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Yadav P, Singh SK, Rajput S, Allawadhi P, Khurana A, Weiskirchen R, Navik U. Therapeutic potential of stem cells in regeneration of liver in chronic liver diseases: Current perspectives and future challenges. Pharmacol Ther 2024; 253:108563. [PMID: 38013053 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2023.108563] [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: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 11/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
The deposition of extracellular matrix and hyperplasia of connective tissue characterizes chronic liver disease called hepatic fibrosis. Progression of hepatic fibrosis may lead to hepatocellular carcinoma. At this stage, only liver transplantation is a viable option. However, the number of possible liver donors is less than the number of patients needing transplantation. Consequently, alternative cell therapies based on non-stem cells (e.g., fibroblasts, chondrocytes, keratinocytes, and hepatocytes) therapy may be able to postpone hepatic disease, but they are often ineffective. Thus, novel stem cell-based therapeutics might be potentially important cutting-edge approaches for treating liver diseases and reducing patient' suffering. Several signaling pathways provide targets for stem cell interventions. These include pathways such as TGF-β, STAT3/BCL-2, NADPH oxidase, Raf/MEK/ERK, Notch, and Wnt/β-catenin. Moreover, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) stimulate interleukin (IL)-10, which inhibits T-cells and converts M1 macrophages into M2 macrophages, producing an anti-inflammatory environment. Furthermore, it inhibits the action of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells and reduces the activity of TNF-α and interferon cytokines by enhancing IL-4 synthesis. Consequently, the immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory capabilities of MSCs make them an attractive therapeutic approach. Importantly, MSCs can inhibit the activation of hepatic stellate cells, causing their apoptosis and subsequent promotion of hepatocyte proliferation, thereby replacing dead hepatocytes and reducing liver fibrosis. This review discusses the multidimensional therapeutic role of stem cells as cell-based therapeutics in liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Poonam Yadav
- Department of Pharmacology, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda, Punjab 151401, India
| | - Sumeet Kumar Singh
- Department of Pharmacology, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda, Punjab 151401, India
| | - Sonu Rajput
- Department of Pharmacology, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda, Punjab 151401, India
| | - Prince Allawadhi
- Department of Pharmacy, Vaish Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (VIPER), Pandit Bhagwat Dayal Sharma University of Health Sciences (Pt. B. D. S. UHS), Rohtak, Haryana 124001, India
| | - Amit Khurana
- Department of Pharmacology, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda, Punjab 151401, India; Institute of Molecular Pathobiochemistry, Experimental Gene Therapy and Clinical Chemistry (IFMPEGKC), RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Pauwelsstr. 30, D-52074 Aachen, Germany.
| | - Ralf Weiskirchen
- Institute of Molecular Pathobiochemistry, Experimental Gene Therapy and Clinical Chemistry (IFMPEGKC), RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Pauwelsstr. 30, D-52074 Aachen, Germany.
| | - Umashanker Navik
- Department of Pharmacology, Central University of Punjab, Ghudda, Bathinda, Punjab 151401, India; Institute of Molecular Pathobiochemistry, Experimental Gene Therapy and Clinical Chemistry (IFMPEGKC), RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Pauwelsstr. 30, D-52074 Aachen, Germany.
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D’Hollander A, Van Roosbroeck R, Trekker J, Stakenborg T, Dresselaers T, Vande Velde G, Struys T, Lambrichts I, Lammertyn J, Lagae L, Himmelreich U. Synthetic Antiferromagnetic Gold Nanoparticles as Bimodal Contrast Agents in MRI and CT-An Experimental In Vitro and In Vivo Study. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13091494. [PMID: 34575570 PMCID: PMC8472775 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13091494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Revised: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The use of multimodal contrast agents can potentially overcome the intrinsic limitations of individual imaging methods. We have validated synthetic antiferromagnetic nanoparticles (SAF-NPs) as bimodal contrast agents for in vitro cell labeling and in vivo cell tracking using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT). SAF-NP-labeled cells showed high contrast in MRI phantom studies (r2* = 712 s−1 mM−1), while pelleted cells showed clear contrast enhancement in CT. After intravenous SAF-NP injection, nanoparticles accumulated in the liver and spleen, as visualized in vivo by significant MRI contrast enhancement. Intravenous injection of SAF-NP-labeled cells resulted in cell accumulation in the lungs, which was clearly detectable by using CT but not by using MRI. SAF-NPs proved to be very efficient cell labeling agents for complementary MRI- and CT-based cell tracking. Bimodal monitoring of SAF-NP labeled cells is in particular of interest for applications where the applied imaging methods are not able to visualize the particles and/or cells in all organs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antoine D’Hollander
- Biomedical MRI Unit, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, O&N 1, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (A.D.); (J.T.); (T.D.); (G.V.V.)
- Department of Life Science Technology, IMEC, Kapeldreef 75, 3001 Leuven, Belgium; (R.V.R.); (T.S.); (L.L.)
| | - Ruben Van Roosbroeck
- Department of Life Science Technology, IMEC, Kapeldreef 75, 3001 Leuven, Belgium; (R.V.R.); (T.S.); (L.L.)
- Division of Mechatronics, Department of Biosystems, Biostatistics and Sensors, KU Leuven, 3001 Leuven, Belgium;
| | - Jesse Trekker
- Biomedical MRI Unit, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, O&N 1, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (A.D.); (J.T.); (T.D.); (G.V.V.)
- Department of Life Science Technology, IMEC, Kapeldreef 75, 3001 Leuven, Belgium; (R.V.R.); (T.S.); (L.L.)
| | - Tim Stakenborg
- Department of Life Science Technology, IMEC, Kapeldreef 75, 3001 Leuven, Belgium; (R.V.R.); (T.S.); (L.L.)
| | - Tom Dresselaers
- Biomedical MRI Unit, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, O&N 1, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (A.D.); (J.T.); (T.D.); (G.V.V.)
| | - Greetje Vande Velde
- Biomedical MRI Unit, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, O&N 1, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (A.D.); (J.T.); (T.D.); (G.V.V.)
| | - Tom Struys
- Lab of Histology, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Agora Laan Gebouw C, 3590 Diepenbeek, Belgium; (T.S.); (I.L.)
| | - Ivo Lambrichts
- Lab of Histology, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Agora Laan Gebouw C, 3590 Diepenbeek, Belgium; (T.S.); (I.L.)
| | - Jeroen Lammertyn
- Division of Mechatronics, Department of Biosystems, Biostatistics and Sensors, KU Leuven, 3001 Leuven, Belgium;
| | - Liesbet Lagae
- Department of Life Science Technology, IMEC, Kapeldreef 75, 3001 Leuven, Belgium; (R.V.R.); (T.S.); (L.L.)
- Department of Physics, Faculty of Sciences, Laboratory of Soft Matter and Biophysics, KU Leuven, Celestijnenlaan 200D, 3001 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Uwe Himmelreich
- Biomedical MRI Unit, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, O&N 1, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (A.D.); (J.T.); (T.D.); (G.V.V.)
- Department of Life Science Technology, IMEC, Kapeldreef 75, 3001 Leuven, Belgium; (R.V.R.); (T.S.); (L.L.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +32-16-330-925
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Belderbos S, González-Gómez MA, Cleeren F, Wouters J, Piñeiro Y, Deroose CM, Coosemans A, Gsell W, Bormans G, Rivas J, Himmelreich U. Simultaneous in vivo PET/MRI using fluorine-18 labeled Fe 3O 4@Al(OH) 3 nanoparticles: comparison of nanoparticle and nanoparticle-labeled stem cell distribution. EJNMMI Res 2020; 10:73. [PMID: 32607918 PMCID: PMC7326875 DOI: 10.1186/s13550-020-00655-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2020] [Accepted: 06/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have shown potential for treatment of different diseases. However, their working mechanism is still unknown. To elucidate this, the non-invasive and longitudinal tracking of MSCs would be beneficial. Both iron oxide-based nanoparticles (Fe3O4 NPs) for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and radiotracers for positron emission tomography (PET) have shown potential as in vivo cell imaging agents. However, they are limited by their negative contrast and lack of spatial information as well as short half-life, respectively. In this proof-of-principle study, we evaluated the potential of Fe3O4@Al(OH)3 NPs as dual PET/MRI contrast agents, as they allow stable binding of [18F]F- ions to the NPs and thus, NP visualization and quantification with both imaging modalities. RESULTS 18F-labeled Fe3O4@Al(OH)3 NPs (radiolabeled NPs) or mouse MSCs (mMSCs) labeled with these radiolabeled NPs were intravenously injected in healthy C57Bl/6 mice, and their biodistribution was studied using simultaneous PET/MRI acquisition. While liver uptake of radiolabeled NPs was seen with both PET and MRI, mMSCs uptake in the lungs could only be observed with PET. Even some initial loss of fluoride label did not impair NPs/mMSCs visualization. Furthermore, no negative effects on blood cell populations were seen after injection of either the NPs or mMSCs, indicating good biocompatibility. CONCLUSION We present the application of novel 18F-labeled Fe3O4@Al(OH)3 NPs as safe cell tracking agents for simultaneous PET/MRI. Combining both modalities allows fast and easy NP and mMSC localization and quantification using PET at early time points, while MRI provides high-resolution, anatomic background information and long-term NP follow-up, hereby overcoming limitations of the individual imaging modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Belderbos
- Biomedical MRI, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Manuel Antonio González-Gómez
- NANOMAG Group, Department of Applied Physics, Technological Research Institute, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Frederik Cleeren
- Radiopharmaceutical Research, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, KU Leuven, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jens Wouters
- Molecular Small Animal Imaging Center (MoSAIC), KU Leuven, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Yolanda Piñeiro
- NANOMAG Group, Department of Applied Physics, Technological Research Institute, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Christophe M Deroose
- Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven/UZ Leuven, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - An Coosemans
- Laboratory for Tumor Immunology and Immunotherapy, ImmunOvar Research Group, Department of Oncology, Leuven Cancer Institute, KU Leuven, 3000, Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, UZ Leuven, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Willy Gsell
- Biomedical MRI, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Guy Bormans
- Radiopharmaceutical Research, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, KU Leuven, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jose Rivas
- NANOMAG Group, Department of Applied Physics, Technological Research Institute, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Uwe Himmelreich
- Biomedical MRI, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, 3000, Leuven, Belgium.
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González-Gómez MA, Belderbos S, Yañez-Vilar S, Piñeiro Y, Cleeren F, Bormans G, Deroose CM, Gsell W, Himmelreich U, Rivas J. Development of Superparamagnetic Nanoparticles Coated with Polyacrylic Acid and Aluminum Hydroxide as an Efficient Contrast Agent for Multimodal Imaging. NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2019; 9:E1626. [PMID: 31731823 PMCID: PMC6915788 DOI: 10.3390/nano9111626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2019] [Revised: 11/05/2019] [Accepted: 11/08/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Early diagnosis of disease and follow-up of therapy is of vital importance for appropriate patient management since it allows rapid treatment, thereby reducing mortality and improving health and quality of life with lower expenditure for health care systems. New approaches include nanomedicine-based diagnosis combined with therapy. Nanoparticles (NPs), as contrast agents for in vivo diagnosis, have the advantage of combining several imaging agents that are visible using different modalities, thereby achieving high spatial resolution, high sensitivity, high specificity, morphological, and functional information. In this work, we present the development of aluminum hydroxide nanostructures embedded with polyacrylic acid (PAA) coated iron oxide superparamagnetic nanoparticles, Fe3O4@Al(OH)3, synthesized by a two-step co-precipitation and forced hydrolysis method, their physicochemical characterization and first biomedical studies as dual magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)/positron emission tomography (PET) contrast agents for cell imaging. The so-prepared NPs are size-controlled, with diameters below 250 nm, completely and homogeneously coated with an Al(OH)3 phase over the magnetite cores, superparamagnetic with high saturation magnetization value (Ms = 63 emu/g-Fe3O4), and porous at the surface with a chemical affinity for fluoride ion adsorption. The suitability as MRI and PET contrast agents was tested showing high transversal relaxivity (r2) (83.6 mM-1 s-1) and rapid uptake of 18F-labeled fluoride ions as a PET tracer. The loading stability with 18F-fluoride was tested in longitudinal experiments using water, buffer, and cell culture media. Even though the stability of the 18F-label varied, it remained stable under all conditions. A first in vivo experiment indicates the suitability of Fe3O4@Al(OH)3 nanoparticles as a dual contrast agent for sensitive short-term (PET) and high-resolution long-term imaging (MRI).
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Antonio González-Gómez
- Applied Physics Department, NANOMAG Laboratory, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain; (S.Y.-V.); (Y.P.); (J.R.)
| | - Sarah Belderbos
- Biomedical MRI, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, O&N I, Herestraat 49—Box 505, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (W.G.); (U.H.)
- Molecular Small Animal Imaging Center (MoSAIC), KU Leuven, O&N I, Herestraat 49—Box 505, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Susana Yañez-Vilar
- Applied Physics Department, NANOMAG Laboratory, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain; (S.Y.-V.); (Y.P.); (J.R.)
| | - Yolanda Piñeiro
- Applied Physics Department, NANOMAG Laboratory, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain; (S.Y.-V.); (Y.P.); (J.R.)
| | - Frederik Cleeren
- Radiopharmaceutical Research, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, KU Leuven, O&NII Herestraat 49—Box 821, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (F.C.); (G.B.)
| | - Guy Bormans
- Radiopharmaceutical Research, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, KU Leuven, O&NII Herestraat 49—Box 821, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (F.C.); (G.B.)
| | - Christophe M. Deroose
- Molecular Small Animal Imaging Center (MoSAIC), KU Leuven, O&N I, Herestraat 49—Box 505, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven/UZ Leuven, Herestraat 49—Box 7003 59, 3000 Leuven, Belgium;
| | - Willy Gsell
- Biomedical MRI, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, O&N I, Herestraat 49—Box 505, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (W.G.); (U.H.)
- Molecular Small Animal Imaging Center (MoSAIC), KU Leuven, O&N I, Herestraat 49—Box 505, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Uwe Himmelreich
- Biomedical MRI, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, O&N I, Herestraat 49—Box 505, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (W.G.); (U.H.)
- Molecular Small Animal Imaging Center (MoSAIC), KU Leuven, O&N I, Herestraat 49—Box 505, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - José Rivas
- Applied Physics Department, NANOMAG Laboratory, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain; (S.Y.-V.); (Y.P.); (J.R.)
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Enhanced Homing of Mesenchymal Stem Cells Overexpressing Fibroblast Growth Factor 21 to Injury Site in a Mouse Model of Traumatic Brain Injury. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20112624. [PMID: 31142002 PMCID: PMC6600548 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20112624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2019] [Revised: 05/16/2019] [Accepted: 05/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are emerging as a potential therapeutic intervention for brain injury due to their neuroprotective effects and safe profile. However, the homing ability of MSCs to injury sites still needs to be improved. Fibroblast Growth Factor 21 (FGF21) was recently reported to enhance cells migration in different cells type. In this study, we investigated whether MSCs that overexpressing FGF21 (MSC-FGF21) could exhibit enhanced homing efficacy in brain injury. We used novel Molday IONEverGreen™ (MIEG) as cell labeling probe that enables a non-invasive, high-sensitive and real-time MRI tracking. Using a mouse model of traumatic brain injury (TBI), MIEG labeled MSCs were transplanted into the contralateral lateral ventricle followed by real-time MRI tracking. FGF21 retained MSC abilities of proliferation and morphology. MSC-FGF21 showed significantly greater migration in transwell assay compared to control MSC. MIEG labeling showed no effects on MSCs’ viability, proliferation and differentiation. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed that FGF21 significantly enhances the homing of MSC toward injury site. Histological analysis further confirmed the MRI findings. Taken together, these results show that FGF21 overexpression and MIEG labeling of MSC enhances their homing abilities and enables non-invasive real time tracking of the transplanted cells, provides a promising approach for MSC based therapy and tracking in TBI.
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Saini S, Korf H, Liang S, Verbeke R, Manshian B, Raemdonck K, Lentacker I, Gysemans C, De Smedt SC, Himmelreich U. Challenges for labeling and longitudinal tracking of adoptively transferred autoreactive T lymphocytes in an experimental type-1 diabetes model. MAGNETIC RESONANCE MATERIALS IN PHYSICS BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE 2019; 32:295-305. [PMID: 30648196 DOI: 10.1007/s10334-018-0720-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2018] [Accepted: 11/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Tracking the autoreactive T-cell migration in the pancreatic region after labeling with fluorinated nanoparticles (1,2-dioleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine-N-[3-(2-pyridyldithio)propionate]-perfluoro-15-crown-5-ether nanoparticles, PDP-PFCE NPs) in a diabetic murine model using 19F MRI. MATERIALS AND METHODS Synthesis of novel PDP-PFCE fluorine tracer was performed for in vitro labeling of T cells. Labeling conditions were optimized using different PDP-PFCE NPs concentrations. For in vivo 19F MRI, mice were longitudinally followed after adoptive transfer of activated, autoreactive, labeled T cells in NOD.SCID mice. RESULTS Established MR protocols were used for challenging T cell labeling to track inflammation in a model of diabetes after successful labeling of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells with PDP-PFCE NPs. However, T cells were difficult to be detected in vivo after their engraftment in animals. DISCUSSION We showed successful in vitro labeling of T cells using novel fluorinated liposomal nanoparticles. However, insufficient and slow accumulation of labeled T cells and subsequent T cell proliferation in the pancreatic region remains as limitations of in vivo cell imaging by 19F MRI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shweta Saini
- Biomedical MRI/MoSAIC, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Hannelie Korf
- Laboratory of Hepatology, CHROMETA Department, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | | | - Rein Verbeke
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Bella Manshian
- Biomedical MRI/MoSAIC, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Koen Raemdonck
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Ine Lentacker
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Conny Gysemans
- Clinical and Experimental Endocrinology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | | | - Uwe Himmelreich
- Biomedical MRI/MoSAIC, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
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Abstract
Cells expressing suicide genes can be used as therapeutic vehicles for difficult-to-treat tumors, for example, if stem cells are used that are able to track infiltrating tumor cells. An alternative application of suicide gene expression is their use as a safety switch in regenerative medicine where the presence of a few pluripotent stem cells could potentially cause unwanted side effects like the formation of teratoma. One potential bottleneck of these applications is that information on the initiation of cell suicide is needed early on, for example, when therapeutic cells have reached infiltrating tumor cells or when teratomas are formed. Therefore, in vivo imaging methods are needed that provide information on target location, (stem) cell location, (stem) cell viability, pathology, and suicide gene expression. This requires multimodal imaging approaches that can provide this information longitudinally and in a noninvasive way. Here, we describe examples of how therapeutic cells can be modified so that they express a suicide gene and genes that can be used for in vivo visualization.
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Quang HV, Chang CC, Song P, Hauge EM, Kjems J. Caveolae-mediated mesenchymal stem cell labelling by PSS-coated PLGA PFOB nano-contrast agent for MRI. Theranostics 2018; 8:2657-2671. [PMID: 29774066 PMCID: PMC5957000 DOI: 10.7150/thno.23206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2017] [Accepted: 02/23/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Rationale: Non-invasive tracking of transplanted cells is critical in evaluating delivery, migration and prognosis of cell therapies. Methods: We formulated a nano-contrast agent consisting of a perfluorooctylbromide (PFOB) core within a shell of poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) followed by a coat of polystyrene sulfonate (PSS) for 19F MRI. The nano-contrast agent (PSS-NP) was characterised by DLS and the uptake efficiency of the nano-contrast agent (PSS-NP) was tested using flow cytometry, in vitro MRI and confocal microscopy. In vitro and in vivo assays of labelled cells were tested for their ability to provide an MRI signal while retaining their osteoblastic differentiation capabilities. Results: PSS-NPs were internalised via caveolae-mediated endocytosis in mesenchymal stromal/stem cells without affecting cell proliferation and differentiation in osteoblasts, both in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, labelled cells were monitored by 19F MRI for up to 2 months after transplantation in mice. In particular, PSS-NP-labelled cells can be used to monitor the enhanced immune rejection of grafted human cells in normal BALB/c mice compared to immune-compromised NOD/SCID mice. One week after transplantation, 40% of the 19F MRI signal was lost in normal mice, whereas only 10% was lost in immune-compromised mice. Conclusion: Overall, these results show that PSS-NPs can label MSCs effectively, and be employed in vivo as a novel nano-contrast agent for non-invasive cell tracking using clinically relevant 19F MRI techniques.
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Abstract
Pancreatic islets (PIs) transplantation is an alternative approach for the treatment of severe forms of type 1 diabetes (T1D). To monitor the success of transplantation, it is desirable to follow the location of engrafted PIs non-invasively. In vivo magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of transplanted PIs is a feasible cell tracking method; however, this requires labeling with a suitable contrast agent prior to transplantation. We have tested the feasibility of cationic magnetoliposomes (MLs), compared to commercial contrast agents (Endorem and Resovist), by labeling insulinoma cells and freshly isolated rat PIs. It was possible to incorporate Magnetic Ressonance (MR)-detectable amounts of MLs in a shorter time (4 h) when compared to Endorem and Resovist. MLs did not show negative effects on the PIs' viability and functional parameters in vitro. Labeled islets were transplanted in the renal sub-capsular region of healthy mice. Hypointense contrast in MR images due to the labeled PIs was detected in vivo upon transplantation, while MR detection of PIs labeled with Endorem and Resovist was only possible after the addition of transfection agents. These findings indicate that MLs are suitable to image PIs, without affecting their function, which is promising for future longitudinal pre-clinical and clinical studies involving the assessment of PI transplantation.
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Mangoni M, Livi L, Biti G, Di Cataldo V, Capaccioli N, Castier Y, Loriot Y, Mordant P, Deutsch E. Stem Cell Tracking: Toward Clinical Application in Oncology? TUMORI JOURNAL 2018; 98:535-42. [DOI: 10.1177/030089161209800501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Noninvasive cellular imaging allows the tracking of grafted cells as well as the monitoring of their migration, suggesting potential applications to track both cancer and therapeutic stem cells. Cell tracking can be performed by two approaches: direct labeling (cells are labeled with tags) and indirect labeling (cells are transfected with a reporter gene and visualized after administration of a reporter probe). Techniques for in vivo detection of grafted cells include optic imaging, nuclear medicine imaging, magnetic resonance imaging, microCT imaging and ultrasound imaging. The ideal imaging modality would bring together high sensitivity, high resolution and low toxicity. All of the available imaging methods are based on different principles, have different properties and different limitations, so several of them can be considered complementary. Transfer of these preclinical cellular imaging modalities to stem cells has already been reported, and transfer to clinical practice within the next years can be reasonably considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Mangoni
- UPRES EA 2710, Gustave Roussy
Institute, Villejuif, France
- Clinical Physiopathology Department,
Radiotherapy Unit, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Livi
- Clinical Physiopathology Department,
Radiotherapy Unit, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Giampaolo Biti
- Clinical Physiopathology Department,
Radiotherapy Unit, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Vanessa Di Cataldo
- Clinical Physiopathology Department,
Radiotherapy Unit, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Neri Capaccioli
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and
Forensic Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
- Radiology Unit, Val di Sieve Clinic,
Florence, Italy
| | - Yves Castier
- Department of General Thoracic and
Vascular Surgery, Bichat Hospital, Paris Diderot University, Paris, France
| | - Yohann Loriot
- UPRES EA 2710, Gustave Roussy
Institute, Villejuif, France
- Department of General Thoracic and
Vascular Surgery, Bichat Hospital, Paris Diderot University, Paris, France
| | - Pierre Mordant
- UPRES EA 2710, Gustave Roussy
Institute, Villejuif, France
- Department of Medicine, Gustave Roussy
Institute, Villejuif, France
| | - Eric Deutsch
- UPRES EA 2710, Gustave Roussy
Institute, Villejuif, France
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Argibay B, Trekker J, Himmelreich U, Beiras A, Topete A, Taboada P, Pérez-Mato M, Iglesias-Rey R, Sobrino T, Rivas J, Campos F, Castillo J. Easy and Efficient Cell Tagging with Block Copolymer-Based Contrast Agents for Sensitive MRI Detection in Vivo. Cell Transplant 2018; 25:1787-1800. [PMID: 27093950 DOI: 10.3727/096368916x691303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (MNPs) together with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are the preferred tools for monitoring the fate and biodistribution of administered cells in stem cell therapy studies. Commercial MNPs need transfection agents and long incubation times for sufficient cell labeling and further in vivo cell detection. In this work, we have synthesized MNPs coated with pluronic F127 and tetronic 908, and validated their applicability as contrast agents for MRI cell detection on two different cell types: rat mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and multipotent neural progenitor cell line from mice (C17.2). No transfection agent was needed for a complete MNP internalization, and the uptake was only dependent on MNP concentration in medium and limited on the incubation time. By combining in vivo MRI and ex vivo histology microscopy, we have demonstrated the MRI signal detected corresponded exclusively to labeled cells and not to free particles. Pluronic F127- and tetronic 908-coated MNPs represent promising contrast agents for stem cell tracking due to their ease of use in preparation, their efficiency for cell labeling, and their high sensitivity for in vivo cell detection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bárbara Argibay
- Clinical Neurosciences Research Laboratory, Clinical University Hospital, Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Jesse Trekker
- IMEC, Department of Life Science Technology, Leuven, Belgium.,Biomedical MRI, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KULeuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Uwe Himmelreich
- Biomedical MRI, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KULeuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Andrés Beiras
- Department of Morphological Sciences, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Antonio Topete
- Condensed Matter Physics Department, Universidad de Santiago de Compostela, Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Pablo Taboada
- Condensed Matter Physics Department, Universidad de Santiago de Compostela, Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - María Pérez-Mato
- Clinical Neurosciences Research Laboratory, Clinical University Hospital, Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Ramón Iglesias-Rey
- Clinical Neurosciences Research Laboratory, Clinical University Hospital, Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Tomas Sobrino
- Clinical Neurosciences Research Laboratory, Clinical University Hospital, Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - José Rivas
- Applied Physics Department, Campus Vida, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Francisco Campos
- Clinical Neurosciences Research Laboratory, Clinical University Hospital, Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - José Castillo
- Clinical Neurosciences Research Laboratory, Clinical University Hospital, Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
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12
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Liang S, Dresselaers T, Louchami K, Zhu C, Liu Y, Himmelreich U. Comparison of different compressed sensing algorithms for low SNR 19 F MRI applications-Imaging of transplanted pancreatic islets and cells labeled with perfluorocarbons. NMR IN BIOMEDICINE 2017; 30:e3776. [PMID: 28841762 DOI: 10.1002/nbm.3776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2016] [Revised: 06/20/2017] [Accepted: 07/03/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Transplantation of pancreatic islets is a possible treatment option for patients suffering from Type I diabetes. In vivo imaging of transplanted islets is important for assessment of the transplantation site and islet distribution. Thanks to its high specificity, the absence of intrinsic background signal in tissue and its potential for quantification, 19 F MRI is a promising technique for monitoring the fate of transplanted islets in vivo. In order to overcome the inherent low sensitivity of 19 F MRI, leading to long acquisition times with low signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), compressed sensing (CS) techniques are a valuable option. We have validated and compared different CS algorithms for acceleration of 19 F MRI acquisition in a low SNR regime using pancreatic islets labeled with perfluorocarbons both in vitro and in vivo. Using offline simulation on both in vitro and in vivo low SNR fully sampled 19 F MRI datasets of labeled islets, we have shown that CS is effective in reducing the image acquisition time by a factor of three to four without seriously affecting SNR, regardless of the particular algorithms used in this study, with the exception of CoSaMP. Using CS, signals can be detected that might have been missed by conventional 19 F MRI. Among different algorithms (SPARSEMRI, OMMP, IRWL1, Two-level and CoSAMP), the two-level l1 method has shown the best performance if computational time is taken into account. We have demonstrated in this study that different existing CS algorithms can be used effectively for low SNR 19 F MRI. An up to fourfold gain in SNR/scan time could be used either to reduce the scan time, which is beneficial for clinical and translational applications, or to increase the number of averages, to potentially detect otherwise undetected signal when compared with conventional 19 F MRI acquisitions. Potential applications in the field of cell therapy have been demonstrated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sayuan Liang
- Biomedical MRI, Department of Imaging and Pathology, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Bio-Imaging Lab, Faculty of Pharmaceutical, Biomedical and Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Tom Dresselaers
- Biomedical MRI, Department of Imaging and Pathology, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Radiology, Universitair Ziekenhuis Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Karim Louchami
- Biomedical MRI, Department of Imaging and Pathology, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory of Experimental Hormonology, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Bruxelles, Belgium
| | - Ce Zhu
- School of Electronic Engineering/Center for Information in Medicine/Center for Robotics, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China (UESTC), Chengdu, China
| | - Yipeng Liu
- School of Electronic Engineering/Center for Information in Medicine/Center for Robotics, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China (UESTC), Chengdu, China
| | - Uwe Himmelreich
- Biomedical MRI, Department of Imaging and Pathology, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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13
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Grudzenski S, Baier S, Ebert A, Pullens P, Lemke A, Bieback K, Dijkhuizen RM, Schad LR, Alonso A, Hennerici MG, Fatar M. The effect of adipose tissue-derived stem cells in a middle cerebral artery occlusion stroke model depends on their engraftment rate. Stem Cell Res Ther 2017; 8:96. [PMID: 28446216 PMCID: PMC5407025 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-017-0545-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2017] [Accepted: 03/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the field of experimental stem cell therapy, intra-arterial (IA) delivery yields the best results concerning, for example, migrated cell number at the targeted site. However, IA application also appears to be associated with increased mortality rates and infarction. Since many rodent studies systemically apply 1 × 106 cells, this could also be a consequence of engrafted cell number. The aim of this study was therefore to investigate the effect of different doses of adipose tissue-derived stem cells (ASCs) on engraftment rates and stroke outcome measured in vivo using 9.4-T high-field magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). METHODS Male Wistar rats (n = 43) underwent a middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAo) for 45 or 90 min, followed by IA delivery of either saline or 1 × 106, 3 × 105, or 5 × 104 ASCs pre-labelled with very small superparamagnetic iron oxide particles (VSOPs). MRI (9.4-T) analysis was performed 48 h and 9 days post-MCAo. Lesion volumes were assessed by analysis of T2-weighted images and cell signal tracking showing cell engraftment and active cell migration by an improved T2*-analysis. RESULTS The ASC-derived signal intensity increased in the affected hemisphere 48 h post MCAo with injected cell number (p < 0.05). The analysis of stroke volumes revealed an increased infarction after injection of 1 × 106 ASCs compared to controls or application of 5 × 104 ASCs (p < 0.05). At 9 days post-MCAo, injection of 3 × 105 ASCs resulted in reduced infarct volumes (p < 0.05). Correspondingly, MRI analysis revealed no changes in cell numbers between both MRI examinations but showed active ASC migration to the site of infarction. CONCLUSION Our results confirm that IA injection is an efficient way of targeting damaged brain tissue but its usefulness strongly depends on the right dose of delivered stem cells since this factor has a strong influence on migration rate and infarct volume, with better results for doses below 1 × 106 cells. Future challenges will include the determination of therapeutic doses for best cellular engraftment and stroke outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saskia Grudzenski
- Department of Neurology, Universitätsmedizin Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, D-68167, Mannheim, Germany.
| | - Sebastian Baier
- Computer Assisted Clinical Medicine, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68167, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Anne Ebert
- Department of Neurology, Universitätsmedizin Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, D-68167, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Pim Pullens
- Department of Radiology, UZ-Brussel, Vrije Universiteit (VUB), 1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Andreas Lemke
- Computer Assisted Clinical Medicine, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68167, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Karen Bieback
- Institute of Transfusion Medicine and Immunology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68167, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Rick M Dijkhuizen
- Biomedical MR Imaging and Spectroscopy Group, Image Sciences Institute, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584 CX, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Lothar R Schad
- Computer Assisted Clinical Medicine, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68167, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Angelika Alonso
- Department of Neurology, Universitätsmedizin Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, D-68167, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Michael G Hennerici
- Department of Neurology, Universitätsmedizin Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, D-68167, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Marc Fatar
- Department of Neurology, Universitätsmedizin Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, D-68167, Mannheim, Germany
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14
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Liang S, Louchami K, Kolster H, Jacobsen A, Zhang Y, Thimm J, Sener A, Thiem J, Malaisse W, Dresselaers T, Himmelreich U. In vivo and ex vivo 19-fluorine magnetic resonance imaging and spectroscopy of beta-cells and pancreatic islets using GLUT-2 specific contrast agents. CONTRAST MEDIA & MOLECULAR IMAGING 2016; 11:506-513. [PMID: 27624753 DOI: 10.1002/cmmi.1712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2016] [Revised: 08/01/2016] [Accepted: 08/02/2016] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The assessment of the β-cell mass in experimental models of diabetes and ultimately in patients is a hallmark to understand the relationship between reduced β-cell mass/function and the onset of diabetes. It has been shown before that the GLUT-2 transporter is highly expressed in both β-cells and hepatocytes and that D-mannoheptulose (DMH) has high uptake specificity for the GLUT-2 transporter. As 19-fluorine MRI has emerged as a new alternative method for MRI cell tracking because it provides potential non-invasive localization and quantification of labeled cells, the purpose of this project is to validate β-cell and pancreatic islet imaging by using fluorinated, GLUT-2 targeting mannoheptulose derivatives (19 FMH) both in vivo and ex vivo. In this study, we confirmed that, similar to DMH, 19 FMHs inhibit insulin secretion and increase the blood glucose level in mice temporarily (approximately two hours). We were able to assess the distribution of 19 FMHs in vivo with a temporal resolution of about 20 minutes, which showed a quick removal of 19 FMH from the circulation (within two hours). Ex vivo MR spectroscopy confirmed a preferential uptake of 19 FMH in tissue with high expression of the GLUT-2 transporter, such as liver, endocrine pancreas and kidney. No indication of further metabolism was found. In summary, 19 FMHs are potentially suitable for visualizing and tracking of GLUT-2 expressed cells. However, current bottlenecks of this technique related to the quick clearance of the compound and relative low sensitivity of 19 F MRI need to be overcome. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sayuan Liang
- Biomedical MRI unit/ MoSAIC, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Karim Louchami
- Biomedical MRI unit/ MoSAIC, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Laboratory of Experimental Hormonology, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Bruxelles, Belgium
| | - Hauke Kolster
- Biomedical MRI unit/ MoSAIC, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Anna Jacobsen
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Ying Zhang
- Laboratory of Experimental Hormonology, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Bruxelles, Belgium
| | - Julian Thimm
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Abdullah Sener
- Laboratory of Experimental Hormonology, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Bruxelles, Belgium
| | - Joachim Thiem
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Willy Malaisse
- Laboratory of Experimental Hormonology, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Bruxelles, Belgium
| | - Tom Dresselaers
- Biomedical MRI unit/ MoSAIC, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Uwe Himmelreich
- Biomedical MRI unit/ MoSAIC, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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15
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Pongrac IM, Dobrivojević M, Ahmed LB, Babič M, Šlouf M, Horák D, Gajović S. Improved biocompatibility and efficient labeling of neural stem cells with poly(L-lysine)-coated maghemite nanoparticles. BEILSTEIN JOURNAL OF NANOTECHNOLOGY 2016; 7:926-936. [PMID: 27547609 PMCID: PMC4979740 DOI: 10.3762/bjnano.7.84] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2016] [Accepted: 06/06/2016] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cell tracking is a powerful tool to understand cellular migration, dynamics, homing and function of stem cell transplants. Nanoparticles represent possible stem cell tracers, but they differ in cellular uptake and side effects. Their properties can be modified by coating with different biocompatible polymers. To test if a coating polymer, poly(L-lysine), can improve the biocompatibility of nanoparticles applied to neural stem cells, poly(L-lysine)-coated maghemite nanoparticles were prepared and characterized. We evaluated their cellular uptake, the mechanism of internalization, cytotoxicity, viability and proliferation of neural stem cells, and compared them to the commercially available dextran-coated nanomag(®)-D-spio nanoparticles. RESULTS Light microscopy of Prussian blue staining revealed a concentration-dependent intracellular uptake of iron oxide in neural stem cells. The methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium assay and the calcein acetoxymethyl ester/propidium iodide assay demonstrated that poly(L-lysine)-coated maghemite nanoparticles scored better than nanomag(®)-D-spio in cell labeling efficiency, viability and proliferation of neural stem cells. Cytochalasine D blocked the cellular uptake of nanoparticles indicating an actin-dependent process, such as macropinocytosis, to be the internalization mechanism for both nanoparticle types. Finally, immunocytochemistry analysis of neural stem cells after treatment with poly(L-lysine)-coated maghemite and nanomag(®)-D-spio nanoparticles showed that they preserve their identity as neural stem cells and their potential to differentiate into all three major neural cell types (neurons, astrocytes and oligodendrocytes). CONCLUSION Improved biocompatibility and efficient cell labeling makes poly(L-lysine)-coated maghemite nanoparticles appropriate candidates for future neural stem cell in vivo tracking studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Igor M Pongrac
- Croatian Institute for Brain Research, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Šalata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Marina Dobrivojević
- Croatian Institute for Brain Research, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Šalata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Lada Brkić Ahmed
- Croatian Institute for Brain Research, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Šalata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Michal Babič
- Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, Academy of Sciences, Heyrovského Sq. 2, 16206 Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Miroslav Šlouf
- Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, Academy of Sciences, Heyrovského Sq. 2, 16206 Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Daniel Horák
- Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, Academy of Sciences, Heyrovského Sq. 2, 16206 Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Srećko Gajović
- Croatian Institute for Brain Research, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Šalata 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
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16
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Pereira SM, Williams SR, Murray P, Taylor A. MS-1 magA: Revisiting Its Efficacy as a Reporter Gene for MRI. Mol Imaging 2016; 15:15/0/1536012116641533. [PMID: 27118760 PMCID: PMC5470133 DOI: 10.1177/1536012116641533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2015] [Accepted: 02/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Bacterial genes involved in the biomineralization of magnetic nanoparticles in magnetotactic bacteria have recently been proposed as reporters for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). In such systems, the expression of the bacterial genes in mammalian cells purportedly leads to greater concentrations of intracellular iron or the biomineralization of iron oxides, thus leading to an enhancement in relaxation rate that is detectable via MRI. Here, we show that the constitutive expression of the magA gene from Magnetospirillum magnetotacticum is tolerated by human embryonic kidney (HEK) cells but induces a strong toxic effect in murine mesenchymal/stromal cells and kidney-derived stem cells, severely restricting its effective use as a reporter gene for stem cells. Although it has been suggested that magA is involved in iron transport, when expressed in HEK cells, it does not affect the transcription of endogenous genes related to iron homeostasis. Furthermore, the magA-induced enhancement in iron uptake in HEK cells is insignificant, suggesting this gene is a poor reporter even for cell types that can tolerate its expression. We suggest that the use of magA for stem cells should be approached with caution, and its efficacy as a reporter gene requires a careful assessment on a cell-by-cell basis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia M Pereira
- Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Crown Street, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Steve R Williams
- Centre for Imaging Sciences, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Patricia Murray
- Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Crown Street, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Arthur Taylor
- Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Crown Street, Liverpool, United Kingdom
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17
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Increased Understanding of Stem Cell Behavior in Neurodegenerative and Neuromuscular Disorders by Use of Noninvasive Cell Imaging. Stem Cells Int 2016; 2016:6235687. [PMID: 26997958 PMCID: PMC4779824 DOI: 10.1155/2016/6235687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2015] [Revised: 01/07/2016] [Accepted: 01/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Numerous neurodegenerative and neuromuscular disorders are associated with cell-specific depletion in the human body. This imbalance in tissue homeostasis is in healthy individuals repaired by the presence of endogenous stem cells that can replace the lost cell type. However, in most disorders, a genetic origin or limited presence or exhaustion of stem cells impairs correct cell replacement. During the last 30 years, methods to readily isolate and expand stem cells have been developed and this resulted in a major change in the regenerative medicine field as it generates sufficient amount of cells for human transplantation applications. Furthermore, stem cells have been shown to release cytokines with beneficial effects for several diseases. At present however, clinical stem cell transplantations studies are struggling to demonstrate clinical efficacy despite promising preclinical results. Therefore, to allow stem cell therapy to achieve its full potential, more insight in their in vivo behavior has to be achieved. Different methods to noninvasively monitor these cells have been developed and are discussed. In some cases, stem cell monitoring even reached the clinical setting. We anticipate that by further exploring these imaging possibilities and unraveling their in vivo behavior further improvement in stem cell transplantations will be achieved.
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18
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Statin Therapy and the Development of Cerebral Amyloid Angiopathy--A Rodent in Vivo Approach. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 17:ijms17010126. [PMID: 26797603 PMCID: PMC4730367 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17010126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2015] [Revised: 01/04/2016] [Accepted: 01/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA) is characterized by vascular deposition of amyloid β (Aβ) with a higher incidence of cerebral microbleeds (cMBs) and spontaneous hemorrhage. Since statins are known for their benefit in vascular disease we tested for the effect on CAA. Methods: APP23-transgenic mice received atorvastatin-supplemented food starting at the age of eight months (n = 13), 12 months (n = 7), and 16 months (n = 6), respectively. Controls (n = 16) received standard food only. At 24 months of age cMBs were determined with T2*-weighted 9.4T magnetic resonance imaging and graded by size. Results: Control mice displayed an average of 35 ± 18.5 cMBs (mean ± standard deviation), compared to 29.3 ± 9.8 in mice with eight months (p = 0.49), 24.9 ± 21.3 with 12 months (p = 0.26), and 27.8 ± 15.4 with 16 months of atorvastatin treatment (p = 0.27). In combined analysis treated mice showed lower absolute numbers (27.4 ± 15.6, p = 0.16) compared to controls and also after adjustment for cMB size (p = 0.13). Conclusion: Despite to a non-significant trend towards fewer cMBs our results failed to provide evidence for beneficial effects of long-term atorvastatin treatment in the APP23-transgenic mouse model of CAA. A higher risk for bleeding complications was not observed.
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19
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Monitoring the Bystander Killing Effect of Human Multipotent Stem Cells for Treatment of Malignant Brain Tumors. Stem Cells Int 2016; 2016:4095072. [PMID: 26880961 PMCID: PMC4736564 DOI: 10.1155/2016/4095072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2015] [Accepted: 11/16/2015] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor infiltrating stem cells have been suggested as a vehicle for the delivery of a suicide gene towards otherwise difficult to treat tumors like glioma. We have used herpes simplex virus thymidine kinase expressing human multipotent adult progenitor cells in two brain tumor models (hU87 and Hs683) in immune-compromised mice. In order to determine the best time point for the administration of the codrug ganciclovir, the stem cell distribution and viability were monitored in vivo using bioluminescence (BLI) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Treatment was assessed by in vivo BLI and MRI of the tumors. We were able to show that suicide gene therapy using HSV-tk expressing stem cells can be followed in vivo by MRI and BLI. This has the advantage that (1) outliers can be detected earlier, (2) GCV treatment can be initiated based on stem cell distribution rather than on empirical time points, and (3) a more thorough follow-up can be provided prior to and after treatment of these animals. In contrast to rodent stem cell and tumor models, treatment success was limited in our model using human cell lines. This was most likely due to the lack of immune components in the immune-compromised rodents.
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20
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Leten C, Trekker J, Struys T, Dresselaers T, Gijsbers R, Vande Velde G, Lambrichts I, Van Der Linden A, Verfaillie CM, Himmelreich U. Assessment of bystander killing-mediated therapy of malignant brain tumors using a multimodal imaging approach. Stem Cell Res Ther 2015; 6:163. [PMID: 26345383 PMCID: PMC4562202 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-015-0157-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2014] [Revised: 09/04/2014] [Accepted: 08/14/2015] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction In this study, we planned to assess if adult stem cell-based suicide gene therapy can efficiently eliminate glioblastoma cells in vivo. We investigated the therapeutic potential of mouse Oct4− bone marrow multipotent adult progenitor cells (mOct4− BM-MAPCs) in a mouse glioblastoma model, guided by multimodal in vivo imaging methods to identify therapeutic windows. Methods Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of animals, wherein 5 × 105 syngeneic enhanced green fluorescent protein-firefly luciferase-herpes simplex virus thymidine kinase (eGFP-fLuc-HSV-TK) expressing and superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticle labeled (1 % or 10 %) mOct4− BM-MAPCs were grafted in glioblastoma (GL261)-bearing animals, showed that labeled mOct4− BM-MAPCs were located in and in close proximity to the tumor. Subsequently, ganciclovir (GCV) treatment was commenced and the fate of both the MAPCs and the tumor were followed by multimodal imaging (MRI and bioluminescence imaging). Results In the majority of GCV-treated, but not phosphate-buffered saline-treated animals, a significant difference was found in mOct4− BM-MAPC viability and tumor size at the end of treatment. Noteworthy, in some phosphate-buffered saline-treated animals (33 %), a significant decrease in tumor size was seen compared to sham-operated animals, which could potentially also be caused by a synergistic effect of the immune-modulatory stem cells. Conclusions Suicide gene therapy using mOct4− BM-MAPCs as cellular carriers was effective in reducing the tumor size in the majority of the GCV-treated animals leading to a longer progression-free survival compared to sham-operated animals. This treatment could be followed and guided noninvasively in vivo by MRI and bioluminescence imaging. Noninvasive imaging is of particular interest for a rapid and efficient validation of stem cell-based therapeutic approaches for glioblastoma and hereby contributes to a better understanding and optimization of a promising therapeutic approach for glioblastoma patients. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13287-015-0157-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cindy Leten
- Biomedical MRI, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, 3000, Leuven, Belgium. .,Molecular Small Animal Imaging Center, KU Leuven, 3000, Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Jesse Trekker
- Biomedical MRI, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, 3000, Leuven, Belgium. .,Imec, Department of Life Science Technology, 3001, Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Tom Struys
- Biomedical MRI, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, 3000, Leuven, Belgium. .,Biomedical Research Institute, Lab of Histology, Hasselt University, 3500, Hasselt, Belgium.
| | - Tom Dresselaers
- Biomedical MRI, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, 3000, Leuven, Belgium. .,Molecular Small Animal Imaging Center, KU Leuven, 3000, Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Rik Gijsbers
- Laboratory for Molecular Virology and Gene therapy, KU Leuven, 3000, Leuven, Belgium. .,Leuven Viral Vector Core, KU Leuven, 3000, Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Greetje Vande Velde
- Biomedical MRI, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, 3000, Leuven, Belgium. .,Molecular Small Animal Imaging Center, KU Leuven, 3000, Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Ivo Lambrichts
- Biomedical Research Institute, Lab of Histology, Hasselt University, 3500, Hasselt, Belgium.
| | - Annemie Van Der Linden
- BioImaging Laboratory, University of Antwerp, Campus Drie Eiken, 2610, Antwerpen, Belgium.
| | - Catherine M Verfaillie
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Stem Cell Institute, KU Leuven, 3000, Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Uwe Himmelreich
- Biomedical MRI, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, 3000, Leuven, Belgium. .,Molecular Small Animal Imaging Center, KU Leuven, 3000, Leuven, Belgium.
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Aswendt M, Henn N, Michalk S, Schneider G, Steiner MS, Bissa U, Dose C, Hoehn M. Novel bimodal iron oxide particles for efficient tracking of human neural stem cells in vivo. Nanomedicine (Lond) 2015; 10:2499-512. [PMID: 26296195 DOI: 10.2217/nnm.15.94] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS We validated novel bimodal iron oxide particles as substitute of ferumoxides for efficient labeling of human neural stem cells (NSCs). The dextrane-coated FeraTrack Direct (FTD)-Vio particles have additional far-red fluorophores for microscopic cell analysis. METHODS MR relaxometry, spectrophotometric iron determination and microscopy are used for characterization in vitro and in vivo. RESULTS Efficient uptake is not transfection agent-dependent. FTD-Vio594 labeling had no influence on viability, proliferation, migration and differentiation capacity. It allows MRI-based tracking of engrafted NSCs in mouse brain up to 11 days, complemented by bioluminescence imaging of firefly luciferase expressed by the engrafted cells. CONCLUSION Our results highlight the FTD-Vio594 particles as safe and sensitive substitute of ferumoxides for longitudinal tracking of NSCs in preclinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markus Aswendt
- In-vivo-NMR Laboratory, Max Planck Institute for Metabolism Research, Gleuelerstrasse 50, D-50931 Cologne, Germany
| | - Nadine Henn
- In-vivo-NMR Laboratory, Max Planck Institute for Metabolism Research, Gleuelerstrasse 50, D-50931 Cologne, Germany
| | - Stefanie Michalk
- In-vivo-NMR Laboratory, Max Planck Institute for Metabolism Research, Gleuelerstrasse 50, D-50931 Cologne, Germany
| | - Gabriele Schneider
- In-vivo-NMR Laboratory, Max Planck Institute for Metabolism Research, Gleuelerstrasse 50, D-50931 Cologne, Germany
| | - Mark-Steven Steiner
- Miltenyi Biotec GmbH, Friedrich-Ebert-Strasse 68, 51429 Bergisch Gladbach, Germany
| | - Ursula Bissa
- Miltenyi Biotec GmbH, Friedrich-Ebert-Strasse 68, 51429 Bergisch Gladbach, Germany
| | - Christian Dose
- Miltenyi Biotec GmbH, Friedrich-Ebert-Strasse 68, 51429 Bergisch Gladbach, Germany
| | - Mathias Hoehn
- In-vivo-NMR Laboratory, Max Planck Institute for Metabolism Research, Gleuelerstrasse 50, D-50931 Cologne, Germany.,Department of Radiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands.,Percuros BV, Enschede, Drienerlolaan 5-Zuidhorst, 7522 NB Enschede, The Netherlands
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22
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Keuters MH, Aswendt M, Tennstaedt A, Wiedermann D, Pikhovych A, Rotthues S, Fink GR, Schroeter M, Hoehn M, Rueger MA. Transcranial direct current stimulation promotes the mobility of engrafted NSCs in the rat brain. NMR IN BIOMEDICINE 2015; 28:231-239. [PMID: 25521600 DOI: 10.1002/nbm.3244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2013] [Revised: 11/09/2014] [Accepted: 11/14/2014] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is used in numerous clinical studies and considered an effective and versatile add-on therapy in neurorehabilitation. To date, however, the underlying neurobiological mechanisms remain elusive. In a rat model of tDCS, we recently observed a polarity-dependent accumulation of endogenous neural stem cells (NSCs) in the stimulated cortex. Based upon these findings, we hypothesized that tDCS may exert a direct migratory effect on endogenous NSCs towards the stimulated cortex. Using noninvasive imaging, we here investigated whether tDCS may also cause a directed migration of engrafted NSCs. Murine NSCs were labeled with superparamagnetic particles of iron oxide (SPIOs) and implanted into rat striatum and corpus callosum. MRI was performed (i) immediately after implantation and (ii) after 10 tDCS sessions of anodal or cathodal polarity. Sham-stimulated rats served as control. Imaging results were validated ex vivo using immunohistochemistry. Overall migratory activity of NSCs almost doubled after anodal tDCS. However, no directed migration within the electric field (i.e. towards or away from the electrode) could be observed. Rather, an undirected outward migration from the center of the graft was detected. Xenograft transplantation induced a neuroinflammatory response that was significantly enhanced following cathodal tDCS. This inflammatory response did not impact negatively on the survival of implanted NSCs. Data suggest that anodal tDCS increases the undirected migratory activity of implanted NSCs. Since the electric field did not guide implanted NSCs over large distances, previously observed polarity-dependent accumulation of endogenous NSCs in the cortex might have originated from local proliferation. Results enhance our understanding of the neurobiological mechanisms underlying tDCS, and may thereby help to develop a targeted and sustainable application of tDCS in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meike Hedwig Keuters
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; In-vivo-NMR Laboratory, Max Planck Institute for Neurological Research, Cologne, Germany
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Ketkar-Atre A, Struys T, Soenen SJ, Lambrichts I, Verfaillie CM, De Cuyper M, Himmelreich U. Variability in contrast agent uptake by different but similar stem cell types. Int J Nanomedicine 2013; 8:4577-91. [PMID: 24399873 PMCID: PMC3876490 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s51588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The need to track and evaluate the fate of transplanted cells is an important issue in regenerative medicine. In order to accomplish this, pre-labelling cells with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agents is a well-established method. Uptake of MRI contrast agents by non-phagocytic stem cells, and factors such as cell homeostasis or the adverse effects of contrast agents on cell biology have been extensively studied, but in the context of nanoparticle (NP)-specific parameters. Here, we have studied three different types of NPs (Endorem®, magnetoliposomes [MLs], and citrate coated C-200) to label relatively larger, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and, much smaller yet faster proliferating, multipotent adult progenitor cells (MAPCs). Both cell types are similar, as they are isolated from bone marrow and have substantial regenerative potential, which make them interesting candidates for comparative experiments. Using NPs with different surface coatings and sizes, we found that differences in the proliferative and morphological characteristics of the cells used in the study are mainly responsible for the fate of endocytosed iron, intracellular iron concentration, and cytotoxic responses. The quantitative analysis, using high-resolution electron microscopy images, demonstrated a strong relationship between cell volume/surface, uptake, and cytotoxicity. Interestingly, uptake and toxicity trends are reversed if intracellular concentrations, and not amounts, are considered. This indicates that more attention should be paid to cellular parameters such as cell size and proliferation rate in comparative cell-labeling studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashwini Ketkar-Atre
- Biomedical MRI/MoSAIC, Department of Imaging and Pathology, Biomedical Sciences Group, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Tom Struys
- Biomedical MRI/MoSAIC, Department of Imaging and Pathology, Biomedical Sciences Group, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium ; Lab of Histology, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Campus Diepenbeek, Agoralaan, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Stefaan J Soenen
- Lab for General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Ivo Lambrichts
- Lab of Histology, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Campus Diepenbeek, Agoralaan, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Catherine M Verfaillie
- Interdepartmental Stem Cell Institute, O&N IV, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Marcel De Cuyper
- Laboratory of BioNanoColloids, Interdisciplinary Research Centre, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Kortrijk, Belgium
| | - Uwe Himmelreich
- Biomedical MRI/MoSAIC, Department of Imaging and Pathology, Biomedical Sciences Group, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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24
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Trekker J, Leten C, Struys T, Lazenka VV, Argibay B, Micholt L, Lambrichts I, Van Roy W, Lagae L, Himmelreich U. Sensitive in vivo cell detection using size-optimized superparamagnetic nanoparticles. Biomaterials 2013; 35:1627-35. [PMID: 24246643 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2013.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2013] [Accepted: 11/01/2013] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Magnetic nanoparticle (MNP) enabled cell visualization with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is currently an intensively studied area of research. In the present study, we have synthesized polyethylene glycolated (PEG) MNPs and validated their suitability as MR cell labeling agents in in vitro and in vivo experiments. The labeling of therapeutic potent mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) with small core and large core MNPs was evaluated. Both MNPs were, in combination with a transfection agent, stably internalized into the MSCs and didn't show an effect on cell metabolism. The labeled cells showed high contrast in MRI phantom studies. For quantification purposes, the MRI contrast generating properties of cells labeled with small core MNPs were compared with large core MNPs and with the commercial contrast agent Endorem. MSCs labeled with the large core MNPs showed the highest contrast generating properties in in vitro phantom studies and in in vivo intracranial stereotactic injection experiments, confirming the size-relaxivity relationship in biological systems. Finally, the distribution of MSCs pre-labeled with large core PEGylated MNPs was visualized non-invasively with MRI in a glioma model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesse Trekker
- IMEC, Leuven, Belgium; Department of Imaging and Pathology, Biomedical MRI/Mosaic, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Cindy Leten
- Department of Imaging and Pathology, Biomedical MRI/Mosaic, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Tom Struys
- Department of Imaging and Pathology, Biomedical MRI/Mosaic, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Lab of Histology, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Vera V Lazenka
- Department of Physics, Solid State Physics and Magnetism, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Barbara Argibay
- Department of Neurology, Clinical Neuroscience Research Lab, Hospital Clinico Universitario, University of Santiago de Compostela, IDIS, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | | | - Ivo Lambrichts
- Lab of Histology, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | | | - Liesbet Lagae
- IMEC, Leuven, Belgium; Department of Physics, Solid State Physics and Magnetism, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Uwe Himmelreich
- Department of Imaging and Pathology, Biomedical MRI/Mosaic, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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Vande Velde G, Couillard-Després S, Aigner L, Himmelreich U, van der Linden A. In situ labeling and imaging of endogenous neural stem cell proliferation and migration. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS-NANOMEDICINE AND NANOBIOTECHNOLOGY 2012; 4:663-79. [PMID: 22933366 DOI: 10.1002/wnan.1192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Endogenous neural stem cells (eNSCs) reside in defined regions of the adult brain and have the potential to generate new brain cells, including neurons. Stimulation of adult neurogenesis presents an enormous potential for regenerative therapies in the central nervous system. However, the methods used to monitor the proliferation, migration, differentiation, and functional integration of eNSCs and their progeny are often invasive and limited in studying dynamic processes. To overcome this limitation, novel techniques and contrast mechanisms for in vivo imaging of neurogenesis have recently been developed and successfully applied. In vivo labeling of endogenous neuronal progenitor cells in situ with contrast agents or tracers enables longitudinal visualization of their proliferation and/or migration. Labeling of these cells with magnetic nanoparticles has proven to be very useful for tracking neuroblast migration with MRI. Alternatively, genetic labeling using reporter gene technology has been demonstrated for optical and MR imaging, leading to the development of powerful tools for in vivo optical imaging of neurogenesis. More recently, the iron storage protein ferritin has been used as an endogenously produced MRI contrast agent to monitor neuroblast migration. The use of specific promoters for neuronal progenitor cell imaging increases the specificity for visualizing neurogenesis. Further improvements of detection sensitivity and neurogenesis-specific contrast are nevertheless required for each of these imaging techniques to further improve the already high utility of this toolbox for preclinical neurogenesis research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Greetje Vande Velde
- Biomedical MRI Unit/Molecular Small Animal Imaging Center, Department of Imaging and Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, KU Leuven, Flanders, Belgium
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Sterenczak KA, Meier M, Glage S, Meyer M, Willenbrock S, Wefstaedt P, Dorsch M, Bullerdiek J, Murua Escobar H, Hedrich H, Nolte I. Longitudinal MRI contrast enhanced monitoring of early tumour development with manganese chloride (MnCl2) and superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIOs) in a CT1258 based in vivo model of prostate cancer. BMC Cancer 2012; 12:284. [PMID: 22784304 PMCID: PMC3520113 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2407-12-284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2011] [Accepted: 06/26/2012] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cell lines represent a key tool in cancer research allowing the generation of neoplasias which resemble initial tumours in in-vivo animal models. The characterisation of early tumour development is of major interest in order to evaluate the efficacy of therapeutic agents. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) based in-vivo characterisation allows visualisation and characterisation of tumour development in early stages prior to manual palpation. Contrast agents for MRI such as superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIOs) and manganese chloride (MnCl2) represent powerful tools for the in-vivo characterisation of early stage tumours. In this experimental study, we labelled prostate cancer cells with MnCl2 or SPIOs in vitro and used 1 T MRI for tracing labelled cells in-vitro and 7 T MRI for tracking in an in-vivo animal model. Methods Labelling of prostate cancer cells CT1258 was established in-vitro with MnCl2 and SPIOs. In-vitro detection of labelled cells in an agar phantom was carried out through 1 T MRI while in-vivo detection was performed using 7 T MRI after subcutaneous (s.c.) injection of labelled cells into NOD-Scid mice (n = 20). The animals were scanned in regular intervals until euthanization. The respective tumour volumes were analysed and corresponding tumour masses were subjected to histologic examination. Results MnCl2in-vitro labelling resulted in no significant metabolic effects on proliferation and cell vitality. In-vitro detection-limit accounted 105 cells for MnCl2 as well as for SPIOs labelling. In-vivo 7 T MRI scans allowed detection of 103 and 104 cells. In-vivo MnCl2 labelled cells were detectable from days 4–16 while SPIO labelling allowed detection until 4 days after s.c. injection. MnCl2 labelled cells were highly tumourigenic in NOD-Scid mice and the tumour volume development was characterised in a time dependent manner. The amount of injected cells correlated with tumour size development and disease progression. Histological analysis of the induced tumour masses demonstrated characteristic morphologies of prostate adenocarcinoma. Conclusions To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study reporting direct in-vitro MnCl2 labelling and 7 T based in-vivo MRI tracing of cancer cells in a model of prostate cancer. MnCl2 labelling was found to be suitable for in-vivo tracing allowing long detection periods. The labelled cells kept their highly tumourigenic potential in-vivo. Tumour volume development was visualised prior to manual palpation allowing tumour characterisation in early stages of the disease.
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27
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Gianolio E, Stefania R, Di Gregorio E, Aime S. MRI Paramagnetic Probes for Cellular Labeling. Eur J Inorg Chem 2012. [DOI: 10.1002/ejic.201101399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
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28
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De Vocht N, Bergwerf I, Vanhoutte G, Daans J, De Visscher G, Chatterjee S, Pauwels P, Berneman Z, Ponsaerts P, Van der Linden A. Labeling of Luciferase/eGFP-expressing bone marrow-derived stromal cells with fluorescent micron-sized iron oxide particles improves quantitative and qualitative multimodal imaging of cellular grafts in vivo. Mol Imaging Biol 2012; 13:1133-45. [PMID: 21246293 DOI: 10.1007/s11307-011-0469-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Development of multimodal imaging strategies is currently of utmost importance for the validation of preclinical stem cell therapy studies. PROCEDURES We performed a combined labeling strategy for bone marrow-derived stromal cells (BMSC) based on genetic modification with the reporter genes Luciferase and eGFP (BMSC-Luc/eGFP) and physical labeling with blue fluorescent micron-sized iron oxide particles (MPIO) in order to unambiguously identify BMSC localization, survival, and differentiation following engraftment in the central nervous system of mice by in vivo bioluminescence (BLI) and magnetic resonance imaging and postmortem histological analysis. RESULTS Using this combination, a significant increase of in vivo BLI signal was observed for MPIO-labeled BMSC-Luc/eGFP. Moreover, MPIO labeling of BMSC-Luc/eGFP allows for the improved identification of implanted cells within host tissue during histological observation. CONCLUSIONS This study describes an optimized labeling strategy for multimodal stem cell imaging resulting in improved quantitative and qualitative detection of cellular grafts.
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29
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Fabrication and characterization of a new MRI contrast agent based on a magnetic dextran–spermine nanoparticle system. IRANIAN POLYMER JOURNAL 2012. [DOI: 10.1007/s13726-012-0027-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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30
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Selective targeting of genetically engineered mesenchymal stem cells to tumor stroma microenvironments using tissue-specific suicide gene expression suppresses growth of hepatocellular carcinoma. Ann Surg 2012; 254:767-74; discussion 774-5. [PMID: 22042469 DOI: 10.1097/sla.0b013e3182368c4f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of engineered mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) as therapeutic vehicles for the treatment of experimental pancreatic and breast cancer has been previously demonstrated. The potential application of MSCs for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has been controversial. The general approach uses engineered MSCs to target different aspects of tumor biology, including angiogenesis or the fibroblast-like stromal compartment, through the use of tissue-specific expression of therapeutic transgenes. The aim of the present study was (1) to evaluate the effect of exogenously added MSCs on the growth of HCC and (2) the establishment of an MSC-based suicide gene therapy for experimental HCC. METHODS Mesenchymal stem cells were isolated from bone marrow of C57/Bl6 p53(-/-) mice. The cells were injected into mice with HCC xenografts and the effect on tumor proliferation and angiogenesis was evaluated. The cells were then stably transfected with red fluorescent protein (RFP) or Herpes simplex virus thymidine kinase (HSV-Tk) gene under control of the Tie2 promoter/enhancer or the CCL5 promoter. Mesenchymal stem cells were injected intravenously into mice with orthotopically growing xenografts of HCC and treated with ganciclovir (GCV). RESULTS Ex vivo examination of hepatic tumors revealed tumor-specific recruitment, enhanced tumor growth, and increased microvessel density after nontherapeutic MSC injections. After their homing to the hepatic xenografts, engineered MSCs demonstrated activation of the Tie2 or CCL5 promoter as shown by RFP expression. Application of CCL5/HSV-TK transfected MSCs in combination with GCV significantly reduced tumor growth by 56.4% as compared with the control group and by 71.6% as compared with nontherapeutic MSC injections. CCL5/HSV-TK(+) transfected MSCs proved more potent in tumor inhibition as compared with Tie2/HSV-TK(+) MSCs. CONCLUSION Exogenously added MSCs are recruited to growing HCC xenografts with concomitant activation of the CCL5 or Tie2 promoters within the MSCs. Stem cell-mediated introduction of suicide genes into the tumor followed by prodrug administration was effective for treatment of experimental HCC and thus may help fill the existing gap in bridging therapies for patients suffering from advanced HCCs.
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31
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MRI stem cell tracking for therapy in experimental cerebral ischemia. Transl Stroke Res 2011; 3:22-35. [PMID: 24323753 DOI: 10.1007/s12975-011-0111-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2011] [Revised: 09/20/2011] [Accepted: 09/28/2011] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Magnetic resonance has an established role in investigations on the evolution of stroke and the assessment of therapeutic strategies in experimental animals. Here we show that the technique has also an important place for the study of stem cell-mediated regenerative therapies after stroke. We review the literature by bridging from the methodological aspects of stem cell labeling via grafting and monitoring of cell dynamics after implantation into the brain all the way to MRI's role in analyzing the stem cell-mediated functional improvement. Thus, we have aimed at a view combining the focus on the monitoring of the cell activities with the aspect of lesion evolution while including also the essence of a potential functional improvement by the implantation of stem cells following stroke.
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Vandeputte C, Thomas D, Dresselaers T, Crabbe A, Verfaillie C, Baekelandt V, Van Laere K, Himmelreich U. Characterization of the inflammatory response in a photothrombotic stroke model by MRI: implications for stem cell transplantation. Mol Imaging Biol 2011; 13:663-71. [PMID: 20700767 DOI: 10.1007/s11307-010-0395-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study was to evaluate the specificity of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast in a photothrombotic (PT) stroke model with and without engraftment of superparamagnetic iron oxide (SPIO)-labeled stem cells. PROCEDURES We monitored animals with PT stroke versus animals with PT stroke and stem cell engraftment by T(2)/T(2)*w MRI 4-8 h and 2, 4, 6/7 and 14 days after PT induction. Results were correlated with immunohistochemistry. RESULTS T(2)*w MRI images showed hypointense contrast due to the accumulation of inflammatory cells and corresponding iron accumulation and glial scar formation in the border zone of the lesion, similar as what was observed for SPIO-labeled cells. Histological analysis was thus indispensable to distinguish between labeled transplanted cells and immune cells. CONCLUSION These results raise caution regarding the non-invasive monitoring of SPIO-labeled transplanted stem cells by MRI in models that result in a strong inflammatory response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Vandeputte
- Division of Nuclear Medicine, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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Tang C, Russell PJ, Martiniello-Wilks R, Rasko JEJ, Khatri A. Concise review: Nanoparticles and cellular carriers-allies in cancer imaging and cellular gene therapy? Stem Cells 2010; 28:1686-702. [PMID: 20629172 PMCID: PMC2996089 DOI: 10.1002/stem.473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Ineffective treatment and poor patient management continue to plague the arena of clinical oncology. The crucial issues include inadequate treatment efficacy due to ineffective targeting of cancer deposits, systemic toxicities, suboptimal cancer detection and disease monitoring. This has led to the quest for clinically relevant, innovative multifaceted solutions such as development of targeted and traceable therapies. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have the intrinsic ability to "home" to growing tumors and are hypoimmunogenic. Therefore, these can be used as (a) "Trojan Horses" to deliver gene therapy directly into the tumors and (b) carriers of nanoparticles to allow cell tracking and simultaneous cancer detection. The camouflage of MSC carriers can potentially tackle the issues of safety, vector, and/or transgene immunogenicity as well as nanoparticle clearance and toxicity. The versatility of the nanotechnology platform could allow cellular tracking using single or multimodal imaging modalities. Toward that end, noninvasive magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is fast becoming a clinical favorite, though there is scope for improvement in its accuracy and sensitivity. In that, use of superparamagnetic iron-oxide nanoparticles (SPION) as MRI contrast enhancers may be the best option for tracking therapeutic MSC. The prospects and consequences of synergistic approaches using MSC carriers, gene therapy, and SPION in developing cancer diagnostics and therapeutics are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Tang
- Oncology Research Centre, Prince of Wales Hospital, Randwick, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Nohroudi K, Arnhold S, Berhorn T, Addicks K, Hoehn M, Himmelreich U. In Vivo MRI Stem Cell Tracking Requires Balancing of Detection Limit and Cell Viability. Cell Transplant 2010; 19:431-41. [DOI: 10.3727/096368909x484699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Cell-based therapy using adult mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) has already been the subject of clinical trials, but for further development and optimization the distribution and integration of the engrafted cells into host tissues have to be monitored. Today, for this purpose magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the most suitable technique, and micron-sized iron oxide particles (MPIOs) used for labeling are favorable due to their low detection limit. However, constitutional data concerning labeling efficiency, cell viability, and function are lacking. We demonstrate that cell viability and migratory potential of bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cells (BMSCs) are negatively correlated with incorporated MPIOs, presumably due to interference with the actin cytoskeleton. Nevertheless, labeling of BMSCs with low amounts of MPIOs results in maintained cellular function and sufficient contrast for in vivo observation of single cells by MRI in a rat glioma model. Conclusively, though careful titration is indicated, MPIOs are a promising tool for in vivo cell tracking and evaluation of cell-based therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- K. Nohroudi
- Department of Anatomy I, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - S. Arnhold
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, University of Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - T. Berhorn
- Department of Anatomy I, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - K. Addicks
- Department of Anatomy I, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - M. Hoehn
- Max Planck Institute for Neurological Research, Cologne, Germany
| | - U. Himmelreich
- Max Planck Institute for Neurological Research, Cologne, Germany
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35
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Crabbe A, Vandeputte C, Dresselaers T, Sacido AA, Verdugo JMG, Eyckmans J, Luyten FP, Van Laere K, Verfaillie CM, Himmelreich U. Effects of MRI contrast agents on the stem cell phenotype. Cell Transplant 2010; 19:919-36. [PMID: 20350351 DOI: 10.3727/096368910x494623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The ultimate therapy for ischemic stroke is restoration of blood supply in the ischemic region and regeneration of lost neural cells. This might be achieved by transplanting cells that differentiate into vascular or neuronal cell types, or secrete trophic factors that enhance self-renewal, recruitment, long-term survival, and functional integration of endogenous stem/progenitor cells. Experimental stroke models have been developed to determine potential beneficial effect of stem/progenitor cell-based therapies. To follow the fate of grafted cells in vivo, a number of noninvasive imaging approaches have been developed. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a high-resolution, clinically relevant method allowing in vivo monitoring of cells labeled with contrast agents. In this study, labeling efficiency of three different stem cell populations [mouse embryonic stem cells (mESC), rat multipotent adult progenitor cells (rMAPC), and mouse mesenchymal stem cells (mMSC)] with three different (ultra)small superparamagnetic iron oxide [(U)SPIO] particles (Resovist, Endorem, Sinerem) was compared. Labeling efficiency with Resovist and Endorem differed significantly between the different stem cells. Labeling with (U)SPIOs in the range that allows detection of cells by in vivo MRI did not affect differentiation of stem cells when labeled with concentrations of particles needed for MRI-based visualization. Finally, we demonstrated that labeled rMAPC could be detected in vivo and that labeling did not interfere with their migration. We conclude that successful use of (U)SPIOs for MRI-based visualization will require assessment of the optimal (U)SPIO for each individual (stem) cell population to ensure the most sensitive detection without associated toxicity.
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Stem cell tracking by nanotechnologies. Int J Mol Sci 2010; 11:1070-81. [PMID: 20480000 PMCID: PMC2869236 DOI: 10.3390/ijms11031070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2010] [Revised: 02/11/2010] [Accepted: 03/08/2010] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Advances in stem cell research have provided important understanding of the cell biology and offered great promise for developing new strategies for tissue regeneration. The beneficial effects of stem cell therapy depend also by the development of new approachs for the track of stem cells in living subjects over time after transplantation. Recent developments in the use of nanotechnologies have contributed to advance of the high-resolution in vivo imaging methods, including positron emission tomography (PET), single-photon emission tomography (SPECT), magnetic resonance (MR) imaging, and X-Ray computed microtomography (microCT). This review examines the use of nanotechnologies for stem cell tracking.
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Bernsen MR, Moelker AD, Wielopolski PA, van Tiel ST, Krestin GP. Labelling of mammalian cells for visualisation by MRI. Eur Radiol 2009; 20:255-74. [DOI: 10.1007/s00330-009-1540-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2009] [Revised: 06/11/2009] [Accepted: 06/23/2009] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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Cell labeling and tracking for experimental models using magnetic resonance imaging. Methods 2009; 48:112-24. [PMID: 19362150 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymeth.2009.03.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2009] [Accepted: 03/28/2009] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), as one of the most powerful methods in clinical diagnosis, has emerged as an additional method in the field of molecular and cellular imaging. Compared to established molecular imaging methods, MRI provides in vivo images with high resolution. In particularly in the field of cell-based therapy, non-invasively acquired information on temporal changes of cell location linked to high-resolution anatomical information is of great interest. Relatively new approaches like responsive contrast agents or MR imaging reporter gene expression are MRI applications beyond temporal and spatial information on labeled cells towards investigations on functional changes of cells in vivo. MRI-based cell monitoring and tracking studies require prior labeling of the cells under investigation for excellent contrast against the background of host tissue. Here, an overview is provided on contrast generation strategies for MRI of cells. This includes MR contrast agents, various approaches of cell labeling and MRI as well as MR spectroscopic methods used for cell tracking in vivo. Advantages and disadvantages of the particular labeling approaches and methods are discussed. In addition to description of the methods, the emphasis is on the potential but also challenges and shortcomings of this imaging technique for applications that aim to visualize cellular processes in vivo.
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