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Wan S, Aregueta Robles U, Poole-Warren L, Esrafilzadeh D. Advances in 3D tissue models for neural engineering: self-assembled versus engineered tissue models. Biomater Sci 2024; 12:3522-3549. [PMID: 38829222 DOI: 10.1039/d4bm00317a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
Neural tissue engineering has emerged as a promising field that aims to create functional neural tissue for therapeutic applications, drug screening, and disease modelling. It is becoming evident in the literature that this goal requires development of three-dimensional (3D) constructs that can mimic the complex microenvironment of native neural tissue, including its biochemical, mechanical, physical, and electrical properties. These 3D models can be broadly classified as self-assembled models, which include spheroids, organoids, and assembloids, and engineered models, such as those based on decellularized or polymeric scaffolds. Self-assembled models offer advantages such as the ability to recapitulate neural development and disease processes in vitro, and the capacity to study the behaviour and interactions of different cell types in a more realistic environment. However, self-assembled constructs have limitations such as lack of standardised protocols, inability to control the cellular microenvironment, difficulty in controlling structural characteristics, reproducibility, scalability, and lengthy developmental timeframes. Integrating biomimetic materials and advanced manufacturing approaches to present cells with relevant biochemical, mechanical, physical, and electrical cues in a controlled tissue architecture requires alternate engineering approaches. Engineered scaffolds, and specifically 3D hydrogel-based constructs, have desirable properties, lower cost, higher reproducibility, long-term stability, and they can be rapidly tailored to mimic the native microenvironment and structure. This review explores 3D models in neural tissue engineering, with a particular focus on analysing the benefits and limitations of self-assembled organoids compared with hydrogel-based engineered 3D models. Moreover, this paper will focus on hydrogel based engineered models and probe their biomaterial components, tuneable properties, and fabrication techniques that allow them to mimic native neural tissue structures and environment. Finally, the current challenges and future research prospects of 3D neural models for both self-assembled and engineered models in neural tissue engineering will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuqian Wan
- Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia.
| | - Ulises Aregueta Robles
- Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia.
| | - Laura Poole-Warren
- Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia.
- Tyree Foundation Institute of Health Engineering, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Dorna Esrafilzadeh
- Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia.
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Rybachuk O, Nesterenko Y, Zhovannyk V. Modern advances in spinal cord regeneration: hydrogel combined with neural stem cells. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1419797. [PMID: 38994202 PMCID: PMC11236698 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1419797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Severe spinal cord injuries (SCI) lead to loss of functional activity of the body below the injury site, affect a person's ability to self-care and have a direct impact on performance. Due to the structural features and functional role of the spinal cord in the body, the consequences of SCI cannot be completely overcome at the expense of endogenous regenerative potential and, developing over time, lead to severe complications years after injury. Thus, the primary task of this type of injury treatment is to create artificial conditions for the regenerative growth of damaged nerve fibers through the area of the SCI. Solving this problem is possible using tissue neuroengineering involving the technology of replacing the natural tissue environment with synthetic matrices (for example, hydrogels) in combination with stem cells, in particular, neural/progenitor stem cells (NSPCs). This approach can provide maximum stimulation and support for the regenerative growth of axons of damaged neurons and their myelination. In this review, we consider the currently available options for improving the condition after SCI (use of NSC transplantation or/and replacement of the damaged area of the SCI with a matrix, specifically a hydrogel). We emphasise the expediency and effectiveness of the hydrogel matrix + NSCs complex system used for the reconstruction of spinal cord tissue after injury. Since such a complex approach (a combination of tissue engineering and cell therapy), in our opinion, allows not only to creation of conditions for supporting endogenous regeneration or mechanical reconstruction of the spinal cord, but also to strengthen endogenous regeneration, prevent the spread of the inflammatory process, and promote the restoration of lost reflex, motor and sensory functions of the injured area of spinal cord.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oksana Rybachuk
- Bogomoletz Institute of Physiology NAS of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine
- Institute of Genetic and Regenerative Medicine, M. D. Strazhesko National Scientific Center of Cardiology, Clinical and Regenerative Medicine, National Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine
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Liu R, Peng B, Yuan J, Hu J, Yang J, Shan N, Li Q, Zhao B, Xu C, Wang Y. Research on stem cell therapy for spinal cord injury: a bibliometric and visual analysis from 2018-2023. Front Genet 2024; 15:1327216. [PMID: 38380424 PMCID: PMC10877028 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2024.1327216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Objectives: The aim of this study was to conduct a bibliometric analysis of the literature on stem cell treatment for spinal cord injury to gain an intuitive understanding of how the field is progressing, discover topics of interest, and determine what development trends are emerging in this field. Background: Spinal cord injury and its complications often cause an enormous economic burden, and postinjury repair and treatment have always been challenging in clinical and scientific research. Stem cell therapy for spinal cord injury can prevent immune rejection and induce the release of neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory factors to reduce the production of stress-related proteins, reactive oxygen species, and inflammatory reactions. Methods: We analyzed the number and quality of publications in the field of stem cell therapy in spinal cord injury between 2018.01.01 and 2023.06.30 in the core collection database of Web of Science. CiteSpace and VOSviewer were used to sort and summarize these studies by country, institution, authors' publications, and collaborative networks. In addition, the research topics of interest were identified and summarized. Results: This study ultimately included 2,150 valid papers, with the number of publications showing a gradual upward trend. The country, institution, author and journal with the greatest number of publications and citations are China, the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dai JW, and the International Journal of Molecular Sciences, respectively. The top three high-frequency keyword clusters were hereditary paraplegia, reactive astrocytes and tissue engineering. Conclusion: With the help of visual analysis, we identified general trends and research topics of interest in the field of spinal cord injury over the last 5 years. Our findings suggest that stem cell transplantation for spinal cord injury and exosome therapy may be a focus of future research. This study provides a foundation for future research on stem cell therapy as well as clinical efforts in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruxing Liu
- Department of Orthopedics, Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
- Department of Shanxi Key Laboratory of Bone and Soft Tissue Injury Repair, Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Bo Peng
- Department of Orthopedics, Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
- Department of Shanxi Key Laboratory of Bone and Soft Tissue Injury Repair, Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Jie Yuan
- Department of Orthopedics, Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
- Department of Shanxi Key Laboratory of Bone and Soft Tissue Injury Repair, Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Jiahao Hu
- Department of Orthopedics, Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
- Department of Shanxi Key Laboratory of Bone and Soft Tissue Injury Repair, Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Jianxin Yang
- Department of Pain Management, Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Nan Shan
- The Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Qichao Li
- The Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Bin Zhao
- Department of Orthopedics, Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
- Department of Shanxi Key Laboratory of Bone and Soft Tissue Injury Repair, Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Chaojian Xu
- Department of Orthopedics, Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
- Department of Shanxi Key Laboratory of Bone and Soft Tissue Injury Repair, Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Yongfeng Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
- Department of Shanxi Key Laboratory of Bone and Soft Tissue Injury Repair, Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
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Yadav S, Khan J, Yadav A. Applications of Scaffolds in Tissue Engineering: Current Utilization and Future Prospective. Curr Gene Ther 2024; 24:94-109. [PMID: 37921144 DOI: 10.2174/0115665232262167231012102837] [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: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
Current regenerative medicine tactics focus on regenerating tissue structures pathologically modified by cell transplantation in combination with supporting scaffolds and biomolecules. Natural and synthetic polymers, bioresorbable inorganic and hybrid materials, and tissue decellularized were deemed biomaterials scaffolding because of their improved structural, mechanical, and biological abilities.Various biomaterials, existing treatment methodologies and emerging technologies in the field of Three-dimensional (3D) and hydrogel processing, and the unique fabric concerns for tissue engineering. A scaffold that acts as a transient matrix for cell proliferation and extracellular matrix deposition, with subsequent expansion, is needed to restore or regenerate the tissue. Diverse technologies are combined to produce porous tissue regenerative and tailored release of bioactive substances in applications of tissue engineering. Tissue engineering scaffolds are crucial ingredients. This paper discusses an overview of the various scaffold kinds and their material features and applications. Tabulation of the manufacturing technologies for fabric engineering and equipment, encompassing the latest fundamental and standard procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shikha Yadav
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medical and Allied Sciences, Galgotias University, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Javed Khan
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medical and Allied Sciences, Galgotias University, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Agrima Yadav
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medical and Allied Sciences, Galgotias University, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
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Ying C, Zhang J, Zhang H, Gao S, Guo X, Lin J, Wu H, Hong Y. Stem cells in central nervous system diseases: Promising therapeutic strategies. Exp Neurol 2023; 369:114543. [PMID: 37743001 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2023.114543] [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: 07/09/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
Central nervous system (CNS) diseases are a leading cause of death and disability. Due to CNS neurons have no self-renewal and regenerative ability as they mature, their loss after injury or disease is irreversible and often leads to functional impairments. Unfortunately, therapeutic options for CNS diseases are still limited, and effective treatments for these notorious diseases are warranted to be explored. At present, stem cell therapy has emerged as a potential therapeutic strategy for improving the prognosis of CNS diseases. Accumulating preclinical and clinical evidences have demonstrated that multiple molecular mechanisms, such as cell replacement, immunoregulation and neurotrophic effect, underlie the use of stem cell therapy for CNS diseases. However, several issues have yet to be addressed to support its clinical application. Thus, this review article aims to summarize the role and underlying mechanisms of stem cell therapy in treating CNS diseases. And it is worthy of further evaluation for the potential therapeutic applications of stem cell treatment in CNS disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caidi Ying
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China; Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jiahao Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China; Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Haocheng Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China; Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shiqi Gao
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China; Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoming Guo
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China; Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jun Lin
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China; Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Haijian Wu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China; Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Yuan Hong
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China; Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China.
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Liu Y, Wang Y, Wang Y, Zhou J, Ding W. The growth status and functions of olfactory ensheathing cells cultured on randomly oriented and aligned type-I-collagen-based nanofibrous scaffolds. NANOTECHNOLOGY 2023; 35:035101. [PMID: 37905427 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6528/ad02a4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
Aim. The potential of olfactory ensheathing cells (OECs) as a cell therapy for spinal cord reconstruction and regeneration after injury has drawn significant attention in recent years. This study attempted to investigate the influences of nano-fibrous scaffolds on the growth status and functional properties of OECs.Methods.The ultra-morphology of the scaffolds was visualized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). To culture OECs, donated cells were subcultured and identified with p75. Cell proliferation, apoptosis, and survival rates were measured through MTT assay, Annexin-V/PI staining, and p75 cell counting, respectively. The adhesion of cells cultured on scaffolds was observed using SEM. Additionally, the functions of OECs cultured on scaffolds were assessed by testing gene expression levels through real time polymerase chain reaction.Results.The electrospun type I collagen-based nano-fibers exhibited a smooth surface and uniform distribution. It was indicated that the proliferation and survival rates of OECs cultured on both randomly oriented and aligned type I collagen-based nano-fibrous scaffolds were higher than those observed in the collagen-coated control. Conversely, apoptosis rates were lower in cells cultured on scaffolds. Furthermore, OEC adhesion was better on the scaffolds than on the control. The expression levels of target genes were significantly elevated in cells cultured on scaffolds versus the controls.Conclusion.As a whole, the utilization of aligned collagen nanofibers has demonstrated significant advantages in promoting cell growth and improving cell function. These findings have important implications for the field of regenerative medicine and suggest that the approach may hold promise for the future therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yugang Liu
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University, 139 Ziqiang Road, Shijiazhuang, 050051, People's Republic of China
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University of Engineering, 81 Congtai Road, Handan, 056002, People's Republic of China
| | - Yansong Wang
- Department of Spine Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, 246 Xuefu Road, Harbin, 150001, People's Republic of China
| | - Ying Wang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University of Engineering, 81 Congtai Road, Handan, 056002, People's Republic of China
| | - Jihui Zhou
- Department of Spine Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, 246 Xuefu Road, Harbin, 150001, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenyuan Ding
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University, 139 Ziqiang Road, Shijiazhuang, 050051, People's Republic of China
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Kim WK, Son YS, Lim JH, Kim WH, Kang BJ. Neural stem/progenitor cells from adult canine cervical spinal cord have the potential to differentiate into neural lineage cells. BMC Vet Res 2023; 19:193. [PMID: 37803301 PMCID: PMC10557334 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-023-03757-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND • Neural stem/progenitor cells (NSPCs) are multipotent self-renewing cells that can be isolated from the brain or spinal cord. As they need to be isolated from neural tissues, it is difficult to study human NSPCs. To facilitate NSPC research, we attempted to isolate NSPCs from dogs, as dogs share the environment and having many similar diseases with humans. We collected and established primary cultures of ependymal and subependymal cells from the central canal of the cervical spinal cord of adult dogs. To isolate pure NSPCs, we employed the monolayer culture and selective medium culture methods. We further tested the ability of the NSPCs to form neurospheres (using the suspension culture method) and evaluated their differentiation potential. RESULTS • The cells had the ability to grow as cultures for up to 10 passages; the growth curves of the cells at the 3rd, 6th, and 9th passages showed similar patterns. The NSPCs were able to grow as neurospheres as well as monolayers, and immunostaining at the 3rd, 6th, and 9th passages showed that these cells expressed NSPC markers such as nestin and SOX2 (immunofluorescent staining). Monolayer cultures of NSPCs at the 3rd, 6th, and 9th passages were cultured for approximately 14 days using a differentiation medium and were observed to successfully differentiate into neural lineage and glial cells (astrocytes, neurons, and oligodendrocytes) at all the three passages tested. CONCLUSION • It is feasible to isolate and propagate (up to at least 10 passages) canine cervical spinal cord-derived NSPCs with the capacity to differentiate into neuronal and glial cells. To the best of our knowledge this is the first study to successfully isolate, propagate, and differentiate canine NSPCs derived from cervical spinal cord in the adult canine, and we believe that these cells will contribute to the field of spinal cord regeneration in veterinary and comparative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Woo Keyoung Kim
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Research Institute for Veterinary Science, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Korea
- BK21 FOUR Future Veterinary Medicine Leading Education and Research Center, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Korea
| | - Yeon Sung Son
- Medical Research Center, College of Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, 03080, South Korea
| | - Ji-Hey Lim
- Department of Neurology/Neurosurgery, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, 65211, USA
| | - Wan Hee Kim
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Research Institute for Veterinary Science, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Korea
| | - Byung-Jae Kang
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Research Institute for Veterinary Science, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Korea.
- BK21 FOUR Future Veterinary Medicine Leading Education and Research Center, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Korea.
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Shang Z, Wanyan P, Wang M, Zhang B, Cui X, Wang X. Bibliometric analysis of stem cells for spinal cord injury: current status and emerging frontiers. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1235324. [PMID: 37533634 PMCID: PMC10392836 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1235324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: This study aimed to conduct a bibliometric analysis of the literature on stem cell therapy for spinal cord injury to visualize the research status, identify hotspots, and explore the development trends in this field. Methods: We searched the Web of Science Core Collection database using relevant keywords ("stem cells" and "spinal cord injury") and retrieved the published literature between 2000 and 2022. Data such as journal title, author information, institutional affiliation, country, and keywords were extracted. Afterwards, we performed bibliometric analysis of the retrieved data using Bibliometrix, VOSviewer, and CiteSpace. Results: A total of 5375 articles related to stem cell therapy for spinal cord injury were retrieved, and both the annual publication volume and the cumulative publication volume showed an upward trend. neural regeneration research was the journal with the most publications and the fastest cumulative publication growth (162 articles), Okano Hideyuki was the author with the highest number of publications and citations (114 articles), Sun Yat-sen University was the institution with the highest number of publications (420 articles), and China was the country with the highest number of publications (5357 articles). However, different authors, institutions, and countries need to enhance their cooperation in order to promote the generation of significant academic achievements. Current research in this field has focused on stem cell transplantation, neural regeneration, motor function recovery, exosomes, and tissue engineering. Meanwhile, future research directions are primarily concerned with the molecular mechanisms, safety, clinical trials, exosomes, scaffolds, hydrogels, and inflammatory responses of stem cell therapy for spinal cord injuries. Conclusion: In summary, this study provided a comprehensive analysis of the current research status and frontiers of stem cell therapy for spinal cord injury. The findings provide a foundation for future research and clinical translation efforts of stem cell therapy in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhizhong Shang
- The First Clinical Medical College of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Pingping Wanyan
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Gansu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
- Department of Nephrology, The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Mingchuan Wang
- The First Clinical Medical College of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Baolin Zhang
- The First Clinical Medical College of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xiaoqian Cui
- The First Clinical Medical College of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xin Wang
- The First Clinical Medical College of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
- Chengren Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
- Department of Spine, Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
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Li J, Luo W, Xiao C, Zhao J, Xiang C, Liu W, Gu R. Recent advances in endogenous neural stem/progenitor cell manipulation for spinal cord injury repair. Theranostics 2023; 13:3966-3987. [PMID: 37554275 PMCID: PMC10405838 DOI: 10.7150/thno.84133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) can cause severe neurological impairments. Clinically available treatments are quite limited, with unsatisfactory remediation effects. Residing endogenous neural stem/progenitor cells (eNSPCs) tend to differentiate towards astrocytes, leaving only a small fraction towards oligodendrocytes and even fewer towards neurons; this has been suggested as one of the reasons for the failure of autonomous neuronal regeneration. Thus, finding ways to recruit and facilitate the differentiation of eNSPCs towards neurons has been considered a promising strategy for the noninvasive and immune-compatible treatment of SCI. The present manuscript first introduces the responses of eNSPCs after exogenous interventions to boost endogenous neurogenesis in various SCI models. Then, we focus on state-of-art manipulation approaches that enhance the intrinsic neurogenesis capacity and reconstruct the hostile microenvironment, mainly consisting of pharmacological treatments, stem cell-derived exosome administration, gene therapy, functional scaffold implantation, inflammation regulation, and inhibitory element delineation. Facing the extremely complex situation of SCI, combined treatments are also highlighted to provide more clues for future relevant investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jincheng Li
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130033, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenqi Luo
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130033, People's Republic of China
| | - Chunsheng Xiao
- Key Laboratory of Polymer Ecomaterials, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun 130022, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianhui Zhao
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130033, People's Republic of China
| | - Chunyu Xiang
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130033, People's Republic of China
| | - Wanguo Liu
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130033, People's Republic of China
| | - Rui Gu
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130033, People's Republic of China
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Yang H, Jin G, Chen S, Luo J, Xu W. Glycoprotein non-metastatic melanoma B interacts with epidermal growth factor receptor to regulate neural stem cell survival and differentiation. Open Med (Wars) 2023; 18:20230639. [PMID: 36820063 PMCID: PMC9938639 DOI: 10.1515/med-2023-0639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The functional recovery following spinal cord injury (SCI) remains a challenge clinically. Among the proteins interacted with the glycoprotein non-metastatic melanoma B (GPNMB), epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) during activation is able to promote the proliferation of neural stem cells (NSCs) in the spinal cord. We investigated the roles of GPNMB and EGFR in regulating the survival and differentiation of the NSCs. By overexpression and short-hairpin RNA-mediated knockdown of GPNMB in the NSCs, GPNMB promoted cell viability and differentiation by increasing the expressions of βIII tubulin and CNPase (2',3'-cyclic nucleotide 3-phosphodiesterase). Using co-immunoprecipitation, we found that EGFR interacted with GPNMB. Furthermore, EGFR had a similar effect as GPNMB on promoting cell viability and differentiation. Overexpression of EGFR reversed the decrease in viability and differentiation caused by the knockdown of GPNMB, and vice versa. Last but not least, we tested the effect of GPNMB and EGFR on several intracellular pathways and found that GPNMB/EGFR modulated the phosphorylated (p)-c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK)1/2/JNK1/2 ratio and the p-nuclear factor κB (NF-κB p65)/NF-κB p65 ratio. In sum, our findings demonstrate the interaction between GPNMB and EGFR that regulates cell bioprocesses, with the hope to provide a new strategy of SCI therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua Yang
- Department of Rehabilitation, Taizhou Central Hospital (Taizhou University Hospital), Taizhou, China
| | - Gang Jin
- Orthopedics Department, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province Affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai City, Taizhou, Zhejiang Province, 317000, China
| | - Shihong Chen
- Department of Rehabilitation, Taizhou Central Hospital (Taizhou University Hospital), Taizhou, China
| | - Jing Luo
- Department of Rehabilitation, Taizhou Central Hospital (Taizhou University Hospital), Taizhou, China
| | - Wei Xu
- Orthopedics Department, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province Affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University, Linhai City, Taizhou, Zhejiang Province, 317000, China
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Liu F, Huang Y, Wang H. Rodent Models of Spinal Cord Injury: From Pathology to Application. Neurochem Res 2023; 48:340-361. [PMID: 36303082 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-022-03794-8] [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: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) often has devastating consequences for the patient's physical, mental and occupational health. At present, there is no effective treatment for SCI, and appropriate animal models are very important for studying the pathological manifestations, injury mechanisms, and corresponding treatment. However, the pathological changes in each injury model are different, which creates difficulties in selecting appropriate models for different research purposes. In this article, we analyze various SCI models and introduce their pathological features, including inflammation, glial scar formation, axon regeneration, ischemia-reperfusion injury, and oxidative stress, and evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of each model, which is convenient for selecting suitable models for different injury mechanisms to study therapeutic methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fuze Liu
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, No. 1 Shuaifuyuan, Beijing, 100730, People's Republic of China
| | - Yue Huang
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, No. 1 Shuaifuyuan, Beijing, 100730, People's Republic of China
| | - Hai Wang
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, No. 1 Shuaifuyuan, Beijing, 100730, People's Republic of China.
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12
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Thoracic Jia-Ji electro-acupuncture mitigates low skeletal muscle atrophy and improves motor function recovery following thoracic spinal cord injury in rats. Am J Transl Res 2022; 14:8103-8116. [PMID: 36505337 PMCID: PMC9730098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The goal of this study was to determine whether electro-acupuncture (EA) stimulation might protect the motor endplate, minimize muscle atrophy in the hind limbs, and enhance functional recovery of rats with spinal cord injury (SCI). METHODS Sprague-Dawley adult female rats (n = 30) were randomly assigned into Sham, SCI, and EA + SCI groups (n = 10 each). Rats in the Sham and SCI groups were bound in prone position only for 30 min, and rats in the EA + SCI group were treated with electro-acupuncture. The EA was conducted from the first day after surgery, lasted for 30 mins, once every day for 28 consecutive days. RESULTS EA significantly prevented motor endplate degeneration, improved electrophysiological function, and ameliorated hindlimb muscle atrophy after SCI. Meanwhile, EA upregulated Tuj-1 expression, downregulated GFAP expression, and reduced glial scar formation. Additionally, after 4 weeks of EA treatment, the serum of SCI rats exhibited a reduced inflammatory response. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that EA can preserve the motor endplate and reduce muscular atrophy. In addition, EA has been shown to improve the function of upper and lower neurons, reduce glial scar formation, suppress systemic inflammation, and improve axon regeneration.
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13
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Stem Cell Strategies in Promoting Neuronal Regeneration after Spinal Cord Injury: A Systematic Review. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232112996. [PMID: 36361786 PMCID: PMC9657320 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232112996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2022] [Revised: 10/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a devastating condition with a significant medical and socioeconomic impact. To date, no effective treatment is available that can enable neuronal regeneration and recovery of function at the damaged level. This is thought to be due to scar formation, axonal degeneration and a strong inflammatory response inducing a loss of neurons followed by a cascade of events that leads to further spinal cord damage. Many experimental studies demonstrate the therapeutic effect of stem cells in SCI due to their ability to differentiate into neuronal cells and release neurotrophic factors. Therefore, it appears to be a valid strategy to use in the field of regenerative medicine. This review aims to provide an up-to-date summary of the current research status, challenges, and future directions for stem cell therapy in SCI models, providing an overview of this constantly evolving and promising field.
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14
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Zhang Q, Liu M, Nong H, Zhang Y, Bai Y, Liu P, Zong S, Zeng G. Total flavonoids of hawthorn leaves protect spinal motor neurons via promotion of autophagy after spinal cord injury. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:925568. [PMID: 36071834 PMCID: PMC9441667 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.925568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
The death of spinal motor neurons (SMNs) after spinal cord injury (SCI) is a crucial cause, contributing to a permanent neurological deficit. Total flavonoids of hawthorn leaves (TFHL) have been confirmed to have potentially therapeutic for SCI. Nonetheless, the roles and mechanisms of TFHL in recovering neuromotor function and regenerating axons of SMNs have not been fully elucidated. In this study, TFHL was applied to treat rats with SCI and injured SMNs for 7 days. In vivo experiment, rats with SCI were evaluated by a BBB (Basso-Beattie-Bresnahan) score to assess their motor functional recovery. The morphology, microstructure, apoptosis, Nissl bodies, and autophagy of SMNs in spinal cord tissue were detected by Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining, transmission electron microscopy, TUNEL staining, Nissl staining, and immunohistochemistry respectively. In vitro experiment, the co-culture model of SMNs and astrocytes was constructed to simulate the internal environment around SMNs in the spinal cord tissue. The cell morphology, microstructure, axonal regeneration, and autophagy were observed via optical microscope, transmission electron microscopy, and immunofluorescence. The content of neurotrophic factors in the cell culture medium of the co-culture model was detected by ELISA. Moreover, the expression of axon-related and autophagy-related proteins in the spinal cord tissue and SMNs was measured by Western Blot. We demonstrated that TFHL improved the neuromotor function recovery in rats after SCI. We then found that TFHL significantly promoted injured spinal cord tissue repair, reduced apoptosis, and improved the functional status of neurons in spinal cord tissue in vivo. Meanwhile, the cell morphology, microstructure, and axonal regeneration of damaged SMNs also obviously were improved, and the secretion of neurotrophic factors was facilitated after treatment with TFHL in vitro. Further, we revealed that TFHL promoted autophagy and related protein expression in vivo and vitro. Taken together, our study suggested that TFHL might facilitate autophagy and have neuroprotective properties in SMNs to enhance the recovery of neuromotor function of rats with SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiong Zhang
- School of Public Health of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Mingfu Liu
- Department of Spine Osteopathia, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Haibin Nong
- Department of Spine Osteopathia, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Yanan Zhang
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Guangxi Biological Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Yiguang Bai
- Department of Spine Osteopathia, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Pan Liu
- Department of Spine Osteopathia, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Shaohui Zong
- Department of Spine Osteopathia, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
- Research Centre for Regenerative Medicine and Guangxi Key Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
- *Correspondence: Shaohui Zong, ; Gaofeng Zeng,
| | - Gaofeng Zeng
- School of Public Health of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
- *Correspondence: Shaohui Zong, ; Gaofeng Zeng,
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15
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Wang Y, Yuan H. Research progress of endogenous neural stem cells in spinal cord injury. IBRAIN 2022; 8:199-209. [PMID: 37786888 PMCID: PMC10529172 DOI: 10.1002/ibra.12048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Revised: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 10/04/2023]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a severe disabling disease, which mainly manifests as impairments of sensory and motor functions, sexual function, bladder and intestinal functions, respiratory and cardiac functions below the injury plane. In addition, the condition has a profound effect on the mental health of patients, which often results in severe sequelae. Some patients may be paraplegic for life or even die, which places a huge burden on the family and society. There is still no effective treatment for SCI. Studies have confirmed that endogenous neural stem cells (ENSCs), as multipotent neural stem cells, which are located in the ependymal region of the central canal of the adult mammalian spinal cord, are activated after SCI and then differentiate into various nerve cells to promote endogenous repair and regeneration. However, the central canal of the spinal cord is often occluded to varying degrees in adults, and residual ependymal cells cannot be activated and do not proliferate after SCI. Besides, the destruction of the microenvironment after SCI is also an important factor that affects the proliferation and differentiation of ENSCs and spinal cord repair. Therefore, this review describes the role of ENSCs in SCI, in terms of the origin, transformation, treatment, and influencing factors, to provide new ideas for clinical treatment of SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya‐Ting Wang
- Department of AnesthesiologySouthwest Medical UniversityLuzhouSichuanChina
| | - Hao Yuan
- Institute of NeuroscienceKunming Medical UniversityKunmingYunnanChina
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16
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Ko W, Kim SJ, Han GH, Lee D, Jeong D, Lee SJ, Han I, Hong JB, Sheen SH, Sohn S. Transplantation of neuron‐inducing grafts embedding positively charged gold nanoparticles for the treatment of spinal cord injury. BIOENGINEERING & TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2022; 7:e10326. [PMID: 36176600 PMCID: PMC9472004 DOI: 10.1002/btm2.10326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2021] [Revised: 03/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
In this study, we aimed to investigate the recovery after traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) by inducing cellular differentiation of transplanted neural stem cells (NSCs) into neurons. We dissociated NSCs from the spinal cords of Fisher 344 rat embryos. An injectable gel crosslinked with glycol chitosan and oxidized hyaluronate was used as a vehicle for NSC transplantation. The gel graft containing the NSC and positively charged gold nanoparticles (pGNP) was implanted into spinal cord lesions in Sprague–Dawley rats (NSC‐pGNP gel group). Cellular differentiation of grafted NSCs into neurons (stained with β‐tubulin III [also called Tuj1]) was significantly increased in the NSC‐pGNP gel group (***p < 0.001) compared to those of two control groups (NSC and NSC gel groups) in the SCI conditions. The NSC‐pGNP gel group showed the lowest differentiation into astrocytes (stained with glial fibrillary acidic protein). Regeneration of damaged axons (stained with biotinylated dextran amines) within the lesion was two‐fold higher in the NSC‐pGNP gel group than that in the NSC gel group. The highest locomotor scores were also found in the NSC‐pGNP gel group. These outcomes suggest that neuron‐inducing pGNP gel graft embedding embryonic spinal cord‐derived NSCs can be a useful type of stem cell therapy after SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wan‐Kyu Ko
- Department of Neurosurgery CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University Seongnam‐si Gyeonggi‐do Republic of Korea
- Department of Biomedical Science CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University Seongnam‐si Gyeonggi‐do Republic of Korea
| | - Seong Jun Kim
- Department of Neurosurgery CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University Seongnam‐si Gyeonggi‐do Republic of Korea
- Department of Biomedical Science CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University Seongnam‐si Gyeonggi‐do Republic of Korea
| | - Gong Ho Han
- Department of Neurosurgery CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University Seongnam‐si Gyeonggi‐do Republic of Korea
- Department of Biomedical Science CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University Seongnam‐si Gyeonggi‐do Republic of Korea
| | - Daye Lee
- Department of Neurosurgery CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University Seongnam‐si Gyeonggi‐do Republic of Korea
- Department of Biomedical Science CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University Seongnam‐si Gyeonggi‐do Republic of Korea
| | - Dabin Jeong
- Department of Neurosurgery CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University Seongnam‐si Gyeonggi‐do Republic of Korea
- Department of Biology Lawrence University Appleton Wisconsin USA
| | - Sang Jin Lee
- Department of Dental Materials, School of Dentistry Kyung Hee University Seoul Republic of Korea
| | - In‐Bo Han
- Department of Neurosurgery CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University Seongnam‐si Gyeonggi‐do Republic of Korea
| | - Je Beom Hong
- Department of Neurosurgery Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine Seoul Republic of Korea
| | - Seung Hun Sheen
- Department of Neurosurgery CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University Seongnam‐si Gyeonggi‐do Republic of Korea
| | - Seil Sohn
- Department of Neurosurgery CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University Seongnam‐si Gyeonggi‐do Republic of Korea
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17
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Havelikova K, Smejkalova B, Jendelova P. Neurogenesis as a Tool for Spinal Cord Injury. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23073728. [PMID: 35409088 PMCID: PMC8998995 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23073728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Revised: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury is a devastating medical condition with no effective treatment. One approach to SCI treatment may be provided by stem cells (SCs). Studies have mainly focused on the transplantation of exogenous SCs, but the induction of endogenous SCs has also been considered as an alternative. While the differentiation potential of neural stem cells in the brain neurogenic regions has been known for decades, there are ongoing debates regarding the multipotent differentiation potential of the ependymal cells of the central canal in the spinal cord (SCECs). Following spinal cord insult, SCECs start to proliferate and differentiate mostly into astrocytes and partly into oligodendrocytes, but not into neurons. However, there are several approaches concerning how to increase neurogenesis in the injured spinal cord, which are discussed in this review. The potential treatment approaches include drug administration, the reduction of neuroinflammation, neuromodulation with physical factors and in vivo reprogramming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katerina Havelikova
- Institute of Experimental Medicine, Czech Academy of Sciences, Vídeňská 1083, 14220 Prague, Czech Republic; (K.H.); (B.S.)
- Department of Neuroscience, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, 15006 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Barbora Smejkalova
- Institute of Experimental Medicine, Czech Academy of Sciences, Vídeňská 1083, 14220 Prague, Czech Republic; (K.H.); (B.S.)
- Department of Neuroscience, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, 15006 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Pavla Jendelova
- Institute of Experimental Medicine, Czech Academy of Sciences, Vídeňská 1083, 14220 Prague, Czech Republic; (K.H.); (B.S.)
- Department of Neuroscience, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, 15006 Prague, Czech Republic
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +420-24-106-2828
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18
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Chen Z, Zhang H, Fan C, Zhuang Y, Yang W, Chen Y, Shen H, Xiao Z, Zhao Y, Li X, Dai J. Adhesive, Stretchable, and Spatiotemporal Delivery Fibrous Hydrogels Harness Endogenous Neural Stem/Progenitor Cells for Spinal Cord Injury Repair. ACS NANO 2022; 16:1986-1998. [PMID: 34842412 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.1c06892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Aligned fibrous hydrogels capable of recruiting endogenous neural stem/progenitor cells (NSPCs) show great promise in spinal cord injury (SCI) repair. However, the hydrogels suffer from severe issues in close contact with the transected nerve stumps and harnessing the NSPC fate in the lesion microenvironment. Herein, we report aligned collagen-fibrin (Col-FB) fibrous hydrogels with stretchable property, adhesive behavior, and stromal cell-derived factor-1α (SDF1α)/paclitaxel (PTX) spatiotemporal delivery capability. The resultant Col-FB fibrous hydrogels exhibited 1.98 times longer elongation at break (230%), 2.55 times lower Young's modulus (17.93 ± 1.16 KPa), and 2.21 times greater adhesive strength (3.45 ± 0.48 KPa) than collagen (Col) fibrous hydrogels. The soft aligned fibrous hydrogels simulate the oriented microstructure and soft tissue feature of a natural spinal cord and provide elasticity and adhesivity to ensure a persistent close contact with host stumps. The repair of complete transection SCI in rats demonstrates that "middle-to-bilateral" SDF1α gradient release induced endogenous NSPC migration to the lesion site in 10 days, and SDF1α/PTX sequential release promoted neuronal differentiation of the recruited NSPCs over 8 weeks, leading to hind limb locomotion recovery. The presented strategy was proved to be efficient for harnessing endogenous NSPCs, which facilitate SCI repair significantly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenni Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Haimin Zhang
- CAS Key Laboratory for Nano-Bio Interface Research, Division of Nanobiomedicine, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Caixia Fan
- CAS Key Laboratory for Nano-Bio Interface Research, Division of Nanobiomedicine, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Yan Zhuang
- CAS Key Laboratory for Nano-Bio Interface Research, Division of Nanobiomedicine, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Wen Yang
- CAS Key Laboratory for Nano-Bio Interface Research, Division of Nanobiomedicine, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Yanyan Chen
- CAS Key Laboratory for Nano-Bio Interface Research, Division of Nanobiomedicine, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - He Shen
- CAS Key Laboratory for Nano-Bio Interface Research, Division of Nanobiomedicine, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Zhifeng Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Yannan Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Xiaoran Li
- Innovation Center for Textile Science and Technology, Donghua University, Shanghai 200051, China
| | - Jianwu Dai
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
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19
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Wang L, Gu S, Gan J, Tian Y, Zhang F, Zhao H, Lei D. Neural Stem Cells Overexpressing Nerve Growth Factor Improve Functional Recovery in Rats Following Spinal Cord Injury via Modulating Microenvironment and Enhancing Endogenous Neurogenesis. Front Cell Neurosci 2021; 15:773375. [PMID: 34924958 PMCID: PMC8675903 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2021.773375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a devastating event characterized by severe motor, sensory, and autonomic dysfunction. Currently, there is no effective treatment. Previous studies showed neural growth factor (NGF) administration was a potential treatment for SCI. However, its targeted delivery is still challenging. In this study, neural stem cells (NSCs) were genetically modified to overexpress NGF, and we evaluated its therapeutic value following SCI. Four weeks after transplantation, we observed that NGF-NSCs significantly enhanced the motor function of hindlimbs after SCI and alleviated histopathological damage at the lesion epicenter. Notably, the survival NGF-NSCs at lesion core maintained high levels of NGF. Further immunochemical assays demonstrated the graft of NGF-NSCs modulated the microenvironment around lesion core via reduction of oligodendrocyte loss, attenuation of astrocytosis and demyelination, preservation of neurons, and increasing expression of multiple growth factors. More importantly, NGF-NSCs seemed to crosstalk with and activate resident NSCs, and high levels of NGF activated TrkA, upregulated cAMP-response element binding protein (CREB) and microRNA-132 around the lesion center. Taken together, the transplantation of NGF-NSCs in the subacute stage of traumatic SCI can facilitate functional recovery by modulating the microenvironment and enhancing endogenous neurogenesis in rats. And its neuroprotective effect may be mediated by activating TrkA, up-regulation of CREB, and microRNA-132.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Sujie Gu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jinlu Gan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yi Tian
- Department of Neurosurgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Fangcheng Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Hongyang Zhao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Deqiang Lei
- Department of Neurosurgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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20
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Pinho TS, Cunha CB, Lanceros-Méndez S, Salgado AJ. Electroactive Smart Materials for Neural Tissue Regeneration. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2021; 4:6604-6618. [PMID: 35006964 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.1c00567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Repair in the human nervous system is a complex and intertwined process that offers significant challenges to its study and comprehension. Taking advantage of the progress in fields such as tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, the scientific community has witnessed a strong increase of biomaterial-based approaches for neural tissue regenerative therapies. Electroactive materials, increasingly being used as sensors and actuators, also find application in neurosciences due to their ability to deliver electrical signals to the cells and tissues. The use of electrical signals for repairing impaired neural tissue therefore presents an interesting and innovative approach to bridge the gap between fundamental research and clinical applications in the next few years. In this review, first a general overview of electroactive materials, their historical origin, and characteristics are presented. Then a comprehensive view of the applications of electroactive smart materials for neural tissue regeneration is presented, with particular focus on the context of spinal cord injury and brain repair. Finally, the major challenges of the field are discussed and the main challenges for the near future presented. Overall, it is concluded that electroactive smart materials play an ever-increasing role in neural tissue regeneration, appearing as potentially valuable biomaterials for regenerative purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiffany S Pinho
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4710-057/4805-017 Braga/Guimarães, Portugal.,Stemmatters, Biotecnologia e Medicina Regenerativa SA, 4805-017 Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Cristiana B Cunha
- Stemmatters, Biotecnologia e Medicina Regenerativa SA, 4805-017 Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Senentxu Lanceros-Méndez
- Center of Physics, University of Minho, 4710-058 Braga, Portugal.,BCMaterials, Basque Center for Materials, Applications and Nanostructures, UPV/EHU Science Park, 48940 Leioa, Spain.,Ikerbasque, Basque Foundation for Science, 48009 Bilbao, Spain
| | - António J Salgado
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4710-057/4805-017 Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
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21
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Tang F, Tang J, Zhao Y, Zhang J, Xiao Z, Chen B, Han G, Yin N, Jiang X, Zhao C, Cheng S, Wang Z, Chen Y, Chen Q, Song K, Zhang Z, Niu J, Wang L, Shi Q, Chen L, Yang H, Hou S, Zhang S, Dai J. Long-term clinical observation of patients with acute and chronic complete spinal cord injury after transplantation of NeuroRegen scaffold. SCIENCE CHINA-LIFE SCIENCES 2021; 65:909-926. [PMID: 34406569 DOI: 10.1007/s11427-021-1985-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) often results in an inhibitory environment at the injury site. In our previous studies, transplantation of a scaffold combined with stem cells was proven to induce neural regeneration in animal models of complete SCI. Based on these preclinical studies, collagen scaffolds loaded with the patients' own bone marrow mononuclear cells or human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells were transplanted into SCI patients. Fifteen patients with acute complete SCI and 51 patients with chronic complete SCI were enrolled and followed up for 2 to 5 years. No serious adverse events related to functional scaffold transplantation were observed. Among the patients with acute SCI, five patients achieved expansion of their sensory positions and six patients recovered sensation in the bowel or bladder. Additionally, four patients regained voluntary walking ability accompanied by reconnection of neural signal transduction. Among patients with chronic SCI, 16 patients achieved expansion of their sensation level and 30 patients experienced enhanced reflexive defecation sensation or increased skin sweating below the injury site. Nearly half of the patients with chronic cervical SCI developed enhanced finger activity. These long-term follow-up results suggest that functional scaffold transplantation may represent a feasible treatment for patients with complete SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fengwu Tang
- Characteristics Medical Center of the Chinese People's Armed Police Forces (CAPF), Tianjin, 300162, China
| | - Jiaguang Tang
- Fourth Medical Center of People's Liberation Army (PLA) General Hospital, Beijing, 100048, China.,Department of Orthopaedics, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Yannan Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China.,Beijing ZhongKeZaiKang Biotechnology Co., Ltd, Beijing, 101407, China
| | - Jiaojiao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China
| | - Zhifeng Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China.,Beijing ZhongKeZaiKang Biotechnology Co., Ltd, Beijing, 101407, China
| | - Bing Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China
| | - Guang Han
- Characteristics Medical Center of the Chinese People's Armed Police Forces (CAPF), Tianjin, 300162, China
| | - Na Yin
- Characteristics Medical Center of the Chinese People's Armed Police Forces (CAPF), Tianjin, 300162, China.,Department of Rehabilitation, the 983rd Hospital of the Joint Logistics Support Force of the Chinese People's Liberation Army, Tianjin, 300141, China
| | - Xianfeng Jiang
- Characteristics Medical Center of the Chinese People's Armed Police Forces (CAPF), Tianjin, 300162, China
| | - Changyu Zhao
- Characteristics Medical Center of the Chinese People's Armed Police Forces (CAPF), Tianjin, 300162, China
| | - Shixiang Cheng
- Characteristics Medical Center of the Chinese People's Armed Police Forces (CAPF), Tianjin, 300162, China
| | - Ziqiang Wang
- Fourth Medical Center of People's Liberation Army (PLA) General Hospital, Beijing, 100048, China
| | - Yumei Chen
- Fourth Medical Center of People's Liberation Army (PLA) General Hospital, Beijing, 100048, China
| | - Qiaoling Chen
- Fourth Medical Center of People's Liberation Army (PLA) General Hospital, Beijing, 100048, China
| | - Keran Song
- Fourth Medical Center of People's Liberation Army (PLA) General Hospital, Beijing, 100048, China
| | - Zhiwei Zhang
- Fourth Medical Center of People's Liberation Army (PLA) General Hospital, Beijing, 100048, China
| | - Junjie Niu
- Department of Orthopaedics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215006, China
| | - Lingjun Wang
- Department of Orthopaedics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215006, China
| | - Qin Shi
- Department of Orthopaedics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215006, China
| | - Liang Chen
- Department of Orthopaedics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215006, China
| | - Huilin Yang
- Department of Orthopaedics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215006, China
| | - Shuxun Hou
- Fourth Medical Center of People's Liberation Army (PLA) General Hospital, Beijing, 100048, China.
| | - Sai Zhang
- Characteristics Medical Center of the Chinese People's Armed Police Forces (CAPF), Tianjin, 300162, China.
| | - Jianwu Dai
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China.
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22
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Icariin Promotes Survival, Proliferation, and Differentiation of Neural Stem Cells In Vitro and in a Rat Model of Alzheimer's Disease. Stem Cells Int 2021; 2021:9974625. [PMID: 34257671 PMCID: PMC8249160 DOI: 10.1155/2021/9974625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Revised: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) involves the degeneration of cholinergic neurons in the basal forebrain. Neural stem cell (NSC) transplantation has emerged as a promising therapeutic approach for treating AD. Icariin (ICA) is the main active component in Epimedium, a traditional Chinese herb. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effects and mechanisms of ICA on the proliferation and differentiation of NSCs in the basal forebrain of a fimbria-fornix transection (FFT) rat model. In the present study, ICA promoted the survival, proliferation, and migration of NSCs in vitro. In FFT rats, ICA promoted the proliferation and differentiation of NSCs into neurons and increased the number of cholinergic neurons in the MS and VDB of the basal forebrain. These results suggest that combination therapy of ICA oral administration and NSC transplantation may provide a new potential and effective approach for AD therapy.
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23
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Xue W, Fan C, Chen B, Zhao Y, Xiao Z, Dai J. Direct neuronal differentiation of neural stem cells for spinal cord injury repair. STEM CELLS (DAYTON, OHIO) 2021; 39:1025-1032. [PMID: 33657255 DOI: 10.1002/stem.3366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2020] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) typically results in long-lasting functional deficits, largely due to primary and secondary white matter damage at the site of injury. The transplantation of neural stem cells (NSCs) has shown promise for re-establishing communications between separated regions of the spinal cord through the insertion of new neurons between the injured axons and target neurons. However, the inhibitory microenvironment that develops after SCI often causes endogenous and transplanted NSCs to differentiate into glial cells rather than neurons. Functional biomaterials have been shown to mitigate the effects of the adverse SCI microenvironment and promote the neuronal differentiation of NSCs. A clear understanding of the mechanisms of neuronal differentiation within the injury-induced microenvironment would likely allow for the development of treatment strategies designed to promote the innate ability of NSCs to differentiate into neurons. The increased differentiation of neurons may contribute to relay formation, facilitating functional recovery after SCI. In this review, we summarize current strategies used to enhance the neuronal differentiation of NSCs through the reconstruction of the SCI microenvironment and to improve the intrinsic neuronal differentiation abilities of NSCs, which is significant for SCI repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiwei Xue
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Caixia Fan
- Key Laboratory for Nano-Bio Interface Research, Division of Nanobiomedicine, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Bing Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yannan Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhifeng Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianwu Dai
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China.,Key Laboratory for Nano-Bio Interface Research, Division of Nanobiomedicine, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou, People's Republic of China
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24
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Understanding the role of tissue-specific decellularized spinal cord matrix hydrogel for neural stem/progenitor cell microenvironment reconstruction and spinal cord injury. Biomaterials 2020; 268:120596. [PMID: 33341040 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2020.120596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Revised: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 12/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
The repair of spinal cord injury (SCI) highly relies on microenvironment remodeling and facilitating the recruitment and neuronal differentiation of endogenous stem/progenitor cells. Decellularized tissue matrices (DTMs) have shown their unique and beneficial characteristics in promoting neural tissue regeneration, especially those derived from the nervous system. Herein, we present a comparative analysis of a DTM hydrogel derived from spinal cord (DSCM-gel) and a decellularized matrix hydrogel derived from peripheral nerves (DNM-gel). The tissue-specificity of DSCM-gel was evaluated both in vitro, using neural stem/progenitor cell (NSPC) culture, and in vivo, using various materials and biological analyses, including transcriptome and proteomics. It was found that DSCM-gel retained an extracellular matrix-like nanofibrous structure but exhibited higher porosity than DNM-gel, which potentiated NSPCs viability, proliferation, and migration in the early stage of 3D culturing, followed by facilitation of the NSPCs differentiation into neurons. Transcriptome analysis indicated that DSCM-gel regulates NSPCs behavior by modulating integrin α2, α9, and β1 expression profiles along with AKT/ERK related signaling pathways. Proteomics analyses suggest that DSCM specific extracellular matrix proteins, such as the tenascin family (TNC) and some soluble growth factor (FGF2) may contribute to these regulations. Furthermore, in vivo assessments confirmed that DSCM-gel provides a suitable microenvironment for endogenous stem/progenitor cell recruitment and axonal regeneration for bridging the lesion site after a completely transected SCI. Thus, this systematic study provides key insights useful for the development of the tissue-specific DTM biomaterials for translational microenvironment replacement therapies and tissue repair.
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25
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Shi W, Bian L, Lv D, Bi S, Dai Y, Yang K, Lu H, Zhou H, Que Y, Wang D, Zhang Z, Lu N. Enhanced neural differentiation of neural stem cells by sustained release of Shh from TG2 gene-modified EMSC co-culture in vitro. Amino Acids 2020; 53:11-22. [PMID: 33245424 DOI: 10.1007/s00726-020-02918-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 11/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
As a promising cell therapy, neural crest-derived ectoderm mesenchymal stem cells (EMSCs) secrete high amounts of extracellular matrix (ECM) and neurotrophic factors, promoting neural stem cell (NSC) differentiation into neuronal lineages and aiding tissue regeneration. Additionally, the forced overexpression of secreted proteins can increase the therapeutic efficacy of the secretome. Tissue transglutaminase (TG2) is a ubiquitously expressed member of the transglutaminase family of calcium-dependent crosslinking enzymes, which can stabilize the ECM, inducing smart or living biomaterial to stimulate differentiation and enhance the neurogenesis of NSCs. In this study, we examined the neuronal differentiation of NSCs induced by TG2 gene-modified EMSCs (TG2-EMSCs) in a co-culture model directly. Two weeks after initiating differentiation, levels of the neuronal markers, tubulin beta 3 class III and growth-associated protein 43, were higher in NSCs in the TG2-EMSC co-culture group and those of the astrocytic marker glial fibrillary acidic protein were lower, compared with the control group. These results were confirmed by immunofluorescence, and laminin, fibronectin and sonic hedgehog (Shh) contributed to this effect. The results of western blot analysis and the enzyme-linked immunoassay showed that after TG2-EMSCs were co-cultured for 2 weeks, they expressed much higher levels of Shh than the control group. Moreover, the sustained release of Shh was observed in the TG2-EMSC co-culture group. Overall, our findings indicate that EMSCs can induce the differentiation of NSCs, of which TG2-EMSCs can promote the differentiation of NSCs compared with EMSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wentao Shi
- School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214122, People's Republic of China
| | - Lu Bian
- School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214122, People's Republic of China
| | - Demin Lv
- School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, 212001, People's Republic of China
| | - Shiqi Bi
- School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, 212001, People's Republic of China
| | - Yao Dai
- School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, 212001, People's Republic of China
| | - Kaiyuan Yang
- School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, 212001, People's Republic of China
| | - Hao Lu
- School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, 212001, People's Republic of China
| | - Huangao Zhou
- School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, 212001, People's Republic of China
| | - Yunduan Que
- Nanjing Gaochun People's Hospital, Nanjing, 211300, People's Republic of China
| | - Dongming Wang
- Nanjing Gaochun People's Hospital, Nanjing, 211300, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhijian Zhang
- School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, 212001, People's Republic of China
| | - Naiyan Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214122, People's Republic of China.
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26
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Abbas WA, Ibrahim ME, El-Naggar M, Abass WA, Abdullah IH, Awad BI, Allam NK. Recent Advances in the Regenerative Approaches for Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury: Materials Perspective. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2020; 6:6490-6509. [PMID: 33320628 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.0c01074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a devastating health condition that may lead to permanent disabilities and death. Understanding the pathophysiological perspectives of traumatic SCI is essential to define mechanisms that can help in designing recovery strategies. Since central nervous system tissues are notorious for their deficient ability to heal, efforts have been made to identify solutions to aid in restoration of the spinal cord tissues and thus its function. The two main approaches proposed to address this issue are neuroprotection and neuro-regeneration. Neuroprotection involves administering drugs to restore the injured microenvironment to normal after SCI. As for the neuro-regeneration approach, it focuses on axonal sprouting for functional recovery of the injured neural tissues and damaged axons. Despite the progress made in the field, neural regeneration treatment after SCI is still unsatisfactory owing to the disorganized way of axonal growth and extension. Nanomedicine and tissue engineering are considered promising therapeutic approaches that enhance axonal growth and directionality through implanting or injecting of the biomaterial scaffolds. One of these recent approaches is nanofibrous scaffolds that are used to provide physical support to maintain directional axonal growth in the lesion site. Furthermore, these preferable tissue-engineered substrates can afford axonal regeneration by mimicking the extracellular matrix of the neural tissues in terms of biological, chemical, and architectural characteristics. In this review, we discuss the regenerative approach using nanofibrous scaffolds with a focus on their fabrication methods and their properties that define their functionality performed to heal the neural tissue efficiently.
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Affiliation(s)
- Walaa A Abbas
- Energy Materials Laboratory, School of Sciences and Engineering, The American University in Cairo, New Cairo 11835, Egypt
| | - Maha E Ibrahim
- Department of Physical Medicine, Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
| | - Manar El-Naggar
- Energy Materials Laboratory, School of Sciences and Engineering, The American University in Cairo, New Cairo 11835, Egypt
| | - Wessam A Abass
- Center of Sustainable Development, School of Sciences and Engineering, The American University in Cairo, New Cairo 11835, Egypt
| | - Ibrahim H Abdullah
- Energy Materials Laboratory, School of Sciences and Engineering, The American University in Cairo, New Cairo 11835, Egypt
| | - Basem I Awad
- Mansoura Experimental Research Center (MERC), Department of Neurological Surgery, School of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Nageh K Allam
- Energy Materials Laboratory, School of Sciences and Engineering, The American University in Cairo, New Cairo 11835, Egypt
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27
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Yu F, Li P, Du S, Lui KW, Lin Y, Chen L, Ren Q, Wang J, Mei J, Xiao J, Zhu J. Olfactory ensheathing cells seeded decellularized scaffold promotes axonal regeneration in spinal cord injury rats. J Biomed Mater Res A 2020; 109:779-787. [PMID: 32720459 DOI: 10.1002/jbm.a.37066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2020] [Revised: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 07/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Spinal cord decellularized (DC) scaffolds can promote axonal regeneration and restore hindlimb motor function of spinal cord defect rats. However, scarring caused by damage to the astrocytes at the margin of injury can hinder axon regeneration. Olfactory ensheathing cells (OECs) integrate and migrate with astrocytes at the site of spinal cord injury, providing a bridge for axons to penetrate the scars and grow into lesion cores. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether DC scaffolds carrying OECs could better promote axon growth. For these studies, DC scaffolds were cocultured with primary extracted and purified OECs. Immunofluorescence and electron microscopy were used for verification of cells adhere and growth on the scaffold. Scaffolds with OECs were transplanted into rat spinal cord defects to evaluate axon regeneration and functional recovery of hind limbs. Basso, Beattie, and Bresnahan (BBB) scoring was used to assess motor function recovery, and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and NF200-stained tissue sections were used to evaluate axonal regeneration and astrological scar distribution. Our results indicated that spinal cord DC scaffolds have good histocompatibility and spatial structure, and can promote the proliferation of adherent OECs. In animal experiments, scaffolds carrying OECs have better axon regeneration promoting protein expression than the SCI model, and improve the proliferation and distribution of astrocytes at the site of injury. These results proved that the spinal cord DC scaffold with OECs can promote axon regeneration at the site of injury, providing a new basis for clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangzheng Yu
- Department of Hand Surgery and Peripheral Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Peifeng Li
- Department of Hand Surgery and Peripheral Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Shenghu Du
- Department of Hand Surgery and Peripheral Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - KoonHei W Lui
- Department of Plastic Surgery, The First affiliated hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangdong, China
| | - Yutian Lin
- Department of Hand Surgery and Peripheral Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Lumin Chen
- Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Qi Ren
- Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Jian Wang
- Department of Hand Surgery and Peripheral Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jin Mei
- Institute of Neuroscience, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Jian Xiao
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Junyi Zhu
- Department of Hand Surgery and Peripheral Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
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28
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Liu Y, Yu M, Jiang D. Downregulation of STAT1 induces the differentiation of neural stem cells through JNK pathway. Tissue Cell 2019; 61:61-66. [PMID: 31759408 DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2019.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2019] [Revised: 09/10/2019] [Accepted: 09/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Neural stem cells (NSCs) generated neurons and glial cells. Thus, it is a preferable candidate to the cell replacement-based therapy against neural disorders. The signaling pathways that regulate differentiation of NSCs are widely studied. In the current study, we used in vitro culture system to elucidate the role of signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (STAT1) in NSCs' differentiation. Downregulation of STAT1 inhibited the proliferation of NSCs. Meanwhile, we also found STAT1 regulation could control the differentiation of NSCs. More neurons and glia cells were generated from NSCs with STAT1 silencing. This process was mediated by the JNK/STAT1 signaling. STAT1 inhibitor promoted differentiation of NSCs. After transplantation, we observed more neurons generated from NSCs with shRNA-STAT1 treatment. Collectively, this work showed an efficient way to regulate neuronal differentiation of NSCs through regulating the STAT1 expression. This is likely to provide source and theoretical support to cell replacement based theory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yigang Liu
- Department of Neurology, Shanghai Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200065, China
| | - Min Yu
- Department of Neurology, Seventh People's Hospital of Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 200137, China
| | - Dudu Jiang
- Department of Neurology, Seventh People's Hospital of Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 200137, China.
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29
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Syu WZ, Hueng DY, Chen WL, Chan JYH, Chen SG, Huang SM. Adipose-Derived Neural Stem Cells Combined with Acellular Dermal Matrix as a Neural Conduit Enhances Peripheral Nerve Repair. Cell Transplant 2019; 28:1220-1230. [PMID: 31148461 PMCID: PMC6767887 DOI: 10.1177/0963689719853512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Reconstruction to close a peripheral nerve gap continues to be a challenge for clinical
medicine, and much effort is being made to develop nerve conduits facilitate nerve gap
closure. Acellular dermal matrix (ADM) is mainly used to aid wound healing, but its
malleability and plasticity potentially enable it to be used in the treatment of nerve
gaps. Adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) can be differentiated into three germ layer
cells, including neurospheres. We tested the ability of ADSC-derived neural stem cells
(NSCs) in combination with ADM or acellular sciatic nerve (ASN) to repair a transected
sciatic nerve. We found that NSCs form neurospheres that express Nestin and Sox2, and
could be co-cultured with ADM in vitro, where they express the survival marker Ki67.
Following sciatic nerve transection in rats, treatment with ADM+NSC or ASN+NSC led to
increases in relative gastrocnemius weight, cross-sectional muscle fiber area, and sciatic
functional index as compared with untreated rats or rats treated with ADM or ASN alone.
These findings suggest that ADM combined with NSCs can improve peripheral nerve gap repair
after nerve transection and may also be useful for treating other types of neurological
gaps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Ze Syu
- Graduate Institute of Life Sciences, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei
| | - Dueng-Yuan Hueng
- Department of Biochemistry, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei.,Department of Neurological Surgery, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei
| | - Wei-Liang Chen
- Division of Family Medicine, Department of Family and Community Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, and School of Medicine, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei
| | - James Yi-Hsin Chan
- Graduate Institute of Life Sciences, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei.,Superintendent's Office, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei
| | - Shyi-Gen Chen
- Graduate Institute of Life Sciences, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei.,Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei
| | - Shih-Ming Huang
- Graduate Institute of Life Sciences, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei.,Department of Biochemistry, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei
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30
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Multifunctionalized hydrogels foster hNSC maturation in 3D cultures and neural regeneration in spinal cord injuries. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2019; 116:7483-7492. [PMID: 30923117 PMCID: PMC6462084 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1818392116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cells reside in 3D microenvironments in living tissues; consequently, 3D cultures gained great interest because they better mimic the natural conditions of cells. Self-assembling peptides (SAPs) are synthetic bioabsorbable biomaterials that can provide customized 3D microenvironments regulating cell functionalities and tissue repair. Here we introduce a SAP-hydrogel designed to support human neural stem cell (hNSC) differentiation in 3D serum-free conditions, generating mature and active human neurons in vitro. We also demonstrate its functional neurorigenerative potential in rat spinal cord injuries, peaking when seeded with hNSCs progeny predifferentiated in vitro for 6 weeks. Despite these promising results, this approach should be confirmed in the future with medium-size animal models and with additional and refined behavioral tests before entering a clinical trial. Three-dimensional cell cultures are leading the way to the fabrication of tissue-like constructs useful to developmental biology and pharmaceutical screenings. However, their reproducibility and translational potential have been limited by biomaterial and culture media compositions, as well as cellular sources. We developed a construct comprising synthetic multifunctionalized hydrogels, serum-free media, and densely seeded good manufacturing practice protocol-grade human neural stem cells (hNSC). We tracked hNSC proliferation, differentiation, and maturation into GABAergic, glutamatergic, and cholinergic neurons, showing entangled electrically active neural networks. The neuroregenerative potential of the “engineered tissue” was assessed in spinal cord injuries, where hNSC-derived progenitors and predifferentiated hNSC progeny, embedded in multifunctionalized hydrogels, were implanted. All implants decreased astrogliosis and lowered the immune response, but scaffolds with predifferentiated hNSCs showed higher percentages of neuronal markers, better hNSC engraftment, and improved behavioral recovery. Our hNSC-construct enables the formation of 3D functional neuronal networks in vitro, allowing novel strategies for hNSC therapies in vivo.
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31
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Fan C, Li X, Zhao Y, Xiao Z, Xue W, Sun J, Li X, Zhuang Y, Chen Y, Dai J. Cetuximab and Taxol co-modified collagen scaffolds show combination effects for the repair of acute spinal cord injury. Biomater Sci 2018; 6:1723-1734. [PMID: 29845137 DOI: 10.1039/c8bm00363g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Injury-activated endogenous neural stem cells (NSCs) in the spinal cord have promising therapeutic applications for rebuilding the neuronal relays after spinal cord injury (SCI) because of their lack of immune-rejection following exogenous cell transplantation. However, these NSCs rarely differentiate into neurons and the damaged axonal regenerative ability is drastically reduced due to the adverse SCI microenvironment. Cetuximab, an EGFR signaling antagonist, has demonstrated the ability of promoting NSC differentiation into neurons. Taxol, in addition to stabilizing microtubules, has shown potential for enhancing axonal regeneration and reducing scar formation after SCI. In this study, we further verified the combined therapeutic effects of Cetuximab and Taxol on inhibition of scar deposition and promotion of neuronal differentiation, axonal outgrowth and functional recovery in a rat severe SCI model. A linear orderly collagen scaffold modified with Cetuximab and Taxol was grafted into the SCI site after the complete removal of 4 mm of spinal tissue. The results showed that the combined functional scaffold implantation significantly increased neural regeneration to reconnect the neural network. Moreover, scaffold transplantation decreases the deposition of varied scar-related inhibitors within the lesion center, further reflecting the need for a combination dedicated to increasing motor function following SCI. Collagen scaffold based-combined therapy provides a potential strategy for improving functional restoration of the injured spinal cord.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caixia Fan
- CAS Key Laboratory for Nano-Bio Interface Research, Division of Nanobiomedicine, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou 215123, China.
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32
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Li J, Li X, Xiao Z, Dai J. [Review of the regeneration mechanism of complete spinal cord injury]. ZHONGGUO XIU FU CHONG JIAN WAI KE ZA ZHI = ZHONGGUO XIUFU CHONGJIAN WAIKE ZAZHI = CHINESE JOURNAL OF REPARATIVE AND RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY 2018; 32:641-649. [PMID: 29905039 DOI: 10.7507/1002-1892.201805069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI), especially the complete SCI, usually results in complete paralysis below the level of the injury and seriously affects the patient's quality of life. SCI repair is still a worldwide medical problem. In the last twenty years, Professor DAI Jianwu and his team pioneered complete SCI model by removing spinal tissue with varied lengths in rodents, canine, and non-human primates to verify therapeutic effect of different repair strategies. Moreover, they also started the first clinical study of functional collagen scaffold on patients with acute complete SCI on January 16th, 2015. This review mainly focusses on the possible mechanisms responsible for complete SCI. In common, recovery of some sensory and motor functions post complete SCI include the following three contributing reasons. ① Regeneration of long ascending and descending axons throughout the lesion site to re-connect the original targets; ② New neural circuits formed in the lesion site by newly generated neurons post injury, which effectively re-connect the transected stumps; ③ The combined effect of ① and ②. The numerous studies have confirmed that neural circuits rebuilt across the injury site by newborn neurons might be the main mechanisms for functional recovery of animals from rodents to dogs. In many SCI model, especially the complete spinal cord transection model, many studies have convincingly demonstrated that the quantity and length of regenerated long descending axons, particularly like CST fibers, are too few to across the lesion site that is millimeters in length to realize motor functional recovery. Hence, it is more feasible in guiding neuronal relays formation by bio-scaffolds implantation than directing long motor axons regeneration in improving motor function of animals with complete spinal cord transection. However, some other issues such as promoting more neuronal relays formation, debugging wrong connections, and maintaining adequate neural circuits for functional recovery are urgent problems to be addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiayin Li
- Institute of Genetics and Development Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101,P.R.China
| | - Xing Li
- Institute of Genetics and Development Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101,P.R.China
| | - Zhifeng Xiao
- Institute of Genetics and Development Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101,P.R.China
| | - Jianwu Dai
- Institute of Genetics and Development Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101,
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33
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Fan B, Wei Z, Yao X, Shi G, Cheng X, Zhou X, Zhou H, Ning G, Kong X, Feng S. Microenvironment Imbalance of Spinal Cord Injury. Cell Transplant 2018; 27:853-866. [PMID: 29871522 PMCID: PMC6050904 DOI: 10.1177/0963689718755778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 277] [Impact Index Per Article: 46.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI), for which there currently is no cure, is a heavy burden on
patient physiology and psychology. The microenvironment of the injured spinal cord is
complicated. According to our previous work and the advancements in SCI research,
‘microenvironment imbalance’ is the main cause of the poor regeneration and recovery of
SCI. Microenvironment imbalance is defined as an increase in inhibitory factors and
decrease in promoting factors for tissues, cells and molecules at different times and
spaces. There are imbalance of hemorrhage and ischemia, glial scar formation,
demyelination and re-myelination at the tissue’s level. The cellular level imbalance
involves an imbalance in the differentiation of endogenous stem cells and the
transformation phenotypes of microglia and macrophages. The molecular level includes an
imbalance of neurotrophic factors and their pro-peptides, cytokines, and chemokines. The
imbalanced microenvironment of the spinal cord impairs regeneration and functional
recovery. This review will aid in the understanding of the pathological processes involved
in and the development of comprehensive treatments for SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baoyou Fan
- 1 National Spinal Cord Injury International Cooperation Base, Department of Orthopaedics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhijian Wei
- 1 National Spinal Cord Injury International Cooperation Base, Department of Orthopaedics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Xue Yao
- 1 National Spinal Cord Injury International Cooperation Base, Department of Orthopaedics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Guidong Shi
- 1 National Spinal Cord Injury International Cooperation Base, Department of Orthopaedics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Xin Cheng
- 1 National Spinal Cord Injury International Cooperation Base, Department of Orthopaedics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Xianhu Zhou
- 1 National Spinal Cord Injury International Cooperation Base, Department of Orthopaedics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Hengxing Zhou
- 1 National Spinal Cord Injury International Cooperation Base, Department of Orthopaedics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Guangzhi Ning
- 1 National Spinal Cord Injury International Cooperation Base, Department of Orthopaedics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiaohong Kong
- 2 Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology, School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Shiqing Feng
- 1 National Spinal Cord Injury International Cooperation Base, Department of Orthopaedics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
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