1
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Vetter J, Palagi I, Waisman A, Blaeser A. Recent advances in blood-brain barrier-on-a-chip models. Acta Biomater 2025; 197:1-28. [PMID: 40127880 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2025.03.041] [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: 11/20/2024] [Revised: 03/19/2025] [Accepted: 03/21/2025] [Indexed: 03/26/2025]
Abstract
The blood-brain barrier is a physiological barrier between the vascular system and the nervous system. Under healthy conditions, it restricts the passage of most biomolecules into the brain, making drug development exceedingly challenging. Conventional cell-based in vitro models provide valuable insights into certain features of the BBB. Nevertheless, these models often lack the three-dimensional structure and dynamic interactions of the surrounding microenvironment, which greatly influence cell functionality. Consequently, considerable efforts have been made to enhance in vitro models for drug development and disease research. Recently, microfluidic organ-on-a-chip systems have emerged as promising candidates to better mimic the dynamic nature of the BBB. This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent BBB-on-chip devices. The typical building blocks, chip designs, the perfusion infrastructure, and readouts used to characterize and evaluate BBB formation are presented, analyzed, and discussed in detail. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a highly selective barrier that controls what can enter the brain. While it protects the brain from harmful substances, it also hinders the delivery of treatments for neurological diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. Due to its complexity, studying the BBB in living organisms remains difficult. However, recent advances in "organ-on-a-chip" technology have allowed scientists to create small, engineered models that replicate the BBB. These models provide a powerful platform to study diseases and test potential drugs with greater accuracy than traditional methods. Organ-on-a-chip devices are designed to mimic the behavior of organs or tissues in the human body, offering a more realistic and controlled environment for research. This review highlights recent breakthroughs in BBB-on-a-chip technology, showing how these models enhance current research and have the potential to transform the way we study brain diseases and develop new drugs. By integrating biology and engineering, BBB-on-a-chip technology has the potential to transform neuroscience research, improve drug development, and enhance our understanding of brain disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna Vetter
- Institute for BioMedical Printing Technology, Technical University of Darmstadt, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Ilaria Palagi
- Institute for Molecular Medicine, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Ari Waisman
- Institute for Molecular Medicine, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Mainz, Germany; Research Center for Immunotherapy (FZI), University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Andreas Blaeser
- Institute for BioMedical Printing Technology, Technical University of Darmstadt, Darmstadt, Germany; Centre for Synthetic Biology, Technical University of Darmstadt, Darmstadt, Germany.
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2
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Ehlers H, Olivier T, Trietsch SJ, Vulto P, Burton TP, van den Broek LJ. Microfluidic artery-on-a-chip model with unidirectional gravity-driven flow for high-throughput applications. LAB ON A CHIP 2025. [PMID: 40261030 DOI: 10.1039/d4lc01109k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/24/2025]
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death worldwide, with a noticeable decline in the approval of new therapeutic interventions. Currently, there is no gold standard for developing new therapies for CVDs, and preclinical models do not translate to clinical efficacy. Therefore, there is an urgent need for in vitro models that more accurately mimic human disease processes. Here we describe a model of the artery consisting of monocultures of human coronary artery endothelial cells (HCAECs) or cocultures of HCAECs with human coronary artery smooth muscle cells (HCASMCs). The model was established in the OrganoPlate® 2-lane-48 UF, a novel microfluidic device, comprised of a microtiter plate footprint with 48 chips. Fluid is circulated in a unidirectional manner by interval rocking. The creation of an air-liquid interface at the inlets at a given inclination is used to select flow paths and establish flow in one direction only, whilst capillary forces ensure the channel remains filled with fluid. We investigated the impact of unidirectional or bidirectional flow conditions. Under unidirectional flow, endothelial cells aligned with the flow direction, decreased fibronectin deposition, and smooth muscle cells presented a non-contractile phenotype, emulating the characteristics of healthy arteries. Contrarily, bidirectional flow mimicked features of early endothelial dysfunction, such as contractile morphology of vessels and increased fibronectin secretion, ICAM-1 staining, and lipid deposits. Vascular inflammation could be induced by the addition of TNFα and IL-1β in both flow conditions. Overall, the OrganoPlate® 2-lane-48 UF is a powerful platform providing both throughput and improved flow control, for creating more physiological models. Its ability to replicate key features of a healthy and diseased artery, its potential use in drug screening, and its compatibility with lab automation make it an invaluable tool for researchers aiming for more accurate and efficient therapeutic development in CVD.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Ehlers
- Mimetas B.V., Oegstgeest, The Netherlands.
- Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - T Olivier
- Mimetas B.V., Oegstgeest, The Netherlands.
| | | | - P Vulto
- Mimetas B.V., Oegstgeest, The Netherlands.
| | - T P Burton
- Mimetas B.V., Oegstgeest, The Netherlands.
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3
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Wu G, Wu D, Hu W, Lu Q, Zhou Y, Liu J, Du Q, Luo Z, Hu H, Jiang H, Hu B, Wang S. A novel microfluidic self-perfusion chip (MSPC) for pumpless 3D cell, microtissue and organoid culture. LAB ON A CHIP 2025. [PMID: 40206017 DOI: 10.1039/d5lc00030k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/11/2025]
Abstract
Microfluidic systems have revolutionized biological research by enabling precise control over cellular environments at microscale volumes. However, traditional pump-driven systems face challenges such as complexity, cost, cell-damaging shear stress, and limited portability. This study introduces a novel adjustable microfluidic self-perfusion chip (MSPC) that uses evaporation as a driving force, eliminating the need for external pumps. Our design offers improved metabolic waste management and simplified control over fluid dynamics. The chip features adjustable evaporation pore sizes, demonstrating a robust linear relationship (R2 = 0.95) between the pore size and fluid evaporation rate. This ensures consistent fluid flow and effective waste removal, shown by lower ammonia and lactate levels compared to conventional cultures. Its unidirectional flow system and integrated one-way valve maintain cell viability, even under complete evaporation conditions. This innovative platform facilitates the cultivation of complex tissue-like structures, providing a valuable tool for tissue and organ model development, as well as drug screening and toxicity testing. By addressing key limitations of traditional systems, our adjustable MSPC represents a significant advancement in microfluidic cell culture technology, offering improved accessibility and applicability in biological research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guohua Wu
- Luoyang Key Laboratory of Clinical Multiomics and Translational Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Rare Diseases, Endocrinology and Metabolism Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Clinical Medicine of Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471003, China.
- National Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China.
- College of Biomedical Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China
| | - Di Wu
- Frontiers Science Center Disease-related Molecular Network, Laboratory Pulmonary Immunology and Inflammation, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610213, China
| | - Wenqi Hu
- National Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China.
- College of Biomedical Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China
| | - Qinrui Lu
- National Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China.
- College of Biomedical Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China
| | - Yusen Zhou
- National Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China.
- College of Biomedical Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China
- Tianfu Jincheng Laboratory, City of Future Medicine, Chengdu, 641400, China
| | - Jie Liu
- National Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China.
- College of Biomedical Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China
| | - Qijun Du
- National Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China.
- College of Biomedical Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China
| | - Zhi Luo
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Haijie Hu
- Division of Biliary Surgery, Department of General Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Hongwei Jiang
- Luoyang Key Laboratory of Clinical Multiomics and Translational Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Rare Diseases, Endocrinology and Metabolism Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Clinical Medicine of Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471003, China.
| | - Bangchuan Hu
- Emergency and Critical Care Center, ICU, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, 310014, China.
| | - Shuqi Wang
- National Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China.
- College of Biomedical Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China
- Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China
- Tianfu Jincheng Laboratory, City of Future Medicine, Chengdu, 641400, China
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4
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Magne L, Bugarin F, Ferrand A. How to Study the Mechanobiology of Intestinal Epithelial Organoids? A Review of Culture Supports, Imaging Techniques, and Analysis Methods. Biol Cell 2025; 117:e70003. [PMID: 40223609 PMCID: PMC11995250 DOI: 10.1111/boc.70003] [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: 02/28/2025] [Revised: 02/28/2025] [Accepted: 03/06/2025] [Indexed: 04/15/2025]
Abstract
Mechanobiology studies how mechanical forces influence biological processes at different scales, both in homeostasis and in pathology. Organoids, 3D structures derived from stem cells, are particularly relevant tools for modeling tissues and organs in vitro. They currently constitute one of the most suitable models for mechanobiology studies. This review provides an overview of existing or applicable approaches to organoids for mechanical studies. We first present the different types of culture supports, including hydrogels and organ-on-chip. We then discuss advanced imaging techniques, particularly suitable for studying the physical properties of cells, allowing the visualization of mechanical forces and cellular responses. We also describe the approaches and tools available to observe the organoids by microscopy. Finally, we present analytical methods, including computational models and biophysical measurement approaches, which facilitate the quantification of mechanical interactions. This review aims to provide the most comprehensive overview possible of the methods, instrumentations, and tools available to conduct a mechanobiological study on organoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Léa Magne
- Institut de Recherche en Santé DigestiveUniversité de Toulouse, INSERM, INRAE, ENVT, UPSToulouseFrance
- Institut Clément AderUniversité Fédérale de Toulouse Midi‐Pyrénées, CNRS, UPS, INSA, ISAE‐SUPAEROToulouseFrance
| | - Florian Bugarin
- Institut Clément AderUniversité Fédérale de Toulouse Midi‐Pyrénées, CNRS, UPS, INSA, ISAE‐SUPAEROToulouseFrance
| | - Audrey Ferrand
- Institut de Recherche en Santé DigestiveUniversité de Toulouse, INSERM, INRAE, ENVT, UPSToulouseFrance
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5
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Salimi-Afjani N, Rieben R, Obrist D. Pulsatile-flow culture: a novel system for assessing vascular-cell dynamics. LAB ON A CHIP 2025; 25:1755-1766. [PMID: 40019369 PMCID: PMC11869938 DOI: 10.1039/d4lc00949e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2025] [Indexed: 03/01/2025]
Abstract
We describe a model system for vascular-cell culture where recirculating fluid flow in standard culture plates is generated by gravity using a combination of platform tilt and rotation (nutation). Placed inside a cell-culture incubator, variable nutation speeds provide pulsatile shear stresses to vascular cells within the physiological range. The effect of these stresses on cells is demonstrated here using standard laboratory techniques such as immunofluorescent staining, immunoblot, and supernatant analyses. This gravity-driven model framework is well-suited for assessing dynamic conditions for mono- and co-cultures. In addition, the modular design and the use of off-the-shelf components make the system economical and scalable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neda Salimi-Afjani
- Department for BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Murtenstrasse 28, 3008 Bern, Switzerland.
- Graduate School for Cellular and Biomedical Sciences, Mittelstrasse 43, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Robert Rieben
- Department for BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Murtenstrasse 28, 3008 Bern, Switzerland.
| | - Dominik Obrist
- ARTORG Center for Biomedical Engineering Research, University of Bern, Freiburgstrasse 3, 3010 Bern, Switzerland
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6
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Cho SW, Malick H, Kim SJ, Grattoni A. Advances in Skin-on-a-Chip Technologies for Dermatological Disease Modeling. J Invest Dermatol 2024; 144:1707-1715. [PMID: 38493383 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2024.01.031] [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: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
Skin-on-a-chip (SoC) technologies are emerging as a paradigm shift in dermatology research by replicating human physiology in a dynamic manner not achievable by current animal models. Although animal models have contributed to successful clinical trials, their ability to predict human outcomes remains questionable, owing to inherent differences in skin anatomy and immune response. Covering areas including infectious diseases, autoimmune skin conditions, wound healing, drug toxicity, aging, and antiaging, SoC aims to circumvent the inherent disparities created by traditional models. In this paper, we review current SoC technologies, highlighting their potential as an alternative to animal models for a deeper understanding of complex skin conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seo Won Cho
- Department of Nanomedicine, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, Texas, USA; Texas A&M University School of Medicine, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Hamza Malick
- Texas A&M University School of Medicine, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Soo Jung Kim
- Department of Dermatology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Alessandro Grattoni
- Department of Nanomedicine, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, Texas, USA; Department of Surgery, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, Texas, USA; Department of Radiation Oncology, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, Texas, USA.
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7
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Kogler S, Pedersen GM, Martínez-Ramírez F, Aizenshtadt A, Busek M, Krauss SJK, Wilson SR, Røberg-Larsen H. An FDA-Validated, Self-Cleaning Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry System for Determining Small-Molecule Drugs and Metabolites in Organoid/Organ-on-Chip Medium. Anal Chem 2024; 96:12129-12138. [PMID: 38985547 PMCID: PMC11270525 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.4c02246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2024] [Revised: 06/29/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024]
Abstract
As organoids and organ-on-chip (OoC) systems move toward preclinical and clinical applications, there is an increased need for method validation. Using a liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS)-based approach, we developed a method for measuring small-molecule drugs and metabolites in the cell medium directly sampled from liver organoids/OoC systems. The LC-MS setup was coupled to an automatic filtration and filter flush system with online solid-phase extraction (SPE), allowing for robust and automated sample cleanup/analysis. For the matrix, rich in, e.g., protein, salts, and amino acids, no preinjection sample preparation steps (protein precipitation, SPE, etc.) were necessary. The approach was demonstrated with tolbutamide and its liver metabolite, 4-hydroxytolbutamide (4HT). The method was validated for analysis of cell media of human stem cell-derived liver organoids cultured in static conditions and on a microfluidic platform according to Food and Drug Administration (FDA) guidelines with regards to selectivity, matrix effects, accuracy, precision, etc. The system allows for hundreds of injections without replacing chromatography hardware. In summary, drug/metabolite analysis of organoids/OoCs can be performed robustly with minimal sample preparation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stian Kogler
- Hybrid
Technology Hub-Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences,
Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo 0372, Norway
- Section
for Chemical Life Sciences, Department of Chemistry, University of Oslo, Oslo NO-0315, Norway
| | | | - Felipe Martínez-Ramírez
- Department
of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague CZ-128 43, Czech
Republic
| | - Aleksandra Aizenshtadt
- Hybrid
Technology Hub-Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences,
Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo 0372, Norway
| | - Mathias Busek
- Hybrid
Technology Hub-Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences,
Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo 0372, Norway
| | - Stefan J. K. Krauss
- Hybrid
Technology Hub-Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences,
Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo 0372, Norway
| | - Steven Ray Wilson
- Hybrid
Technology Hub-Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences,
Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo 0372, Norway
- Section
for Chemical Life Sciences, Department of Chemistry, University of Oslo, Oslo NO-0315, Norway
| | - Hanne Røberg-Larsen
- Hybrid
Technology Hub-Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences,
Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo 0372, Norway
- Section
for Chemical Life Sciences, Department of Chemistry, University of Oslo, Oslo NO-0315, Norway
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8
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Aizenshtadt A, Wang C, Abadpour S, Menezes PD, Wilhelmsen I, Dalmao‐Fernandez A, Stokowiec J, Golovin A, Johnsen M, Combriat TMD, Røberg‐Larsen H, Gadegaard N, Scholz H, Busek M, Krauss SJK. Pump-Less, Recirculating Organ-on-Chip (rOoC) Platform to Model the Metabolic Crosstalk between Islets and Liver. Adv Healthc Mater 2024; 13:e2303785. [PMID: 38221504 PMCID: PMC11468483 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202303785] [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: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), obesity, and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) are epidemiologically correlated disorders with a worldwide growing prevalence. While the mechanisms leading to the onset and development of these conditions are not fully understood, predictive tissue representations for studying the coordinated interactions between central organs that regulate energy metabolism, particularly the liver and pancreatic islets, are needed. Here, a dual pump-less recirculating organ-on-chip platform that combines human pluripotent stem cell (sc)-derived sc-liver and sc-islet organoids is presented. The platform reproduces key aspects of the metabolic cross-talk between both organs, including glucose levels and selected hormones, and supports the viability and functionality of both sc-islet and sc-liver organoids while preserving a reduced release of pro-inflammatory cytokines. In a model of metabolic disruption in response to treatment with high lipids and fructose, sc-liver organoids exhibit hallmarks of steatosis and insulin resistance, while sc-islets produce pro-inflammatory cytokines on-chip. Finally, the platform reproduces known effects of anti-diabetic drugs on-chip. Taken together, the platform provides a basis for functional studies of obesity, T2DM, and MASLD on-chip, as well as for testing potential therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Aizenshtadt
- Hybrid Technology Hub Centre of ExcellenceInstitute of Basic Medical ScienceUniversity of OsloP.O. Box 1110Oslo0317Norway
- Dep. of Immunology and Transfusion MedicineOslo University HospitalP.O. Box 4950Oslo0424Norway
| | - Chencheng Wang
- Hybrid Technology Hub Centre of ExcellenceInstitute of Basic Medical ScienceUniversity of OsloP.O. Box 1110Oslo0317Norway
- Dep. of Transplantation MedicineExperimental Cell Transplantation Research GroupOslo University HospitalP.O. Box 4950Oslo0424Norway
| | - Shadab Abadpour
- Hybrid Technology Hub Centre of ExcellenceInstitute of Basic Medical ScienceUniversity of OsloP.O. Box 1110Oslo0317Norway
- Dep. of Transplantation MedicineExperimental Cell Transplantation Research GroupOslo University HospitalP.O. Box 4950Oslo0424Norway
- Institute for Surgical ResearchOslo University HospitalOsloNorway
| | - Pedro Duarte Menezes
- Hybrid Technology Hub Centre of ExcellenceInstitute of Basic Medical ScienceUniversity of OsloP.O. Box 1110Oslo0317Norway
- James Watt School of EngineeringUniversity of GlasgowRankine BuildingGlasgowG12 8LTUK
| | - Ingrid Wilhelmsen
- Hybrid Technology Hub Centre of ExcellenceInstitute of Basic Medical ScienceUniversity of OsloP.O. Box 1110Oslo0317Norway
- Dep. of Immunology and Transfusion MedicineOslo University HospitalP.O. Box 4950Oslo0424Norway
| | - Andrea Dalmao‐Fernandez
- Hybrid Technology Hub Centre of ExcellenceInstitute of Basic Medical ScienceUniversity of OsloP.O. Box 1110Oslo0317Norway
- Department of PharmacyFaculty of Mathematics and Natural SciencesUniversity of OsloP.O. Box 1083Oslo0316Norway
| | - Justyna Stokowiec
- Hybrid Technology Hub Centre of ExcellenceInstitute of Basic Medical ScienceUniversity of OsloP.O. Box 1110Oslo0317Norway
- Dep. of Immunology and Transfusion MedicineOslo University HospitalP.O. Box 4950Oslo0424Norway
| | - Alexey Golovin
- Hybrid Technology Hub Centre of ExcellenceInstitute of Basic Medical ScienceUniversity of OsloP.O. Box 1110Oslo0317Norway
- Dep. of Immunology and Transfusion MedicineOslo University HospitalP.O. Box 4950Oslo0424Norway
| | - Mads Johnsen
- Section for Chemical Life SciencesDepartment of ChemistryUniversity of OsloP.O. Box 1033Oslo0315Norway
| | - Thomas M. D. Combriat
- Hybrid Technology Hub Centre of ExcellenceInstitute of Basic Medical ScienceUniversity of OsloP.O. Box 1110Oslo0317Norway
| | - Hanne Røberg‐Larsen
- Hybrid Technology Hub Centre of ExcellenceInstitute of Basic Medical ScienceUniversity of OsloP.O. Box 1110Oslo0317Norway
- Section for Chemical Life SciencesDepartment of ChemistryUniversity of OsloP.O. Box 1033Oslo0315Norway
| | - Nikolaj Gadegaard
- Hybrid Technology Hub Centre of ExcellenceInstitute of Basic Medical ScienceUniversity of OsloP.O. Box 1110Oslo0317Norway
- James Watt School of EngineeringUniversity of GlasgowRankine BuildingGlasgowG12 8LTUK
| | - Hanne Scholz
- Hybrid Technology Hub Centre of ExcellenceInstitute of Basic Medical ScienceUniversity of OsloP.O. Box 1110Oslo0317Norway
- Dep. of Transplantation MedicineExperimental Cell Transplantation Research GroupOslo University HospitalP.O. Box 4950Oslo0424Norway
| | - Mathias Busek
- Hybrid Technology Hub Centre of ExcellenceInstitute of Basic Medical ScienceUniversity of OsloP.O. Box 1110Oslo0317Norway
- Dep. of Immunology and Transfusion MedicineOslo University HospitalP.O. Box 4950Oslo0424Norway
| | - Stefan J. K. Krauss
- Hybrid Technology Hub Centre of ExcellenceInstitute of Basic Medical ScienceUniversity of OsloP.O. Box 1110Oslo0317Norway
- Dep. of Immunology and Transfusion MedicineOslo University HospitalP.O. Box 4950Oslo0424Norway
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9
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Dong H, Lin J, Tao Y, Jia Y, Sun L, Li WJ, Sun H. AI-enhanced biomedical micro/nanorobots in microfluidics. LAB ON A CHIP 2024; 24:1419-1440. [PMID: 38174821 DOI: 10.1039/d3lc00909b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Human beings encompass sophisticated microcirculation and microenvironments, incorporating a broad spectrum of microfluidic systems that adopt fundamental roles in orchestrating physiological mechanisms. In vitro recapitulation of human microenvironments based on lab-on-a-chip technology represents a critical paradigm to better understand the intricate mechanisms. Moreover, the advent of micro/nanorobotics provides brand new perspectives and dynamic tools for elucidating the complex process in microfluidics. Currently, artificial intelligence (AI) has endowed micro/nanorobots (MNRs) with unprecedented benefits, such as material synthesis, optimal design, fabrication, and swarm behavior. Using advanced AI algorithms, the motion control, environment perception, and swarm intelligence of MNRs in microfluidics are significantly enhanced. This emerging interdisciplinary research trend holds great potential to propel biomedical research to the forefront and make valuable contributions to human health. Herein, we initially introduce the AI algorithms integral to the development of MNRs. We briefly revisit the components, designs, and fabrication techniques adopted by robots in microfluidics with an emphasis on the application of AI. Then, we review the latest research pertinent to AI-enhanced MNRs, focusing on their motion control, sensing abilities, and intricate collective behavior in microfluidics. Furthermore, we spotlight biomedical domains that are already witnessing or will undergo game-changing evolution based on AI-enhanced MNRs. Finally, we identify the current challenges that hinder the practical use of the pioneering interdisciplinary technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Dong
- School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou, China.
- School of Mechatronics Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics and System, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
| | - Jiawen Lin
- School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou, China.
| | - Yihui Tao
- Department of Automation Control and System Engineering, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Yuan Jia
- Sino-German College of Intelligent Manufacturing, Shenzhen Technology University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Lining Sun
- School of Mechatronics Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics and System, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
| | - Wen Jung Li
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Hao Sun
- School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou, China.
- School of Mechatronics Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
- Research Center of Aerospace Mechanism and Control, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
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10
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Olsen C, Wang C, Aizenshtadt A, Abadpour S, Lundanes E, Skottvoll FS, Golovin A, Busek M, Krauss S, Scholz H, Wilson SR. Simultaneous LC-MS determination of glucose regulatory peptides secreted by stem cell-derived islet organoids. Electrophoresis 2023; 44:1682-1697. [PMID: 37574258 DOI: 10.1002/elps.202300095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
For studying stem cell-derived islet organoids (SC-islets) in an organ-on-chip (OoC) platform, we have developed a reversed-phase liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (RPLC-MS/MS) method allowing for simultaneous determination of insulin, somatostatin-14, and glucagon, with improved matrix robustness compared to earlier methodology. Combining phenyl/hexyl-C18 separations using 2.1 mm inner diameter LC columns and triple quadrupole mass spectrometry, identification and quantification were secured with negligible variance in retention time and quantifier/qualifier ratios, negligible levels of carryover (<2%), and sufficient precision (±10% RSD) and accuracy (±15% relative error) with and without use of an internal standard. The obtained lower limits of quantification were 0.2 µg/L for human insulin, 0.1 µg/L for somatostatin-14, and 0.05 µg/L for glucagon. The here-developed RPLC-MS/MS method showed that the SC-islets have an insulin response dependent on glucose concentration, and the SC-islets produce and release somatostatin-14 and glucagon. The RPLC-MS/MS method for these peptide hormones was compatible with an unfiltered offline sample collection from SC-islets cultivated on a pumpless, recirculating OoC (rOoC) platform. The SC-islets background secretion of insulin was not significantly different on the rOoC device compared to a standard cell culture well-plate. Taken together, RPLC-MS/MS method is well suited for multi-hormone measurements of SC-islets on an OoC platform.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Olsen
- Department of Chemistry, University of Oslo, Blindern, Oslo, Norway
- Hybrid Technology Hub-Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Chencheng Wang
- Hybrid Technology Hub-Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Transplant Medicine and Institute for Surgical Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Aleksandra Aizenshtadt
- Hybrid Technology Hub-Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Shadab Abadpour
- Hybrid Technology Hub-Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Transplant Medicine and Institute for Surgical Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Elsa Lundanes
- Department of Chemistry, University of Oslo, Blindern, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Alexey Golovin
- Department of Immunology and Transfusion Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Mathias Busek
- Hybrid Technology Hub-Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Stefan Krauss
- Hybrid Technology Hub-Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Immunology and Transfusion Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Hanne Scholz
- Hybrid Technology Hub-Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Transplant Medicine and Institute for Surgical Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Steven Ray Wilson
- Hybrid Technology Hub-Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Transplant Medicine and Institute for Surgical Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
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11
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Kømurcu KS, Wilhelmsen I, Thorne JL, Krauss S, Wilson SR, Aizenshtadt A, Røberg-Larsen H. Mass spectrometry reveals that oxysterols are secreted from non-alcoholic fatty liver disease induced organoids. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2023; 232:106355. [PMID: 37380087 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2023.106355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
Oxysterols are potential biomarkers for liver metabolism that are altered under disease conditions such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). We here apply sterolomics to organoids used for disease modeling of NAFLD. Using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry with on-line sample clean-up and enrichment, we establish that liver organoids produce and secrete oxysterols. We find elevated levels of 26-hydroxycholesterol, an LXR agonist and the first oxysterol in the acidic bile acid synthesis, in medium from steatotic liver organoids compared to untreated organoids. Other upregulated sterols in medium from steatotic liver organoids are dihydroxycholesterols, such as 7α,26-dihydroxycholesterol, and 7α,25-dihydroxycholesterol. Through 26-hydroxycholesterol exposure to human stem cell-derived hepatic stellate cells, we observe a trend of expressional downregulation of the pro-inflammatory cytokine CCL2, suggesting a protective role of 26-hydroxycholesterol during early-phased NAFLD disease development. Our findings support the possibility of oxysterols serving as NAFLD indicators, demonstrating the usefulness of combining organoids and mass spectrometry for disease modeling and biomarker studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristina Sæterdal Kømurcu
- Department of Chemistry, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1033 Blindern, 0315 Oslo, Norway; Hybrid Technology Hub - Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1110 Blindern, 0317 Oslo, Norway
| | - Ingrid Wilhelmsen
- Hybrid Technology Hub - Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1110 Blindern, 0317 Oslo, Norway; Department of Immunology and Transfusion Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, P.O. box 4950 Nydalen, Oslo, Norway
| | - James L Thorne
- School of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, United Kingdom
| | - Stefan Krauss
- Hybrid Technology Hub - Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1110 Blindern, 0317 Oslo, Norway; Department of Immunology and Transfusion Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, P.O. box 4950 Nydalen, Oslo, Norway
| | - Steven Ray Wilson
- Department of Chemistry, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1033 Blindern, 0315 Oslo, Norway; Hybrid Technology Hub - Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1110 Blindern, 0317 Oslo, Norway
| | - Aleksandra Aizenshtadt
- Hybrid Technology Hub - Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1110 Blindern, 0317 Oslo, Norway
| | - Hanne Røberg-Larsen
- Department of Chemistry, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1033 Blindern, 0315 Oslo, Norway; Hybrid Technology Hub - Centre of Excellence, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1110 Blindern, 0317 Oslo, Norway.
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12
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Martinez-Lopez S, Angel-Gomis E, Sanchez-Ardid E, Pastor-Campos A, Picó J, Gomez-Hurtado I. The 3Rs in Experimental Liver Disease. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2357. [PMID: 37508134 PMCID: PMC10376896 DOI: 10.3390/ani13142357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 07/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Patients with cirrhosis present multiple physiological and immunological alterations that play a very important role in the development of clinically relevant secondary complications to the disease. Experimentation in animal models is essential to understand the pathogenesis of human diseases and, considering the high prevalence of liver disease worldwide, to understand the pathophysiology of disease progression and the molecular pathways involved, due to the complexity of the liver as an organ and its relationship with the rest of the organism. However, today there is a growing awareness about the sensitivity and suffering of animals, causing opposition to animal research among a minority in society and some scientists, but also about the attention to the welfare of laboratory animals since this has been built into regulations in most nations that conduct animal research. In 1959, Russell and Burch published the book "The Principles of Humane Experimental Technique", proposing that in those experiments where animals were necessary, everything possible should be done to try to replace them with non-sentient alternatives, to reduce to a minimum their number, and to refine experiments that are essential so that they caused the least amount of pain and distress. In this review, a comprehensive summary of the most widely used techniques to replace, reduce, and refine in experimental liver research is offered, to assess the advantages and weaknesses of available experimental liver disease models for researchers who are planning to perform animal studies in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Martinez-Lopez
- Instituto ISABIAL, Hospital General Universitario Dr. Balmis, 03010 Alicante, Spain
- Departamento de Medicina Clínica, Universidad Miguel Hernández, 03550 Sant Joan, Spain
| | - Enrique Angel-Gomis
- Instituto ISABIAL, Hospital General Universitario Dr. Balmis, 03010 Alicante, Spain
- Departamento de Medicina Clínica, Universidad Miguel Hernández, 03550 Sant Joan, Spain
| | - Elisabet Sanchez-Ardid
- CIBERehd, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28220 Madrid, Spain
- Servicio de Patología Digestiva, Institut de Recerca IIB-Sant Pau, Hospital de Santa Creu i Sant Pau, 08025 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Alberto Pastor-Campos
- Oficina de Investigación Responsable, Universidad Miguel Hernández, 03202 Elche, Spain
| | - Joanna Picó
- Instituto ISABIAL, Hospital General Universitario Dr. Balmis, 03010 Alicante, Spain
| | - Isabel Gomez-Hurtado
- Instituto ISABIAL, Hospital General Universitario Dr. Balmis, 03010 Alicante, Spain
- Departamento de Medicina Clínica, Universidad Miguel Hernández, 03550 Sant Joan, Spain
- CIBERehd, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28220 Madrid, Spain
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