1
|
Tomsia M, Cieśla J, Śmieszek J, Florek S, Macionga A, Michalczyk K, Stygar D. Long-term space missions' effects on the human organism: what we do know and what requires further research. Front Physiol 2024; 15:1284644. [PMID: 38415007 PMCID: PMC10896920 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2024.1284644] [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: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Space has always fascinated people. Many years have passed since the first spaceflight, and in addition to the enormous technological progress, the level of understanding of human physiology in space is also increasing. The presented paper aims to summarize the recent research findings on the influence of the space environment (microgravity, pressure differences, cosmic radiation, etc.) on the human body systems during short-term and long-term space missions. The review also presents the biggest challenges and problems that must be solved in order to extend safely the time of human stay in space. In the era of increasing engineering capabilities, plans to colonize other planets, and the growing interest in commercial space flights, the most topical issues of modern medicine seems to be understanding the effects of long-term stay in space, and finding solutions to minimize the harmful effects of the space environment on the human body.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marcin Tomsia
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Forensic Toxicology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Julia Cieśla
- School of Medicine in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Joanna Śmieszek
- School of Medicine in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Szymon Florek
- School of Medicine in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Agata Macionga
- School of Medicine in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Michalczyk
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Dominika Stygar
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
- SLU University Animal Hospital, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Forghani P, Rashid A, Armand LC, Wolfson D, Liu R, Cho HC, Maxwell JT, Jo H, Salaita K, Xu C. Simulated microgravity improves maturation of cardiomyocytes derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells. Sci Rep 2024; 14:2243. [PMID: 38278855 PMCID: PMC10817987 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-52453-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 01/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Cardiomyocytes derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSC-CMs) possess tremendous potential for basic research and translational application. However, these cells structurally and functionally resemble fetal cardiomyocytes, which is a major limitation of these cells. Microgravity can significantly alter cell behavior and function. Here we investigated the effect of simulated microgravity on hiPSC-CM maturation. Following culture under simulated microgravity in a random positioning machine for 7 days, 3D hiPSC-CMs had increased mitochondrial content as detected by a mitochondrial protein and mitochondrial DNA to nuclear DNA ratio. The cells also had increased mitochondrial membrane potential. Consistently, simulated microgravity increased mitochondrial respiration in 3D hiPSC-CMs, as indicated by higher levels of maximal respiration and ATP content, suggesting improved metabolic maturation in simulated microgravity cultures compared with cultures under normal gravity. Cells from simulated microgravity cultures also had improved Ca2+ transient parameters, a functional characteristic of more mature cardiomyocytes. In addition, these cells had improved structural properties associated with more mature cardiomyocytes, including increased sarcomere length, z-disc length, nuclear diameter, and nuclear eccentricity. These findings indicate that microgravity enhances the maturation of hiPSC-CMs at the structural, metabolic, and functional levels.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Parvin Forghani
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine and Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, 2015 Uppergate Drive, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Aysha Rashid
- Biomolecular Chemistry, Department of Chemistry, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Lawrence C Armand
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine and Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, 2015 Uppergate Drive, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - David Wolfson
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine and Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, 2015 Uppergate Drive, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Rui Liu
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine and Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, 2015 Uppergate Drive, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Hee Cheol Cho
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine and Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, 2015 Uppergate Drive, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Emory University and Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Joshua T Maxwell
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine and Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, 2015 Uppergate Drive, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Hanjoong Jo
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine and Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, 2015 Uppergate Drive, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Emory University and Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Khalid Salaita
- Biomolecular Chemistry, Department of Chemistry, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Emory University and Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Chunhui Xu
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine and Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, 2015 Uppergate Drive, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA.
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Emory University and Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Giacinto O, Lusini M, Sammartini E, Minati A, Mastroianni C, Nenna A, Pascarella G, Sammartini D, Carassiti M, Miraldi F, Chello M, Pelliccia F. Cardiovascular Effects of Cosmic Radiation and Microgravity. J Clin Med 2024; 13:520. [PMID: 38256654 PMCID: PMC10816185 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13020520] [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: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Recent spaceflights involving nonprofessional people have opened the doors to the suborbital space tourism business. However, they have also drawn public attention to the safety and hazards associated with space travel. Unfortunately, space travel involves a myriad of health risks for people, ranging from DNA damage caused by radiation exposure to the hemodynamic changes that occur when living in microgravity. In fact, the primary pathogenetic role is attributed to cosmic radiation, since deep space lacks the protective benefit of Earth's magnetic shielding. The second risk factor for space-induced pathologies is microgravity, which may affect organ function and cause a different distribution of fluid inside the human body. Both cosmic radiation and microgravity may lead to the alteration of cellular homeostasis and molecular changes in cell function. These, in turn, might have a direct impact on heart function and structure. The aim of this review is to draw attention to the fact that spaceflights constitute a novel frontier in biomedical research. We summarize the most important clinical and experimental evidence regarding the cardiovascular effects of cosmic radiation and microgravity. Finally, we highlight that unraveling the mechanisms underlying how space radiation and microgravity affect the cardiovascular system is crucial for identifying potential countermeasures and developing effective therapeutic strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Omar Giacinto
- Research Unit of Cardiac Surgery, Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, University Campus Bio-Medico, 00128 Rome, Italy
| | - Mario Lusini
- Research Unit of Cardiac Surgery, Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, University Campus Bio-Medico, 00128 Rome, Italy
| | | | - Alessandro Minati
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Università Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Ciro Mastroianni
- Research Unit of Cardiac Surgery, Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, University Campus Bio-Medico, 00128 Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Nenna
- Research Unit of Cardiac Surgery, Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, University Campus Bio-Medico, 00128 Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Pascarella
- Research Unit of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care, Department of Medicine, University Campus Bio-Medico, 00128 Rome, Italy
| | - Davide Sammartini
- Research Unit of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care, Department of Medicine, University Campus Bio-Medico, 00128 Rome, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Carassiti
- Research Unit of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care, Department of Medicine, University Campus Bio-Medico, 00128 Rome, Italy
| | - Fabio Miraldi
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Università Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Massimo Chello
- Research Unit of Cardiac Surgery, Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, University Campus Bio-Medico, 00128 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Pelliccia
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Università Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Mo X, Zhang Y, Wang Z, Zhou X, Zhang Z, Fang Y, Fan Z, Guo Y, Zhang T, Xiong Z. Satellite-Based On-Orbit Printing of 3D Tumor Models. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023:e2309618. [PMID: 38145905 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202309618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/27/2023]
Abstract
Space three dimension (3D) bioprinting provides a precise and bionic tumor model for evaluating the compound effect of the space environment on tumors, thereby providing insight into the progress of the disease and potential treatments. However, space 3D bioprinting faces several challenges, including prelaunch uncertainty, possible liquid leakage, long-term culture in space, automatic equipment control, data acquisition, and transmission. Here, a novel satellite-based 3D bioprinting device with high structural strength, small volume, and low weight (<6 kg) is developed. A microgel-based biphasic thermosensitive bioink and suspension medium that supports the on-orbit printing and in situ culture of complex tumor models is developed. An intelligent control algorithm that enables the automatic control of 3D printing, autofocusing, fluorescence imaging, and data transfer back to the ground is developed. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first time that on-orbit printing of tumor models is achieved in space with stable morphology and moderate viability via a satellite. It is found that 3D tumor models are more sensitive to antitumor drugs in space than on Earth. This study opens up a new avenue for 3D bioprinting in space and offers new possibilities for future research in space life science and medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xingwu Mo
- Biomanufacturing Center, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
- Biomanufacturing and Rapid Forming Technology Key Laboratory of Beijing, Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
- "Biomanufacturing and Engineering Living Systems" Innovation International Talents Base (111 Base), Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
| | - Yanmei Zhang
- Biomanufacturing Center, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
- Biomanufacturing and Rapid Forming Technology Key Laboratory of Beijing, Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
- "Biomanufacturing and Engineering Living Systems" Innovation International Talents Base (111 Base), Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
| | - Zixuan Wang
- Biomanufacturing Center, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
- Biomanufacturing and Rapid Forming Technology Key Laboratory of Beijing, Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
- "Biomanufacturing and Engineering Living Systems" Innovation International Talents Base (111 Base), Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
| | - Xianhao Zhou
- Biomanufacturing Center, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
- Biomanufacturing and Rapid Forming Technology Key Laboratory of Beijing, Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
- "Biomanufacturing and Engineering Living Systems" Innovation International Talents Base (111 Base), Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
| | - Zhenrui Zhang
- Biomanufacturing Center, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
- Biomanufacturing and Rapid Forming Technology Key Laboratory of Beijing, Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
- "Biomanufacturing and Engineering Living Systems" Innovation International Talents Base (111 Base), Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
| | - Yongcong Fang
- Biomanufacturing Center, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
- Biomanufacturing and Rapid Forming Technology Key Laboratory of Beijing, Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
- "Biomanufacturing and Engineering Living Systems" Innovation International Talents Base (111 Base), Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
| | - Zilian Fan
- Biomanufacturing Center, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
- Biomanufacturing and Rapid Forming Technology Key Laboratory of Beijing, Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
- "Biomanufacturing and Engineering Living Systems" Innovation International Talents Base (111 Base), Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
| | - Yihan Guo
- Biomanufacturing Center, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
- Biomanufacturing and Rapid Forming Technology Key Laboratory of Beijing, Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
- "Biomanufacturing and Engineering Living Systems" Innovation International Talents Base (111 Base), Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
| | - Ting Zhang
- Biomanufacturing Center, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
- Biomanufacturing and Rapid Forming Technology Key Laboratory of Beijing, Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
- "Biomanufacturing and Engineering Living Systems" Innovation International Talents Base (111 Base), Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
| | - Zhuo Xiong
- Biomanufacturing Center, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
- Biomanufacturing and Rapid Forming Technology Key Laboratory of Beijing, Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
- "Biomanufacturing and Engineering Living Systems" Innovation International Talents Base (111 Base), Beijing, 100084, P. R. China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Ren Z, Harriot AD, Mair DB, Chung MK, Lee PHU, Kim DH. Biomanufacturing of 3D Tissue Constructs in Microgravity and their Applications in Human Pathophysiological Studies. Adv Healthc Mater 2023; 12:e2300157. [PMID: 37483106 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202300157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
The growing interest in bioengineering in-vivo-like 3D functional tissues has led to novel approaches to the biomanufacturing process as well as expanded applications for these unique tissue constructs. Microgravity, as seen in spaceflight, is a unique environment that may be beneficial to the tissue-engineering process but cannot be completely replicated on Earth. Additionally, the expense and practical challenges of conducting human and animal research in space make bioengineered microphysiological systems an attractive research model. In this review, published research that exploits real and simulated microgravity to improve the biomanufacturing of a wide range of tissue types as well as those studies that use microphysiological systems, such as organ/tissue chips and multicellular organoids, for modeling human diseases in space are summarized. This review discusses real and simulated microgravity platforms and applications in tissue-engineered microphysiological systems across three topics: 1) application of microgravity to improve the biomanufacturing of tissue constructs, 2) use of tissue constructs fabricated in microgravity as models for human diseases on Earth, and 3) investigating the effects of microgravity on human tissues using biofabricated in vitro models. These current achievements represent important progress in understanding the physiological effects of microgravity and exploiting their advantages for tissue biomanufacturing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhanping Ren
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
| | - Anicca D Harriot
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Devin B Mair
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | | | - Peter H U Lee
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Brown University, Providence, RI, 02912, USA
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Southcoast Health, Fall River, MA, 02720, USA
| | - Deok-Ho Kim
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
- Center for Microphysiological Systems, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
- Institute for NanoBioTechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, 21218, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Darwish T, Swaidan NT, Emara MM. Stress Factors as Possible Regulators of Pluripotent Stem Cell Survival and Differentiation. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:1119. [PMID: 37627003 PMCID: PMC10452095 DOI: 10.3390/biology12081119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, extensive research efforts have been directed toward pluripotent stem cells, primarily due to their remarkable capacity for pluripotency. This unique attribute empowers these cells to undergo self-renewal and differentiate into various cell types originating from the ectoderm, mesoderm, and endoderm germ layers. The delicate balance and precise regulation of self-renewal and differentiation are essential for the survival and functionality of these cells. Notably, exposure to specific environmental stressors can activate numerous transcription factors, initiating a diverse array of stress response pathways. These pathways play pivotal roles in regulating gene expression and protein synthesis, ultimately aiming to preserve cell survival and maintain cellular functions. Reactive oxygen species, heat shock, hypoxia, osmotic stress, DNA damage, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and mechanical stress are among the examples of such stressors. In this review, we comprehensively discuss the impact of environmental stressors on the growth of embryonic cells. Furthermore, we provide a summary of the distinct stress response pathways triggered when pluripotent stem cells are exposed to different environmental stressors. Additionally, we highlight recent discoveries regarding the role of such stressors in the generation, differentiation, and self-renewal of induced pluripotent stem cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Mohamed M. Emara
- Basic Medical Sciences Department, College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, 2713 Doha, Qatar
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Zhang X, Zhang S, Wang T. How the mechanical microenvironment of stem cell growth affects their differentiation: a review. Stem Cell Res Ther 2022; 13:415. [PMID: 35964140 PMCID: PMC9375355 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-022-03070-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Stem cell differentiation is of great interest in medical research; however, specifically and effectively regulating stem cell differentiation is still a challenge. In addition to chemical factors, physical signals are an important component of the stem cell ecotone. The mechanical microenvironment of stem cells has a huge role in stem cell differentiation. Herein, we describe the knowledge accumulated to date on the mechanical environment in which stem cells exist, which consists of various factors, including the extracellular matrix and topology, substrate stiffness, shear stress, hydrostatic pressure, tension, and microgravity. We then detail the currently known signalling pathways that stem cells use to perceive the mechanical environment, including those involving nuclear factor-kB, the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor, the piezoelectric mechanosensitive ion channel, and hypoxia-inducible factor 1α. Using this information in clinical settings to treat diseases is the goal of this research, and we describe the progress that has been made. In this review, we examined the effects of mechanical factors in the stem cell growth microenvironment on stem cell differentiation, how mechanical signals are transmitted to and function within the cell, and the influence of mechanical factors on the use of stem cells in clinical applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaofang Zhang
- Department of Radiotherapy, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shenyang, China
| | - Sibo Zhang
- China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Tianlu Wang
- Department of Radiotherapy, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shenyang, China.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Timilsina S, Kirsch-Mangu T, Werth S, Shepard B, Ma T, Villa-Diaz LG. Enhanced self-renewal of human pluripotent stem cells by simulated microgravity. NPJ Microgravity 2022; 8:22. [PMID: 35787634 PMCID: PMC9253108 DOI: 10.1038/s41526-022-00209-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
A systematic study on the biological effects of simulated microgravity (sµg) on human pluripotent stem cells (hPSC) is still lacking. Here, we used a fast-rotating 2-D clinostat to investigate the sµg effect on proliferation, self-renewal, and cell cycle regulation of hPSCs. We observed significant upregulation of protein translation of pluripotent transcription factors in hPSC cultured in sµg compared to cells cultured in 1g conditions. In addition to a significant increase in expression of telomere elongation genes. Differentiation experiments showed that hPSC cultured in sµg condition were less susceptible to differentiation compared to cells in 1g conditions. These results suggest that sµg enhances hPSC self-renewal. Our study revealed that sµg enhanced the cell proliferation of hPSCs by regulating the expression of cell cycle-associated kinases. RNA-seq analysis indicated that in sµg condition the expression of differentiation and development pathways are downregulated, while multiple components of the ubiquitin proteasome system are upregulated, contributing to an enhanced self-renewal of hPSCs. These effects of sµg were not replicated in human fibroblasts. Taken together, our results highlight pathways and mechanisms in hPSCs vulnerable to microgravity that imposes significant impacts on human health and performance, physiology, and cellular and molecular processes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Timilsina
- Department of Biological Sciences, Oakland University, Rochester, MI, 48309, USA
| | - T Kirsch-Mangu
- Department of Biological Sciences, Oakland University, Rochester, MI, 48309, USA
| | - S Werth
- Department of Biological Sciences, Oakland University, Rochester, MI, 48309, USA
| | - B Shepard
- Department of Biological Sciences, Oakland University, Rochester, MI, 48309, USA
| | - T Ma
- Department of Computer Science, Engineering, Oakland University, Rochester, MI, 48309, USA
| | - L G Villa-Diaz
- Department of Biological Sciences, Oakland University, Rochester, MI, 48309, USA. .,Department of Bioengineering, Oakland University, Rochester, MI, 48309, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Wu XT, Yang X, Tian R, Li YH, Wang CY, Fan YB, Sun LW. Cells respond to space microgravity through cytoskeleton reorganization. FASEB J 2022; 36:e22114. [PMID: 35076958 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202101140r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Revised: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Decades of spaceflight studies have provided abundant evidence that individual cells in vitro are capable of sensing space microgravity and responding with cellular changes both structurally and functionally. However, how microgravity is perceived, transmitted, and converted to biochemical signals by single cells remains unrevealed. Here in this review, over 40 cellular biology studies of real space fights were summarized. Studies on cells of the musculoskeletal system, cardiovascular system, and immune system were covered. Among all the reported cellular changes in response to space microgravity, cytoskeleton (CSK) reorganization emerges as a key indicator. Based on the evidence of CSK reorganization from space flight research, a possible mechanism from the standpoint of "cellular mechanical equilibrium" is proposed for the explanation of cellular response to space microgravity. Cytoskeletal equilibrium is broken by the gravitational change from ground to space and is followed by cellular morphological changes, cell mechanical properties changes, extracellular matrix reorganization, as well as signaling pathway activation/inactivation, all of which ultimately lead to the cell functional changes in space microgravity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xin-Tong Wu
- Key Laboratory for Biomechanics and Mechanobiology (Beihang University), Ministry of Education, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiao Yang
- Key Laboratory for Biomechanics and Mechanobiology (Beihang University), Ministry of Education, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, China
| | - Ran Tian
- Key Laboratory for Biomechanics and Mechanobiology (Beihang University), Ministry of Education, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, China
| | - Ying-Hui Li
- State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Chun-Yan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Yu-Bo Fan
- Key Laboratory for Biomechanics and Mechanobiology (Beihang University), Ministry of Education, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, China.,School of Engineering Medicine, Beihang University, Beijing, China
| | - Lian-Wen Sun
- Key Laboratory for Biomechanics and Mechanobiology (Beihang University), Ministry of Education, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Han Y, Zeger L, Tripathi R, Egli M, Ille F, Lockowandt C, Florin G, Atic E, Redwan IN, Fredriksson R, Kozlova EN. Molecular genetic analysis of neural stem cells after space flight and simulated microgravity on earth. Biotechnol Bioeng 2021; 118:3832-3846. [PMID: 34125436 DOI: 10.1002/bit.27858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Revised: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Understanding how stem cells adapt to space flight conditions is fundamental for human space missions and extraterrestrial settlement. We analyzed gene expression in boundary cap neural crest stem cells (BCs), which are attractive for regenerative medicine by their ability to promote proliferation and survival of cocultured and co-implanted cells. BCs were launched to space (space exposed cells) (SEC), onboard sounding rocket MASER 14 as free-floating neurospheres or in a bioprinted scaffold. For comparison, BCs were placed in a random positioning machine (RPM) to simulate microgravity on earth (RPM cells) or were cultured under control conditions in the laboratory. Using next-generation RNA sequencing and data post-processing, we discovered that SEC upregulated genes related to proliferation and survival, whereas RPM cells upregulated genes associated with differentiation and inflammation. Thus, (i) space flight provides unique conditions with distinctly different effects on the properties of BC compared to earth controls, and (ii) the space flight exposure induces postflight properties that reinforce the utility of BC for regenerative medicine and tissue engineering.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yilin Han
- Department of Neuroscience, Regenerative Neurobiology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Lukas Zeger
- Department of Neuroscience, Regenerative Neurobiology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Rekha Tripathi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Bioscience, Molecular Pharmacology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Marcel Egli
- Luzerne School of Engineering and Architecture, Institute of Medical Engineering (IMT), Luzerne, Switzerland
| | - Fabian Ille
- Luzerne School of Engineering and Architecture, Institute of Medical Engineering (IMT), Luzerne, Switzerland
| | | | - Gunnar Florin
- Swedish Space Corporation, Science Service Division, Solna, Sweden
| | | | | | - Robert Fredriksson
- Department of Pharmaceutical Bioscience, Molecular Pharmacology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Elena N Kozlova
- Department of Neuroscience, Regenerative Neurobiology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Response of Pluripotent Stem Cells to Environmental Stress and Its Application for Directed Differentiation. BIOLOGY 2021; 10:biology10020084. [PMID: 33498611 PMCID: PMC7912122 DOI: 10.3390/biology10020084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Revised: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Environmental changes in oxygen concentration, temperature, and mechanical stimulation lead to the activation of specific transcriptional factors and induce the expression of each downstream gene. In general, these responses are protective machinery against such environmental stresses, while these transcriptional factors also regulate cell proliferation, differentiation, and organ development in mammals. In the case of pluripotent stem cells, similar response mechanisms normally work and sometimes stimulate the differentiation cues. Up to now, differentiation protocols utilizing such environmental stresses have been reported to obtain various types of somatic cells from pluripotent stem cells. Basically, environmental stresses as hypoxia (low oxygen), hyperoxia, (high oxygen) and mechanical stress from cell culture plates are relatively safer than chemicals and gene transfers, which affect the genome irreversibly. Therefore, protocols designed with such environments in mind could be useful for the technology development of cell therapy and regenerative medicine. In this manuscript, we summarize recent findings of environmental stress-induced differentiation protocols and discuss their mechanisms. Abstract Pluripotent stem cells have unique characteristics compared to somatic cells. In this review, we summarize the response to environmental stresses (hypoxic, oxidative, thermal, and mechanical stresses) in embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and their applications in the differentiation methods directed to specific lineages. Those stresses lead to activation of each specific transcription factor followed by the induction of downstream genes, and one of them regulates lineage specification. In short, hypoxic stress promotes the differentiation of ESCs to mesodermal lineages via HIF-1α activation. Concerning mechanical stress, high stiffness tends to promote mesodermal differentiation, while low stiffness promotes ectodermal differentiation via the modulation of YAP1. Furthermore, each step in the same lineage differentiation favors each appropriate stiffness of culture plate; for example, definitive endoderm favors high stiffness, while pancreatic progenitor favors low stiffness during pancreatic differentiation of human ESCs. Overall, treatments utilizing those stresses have no genotoxic or carcinogenic effects except oxidative stress; therefore, the differentiated cells are safe and could be useful for cell replacement therapy. In particular, the effect of mechanical stress on differentiation is becoming attractive for the field of regenerative medicine. Therefore, the development of a stress-mediated differentiation protocol is an important matter for the future.
Collapse
|
12
|
Grimm D, Wehland M, Corydon TJ, Richter P, Prasad B, Bauer J, Egli M, Kopp S, Lebert M, Krüger M. The effects of microgravity on differentiation and cell growth in stem cells and cancer stem cells. Stem Cells Transl Med 2020; 9:882-894. [PMID: 32352658 PMCID: PMC7381804 DOI: 10.1002/sctm.20-0084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Revised: 03/31/2020] [Accepted: 04/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
A spaceflight has enormous influence on the health of space voyagers due to the combined effects of microgravity and cosmic radiation. Known effects of microgravity (μg) on cells are changes in differentiation and growth. Considering the commercialization of spaceflight, future space exploration, and long-term manned flights, research focusing on differentiation and growth of stem cells and cancer cells exposed to real (r-) and simulated (s-) μg is of high interest for regenerative medicine and cancer research. In this review, we focus on platforms to study r- and s-μg as well as the impact of μg on cancer stem cells in the field of gastrointestinal cancer, lung cancer, and osteosarcoma. Moreover, we review the current knowledge of different types of stem cells exposed to μg conditions with regard to differentiation and engineering of cartilage, bone, vasculature, heart, skin, and liver constructs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Grimm
- Department of Microgravity and Translational Regenerative Medicine, Otto von Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany.,Clinic for Plastic, Aesthetic and Hand Surgery, Otto von Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany.,Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Markus Wehland
- Clinic for Plastic, Aesthetic and Hand Surgery, Otto von Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Thomas J Corydon
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Ophthalmology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Peter Richter
- Department of Biology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Binod Prasad
- Department of Biology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Johann Bauer
- Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Marcel Egli
- Institute of Medical Engineering, Space Biology Group, Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts, Hergiswil, Switzerland
| | - Sascha Kopp
- Clinic for Plastic, Aesthetic and Hand Surgery, Otto von Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Michael Lebert
- Department of Biology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany.,Space Biology Unlimited SAS, Bordeaux, France
| | - Marcus Krüger
- Clinic for Plastic, Aesthetic and Hand Surgery, Otto von Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|