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Porkoláb G, Mészáros M, Szecskó A, Vigh JP, Walter FR, Figueiredo R, Kálomista I, Hoyk Z, Vizsnyiczai G, Gróf I, Jan JS, Gosselet F, Pirity MK, Vastag M, Hudson N, Campbell M, Veszelka S, Deli MA. Synergistic induction of blood-brain barrier properties. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2316006121. [PMID: 38748577 PMCID: PMC11126970 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2316006121] [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: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Blood-brain barrier (BBB) models derived from human stem cells are powerful tools to improve our understanding of cerebrovascular diseases and to facilitate drug development for the human brain. Yet providing stem cell-derived endothelial cells with the right signaling cues to acquire BBB characteristics while also retaining their vascular identity remains challenging. Here, we show that the simultaneous activation of cyclic AMP and Wnt/β-catenin signaling and inhibition of the TGF-β pathway in endothelial cells robustly induce BBB properties in vitro. To target this interaction, we present a small-molecule cocktail named cARLA, which synergistically enhances barrier tightness in a range of BBB models across species. Mechanistically, we reveal that the three pathways converge on Wnt/β-catenin signaling to mediate the effect of cARLA via the tight junction protein claudin-5. We demonstrate that cARLA shifts the gene expressional profile of human stem cell-derived endothelial cells toward the in vivo brain endothelial signature, with a higher glycocalyx density and efflux pump activity, lower rates of endocytosis, and a characteristic endothelial response to proinflammatory cytokines. Finally, we illustrate how cARLA can improve the predictive value of human BBB models regarding the brain penetration of drugs and targeted nanoparticles. Due to its synergistic effect, high reproducibility, and ease of use, cARLA has the potential to advance drug development for the human brain by improving BBB models across laboratories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gergő Porkoláb
- Institute of Biophysics, Biological Research Centre, Hungarian Research Network, SzegedH-6726, Hungary
- Doctoral School of Biology, University of Szeged, SzegedH-6720, Hungary
| | - Mária Mészáros
- Institute of Biophysics, Biological Research Centre, Hungarian Research Network, SzegedH-6726, Hungary
| | - Anikó Szecskó
- Institute of Biophysics, Biological Research Centre, Hungarian Research Network, SzegedH-6726, Hungary
- Doctoral School of Biology, University of Szeged, SzegedH-6720, Hungary
| | - Judit P. Vigh
- Institute of Biophysics, Biological Research Centre, Hungarian Research Network, SzegedH-6726, Hungary
- Doctoral School of Biology, University of Szeged, SzegedH-6720, Hungary
| | - Fruzsina R. Walter
- Institute of Biophysics, Biological Research Centre, Hungarian Research Network, SzegedH-6726, Hungary
| | | | - Ildikó Kálomista
- In Vitro Metabolism Laboratory, Gedeon Richter, BudapestH-1103, Hungary
| | - Zsófia Hoyk
- Institute of Biophysics, Biological Research Centre, Hungarian Research Network, SzegedH-6726, Hungary
| | - Gaszton Vizsnyiczai
- Institute of Biophysics, Biological Research Centre, Hungarian Research Network, SzegedH-6726, Hungary
| | - Ilona Gróf
- Institute of Biophysics, Biological Research Centre, Hungarian Research Network, SzegedH-6726, Hungary
| | - Jeng-Shiung Jan
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan70101, Taiwan
| | - Fabien Gosselet
- Laboratoire de la Barriére Hémato-Encéphalique, Université d’Artois, Lens62307, France
| | - Melinda K. Pirity
- Institute of Genetics, Biological Research Centre, Hungarian Research Network, SzegedH-6726, Hungary
| | - Monika Vastag
- In Vitro Metabolism Laboratory, Gedeon Richter, BudapestH-1103, Hungary
| | - Natalie Hudson
- Smurfit Institute of Genetics, Trinity College Dublin, DublinD02 VF25, Ireland
| | - Matthew Campbell
- Smurfit Institute of Genetics, Trinity College Dublin, DublinD02 VF25, Ireland
| | - Szilvia Veszelka
- Institute of Biophysics, Biological Research Centre, Hungarian Research Network, SzegedH-6726, Hungary
| | - Mária A. Deli
- Institute of Biophysics, Biological Research Centre, Hungarian Research Network, SzegedH-6726, Hungary
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Xu Z, Sun L, Yin C, Wu H, Wang X, Yang Y, Wang Z. Developmental stage and infection status may affect drug distribution in the prostate of rats. Xenobiotica 2024; 54:248-256. [PMID: 38634734 DOI: 10.1080/00498254.2024.2343892] [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: 01/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
Prostate inflammation is often treated with drugs which are ineffective. Antibacterial agents fail to reach the prostate epithelium, and the blood-prostate barrier (BPB) may affect the drug transport process. Factors affecting drug efficacy remain unclear.Rats were categorised into groups A and B, corresponding to adulthood and puberty, respectively. Group C included the model of chronic prostate infection. Dialysates of levofloxacin and cefradine were collected from the prostate gland and jugular vein and evaluated. Pharmacokinetic analysis was conducted.The free concentrations of antimicrobials in the prostate and plasma samples of all groups peaked at 20 min, then gradually decreased. The mean AUC0-tprostate/AUC0-tplasma ratio in the levofloxacin group were 0.86, 0.53, and 0.95, and the mean values of AUC0-∞prostate/AUC0-∞plasma ratio were 0.85, 0.63, and 0.97. The corresponding values in the cefradine group were 0.67, 0.30 and 0.84, and 0.66, 0.31, and 0.85, respectively. The mean values in group B were lower than those in group A, and those in group C were higher than those in group B.The maturity of the prostate may affect the ability of the drug to cross the BPB. Infection may disrupt the BPB, affecting drug permeability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyang Xu
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Changhai Hospital, the First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lianzhan Sun
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Changhai Hospital, the First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chang Yin
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Changhai Hospital, the First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Handa Wu
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Changhai Hospital, the First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xue Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Changhai Hospital, the First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yunyun Yang
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Changhai Hospital, the First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhuo Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Changhai Hospital, the First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
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Joseph CR. Progressive Age-Associated Blood-Brain Barrier Leak/Dysfunction-Nexus of Neurodegenerative Disease Using MRI Markers to Identify Preclinical Disease and Potential New Targets for Future Treatments. Diagnostics (Basel) 2024; 14:726. [PMID: 38611639 PMCID: PMC11011559 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics14070726] [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: 01/20/2024] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
This review article focuses on the upstream pertinent pathophysiology leading to neurodegenerative disease. Specifically, the nexus appears to be blood-brain barrier (BBB) leakiness resulting in a two-prong inflammatory disease spectrum damaging the microvasculature and corrupting protein synthesis and degradation with accumulating misfolded toxic proteins. The suboptimal results of removing misfolded proteins mean a new approach to disease in the preclinical state is required aimed at other targets. Validated noninvasive imaging and serologic biomarkers of early preclinical disease implemented in the high-risk patient cohort along with periodic surveillance once effective treatments are developed will be required. This review discusses the physiology and pathophysiology of the BBB, new MRI imaging techniques identifying the leak, and altered fluid dynamic effects in the preclinical state. The risk factors for disease development, preventative measures, and potential treatment targets are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles R Joseph
- Neurology and Internal Medicine, College of Osteopathic Medicine, Liberty University, Lynchburg, VA 24502, USA
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Deli MA, Porkoláb G, Kincses A, Mészáros M, Szecskó A, Kocsis AE, Vigh JP, Valkai S, Veszelka S, Walter FR, Dér A. Lab-on-a-chip models of the blood-brain barrier: evolution, problems, perspectives. LAB ON A CHIP 2024; 24:1030-1063. [PMID: 38353254 DOI: 10.1039/d3lc00996c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
A great progress has been made in the development and use of lab-on-a-chip devices to model and study the blood-brain barrier (BBB) in the last decade. We present the main types of BBB-on-chip models and their use for the investigation of BBB physiology, drug and nanoparticle transport, toxicology and pathology. The selection of the appropriate cell types to be integrated into BBB-on-chip devices is discussed, as this greatly impacts the physiological relevance and translatability of findings. We identify knowledge gaps, neglected engineering and cell biological aspects and point out problems and contradictions in the literature of BBB-on-chip models, and suggest areas for further studies to progress this highly interdisciplinary field. BBB-on-chip models have an exceptional potential as predictive tools and alternatives of animal experiments in basic and preclinical research. To exploit the full potential of this technique expertise from materials science, bioengineering as well as stem cell and vascular/BBB biology is necessary. There is a need for better integration of these diverse disciplines that can only be achieved by setting clear parameters for characterizing both the chip and the BBB model parts technically and functionally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mária A Deli
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Institute of Biophysics, Szeged, Hungary.
| | - Gergő Porkoláb
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Institute of Biophysics, Szeged, Hungary.
- Doctoral School of Biology, University of Szeged, Hungary
| | - András Kincses
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Institute of Biophysics, Szeged, Hungary.
| | - Mária Mészáros
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Institute of Biophysics, Szeged, Hungary.
| | - Anikó Szecskó
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Institute of Biophysics, Szeged, Hungary.
- Doctoral School of Biology, University of Szeged, Hungary
| | - Anna E Kocsis
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Institute of Biophysics, Szeged, Hungary.
| | - Judit P Vigh
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Institute of Biophysics, Szeged, Hungary.
- Doctoral School of Biology, University of Szeged, Hungary
| | - Sándor Valkai
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Institute of Biophysics, Szeged, Hungary.
| | - Szilvia Veszelka
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Institute of Biophysics, Szeged, Hungary.
| | - Fruzsina R Walter
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Institute of Biophysics, Szeged, Hungary.
| | - András Dér
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Institute of Biophysics, Szeged, Hungary.
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5
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Guo D, Zhang B, Han L, Rensing NR, Wong M. Cerebral vascular and blood brain-barrier abnormalities in a mouse model of epilepsy and tuberous sclerosis complex. Epilepsia 2024; 65:483-496. [PMID: 38049961 PMCID: PMC10922951 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is a genetic disorder, characterized by tumor formation in the brain and other organs, and severe neurological symptoms, such as epilepsy. Abnormal vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression may promote angiogenesis in kidney and lung tumors in TSC and has been identified in brain specimens from TSC patients, but the role of VEGF and vascular abnormalities in neurological manifestations of TSC is poorly defined. In this study, we investigated abnormalities in brain VEGF expression, cerebral blood vessel anatomy, and blood-brain barrier (BBB) structure and function in a mouse model of TSC. METHODS Tsc1GFAP CKO mice were used to investigate VEGF expression and vascular abnormalities in the brain by Western blotting and immunohistochemical analysis of vascular and BBB markers. In vivo two-photon imaging was used to assess BBB permeability to normally impenetrable fluorescently labeled compounds. The effect of mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway inhibitors, VEGF receptor antagonists (apatinib), or BBB stabilizers (RepSox) was assessed in some of these assays, as well as on seizures by video-electroencephalography. RESULTS VEGF expression was elevated in cortex of Tsc1GFAP CKO mice, which was reversed by the mTOR inhibitor rapamycin. Tsc1GFAP CKO mice exhibited increased cerebral angiogenesis and vascular complexity in cortex and hippocampus, which were reversed by the VEGF receptor antagonist apatinib. BBB permeability was abnormally increased and BBB-related tight junction proteins occludin and claudin-5 were decreased in Tsc1GFAP CKO mice, also in an apatinib- and RepSox-dependent manner. The BBB stabilizer (RepSox), but not the VEGF receptor antagonist (apatinib), decreased seizures and improved survival in Tsc1GFAP CKO mice. SIGNIFICANCE Increased brain VEGF expression is dependent on mTOR pathway activation and promotes cerebral vascular abnormalities and increased BBB permeability in a mouse model of TSC. BBB modulation may affect epileptogenesis and represent a rational treatment for epilepsy in TSC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongjun Guo
- Department of Neurology and Hope Center for Neurological Disorders, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Bo Zhang
- Department of Neurology and Hope Center for Neurological Disorders, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Lirong Han
- Department of Neurology and Hope Center for Neurological Disorders, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Nicholas R Rensing
- Department of Neurology and Hope Center for Neurological Disorders, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Michael Wong
- Department of Neurology and Hope Center for Neurological Disorders, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
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Bora K, Kushwah N, Maurya M, Pavlovich MC, Wang Z, Chen J. Assessment of Inner Blood-Retinal Barrier: Animal Models and Methods. Cells 2023; 12:2443. [PMID: 37887287 PMCID: PMC10605292 DOI: 10.3390/cells12202443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2023] [Revised: 10/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Proper functioning of the neural retina relies on the unique retinal environment regulated by the blood-retinal barrier (BRB), which restricts the passage of solutes, fluids, and toxic substances. BRB impairment occurs in many retinal vascular diseases and the breakdown of BRB significantly contributes to disease pathology. Understanding the different molecular constituents and signaling pathways involved in BRB development and maintenance is therefore crucial in developing treatment modalities. This review summarizes the major molecular signaling pathways involved in inner BRB (iBRB) formation and maintenance, and representative animal models of eye diseases with retinal vascular leakage. Studies on Wnt/β-catenin signaling are highlighted, which is critical for retinal and brain vascular angiogenesis and barriergenesis. Moreover, multiple in vivo and in vitro methods for the detection and analysis of vascular leakage are described, along with their advantages and limitations. These pre-clinical animal models and methods for assessing iBRB provide valuable experimental tools in delineating the molecular mechanisms of retinal vascular diseases and evaluating therapeutic drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Jing Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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Lietuvninkas L, Baccouche B, Kazlauskas A. The Multi-Kinase Inhibitor RepSox Enforces Barrier Function in the Face of Both VEGF and Cytokines. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2431. [PMID: 37760872 PMCID: PMC10525881 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11092431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The therapeutic benefit provided by anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) for patients with vision-threatening conditions such as diabetic retinopathy (DR) demonstrates the important role of VEGF in this affliction. Cytokines, which can be elevated in the vitreous of patients with DR, promote leakage of retinal blood vessels, and may also contribute to pathology, especially in those patients for whom anti-VEGF does not provide adequate benefit. In this in vitro study using primary human retinal endothelial cells, we compared anti-VEGF with the (transforming growth factor beta) TGFβ receptor inhibitor RepSox (RS) for their ability to enforce barrier function in the face of VEGF, cytokines, and the combination of both. RS was superior to anti-VEGF because it prevented permeability in response to VEGF, cytokines, and their combination, whereas anti-VEGF was effective against VEGF alone. The inhibitory effect of RS was associated with suppression of both agonist-induced pore formation and disorganization of adherens junctions. RS-mediated inhibition of the TGFβ pathway and increased expression of claudin-5 did not adequately explain how RS stabilized the endothelial cell barrier. Finally, RS not only prevented barrier relaxation, but also completely or partially reclosed a barrier relaxed with tumor necrosis factor α (TNF α) or VEGF, respectively. These studies demonstrate that RS stabilized the endothelial barrier in the face of both cytokines and VEGF, and thereby identify RS as a therapeutic that has the potential to overcome permeability driven by multiple agonists that play a role in the pathology of DR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lina Lietuvninkas
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA; (L.L.)
| | - Basma Baccouche
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA; (L.L.)
| | - Andrius Kazlauskas
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA; (L.L.)
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
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Park JYC, King A, Björk V, English BW, Fedintsev A, Ewald CY. Strategic outline of interventions targeting extracellular matrix for promoting healthy longevity. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2023; 325:C90-C128. [PMID: 37154490 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00060.2023] [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] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
The extracellular matrix (ECM), composed of interlinked proteins outside of cells, is an important component of the human body that helps maintain tissue architecture and cellular homeostasis. As people age, the ECM undergoes changes that can lead to age-related morbidity and mortality. Despite its importance, ECM aging remains understudied in the field of geroscience. In this review, we discuss the core concepts of ECM integrity, outline the age-related challenges and subsequent pathologies and diseases, summarize diagnostic methods detecting a faulty ECM, and provide strategies targeting ECM homeostasis. To conceptualize this, we built a technology research tree to hierarchically visualize possible research sequences for studying ECM aging. This strategic framework will hopefully facilitate the development of future research on interventions to restore ECM integrity, which could potentially lead to the development of new drugs or therapeutic interventions promoting health during aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji Young Cecilia Park
- Laboratory of Extracellular Matrix Regeneration, Institute of Translational Medicine, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zürich, Schwerzenbach, Switzerland
| | - Aaron King
- Foresight Institute, San Francisco, California, United States
| | | | - Bradley W English
- Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | | | - Collin Y Ewald
- Laboratory of Extracellular Matrix Regeneration, Institute of Translational Medicine, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zürich, Schwerzenbach, Switzerland
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Sanches ES, Boia R, Leitão RA, Madeira MH, Fontes-Ribeiro CA, Ambrósio AF, Fernandes R, Silva AP. Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Animal Model Presents Retinal Alterations and Methylphenidate Has a Differential Effect in ADHD versus Control Conditions. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:antiox12040937. [PMID: 37107312 PMCID: PMC10135983 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12040937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is one of the most prevalent neurodevelopmental disorders. Interestingly, children with ADHD seem to experience more ophthalmologic abnormalities, and the impact of methylphenidate (MPH) use on retinal physiology remains unclear. Thus, we aimed to unravel the retina's structural, functional, and cellular alterations and the impact of MPH in ADHD versus the control conditions. For that, spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and Wistar Kyoto rats (WKY) were used as animal models of ADHD and the controls, respectively. Animals were divided into four experimental groups as follows: WKY vehicle (Veh; tap water), WKY MPH (1.5 mg/kg/day), SHR Veh, SHR MPH. Individual administration was performed by gavage between P28-P55. Retinal physiology and structure were evaluated at P56 followed by tissue collection and analysis. The ADHD animal model presents the retinal structural, functional, and neuronal deficits, as well as the microglial reactivity, astrogliosis, blood-retinal barrier (BRB) hyperpermeability and a pro-inflammatory status. In this model, MPH had a beneficial effect on reducing microgliosis, BRB dysfunction, and inflammatory response, but did not correct the neuronal and functional alterations in the retina. Curiously, in the control animals, MPH showed an opposite effect since it impaired the retinal function, neuronal cells, and BRB integrity, and also promoted both microglia reactivity and upregulation of pro-inflammatory mediators. This study unveils the retinal alterations in ADHD and the opposite effects induced by MPH in the retina of ADHD and the control animal models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eliane S Sanches
- Institute of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, 3004-531 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Raquel Boia
- Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, 3004-531 Coimbra, Portugal
- Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra (CACC), 3004-561 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ricardo A Leitão
- Institute of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, 3004-531 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria H Madeira
- Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, 3004-531 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Carlos A Fontes-Ribeiro
- Institute of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, 3004-531 Coimbra, Portugal
- Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra (CACC), 3004-561 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - António Francisco Ambrósio
- Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, 3004-531 Coimbra, Portugal
- Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra (CACC), 3004-561 Coimbra, Portugal
- Association for Innovation and Biomedical Research on Light and Image (AIBILI), 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Rosa Fernandes
- Institute of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, 3004-531 Coimbra, Portugal
- Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra (CACC), 3004-561 Coimbra, Portugal
- Association for Innovation and Biomedical Research on Light and Image (AIBILI), 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana Paula Silva
- Institute of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, 3004-531 Coimbra, Portugal
- Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra (CACC), 3004-561 Coimbra, Portugal
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10
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Wang L, Zhu Q, Zhang JD, Zhang Y, Ni X, Xiang K, Jiang J, Li B, Yu Y, Hu H, Zhang M, Wu W, Zeng J, Yan Z, Dai J, Sun K, Zhang X, Chen D, Feng S, Sach-Peltason L, Young JAT, Gao L. Discovery of a first-in-class orally available HBV cccDNA inhibitor. J Hepatol 2023; 78:742-753. [PMID: 36587899 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2022.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS The persistence of covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) in infected hepatocytes is the major barrier preventing viral eradication with existing therapies in patients with chronic hepatitis B. Therapeutic agents that can eliminate cccDNA are urgently needed to achieve viral eradication and thus HBV cure. METHODS A phenotypic assay with HBV-infected primary human hepatocytes (PHHs) was employed to screen for novel cccDNA inhibitors. A HBVcircle mouse model and a uPA-SCID (urokinase-type plasminogen activator-severe combined immunodeficiency) humanized liver mouse model were used to evaluate the anti-HBV efficacy of the discovered cccDNA inhibitors. RESULTS Potent and dose-dependent reductions in extracellular HBV DNA, HBsAg, and HBeAg levels were achieved upon the initiation of ccc_R08 treatment two days after the HBV infection of PHHs. More importantly, the level of cccDNA was specifically reduced by ccc_R08, while it did not obviously affect mitochondrial DNA. Additionally, ccc_R08 showed no significant cytotoxicity in PHHs or in multiple proliferating cell lines. The twice daily oral administration of ccc_R08 to HBVcircle model mice, which contained surrogate cccDNA molecules, significantly decreased the serum levels of HBV DNA and antigens, and these effects were sustained during the off-treatment follow-up period. Moreover, at the end of follow-up, the levels of surrogate cccDNA molecules in the livers of ccc_R08-treated HBVcircle mice were reduced to below the lower limit of quantification. CONCLUSIONS We have discovered a small-molecule cccDNA inhibitor that reduces HBV cccDNA levels. cccDNA inhibitors potentially represent a new approach to completely cure patients chronically infected with HBV. IMPACT AND IMPLICATIONS Covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) persistence in HBV-infected hepatocytes is the root cause of chronic hepatitis B. We discovered a novel small-molecule cccDNA inhibitor that can specifically reduce cccDNA levels in HBV-infected hepatocytes. This type of molecule could offer a new approach to completely cure patients chronically infected with HBV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Wang
- Infectious Disease Discovery
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Hui Hu
- Infectious Disease Discovery
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Xin Zhang
- Preclinical Chemistry Manufacturing and Controls
| | | | | | - Lisa Sach-Peltason
- Data & Analytics, Roche Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Shanghai, Roche Innovation Center Basel
| | | | - Lu Gao
- Infectious Disease Discovery.
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11
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Endothelial Dysfunction in Neurodegenerative Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032909. [PMID: 36769234 PMCID: PMC9918222 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The cerebral vascular system stringently regulates cerebral blood flow (CBF). The components of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) protect the brain from pathogenic infections and harmful substances, efflux waste, and exchange substances; however, diseases develop in cases of blood vessel injuries and BBB dysregulation. Vascular pathology is concurrent with the mechanisms underlying aging, Alzheimer's disease (AD), and vascular dementia (VaD), which suggests its involvement in these mechanisms. Therefore, in the present study, we reviewed the role of vascular dysfunction in aging and neurodegenerative diseases, particularly AD and VaD. During the development of the aforementioned diseases, changes occur in the cerebral blood vessel morphology and local cells, which, in turn, alter CBF, fluid dynamics, and vascular integrity. Chronic vascular inflammation and blood vessel dysregulation further exacerbate vascular dysfunction. Multitudinous pathogenic processes affect the cerebrovascular system, whose dysfunction causes cognitive impairment. Knowledge regarding the pathophysiology of vascular dysfunction in neurodegenerative diseases and the underlying molecular mechanisms may lead to the discovery of clinically relevant vascular biomarkers, which may facilitate vascular imaging for disease prevention and treatment.
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12
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Girard SD, Julien-Gau I, Molino Y, Combes BF, Greetham L, Khrestchatisky M, Nivet E. High and low permeability of human pluripotent stem cell-derived blood-brain barrier models depend on epithelial or endothelial features. FASEB J 2023; 37:e22770. [PMID: 36688807 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202201422r] [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: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
The search for reliable human blood-brain barrier (BBB) models represents a challenge for the development/testing of strategies aiming to enhance brain delivery of drugs. Human-induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) have raised hopes in the development of predictive BBB models. Differentiating strategies are thus required to generate endothelial cells (ECs), a major component of the BBB. Several hiPSC-based protocols have reported the generation of in vitro models with significant differences in barrier properties. We studied in depth the properties of iPSCs byproducts from two protocols that have been established to yield these in vitro barrier models. Our analysis/study reveals that iPSCs derivatives endowed with EC features yield high permeability models while the cells that exhibit outstanding barrier properties show principally epithelial cell-like (EpC) features. We found that models containing EpC-like cells express tight junction proteins, transporters/efflux pumps and display a high functional tightness with very low permeability, which are features commonly shared between BBB and epithelial barriers. Our study demonstrates that hiPSC-based BBB models need extensive characterization beforehand and that a reliable human BBB model containing EC-like cells and displaying low permeability is still needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stéphane D Girard
- Institute of NeuroPhysiopathology, INP, CNRS, Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France
- Faculty of Medicine, VECT-HORUS SAS, Marseille, France
| | | | - Yves Molino
- Faculty of Medicine, VECT-HORUS SAS, Marseille, France
| | | | - Louise Greetham
- Institute of NeuroPhysiopathology, INP, CNRS, Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France
| | - Michel Khrestchatisky
- Institute of NeuroPhysiopathology, INP, CNRS, Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France
| | - Emmanuel Nivet
- Institute of NeuroPhysiopathology, INP, CNRS, Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France
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13
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Linville RM, Sklar MB, Grifno GN, Nerenberg RF, Zhou J, Ye R, DeStefano JG, Guo Z, Jha R, Jamieson JJ, Zhao N, Searson PC. Three-dimensional microenvironment regulates gene expression, function, and tight junction dynamics of iPSC-derived blood-brain barrier microvessels. Fluids Barriers CNS 2022; 19:87. [PMID: 36333694 PMCID: PMC9636829 DOI: 10.1186/s12987-022-00377-1] [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: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
The blood-brain barrier (BBB) plays a pivotal role in brain health and disease. In the BBB, brain microvascular endothelial cells (BMECs) are connected by tight junctions which regulate paracellular transport, and express specialized transporter systems which regulate transcellular transport. However, existing in vitro models of the BBB display variable accuracy across a wide range of characteristics including gene/protein expression and barrier function. Here, we use an isogenic family of fluorescently-labeled iPSC-derived BMEC-like cells (iBMECs) and brain pericyte-like cells (iPCs) within two-dimensional confluent monolayers (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) tissue-engineered microvessels to explore how 3D microenvironment regulates gene expression and function of the in vitro BBB. We show that 3D microenvironment (shear stress, cell-ECM interactions, and cylindrical geometry) increases BBB phenotype and endothelial identity, and alters angiogenic and cytokine responses in synergy with pericyte co-culture. Tissue-engineered microvessels incorporating junction-labeled iBMECs enable study of the real-time dynamics of tight junctions during homeostasis and in response to physical and chemical perturbations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raleigh M Linville
- Institute for Nanobiotechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Matthew B Sklar
- Institute for Nanobiotechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Gabrielle N Grifno
- Institute for Nanobiotechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Renée F Nerenberg
- Institute for Nanobiotechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Justin Zhou
- Institute for Nanobiotechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Robert Ye
- Institute for Nanobiotechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jackson G DeStefano
- Institute for Nanobiotechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Zhaobin Guo
- Institute for Nanobiotechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Ria Jha
- Institute for Nanobiotechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - John J Jamieson
- Institute for Nanobiotechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Nan Zhao
- Institute for Nanobiotechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Peter C Searson
- Institute for Nanobiotechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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14
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Wong JC. Overcoming Barriers to Improve Treatments in Epilepsy. Epilepsy Curr 2022; 22:321-323. [PMID: 36285197 PMCID: PMC9549224 DOI: 10.1177/15357597221127164] [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] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Microvascular Stabilization via Blood-Brain Barrier Regulation Prevents Seizure
Activity Greene C, Hanley N, Reschke CR, Reddy A, Mäe MA, Connolly R, Behan C, O’Keeffe E,
Bolger I, Hudson N, Delaney C, Farrell MA, O’Brien DF, Cryan J, Brett FM, Beausang A,
Betsholtz C, Henshall DC, Doherty CP, Campbell M. Nature Comm.
2022;13(1):2003. doi:10.1038/s41467-022-29657-y Blood-brain barrier (BBB) dysfunction is associated with worse epilepsy outcomes
however the underlying molecular mechanisms of BBB dysfunction remain to be
elucidated. Tight junction proteins are important regulators of BBB integrity and in
particular, the tight junction protein claudin-5 is the most enriched in brain
endothelial cells and regulates size-selectivity at the BBB. Additionally, disruption
of claudin-5 expression has been implicated in numerous disorders including
schizophrenia, depression and traumatic brain injury, yet its role in epilepsy has not
been fully deciphered. Here we report that claudin-5 protein levels are significantly
diminished in surgically resected brain tissue from patients with treatment-resistant
epilepsy. Concomitantly, dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI in these patients showed
widespread BBB disruption. We show that targeted disruption of claudin-5 in the
hippocampus or genetic heterozygosity of claudin-5 in mice exacerbates kainic
acid-induced seizures and BBB disruption. Additionally, inducible knockdown of
claudin-5 in mice leads to spontaneous recurrent seizures, severe neuroinflammation,
and mortality. Finally, we identify that RepSox, a regulator of claudin-5 expression,
can prevent seizure activity in experimental epilepsy. Altogether, we propose that BBB
stabilizing drugs could represent a new generation of agents to prevent seizure
activity in epilepsy patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer C. Wong
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
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15
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Zhao N, Guo Z, Kulkarni S, Norman D, Zhang S, Chung TD, Nerenberg RF, Linville R, Searson P. Engineering the human blood-brain barrier at the capillary scale using a double-templating technique. ADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS 2022; 32:2110289. [PMID: 36312050 PMCID: PMC9610437 DOI: 10.1002/adfm.202110289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
In vitro blood-brain barrier (BBB) models have played an important role in studying processes such as immune cell trafficking and drug delivery, as well as contributing to the understanding of mechanisms of disease progression. Many biological and pathological processes in the cerebrovasculature occur in capillaries and hence the lack of robust hierarchical models at the capillary scale is a major roadblock in BBB research. Here we report on a double-templating technique for engineering hierarchical BBB models with physiological barrier function at the capillary scale. We first demonstrate the formation of hierarchical vascular networks using human umbilical vein endothelial cells. We then characterize barrier function in a BBB model using brain microvascular endothelial-like cells (iBMECs) differentiated from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). Finally, we characterize immune cell adhesion and transmigration in response to perfusion with the inflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and show that we can recapitulate capillary-scale effects, such as leukocyte plugging, observed in mouse models. Our double-templated hierarchical model enables the study of a wide range of biological and pathological processes related to the human BBB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Zhao
- Institute for Nanobiotechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
| | - Zhaobin Guo
- Institute for Nanobiotechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
| | - Sarah Kulkarni
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
| | - Danielle Norman
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
| | - Sophia Zhang
- Department of Biology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
| | - Tracy D. Chung
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
| | - Renée F. Nerenberg
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
| | - Raleigh Linville
- Institute for Nanobiotechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
| | - Peter Searson
- Institute for Nanobiotechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
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16
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Wang J, Chen S, Pan C, Li G, Tang Z. Application of Small Molecules in the Central Nervous System Direct Neuronal Reprogramming. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:799152. [PMID: 35875485 PMCID: PMC9301571 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.799152] [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: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The lack of regenerative capacity of neurons leads to poor prognoses for some neurological disorders. The use of small molecules to directly reprogram somatic cells into neurons provides a new therapeutic strategy for neurological diseases. In this review, the mechanisms of action of different small molecules, the approaches to screening small molecule cocktails, and the methods employed to detect their reprogramming efficiency are discussed, and the studies, focusing on neuronal reprogramming using small molecules in neurological disease models, are collected. Future research efforts are needed to investigate the in vivo mechanisms of small molecule-mediated neuronal reprogramming under pathophysiological states, optimize screening cocktails and dosing regimens, and identify safe and effective delivery routes to promote neural regeneration in different neurological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Gaigai Li
- *Correspondence: Gaigai Li, ; Zhouping Tang,
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17
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Tang Z, Fan X, Chen Y, Gu P. Ocular Nanomedicine. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2022; 9:e2003699. [PMID: 35150092 PMCID: PMC9130902 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202003699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2020] [Revised: 10/31/2021] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Intrinsic shortcomings associated with conventional therapeutic strategies often compromise treatment efficacy in clinical ophthalmology, prompting the rapid development of versatile alternatives for satisfactory diagnostics and therapeutics. Given advances in material science, nanochemistry, and nanobiotechnology, a broad spectrum of functional nanosystems has been explored to satisfy the extensive requirements of ophthalmologic applications. In the present review, the recent progress in nanosystems, both conventional and emerging nanomaterials in ophthalmology from state-of-the-art studies, are comprehensively examined and the role of their fundamental physicochemical properties in bioavailability, tissue penetration, biodistribution, and elimination after interacting with the ophthalmologic microenvironment emphasized. Furthermore, along with the development of surface engineering of nanomaterials, emerging theranostic methodologies are promoted as potential alternatives for multipurpose ocular applications, such as emerging biomimetic ophthalmology (e.g., smart electrochemical eye), thus provoking a holistic review of "ocular nanomedicine." By affording insight into challenges encountered by ocular nanomedicine and further highlighting the direction of future studies, this review provides an incentive for enriching ocular nanomedicine-based fundamental research and future clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhimin Tang
- Department of OphthalmologyShanghai Ninth People's HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular OncologyShanghai200011P. R. China
| | - Xianqun Fan
- Department of OphthalmologyShanghai Ninth People's HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular OncologyShanghai200011P. R. China
| | - Yu Chen
- Materdicine LabSchool of Life SciencesShanghai UniversityShanghai200444P. R. China
| | - Ping Gu
- Department of OphthalmologyShanghai Ninth People's HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular OncologyShanghai200011P. R. China
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18
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Microvascular stabilization via blood-brain barrier regulation prevents seizure activity. Nat Commun 2022; 13:2003. [PMID: 35422069 PMCID: PMC9010415 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-29657-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Blood-brain barrier (BBB) dysfunction is associated with worse epilepsy outcomes however the underlying molecular mechanisms of BBB dysfunction remain to be elucidated. Tight junction proteins are important regulators of BBB integrity and in particular, the tight junction protein claudin-5 is the most enriched in brain endothelial cells and regulates size-selectivity at the BBB. Additionally, disruption of claudin-5 expression has been implicated in numerous disorders including schizophrenia, depression and traumatic brain injury, yet its role in epilepsy has not been fully deciphered. Here we report that claudin-5 protein levels are significantly diminished in surgically resected brain tissue from patients with treatment-resistant epilepsy. Concomitantly, dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI in these patients showed widespread BBB disruption. We show that targeted disruption of claudin-5 in the hippocampus or genetic heterozygosity of claudin-5 in mice exacerbates kainic acid-induced seizures and BBB disruption. Additionally, inducible knockdown of claudin-5 in mice leads to spontaneous recurrent seizures, severe neuroinflammation, and mortality. Finally, we identify that RepSox, a regulator of claudin-5 expression, can prevent seizure activity in experimental epilepsy. Altogether, we propose that BBB stabilizing drugs could represent a new generation of agents to prevent seizure activity in epilepsy patients. The mechanisms underlying epilepsy development are not well understood. Here the authors show that loss of a key component of the so called blood-brain barrier drives seizures in mice and is also lost in humans with treatment resistant epilepsy
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19
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Maurissen TL, Pavlou G, Bichsel C, Villaseñor R, Kamm RD, Ragelle H. Microphysiological Neurovascular Barriers to Model the Inner Retinal Microvasculature. J Pers Med 2022; 12:jpm12020148. [PMID: 35207637 PMCID: PMC8876566 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12020148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Blood-neural barriers regulate nutrient supply to neuronal tissues and prevent neurotoxicity. In particular, the inner blood-retinal barrier (iBRB) and blood–brain barrier (BBB) share common origins in development, and similar morphology and function in adult tissue, while barrier breakdown and leakage of neurotoxic molecules can be accompanied by neurodegeneration. Therefore, pre-clinical research requires human in vitro models that elucidate pathophysiological mechanisms and support drug discovery, to add to animal in vivo modeling that poorly predict patient responses. Advanced cellular models such as microphysiological systems (MPS) recapitulate tissue organization and function in many organ-specific contexts, providing physiological relevance, potential for customization to different population groups, and scalability for drug screening purposes. While human-based MPS have been developed for tissues such as lung, gut, brain and tumors, few comprehensive models exist for ocular tissues and iBRB modeling. Recent BBB in vitro models using human cells of the neurovascular unit (NVU) showed physiological morphology and permeability values, and reproduced brain neurological disorder phenotypes that could be applicable to modeling the iBRB. Here, we describe similarities between iBRB and BBB properties, compare existing neurovascular barrier models, propose leverage of MPS-based strategies to develop new iBRB models, and explore potentials to personalize cellular inputs and improve pre-clinical testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas L. Maurissen
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Immunology, Infectious Diseases and Ophthalmology, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Grenzacherstrasse 124, 4070 Basel, Switzerland;
| | - Georgios Pavlou
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 77 Massachusetts Ave., MIT Building, Room NE47-321, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA;
| | - Colette Bichsel
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Grenzacherstrasse 124, 4070 Basel, Switzerland;
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Institute for Translational Bioengineering, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Grenzacherstrasse 124, 4070 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Roberto Villaseñor
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Neuroscience and Rare Diseases, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Grenzacherstrasse 124, 4070 Basel, Switzerland;
| | - Roger D. Kamm
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 77 Massachusetts Ave., MIT Building, Room NE47-321, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA;
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 77 Massachusetts Ave., MIT Building, Room NE47-321, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
- Correspondence: (R.D.K.); (H.R.)
| | - Héloïse Ragelle
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Immunology, Infectious Diseases and Ophthalmology, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Grenzacherstrasse 124, 4070 Basel, Switzerland;
- Correspondence: (R.D.K.); (H.R.)
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20
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Kim BK, Canonica J, Roudnicky F, Westenskow PD. Preventing VEGF-Mediated Vascular Permeability by Experimentally Potentiating BBB Characteristics in Endothelial Cells. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2475:259-274. [PMID: 35451764 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2217-9_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Difficulties with poor reproducibility and translatability of animal model-based research, along with increased efforts to abide by the 3Rs tenet of animal welfare, are driving demand for more relevant human cellular systems. This is especially true for central nervous system (CNS) vasculatures with specialized properties and barriers, namely the blood-brain and blood-retinal barriers (BBB and BRB, respectively) which are difficult to model in vitro. The BBB and BRB protect neurovascular units by regulating nutrient homeostasis, maintaining local ion levels, protecting against exposure from circulating toxins and pathogens, and restricting passage of peripheral immune factors. In this manuscript, we will describe transgenic and pharmacological-based protocols to generate relevant BBB and BRB models both from human pluripotent stem cell-derived endothelial cells (hPSC-ECs) and from primary human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). When followed, researchers can expect to generate well-characterized, anatomical and functional BBB and BRB EC monolayers in 36-48 h that are stable up to 90 h. The ability to generate more relevant BBB and BRB EC cultures will improve drug discovery efforts and inform future therapies for neurovascular disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Kyoung Kim
- Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jérémie Canonica
- Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland
| | - Filip Roudnicky
- Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Peter D Westenskow
- Pharmaceutical Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland.
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21
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Linville RM, Searson PC. Next-generation in vitro blood-brain barrier models: benchmarking and improving model accuracy. Fluids Barriers CNS 2021; 18:56. [PMID: 34876171 PMCID: PMC8650371 DOI: 10.1186/s12987-021-00291-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
With the limitations associated with post-mortem tissue and animal models, In vitro BBB models enable precise control of independent variables and microenvironmental cues, and hence play an important role in studying the BBB. Advances in stem cell technology and tissue engineering provide the tools to create next-generation in vitro BBB models with spatial organization of different cell types in 3D microenvironments that more closely match the human brain. These models will be capable of assessing the physiological and pathological responses to different perturbations relevant to health and disease. Here, we review the factors that determine the accuracy of in vitro BBB models, and describe how these factors will guide the development of next-generation models. Improving the accuracy of cell sources and microenvironmental cues will enable in vitro BBB models with improved accuracy and specificity to study processes and phenomena associated with zonation, brain region, age, sex, ethnicity, and disease state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raleigh M Linville
- Institute for Nanobiotechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Peter C Searson
- Institute for Nanobiotechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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22
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Mädler SC, Julien-Laferriere A, Wyss L, Phan M, Sonrel A, Kang ASW, Ulrich E, Schmucki R, Zhang JD, Ebeling M, Badi L, Kam-Thong T, Schwalie PC, Hatje K. Besca, a single-cell transcriptomics analysis toolkit to accelerate translational research. NAR Genom Bioinform 2021; 3:lqab102. [PMID: 34761219 PMCID: PMC8573822 DOI: 10.1093/nargab/lqab102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) revolutionized our understanding of disease biology. The promise it presents to also transform translational research requires highly standardized and robust software workflows. Here, we present the toolkit Besca, which streamlines scRNA-seq analyses and their use to deconvolute bulk RNA-seq data according to current best practices. Beyond a standard workflow covering quality control, filtering, and clustering, two complementary Besca modules, utilizing hierarchical cell signatures and supervised machine learning, automate cell annotation and provide harmonized nomenclatures. Subsequently, the gene expression profiles can be employed to estimate cell type proportions in bulk transcriptomics data. Using multiple, diverse scRNA-seq datasets, some stemming from highly heterogeneous tumor tissue, we show how Besca aids acceleration, interoperability, reusability and interpretability of scRNA-seq data analyses, meeting crucial demands in translational research and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophia Clara Mädler
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Alice Julien-Laferriere
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Luis Wyss
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Miroslav Phan
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Anthony Sonrel
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Albert S W Kang
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Eric Ulrich
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, I2O Disease Translational Area, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Roland Schmucki
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jitao David Zhang
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Martin Ebeling
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Laura Badi
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Tony Kam-Thong
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Petra C Schwalie
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Klas Hatje
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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23
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Gastfriend BD, Nishihara H, Canfield SG, Foreman KL, Engelhardt B, Palecek SP, Shusta EV. Wnt signaling mediates acquisition of blood-brain barrier properties in naïve endothelium derived from human pluripotent stem cells. eLife 2021; 10:70992. [PMID: 34755601 PMCID: PMC8664294 DOI: 10.7554/elife.70992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Endothelial cells (ECs) in the central nervous system (CNS) acquire their specialized blood-brain barrier (BBB) properties in response to extrinsic signals, with Wnt/β-catenin signaling coordinating multiple aspects of this process. Our knowledge of CNS EC development has been advanced largely by animal models, and human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) offer the opportunity to examine BBB development in an in vitro human system. Here we show that activation of Wnt signaling in hPSC-derived naïve endothelial progenitors, but not in matured ECs, leads to robust acquisition of canonical BBB phenotypes including expression of GLUT-1, increased claudin-5, decreased PLVAP and decreased permeability. RNA-seq revealed a transcriptome profile resembling ECs with CNS-like characteristics, including Wnt-upregulated expression of LEF1, APCDD1, and ZIC3. Together, our work defines effects of Wnt activation in naïve ECs and establishes an improved hPSC-based model for interrogation of CNS barriergenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin D Gastfriend
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, United States
| | | | - Scott G Canfield
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, United States
| | - Koji L Foreman
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, United States
| | | | - Sean P Palecek
- Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, United States
| | - Eric V Shusta
- Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, United States
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24
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Yemanyi F, Bora K, Blomfield AK, Wang Z, Chen J. Wnt Signaling in Inner Blood-Retinal Barrier Maintenance. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:11877. [PMID: 34769308 PMCID: PMC8584977 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Revised: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The retina is a light-sensing ocular tissue that sends information to the brain to enable vision. The blood-retinal barrier (BRB) contributes to maintaining homeostasis in the retinal microenvironment by selectively regulating flux of molecules between systemic circulation and the retina. Maintaining such physiological balance is fundamental to visual function by facilitating the delivery of nutrients and oxygen and for protection from blood-borne toxins. The inner BRB (iBRB), composed mostly of inner retinal vasculature, controls substance exchange mainly via transportation processes between (paracellular) and through (transcellular) the retinal microvascular endothelium. Disruption of iBRB, characterized by retinal edema, is observed in many eye diseases and disturbs the physiological quiescence in the retina's extracellular space, resulting in vision loss. Consequently, understanding the mechanisms of iBRB formation, maintenance, and breakdown is pivotal to discovering potential targets to restore function to compromised physiological barriers. These unraveled targets can also inform potential drug delivery strategies across the BRB and the blood-brain barrier into retinas and brain tissues, respectively. This review summarizes mechanistic insights into the development and maintenance of iBRB in health and disease, with a specific focus on the Wnt signaling pathway and its regulatory role in both paracellular and transcellular transport across the retinal vascular endothelium.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Jing Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (F.Y.); (K.B.); (A.K.B.); (Z.W.)
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25
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Grubb ML, Caliari SR. Fabrication approaches for high-throughput and biomimetic disease modeling. Acta Biomater 2021; 132:52-82. [PMID: 33716174 PMCID: PMC8433272 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2021.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2020] [Revised: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
There is often a tradeoff between in vitro disease modeling platforms that capture pathophysiologic complexity and those that are amenable to high-throughput fabrication and analysis. However, this divide is closing through the application of a handful of fabrication approaches-parallel fabrication, automation, and flow-driven assembly-to design sophisticated cellular and biomaterial systems. The purpose of this review is to highlight methods for the fabrication of high-throughput biomaterial-based platforms and showcase examples that demonstrate their utility over a range of throughput and complexity. We conclude with a discussion of future considerations for the continued development of higher-throughput in vitro platforms that capture the appropriate level of biological complexity for the desired application. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: There is a pressing need for new biomedical tools to study and understand disease. These platforms should mimic the complex properties of the body while also permitting investigation of many combinations of cells, extracellular cues, and/or therapeutics in high-throughput. This review summarizes emerging strategies to fabricate biomimetic disease models that bridge the gap between complex tissue-mimicking microenvironments and high-throughput screens for personalized medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mackenzie L Grubb
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia, Unites States
| | - Steven R Caliari
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia, Unites States; Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Virginia, Unites States.
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26
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Hussain B, Fang C, Chang J. Blood-Brain Barrier Breakdown: An Emerging Biomarker of Cognitive Impairment in Normal Aging and Dementia. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:688090. [PMID: 34489623 PMCID: PMC8418300 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.688090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The blood–brain barrier (BBB) plays a vital role in maintaining the specialized microenvironment of the neural tissue. It separates the peripheral circulatory system from the brain parenchyma while facilitating communication. Alterations in the distinct physiological properties of the BBB lead to BBB breakdown associated with normal aging and various neurodegenerative diseases. In this review, we first briefly discuss the aging process, then review the phenotypes and mechanisms of BBB breakdown associated with normal aging that further cause neurodegeneration and cognitive impairments. We also summarize dementia such as Alzheimer's disease (AD) and vascular dementia (VaD) and subsequently discuss the phenotypes and mechanisms of BBB disruption in dementia correlated with cognition decline. Overlaps between AD and VaD are also discussed. Techniques that could identify biomarkers associated with BBB breakdown are briefly summarized. Finally, we concluded that BBB breakdown could be used as an emerging biomarker to assist to diagnose cognitive impairment associated with normal aging and dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Basharat Hussain
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Biomimetic Materials and Cellular Immunomodulation, Institute of Biomedicine and Biotechnology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Cheng Fang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Biomimetic Materials and Cellular Immunomodulation, Institute of Biomedicine and Biotechnology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
| | - Junlei Chang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Biomimetic Materials and Cellular Immunomodulation, Institute of Biomedicine and Biotechnology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
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27
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Zhao X, Li H, Lyu S, Zhai J, Ji Z, Zhang Z, Zhang X, Liu Z, Wang H, Xu J, Fan H, Kou J, Li L, Lang R, He Q. Single-cell transcriptomics reveals heterogeneous progression and EGFR activation in pancreatic adenosquamous carcinoma. Int J Biol Sci 2021; 17:2590-2605. [PMID: 34326696 PMCID: PMC8315026 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.58886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic adenosquamous carcinoma (PASC) — a rare pathological pancreatic cancer (PC) type — has a poor prognosis due to high malignancy. To examine the heterogeneity of PASC, we performed single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) profiling with sample tissues from a healthy donor pancreas, an intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm, and a patient with PASC. Of 9,887 individual cells, ten cell subpopulations were identified, including myeloid, immune, ductal, fibroblast, acinar, stellate, endothelial, and cancer cells. Cancer cells were divided into five clusters. Notably, cluster 1 exhibited stem-like phenotypes expressing UBE2C, ASPM, and TOP2A. We found that S100A2 is a potential biomarker for cancer cells. LGALS1, NPM1, RACK1, and PERP were upregulated from ductal to cancer cells. Furthermore, the copy number variations in ductal and cancer cells were greater than in the reference cells. The expression of EREG, FCGR2A, CCL4L2, and CTSC increased in myeloid cells from the normal pancreas to PASC. The gene sets expressed by cancer-associated fibroblasts were enriched in the immunosuppressive pathways. We demonstrate that EGFR-associated ligand-receptor pairs are activated in ductal-stromal cell communications. Hence, this study revealed the heterogeneous variations of ductal and stromal cells, defined cancer-associated signaling pathways, and deciphered intercellular interactions following PASC progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Zhao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Han Li
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100021, China
| | - Shaocheng Lyu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Jialei Zhai
- Department of Pathology, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Zhiwei Ji
- College of Artificial Intelligence, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210095, China
| | - Zhigang Zhang
- School of Information Management and Statistics, Hubei University of Economics, Wuhan 430205, Hubei, China
| | - Xinxue Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Zhe Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Huaguang Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Junming Xu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Hua Fan
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Jiantao Kou
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Lixin Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Ren Lang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Qiang He
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing 100020, China
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28
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Keep RF, Jones HC, Drewes LR. Brain Barriers and brain fluids research in 2020 and the fluids and barriers of the CNS thematic series on advances in in vitro modeling of the blood-brain barrier and neurovascular unit. Fluids Barriers CNS 2021; 18:24. [PMID: 34020685 PMCID: PMC8138848 DOI: 10.1186/s12987-021-00258-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
This editorial discusses advances in brain barrier and brain fluid research in 2020. Topics include: the cerebral endothelium and the neurovascular unit; the choroid plexus; the meninges; cerebrospinal fluid and the glymphatic system; disease states impacting the brain barriers and brain fluids; drug delivery to the brain. This editorial also highlights the recently completed Fluids Barriers CNS thematic series entitled, Advances in in vitro modeling of the bloodbrain barrier and neurovascular unit. Such in vitro modeling is progressing rapidly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard F Keep
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48105, USA. .,Department of Neurosurgery, University of Michigan, 109 Zina Pitcher Place, Ann Arbor, R5018 BSRB, MI, 48109-2200, USA.
| | - Hazel C Jones
- Gagle Brook House, Chesterton, Bicester, OX26 1UF, UK
| | - Lester R Drewes
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota Medical School Duluth, Duluth, MN, 55812, USA
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29
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Lu TM, Barcia Durán JG, Houghton S, Rafii S, Redmond D, Lis R. Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Brain Endothelial Cells: Current Controversies. Front Physiol 2021; 12:642812. [PMID: 33868008 PMCID: PMC8044318 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.642812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain microvascular endothelial cells (BMECs) possess unique properties that are crucial for many functions of the blood-brain-barrier (BBB) including maintenance of brain homeostasis and regulation of interactions between the brain and immune system. The generation of a pure population of putative brain microvascular endothelial cells from human pluripotent stem cell sources (iBMECs) has been described to meet the need for reliable and reproducible brain endothelial cells in vitro. Human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs), embryonic or induced, can be differentiated into large quantities of specialized cells in order to study development and model disease. These hPSC-derived iBMECs display endothelial-like properties, such as tube formation and low-density lipoprotein uptake, high transendothelial electrical resistance (TEER), and barrier-like efflux transporter activities. Over time, the de novo generation of an organotypic endothelial cell from hPSCs has aroused controversies. This perspective article highlights the developments made in the field of hPSC derived brain endothelial cells as well as where experimental data are lacking, and what concerns have emerged since their initial description.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyler M Lu
- Division of Regenerative Medicine, Department of Medicine, Ansary Stem Cell Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States.,Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - José Gabriel Barcia Durán
- Division of Regenerative Medicine, Department of Medicine, Ansary Stem Cell Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Sean Houghton
- Division of Regenerative Medicine, Department of Medicine, Ansary Stem Cell Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Shahin Rafii
- Division of Regenerative Medicine, Department of Medicine, Ansary Stem Cell Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - David Redmond
- Division of Regenerative Medicine, Department of Medicine, Ansary Stem Cell Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Raphaël Lis
- Division of Regenerative Medicine, Department of Medicine, Ansary Stem Cell Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States.,Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States
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30
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Chiba H, Ichikawa-Tomikawa N, Imura T, Sugimoto K. The region-selective regulation of endothelial claudin-5 expression and signaling in brain health and disorders. J Cell Physiol 2021; 236:7134-7143. [PMID: 33694168 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30357] [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: 01/11/2021] [Revised: 02/14/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The neurovascular unit (NVU) consists of neurons, glial cells, microvascular cells, and extracellular matrix, and is involved in a variety of physiological and pathological processes in the central nervous system (CNS). Within the NVU, the microvascular endothelial cells and pericytes principally contribute to maintaining the integrity of the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Various types of cells are connected to each other in the NVU by diverse cell adhesion molecules, of which claudin-5 (CLDN5) is by far the most abundantly expressed tight-junction protein in brain microvascular endothelial cells and absolutely required for the maintenance of the BBB. This review highlights recent progress in understanding the region-specific regulation and dysregulation of CLDN5 expression in CNS health and disorders. We also discuss how CLDN5 expression is regionally disrupted within the NVU. In addition, we focus on the link between cell adhesion and transcription factor signalings and describe the possible involvement of CLDN5-adhesion signaling in brain health and disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hideki Chiba
- Department of Basic Pathology, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Naoki Ichikawa-Tomikawa
- Department of Basic Pathology, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Tetsuya Imura
- Department of Basic Pathology, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima, Japan.,Department of Surgical Pathology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Kotaro Sugimoto
- Department of Basic Pathology, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima, Japan
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31
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Ragelle H, Dernick K, Khemais S, Keppler C, Cousin L, Farouz Y, Louche C, Fauser S, Kustermann S, Tibbitt MW, Westenskow PD. Human Retinal Microvasculature-on-a-Chip for Drug Discovery. Adv Healthc Mater 2020; 9:e2001531. [PMID: 32975047 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202001531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Retinal cells within neurovascular units generate the blood-retinal barrier (BRB) to regulate the local retinal microenvironment and to limit access to inflammatory cells. Breakdown of the endothelial junctional complexes in the BRB negatively affects neuronal signaling and ultimately causes vision loss. As new therapeutics are being developed either to prevent barrier disruption or to restore barrier function, access to physiologically relevant human in vitro tissue models that recapitulate important features of barrier biology is essential for disease modeling, target validation, and toxicity assessment. Here, a tunable organ-on-a-chip model of the retinal microvasculature using human retinal microvascular endothelial cells with integrated flow is described. Automated imaging and image analysis methods are employed for facile screening of leakage mediators and cytokine inhibitors on barrier properties. The developed retinal microvasculature-on-a-chip will enable improved understanding of BRB biology and provide an additional tool for drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Héloïse Ragelle
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development Roche Innovation Center Basel F. Hoffmann‐La Roche Ltd. Basel 4070 Switzerland
| | - Karen Dernick
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development Roche Innovation Center Basel F. Hoffmann‐La Roche Ltd. Basel 4070 Switzerland
| | - Sonia Khemais
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development Roche Innovation Center Basel F. Hoffmann‐La Roche Ltd. Basel 4070 Switzerland
| | - Cordula Keppler
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development Roche Innovation Center Basel F. Hoffmann‐La Roche Ltd. Basel 4070 Switzerland
| | - Lucien Cousin
- Macromolecular Engineering Laboratory Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering ETH Zurich Zurich 8092 Switzerland
| | - Yohan Farouz
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development Roche Innovation Center Basel F. Hoffmann‐La Roche Ltd. Basel 4070 Switzerland
| | - Chris Louche
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development Roche Innovation Center Basel F. Hoffmann‐La Roche Ltd. Basel 4070 Switzerland
| | - Sascha Fauser
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development Roche Innovation Center Basel F. Hoffmann‐La Roche Ltd. Basel 4070 Switzerland
| | - Stefan Kustermann
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development Roche Innovation Center Basel F. Hoffmann‐La Roche Ltd. Basel 4070 Switzerland
| | - Mark W. Tibbitt
- Macromolecular Engineering Laboratory Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering ETH Zurich Zurich 8092 Switzerland
| | - Peter D. Westenskow
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development Roche Innovation Center Basel F. Hoffmann‐La Roche Ltd. Basel 4070 Switzerland
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