1
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Yslas AR, Park R, Nishimura N, Lee E. Monomeric and oligomeric amyloid-β cause distinct Alzheimer's disease pathophysiological characteristics in astrocytes in human glymphatics-on-chip models. LAB ON A CHIP 2024; 24:3826-3839. [PMID: 39037244 DOI: 10.1039/d4lc00287c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is marked by the aggregation of extracellular amyloid-β (Aβ) and astrocyte dysfunction. For Aβ oligomers or aggregates to be formed, there must be Aβ monomers present; however, the roles of monomeric Aβ (mAβ) and oligomeric Aβ (oAβ) in astrocyte pathogenesis are poorly understood. We cultured astrocytes in a brain-mimicking three-dimensional (3D) extracellular matrix and revealed that both mAβ and oAβ caused astrocytic atrophy and hyper-reactivity, but showed distinct Ca2+ changes in astrocytes. This 3D culture evolved into a microfluidic glymphatics-on-chip model containing astrocytes and endothelial cells with the interstitial fluid (ISF). The glymphatics-on-chip model not only reproduced the astrocytic atrophy, hyper-reactivity, and Ca2+ changes induced by mAβ and oAβ, but recapitulated that the components of the dystrophin-associated complex (DAC) and aquaporin-4 (AQP4) were properly maintained by the ISF, and dysregulated by mAβ and oAβ. Collectively, mAβ and oAβ cause distinct AD pathophysiological characteristics in the astrocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aria R Yslas
- Nancy E. and Peter C. Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA.
| | - Rena Park
- Nancy E. and Peter C. Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA.
| | - Nozomi Nishimura
- Nancy E. and Peter C. Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA.
| | - Esak Lee
- Nancy E. and Peter C. Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA.
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2
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Peng AY, Lee BE. Microphysiological Systems for Cancer Immunotherapy Research and Development. Adv Biol (Weinh) 2024; 8:e2300077. [PMID: 37409385 PMCID: PMC10770294 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.202300077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy focuses on the use of patients' adaptive immune systems to combat cancer. In the past decade, FDA has approved many immunotherapy products for cancer patients who suffer from primary tumors, tumor relapse, and metastases. However, these immunotherapies still show resistance in many patients and often lead to inconsistent responses in patients due to variations in tumor genetic mutations and tumor immune microenvironment. Microfluidics-based organ-on-a-chip technologies or microphysiological systems have opened new ways that can provide relatively fast screening for personalized immunotherapy and help researchers and clinicians understand tumor-immune interactions in a patient-specific manner. They also have the potential to overcome the limitations of traditional drug screening and testing, given the models provide a more realistic 3D microenvironment with better controllability, reproducibility, and physiological relevance. This review focuses on the cutting-edge microphysiological organ-on-a-chip devices developed in recent years for studying cancer immunity and testing cancer immunotherapeutic agents, as well as some of the largest challenges of translating this technology to clinical applications in immunotherapy and personalized medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. Yansong Peng
- Nancy E. and Peter C. Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - B. Esak Lee
- Nancy E. and Peter C. Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
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3
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Doherty EL, Krohn G, Warren EC, Patton A, Whitworth CP, Rathod M, Biehl A, Aw WY, Freytes DO, Polacheck WJ. Human Cell-Derived Matrix Composite Hydrogels with Diverse Composition for Use in Vasculature-on-chip Models. Adv Healthc Mater 2024; 13:e2400192. [PMID: 38518808 PMCID: PMC11281875 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202400192] [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: 02/16/2024] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/24/2024]
Abstract
Microphysiological and organ-on-chip platforms seek to address critical gaps in human disease models and drug development that underlie poor rates of clinical success for novel interventions. While the fabrication technology and model cells used to synthesize organs-on-chip have advanced considerably, most platforms rely on animal-derived or synthetic extracellular matrix as a cell substrate, limiting mimicry of human physiology and precluding use in modeling diseases in which matrix dynamics play a role in pathogenesis. Here, the development of human cell-derived matrix (hCDM) composite hydrogels for use in 3D microphysiologic models of the vasculature is reported. hCDM composite hydrogels are derived from human donor fibroblasts and maintain a complex milieu of basement membrane, proteoglycans, and nonfibrillar matrix components. The use of hCDM composite hydrogels as 2D and 3D cell culture substrates is demonstrated, and hCDM composite hydrogels are patterned to form engineered human microvessels. Interestingly, hCDM composite hydrogels are enriched in proteins associated with vascular morphogenesis as determined by mass spectrometry, and functional analysis demonstrates proangiogenic signatures in human endothelial cells cultured in these hydrogels. In conclusion, this study suggests that human donor-derived hCDM composite hydrogels could address technical gaps in human organs-on-chip development and serve as substrates to promote vascularization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth L Doherty
- The Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, 10010 Mary Ellen Jones Building, 116 Manning Drive, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, USA
| | - Grace Krohn
- The Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, 10010 Mary Ellen Jones Building, 116 Manning Drive, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, USA
| | - Emily C Warren
- The Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, 10010 Mary Ellen Jones Building, 116 Manning Drive, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, USA
| | - Alexandra Patton
- The Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, 10010 Mary Ellen Jones Building, 116 Manning Drive, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, USA
| | - Chloe P Whitworth
- Curriculum in Genetics and Molecular Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, 130 Mason Farm Road, Chapel Hill, Carolina, NC 27599, USA
| | - Mitesh Rathod
- The Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, 10010 Mary Ellen Jones Building, 116 Manning Drive, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, USA
| | - Andreea Biehl
- The Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, 10010 Mary Ellen Jones Building, 116 Manning Drive, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, USA
| | - Wen Yih Aw
- The Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, 10010 Mary Ellen Jones Building, 116 Manning Drive, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, USA
| | - Donald O Freytes
- The Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, 10010 Mary Ellen Jones Building, 116 Manning Drive, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, USA
| | - William J Polacheck
- The Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, 10010 Mary Ellen Jones Building, 116 Manning Drive, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, USA
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, 111 Mason Farm Road, Chapel Hill, Carolina, NC 27599, USA
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4
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Wang Q, Yang Y, Chen Z, Li B, Niu Y, Li X. Lymph Node-on-Chip Technology: Cutting-Edge Advances in Immune Microenvironment Simulation. Pharmaceutics 2024; 16:666. [PMID: 38794327 PMCID: PMC11124897 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16050666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2024] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Organ-on-a-chip technology is attracting growing interest across various domains as a crucial platform for drug screening and testing and is set to play a significant role in precision medicine research. Lymph nodes, being intricately structured organs essential for the body's adaptive immune responses to antigens and foreign particles, are pivotal in assessing the immunotoxicity of novel pharmaceuticals. Significant progress has been made in research on the structure and function of the lymphatic system. However, there is still an urgent need to develop prospective tools and techniques to delve deeper into its role in various diseases' pathological and physiological processes and to develop corresponding immunotherapeutic therapies. Organ chips can accurately reproduce the specific functional areas in lymph nodes to better simulate the complex microstructure of lymph nodes and the interactions between different immune cells, which is convenient for studying specific biological processes. This paper reviews existing lymph node chips and their design approaches. It discusses the applications of the above systems in modeling immune cell motility, cell-cell interactions, vaccine responses, drug testing, and cancer research. Finally, we summarize the challenges that current research faces in terms of structure, cell source, and extracellular matrix simulation of lymph nodes, and we provide an outlook on the future direction of integrated immune system chips.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Xiaoqiong Li
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Separation and Analysis in Biomedicine and Pharmaceuticals, School of Medical Technology, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China; (Q.W.); (Y.Y.); (Z.C.); (B.L.); (Y.N.)
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5
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Arif S, Richer M, Larochelle S, Moulin VJ. Microvesicles derived from dermal myofibroblasts modify the integrity of the blood and lymphatic barriers using distinct endocytosis pathways. JOURNAL OF EXTRACELLULAR BIOLOGY 2024; 3:e151. [PMID: 38939570 PMCID: PMC11080715 DOI: 10.1002/jex2.151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
Microvesicles (MVs) are a subtype of extracellular vesicles that can transfer biological information from their producer cells to target cells. This communication can in turn affect both normal and pathological processes. Mounting evidence has revealed that dermal wound myofibroblasts (Wmyo) produce MVs, which can transfer biomolecules impacting receptor cells such as human dermal microvascular endothelial cells (HDMECs). While the effects of MVs on HDMECs are generally well described in the literature, little is known about the transport of MVs across the HDMEC barrier, and their potential effect on the barrier integrity remains unknown. Here, we investigated these roles of Wmyo-derived MVs on two sub-populations of HDMECs, blood endothelial cells (BECs) and lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs). Using an in vitro model to mimic the endothelial barrier, we showed that MVs crossed the LEC barrier but not the BEC barrier. In addition, we demonstrated that MVs were able to influence the cell-cell junctions of HDMECs. Specifically, we observed that after internalization via the predominantly caveolin-dependent pathway, MVs induced the opening of junctions in BECs. Conversely, in LECs, MVs mainly use the macropinocytosis pathway and induce closure of these junctions. Moreover, proteins in the MV membrane were responsible for this effect, but not specifically those belonging to the VEGF family. Finally, we found that once the LEC barrier permeability was reduced by MV stimuli, MVs ceased to cross the barrier. Conversely, when the BEC barrier was rendered permeable following stimulation with MVs, they were subsequently able to cross the barrier via the paracellular pathway. Taken together, these results suggest that the study of Wmyo-derived MVs offers valuable insights into their interaction with the HDMEC barrier in the context of wound healing. They highlight the potential significance of these MVs in the overall process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syrine Arif
- Centre de recherche en organogénèse expérimentale de l'Université Laval/LOEXCentre de recherche du CHU de Québec‐Université LavalQuebecCanada
| | - Megan Richer
- Centre de recherche en organogénèse expérimentale de l'Université Laval/LOEXCentre de recherche du CHU de Québec‐Université LavalQuebecCanada
| | - Sébastien Larochelle
- Centre de recherche en organogénèse expérimentale de l'Université Laval/LOEXCentre de recherche du CHU de Québec‐Université LavalQuebecCanada
| | - Véronique J. Moulin
- Centre de recherche en organogénèse expérimentale de l'Université Laval/LOEXCentre de recherche du CHU de Québec‐Université LavalQuebecCanada
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of MedicineUniversité LavalQuebecCanada
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6
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Choi D, Park E, Choi J, Lu R, Yu JS, Kim C, Zhao L, Yu J, Nakashima B, Lee S, Singhal D, Scallan JP, Zhou B, Koh CJ, Lee E, Hong YK. Piezo1 regulates meningeal lymphatic vessel drainage and alleviates excessive CSF accumulation. Nat Neurosci 2024; 27:913-926. [PMID: 38528202 PMCID: PMC11088999 DOI: 10.1038/s41593-024-01604-8] [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: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
Piezo1 regulates multiple aspects of the vascular system by converting mechanical signals generated by fluid flow into biological processes. Here, we find that Piezo1 is necessary for the proper development and function of meningeal lymphatic vessels and that activating Piezo1 through transgenic overexpression or treatment with the chemical agonist Yoda1 is sufficient to increase cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) outflow by improving lymphatic absorption and transport. The abnormal accumulation of CSF, which often leads to hydrocephalus and ventriculomegaly, currently lacks effective treatments. We discovered that meningeal lymphatics in mouse models of Down syndrome were incompletely developed and abnormally formed. Selective overexpression of Piezo1 in lymphatics or systemic administration of Yoda1 in mice with hydrocephalus or Down syndrome resulted in a notable decrease in pathological CSF accumulation, ventricular enlargement and other associated disease symptoms. Together, our study highlights the importance of Piezo1-mediated lymphatic mechanotransduction in maintaining brain fluid drainage and identifies Piezo1 as a promising therapeutic target for treating excessive CSF accumulation and ventricular enlargement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongwon Choi
- Department of Surgery, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Eunkyung Park
- Department of Surgery, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Joshua Choi
- Department of Surgery, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Renhao Lu
- Nancy E. and Peter C. Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Jin Suh Yu
- Department of Surgery, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Chiyoon Kim
- Department of Surgery, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Luping Zhao
- Department of Surgery, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - James Yu
- Department of Surgery, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Brandon Nakashima
- Department of Surgery, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Sunju Lee
- Department of Surgery, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Dhruv Singhal
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Joshua P Scallan
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Bin Zhou
- New Cornerstone Science Laboratory, State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Chester J Koh
- Division of Pediatric Urology, Texas Children's Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Esak Lee
- Nancy E. and Peter C. Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Young-Kwon Hong
- Department of Surgery, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
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7
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Gaudreau LI, Stewart EJ. Vasculature-on-a-chip technologies as platforms for advanced studies of bacterial infections. BIOMICROFLUIDICS 2024; 18:021503. [PMID: 38560344 PMCID: PMC10977040 DOI: 10.1063/5.0179281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Bacterial infections frequently occur within or near the vascular network as the vascular network connects organ systems and is essential in delivering and removing blood, essential nutrients, and waste products to and from organs. In turn, the vasculature plays a key role in the host immune response to bacterial infections. Technological advancements in microfluidic device design and development have yielded increasingly sophisticated and physiologically relevant models of the vasculature including vasculature-on-a-chip and organ-on-a-chip models. This review aims to highlight advancements in microfluidic device development that have enabled studies of the vascular response to bacteria and bacterial-derived molecules at or near the vascular interface. In the first section of this review, we discuss the use of parallel plate flow chambers and flow cells in studies of bacterial adhesion to the vasculature. We then highlight microfluidic models of the vasculature that have been utilized to study bacteria and bacterial-derived molecules at or near the vascular interface. Next, we review organ-on-a-chip models inclusive of the vasculature and pathogenic bacteria or bacterial-derived molecules that stimulate an inflammatory response within the model system. Finally, we provide recommendations for future research in advancing the understanding of host-bacteria interactions and responses during infections as well as in developing innovative antimicrobials for preventing and treating bacterial infections that capitalize on technological advancements in microfluidic device design and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lily Isabelle Gaudreau
- Chemical Engineering, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Worcester, Massachusetts 01609, USA
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8
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Alve S, Gramolelli S, Jukonen J, Juteau S, Pink A, Manninen AA, Hänninen S, Monto E, Lackman MH, Carpén O, Saharinen P, Karaman S, Vaahtomeri K, Ojala PM. DLL4/Notch3/WNT5B axis mediates bidirectional prometastatic crosstalk between melanoma and lymphatic endothelial cells. JCI Insight 2024; 9:e171821. [PMID: 37971882 PMCID: PMC10906450 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.171821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite strong indications that interactions between melanoma and lymphatic vessels actively promote melanoma progression, the molecular mechanisms are not yet completely understood. To characterize molecular factors of this crosstalk, we established human primary lymphatic endothelial cell (LEC) cocultures with human melanoma cell lines. Here, we show that coculture with melanoma cells induced transcriptomic changes in LECs and led to multiple changes in their function. WNT5B, a paracrine signaling molecule upregulated in melanoma cells upon LEC interaction, was found to contribute to the functional changes in LECs. Moreover, WNT5B transcription was regulated by Notch3 in melanoma cells following the coculture with LECs, and Notch3 and WNT5B were coexpressed in melanoma patient primary tumor and metastasis samples. Moreover, melanoma cells derived from LEC coculture escaped efficiently from the primary site to the proximal tumor-draining lymph nodes, which was impaired upon WNT5B depletion. This supported the role of WNT5B in promoting the metastatic potential of melanoma cells through its effects on LECs. Finally, DLL4, a Notch ligand expressed in LECs, was identified as an upstream inducer of the Notch3/WNT5B axis in melanoma. This study elucidated WNT5B as a key molecular factor mediating bidirectional crosstalk between melanoma cells and lymphatic endothelium and promoting melanoma metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanni Alve
- Translational Cancer Medicine Research Program, Research Programs Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Silvia Gramolelli
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, Cell Biology, Åbo Akademi University, Turku, Finland
- Turku Bioscience Centre, University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University, Turku, Finland
| | - Joonas Jukonen
- Translational Cancer Medicine Research Program, Research Programs Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Susanna Juteau
- Department of Pathology, Helsinki University Hospital (HUS), University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Anne Pink
- Translational Cancer Medicine Research Program, Research Programs Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Atte A. Manninen
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Park Hospital, Helsinki University Hospital (HUS), and
| | - Satu Hänninen
- Department of Pathology, Helsinki University Hospital (HUS), University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Elisa Monto
- Translational Cancer Medicine Research Program, Research Programs Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Madeleine H. Lackman
- Individualized Drug Therapy Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Olli Carpén
- Helsinki Biobank, and
- Department of Pathology and Research Program in Systems Oncology, University of Helsinki, HUS Diagnostic Center, Helsinki University Hospital, Finland
| | - Pipsa Saharinen
- Translational Cancer Medicine Research Program, Research Programs Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Wihuri Research Institute, Biomedicum, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Biochemistry and Developmental Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Sinem Karaman
- Individualized Drug Therapy Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Wihuri Research Institute, Biomedicum, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Kari Vaahtomeri
- Translational Cancer Medicine Research Program, Research Programs Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Wihuri Research Institute, Biomedicum, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Päivi M. Ojala
- Translational Cancer Medicine Research Program, Research Programs Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Pathology, Helsinki University Hospital (HUS), University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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9
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Czarnowska E, Ratajska A, Jankowska-Steifer E, Flaht-Zabost A, Niderla-Bielińska J. Extracellular matrix molecules associated with lymphatic vessels in health and disease. Histol Histopathol 2024; 39:13-34. [PMID: 37350542 DOI: 10.14670/hh-18-641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/24/2023]
Abstract
Lymphatic vessels (LyVs), responsible for fluid, solute, and immune cell homeostasis in the body, are closely associated with the adjacent extracellular matrix (ECM) molecules whose structural and functional impact on LyVs is currently more appreciated, albeit not entirely elucidated. These molecules, serving as a platform for various connective tissue cell activities and affecting LyV biology should be considered also as an integral part of the lymphatic system. Any alterations and changes in ECM molecules over the course of disease impair the function and structure of the LyV network. Remodeling of LyV cells, which are components of lymphatic vessel walls, also triggers alterations in ECM molecules and interstitial tissue composition. Therefore, in this review we aimed to present the current knowledge on ECM in tissues and particularly on molecules surrounding lymphatics in normal conditions and in disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anna Ratajska
- Department of Pathology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Ewa Jankowska-Steifer
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
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10
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Kraus S, Lee E. A human initial lymphatic chip reveals distinct mechanisms of primary lymphatic valve dysfunction in acute and chronic inflammation. LAB ON A CHIP 2023; 23:5180-5194. [PMID: 37981867 PMCID: PMC10908576 DOI: 10.1039/d3lc00486d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2023]
Abstract
Interstitial fluid uptake and retention by lymphatic vessels (LVs) play a role in maintaining interstitial fluid homeostasis. While it is well-established that intraluminal lymphatic valves in the collecting LVs prevent fluid backflow (secondary lymphatic valves), a separate valve system in the initial LVs that only permits interstitial fluid influx into the LVs, preventing fluid leakage back to the interstitium (primary lymphatic valves), remains incompletely understood. Although lymphatic dysfunction is commonly observed in inflammation and autoimmune diseases, how the primary lymphatic valves are affected by acute and chronic inflammation has scarcely been explored and even less so using in vitro lymphatic models. Here, we developed a human initial lymphatic vessel chip where interstitial fluid pressure and luminal fluid pressure are controlled to examine primary lymph valve function. In normal conditions, lymphatic drainage (fluid uptake) and permeability (fluid leakage) in engineered LVs were maintained high and low, respectively, which was consistent with our understanding of healthy primary lymph valves. Next, we examined the effects of acute and chronic inflammation. Under the acute inflammation condition with a TNF-α treatment (2 hours), degradation of fibrillin and impeded lymphatic drainage were observed, which were reversed by treatment with anti-inflammatory dexamethasone. Surprisingly, the chronic inflammation condition (repeated TNF-α treatments during 48 hours) deposited fibrillin to compensate for the fibrillin loss, showing no change in lymphatic drainage. Instead, the chronic inflammation condition led to cell death and disruption of lymphatic endothelial cell-cell junctions, increasing lymphatic permeability and fluid leakage. Our human lymphatic model shows two distinct mechanisms by which primary lymphatic valve dysfunction occurs in acute and chronic inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Kraus
- Nancy E. and Peter C. Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA.
| | - Esak Lee
- Nancy E. and Peter C. Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA.
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11
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Lee E, Chan SL, Lee Y, Polacheck WJ, Kwak S, Wen A, Nguyen DHT, Kutys ML, Alimperti S, Kolarzyk AM, Kwak TJ, Eyckmans J, Bielenberg DR, Chen H, Chen CS. A 3D biomimetic model of lymphatics reveals cell-cell junction tightening and lymphedema via a cytokine-induced ROCK2/JAM-A complex. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2308941120. [PMID: 37782785 PMCID: PMC10576061 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2308941120] [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: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Impaired lymphatic drainage and lymphedema are major morbidities whose mechanisms have remained obscure. To study lymphatic drainage and its impairment, we engineered a microfluidic culture model of lymphatic vessels draining interstitial fluid. This lymphatic drainage-on-chip revealed that inflammatory cytokines that are known to disrupt blood vessel junctions instead tightened lymphatic cell-cell junctions and impeded lymphatic drainage. This opposing response was further demonstrated when inhibition of rho-associated protein kinase (ROCK) was found to normalize fluid drainage under cytokine challenge by simultaneously loosening lymphatic junctions and tightening blood vessel junctions. Studies also revealed a previously undescribed shift in ROCK isoforms in lymphatic endothelial cells, wherein a ROCK2/junctional adhesion molecule-A (JAM-A) complex emerges that is responsible for the cytokine-induced lymphatic junction zippering. To validate these in vitro findings, we further demonstrated in a genetic mouse model that lymphatic-specific knockout of ROCK2 reversed lymphedema in vivo. These studies provide a unique platform to generate interstitial fluid pressure and measure the drainage of interstitial fluid into lymphatics and reveal a previously unappreciated ROCK2-mediated mechanism in regulating lymphatic drainage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esak Lee
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA02115
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Biological Design Center, Boston University, Boston, MA02215
- Nancy E. and Peter C. Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY14853
| | - Siu-Lung Chan
- Vascular Biology Program, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA02115
| | - Yang Lee
- Vascular Biology Program, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA02115
| | - William J. Polacheck
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA02115
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Biological Design Center, Boston University, Boston, MA02215
| | - Sukyoung Kwak
- Vascular Biology Program, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA02115
| | - Aiyun Wen
- Vascular Biology Program, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA02115
| | - Duc-Huy T. Nguyen
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA02115
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Biological Design Center, Boston University, Boston, MA02215
| | - Matthew L. Kutys
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA02115
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Biological Design Center, Boston University, Boston, MA02215
| | - Stella Alimperti
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA02115
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Biological Design Center, Boston University, Boston, MA02215
| | - Anna M. Kolarzyk
- Nancy E. and Peter C. Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY14853
| | - Tae Joon Kwak
- Nancy E. and Peter C. Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY14853
| | - Jeroen Eyckmans
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA02115
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Biological Design Center, Boston University, Boston, MA02215
| | - Diane R. Bielenberg
- Vascular Biology Program, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA02115
| | - Hong Chen
- Vascular Biology Program, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA02115
| | - Christopher S. Chen
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA02115
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Biological Design Center, Boston University, Boston, MA02215
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12
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Juste-Lanas Y, Hervas-Raluy S, García-Aznar JM, González-Loyola A. Fluid flow to mimic organ function in 3D in vitro models. APL Bioeng 2023; 7:031501. [PMID: 37547671 PMCID: PMC10404142 DOI: 10.1063/5.0146000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Many different strategies can be found in the literature to model organ physiology, tissue functionality, and disease in vitro; however, most of these models lack the physiological fluid dynamics present in vivo. Here, we highlight the importance of fluid flow for tissue homeostasis, specifically in vessels, other lumen structures, and interstitium, to point out the need of perfusion in current 3D in vitro models. Importantly, the advantages and limitations of the different current experimental fluid-flow setups are discussed. Finally, we shed light on current challenges and future focus of fluid flow models applied to the newest bioengineering state-of-the-art platforms, such as organoids and organ-on-a-chip, as the most sophisticated and physiological preclinical platforms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Silvia Hervas-Raluy
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Engineering Research Institute of Aragón (I3A), University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
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13
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Ilan IS, Yslas AR, Peng Y, Lu R, Lee E. A 3D Human Lymphatic Vessel-on-Chip Reveals the Roles of Interstitial Flow and VEGF-A/C for Lymphatic Sprouting and Discontinuous Junction Formation. Cell Mol Bioeng 2023; 16:325-339. [PMID: 37811004 PMCID: PMC10550886 DOI: 10.1007/s12195-023-00780-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Lymphatic vessels (LVs) maintain fluid homeostasis by draining excess interstitial fluid, which is accomplished by two distinct LVs: initial LVs and collecting LVs. The interstitial fluid is first drained into the initial LVs through permeable "button-like" lymphatic endothelial cell (LEC) junctions. Next, the drained fluid ("lymph") transports to lymph nodes through the collecting LVs with less permeable "zipper-like" junctions that minimize loss of lymph. Despite the significance of LEC junctions in lymphatic drainage and transport, it remains unclear how luminal or interstitial flow affects LEC junctions in vascular endothelial growth factors A and C (VEGF-A and VEGF-C) conditions. Moreover, it remains unclear how these flow and growth factor conditions impact lymphatic sprouting. Methods We developed a 3D human lymphatic vessel-on-chip that can generate four different flow conditions (no flow, luminal flow, interstitial flow, both luminal and interstitial flow) to allow an engineered, rudimentary LV to experience those flows and respond to them in VEGF-A/C. Results We examined LEC junction discontinuities, lymphatic sprouting, LEC junction thicknesses, and cell contractility-dependent vessel diameters in the four different flow conditions in VEGF-A/C. We discovered that interstitial flow in VEGF-C generates discontinuous LEC junctions that may be similar to the button-like junctions with no lymphatic sprouting. However, interstitial flow or both luminal and interstitial flow stimulated lymphatic sprouting in VEGF-A, maintaining zipper-like LEC junctions. LEC junction thickness and cell contractility-dependent vessel diameters were not changed by those conditions. Conclusions In this study, we provide an engineered lymphatic vessel platform that can generate four different flow regimes and reveal the roles of interstitial flow and VEGF-A/C for lymphatic sprouting and discontinuous junction formation. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12195-023-00780-0.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabelle S. Ilan
- Nancy E. and Peter C. Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853 USA
- College of Human Ecology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853 USA
| | - Aria R. Yslas
- Nancy E. and Peter C. Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853 USA
| | - Yansong Peng
- Nancy E. and Peter C. Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853 USA
| | - Renhao Lu
- Nancy E. and Peter C. Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853 USA
| | - Esak Lee
- Nancy E. and Peter C. Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853 USA
- Nancy E. and Peter C. Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, Cornell University, 302 Weill Hall, 237 Tower Road, Ithaca, NY 14853 USA
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14
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Ejazi SA, Louisthelmy R, Maisel K. Mechanisms of Nanoparticle Transport across Intestinal Tissue: An Oral Delivery Perspective. ACS NANO 2023. [PMID: 37410891 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c02403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/08/2023]
Abstract
Oral drug administration has been a popular choice due to patient compliance and limited clinical resources. Orally delivered drugs must circumvent the harsh gastrointestinal (GI) environment to effectively enter the systemic circulation. The GI tract has a number of structural and physiological barriers that limit drug bioavailability including mucus, the tightly regulated epithelial layer, immune cells, and associated vasculature. Nanoparticles have been used to enhance oral bioavailability of drugs, as they can act as a shield to the harsh GI environment and prevent early degradation while also increasing uptake and transport of drugs across the intestinal epithelium. Evidence suggests that different nanoparticle formulations may be transported via different intracellular mechanisms to cross the intestinal epithelium. Despite the existence of a significant body of work on intestinal transport of nanoparticles, many key questions remain: What causes the poor bioavailability of the oral drugs? What factors contribute to the ability of a nanoparticle to cross different intestinal barriers? Do nanoparticle properties such as size and charge influence the type of endocytic pathways taken? In this Review, we summarize the different components of intestinal barriers and the types of nanoparticles developed for oral delivery. In particular, we focus on the various intracellular pathways used in nanoparticle internalization and nanoparticle or cargo translocation across the epithelium. Understanding the gut barrier, nanoparticle characteristics, and transport pathways may lead to the development of more therapeutically useful nanoparticles as drug carriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarfaraz Ahmad Ejazi
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, 3120 A. James Clark Hall, College Park, Maryland 20742, United States
| | - Rebecca Louisthelmy
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, 3120 A. James Clark Hall, College Park, Maryland 20742, United States
| | - Katharina Maisel
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, 3120 A. James Clark Hall, College Park, Maryland 20742, United States
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15
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Ozulumba T, Montalbine AN, Ortiz-Cárdenas JE, Pompano RR. New tools for immunologists: models of lymph node function from cells to tissues. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1183286. [PMID: 37234163 PMCID: PMC10206051 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1183286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The lymph node is a highly structured organ that mediates the body's adaptive immune response to antigens and other foreign particles. Central to its function is the distinct spatial assortment of lymphocytes and stromal cells, as well as chemokines that drive the signaling cascades which underpin immune responses. Investigations of lymph node biology were historically explored in vivo in animal models, using technologies that were breakthroughs in their time such as immunofluorescence with monoclonal antibodies, genetic reporters, in vivo two-photon imaging, and, more recently spatial biology techniques. However, new approaches are needed to enable tests of cell behavior and spatiotemporal dynamics under well controlled experimental perturbation, particularly for human immunity. This review presents a suite of technologies, comprising in vitro, ex vivo and in silico models, developed to study the lymph node or its components. We discuss the use of these tools to model cell behaviors in increasing order of complexity, from cell motility, to cell-cell interactions, to organ-level functions such as vaccination. Next, we identify current challenges regarding cell sourcing and culture, real time measurements of lymph node behavior in vivo and tool development for analysis and control of engineered cultures. Finally, we propose new research directions and offer our perspective on the future of this rapidly growing field. We anticipate that this review will be especially beneficial to immunologists looking to expand their toolkit for probing lymph node structure and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tochukwu Ozulumba
- Department of Chemistry, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
| | - Alyssa N. Montalbine
- Department of Chemistry, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Jennifer E. Ortiz-Cárdenas
- Department of Chemistry, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Rebecca R. Pompano
- Department of Chemistry, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
- Carter Immunology Center and University of Virginia (UVA) Cancer Center, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, United States
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16
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Bogseth A, Ramirez A, Vaughan E, Maisel K. In Vitro Models of Blood and Lymphatic Vessels-Connecting Tissues and Immunity. Adv Biol (Weinh) 2023; 7:e2200041. [PMID: 35751460 PMCID: PMC9790046 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.202200041] [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: 02/18/2022] [Revised: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Blood and lymphatic vessels are regulators of physiological processes, including oxygenation and fluid transport. Both vessels are ubiquitous throughout the body and are critical for sustaining tissue homeostasis. The complexity of each vessel's processes has limited the understanding of exactly how the vessels maintain their functions. Both vessels have been shown to be involved in the pathogenesis of many diseases, including cancer metastasis, and it is crucial to probe further specific mechanisms involved. In vitro models are developed to better understand blood and lymphatic physiological functions and their mechanisms. In this review, blood and lymphatic in vitro model systems, including 2D and 3D designs made using Transwells, microfluidic devices, organoid cultures, and various other methods, are described. Models studying endothelial cell-extracellular matrix interactions, endothelial barrier properties, transendothelial transport and cell migration, lymph/angiogenesis, vascular inflammation, and endothelial-cancer cell interactions are particularly focused. While the field has made significant progress in modeling and understanding lymphatic and blood vasculature, more models that include coculture of multiple cell types, complex extracellular matrix, and 3D morphologies, particularly for models mimicking disease states, will help further the understanding of the role of blood and lymphatic vasculature in health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Bogseth
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742
| | - Ann Ramirez
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742
| | - Erik Vaughan
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742
| | - Katharina Maisel
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742
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17
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Suarez AC, Hammel JH, Munson JM. Modeling lymphangiogenesis: Pairing in vitro and in vivo metrics. Microcirculation 2023; 30:e12802. [PMID: 36760223 PMCID: PMC10121924 DOI: 10.1111/micc.12802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Revised: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
Lymphangiogenesis is the mechanism by which the lymphatic system develops and expands new vessels facilitating fluid drainage and immune cell trafficking. Models to study lymphangiogenesis are necessary for a better understanding of the underlying mechanisms and to identify or test new therapeutic agents that target lymphangiogenesis. Across the lymphatic literature, multiple models have been developed to study lymphangiogenesis in vitro and in vivo. In vitro, lymphangiogenesis can be modeled with varying complexity, from monolayers to hydrogels to explants, with common metrics for characterizing proliferation, migration, and sprouting of lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs) and vessels. In comparison, in vivo models of lymphangiogenesis often use genetically modified zebrafish and mice, with in situ mouse models in the ear, cornea, hind leg, and tail. In vivo metrics, such as activation of LECs, number of new lymphatic vessels, and sprouting, mirror those most used in vitro, with the addition of lymphatic vessel hyperplasia and drainage. The impacts of lymphangiogenesis vary by context of tissue and pathology. Therapeutic targeting of lymphangiogenesis can have paradoxical effects depending on the pathology including lymphedema, cancer, organ transplant, and inflammation. In this review, we describe and compare lymphangiogenic outcomes and metrics between in vitro and in vivo studies, specifically reviewing only those publications in which both testing formats are used. We find that in vitro studies correlate well with in vivo in wound healing and development, but not in the reproductive tract or the complex tumor microenvironment. Considerations for improving in vitro models are to increase complexity with perfusable microfluidic devices, co-cultures with tissue-specific support cells, the inclusion of fluid flow, and pairing in vitro models of differing complexities. We believe that these changes would strengthen the correlation between in vitro and in vivo outcomes, giving more insight into lymphangiogenesis in healthy and pathological states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aileen C. Suarez
- Fralin Biomedical Research Institute, Virginia Tech, Roanoke, VA
- Virginia Tech-Wake Forest School of Biomedical Engineering and Sciences, Department of Biomedical Engineering & Mechanics, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA
| | - Jennifer H. Hammel
- Fralin Biomedical Research Institute, Virginia Tech, Roanoke, VA
- Virginia Tech-Wake Forest School of Biomedical Engineering and Sciences, Department of Biomedical Engineering & Mechanics, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA
| | - Jennifer M. Munson
- Fralin Biomedical Research Institute, Virginia Tech, Roanoke, VA
- Virginia Tech-Wake Forest School of Biomedical Engineering and Sciences, Department of Biomedical Engineering & Mechanics, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA
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18
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Kraus SE, Lee E. Engineering approaches to investigate the roles of lymphatics vessels in rheumatoid arthritis. Microcirculation 2023; 30:e12769. [PMID: 35611452 PMCID: PMC9684355 DOI: 10.1111/micc.12769] [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: 03/08/2022] [Revised: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is one of the most common chronic inflammatory joint disorders. While our understanding of the autoimmune processes that lead to synovial degradation has improved, a majority of patients are still resistant to current treatments and require new therapeutics. An understudied and promising area for therapy involves the roles of lymphatic vessels (LVs) in RA progression, which has been observed to have a significant effect on mediating chronic inflammation. RA disease progression has been shown to correlate with dramatic changes in LV structure and interstitial fluid drainage, manifesting in the retention of distinct immune cell phenotypes within the synovium. Advances in dynamic imaging technologies have demonstrated that LVs in RA undergo an initial expansion phase of increased LVs and abnormal contractions followed by a collapsed phase of reduced lymphatic function and immune cell clearance in vivo. However, current animal models of RA fail to decouple biological and biophysical factors that might be responsible for this lymphatic dysfunction in RA, and a few attempted in vitro models of the synovium in RA have not yet included the contributions from the LVs. Various methods of replicating LVs in vitro have been developed to study lymphatic biology, but these have yet not been integrated into the RA context. This review discusses the roles of LVs in RA and the current engineering approaches to improve our understanding of lymphatic pathophysiology in RA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha E. Kraus
- Nancy E. and Peter C. Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Esak Lee
- Nancy E. and Peter C. Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
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19
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Abstract
Despite enormous advances, cardiovascular disorders are still a major threat to global health and are responsible for one-third of deaths worldwide. Research for new therapeutics and the investigation of their effects on vascular parameters is often limited by species-specific pathways and a lack of high-throughput methods. The complex 3-dimensional environment of blood vessels, intricate cellular crosstalks, and organ-specific architectures further complicate the quest for a faithful human in vitro model. The development of novel organoid models of various tissues such as brain, gut, and kidney signified a leap for the field of personalized medicine and disease research. By utilizing either embryonic- or patient-derived stem cells, different developmental and pathological mechanisms can be modeled and investigated in a controlled in vitro environment. We have recently developed self-organizing human capillary blood vessel organoids that recapitulate key processes of vasculogenesis, angiogenesis, and diabetic vasculopathy. Since then, this organoid system has been utilized as a model for other disease processes, refined, and adapted for organ specificity. In this review, we will discuss novel and alternative approaches to blood vessel engineering and explore the cellular identity of engineered blood vessels in comparison to in vivo vasculature. Future perspectives and the therapeutic potential of blood vessel organoids will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirill Salewskij
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna (K.S., J.M.P.).,Vienna BioCenter PhD Program, Doctoral School of the University of Vienna and Medical University of Vienna, Austria (K.S.)
| | - Josef M Penninger
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna (K.S., J.M.P.).,Department of Medical Genetics, Life Sciences Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada (J.M.P.)
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20
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Soden PA, Henderson AR, Lee E. A Microfluidic Model of AQP4 Polarization Dynamics and Fluid Transport in the Healthy and Inflamed Human Brain: The First Step Towards Glymphatics-on-a-Chip. Adv Biol (Weinh) 2022; 6:e2200027. [PMID: 35922370 PMCID: PMC9771879 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.202200027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Revised: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Dysfunction of the aquaporin-4 (AQP4)-dependent glymphatic waste clearance pathway has recently been implicated in the pathogenesis of several neurodegenerative diseases. However, it is difficult to unravel the causative relationship between glymphatic dysfunction, AQP4 depolarization, protein aggregation, and inflammation in neurodegeneration using animal models alone. There is currently a clear, unmet need for in vitro models of the brain's waterscape, and the first steps towards a bona fide "glymphatics-on-a-chip" are taken in the present study. It is demonstrated that chronic exposure to lipopolysaccharide (LPS), amyloid-β(1-42) oligomers, and an AQP4 inhibitor impairs the drainage of fluid and amyloid-β(1-40) tracer in a gliovascular unit (GVU)-on-a-chip model containing human astrocytes and brain microvascular endothelial cells. The LPS-induced drainage impairment is partially retained following cell lysis, indicating that neuroinflammation induces parallel changes in cell-dependent and matrisome-dependent fluid transport pathways in GVU-on-a-chip. Additionally, AQP4 depolarization is observed following LPS treatment, suggesting that LPS-induced drainage impairments on-chip may be driven in part by changes in AQP4-dependent fluid dynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul A Soden
- College of Human Ecology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
| | - Aria R Henderson
- Nancy E. and Peter C. Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
| | - Esak Lee
- Nancy E. and Peter C. Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
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21
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Lampejo AO, Jo M, Murfee WL, Breslin JW. The Microvascular-Lymphatic Interface and Tissue Homeostasis: Critical Questions That Challenge Current Understanding. J Vasc Res 2022; 59:327-342. [PMID: 36315992 PMCID: PMC9780194 DOI: 10.1159/000525787] [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: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Lymphatic and blood microvascular networks play critical roles in the clearance of excess fluid from local tissue spaces. Given the importance of these dynamics in inflammation, tumor metastasis, and lymphedema, understanding the coordinated function and remodeling between lymphatic and blood vessels in adult tissues is necessary. Knowledge gaps exist because the functions of these two systems are typically considered separately. The objective of this review was to highlight the coordinated functional relationships between blood and lymphatic vessels in adult microvascular networks. Structural, functional, temporal, and spatial relationships will be framed in the context of maintaining tissue homeostasis, vessel permeability, and system remodeling. The integration across systems will emphasize the influence of the local environment on cellular and molecular dynamics involved in fluid flow from blood capillaries to initial lymphatic vessels in microvascular networks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arinola O. Lampejo
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
| | - Michiko Jo
- Division of Presymptomatic Disease, Institute of Natural Medicine, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
| | - Walter L. Murfee
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
| | - Jerome W. Breslin
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA
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22
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Recent Advances in Drug Delivery System Fabricated by Microfluidics for Disease Therapy. Bioengineering (Basel) 2022; 9:bioengineering9110625. [DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering9110625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Revised: 10/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Traditional drug therapy faces challenges such as drug distribution throughout the body, rapid degradation and excretion, and extensive adverse reactions. In contrast, micro/nanoparticles can controllably deliver drugs to target sites to improve drug efficacy. Unlike traditional large-scale synthetic systems, microfluidics allows manipulation of fluids at the microscale and shows great potential in drug delivery and precision medicine. Well-designed microfluidic devices have been used to fabricate multifunctional drug carriers using stimuli-responsive materials. In this review, we first introduce the selection of materials and processing techniques for microfluidic devices. Then, various well-designed microfluidic chips are shown for the fabrication of multifunctional micro/nanoparticles as drug delivery vehicles. Finally, we describe the interaction of drugs with lymphatic vessels that are neglected in organs-on-chips. Overall, the accelerated development of microfluidics holds great potential for the clinical translation of micro/nanoparticle drug delivery systems for disease treatment.
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23
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Wang Y, Keshavarz M, Barhouse P, Smith Q. Strategies for Regenerative Vascular Tissue Engineering. Adv Biol (Weinh) 2022; 7:e2200050. [PMID: 35751461 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.202200050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 05/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Vascularization remains one of the key challenges in creating functional tissue-engineered constructs for therapeutic applications. This review aims to provide a developmental lens on the necessity of blood vessels in defining tissue function while exploring stem cells as a suitable source for vascular tissue engineering applications. The intersections of stem cell biology, material science, and engineering are explored as potential solutions for directing vascular assembly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Wang
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering University of California Irvine CA 92697 USA
- Sue & Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center University of California Irvine CA 92697 USA
| | - Mozhgan Keshavarz
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering University of California Irvine CA 92697 USA
- Sue & Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center University of California Irvine CA 92697 USA
| | - Patrick Barhouse
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering University of California Irvine CA 92697 USA
- Sue & Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center University of California Irvine CA 92697 USA
| | - Quinton Smith
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering University of California Irvine CA 92697 USA
- Sue & Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center University of California Irvine CA 92697 USA
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24
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Lampejo AO, Hu NW, Lucas D, Lomel BM, Nguyen CM, Dominguez CC, Ren B, Huang Y, Murfee WL. A Challenge for Engineering Biomimetic Microvascular Models: How do we Incorporate the Physiology? Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:912073. [PMID: 35795159 PMCID: PMC9252339 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.912073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The gap between in vitro and in vivo assays has inspired biomimetic model development. Tissue engineered models that attempt to mimic the complexity of microvascular networks have emerged as tools for investigating cell-cell and cell-environment interactions that may be not easily viewed in vivo. A key challenge in model development, however, is determining how to recreate the multi-cell/system functional complexity of a real network environment that integrates endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells, vascular pericytes, lymphatics, nerves, fluid flow, extracellular matrix, and inflammatory cells. The objective of this mini-review is to overview the recent evolution of popular biomimetic modeling approaches for investigating microvascular dynamics. A specific focus will highlight the engineering design requirements needed to match physiological function and the potential for top-down tissue culture methods that maintain complexity. Overall, examples of physiological validation, basic science discoveries, and therapeutic evaluation studies will emphasize the value of tissue culture models and biomimetic model development approaches that fill the gap between in vitro and in vivo assays and guide how vascular biologists and physiologists might think about the microcirculation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arinola O. Lampejo
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Nien-Wen Hu
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Daniela Lucas
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Banks M. Lomel
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Christian M. Nguyen
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Carmen C. Dominguez
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Bing Ren
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Yong Huang
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Walter L. Murfee
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
- *Correspondence: Walter L. Murfee,
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Kolarzyk AM, Wong G, Lee E. Lymphatic Tissue and Organ Engineering for In Vitro Modeling and In Vivo Regeneration. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2022; 12:a041169. [PMID: 35288402 PMCID: PMC9435571 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a041169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
The lymphatic system has an important role in maintaining fluid homeostasis and transporting immune cells and biomolecules, such as dietary fat, metabolic products, and antigens in different organs and tissues. Therefore, impaired lymphatic vessel function and/or lymphatic vessel deficiency can lead to numerous human diseases. The discovery of lymphatic endothelial markers and prolymphangiogenic growth factors, along with a growing number of in vitro and in vivo models and technologies has expedited research in lymphatic tissue and organ engineering, advancing therapeutic strategies. In this article, we describe lymphatic tissue and organ engineering in two- and three-dimensional culture systems and recently developed microfluidics and organ-on-a-chip systems in vitro. Next, we discuss advances in lymphatic tissue and organ engineering in vivo, focusing on biomaterial and scaffold engineering and their applications for lymphatic vessels and lymphoid organ regeneration. Last, we provide expert perspective and prospects in the field of lymphatic tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna M Kolarzyk
- Nancy E. and Peter C. Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Ithaca, New York 14853, USA
- Biomedical and Biological Sciences PhD Program, Ithaca, New York 14853, USA
| | - Gigi Wong
- Nancy E. and Peter C. Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Ithaca, New York 14853, USA
- Biological Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853, USA
| | - Esak Lee
- Nancy E. and Peter C. Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Ithaca, New York 14853, USA
- Biomedical and Biological Sciences PhD Program, Ithaca, New York 14853, USA
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26
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Hammel JH, Zatorski JM, Cook SR, Pompano RR, Munson JM. Engineering in vitro immune-competent tissue models for testing and evaluation of therapeutics. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2022; 182:114111. [PMID: 35031388 PMCID: PMC8908413 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2022.114111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Revised: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Advances in 3D cell culture, microscale fluidic control, and cellular analysis have enabled the development of more physiologically-relevant engineered models of human organs with precise control of the cellular microenvironment. Engineered models have been used successfully to answer fundamental biological questions and to screen therapeutics, but these often neglect key elements of the immune system. There are immune elements in every tissue that contribute to healthy and diseased states. Including immune function will be essential for effective preclinical testing of therapeutics for inflammatory and immune-modulated diseases. In this review, we first discuss the key components to consider in designing engineered immune-competent models in terms of physical, chemical, and biological cues. Next, we review recent applications of models of immunity for screening therapeutics for cancer, preclinical evaluation of engineered T cells, modeling autoimmunity, and screening vaccine efficacy. Future work is needed to further recapitulate immune responses in engineered models for the most informative therapeutic screening and evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer H. Hammel
- Fralin Biomedical Research Institute and Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech, Roanoke, Virginia 24016, USA
| | - Jonathan M. Zatorski
- Department of Chemistry, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia 22904, USA
| | - Sophie R. Cook
- Department of Chemistry, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia 22904, USA
| | - Rebecca R. Pompano
- Department of Chemistry, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia 22904, USA,Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia; Charlottesville, Virginia 22904, USA,Carter Immunology Center and UVA Cancer Center, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia 22903
| | - Jennifer M. Munson
- Fralin Biomedical Research Institute and Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech, Roanoke, Virginia 24016, USA
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27
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Blei F. Update December 2021. Lymphat Res Biol 2021; 19:585-624. [PMID: 34958250 DOI: 10.1089/lrb.2021.29113.fb] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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