1
|
Shi J, Ma W, Deng J, Zheng S, Xia F, Liu X, Kikkawa A, Tanaka K, Kamei KI, Tian C. Self-assembled hyaluronic acid nanomicelle for enhanced cascade cancer chemotherapy via self-sensitized ferroptosis. Carbohydr Polym 2024; 343:122489. [PMID: 39174141 DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2024.122489] [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: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 07/08/2024] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 08/24/2024]
Abstract
The clinical utility of chemotherapy is often compromised by its limited efficacy and significant side effects. Addressing these concerns, we have developed a self-assembled nanomicelle, namely SANTA FE OXA, which consists of hyaluronic acid (HA) conjugated with ferrocene methanol (FC), oxaliplatin prodrug (OXA(IV)) and ethylene glycol-coupled linoleic acid (EG-LA). Targeted delivery is achieved by HA binding to the CD44 receptors that are overexpressed on tumor cells, facilitating drug uptake. Once internalized, hyaluronidase (HAase) catalyzes the digestion of the SANTA FE OXA, releasing FC and reducing OXA(IV) into an active form. The active oxaliplatin (OXA) induces DNA damage and increases intracellular hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) levels via cascade reactions. Simultaneously, FC disrupts the redox balance within tumor cells, inducing ferroptosis. Both in vivo and in vitro experiments confirmed that SANTA FE OXA inhibited tumor growth by combining cascade chemotherapy and self-sensitized ferroptosis, achieving a tumor inhibition rate of up to 76.61 %. Moreover, this SANTA FE OXA significantly mitigates the systemic toxicity commonly associated with platinum-based chemotherapeutics. Our findings represent a compelling advancement in nanomedicine for enhanced cascade cancer therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jianbin Shi
- Wuya College of Innovation, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Wenjing Ma
- Wuya College of Innovation, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Jia Deng
- Wuya College of Innovation, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Shunzhe Zheng
- Wuya College of Innovation, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Fengli Xia
- Wuya College of Innovation, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Xinying Liu
- Wuya College of Innovation, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Ayumi Kikkawa
- Institute for Integrated Cell-Material Sciences (WPI-iCeMS), Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan
| | - Kaho Tanaka
- Institute for Integrated Cell-Material Sciences (WPI-iCeMS), Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan
| | - Ken-Ichiro Kamei
- Wuya College of Innovation, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Intelligent Drug Delivery Systems, Ministry of Education, Shenyang 110016, China; Institute for Integrated Cell-Material Sciences (WPI-iCeMS), Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan; Program of Biology, Division of Science, New York University Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates; Program of Bioengineering, Division of Engineering, New York University Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tandon School of Engineering, New York University, MetroTech, Brooklyn, NY 11201, United States of America.
| | - Chutong Tian
- Wuya College of Innovation, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Intelligent Drug Delivery Systems, Ministry of Education, Shenyang 110016, China; Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Delivery Systems of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310058, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Shen S, Zhang Y. Restoration of corneal epithelial barrier function: A possible target for corneal neovascularization. Ocul Surf 2024; 34:38-49. [PMID: 38901546 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtos.2024.06.003] [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: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
Corneal neovascularization (CoNV) is the second leading common cause of vision impairment worldwide and is a blinding pathological alteration brought on by ocular trauma, infection, and other factors. There are some limitations in the treatment of CoNV, hence it's critical to look into novel therapeutic targets. The corneal epithelial barrier, which is the initial barrier of the ocular surface, is an important structure that shields the eye from changes in the internal environment or invasion by the external environment. This study sought to collate evidence on the regulation of corneal epithelial barrier injury on the activation of vascular endothelial cells (VECs), basement membrane (BM) degradation, differentiation, migration, and proliferation of VECs, vascular maturation and stability, and other key processes in CoNV, so as to provide a novel concept for CoNV therapy targeting corneal epithelial barrier repair.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sitong Shen
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, 218 Ziqiang Street, Nanguan District, Changchun, Jilin Province, 130041, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, 218 Ziqiang Street, Nanguan District, Changchun, Jilin Province, 130041, China; Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200080, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Filiz Y, Esposito A, De Maria C, Vozzi G, Yesil-Celiktas O. A comprehensive review on organ-on-chips as powerful preclinical models to study tissue barriers. PROGRESS IN BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING (BRISTOL, ENGLAND) 2024; 6:042001. [PMID: 39655848 DOI: 10.1088/2516-1091/ad776c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2024] [Indexed: 12/18/2024]
Abstract
In the preclinical stage of drug development, 2D and 3D cell cultures under static conditions followed by animal models are utilized. However, these models are insufficient to recapitulate the complexity of human physiology. With the developing organ-on-chip (OoC) technology in recent years, human physiology and pathophysiology can be modeled better than traditional models. In this review, the need for OoC platforms is discussed and evaluated from both biological and engineering perspectives. The cellular and extracellular matrix components are discussed from a biological perspective, whereas the technical aspects such as the intricate working principles of these systems, the pivotal role played by flow dynamics and sensor integration within OoCs are elucidated from an engineering perspective. Combining these two perspectives, bioengineering applications are critically discussed with a focus on tissue barriers such as blood-brain barrier, ocular barrier, nasal barrier, pulmonary barrier and gastrointestinal barrier, featuring recent examples from the literature. Furthermore, this review offers insights into the practical utility of OoC platforms for modeling tissue barriers, showcasing their potential and drawbacks while providing future projections for innovative technologies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yagmur Filiz
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Faculty of Medicine, KU Leuven, 8500 Kortrijk, Belgium
| | - Alessio Esposito
- Research Center E. Piaggio and Department of Information Engineering, University of Pisa, Largo L. Lazzarino 1, Pisa 56126, Italy
| | - Carmelo De Maria
- Research Center E. Piaggio and Department of Information Engineering, University of Pisa, Largo L. Lazzarino 1, Pisa 56126, Italy
| | - Giovanni Vozzi
- Research Center E. Piaggio and Department of Information Engineering, University of Pisa, Largo L. Lazzarino 1, Pisa 56126, Italy
| | - Ozlem Yesil-Celiktas
- Department of Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering, Ege University, 35100 Izmir, Turkey
- EgeSAM-Ege University Translational Pulmonary Research Center, Bornova, Izmir, Turkey
- ODTÜ MEMS Center, Ankara, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Cheng KKW, Fingerhut L, Duncan S, Prajna NV, Rossi AG, Mills B. In vitro and ex vivo models of microbial keratitis: Present and future. Prog Retin Eye Res 2024; 102:101287. [PMID: 39004166 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2024.101287] [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: 04/03/2024] [Revised: 07/09/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
Microbial keratitis (MK) is an infection of the cornea, caused by bacteria, fungi, parasites, or viruses. MK leads to significant morbidity, being the fifth leading cause of blindness worldwide. There is an urgent requirement to better understand pathogenesis in order to develop novel diagnostic and therapeutic approaches to improve patient outcomes. Many in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo MK models have been developed and implemented to meet this aim. Here, we present current in vitro and ex vivo MK model systems, examining their varied design, outputs, reporting standards, and strengths and limitations. Major limitations include their relative simplicity and the perceived inability to study the immune response in these MK models, an aspect widely accepted to play a significant role in MK pathogenesis. Consequently, there remains a dependence on in vivo models to study this aspect of MK. However, looking to the future, we draw from the broader field of corneal disease modelling, which utilises, for example, three-dimensional co-culture models and dynamic environments observed in bioreactors and organ-on-a-chip scenarios. These remain unexplored in MK research, but incorporation of these approaches will offer further advances in the field of MK corneal modelling, in particular with the focus of incorporation of immune components which we anticipate will better recapitulate pathogenesis and yield novel findings, therefore contributing to the enhancement of MK outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kelvin Kah Wai Cheng
- Centre for Inflammation Research, Institute of Regeneration and Repair, University of Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Leonie Fingerhut
- Centre for Inflammation Research, Institute of Regeneration and Repair, University of Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Sheelagh Duncan
- Centre for Inflammation Research, Institute of Regeneration and Repair, University of Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - N Venkatesh Prajna
- Department of Cornea and Refractive Surgery Services, Aravind Eye Hospital and Postgraduate Institute of Ophthalmology, Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Adriano G Rossi
- Centre for Inflammation Research, Institute of Regeneration and Repair, University of Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Bethany Mills
- Centre for Inflammation Research, Institute of Regeneration and Repair, University of Edinburgh, United Kingdom.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Wang Y, Yang F, Yang M, Wang S, He H, Hong M, Wang G, Li S, Liu H, Wang Y. Construction of Dome-Shaped 3D Corneal Epithelial Tissue Models Based on Eyeball-Shaped Gel Microspheres. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024; 16:31597-31609. [PMID: 38850560 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.4c05697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2024]
Abstract
By overcoming interspecies differences and mimicking the in vivo microenvironment, three-dimensional (3D) in vitro corneal models have become a significant novel tool in contemporary ophthalmic disease research. However, existing 3D corneal models struggle to replicate the actual human corneal environment, especially the dome-shaped physiological structure with adjustable curvature. Addressing these challenges, this study introduces a straightforward method for fabricating collagen/chitosan-alginate eyeball-shaped gel microspheres with a Janus structure via a two-phase aqueous system, used subsequently to construct in vitro 3D corneal epithelial tissue models. By adjusting the diameter ratio of collagen/chitosan to alginate droplets, we can create eyeball-shaped gel microspheres with varying curvatures. Human corneal epithelial cells were seeded on the surfaces of these microspheres, leading to the formation of in vitro 3D corneal epithelial tissues characterized by dome-like multilayers and tight junctions. Additionally, the model demonstrated responsiveness to UVB exposure through the secretion of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and proinflammatory factors. Therefore, we believe that in vitro 3D corneal epithelial tissue models with dome-shaped structures hold significant potential for advancing ophthalmic research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yilan Wang
- School of Life Sciences and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610031, China
| | - Feng Yang
- School of Life Sciences and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610031, China
| | - Menghan Yang
- School of Life Sciences and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610031, China
| | - Siping Wang
- School of Life Sciences and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610031, China
| | - Huatao He
- School of Life Sciences and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610031, China
| | - Meiying Hong
- School of Life Sciences and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610031, China
| | - Guanxiong Wang
- School of Life Sciences and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610031, China
| | - Suiyan Li
- School of Life Sciences and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610031, China
| | - Hong Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Wuxi No. 5 People's Hospital Affiliated to Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214061, China
| | - Yaolei Wang
- School of Life Sciences and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610031, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Ponmozhi J, Dhinakaran S, Kocsis D, Iván K, Erdő F. Models for barrier understanding in health and disease in lab-on-a-chips. Tissue Barriers 2024; 12:2221632. [PMID: 37294075 PMCID: PMC11042069 DOI: 10.1080/21688370.2023.2221632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The maintenance of body homeostasis relies heavily on physiological barriers. Dysfunction of these barriers can lead to various pathological processes, including increased exposure to toxic materials and microorganisms. Various methods exist to investigate barrier function in vivo and in vitro. To investigate barrier function in a highly reproducible manner, ethically, and high throughput, researchers have turned to non-animal techniques and micro-scale technologies. In this comprehensive review, the authors summarize the current applications of organ-on-a-chip microfluidic devices in the study of physiological barriers. The review covers the blood-brain barrier, ocular barriers, dermal barrier, respiratory barriers, intestinal, hepatobiliary, and renal/bladder barriers under both healthy and pathological conditions. The article then briefly presents placental/vaginal, and tumour/multi-organ barriers in organ-on-a-chip devices. Finally, the review discusses Computational Fluid Dynamics in microfluidic systems that integrate biological barriers. This article provides a concise yet informative overview of the current state-of-the-art in barrier studies using microfluidic devices.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J. Ponmozhi
- Microfluidics Laboratory, Department of Mechanical Engineering, IPS Academy-Institute of Engineering Science, Indore, India
| | - S. Dhinakaran
- The Centre for Fluid Dynamics, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Indore, Indore, India
| | - Dorottya Kocsis
- Faculty of Information Technology and Bionics, Pázmány Péter Catholic University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Kristóf Iván
- Faculty of Information Technology and Bionics, Pázmány Péter Catholic University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Franciska Erdő
- Faculty of Information Technology and Bionics, Pázmány Péter Catholic University, Budapest, Hungary
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Kado Abdalkader R, Chaleckis R, Fujita T, Kamei KI. Modeling dry eye with an air-liquid interface in corneal epithelium-on-a-chip. Sci Rep 2024; 14:4185. [PMID: 38379013 PMCID: PMC10879145 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-54736-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Dry eye syndrome (DES) is a complex ocular condition characterized by an unstable tear film and inadequate tear production, leading to tissue damage. Despite its common occurrence, there is currently no comprehensive in vitro model that accurately reproduce the cellular characteristics of DES. Here we modified a corneal epithelium-on-a-chip (CEpOC) model to recapitulate DES by subjecting HCE-T human corneal epithelial cells to an air-liquid (AL) interface stimulus. We then assessed the effects of AL stimulation both in the presence and absence of diclofenac (DCF), non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug. Transcriptomic analysis revealed distinct gene expression changes in response to AL and AL_DCF, affecting pathways related to development, epithelial structure, inflammation, and extracellular matrix remodeling. Both treatments upregulated PIEZO2, linked to corneal damage signaling, while downregulating OCLN, involved in cell-cell junctions. They increased the expression of inflammatory genes (e.g., IL-6) and reduced mucin production genes (e.g., MUC16), reflecting dry eye characteristics. Metabolomic analysis showed increased secretion of metabolites associated with cell damage and inflammation (e.g., methyl-2-oxovaleric acid, 3-methyl-2-oxobutanoic acid, lauroyl-carnitine) in response to AL and even more with AL_DCF, indicating a shift in cellular metabolism. This study showcases the potential use of AL stimulus within the CEpOC to induce cellular characteristics relevant to DES.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rodi Kado Abdalkader
- Ritsumeikan Global Innovation Research Organization (R-GIRO), Ritsumeikan University, Shiga, Japan.
| | - Romanas Chaleckis
- Gunma University Initiative for Advanced Research (GIAR), Gunma University, Maebashi, Japan
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
| | - Takuya Fujita
- Ritsumeikan Global Innovation Research Organization (R-GIRO), Ritsumeikan University, Shiga, Japan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ritsumeikan University, Shiga, Japan
| | - Ken-Ichiro Kamei
- Institute for Integrated Cell-Material Sciences (WPI-iCeMS), Kyoto University, Kyoto, 606-8501, Japan
- Programs of Biology and Bioengineering, Divisions of Science and Engineering, New York University Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tandon School of Engineering, New York University, Brooklyn, NY, 11201, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
She W, Shen C, Ying Y, Meng Q. Fabrication of sac-like hydrogel membranes for replicating curved tissue barriers on chips. LAB ON A CHIP 2023; 24:85-96. [PMID: 38018218 DOI: 10.1039/d3lc00807j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2023]
Abstract
Current organ-on-a-chip (OOC) systems cannot mimic in vivo tissue barriers that feature curved geometries and rhythmic movement. This is due to the lack of a relevant membrane that can reproduce the natural biochemical and physical properties of a basement membrane, especially the characteristic sac-like structure possessed by multiple tissue barriers. To address this challenge, a sac-like hydrogel membrane is fabricated here using a one-step simple methodology inspired by soap bubble formation. Di-acrylated Pluronic® F127 (F127-DA) is a hydrogel that exhibits excellent mechanical properties, stably withstanding rhythmic mechanical stretching and fluid flow for at least 24 h. Using this hydrogel to make a membrane, a complex lung-on-a-chip device is successfully constructed, effectively replicating the alveolar-capillary barrier and demonstrating cellular function under physiological respiratory conditions. This membrane offers a crucial platform for replicating sac-like tissue barriers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenqi She
- Key Laboratory of Biomass Chemical Engineering (Education Ministry), College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, 38 Zheda Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310027, China.
| | - Chong Shen
- Key Laboratory of Biomass Chemical Engineering (Education Ministry), College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, 38 Zheda Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310027, China.
| | - Yinghua Ying
- Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease of Zhejiang Province, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310009, China
| | - Qin Meng
- Key Laboratory of Biomass Chemical Engineering (Education Ministry), College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, 38 Zheda Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310027, China.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Abdalkader RK, Fujita T. Corneal epithelium models for safety assessment in drug development: Present and future directions. Exp Eye Res 2023; 237:109697. [PMID: 37890755 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2023.109697] [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: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
The human corneal epithelial barrier plays a crucial role in drug testing studies, including drug absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME), as well as toxicity testing during the preclinical stages of drug development. However, despite the valuable insights gained from animal and current in vitro models, there remains a significant discrepancy between preclinical drug predictions and actual clinical outcomes. Additionally, there is a growing emphasis on adhering to the 3R principles (refine, reduce, replace) to minimize the use of animals in testing. To tackle these challenges, there is a rising demand for alternative in vitro models that closely mimic the human corneal epithelium. Recently, remarkable advancements have been made in two key areas: microphysiological systems (MPS) or organs-on-chips (OoCs), and stem cell-derived organoids. These cutting-edge platforms integrate four major disciplines: stem cells, microfluidics, bioprinting, and biosensing technologies. This integration holds great promise in developing powerful and biomimetic models of the human cornea.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rodi Kado Abdalkader
- Ritsumeikan Global Innovation Research Organization (R-GIRO), Ritsumeikan University, 1-1-1 Noji-Higashi, Kusatsu, Shiga, 525-8577, Japan.
| | - Takuya Fujita
- Ritsumeikan Global Innovation Research Organization (R-GIRO), Ritsumeikan University, 1-1-1 Noji-Higashi, Kusatsu, Shiga, 525-8577, Japan; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ritsumeikan University, 1-1-1 Noji-Higashi, Kusatsu, Shiga, 525-8577, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Tsai YC, Ozaki H, Morikawa A, Shiraiwa K, Pin AP, Salem AG, Phommahasay KA, Sugita BK, Vu CH, Mamoun Hammad S, Kamei KI, Watanabe M. Brain organoid-on-a-chip to create multiple domains in forebrain organoids. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.09.18.558278. [PMID: 37781620 PMCID: PMC10541131 DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.18.558278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
Brain organoids are three-dimensionally reconstructed brain tissue derived from pluripotent stem cells in vitro. 3D tissue cultures have opened new avenues for exploring development and disease modeling. However, some physiological conditions, including signaling gradients in 3D cultures, have not yet been easily achieved. Here, we introduce Brain Organoid-on-a-Chip platforms that generate signaling gradients that in turn enable the induction of topographic forebrain organoids. This creates a more continuous spectrum of brain regions and provides a more complete mimic of the human brain for evaluating neurodevelopment and disease in unprecedented detail.
Collapse
|
11
|
Kutluk H, Bastounis EE, Constantinou I. Integration of Extracellular Matrices into Organ-on-Chip Systems. Adv Healthc Mater 2023; 12:e2203256. [PMID: 37018430 PMCID: PMC11468608 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202203256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Revised: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023]
Abstract
The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a complex, dynamic network present within all tissues and organs that not only acts as a mechanical support and anchorage point but can also direct fundamental cell behavior, function, and characteristics. Although the importance of the ECM is well established, the integration of well-controlled ECMs into Organ-on-Chip (OoC) platforms remains challenging and the methods to modulate and assess ECM properties on OoCs remain underdeveloped. In this review, current state-of-the-art design and assessment of in vitro ECM environments is discussed with a focus on their integration into OoCs. Among other things, synthetic and natural hydrogels, as well as polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) used as substrates, coatings, or cell culture membranes are reviewed in terms of their ability to mimic the native ECM and their accessibility for characterization. The intricate interplay among materials, OoC architecture, and ECM characterization is critically discussed as it significantly complicates the design of ECM-related studies, comparability between works, and reproducibility that can be achieved across research laboratories. Improving the biomimetic nature of OoCs by integrating properly considered ECMs would contribute to their further adoption as replacements for animal models, and precisely tailored ECM properties would promote the use of OoCs in mechanobiology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hazal Kutluk
- Institute of Microtechnology (IMT)Technical University of BraunschweigAlte Salzdahlumer Str. 20338124BraunschweigGermany
- Center of Pharmaceutical Engineering (PVZ)Technical University of BraunschweigFranz‐Liszt‐Str. 35a38106BraunschweigGermany
| | - Effie E. Bastounis
- Institute of Microbiology and Infection Medicine (IMIT)Eberhard Karls University of TübingenAuf der Morgenstelle 28, E872076TübingenGermany
- Cluster of Excellence “Controlling Microbes to Fight Infections” EXC 2124Eberhard Karls University of TübingenAuf der Morgenstelle 2872076TübingenGermany
| | - Iordania Constantinou
- Institute of Microtechnology (IMT)Technical University of BraunschweigAlte Salzdahlumer Str. 20338124BraunschweigGermany
- Center of Pharmaceutical Engineering (PVZ)Technical University of BraunschweigFranz‐Liszt‐Str. 35a38106BraunschweigGermany
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Saorin G, Caligiuri I, Rizzolio F. Microfluidic organoids-on-a-chip: The future of human models. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2023; 144:41-54. [PMID: 36241560 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2022.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Microfluidics opened the possibility to model the physiological environment by controlling fluids flows, and therefore nutrients supply. It allows to integrate external stimuli such as electricals or mechanicals and in situ monitoring important parameters such as pH, oxygen and metabolite concentrations. Organoids are self-organized 3D organ-like clusters, which allow to closely model original organ functionalities. Applying microfluidics to organoids allows to generate powerful human models for studying organ development, diseases, and drug testing. In this review, after a brief introduction on microfluidics, organoids and organoids-on-a-chip are described by organs (brain, heart, gastrointestinal tract, liver, pancreas) highlighting the microfluidic approaches since this point of view was overlooked in previously published reviews. Indeed, the review aims to discuss from a different point of view, primary microfluidics, the available literature on organoids-on-a-chip, standing out from the published literature by focusing on each specific organ.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gloria Saorin
- Department of Molecular Sciences and Nanosystems, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, 30123 Venezia, Italy
| | - Isabella Caligiuri
- Pathology Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO) IRCCS, 33081 Aviano, Italy
| | - Flavio Rizzolio
- Department of Molecular Sciences and Nanosystems, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, 30123 Venezia, Italy; Pathology Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO) IRCCS, 33081 Aviano, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Li Q, Wong HL, Ip YL, Chu WY, Li MS, Saha C, Shih KC, Chan YK. Current microfluidic platforms for reverse engineering of cornea. Mater Today Bio 2023; 20:100634. [PMID: 37139464 PMCID: PMC10149412 DOI: 10.1016/j.mtbio.2023.100634] [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: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023] Open
Abstract
According to the World Health Organization, corneal blindness constitutes 5.1% of global blindness population. Surgical outcomes have been improved significantly in the treatment of corneal blindness. However, corneal transplantation is limited by global shortage of donor tissue, prompting researchers to explore alternative therapies such as novel ocular pharmaceutics to delay corneal disease progression. Animal models are commonly adopted for investigating pharmacokinetics of ocular drugs. However, this approach is limited by physiological differences in the eye between animals and human, ethical issues and poor bench-to-bedside translatability. Cornea-on-a-chip (CoC) microfluidic platforms have gained great attention as one of the advanced in vitro strategies for constructing physiologically representative corneal models. With significant improvements in tissue engineering technology, CoC integrates corneal cells with microfluidics to recapitulate human corneal microenvironment for the study of corneal pathophysiological changes and evaluation of ocular drugs. Such model, in complement to animal studies, can potentially accelerate translational research, in particular the pre-clinical screening of ophthalmic medication, driving clinical treatment advancement for corneal diseases. This review provides an overview of engineered CoC platforms with respect to their merits, applications, and technical challenges. Emerging directions in CoC technology are also proposed for further investigations, to accentuate preclinical obstacles in corneal research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qinyu Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, 999077, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ho Lam Wong
- Department of Ophthalmology, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, 999077, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yan Lam Ip
- Department of Ophthalmology, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, 999077, Hong Kong, China
| | - Wang Yee Chu
- Department of Ophthalmology, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, 999077, Hong Kong, China
| | - Man Shek Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, 999077, Hong Kong, China
| | - Chinmoy Saha
- Department of Ophthalmology, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, 999077, Hong Kong, China
| | - Kendrick Co Shih
- Department of Ophthalmology, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, 999077, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yau Kei Chan
- Department of Ophthalmology, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, 999077, Hong Kong, China
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Mu X, Gerhard-Herman MD, Zhang YS. Building Blood Vessel Chips with Enhanced Physiological Relevance. ADVANCED MATERIALS TECHNOLOGIES 2023; 8:2201778. [PMID: 37693798 PMCID: PMC10489284 DOI: 10.1002/admt.202201778] [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: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
Blood vessel chips are bioengineered microdevices, consisting of biomaterials, human cells, and microstructures, which recapitulate essential vascular structure and physiology and allow a well-controlled microenvironment and spatial-temporal readouts. Blood vessel chips afford promising opportunities to understand molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying a range of vascular diseases. The physiological relevance is key to these blood vessel chips that rely on bioinspired strategies and bioengineering approaches to translate vascular physiology into artificial units. Here, we discuss several critical aspects of vascular physiology, including morphology, material composition, mechanical properties, flow dynamics, and mass transport, which provide essential guidelines and a valuable source of bioinspiration for the rational design of blood vessel chips. We also review state-of-art blood vessel chips that exhibit important physiological features of the vessel and reveal crucial insights into the biological processes and disease pathogenesis, including rare diseases, with notable implications for drug screening and clinical trials. We envision that the advances in biomaterials, biofabrication, and stem cells improve the physiological relevance of blood vessel chips, which, along with the close collaborations between clinicians and bioengineers, enable their widespread utility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Mu
- Division of Engineering in Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Roy J. Carver Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Marie Denise Gerhard-Herman
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Yu Shrike Zhang
- Division of Engineering in Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Yang J, Hirai Y, Iida K, Ito S, Trumm M, Terada S, Sakai R, Tsuchiya T, Tabata O, Kamei KI. Integrated-gut-liver-on-a-chip platform as an in vitro human model of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Commun Biol 2023; 6:310. [PMID: 36959276 PMCID: PMC10036655 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-023-04710-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2020] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) afflicts a significant percentage of the population; however, no effective treatments have yet been established because of the unsuitability of in vitro assays and animal experimental models. Here, we present an integrated-gut-liver-on-a-chip (iGLC) platform as an in vitro human model of the gut-liver axis (GLA) by co-culturing human gut and liver cell lines interconnected via microfluidics in a closed circulation loop, for the initiation and progression of NAFLD by treatment with free fatty acids (FFAs) for 1 and 7 days, respectively. Co-cultured Caco-2 gut-mimicking cells and HepG2 hepatocyte-like cells demonstrate the protective effects from apoptosis against FFAs treatment, whereas mono-cultured cells exhibit induced apoptosis. Phenotype and gene expression analyses reveal that the FFAs-treated gut and liver cells accumulated intracellular lipid droplets and show an increase in gene expression associated with a cellular response to copper ions and endoplasmic reticulum stress. As an in vitro human GLA model, the iGLC platform may serve as an alternative to animal experiments for investigating the mechanisms of NAFLD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiandong Yang
- Department of Micro Engineering, Kyoto University, Kyotodaigaku-Katsura, Nishikyo-ku, Kyoto, 615-8540, Japan
| | - Yoshikazu Hirai
- Department of Micro Engineering, Kyoto University, Kyotodaigaku-Katsura, Nishikyo-ku, Kyoto, 615-8540, Japan.
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Science, Kyoto University, Kyotodaigaku-Katsura, Nishikyo-ku, Kyoto, 615-8540, Japan.
| | - Kei Iida
- Medical Research Support Center, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Yoshida Konoe-cho, Kyoto, 606-8501, Japan
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, Kindai University, 3-4-1 Kowakae, Higashiosaka, Osaka, 577-8502, Japan
| | - Shinji Ito
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, Kindai University, 3-4-1 Kowakae, Higashiosaka, Osaka, 577-8502, Japan
| | - Marika Trumm
- Department of Micro Engineering, Kyoto University, Kyotodaigaku-Katsura, Nishikyo-ku, Kyoto, 615-8540, Japan
- Institute for Integrated Cell-Material Sciences, Kyoto University, Yoshida-Ushinomiya-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8501, Japan
- Institute for Pharmacy and Molecular Biotechnology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, 69120, Germany
| | - Shiho Terada
- Institute for Integrated Cell-Material Sciences, Kyoto University, Yoshida-Ushinomiya-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8501, Japan
| | - Risako Sakai
- Institute for Integrated Cell-Material Sciences, Kyoto University, Yoshida-Ushinomiya-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8501, Japan
| | - Toshiyuki Tsuchiya
- Department of Micro Engineering, Kyoto University, Kyotodaigaku-Katsura, Nishikyo-ku, Kyoto, 615-8540, Japan
| | - Osamu Tabata
- Department of Micro Engineering, Kyoto University, Kyotodaigaku-Katsura, Nishikyo-ku, Kyoto, 615-8540, Japan
- Institute for Integrated Cell-Material Sciences, Kyoto University, Yoshida-Ushinomiya-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8501, Japan
- Faculty of Engineering/Graduate School of Engineering, Kyoto University of Advanced Science, Gotanda-cho, Yamanouchi, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto, 615-8577, Japan
| | - Ken-Ichiro Kamei
- Institute for Integrated Cell-Material Sciences, Kyoto University, Yoshida-Ushinomiya-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8501, Japan.
- Wuya College of Innovation, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 110016, Liaoning, China.
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 110016, Liaoning, China.
- Programs of Biology and Bioengineering, Divisions of Science and Engineering, New York University Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, UAE.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Yu Z, Hao R, Chen X, Ma L, Zhang Y, Yang H. Protocol to develop a microfluidic human corneal barrier-on-a-chip to evaluate the corneal epithelial wound repair process. STAR Protoc 2023; 4:102122. [PMID: 36861830 PMCID: PMC9984679 DOI: 10.1016/j.xpro.2023.102122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Organs-on-chips are microfluidic devices for cell culturing to simulate tissue- or organ-level physiology, providing new solutions other than traditional animal tests. Here, we describe a microfluidic platform consisting of human corneal cells and compartmentalizing channels to achieve fully integrated human cornea's barrier effects on the chip. We detail steps to verify the barrier effects and physiological phenotypes of microengineered human cornea. Then, we use the platform to evaluate the corneal epithelial wound repair process. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Yu et al. (2022).1.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zitong Yu
- Bionic Sensing and Intelligence Center, Institute of Biomedical and Health Engineering, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Rui Hao
- Bionic Sensing and Intelligence Center, Institute of Biomedical and Health Engineering, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Xi Chen
- Bionic Sensing and Intelligence Center, Institute of Biomedical and Health Engineering, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Lu Ma
- Bionic Sensing and Intelligence Center, Institute of Biomedical and Health Engineering, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Center for Medical AI, Institute of Biomedical and Health Engineering, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Hui Yang
- Bionic Sensing and Intelligence Center, Institute of Biomedical and Health Engineering, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Kravchenko SV, Myasnikova VV, Sakhnov SN. [Application of the organ-on-a-chip technology in experimental ophthalmology]. Vestn Oftalmol 2023; 139:114-120. [PMID: 36924523 DOI: 10.17116/oftalma2023139011114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
Organ-on-chip is a microfluidic device that can reproduce in vitro the minimal functional unit of an organ or system of organs and model various physiological processes and body structures with high accuracy. This review covers the main approaches to the use of the organ-on-chip technology in modern experimental ophthalmology. The analysis of literature sources revealed the following main applications of the organ-on-chip technology in ophthalmology; the technology allows modeling the anterior eye surface and its diseases, such as dry eye syndrome, as well as disorders of the posterior segment of the eye such as age-related macular degeneration, diabetic macular edema, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma. Culturing of eye tissues in microfluidic systems helps identify the toxic effects and pharmacological activity of new compounds, and provides an opportunity for deeper understanding of the normal physiology of the eye and the pathogenesis of ocular diseases. In addition, the technology can reduce the cost and duration of experiments. Thus, the organ-on-a-chip technology has a great potential in the field of experimental ophthalmology and preclinical trials of new ophthalmic drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S V Kravchenko
- Krasnodar branch of S.N. Fedorov National Medical Research Center «MNTK «Eye Microsurgery», Krasnodar, Russia
| | - V V Myasnikova
- Krasnodar branch of S.N. Fedorov National Medical Research Center «MNTK «Eye Microsurgery», Krasnodar, Russia
- Kuban State Medical University, Krasnodar, Russia
| | - S N Sakhnov
- Krasnodar branch of S.N. Fedorov National Medical Research Center «MNTK «Eye Microsurgery», Krasnodar, Russia
- Kuban State Medical University, Krasnodar, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Zhao Y, Hu G, Yan Y, Wang Z, Liu X, Shi H. Biomechanical analysis of ocular diseases and its in vitro study methods. Biomed Eng Online 2022; 21:49. [PMID: 35870978 PMCID: PMC9308301 DOI: 10.1186/s12938-022-01019-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Ocular diseases are closely related to the physiological changes in the eye sphere and its contents. Using biomechanical methods to explore the relationship between the structure and function of ocular tissue is beneficial to reveal the pathological processes. Studying the pathogenesis of various ocular diseases will be helpful for the diagnosis and treatment of ocular diseases. We provide a critical review of recent biomechanical analysis of ocular diseases including glaucoma, high myopia, and diabetes. And try to summarize the research about the biomechanical changes in ocular tissues (e.g., optic nerve head, sclera, cornea, etc.) associated with those diseases. The methods of ocular biomechanics research in vitro in recent years are also reviewed, including the measurement of biomechanics by ophthalmic equipment, finite element modeling, and biomechanical analysis methods. And the preparation and application of microfluidic eye chips that emerged in recent years were summarized. It provides new inspiration and opportunity for the pathogenesis of eye diseases and personalized and precise treatment.
Collapse
|
19
|
Yang S, Zhang J, Tan Y, Wang Y. Unraveling the mechanobiology of cornea: From bench side to the clinic. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:953590. [PMID: 36263359 PMCID: PMC9573972 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.953590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The cornea is a transparent, dome-shaped structure on the front part of the eye that serves as a major optic element and a protector from the external environment. Recent evidence shows aberrant alterations of the corneal mechano-environment in development and progression of various corneal diseases. It is, thus, critical to understand how corneal cells sense and respond to mechanical signals in physiological and pathological conditions. In this review, we summarize the corneal mechano-environment and discuss the impact of these mechanical cues on cellular functions from the bench side (in a laboratory research setting). From a clinical perspective, we comprehensively review the mechanical changes of corneal tissue in several cornea-related diseases, including keratoconus, myopia, and keratectasia, following refractive surgery. The findings from the bench side and clinic underscore the involvement of mechanical cues in corneal disorders, which may open a new avenue for development of novel therapeutic strategies by targeting corneal mechanics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shu Yang
- Clinical College of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Eye Institute, Tianjin Key Lab of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Tianjin Eye Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First People’s Hospital of Huzhou, Huzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Clinical College of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Eye Institute, Tianjin Key Lab of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Tianjin Eye Hospital, Tianjin, China
- School of Optometry, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Youhua Tan
- Hong Kong Polytechnic University Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR, China
- *Correspondence: Youhua Tan, ; Yan Wang,
| | - Yan Wang
- Clinical College of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Eye Institute, Tianjin Key Lab of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Tianjin Eye Hospital, Tianjin, China
- *Correspondence: Youhua Tan, ; Yan Wang,
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Tian C, Zheng S, Liu X, Kamei KI. Tumor-on-a-chip model for advancement of anti-cancer nano drug delivery system. J Nanobiotechnology 2022; 20:338. [PMID: 35858898 PMCID: PMC9301849 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-022-01552-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite explosive growth in the development of nano-drug delivery systems (NDDS) targeting tumors in the last few decades, clinical translation rates are low owing to the lack of efficient models for evaluating and predicting responses. Microfluidics-based tumor-on-a-chip (TOC) systems provide a promising approach to address these challenges. The integrated engineered platforms can recapitulate complex in vivo tumor features at a microscale level, such as the tumor microenvironment, three-dimensional tissue structure, and dynamic culture conditions, thus improving the correlation between results derived from preclinical and clinical trials in evaluating anticancer nanomedicines. The specific focus of this review is to describe recent advances in TOCs for the evaluation of nanomedicine, categorized into six sections based on the drug delivery process: circulation behavior after infusion, endothelial and matrix barriers, tumor uptake, therapeutic efficacy, safety, and resistance. We also discuss current issues and future directions for an end-use perspective of TOCs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chutong Tian
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Wuya College of Innovation, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, Liaoning, People's Republic of China.,Chinese People's Liberation Army 210 Hospital, 116021, Dalian, People's Republic of China
| | - Shunzhe Zheng
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Wuya College of Innovation, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, Liaoning, People's Republic of China
| | - Xinying Liu
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Wuya College of Innovation, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, Liaoning, People's Republic of China
| | - Ken-Ichiro Kamei
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Wuya College of Innovation, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, Liaoning, People's Republic of China. .,Institute for Integrated Cell-Material Sciences (WPI-iCeMS), Kyoto University, Yoshida-Ushinomiya-cho, Sakyo-ku, 606-8501, Kyoto, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Cui Z, Liao K, Li S, Gu J, Wang Y, Ding C, Guo Y, Chan HF, Ma JH, Tang S, Chen J. LM22B-10 promotes corneal nerve regeneration through in vitro 3D co-culture model and in vivo corneal injury model. Acta Biomater 2022; 146:159-176. [PMID: 35562005 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2022.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Revised: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Corneal nerve wounding often causes abnormalities in the cornea and even blindness in severe cases. In this study, we construct a dorsal root ganglion-corneal stromal cell (DRG-CSC, DS) co-culture 3D model to explore the mechanism of corneal nerve regeneration. Firstly, this model consists of DRG collagen grafts sandwiched by orthogonally stacked and orderly arranged CSC-laden plastic compressed collagen. Nerve bundles extend into the entire corneal stroma within 14 days, and they also have orthogonal patterns. This nerve prevents CSCs from apoptosis in the serum withdrawal medium. The conditioned medium (CM) for CSCs in collagen scaffolds contains NT-3, IL-6, and other factors. Among them, NT-3 notably promotes the activation of ERK-CREB in the DRG, leading to the growth of nerve bundles, and IL-6 induces the upregulation of anti-apoptotic genes. Then, LM22B-10, an activator of the NT-3 receptor TrkB/TrkC, can also activate ERK-CREB to enhance nerve growth. After administering LM22B-10 eye drops to regular and diabetic mice with corneal wounding, LM22B-10 significantly improves the healing speed of the corneal epithelium, corneal sensitivity, and corneal nerve density. Overall, the DS co-culture model provides a promising platform and tools for the exploration of corneal physiological and pathological mechanisms, as well as the verification of drug effects in vitro. Meanwhile, we confirm that LM22B-10, as a non-peptide small molecule, has future potential in nerve wound repair. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: The cornea accounts for most of the refractive power of the eye. Corneal nerves play an important role in maintaining corneal homeostasis. Once the corneal nerves are damaged, the corneal epithelium and stroma develop lesions. However, the mechanism of the interaction between corneal nerves and corneal cells is still not fully understood. Here, we construct a corneal stroma-nerve co-culture in vitro model and reveal that NT-3 expressed by stromal cells promotes nerve growth by activating the ERK-CREB pathway in nerves. LM22B-10, an activator of NT-3 receptors, can also induce nerve growth in vitro. Moreover, it is used as eye drops to enhance corneal epithelial wound healing, corneal nerve sensitivity and density of nerve plexus in corneal nerve wounding model in vivo.
Collapse
|
22
|
Filippi M, Buchner T, Yasa O, Weirich S, Katzschmann RK. Microfluidic Tissue Engineering and Bio-Actuation. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2022; 34:e2108427. [PMID: 35194852 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202108427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Revised: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Bio-hybrid technologies aim to replicate the unique capabilities of biological systems that could surpass advanced artificial technologies. Soft bio-hybrid robots consist of synthetic and living materials and have the potential to self-assemble, regenerate, work autonomously, and interact safely with other species and the environment. Cells require a sufficient exchange of nutrients and gases, which is guaranteed by convection and diffusive transport through liquid media. The functional development and long-term survival of biological tissues in vitro can be improved by dynamic flow culture, but only microfluidic flow control can develop tissue with fine structuring and regulation at the microscale. Full control of tissue growth at the microscale will eventually lead to functional macroscale constructs, which are needed as the biological component of soft bio-hybrid technologies. This review summarizes recent progress in microfluidic techniques to engineer biological tissues, focusing on the use of muscle cells for robotic bio-actuation. Moreover, the instances in which bio-actuation technologies greatly benefit from fusion with microfluidics are highlighted, which include: the microfabrication of matrices, biomimicry of cell microenvironments, tissue maturation, perfusion, and vascularization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Filippi
- Soft Robotics Laboratory, ETH Zurich, Tannenstrasse 3, Zurich, 8092, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Buchner
- Soft Robotics Laboratory, ETH Zurich, Tannenstrasse 3, Zurich, 8092, Switzerland
| | - Oncay Yasa
- Soft Robotics Laboratory, ETH Zurich, Tannenstrasse 3, Zurich, 8092, Switzerland
| | - Stefan Weirich
- Soft Robotics Laboratory, ETH Zurich, Tannenstrasse 3, Zurich, 8092, Switzerland
| | - Robert K Katzschmann
- Soft Robotics Laboratory, ETH Zurich, Tannenstrasse 3, Zurich, 8092, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Lin X, Su J, Zhou S. Microfluidic chip of concentration gradient and fluid shear stress on a single cell level. CHINESE CHEM LETT 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cclet.2021.10.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
|
24
|
Tafti MF, Aghamollaei H, Moghaddam MM, Jadidi K, Alio JL, Faghihi S. Emerging tissue engineering strategies for the corneal regeneration. J Tissue Eng Regen Med 2022; 16:683-706. [PMID: 35585479 DOI: 10.1002/term.3309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 04/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Cornea as the outermost layer of the eye is at risk of various genetic and environmental diseases that can damage the cornea and impair vision. Corneal transplantation is among the most applicable surgical procedures for repairing the defected tissue. However, the scarcity of healthy tissue donations as well as transplantation failure has remained as the biggest challenges in confront of corneal grafting. Therefore, alternative approaches based on stem-cell transplantation and classic regenerative medicine have been developed for corneal regeneration. In this review, the application and limitation of the recently-used advanced approaches for regeneration of cornea are discussed. Additionally, other emerging powerful techniques such as 5D printing as a new branch of scaffold-based technologies for construction of tissues other than the cornea are highlighted and suggested as alternatives for corneal reconstruction. The introduced novel techniques may have great potential for clinical applications in corneal repair including disease modeling, 3D pattern scheming, and personalized medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mahsa Fallah Tafti
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Group, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hossein Aghamollaei
- Chemical Injuries Research Center, Systems Biology and Poisonings Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Khosrow Jadidi
- Vision Health Research Center, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran
| | - Jorge L Alio
- Department of Research and Development, VISSUM, Alicante, Spain.,Cornea, Cataract and Refractive Surgery Department, VISSUM, Alicante, Spain.,Department of Pathology and Surgery, Division of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Miguel Hernández University, Alicante, Spain
| | - Shahab Faghihi
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Group, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
De Stefano P, Bianchi E, Dubini G. The impact of microfluidics in high-throughput drug-screening applications. BIOMICROFLUIDICS 2022; 16:031501. [PMID: 35646223 PMCID: PMC9142169 DOI: 10.1063/5.0087294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Drug discovery is an expensive and lengthy process. Among the different phases, drug discovery and preclinical trials play an important role as only 5-10 of all drugs that begin preclinical tests proceed to clinical trials. Indeed, current high-throughput screening technologies are very expensive, as they are unable to dispense small liquid volumes in an accurate and quick way. Moreover, despite being simple and fast, drug screening assays are usually performed under static conditions, thus failing to recapitulate tissue-specific architecture and biomechanical cues present in vivo even in the case of 3D models. On the contrary, microfluidics might offer a more rapid and cost-effective alternative. Although considered incompatible with high-throughput systems for years, technological advancements have demonstrated how this gap is rapidly reducing. In this Review, we want to further outline the role of microfluidics in high-throughput drug screening applications by looking at the multiple strategies for cell seeding, compartmentalization, continuous flow, stimuli administration (e.g., drug gradients or shear stresses), and single-cell analyses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paola De Stefano
- Laboratory of Biological Structure Mechanics, Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering “G. Natta,” Politecnico di Milano, Italy
| | - Elena Bianchi
- Laboratory of Biological Structure Mechanics, Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering “G. Natta,” Politecnico di Milano, Italy
| | - Gabriele Dubini
- Laboratory of Biological Structure Mechanics, Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering “G. Natta,” Politecnico di Milano, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Lin L, Wang X, Niu M, Wu Q, Wang H, Zu Y, Wang W. Biomimetic epithelium/endothelium on chips. ENGINEERED REGENERATION 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.engreg.2022.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
|
27
|
Yu Z, Hao R, Du J, Wu X, Chen X, Zhang Y, Li W, Gu Z, Yang H. A human cornea-on-a-chip for the study of epithelial wound healing by extracellular vesicles. iScience 2022; 25:104200. [PMID: 35479406 PMCID: PMC9035703 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.104200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Revised: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Zitong Yu
- Bionic Sensing and Intelligence Center, Institute of Biomedical and Health Engineering, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Rui Hao
- Bionic Sensing and Intelligence Center, Institute of Biomedical and Health Engineering, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Jing Du
- Bionic Sensing and Intelligence Center, Institute of Biomedical and Health Engineering, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Xiaoliang Wu
- Bionic Sensing and Intelligence Center, Institute of Biomedical and Health Engineering, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Xi Chen
- Bionic Sensing and Intelligence Center, Institute of Biomedical and Health Engineering, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Center for Medical AI, Institute of Biomedical and Health Engineering, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Xiang’an Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Eye Institute of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Zhongze Gu
- School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China
| | - Hui Yang
- Bionic Sensing and Intelligence Center, Institute of Biomedical and Health Engineering, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China
- Corresponding author
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Darie-Niță RN, Râpă M, Frąckowiak S. Special Features of Polyester-Based Materials for Medical Applications. Polymers (Basel) 2022; 14:951. [PMID: 35267774 PMCID: PMC8912343 DOI: 10.3390/polym14050951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2022] [Revised: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
This article presents current possibilities of using polyester-based materials in hard and soft tissue engineering, wound dressings, surgical implants, vascular reconstructive surgery, ophthalmology, and other medical applications. The review summarizes the recent literature on the key features of processing methods and potential suitable combinations of polyester-based materials with improved physicochemical and biological properties that meet the specific requirements for selected medical fields. The polyester materials used in multiresistant infection prevention, including during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as aspects covering environmental concerns, current risks and limitations, and potential future directions are also addressed. Depending on the different features of polyester types, as well as their specific medical applications, it can be generally estimated that 25-50% polyesters are used in the medical field, while an increase of at least 20% has been achieved since the COVID-19 pandemic started. The remaining percentage is provided by other types of natural or synthetic polymers; i.e., 25% polyolefins in personal protection equipment (PPE).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Raluca Nicoleta Darie-Niță
- Physical Chemistry of Polymers Department, Petru Poni Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, 41A Grigore Ghica Voda Alley, 700487 Iasi, Romania;
| | - Maria Râpă
- Faculty of Materials Science and Engineering, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 313 Splaiul Independentei, 060042 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Stanisław Frąckowiak
- Faculty of Environmental Engineering, University of Science and Technology, 50-013 Wrocław, Poland;
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
The Development of Biomimetic Aligned Skeletal Muscles in a Fully 3D Printed Microfluidic Device. Biomimetics (Basel) 2021; 7:biomimetics7010002. [PMID: 35076457 PMCID: PMC8788470 DOI: 10.3390/biomimetics7010002] [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: 12/03/2021] [Revised: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Human skeletal muscles are characterized by a unique aligned microstructure of myotubes which is important for their function as well as for their homeostasis. Thus, the recapitulation of the aligned microstructure of skeletal muscles is crucial for the construction of an advanced biomimetic model aimed at drug development applications. Here, we have developed a 3D printed micropatterned microfluid device (3D-PMMD) through the employment of a fused deposition modeling (FDM)-based 3D printer and clear filaments made of biocompatible polyethylene terephthalate glycol (PETG). We could fabricate micropatterns through the adjustment of the printing deposition heights of PETG filaments, leading to the generation of aligned half-cylinder-shaped micropatterns in a dimension range from 100 µm to 400 µm in width and from 60 µm to 150 µm in height, respectively. Moreover, we could grow and expand C2C12 mouse myoblast cells on 3D-PMMD where cells could differentiate into aligned bundles of myotubes with respect to the dimension of each micropattern. Furthermore, our platform was applicable with the electrical pulses stimulus (EPS) modality where we noticed an improvement in myotubes maturation under the EPS conditions, indicating the potential use of the 3D-PMMD for biological experiments as well as for myogenic drug development applications in the future.
Collapse
|
30
|
Bonneau N, Baudouin C, Réaux-Le Goazigo A, Brignole-Baudouin F. An overview of current alternative models in the context of ocular surface toxicity. J Appl Toxicol 2021; 42:718-737. [PMID: 34648674 DOI: 10.1002/jat.4246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2021] [Revised: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The 21st century has seen a steadily increasing social awareness of animal suffering, with increased attention to ethical considerations. Developing new integrated approaches to testing and assessment (IATA) strategies is an Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) goal to reduce animal testing. Currently, there is a lack of alternative models to test for ocular surface toxicity (aside from irritation) in lieu of the Draize eye irritation test (OECD guideline No. 405) performed in rabbits. Five alternative in vitro or ex vivo methods have been validated to replace this reference test, but only in combination. However, pathologies like Toxicity-Induced Dry Eye (TIDE), cataract, glaucoma, and neuropathic pain can occur after exposure to a pharmaceutical product or chemical and therefore need to be anticipated. To do so, new models of lacrimal glands, lens, and neurons innervating epithelia are required. These models must take into account real-life exposure (dose, time, and tear film clearance). The scientific community is working hard to develop new, robust, alternative, in silico, and in vitro models, while attempting to balance ethics and availability of biological materials. This review provides a broad overview of the validated methods for analyzing ocular irritation and those still used by some industries, as well as promising models that need to be optimized according to the OECD. Finally, we give an overview of recently developed innovative models, which could become new tools in the evaluation of ocular surface toxicity within the scope of IATAs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Noémie Bonneau
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, IHU FOReSight, Institut de la Vision, Paris, France.,Horus Pharma, Saint-Laurent-du-Var, France
| | - Christophe Baudouin
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, IHU FOReSight, Institut de la Vision, Paris, France.,Centre Hospitalier National d'Ophtalmologie des Quinze-Vingts, INSERM-DGOS CIC 1423, IHU FOReSight, Paris, France.,Université Versailles-Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines, Hôpital Ambroise Paré, APHP, Boulogne-Billancourt, France
| | | | - Françoise Brignole-Baudouin
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, IHU FOReSight, Institut de la Vision, Paris, France.,Centre Hospitalier National d'Ophtalmologie des Quinze-Vingts, INSERM-DGOS CIC 1423, IHU FOReSight, Paris, France.,Laboratoire d'Ophtalmobiologie, Centre Hospitalier National d'Ophtalmologie des Quinze-Vingts, IHU FOReSight, Paris, France.,Université de Paris, Faculté de Pharmacie de Paris, Département de Toxicologie, Paris, France
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Wong HL, Hung LT, Kwok SS, Bu Y, Lin Y, Shum HC, Wang H, Lo ACY, Yam GHF, Jhanji V, Shih KC, Chan YK. The anti-scarring role of Lycium barbarum polysaccharide on cornea epithelial-stromal injury. Exp Eye Res 2021; 211:108747. [PMID: 34450184 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2021.108747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Revised: 08/07/2021] [Accepted: 08/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Cornea epithelial-stromal scarring is related to the differentiation of fibroblasts into opaque myofibroblasts. Our study aims to assess the effectiveness of Lycium barbarum polysaccharide (LBP) solution as a pre-treatment in minimizing corneal scarring. METHODS Human corneal fibroblasts were cultured in a three-dimensional collagen type I-based hydrogel in an eye-on-a-chip model. Fibroblasts were pre-treated with 2 mg/mL LBP for 24 h, followed by another 24-h incubation with 10 ng/mL transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1) to induce relevant physiological events after stromal injury. Intracellular pro-fibrotic proteins, extracellular matrix proteins, and pro-inflammatory cytokines that involved in fibrosis, were assessed using immunocytochemistry and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. RESULTS Compared to the positive control TGF-β1 group, LBP pre-treated cells had a significantly lower expression of alpha-smooth muscle actin, marker of myofibroblasts, vimentin (p < 0.05), and also extracellular matrix proteins both collagen type II and type III (p < 0.05) that can be found in scar tissues. Moreover, LBP pre-treated cells had a significantly lower secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin-6 and interleukin-8 (p < 0.05). The cell-laden hydrogel contraction and stiffness showed no significant difference between LBP pre-treatment and control groups. Fibroblasts pretreated with LBP as well had reduced angiogenic factors expression and suppression of undesired proliferation (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION Our results showed that LBP reduced both pro-fibrotic proteins and pro-inflammatory cytokines on corneal injury in vitro. We suggest that LBP, as a natural Traditional Chinese Medicine, may potentially be a novel topical pre-treatment option prior to corneal refractive surgeries with an improved prognosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ho Lam Wong
- Department of Ophthalmology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
| | - Lap Tak Hung
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
| | - Sum Sum Kwok
- Department of Ophthalmology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
| | - Yashan Bu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
| | - Yuan Lin
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
| | - Ho Cheung Shum
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
| | - Hua Wang
- Eye Center of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, China; Hunan Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, China
| | - Amy Cheuk Yin Lo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
| | - Gary Hin Fai Yam
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Centre, USA
| | - Vishal Jhanji
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Centre, USA
| | - Kendrick Co Shih
- Department of Ophthalmology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.
| | - Yau Kei Chan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Joseph X, Akhil V, Arathi A, Mohanan PV. Comprehensive Development in Organ-On-A-Chip Technology. J Pharm Sci 2021; 111:18-31. [PMID: 34324944 DOI: 10.1016/j.xphs.2021.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2021] [Revised: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The expeditious advancement in the organ on chip technology provided a phase change to the conventional in vitro tests used to evaluate absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion (ADME) studies and toxicity assessments. The demand for an accurate predictive model for assessing toxicity and reducing the potential risk factors became the prime area of any drug delivery process. Researchers around the globe are welcoming the incorporation of organ-on-a-chips for ADME and toxicity evaluation. Organ-on-a-chip (OOC) is an interdisciplinary technology that evolved as a contemporary in vitro model for the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics (PK-PD) studies of a proposed drug candidate in the pre-clinical phases of drug development. The OOC provides a platform that mimics the physiological functions occurring in the human body. The precise flow control systems and the rapid sample processing makes OOC more advanced than the conventional two-dimensional (2D) culture systems. The integration of various organs as in the multi organs-on-a-chip provides more significant ideas about the time and dose dependant effects occurring in the body when a new drug molecule is administered as part of the pre-clinical times. This review outlines the comprehensive development in the organ-on-a-chip technology, various OOC models and its drug development applications, toxicity evaluation and efficacy studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- X Joseph
- Toxicology Division, Biomedical Technology Wing, Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology (Govt. of India), Poojapura, Trivandrum 695012, Kerala, India
| | - V Akhil
- Toxicology Division, Biomedical Technology Wing, Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology (Govt. of India), Poojapura, Trivandrum 695012, Kerala, India
| | - A Arathi
- Toxicology Division, Biomedical Technology Wing, Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology (Govt. of India), Poojapura, Trivandrum 695012, Kerala, India
| | - P V Mohanan
- Toxicology Division, Biomedical Technology Wing, Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology (Govt. of India), Poojapura, Trivandrum 695012, Kerala, India.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Mechanobiology of conjunctival epithelial cells exposed to wall shear stresses. Biomech Model Mechanobiol 2021; 20:1903-1917. [PMID: 34228228 DOI: 10.1007/s10237-021-01484-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
The human conjunctival epithelial cells (HCEC) line the inner sides of the eyelids and the anterior part of the sclera. They include goblet cells that secret mucus into the tear film that protects the ocular surface. The conjunctival epithelium is subjected to mechano-physical stimuli due to eyelid movement during blinking, during wiping and rubbing the eyes, and when exposed to wind and air currents. We cultured primary HCEC under air-liquid interface (ALI) conditions in custom-designed wells that can be disassembled for installation of the in vitro model in a flow chamber. We exposed the HCEC after ALI culture of 8-10 days to steady and oscillatory airflows. The in vitro model of HCEC was exposed to steady wall shear stresses (sWSS) of 0.5 and 1.0 dyne/cm2 for lengths of 30 and 60 min and to oscillatory wall shear stresses (oWSS) of 0.5 and 0.77 dyne/cm2 amplitudes for a length of 10 min. Cytoskeletal alterations and MUC5AC mucin secretion in response to WSS were investigated using immunohistochemically fluorescent staining and enzyme-linked lectin assay (ELLA), respectively. The results revealed that both exposure times and sWSS values increased the polymerization of F-actin filaments while mucin secretion decreased. However, after a recovery of 24 h in the incubator we observed a decrease of F-actin fibers and mucin secretion only for exposure of 30 min. The length of exposure was more influential on cytoskeletal alterations than the level of sWSS. The very small effect of sWSS on mucin secretion is most likely related to the much smaller amount of goblet cell than in other mucus-secreting tissue. The results for both oWSS amplitudes revealed similar trends regarding F-actin and mucin secretion. Immediately post-exposure we observed an increase in polymerization of F-actin filaments while mucin secretion decreased. However, after 24-h recovery we observed that both F-actin and mucin secretion returned to the same values as for unexposed cultures. The results of this study suggest that WSS should be considered while exploring the physiological characteristics of HCEC.
Collapse
|
34
|
Van Meenen J, Ní Dhubhghaill S, Van den Bogerd B, Koppen C. An Overview of Advanced In Vitro Corneal Models: Implications for Pharmacological Testing. TISSUE ENGINEERING PART B-REVIEWS 2021; 28:506-516. [PMID: 33878935 DOI: 10.1089/ten.teb.2021.0031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The cornea is an important barrier to consider when developing ophthalmic formulations, but proper modeling of this multilayered tissue remains a challenge. This is due to the varying properties associated with each layer in addition to the dynamics of the tear film. Hence, the most representative models to date rely on animals. Animal models, however, differ from humans in several aspects and are subject to ethical limitations. Consequently, in vitro approaches are being developed to address these issues. This review focuses on the barrier properties of the cornea and evaluates the most advanced three-dimensional cultures of human corneal equivalents in literature. Their application potential is subsequently assessed and discussed in the context of preclinical testing along with our perspective toward the future. Impact statement Most ocular drugs are applied topically, with the transcorneal pathway as the main administration route. Animal corneas are currently the only advanced models available, contributing to the drug attrition rate. Anatomical and physiological interspecies differences might account for a poor translatability of preclinical results to clinical trials, urging researchers to devise better corneal equivalents. This review elaborates on the emerging generation of three-dimensional in vitro models, which comprises spheroids, organoids, and organs-on-chips, which can serve as a stepping stone for advancements in this field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joris Van Meenen
- Antwerp Research Group for Ocular Science, Department of Translational Neurosciences, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Sorcha Ní Dhubhghaill
- Antwerp Research Group for Ocular Science, Department of Translational Neurosciences, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium.,Department of Ophthalmology, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium
| | - Bert Van den Bogerd
- Antwerp Research Group for Ocular Science, Department of Translational Neurosciences, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Carina Koppen
- Antwerp Research Group for Ocular Science, Department of Translational Neurosciences, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium.,Department of Ophthalmology, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Spatiotemporal determination of metabolite activities in the corneal epithelium on a chip. Exp Eye Res 2021; 209:108646. [PMID: 34102209 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2021.108646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2021] [Revised: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The corneal epithelial barrier maintains the metabolic activities of the ocular surface by regulating membrane transporters and metabolic enzymes responsible for the homeostasis of the eye as well as the pharmacokinetic behavior of drugs. Despite its importance, no established biomimetic in vitro methods are available to perform the spatiotemporal investigation of metabolism and determine the transportation of endogenous and exogenous molecules across the corneal epithelium barrier. This study introduces multiple corneal epitheliums on a chip namely, Corneal Epithelium on a Chip (CEpOC), which enables the spatiotemporal collection as well as analysis of micro-scaled extracellular metabolites from both the apical and basolateral sides of the barriers. Longitudinal samples collected during 48 h period were analyzed using untargeted liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry metabolomics method, and 104 metabolites were annotated. We observed the spatiotemporal secretion of biologically relevant metabolites (i.e., antioxidant, glutathione and uric acid) as well as the depletion of essential nutrients such as amino acids and vitamins mimicking the in vivo molecules trafficking across the human corneal epithelium. Through the shifts of extracellular metabolites and quantitative analysis of mRNA associated with transporters, we were able to investigate the secretion and transportation activities across the polarized barrier in a correlation with the expression of corneal transporters. Thus, CEpOC can provide a non-invasive, simple, yet effectively informative method to determine pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics as well as to discover novel biomarkers for drug toxicological and safety tests as advanced experimental model of the human corneal epithelium.
Collapse
|
36
|
Yamanaka M, Wen X, Imamura S, Sakai R, Terada S, Kamei KI. Cyclo olefin polymer-based solvent-free mass-productive microphysiological systems. Biomed Mater 2021; 16. [PMID: 33588402 DOI: 10.1088/1748-605x/abe660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
A microphysiological system (MPS) holds great promise for drug screening and toxicological testing as an alternative to animal models. However, this platform faces several challenges in terms of the materials used (e.g., polydimethylsiloxane; PDMS). For instance, absorption of drug candidates and fluorescent dyes into PDMS, as well as the effect elicited by materials on cultured cells, can cause inaccurate or misleading results in cell assays. The use of PDMS also poses challenges for mass production and long-term storage of fabricated MPSs. Hence, to circumvent these issues, herein we describe the development of a cyclo olefin polymer (COP)-based MPS using photobonding processes and vacuum ultraviolet (VUV), designated as COP-VUV-MPS. COP is an amorphous polymer with chemical/physical stability, high purity and optical clarity. Due to the thermostability and high modulus of COP, the metal molding processes was applied for mass production of MPSs without deformation of microstructures and with quick fabrication cycle time (approx. 10 min/cycle). Moreover, VUV photobonding process with an excimer light at a 172-nm wavelength allowed assembling COP materials without the use of additional solvents and tapes, which might cause cell damages. In comparison with the conventional MPS made of PDMS (PDMS-MPS), COP-VUV-MPS showed improved chemical resistance without causing molecule absorption. Moreover, COP-VUV-MPS maintained the stemness of environmentally sensitive human-induced pluripotent stem cells without causing undesired cellular phenotypes or gene expression. These results suggest that COP-VUV-MPS may be broadly applicable for the advancement of MPS and applications in drug development, as well as in vitro toxicological testing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Makoto Yamanaka
- Ushio Inc, 1-6-5 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 100-8150, JAPAN
| | - Xiaopeng Wen
- Kyoto University, Yoshida-Ushinomiya-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8501, JAPAN
| | - Satoshi Imamura
- Kyoto University, Yoshida-Ushinomiya-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8501, JAPAN
| | - Risako Sakai
- Kyoto University, Yoshida-Ushinomiya-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8501, JAPAN
| | - Shiho Terada
- Kyoto University, Yoshida-Ushinomiya-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8501, JAPAN
| | - Ken-Ichiro Kamei
- Kyoto University, Yoshida-Ushinomiya-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8501, JAPAN
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Duzagac F, Saorin G, Memeo L, Canzonieri V, Rizzolio F. Microfluidic Organoids-on-a-Chip: Quantum Leap in Cancer Research. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:737. [PMID: 33578886 PMCID: PMC7916612 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13040737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2020] [Revised: 01/24/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Organ-like cell clusters, so-called organoids, which exhibit self-organized and similar organ functionality as the tissue of origin, have provided a whole new level of bioinspiration for ex vivo systems. Microfluidic organoid or organs-on-a-chip platforms are a new group of micro-engineered promising models that recapitulate 3D tissue structure and physiology and combines several advantages of current in vivo and in vitro models. Microfluidics technology is used in numerous applications since it allows us to control and manipulate fluid flows with a high degree of accuracy. This system is an emerging tool for understanding disease development and progression, especially for personalized therapeutic strategies for cancer treatment, which provide well-grounded, cost-effective, powerful, fast, and reproducible results. In this review, we highlight how the organoid-on-a-chip models have improved the potential of efficiency and reproducibility of organoid cultures. More widely, we discuss current challenges and development on organoid culture systems together with microfluidic approaches and their limitations. Finally, we describe the recent progress and potential utilization in the organs-on-a-chip practice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fahriye Duzagac
- Department of Molecular Sciences and Nanosystems, Ca’ Foscari University of Venice, 30123 Venezia, Italy; (F.D.); (G.S.)
| | - Gloria Saorin
- Department of Molecular Sciences and Nanosystems, Ca’ Foscari University of Venice, 30123 Venezia, Italy; (F.D.); (G.S.)
| | - Lorenzo Memeo
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Mediterranean Institute of Oncology (IOM), 95029 Catania, Italy;
| | - Vincenzo Canzonieri
- Pathology Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO) IRCCS, 33081 Aviano, Italy;
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy
| | - Flavio Rizzolio
- Department of Molecular Sciences and Nanosystems, Ca’ Foscari University of Venice, 30123 Venezia, Italy; (F.D.); (G.S.)
- Pathology Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO) IRCCS, 33081 Aviano, Italy;
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
In vitro reconstructed 3D corneal tissue models for ocular toxicology and ophthalmic drug development. In Vitro Cell Dev Biol Anim 2021; 57:207-237. [PMID: 33544359 DOI: 10.1007/s11626-020-00533-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Testing of all manufactured products and their ingredients for eye irritation is a regulatory requirement. In the last two decades, the development of alternatives to the in vivo Draize eye irritation test method has substantially advanced due to the improvements in primary cell isolation, cell culture techniques, and media, which have led to improved in vitro corneal tissue models and test methods. Most in vitro models for ocular toxicology attempt to reproduce the corneal epithelial tissue which consists of 4-5 layers of non-keratinized corneal epithelial cells that form tight junctions, thereby limiting the penetration of chemicals, xenobiotics, and pharmaceuticals. Also, significant efforts have been directed toward the development of more complex three-dimensional (3D) equivalents to study wound healing, drug permeation, and bioavailability. This review focuses on in vitro reconstructed 3D corneal tissue models and their utilization in ocular toxicology as well as their application to pharmacology and ophthalmic research. Current human 3D corneal epithelial cell culture models have replaced in vivo animal eye irritation tests for many applications, and substantial validation efforts are in progress to verify and approve alternative eye irritation tests for widespread use. The validation of drug absorption models and further development of models and test methods for many ophthalmic and ocular disease applications is required.
Collapse
|
39
|
Sheng A, Lin L, Zhu J, Zhuang J, Li J, Chang L, Cheng H. Micro/nanodevices for assessment and treatment in stomatology and ophthalmology. MICROSYSTEMS & NANOENGINEERING 2021; 7:11. [PMID: 33532080 PMCID: PMC7844113 DOI: 10.1038/s41378-021-00238-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2020] [Revised: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Micro/nanodevices have been widely applied for the real-time monitoring of intracellular activities and the delivery of exogenous substances in the past few years. This review focuses on miniaturized micro/nanodevices for assessment and treatment in stomatology and ophthalmology. We first summarize the recent progress in this field by examining the available materials and fabrication techniques, device design principles, mechanisms, and biosafety aspects of micro/nanodevices. Following a discussion of biochemical sensing technology from the cellular level to the tissue level for disease assessment, we then summarize the use of microneedles and other micro/nanodevices in the treatment of oral and ocular diseases and conditions, including oral cancer, eye wrinkles, keratitis, and infections. Along with the identified key challenges, this review concludes with future directions as a small fraction of vast opportunities, calling for joint efforts between clinicians and engineers with diverse backgrounds to help facilitate the rapid development of this burgeoning field in stomatology and ophthalmology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- An’an Sheng
- The Institute of Single Cell Engineering, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering; School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, 100191 Beijing, China
- Department of Stomatology, Xiang’An Hospital of Xiamen University, 361100 Xiamen, China
- School of Stomatology, North China University of Science and Technology, 063210 Tangshan, China
| | - Long Lin
- The Institute of Single Cell Engineering, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering; School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, 100191 Beijing, China
- Institute of Plastic Machinery and Plastic Engineering, School of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, 100029 Beijing, China
| | - Jia Zhu
- Department of Engineering Science and Mechanics, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802 USA
| | - Jian Zhuang
- Institute of Plastic Machinery and Plastic Engineering, School of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, 100029 Beijing, China
| | - Jian Li
- Department of Stomatology, Xiang’An Hospital of Xiamen University, 361100 Xiamen, China
| | - Lingqian Chang
- The Institute of Single Cell Engineering, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering; School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, 100191 Beijing, China
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Research and Engineering Center of Biomedical Materials, Anhui Medical University, 230032 Hefei, China
| | - Huanyu Cheng
- Department of Engineering Science and Mechanics, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802 USA
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Caruso G, Musso N, Grasso M, Costantino A, Lazzarino G, Tascedda F, Gulisano M, Lunte SM, Caraci F. Microfluidics as a Novel Tool for Biological and Toxicological Assays in Drug Discovery Processes: Focus on Microchip Electrophoresis. MICROMACHINES 2020; 11:E593. [PMID: 32549277 PMCID: PMC7344675 DOI: 10.3390/mi11060593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2020] [Revised: 06/04/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The last decades of biological, toxicological, and pharmacological research have deeply changed the way researchers select the most appropriate 'pre-clinical model'. The absence of relevant animal models for many human diseases, as well as the inaccurate prognosis coming from 'conventional' pre-clinical models, are among the major reasons of the failures observed in clinical trials. This evidence has pushed several research groups to move more often from a classic cellular or animal modeling approach to an alternative and broader vision that includes the involvement of microfluidic-based technologies. The use of microfluidic devices offers several benefits including fast analysis times, high sensitivity and reproducibility, the ability to quantitate multiple chemical species, and the simulation of cellular response mimicking the closest human in vivo milieu. Therefore, they represent a useful way to study drug-organ interactions and related safety and toxicity, and to model organ development and various pathologies 'in a dish'. The present review will address the applicability of microfluidic-based technologies in different systems (2D and 3D). We will focus our attention on applications of microchip electrophoresis (ME) to biological and toxicological studies as well as in drug discovery and development processes. These include high-throughput single-cell gene expression profiling, simultaneous determination of antioxidants and reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, DNA analysis, and sensitive determination of neurotransmitters in biological fluids. We will discuss new data obtained by ME coupled to laser-induced fluorescence (ME-LIF) and electrochemical detection (ME-EC) regarding the production and degradation of nitric oxide, a fundamental signaling molecule regulating virtually every critical cellular function. Finally, the integration of microfluidics with recent innovative technologies-such as organoids, organ-on-chip, and 3D printing-for the design of new in vitro experimental devices will be presented with a specific attention to drug development applications. This 'composite' review highlights the potential impact of 2D and 3D microfluidic systems as a fast, inexpensive, and highly sensitive tool for high-throughput drug screening and preclinical toxicological studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Caruso
- Oasi Research Institute—IRCCS, 94018 Troina (EN), Italy; (M.G.); (F.C.)
| | - Nicolò Musso
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences (BIOMETEC), University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy; (N.M.); (G.L.)
| | - Margherita Grasso
- Oasi Research Institute—IRCCS, 94018 Troina (EN), Italy; (M.G.); (F.C.)
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy; (A.C.); (M.G.)
| | - Angelita Costantino
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy; (A.C.); (M.G.)
| | - Giuseppe Lazzarino
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences (BIOMETEC), University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy; (N.M.); (G.L.)
| | - Fabio Tascedda
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy;
- Center for Neuroscience and Neurotechnology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Massimo Gulisano
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy; (A.C.); (M.G.)
- Molecular Preclinical and Translational Imaging Research Centre-IMPRonTE, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy
- Interuniversity Consortium for Biotechnology, Area di Ricerca, Padriciano, 34149 Trieste, Italy
| | - Susan M. Lunte
- Ralph N. Adams Institute for Bioanalytical Chemistry, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66047-1620, USA;
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66047-1620, USA
- Department of Chemistry, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66047-1620, USA
| | - Filippo Caraci
- Oasi Research Institute—IRCCS, 94018 Troina (EN), Italy; (M.G.); (F.C.)
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy; (A.C.); (M.G.)
| |
Collapse
|