Collagen gel three-dimensional matrices combined with adhesive proteins stimulate neuronal differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells

Heterogeneous pHPMA hydrogel promotes neuronal differentiation of bone marrow derived stromal cellsin vitroandin vivo

Synthetic hydrogels composed of polymer pore frames are commonly used in medicine, from pharmacologically targeted drug delivery to the creation of bioengineering constructions used in implantation surgery. Among various possible materials, the most common are poly-[N(2-hydroxypropyl)methacrylamide] (pHPMA) derivatives. One of the pHPMA derivatives is biocompatible hydrogel, NeuroGel. Upon contact with nervous tissue, the NeuroGel's structure can support the chemical and physiological conditions of the tissue necessary for the growth of native cells. Owing to the different pore diameters in the hydrogel, not only macromolecules, but also cells can migrate. This study evaluated the differentiation of bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) into neurons, as well as the effectiveness of using this biofabricated system in spinal cord injuryin vivo. The hydrogel was populated with BMSCs by injection or rehydration. After cultivation, these fragments (hydrogel + BMSCs) were implanted into the injured rat spinal cord. Fragments were immunostained before implantation and seven months after implantation. During cultivation with the hydrogel, both variants (injection/rehydration) of the BMSCs culture retained their viability and demonstrated a significant number of Ki-67-positive cells, indicating the preservation of their proliferative activity. In hydrogel fragments, BMSCs also maintained their viability during the period of cocultivation and were Ki-67-positive, but in significantly fewer numbers than in the cell culture. In addition, in fragments of hydrogel with grafted BMSCs, both by the injection or rehydration versions, we observed a significant number up to 57%-63.5% of NeuN-positive cells. These results suggest that the heterogeneous pHPMA hydrogel promotes neuronal differentiation of bone marrow-derived stromal cells. Furthermore, these data demonstrate the possible use of NeuroGel implants with grafted BMSCs for implantation into damaged areas of the spinal cord, with subsequent nerve fiber germination, nerve cell regeneration, and damaged segment restoration.

Three-Dimensional Cell Drawing Technique in Hydrogel Using Micro Injection System

Fabrication of three-dimensional tissues using living cells is a promised approach for drug screening experiment and in vitro disease modeling. To study a physiological neuronal function, three-dimensional cell patterning and construction of neuronal cell network were required. In this study, we proposed a three-dimensional cell drawing methodology in hydrogel to construct the three-dimensional neuronal cell network. PC-12 cells, which were used as neuronal cell differentiation model, were dispensed into a collagen hydrogel using a micro injector with a three-dimensional position control. To maintain the three-dimensional position of cells, atelocollagen was kept at sol-gel transition state during cell dispensing. As the results, PC-12 cells were patterned in the atelocollagen gel to form square pattern with different depth. In the patterned cellular lines, PC-12 cells elongated neurites and form a continuous cellular network in the atelocollagen gel. It was suggested that our three-dimensional cell drawing technology has potentials to reconstruct three-dimensional neuronal networks for an investigation of physiological neuronal functions.

Drug delivery to the central nervous system

Despite the rising global incidence of central nervous system (CNS) disorders, CNS drug development remains challenging, with high costs, long pathways to clinical use and high failure rates. The CNS is highly protected by physiological barriers, in particular, the blood-brain barrier and the blood-cerebrospinal fluid barrier, which limit access of most drugs. Biomaterials can be designed to bypass or traverse these barriers, enabling the controlled delivery of drugs into the CNS. In this Review, we first examine the effects of normal and diseased CNS physiology on drug delivery to the brain and spinal cord. We then discuss CNS drug delivery designs and materials that are administered systemically, directly to the CNS, intranasally or peripherally through intramuscular injections. Finally, we highlight important challenges and opportunities for materials design for drug delivery to the CNS and the anticipated clinical impact of CNS drug delivery.

Biomaterial-based strategies for in vitro neural models

In vitro models have been used as a complementary tool to animal studies in understanding the nervous system's physiological mechanisms and pathological disorders, while also serving as platforms to evaluate the safety and efficiency of therapeutic candidates. Following recent advances in materials science, micro- and nanofabrication techniques and cell culture systems, in vitro technologies have been rapidly gaining the potential to bridge the gap between animal and clinical studies by providing more sophisticated models that recapitulate key aspects of the structure, biochemistry, biomechanics, and functions of human tissues. This was made possible, in large part, by the development of biomaterials that provide cells with physicochemical features that closely mimic the cellular microenvironment of native tissues. Due to the well-known material-driven cellular response and the importance of mimicking the environment of the target tissue, the selection of optimal biomaterials represents an important early step in the design of biomimetic systems to investigate brain structures and functions. This review provides a comprehensive compendium of commonly used biomaterials as well as the different fabrication techniques employed for the design of neural tissue models. Furthermore, the authors discuss the main parameters that need to be considered to develop functional platforms not only for the study of brain physiological functions and pathological processes but also for drug discovery/development and the optimization of biomaterials for neural tissue engineering.

In vitro and in vivo evaluation of a biomimetic scaffold embedding silver nanoparticles for improved treatment of oral lesions

BACKGROUND

New materials are currently designed for efficient treatment of oral tissue lesions by guided tissue regeneration. The aim of this study was to develop a multifunctional 3D hybrid biomaterial consisting of extracellular matrix components, collagen, chondroitin 4-sulfate and fibronectin, functionalised with silver nanoparticles, intended to improve periodontitis treatment protocols.

METHODS

Structural observations were performed by autometallography, scanning and transmission electron microscopy. In vitro tests of 3D constructs of embedded gingival fibroblasts within hybrid biomaterial were performed by MTS and Live/Dead assays. Genotoxicity was assessed by comet assay. In vivo experiments using chick embryo chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) assay analysed the degradation and nanoparticles release, but also angiogenesis, new tissue formation in 3D constructs and the regenerative potential of the hybrid material. Biological activity was investigated in experimental models of inflamed THP-1 macrophages and oral specific bacterial cultures.

RESULTS

Light micrographs showed distribution of silver nanoparticles on collagen fibrils. Scanning electron micrographs revealed a microstructure with interconnected pores, which favoured cell adhesion and infiltration. Cell viability and proliferation were significantly higher within the 3D hybrid biomaterial than in 2D culture conditions, while absence of the hybrid material's genotoxic effect was found. In vivo experiments showed that the hybrid material was colonised by cells and blood vessels, initiating synthesis of new extracellular matrix. Besides the known effect of chondroitin sulfate, incorporated silver nanoparticles increased the anti-inflammatory activity of the hybrid biomaterial. The silver nanoparticles maintained their antibacterial activity even after embedding in the polymeric scaffold and inhibited the growth of F. nucleatum and P. gingivalis.

CONCLUSION

The novel biomimetic scaffold functionalised with silver nanoparticles presented regenerative, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial potential for oral cavity lesions repair.

Protective Mechanism and Treatment of Neurogenesis in Cerebral Ischemia

Stroke is the fifth leading cause of death worldwide and is a main cause of disability in adults. Neither currently marketed drugs nor commonly used treatments can promote nerve repair and neurogenesis after stroke, and the repair of neurons damaged by ischemia has become a research focus. This article reviews several possible mechanisms of stroke and neurogenesis and introduces novel neurogenic agents (fibroblast growth factors, brain-derived neurotrophic factor, purine nucleosides, resveratrol, S-nitrosoglutathione, osteopontin, etc.) as well as other treatments that have shown neuroprotective or neurogenesis-promoting effects.

5-Nonyloxytryptamine oxalate-embedded collagen-laminin scaffolds augment functional recovery after spinal cord injury in mice

Polysialic acid (PSA) is crucial for the induction and maintenance of nervous system plasticity and repair after injury. In order to exploit the immense therapeutic potential of PSA, previous studies have focused on the identification and development of peptide-based or synthetic PSA mimetics. 5-Nonyloxytryptamine (5-NOT) has been previously reported as a PSA-mimicking compound for promoting functional recovery after spinal cord injury in mice. In order to explore the neuroregeneration potential of 5-NOT, the current study was based on a biomaterial approach using collagen-laminin (C/L) scaffolds. In in vitro studies, 5-NOT was observed to promote neurite outgrowth, migration, and fasciculation in cerebellar neuronal cells, whereas in 3D cell cultures it showed more ramification and complex Sholl profiles. 5-NOT promoted the survival and neurite length of cortical neurons when cocultured with glutamate-challenged astrocytes. In in vivo studies, spinal cord compression injury mice were used with immediate application of C/L hydrogels impregnated with 5-NOT. C/L + 5-NOT-treated mice demonstrated ∼75% of motor recovery 14 days after injury. Furthermore, this effect was shown to be dependent on the ERK-MAPK pathway and augmentation of cell survival. Thus, based on a biomaterial approach, our current study provides new insight for 5-NOT-containing hydrogels as a promising candidate to speed up recovery after central nervous system injuries.

Neural tissue engineering with structured hydrogels in CNS models and therapies

The development of techniques to create and use multiphase microstructured hydrogels (granular hydrogels or microgels) has enabled the generation of cultures with more biologically relevant architecture and use of structured hydrogels is especially pertinent to the development of new types of central nervous system (CNS) culture models and therapies. We review material choice and the customisation of hydrogel structure, as well as the use of hydrogels in developmental models. Combining the use of structured hydrogel techniques with developmentally relevant tissue culture approaches will enable the generation of more relevant models and treatments to repair damaged CNS tissue architecture.

Generation of pancreatic β cells for treatment of diabetes: advances and challenges

Human embryonic stem cells (hESC) and induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSC) are considered attractive sources of pancreatic β cells and islet organoids. Recently, several reports presented that hESC/iPSC-derived cells enriched with specific transcription factors can form glucose-responsive insulin-secreting cells in vitro and transplantation of these cells ameliorates hyperglycemia in diabetic mice. However, the glucose-stimulated insulin-secreting capacity of these cells is lower than that of endogenous islets, suggesting the need to improve induction procedures. One of the critical problems facing in vivo maturation of hESC/iPSC-derived cells is their low survival rate after transplantation, although this rate increases when the implanted pancreatic cells are encapsulated to avoid the immune response. Several groups have also reported on the generation of hESC/iPSC-derived islet-like organoids, but development of techniques for complete islet structures with the eventual generation of vascularized constructs remains a major challenge to their application in regenerative therapies. Many issues also need to be addressed before the successful clinical application of hESC/iPSC-derived cells or islet organoids. In this review, we summarize advances in the generation of hESC/iPSC-derived pancreatic β cells or islet organoids and discuss the limitations and challenges for their successful therapeutic application in diabetes.

Hydrogel-assisted neuroregeneration approaches towards brain injury therapy: A state-of-the-art review

Recent years have witnessed the development of an enormous variety of hydrogel-based systems for neuroregeneration. Formed from hydrophilic polymers and comprised of up to 90% of water, these three-dimensional networks are promising tools for brain tissue regeneration. They can assist structural and functional restoration of damaged tissues by providing mechanical support and navigating cell fate. Hydrogels also show the potential for brain injury therapy due to their broadly tunable physical, chemical, and biological properties. Hydrogel polymers, which have been extensively implemented in recent brain injury repair studies, include hyaluronic acid, collagen type I, alginate, chitosan, methylcellulose, Matrigel, fibrin, gellan gum, self-assembling peptides and proteins, poly(ethylene glycol), methacrylates, and methacrylamides. When viewed as tools for neuroregeneration, hydrogels can be divided into: (1) hydrogels suitable for brain injury therapy, (2) hydrogels that do not meet basic therapeutic requirements and (3) promising hydrogels which meet the criteria for further investigations. Our analysis shows that fibrin, collagen I and self-assembling peptide-based hydrogels display very attractive properties for neuroregeneration.

3-D Cell Culture System for Studying Invasion and Evaluating Therapeutics in Bladder Cancer

Bladder cancer is a significant health problem. It is estimated that more than 16,000 people will die this year in the United States from bladder cancer. While 75% of bladder cancers are non-invasive and unlikely to metastasize, about 25% progress to an invasive growth pattern. Up to half of the patients with invasive cancers will develop lethal metastatic relapse. Thus, understanding the mechanism of invasive progression in bladder cancer is crucial to predict patient outcomes and prevent lethal metastases. In this article, we present a three-dimensional cancer invasion model which allows incorporation of tumor cells and stromal components to mimic in vivo conditions occurring in the bladder tumor microenvironment. This model provides the opportunity to observe the invasive process in real time using time-lapse imaging, interrogate the molecular pathways involved using confocal immunofluorescent imaging and screen compounds with the potential to block invasion. While this protocol focuses on bladder cancer, it is likely that similar methods could be used to examine invasion and motility in other tumor types as well.

NGF/FAK signal pathway is implicated in angiogenesis after acute cerebral ischemia in rats

Neurogenesis in the cerebral infarction after an ischemic event is important to the rehabilitation of patients. However, the mechanism of angiogenesis around cerebral ischemia is not clear. Our study designed to test whether the nerve growth factor (NGF)-P-focal adhesion kinase (FAK) signaling pathway for associations with angiogenesis plays a key role in post-acute cerebral ischemia of rats. Firstly, we implanted the Matrigel, a carrier of basement membrane matrix, into the abdominal skin of rats to identify the relevant components of the NGF-P-FAK signaling pathway related to angiogenesis. Secondly, we used a model established by ligation of the middle cerebral artery (MCA) to observe the effect of the same signal pathway on angiogenesis in the subventricular and subgranular zones of the dentate gyrus(SVG and SGZ). The results showed that the tissue scores was significantly increased by NGF. However, the tissue scores was signifcaintly decreased by FAK inhibitor TAE226. Furthermore, CD31 and α-SMA were significantly increased by NGF and were decreased by anti-NGF and TAE226 in Matrigel. The P-FAK protein expression in Matrigel was markedly increased by NGF and decreased by TAE226. In the SVZ and SVG of cerebral ischemia, the numbers of BrdU-positive cells were significantly increased by NGF and decreased by TAE226, respectively. Our findings suggest that the therapy targeting the NGF-P-FAK signaling pathway may be an option for patients suffering from cerebral ischemia.

Effects of Type I Collagen Concentration in Hydrogel on the Growth and Phenotypic Expression of Rat Chondrocytes

It is controversial whether type I collagen itself can maintain and improve chondrogenic phenotype of chondrocytes in a three-dimensional (3D) environment. In this study, we examined the effect of type I collagen concentration in hydrogel (0.5, 1, and 2 mg/ml) on the growth and phenotype expression of rat chondrocytes in vitro. All collagen hydrogels showed substantial contractions during culture, in a concentration-dependent manner, which was due to the cell proliferation. The cell viability was shown to be the highest in 2 mg/ml collagen gel. The mRNA expression of chondrogenic phenotypes, including SOX9, type II collagen, and aggrecan, was significantly up-regulated, particularly in 1 mg/ml collagen gel. Furthermore, the production of type II collagen and glycosaminoglycan (GAG) content was also enhanced. The results suggest that type I collagen hydrogel is not detrimental to, but may be useful for, the chondrocyte culture for cartilage tissue engineering.

Synergistic effects of G-CSF and bone marrow stromal cells on nerve regeneration with acellular nerve xenografts

Peripheral nerve defects result in severe denervation presenting sensory and motor functional incapacitation. Currently, a satisfactory therapeutic treatment promoting the repair of injured nerves is not available. As shown in our previous study, acellular nerve xenografts (ANX) implanted with bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) replaced allografts and promoted nerve regeneration. Additionally, granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) has been proven to mobilize supplemental cells and enhance vascularization in the niche. Thus, the study aimed to explore whether the combination of G-CSF and BMSC-laden ANX exhibited a synergistic effect. Adult Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into five groups: ANX group, ANX combined with G-CSF group, BMSCs-laden ANX group, BMSCs-laden ANX combined with G-CSF group and autograft group. Electrophysiological parameters and weight ratios of tibialis anterior muscles were detected at 8 weeks post-transplantation. The morphology of the regenerated nerves was assayed, and growth-promoting factors present in the nerve grafts following G-CSF administration or BMSCs seeding were also investigated. Nerve regeneration and functional rehabilitation induced by the combination therapy were significantly advanced, and the rehabilitation efficacy was comparable with autografting. Moreover, the expression of Schwann cell markers, neurotrophic factors and neovessel markers in the nerve grafts was substantially increased. In conclusion, G-CSF administration and BMSCs transplantation synergistically promoted the regeneration of ANX-bridged nerves, which offers a superior strategy to replace autografts in repairing peripheral nerve injuries.

Development of Islet Organoids from H9 Human Embryonic Stem Cells in Biomimetic 3D Scaffolds

Success in the differentiating human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) into insulin-secreting β cells raises new hopes for diabetes treatment. In this work, we demonstrated the feasibility of developing islet organoids from hESCs within biomimetic 3D scaffolds. We showed that such a 3D microenvironment is critical to the generation of pancreatic endoderm and endocrine from hESCs. The organoids formed consisted of pancreatic α, β, δ, and pancreatic polypeptide (PP) cells. A high-level co-expression of PDX1, NKX6.1, and NGN3 in these cells suggests the characteristics of pancreatic β cells. More importantly, most insulin-secreting cells generated did not express glucagon, somatostatin, or PP. The expression of mature β cell marker genes such as Pdx1, Ngn3, Insulin, MafA, and Glut2 was detected in these 3D-induced cell clusters. A high-level expression of C-peptide confirmed the de novo endogenous insulin production in these 3D induced cells. Insulin-secretory granules, an indication of β cell maturity, were detected in these cells as well. Glucose challenging experiments suggested that these cells are sensitive to glucose levels due to their elevated maturity. Exposing the cells to a high concentration of glucose induced a sharp increase in insulin secretion.

Combined effect of pulsed electromagnetic field and sound wave on In vitro and In vivo neural differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells

Biophysical wave stimulus has been used as an effective tool to promote cellular maturation and differentiation in the construction of engineered tissue. Pulsed electromagnetic fields (PEMFs) and sound waves have been selected as effective stimuli that can promote neural differentiation. The aim of this study was to investigate the synergistic effect of PEMFs and sound waves on the neural differentiation potential in vitro and in vivo using human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (hBM-MSCs). In vitro, neural-related genes in hBM-MSCs were accelerated by the combined exposure to both waves more than by individual exposure to PEMFs or sound waves. The combined wave also up-regulated the expression of neural and synaptic-related proteins in a three-dimensional (3-D) culture system through the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-related kinase. In a mouse model of photochemically induced ischemia, exposure to the combined wave reduced the infarction volume and improved post-injury behavioral activity. These results indicate that a combined stimulus of biophysical waves, PEMFs and sound can enhance and possibly affect the differentiation of MSCs into neural cells. Our study is meaningful for highlighting the potential of combined wave for neurogenic effects and providing new therapeutic approaches for neural cell therapy. © 2016 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 33:201-211, 2017.

Low levels of TGF-β1 enhance human umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cell fibronectin production and extend survival time in a rat model of lipopolysaccharide-induced acute lung injury

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are an attractive cellular source for cell‑based therapy, tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. However, the use of MSCs is limited by their low incorporation rate in the graft environment. The majority of cells are lost from the graft within 1 month, due to reduced microenvironment or local inflammation at the graft site. The extracellular matrix (ECM) may assist the survival and expansion of MSCs. The present study aimed to identify an effective approach to increase ECM expression levels by MSCs in order to enhance the therapeutic effect and survival rate of MSCs at the injury site. The concentration‑dependent effect of transforming growth factor (TGF)‑β1 on human umbilical cord (hUC)‑MSC proliferation and expression of ECM genes was investigated. MSCs were successfully isolated, cultured and expanded from hUC. A low concentration of TGF‑β1 (0.1 ng/ml) exhibited the optimal effect on hUC‑MSC proliferation and markedly stimulated the expression of ECM genes, particularly fibronectin (FN). Furthermore, treatment with TGF‑β1 caused no alteration in the immunophenotype and differentiation capacity of MSCs. In vivo experiments in rats demonstrated that intravenous injection of control UC-MSCs or TGF-β1-pre-treated UC-MSCs reduced the severity of lipopolysaccharide-induced lung injury, assessed using histology, measurements of the wet‑dry lung weight ratio, and neutrophil count and protein concentration in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. However, the short‑term (48 h) therapeutic effects of untreated and TGF‑β1‑pre‑treated UC‑MSCs were similar. The survival of MSCs in damaged lungs, determined by Sry gene expression levels, were significantly increased in MSCs pre‑treated with TGF‑β1. In conclusion, pre‑treatment of MSCs with a low concentration of TGF‑β1 enhanced the expression of ECM components, particularly FN, thus, improving the survival and potential therapeutic benefits of MSCs. Pre‑treatment of MSCs with TGF‑β1 may prolong the effective therapy time and represent an efficient therapeutic approach for tissue repair.

Gelatin Directly Enhances Neurogenic Differentiation Potential in Bone Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Without Stimulation of Neural Progenitor Cell Proliferation

Gelatin has been reported to induce generation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) with enhanced potential of differentiation into neuronal lineage cells. However, the presence of various cell types besides MSCs in bone marrow has raised doubts about the effects of gelatin. In the following report, we determined whether gelatin can directly enhance neurogenic differentiation potential in MSCs without proliferation of neural progenitor cells (NPCs). MSCs comprised a high proportion of bone marrow-derived primary cells (BMPCs) and gelatin induced significant increases in MSC proliferation during primary culture, and the proportion of MSCs was maintained at more than 99% throughout the subculture. However, NPCs comprised a low percentage of BMPCs and a decrease in proliferation was detected despite gelatin treatment during the primary culture, and the proportion of subcultured NPCs gradually decreased. In a similar manner, MSCs exposed to gelatin during primary culture showed more enhanced neurogenic differentiation ability than those not exposed to gelatin. Together, these results demonstrate that gelatin directly enhances neurogenic differentiation in bone marrow-derived MSCs without stimulating NPC proliferation.

Signaling of extracellular matrices for tissue regeneration and therapeutics

Cells receive important regulatory signals from their extracellular matrix (ECM) and the physical property of the ECM regulates important cellular behaviors like cell proliferation, migration and differentiation. A large part of tissue formation and regeneration depends on cellular interaction with its ECM. A comprehensive understanding of the mechanistic biochemical pathway of the ECM components is necessary for the design of a biomaterial scaffold for tissue engineering. Depending on the type of tissue, the ECM requirement might be different and this would influence its downstream intracellular cell signaling. Here, we reviewed the ECM and its signaling pathway by discussing: 1) classification of the ECM into hard, elastic and soft tissue based on its physical properties, 2) proliferation and differentiation control of the ECM, 3) roles of membrane receptor and its intracellular regulation factor, 4) ECM remodeling via inside-out signaling. By providing a comprehensive overview of the ECM's role in mechanotransduction and the self-regulatory effect of cells back on the ECM, we hope to provide a better insight of the physical and biochemical cues from the ECM. A sound understanding on the in vivo ECM has implication on the choice of materials and surface coating of biomimetic scaffolds used for tissue regeneration and therapeutics in a cell-free scaffold.

Biocompatible Mesoporous Nanotubular Structured Surface to Control Cell Behaviors and Deliver Bioactive Molecules

Biocompatible nanostructured surfaces control the cell behaviors and tissue integration process of medical devices and implants. Here we develop a novel biocompatible nanostructured surface based on mesoporous silica nanotube (MSNT) by means of an electrodeposition. MSNTs, replicated from carbon nanotubes of 25 nm × 1200 nm size, were interfaced in combination with fugitive biopolymers (chitosan or collagen) onto a Ti metallic substrate. The MSNT-biopolymer deposits uniformly covered the substrate with weight gains controllable by the electrodeposition conditions. Random nanotubular networks were generated successfully, which alongside the high mesoporosity provided unique nanotopological properties for the cell responses and the loading/delivery of biomolecules. Of note, the adhesion and spreading behaviors of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) were significantly altered, revealing more rapid cell anchorage and extensive nanofilopodia development along the nanotubular networks. Furthermore, the nanotubular surface improved the loading capacity of biomolecules (dexamethasone and bovine serum albumin) up to 5-7 times. The release of the biomolecules was highly sustained, exhibiting a diffusion-controlled pattern over 15 days. The therapeutic efficacy of the delivered biomolecules was also confirmed in the osteogenic differentiation of MSCs. While in vivo performance and applicability studies are needed further, the current biocompatible nanostructured surface may be considered as a novel biointerfacing platform to control cellular behaviors and biomolecular delivery.

Knockout of the adp gene related with colonization in Bacillus nematocida B16 using customized transcription activator-like effectors nucleases

Bacillus nematocida B16 is able to dominate in the intestines of the worm Caenorhabditis elegans in 'Trojan horse' pathogenic mechanism. The adp is one candidate gene which potentially play a vital role in the colonization from our previous random mutagenesis screening results. To analyse the functional role of this gene, we constructed the adp knockout mutant through customized transcription activator-like effectors nucleases (TALEN), which has been successfully used in yeasts, nematodes, zebrafish and human pluripotent cells. Here, we first time report this knockout method in bacteria on this paper. Bioassay experiments demonstrated that the adp knockout mutant of B16 showed considerably lower colonization activity, reduced numbers of intestines and less than 80% nematocidal activity compared with the wild-type strain when infected for 48 h. However, no obvious change on proteolytic activity was observed in the mutant. Conversely, the complementation of adp gene restored most of the above deficient phenotypes. These results indicated that the adp gene was involved in surface adhesion and played a comparatively important role in colonizing host nematodes. Moreover, TALENs successfully disrupt target genes in bacteria.

Different forms of tenascin-C with tenascin-R regulate neural differentiation in bone marrow-derived human mesenchymal stem cells

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are currently thought to transdifferentiate into neural lineages under specific microenvironments. Studies have reported that the tenascin family members, tenascin-C (TnC) and tenascin-R (TnR), regulate differentiation and migration, in addition to neurite outgrowth and survival in numerous types of neurons and mesenchymal progenitor cells. However, the mechanisms by which TnC and TnR affect neuronal differentiation are not well understood. In this study, we hypothesized that different forms of tenascin might regulate the neural transdifferentiation of human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells. Human MSCs were cultured in media incorporated with soluble tenascins, or on precoated tenascins. In a qualitative polymerase chain reaction analysis, adding a soluble TnC and TnR mixture to the medium significantly enhanced the expression of neuronal and glial markers, whereas no synaptic markers were expressed. Conversely, in groups of cells treated with coated TnC, hMSCs showed neurite outgrowth and synaptic marker expression. After being treated with coated TnR, hMSCs exhibited neuronal differentiation; however, it inhibited neurite outgrowth and synaptic marker expression. A combination of TnC and TnR significantly promoted hMSC differentiation in neurons or oligodendrocytes, induced neurite formation, and inhibited differentiation into astrocytes. Furthermore, the effect of the tenascin mixture showed dose-dependent effects, and a mixture ratio of 1:1 to 1:2 (TnC:TnR) provided the most obvious differentiation of neurons and oligodendrocytes. In a functional blocking study, integrin α7 and α9β1-blocking antibodies inhibited, respectively, 80% and 20% of mRNA expression by hMSCs in the coated tenascin mixture. In summary, the coated combination of TnC and TnR appeared to regulate neural differentiation signaling through integrin α7 and α9β1 in bone marrow-derived hMSCs. Our findings demonstrate novel mechanisms by which tenascin regulates neural differentiation, and enable the use of cell therapy to treat neurodegenerative diseases.

Fibronectin immobilization on to robotic-dispensed nanobioactive glass/polycaprolactone scaffolds for bone tissue engineering

Bioactive nanocomposite scaffolds with cell-adhesive surface have excellent bone regeneration capacities. Fibronectin (FN)-immobilized nanobioactive glass (nBG)/polycaprolactone (PCL) (FN-nBG/PCL) scaffolds with an open pore architecture were generated by a robotic-dispensing technique. The surface immobilization level of FN was significantly higher on the nBG/PCL scaffolds than on the PCL scaffolds, mainly due to the incorporated nBG that provided hydrophilic chemical-linking sites. FN-nBG/PCL scaffolds significantly improved cell responses, including initial anchorage and subsequent cell proliferation. Although further in-depth studies on cell differentiation and the in vivo animal responses are required, bioactive nanocomposite scaffolds with cell-favoring surface are considered to provide promising three-dimensional substrate for bone regeneration.

Carbon nanotube-collagen three-dimensional culture of mesenchymal stem cells promotes expression of neural phenotypes and secretion of neurotrophic factors

Microenvironments provided by three-dimensional (3-D) hydrogels mimic native tissue conditions, supplying appropriate physical cues for regulating stem cell behaviors. Here, we focused on carbon nanotubes (CNTs) dispersed within collagen hydrogels to provide 3-D microenvironmental conditions for mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in stimulating biological functions for neural regeneration. Small concentrations of CNTs (0.1-1wt.%) did not induce toxicity to MSCs, and even improved the proliferative potential of the cells. MSCs cultured within the CNT-collagen hydrogel expressed considerable levels of neural markers, including GAP43 and βIII tubulin proteins by immunostaining as well as GAP43 and synapse I genes by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Of note was that neurotrophic factors, particularly nerve growth factor and brain derived neurotrophic factor, were significantly promoted by the incorporation of CNTs as confirmed by RT-PCR and Western blot analysis. A model experiment involving neuritogenesis of PC12 cells influenced by those releasing neurotrophic factors from MSCs cultured within the CNT-collagen hydrogel demonstrated the significant enhancement in neurite outgrowth behaviors. Taken together, collagen hydrogel provides excellent 3-D conditions for MSC growth, and a small incorporation of CNTs within the hydrogel significantly stimulates MSC expression of neural markers and secretion of neurotrophic factors.

Introduction to cell-hydrogel mechanosensing

The development of hydrogel-based biomaterials represents a promising approach to generating new strategies for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. In order to develop more sophisticated cell-seeded hydrogel constructs, it is important to understand how cells mechanically interact with hydrogels. In this paper, we review the mechanisms by which cells remodel hydrogels, the influence that the hydrogel mechanical and structural properties have on cell behaviour and the role of mechanical stimulation in cell-seeded hydrogels. Cell-mediated remodelling of hydrogels is directed by several cellular processes, including adhesion, migration, contraction, degradation and extracellular matrix deposition. Variations in hydrogel stiffness, density, composition, orientation and viscoelastic characteristics all affect cell activity and phenotype. The application of mechanical force on cells encapsulated in hydrogels can also instigate changes in cell behaviour. By improving our understanding of cell-material mechano-interactions in hydrogels, this should enable a new generation of regenerative medical therapies to be developed.

Biointerface control of electrospun fiber scaffolds for bone regeneration: engineered protein link to mineralized surface

Control over the interface of biomaterials that favors the initial adhesion and subsequent differentiation of stem cells is one of the key strategies in bone tissue engineering. Here we engineer the interface of biopolymer electrospun fiber matrices with a fusion protein of fibronectin 9-10 domain (FNIII9-10) and osteocalcin (OCN), aiming to stimulate mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) functions, including initial adhesion, growth and osteogenic differentiation. In particular, a specific tethering of FNIII9-10-OCN protein was facilitated by the hydroxyapatite (HA) mineralization of the biopolymer surface through a molecular recognition of OCN to the HA crystal lattice. The FNIII9-10-OCN anchorage to the HA-mineralized fiber was observed to be highly specific and tightly bound to preserve stability over a long period. Initial cell adhesion levels, as well as the spreading shape and process, of MSCs within 24h were strikingly different between the fibers linked with and without fusion protein. Significant up-regulations in the mRNA expression of adhesion signaling molecules occurred with the fusion protein link, as analyzed by the reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. The expression of a series of osteogenic-related genes at later stages, over 2-3weeks, was significantly improved in the fusion protein-tailored fiber, and the osteogenic protein levels were highly stimulated, as confirmed by immunofluorescence imaging and fluorescence-activated cell sorting analyses. In vivo study in a rat calvarium model confirmed a higher quantity of new bone formation in the fiber linked with fusion protein, and a further increase was noticed when the MSCs were tissue-engineered with the fusion protein-linked fiber. Collectively, these results indicate that FN-OCN fusion protein links via HA mineralization is a facile tool to generate a biointerface with cell-attractive and osteogenic potential, and that the engineered fibrous matrix is a potential bone regenerative scaffold.

3D microenvironment of collagen hydrogel enhances the release of neurotrophic factors from human umbilical cord blood cells and stimulates the neurite outgrowth of human neural precursor cells

The umbilical cord blood (UCB) cells have been reported to secrete therapeutic signals, including a series of neurotrophic factors. This suggests the cell source provides suitable therapeutic environments for nerve regeneration that ultimately finds a possible cell therapy for nerve tissue. In this study, we observe a collagen hydrogel provides human UCB cells a proper 3D environment that stimulates the release of various neurotrophic factors. When compared to 2D culture, the 3D hydrogel culture significantly enhanced the expression of a series of neurotrophic factors, including neurotrophins, nerve growth factor, brain-derived neurotrophic factor, and ciliary neurotrophic factor as verified by the gene and protein analysis. To confirm the effects of neurotrophic factors secretion, we allowed an indirect interaction of the UCB-environment with human neural precursor cells (hNPCs). Results showed significantly enhanced neurite outgrowth of hNPCs. Collectively, our findings demonstrate that the collagen-based 3D hydrogel provides excellent environment for UCB-derived cells to release neurotrophic factors that will be ultimately useful for the neural repair and regeneration purposes.

The effect of differentiation induction on FAK and Src activity in live HMSCs visualized by FRET

FAK and Src signaling play important roles in cell differentiation, survival and migration. However, it remains unclear how FAK and Src activities are regulated at the initial stage of stem cell differentiation. We utilized fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET)-based FAK and Src biosensors to visualize these kinase activities at the plasma membrane of human mesenchymal stem cells (HMSCs) under the stimulation of osteogenic, myoblastic, or neural induction reagents. Our results indicate that the membrane FAK and Src activities are distinctively regulated by these differentiation induction reagents. FAK and Src activities were both up-regulated with positive feedback upon osteogenic induction, while myoblastic induction only activated Src, but not FAK. Neural induction, however, transiently activated FAK and subsequently Src, which triggered a negative feedback to partially inhibit FAK activity. These results unravel distinct regulation mechanisms of FAK and Src activities during HMSC fate decision, which should advance our understanding of stem cell differentiation in tissue engineering.

Peripheral nerve repair in rats using composite hydrogel-filled aligned nanofiber conduits with incorporated nerve growth factor

Repair of peripheral nerve defects with current synthetic, tubular nerve conduits generally shows inferior recovery when compared with using nerve autografts, the current gold standard. We tested the ability of composite collagen and hyaluronan hydrogels, with and without the nerve growth factor (NGF), to stimulate neurite extension on a promising aligned, nanofiber poly-L-lactide-co-caprolactone (PLCL) scaffold. In vitro, the hydrogels significantly increased neurite extension from dorsal root ganglia explants. Consistent with these results, the addition of hydrogels as luminal fillers within aligned, nanofiber tubular PLCL conduits led to improved sensory function compared to autograft repair in a critical-size defect in the sciatic nerve in a rat model. Sensory recovery was assessed 3 and 12 weeks after repair using a withdrawal assay from thermal stimulation. The addition of hydrogel did not enhance recovery of motor function in the rat model. The NGF led to dose-dependent improvements in neurite out-growth in vitro, but did not have a significant effect in vivo. In summary, composite collagen/hyaluronan hydrogels enhanced sensory neurite outgrowth in vitro and sensory recovery in vivo. The use of such hydrogels as luminal fillers for tubular nerve conduits may therefore be useful in assisting restoration of protective sensation following peripheral nerve injury.

Differentiation of human neural progenitor cells in functionalized hydrogel matrices

Hydrogel-based three-dimensional (3D) scaffolds are widely used in the field of regenerative medicine, translational medicine, and tissue engineering. Recently, we reported the effect of scaffold formation on the differentiation and survival of human neural progenitor cells (hNPCs) using PuraMatrix™ (RADA-16) scaffolds. Here, we were interested in the impact of PuraMatrix modified by the addition of short peptide sequences, based on a bone marrow homing factor and laminin. The culture and differentiation of the hNPCs in the modified matrices resulted in an approximately fivefold increase in neuronal cells. The examination of apoptotic and necrotic cells, as well as the level of the anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2, indicates benefits for cells hosted in the modified formulations. In addition, we found a trend to lower proportions of apoptotic or necrotic neuronal cells in the modified matrices. Interestingly, the neural progenitor cell pool was increased in all the tested matrices in comparison to the standard 2D culture system, while no difference was found between the modified matrices. We conclude that a combination of elevated neuronal differentiation and a protective effect of the modified matrices underlies the increased proportion of neuronal cells.

Comparison of neurite growth in three dimensional natural and synthetic hydrogels

Extracellular matrix incorporated within a scaffold plays an important role in assisting cell behavior in neural tissue engineering. In this study, we investigated how the concentration of fibronectin (FN) affected neurite growth when incorporated within a synthetic polymer gel made of poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) or a natural polymer gel of collagen I. Mechanical and chemical properties of the scaffold were varied by using a range of concentrations of gels and FN. Rheology was used to determine the mechanical stiffness of hydrogels and neurite length and viability were measured to evaluate cell response. In both types of gels, increasing the concentration of the base scaffold (PEG or collagen) increased the mechanical stiffness as denoted by G∗. Neurite lengths in PEG gels increased with increasing FN concentration and decreased with increasing G∗. In collagen gels, FN reduced neurite extension for the lowest concentrations of collagen (0.4-0.6 mg/mL) while FN increased neurite extension for mid and high collagen concentrations (1.0-2.0 mg/mL). The results from these two different scaffolds indicate that both stiffness and FN concentration impact the growth of the neurite and that the addition of small amounts of FN (100 μg/ml) permits PEG gels to perform on par with similar stiffness collagen gels.

Novel porous scaffolds of poly(lactic acid) produced by phase-separation using room temperature ionic liquid and the assessments of biocompatibility

Here we prepared three-dimensional (3D) porous-structured biodegradable polymer scaffolds for tissue regeneration using room temperature ionic liquids (RTILs) as a novel porogen, and addressed their biological properties, including in vitro cell growth and differentiation and in vivo tissue compatibility. RTIL based on 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium ([bmim]) bearing hydrophilic anion Cl was introduced within the polymer structure to provide a pore network. A mixture of poly(lactic acid) (PLA) with RTIL dissolved in an organic solvent formed a bi-continuous network during the drying process. Selective dissolution of the RTIL phase was facilitated in ethanol, which resulted in a porous network of the polymer phase with complete removal of the RTIL. The RTILs-assisted porous scaffolds showed a typical open-channeled network with pore sizes over 100 μm and porosities of about 86-94%. For the biocompatibility assessments of the scaffolds, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) derived from rat bone marrow were seeded onto the PLA scaffold, and the cell proliferation and osteoblastic differentiation behaviors were examined. Results showed a typical on-going increase in the cell population with a level comparable to that observed on the tissue culture plastic control, indicating good cell compatibility. When cultured in an osteogenic medium, the alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity of the cells on the PLA scaffolds was stimulated to increase with time from 7 to 14 days, in a similar manner to that on the control. Moreover, the expression of genes related to osteoblasts, including collagen type I, osteocalcin and bone sialoprotein, was stimulated on the 3D PLA scaffold during culture for up to 14 days, with levels higher than those on the control, suggesting the developed scaffold provided a 3D matrix condition for osteogenesis. An in vivo pilot study conducted subcutaneously in rat for 4 weeks revealed good tissue compatibility of the scaffold, with the ingrowth of cells and formation of collageneous tissue around and deep within the pores of the scaffold and no significant inflammatory reaction. Taken together, this novel method of using RTILs as a pore generator is considered to be useful in the development of biocompatible porous polymer scaffolds for tissue regeneration.

A biomaterials approach to peripheral nerve regeneration: bridging the peripheral nerve gap and enhancing functional recovery

Microsurgical techniques for the treatment of large peripheral nerve injuries (such as the gold standard autograft) and its main clinically approved alternative--hollow nerve guidance conduits (NGCs)--have a number of limitations that need to be addressed. NGCs, in particular, are limited to treating a relatively short nerve gap (4 cm in length) and are often associated with poor functional recovery. Recent advances in biomaterials and tissue engineering approaches are seeking to overcome the limitations associated with these treatment methods. This review critically discusses the advances in biomaterial-based NGCs, their limitations and where future improvements may be required. Recent developments include the incorporation of topographical guidance features and/or intraluminal structures, which attempt to guide Schwann cell (SC) migration and axonal regrowth towards their distal targets. The use of such strategies requires consideration of the size and distribution of these topographical features, as well as a suitable surface for cell-material interactions. Likewise, cellular and molecular-based therapies are being considered for the creation of a more conductive nerve microenvironment. For example, hurdles associated with the short half-lives and low stability of molecular therapies are being surmounted through the use of controlled delivery systems. Similarly, cells (SCs, stem cells and genetically modified cells) are being delivered with biomaterial matrices in attempts to control their dispersion and to facilitate their incorporation within the host regeneration process. Despite recent advances in peripheral nerve repair, there are a number of key factors that need to be considered in order for these new technologies to reach the clinic.