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Wang W, Liu Y, Huang X, Liang F, Luo H, Mao Z, Shi J, Wang L, Peng J, Chen Y. Diffusion-based culture and real-time impedance monitoring of tumor spheroids in hydrogel microwells of a suspended membrane under microfluidic conditions. Talanta 2024; 278:126473. [PMID: 38950503 DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2024.126473] [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: 01/20/2024] [Revised: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024]
Abstract
Tumor spheroids are widely studied for in vitro modeling of tumor growth and responses to anticancer drugs. However, current methods are mostly limited to static and perfusion-based cultures, which can be improved by more accurately mimicking pathological conditions. Here, we developed a diffusion-based dynamic culture system for tumor spheroids studies using a thin membrane of hydrogel microwells and a microfluidic device. This allows for effective exchange of nutrients and metabolites between the tumors and the culture medium flowing underneath, resulting in uniform tumor spheroids. To monitor the growth and drug response of the spheroids in real-time, we performed spectroscopic analyses of the system's impedance, demonstrating a close correlation between the tumor size and the resistance and capacitance of the system. Our results also indicate an enhanced drug effect on the tumor spheroids in the presence of a low AC electric field, suggesting a weakening mechanism of the spheroids induced by external perturbation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Wang
- École Normale Supérieure-PSL Research University, Département de Chimie, Sorbonne Universités-UPMC Univ Paris 06, CNRS, UMR 8640, PASTEUR, 24, rue Lhomond, 75005, Paris, France
| | - Yuanhui Liu
- École Normale Supérieure-PSL Research University, Département de Chimie, Sorbonne Universités-UPMC Univ Paris 06, CNRS, UMR 8640, PASTEUR, 24, rue Lhomond, 75005, Paris, France; Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei, China; Cancer Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei, China
| | - Xiaochen Huang
- École Normale Supérieure-PSL Research University, Département de Chimie, Sorbonne Universités-UPMC Univ Paris 06, CNRS, UMR 8640, PASTEUR, 24, rue Lhomond, 75005, Paris, France
| | - Feng Liang
- École Normale Supérieure-PSL Research University, Département de Chimie, Sorbonne Universités-UPMC Univ Paris 06, CNRS, UMR 8640, PASTEUR, 24, rue Lhomond, 75005, Paris, France
| | - Haoyue Luo
- École Normale Supérieure-PSL Research University, Département de Chimie, Sorbonne Universités-UPMC Univ Paris 06, CNRS, UMR 8640, PASTEUR, 24, rue Lhomond, 75005, Paris, France
| | - Zheng Mao
- École Normale Supérieure-PSL Research University, Département de Chimie, Sorbonne Universités-UPMC Univ Paris 06, CNRS, UMR 8640, PASTEUR, 24, rue Lhomond, 75005, Paris, France
| | - Jian Shi
- MesoBioTech, 231 Rue Saint-Honoré, 75001, Paris, France
| | - Li Wang
- MesoBioTech, 231 Rue Saint-Honoré, 75001, Paris, France
| | - Juan Peng
- École Normale Supérieure-PSL Research University, Département de Chimie, Sorbonne Universités-UPMC Univ Paris 06, CNRS, UMR 8640, PASTEUR, 24, rue Lhomond, 75005, Paris, France.
| | - Yong Chen
- École Normale Supérieure-PSL Research University, Département de Chimie, Sorbonne Universités-UPMC Univ Paris 06, CNRS, UMR 8640, PASTEUR, 24, rue Lhomond, 75005, Paris, France.
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2
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Ma D, Luo Q, Song G. Matrix stiffening facilitates stemness of liver cancer stem cells by YAP activation and BMF inhibition. BIOMATERIALS ADVANCES 2024; 163:213936. [PMID: 38959652 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioadv.2024.213936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2024] [Revised: 06/13/2024] [Accepted: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024]
Abstract
Matrix stiffening is one of the major risk factors for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and drives tumor progression. The extracellular matrix (ECM) stiffness of HCC displays mechanical heterogeneity, with stiffness increasing from the core to the invasive frontier. The distribution of liver cancer stem cells (CSCs) is related to this mechanical property. However, it is not sufficiently understood how heterogeneous matrix stiffness regulates the stemness of CSCs. In this study, we developed an adjustable gelatin/alginate hydrogel to investigate the effect of various matrix stiffnesses on CSC stemness under three-dimensional culture conditions. Gelatin/alginate hydrogel with the stiffness of soft (5 kPa), medium (16 kPa), and stiff (81 kPa) were prepared by altering the concentration of calcium ions. It was found that a stiffer matrix promoted stemness-associated gene expression, reduced drug sensitivity, enhanced sphere-forming and clonogenic ability, and tumorigenic potential. Mechanistically, matrix stiffening facilitates CSC stemness by increasing Yes-associated protein (YAP) activity and inhibiting Bcl-2 modifying factor (BMF) expression. Knockdown of YAP or overexpression of BMF significantly attenuated matrix stiffening-induced stemness, suggesting the involvement of YAP and BMF in this process. Together, our results unravel the regulatory mechanism of heterogeneous matrix stiffness on CSC stemness and also provide a novel therapeutic strategy for eradicating CSCs and improving the efficiency of HCC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Di Ma
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400030, China
| | - Qing Luo
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400030, China
| | - Guanbin Song
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400030, China.
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3
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Li F, Li Z, Wei C, Xu L, Liang Y, Yan J, Li Y, He B, Sun C. Application of hydrogels for targeting cancer stem cells in cancer treatment. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 180:117486. [PMID: 39321506 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.117486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2024] [Revised: 08/28/2024] [Accepted: 09/20/2024] [Indexed: 09/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a major hindrance to clinical cancer treatment. Owing to their high tumorigenic and metastatic potential, CSCs are vital in malignant tumor initiation, growth, metastasis, and therapeutic resistance, leading to tumorigenesis and recurrence. Compared with normal tumor cells, CSCs express high levels of surface markers (CD44, CD90, CD133, etc.) and activate specific signaling pathways (Wnt/β-catenin, Notch, and Hedgehog). Although Current drug delivery systems (DDS) precisely target CSCs, the heterogeneity and multidrug resistance of CSCs impede CSC isolation and screening. Conversely, hydrogel DDSs exhibit good biocompatibility and high drug delivery efficiency. Hydrogels are three-dimensional (3D) spatial structures for drug encapsulation that facilitate the controlled release of bioactive molecules. Hence, hydrogels can be loaded with drugs to precisely target CSCs. Their 3D structure can also culture non-CSCs and facilitate their transformation into CSCs. for identification and isolation. Given that their elastic modulus and stiffness characteristics reflect those of the cellular microenvironment, hydrogels can simulate extracellular matrix pathways and markers to regulate CSCs, disrupting the equilibrium between CSC and non-CSC transformation. This article reviews the CSC microenvironment, metabolism, signaling pathway, and surface markers. Additionally, we summarize the existing CSC targeting strategies and explore the application of hydrogels for CSC screening and treatment. Finally, we discuss potential advances in CSC research that may lead to curative measures for tumors through targeted and precise attacks on CSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fashun Li
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266003, China; Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266073, China
| | - Zhipeng Li
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266073, China
| | - Chen Wei
- Department of Pharmacy, Qingdao Women and Children's Hospital, Qingdao 266034, China
| | - Long Xu
- School of Materials Science and Chemical Engineering, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China.
| | - Yan Liang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266073, China.
| | - Jianqin Yan
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266073, China
| | - Yifei Li
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266073, China
| | - Bin He
- National Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
| | - Chong Sun
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266003, China.
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4
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Chow T, Humble W, Lucarelli E, Onofrillo C, Choong PF, Di Bella C, Duchi S. Feasibility and barriers to rapid establishment of patient-derived primary osteosarcoma cell lines in clinical management. iScience 2024; 27:110251. [PMID: 39286504 PMCID: PMC11403063 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.110251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Osteosarcoma is a highly aggressive primary bone tumor that has seen little improvement in survival rates in the past three decades. Preclinical studies are conducted on a small pool of commercial cell lines which may not fully reflect the genetic heterogeneity of this complex cancer, potentially hindering translatability of in vitro results. Developing a single-site laboratory protocol to rapidly establish patient-derived primary cancer cell lines (PCCL) within a clinically actionable time frame of a few weeks will have significant scientific and clinical ramifications. These PCCL can widen the pool of available cell lines for study while patient-specific data could derive therapeutic correlation. This endeavor is exceedingly challenging considering the proposed time constraints. By proposing key definitions and a clear theoretical framework, this evaluation of osteosarcoma cell line establishment methodology over the past three decades assesses feasibility by identifying barriers and suggesting solutions, thereby facilitating systematic experimentation and optimization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Chow
- Melbourne Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- BioFab3D-ACMD, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
| | - William Humble
- BioFab3D-ACMD, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
- Department of Surgery, The University of Melbourne, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
| | - Enrico Lucarelli
- Osteoncology, Bone and Soft Tissue Sarcomas and Innovative Therapies Unit, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Via di Barbiano 1/10, 40136 Bologna, Italy
| | - Carmine Onofrillo
- BioFab3D-ACMD, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
- Department of Surgery, The University of Melbourne, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
| | - Peter F Choong
- BioFab3D-ACMD, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
- Department of Surgery, The University of Melbourne, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
| | - Claudia Di Bella
- BioFab3D-ACMD, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
- Department of Surgery, The University of Melbourne, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
- Department of Orthopaedics, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
| | - Serena Duchi
- BioFab3D-ACMD, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
- Department of Surgery, The University of Melbourne, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
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5
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Ohguro H, Watanabe M, Sato T, Nishikiori N, Umetsu A, Higashide M, Yano T, Suzuki H, Miyazaki A, Takada K, Uhara H, Furuhashi M, Hikage F. Application of Single Cell Type-Derived Spheroids Generated by Using a Hanging Drop Culture Technique in Various In Vitro Disease Models: A Narrow Review. Cells 2024; 13:1549. [PMID: 39329734 DOI: 10.3390/cells13181549] [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: 06/28/2024] [Revised: 08/21/2024] [Accepted: 08/23/2024] [Indexed: 09/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Cell culture methods are indispensable strategies for studies in biological sciences and for drug discovery and testing. Most cell cultures have been developed using two-dimensional (2D) culture methods, but three-dimensional (3D) culture techniques enable the establishment of in vitro models that replicate various pathogenic conditions and they provide valuable insights into the pathophysiology of various diseases as well as more precise results in tests for drug efficacy. However, one difficulty in the use of 3D cultures is selection of the appropriate 3D cell culture technique for the study purpose among the various techniques ranging from the simplest single cell type-derived spheroid culture to the more sophisticated organoid cultures. In the simplest single cell type-derived spheroid cultures, there are also various scaffold-assisted methods such as hydrogel-assisted cultures, biofilm-assisted cultures, particle-assisted cultures, and magnet particle-assisted cultures, as well as non-assisted methods, such as static suspension cultures, floating cultures, and hanging drop cultures. Since each method can be differently influenced by various factors such as gravity force, buoyant force, centrifugal force, and magnetic force, in addition to non-physiological scaffolds, each method has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the methods have different suitable applications. We have been focusing on the use of a hanging drop culture method for modeling various non-cancerous and cancerous diseases because this technique is affected only by gravity force and buoyant force and is thus the simplest method among the various single cell type-derived spheroid culture methods. We have found that the biological natures of spheroids generated even by the simplest method of hanging drop cultures are completely different from those of 2D cultured cells. In this review, we focus on the biological aspects of single cell type-derived spheroid culture and its applications in in vitro models for various diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Ohguro
- Departments of Ophthalmology, Sapporo Medical University, S1W17, Chuo-ku, Sapporo 060-8556, Japan
| | - Megumi Watanabe
- Departments of Ophthalmology, Sapporo Medical University, S1W17, Chuo-ku, Sapporo 060-8556, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Sato
- Departments of Cardiovascular, Renal and Metabolic Medicine, Sapporo Medical University, S1W17, Chuo-ku, Sapporo 060-8556, Japan
- Departments of Cellular Physiology and Signal Transduction, Sapporo Medical University, S1W17, Chuo-ku, Sapporo 060-8556, Japan
| | - Nami Nishikiori
- Departments of Ophthalmology, Sapporo Medical University, S1W17, Chuo-ku, Sapporo 060-8556, Japan
| | - Araya Umetsu
- Departments of Ophthalmology, Sapporo Medical University, S1W17, Chuo-ku, Sapporo 060-8556, Japan
| | - Megumi Higashide
- Departments of Ophthalmology, Sapporo Medical University, S1W17, Chuo-ku, Sapporo 060-8556, Japan
| | - Toshiyuki Yano
- Departments of Cardiovascular, Renal and Metabolic Medicine, Sapporo Medical University, S1W17, Chuo-ku, Sapporo 060-8556, Japan
| | - Hiromu Suzuki
- Departments of Molecular Biology, Sapporo Medical University, S1W17, Chuo-ku, Sapporo 060-8556, Japan
| | - Akihiro Miyazaki
- Departments of Oral Surgery, Sapporo Medical University, S1W17, Chuo-ku, Sapporo 060-8556, Japan
| | - Kohichi Takada
- Departments of Medical Oncology, Sapporo Medical University, S1W17, Chuo-ku, Sapporo 060-8556, Japan
| | - Hisashi Uhara
- Departments of Dermatology, Sapporo Medical University, S1W17, Chuo-ku, Sapporo 060-8556, Japan
| | - Masato Furuhashi
- Departments of Cardiovascular, Renal and Metabolic Medicine, Sapporo Medical University, S1W17, Chuo-ku, Sapporo 060-8556, Japan
| | - Fumihito Hikage
- Departments of Ophthalmology, Sapporo Medical University, S1W17, Chuo-ku, Sapporo 060-8556, Japan
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6
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Chen T, Wen Y, Song X, Zhang Z, Zhu J, Tian X, Zeng S, Li J. Rationally designed β-cyclodextrin-crosslinked polyacrylamide hydrogels for cell spheroid formation and 3D tumor model construction. Carbohydr Polym 2024; 339:122253. [PMID: 38823920 DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2024.122253] [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: 01/19/2024] [Revised: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024]
Abstract
In vitro tumor models are essential for understanding tumor behavior and evaluating tumor biological properties. Hydrogels that can mimic the tumor extracellular matrix have become popular for creating 3D in vitro tumor models. However, designing biocompatible hydrogels with appropriate chemical and physical properties for constructing tumor models is still a challenge. In this study, we synthesized a series of β-cyclodextrin (β-CD)-crosslinked polyacrylamide hydrogels with different β-CD densities and mechanical properties and evaluated their potential for use in 3D in vitro tumor model construction, including cell capture and spheroid formation. By utilizing a combination of β-CD-methacrylate (CD-MA) and a small amount of N,N'-methylene bisacrylamide (BIS) as hydrogel crosslinkers and optimizing the CD-MA/BIS ratio, the hydrogels performed excellently for tumor cell 3D culture and spheroid formation. Notably, when we co-cultured L929 fibroblasts with HeLa tumor cells on the hydrogel surface, co-cultured spheroids were formed, showing that the hydrogel can mimic the complexity of the tumor extracellular matrix. This comprehensive investigation of the relationship between hydrogel mechanical properties and biocompatibility provides important insights for hydrogel-based in vitro tumor modeling and advances our understanding of the mechanisms underlying tumor growth and progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taili Chen
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China; Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, 15 Kent Ridge Crescent, Singapore 119276, Singapore
| | - Yuting Wen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, 15 Kent Ridge Crescent, Singapore 119276, Singapore; National University of Singapore (Suzhou) Research Institute, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215000, China; National University of Singapore (Chongqing) Research Institute, Yubei District, Chongqing 401120, China.
| | - Xia Song
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, 15 Kent Ridge Crescent, Singapore 119276, Singapore
| | - Zhongxing Zhang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, 15 Kent Ridge Crescent, Singapore 119276, Singapore
| | - Jingling Zhu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, 15 Kent Ridge Crescent, Singapore 119276, Singapore; NUS Environmental Research Institute (NERI), National University of Singapore, 5A Engineering Drive 1, Singapore 117411, Singapore
| | - Xuehao Tian
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, 15 Kent Ridge Crescent, Singapore 119276, Singapore
| | - Shan Zeng
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, China.
| | - Jun Li
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, 15 Kent Ridge Crescent, Singapore 119276, Singapore; National University of Singapore (Suzhou) Research Institute, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215000, China; National University of Singapore (Chongqing) Research Institute, Yubei District, Chongqing 401120, China; NUS Environmental Research Institute (NERI), National University of Singapore, 5A Engineering Drive 1, Singapore 117411, Singapore.
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7
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Yu H, Yan Z, Dreiss CA, Gaitano GG, Jarvis JA, Gentleman E, da Silva RMP, Grigoriadis AE. Injectable PEG Hydrogels with Tissue-Like Viscoelasticity Formed through Reversible Alendronate-Calcium Phosphate Crosslinking for Cell-Material Interactions. Adv Healthc Mater 2024; 13:e2400472. [PMID: 38809180 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202400472] [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: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
Synthetic hydrogels provide controllable 3D environments, which can be used to study fundamental biological phenomena. The growing body of evidence that cell behavior depends upon hydrogel stress relaxation creates a high demand for hydrogels with tissue-like viscoelastic properties. Here, a unique platform of synthetic polyethylene glycol (PEG) hydrogels in which star-shaped PEG molecules are conjugated with alendronate and/or RGD peptides, attaining modifiable degradability as well as flexible cell adhesion, is created. Novel reversible ionic interactions between alendronate and calcium phosphate nanoparticles, leading to versatile viscoelastic properties with varying initial elastic modulus and stress relaxation time, are identified. This new crosslinking mechanism provides shear-thinning properties resulting in differential cellular responses between cancer cells and stem cells. The novel hydrogel system is an improved design to the other ionic crosslink platforms and opens new avenues for the development of pathologically relevant cancer models, as well as minimally invasive approaches for cell delivery for potential regenerative therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongqiang Yu
- Centre for Craniofacial and Regenerative Biology, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Ziqian Yan
- Centre for Craniofacial and Regenerative Biology, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Cecile A Dreiss
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, King's College London, London, SE1 9NH, UK
| | - Gustavo G Gaitano
- Department of Chemistry, University of Navarra, Pamplona, 31080, Spain
| | - James A Jarvis
- Randall Division of Cell and Molecular Biophysics and NMR Facility, Centre for Biomolecular Spectroscopy, King's College London, London, SE1 1UL, UK
| | - Eileen Gentleman
- Centre for Craniofacial and Regenerative Biology, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Ricardo M P da Silva
- Centre for Craniofacial and Regenerative Biology, King's College London, London, UK
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8
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Sheth M, Sharma M, Lehn M, Reza H, Takebe T, Takiar V, Wise-Draper T, Esfandiari L. Three-dimensional matrix stiffness modulates mechanosensitive and phenotypic alterations in oral squamous cell carcinoma spheroids. APL Bioeng 2024; 8:036106. [PMID: 39092008 PMCID: PMC11293878 DOI: 10.1063/5.0210134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Extracellular biophysical cues such as matrix stiffness are key stimuli tuning cell fate and affecting tumor progression in vivo. However, it remains unclear how cancer spheroids in a 3D microenvironment perceive matrix mechanical stiffness stimuli and translate them into intracellular signals driving progression. Mechanosensitive Piezo1 and TRPV4 ion channels, upregulated in many malignancies, are major transducers of such physical stimuli into biochemical responses. Most mechanotransduction studies probing the reception of changing stiffness cues by cells are, however, still limited to 2D culture systems or cell-extracellular matrix models, which lack the major cell-cell interactions prevalent in 3D cancer tumors. Here, we engineered a 3D spheroid culture environment with varying mechanobiological properties to study the effect of static matrix stiffness stimuli on mechanosensitive and malignant phenotypes in oral squamous cell carcinoma spheroids. We find that spheroid growth is enhanced when cultured in stiff extracellular matrix. We show that the protein expression of mechanoreceptor Piezo1 and stemness marker CD44 is upregulated in stiff matrix. We also report the upregulation of a selection of genes with associations to mechanoreception, ion channel transport, extracellular matrix organization, and tumorigenic phenotypes in stiff matrix spheroids. Together, our results indicate that cancer cells in 3D spheroids utilize mechanosensitive ion channels Piezo1 and TRPV4 as means to sense changes in static extracellular matrix stiffness, and that stiffness drives pro-tumorigenic phenotypes in oral squamous cell carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maulee Sheth
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio 45221, USA
| | - Manju Sharma
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio 45221, USA
| | - Maria Lehn
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio 45219, USA
| | - HasanAl Reza
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition and Division of Developmental Biology, and Center for Stem Cell and Organoid Medicine (CuSTOM), Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio 45229, USA
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9
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Wang Y, Duan Y, Yang B, Li Y. Nanocomposite Hydrogel Bioinks for 3D Bioprinting of Tumor Models. Biomacromolecules 2024; 25:5288-5299. [PMID: 39083715 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.4c00671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
In vitro tumor models were successfully constructed by 3D bioprinting; however, bioinks with proper viscosity, good biocompatibility, and tunable biophysical and biochemical properties are highly desirable for tumor models that closely recapitulated the main features of native tumors. Here, we developed a nanocomposite hydrogel bioink that was used to construct ovarian and colon cancer models by 3D bioprinting. The nanocomposite bioink was composed of aldehyde-modified cellulose nanocrystals (aCNCs), aldehyde-modified hyaluronic acid (aHA), and gelatin. The hydrogels possessed tunable gelation time, mechanical properties, and printability by controlling the ratio between aCNCs and gelatin. In addition, ovarian and colorectal cancer cells embedded in hydrogels showed high survival rates and rapid growth. By the combination of 3D bioprinting, ovarian and colorectal tumor models were constructed in vitro and used for drug screening. The results showed that gemcitabine had therapeutic effects on ovarian tumor cells. However, the ovarian tumor model showed drug resistance for oxaliplatin treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Structure and Materials, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, 2699 Qianjin Street, Changchun 130012, China
| | - Yixiong Duan
- State Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Structure and Materials, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, 2699 Qianjin Street, Changchun 130012, China
| | - Bai Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Structure and Materials, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, 2699 Qianjin Street, Changchun 130012, China
- Joint Laboratory of Opto-Functional Theranostics in Medicine and Chemistry, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130061, China
| | - Yunfeng Li
- State Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Structure and Materials, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, 2699 Qianjin Street, Changchun 130012, China
- Joint Laboratory of Opto-Functional Theranostics in Medicine and Chemistry, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130061, China
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10
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del Carmen Morán M, Cirisano F, Ferrari M. Superhydrophobicity Effects on Spheroid Formation and Polarization of Macrophages. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:1042. [PMID: 39204146 PMCID: PMC11357281 DOI: 10.3390/ph17081042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2024] [Revised: 07/27/2024] [Accepted: 08/01/2024] [Indexed: 09/03/2024] Open
Abstract
The interaction of biomaterials with the immune system is ruled by the action of macrophages. The surface features of these biomaterials, like wettability, which is an expression of chemical composition, texture, and geometry, can affect macrophages response. Such surface parameters can be then efficiently exploited to improve biocompatibility by lowering undesired immunological reactions and at the same time creating the substrate for positive interactions. In this work, the preparation and physicochemical characterization of highly water-repellent surfaces to develop and characterize 3D spheroids derived from monocyte-macrophages (RAW 264.7 cell line) has been carried out. As a measure of cell viability over time, the obtained aggregates have been transferred under standard 2D cell culture conditions. Significant changes on the morphology-associated polarization of the derived cellular entities have been evaluated at the nanoscale through 3D profilometry. The results suggested that the spheroid formation using highly repellent substrates induced the activation of M2-type cells. This simple and cost-effective approach can be used for preparing M2-based macrophages for regenerative purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- María del Carmen Morán
- Departament de Bioquímica i Fisiologia, Secció de Fisiologia—Facultat de Farmàcia i Ciències de l’Alimentació, Universitat de Barcelona, Avda. Joan XXIII, 27-31, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Institut de Nanociència i Nanotecnologia—IN2UB, Universitat de Barcelona, Avda. Diagonal, 645, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Francesca Cirisano
- CNR-ICMATE Istituto di Chimica della Materia Condensata e di Tecnologie per l’Energia, Via De Marini, 6, 16149 Genova, Italy;
| | - Michele Ferrari
- Institut de Nanociència i Nanotecnologia—IN2UB, Universitat de Barcelona, Avda. Diagonal, 645, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- CNR-ICMATE Istituto di Chimica della Materia Condensata e di Tecnologie per l’Energia, Via De Marini, 6, 16149 Genova, Italy;
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11
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Liang S, Xiao L, Chen T, Roa P, Cocco E, Peng Z, Yu L, Wu M, Liu J, Zhao X, Deng W, Wang X, Zhao C, Deng Y, Mai Y. Injectable Nanocomposite Hydrogels Improve Intraperitoneal Co-delivery of Chemotherapeutics and Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors for Enhanced Peritoneal Metastasis Therapy. ACS NANO 2024; 18:18963-18979. [PMID: 39004822 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.4c02312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
Intraperitoneal co-delivery of chemotherapeutic drugs (CDs) and immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) brings hope to improve treatment outcomes in patients with peritoneal metastasis from ovarian cancer (OC). However, current intraperitoneal drug delivery systems face issues such as rapid drug clearance from lymphatic drainage, heterogeneous drug distribution, and uncontrolled release of therapeutic agents into the peritoneal cavity. Herein, we developed an injectable nanohydrogel by combining carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCS) with bioadhesive nanoparticles (BNPs) based on polylactic acid-hyperbranched polyglycerol. This system enables the codelivery of CD and ICI into the intraperitoneal space to extend drug retention. The nanohydrogel is formed by cross-linking of aldehyde groups on BNPs with amine groups on CMCS via reversible Schiff base bonds, with CD and ICI loaded separately into BNPs and CMCS network. BNP/CMCS nanohydrogel maintained the activity of the biomolecules and released drugs in a sustained manner over a 7 day period. The adhesive property, through the formation of Schiff bases with peritoneal tissues, confers BNPs with an extended residence time in the peritoneal cavity after being released from the nanohydrogel. In a mouse model, BNP/CMCS nanohydrogel loaded with paclitaxel (PTX) and anti-PD-1 antibodies (αPD-1) significantly suppressed peritoneal metastasis of OC compared to all other tested groups. In addition, no systemic toxicity of nanohydrogel-loaded PTX and αPD-1 was observed during the treatment, which supports potential translational applications of this delivery system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu Liang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518000, China
| | - Lingyun Xiao
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518000, China
- Precise Genome Engineering Center, School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, China
- Center Lab of Longhua Branch and Department of Infectious Disease, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen 518020, China
| | - Tian Chen
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518000, China
| | - Paola Roa
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology/Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami/Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida 33136, United States
| | - Emiliano Cocco
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology/Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami/Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida 33136, United States
| | - Zhangwen Peng
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518000, China
| | - Liu Yu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518000, China
| | - Meiying Wu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518000, China
| | - Jie Liu
- ISCTE Business School, BRU-IUL, University Institute of Lisbon, Avenida das Armadas, Lisbon 1649-026, Portugal
| | - Xizhe Zhao
- Department of Chemistry, College of Staten Island, City University of New York, New York, New York 10314, United States
| | - Wenbin Deng
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518000, China
| | - Xiongjun Wang
- Precise Genome Engineering Center, School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Chao Zhao
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35487, United States
- Alabama Life Research Institute, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35487, United States
| | - Yang Deng
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518000, China
| | - Yang Mai
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518000, China
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12
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Xu W, Zhuang H, Lei S, Tu M, Jiang L. Structural Phase Separation of Membranes and Fibers. ACS NANO 2024; 18:17314-17325. [PMID: 38903034 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.4c05955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
Lipid membranes interact with protein filaments on a superstructural level such that they may colocalize or spatially segregate in a living cell, whereas higher-order organization of membranes and fibers is less well explored in artificial systems. Herein, we report on the structural separation of a dispersed, membranous phase and a continuous, fibrous phase in a synthetic system. Systematic characterization of its thermodynamics and kinetics uncovers a physical principle governing phase separation: Interlamellar repulsion, favoring expansion of the membranous phase, is balanced by fibrous network elasticity, preferring the opposite. A direct consequence of this principle is the spatial addressability of the phase separation, preferably localized to soft regions of the fibrous network. Guided by this principle, we design a fibrous network with different spatial heterogeneity to modulate the phase separation, realizing a "memory" effect, patterned separation, and gradient separation. The current spatially addressable phase separation is in great contrast to the conventional ones, in which nucleation is difficult to predict or control. The fact that the membranous and fibrous phases compete for space has implications for the intracellular interactions between endoplasmic reticulum membranes and cytoskeletal filaments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiwei Xu
- South China Advanced Institute for Soft Matter Science and Technology, School of Emergent Soft Matter, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510640, China
- College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Hui Zhuang
- Experimental Basis and Practical Training Center, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Sheng Lei
- R&D Center of China Tobacco Yunnan Industry Co., Ltd., Kunming 650231, China
| | - Mei Tu
- College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Lingxiang Jiang
- South China Advanced Institute for Soft Matter Science and Technology, School of Emergent Soft Matter, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510640, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Functional and Intelligent Hybrid Materials and Devices, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510640, China
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13
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Cheung BCH, Abbed RJ, Wu M, Leggett SE. 3D Traction Force Microscopy in Biological Gels: From Single Cells to Multicellular Spheroids. Annu Rev Biomed Eng 2024; 26:93-118. [PMID: 38316064 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-bioeng-103122-031130] [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] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Cell traction force plays a critical role in directing cellular functions, such as proliferation, migration, and differentiation. Current understanding of cell traction force is largely derived from 2D measurements where cells are plated on 2D substrates. However, 2D measurements do not recapitulate a vital aspect of living systems; that is, cells actively remodel their surrounding extracellular matrix (ECM), and the remodeled ECM, in return, can have a profound impact on cell phenotype and traction force generation. This reciprocal adaptivity of living systems is encoded in the material properties of biological gels. In this review, we summarize recent progress in measuring cell traction force for cells embedded within 3D biological gels, with an emphasis on cell-ECM cross talk. We also provide perspectives on tools and techniques that could be adapted to measure cell traction force in complex biochemical and biophysical environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian C H Cheung
- Department of Biological and Environmental Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA;
| | - Rana J Abbed
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA;
| | - Mingming Wu
- Department of Biological and Environmental Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA;
| | - Susan E Leggett
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA;
- Cancer Center at Illinois, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
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14
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Li X, Li L, Wang D, Zhang J, Yi K, Su Y, Luo J, Deng X, Deng F. Fabrication of polymeric microspheres for biomedical applications. MATERIALS HORIZONS 2024; 11:2820-2855. [PMID: 38567423 DOI: 10.1039/d3mh01641b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Polymeric microspheres (PMs) have attracted great attention in the field of biomedicine in the last several decades due to their small particle size, special functionalities shown on the surface and high surface-to-volume ratio. However, how to fabricate PMs which can meet the clinical needs and transform laboratory achievements to industrial scale-up still remains a challenge. Therefore, advanced fabrication technologies are pursued. In this review, we summarize the technologies used to fabricate PMs, including emulsion-based methods, microfluidics, spray drying, coacervation, supercritical fluid and superhydrophobic surface-mediated method and their advantages and disadvantages. We also review the different structures, properties and functions of the PMs and their applications in the fields of drug delivery, cell encapsulation and expansion, scaffolds in tissue engineering, transcatheter arterial embolization and artificial cells. Moreover, we discuss existing challenges and future perspectives for advancing fabrication technologies and biomedical applications of PMs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuebing Li
- Institute of Fundamental and Frontier Sciences, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 611731, P. R. China.
- State Key Laboratory of Military Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, School of Stomatology, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, P. R. China
| | - Luohuizi Li
- Institute of Fundamental and Frontier Sciences, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 611731, P. R. China.
| | - Dehui Wang
- Institute of Fundamental and Frontier Sciences, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 611731, P. R. China.
| | - Jun Zhang
- Shandong Pharmaceutical Glass Co. Ltd, Zibo, 256100, P. R. China
| | - Kangfeng Yi
- Shandong Pharmaceutical Glass Co. Ltd, Zibo, 256100, P. R. China
| | - Yucai Su
- Shandong Pharmaceutical Glass Co. Ltd, Zibo, 256100, P. R. China
| | - Jing Luo
- Institute of Fundamental and Frontier Sciences, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 611731, P. R. China.
| | - Xu Deng
- Institute of Fundamental and Frontier Sciences, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 611731, P. R. China.
- Shenzhen Institute for Advanced Study, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Shenzhen, 518110, P. R. China
| | - Fei Deng
- Department of Nephrology, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610054, P. R. China
- Department of Nephrology, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital Jinniu Hospital, Chengdu Jinniu District People's Hospital, Chengdu 610054, P. R. China.
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15
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Chiang CC, Anne R, Chawla P, Shaw RM, He S, Rock EC, Zhou M, Cheng J, Gong YN, Chen YC. Deep learning unlocks label-free viability assessment of cancer spheroids in microfluidics. LAB ON A CHIP 2024; 24:3169-3182. [PMID: 38804084 PMCID: PMC11165951 DOI: 10.1039/d4lc00197d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Despite recent advances in cancer treatment, refining therapeutic agents remains a critical task for oncologists. Precise evaluation of drug effectiveness necessitates the use of 3D cell culture instead of traditional 2D monolayers. Microfluidic platforms have enabled high-throughput drug screening with 3D models, but current viability assays for 3D cancer spheroids have limitations in reliability and cytotoxicity. This study introduces a deep learning model for non-destructive, label-free viability estimation based on phase-contrast images, providing a cost-effective, high-throughput solution for continuous spheroid monitoring in microfluidics. Microfluidic technology facilitated the creation of a high-throughput cancer spheroid platform with approximately 12 000 spheroids per chip for drug screening. Validation involved tests with eight conventional chemotherapeutic drugs, revealing a strong correlation between viability assessed via LIVE/DEAD staining and phase-contrast morphology. Extending the model's application to novel compounds and cell lines not in the training dataset yielded promising results, implying the potential for a universal viability estimation model. Experiments with an alternative microscopy setup supported the model's transferability across different laboratories. Using this method, we also tracked the dynamic changes in spheroid viability during the course of drug administration. In summary, this research integrates a robust platform with high-throughput microfluidic cancer spheroid assays and deep learning-based viability estimation, with broad applicability to various cell lines, compounds, and research settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Cheng Chiang
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, 5115 Centre Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA.
- Department of Computational and Systems Biology, University of Pittsburgh, 3420 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
| | - Rajiv Anne
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, 5115 Centre Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA.
- Department of Bioengineering, Swanson School of Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, 3700 O'Hara Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
| | - Pooja Chawla
- Department of Bioengineering, Swanson School of Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, 3700 O'Hara Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
| | - Rachel M Shaw
- Department of Bioengineering, Swanson School of Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, 3700 O'Hara Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
| | - Sarah He
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, 5115 Centre Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA.
- Carnegie Mellon University, Department of Biological Sciences, 5000 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - Edwin C Rock
- Department of Bioengineering, Swanson School of Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, 3700 O'Hara Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
| | - Mengli Zhou
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, 5115 Centre Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA.
- Department of Computational and Systems Biology, University of Pittsburgh, 3420 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
- Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, China
| | - Jinxiong Cheng
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, 5115 Centre Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA.
- Department of Bioengineering, Swanson School of Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, 3700 O'Hara Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
| | - Yi-Nan Gong
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, 5115 Centre Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA.
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 3420 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15260, USA
| | - Yu-Chih Chen
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, 5115 Centre Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA.
- Department of Computational and Systems Biology, University of Pittsburgh, 3420 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, Swanson School of Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, 3700 O'Hara Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
- CMU-Pitt Ph.D. Program in Computational Biology, University of Pittsburgh, 3420 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
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16
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Opatovski N, Nehme E, Zoref N, Barzilai I, Orange Kedem R, Ferdman B, Keselman P, Alalouf O, Shechtman Y. Depth-enhanced high-throughput microscopy by compact PSF engineering. Nat Commun 2024; 15:4861. [PMID: 38849376 PMCID: PMC11161645 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-48502-y] [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: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
High-throughput microscopy is vital for screening applications, where three-dimensional (3D) cellular models play a key role. However, due to defocus susceptibility, current 3D high-throughput microscopes require axial scanning, which lowers throughput and increases photobleaching and photodamage. Point spread function (PSF) engineering is an optical method that enables various 3D imaging capabilities, yet it has not been implemented in high-throughput microscopy due to the cumbersome optical extension it typically requires. Here we demonstrate compact PSF engineering in the objective lens, which allows us to enhance the imaging depth of field and, combined with deep learning, recover 3D information using single snapshots. Beyond the applications shown here, this work showcases the usefulness of high-throughput microscopy in obtaining training data for deep learning-based algorithms, applicable to a variety of microscopy modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadav Opatovski
- Russell Berrie Nanotechnology Institute, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Elias Nehme
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Noam Zoref
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Ilana Barzilai
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Reut Orange Kedem
- Russell Berrie Nanotechnology Institute, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Boris Ferdman
- Russell Berrie Nanotechnology Institute, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Paul Keselman
- Sartorius Stedim North America Inc., Bohemia, NY, USA
| | - Onit Alalouf
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Yoav Shechtman
- Russell Berrie Nanotechnology Institute, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel.
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA.
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17
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Vettori L, Tran HA, Mahmodi H, Filipe EC, Wyllie K, Liu Chung Ming C, Cox TR, Tipper J, Kabakova IV, Rnjak-Kovacina J, Gentile C. Silk fibroin increases the elasticity of alginate-gelatin hydrogels and regulates cardiac cell contractile function in cardiac bioinks. Biofabrication 2024; 16:035025. [PMID: 38776895 DOI: 10.1088/1758-5090/ad4f1b] [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: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Silk fibroin (SF) is a natural protein extracted fromBombyx morisilkworm thread. From its common use in the textile industry, it emerged as a biomaterial with promising biochemical and mechanical properties for applications in the field of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. In this study, we evaluate for the first time the effects of SF on cardiac bioink formulations containing cardiac spheroids (CSs). First, we evaluate if the SF addition plays a role in the structural and elastic properties of hydrogels containing alginate (Alg) and gelatin (Gel). Then, we test the printability and durability of bioprinted SF-containing hydrogels. Finally, we evaluate whether the addition of SF controls cell viability and function of CSs in Alg-Gel hydrogels. Our findings show that the addition of 1% (w/v) SF to Alg-Gel hydrogels makes them more elastic without affecting cell viability. However, fractional shortening (FS%) of CSs in SF-Alg-Gel hydrogels increases without affecting their contraction frequency, suggesting an improvement in contractile function in the 3D cultures. Altogether, our findings support a promising pathway to bioengineer bioinks containing SF for cardiac applications, with the ability to control mechanical and cellular features in cardiac bioinks.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Vettori
- University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia
- The Heart Research Institute, Newtown, NSW 2042, Australia
| | - H A Tran
- University of New South Wales, Kensington, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - H Mahmodi
- University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia
| | - E C Filipe
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, St Vincent's Healthcare Clinical Campus, UNSW Medicine and Health, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - K Wyllie
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, St Vincent's Healthcare Clinical Campus, UNSW Medicine and Health, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - C Liu Chung Ming
- University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia
- The Heart Research Institute, Newtown, NSW 2042, Australia
| | - T R Cox
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, St Vincent's Healthcare Clinical Campus, UNSW Medicine and Health, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - J Tipper
- University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia
- Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
| | - I V Kabakova
- University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia
| | | | - C Gentile
- University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia
- University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2050, Australia
- The Heart Research Institute, Newtown, NSW 2042, Australia
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18
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Li B, Zu M, Jiang A, Cao Y, Wu J, Shahbazi MA, Shi X, Reis RL, Kundu SC, Xiao B. Magnetic natural lipid nanoparticles for oral treatment of colorectal cancer through potentiated antitumor immunity and microbiota metabolite regulation. Biomaterials 2024; 307:122530. [PMID: 38493672 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2024.122530] [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: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 02/10/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
The therapeutic efficacy of oral nanotherapeutics against colorectal cancer (CRC) is restricted by inadequate drug accumulation, immunosuppressive microenvironment, and intestinal microbiota imbalance. To overcome these challenges, we elaborately constructed 6-gingerol (Gin)-loaded magnetic mesoporous silicon nanoparticles and functionalized their surface with mulberry leaf-extracted lipids (MLLs) and Pluronic F127 (P127). In vitro experiments revealed that P127 functionalization and alternating magnetic fields (AMFs) promoted internalization of the obtained P127-MLL@Gins by colorectal tumor cells and induced their apoptosis/ferroptosis through Gin/ferrous ion-induced oxidative stress and magneto-thermal effect. After oral administration, P127-MLL@Gins safely passed to the colorectal lumen, infiltrated the mucus barrier, and penetrated into the deep tumors under the influence of AMFs. Subsequently, the P127-MLL@Gin (+ AMF) treatment activated antitumor immunity and suppressed tumor growth. We also found that this therapeutic modality significantly increased the abundance of beneficial bacteria (e.g., Bacillus and unclassified-c-Bacilli), reduced the proportions of harmful bacteria (e.g., Bacteroides and Alloprevotella), and increased lipid oxidation metabolites. Strikingly, checkpoint blockers synergistically improved the therapeutic outcomes of P127-MLL@Gins (+ AMF) against orthotopic and distant colorectal tumors and significantly prolonged mouse life spans. Overall, this oral therapeutic platform is a promising modality for synergistic treatment of CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baoyi Li
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, College of Sericulture, Textile, and Biomass Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Menghang Zu
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, College of Sericulture, Textile, and Biomass Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Aodi Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, College of Sericulture, Textile, and Biomass Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Yingui Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, College of Sericulture, Textile, and Biomass Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Jiaxue Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, College of Sericulture, Textile, and Biomass Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Mohammad-Ali Shahbazi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV, Groningen, Netherlands; W.J. Kolff Institute for Biomedical Engineering and Materials Science, University of Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Xiaoxiao Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, College of Sericulture, Textile, and Biomass Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China.
| | - Rui L Reis
- 3Bs Research Group, I3Bs - Research Institute on Biomaterials, Biodegradables and Biomimetics, University of Minho, Headquarters of the European Institute of Excellence on Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, AvePark, Barco, Guimarães, 4805-017, Portugal; ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga, Guimarães, 4800-058, Portugal
| | - Subhas C Kundu
- 3Bs Research Group, I3Bs - Research Institute on Biomaterials, Biodegradables and Biomimetics, University of Minho, Headquarters of the European Institute of Excellence on Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, AvePark, Barco, Guimarães, 4805-017, Portugal; ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga, Guimarães, 4800-058, Portugal
| | - Bo Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, College of Sericulture, Textile, and Biomass Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China.
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19
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Xu K, Zhang Q, Zhu D, Jiang Z. Hydrogels in Gene Delivery Techniques for Regenerative Medicine and Tissue Engineering. Macromol Biosci 2024; 24:e2300577. [PMID: 38265144 DOI: 10.1002/mabi.202300577] [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: 12/16/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
Hydrogels are 3D networks swollen with water. They are biocompatible, strong, and moldable and are emerging as a promising biomedical material for regenerative medicine and tissue engineering to deliver therapeutic genes. The excellent natural extracellular matrix simulation properties of hydrogels enable them to be co-cultured with cells or enhance the expression of viral or non-viral vectors. Its biocompatibility, high strength, and degradation performance also make the action process of carriers in tissues more ideal, making it an ideal biomedical material. It has been shown that hydrogel-based gene delivery technologies have the potential to play therapy-relevant roles in organs such as bone, cartilage, nerve, skin, reproductive organs, and liver in animal experiments and preclinical trials. This paper reviews recent articles on hydrogels in gene delivery and explains the manufacture, applications, developmental timeline, limitations, and future directions of hydrogel-based gene delivery techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kexing Xu
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qinmeng Zhang
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Stomatology Hospital, School of Stomatology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedical Research of Zhejiang Province, Cancer Center of Zhejiang University, Engineering Research Center of Oral Biomaterials and Devices of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310000, China
| | - Danji Zhu
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Stomatology Hospital, School of Stomatology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedical Research of Zhejiang Province, Cancer Center of Zhejiang University, Engineering Research Center of Oral Biomaterials and Devices of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310000, China
| | - Zhiwei Jiang
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Stomatology Hospital, School of Stomatology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedical Research of Zhejiang Province, Cancer Center of Zhejiang University, Engineering Research Center of Oral Biomaterials and Devices of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310000, China
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20
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Xiao C, Xie N, Shu Q, Liang X, Wang Z, Wu J, Shi N, Huang X, Wei ZC, Gao X, Liu H, Wu K, Xu J, Wang JH, Liu N, Xu F. Synergistic Effects of Matrix Biophysical Properties on Gastric Cancer Cell Behavior via Integrin-Mediated Cell-ECM Interactions. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024:e2309907. [PMID: 38712486 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202309907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
The biophysical properties of the extracellular matrix (ECM) play a pivotal role in modulating cancer progression via cell-ECM interactions. However, the biophysical properties specific to gastric cancer (GC) remain largely unexplored. Pertinently, GC ECM shows significantly heterogeneous metamorphoses, such as matrix stiffening and intricate restructuring. By combining collagen I and alginate, this study designs an in vitro biomimetic hydrogel platform to independently modulate matrix stiffness and structure across a physiological stiffness spectrum while preserving consistent collagen concentration and fiber topography. With this platform, this study assesses the impacts of matrix biophysical properties on cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and other pivotal dynamics of AGS. The findings spotlight a compelling interplay between matrix stiffness and structure, influencing both cellular responses and ECM remodeling. Furthermore, this investigation into the integrin/actin-collagen interplay reinforces the central role of integrins in mediating cell-ECM interactions, reciprocally sculpting cell conduct, and ECM adaptation. Collectively, this study reveals a previously unidentified role of ECM biophysical properties in GC malignant potential and provides insight into the bidirectional mechanical cell-ECM interactions, which may facilitate the development of novel therapeutic horizons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cailan Xiao
- Department of Gastroenterology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
- The Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
- Bioinspired Engineering and Biomechanics Center (BEBC), Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
| | - Ning Xie
- Department of Gastroenterology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
- The Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
- Bioinspired Engineering and Biomechanics Center (BEBC), Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
| | - Qiuai Shu
- Department of Gastroenterology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
| | - Xiru Liang
- Department of Gastroenterology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
| | - Ziwei Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
- The Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
- Bioinspired Engineering and Biomechanics Center (BEBC), Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
| | - Jian Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710032, P. R. China
| | - Nianyuan Shi
- The Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
- Bioinspired Engineering and Biomechanics Center (BEBC), Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
- National Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Precision Surgery & Regenerative Medicine, Shaanxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Magnetic Medicine, Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, China
| | - Xindi Huang
- Department of Gastroenterology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
| | - Zhong-Cao Wei
- Department of Gastroenterology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
| | - Xiaoliang Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710032, P. R. China
| | - Hao Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710032, P. R. China
| | - Kaichun Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710032, P. R. China
| | - Jingyuan Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
- Department of Gastroenterology, the Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, 215001, P. R. China
| | - Jin-Hai Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
| | - Na Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hainan General Hospital (Hainan Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University), Haikou, 570311, P. R. China
| | - Feng Xu
- The Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
- Bioinspired Engineering and Biomechanics Center (BEBC), Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
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21
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Anagnostidis V, Tiwari A, Gielen F. Deep learning-assisted concentration gradient generation for the study of 3D cell cultures in hydrogel beads of varying stiffness. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2024; 12:1364553. [PMID: 38665812 PMCID: PMC11044700 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2024.1364553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The study of dose-response relationships underpins analytical biosciences. Droplet microfluidics platforms can automate the generation of microreactors encapsulating varying concentrations of an assay component, providing datasets across a large chemical space in a single experiment. A classical method consists in varying the flow rate of multiple solutions co-flowing into a single microchannel (producing different volume fractions) before encapsulating the contents into water-in-oil droplets. This process can be automated through controlling the pumping elements but lacks the ability to adapt to unpredictable experimental scenarios, often requiring constant human supervision. In this paper, we introduce an image-based, closed-loop control system for assessing and adjusting volume fractions, thereby generating unsupervised, uniform concentration gradients. We trained a shallow convolutional neural network to assess the position of the laminar flow interface between two co-flowing fluids and used this model to adjust flow rates in real-time. We apply the method to generate alginate microbeads in which HEK293FT cells could grow in three dimensions. The stiffnesses ranged from 50 Pa to close to 1 kPa in Young modulus and were encoded with a fluorescent marker. We trained deep learning models based on the YOLOv4 object detector to efficiently detect both microbeads and multicellular spheroids from high-content screening images. This allowed us to map relationships between hydrogel stiffness and multicellular spheroid growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasileios Anagnostidis
- Living Systems Institute, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Faculty of Environment, Science and Economy, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Anuj Tiwari
- Living Systems Institute, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Fabrice Gielen
- Living Systems Institute, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Faculty of Environment, Science and Economy, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
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22
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Minne M, Terrie L, Wüst R, Hasevoets S, Vanden Kerchove K, Nimako K, Lambrichts I, Thorrez L, Declercq H. Generating human skeletal myoblast spheroids for vascular myogenic tissue engineering. Biofabrication 2024; 16:025035. [PMID: 38437715 DOI: 10.1088/1758-5090/ad2fd5] [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: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024]
Abstract
Engineered myogenic microtissues derived from human skeletal myoblasts offer unique opportunities for varying skeletal muscle tissue engineering applications, such asin vitrodrug-testing and disease modelling. However, more complex models require the incorporation of vascular structures, which remains to be challenging. In this study, myogenic spheroids were generated using a high-throughput, non-adhesive micropatterned surface. Since monoculture spheroids containing human skeletal myoblasts were unable to remain their integrity, co-culture spheroids combining human skeletal myoblasts and human adipose-derived stem cells were created. When using the optimal ratio, uniform and viable spheroids with enhanced myogenic properties were achieved. Applying a pre-vascularization strategy, through addition of endothelial cells, resulted in the formation of spheroids containing capillary-like networks, lumina and collagen in the extracellular matrix, whilst retaining myogenicity. Moreover, sprouting of endothelial cells from the spheroids when encapsulated in fibrin was allowed. The possibility of spheroids, from different maturation stages, to assemble into a more large construct was proven by doublet fusion experiments. The relevance of using three-dimensional microtissues with tissue-specific microarchitecture and increased complexity, together with the high-throughput generation approach, makes the generated spheroids a suitable tool forin vitrodrug-testing and human disease modeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mendy Minne
- Tissue Engineering Lab, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven campus KULAK, Kortrijk, Belgium
| | - Lisanne Terrie
- Tissue Engineering Lab, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven campus KULAK, Kortrijk, Belgium
| | - Rebecca Wüst
- Tissue Engineering Lab, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven campus KULAK, Kortrijk, Belgium
| | - Steffie Hasevoets
- Biomedical Research Institute (BIOMED), Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, UHasselt, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Kato Vanden Kerchove
- Tissue Engineering Lab, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven campus KULAK, Kortrijk, Belgium
| | - Kakra Nimako
- Tissue Engineering Lab, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven campus KULAK, Kortrijk, Belgium
| | - Ivo Lambrichts
- Biomedical Research Institute (BIOMED), Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, UHasselt, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Lieven Thorrez
- Tissue Engineering Lab, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven campus KULAK, Kortrijk, Belgium
| | - Heidi Declercq
- Tissue Engineering Lab, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven campus KULAK, Kortrijk, Belgium
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23
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Huang W, Zhang L, Sun J, Sun Y, Gong L, Ge S, Zheng Y, Gao W, Wei X. Hypoxia Reversion by Low-Immunogenic Ultra-Acid-Sensitive Comicelles of Protein-Polymer Conjugates Sensitizes Tumors to Photodynamic Therapy. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:7543-7554. [PMID: 38469664 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c13501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
Hypoxia is characteristic of the tumor microenvironment, which is correlated with resistance to photodynamic therapy (PDT), radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy. Catalase is potentially useful to catalyze the conversion of endogenous H2O2 to O2 for hypoxia reversion. However, the efficient delivery of catalase into the hypoxia regions of tumors is a huge challenge. Here, we report the self-assembly of ultra-acid-sensitive polymer conjugates of catalase and albumin into nanomicelles that are responsive to the acidic tumor microenvironment. The immunogenicity of catalase is mitigated by the presence of albumin, which reduces the cross-linking of catalase with B cell receptors, resulting in improved pharmacokinetics. The ultra acid sensitivity of the nanomicelles makes it possible to efficiently escape the lysosomal degradation after endocytosis and permeate into the interior of tumors to reverse hypoxia in vitro and in vivo. In mice bearing triple-negative breast cancer, the nanomicelles loaded with a photosensitizer effectively accumulate and penetrate into the whole tumors to generate a sufficient amount of O2 to reverse hypoxia, leading to enhanced efficacy of PDT without detectable side effects. These findings provide a general strategy of self-assembly to design low-immunogenic ultra-acid-sensitive comicelles of protein-polymer conjugates to reverse tumor hypoxia, which sensitizes tumors to PDT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenchao Huang
- Institute of Medical Technology and Cancer Hospital, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
- Institute of Advanced Clinical Medicine, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
- Biomedical Engineering Department, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Longshuai Zhang
- Institute of Advanced Clinical Medicine, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
- Biomedical Engineering Department, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
- Peking University International Cancer Institute, Beijing 100191, China
- Peking University-Yunnan Baiyao International Medical Research Center, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Jiawei Sun
- Institute of Medical Technology and Cancer Hospital, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
- Institute of Advanced Clinical Medicine, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
- Biomedical Engineering Department, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
- Peking University International Cancer Institute, Beijing 100191, China
- Peking University-Yunnan Baiyao International Medical Research Center, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Yuanzi Sun
- Institute of Medical Technology and Cancer Hospital, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
- Institute of Advanced Clinical Medicine, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
- Biomedical Engineering Department, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
- Peking University International Cancer Institute, Beijing 100191, China
- Peking University-Yunnan Baiyao International Medical Research Center, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Like Gong
- Institute of Medical Technology and Cancer Hospital, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
- Institute of Advanced Clinical Medicine, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
- Biomedical Engineering Department, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
- Peking University International Cancer Institute, Beijing 100191, China
- Peking University-Yunnan Baiyao International Medical Research Center, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Sisi Ge
- Institute of Medical Technology and Cancer Hospital, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
- Institute of Advanced Clinical Medicine, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
- Biomedical Engineering Department, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Yinghao Zheng
- Institute of Medical Technology and Cancer Hospital, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
- Institute of Advanced Clinical Medicine, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
- Biomedical Engineering Department, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Weiping Gao
- Institute of Medical Technology and Cancer Hospital, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
- Institute of Advanced Clinical Medicine, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
- Biomedical Engineering Department, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
- Peking University International Cancer Institute, Beijing 100191, China
- Peking University-Yunnan Baiyao International Medical Research Center, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Xunbin Wei
- Institute of Medical Technology and Cancer Hospital, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
- Institute of Advanced Clinical Medicine, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
- Biomedical Engineering Department, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
- Peking University International Cancer Institute, Beijing 100191, China
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24
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Janssen ML, Liu T, Özel M, Bril M, Prasad Thelu HV, E Kieltyka R. Dynamic Exchange in 3D Cell Culture Hydrogels Based on Crosslinking of Cyclic Thiosulfinates. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2024; 63:e202314738. [PMID: 38055926 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202314738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
Dynamic polymer materials are highly valued substrates for 3D cell culture due to their viscoelasticity, a time-dependent mechanical property that can be tuned to resemble the energy dissipation of native tissues. Herein, we report the coupling of a cyclic thiosulfinate, mono-S-oxo-4-methyl asparagusic acid, to a 4-arm PEG-OH to prepare a disulfide-based dynamic covalent hydrogel with the addition of 4-arm PEG-thiol. Ring opening of the cyclic thiosulfinate by nucleophilic substitution results in the rapid formation of a network showing a viscoelastic fluid-like behaviour and relaxation rates modulated by thiol content through thiol-disulfide exchange, whereas its viscoelastic behaviour upon application as a small molecule linear crosslinker is solid-like. Further introduction of 4-arm PEG-vinylsulfone in the network yields a hydrogel with weeks-long cell culture stability, permitting 3D culture of cell types that lack robust proliferation, such as human pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes (hPSC-CMs). These cells display native behaviours such as cell elongation and spontaneous beating as a function of the hydrogel's mechanical properties. We demonstrate that the mode of dynamic cyclic thiosulfinate crosslinker presentation within the network can result in different stress relaxation profiles, opening the door to model tissues with disparate mechanics in 3D cell culture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Merel L Janssen
- Department of Supramolecular and Biomaterials Chemistry, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, P.O. Box 9502, 2300 RA, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Tingxian Liu
- Department of Supramolecular and Biomaterials Chemistry, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, P.O. Box 9502, 2300 RA, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Mertcan Özel
- Department of Supramolecular and Biomaterials Chemistry, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, P.O. Box 9502, 2300 RA, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Maaike Bril
- Department of Supramolecular and Biomaterials Chemistry, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, P.O. Box 9502, 2300 RA, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Hari Veera Prasad Thelu
- Department of Supramolecular and Biomaterials Chemistry, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, P.O. Box 9502, 2300 RA, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Roxanne E Kieltyka
- Department of Supramolecular and Biomaterials Chemistry, Leiden Institute of Chemistry, P.O. Box 9502, 2300 RA, Leiden, The Netherlands
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25
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Chandrasekharan A, Tiwari SK, Munirpasha HA, Sivasailam A, Jayaprasad AG, Harikumar A, Santhoshkumar TR. Genetically encoded caspase sensor and RFP-LC3 for temporal analysis of apoptosis-autophagy. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 257:128807. [PMID: 38101685 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.128807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
The balance between pro-death and pro-survival signaling determines the fate of cells under a variety of pathological and physiological conditions. The pro-cell death signaling, apoptosis, and survival singling, autophagy work in an integrated manner for maintaining cell integrity. Their altered balance drives pathological conditions such as cancer, inflammatory disorders, and neurodegenerative diseases. Dissecting complex crosstalk between autophagy and apoptosis requires simultaneous detection of both events at a single cell level with good temporal resolution in real-time. Here, we have used two distinct fluorescent-based probes of caspase activation and autophagy for generating such sensor cells. Cells stably expressing RFP-LC3 as an autophagy marker were further stably expressed with a FRET-based probe for caspase activation with a nuclear localization signal. The functional validation and live-cell imaging of the sensor cells using selected treatments revealed that stress that induces rapid cell death often fails to induce autophagy signaling, and slow cell death induction triggers simultaneous autophagy signaling with caspase activation. The real-time imaging revealed the time-dependent shift of cells towards caspase activation while autophagy is inhibited confirming basal autophagy confers survival against apoptosis under stress conditions. Confocal imaging also revealed that cells under 3D culture condition maintain increased autophagy over monolayer cultures. High-throughput adaptability of the system extends its application for the screening of compounds that cause caspase activation, autophagy, or both demonstrating the potential utility of the sensor probe for diverse biological applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aneesh Chandrasekharan
- Cancer Research Program, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Poojappura, Thycaud P.O., Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 695014, India.
| | - Shivanshu Kumar Tiwari
- Cancer Research Program, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Poojappura, Thycaud P.O., Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 695014, India
| | - Halikar Aman Munirpasha
- Cancer Research Program, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Poojappura, Thycaud P.O., Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 695014, India
| | - Aswathy Sivasailam
- Cancer Research Program, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Poojappura, Thycaud P.O., Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 695014, India
| | - Aparna Geetha Jayaprasad
- Cancer Research Program, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Poojappura, Thycaud P.O., Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 695014, India
| | - Ashwathi Harikumar
- Cancer Research Program, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Poojappura, Thycaud P.O., Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 695014, India
| | - T R Santhoshkumar
- Cancer Research Program, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Poojappura, Thycaud P.O., Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 695014, India
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26
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Mansouri M, Lamichhane A, Das D, Aucejo F, Tavana H, Leipzig ND. Comparison of Engineered Liver 3D Models and the Role of Oxygenation for Patient-Derived Tumor Cells and Immortalized Cell Lines Cocultured with Tumor Stroma in the Detection of Hepatotoxins. Adv Biol (Weinh) 2024; 8:e2300386. [PMID: 37845003 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.202300386] [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: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
In metabolically active tumors, responses of cells to drugs are heavily influenced by oxygen availability via the surrounding vasculature alongside the extracellular matrix signaling. The objective of this study is to investigate hepatotoxicity by replicating critical features of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This includes replicating 3D structures, metabolic activities, and tumor-specific markers. The internal environment of spheroids comprised of cancerous human patient-derived hepatocytes using microparticles is modulated to enhance the oxygenation state and recreate cell-extracellular matrix interactions. Furthermore, the role of hepatic stellate cells in maintaining hepatocyte survival and function is explored and hepatocytes from two cellular sources (immortalized and patient-derived) to create four formulations with and without microparticles are utilized. To investigate drug-induced changes in metabolism and apoptosis in liver cells, coculture spheroids with and without microparticles are exposed to three hepatotoxic drugs. The use of microparticles increases levels of apoptotic markers in both liver models under drug treatments. This coincides with reduced levels of anti-apoptotic proteins and increased levels of pro-apoptotic proteins. Moreover, cells from different origins undergo apoptosis through distinct apoptotic pathways in response to identical drugs. This 3D microphysiological system offers a viable tool for liver cancer research to investigate mechanisms of apoptosis under different microenvironmental conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona Mansouri
- Department of Chemical, Biomolecular, and Corrosion Engineering, The University of Akron, Akron, OH, 44325, USA
| | - Astha Lamichhane
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Akron, Akron, OH, 44325, USA
| | - Dola Das
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Federico Aucejo
- Lerner College of Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, 44195, USA
| | - Hossein Tavana
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Akron, Akron, OH, 44325, USA
| | - Nic D Leipzig
- Department of Chemical, Biomolecular, and Corrosion Engineering, The University of Akron, Akron, OH, 44325, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Akron, Akron, OH, 44325, USA
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27
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Zieger V, Woehr E, Zimmermann S, Frejek D, Koltay P, Zengerle R, Kartmann S. Automated Nanodroplet Dispensing for Large-Scale Spheroid Generation via Hanging Drop and Parallelized Lossless Spheroid Harvesting. MICROMACHINES 2024; 15:231. [PMID: 38398960 PMCID: PMC10893090 DOI: 10.3390/mi15020231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2023] [Revised: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
Creating model systems that replicate in vivo tissues is crucial for understanding complex biological pathways like drug response and disease progression. Three-dimensional (3D) in vitro models, especially multicellular spheroids (MCSs), offer valuable insights into physiological processes. However, generating MCSs at scale with consistent properties and efficiently recovering them pose challenges. We introduce a workflow that automates large-scale spheroid production and enables parallel harvesting into individual wells of a microtiter plate. Our method, based on the hanging-drop technique, utilizes a non-contact dispenser for dispensing nanoliter droplets of a uniformly mixed-cell suspension. The setup allows for extended processing times of up to 45 min without compromising spheroid quality. As a proof of concept, we achieved a 99.3% spheroid generation efficiency and maintained highly consistent spheroid sizes, with a coefficient of variance below 8% for MCF7 spheroids. Our centrifugation-based drop transfer for spheroid harvesting achieved a sample recovery of 100%. We successfully transferred HT29 spheroids from hanging drops to individual wells preloaded with collagen matrices, where they continued to proliferate. This high-throughput workflow opens new possibilities for prolonged spheroid cultivation, advanced downstream assays, and increased hands-off time in complex 3D cell culture protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viktoria Zieger
- Laboratory for MEMS Applications, IMTEK-Department of Microsystems Engineering, University of Freiburg, Georges-Koehler-Allee 103, D-79110 Freiburg, Germany; (S.Z.); (P.K.); (R.Z.); (S.K.)
| | - Ellen Woehr
- Hahn-Schickard, Georges-Koehler-Allee 103, D-79110 Freiburg, Germany; (E.W.); (D.F.)
- Study Program Molecular and Technical Medicine, Faculty Medical and Life Science, University of Furtwangen, D-78054 Villingen-Schwenningen, Germany
| | - Stefan Zimmermann
- Laboratory for MEMS Applications, IMTEK-Department of Microsystems Engineering, University of Freiburg, Georges-Koehler-Allee 103, D-79110 Freiburg, Germany; (S.Z.); (P.K.); (R.Z.); (S.K.)
| | - Daniel Frejek
- Hahn-Schickard, Georges-Koehler-Allee 103, D-79110 Freiburg, Germany; (E.W.); (D.F.)
| | - Peter Koltay
- Laboratory for MEMS Applications, IMTEK-Department of Microsystems Engineering, University of Freiburg, Georges-Koehler-Allee 103, D-79110 Freiburg, Germany; (S.Z.); (P.K.); (R.Z.); (S.K.)
| | - Roland Zengerle
- Laboratory for MEMS Applications, IMTEK-Department of Microsystems Engineering, University of Freiburg, Georges-Koehler-Allee 103, D-79110 Freiburg, Germany; (S.Z.); (P.K.); (R.Z.); (S.K.)
- Hahn-Schickard, Georges-Koehler-Allee 103, D-79110 Freiburg, Germany; (E.W.); (D.F.)
| | - Sabrina Kartmann
- Laboratory for MEMS Applications, IMTEK-Department of Microsystems Engineering, University of Freiburg, Georges-Koehler-Allee 103, D-79110 Freiburg, Germany; (S.Z.); (P.K.); (R.Z.); (S.K.)
- Hahn-Schickard, Georges-Koehler-Allee 103, D-79110 Freiburg, Germany; (E.W.); (D.F.)
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Hayakawa N, Nishiura M, Anada T, Kobayashi S, Sawada T, Serizawa T, Tanaka M. Suspension Culture System for Isolating Cancer Spheroids using Enzymatically Synthesized Cellulose Oligomers. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2024; 7:306-314. [PMID: 38091496 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.3c00901] [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] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
Isolating cancer cells from tissues and providing an appropriate culture environment are important for a better understanding of cancer behavior. Although various three-dimensional (3D) cell culture systems have been developed, techniques for collecting high-purity spheroids without strong stimulation are required. Herein, we report a 3D cell culture system for the isolation of cancer spheroids using enzymatically synthesized cellulose oligomers (COs) and demonstrate that this system isolates only cancer spheroids under coculture conditions with normal cells. CO suspensions in a serum-containing cell culture medium were prepared to suspend cells without settling. High-purity cancer spheroids could be separated by filtration without strong stimulation because the COs exhibited antibiofouling properties and a viscosity comparable to that of the culture medium. When human hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2) cells, a model for cancer cells, were cultured in the CO suspensions, they proliferated clonally and efficiently with time. In addition, only developed cancer spheroids from HepG2 cells were collected in the presence of normal cells by using a mesh filter with an appropriate pore size. These results indicate that this approach has potential applications in basic cancer research and cancer drug screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natsuki Hayakawa
- DKS Co. Ltd., 55 Nishishichijo Higashikubocho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto 600-8873, Japan
| | - Masahito Nishiura
- DKS Co. Ltd., 55 Nishishichijo Higashikubocho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto 600-8873, Japan
| | - Takahisa Anada
- Soft Materials Chemistry, Institute for Materials Chemistry and Engineering, Kyushu University, Build. CE41, 744 Motooka, Nishi-ku, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan
| | - Shingo Kobayashi
- Soft Materials Chemistry, Institute for Materials Chemistry and Engineering, Kyushu University, Build. CE41, 744 Motooka, Nishi-ku, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan
| | - Toshiki Sawada
- Department of Chemical Science and Engineering, School of Materials and Chemical Technology, Tokyo Institute of Technology, 2-12-1 Ookayama, Meguro-ku, Tokyo 152-8550, Japan
| | - Takeshi Serizawa
- Department of Chemical Science and Engineering, School of Materials and Chemical Technology, Tokyo Institute of Technology, 2-12-1 Ookayama, Meguro-ku, Tokyo 152-8550, Japan
| | - Masaru Tanaka
- Soft Materials Chemistry, Institute for Materials Chemistry and Engineering, Kyushu University, Build. CE41, 744 Motooka, Nishi-ku, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan
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29
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Wang S, Hu N, Deng B, Wang H, Qiao R, Li C. A Guanosine-Derived Antitumor Supramolecular Prodrug. Biomacromolecules 2024; 25:290-302. [PMID: 38065622 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.3c00990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
The prodrug strategy for its potential to enhance the pharmacokinetic and/or pharmacodynamic properties of drugs, especially chemotherapeutic agents, has been widely recognized as an important means to improve therapeutic efficiency. Irinotecan's active metabolite, 7-ethyl-10-hydroxycamptothecin (SN38), a borate derivative, was incorporated into a G-quadruplex hydrogel (GB-SN38) by the ingenious and simple approach. Drug release does not depend on carboxylesterase, thus bypassing the side effects caused by ineffective activation, but specifically responds to the ROS-overexpressed tumor microenvironment by oxidative hydrolysis of borate ester that reduces serious systemic toxicity from nonspecific biodistribution of SN38. Comprehensive spectroscopy was used to define the structural and physicochemical characteristics of the drug-loaded hydrogel. The GB-SN38 hydrogel's high level of biosafety and notable tumor-suppressive properties were proven in in vitro and in vivo tests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuyun Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Resource Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100029, P.R. China
| | - Nanrong Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Resource Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100029, P.R. China
| | - Bo Deng
- Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing 100029, P.R. China
| | - Hongyue Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Resource Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100029, P.R. China
| | - Renzhong Qiao
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Resource Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100029, P.R. China
| | - Chao Li
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Resource Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100029, P.R. China
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30
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Li H, Chen Z, Chen N, Fan Y, Xu Y, Xu X. Applications of lung cancer organoids in precision medicine: from bench to bedside. Cell Commun Signal 2023; 21:350. [PMID: 38057851 PMCID: PMC10698950 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01332-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023] Open
Abstract
As the leading cause of cancer-related mortality, lung cancer continues to pose a menacing threat to human health worldwide. Lung cancer treatment options primarily rely on chemoradiotherapy, surgery, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy. Despite significant progress in research and treatment, the 5-year survival rate for lung cancer patients is only 10-20%. There is an urgent need to develop more reliable preclinical models and valid therapeutic approaches. Patient-derived organoids with highly reduced tumour heterogeneity have emerged as a promising model for high-throughput drug screening to guide treatment of lung cancer patients. Organoid technology offers a novel platform for disease modelling, biobanking and drug development. The expected benefit of organoids is for cancer patients as the subsequent precision medicine technology. Over the past few years, numerous basic and clinical studies have been conducted on lung cancer organoids, highlighting the significant contributions of this technique. This review comprehensively examines the current state-of-the-art technologies and applications relevant to the formation of lung cancer organoids, as well as the potential of organoids in precision medicine and drug testing. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huihui Li
- Department of Medical Thoracic Oncology, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310022, Zhejiang, China
- Postgraduate Training Base Alliance, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zexin Chen
- Guangdong Research Center of Organoid Engineering and Technology, Guangzhou, 510535, Guangdong, China
| | - Ning Chen
- Department of Medical Thoracic Oncology, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310022, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Oncology, The Second Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Yun Fan
- Department of Medical Thoracic Oncology, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310022, Zhejiang, China.
- Postgraduate Training Base Alliance, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Yaping Xu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200433, China.
| | - Xiaoling Xu
- Postgraduate Training Base Alliance, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, Zhejiang, China.
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200433, China.
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31
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Yu D, Nie Q, Xue J, Luo R, Xie S, Chao S, Wang E, Xu L, Shan Y, Liu Z, Li Y, Li Z. Direct Mapping of Cytomechanical Homeostasis Destruction in Osteoarthritis Based on Silicon Nanopillar Array. Adv Healthc Mater 2023; 12:e2301126. [PMID: 37747342 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202301126] [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: 04/23/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most prevalent joint degenerative disease characterized by chronic joint inflammation. The pathogenesis of OA has not been fully elucidated yet. Cartilage erosion is the most significant pathological feature in OA, which is considered the result of cytomechanical homeostasis destruction. The cytomechanical homeostasis is maintained by the dynamic interaction between cells and the extracellular matrix, which can be reflected by cell traction force (CTF). It is critical to assess the CTF to provide a deeper understanding of the cytomechanical homeostasis destruction and progression in OA. In this study, a silicon nanopillar array (Si-NP) with high spatial resolution and aspect ratio is fabricated to investigate the CTF in response to OA. It is discovered that the CTF is degraded in OA, which is attributed to the F-actin reorganization induced by the activation of RhoA/ROCK signaling pathway. Si-NP also shows promising potential as a mechanopharmacological assessment platform for OA drug screening and evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dengjie Yu
- Department of Orthopedics, Xiangya hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
- Beijing Institute of Nanoenergy and Nanosystems, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 101400, China
| | - Qingbin Nie
- Department of Neurosurgery, PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100853, China
| | - Jiangtao Xue
- Beijing Institute of Nanoenergy and Nanosystems, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 101400, China
- School of Medical Technology, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Ruizeng Luo
- Beijing Institute of Nanoenergy and Nanosystems, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 101400, China
| | - Shiwang Xie
- Beijing Institute of Nanoenergy and Nanosystems, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 101400, China
| | - Shengyu Chao
- Beijing Institute of Nanoenergy and Nanosystems, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 101400, China
| | - Engui Wang
- Beijing Institute of Nanoenergy and Nanosystems, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 101400, China
| | - Linlin Xu
- Beijing Institute of Nanoenergy and Nanosystems, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 101400, China
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety & CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology of China, Beijing, 100190, China
| | - Yizhu Shan
- Beijing Institute of Nanoenergy and Nanosystems, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 101400, China
| | - Zhuo Liu
- Beijing Institute of Nanoenergy and Nanosystems, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 101400, China
- Key Laboratory of Biomechanics and Mechanobiology, Ministry of Education, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering Medicine, Beihang University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Yusheng Li
- Department of Orthopedics, Xiangya hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Zhou Li
- Beijing Institute of Nanoenergy and Nanosystems, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 101400, China
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
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32
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Xu H, Jia Z, Liu F, Li J, Huang Y, Jiang Y, Pu P, Shang T, Tang P, Zhou Y, Yang Y, Su J, Liu J. Biomarkers and experimental models for cancer immunology investigation. MedComm (Beijing) 2023; 4:e437. [PMID: 38045830 PMCID: PMC10693314 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The rapid advancement of tumor immunotherapies poses challenges for the tools used in cancer immunology research, highlighting the need for highly effective biomarkers and reproducible experimental models. Current immunotherapy biomarkers encompass surface protein markers such as PD-L1, genetic features such as microsatellite instability, tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes, and biomarkers in liquid biopsy such as circulating tumor DNAs. Experimental models, ranging from 3D in vitro cultures (spheroids, submerged models, air-liquid interface models, organ-on-a-chips) to advanced 3D bioprinting techniques, have emerged as valuable platforms for cancer immunology investigations and immunotherapy biomarker research. By preserving native immune components or coculturing with exogenous immune cells, these models replicate the tumor microenvironment in vitro. Animal models like syngeneic models, genetically engineered models, and patient-derived xenografts provide opportunities to study in vivo tumor-immune interactions. Humanized animal models further enable the simulation of the human-specific tumor microenvironment. Here, we provide a comprehensive overview of the advantages, limitations, and prospects of different biomarkers and experimental models, specifically focusing on the role of biomarkers in predicting immunotherapy outcomes and the ability of experimental models to replicate the tumor microenvironment. By integrating cutting-edge biomarkers and experimental models, this review serves as a valuable resource for accessing the forefront of cancer immunology investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hengyi Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular OncologyNational Cancer Center /National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer HospitalChinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
- Eight‐year MD ProgramSchool of Clinical Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Ziqi Jia
- Department of Breast Surgical OncologyNational Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer HospitalChinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Fengshuo Liu
- Eight‐year MD ProgramSchool of Clinical Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Jiayi Li
- Eight‐year MD ProgramSchool of Clinical Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
- Department of Breast Surgical OncologyNational Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer HospitalChinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Yansong Huang
- Eight‐year MD ProgramSchool of Clinical Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
- Department of Breast Surgical OncologyNational Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer HospitalChinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Yiwen Jiang
- Eight‐year MD ProgramSchool of Clinical Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Pengming Pu
- Eight‐year MD ProgramSchool of Clinical Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Tongxuan Shang
- Eight‐year MD ProgramSchool of Clinical Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Pengrui Tang
- Eight‐year MD ProgramSchool of Clinical Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Yongxin Zhou
- Eight‐year MD ProgramSchool of Clinical Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Yufan Yang
- School of MedicineTsinghua UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Jianzhong Su
- Oujiang LaboratoryZhejiang Lab for Regenerative Medicine, Vision, and Brain HealthWenzhouZhejiangChina
| | - Jiaqi Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular OncologyNational Cancer Center /National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer HospitalChinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
- Department of Breast Surgical OncologyNational Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer HospitalChinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
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33
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Du EY, Jung M, Skhinas J, Tolentino MAK, Noy J, Jamshidi N, Houng JL, Tjandra KC, Engel M, Utama R, Tilley RD, Kavallaris M, Gooding JJ. 3D Bioprintable Hydrogel with Tunable Stiffness for Exploring Cells Encapsulated in Matrices of Differing Stiffnesses. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2023; 6:4603-4612. [PMID: 37844275 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.3c00334] [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] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
In vitro cell models have undergone a shift from 2D models on glass slides to 3D models that better reflect the native 3D microenvironment. 3D bioprinting promises to progress the field by allowing the high-throughput production of reproducible cell-laden structures with high fidelity. The current stiffness range of printable matrices surrounding the cells that mimic the extracellular matrix environment remains limited. The work presented herein aims to expand the range of stiffnesses by utilizing a four-armed polyethylene glycol with maleimide-functionalized arms. The complementary cross-linkers comprised a matrix metalloprotease-degradable peptide and a four-armed thiolated polymer which were adjusted in ratio to tune the stiffness. The modularity of this system allows for a simple method of controlling stiffness and the addition of biological motifs. The application of this system in drop-on-demand printing is validated using MCF-7 cells, which were monitored for viability and proliferation. This study shows the potential of this system for the high-throughput investigation of the effects of stiffness and biological motif compositions in relation to cell behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Y Du
- School of Chemistry, UNSW Sydney, New South Wales 2052, Australia
- Australian Centre for NanoMedicine, UNSW, Sydney, New South Wales 2031, Australia
| | - MoonSun Jung
- Australian Centre for NanoMedicine, UNSW, Sydney, New South Wales 2031, Australia
- Children's Cancer Institute, Lowy Cancer Research Centre, UNSW, Sydney, New South Wales 2052, Australia
| | - Joanna Skhinas
- Australian Centre for NanoMedicine, UNSW, Sydney, New South Wales 2031, Australia
- Children's Cancer Institute, Lowy Cancer Research Centre, UNSW, Sydney, New South Wales 2052, Australia
| | - M A Kristine Tolentino
- School of Chemistry, UNSW Sydney, New South Wales 2052, Australia
- Australian Centre for NanoMedicine, UNSW, Sydney, New South Wales 2031, Australia
| | - Janina Noy
- Inventia Life Science Pty Ltd, Sydney, New South Wales 2015, Australia
| | - Niloufar Jamshidi
- School of Chemistry, UNSW Sydney, New South Wales 2052, Australia
- Australian Centre for NanoMedicine, UNSW, Sydney, New South Wales 2031, Australia
| | - Jacinta L Houng
- School of Chemistry, UNSW Sydney, New South Wales 2052, Australia
- Australian Centre for NanoMedicine, UNSW, Sydney, New South Wales 2031, Australia
| | - Kristel C Tjandra
- School of Chemistry, UNSW Sydney, New South Wales 2052, Australia
- Australian Centre for NanoMedicine, UNSW, Sydney, New South Wales 2031, Australia
| | - Martin Engel
- Inventia Life Science Pty Ltd, Sydney, New South Wales 2015, Australia
| | - Robert Utama
- Inventia Life Science Pty Ltd, Sydney, New South Wales 2015, Australia
| | - Richard D Tilley
- School of Chemistry, UNSW Sydney, New South Wales 2052, Australia
- Electron Microscope Unit, Mark Wainwright Analytical Centre, UNSW, Sydney, New South Wales 2052, Australia
| | - Maria Kavallaris
- Australian Centre for NanoMedicine, UNSW, Sydney, New South Wales 2031, Australia
- Children's Cancer Institute, Lowy Cancer Research Centre, UNSW, Sydney, New South Wales 2052, Australia
| | - J Justin Gooding
- School of Chemistry, UNSW Sydney, New South Wales 2052, Australia
- Australian Centre for NanoMedicine, UNSW, Sydney, New South Wales 2031, Australia
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34
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Hefferon ME, Huang MS, Liu Y, Navarro RS, de Paiva Narciso N, Zhang D, Aviles-Rodriguez G, Heilshorn SC. Cell Microencapsulation Within Engineered Hyaluronan Elastin-Like Protein (HELP) Hydrogels. Curr Protoc 2023; 3:e917. [PMID: 37929691 PMCID: PMC10629846 DOI: 10.1002/cpz1.917] [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] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
Three-dimensional cell encapsulation has rendered itself a staple in the tissue engineering field. Using recombinantly engineered, biopolymer-based hydrogels to encapsulate cells is especially promising due to the enhanced control and tunability it affords. Here, we describe in detail the synthesis of our hyaluronan (i.e., hyaluronic acid) and elastin-like protein (HELP) hydrogel system. In addition to validating the efficacy of our synthetic process, we also demonstrate the modularity of the HELP system. Finally, we show that cells can be encapsulated within HELP gels over a range of stiffnesses, exhibit strong viability, and respond to stiffness cues. © 2023 Wiley Periodicals LLC. Basic Protocol 1: Elastin-like protein modification with hydrazine Basic Protocol 2: Nuclear magnetic resonance quantification of elastin-like protein modification with hydrazine Basic Protocol 3: Hyaluronic acid-benzaldehyde synthesis Basic Protocol 4: Nuclear magnetic resonance quantification of hyaluronic acid-benzaldehyde Basic Protocol 5: 3D cell encapsulation in hyaluronan elastin-like protein gels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meghan E. Hefferon
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford University, 496 Lomita Mall, Stanford, California 94305, 605-724-6784
| | - Michelle S. Huang
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, 443 Via Ortega, Stanford, California 94305, 650-723-4906, 605-724-6784
| | - Yueming Liu
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford University, 496 Lomita Mall, Stanford, California 94305, 605-724-6784
| | - Renato S. Navarro
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford University, 496 Lomita Mall, Stanford, California 94305, 605-724-6784
| | - Narelli de Paiva Narciso
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford University, 496 Lomita Mall, Stanford, California 94305, 605-724-6784
| | - Daiyao Zhang
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, 443 Via Ortega, Stanford, California 94305, 650-723-4906, 605-724-6784
| | - Giselle Aviles-Rodriguez
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford University, 496 Lomita Mall, Stanford, California 94305, 605-724-6784
| | - Sarah C. Heilshorn
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford University, 496 Lomita Mall, Stanford, California 94305, 605-724-6784
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35
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Tang P, Thongrom B, Arora S, Haag R. Polyglycerol-Based Biomedical Matrix for Immunomagnetic Circulating Tumor Cell Isolation and Their Expansion into Tumor Spheroids for Drug Screening. Adv Healthc Mater 2023; 12:e2300842. [PMID: 37402278 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202300842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Revised: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023]
Abstract
Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are established as distinct cancer biomarkers for diagnosis, as preclinical models, and therapeutic targets. Their use as preclinical models is limited owing to low purity after isolation and the lack of effective techniques to create 3D cultures that accurately mimic in vivo conditions. Herein, a two-component system for detecting, isolating, and expanding CTCs to generate multicellular tumor spheroids that mimic the physiology and microenvironment of the diseased organ is proposed. First, an antifouling biointerface on magnetic beads is fabricated by adding a bioinert polymer layer and conjugation of biospecific ligands to isolate cancer cells, dramatically enhancing the selectivity and purity of the isolated cancer cells. Next, the isolated cells are encapsulated into self-degradable hydrogels synthesized using a thiol-click approach. The hydrogels are mechanochemically tuned to enable tumor spheroid growth to a size greater than 300 µm and to further release the grown spheroids while retaining their tumor-like characteristics. In addition, drug treatment highlights the need for 3D culture environments rather than conventional 2D culture. The designed biomedical matrix shows potential as a universal method to ensure mimicry of in vivo tumor characteristics in individual patients and to improve the predictability of preclinical screening of personalized therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Tang
- Institute for Chemistry and Biochemistry, Freie Universität Berlin, Takustr. 3, 14195, Berlin, Germany
| | - Boonya Thongrom
- Institute for Chemistry and Biochemistry, Freie Universität Berlin, Takustr. 3, 14195, Berlin, Germany
| | - Smriti Arora
- Institute for Chemistry and Biochemistry, Freie Universität Berlin, Takustr. 3, 14195, Berlin, Germany
| | - Rainer Haag
- Institute for Chemistry and Biochemistry, Freie Universität Berlin, Takustr. 3, 14195, Berlin, Germany
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36
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Faruqui N, Williams DS, Briones A, Kepiro IE, Ravi J, Kwan TO, Mearns-Spragg A, Ryadnov MG. Extracellular matrix type 0: From ancient collagen lineage to a versatile product pipeline - JellaGel™. Mater Today Bio 2023; 22:100786. [PMID: 37692377 PMCID: PMC10491728 DOI: 10.1016/j.mtbio.2023.100786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Extracellular matrix type 0 is reported. The matrix is developed from a jellyfish collagen predating mammalian forms by over 0.5 billion years. With its ancient lineage, compositional simplicity, and resemblance to multiple collagen types, the matrix is referred to as the extracellular matrix type 0. Here we validate the matrix describing its physicochemical and biological properties and present it as a versatile, minimalist biomaterial underpinning a pipeline of commercialised products under the collective name of JellaGelTM. We describe an extensive body of evidence for folding and assembly of the matrix in comparison to mammalian matrices, such as bovine collagen, and its use to support cell growth and development in comparison to known tissue-derived products, such as Matrigel™. We apply the matrix to co-culture human astrocytes and cortical neurons derived from induced pluripotent stem cells and visualise neuron firing synchronicity with correlations indicative of a homogenous extracellular material in contrast to the performance of heterogenous commercial matrices. We prove the ability of the matrix to induce spheroid formation and support the 3D culture of human immortalised, primary, and mesenchymal stem cells. We conclude that the matrix offers an optimal solution for systemic evaluations of cell-matrix biology. It effectively combines the exploitable properties of mammalian tissue extracts or top-down matrices, such as biocompatibility, with the advantages of synthetic or bottom-up matrices, such as compositional control, while avoiding the drawbacks of the two types, such as biological and design heterogeneity, thereby providing a unique bridging capability of a stem extracellular matrix.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nilofar Faruqui
- National Physical Laboratory, Hampton Road, Teddington, TW11 0LW, UK
| | | | - Andrea Briones
- National Physical Laboratory, Hampton Road, Teddington, TW11 0LW, UK
| | - Ibolya E. Kepiro
- National Physical Laboratory, Hampton Road, Teddington, TW11 0LW, UK
| | - Jascindra Ravi
- National Physical Laboratory, Hampton Road, Teddington, TW11 0LW, UK
| | - Tristan O.C. Kwan
- National Physical Laboratory, Hampton Road, Teddington, TW11 0LW, UK
| | | | - Maxim G. Ryadnov
- National Physical Laboratory, Hampton Road, Teddington, TW11 0LW, UK
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37
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Chan WS, Mo X, Ip PPC, Tse KY. Patient-derived organoid culture in epithelial ovarian cancers-Techniques, applications, and future perspectives. Cancer Med 2023; 12:19714-19731. [PMID: 37776168 PMCID: PMC10587945 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.6521] [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: 03/10/2023] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is a heterogeneous disease composed of different cell types with different molecular aberrations. Traditional cell lines and mice models cannot recapitulate the human tumor biology and tumor microenvironment (TME). Patient-derived organoids (PDOs) are freshly derived from patients' tissues and are then cultured with extracellular matrix and conditioned medium. The high concordance of epigenetic, genomic, and proteomic landscapes between the parental tumors and PDOs suggests that PDOs can provide more reliable results in studying cancer biology, allowing high throughput drug screening, and identifying their associated signaling pathways and resistance mechanisms. However, despite having a heterogeneity of cells in PDOs, some cells in TME will be lost during the culture process. Next-generation organoids have been developed to circumvent some of the limitations. Genetically engineered organoids involving targeted gene editing can facilitate the understanding of tumorigenesis and drug response. Co-culture systems where PDOs are cultured with different cell components like immune cells can allow research using immunotherapy which is otherwise impossible in conventional cell lines. In this review, the limitations of the traditional in vitro and in vivo assays, the use of PDOs, the challenges including some tips and tricks of PDO generation in EOC, and the future perspectives, will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wai Sun Chan
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyThe University of Hong KongPokfulamHong Kong SAR
| | - Xuetang Mo
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyThe University of Hong KongPokfulamHong Kong SAR
| | | | - Ka Yu Tse
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyThe University of Hong KongPokfulamHong Kong SAR
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Sapkota T, Shrestha BK, Shrestha S, Bhattarai N. Chitin Nanofibrils Enabled Core-Shell Microcapsules of Alginate Hydrogel. NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 13:2470. [PMID: 37686978 PMCID: PMC10489914 DOI: 10.3390/nano13172470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023]
Abstract
An engineered 3D architectural network of the biopolymeric hydrogel can mimic the native cell environment that promotes cell infiltration and growth. Among several bio-fabricated hydrogel structures, core-shell microcapsules inherit the potential of cell encapsulation to ensure the growth and transport of cells and cell metabolites. Herein, a co-axial electrostatic encapsulation strategy is used to create and encapsulate the cells into chitin nanofibrils integrated alginate hydrogel microcapsules. Three parameters that are critical in the electrostatic encapsulation process, hydrogel composition, flow rate, and voltage were optimized. The physicochemical characterization including structure, size, and stability of the core-shell microcapsules was analyzed by scanning electron microscope (SEM), FTIR, and mechanical tests. The cellular responses of the core-shell microcapsules were evaluated through in vitro cell studies by encapsulating NIH/3T3 fibroblast cells. Notably, the bioactive microcapsule showed that the cell viability was found excellent for more than 2 weeks. Thus, the results of this core-shell microcapsule showed a promising approach to creating 3D hydrogel networks suitable for different biomedical applications such as in vitro tissue models for toxicity studies, wound healing, and tissue repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thakur Sapkota
- Department of Chemical, Biological, and Bioengineering, North Carolina A&T State University, Greensboro, NC 27411, USA; (T.S.); (B.K.S.); (S.S.)
- Department of Applied Science and Technology, North Carolina A&T State University, Greensboro, NC 27411, USA
| | - Bishnu Kumar Shrestha
- Department of Chemical, Biological, and Bioengineering, North Carolina A&T State University, Greensboro, NC 27411, USA; (T.S.); (B.K.S.); (S.S.)
| | - Sita Shrestha
- Department of Chemical, Biological, and Bioengineering, North Carolina A&T State University, Greensboro, NC 27411, USA; (T.S.); (B.K.S.); (S.S.)
| | - Narayan Bhattarai
- Department of Chemical, Biological, and Bioengineering, North Carolina A&T State University, Greensboro, NC 27411, USA; (T.S.); (B.K.S.); (S.S.)
- Department of Applied Science and Technology, North Carolina A&T State University, Greensboro, NC 27411, USA
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Morán MDC, Cirisano F, Ferrari M. Spheroid Formation and Recovery Using Superhydrophobic Coating for Regenerative Purposes. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2226. [PMID: 37765195 PMCID: PMC10538210 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15092226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Cell therapies commonly pursue tissue stimulation for regenerative purposes by replacing cell numbers or supplying for functional deficiencies. To this aim, monodispersed cells are usually transplanted for incorporation by local injection. The limitations of this strategy include poor success associated with cell death, insufficient retention, or cell damage due to shear forces associated with the injection. Spheroids have recently emerged as a model that mimics an in vivo environment with more representative cell-to-cell interactions and better intercellular communication. Nevertheless, cost-effective and lab friendly fabrication and effectively performed recovery are challenges that restrict the broad application of spheroids. In this work, glass surfaces were modified with an environmentally friendly superhydrophobic coating. The superhydrophobic surfaces were used for the 3D spheroid preparation of fibroblasts (3T3 cell line) and keratinocytes (HaCaT cell line). The effectiveness of the spheroids to be recovered and grown under 2D culture conditions was evaluated. The morphology of the migrated cells from the 3D spheroids was characterized at the nano-microscale through 3D profilometry. The results demonstrated improved adhesion and proliferation in the migrated cells, both advanced properties for regenerative applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- María del Carmen Morán
- Departament de Bioquímica i Fisiologia, Secció de Fisiologia—Facultat de Farmàcia i Ciències de l’Alimentació, Universitat de Barcelona, Avda. Joan XXIII, 27-31, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Institut de Nanociència i Nanotecnologia—IN2UB, Universitat de Barcelona, Avda. Diagonal, 645, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Francesca Cirisano
- CNR-ICMATE Istituto di Chimica della Materia Condensata e di Tecnologie per l’Energia, Via De Marini, 6, 16149 Genova, Italy;
| | - Michele Ferrari
- Institut de Nanociència i Nanotecnologia—IN2UB, Universitat de Barcelona, Avda. Diagonal, 645, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- CNR-ICMATE Istituto di Chimica della Materia Condensata e di Tecnologie per l’Energia, Via De Marini, 6, 16149 Genova, Italy;
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Urzì O, Gasparro R, Costanzo E, De Luca A, Giavaresi G, Fontana S, Alessandro R. Three-Dimensional Cell Cultures: The Bridge between In Vitro and In Vivo Models. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12046. [PMID: 37569426 PMCID: PMC10419178 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241512046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Although historically, the traditional bidimensional in vitro cell system has been widely used in research, providing much fundamental information regarding cellular functions and signaling pathways as well as nuclear activities, the simplicity of this system does not fully reflect the heterogeneity and complexity of the in vivo systems. From this arises the need to use animals for experimental research and in vivo testing. Nevertheless, animal use in experimentation presents various aspects of complexity, such as ethical issues, which led Russell and Burch in 1959 to formulate the 3R (Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement) principle, underlying the urgent need to introduce non-animal-based methods in research. Considering this, three-dimensional (3D) models emerged in the scientific community as a bridge between in vitro and in vivo models, allowing for the achievement of cell differentiation and complexity while avoiding the use of animals in experimental research. The purpose of this review is to provide a general overview of the most common methods to establish 3D cell culture and to discuss their promising applications. Three-dimensional cell cultures have been employed as models to study both organ physiology and diseases; moreover, they represent a valuable tool for studying many aspects of cancer. Finally, the possibility of using 3D models for drug screening and regenerative medicine paves the way for the development of new therapeutic opportunities for many diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ornella Urzì
- Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics (Bi.N.D), Section of Biology and Genetics, University of Palermo, 90133 Palermo, Italy; (O.U.); (R.G.); (E.C.); (R.A.)
| | - Roberta Gasparro
- Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics (Bi.N.D), Section of Biology and Genetics, University of Palermo, 90133 Palermo, Italy; (O.U.); (R.G.); (E.C.); (R.A.)
| | - Elisa Costanzo
- Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics (Bi.N.D), Section of Biology and Genetics, University of Palermo, 90133 Palermo, Italy; (O.U.); (R.G.); (E.C.); (R.A.)
| | - Angela De Luca
- IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, SC Scienze e Tecnologie Chirurgiche, 40136 Bologna, Italy; (A.D.L.); (G.G.)
| | - Gianluca Giavaresi
- IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, SC Scienze e Tecnologie Chirurgiche, 40136 Bologna, Italy; (A.D.L.); (G.G.)
| | - Simona Fontana
- Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics (Bi.N.D), Section of Biology and Genetics, University of Palermo, 90133 Palermo, Italy; (O.U.); (R.G.); (E.C.); (R.A.)
| | - Riccardo Alessandro
- Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics (Bi.N.D), Section of Biology and Genetics, University of Palermo, 90133 Palermo, Italy; (O.U.); (R.G.); (E.C.); (R.A.)
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Morozova SM, Gevorkian A, Kumacheva E. Design, characterization and applications of nanocolloidal hydrogels. Chem Soc Rev 2023. [PMID: 37464914 DOI: 10.1039/d3cs00387f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/20/2023]
Abstract
Nanocolloidal gels (NCGs) are an emerging class of soft matter, in which nanoparticles act as building blocks of the colloidal network. Chemical or physical crosslinking enables NCG synthesis and assembly from a broad range of nanoparticles, polymers, and low-molecular weight molecules. The synergistic properties of NCGs are governed by nanoparticle composition, dimensions and shape, the mechanism of nanoparticle bonding, and the NCG architecture, as well as the nature of molecular crosslinkers. Nanocolloidal gels find applications in soft robotics, bioengineering, optically active coatings and sensors, optoelectronic devices, and absorbents. This review summarizes currently scattered aspects of NCG formation, properties, characterization, and applications. We describe the diversity of NCG building blocks, discuss the mechanisms of NCG formation, review characterization techniques, outline NCG fabrication and processing methods, and highlight most common NCG applications. The review is concluded with the discussion of perspectives in the design and development of NCGs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia M Morozova
- N.E. Bauman Moscow State Technical University, 5/1 2-nd Baumanskaya street, 105005, Moscow, Russia
- Department of Chemistry University of Toronto, 80 Saint George street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3H6, Canada.
| | - Albert Gevorkian
- Department of Chemistry University of Toronto, 80 Saint George street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3H6, Canada.
| | - Eugenia Kumacheva
- Department of Chemistry University of Toronto, 80 Saint George street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3H6, Canada.
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry University of Toronto, 200 College street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3E5, Canada
- The Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering University of Toronto, 4 Taddle Creek Road, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3G9, Canada
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42
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Lichtenberg JY, Tran S, Hwang PY. Mechanical factors driving cancer progression. Adv Cancer Res 2023; 160:61-81. [PMID: 37704291 DOI: 10.1016/bs.acr.2023.06.002] [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] [Indexed: 09/15/2023]
Abstract
A fundamental step of tumor metastasis is tumor cell migration away from the primary tumor site. One mode of migration that is essential but still understudied is collective invasion, the process by which clusters of cells move in a coordinated fashion. In recent years, there has been growing interest to understand factors regulating collective invasion, with increasing number of studies investigating the biomechanical regulation of collective invasion. In this review we discuss the dynamic relationship between tumor microenvironment cues and cell response by first covering mechanical factors in the microenvironment and second, discussing the mechanosensing pathways utilized by cells in collective clusters to dynamically respond to mechanical matrix cues. Finally, we discuss model systems that have been developed which have increased our understanding of the mechanical factors contributing to tumor progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessanne Y Lichtenberg
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Sydnie Tran
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Priscilla Y Hwang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States.
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43
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Wong SHD, Yin B, Li Z, Yuan W, Zhang Q, Xie X, Tan Y, Wong N, Zhang K, Bian L. Mechanical manipulation of cancer cell tumorigenicity via heat shock protein signaling. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2023; 9:eadg9593. [PMID: 37418519 PMCID: PMC10328411 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adg9593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023]
Abstract
Biophysical cues of rigid tumor matrix play a critical role in cancer cell malignancy. We report that stiffly confined cancer cells exhibit robust growth of spheroids in the stiff hydrogel that exerts substantial confining stress on the cells. The stressed condition activated Hsp (heat shock protein)-signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 signaling via the transient receptor potential vanilloid 4-phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/Akt axis, thereby up-regulating the expression of the stemness-related markers in cancer cells, whereas these signaling activities were suppressed in cancer cells cultured in softer hydrogels or stiff hydrogels with stress relief or Hsp70 knockdown/inhibition. This mechanopriming based on three-dimensional culture enhanced cancer cell tumorigenicity and metastasis in animal models upon transplantation, and pharmaceutically inhibiting Hsp70 improved the anticancer efficacy of chemotherapy. Mechanistically, our study reveals the crucial role of Hsp70 in regulating cancer cell malignancy under mechanically stressed conditions and its impacts on cancer prognosis-related molecular pathways for cancer treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siu Hong Dexter Wong
- School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, P. R. China
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong 999077, P. R. China
- Research Institute for Sports Science and Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong 999077, P. R. China
| | - Bohan Yin
- School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, P. R. China
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong 999077, P. R. China
| | - Zhuo Li
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, P. R. China
| | - Weihao Yuan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, P. R. China
| | - Qin Zhang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong 999077, P. R. China
| | - Xian Xie
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, P. R. China
| | - Youhua Tan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong 999077, P. R. China
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518057, P. R. China
| | - Nathalie Wong
- Department of Surgery, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, P. R. China
| | - Kunyu Zhang
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, Guangzhou International Campus, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 511442, P. R. China
- National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, P. R. China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Materials and Engineering of the Ministry of Education, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, P. R. China
| | - Liming Bian
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, Guangzhou International Campus, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 511442, P. R. China
- National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, P. R. China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Materials and Engineering of the Ministry of Education, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, P. R. China
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Tunable hybrid hydrogels with multicellular spheroids for modeling desmoplastic pancreatic cancer. Bioact Mater 2023; 25:360-373. [PMID: 36879666 PMCID: PMC9984297 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2023.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment consists of diverse, complex etiological factors. The matrix component of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) plays an important role not only in physical properties such as tissue rigidity but also in cancer progression and therapeutic responsiveness. Although significant efforts have been made to model desmoplastic PDAC, existing models could not fully recapitulate the etiology to mimic and understand the progression of PDAC. Here, two major components in desmoplastic pancreatic matrices, hyaluronic acid- and gelatin-based hydrogels, are engineered to provide matrices for tumor spheroids composed of PDAC and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF). Shape analysis profiles reveals that incorporating CAF contributes to a more compact tissue formation. Higher expression levels of markers associated with proliferation, epithelial to mesenchymal transition, mechanotransduction, and progression are observed for cancer-CAF spheroids cultured in hyper desmoplastic matrix-mimicking hydrogels, while the trend can be observed when those are cultured in desmoplastic matrix-mimicking hydrogels with the presence of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1). The proposed multicellular pancreatic tumor model, in combination with proper mechanical properties and TGF-β1 supplement, makes strides in developing advanced pancreatic models for resembling and monitoring the progression of pancreatic tumors, which could be potentially applicable for realizing personalized medicine and drug testing applications.
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45
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Zingales V, Esposito MR, Torriero N, Taroncher M, Cimetta E, Ruiz MJ. The Growing Importance of Three-Dimensional Models and Microphysiological Systems in the Assessment of Mycotoxin Toxicity. Toxins (Basel) 2023; 15:422. [PMID: 37505691 PMCID: PMC10467068 DOI: 10.3390/toxins15070422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Current investigations in the field of toxicology mostly rely on 2D cell cultures and animal models. Although well-accepted, the traditional 2D cell-culture approach has evident drawbacks and is distant from the in vivo microenvironment. To overcome these limitations, increasing efforts have been made in the development of alternative models that can better recapitulate the in vivo architecture of tissues and organs. Even though the use of 3D cultures is gaining popularity, there are still open questions on their robustness and standardization. In this review, we discuss the current spheroid culture and organ-on-a-chip techniques as well as the main conceptual and technical considerations for the correct establishment of such models. For each system, the toxicological functional assays are then discussed, highlighting their major advantages, disadvantages, and limitations. Finally, a focus on the applications of 3D cell culture for mycotoxin toxicity assessments is provided. Given the known difficulties in defining the safety ranges of exposure for regulatory agency policies, we are confident that the application of alternative methods may greatly improve the overall risk assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Zingales
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Valencia, Av. Vicent Andrés Estellés s/n, 46100 Valencia, Spain;
- Department of Industrial Engineering (DII), University of Padua, Via Marzolo 9, 35131 Padova, Italy; (M.R.E.); (N.T.); (E.C.)
- Fondazione Istituto di Ricerca Pediatrica Cittá Della Speranza (IRP)—Lab BIAMET, Corso Stati Uniti 4, 35127 Padova, Italy
| | - Maria Rosaria Esposito
- Department of Industrial Engineering (DII), University of Padua, Via Marzolo 9, 35131 Padova, Italy; (M.R.E.); (N.T.); (E.C.)
- Fondazione Istituto di Ricerca Pediatrica Cittá Della Speranza (IRP)—Lab BIAMET, Corso Stati Uniti 4, 35127 Padova, Italy
| | - Noemi Torriero
- Department of Industrial Engineering (DII), University of Padua, Via Marzolo 9, 35131 Padova, Italy; (M.R.E.); (N.T.); (E.C.)
- Fondazione Istituto di Ricerca Pediatrica Cittá Della Speranza (IRP)—Lab BIAMET, Corso Stati Uniti 4, 35127 Padova, Italy
| | - Mercedes Taroncher
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Valencia, Av. Vicent Andrés Estellés s/n, 46100 Valencia, Spain;
| | - Elisa Cimetta
- Department of Industrial Engineering (DII), University of Padua, Via Marzolo 9, 35131 Padova, Italy; (M.R.E.); (N.T.); (E.C.)
- Fondazione Istituto di Ricerca Pediatrica Cittá Della Speranza (IRP)—Lab BIAMET, Corso Stati Uniti 4, 35127 Padova, Italy
| | - María-José Ruiz
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Valencia, Av. Vicent Andrés Estellés s/n, 46100 Valencia, Spain;
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Kong M, Li Y, Wang K, Zhang S, Ji Y. Infantile hemangioma models: is the needle in a haystack? J Transl Med 2023; 21:308. [PMID: 37149592 PMCID: PMC10163722 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04144-0] [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: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Infantile hemangioma (IH) is the most prevalent benign vascular tumor in infants, with distinct disease stages and durations. Despite the fact that the majority of IHs can regress spontaneously, a small percentage can cause disfigurement or even be fatal. The mechanisms underlying the development of IH have not been fully elucidated. Establishing stable and reliable IH models provides a standardized experimental platform for elucidating its pathogenesis, thereby facilitating the development of new drugs and the identification of effective treatments. Common IH models include the cell suspension implantation model, the viral gene transfer model, the tissue block transplantation model, and the most recent three-dimensional (3D) microtumor model. This article summarizes the research progress and clinical utility of various IH models, as well as the benefits and drawbacks of each. Researchers should select distinct IH models based on their individual research objectives to achieve their anticipated experimental objectives, thereby increasing the clinical relevance of their findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Kong
- Division of Oncology, Department of Pediatric Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, #37# Guo-Xue-Xiang, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yanan Li
- Division of Oncology, Department of Pediatric Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, #37# Guo-Xue-Xiang, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Kai Wang
- Division of Oncology, Department of Pediatric Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, #37# Guo-Xue-Xiang, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Shisong Zhang
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, #23976# Jingshi Road, Jinan, 250022, China.
| | - Yi Ji
- Division of Oncology, Department of Pediatric Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, #37# Guo-Xue-Xiang, Chengdu, 610041, China.
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47
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Sun M, Zhang J, Fu W, Xuanyuan T, Liu W. Facile construction of a 3D tumor model with multiple biomimetic characteristics using a micropatterned chip for large-scale chemotherapy investigation. LAB ON A CHIP 2023; 23:2161-2174. [PMID: 36943157 DOI: 10.1039/d3lc00009e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
The establishment and application of biomimetic preclinical tumor models for generalizable and high-throughput antitumor screening play a promising role in drug discovery and cancer therapeutics. Herein, a facile and robust microengineering-assisted methodology for highly biomimetic three-dimensional (3D) tumor construction for dynamic and large-scale antitumor investigation is developed using micropatterned array chips. The high fidelity, simplicity, and stability of chip fabrication are guaranteed by improved polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) microcontact printing. The employment of a PDMS-micropatterned chip permits microscale, simple, biocompatible, and reproducible cell localization with quantity uniformity and 3D tumor array formation with geometric homogeneity. Array-like 3D tumor models possessing complex multilayer cell arrangements, diverse phenotypic gradients, and biochemical gradients were prepared based on the use of easy-to-operate chips. The applicability of the established biomimetic models in temporal and massive investigations of tumor responses to antitumor chemotherapy is also verified experimentally. The results support the importance of the dimensional geometry and biomimetic degree of 3D tumors when conducting antitumor screening to explore drug susceptibility and resistance. This work provides a facile and reliable strategy to perform highly biomimetic tumor manipulation and analysis, which holds great potential for applications in oncology, pharmacology, precision medicine, and tissue microengineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meilin Sun
- Departments of Biomedical Engineering and Pathology, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China.
| | - Jinwei Zhang
- Departments of Biomedical Engineering and Pathology, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China.
| | - Wenzhu Fu
- Departments of Biomedical Engineering and Pathology, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China.
| | - Tingting Xuanyuan
- Departments of Biomedical Engineering and Pathology, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China.
| | - Wenming Liu
- Departments of Biomedical Engineering and Pathology, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China.
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Venuta A, Nasso R, Gisonna A, Iuliano R, Montesarchio S, Acampora V, Sepe L, Avagliano A, Arcone R, Arcucci A, Ruocco MR. Celecoxib, a Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug, Exerts a Toxic Effect on Human Melanoma Cells Grown as 2D and 3D Cell Cultures. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:life13041067. [PMID: 37109596 PMCID: PMC10141119 DOI: 10.3390/life13041067] [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: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Cutaneous melanoma (CM) remains one of the leading causes of tumor mortality due to its high metastatic spread. CM growth is influenced by inflammation regulated by prostaglandins (PGs) whose synthesis is catalyzed by cyclooxygenases (COXs). COX inhibitors, including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can inhibit tumor development and growth. In particular, in vitro experiments have shown that celecoxib, a NSAID, inhibits the growth of some tumor cell lines. However, two-dimensional (2D) cell cultures, used in traditional in vitro anticancer assays, often show poor efficacy due to a lack of an in vivo like cellular environment. Three-dimensional (3D) cell cultures, such as spheroids, are better models because they can mimic the common features displayed by human solid tumors. Hence, in this study, we evaluated the anti-neoplastic potential of celecoxib, in both 2D and 3D cell cultures of A2058 and SAN melanoma cell lines. In particular, celecoxib reduced the cell viability and migratory capability and triggered the apoptosis of melanoma cells grown as 2D cultures. When celecoxib was tested on 3D melanoma cell cultures, the drug exerted an inhibitory effect on cell outgrowth from spheroids and reduced the invasiveness of melanoma cell spheroids into the hydrogel matrix. This work suggests that celecoxib could represent a new potential therapeutic approach in melanoma therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Venuta
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Rosarita Nasso
- Department of Movement Sciences and Wellness, University of Naples "Parthenope", 80133 Naples, Italy
| | - Armando Gisonna
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Roberta Iuliano
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Sara Montesarchio
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Vittoria Acampora
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Leandra Sepe
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Angelica Avagliano
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Rosaria Arcone
- Department of Movement Sciences and Wellness, University of Naples "Parthenope", 80133 Naples, Italy
| | - Alessandro Arcucci
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Rosaria Ruocco
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
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Hervas-Raluy S, Wirthl B, Guerrero PE, Robalo Rei G, Nitzler J, Coronado E, Font de Mora Sainz J, Schrefler BA, Gomez-Benito MJ, Garcia-Aznar JM, Wall WA. Tumour growth: An approach to calibrate parameters of a multiphase porous media model based on in vitro observations of Neuroblastoma spheroid growth in a hydrogel microenvironment. Comput Biol Med 2023; 159:106895. [PMID: 37060771 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiomed.2023.106895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2023] [Indexed: 04/17/2023]
Abstract
To unravel processes that lead to the growth of solid tumours, it is necessary to link knowledge of cancer biology with the physical properties of the tumour and its interaction with the surrounding microenvironment. Our understanding of the underlying mechanisms is however still imprecise. We therefore developed computational physics-based models, which incorporate the interaction of the tumour with its surroundings based on the theory of porous media. However, the experimental validation of such models represents a challenge to its clinical use as a prognostic tool. This study combines a physics-based model with in vitro experiments based on microfluidic devices used to mimic a three-dimensional tumour microenvironment. By conducting a global sensitivity analysis, we identify the most influential input parameters and infer their posterior distribution based on Bayesian calibration. The resulting probability density is in agreement with the scattering of the experimental data and thus validates the proposed workflow. This study demonstrates the huge challenges associated with determining precise parameters with usually only limited data for such complex processes and models, but also demonstrates in general how to indirectly characterise the mechanical properties of neuroblastoma spheroids that cannot feasibly be measured experimentally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Hervas-Raluy
- Multiscale in Mechanical and Biological Engineering, Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Zaragoza, Aragon Institute for Engineering Research (I3A), Maria de Luna 3, Zaragoza, 50018, Spain.
| | - Barbara Wirthl
- Institute for Computational Mechanics, Technical University of Munich, TUM School of Engineering and Design, Department of Engineering Physics & Computation, Boltzmannstraße 15, Garching b. Munich, 85748, Germany
| | - Pedro E Guerrero
- Multiscale in Mechanical and Biological Engineering, Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Zaragoza, Aragon Institute for Engineering Research (I3A), Maria de Luna 3, Zaragoza, 50018, Spain
| | - Gil Robalo Rei
- Institute for Computational Mechanics, Technical University of Munich, TUM School of Engineering and Design, Department of Engineering Physics & Computation, Boltzmannstraße 15, Garching b. Munich, 85748, Germany
| | - Jonas Nitzler
- Institute for Computational Mechanics, Technical University of Munich, TUM School of Engineering and Design, Department of Engineering Physics & Computation, Boltzmannstraße 15, Garching b. Munich, 85748, Germany; Professorship for Data-Driven Materials Modeling, Technical University of Munich, TUM School of Engineering and Design, Department of Engineering Physics & Computation, Boltzmannstraße 15, Garching b. Munich, 85748, Germany
| | - Esther Coronado
- Clinical and Translational Oncology Research Group, Instituto de Investigación La Fe,, Fernando Abril Martorell 106, Valencia, 46026, Spain
| | - Jaime Font de Mora Sainz
- Clinical and Translational Oncology Research Group, Instituto de Investigación La Fe,, Fernando Abril Martorell 106, Valencia, 46026, Spain
| | - Bernhard A Schrefler
- Department of Civil, Environmental and Architectural Engineering, University of Padua, Marzolo 9, Padua, 35131, Italy; Institute for Advanced Study, Technical University of Munich, Boltzmannstraße 15, Garching b. Munich, 85748, Germany
| | - Maria Jose Gomez-Benito
- Multiscale in Mechanical and Biological Engineering, Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Zaragoza, Aragon Institute for Engineering Research (I3A), Maria de Luna 3, Zaragoza, 50018, Spain
| | - Jose Manuel Garcia-Aznar
- Multiscale in Mechanical and Biological Engineering, Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Zaragoza, Aragon Institute for Engineering Research (I3A), Maria de Luna 3, Zaragoza, 50018, Spain
| | - Wolfgang A Wall
- Institute for Computational Mechanics, Technical University of Munich, TUM School of Engineering and Design, Department of Engineering Physics & Computation, Boltzmannstraße 15, Garching b. Munich, 85748, Germany
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50
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Cameron AP, Gao S, Liu Y, Zhao CX. Impact of hydrogel biophysical properties on tumor spheroid growth and drug response. BIOMATERIALS ADVANCES 2023; 149:213421. [PMID: 37060634 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioadv.2023.213421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/17/2023]
Abstract
The extracellular matrix (ECM) plays a critical role in regulating cell-matrix interactions during tumor progression. These interactions are due in large part to the biophysical properties responding to cancer cell interactions. Within in vitro models, the ECM is mimicked by hydrogels, which possess adjustable biophysical properties that are integral to tumor development. This work presents a systematic and comparative study on the impact of the biophysical properties of two widely used natural hydrogels, Matrigel and collagen gel, on tumor growth and drug response. The biophysical properties of Matrigel and collagen including complex modulus, loss tangent, diffusive permeability, and pore size, were characterised. Then the spheroid growth rates in these two hydrogels were monitored for spheroids with two different sizes (140 μm and 500 μm in diameters). An increased migratory growth was observed in the lower concentration of both the gels. The effect of spheroid incorporation within the hydrogel had a minimal impact on the hydrogel's complex modulus. Finally, 3D tumor models using different concentrations of hydrogels were applied for drug treatment using paclitaxel. Spheroids cultured in hydrogels with different concentrations showed different drug response, demonstrating the significant effect of the choice of hydrogels and their concentrations on the drug response results despite using the same spheroids. This study provides useful insights into the effect of hydrogel biophysical properties on spheroid growth and drug response and highlights the importance of hydrogel selection and in vitro model design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna P Cameron
- Australian institute of Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Song Gao
- School of Chemical Engineering and Advanced Materials, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Yun Liu
- School of Chemical Engineering and Advanced Materials, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Chun-Xia Zhao
- Australian institute of Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia; School of Chemical Engineering and Advanced Materials, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia.
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