.01011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2019] [Accepted: 07/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Thorough understanding of growth and evolution of tissue vasculature is fundamental to many fields of medicine including cancer therapy, wound healing, and tissue engineering. Angiogenesis, the growth of new vessels from existing ones, is dynamically influenced by a variety of environmental factors, including mechanical and biophysical factors, chemotactic factors, proteolysis, and interaction with stromal cells. Yet, dynamic interactions between neovessels and their environment are difficult to study with traditional fixed time imaging techniques. Advancements in imaging technologies permit time-series and volumetric imaging, affording the ability to visualize microvessel growth over 3D space and time. Time-lapse imaging has led to more informative investigations of angiogenesis. The environmental factors implicated in angiogenesis span a wide range of signals. Neovessels advance through stromal matrices by forming attachments and pulling and pushing on their microenvironment, reorganizing matrix fibers, and inducing large deformations of the surrounding stroma. Concurrently, neovessels secrete proteolytic enzymes to degrade their basement membrane, create space for new vessels to grow, and release matrix-bound cytokines. Growing neovessels also respond to a host of soluble and matrix-bound growth factors, and display preferential growth along a cytokine gradient. Lastly, stromal cells such as macrophages and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) interact directly with neovessels and their surrounding matrix to facilitate sprouting, vessel fusion, and tissue remodeling. This review highlights how time-lapse imaging techniques advanced our understanding of the interaction of blood vessels with their environment during sprouting angiogenesis. The technology provides means to characterize the evolution of microvessel behavior, providing new insights and holding great promise for further research on the process of angiogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adam Rauff
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
- Scientific Computing and Imaging Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Steven A. LaBelle
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
- Scientific Computing and Imaging Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Hannah A. Strobel
- Innovations Laboratory, Advanced Solutions Life Sciences, Manchester, NH, United States
| | - James B. Hoying
- Innovations Laboratory, Advanced Solutions Life Sciences, Manchester, NH, United States
| | - Jeffrey A. Weiss
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
- Scientific Computing and Imaging Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Kuzmic N, Moore T, Devadas D, Young EWK. Modelling of endothelial cell migration and angiogenesis in microfluidic cell culture systems. Biomech Model Mechanobiol 2019; 18:717-731. [PMID: 30604299 DOI: 10.1007/s10237-018-01111-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2018] [Accepted: 12/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Tumour-induced angiogenesis is a complex biological process that involves growth of new blood vessels within the tumour microenvironment and is an important target for cancer therapies. Significant efforts have been undertaken to develop theoretical models as well as in vitro experimental models to study angiogenesis in a highly controllable and accessible manner. Various mathematical models have been developed to study angiogenesis, but these have mostly been applied to in vivo assays. Recently, microfluidic cell culture systems have emerged as useful and powerful tools for studying cell migration and angiogenesis processes, but thus far, mathematical angiogenesis models have not yet been applied to microfluidic geometries. Integrating mathematical and computational modelling with microfluidic-based assays has potential to enable greater control over experimental parameters, provide new insights into fundamental angiogenesis processes and assist in accelerating design and optimization of operating conditions. Here, we describe the development and application of a combined mathematical and computational modelling approach tailored specifically for microfluidic cell culture systems. The objective was to allow optimization of the engineering design of microfluidic systems, where the model may be used to test the impact of various geometric parameters on cell migration and angiogenesis processes, and assist in identifying optimal device dimensions to achieve desired readouts. We employed two separate continuum mathematical models that treated cell density, vessel length density and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) concentration as continuous average variables, and we implemented these models numerically using finite difference discretization and a Method of Lines approach. We examined the average response of cells to VEGF gradients inside our microfluidic device, including the time-dependent changes in cell density and vessel density, and how they were affected by changes in device geometries including the migration port width and length. Our study demonstrated that mathematical modelling can be integrated with microfluidics to offer new perspectives on emerging problems in biomicrofluidics and cancer biology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nikola Kuzmic
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Thomas Moore
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Deepika Devadas
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Edmond W K Young
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
- Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Boldbaatar K, Dashnyam K, Knowles JC, Lee HH, Lee JH, Kim HW. Dual-ion delivery for synergistic angiogenesis and bactericidal capacity with silica-based microsphere. Acta Biomater 2019; 83:322-333. [PMID: 30465920 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2018.11.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2018] [Revised: 11/11/2018] [Accepted: 11/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Inhibition of bacterial growth with the simultaneous promotion of angiogenesis has been challenging in the repair and regeneration of infected tissues. Here, we aim to tackle this issue through the use of cobalt-doped silicate microspheres that can sustainably release dual ions (silicate and cobalt) at therapeutically-relevant doses. The cobalt was doped up to 2.5 wt% within a sol-gel silicate glass network, and microspheres with the size of ∼300 μm were generated by an emulsification method. The cobalt and silicate ions released were shown to synergistically upregulate key angiogenic genes, such as HIF1-α, VEGF and the receptor KDR. Moreover, the incorporation of ions promoted the polarization, migration, homing and sprouting angiogenesis of endothelial cells. Neo-vascular formation was significantly higher in the dual-ion delivered microspheres, as evidenced in a chicken chorioallantoic membrane model. When cultured with bacterial species, the cobalt-doped microspheres effectively inhibited bacteria growth in both indirect or direct contacts. Of note, the bacteria/endothelial cell coculture model proved the efficacy of dual-ion releasing microcarriers for maintaining the endothelial survivability against bacterial contamination and their cell-cell junction. The current study demonstrates the multiple actions (proangiogenic and antibacterial) of silicate and cobalt ions released from microspheres, and the concept provided here can be extensively applied to repair and regenerate infected tissues as a growth factor- or drug-free delivery system. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: While several ions have been introduced to biomaterials for therapeutic purposes, relaying the effects of antibacterial into tissue regenerative (e.g., angiogenesis) has been a significant challenge. In this study, we aim to develop a biomaterial platform that has the capacity of both 'antibacterial' and 'proangiogenic' from a microsphere sustainably releasing multiple ions (herein cobalt and silicate). Here, dual-actions of the microspheres revealed the stimulated endothelial functions as well as the inhibited growth of different bacterial species. In particular, protecting endothelial survivability against bacterial contamination was reported using the bacterial/endothelial co-culture model. The current concept of drug-free yet multiple-ion delivery biomaterials can be applicable for the repair and regeneration of infected tissues with dual actions of angiogenesis and suppressing bacterial activity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Khaliun Boldbaatar
- Institute of Tissue Regeneration Engineering (ITREN), Dankook University, Cheonan 330-714, Republic of Korea; Department of Nanobiomedical Science & BK21 PLUS NBM Global Research Center for Regenerative Medicine, Dankook University, Cheonan 330-714, Republic of Korea
| | - Khandmaa Dashnyam
- Institute of Tissue Regeneration Engineering (ITREN), Dankook University, Cheonan 330-714, Republic of Korea; Department of Nanobiomedical Science & BK21 PLUS NBM Global Research Center for Regenerative Medicine, Dankook University, Cheonan 330-714, Republic of Korea; UCL Eastman-Korea Dental Medicine Innovation Centre, Dankook University, Cheonan, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jonathan C Knowles
- Department of Nanobiomedical Science & BK21 PLUS NBM Global Research Center for Regenerative Medicine, Dankook University, Cheonan 330-714, Republic of Korea; UCL Eastman-Korea Dental Medicine Innovation Centre, Dankook University, Cheonan, Republic of Korea; Division of Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering, Eastman Dental Institute, University College London, London, UK; The Discoveries Centre for Regenerative and Precision Medicine, Eastman Dental Institute, University College London, London, UK
| | - Hae-Hyoung Lee
- Institute of Tissue Regeneration Engineering (ITREN), Dankook University, Cheonan 330-714, Republic of Korea; UCL Eastman-Korea Dental Medicine Innovation Centre, Dankook University, Cheonan, Republic of Korea; Department of Biomaterials Science, College of Dentistry, Dankook University, Cheonan 330-714, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung-Hwan Lee
- Institute of Tissue Regeneration Engineering (ITREN), Dankook University, Cheonan 330-714, Republic of Korea; UCL Eastman-Korea Dental Medicine Innovation Centre, Dankook University, Cheonan, Republic of Korea; Department of Biomaterials Science, College of Dentistry, Dankook University, Cheonan 330-714, Republic of Korea.
| | - Hae-Won Kim
- Institute of Tissue Regeneration Engineering (ITREN), Dankook University, Cheonan 330-714, Republic of Korea; Department of Nanobiomedical Science & BK21 PLUS NBM Global Research Center for Regenerative Medicine, Dankook University, Cheonan 330-714, Republic of Korea; UCL Eastman-Korea Dental Medicine Innovation Centre, Dankook University, Cheonan, Republic of Korea; Department of Biomaterials Science, College of Dentistry, Dankook University, Cheonan 330-714, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Abstract
Micro and nanotechnology can potentially revolutionize drug delivery systems. Novel microfluidic systems have been employed for the cell culture applications and drug delivery by micro and nanocarriers. Cells in the microchannels are under static and dynamic flow perfusion of culture media that provides nutrition and removes waste from the cells. This exerts hydrostatic and hydrodynamic forces on the cells. These forces can considerably affect the functions of the living cells. In this paper, we simulated the flow of air, culture medium, and the particle transport and deposition in the microchannels under different angles of connection inlet. It was found that the shear stress induced by the medium culture flow is not so high to damage the cells and that it is roughly uniform in the cell culture section (CCS). However, the local shear stresses in the other parts of the microchip differ by changing the angles of the connection inlet. The results showed that the particle deposition was a function of the particle size, the properties of the fluid, and the flow rate. At a lower air flow rate, both small and large particles deposited in the entrance region and none of them reached the CCS. Once the airflow rate increased, the drag of the flow could overcome the diffusion of the small particles and deliver them to the CCS so that more than 88% of the 100 nm and 98% of the 200 nm particles deposited in the CCS. However, larger particles with average diameters in micrometers could not reach the CCS by the airflow even at high flow rate. In contrast, our findings indicated that both small and large particles could be delivered to the CCS by liquid flow. Our experimental data confirm that microparticles (with diameters of 5 and 20 μm) suspended in a liquid can reach the CCS at a well-adjusted flow rate. Consequently, a liquid carrier is suggested to transport large particles through microchannels. As a powerful tool, these numerical simulations provide a nearly complete understanding of the flow field and particle patterns in microchips which can significantly lower the trial and error in the experiment tests and accordingly save researchers considerable cost and time for drug delivery to the cell in the microchip by micro/nanocarriers.
Collapse
|
21
|
Lakatos D, Somfai E, Méhes E, Czirók A. Soluble VEGFR1 signaling guides vascular patterns into dense branching morphologies. J Theor Biol 2018; 456:261-278. [PMID: 30086288 PMCID: PMC6292526 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtbi.2018.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2018] [Revised: 08/01/2018] [Accepted: 08/03/2018] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Vascular patterning is a key process during development and disease. The diffusive decoy receptor sVEGFR1 (sFlt1) is a known regulator of endothelial cell behavior, yet the mechanism by which it controls vascular structure is little understood. We propose computational models to shed light on how vascular patterning is guided by self-organized gradients of the VEGF/sVEGFR1 factors. We demonstrate that a diffusive inhibitor can generate structures with a dense branching morphology in models where the activator elicits directed growth. Inadequate presence of the inhibitor leads to compact growth, while excessive production of the inhibitor blocks expansion and stabilizes existing structures. Model predictions were compared with time-resolved experimental data obtained from endothelial sprout kinetics in fibrin gels. In the presence of inhibitory antibodies against VEGFR1 vascular sprout density increases while the speed of sprout expansion remains unchanged. Thus, the rate of secretion and stability of extracellular sVEGFR1 can modulate vascular sprout density.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dóra Lakatos
- Department of Biological Physics, Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary.
| | - Ellák Somfai
- Institute for Solid State Physics and Optics, Wigner Research Center for Physics, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Előd Méhes
- Department of Biological Physics, Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - András Czirók
- Department of Biological Physics, Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary; Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Chung HH, Mireles M, Kwarta BJ, Gaborski TR. Use of porous membranes in tissue barrier and co-culture models. LAB ON A CHIP 2018; 18:1671-1689. [PMID: 29845145 PMCID: PMC5997570 DOI: 10.1039/c7lc01248a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Porous membranes enable the partitioning of cellular microenvironments in vitro, while still allowing physical and biochemical crosstalk between cells, a feature that is often necessary for recapitulating physiological functions. This article provides an overview of the different membranes used in tissue barrier and cellular co-culture models with a focus on experimental design and control of these systems. Specifically, we discuss how the structural, mechanical, chemical, and even the optical and transport properties of different membranes bestow specific advantages and disadvantages through the context of physiological relevance. This review also explores how membrane pore properties affect perfusion and solute permeability by developing an analytical framework to guide the design and use of tissue barrier or co-culture models. Ultimately, this review offers insight into the important aspects one must consider when using porous membranes in tissue barrier and lab-on-a-chip applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Henry H Chung
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY, USA.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Angiogenic Factors produced by Hypoxic Cells are a leading driver of Anastomoses in Sprouting Angiogenesis-a computational study. Sci Rep 2018; 8:8726. [PMID: 29880828 PMCID: PMC5992150 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-27034-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2017] [Accepted: 05/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Angiogenesis - the growth of new blood vessels from a pre-existing vasculature - is key in both physiological processes and on several pathological scenarios such as cancer progression or diabetic retinopathy. For the new vascular networks to be functional, it is required that the growing sprouts merge either with an existing functional mature vessel or with another growing sprout. This process is called anastomosis. We present a systematic 2D and 3D computational study of vessel growth in a tissue to address the capability of angiogenic factor gradients to drive anastomosis formation. We consider that these growth factors are produced only by tissue cells in hypoxia, i.e. until nearby vessels merge and become capable of carrying blood and irrigating their vicinity. We demonstrate that this increased production of angiogenic factors by hypoxic cells is able to promote vessel anastomoses events in both 2D and 3D. The simulations also verify that the morphology of these networks has an increased resilience toward variations in the endothelial cell's proliferation and chemotactic response. The distribution of tissue cells and the concentration of the growth factors they produce are the major factors in determining the final morphology of the network.
Collapse
|
24
|
Soleimani S, Shamsi M, Ghazani MA, Modarres HP, Valente KP, Saghafian M, Ashani MM, Akbari M, Sanati-Nezhad A. Translational models of tumor angiogenesis: A nexus of in silico and in vitro models. Biotechnol Adv 2018; 36:880-893. [PMID: 29378235 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2018.01.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2017] [Revised: 01/10/2018] [Accepted: 01/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Emerging evidence shows that endothelial cells are not only the building blocks of vascular networks that enable oxygen and nutrient delivery throughout a tissue but also serve as a rich resource of angiocrine factors. Endothelial cells play key roles in determining cancer progression and response to anti-cancer drugs. Furthermore, the endothelium-specific deposition of extracellular matrix is a key modulator of the availability of angiocrine factors to both stromal and cancer cells. Considering tumor vascular network as a decisive factor in cancer pathogenesis and treatment response, these networks need to be an inseparable component of cancer models. Both computational and in vitro experimental models have been extensively developed to model tumor-endothelium interactions. While informative, they have been developed in different communities and do not yet represent a comprehensive platform. In this review, we overview the necessity of incorporating vascular networks for both in vitro and in silico cancer models and discuss recent progresses and challenges of in vitro experimental microfluidic cancer vasculature-on-chip systems and their in silico counterparts. We further highlight how these two approaches can merge together with the aim of presenting a predictive combinatorial platform for studying cancer pathogenesis and testing the efficacy of single or multi-drug therapeutics for cancer treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shirin Soleimani
- BioMEMS and Bioinspired Microfluidic Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada; Center for BioEngineering Research and Education, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Milad Shamsi
- BioMEMS and Bioinspired Microfluidic Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada; Center for BioEngineering Research and Education, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada; Department of Mechanical Engineering, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan 8415683111, Iran
| | - Mehran Akbarpour Ghazani
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan 8415683111, Iran
| | - Hassan Pezeshgi Modarres
- BioMEMS and Bioinspired Microfluidic Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Karolina Papera Valente
- Laboratory for Innovations in MicroEngineering (LiME), Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8P 5C2, Canada
| | - Mohsen Saghafian
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan 8415683111, Iran
| | - Mehdi Mohammadi Ashani
- BioMEMS and Bioinspired Microfluidic Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Mohsen Akbari
- Laboratory for Innovations in MicroEngineering (LiME), Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8P 5C2, Canada; Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8P 5C2, Canada
| | - Amir Sanati-Nezhad
- BioMEMS and Bioinspired Microfluidic Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada; Center for BioEngineering Research and Education, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Moghadas H, Saidi MS, Kashaninejad N, Nguyen NT. A high-performance polydimethylsiloxane electrospun membrane for cell culture in lab-on-a-chip. BIOMICROFLUIDICS 2018; 12:024117. [PMID: 29713396 PMCID: PMC5897122 DOI: 10.1063/1.5021002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2017] [Accepted: 04/02/2018] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Thin porous membranes are important components in a microfluidic device, serving as separators, filters, and scaffolds for cell culture. However, the fabrication and the integration of these membranes possess many challenges, which restrict their widespread applications. This paper reports a facile technique to fabricate robust membrane-embedded microfluidic devices. We integrated an electrospun membrane into a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) device using the simple plasma-activated bonding technique. To increase the flexibility of the membrane and to address the leakage problem, the electrospun membrane was fabricated with the highest weight ratio of PDMS to polymethylmethacrylate (i.e., 6:1 w/w). The membrane-integrated microfluidic device could withstand a flow rate of up to 50 μl/min. As a proof of concept, we demonstrated that such a compartmentalized microfluidic platform could be successfully used for cell culture with the capability of providing a more realistic in vivo-like condition. Human lung cancer epithelial cells (A549) were seeded on the membrane from the top microchannel, while the continuous flow of the culture medium through the bottom microchannel provided a shear-free cell culture condition. The tortuous micro-/nanofibers of the membrane immobilized the cells within the hydrophobic micropores and with no need of extracellular matrix for cell adhesion and cell growth. The hydrophobic surface conditions of the membrane were suitable for anchorage-independent cell types. To further extend the application of the device, we qualitatively showed that rinsing the membrane with ethanol prior to cell seeding could temporarily render the membrane hydrophilic and the platform could also be used for anchorage-dependent cells. Due to the three-dimensional (3D) topography of the membranes, three different configurations were observed, including individual single cells, monolayer cells, and 3D cell clusters. This cost-effective and robust compartmentalized microfluidic device may open up new avenues in translational medicine and pharmacodynamics research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hajar Moghadas
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Sharif University of Technology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Said Saidi
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Sharif University of Technology, Tehran, Iran
- Authors to whom correspondence should be addressed: and
| | - Navid Kashaninejad
- Queensland Micro- and Nanotechnology Centre, Nathan Campus, Griffith University, 170 Kessels Road, Brisbane QLD 4111, Australia
| | - Nam-Trung Nguyen
- Queensland Micro- and Nanotechnology Centre, Nathan Campus, Griffith University, 170 Kessels Road, Brisbane QLD 4111, Australia
- Authors to whom correspondence should be addressed: and
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Electrospinning and microfluidics. ELECTROFLUIDODYNAMIC TECHNOLOGIES (EFDTS) FOR BIOMATERIALS AND MEDICAL DEVICES 2018. [PMCID: PMC7152487 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-08-101745-6.00008-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
|
27
|
Fan Q, Liu R, Jiao Y, Tian C, Farrell JD, Diao W, Wang X, Zhang F, Yuan W, Han H, Chen J, Yang Y, Zhang X, Ye F, Li M, Ouyang Z, Liu L. A novel 3-D bio-microfluidic system mimicking in vivo heterogeneous tumour microstructures reveals complex tumour-stroma interactions. LAB ON A CHIP 2017; 17:2852-2860. [PMID: 28726916 DOI: 10.1039/c7lc00191f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
A 3-D microfluidic system consisting of microchamber arrays embedded in a collagen hydrogel with tuneable biochemical gradients that mimics the tumour microenvironment of mammary glands was constructed for the investigation on the interactions between invasive breast cancer cells and stromal cells. The hollow microchambers in collagen provide a very similar 3-D environment to that in vivo that regulates collective cellular dynamics and behaviour, while the microfluidic channels surrounding the collagen microchamber arrays allow one to impose complex concentration gradients of specific biological molecules or drugs. We found that breast epithelial cells (MCF-10A) seeded in the microchambers formed lumen-like structures similar to those in epithelial layers. When MCF-10A cells were co-cultured with invasive breast cancer cells (MDA-MB-231), the formation of lumen-like structures in the microchambers was inhibited, indicating the capability of cancer cells to disrupt the structures formed by surrounding cells for further invasion and metastasis. Subsequent mechanism studies showed that down regulation of E-cad expression due to MMPs produced by the cancer cells plays a dominant role in determining the cellular behaviour. Our microfluidic system offers a robust platform for high throughput studies that aim to understand combinatorial effects of multiple biochemical and microenvironmental factors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qihui Fan
- Beijing National Laboratory for Condensed Matter Physics and CAS Key Laboratory of Soft Matter Physics, Institute of Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Yang K, Wu J, Xu G, Xie D, Peretz-Soroka H, Santos S, Alexander M, Zhu L, Zhang M, Liu Y, Lin F. A dual-docking microfluidic cell migration assay (D 2-Chip) for testing neutrophil chemotaxis and the memory effect. Integr Biol (Camb) 2017; 9:303-312. [PMID: 28367571 PMCID: PMC5511521 DOI: 10.1039/c7ib00037e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Chemotaxis is a classic mechanism for guiding cell migration and an important topic in both fundamental cell biology and health sciences. Neutrophils are a widely used model to study eukaryotic cell migration and neutrophil chemotaxis itself can lead to protective or harmful immune actions to the body. While much has been learnt from past research about how neutrophils effectively navigate through a chemoattractant gradient, many interesting questions remain unclear. For example, while it is tempting to model neutrophil chemotaxis using the well-established biased random walk theory, the experimental proof was challenged by the cell's highly persistent migrating nature. A special experimental design is required to test the key predictions from the random walk model. Another question that has interested the cell migration community for decades concerns the existence of chemotactic memory and its underlying mechanism. Although chemotactic memory has been suggested in various studies, a clear quantitative experimental demonstration will improve our understanding of the migratory memory effect. Motivated by these questions, we developed a microfluidic cell migration assay (so-called dual-docking chip or D2-Chip) that can test both the biased random walk model and the memory effect for neutrophil chemotaxis on a single chip enabled by multi-region gradient generation and dual-region cell alignment. Our results provide experimental support for the biased random walk model and chemotactic memory for neutrophil chemotaxis. Quantitative data analyses provide new insights into neutrophil chemotaxis and memory by making connections to entropic disorder, cell morphology and oscillating migratory response.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ke Yang
- Institute of Applied Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, Anhui, P.R. China
- University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, P.R. China
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Jiandong Wu
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Guoqing Xu
- Applied Computer Science, the University of Winnipeg, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Dongxue Xie
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
- Department of Genetics, Jilin University, China
| | - Hagit Peretz-Soroka
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Susy Santos
- Victoria General Hospital and River Heights/Fort Garry Community areas, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
- South Winnipeg Integrated Health & Social Services, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Murray Alexander
- Department of Physics, University of Winnipeg, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Ling Zhu
- Institute of Applied Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, Anhui, P.R. China
| | | | - Yong Liu
- Institute of Applied Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, Anhui, P.R. China
| | - Francis Lin
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Ghaffari S, Leask RL, Jones EAV. Blood flow can signal during angiogenesis not only through mechanotransduction, but also by affecting growth factor distribution. Angiogenesis 2017; 20:373-384. [DOI: 10.1007/s10456-017-9553-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2017] [Accepted: 03/29/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
|
30
|
Abstract
Microfluidics is invaluable for studying microvasculature, development of organ-on-chip models and engineering microtissues. Microfluidic design can cleverly control geometry, biochemical gradients and mechanical stimuli, such as shear and interstitial flow, to more closely mimic in vivo conditions. In vitro vascular networks are generated by two distinct approaches: via endothelial-lined patterned channels, or by self-assembled networks. Each system has its own benefits and is amenable to the study of angiogenesis, vasculogenesis and cancer metastasis. Various techniques are employed in order to generate rapid perfusion of these networks within a variety of tissue and organ-mimicking models, some of which have shown recent success following implantation in vivo. Combined with tuneable hydrogels, microfluidics holds great promise for drug screening as well as in the development of prevascularized tissues for regenerative medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kristina Haase
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Roger D Kamm
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Biological Engineering, MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Singapore MIT Alliance for Research & Technology, Singapore, Singapore
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Zheng C, Zhang X, Li C, Pang Y, Huang Y. Microfluidic Device for Studying Controllable Hydrodynamic Flow Induced Cellular Responses. Anal Chem 2017; 89:3710-3715. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.7b00013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Chunhong Zheng
- Beijing Advanced Innovation
Center for Genomics (ICG), Biodynamic Optical Imaging Center (BIOPIC),
School of Life Sciences, College of Engineering, and Peking-Tsinghua
Center for Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Xiannian Zhang
- Beijing Advanced Innovation
Center for Genomics (ICG), Biodynamic Optical Imaging Center (BIOPIC),
School of Life Sciences, College of Engineering, and Peking-Tsinghua
Center for Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Chunmei Li
- Beijing Advanced Innovation
Center for Genomics (ICG), Biodynamic Optical Imaging Center (BIOPIC),
School of Life Sciences, College of Engineering, and Peking-Tsinghua
Center for Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Yuhong Pang
- Beijing Advanced Innovation
Center for Genomics (ICG), Biodynamic Optical Imaging Center (BIOPIC),
School of Life Sciences, College of Engineering, and Peking-Tsinghua
Center for Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Yanyi Huang
- Beijing Advanced Innovation
Center for Genomics (ICG), Biodynamic Optical Imaging Center (BIOPIC),
School of Life Sciences, College of Engineering, and Peking-Tsinghua
Center for Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Wang X, Liu Z, Pang Y. Concentration gradient generation methods based on microfluidic systems. RSC Adv 2017. [DOI: 10.1039/c7ra04494a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Various concentration gradient generation methods based on microfluidic systems are summarized in this paper.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Wang
- College of Mechanical Engineering and Applied Electronics Technology
- Beijing University of Technology
- Beijing 100124
- China
| | - Zhaomiao Liu
- College of Mechanical Engineering and Applied Electronics Technology
- Beijing University of Technology
- Beijing 100124
- China
| | - Yan Pang
- College of Mechanical Engineering and Applied Electronics Technology
- Beijing University of Technology
- Beijing 100124
- China
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Matsuura K, Sugimoto I, Kuroda Y, Kadowaki K, Matsusaki M, Akashi M. Development of Microfluidic Systems for Fabricating Cellular Multilayers. ANAL SCI 2016; 32:1171-1176. [PMID: 27829621 DOI: 10.2116/analsci.32.1171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
We designed a microfluidic system comprising microfluidic channels, pumps, and valves to enable the fabrication of cellular multilayers in order to reduce labor inputs for coating extracellular matrices onto adhesive cells (e.g., centrifugation). Our system was used to fabricate nanometer-sized, layer-by-layer films of the extracellular matrices on a monolayer of C2C12 myoblasts. The use of this microfluidic system allowed the fabrication of cellular multilayers in designed microfluidic channels and on commercial culture dishes. The thickness of the fabricated multilayer using this microfluidic system was higher than that of the multilayer that was formed by centrifugation. Because cellular multilayer fabrication is less laborious and the mechanical force to the cell is reduced, this novel system can be applied to tissue modeling for cell biology studies, pharmaceutical assays, and quantitative analyses of mechanical or chemical stimuli applied to multilayers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Koji Matsuura
- Research Core for Interdisciplinary Sciences, Okayama University
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
34
|
Wolfram CJ, Rubloff GW, Luo X. Perspectives in flow-based microfluidic gradient generators for characterizing bacterial chemotaxis. BIOMICROFLUIDICS 2016; 10:061301. [PMID: 27917249 PMCID: PMC5106431 DOI: 10.1063/1.4967777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2016] [Accepted: 10/31/2016] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Chemotaxis is a phenomenon which enables cells to sense concentrations of certain chemical species in their microenvironment and move towards chemically favorable regions. Recent advances in microbiology have engineered the chemotactic properties of bacteria to perform novel functions, but traditional methods of characterizing chemotaxis do not fully capture the associated cell motion, making it difficult to infer mechanisms that link the motion to the microbiology which induces it. Microfluidics offers a potential solution in the form of gradient generators. Many of the gradient generators studied to date for this application are flow-based, where a chemical species diffuses across the laminar flow interface between two solutions moving through a microchannel. Despite significant research efforts, flow-based gradient generators have achieved mixed success at accurately capturing the highly subtle chemotactic responses exhibited by bacteria. Here we present an analysis encompassing previously published versions of flow-based gradient generators, the theories that govern their gradient-generating properties, and new, more practical considerations that result from experimental factors. We conclude that flow-based gradient generators present a challenge inherent to their design in that the residence time and gradient decay must be finely balanced, and that this significantly narrows the window for reliable observation and quantification of chemotactic motion. This challenge is compounded by the effects of shear on an ellipsoidal bacterium that causes it to preferentially align with the direction of flow and subsequently suppresses the cross-flow chemotactic response. These problems suggest that a static, non-flowing gradient generator may be a more suitable platform for chemotaxis studies in the long run, despite posing greater difficulties in design and fabrication.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J Wolfram
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Maryland , College Park, Maryland 20742, USA
| | - Gary W Rubloff
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Maryland , College Park, Maryland 20742, USA
| | - Xiaolong Luo
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The Catholic University of America , Washington, DC 20064, USA
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Luo X, Vo T, Jambi F, Pham P, Choy JS. Microfluidic partition with in situ biofabricated semipermeable biopolymer membranes for static gradient generation. LAB ON A CHIP 2016; 16:3815-3823. [PMID: 27713976 DOI: 10.1039/c6lc00742b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
We report an in situ biofabrication strategy that conveniently partitions microfluidic networks into physically separated while chemically communicating microchannels with semipermeable biopolymer membranes, which enable the facile generation of static gradients for biomedical applications. The biofabrication of parallel biopolymer membranes was initiated with the dissipation of trapped air bubbles in parallel apertures in polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) microfluidic devices, followed by tunable membrane growth with precise temporal and spatial control to the desired thickness. Static gradients were generated within minutes and well maintained over time by pure diffusion of molecules through the biofabricated semipermeable membranes. As an example application, the static gradient of alpha factor was generated to study the development of the "shmoo" morphology of yeast over time. The in situ biofabrication provides a simple approach to generate static gradients and an ideal platform for biological applications where flow-free static gradients are indispensable.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolong Luo
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The Catholic University of America, Washington, D.C. 20064, USA.
| | - Thanh Vo
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The Catholic University of America, Washington, D.C. 20064, USA.
| | - Fahad Jambi
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The Catholic University of America, Washington, D.C. 20064, USA.
| | - Phu Pham
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The Catholic University of America, Washington, D.C. 20064, USA.
| | - John S Choy
- Department of Biology, The Catholic University of America, Washington, D.C. 20064, USA
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Kim JJ, Hou L, Huang NF. Vascularization of three-dimensional engineered tissues for regenerative medicine applications. Acta Biomater 2016; 41:17-26. [PMID: 27262741 PMCID: PMC4969172 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2016.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2016] [Revised: 05/24/2016] [Accepted: 06/01/2016] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Engineering of three-dimensional (3D) tissues is a promising approach for restoring diseased or dysfunctional myocardium with a functional replacement. However, a major bottleneck in this field is the lack of efficient vascularization strategies, because tissue constructs produced in vitro require a constant flow of oxygen and nutrients to maintain viability and functionality. Compared to angiogenic cell therapy and growth factor treatment, bioengineering approaches such as spatial micropatterning, integration of sacrificial materials, tissue decellularization, and 3D bioprinting enable the generation of more precisely controllable neovessel formation. In this review, we summarize the state-of-the-art approaches to develop 3D tissue engineered constructs with vasculature, and demonstrate how some of these techniques have been applied towards regenerative medicine for treatment of heart failure. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE Tissue engineering is a promising approach to replace or restore dysfunctional tissues/organs, but a major bottleneck in realizing its potential is the challenge of creating scalable 3D tissues. Since most 3D engineered tissues require a constant supply of nutrients, it is necessary to integrate functional vasculature within the tissues in order to facilitate the transport of nutrients. To address these needs, researchers are employing biomaterial engineering and design strategies to foster vessel formation within 3D tissues. This review highlights the state-of-the-art bioengineering tools and technologies to create vascularized 3D tissues for clinical applications in regenerative medicine, highlighting the application of these technologies to engineer vascularized cardiac patches for treatment of heart failure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joseph J Kim
- Stanford Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA; Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Luqia Hou
- Stanford Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA; Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Ngan F Huang
- Stanford Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA; Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, USA; Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Spill F, Andasari V, Mak M, Kamm RD, Zaman MH. Effects of 3D geometries on cellular gradient sensing and polarization. Phys Biol 2016; 13:036008. [PMID: 27345945 DOI: 10.1088/1478-3975/13/3/036008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
During cell migration, cells become polarized, change their shape, and move in response to various internal and external cues. Cell polarization is defined through the spatio-temporal organization of molecules such as PI3K or small GTPases, and is determined by intracellular signaling networks. It results in directional forces through actin polymerization and myosin contractions. Many existing mathematical models of cell polarization are formulated in terms of reaction-diffusion systems of interacting molecules, and are often defined in one or two spatial dimensions. In this paper, we introduce a 3D reaction-diffusion model of interacting molecules in a single cell, and find that cell geometry has an important role affecting the capability of a cell to polarize, or change polarization when an external signal changes direction. Our results suggest a geometrical argument why more roundish cells can repolarize more effectively than cells which are elongated along the direction of the original stimulus, and thus enable roundish cells to turn faster, as has been observed in experiments. On the other hand, elongated cells preferentially polarize along their main axis even when a gradient stimulus appears from another direction. Furthermore, our 3D model can accurately capture the effect of binding and unbinding of important regulators of cell polarization to and from the cell membrane. This spatial separation of membrane and cytosol, not possible to capture in 1D or 2D models, leads to marked differences of our model from comparable lower-dimensional models.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fabian Spill
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, 44 Cummington Street, Boston MA 02215, USA. Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 77 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
38
|
Miura T, Yokokawa R. Tissue culture on a chip: Developmental biology applications of self-organized capillary networks in microfluidic devices. Dev Growth Differ 2016; 58:505-15. [PMID: 27272910 DOI: 10.1111/dgd.12292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2016] [Revised: 04/10/2016] [Accepted: 04/11/2016] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Organ culture systems are used to elucidate the mechanisms of pattern formation in developmental biology. Various organ culture techniques have been used, but the lack of microcirculation in such cultures impedes the long-term maintenance of larger tissues. Recent advances in microfluidic devices now enable us to utilize self-organized perfusable capillary networks in organ cultures. In this review, we will overview past approaches to organ culture and current technical advances in microfluidic devices, and discuss possible applications of microfluidics towards the study of developmental biology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Takashi Miura
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, 812-0054, Japan
| | - Ryuji Yokokawa
- Department of Micro Engineering, Kyoto University, Kyoto, 615-8540, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Xu Z, Jiang H, Sahu BB, Kambakam S, Singh P, Wang X, Wang Q, Bhattacharyya MK, Dong L. Humidity assay for studying plant-pathogen interactions in miniature controlled discrete humidity environments with good throughput. BIOMICROFLUIDICS 2016; 10:034108. [PMID: 27279932 PMCID: PMC4874926 DOI: 10.1063/1.4950998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2016] [Accepted: 05/09/2016] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
This paper reports a highly economical and accessible approach to generate different discrete relative humidity conditions in spatially separated wells of a modified multi-well plate for humidity assay of plant-pathogen interactions with good throughput. We demonstrated that a discrete humidity gradient could be formed within a few minutes and maintained over a period of a few days inside the device. The device consisted of a freeway channel in the top layer, multiple compartmented wells in the bottom layer, a water source, and a drying agent source. The combinational effects of evaporation, diffusion, and convection were synergized to establish the stable discrete humidity gradient. The device was employed to study visible and molecular disease phenotypes of soybean in responses to infection by Phytophthora sojae, an oomycete pathogen, under a set of humidity conditions, with two near-isogenic soybean lines, Williams and Williams 82, that differ for a Phytophthora resistance gene (Rps1-k). Our result showed that at 63% relative humidity, the transcript level of the defense gene GmPR1 was at minimum in the susceptible soybean line Williams and at maximal level in the resistant line Williams 82 following P. sojae CC5C infection. In addition, we investigated the effects of environmental temperature, dimensional and geometrical parameters, and other configurational factors on the ability of the device to generate miniature humidity environments. This work represents an exploratory effort to economically and efficiently manipulate humidity environments in a space-limited device and shows a great potential to facilitate humidity assay of plant seed germination and development, pathogen growth, and plant-pathogen interactions. Since the proposed device can be easily made, modified, and operated, it is believed that this present humidity manipulation technology will benefit many laboratories in the area of seed science, plant pathology, and plant-microbe biology, where humidity is an important factor that influences plant disease infection, establishment, and development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhen Xu
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Iowa State University , Ames, Iowa 50011, USA
| | - Huawei Jiang
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Iowa State University , Ames, Iowa 50011, USA
| | | | - Sekhar Kambakam
- Department of Agronomy, Iowa State University , Ames, Iowa 50011, USA
| | | | - Xinran Wang
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Iowa State University , Ames, Iowa 50011, USA
| | - Qiugu Wang
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Iowa State University , Ames, Iowa 50011, USA
| | | | - Liang Dong
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Iowa State University , Ames, Iowa 50011, USA
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Noren DP, Chou WH, Lee SH, Qutub AA, Warmflash A, Wagner DS, Popel AS, Levchenko A. Endothelial cells decode VEGF-mediated Ca2+ signaling patterns to produce distinct functional responses. Sci Signal 2016; 9:ra20. [PMID: 26905425 PMCID: PMC5301990 DOI: 10.1126/scisignal.aad3188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
A single extracellular stimulus can promote diverse behaviors among isogenic cells by differentially regulated signaling networks. We examined Ca(2+) signaling in response to VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor), a growth factor that can stimulate different behaviors in endothelial cells. We found that altering the amount of VEGF signaling in endothelial cells by stimulating them with different VEGF concentrations triggered distinct and mutually exclusive dynamic Ca(2+) signaling responses that correlated with different cellular behaviors. These behaviors were cell proliferation involving the transcription factor NFAT (nuclear factor of activated T cells) and cell migration involving MLCK (myosin light chain kinase). Further analysis suggested that this signal decoding was robust to the noisy nature of the signal input. Using probabilistic modeling, we captured both the stochastic and deterministic aspects of Ca(2+) signal decoding and accurately predicted cell responses in VEGF gradients, which we used to simulate different amounts of VEGF signaling. Ca(2+) signaling patterns associated with proliferation and migration were detected during angiogenesis in developing zebrafish.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David P Noren
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 720 Rutland Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA. Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, 6100 Main Street, Houston, TX 77005, USA
| | - Wesley H Chou
- Department of Biosciences, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA
| | - Sung Hoon Lee
- Yale Systems Biology Institute and Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, 850 West Campus Drive, West Haven, CT 06516, USA
| | - Amina A Qutub
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, 6100 Main Street, Houston, TX 77005, USA
| | - Aryeh Warmflash
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, 6100 Main Street, Houston, TX 77005, USA. Department of Biosciences, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA
| | - Daniel S Wagner
- Department of Biosciences, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA
| | - Aleksander S Popel
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 720 Rutland Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
| | - Andre Levchenko
- Yale Systems Biology Institute and Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, 850 West Campus Drive, West Haven, CT 06516, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Alicia TGG, Yang C, Wang Z, Nguyen NT. Combinational concentration gradient confinement through stagnation flow. LAB ON A CHIP 2016; 16:368-76. [PMID: 26671507 DOI: 10.1039/c5lc01137j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Concentration gradient generation in microfluidics is typically constrained by two conflicting mass transport requirements: short characteristic times (τ) for precise temporal control of concentration gradients but at the expense of high flow rates and hence, high flow shear stresses (σ). To decouple the limitations from these parameters, here we propose the use of stagnation flows to confine concentration gradients within large velocity gradients that surround the stagnation point. We developed a modified cross-slot (MCS) device capable of feeding binary and combinational concentration sources in stagnation flows. We show that across the velocity well, source-sink pairs can form permanent concentration gradients. As source-sink concentration pairs are continuously supplied to the MCS, a permanently stable concentration gradient can be generated. Tuning the flow rates directly controls the velocity gradients, and hence the stagnation point location, allowing the confined concentration gradient to be focused. In addition, the flow rate ratio within the MCS rapidly controls (τ ∼ 50 ms) the location of the stagnation point and the confined combinational concentration gradients at low flow shear (0.2 Pa < σ < 2.9 Pa). The MCS device described in this study establishes the method for using stagnation flows to rapidly generate and position low shear combinational concentration gradients for shear sensitive biological assays.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Toh G G Alicia
- School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, 639798 Singapore. and Microfluidics Manufacturing Programme, Singapore Institute of Manufacturing Technology, 71 Nanyang Drive, 63807 Singapore
| | - Chun Yang
- School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, 639798 Singapore.
| | - Zhiping Wang
- Microfluidics Manufacturing Programme, Singapore Institute of Manufacturing Technology, 71 Nanyang Drive, 63807 Singapore
| | - Nam-Trung Nguyen
- QLD Micro- and Nanotechnology Centre, Nathan campus, Griffith University, 170 Kessels Road QLD 4111, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Kilinc D, Schwab J, Rampini S, Ikpekha OW, Thampi A, Blasiak A, Li P, Schwamborn R, Kolch W, Matallanas D, Lee GU. A microfluidic dual gradient generator for conducting cell-based drug combination assays. Integr Biol (Camb) 2016; 8:39-49. [DOI: 10.1039/c5ib00209e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
We present a microfluidic gradient generator that exposes cultured cells to orthogonally-aligned linear concentration gradients of two molecules. Live-cell assays quantifying apoptotic signaling and cell motility are provided as proof-of-concept.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Devrim Kilinc
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Biology
- University College Dublin
- Dublin 4
- Ireland
- UCD Conway Institute
| | - Jefrem Schwab
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Biology
- University College Dublin
- Dublin 4
- Ireland
| | - Stefano Rampini
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Biology
- University College Dublin
- Dublin 4
- Ireland
| | - Oshoke W. Ikpekha
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Biology
- University College Dublin
- Dublin 4
- Ireland
| | - Ashwin Thampi
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Biology
- University College Dublin
- Dublin 4
- Ireland
| | - Agata Blasiak
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Biology
- University College Dublin
- Dublin 4
- Ireland
| | - Peng Li
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Biology
- University College Dublin
- Dublin 4
- Ireland
| | | | - Walter Kolch
- UCD Conway Institute
- Dublin 4
- Ireland
- Systems Biology Ireland
- UCD
| | | | - Gil U. Lee
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Biology
- University College Dublin
- Dublin 4
- Ireland
- UCD Conway Institute
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Huang PH, Chan CY, Li P, Nama N, Xie Y, Wei CH, Chen Y, Ahmed D, Huang TJ. A spatiotemporally controllable chemical gradient generator via acoustically oscillating sharp-edge structures. LAB ON A CHIP 2015; 15:4166-76. [PMID: 26338516 PMCID: PMC4641750 DOI: 10.1039/c5lc00868a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
The ability to generate stable, spatiotemporally controllable concentration gradients is critical for resolving the dynamics of cellular response to a chemical microenvironment. Here we demonstrate an acoustofluidic gradient generator based on acoustically oscillating sharp-edge structures, which facilitates in a step-wise fashion the rapid mixing of fluids to generate tunable, dynamic chemical gradients. By controlling the driving voltage of a piezoelectric transducer, we demonstrated that the chemical gradient profiles can be conveniently altered (spatially controllable). By adjusting the actuation time of the piezoelectric transducer, moreover, we generated pulsatile chemical gradients (temporally controllable). With these two characteristics combined, we have developed a spatiotemporally controllable gradient generator. The applicability and biocompatibility of our acoustofluidic gradient generator are validated by demonstrating the migration of human dermal microvascular endothelial cells (HMVEC-d) in response to a generated vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) gradient, and by preserving the viability of HMVEC-d cells after long-term exposure to an acoustic field. Our device features advantages such as simple fabrication and operation, compact and biocompatible device, and generation of spatiotemporally tunable gradients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Po-Hsun Huang
- Department of Engineering Science and Mechanics, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
44
|
|
45
|
Integrative Utilization of Microenvironments, Biomaterials and Computational Techniques for Advanced Tissue Engineering. J Biotechnol 2015; 212:71-89. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiotec.2015.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2015] [Revised: 08/02/2015] [Accepted: 08/11/2015] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
|
46
|
Chen YH, Peng CC, Tung YC. Flip channel: A microfluidic device for uniform-sized embryoid body formation and differentiation. BIOMICROFLUIDICS 2015; 9:054111. [PMID: 26487897 PMCID: PMC4592426 DOI: 10.1063/1.4931638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2015] [Accepted: 09/11/2015] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
This paper reports a two-layered polydimethylsiloxane microfluidic device-Flip channel, capable of forming uniform-sized embryoid bodies (EBs) and performing stem cell differentiation within the same device after flipping the microfluidic channel. The size of EBs can be well controlled by designing the device geometries, and EBs with multiple sizes can be formed within a single device to study EB size-dependent stem cell differentiation. During operation of the device, cells are positioned in the designed positions. As a result, observation and monitoring specific population of cells can be achieved for further analysis. In addition, after flipping the microfluidic channel, stem cell differentiation from the EBs can be performed on an unconfined flat surface that is desired for various differentiation processes. In the experiments, murine embryonic stem cells (ES-D3) are cultured and formed EBs inside the developed device. The size of EBs is well controlled inside the device, and the neural differentiation is performed on the formed EBs after flipping the channel. The EB size-dependent stem cell differentiation is studied using the device to demonstrate its functions. The device provides a useful tool to study stem cell differentiation without complicated device fabrication and tedious cell handling under better-controlled microenvironments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ying-Hua Chen
- Research Center for Applied Sciences, Academia Sinica , Taipei 11529, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Chung Peng
- Research Center for Applied Sciences, Academia Sinica , Taipei 11529, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Chung Tung
- Research Center for Applied Sciences, Academia Sinica , Taipei 11529, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Yildiz-Ozturk E, Yesil-Celiktas O. Diffusion phenomena of cells and biomolecules in microfluidic devices. BIOMICROFLUIDICS 2015; 9:052606. [PMID: 26180576 PMCID: PMC4491013 DOI: 10.1063/1.4923263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2015] [Accepted: 06/18/2015] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Biomicrofluidics is an emerging field at the cross roads of microfluidics and life sciences which requires intensive research efforts in terms of introducing appropriate designs, production techniques, and analysis. The ultimate goal is to deliver innovative and cost-effective microfluidic devices to biotech, biomedical, and pharmaceutical industries. Therefore, creating an in-depth understanding of the transport phenomena of cells and biomolecules becomes vital and concurrently poses significant challenges. The present article outlines the recent advancements in diffusion phenomena of cells and biomolecules by highlighting transport principles from an engineering perspective, cell responses in microfluidic devices with emphases on diffusion- and flow-based microfluidic gradient platforms, macroscopic and microscopic approaches for investigating the diffusion phenomena of biomolecules, microfluidic platforms for the delivery of these molecules, as well as the state of the art in biological applications of mammalian cell responses and diffusion of biomolecules.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ece Yildiz-Ozturk
- Department of Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering, Ege University , 35100 Bornova-Izmir, Turkey
| | - Ozlem Yesil-Celiktas
- Department of Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering, Ege University , 35100 Bornova-Izmir, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Shamloo A, Mohammadaliha N, Heilshorn SC, Bauer AL. A Comparative Study of Collagen Matrix Density Effect on Endothelial Sprout Formation Using Experimental and Computational Approaches. Ann Biomed Eng 2015; 44:929-41. [DOI: 10.1007/s10439-015-1416-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2015] [Accepted: 08/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
|
49
|
Dahl JB, Lin JMG, Muller SJ, Kumar S. Microfluidic Strategies for Understanding the Mechanics of Cells and Cell-Mimetic Systems. Annu Rev Chem Biomol Eng 2015; 6:293-317. [PMID: 26134738 PMCID: PMC5217707 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-chembioeng-061114-123407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Microfluidic systems are attracting increasing interest for the high-throughput measurement of cellular biophysical properties and for the creation of engineered cellular microenvironments. Here we review recent applications of microfluidic technologies to the mechanics of living cells and synthetic cell-mimetic systems. We begin by discussing the use of microfluidic devices to dissect the mechanics of cellular mimics, such as capsules and vesicles. We then explore applications to circulating cells, including erythrocytes and other normal blood cells, and rare populations with potential disease diagnostic value, such as circulating tumor cells. We conclude by discussing how microfluidic devices have been used to investigate the mechanics, chemotaxis, and invasive migration of adherent cells. In these ways, microfluidic technologies represent an increasingly important toolbox for investigating cellular mechanics and motility at high throughput and in a format that lends itself to clinical translation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joanna B. Dahl
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, UC-Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720
| | - Jung-Ming G. Lin
- Department of Bioengineering, UC-Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720
- The UC Berkeley/UCSF Graduate Program in Bioengineering, Berkeley, CA 94720
| | - Susan J. Muller
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, UC-Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720
| | - Sanjay Kumar
- Department of Bioengineering, UC-Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720
- The UC Berkeley/UCSF Graduate Program in Bioengineering, Berkeley, CA 94720
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Model of cellular mechanotransduction via actin stress fibers. Biomech Model Mechanobiol 2015; 15:331-44. [PMID: 26081725 DOI: 10.1007/s10237-015-0691-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2015] [Accepted: 06/04/2015] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Mechanical stresses due to blood flow regulate vascular endothelial cell structure and function and play a key role in arterial physiology and pathology. In particular, the development of atherosclerosis has been shown to correlate with regions of disturbed blood flow where endothelial cells are round and have a randomly organized cytoskeleton. Thus, deciphering the relation between the mechanical environment, cell structure, and cell function is a key step toward understanding the early development of atherosclerosis. Recent experiments have demonstrated very rapid (∼100 ms) and long-distance (∼10 μm) cellular mechanotransduction in which prestressed actin stress fibers play a critical role. Here, we develop a model of mechanical signal transmission within a cell by describing strains in a network of prestressed viscoelastic stress fibers following the application of a force to the cell surface. We find force transmission dynamics that are consistent with experimental results. We also show that the extent of stress fiber alignment and the direction of the applied force relative to this alignment are key determinants of the efficiency of mechanical signal transmission. These results are consistent with the link observed experimentally between cytoskeletal organization, mechanical stress, and cellular responsiveness to stress. Based on these results, we suggest that mechanical strain of actin stress fibers under force constitutes a key link in the mechanotransduction chain.
Collapse
|