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Otte EA, Smith TN, Glass N, Wolvetang EJ, Cooper-White JJ. Exploring the cell interactome: deciphering relative impacts of cell-cell communication in cell co-culture using a novel microfluidic device. LAB ON A CHIP 2024; 24:537-548. [PMID: 38168806 DOI: 10.1039/d3lc00670k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
The human body is made up of approximately 40 trillion cells in close contact, with the cellular density of individual tissues varying from 1 million to 1 billion cells per cubic centimetre. Interactions between different cell types (termed heterotypic) are thus common in vivo. Communication between cells can take the form of direct cell-cell contact mediated by plasma membrane proteins or through paracrine signalling mediated through the release, diffusion, and receipt of soluble factors. There is currently no systematic method to investigate the relative contributions of these mechanisms to cell behaviour. In this paper, we detail the conception, development and validation of a microfluidic device that allows cell-cell contact and paracrine signalling in defined areas and over a variety of biologically relevant length scales, referred to as the interactome-device or 'I-device'. Importantly, by intrinsic device design features, cells in different regions in the device are exposed to four different interaction types, including a) no heterotypic cell interaction, b) only paracrine signalling, c) only cell-cell direct contact, or d) both forms of interaction (paracrine and cell-cell direct contact) together. The device design was validated by both mathematical modelling and experiments. Perfused stem cell culture over the medium term and the formation of direct contact between cells in the culture chambers was confirmed. The I-device offers significant flexibility, being able to be applied to any combination of adherent cells to determine the relative contributions of different communication mechanisms to cellular outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen A Otte
- Tissue Engineering and Microfluidics Laboratory (TE&M), Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (AIBN), University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia.
- Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO), Manufacturing, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Taryn N Smith
- School of Chemical Engineering, University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Nick Glass
- Tissue Engineering and Microfluidics Laboratory (TE&M), Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (AIBN), University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia.
- The UQ Centre in Stem Cell Ageing and Regenerative Engineering (StemCARE), Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Ernst J Wolvetang
- Tissue Engineering and Microfluidics Laboratory (TE&M), Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (AIBN), University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia.
- The UQ Centre in Stem Cell Ageing and Regenerative Engineering (StemCARE), Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Justin J Cooper-White
- Tissue Engineering and Microfluidics Laboratory (TE&M), Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (AIBN), University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia.
- The UQ Centre in Stem Cell Ageing and Regenerative Engineering (StemCARE), Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
- School of Chemical Engineering, University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
- Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO), Manufacturing, Clayton, VIC, Australia
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2
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Zhu L, Tang Q, Mao Z, Chen H, Wu L, Qin Y. Microfluidic-based platforms for cell-to-cell communication studies. Biofabrication 2023; 16:012005. [PMID: 38035370 DOI: 10.1088/1758-5090/ad1116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
Intercellular communication is critical to the understanding of human health and disease progression. However, compared to traditional methods with inefficient analysis, microfluidic co-culture technologies developed for cell-cell communication research can reliably analyze crucial biological processes, such as cell signaling, and monitor dynamic intercellular interactions under reproducible physiological cell co-culture conditions. Moreover, microfluidic-based technologies can achieve precise spatial control of two cell types at the single-cell level with high throughput. Herein, this review focuses on recent advances in microfluidic-based 2D and 3D devices developed to confine two or more heterogeneous cells in the study of intercellular communication and decipher the advantages and limitations of these models in specific cellular research scenarios. This review will stimulate the development of more functionalized microfluidic platforms for biomedical research, inspiring broader interests across various disciplines to better comprehend cell-cell communication and other fields, such as tumor heterogeneity and drug screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lvyang Zhu
- Nantong Key Laboratory of Public Health and Medical Analysis, School of Public Health, Nantong University, No. 9, Seyuan Road, Nantong 226019, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Qu Tang
- Nantong Key Laboratory of Public Health and Medical Analysis, School of Public Health, Nantong University, No. 9, Seyuan Road, Nantong 226019, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhenzhen Mao
- Nantong Key Laboratory of Public Health and Medical Analysis, School of Public Health, Nantong University, No. 9, Seyuan Road, Nantong 226019, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Huanhuan Chen
- Nantong Key Laboratory of Public Health and Medical Analysis, School of Public Health, Nantong University, No. 9, Seyuan Road, Nantong 226019, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Li Wu
- Nantong Key Laboratory of Public Health and Medical Analysis, School of Public Health, Nantong University, No. 9, Seyuan Road, Nantong 226019, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuling Qin
- Nantong Key Laboratory of Public Health and Medical Analysis, School of Public Health, Nantong University, No. 9, Seyuan Road, Nantong 226019, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
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3
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Yu X, Mukwaya V, Mann S, Dou H. Signal Transduction in Artificial Cells. SMALL METHODS 2023; 7:e2300231. [PMID: 37116092 DOI: 10.1002/smtd.202300231] [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: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, significant progress has been made in the emerging field of constructing biomimetic soft compartments with life-like behaviors. Given that biological activities occur under a flux of energy and matter exchange, the implementation of rudimentary signaling pathways in artificial cells (protocells) is a prerequisite for the development of adaptive sense-response phenotypes in cytomimetic models. Herein, recent approaches to the integration of signal transduction modules in model protocells prepared by bottom-up construction are discussed. The approaches are classified into two categories involving invasive biochemical signals or non-invasive physical stimuli. In the former mechanism, transducers with intrinsic recognition capability respond with high specificity, while in the latter, artificial cells respond through intra-protocellular energy transduction. Although major challenges remain in the pursuit of a sophisticated artificial signaling network for the orchestration of higher-order cytomimetic models, significant advances have been made in establishing rudimentary protocell communication networks, providing novel organizational models for the development of life-like microsystems and new avenues in protoliving technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolei Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Metal Matrix Composites, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
- Zhangjiang Institute for Advanced Study (ZIAS), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Vincent Mukwaya
- State Key Laboratory of Metal Matrix Composites, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
- Zhangjiang Institute for Advanced Study (ZIAS), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Stephen Mann
- State Key Laboratory of Metal Matrix Composites, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
- Zhangjiang Institute for Advanced Study (ZIAS), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 201203, China
- Max Planck Bristol Centre for Minimal Biology and Centre for Protolife Research, School of Chemistry, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS8 1TS, UK
| | - Hongjing Dou
- State Key Laboratory of Metal Matrix Composites, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
- Zhangjiang Institute for Advanced Study (ZIAS), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 201203, China
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4
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McLoughlin S, McKenna AR, Fisher JP. Fabrication Strategies for Engineered Thin Membranous Tissues. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2023. [PMID: 37314953 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.3c00133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Thin membranous tissues (TMTs) are anatomical structures consisting of multiple stratified cell layers, each less than 100 μm in thickness. While these tissues are small in scale, they play critical roles in normal tissue function and healing. Examples of TMTs include the tympanic membrane, cornea, periosteum, and epidermis. Damage to these structures can be caused by trauma or congenital disabilities, resulting in hearing loss, blindness, dysfunctional bone development, and impaired wound repair, respectively. While autologous and allogeneic tissue sources for these membranes exist, they are significantly limited by availability and patient complications. Tissue engineering has therefore become a popular strategy for TMT replacement. However, due to their complex microscale architecture, TMTs are often difficult to replicate in a biomimetic manner. The critical challenge in TMT fabrication is balancing fine resolution with the ability to mimic complex target tissue anatomy. This Review reports existing TMT fabrication strategies, their resolution and material capabilities, cell and tissue response, and the advantages and disadvantages of each technique.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon McLoughlin
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland 20742, United States
- Center for Engineering Complex Tissues, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland 20742, United States
| | - Abigail Ruth McKenna
- Center for Engineering Complex Tissues, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland 20742, United States
- Department of Biology, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland 20742, United States
| | - John P Fisher
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland 20742, United States
- Center for Engineering Complex Tissues, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland 20742, United States
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Wu T, Jing T, Lu Y, Zhang F, He P. In Situ Investigation of Intercellular Signal Transduction Based on Detection of Extracellular pH and ROS by Scanning Electrochemical Microscopy. Anal Chem 2023; 95:7468-7474. [PMID: 37134200 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.2c04655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Intercellular signal transduction plays an important role in the regulation of biological activities. Herein, a Transwell chamber-based two-layer device combined with scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM) technology has been proposed for in situ investigation of intercellular signal transduction. The cells in the device were cultured on two layers: the lower layer was for signaling cells, and the upper layer was for signal-receiving cells. The extracellular pH (pHe) and ROS (reactive oxygen species, ROSe) were in situ monitored by SECM potentiometric mode and SECM-MPSW (multipotential step waveform), respectively. When the signaling cells, including MCF-7, HeLa, and HFF cells, were electrically stimulated, the ROS release of the signal-receiving cells was promoted. By detecting the pH at the cell surface, it was found that more H+ generated by the signaling cells and two cell layers at a shorter distance could both cause the signal-receiving cells to release more ROS, revealing that H+ is one of the signaling molecules of intercellular communication. This SECM-based in situ monitoring strategy provides an effective way to investigate intercellular signal transduction and explore the corresponding mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Wu
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200241, P. R. China
| | - Ting Jing
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200241, P. R. China
| | - Yuqi Lu
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200241, P. R. China
| | - Fan Zhang
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200241, P. R. China
| | - Pingang He
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200241, P. R. China
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Fang W, Xiong T, Pak OS, Zhu L. Data-Driven Intelligent Manipulation of Particles in Microfluidics. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2205382. [PMID: 36538743 PMCID: PMC9929134 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202205382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Automated manipulation of small particles using external (e.g., magnetic, electric and acoustic) fields has been an emerging technique widely used in different areas. The manipulation typically necessitates a reduced-order physical model characterizing the field-driven motion of particles in a complex environment. Such models are available only for highly idealized settings but are absent for a general scenario of particle manipulation typically involving complex nonlinear processes, which has limited its application. In this work, the authors present a data-driven architecture for controlling particles in microfluidics based on hydrodynamic manipulation. The architecture replaces the difficult-to-derive model by a generally trainable artificial neural network to describe the kinematics of particles, and subsequently identifies the optimal operations to manipulate particles. The authors successfully demonstrate a diverse set of particle manipulations in a numerically emulated microfluidic chamber, including targeted assembly of particles and subsequent navigation of the assembled cluster, simultaneous path planning for multiple particles, and steering one particle through obstacles. The approach achieves both spatial and temporal controllability of high precision for these settings. This achievement revolutionizes automated particle manipulation, showing the potential of data-driven approaches and machine learning in improving microfluidic technologies for enhanced flexibility and intelligence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen‐Zhen Fang
- Department of Mechanical EngineeringNational University of SingaporeSingapore117575Singapore
- Key Laboratory of Thermo‐Fluid Science and EngineeringMOE, Xi'an Jiaotong UniversityXi'an710049China
| | - Tongzhao Xiong
- Department of Mechanical EngineeringNational University of SingaporeSingapore117575Singapore
| | - On Shun Pak
- Department of Mechanical EngineeringSanta Clara UniversitySanta ClaraCA95053USA
| | - Lailai Zhu
- Department of Mechanical EngineeringNational University of SingaporeSingapore117575Singapore
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Wu Z, Pan M, Wang J, Wen B, Lu L, Ren H. Acoustofluidics for cell patterning and tissue engineering. ENGINEERED REGENERATION 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.engreg.2022.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/15/2022] Open
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Tang X, Huang Q, Arai T, Liu X. Cell pairing for biological analysis in microfluidic devices. BIOMICROFLUIDICS 2022; 16:061501. [PMID: 36389274 PMCID: PMC9646252 DOI: 10.1063/5.0095828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Cell pairing at the single-cell level usually allows a few cells to contact or seal in a single chamber and provides high-resolution imaging. It is pivotal for biological research, including understanding basic cell functions, creating cancer treatment technologies, developing drugs, and more. Laboratory chips based on microfluidics have been widely used to trap, immobilize, and analyze cells due to their high efficiency, high throughput, and good biocompatibility properties. Cell pairing technology in microfluidic devices provides spatiotemporal research on cellular interactions and a highly controlled approach for cell heterogeneity studies. In the last few decades, many researchers have emphasized cell pairing research based on microfluidics. They designed various microfluidic device structures for different biological applications. Herein, we describe the current physical methods of microfluidic devices to trap cell pairs. We emphatically summarize the practical applications of cell pairing in microfluidic devices, including cell fusion, cell immunity, gap junction intercellular communication, cell co-culture, and other applications. Finally, we review the advances and existing challenges of the presented devices and then discuss the possible development directions to promote medical and biological research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqing Tang
- Key Laboratory of Biomimetic Robots and Systems, Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Intelligent Control and Decision of Complex System, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Intelligent Robots and Systems, and School of Mechatronical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Qiang Huang
- Key Laboratory of Biomimetic Robots and Systems, Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Intelligent Control and Decision of Complex System, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Intelligent Robots and Systems, and School of Mechatronical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Tatsuo Arai
- Key Laboratory of Biomimetic Robots and Systems, Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Intelligent Control and Decision of Complex System, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Intelligent Robots and Systems, and School of Mechatronical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Xiaoming Liu
- Key Laboratory of Biomimetic Robots and Systems, Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Intelligent Control and Decision of Complex System, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Intelligent Robots and Systems, and School of Mechatronical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
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Watson C, Liu C, Ansari A, Miranda HC, Somoza RA, Senyo SE. Multiplexed microfluidic chip for cell co-culture. Analyst 2022; 147:5409-5418. [PMID: 36300548 PMCID: PMC10077866 DOI: 10.1039/d2an01344d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Paracrine signaling is challenging to study in vitro, as conventional culture tools dilute soluble factors and offer little to no spatiotemporal control over signaling. Microfluidic chips offer potential to address both of these issues. However, few solutions offer both control over onset and duration of cell-cell communication, and high throughput. We have developed a microfluidic chip designed to culture cells in adjacent chambers, separated by valves to selectively allow or prevent exchange of paracrine signals. The chip features 16 fluidic inputs and 128 individually-addressable chambers arranged in 32 sets of 4 chambers. Media can be continuously perfused or delivered by diffusion, which we model under different culture conditions to ensure normal cell viability. Immunocytochemistry assays can be performed in the chip, which we modeled and fine-tuned to reduce total assay time to 1 h. Finally, we validate the use of the chip for co-culture studies by showing that HEK293Ta cells respond to signals secreted by RAW 264.7 immune cells in adjacent chambers, only when the valve between the chambers is opened.
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Affiliation(s)
- Craig Watson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA.
| | - Chao Liu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA.
| | - Ali Ansari
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA.
| | - Helen C Miranda
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Rodrigo A Somoza
- Department of Biology, Skeletal Research Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
- CWRU Center for Multimodal Evaluation of Engineered Cartilage, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Samuel E Senyo
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA.
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Zommiti M, Connil N, Tahrioui A, Groboillot A, Barbey C, Konto-Ghiorghi Y, Lesouhaitier O, Chevalier S, Feuilloley MGJ. Organs-on-Chips Platforms Are Everywhere: A Zoom on Biomedical Investigation. Bioengineering (Basel) 2022; 9:646. [PMID: 36354557 PMCID: PMC9687856 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering9110646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 08/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the decades, conventional in vitro culture systems and animal models have been used to study physiology, nutrient or drug metabolisms including mechanical and physiopathological aspects. However, there is an urgent need for Integrated Testing Strategies (ITS) and more sophisticated platforms and devices to approach the real complexity of human physiology and provide reliable extrapolations for clinical investigations and personalized medicine. Organ-on-a-chip (OOC), also known as a microphysiological system, is a state-of-the-art microfluidic cell culture technology that sums up cells or tissue-to-tissue interfaces, fluid flows, mechanical cues, and organ-level physiology, and it has been developed to fill the gap between in vitro experimental models and human pathophysiology. The wide range of OOC platforms involves the miniaturization of cell culture systems and enables a variety of novel experimental techniques. These range from modeling the independent effects of biophysical forces on cells to screening novel drugs in multi-organ microphysiological systems, all within microscale devices. As in living biosystems, the development of vascular structure is the salient feature common to almost all organ-on-a-chip platforms. Herein, we provide a snapshot of this fast-evolving sophisticated technology. We will review cutting-edge developments and advances in the OOC realm, discussing current applications in the biomedical field with a detailed description of how this technology has enabled the reconstruction of complex multi-scale and multifunctional matrices and platforms (at the cellular and tissular levels) leading to an acute understanding of the physiopathological features of human ailments and infections in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Zommiti
- Research Unit Bacterial Communication and Anti-infectious Strategies (CBSA, UR4312), University of Rouen Normandie, 27000 Evreux, France
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Marc G. J. Feuilloley
- Research Unit Bacterial Communication and Anti-infectious Strategies (CBSA, UR4312), University of Rouen Normandie, 27000 Evreux, France
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11
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Kosaka T, Yamaguchi S, Izuta S, Yamahira S, Shibasaki Y, Tateno H, Okamoto A. Bioorthogonal Photoreactive Surfaces for Single-Cell Analysis of Intercellular Communications. J Am Chem Soc 2022; 144:17980-17988. [PMID: 36126284 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.2c07321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Methods to construct single-cell pairs of heterogeneous cells attract attention because of their potential in cell biological and medical applications for analyzing individual intercellular communications such as immune and nerve synaptic interactions. Photoactivatable substrate surfaces for cell anchoring are promising tools to achieve single-cell pairing. However, conventional surfaces that photoactivate a single type of cell anchoring moiety restrict the combination of cell pair types and their applications. We developed a photoresponsive material comprising a bioorthogonal photoreactive moiety and non-cell adhesive hydrophilic polymer. The material-coated surface allows conjugation with various cell anchoring molecules in response to light at specific timings and consequently achieves light-induced anchoring of a variety of cells at defined regions. Using the platform surface, an array of cancer cell and natural-killer (NK) cell pairs was constructed on a flat substrate surface and the dynamic morphological changes of the cancer cells were monitored by cytotoxic interaction with NK cells at a single-cell level. The photoreactive surface is a useful tool for image-based investigation of the communications between a variety of cell types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takahiro Kosaka
- Department of Chemistry & Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan
| | - Satoshi Yamaguchi
- Department of Chemistry & Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan.,PRESTO, Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST), 7, Gobancho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 102-0076, Japan
| | - Shin Izuta
- Department of Chemistry & Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan
| | - Shinya Yamahira
- Center for Medical Sciences, St. Luke's International University, 9-1 Akashi-cho, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-8560, Japan
| | - Yoshikazu Shibasaki
- Research Center for Advanced Science and Technology (RCAST), The University of Tokyo, 4-6-1 Komaba, Meguro-ku, Tokyo 153-8904, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Tateno
- Cellular and Molecular Biotechnology Research Institute, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), 1-1-1 Higashi, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8566, Japan
| | - Akimitsu Okamoto
- Department of Chemistry & Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan
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12
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Kalot R, Mhanna R, Talhouk R. Organ-on-a-chip platforms as novel advancements for studying heterogeneity, metastasis, and drug efficacy in breast cancer. Pharmacol Ther 2022; 237:108156. [PMID: 35150784 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2022.108156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Revised: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Breast cancer has the highest cancer incidence rate in women worldwide. Therapies for breast cancer have shown high success rates, yet many cases of recurrence and drug resistance are still reported. Developing innovative strategies for studying breast cancer may improve therapeutic outcomes of the disease by providing better insight into the associated molecular mechanisms. A novel advancement in breast cancer research is the utilization of organ-on-a-chip (OOAC) technology to establish in vitro physiologically relevant breast cancer biomimetic models. This emerging technology combines microfluidics and tissue culturing methods to establish organ-specific micro fabricated culture models. Here, we shed light on the advantages of OOAC platforms over conventional in vivo and in vitro models in terms of mimicking tissue heterogeneity, disease progression, and facilitating pharmacological drug testing with a focus on models of the mammary gland in both normal and breast cancer states. By highlighting the various designs and applications of the breast-on-a-chip platforms, we show that the latter propose means to facilitate breast cancer-related studies and provide an efficient approach for therapeutic drug screening in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita Kalot
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon
| | - Rami Mhanna
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Maroun Semaan Faculty of Engineering and Architecture, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon
| | - Rabih Talhouk
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon.
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Journey of organ on a chip technology and its role in future healthcare scenario. APPLIED SURFACE SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 9. [PMCID: PMC9000345 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsadv.2022.100246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Organ on a chip refers to microengineered biomimetic system which reflects structural and functional characteristics of human tissue. It involves biomaterial technology, cell biology and engineering combined together in a miniaturized platform. Several models using different organs such as lungs on a chip, liver on a chip, kidney on a chip, heart on a chip, intestine on a chip and skin on a chip have been successfully developed. Food and Drug administration (FDA) has also shown confidence in this technology and has partnered with industries/institutes which are working with this technology. In this review, the concepts and applications of Organ on a chip model in different scientific domains including disease model development, drug screening, toxicology, pathogenesis study, efficacy testing and virology is discussed. It is envisaged that amalgamation of various organs on chip modules into a unified body on chip device is of utmost importance for diagnosis and treatment, especially considering the complications due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. It is expected that the market demand for developing organ on chip devices to skyrocket in the near future.
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Yang H, Sinha N, Rand U, Hauser H, Köster M, de Greef TFA, Tel J. A universal microfluidic approach for integrated analysis of temporal homocellular and heterocellular signaling and migration dynamics. Biosens Bioelectron 2022; 211:114353. [PMID: 35594624 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2022.114353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Revised: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Microfluidics offers precise and dynamic control of microenvironments for the study of temporal cellular responses. However, recent research focusing solely on either homocellular (single-cell, population) or heterocellular response may yield insufficient output, which possibly leads to partial comprehension about the underlying mechanisms of signaling events and corresponding cellular behaviors. Here, a universal microfluidic approach is developed for integrated analysis of temporal signaling and cell migration dynamics in multiple cellular contexts (single-cell, population and coculture). This approach allows to confine the desired number or mixture of specific cell sample types in a single device. Precise single cell seeding was achieved manually with bidirectional controllability. Coupled with time-lapse imaging, temporal cellular responses can be observed with single-cell resolution. Using NIH3T3 cells stably expressing signal transducer and activator of transcription 1/2 (STAT1/2) activity biosensors, temporal STAT1/2 activation and cell migration dynamics were explored in isolated single cells, populations and cocultures stimulated with temporal inputs, such as single-pulse and continuous signals of interferon γ (IFNγ) or lipopolysaccharide (LPS). We demonstrate distinct dynamic responses of fibroblasts in different cellular contexts. Our presented approach facilitates a multi-dimensional understanding of STAT signaling and corresponding migration behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haowen Yang
- Laboratory of Immunoengineering, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, 5600MB, the Netherlands; Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, 5600 MB, the Netherlands
| | - Nidhi Sinha
- Laboratory of Immunoengineering, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, 5600MB, the Netherlands; Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, 5600 MB, the Netherlands
| | - Ulfert Rand
- Model Systems for Infection and Immunity, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, 38124, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Hansjörg Hauser
- Model Systems for Infection and Immunity, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, 38124, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Mario Köster
- Model Systems for Infection and Immunity, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, 38124, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Tom F A de Greef
- Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, 5600 MB, the Netherlands; Computational Biology Group, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, 5600MB, Eindhoven, the Netherlands
| | - Jurjen Tel
- Laboratory of Immunoengineering, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, 5600MB, the Netherlands; Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, 5600 MB, the Netherlands.
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15
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Message in a Bottle: Endothelial Cell Regulation by Extracellular Vesicles. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14081969. [PMID: 35454874 PMCID: PMC9026533 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14081969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Elucidating the role of extracellular vesicles (EVs) in the communication mechanisms between cancer and endothelial cells (ECs) within the tumor microenvironment is an exciting challenge. At the same time, due to their ability to convey bioactive molecules, EVs may be potentially relevant from a therapeutic perspective for diverse vascular pathologies. Abstract Intercellular communication is a key biological mechanism that is fundamental to maintain tissue homeostasis. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have emerged as critical regulators of cell–cell communication in both physiological and pathological conditions, due to their ability to shuttle a variety of cell constituents, such as DNA, RNA, lipids, active metabolites, cytosolic, and cell surface proteins. In particular, endothelial cells (ECs) are prominently regulated by EVs released by neighboring cell types. The discovery that cancer cell-derived EVs can control the functions of ECs has prompted the investigation of their roles in tumor angiogenesis and cancer progression. In particular, here, we discuss evidence that supports the roles of exosomes in EC regulation within the tumor microenvironment and in vascular dysfunction leading to atherosclerosis. Moreover, we survey the molecular mechanisms and exosomal cargoes that have been implicated in explanations of these regulatory effects.
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16
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Holloway PM. Novel, Emerging Chip Models of the Blood-Brain Barrier and Future Directions. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2492:193-224. [PMID: 35733046 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2289-6_11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The use of microfluidic chips is now allowing for more advanced modelling of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) in vitro, recapitulating heterotypic interactions, 3D architecture, and physiological flow. This chapter will give an introduction to these new technologies and how they are being applied to model the BBB and neurovascular unit (NVU). A foundational understanding of the fluid dynamics germane to the effective use of these chips will be set and an overview of how physical phenomena at the microscale can be exploited to enable new possibilities to control the cell culture environment. The four main approaches to construct microfluidic blood vessel mimetics will be discussed with examples of how these techniques are being applied to model the BBB and more recently to study specific neurovascular disease processes. Finally, practical guidance will be given for researchers wishing to adopt these new techniques along with a summary of the challenges, limitations faced, and new opportunities opened up by these advanced cell culture systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul M Holloway
- Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
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17
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Marcos LF, Wilson SL, Roach P. Tissue engineering of the retina: from organoids to microfluidic chips. J Tissue Eng 2021; 12:20417314211059876. [PMID: 34917332 PMCID: PMC8669127 DOI: 10.1177/20417314211059876] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite advancements in tissue engineering, challenges remain for fabricating functional tissues that incorporate essential features including vasculature and complex cellular organisation. Monitoring of engineered tissues also raises difficulties, particularly when cell population maturity is inherent to function. Microfluidic, or lab-on-a-chip, platforms address the complexity issues of conventional 3D models regarding cell numbers and functional connectivity. Regulation of biochemical/biomechanical conditions can create dynamic structures, providing microenvironments that permit tissue formation while quantifying biological processes at a single cell level. Retinal organoids provide relevant cell numbers to mimic in vivo spatiotemporal development, where conventional culture approaches fail. Modern bio-fabrication techniques allow for retinal organoids to be combined with microfluidic devices to create anato-physiologically accurate structures or ‘retina-on-a-chip’ devices that could revolution ocular sciences. Here we present a focussed review of retinal tissue engineering, examining the challenges and how some of these have been overcome using organoids, microfluidics, and bioprinting technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis F Marcos
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, Loughborough University, Leicestershire, UK
| | - Samantha L Wilson
- Centre for Biological Engineering, School of Mechanical, Electrical and Manufacturing Engineering, Loughborough University, Leicestershire, UK
| | - Paul Roach
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, Loughborough University, Leicestershire, UK
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18
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Fan L, Guan Z, Luo T, Ren J, Lam RHW, Sun D. High-throughput deterministic pairing and coculturing of single cells in a microwell array using combined hydrodynamic and recirculation flow captures. BIOMICROFLUIDICS 2021; 15:054103. [PMID: 34737839 PMCID: PMC8550803 DOI: 10.1063/5.0066668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Single-cell level coculture facilitates the study of cellular interactions for uncovering unknown physiological mechanisms, which are crucial for the development of new therapies for diseases. However, efficient approaches for high-throughput deterministic pairing of single cells and traceable coculture remain lacking. In this study, we report a new microfluidic device, which combines hydrodynamic and recirculation flow captures, to achieve high-throughput and deterministic pairing of single cells in a microwell array for traceable coculture. Compared with the existing techniques, the developed device exhibits advantages with regard to pairing efficiency, throughput, determinacy, and traceability. Through repeating a two-step method, which sequentially captures single cells in a meandering channel and a microwell array, cell number and type can be easily controlled. Double and triple single-cell pairings have been demonstrated with an efficiency of 72.2% and 38.0%, respectively. Cellular engulfment using two breast cell lines is investigated on a developed microfluidic chip as a biological case study, in which the morphological characteristics and the incidence rate are analyzed. This research provides an efficient and reliable alternative for the coculture of single cells on the microfluidic platform for various biomedical applications, such as studying cellular engulfment and tumor sphere formation under single-cell pairing condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Fan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Zhangyan Guan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Tao Luo
- Department of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Jifeng Ren
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Raymond H. W. Lam
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Dong Sun
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed:
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19
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Pang L, Ding J, Liu XX, Kou Z, Guo L, Xu X, Fan SK. Microfluidics-Based Single-Cell Research for Intercellular Interaction. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:680307. [PMID: 34458252 PMCID: PMC8397490 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.680307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Intercellular interaction between cell-cell and cell-ECM is critical to numerous biology and medical studies, such as stem cell differentiation, immunotherapy and tissue engineering. Traditional methods employed for delving into intercellular interaction are limited by expensive equipment and sophisticated procedures. Microfluidics technique is considered as one of the powerful measures capable of precisely capturing and manipulating cells and achieving low reagent consumption and high throughput with decidedly integrated functional components. Over the past few years, microfluidics-based systems for intercellular interaction study at a single-cell level have become frequently adopted. This review focuses on microfluidic single-cell studies for intercellular interaction in a 2D or 3D environment with a variety of cell manipulating techniques and applications. The challenges to be overcome are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Long Pang
- School of Basic Medical Science, The Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Brain Disorders, Xi’an Medical University, Xi’an, China
- Xi’an Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microorganism and Tumor Immunity, Xi’an Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Jing Ding
- Department of Mechanical and Nuclear Engineering, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, United States
| | - Xi-Xian Liu
- Key Laboratory of Thermo-Fluid Science and Engineering of MOE, School of Energy and Power Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Zhixuan Kou
- School of Basic Medical Science, The Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Brain Disorders, Xi’an Medical University, Xi’an, China
- Xi’an Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microorganism and Tumor Immunity, Xi’an Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Lulu Guo
- School of Basic Medical Science, The Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Brain Disorders, Xi’an Medical University, Xi’an, China
- Xi’an Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microorganism and Tumor Immunity, Xi’an Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Xi Xu
- School of Basic Medical Science, The Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Brain Disorders, Xi’an Medical University, Xi’an, China
- Xi’an Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microorganism and Tumor Immunity, Xi’an Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Shih-Kang Fan
- Department of Mechanical and Nuclear Engineering, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, United States
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20
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Ly KL, Hu P, Pham LHP, Luo X. Flow-assembled chitosan membranes in microfluidics: recent advances and applications. J Mater Chem B 2021; 9:3258-3283. [PMID: 33725061 PMCID: PMC8369861 DOI: 10.1039/d1tb00045d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The integration of membranes in microfluidic devices has been extensively exploited for various chemical engineering and bioengineering applications over the past few decades. To augment the applicability of membrane-integrated microfluidic platforms for biomedical and tissue engineering studies, a biologically friendly fabrication process with naturally occurring materials is highly desired. The in situ preparation of membranes involving interfacial reactions between parallel laminar flows in microfluidic networks, known as the flow-assembly technique, is one of the most biocompatible approaches. Membranes of many types with flexible geometries have been successfully assembled inside complex microchannels using this facile and versatile flow-assembly approach. Chitosan is a naturally abundant polysaccharide known for its pronounced biocompatibility, biodegradability, good mechanical stability, ease of modification and processing, and film-forming ability under near-physiological conditions. Chitosan membranes assembled by flows in microfluidics are freestanding, robust, semipermeable, and well-aligned in microstructure, and show high affinity to bioactive reagents and biological components (e.g. biomolecules, nanoparticles, or cells) that provide facile biological functionalization of microdevices. Here, we discuss the recent developments and optimizations in the flow-assembly of chitosan membranes and chitosan-based membranes in microfluidics. Furthermore, we recapitulate the applications of the chitosan membrane-integrated microfluidic platforms dedicated to biology, biochemistry, and drug release fields, and envision the future developments of this important platform with versatile functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khanh L Ly
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Catholic University of America, Washington, DC 20064, USA
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21
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Fang G, Lu H, Aboulkheyr Es H, Wang D, Liu Y, Warkiani ME, Lin G, Jin D. Unidirectional intercellular communication on a microfluidic chip. Biosens Bioelectron 2021; 175:112833. [PMID: 33288428 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2020.112833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2020] [Revised: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Cell co-culture serves as a standard method to study intercellular communication. However, random diffusion of signal molecules during co-culture may arouse crosstalk among different types of cells and hide directive signal-target responses. Here, a microfluidic chip is proposed to study unidirectional intercellular communication by spatially controlling the flow of the signal molecules. The chip contains two separated chambers connected by two channels where the culture media flows oppositely. A zigzag signal-blocking channel is designed to study the function of a specific signal. The chip is applied to study the unidirectional communication between tumor cells and stromal cells. It shows that the expression of α-smooth muscle actin (a marker of cancer-associated fibroblast (CAF)) of both MRC-5 fibroblasts and mesenchymal stem cells can be up-regulated only by the secreta from invasive MDA-MB-231 cells, but not from non-invasive MCF-7 cells. The proliferation of the tumor cells can be improved by the stromal cells. Moreover, transforming growth factor beta 1 is found as one of the main factors for CAF transformation via the signal-blocking function. The chip achieves unidirectional cell communication along X-axis, signal concentration gradient along Y-axis and 3D cell culture along Z-axis, which provides a useful tool for cell communication studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guocheng Fang
- Institute for Biomedical Materials and Devices, School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Broadway Ultimo, Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Hongxu Lu
- Institute for Biomedical Materials and Devices, School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Broadway Ultimo, Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia.
| | - Hamidreza Aboulkheyr Es
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, Broadway Ultimo, Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Dejiang Wang
- Institute for Biomedical Materials and Devices, School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Broadway Ultimo, Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Yuan Liu
- Institute for Biomedical Materials and Devices, School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Broadway Ultimo, Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Majid Ebrahimi Warkiani
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, Broadway Ultimo, Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Gungun Lin
- Institute for Biomedical Materials and Devices, School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Broadway Ultimo, Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Dayong Jin
- Institute for Biomedical Materials and Devices, School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Broadway Ultimo, Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia; UTS-SUSTech Joint Research Centre for Biomedical Materials & Devices, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China.
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22
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Yang BA, Westerhof TM, Sabin K, Merajver SD, Aguilar CA. Engineered Tools to Study Intercellular Communication. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2021; 8:2002825. [PMID: 33552865 PMCID: PMC7856891 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202002825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2020] [Revised: 10/10/2020] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
All multicellular organisms rely on intercellular communication networks to coordinate physiological functions. As members of a dynamic social network, each cell receives, processes, and redistributes biological information to define and maintain tissue homeostasis. Uncovering the molecular programs underlying these processes is critical for prevention of disease and aging and development of therapeutics. The study of intercellular communication requires techniques that reduce the scale and complexity of in vivo biological networks while resolving the molecular heterogeneity in "omic" layers that contribute to cell state and function. Recent advances in microengineering and high-throughput genomics offer unprecedented spatiotemporal control over cellular interactions and the ability to study intercellular communication in a high-throughput and mechanistic manner. Herein, this review discusses how salient engineered approaches and sequencing techniques can be applied to understand collective cell behavior and tissue functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin A. Yang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Biointerfaces Institute2800 Plymouth Road, North Campus Research ComplexAnn ArborMIA10‐183USA
| | - Trisha M. Westerhof
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Biointerfaces Institute2800 Plymouth Road, North Campus Research ComplexAnn ArborMIA10‐183USA
- Department of Internal MedicineDivision of Hematology/Oncology and Rogel Cancer Center1500 East Medical Center Drive, Rogel Cancer CenterAnn ArborMI7314USA
| | - Kaitlyn Sabin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Biointerfaces Institute2800 Plymouth Road, North Campus Research ComplexAnn ArborMIA10‐183USA
| | - Sofia D. Merajver
- Department of Internal MedicineDivision of Hematology/Oncology and Rogel Cancer Center1500 East Medical Center Drive, Rogel Cancer CenterAnn ArborMI7314USA
| | - Carlos A. Aguilar
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Biointerfaces Institute2800 Plymouth Road, North Campus Research ComplexAnn ArborMIA10‐183USA
- Program in Cellular and Molecular Biology2800 Plymouth Road, North Campus Research ComplexAnn ArborMIA10‐183USA
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23
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Picosecond Laser Processing of Photosensitive Glass for Generation of Biologically Relevant Microenvironments. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/app10248947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Various material processing techniques have been proposed for fabrication of smart surfaces that can modulate cellular behavior and address specific clinical issues. Among them, laser-based technologies have attracted growing interest due to processing versatility. Latest development of ultrashort pulse lasers with pulse widths from several tens of femtoseconds (fs) to several picoseconds (ps) allows clean microfabrication of a variety of materials at micro- and nanoscale both at surface and in volume. In this study, we addressed the possibility of 3D microfabrication of photosensitive glass (PG) by high repetition rate ps laser-assisted etching (PLAE) to improve the fabrication efficiency for the development of useful tools to be used for specific biological applications. Microfluidic structures fabricated by PLAE should provide the flow aspects, 3D characteristics, and possibility of producing functional structures to achieve the biologically relevant microenvironments. Specifically, the microfluidic structures could induce cellular chemotaxis over extended periods in diffusion-based gradient media. More importantly, the 3D characteristics could reproduce capillaries for in vitro testing of relevant organ models. Single cell trapping and analysis by using the fabricated microfluidic structures are also essential for understanding individual cell behavior within the same population. To this end, this paper demonstrates: (1) generation of 3D structures in glass volume or on surface for fabrication of microfluidic channels, (2) subtractive 3D surface patterning to create patterned molds in a controlled manor for casting polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) structures and developing single cell microchambers, and (3) designing glass photo-masks to be used for sequel additive patterning of biocompatible nanomaterials with controlled shapes, sizes, and periodicity. Mesenchymal stem cells grown on laser-processed glass surfaces revealed no sign of cytotoxicity, while a collagen thin coating improved cellular adhesion.
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24
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Desalvo A, Bateman F, James E, Morgan H, Elliott T. Time-resolved microwell cell-pairing array reveals multiple T cell activation profiles. LAB ON A CHIP 2020; 20:3772-3783. [PMID: 32902549 DOI: 10.1039/d0lc00628a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The differences in behaviour between individual cells in a large population are often important, yet are masked in bulk analyses where only average parameters are measured. One unresolved question in the field of immunology is the extent to which important immunological phenomena such as immunodominance to cancer antigens correlates with the average activity of a population of antigen-specific T lymphocytes, or with the activity of individual "outlier" cells. Despite progress in single cell technologies, few platforms are available that can deliver time-resolved, functional analysis at single cell resolution, for these investigations. We have developed an accessible high-throughput platform to measure single T cell signalling in real time following time-controlled stimulation by live antigen presenting cells. The cell-trap array consists of thousands of individual microwells cast in an agarose block, which is biocompatible and permeable to nutrients. Single T cells are isolated in wells via passive sedimentation and size exclusion, achieving up to 90% occupancy. The device enables simultaneous activation of thousands of single CD8+ cells. Stimulation with soluble reagents (ionomycin, anti-CD3 antibodies) or antigen presenting cells leads to changes in intracellular calcium concentrations which were measured using calcium-chelating fluorophore dyes. The platform was used to demonstrate a range of activation profiles among individual cells of a cloned, antigen specific CD8+ T cell hybridoma in response to both nonspecific stimuli and specific, physiologically relevant antigen stimulation. The presence of two different activation profiles was demonstrated, together with rare outlier behaviour among cells that are essentially clonal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Desalvo
- Centre for Cancer Immunology, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK.
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25
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Tang X, Liu X, Li P, Liu F, Kojima M, Huang Q, Arai T. On-Chip Cell–Cell Interaction Monitoring at Single-Cell Level by Efficient Immobilization of Multiple Cells in Adjustable Quantities. Anal Chem 2020; 92:11607-11616. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.0c01148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqing Tang
- Key Laboratory of Biomimetic Robots and Systems, Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Intelligent Control and Decision of Complex System, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Intelligent Robots and Systems, and School of Mechatronical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Xiaoming Liu
- Key Laboratory of Biomimetic Robots and Systems, Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Intelligent Control and Decision of Complex System, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Intelligent Robots and Systems, and School of Mechatronical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Pengyun Li
- Key Laboratory of Biomimetic Robots and Systems, Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Intelligent Control and Decision of Complex System, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Intelligent Robots and Systems, and School of Mechatronical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Fengyu Liu
- Key Laboratory of Biomimetic Robots and Systems, Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Intelligent Control and Decision of Complex System, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Intelligent Robots and Systems, and School of Mechatronical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Masaru Kojima
- Department of Materials Engineering Science, Osaka University, Osaka 560-8531, Japan
| | - Qiang Huang
- Key Laboratory of Biomimetic Robots and Systems, Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Intelligent Control and Decision of Complex System, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Intelligent Robots and Systems, and School of Mechatronical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Tatsuo Arai
- Key Laboratory of Biomimetic Robots and Systems, Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Intelligent Control and Decision of Complex System, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Intelligent Robots and Systems, and School of Mechatronical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
- Department of Mechanical and Intelligent Systems Engineering, The University of Electro-Communications, Tokyo 182-8585, Japan
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26
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Rahman SM, Campbell JM, Coates RN, Render KM, Byrne CE, Martin EC, Melvin AT. Evaluation of intercellular communication between breast cancer cells and adipose-derived stem cells via passive diffusion in a two-layer microfluidic device. LAB ON A CHIP 2020; 20:2009-2019. [PMID: 32379852 PMCID: PMC7331673 DOI: 10.1039/d0lc00142b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Breast cancer tumorigenesis and response to therapy is regulated by cancer cell interactions with the tumor microenvironment (TME). Breast cancer signaling to the surrounding TME results in a heterogeneous and diverse tumor microenvironment, which includes the production of cancer-associated fibroblasts, macrophages, adipocytes, and stem cells. The secretory profile of these cancer-associated cell types results in elevated chemokines and growth factors that promote cell survival and proliferation within the tumor. Current co-culture approaches mostly rely on transwell chambers to study intercellular signaling between adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) and cancer cells; however, these methods are limited to endpoint measurements and lack dynamic control. In this study, a 4-channel, "flow-free" microfluidic device was developed to co-culture triple-negative MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells and ASCs to study intercellular communication between two distinct cell types found in the TME. The device consists of two layers: a top PDMS layer with four imprinted channels coupled with a bottom agarose slab enclosed in a Plexiglas chamber. For dynamic co-culture, the device geometry contained two centered, flow-free channels, which were supplied with media from two outer flow channels via orthogonal diffusion through the agarose. Continuous fresh media was provided to the cell culture channel via passive diffusion without creating any shearing effect on the cells. The device geometry also allowed for the passive diffusion of cytokines and growth factors between the two cell types cultured in parallel channels to initiate cell-to-cell crosstalk. The device was used to show that MDA-MB-231 cells co-cultured with ASCs exhibited enhanced growth, a more aggressive morphology, and polarization toward the ASCs. The MDA-MB-231 cells were found to exhibit a greater degree of resistance to the drug paclitaxel when co-cultured with ASCs when compared to single culture studies. This microfluidic device is an ideal platform to study intercellular communication for many types of cells during co-culture experiments and allows for new investigations into stromal cell-mediated drug resistance in the tumor microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharif M Rahman
- Cain Department of Chemical Engineering, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, 70803 USA.
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27
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Microfluidic cultivation and analysis tools for interaction studies of microbial co-cultures. Curr Opin Biotechnol 2019; 62:106-115. [PMID: 31715386 DOI: 10.1016/j.copbio.2019.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2019] [Revised: 08/20/2019] [Accepted: 09/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Microbial consortia are fascinating yet barely understood biological systems with an elusive intrinsic complexity. Studying microbial consortia and the interactions of their members is of major importance for the understanding, engineering and control of synthetic and natural microbial consortia. Microfluidic cultivation and analysis devices are versatile tools for the study of microbial interactions at the single-cell level. While there is a vast amount of literature on microfluidics for the investigation of monocultures only few studies on co-cultures have been conducted in this context. Here we give an overview of different microfluidic single-cell cultivation tools for the analysis of microbial consortia with a focus on their physiology, growth dynamics and cellular interactions. Finally, central challenges and perspectives for the future application of microfluidic tools for microbial consortia investigations will be given.
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Mi S, Yang S, Liu T, Du Z, Xu Y, Li B, Sun W. A Novel Controllable Cell Array Printing Technique on Microfluidic Chips. IEEE Trans Biomed Eng 2019; 66:2512-2520. [DOI: 10.1109/tbme.2019.2891016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
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Li L, Wu T, Wang Y, Ran M, Kang Y, Ouyang Q, Luo C. Spatial coordination in a mutually beneficial bacterial community enhances its antibiotic resistance. Commun Biol 2019; 2:301. [PMID: 31428689 PMCID: PMC6687750 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-019-0533-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2019] [Accepted: 07/04/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Microbial communities can survive in complex and variable environments by using different cooperative strategies. However, the behaviors of these mutuality formed communities remain poorly understood, particularly with regard to the characteristics of spatial cooperation. Here, we selected two Escherichia coli strains, designated as the nutrition provider and the antibiotic protector, respectively, for construction of a mutually beneficial bacterial community that could be used to study these behaviors. We found that in addition to the functional mutualism, the two strains also cooperated through their spatial distribution. Under antibiotic pressure, the bacterial distribution changed to yield different spatial distributions, which resulted in community growth advantages beyond functional cooperation. The mutualistic behavior of these two strains suggested that similar communities could also use variations in spatial distribution to improve their survival rates in a natural environment or under the action of antibiotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingjun Li
- Center for Quantitative Biology, Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, Peking University, Beijing, 100871 China
| | - Tian Wu
- The State Key Laboratory for Artificial Microstructures and Mesoscopic Physics, School of Physics, Peking University, Beijing, 100871 China
| | - Ying Wang
- The State Key Laboratory for Artificial Microstructures and Mesoscopic Physics, School of Physics, Peking University, Beijing, 100871 China
| | - Min Ran
- The State Key Laboratory for Artificial Microstructures and Mesoscopic Physics, School of Physics, Peking University, Beijing, 100871 China
| | - Yu Kang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Genome Sciences and Information, Beijing Institute of Genomics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100029 China
| | - Qi Ouyang
- Center for Quantitative Biology, Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, Peking University, Beijing, 100871 China
- The State Key Laboratory for Artificial Microstructures and Mesoscopic Physics, School of Physics, Peking University, Beijing, 100871 China
- Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871 China
| | - Chunxiong Luo
- Center for Quantitative Biology, Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, Peking University, Beijing, 100871 China
- The State Key Laboratory for Artificial Microstructures and Mesoscopic Physics, School of Physics, Peking University, Beijing, 100871 China
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Sandvig A, Sandvig I. Connectomics of Morphogenetically Engineered Neurons as a Predictor of Functional Integration in the Ischemic Brain. Front Neurol 2019; 10:630. [PMID: 31249553 PMCID: PMC6582372 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2019.00630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2019] [Accepted: 05/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent advances in cell reprogramming technologies enable the in vitro generation of theoretically unlimited numbers of cells, including cells of neural lineage and specific neuronal subtypes from human, including patient-specific, somatic cells. Similarly, as demonstrated in recent animal studies, by applying morphogenetic neuroengineering principles in situ, it is possible to reprogram resident brain cells to the desired phenotype. These developments open new exciting possibilities for cell replacement therapy in stroke, albeit not without caveats. Main challenges include the successful integration of engineered cells in the ischemic brain to promote functional restoration as well as the fact that the underlying mechanisms of action are not fully understood. In this review, we aim to provide new insights to the above in the context of connectomics of morphogenetically engineered neural networks. Specifically, we discuss the relevance of combining advanced interdisciplinary approaches to: validate the functionality of engineered neurons by studying their self-organizing behavior into neural networks as well as responses to stroke-related pathology in vitro; derive structural and functional connectomes from these networks in healthy and perturbed conditions; and identify and extract key elements regulating neural network dynamics, which might predict the behavior of grafted engineered neurons post-transplantation in the stroke-injured brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Axel Sandvig
- Department of Neuromedicine and Movement Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway.,Department of Neurology, St. Olav's Hospital, Trondheim University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway.,Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neurosciences, Division of Neuro, Head, and Neck, Umeå University Hospital, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Ioanna Sandvig
- Department of Neuromedicine and Movement Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
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Abstract
Microfluidics is an appealing platform for drug screening and discovery. Compared with the conventional drug screening methods based on Petri dishes and experimental animals, microfluidic devices have many advantages including miniaturized size, ease-to-use, high sensitivity, and high throughput. More importantly, bioassays on microfluidics can avoid ethical issues which can be a big obstacle hindering the performance of the experiments on animals or human being. Furthermore, three-dimensional (3D) microchips can recapitulate various biochemical and biophysical conditions in vivo and mimic the natural microenvironment of the tissues/organs, providing versatile in vitro models for biomedical applications. In this Perspective, we will focus on the cell-based microfluidic assays for drug screening. Meanwhile, we also propose potential solutions for the difficulties in this field and discuss the prospects of microfluidics-based technologies for drug screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyan Liu
- Beijing Engineering Research Center for BioNanotechnology and CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for NanoScience and Technology, No. 11 Zhongguancun Beiyitiao, Beijing 100190, P. R. China
- Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, Peking University, Beijing 100871, P. R. China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 19 A Yuquan Road, Shijingshan District, Beijing, 100049, P. R. China
| | - Wenfu Zheng
- Beijing Engineering Research Center for BioNanotechnology and CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for NanoScience and Technology, No. 11 Zhongguancun Beiyitiao, Beijing 100190, P. R. China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 19 A Yuquan Road, Shijingshan District, Beijing, 100049, P. R. China
| | - Xingyu Jiang
- Beijing Engineering Research Center for BioNanotechnology and CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for NanoScience and Technology, No. 11 Zhongguancun Beiyitiao, Beijing 100190, P. R. China
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, No. 1088 Xueyuan Road, Nanshan District, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518055, P. R. China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 19 A Yuquan Road, Shijingshan District, Beijing, 100049, P. R. China
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Liu Y, Yang Q, Cao L, Xu F. Analysis of Leukocyte Behaviors on Microfluidic Chips. Adv Healthc Mater 2019; 8:e1801406. [PMID: 30672149 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.201801406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2018] [Revised: 01/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
The orchestration of massive leukocytes in the immune system protects humans from invading pathogens and abnormal cells in the body. So far, researches focusing on leukocyte behaviors are performed based on both in vivo and in vitro models. The in vivo animal models are usually less controllable due to their extreme complexity and nonignorable species issue. Therefore, many researchers turn to in vitro models. With the advances in micro/nanofabrication, the microfluidic chip has emerged as a novel platform for model construction in multiple biomedical research fields. Specifically, the microfluidic chip is used to study leukocyte behaviors, due to its incomparable advantages in high throughput, precise control, and flexible integration. Moreover, the small size of the microstructures on the microfluidic chip can better mimic the native microenvironment of leukocytes, which contributes to a more reliable recapitulation. Herein are reviewed the recent advances in microfluidic chip-based leukocyte behavior analysis to provide an overview of this field. Detailed discussions are specifically focused on host defense against pathogens, immunodiagnosis, and immunotherapy studies on microfluidic chips. Finally, the current technical challenges are discussed, as well as possible innovations in this field to improve the related applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Liu
- The Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education; School of Life Science and Technology; Xi'an Jiaotong University; Xi'an Shaanxi 710049 China
- Bioinspired Engineering and Biomechanics Center (BEBC); Xi'an Jiaotong University; Xi'an Shaanxi 710049 China
| | - Qingzhen Yang
- The Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education; School of Life Science and Technology; Xi'an Jiaotong University; Xi'an Shaanxi 710049 China
- Bioinspired Engineering and Biomechanics Center (BEBC); Xi'an Jiaotong University; Xi'an Shaanxi 710049 China
| | - Lei Cao
- The Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education; School of Life Science and Technology; Xi'an Jiaotong University; Xi'an Shaanxi 710049 China
- Bioinspired Engineering and Biomechanics Center (BEBC); Xi'an Jiaotong University; Xi'an Shaanxi 710049 China
| | - Feng Xu
- The Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education; School of Life Science and Technology; Xi'an Jiaotong University; Xi'an Shaanxi 710049 China
- Bioinspired Engineering and Biomechanics Center (BEBC); Xi'an Jiaotong University; Xi'an Shaanxi 710049 China
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Shang M, Soon RH, Lim CT, Khoo BL, Han J. Microfluidic modelling of the tumor microenvironment for anti-cancer drug development. LAB ON A CHIP 2019; 19:369-386. [PMID: 30644496 DOI: 10.1039/c8lc00970h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 144] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Cancer is the leading cause of death worldwide. The complex and disorganized tumor microenvironment makes it very difficult to treat this disease. The most common in vitro drug screening method now is based on 2D culture models which poorly represent actual tumors. Therefore, many 3D tumor models which are more physiologically relevant have been developed to conduct in vitro drug screening and alleviate this situation. Among all these models, the microfluidic tumor model has the unique advantage of recapitulating the tumor microenvironment in a comparatively easier and representative fashion. While there are many review papers available on the related topic of microfluidic tumor models, in this review we aim to focus more on the possibility of generating "clinically actionable information" from these microfluidic systems, besides scientific insight. Our topics cover the tumor microenvironment, conventional 2D and 3D cultures, animal models, and microfluidic tumor models, emphasizing their link to anti-cancer drug discovery and personalized medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Menglin Shang
- BioSystems and Micromechanics (BioSyM) IRG, Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART) Centre, 1, Create Way, Enterprise Wing, 138602, Singapore.
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Irimia D, Wang X. Inflammation-on-a-Chip: Probing the Immune System Ex Vivo. Trends Biotechnol 2018; 36:923-937. [PMID: 29728272 PMCID: PMC6098972 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2018.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2017] [Revised: 03/23/2018] [Accepted: 03/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Inflammation is the typical result of activating the host immune system against pathogens, and it helps to clear microbes from tissues. However, inflammation can occur in the absence of pathogens, contributing to tissue damage and leading to disease. Understanding how immune cells coordinate their activities to initiate, modulate, and terminate inflammation is key to developing effective interventions to preserve health and combat diseases. Towards this goal, inflammation-on-a-chip tools provide unique features that greatly benefit the study of inflammation. They reconstitute tissue environments in microfabricated devices and enable real-time, high-resolution observations and quantification of cellular activities relevant to inflammation. We review here recent advances in inflammation-on-a-chip technologies and highlight the biological insights and clinical applications enabled by these emerging tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Irimia
- BioMEMS Resource Center, Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Shriners Burns Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Xiao Wang
- BioMEMS Resource Center, Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Shriners Burns Hospital, Boston, MA
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Dixit C, Kadimisetty K, Rusling J. 3D-printed miniaturized fluidic tools in chemistry and biology. Trends Analyt Chem 2018; 106:37-52. [PMID: 32296252 PMCID: PMC7158885 DOI: 10.1016/j.trac.2018.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
3D printing (3DP), an additive manufacturing (AM) approach allowing for rapid prototyping and decentralized fabrication on-demand, has become a common method for creating parts or whole devices. The wide scope of the AM extends from organized sectors of construction, ornament, medical, and R&D industries to individual explorers attributed to the low cost, high quality printers along with revolutionary tools and polymers. While progress is being made but big manufacturing challenges are still there. Considering the quickly shifting narrative towards miniaturized analytical systems (MAS) we focus on the development/rapid prototyping and manufacturing of MAS with 3DP, and application dependent challenges in engineering designs and choice of the polymeric materials and provide an exhaustive background to the applications of 3DP in biology and chemistry. This will allow readers to perceive the most important features of AM in creating (i) various individual and modular components, and (ii) complete integrated tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- C.K. Dixit
- Department of Chemistry, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269-3060, United States
| | - K. Kadimisetty
- Department of Chemistry, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269-3060, United States
| | - J. Rusling
- Department of Chemistry, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269-3060, United States
- Institute of Materials Science, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269-3136, United States
- Department of Surgery and Neag Cancer Centre, UConn Health, Farmington, CT 06030, United States
- School of Chemistry, National University of Ireland at Galway, Galway, Ireland
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Charmet J, Arosio P, Knowles TP. Microfluidics for Protein Biophysics. J Mol Biol 2018; 430:565-580. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2017.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2017] [Revised: 12/19/2017] [Accepted: 12/20/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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Rothbauer M, Zirath H, Ertl P. Recent advances in microfluidic technologies for cell-to-cell interaction studies. LAB ON A CHIP 2018; 18:249-270. [PMID: 29143053 DOI: 10.1039/c7lc00815e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 172] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Microfluidic cell cultures are ideally positioned to become the next generation of in vitro diagnostic tools for biomedical research, where key biological processes such as cell signalling and dynamic cell-to-cell interactions can be reliably analysed under reproducible physiological cell culture conditions. In the last decade, a large number of microfluidic cell analysis systems have been developed for a variety of applications including drug target optimization, drug screening and toxicological testing. More recently, advanced in vitro microfluidic cell culture systems have emerged that are capable of replicating the complex three-dimensional architectures of tissues and organs and thus represent valid biological models for investigating the mechanism and function of human tissue structures, as well as studying the onset and progression of diseases such as cancer. In this review, we present the most important developments in single-cell, 2D and 3D microfluidic cell culture systems for studying cell-to-cell interactions published over the last 6 years, with a focus on cancer research and immunotherapy, vascular models and neuroscience. In addition, the current technological development of microdevices with more advanced physiological cell microenvironments that integrate multiple organ models, namely, the so-called body-, human- and multi-organ-on-a-chip, is reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Rothbauer
- Vienna University of Technology, Faculty of Technical Chemistry, Institute of Applied Synthetic Chemistry, Getreidemarkt 9, 1060 Vienna, Austria.
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Hu B, Leow WR, Cai P, Li YQ, Wu YL, Chen X. Nanomechanical Force Mapping of Restricted Cell-To-Cell Collisions Oscillating between Contraction and Relaxation. ACS NANO 2017; 11:12302-12310. [PMID: 29131936 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.7b06063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Contact-mediated cell migration strongly determines the invasiveness of the corresponding cells, collective migration, and morphogenesis. The quantitative study of cellular response upon contact relies on cell-to-cell collision, which rarely occurs in conventional cell culture. Herein, we developed a strategy to activate a robust cell-to-cell collision within smooth muscle cell pairs. Nanomechanical traction force mapping reveals that the collision process is promoted by the oscillatory modulations between contraction and relaxation and orientated by the filopodial bridge composed of nanosized contractile machinery. This strategy can enhance the occurrence of cell-to-cell collision, which renders it advantageous over traditional methods that utilize micropatterned coating to confine cell pairs. Furthermore, modulation of the balance between cell tugging force and traction force can determine the repolarization of cells and thus the direction of cell migration. Overall, our approach could help to reveal the mechanistic contribution in cell motility and provide insights in tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benhui Hu
- Innovative Center for Flexible Devices (iFLEX), School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University , 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore 639798, Singapore
| | - Wan Ru Leow
- Innovative Center for Flexible Devices (iFLEX), School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University , 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore 639798, Singapore
| | - Pingqiang Cai
- Innovative Center for Flexible Devices (iFLEX), School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University , 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore 639798, Singapore
| | - Yong-Qiang Li
- Innovative Center for Flexible Devices (iFLEX), School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University , 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore 639798, Singapore
| | - Yun-Long Wu
- Innovative Center for Flexible Devices (iFLEX), School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University , 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore 639798, Singapore
| | - Xiaodong Chen
- Innovative Center for Flexible Devices (iFLEX), School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University , 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore 639798, Singapore
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Finetti F, Cassioli C, Baldari CT. Transcellular communication at the immunological synapse: a vesicular traffic-mediated mutual exchange. F1000Res 2017; 6:1880. [PMID: 29123650 PMCID: PMC5657015 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.11944.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The cell’s ability to communicate with the extracellular environment, with other cells, and with itself is a crucial feature of eukaryotic organisms. In the immune system, T lymphocytes assemble a specialized structure upon contact with antigen-presenting cells bearing a peptide-major histocompatibility complex ligand, known as the immunological synapse (IS). The IS has been extensively characterized as a signaling platform essential for T-cell activation. Moreover, emerging evidence identifies the IS as a device for vesicular traffic-mediated cell-to-cell communication as well as an active release site of soluble molecules. Here, we will review recent advances in the role of vesicular trafficking in IS assembly and focused secretion of microvesicles at the synaptic area in naïve T cells and discuss the role of the IS in transcellular communication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Finetti
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, via A. Moro 2, Siena, 53100, Italy
| | - Chiara Cassioli
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, via A. Moro 2, Siena, 53100, Italy
| | - Cosima T Baldari
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, via A. Moro 2, Siena, 53100, Italy
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