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Tian Y, Ma Y, Kang Y, Tian S, Li Q, Zhang L, Yang J. Zwitterionic-hydrogel-based sensing system enables real-time ROS monitoring for ultra-long hypothermic cell preservation. Acta Biomater 2024; 186:275-285. [PMID: 39097124 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2024.07.043] [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: 04/18/2024] [Revised: 07/08/2024] [Accepted: 07/28/2024] [Indexed: 08/05/2024]
Abstract
Hypothermic preservation (HP) is highly desired for the maintenance of the viability of living cell specimens, e.g. rare cells in whole-blood samples or therapeutic cells, in an unfrozen state. However, the extension of the viable preservation time is a challenge because of the multiple injuries suffered by hypothermically preserved cells. Here, based on a dynamic bond crosslinked zwitterionic hydrogel, we established a sensing preservation system that could monitor the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) via real-time electronic signals and intelligent control of antioxidant addition, to completely prevent an excess of ROS in the whole-cell specimen. Furthermore, the hydrogel-based system can counter the extracellular-matrix-loss-induced anoikis of living cells. Based on the design aimed at affording protection against two primary HP injuries (i.e. ROS overproduction and anoikis) to cells, this system extended the preservation time of cell specimens under refrigerated conditions to 24 days. After preservation, the use of a mild cell retrieval process guaranteed the activity of the preserved living cells. This work not only possesses the potential to facilitate intelligent cell-based clinical applications, but also paves the way for the preparation of living materials that can host programmed cells with long-term survival. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: An intelligent system based on a zwitterionic sensing hydrogel is established, which can afford ultra-long hypothermic cell-preservation times of up to 24 days. The system enables the real-time monitoring of ROS overproduction and intelligent antioxidant addition, because of the merging of the smart hydrogel with a computer intelligent detection and control system. Furthermore, the automatic addition of an antioxidant according to the ROS-signal changes produced by the ZBA hydrogel effectively prevented HP lesions, including ROS over-production and ECM loss, in the preserved living cells. Subsequently, the system could also be gently dissociated, to retrieve the preserved cells. This work provides a solution for the real-time monitoring and long-term HP of living specimens, which holds the promise of benefiting cell-based medicine and the development of genetically programmed cell-based living materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunqing Tian
- Department of Biochemical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Frontier Science Center for Synthetic Biology and Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (MOE), Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300350, China
| | - Yiming Ma
- Department of Biochemical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Frontier Science Center for Synthetic Biology and Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (MOE), Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300350, China
| | - Yuxiang Kang
- Department of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery, Tianjin Hospital, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300211, China
| | - Shu Tian
- Department of Biochemical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Frontier Science Center for Synthetic Biology and Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (MOE), Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300350, China
| | - Qingsi Li
- Department of Biochemical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Frontier Science Center for Synthetic Biology and Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (MOE), Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300350, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Department of Biochemical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Frontier Science Center for Synthetic Biology and Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (MOE), Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300350, China; Haihe Laboratory of Sustainable Chemical Transformations, Tianjin, 300192, China
| | - Jing Yang
- Department of Biochemical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Frontier Science Center for Synthetic Biology and Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (MOE), Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300350, China.
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Pramanik S, Singh A, Abualsoud BM, Deepak A, Nainwal P, Sargsyan AS, Bellucci S. From algae to advancements: laminarin in biomedicine. RSC Adv 2024; 14:3209-3231. [PMID: 38249671 PMCID: PMC10797329 DOI: 10.1039/d3ra08161c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Laminarin, a complicated polysaccharide originating from brown algae, has emerged as a compelling candidate in the domain of biomedical research. This enigmatic molecule, composed of glucose units associated with both β-1,3 and β-1,6 glycosidic bonds, possesses an array of remarkable characteristics that render it auspicious for multifaceted biomedical applications. This review investigates the comprehensive potential of laminarin in the biomedical domain, emphasizing its remarkable biocompatibility, low cytotoxicity, and cell proliferation support. Laminarin's immunomodulatory attributes position it as an encouraging contender in immunotherapy and the development of vaccines. Moreover, its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant characteristics provide a promising avenue for combatting conditions associated with oxidative stress. In particular, laminarin excels as a drug delivery vehicle owing to its exceptional encapsulation capabilities emerging from its porous framework. Integrating pH and redox responsiveness in laminarin-based drug delivery systems is poised to redefine targeted therapies. Laminarin substantially contributes to tissue engineering by improving adhesion, migration of cells, and deposition of extracellular matrix. This augmentation magnifies the regenerative capability of tissue-engineered constructs, substantiated by the advancement of laminarin-based wound dressings and tissue scaffolds, marking considerable progress in the domain of wound healing and tissue regeneration. While laminarin exhibits substantial potential in biomedical applications, it remains in the initial phases of exploration. Comprehensive preclinical and clinical research is warranted to verify its effectiveness and safety across various applications. In essence, laminarin, a marine marvel, has the capability to remodel biomedical research, offering inventive solutions to complex difficulties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheersha Pramanik
- Department of Biotechnology, Bhupat and Jyoti Mehta School of Biosciences, Indian Institute of Technology Madras Chennai 600036 Tamil Nadu India
| | - Anshul Singh
- Department of Chemistry, Baba Mastnath University Rohtak 124021 India
| | - Bassam M Abualsoud
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, College of Pharmacy, Al-Ahliyya Amman University Amman 19328 Jordan
| | - A Deepak
- Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha School of Engineering Chennai Tamil Nadu 600128 India
| | - Pankaj Nainwal
- School of Pharmacy, Graphic Era Hill University Dehradun 248001 India
| | - Armen S Sargsyan
- Scientific and Production Center "Armbiotechnology" NAS RA 14 Gyurjyan Str. Yerevan 0056 Armenia
| | - Stefano Bellucci
- INFN-Laboratori Nazionali di Frascati Via E. Fermi 54 00044 Frascati Italy
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Amaral KR, Silva AS, Santos LF, Castanheira EJ, Mendes MC, Costa DCS, Rodrigues JMM, Marto J, Mano JF. Biomimetic Adhesive Micropatterned Hydrogel Patches for Drug Release. Adv Healthc Mater 2023; 12:e2301513. [PMID: 37515450 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202301513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
The optimized physical adhesion between bees' leg hairs and pollen grains-whereby the latter's diameter aligns with the spacing between the hairs-has previously inspired the development of a biomimetic drug dressing. Combining this optimized process with the improved natural mussels' adhesion in wet environments in a dual biomimetic process, it is herein proposed the fabrication of a natural-derived micropatterned hydrogel patch of methacrylated laminarin (LAM-MET), with enriched drug content and improved adhesiveness, suitable for applications like wound healing. Enhanced adhesion is accomplished by modifying LAM-MET with hydroxypyridinone groups, following the patch microfabrication by soft lithography and UV/vis-irradiation, resulting in a membrane with micropillars with a high aspect ratio. Following the biomimetics rational, a drug patch is engineered by combining the microfabricated dressing with drug particles milled to fit the spaces between pillars. Controlled drug release is achieved, together with inherent antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and enhanced biocompatibility using the bare micropatterned patches. This new class of biomimetic dressings overcomes the challenges of current patches, like poor mechanical properties and biocompatibility, limited adhesiveness and drug dosage, and lack of prolonged antimicrobial activity, opening new insights for the development of high drug-loaded dressings with improved patient compliance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katia R Amaral
- Department of Chemistry, CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - A Sofia Silva
- Department of Chemistry, CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Lúcia F Santos
- Department of Chemistry, CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Edgar J Castanheira
- Department of Chemistry, CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Maria C Mendes
- Department of Chemistry, CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Dora C S Costa
- Department of Chemistry, CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - João M M Rodrigues
- Department of Chemistry, CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Joana Marto
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Lisbon, Lisboa, 1649-003, Portugal
| | - João F Mano
- Department of Chemistry, CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
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Dai H, Dai W, Hu Z, Zhang W, Zhang G, Guo R. Advanced Composites Inspired by Biological Structures and Functions in Nature: Architecture Design, Strengthening Mechanisms, and Mechanical-Functional Responses. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2207192. [PMID: 36935371 PMCID: PMC10190572 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202207192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
The natural design and coupling of biological structures are the root of realizing the high strength, toughness, and unique functional properties of biomaterials. Advanced architecture design is applied to many materials, including metal materials, inorganic nonmetallic materials, polymer materials, and so on. To improve the performance of advanced materials, the designed architecture can be enhanced by bionics of biological structure, optimization of structural parameters, and coupling of multiple types of structures. Herein, the progress of structural materials is reviewed, the strengthening mechanisms of different types of structures are highlighted, and the impact of architecture design on the performance of advanced materials is discussed. Architecture design can improve the properties of materials at the micro level, such as mechanical, electrical, and thermal conductivity. The synergistic effect of structure makes traditional materials move toward advanced functional materials, thus enriching the macroproperties of materials. Finally, the challenges and opportunities of structural innovation of advanced materials in improving material properties are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanqing Dai
- Academy for Engineering and TechnologyInstitute for Electric Light SourcesFudan UniversityShanghai200433China
| | - Wenqing Dai
- School of Materials Science and EngineeringShanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghai200240China
| | - Zhe Hu
- School of Information Science and TechnologyFudan UniversityShanghai200433China
| | - Wanlu Zhang
- School of Information Science and TechnologyFudan UniversityShanghai200433China
| | - Guoqi Zhang
- Department of MicroelectronicsDelft University of TechnologyDelftCD 2628Netherlands
| | - Ruiqian Guo
- Academy for Engineering and TechnologyInstitute for Electric Light SourcesFudan UniversityShanghai200433China
- School of Information Science and TechnologyFudan UniversityShanghai200433China
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Unveiling the Assembly of Neutral Marine Polysaccharides into Electrostatic-Driven Layer-by-Layer Bioassemblies by Chemical Functionalization. Mar Drugs 2023; 21:md21020092. [PMID: 36827133 PMCID: PMC9964173 DOI: 10.3390/md21020092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Marine-origin polysaccharides, in particular cationic and anionic ones, have been widely explored as building blocks in fully natural or hybrid electrostatic-driven Layer-by-Layer (LbL) assemblies for bioapplications. However, the low chemical versatility imparted by neutral polysaccharides has been limiting their assembly into LbL biodevices, despite their wide availability in sources such as the marine environment, easy functionality, and very appealing features for addressing multiple biomedical and biotechnological applications. In this work, we report the chemical functionalization of laminarin (LAM) and pullulan (PUL) marine polysaccharides with peptides bearing either six lysine (K6) or aspartic acid (D6) amino acids via Cu(I)-catalyzed azide-alkyne cycloaddition to synthesize positively and negatively charged polysaccharide-peptide conjugates. The successful conjugation of the peptides into the polysaccharide's backbone was confirmed by proton nuclear magnetic resonance and attenuated total reflectance Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, and the positive and negative charges of the LAM-K6/PUL-K6 and LAM-D6/PUL-D6 conjugates, respectively, were assessed by zeta-potential measurements. The electrostatic-driven LbL build-up of either the LAM-D6/LAM-K6 or PUL-D6/PUL-K6 multilayered thin film was monitored in situ by quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation monitoring, revealing the successful multilayered film growth and the enhanced stability of the PUL-based film. The construction of the PUL-peptide multilayered thin film was also assessed by scanning electron microscopy and its biocompatibility was demonstrated in vitro towards L929 mouse fibroblasts. The herein proposed approach could enable the inclusion of virtually any kind of small molecules in the multilayered assemblies, including bioactive moieties, and be translated into more convoluted structures of any size and geometry, thus extending the usefulness of neutral polysaccharides and opening new avenues in the biomedical field, including in controlled drug/therapeutics delivery, tissue engineering, and regenerative medicine strategies.
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Sacramento MMA, Borges J, Correia FJS, Calado R, Rodrigues JMM, Patrício SG, Mano JF. Green approaches for extraction, chemical modification and processing of marine polysaccharides for biomedical applications. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:1041102. [PMID: 36568299 PMCID: PMC9773402 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.1041102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the past few decades, natural-origin polysaccharides have received increasing attention across different fields of application, including biomedicine and biotechnology, because of their specific physicochemical and biological properties that have afforded the fabrication of a plethora of multifunctional devices for healthcare applications. More recently, marine raw materials from fisheries and aquaculture have emerged as a highly sustainable approach to convert marine biomass into added-value polysaccharides for human benefit. Nowadays, significant efforts have been made to combine such circular bio-based approach with cost-effective and environmentally-friendly technologies that enable the isolation of marine-origin polysaccharides up to the final construction of a biomedical device, thus developing an entirely sustainable pipeline. In this regard, the present review intends to provide an up-to-date outlook on the current green extraction methodologies of marine-origin polysaccharides and their molecular engineering toolbox for designing a multitude of biomaterial platforms for healthcare. Furthermore, we discuss how to foster circular bio-based approaches to pursue the further development of added-value biomedical devices, while preserving the marine ecosystem.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - João Borges
- CICECO–Aveiro Institute of Materials, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Fernando J. S. Correia
- Laboratory of Scientific Illustration, Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Ricardo Calado
- Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies (CESAM), Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - João M. M. Rodrigues
- CICECO–Aveiro Institute of Materials, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Sónia G. Patrício
- CICECO–Aveiro Institute of Materials, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - João F. Mano
- CICECO–Aveiro Institute of Materials, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
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Liu H, Deng Z, Li T, Bu J, Wang D, Wang J, Liu M, Li J, Yang Y, Zhong S. Fabrication, GSH-responsive drug release, and anticancer properties of thioctic acid-based intelligent hydrogels. Colloids Surf B Biointerfaces 2022; 217:112703. [PMID: 35853394 DOI: 10.1016/j.colsurfb.2022.112703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2022] [Revised: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Injectable hydrogels are potential local drug delivery systems since they contain plenty of water and soft like biological tissues. Such hydrogels could be injected directly into the tumor site where the drug is released under the tumor microenvironment. However, drug loaded hydrogels for cancer treatment based on lipoic acid (natural small molecule) have not been exploited. Here, a novel poly(lipoic acid)-poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG-PTA) hydrogels were prepared through a two-step reaction. The hydrogels contained disulfide bonds, so they could be degraded via the thiol exchange reaction with the abundant GSH in the tumor microenvironment, and subsequently release the drug. The results in vitro and at cellular level showed that the hydrogels were degraded and released the drugs only in the presence of GSH. Therefore, the injectable GSH-responsive hydrogels are promising to be served as an intelligent drug delivery system for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Liu
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410083 PR China
| | - Zhiwei Deng
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410083 PR China
| | - Tianhao Li
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410083 PR China
| | - Jiaqi Bu
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410083 PR China
| | - De Wang
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410083 PR China
| | - Jiahui Wang
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410083 PR China
| | - Meng Liu
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410083 PR China
| | - Jiacheng Li
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410083 PR China
| | - Yanjing Yang
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410083 PR China; Zhuang and Yao Ethnic Medicine Jiont Laboratory of GuangXi University of Chinese Medicine and Central South University, Gui Ke Ji Zi [2021] No. 238, PR China.
| | - Shian Zhong
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410083 PR China; Zhuang and Yao Ethnic Medicine Jiont Laboratory of GuangXi University of Chinese Medicine and Central South University, Gui Ke Ji Zi [2021] No. 238, PR China.
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Cortesi M, Giordano E. Non-destructive monitoring of 3D cell cultures: new technologies and applications. PeerJ 2022; 10:e13338. [PMID: 35582620 PMCID: PMC9107788 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.13338] [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: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
3D cell cultures are becoming the new standard for cell-based in vitro research, due to their higher transferrability toward in vivo biology. The lack of established techniques for the non-destructive quantification of relevant variables, however, constitutes a major barrier to the adoption of these technologies, as it increases the resources needed for the experimentation and reduces its accuracy. In this review, we aim at addressing this limitation by providing an overview of different non-destructive approaches for the evaluation of biological features commonly quantified in a number of studies and applications. In this regard, we will cover cell viability, gene expression, population distribution, cell morphology and interactions between the cells and the environment. This analysis is expected to promote the use of the showcased technologies, together with the further development of these and other monitoring methods for 3D cell cultures. Overall, an extensive technology shift is required, in order for monolayer cultures to be superseded, but the potential benefit derived from an increased accuracy of in vitro studies, justifies the effort and the investment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marilisa Cortesi
- Department of Electrical, Electronic and Information Engineering ”G.Marconi”, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Kensington, Australia
| | - Emanuele Giordano
- Department of Electrical, Electronic and Information Engineering ”G.Marconi”, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- BioEngLab, Health Science and Technology, Interdepartmental Center for Industrial Research (HST-CIRI), University of Bologna, Ozzano Emilia, Italy
- Advanced Research Center on Electronic Systems (ARCES), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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Caseiro C, Dias JNR, de Andrade Fontes CMG, Bule P. From Cancer Therapy to Winemaking: The Molecular Structure and Applications of β-Glucans and β-1, 3-Glucanases. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:3156. [PMID: 35328577 PMCID: PMC8949617 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23063156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
β-glucans are a diverse group of polysaccharides composed of β-1,3 or β-(1,3-1,4) linked glucose monomers. They are mainly synthesized by fungi, plants, seaweed and bacteria, where they carry out structural, protective and energy storage roles. Because of their unique physicochemical properties, they have important applications in several industrial, biomedical and biotechnological processes. β-glucans are also major bioactive molecules with marked immunomodulatory and metabolic properties. As such, they have been the focus of many studies attesting to their ability to, among other roles, fight cancer, reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases and control diabetes. The physicochemical and functional profiles of β-glucans are deeply influenced by their molecular structure. This structure governs β-glucan interaction with multiple β-glucan binding proteins, triggering myriad biological responses. It is then imperative to understand the structural properties of β-glucans to fully reveal their biological roles and potential applications. The deconstruction of β-glucans is a result of β-glucanase activity. In addition to being invaluable tools for the study of β-glucans, these enzymes have applications in numerous biotechnological and industrial processes, both alone and in conjunction with their natural substrates. Here, we review potential applications for β-glucans and β-glucanases, and explore how their functionalities are dictated by their structure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catarina Caseiro
- CIISA—Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, 1300-477 Lisbon, Portugal; (C.C.); (J.N.R.D.)
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4AnimalS), 1300-477 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Joana Nunes Ribeiro Dias
- CIISA—Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, 1300-477 Lisbon, Portugal; (C.C.); (J.N.R.D.)
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4AnimalS), 1300-477 Lisbon, Portugal
| | | | - Pedro Bule
- CIISA—Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, 1300-477 Lisbon, Portugal; (C.C.); (J.N.R.D.)
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4AnimalS), 1300-477 Lisbon, Portugal
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