Laminin forms an independent network in basement membranes

Polymerizing laminins in development, health, and disease

Polymerizing laminins are multi-domain basement membrane (BM) glycoproteins that self-assemble into cell-anchored planar lattices to establish the initial BM scaffold. Nidogens, collagen-IV and proteoglycans then bind to the scaffold at different domain loci to create a mature BM. The LN domains of adjacent laminins bind to each other to form a polymer node, while the LG domains attach to cytoskeletal-anchoring integrins and dystroglycan, as well as to sulfatides and heparan sulfates. The polymer node, the repeating unit of the polymer scaffold, is organized into a near-symmetrical triskelion. The structure, recently solved by cryo-electron microscopy in combination with AlphaFold2 modeling and biochemical studies, reveals how the LN surface residues interact with each other and how mutations cause failures of self-assembly in an emerging group of diseases, the LN-lamininopathies, that include LAMA2-related dystrophy and Pierson syndrome.

Role of microenvironment on muscle stem cell function in health, adaptation, and disease

The role of the cellular microenvironment has recently gained attention in the context of muscle health, adaption, and disease. Emerging evidence supports major roles for the extracellular matrix (ECM) in regeneration and the dynamic regulation of the satellite cell niche. Satellite cells normally reside in a quiescent state in healthy muscle, but upon muscle injury, they activate, proliferate, and fuse to the damaged fibers to restore muscle function and architecture. This chapter reviews the composition and mechanical properties of skeletal muscle ECM and the role of these factors in contributing to the satellite cell niche that impact muscle regeneration. In addition, the chapter details the effects of satellite cell-matrix interactions and provides evidence that there is bidirectional regulation affecting both the cellular and extracellular microenvironment within skeletal muscle. Lastly, emerging methods to investigate satellite cell-matrix interactions will be presented.

Observing Dynamic Conformational Changes within the Coiled-Coil Domain of Different Laminin Isoforms Using High-Speed Atomic Force Microscopy

Laminins are trimeric glycoproteins with important roles in cell-matrix adhesion and tissue organization. The laminin α, ß, and γ-chains have short N-terminal arms, while their C-termini are connected via a triple coiled-coil domain, giving the laminin molecule a well-characterized cross-shaped morphology as a result. The C-terminus of laminin alpha chains contains additional globular laminin G-like (LG) domains with important roles in mediating cell adhesion. Dynamic conformational changes of different laminin domains have been implicated in regulating laminin function, but so far have not been analyzed at the single-molecule level. High-speed atomic force microscopy (HS-AFM) is a unique tool for visualizing such dynamic conformational changes under physiological conditions at sub-second temporal resolution. After optimizing surface immobilization and imaging conditions, we characterized the ultrastructure of laminin-111 and laminin-332 using HS-AFM timelapse imaging. While laminin-111 features a stable S-shaped coiled-coil domain displaying little conformational rearrangement, laminin-332 coiled-coil domains undergo rapid switching between straight and bent conformations around a defined central molecular hinge. Complementing the experimental AFM data with AlphaFold-based coiled-coil structure prediction enabled us to pinpoint the position of the hinge region, as well as to identify potential molecular rearrangement processes permitting hinge flexibility. Coarse-grained molecular dynamics simulations provide further support for a spatially defined kinking mechanism in the laminin-332 coiled-coil domain. Finally, we observed the dynamic rearrangement of the C-terminal LG domains of laminin-111 and laminin-332, switching them between compact and open conformations. Thus, HS-AFM can directly visualize molecular rearrangement processes within different laminin isoforms and provide dynamic structural insight not available from other microscopy techniques.

Artificial intelligence and the analysis of cryo-EM data provide structural insight into the molecular mechanisms underlying LN-lamininopathies

Laminins (Lm) are major components of basement membranes (BM), which polymerize to form a planar lattice on cell surface. Genetic alternations of Lm affect their oligomerization patterns and lead to failures in BM assembly manifesting in a group of human disorders collectively defined as Lm N-terminal domain lamininopathies (LN-lamininopathies). We have employed a recently determined cryo-EM structure of the Lm polymer node, the basic repeating unit of the Lm lattice, along with structure prediction and modeling to systematically analyze structures of twenty-three pathogenic Lm polymer nodes implicated in human disease. Our analysis provides the detailed mechanistic explanation how Lm mutations lead to failures in Lm polymerization underlining LN-lamininopathies. We propose the new categorization scheme of LN-lamininopathies based on the insight gained from the structural analysis. Our results can help to facilitate rational drug design aiming in the treatment of Lm deficiencies.

Limb girdle muscular dystrophy 23 caused by compound heterozygous mutations of LAMA2 gene

Introduction

Mutations of LAMA2 gene are associated with congenital muscular dystrophy (CMD). The LAMA2-related CMD mainly consists of two diseases, merosin deficient congenital muscular dystrophies type 1A (MDC1A) and limb girdle muscular dystrophy 23 (LGMD23). LGMD23 is characterized by slowly progressive proximal muscle weakness, which primarily affects the lower limbs and results in gait difficulties. Additional clinical features include increased serum creatine kinase, abnormal electromyography with or without white matter abnormalities on brain imaging.

Methods

Clinical data were collected from a Chinese Han family. Whole-exome sequencing, Sanger sequencing, RT-PCR and TA clone sequencing were performed on the family members.

Results

Compound heterozygous mutations of LAMA2: c.1693C > T (p. Q565*) (maternally inherited) and c.9212-6T > G (paternally inherited) were identified and confirmed in the proband. The mutation c.1693C > T (p. Q565*) was classified as pathogenic according to American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG) guidelines. By performing RT-PCR and TA clone sequencing, an insertion of 40-bp intronic sequence (intron 64) was found in the transcripts of the proband and her father, which resulted in a frameshift and premature truncation codon of the LAMA2. In particular, the variant truncated the LamG domain of the LAMA2. Therefore, the c.9212-6T>G was classified as likely pathogenic according to American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG) guidelines.

Discussion

Our findings described two novel mutations in a girl with LGMDR23, which contributes to the genetic counseling of the family and expands the clinical and molecular spectrums of the rare disease.

Cryo-EM reveals the molecular basis oflaminin polymerization and LN-lamininopathies

Laminin polymerization is the major step in basement membranes assembly. Its failures cause laminin N-terminal domain lamininopathies including Pierson syndrome. We have employed cryo-electron microscopy to determine a 3.7 Å structure of the trimeric laminin polymer node containing α1, β1 and γ1 subunits. The structure reveals the molecular basis of calcium-dependent formation of laminin lattice, and provides insights into polymerization defects manifesting in human disease.

Laminin N-terminus (LaNt) proteins, laminins and basement membrane regulation

Basement membranes (BMs) are structured regions of the extracellular matrix that provide multiple functions including physical support and acting as a barrier, as a repository for nutrients and growth factors, and as biophysical signalling hubs. At the core of all BMs is the laminin (LM) family of proteins. These large heterotrimeric glycoproteins are essential for tissue integrity, and differences between LM family members represent a key nexus in dictating context and tissue-specific functions. These variations reflect genetic diversity within the family, which allows for multiple structurally and functionally distinct heterotrimers to be produced, each with different architectures and affinities for other matrix proteins and cell surface receptors. The ratios of these LM isoforms also influence the biophysical properties of a BM owing to differences in their relative ability to form polymers or networks. Intriguingly, the LM superfamily is further diversified through the related netrin family of proteins and through alternative splicing leading to the generation of non-LM short proteins known as the laminin N-terminus (LaNt) domain proteins. Both the netrins and LaNt proteins contain structural domains involved in LM-to-LM interaction and network assembly. Emerging findings indicate that one netrin and at least one LaNt protein can potently influence the structure and function of BMs, disrupting the networks, changing physical properties, and thereby influencing tissue function. These findings are altering the way that we think about LM polymerisation and, in the case of the LaNt proteins, suggest a hitherto unappreciated form of LM self-regulation.

Polymerized Laminin-521: A Feasible Substrate for Expanding Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells at a Low Protein Concentration

Laminins (LNs) play a central role in the self-assembly and maintenance of basement membranes and are involved in critical interactions between cells and other extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins. Among the defined, xeno-free ECM culture matrices, LNs-namely LN521-have emerged as promising coating systems for the large-scale expansion of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). The biologic activity of LNs is enhanced by their acidification-induced self-polymerization into a cell-associated network called polylaminin (polyLN), which can recapitulate the native-like polymeric array in a cell-free system. Here, we show for the first time to our knowledge that polyLN521 displays a native-like hexagonal-like structure and that, at basal and low concentrations, it permits the large-scale expansion of human iPSCs. Human iPSCs expanded with polyLN521 maintained the pluripotent state and showed no impairment of karyotype stability or telomere length. These results suggest that low-concentration polyLN521 is a stable and cost-effective coating for large-scale iPSC expansion.

Junctional epithelium and hemidesmosomes: Tape and rivets for solving the "percutaneous device dilemma" in dental and other permanent implants

The percutaneous device dilemma describes etiological factors, centered around the disrupted epithelial tissue surrounding non-remodelable devices, that contribute to rampant percutaneous device infection. Natural percutaneous organs, in particular their extracellular matrix mediating the "device"/epithelium interface, serve as exquisite examples to inspire longer lasting long-term percutaneous device design. For example, the tooth's imperviousness to infection is mediated by the epithelium directly surrounding it, the junctional epithelium (JE). The hallmark feature of JE is formation of hemidesmosomes, cell/matrix adhesive structures that attach surrounding oral gingiva to the tooth's enamel through a basement membrane. Here, the authors survey the multifaceted functions of the JE, emphasizing the role of the matrix, with a particular focus on hemidesmosomes and their five main components. The authors highlight the known (and unknown) effects dental implant - as a model percutaneous device - placement has on JE regeneration and synthesize this information for application to other percutaneous devices. The authors conclude with a summary of bioengineering strategies aimed at solving the percutaneous device dilemma and invigorating greater collaboration between clinicians, bioengineers, and matrix biologists.

Pathological MAPK activation-mediated lymphatic basement membrane disruption causes lymphangiectasia that is treatable with ravoxertinib

Lymphangiectasia, an anomalous dilation of lymphatic vessels first described in the 17th century, is frequently associated with chylous effusion, respiratory failure, and high mortality in young patients, yet the underlying molecular pathogenesis and effective treatments remain elusive. Here, we identify an unexpected causal link between MAPK activation and defective development of the lymphatic basement membrane that drives lymphangiectasia. Human pathological tissue samples from patients diagnosed with lymphangiectasia revealed sustained MAPK activation within lymphatic endothelial cells. Endothelial KRASG12D-mediated sustained MAPK activation in newborn mice caused severe pulmonary and intercostal lymphangiectasia, accumulation of chyle in the pleural space, and complete lethality. Pathological activation of MAPK in murine vasculature inhibited the Nfatc1-dependent genetic program required for laminin interactions, collagen crosslinking, and anchoring fibril formation, driving defective development of the lymphatic basement membrane. Treatment with ravoxertinib, a pharmacological inhibitor of MAPK, reverses nuclear-to-cytoplasmic localization of Nfatc1, basement membrane development defects, lymphangiectasia, and chyle accumulation, ultimately improving survival of endothelial KRAS mutant neonatal mice. These results reveal defective lymphatic basement membrane assembly and composition as major causes of thoracic lymphangiectasia and provide a potential treatment.

Defective perlecan-associated basement membrane regeneration and altered modulation of transforming growth factor beta in corneal fibrosis

In the cornea, the epithelial basement membrane (EBM) and corneal endothelial Descemet's basement membrane (DBM) critically regulate the localization, availability and, therefore, the functions of transforming growth factor (TGF)β1, TGFβ2, and platelet-derived growth factors (PDGF) that modulate myofibroblast development. Defective regeneration of the EBM, and notably diminished perlecan incorporation, occurs via several mechanisms and results in excessive and prolonged penetration of pro-fibrotic growth factors into the stroma. These growth factors drive mature myofibroblast development from both corneal fibroblasts and bone marrow-derived fibrocytes, and then the persistence of these myofibroblasts and the disordered collagens and other matrix materials they produce to generate stromal scarring fibrosis. Corneal stromal fibrosis often resolves completely if the inciting factor is removed and the BM regenerates. Similar defects in BM regeneration are likely associated with the development of fibrosis in other organs where perlecan has a critical role in the modulation of signaling by TGFβ1 and TGFβ2. Other BM components, such as collagen type IV and collagen type XIII, are also critical regulators of TGF beta (and other growth factors) in the cornea and other organs. After injury, BM components are dynamically secreted and assembled through the cooperation of neighboring cells-for example, the epithelial cells and keratocytes for the corneal EBM and corneal endothelial cells and keratocytes for the corneal DBM. One of the most critical functions of these reassembled BMs in all organs is to modulate the pro-fibrotic effects of TGFβs, PDGFs and other growth factors between tissues that comprise the organ.

Organization of the laminin polymer node

Laminin polymerization is a key step of basement membrane assembly that depends on the binding of α, β and γ N-terminal LN domains to form a polymer node. Nodal assembly can be divided into two steps consisting of β- and γ-LN dimerization followed by calcium-dependent addition of the α-LN domain. The assembly and structural organization of laminin-111 LN-LEa segments was examined by size-exclusion chromatography (SEC) and electron microscopy. Triskelion-like structures were observed in negatively-stained images of purified α1/β1/γ1 LN-LEa trimers. Image averaging of these revealed a heel-to-toe organization of the LN domains with angled outward projections of the LEa stem-like domains. A series of single-amino acid substitutions was introduced into the polymerization faces of the α1, β1 and γ1 LN domains followed by SEC analysis to distinguish between loss of β-γ mediated dimerization and loss of α-dependent trimerization (with intact β-γ dimers). Dimer-blocking mutations were confined to the γ1-toe and the β1-heel, whereas the trimer-only-blocking mutations mapped to the γ1-heel, β1-toe and the α1-toe and heel. Thus, in the polymer node the γ1-toe pairs with the β1-heel, the β1-toe pairs with the α1-heel, and the α1-toe pairs with the γ1-heel.

In vitro generation of peri-islet basement membrane-like structures

The peri-islet extracellular matrix (ECM) is a key component of the microenvironmental niche surrounding pancreatic islets of Langerhans. The cell anchorage and signaling provided by the peri-islet ECM is critical for optimum beta cell glucose responsiveness, but islets lose this important native ECM when isolated for transplantation or in vitro studies. Here, we established a method to construct a peri-islet ECM on the surfaces of isolated rat and human islets by the co-assembly from solution of laminin, nidogen and collagen IV proteins. Successful deposition of contiguous peri-islet ECM networks was confirmed by immunofluorescence, western blot, and transmission electron microscopy. The ECM coatings were disrupted when assembly occurred in Ca²⁺/Mg²⁺-free conditions. As laminin network polymerization is divalent cation dependent, our data are consistent with receptor-driven ordered ECM network formation rather than passive protein adsorption. To further illustrate the utility of ECM coatings, we employed stem cell derived beta-like cell clusters (sBCs) as a renewable source of functional beta cells for cell replacement therapy. We observe that sBC pseudo-islets lack an endogenous peri-islet ECM, but successfully applied our approach to construct a de novo ECM coating on the surfaces of sBCs.

Cell-Based Strain Remodeling of a Nonfibrous Matrix as an Organizing Principle for Vasculogenesis

Endothelial tube formation on a reconstituted basement membrane (Matrigel) is a well-established in vitro model for studying the processes of angiogenesis and vasculogenesis. However, to date, the organizing principles that underlie the morphogenesis of this network and that shape the initial process of cells' finding one another remain elusive. Here, we identify a mechanism that allows cells to form networks by mechanically reorganizing and stiffening their extracellular matrix, independent of chemical guidance cues. Interestingly, we find that this cellular self-organization strongly depends on the connectivity, plasticity, and topology of the surrounding matrix; cell contractility; and cell density. Cells rearrange the matrix and form bridges of matrix material that are stiffer than their surroundings, thus creating a durotactic track for the initiation of cell protrusions and cell-cell contacts. This contractility-based communication via strain stiffening and matrix rearrangement might be a general organizing principle during tissue development or regeneration.

The Human Epidermal Basement Membrane: A Shaped and Cell Instructive Platform That Aging Slowly Alters

One of the most important functions of skin is to act as a protective barrier. To fulfill this role, the structural integrity of the skin depends on the dermal-epidermal junction-a complex network of extracellular matrix macromolecules that connect the outer epidermal layer to the underlying dermis. This junction provides both a structural support to keratinocytes and a specific niche that mediates signals influencing their behavior. It displays a distinctive microarchitecture characterized by an undulating pattern, strengthening dermal-epidermal connectivity and crosstalk. The optimal stiffness arising from the overall molecular organization, together with characteristic anchoring complexes, keeps the dermis and epidermis layers extremely well connected and capable of proper epidermal renewal and regeneration. Due to intrinsic and extrinsic factors, a large number of structural and biological changes accompany skin aging. These changes progressively weaken the dermal-epidermal junction substructure and affect its functions, contributing to the gradual decline in overall skin physiology. Most changes involve reduced turnover or altered enzymatic or non-enzymatic post-translational modifications, compromising the mechanical properties of matrix components and cells. This review combines recent and older data on organization of the dermal-epidermal junction, its mechanical properties and role in mechanotransduction, its involvement in regeneration, and its fate during the aging process.

Effect of laminin, polylysine and cell medium components on the attachment of human hepatocellular carcinoma cells to cellulose nanofibrils analyzed by surface plasmon resonance

The development of in vitro cell models that mimic cell behavior in organs and tissues is an approach that may have remarkable impact on drug testing and tissue engineering applications in the future. Plant-based, chemically unmodified cellulose nanofibrils (CNF) hydrogel is a natural, abundant, and biocompatible material that has attracted great attention for biomedical applications, in particular for three-dimensional cell cultures. However, the mechanisms of cell-CNF interactions and factors that affect these interactions are not yet fully understood. In this work, multi-parametric surface plasmon resonance (SPR) was used to study how the adsorption of human hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2) cells on CNF films is affected by the different proteins and components of the cell medium. Both human recombinant laminin-521 (LN-521, a natural protein of the extracellular matrix) and poly-l-lysine (PLL) adsorbed on CNF films and enhanced the attachment of HepG2 cells. Cell medium components (glucose and amino acids) and serum proteins (fetal bovine serum, FBS) also adsorbed on both bare CNF and on protein-coated CNF substrates. However, the adsorption of FBS hindered the attachment of HepG2 cells to LN-521- and PLL-coated CNF substrates, suggesting that serum proteins blocked the formation of laminin-integrin bonds and decreased favorable PLL-cell electrostatic interactions. This work sheds light on the effect of different factors on cell attachment to CNF, paving the way for the utilization and optimization of CNF-based materials for different tissue engineering applications.

The Basement Membrane in a 3D Breast Acini Model Modulates Delivery and Anti-Proliferative Effects of Liposomal Anthracyclines

Breast cancer progression is marked by cancer cell invasion and infiltration, which can be closely linked to sites of tumor-connected basement membrane thinning, lesion, or infiltration. Bad treatment prognosis frequently accompanies lack of markers for targeted therapy, which brings traditional chemotherapy into play, despite its adverse effects like therapy-related toxicities. In the present work, we compared different liposomal formulations for the delivery of two anthracyclines, doxorubicin and aclacinomycin A, to a 2D cell culture and a 3D breast acini model. One formulation was the classical phospholipid liposome with a polyethylene glycol (PEG) layer serving as a stealth coating. The other formulation was fusogenic liposomes, a biocompatible, cationic, three-component system of liposomes able to fuse with the plasma membrane of target cells. For the lysosome entrapment-sensitive doxorubicin, membrane fusion enabled an increased anti-proliferative effect in 2D cell culture by circumventing the endocytic route. In the 3D breast acini model, this process was found to be limited to cells beneath a thinned or compromised basement membrane. In acini with compromised basement membrane, the encapsulation of doxorubicin in fusogenic liposomes increased the anti-proliferative effect of the drug in comparison to a formulation in PEGylated liposomes, while this effect was negligible in the presence of intact basement membranes.

Corneal epithelial basement membrane: Structure, function and regeneration

Basement membranes are highly specialized extracellular matrices. More than providing scaffolds, basement membranes are recognized as dynamic and versatile structures that modulate cellular responses to regulate tissue development, function, and repair. Increasing evidence suggests that, in addition to providing structural support to adjacent cells, basement membranes serve as reservoirs and modulators of growth factors that direct and fine-tune cellular functions. Since the corneal stroma is avascular and has a relatively low keratocyte density, it's likely that the corneal BM is different in composition from the BMs in other tissues. BMs are composed of a diverse assemblage of extracellular molecules, some of which are likely specific to the tissue where they function; but in general they are composed of four primary components-collagens, laminins, heparan sulfate proteoglycans, and nidogens-in addition to other components such as thrombospondin-1, matrilin-2, and matrilin-4 and fibronectin. Severe injuries to the cornea, including infection, surgery, and trauma, may trigger the development of myofibroblasts and fibrosis in the normally transparent connective tissue stroma. Ultrastructural studies have demonstrated that defective epithelial basement membrane (EBM) regeneration after injury to the cornea underlies the development of myofibroblasts from both bone marrow- and keratocyte-derived precursor cells. Defective EBM permits epithelium-derived and tear-derived transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), and possibly other modulators, to penetrate the stroma at sustained levels necessary to drive the development and persistence of vimentin + alpha-smooth muscle actin + desmin+ (V + A + D+) mature myofibroblasts. A recent discovery that has contributed to our understanding of haze development is that keratocytes and corneal fibroblasts produce critical EBM components, such as nidogen-1, nidogen-2 and perlecan, that are essential for complete regeneration of a normal EBM once laminin secreted by epithelial cells self-polymerizes into a nascent EBM. Mature myofibroblasts that become established in the anterior stroma are a barrier to keratocyte/corneal fibroblast contributions to the nascent EBM. These myofibroblasts, and the opacity they produce, often persist for months or years after the injury. Transparency is subsequently restored if the EBM is fully regenerated, myofibroblasts are deprived of TGF-β and undergo apoptosis, and keratocytes reoccupy the anterior stroma and reabsorb the disordered extracellular matrix.

The Role of Interstitial Matrix and the Lymphatic System in Gastrointestinal Lipid and Lipoprotein Metabolism

This review emphasizes the events that take place after the chylomicrons are secreted by the enterocytes through exocytosis. First, we will discuss the journey of how chylomicrons cross the basement membrane to enter the lamina propria. Then the chylomicrons have to travel across the lamina propria before they can enter the lacteals. To understand the factors affecting the trafficking of chylomicron particles across the lamina propria, it is important to understand the composition and properties of the lamina propria. With different degree of hydration, the pores of the lamina propria (sponge) changes. The greater the hydration, the greater the pore size and thus the easier the diffusion of the chylomicron particles across the lamina propria to enter the lacteals. The mechanism of the entry of lacteals is discussed in considerable details. We and others have demonstrated that intestinal fat absorption, but not the absorption of protein or carbohydrates, activates the intestinal mucosal mast cells to release many products including mucosal mast cell protease II in the rat. The activation of intestinal mucosal mast cells by fat absorption involves the process of chylomicron formation since the absorption of both medium and short-chain fatty acids do not activate the mast cells. Fat absorption has been associated with increased intestinal permeability. We hypothesize that there is a link between fat absorption, activation of mucosal mast cells, and the leaky gut phenomenon (increased intestinal permeability). Microbiome may also be involved in this chain of events associated with fat absorption. This review is presented in sequence under the following headings: (1) Introduction; (2) Structure and properties of the gut epithelial basement membrane; (3) Composition and physical properties of the interstitial matrix of the lamina propria; (4) The movement of chylomicrons across the interstitial matrix of the lamina propria and importance of the hydration of the interstitial matrix of the lamina propria and the movement of chylomicrons; (5) Entry of the chylomicrons into the intestinal lacteals; (6) Activation of mucosal mast cells by fat absorption and the metabolic consequences; and (7) Link between chylomicron transport, mucosal mast cell activation, leaky gut, and the microbiome.

Linker Protein Repair of LAMA2 Dystrophic Neuromuscular Basement Membranes

An understanding of basement membrane (BM) assembly at a molecular level provides a foundation with which to develop repair strategies for diseases with defects of BM structure. As currently understood, laminins become anchored to cell surfaces through receptor-mediated interactions and polymerize. This provisional matrix binds to proteoglycans, nidogens and type IV collagen to form a mature BM. Identification of BM binding domains and their binding targets has enabled investigators to engineer proteins that link BM components to modify and improve their functions. This approach is illustrated by the development of two linker proteins to repair the LAMA2-deficient muscular dystrophy (LAMA2-MD). Dystrophy-causing mutations of the LAMA2 gene product (Lmα2) disrupt the BM molecular architecture, destabilizing it. In a mild ambulatory type of the dystrophy, α2LN mutations in laminin-211 prevents polymerization. In the more common and severe non-ambulatory type (MDC1A), an absent Lmα2 subunit is replaced by the naturally occurring Lmα4 subunit that is normally largely confined to the microvasculature. The compensatory laminin, however, is a poor substitute because it neither polymerizes nor binds adequately to the anchoring receptor α-dystroglycan. A chimeric laminin-binding protein called αLNNd enables laminins with defective or absent αLN domains to polymerize while another engineered protein, miniagrin (mag), promotes efficient α-dystroglycan receptor-binding in otherwise weakly adhesive laminins. Alone, αLNNd enables Lm211 with a self-assembly defect to polymerize and was used to ameliorate a mouse model of the ambulatory dystrophy. Together, these linker proteins alter Lm411 such that it both polymerizes and binds αDG such that it properly assembles. This combination was used to ameliorate a mouse model of the non-ambulatory dystrophy in which Lm411 replaced Lm211 as seen in the human disease. Collectively, these studies pave the way for the development of somatic gene delivery of repair proteins for treatment of LAMA2-MD. The studies further suggest a more general approach of linker-protein mediated repair in which a variety of existing BM protein domains can be combined together to stabilize BMs in other diseases.

The Non-Fibrillar Side of Fibrosis: Contribution of the Basement Membrane, Proteoglycans, and Glycoproteins to Myocardial Fibrosis

The extracellular matrix (ECM) provides structural support and a microenvironmentfor soluble extracellular molecules. ECM is comprised of numerous proteins which can be broadly classified as fibrillar (collagen types I and III) and non-fibrillar (basement membrane, proteoglycans, and glycoproteins). The basement membrane provides an interface between the cardiomyocytes and the fibrillar ECM, while proteoglycans sequester soluble growth factors and cytokines. Myocardial fibrosis was originally only linked to accumulation of fibrillar collagens, but is now recognized as the expansion of the ECM including the non-fibrillar ECM proteins. Myocardial fibrosis can be reparative to replace the lost myocardium (e.g., ischemic injury or myocardial infarction), or can be reactive resulting from pathological activity of fibroblasts (e.g., dilated or hypertrophic cardiomyopathy). Contribution of fibrillar collagens to fibrosis is well studied, but the role of the non-fibrillar ECM proteins has remained less explored. In this article, we provide an overview of the contribution of the non-fibrillar components of the extracellular space of the heart to highlight the potential significance of these molecules in fibrosis, with direct evidence for some, although not all of these molecules in their direct contribution to fibrosis.

Phosphorylation mapping of laminin α1-chain: Kinases in association with active sites

Laminin-111 is a trimeric glycoprotein of the extracellular matrix (ECM) that holds a significant role in cell adhesion, migration and differentiation. Laminin-111 is the most studied laminin isoform, composed of three chains; α1, β1 and γ1. Phosphorylation is the most common eukaryotic post - translational modification and has regulatory effect on protein function. Using bioinformatic tools we computationally predicted all the possible phosphorylation sites on human laminin α1-chain sequence (LAMA1) according to kinases binding motifs. Thus, we predicted, for the first time, the possibly responsible kinases for fifteen of the nineteen already published experimentally observed phosphorylated residues in LAMA1. Searching the literature extensively, we recorded all the known functional sites (active sites) in LAMA1. We combined the experimentally observed and predicted phosphorylated residues as well as the active sites in LAMA1, generating an analytic phosphorylation map of human laminin α1-chain, which is useful for further analysis. Our results indicated fourteen kinases that might be important for the phosphorylation of human laminin α1-chain, out of which three kinases with reported ecto-phosphorylation activity (PKA, PKC and CKII) were suggested to have a more significant role. Six cancer associated-active sites were correlated with kinases, three out which were correlated with only the above ecto - kinases.

Phosphorylation mapping of Laminin β1-chain: Kinases in association with active sites

Laminins are a major constituent of the extracellular matrix (ECM). Laminin-111, the most extensively studied laminin isoform, consists of the α1, the β1 and the γ1 chain, and is involved in many cellular processes, like adhesion, migration and differentiation. Given the regulatory role of phosphorylation in protein function, it is important to identify the phosphorylation sites of human laminin β1-chain sequence (LAMB1). Therefore, we computationally predicted all possible phosphorylation sites in LAMB1. For the first time, we identified the possibly responsible kinases for already in vitro experimentally observed phosphorylated residues in LAMB1. All known functional (active) sites of LAMB1, were recorded after an extensive literature search and combined with the experimentally observed and our predicted phosphorylated residues. This generated a detailed phosphorylation map of LAMB1. Five kinases (PKA, PKC, CKII, CKI and GPCR1) were indicated important, while the role of PKA, PKC and CKII, kinases known for ectophosphorylation activity, was highlighted. The activity of PKA and PKC was associated with the active site RIQNLLKITNLRIKFVKLHTLGDNLLDS. Also, predicted phosphorylations inside two amyloidogenic (DSITKYFQMSLE, VILQHSAADIAR) and two anti-cancerous (YIGSR and PDSGR) sites suggested a possible role in the development of the corresponding diseases.

Biological activity of laminin/polylaminin-coated poly-ℇ-caprolactone filaments on the regeneration and tissue replacement of the rat sciatic nerve

Unlike the central nervous system, peripheral nerves can regenerate after injury. However, depending on the size of the lesion, the endogenous regenerative potential is not enough to replace the lost nerve tissue. Many strategies have been used to generate biomaterials capable of restoring nerve functions. Here, we set out to investigate whether adsorbing the extracellular matrix protein, laminin (LM), to poly-ℇ-caprolactone (PCL) filaments would enhance functional nerve regeneration. Initial in vitro studies showed that explants of dorsal root ganglia (DRGs) of P1 neonate mice exhibited stronger neuritogenesis on a substrate of LM that had been previously polymerized (polylaminin [polyLM]) than on ordinary LM. On the other hand, when silicone tubes filled with PCL filaments were used to bridge a 10-mm sciatic nerve gap in rats, only filaments coated with LM improved tissue replacement beyond that obtained with empty tubes. Motor function recovery correlated with tissue replacement as only LM-coated filaments consistently improved motor skills. Finally, analysis of the lateral gastrocnemius muscle revealed that the LM group presented twice the amount of α-bungarotixin–labeled motor plates. In conclusion, although polyLM was more effective in stimulating growth of sensory fibers out of DRGs in vitro, LM adsorbed to PCL filaments exhibited the best regenerative properties in inducing functional motor recovery after peripheral injury in vivo.

Identification and quantification of sites of nitration and oxidation in the key matrix protein laminin and the structural consequences of these modifications

Laminin is a major protein of the basement membrane (BM), a specialized extracellular matrix (ECM) of the artery wall. The potent oxidizing and nitrating agent peroxynitrous acid (ONOOH) is formed at sites of inflammation, and data implicate ONOOH in ECM damage and cardiovascular disease. Co-localization of 3-nitrotyrosine, a product of ONOOH-mediated tyrosine (Tyr) modification, and laminin has been reported in human atherosclerotic lesions. The sites and consequences of 3-nitrotyrosine (and related nitrated tryptophan) formation on laminin, it's self-assembly and cell interactions are poorly understood. In this study murine laminin-111 was exposed to ONOOH (1–500-fold molar excess). Nitration sites were mapped and quantified using LC-MS/MS. Mono-nitration was detected at 148 sites (126 Tyr, 22 Trp), and di-nitration at 14 sites. Label-free quantification showed enhanced nitration with increasing oxidant doses. Tyr nitration was ∼10-fold greater than at Trp. CO₂ modulated damage in a site-specific manner, with most sites less extensively nitrated. 119 mono-nitration sites were identified with CO₂ present, and no unique sites were detected. 23 di-nitration sites were detected, with 15 unique to the presence of CO₂. Extensive modification was detected at sites involved in cell adhesion, protein-protein interactions and self-polymerization. Tyr-145 on the γ1 chain was extensively nitrated, and endothelial cells exhibited decreased adhesion to a nitrated peptide modelling this site. Modification of residues involved in self-polymerization interfered with the formation of ordered polymers as detected by scanning electron microscopy. These laminin modifications may contribute to endothelial cell dysfunction and modulate ECM structure and assembly, and thereby contribute to atherogenesis.

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Laminin is a major extracellular matrix protein of the artery wall.

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Peroxynitrous acid exposure gives nitration of tyrosine and tryptophan residues.

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CO₂ both increases and decreases damage depending of the reaction site.

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LC-MS/MS used to map modifications to protein structure and functional domains.

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Sites for cell adhesion, protein interactions and self-polymerization are modified.

DSS-induced damage to basement membranes is repaired by matrix replacement and crosslinking

Basement membranes are an ancient form of animal extracellular matrix. As important structural and functional components of tissues, basement membranes are subject to environmental damage and must be repaired while maintaining functions. Little is known about how basement membranes get repaired. This paucity stems from a lack of suitable in vivo models for analyzing such repair. Here, we show that dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) directly damages the gut basement membrane when fed to adult Drosophila DSS becomes incorporated into the basement membrane, promoting its expansion while decreasing its stiffness, which causes morphological changes to the underlying muscles. Remarkably, two days after withdrawal of DSS, the basement membrane is repaired by all measures of analysis. We used this new damage model to determine that repair requires collagen crosslinking and replacement of damaged components. Genetic and biochemical evidence indicates that crosslinking is required to stabilize the newly incorporated repaired Collagen IV rather than to stabilize the damaged Collagen IV. These results suggest that basement membranes are surprisingly dynamic.

Adaptive F-Actin Polymerization and Localized ATP Production Drive Basement Membrane Invasion in the Absence of MMPs

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are associated with decreased patient prognosis but have failed as anti-invasive drug targets despite promoting cancer cell invasion. Through time-lapse imaging, optical highlighting, and combined genetic removal of the five MMPs expressed during anchor cell (AC) invasion in C. elegans, we find that MMPs hasten invasion by degrading basement membrane (BM). Though irregular and delayed, AC invasion persists in MMP- animals via adaptive enrichment of the Arp2/3 complex at the invasive cell membrane, which drives formation of an F-actin-rich protrusion that physically breaches and displaces BM. Using a large-scale RNAi synergistic screen and a genetically encoded ATP FRET sensor, we discover that mitochondria enrich within the protrusion and provide localized ATP that fuels F-actin network growth. Thus, without MMPs, an invasive cell can alter its BM-breaching tactics, suggesting that targeting adaptive mechanisms will be necessary to mitigate BM invasion in human pathologies.

Quantifying the interactions between biomimetic biomaterials - collagen I, collagen IV, laminin 521 and cellulose nanofibrils - by colloidal probe microscopy

Biomaterials of different nature have been and are widely studied for various biomedical applications. In many cases, biomaterial assemblies are designed to mimic biological systems. Although biomaterials have been thoroughly characterized in many aspects, not much quantitative information on the molecular level interactions between different biomaterials is available. That information is very important, on the one hand, to understand the properties of biological systems and, on the other hand, to develop new composite biomaterials for special applications. This work presents a systematic, quantitative analysis of self- and cross-interactions between films of collagen I (Col I), collagen IV (Col IV), laminin (LN-521), and cellulose nanofibrils (CNF), that is, biomaterials of different nature and structure that either exist in biological systems (e.g., extracellular matrices) or have shown potential for 3D cell culture and tissue engineering. Direct surface forces and adhesion between biomaterials-coated spherical microparticles and flat substrates were measured in phosphate-buffered saline using an atomic force microscope and the colloidal probe technique. Different methods (Langmuir-Schaefer deposition, spin-coating, or adsorption) were applied to completely coat the flat substrates and the spherical microparticles with homogeneous biomaterial films. The adhesion between biomaterials films increased with the time that the films were kept in contact. The strongest adhesion was observed between Col IV films, and between Col IV and LN-521 films after 30 s contact time. In contrast, low adhesion was measured between CNF films, as well as between CNF and LN-521 films. Nevertheless, a good adhesion between CNF and collagen films (especially Col I) was observed. These results increase our understanding of the structure of biological systems and can support the design of new matrices or scaffolds where different biomaterials are combined for diverse biological or medical applications.

Mesoscopic Rigid Body Modelling of the Extracellular Matrix Self-Assembly

The extracellular matrix (ECM) plays an important role in supporting tissues and organs. It even has a functional role in morphogenesis and differentiation by acting as a source of active molecules (matrikines). Many diseases are linked to dysfunction of ECM components and fragments or changes in their structures. As such it is a prime target for drugs. Because of technological limitations for observations at mesoscopic scales, the precise structural organisation of the ECM is not well-known, with sparse or fuzzy experimental observables. Based on the Unity3D game and physics engines, along with rigid body dynamics, we propose a virtual sandbox to model large biological molecules as dynamic chains of rigid bodies interacting together to gain insight into ECM components behaviour in the mesoscopic range. We have preliminary results showing how parameters such as fibre flexibility or the nature and number of interactions between molecules can induce different structures in the basement membrane. Using the Unity3D game engine and virtual reality headset coupled with haptic controllers, we immerse the user inside the corresponding simulation. Untrained users are able to navigate a complex virtual sandbox crowded with large biomolecules models in a matter of seconds.

Laminin-deficient muscular dystrophy: Molecular pathogenesis and structural repair strategies

Laminins are large heterotrimers composed of the α, β and γ subunits with distinct tissue-specific and developmentally regulated expression patterns. The laminin-α2 subunit, encoded by the LAMA2 gene, is expressed in skeletal muscle, Schwann cells of the peripheral nerve and astrocytes and pericytes of the capillaries in the brain. Mutations in LAMA2 cause the most common type of congenital muscular dystrophies, called LAMA2 MD or MDC1A. The disorder manifests mostly as a muscular dystrophy but slowing of nerve conduction contributes to the disease. There are severe, non-ambulatory or milder, ambulatory variants, the latter resulting from reduced laminin-α2 expression and/or deficient laminin-α2 function. Lm-211 (α2β1γ1) is responsible for initiating basement membrane assembly. This is primarily accomplished by anchorage of Lm-211 to dystroglycan and α7β1 integrin receptors, polymerization, and binding to nidogen and other structural components. In LAMA2 MD, Lm-411 replaces Lm-211; however, Lm-411 lacks the ability to polymerize and bind to receptors. This results in a weakened basement membrane leading to the disease. The possibility of introducing structural repair proteins that correct the underlying abnormality is an attractive therapeutic goal. Recent studies in mouse models for LAMA2 MD reveal that introduction of laminin-binding linker proteins that restore lost functional activities can substantially ameliorate the disease. This review discusses the underlying mechanism of this repair and compares this approach to other developing therapies employing pharmacological treatments.

Laminin 211 inhibits protein kinase A in Schwann cells to modulate neuregulin 1 type III-driven myelination

Myelin is required for proper nervous system function. Schwann cells in developing nerves depend on extrinsic signals from the axon and from the extracellular matrix to first sort and ensheathe a single axon and then myelinate it. Neuregulin 1 type III (Nrg1III) and laminin α2β1γ1 (Lm211) are the key axonal and matrix signals, respectively, but how their signaling is integrated and if each molecule controls both axonal sorting and myelination is unclear. Here, we use a series of epistasis experiments to show that Lm211 modulates neuregulin signaling to ensure the correct timing and amount of myelination. Lm211 can inhibit Nrg1III by limiting protein kinase A (PKA) activation, which is required to initiate myelination. We provide evidence that excessive PKA activation amplifies promyelinating signals downstream of neuregulin, including direct activation of the neuregulin receptor ErbB2 and its effector Grb2-Associated Binder-1 (Gab1), thereby elevating the expression of the key transcription factors Oct6 and early growth response protein 2 (Egr2). The inhibitory effect of Lm211 is seen only in fibers of small caliber. These data may explain why hereditary neuropathies associated with decreased laminin function are characterized by focally thick and redundant myelin.

Basement Membrane Type IV Collagen and Laminin: An Overview of Their Biology and Value as Fibrosis Biomarkers of Liver Disease

Basement membranes provide structural support to epithelium, endothelium, muscles, fat cells, Schwann cells, and axons. Basement membranes are multifunctional: they modulate cellular behavior, regulate organogenesis, promote tissue repair, form a barrier to filtration and tumor metastasis, bind growth factors, and mediate angiogenesis. All basement membranes contain type IV collagen (Col IV), laminin, nidogen, and perlecan. Col IV and laminin self-assemble into two independent supramolecular networks that are linked to nidogen and perlecan to form a morphological discernable basement membrane/basal lamina. The triple helical region, 7S domain and NCI domain of Col IV, laminin and laminin fragment P1 have been evaluated as noninvasive fibrosis biomarkers of alcoholic liver disease, viral hepatitis, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Elevated serum Col IV and laminin are related to degrees of fibrosis and severity of hepatitis, and may reflect hepatic basement membrane metabolism. But the serum assays have not been linked to disclosing the anatomical sites and lobular distribution of perisinusoidal basement membrane formation in the liver. Hepatic sinusoids normally lack a basement membrane, although Col IV is a normal matrix component of the space of Disse. In liver disease, laminin deposits in the space of Disse and codistributes with Col IV, forming a perisinusoidal basement membrane. Concomitantly, the sinusoidal endothelium loses its fenestrae and is transformed into vascular type endothelium. These changes lead to capillarization of hepatic sinusoids, a significant pathology that impairs hepatic function. Accordingly, codistribution of Col IV and laminin serves as histochemical marker of perisinusoidal basement membrane formation in liver disease. Anat Rec, 300:1371-1390, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Chimeric protein repair of laminin polymerization ameliorates muscular dystrophy phenotype

Mutations in laminin α2-subunit (Lmα2, encoded by LAMA2) are linked to approximately 30% of congenital muscular dystrophy cases. Mice with a homozygous mutation in Lama2 (dy2J mice) express a nonpolymerizing form of laminin-211 (Lm211) and are a model for ambulatory-type Lmα2-deficient muscular dystrophy. Here, we developed transgenic dy2J mice with muscle-specific expression of αLNNd, a laminin/nidogen chimeric protein that provides a missing polymerization domain. Muscle-specific expression of αLNNd in dy2J mice resulted in strong amelioration of the dystrophic phenotype, manifested by the prevention of fibrosis and restoration of forelimb grip strength. αLNNd also restored myofiber shape, size, and numbers to control levels in dy2J mice. Laminin immunostaining and quantitation of tissue extractions revealed increased Lm211 expression in αLNNd-transgenic dy2J mice. In cultured myotubes, we determined that αLNNd expression increased myotube surface accumulation of polymerization-deficient recombinant laminins, with retention of collagen IV, reiterating the basement membrane (BM) changes observed in vivo. Laminin LN domain mutations linked to several of the Lmα2-deficient muscular dystrophies are predicted to compromise polymerization. The data herein support the hypothesis that engineered expression of αLNNd can overcome polymerization deficits to increase laminin, stabilize BM structure, and substantially ameliorate muscular dystrophy.

α6 Integrin (α6high)/Transferrin Receptor (CD71)low Keratinocyte Stem Cells Are More Potent for Generating Reconstructed Skin Epidermis Than Rapid Adherent Cells

The epidermis basal layer is composed of two keratinocyte populations: Keratinocyte Stem cells (KSC) and Transitory Amplifying (TA) cells that arise from KSC division. Unfortunately, no specific marker exists to differ between KSC and TA cells. Here, we aimed at comparing two different methods that pretended to isolate these two populations: (i) the rapid adhesion method on coated substrate and (ii) the flow cytometry method, which is based on the difference in cell surface expressions of the α6 integrin and transferrin receptor (CD71). Then, we compared different parameters that are known to discriminate KSC and TA populations. Interestingly, we showed that both methods allow enrichment in stem cells. However, cell sorting by flow cytometry (α6^high/CD71^low) phenotype leads to a better enrichment of KSC since the colony forming efficiency is five times increased versus total cell suspension, whereas it is only 1.4 times for the adhesion method. Moreover, α6^high/CD71^low cells give rise to a thicker pluristratified epithelium with lower seeding density and display a low Ki67 positive cells number, showing that they have reached the balance between proliferation and differentiation. We clearly demonstrated that cells isolated by a rapid adherent method are not the same population as KSC isolated by flow cytometry following α6^high/CD71^low phenotype.

Autoimmunity against laminins

Laminins are ubiquitous constituents of the basement membranes with major architectural and functional role as supported by the fact that absence or mutations of laminins lead to either lethal or severely impairing phenotypes. Besides genetic defects, laminins are involved in a wide range of human diseases including cancer, infections, and inflammatory diseases, as well as autoimmune disorders. A growing body of evidence implicates several laminin chains as autoantigens in blistering skin diseases, collagenoses, vasculitis, or post-infectious autoimmunity. The current paper reviews the existing knowledge on autoimmunity against laminins referring to both experimental and clinical data, and on therapeutic implications of anti-laminin antibodies. Further investigation of relevant laminin epitopes in pathogenic autoimmunity would facilitate the development of appropriate diagnostic tools for thorough characterization of patients' antibody specificities and should decisively contribute to designing more specific therapeutic interventions.

Mechanotransduction pulls the strings of matrix degradation at invadosome

Degradation of the extracellular matrix is a critical step of tumor cell invasion. Both protease-dependent and -independent mechanisms have been described as alternate processes in cancer cell motility. Interestingly, some effectors of protease-dependent degradation are focalized at invadosomes and are directly coupled with contractile and adhesive machineries composed of multiple mechanosensitive proteins. This review presents recent findings in protease-dependent mechanisms elucidating the ways the force affects extracellular matrix degradation by targeting protease expression and activity at invadosome. The aim is to highlight mechanosensing and mechanotransduction processes to direct the degradative activity at invadosomes, with the focus on membrane tension, proteases and mechanosensitive ion channels.

The Acinar Cage: Basement Membranes Determine Molecule Exchange and Mechanical Stability of Human Breast Cell Acini

The biophysical properties of the basement membrane that surrounds human breast glands are poorly understood, but are thought to be decisive for normal organ function and malignancy. Here, we characterize the breast gland basement membrane with a focus on molecule permeation and mechanical stability, both crucial for organ function. We used well-established and nature-mimicking MCF10A acini as 3D cell model for human breast glands, with ether low- or highly-developed basement membrane scaffolds. Semi-quantitative dextran tracer (3 to 40 kDa) experiments allowed us to investigate the basement membrane scaffold as a molecule diffusion barrier in human breast acini in vitro. We demonstrated that molecule permeation correlated positively with macromolecule size and intriguingly also with basement membrane development state, revealing a pore size of at least 9 nm. Notably, an intact collagen IV mesh proved to be essential for this permeation function. Furthermore, we performed ultra-sensitive atomic force microscopy to quantify the response of native breast acini and of decellularized basement membrane shells against mechanical indentation. We found a clear correlation between increasing acinar force resistance and basement membrane formation stage. Most important native acini with highly-developed basement membranes as well as cell-free basement membrane shells could both withstand physiologically relevant loads (≤ 20 nN) without loss of structural integrity. In contrast, low-developed basement membranes were significantly softer and more fragile. In conclusion, our study emphasizes the key role of the basement membrane as conductor of acinar molecule influx and mechanical stability of human breast glands, which are fundamental for normal organ function.

The extracellular matrix in breast cancer predicts prognosis through composition, splicing, and crosslinking

The extracellular matrix in the healthy breast has an important tumor suppressive role, whereas the abnormal ECM in tumors can promote aggressiveness, and has been linked to breast cancer relapse, survival and resistance to chemotherapy. This review article gives an overview of the elements of the ECM which have been linked to prognosis of breast cancers, including changes in ECM protein composition, splicing, and microstructure.

Assembly, heterogeneity, and breaching of the basement membranes

Basement membranes are thin sheets of self-assembled extracellular matrices that are essential for embryonic development and for the homeostasis of adult tissues. They play a role in structuring, protecting, polarizing, and compartmentalizing cells, as well as in supplying them with growth factors. All basement membranes are built from laminin and collagen IV networks stabilized by nidogen/perlecan bridges. The precise composition of basement membranes, however, varies between different tissues. Even though basement membranes represent physical barriers that delimit different tissues, they are breached in many physiological or pathological processes, including development, the immune response, and tumor invasion. Here, we provide a brief overview of the molecular composition of basement membranes and the process of their assembly. We will then illustrate the heterogeneity of basement membranes using two examples, the epithelial basement membrane in the gut and the vascular basement membrane. Finally, we examine the different strategies cells use to breach the basement membrane.

Control of the blood-brain barrier function in cancer cell metastasis

Cerebral metastases are the most common brain neoplasms seen clinically in the adults and comprise more than half of all brain tumours. Actual treatment options for brain metastases that include surgical resection, radiotherapy and chemotherapy are rarely curative, although palliative treatment improves survival and life quality of patients carrying brain-metastatic tumours. Chemotherapy in particular has also shown limited or no activity in brain metastasis of most tumour types. Many chemotherapeutic agents used systemically do not cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB), whereas others may transiently weaken the BBB and allow extravasation of tumour cells from the circulation into the brain parenchyma. Increasing evidence points out that the interaction between the BBB and tumour cells plays a key role for implantation and growth of brain metastases in the central nervous system. The BBB, as the tightest endothelial barrier, prevents both early detection and treatment by creating a privileged microenvironment. Therefore, as observed in several in vivo studies, precise targetting the BBB by a specific transient opening of the structure making it permeable for therapeutic compounds, might potentially help to overcome this difficult clinical problem. Moreover, a better understanding of the molecular features of the BBB, its interrelation with metastatic tumour cells and the elucidation of cellular mechanisms responsible for establishing cerebral metastasis must be clearly outlined in order to promote treatment modalities that particularly involve chemotherapy. This in turn would substantially expand the survival and quality of life of patients with brain metastasis, and potentially increase the remission rate. Therefore, the focus of this review is to summarise the current knowledge on the role and function of the BBB in cancer metastasis.

Integrating Activities of Laminins that Drive Basement Membrane Assembly and Function

Studies on extracellular matrix proteins, cells, and genetically modified animals have converged to reveal mechanisms of basement membrane self-assembly as mediated by γ1 subunit-containing laminins, the focus of this chapter. The basic model is as follows: A member of the laminin family adheres to a competent cell surface and typically polymerizes followed by laminin binding to the extracellular adaptor proteins nidogen, perlecan, and agrin. Assembly is completed by the linking of nidogen and heparan sulfates to type IV collagen, allowing it to form a second stabilizing network polymer. The assembled matrix provides structural support, anchoring the extracellular matrix to the cytoskeleton, and acts as a signaling platform. Heterogeneity of function is created in part by the isoforms of laminin that vary in their ability to polymerize and to interact with integrins, dystroglycan, and other receptors. Mutations in laminin subunits, affecting expression or LN domain-specific functions, are a cause of human diseases that include those of muscle, nerve, brain, and kidney.

An active role for basement membrane assembly and modification in tissue sculpting

Basement membranes are a dense, sheet-like form of extracellular matrix (ECM) that underlie epithelia and endothelia, and surround muscle, fat and Schwann cells. Basement membranes separate tissues and protect them from mechanical stress. Although traditionally thought of as a static support structure, a growing body of evidence suggests that dynamic basement membrane deposition and modification instructs coordinated cellular behaviors and acts mechanically to sculpt tissues. In this Commentary, we highlight recent studies that support the idea that far from being a passive matrix, basement membranes play formative roles in shaping tissues.

Producing 3D neuronal networks in hydrogels for living bionic device interfaces

Hydrogels hold significant promise for supporting cell based therapies in the field of bioelectrodes. It has been proposed that tissue engineering principles can be used to improve the integration of neural interfacing electrodes. Degradable hydrogels based on poly (vinyl alcohol) functionalised with tyramine (PVA-Tyr) have been shown to support covalent incorporation of non-modified tyrosine rich proteins within synthetic hydrogels. PVA-Tyr crosslinked with such proteins, were explored as a scaffold for supporting development of neural tissue in a three dimensional (3D) environment. In this study a model neural cell line (PC12) and glial accessory cell line, Schwann cell (SC) were encapsulated in PVA-Tyr crosslinked with gelatin and sericin. Specifically, this study aimed to examine the growth and function of SC and PC12 co-cultures when translated from a two dimensional (2D) environment to a 3D environment. PC12 differentiation was successfully promoted in both 2D and 3D at 25 days post-culture. SC encapsulated as a single cell line and in co-culture were able to produce both laminin and collagen-IV which are required to support neuronal development. Neurite outgrowth in the 3D environment was confirmed by immunocytochemical staining. PVA-Tyr/sericin/gelatin hydrogel showed mechanical properties similar to nerve tissue elastic modulus. It is suggested that the mechanical properties of the PVA-Tyr hydrogels with native protein components are providing with a compliant substrate that can be used to support the survival and differentiation of neural networks.

A fractal nature for polymerized laminin

Polylaminin (polyLM) is a non-covalent acid-induced nano- and micro-structured polymer of the protein laminin displaying distinguished biological properties. Polylaminin stimulates neuritogenesis beyond the levels achieved by ordinary laminin and has been shown to promote axonal regeneration in animal models of spinal cord injury. Here we used confocal fluorescence microscopy (CFM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) to characterize its three-dimensional structure. Renderization of confocal optical slices of immunostained polyLM revealed the aspect of a loose flocculated meshwork, which was homogeneously stained by the antibody. On the other hand, an ordinary matrix obtained upon adsorption of laminin in neutral pH (LM) was constituted of bulky protein aggregates whose interior was not accessible to the same anti-laminin antibody. SEM and AFM analyses revealed that the seed unit of polyLM was a flat polygon formed in solution whereas the seed structure of LM was highly heterogeneous, intercalating rod-like, spherical and thin spread lamellar deposits. As polyLM was visualized at progressively increasing magnifications, we observed that the morphology of the polymer was alike independently of the magnification used for the observation. A search for the Hausdorff dimension in images of the two matrices showed that polyLM, but not LM, presented fractal dimensions of 1.55, 1.62 and 1.70 after 1, 8 and 12 hours of adsorption, respectively. Data in the present work suggest that the intrinsic fractal nature of polymerized laminin can be the structural basis for the fractal-like organization of basement membranes in the neurogenic niches of the central nervous system.

Biomembrane-mimicking lipid bilayer system as a mechanically tunable cell substrate

Cell behavior such as cell adhesion, spreading, and contraction critically depends on the elastic properties of the extracellular matrix. It is not known, however, how cells respond to viscoelastic or plastic material properties that more closely resemble the mechanical environment cells encounter in the body. In this report, we employ viscoelastic and plastic biomembrane-mimicking cell substrates. The compliance of the substrates can be tuned by increasing the number of polymer-tethered bilayers. This leaves the density and conformation of adhesive ligands on the top bilayer unaltered. We then observe the response of fibroblasts to these property changes. For comparison, we also study the cells on soft polyacrylamide and hard glass surfaces. Cell morphology, motility, cell stiffness, contractile forces and adhesive contact size all decrease on more compliant matrices but are less sensitive to changes in matrix dissipative properties. These data suggest that cells are able to feel and respond predominantly to the effective matrix compliance, which arises as a combination of substrate and adhesive ligand mechanical properties.

Extracellular matrix determinants and the regulation of cancer cell invasion stratagems

During development, wound repair and disease-related processes, such as cancer, normal, or neoplastic cell types traffic through the extracellular matrix (ECM), the complex composite of collagens, elastin, glycoproteins, proteoglycans, and glycosaminoglycans that dictate tissue architecture. Current evidence suggests that tissue-invasive processes may proceed by protease-dependent or protease-independent strategies whose selection is not only governed by the characteristics of the motile cell population, but also by the structural properties of the intervening ECM. Herein, we review the mechanisms by which ECM dimensionality, elasticity, crosslinking, and pore size impact patterns of cell invasion. This summary should prove useful when designing new experimental approaches for interrogating invasion programs as well as identifying potential cellular targets for next-generation therapeutics.

Simple silicone chamber system for in vitro three-dimensional skeletal muscle tissue formation

Bioengineering skeletal muscle often requires customized equipment and intricate casting techniques. One of the major hurdles when initially trying to establish in vitro tissue engineered muscle constructs is the lack of consistency across published methodology. Although this diversity allows for specialization according to specific research goals, lack of standardization hampers comparative efforts. Differences in cell type, number and density, variability in matrix and scaffold usage as well as inconsistency in the distance between and type of adhesion posts complicates initial establishment of the technique with confidence. We describe an inexpensive, but readily adaptable silicone chamber system for the generation of skeletal muscle constructs that can readily be standardized and used to elucidate myoblast behavior in a three-dimensional space. Muscle generation, regeneration and adaptation can also be investigated in this model, which is more advanced than differentiated myotubes.

Polylaminin recognition by retinal cells

Polylaminin (polyLM) is a flat biomimetic polymer of laminin capable of promoting axonal growth both in vitro and in vivo. It is assembled in a cell-free system when laminin 111 is incubated in acidic pH, whereas incubation in neutral buffer leads to the formation of bulky and irregular polymers (LM). In the present work, we compared the behaviors of cells isolated from the P1 rat retina on polyLM and LM. PolyLM induced cellular spreading and the outgrowth of neurites in contact with the substrate, whereas LM led to the formation of large clusters of cells, with neurites growing only inward. After 24 hr in culture, the number of cells on polyLM increased threefold, and this increase was inhibited by 60% in the presence of the PKA inhibitor H89 and by 41% in the presence of the PKC inhibitor chelerythrine chloride, whereas both inhibitors abolished neuritogenesis. Neither the cell number nor the outgrowth of neurites was affected by the ERK1/2 inhibitor PD98059 on polyLM. On the other hand, PD98059 was able to reduce the cell number on LM, whereas the other inhibitors were not. Immunostaining of P1 retina with an antilaminin antibody revealed that the protein was expressed not only at its inner surface but also within the neuroblast layer in close contact with individual cells. Our results indicate that, when provided in its active polymerized form, laminin can influence both neuritogenesis and proliferation of retinal cells.

Inhibitors of myelination: ECM changes, CSPGs and PTPs

After inflammation-induced demyelination, such as in the disease multiple sclerosis, endogenous remyelination often fails. However, in animal models of demyelination induced with toxins, remyelination can be quite robust. A significant difference between inflammation-induced and toxin-induced demyelination is the response of local cells within the lesion, including astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, microglia/macrophages, and NG2+ cells, which respond to inflammatory stimuli with increased extracellular matrix (ECM) protein and chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan (CSPG) production and deposition. Here, we summarize current knowledge of ECM changes in demyelinating lesions, as well as oligodendrocyte responses to aberrant ECM proteins and CSPGs after various types of demyelinating insults. The discovery that CSPGs act through the receptor protein tyrosine phosphatase sigma (PTPσ) and the Rho-ROCK pathway to inhibit oligodendrocyte process extension and myelination, but not oligodendrocyte differentiation (Pendleton et al., Experimental Neurology (2013) vol. 247, pp. 113-121), highlights the need to better understand the ECM changes that accompany demyelination and their influence on oligodendrocytes and effective remyelination.