1
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Coggan H, Weeden CE, Pearce P, Dalwadi MP, Magness A, Swanton C, Page KM. An agent-based modelling framework to study growth mechanisms in EGFR-L858R mutant cell alveolar type II cells. ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2024; 11:240413. [PMID: 39021764 PMCID: PMC11252670 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.240413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2024] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
Mutations in the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) are common in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), particularly in never-smoker patients. However, these mutations are not always carcinogenic, and have recently been reported in histologically normal lung tissue from patients with and without lung cancer. To investigate the outcome of EGFR mutation in healthy lung stem cells, we grow murine alveolar type II organoids monoclonally in a three-dimensional Matrigel. Our experiments show that the EGFR-L858R mutation induces a change in organoid structure: mutated organoids display more 'budding', in comparison with non-mutant controls, which are nearly spherical. We perform on-lattice computational simulations, which suggest that this can be explained by the concentration of division among a small number of cells on the surface of the mutated organoids. We are currently unable to distinguish the cell-based mechanisms that lead to this spatial heterogeneity in growth, but suggest a number of future experiments which could be used to do so. We suggest that the likelihood of L858R-fuelled tumorigenesis is affected by whether the mutation arises in a spatial environment that allows the development of these surface protrusions. These data may have implications for cancer prevention strategies and for understanding NSCLC progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helena Coggan
- Department of Mathematics, University College London, London, UK
| | - Clare E. Weeden
- Cancer Evolution and Genome Instability Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
| | - Philip Pearce
- Department of Mathematics, University College London, London, UK
- UCL Institute for the Physics of Living Systems, London, UK
| | - Mohit P. Dalwadi
- Department of Mathematics, University College London, London, UK
- UCL Institute for the Physics of Living Systems, London, UK
| | - Alastair Magness
- Cancer Evolution and Genome Instability Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
| | - Charles Swanton
- Cancer Evolution and Genome Instability Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
- Cancer Research UK Lung Cancer Centre of Excellence, University College London Cancer Institute, London, UK
- Department of Oncology, University College London Hospital, London, UK
| | - Karen M. Page
- Department of Mathematics, University College London, London, UK
- UCL Institute for the Physics of Living Systems, London, UK
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2
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Cameron O, Neves JF, Gentleman E. Listen to Your Gut: Key Concepts for Bioengineering Advanced Models of the Intestine. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2302165. [PMID: 38009508 PMCID: PMC10837392 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202302165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
The intestine performs functions central to human health by breaking down food and absorbing nutrients while maintaining a selective barrier against the intestinal microbiome. Key to this barrier function are the combined efforts of lumen-lining specialized intestinal epithelial cells, and the supportive underlying immune cell-rich stromal tissue. The discovery that the intestinal epithelium can be reproduced in vitro as intestinal organoids introduced a new way to understand intestinal development, homeostasis, and disease. However, organoids reflect the intestinal epithelium in isolation whereas the underlying tissue also contains myriad cell types and impressive chemical and structural complexity. This review dissects the cellular and matrix components of the intestine and discusses strategies to replicate them in vitro using principles drawing from bottom-up biological self-organization and top-down bioengineering. It also covers the cellular, biochemical and biophysical features of the intestinal microenvironment and how these can be replicated in vitro by combining strategies from organoid biology with materials science. Particularly accessible chemistries that mimic the native extracellular matrix are discussed, and bioengineering approaches that aim to overcome limitations in modelling the intestine are critically evaluated. Finally, the review considers how further advances may extend the applications of intestinal models and their suitability for clinical therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oliver Cameron
- Centre for Craniofacial and Regenerative BiologyKing's College LondonLondonSE1 9RTUK
| | - Joana F. Neves
- Centre for Host‐Microbiome InteractionsKing's College LondonLondonSE1 9RTUK
| | - Eileen Gentleman
- Centre for Craniofacial and Regenerative BiologyKing's College LondonLondonSE1 9RTUK
- Department of Biomedical SciencesUniversity of LausanneLausanne1005Switzerland
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3
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Uatay A, Gall L, Irons L, Tewari SG, Zhu XS, Gibbs M, Kimko H. Physiological Indirect Response Model to Omics-Powered Quantitative Systems Pharmacology Model. J Pharm Sci 2024; 113:11-21. [PMID: 37898164 DOI: 10.1016/j.xphs.2023.10.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 10/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/30/2023]
Abstract
Over the past several decades, mathematical modeling has been applied to increasingly wider scopes of questions in drug development. Accordingly, the range of modeling tools has also been evolving, as showcased by contributions of Jusko and colleagues: from basic pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics (PK/PD) modeling to today's platform-based approach of quantitative systems pharmacology (QSP) modeling. Aimed at understanding the mechanism of action of investigational drugs, QSP models characterize systemic effects by incorporating information about cellular signaling networks, which is often represented by omics data. In this perspective, we share a few examples illustrating approaches for the integration of omics into mechanistic QSP modeling. We briefly overview how the evolution of PK/PD modeling into QSP has been accompanied by an increase in available data and the complexity of mathematical methods that integrate it. We discuss current gaps and challenges of integrating omics data into QSP models and propose several potential areas where integrated QSP and omics modeling may benefit drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aydar Uatay
- Clinical Pharmacology & Quantitative Pharmacology, R&D Biopharmaceuticals, Cambridge, United Kingdom.
| | - Louis Gall
- Clinical Pharmacology & Quantitative Pharmacology, R&D Biopharmaceuticals, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Linda Irons
- Clinical Pharmacology & Quantitative Pharmacology, R&D Biopharmaceuticals, Waltham, MA, United States
| | - Shivendra G Tewari
- Clinical Pharmacology & Quantitative Pharmacology, R&D Biopharmaceuticals, Gaithersburg, MD, United States
| | - Xu Sue Zhu
- Clinical Pharmacology & Quantitative Pharmacology, R&D Biopharmaceuticals, Waltham, MA, United States
| | - Megan Gibbs
- Clinical Pharmacology & Quantitative Pharmacology, R&D Biopharmaceuticals, Waltham, MA, United States
| | - Holly Kimko
- Clinical Pharmacology & Quantitative Pharmacology, R&D Biopharmaceuticals, Gaithersburg, MD, United States.
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4
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Gall L, Duckworth C, Jardi F, Lammens L, Parker A, Bianco A, Kimko H, Pritchard DM, Pin C. Homeostasis, injury, and recovery dynamics at multiple scales in a self-organizing mouse intestinal crypt. eLife 2023; 12:e85478. [PMID: 38063302 PMCID: PMC10789491 DOI: 10.7554/elife.85478] [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: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024] Open
Abstract
The maintenance of the functional integrity of the intestinal epithelium requires a tight coordination between cell production, migration, and shedding along the crypt-villus axis. Dysregulation of these processes may result in loss of the intestinal barrier and disease. With the aim of generating a more complete and integrated understanding of how the epithelium maintains homeostasis and recovers after injury, we have built a multi-scale agent-based model (ABM) of the mouse intestinal epithelium. We demonstrate that stable, self-organizing behaviour in the crypt emerges from the dynamic interaction of multiple signalling pathways, such as Wnt, Notch, BMP, ZNRF3/RNF43, and YAP-Hippo pathways, which regulate proliferation and differentiation, respond to environmental mechanical cues, form feedback mechanisms, and modulate the dynamics of the cell cycle protein network. The model recapitulates the crypt phenotype reported after persistent stem cell ablation and after the inhibition of the CDK1 cycle protein. Moreover, we simulated 5-fluorouracil (5-FU)-induced toxicity at multiple scales starting from DNA and RNA damage, which disrupts the cell cycle, cell signalling, proliferation, differentiation, and migration and leads to loss of barrier integrity. During recovery, our in silico crypt regenerates its structure in a self-organizing, dynamic fashion driven by dedifferentiation and enhanced by negative feedback loops. Thus, the model enables the simulation of xenobiotic-, in particular chemotherapy-, induced mechanisms of intestinal toxicity and epithelial recovery. Overall, we present a systems model able to simulate the disruption of molecular events and its impact across multiple levels of epithelial organization and demonstrate its application to epithelial research and drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louis Gall
- Clinical Pharmacology and Quantitative Pharmacology, Clinical Pharmacology and Safety Sciences, R&D, AstraZenecaCambridgeUnited Kingdom
| | - Carrie Duckworth
- Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, University of LiverpoolLiverpoolUnited Kingdom
| | - Ferran Jardi
- Preclinical Sciences and Translational Safety, JanssenBeerseBelgium
| | - Lieve Lammens
- Preclinical Sciences and Translational Safety, JanssenBeerseBelgium
| | - Aimee Parker
- Gut Microbes and Health Programme, Quadram InstituteNorwichUnited Kingdom
| | - Ambra Bianco
- Clinical Pharmacology and Safety Sciences, AstraZenecaCambridgeUnited Kingdom
| | - Holly Kimko
- Clinical Pharmacology and Quantitative Pharmacology, Clinical Pharmacology and Safety Sciences, R&D, AstraZenecaCambridgeUnited Kingdom
| | - David Mark Pritchard
- Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, University of LiverpoolLiverpoolUnited Kingdom
| | - Carmen Pin
- Clinical Pharmacology and Quantitative Pharmacology, Clinical Pharmacology and Safety Sciences, R&D, AstraZenecaCambridgeUnited Kingdom
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5
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Montes-Olivas S, Legge D, Lund A, Fletcher AG, Williams AC, Marucci L, Homer M. In-silico and in-vitro morphometric analysis of intestinal organoids. PLoS Comput Biol 2023; 19:e1011386. [PMID: 37578984 PMCID: PMC10473498 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1011386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Organoids offer a powerful model to study cellular self-organisation, the growth of specific tissue morphologies in-vitro, and to assess potential medical therapies. However, the intrinsic mechanisms of these systems are not entirely understood yet, which can result in variability of organoids due to differences in culture conditions and basement membrane extracts used. Improving the standardisation of organoid cultures is essential for their implementation in clinical protocols. Developing tools to assess and predict the behaviour of these systems may produce a more robust and standardised biological model to perform accurate clinical studies. Here, we developed an algorithm to automate crypt-like structure counting on intestinal organoids in both in-vitro and in-silico images. In addition, we modified an existing two-dimensional agent-based mathematical model of intestinal organoids to better describe the system physiology, and evaluated its ability to replicate budding structures compared to new experimental data we generated. The crypt-counting algorithm proved useful in approximating the average number of budding structures found in our in-vitro intestinal organoid culture images on days 3 and 7 after seeding. Our changes to the in-silico model maintain the potential to produce simulations that replicate the number of budding structures found on days 5 and 7 of in-vitro data. The present study aims to aid in quantifying key morphological structures and provide a method to compare both in-vitro and in-silico experiments. Our results could be extended later to 3D in-silico models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Montes-Olivas
- Department of Engineering Mathematics, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Danny Legge
- Colorectal Tumour Biology Group, School of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Abbie Lund
- Department of Engineering Mathematics, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Alexander G. Fletcher
- School of Mathematics and Statistics, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
- Bateson Centre, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Ann C. Williams
- Colorectal Tumour Biology Group, School of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Lucia Marucci
- Department of Engineering Mathematics, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
- School of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
- BrisSynBio, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Martin Homer
- Department of Engineering Mathematics, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
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6
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Guevara-Garcia A, Soleilhac M, Minc N, Delacour D. Regulation and functions of cell division in the intestinal tissue. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2023:S1084-9521(23)00004-6. [PMID: 36702722 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2023.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
In multicellular organisms, epithelial cells are key elements of tissue organization. In developing epithelial tissues, cellular proliferation and differentiation are under the tight regulation of morphogenetic programs to ensure correct organ formation and functioning. In these processes, proliferation rates and division orientation regulate the speed, timing and direction of tissue expansion but also its proper patterning. Moreover, tissue homeostasis relies on spatio-temporal modulations of daughter cell behavior and arrangement. These aspects are particularly crucial in the intestine, which is one of the most proliferative tissues in adults, making it a very attractive adult organ system to study the role of cell division on epithelial morphogenesis and organ function. Although epithelial cell division has been the subject of intense research for many years in multiple models, it still remains in its infancy in the context of the intestinal tissue. In this review, we focus on the current knowledge on cell division and regulatory mechanisms at play in the intestinal epithelial tissue, as well as their importance in developmental biology and physiopathology.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Matis Soleilhac
- Université de Paris, CNRS, Institut Jacques Monod, F-75006 Paris, France
| | - Nicolas Minc
- Université de Paris, CNRS, Institut Jacques Monod, F-75006 Paris, France
| | - Delphine Delacour
- Université de Paris, CNRS, Institut Jacques Monod, F-75006 Paris, France.
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7
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Thalheim T, Aust G, Galle J. Organoid Cultures In Silico: Tools or Toys? BIOENGINEERING (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 10:bioengineering10010050. [PMID: 36671623 PMCID: PMC9854934 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering10010050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
The implementation of stem-cell-based organoid culture more than ten years ago started a development that created new avenues for diagnostic analyses and regenerative medicine. In parallel, computational modelling groups realized the potential of this culture system to support their theoretical approaches to study tissues in silico. These groups developed computational organoid models (COMs) that enabled testing consistency between cell biological data and developing theories of tissue self-organization. The models supported a mechanistic understanding of organoid growth and maturation and helped linking cell mechanics and tissue shape in general. What comes next? Can we use COMs as tools to complement the equipment of our biological and medical research? While these models already support experimental design, can they also quantitatively predict tissue behavior? Here, we review the current state of the art of COMs and discuss perspectives for their application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Torsten Thalheim
- Interdisciplinary Institute for Bioinformatics (IZBI), Leipzig University, Härtelstr. 16–18, 04107 Leipzig, Germany
- Correspondence:
| | - Gabriela Aust
- Department of Surgery, Research Laboratories, Leipzig University, Liebigstraße 20, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Joerg Galle
- Interdisciplinary Institute for Bioinformatics (IZBI), Leipzig University, Härtelstr. 16–18, 04107 Leipzig, Germany
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8
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Corominas-Murtra B, Hannezo E. Modelling the dynamics of mammalian gut homeostasis. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2022:S1084-9521(22)00317-2. [DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2022.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2022] [Revised: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
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9
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Mechanical forces directing intestinal form and function. Curr Biol 2022; 32:R791-R805. [PMID: 35882203 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2022.05.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The vertebrate intestine experiences a range of intrinsically generated and external forces during both development and adult homeostasis. It is increasingly understood how the coordination of these forces shapes the intestine through organ-scale folding and epithelial organization into crypt-villus compartments. Moreover, accumulating evidence shows that several cell types in the adult intestine can sense and respond to forces to regulate key cellular processes underlying adult intestinal functions and self-renewal. In this way, transduction of forces may direct both intestinal homeostasis as well as adaptation to external stimuli, such as food ingestion or injury. In this review, we will discuss recent insights from complementary model systems into the force-dependent mechanisms that establish and maintain the unique architecture of the intestine, as well as its homeostatic regulation and function throughout adult life.
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10
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Pérez-González C, Ceada G, Matejčić M, Trepat X. Digesting the mechanobiology of the intestinal epithelium. Curr Opin Genet Dev 2021; 72:82-90. [PMID: 34902705 DOI: 10.1016/j.gde.2021.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2021] [Revised: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
The dizzying life of the homeostatic intestinal epithelium is governed by a complex interplay between fate, form, force and function. This interplay is beginning to be elucidated thanks to advances in intravital and ex vivo imaging, organoid culture, and biomechanical measurements. Recent discoveries have untangled the intricate organization of the forces that fold the monolayer into crypts and villi, compartmentalize cell types, direct cell migration, and regulate cell identity, proliferation and death. These findings revealed that the dynamic equilibrium of the healthy intestinal epithelium relies on its ability to precisely coordinate tractions and tensions in space and time. In this review, we discuss recent findings in intestinal mechanobiology, and highlight some of the many fascinating questions that remain to be addressed in this emerging field.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gerardo Ceada
- Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute for Science and Technology (BIST), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marija Matejčić
- Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute for Science and Technology (BIST), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Xavier Trepat
- Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute for Science and Technology (BIST), 08028 Barcelona, Spain; Facultat de Medicina, Universitat de Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), 08028 Barcelona, Spain; Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats (ICREA), Barcelona, Spain.
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11
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Rossides C, Pender SLF, Schneider P. 3D cyclorama for digital unrolling and visualisation of deformed tubes. Sci Rep 2021; 11:14672. [PMID: 34282170 PMCID: PMC8289852 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-93184-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Colonic crypts are tubular glands that multiply through a symmetric branching process called crypt fission. During the early stages of colorectal cancer, the normal fission process is disturbed, leading to asymmetrical branching or budding. The challenging shapes of the budding crypts make it difficult to prepare paraffin sections for conventional histology, resulting in colonic cross sections with crypts that are only partially visible. To study crypt budding in situ and in three dimensions (3D), we employ X-ray micro-computed tomography to image intact colons, and a new method we developed (3D cyclorama) to digitally unroll them. Here, we present, verify and validate our '3D cyclorama' method that digitally unrolls deformed tubes of non-uniform thickness. It employs principles from electrostatics to reform the tube into a series of onion-like surfaces, which are mapped onto planar panoramic views. This enables the study of features extending over several layers of the tube's depth, demonstrated here by two case studies: (i) microvilli in the human placenta and (ii) 3D-printed adhesive films for drug delivery. Our 3D cyclorama method can provide novel insights into a wide spectrum of applications where digital unrolling or flattening is necessary, including long bones, teeth roots and ancient scrolls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charalambos Rossides
- Bioengineering Science Research Group, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
- School of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Sylvia L F Pender
- School of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
- Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Philipp Schneider
- Bioengineering Science Research Group, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK.
- High-Performance Vision Systems, Center for Vision, Automation & Control, AIT Austrian Institute of Technology, Vienna, Austria.
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12
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Dudhwala ZM, Hammond PD, Howarth GS, Cummins AG. Intestinal stem cells promote crypt fission during postnatal growth of the small intestine. BMJ Open Gastroenterol 2021; 7:bmjgast-2020-000388. [PMID: 32586946 PMCID: PMC7319781 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgast-2020-000388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2020] [Revised: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 04/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Wnt-β-catenin signalling is essential for intestinal stem cells. Our aim was to investigate the relationship between intestinal stem cells and crypt fission which peaks during infancy. Design Duodenal biopsies were obtained during endoscopy to assess the severity of reflux oesophagitis of 15 infants, children and teenagers, which would not affect the duodenum. Samples of small intestine were also obtained from rats 7–72 days of life. Crypt fission was assessed using microdissection of 100 whole crypts and recording the percentage of bifid crypts. Intestinal LGR5+ stem cells were identified by in situ hybridisation. Rats were treated with Dickkopf to block Wnt-β-catenin signalling. Results Crypt fission peaked during infancy before declining after 3–4 years in humans and after 21 days of life in rats. Occasional mitotic figures were seen in bifid crypts during early fission. Stem cells were elevated for a greater period during infancy and childhood in humans. Clustering of Paneth cells was present around the stem cells at the crypt base. Dickkopf reduced the number of stem cells and crypt fission to 45% and 29%, respectively, of control values, showing dependence of both crypt fission and Lgr5+ stem cells on Wnt signalling. However, Dickkopf did not decrease mitotic count per crypt, indicating a difference in signalling between stem cells and their progeny in the transit amplifying zone. Conclusion Crypt fission peaks during infancy and is dependent on intestinal stem cells. This is relatively hidden by ‘a cloak of invisibility’ due to the low proliferation of stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zenab Mustansir Dudhwala
- Gastroenterology, Basil Hetzel Institute for Translational Health Research, Woodville South, South Australia, Australia .,Surgery, The University of Adelaide - North Terrace Campus, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Paul D Hammond
- Gastroenterology, Women's and Children's Hospital Adelaide, North Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Gordon S Howarth
- Gastroenterology, Women's and Children's Hospital Adelaide, North Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.,Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Adrian Gerard Cummins
- Surgery, The University of Adelaide - North Terrace Campus, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.,Gastroenterology, Basil Hetzel Institute for Medical Research, Woodville South, South Australia, Australia
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13
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Tallapragada NP, Cambra HM, Wald T, Keough Jalbert S, Abraham DM, Klein OD, Klein AM. Inflation-collapse dynamics drive patterning and morphogenesis in intestinal organoids. Cell Stem Cell 2021; 28:1516-1532.e14. [PMID: 33915079 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2021.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2020] [Revised: 12/29/2020] [Accepted: 04/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
How stem cells self-organize to form structured tissues is an unsolved problem. Intestinal organoids offer a model of self-organization as they generate stem cell zones (SCZs) of typical size even without a spatially structured environment. Here we examine processes governing the size of SCZs. We improve the viability and homogeneity of intestinal organoid cultures to enable long-term time-lapse imaging of multiple organoids in parallel. We find that SCZs are shaped by fission events under strong control of ion channel-mediated inflation and mechanosensitive Piezo-family channels. Fission occurs through stereotyped modes of dynamic behavior that differ in their coordination of budding and differentiation. Imaging and single-cell transcriptomics show that inflation drives acute stem cell differentiation and induces a stretch-responsive cell state characterized by large transcriptional changes, including upregulation of Piezo1. Our results reveal an intrinsic capacity of the intestinal epithelium to self-organize by modulating and then responding to its mechanical state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naren P Tallapragada
- Department of Systems Biology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Hailey M Cambra
- Department of Systems Biology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Tomas Wald
- Program in Craniofacial Biology and Department of Orofacial Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA; Department of Pediatrics and Institute for Human Genetics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Samantha Keough Jalbert
- Department of Systems Biology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Diana M Abraham
- Department of Systems Biology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Ophir D Klein
- Program in Craniofacial Biology and Department of Orofacial Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA; Department of Pediatrics and Institute for Human Genetics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Allon M Klein
- Department of Systems Biology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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14
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Malijauskaite S, Connolly S, Newport D, McGourty K. Gradients in the in vivo intestinal stem cell compartment and their in vitro recapitulation in mimetic platforms. Cytokine Growth Factor Rev 2021; 60:76-88. [PMID: 33858768 DOI: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2021.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Intestinal tissue, and specifically its mucosal layer, is a complex and gradient-rich environment. Gradients of soluble factor (BMP, Noggin, Notch, Hedgehog, and Wnt), insoluble extracellular matrix proteins (laminins, collagens, fibronectin, and their cognate receptors), stromal stiffness, oxygenation, and sheer stress induced by luminal fluid flow at the crypt-villus axis controls and supports healthy intestinal tissue homeostasis. However, due to current technological challenges, very few of these features have so far been included in in vitro intestinal tissue mimetic platforms. In this review, the tightly defined and dynamic microenvironment of the intestinal tissue is presented in detail. Additionally, the authors introduce the current state-of-the-art intestinal tissue mimetic platforms, as well as the design drawbacks and challenges they face while attempting to capture the complexity of the intestinal tissue's physiology. Finally, the compositions of an "idealized" mimetic system is presented to guide future developmental efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sigita Malijauskaite
- Dept. of Chemical Sciences, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland; Bernal Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland.
| | - Sinead Connolly
- Bernal Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland; School of Engineering, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland.
| | - David Newport
- Bernal Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland; Health Research Institute (HRI), University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland; School of Engineering, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland.
| | - Kieran McGourty
- Dept. of Chemical Sciences, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland; Bernal Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland; Health Research Institute (HRI), University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland.
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15
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Almet AA, Maini PK, Moulton DE, Byrne HM. Modeling perspectives on the intestinal crypt, a canonical system for growth, mechanics, and remodeling. CURRENT OPINION IN BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cobme.2019.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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16
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Montes-Olivas S, Marucci L, Homer M. Mathematical Models of Organoid Cultures. Front Genet 2019; 10:873. [PMID: 31592020 PMCID: PMC6761251 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2019.00873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2019] [Accepted: 08/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Organoids are engineered three-dimensional tissue cultures derived from stem cells and capable of self-renewal and self-organization into a variety of progenitors and differentiated cell types. An organoid resembles the cellular structure of an organ and retains some of its functionality, while still being amenable to in vitro experimental study. Compared with two-dimensional cultures, the three-dimensional structure of organoids provides a more realistic environment and structural organization of in vivo organs. Similarly, organoids are better suited to reproduce signaling pathway dynamics in vitro, due to a more realistic physiological environment. As such, organoids are a valuable tool to explore the dynamics of organogenesis and offer routes to personalized preclinical trials of cancer progression, invasion, and drug response. Complementary to experiments, mathematical and computational models are valuable instruments in the description of spatiotemporal dynamics of organoids. Simulations of mathematical models allow the study of multiscale dynamics of organoids, at both the intracellular and intercellular levels. Mathematical models also enable us to understand the underlying mechanisms responsible for phenotypic variation and the response to external stimulation in a cost- and time-effective manner. Many recent studies have developed laboratory protocols to grow organoids resembling different organs such as the intestine, brain, liver, pancreas, and mammary glands. However, the development of mathematical models specific to organoids remains comparatively underdeveloped. Here, we review the mathematical and computational approaches proposed so far to describe and predict organoid dynamics, reporting the simulation frameworks used and the models’ strengths and limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Montes-Olivas
- Department of Engineering Mathematics, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Lucia Marucci
- Department of Engineering Mathematics, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom.,School of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom.,Bristol Centre for Synthetic Biology, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Martin Homer
- Department of Engineering Mathematics, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
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Parker A, Lawson MAE, Vaux L, Pin C. Host-microbe interaction in the gastrointestinal tract. Environ Microbiol 2018; 20:2337-2353. [PMID: 28892253 PMCID: PMC6175405 DOI: 10.1111/1462-2920.13926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2017] [Revised: 08/25/2017] [Accepted: 08/31/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The gastrointestinal tract is a highly complex organ in which multiple dynamic physiological processes are tightly coordinated while interacting with a dense and extremely diverse microbial population. From establishment in early life, through to host-microbe symbiosis in adulthood, the gut microbiota plays a vital role in our development and health. The effect of the microbiota on gut development and physiology is highlighted by anatomical and functional changes in germ-free mice, affecting the gut epithelium, immune system and enteric nervous system. Microbial colonisation promotes competent innate and acquired mucosal immune systems, epithelial renewal, barrier integrity, and mucosal vascularisation and innervation. Interacting or shared signalling pathways across different physiological systems of the gut could explain how all these changes are coordinated during postnatal colonisation, or after the introduction of microbiota into germ-free models. The application of cell-based in-vitro experimental systems and mathematical modelling can shed light on the molecular and signalling pathways which regulate the development and maintenance of homeostasis in the gut and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aimée Parker
- Quadram Institute BioscienceNorwich Research ParkNR4 7UAUK
| | | | - Laura Vaux
- Quadram Institute BioscienceNorwich Research ParkNR4 7UAUK
| | - Carmen Pin
- Quadram Institute BioscienceNorwich Research ParkNR4 7UAUK
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18
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Almet AA, Hughes BD, Landman KA, Näthke IS, Osborne JM. A Multicellular Model of Intestinal Crypt Buckling and Fission. Bull Math Biol 2017; 80:335-359. [DOI: 10.1007/s11538-017-0377-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2017] [Accepted: 12/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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19
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Thalheim T, Quaas M, Herberg M, Braumann UD, Kerner C, Loeffler M, Aust G, Galle J. Linking stem cell function and growth pattern of intestinal organoids. Dev Biol 2017; 433:254-261. [PMID: 29198564 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2017.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2017] [Revised: 09/28/2017] [Accepted: 10/13/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Intestinal stem cells (ISCs) require well-defined signals from their environment in order to carry out their specific functions. Most of these signals are provided by neighboring cells that form a stem cell niche, whose shape and cellular composition self-organize. Major features of this self-organization can be studied in ISC-derived organoid culture. In this system, manipulation of essential pathways of stem cell maintenance and differentiation results in well-described growth phenotypes. We here provide an individual cell-based model of intestinal organoids that enables a mechanistic explanation of the observed growth phenotypes. In simulation studies of the 3D structure of expanding organoids, we investigate interdependences between Wnt- and Notch-signaling which control the shape of the stem cell niche and, thus, the growth pattern of the organoids. Similar to in vitro experiments, changes of pathway activities alter the cellular composition of the organoids and, thereby, affect their shape. Exogenous Wnt enforces transitions from branched into a cyst-like growth pattern; known to occur spontaneously during long term organoid expansion. Based on our simulation results, we predict that the cyst-like pattern is associated with biomechanical changes of the cells which assign them a growth advantage. The results suggest ongoing stem cell adaptation to in vitro conditions during long term expansion by stabilizing Wnt-activity. Our study exemplifies the potential of individual cell-based modeling in unraveling links between molecular stem cell regulation and 3D growth of tissues. This kind of modeling combines experimental results in the fields of stem cell biology and cell biomechanics constituting a prerequisite for a better understanding of tissue regeneration as well as developmental processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Torsten Thalheim
- Interdisciplinary Centre for Bioinformatics, Leipzig University, Haertelstr. 16-18, 04107 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Marianne Quaas
- Interdisciplinary Centre for Bioinformatics, Leipzig University, Haertelstr. 16-18, 04107 Leipzig, Germany; Department of Surgery, Research Laboratories, Leipzig University, .Liebigstr. 19, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Maria Herberg
- Interdisciplinary Centre for Bioinformatics, Leipzig University, Haertelstr. 16-18, 04107 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Ulf-Dietrich Braumann
- Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Information Technology, Leipzig University of Applied Sciences (HTWK), Wächterstraße 13, 04107 Leipzig, Germany; Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology (IZI), Perlickstraße 1, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Christiane Kerner
- Department of Surgery, Research Laboratories, Leipzig University, .Liebigstr. 19, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Markus Loeffler
- Institute for Medical Informatics, Statistics and Epidemiology, Leipzig University, Haertelstr. 16-18, 04107 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Gabriela Aust
- Department of Surgery, Research Laboratories, Leipzig University, .Liebigstr. 19, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Joerg Galle
- Interdisciplinary Centre for Bioinformatics, Leipzig University, Haertelstr. 16-18, 04107 Leipzig, Germany
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20
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Gassler N. Paneth cells in intestinal physiology and pathophysiology. World J Gastrointest Pathophysiol 2017; 8:150-160. [PMID: 29184701 PMCID: PMC5696613 DOI: 10.4291/wjgp.v8.i4.150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2017] [Revised: 07/28/2017] [Accepted: 08/16/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Small intestinal mucosa is characterised by villus forming connective tissues with highly specialised surface lining epithelial cells essentially contributing to the establishment of the intestinal border. In order to perform these diverse functions, spatially distinct compartments of epithelial differentiation are found along the crypt-villus axis, including Paneth cells as a highly specialised cell type. Paneth cells locate in crypts and assist undifferentiated columnar cells, called crypt base columnar cells, and rapidly amplifying cells in the regeneration of absorptive and secretory cell types. There is some evidence that Paneth cells are involved in the configuration and function of the stem cell zone as well as intestinal morphogenesis and crypt fission. However, the flow of Paneth cells to crypt bottoms requires strong Wnt signalling guided by EphB3 and partially antagonised by Notch. In addition, mature Paneth cells are essential for the production and secretion of antimicrobial peptides including α-defensins/cryptdins. These antimicrobials are physiologically involved in shaping the composition of the microbiome. The autophagy related 16-like 1 (ATG16L1) is a genetic risk factor and is involved in the exocytosis pathway of Paneth cells as well as a linker molecule to PPAR signalling and lipid metabolism. There is evidence that injuries of Paneth cells are involved in the etiopathogenesis of different intestinal diseases. The review provides an overview of the key points of Paneth cell activities in intestinal physiology and pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaus Gassler
- Institute of Pathology, RWTH Aachen University, Braunschweig 38114, Germany
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21
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Dahl-Jensen S, Grapin-Botton A. The physics of organoids: a biophysical approach to understanding organogenesis. Development 2017; 144:946-951. [PMID: 28292839 DOI: 10.1242/dev.143693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Organoids representing a diversity of tissues have recently been created, bridging the gap between cell culture and experiments performed in vivo Being small and amenable to continuous monitoring, they offer the opportunity to scrutinize the dynamics of organ development, including the exciting prospect of observing aspects of human embryo development live. From a physicist's perspective, their ability to self-organize - to differentiate and organize cells in space - calls for the identification of the simple rules that underlie this capacity. Organoids provide tractable conditions to investigate the effects of the growth environment, including its molecular composition and mechanical properties, along with the initial conditions such as cell number and type(s). From a theoretical standpoint, different types of in silico modeling can complement the measurements performed in organoids to understand the role of chemical diffusion, contact signaling, differential cell adhesion and mechanical controls. Here, we discuss what it means to take a biophysical approach to understanding organogenesis in vitro and how we might expect such approaches to develop in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Svend Dahl-Jensen
- DanStem and StemPhys, University of Copenhagen, 3B Blegdamsvej, Copenhagen N DK-2200, Denmark .,StemPhys, Niels Bohr Institute, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen DK-2100, Denmark
| | - Anne Grapin-Botton
- DanStem and StemPhys, University of Copenhagen, 3B Blegdamsvej, Copenhagen N DK-2200, Denmark
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22
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Abstract
Recent advances allow access to human cell-based intestinal organoids that recreate human physiology to levels not possible with conventional 2D cell cultures. Despite their huge potential, there are many challenges that remain. This review will cover recent bioengineering approaches to improve organoid maturation, scale up, reproducibility and analysis. The first section covers the advances in engineering the culture environment, followed by the section on tools for micro-manipulation and analysis of organoids. The last section reviews the computational models developed to guide the use of engineered materials and tools, and to interpret observed results as well. The ability to use organoids for discovery research, and the need to both exert exquisite experimental control and obtain quantitative measurements from organoid models means that the field is ripe for collaborative efforts between biologists, engineers, clinicians and industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ge-Ah Kim
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; Biointerfaces Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Jason R Spence
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; Center for Organogenesis, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Shuichi Takayama
- Biointerfaces Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; Macromolecular Science and Engineering Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
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23
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Hollins AJ, Parry L. Long-Term Culture of Intestinal Cell Progenitors: An Overview of Their Development, Application, and Associated Technologies. CURRENT PATHOBIOLOGY REPORTS 2016; 4:209-219. [PMID: 27882268 PMCID: PMC5101250 DOI: 10.1007/s40139-016-0119-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Long-term culture of adult progenitor cells in 3D is a recently emerging technology that inhabits the space between 2D cell lines and organ slice culture. RECENT FINDINGS Adaptations to defined media components in the wake of advances in ES and iPS cell culture has led to the identification of conditions that maintained intestinal cell progenitors in culture. These conditions retain cellular heterogeneity of the normal or tumour tissue, and the cultures have been shown to be genetically stable, such that substantial biobanks are being created from patient derived material. This coupled with advances in analytical tools has generated a field, characterized by the term "organoid culture", that has huge potential for advancing drug discovery, regenerative medicine, and furthering the understanding of fundamental intestinal biology. SUMMARY In this review, we describe the approaches available for the long-term culture of intestinal cells from normal and diseased tissue, the current challenges, and how the technology is likely to develop further.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lee Parry
- European Cancer Stem Cell Research Institute, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF24 4HQ UK
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24
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Langlands AJ, Almet AA, Appleton PL, Newton IP, Osborne JM, Näthke IS. Paneth Cell-Rich Regions Separated by a Cluster of Lgr5+ Cells Initiate Crypt Fission in the Intestinal Stem Cell Niche. PLoS Biol 2016; 14:e1002491. [PMID: 27348469 PMCID: PMC4922642 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.1002491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2015] [Accepted: 05/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The crypts of the intestinal epithelium house the stem cells that ensure the continual renewal of the epithelial cells that line the intestinal tract. Crypt number increases by a process called crypt fission, the division of a single crypt into two daughter crypts. Fission drives normal tissue growth and maintenance. Correspondingly, it becomes less frequent in adulthood. Importantly, fission is reactivated to drive adenoma growth. The mechanisms governing fission are poorly understood. However, only by knowing how normal fission operates can cancer-associated changes be elucidated. We studied normal fission in tissue in three dimensions using high-resolution imaging and used intestinal organoids to identify underlying mechanisms. We discovered that both the number and relative position of Paneth cells and Lgr5+ cells are important for fission. Furthermore, the higher stiffness and increased adhesion of Paneth cells are involved in determining the site of fission. Formation of a cluster of Lgr5+ cells between at least two Paneth-cell-rich domains establishes the site for the upward invagination that initiates fission. Crypt fission—a process responsible for normal intestinal growth and for the formation of adenomas —is governed by differential adhesion, stiffness, and proliferation of Lgr5+ cells and Paneth cells in the intestinal stem cell niche. The intestinal tract undergoes many changes during development, and after birth it has to significantly elongate and widen in order to increase the surface area for absorption. Crypt fission is a key process in intestinal tissue expansion and is also involved in adenoma growth. Despite the importance of crypt fission, the mechanisms controlling it are poorly understood. Understanding how crypt fission is regulated in normal tissue can help us to determine how the process changes in cancer. Here, we describe cellular behaviour during crypt fission. We identify a specific cellular arrangement in the intestinal stem cell niche that is associated with crypt fission and reveals insights into the mechanisms controlling crypt fission. There are two different cell types at the crypt base, Lgr5+ and Paneth cells, which play distinct roles in this process. We find that both their location and differences between them in proliferation, stiffness, and adhesion are important for fission. Based on our data, we propose a model in which stiffer and more adhesive Paneth cells are necessary to shape the crypt base and establish where fission occurs, whereas softer Lgr5+ cells allow shape changes and proliferation to expand newly formed crypts. Our model is an important step in understanding how crypt fission is initiated in normal tissue and provides a framework to understand how the process changes in tumorigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alistair J. Langlands
- Cell and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, United Kingdom
| | - Axel A. Almet
- School of Mathematics and Statistics, University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Paul L. Appleton
- Cell and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, United Kingdom
| | - Ian P. Newton
- Cell and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, United Kingdom
| | - James M. Osborne
- School of Mathematics and Statistics, University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Inke S. Näthke
- Cell and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
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25
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Matthys OB, Hookway TA, McDevitt TC. Design Principles for Engineering of Tissues from Human Pluripotent Stem Cells. CURRENT STEM CELL REPORTS 2016; 2:43-51. [PMID: 27330934 DOI: 10.1007/s40778-016-0030-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Recent advances in human pluripotent stem cell (hPSC) technologies have enabled the engineering of human tissue constructs for developmental studies, disease modeling, and drug screening platforms. In vitro tissue formation can be generally described at three levels of cellular organization. Multicellular hPSC constructs are initially formed either with polymeric scaffold materials or simply via self-assembly, adhesive mechanisms. Heterotypic interactions within hPSC tissue constructs can be achieved by physically mixing independently differentiated cell populations or coaxed to simultaneously co-emerge from a common population of undifferentiated cells. Higher order tissue architecture can be engineered by imposing external spatial constraints, such as molds and scaffolds, or depend upon cell-driven organization that exploits endogenous innate developmental mechanisms. The multicellular, heterogeneous, and highly organized structure of hPSC constructs ultimately dictates the resulting form and function of in vitro engineered human tissue models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oriane B Matthys
- The Gladstone Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, San Francisco, CA; Graduate Program in Bioengineering, University of California Berkeley and University of California San Francisco, Berkeley/San Francisco, CA
| | - Tracy A Hookway
- The Gladstone Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, San Francisco, CA
| | - Todd C McDevitt
- The Gladstone Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, San Francisco, CA; Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
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26
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The Viral Mimetic Polyinosinic:Polycytidylic Acid Alters the Growth Characteristics of Small Intestinal and Colonic Crypt Cultures. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0138531. [PMID: 26414184 PMCID: PMC4587363 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0138531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2015] [Accepted: 09/01/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background & Aims The intestinal epithelium is the first line of defense against enteric pathogens. We investigated the response of small intestinal and colonic crypt cultures to a panel of toll-like receptor ligands to assess the impact of microbial pattern recognition on epithelial growth. Methods Primary murine jejunal enteroids and colonoids were cultured with lipopeptide Pam3CSK4, lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid (Poly I:C) for 4 to 6 days. Surface area, budding and survival were assessed. Proliferation and numbers of lysozyme positive cells were quantified by flow cytometry. Gene expression was assessed by Nanostring and qRT-PCR. Results Exposure to Pam3CSK4 and LPS had minimal impact on either enteroids or colonoids. In contrast, Poly I:C increased the surface area of enteroids, while colonoids demonstrated decreased budding. Survival was decreased by Poly I:C in enteroids but not in colonoids. Both enteroids and colonoids exhibited upregulated gene expression of chemokines, but these were increased in magnitude in enteroids. Decreases in gene expression associated with epithelial differentiation and lysozyme positive cells were more apparent in enteroids than in colonoids. Baseline gene expression between enteroids and colonoids differed markedly in levels of stem cell and inflammatory markers. The changes in morphology induced by Poly I:C were mediated by the toll-like receptor adaptor molecule 1 (Ticam1) in enteroids but not in colonoids. Conclusions Poly I:C alters the molecular program of epithelial cells and shifts from absorption and digestion towards defense and inflammation. Diversity of responses to microbial patterns in enteroids and colonoids may underlie differences in susceptibility to infection along the intestinal tract.
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