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Iqbal MZ, Riaz M, Biedermann T, Klar AS. Breathing new life into tissue engineering: exploring cutting-edge vascularization strategies for skin substitutes. Angiogenesis 2024; 27:587-621. [PMID: 38842751 PMCID: PMC11564345 DOI: 10.1007/s10456-024-09928-6] [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: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
Tissue-engineered skin substitutes (TESS) emerged as a new therapeutic option to improve skin transplantation. However, establishing an adequate and rapid vascularization in TESS is a critical factor for their clinical application and successful engraftment in patients. Therefore, several methods have been applied to improve the vascularization of skin substitutes including (i) modifying the structural and physicochemical properties of dermal scaffolds; (ii) activating biological scaffolds with growth factor-releasing systems or gene vectors; and (iii) developing prevascularized skin substitutes by loading scaffolds with capillary-forming cells. This review provides a detailed overview of the most recent and important developments in the vascularization strategies for skin substitutes. On the one hand, we present cell-based approaches using stem cells, microvascular fragments, adipose tissue derived stromal vascular fraction, endothelial cells derived from blood and skin as well as other pro-angiogenic stimulation methods. On the other hand, we discuss how distinct 3D bioprinting techniques and microfluidics, miRNA manipulation, cell sheet engineering and photosynthetic scaffolds like GelMA, can enhance skin vascularization for clinical applications. Finally, we summarize and discuss the challenges and prospects of the currently available vascularization techniques that may serve as a steppingstone to a mainstream application of skin tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Zohaib Iqbal
- Tissue Biology Research Unit, Department of Surgery, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Wagistrasse 12, CH-8952, Zurich, Switzerland
- Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Mahrukh Riaz
- Tissue Biology Research Unit, Department of Surgery, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Wagistrasse 12, CH-8952, Zurich, Switzerland
- Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Biedermann
- Tissue Biology Research Unit, Department of Surgery, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Wagistrasse 12, CH-8952, Zurich, Switzerland
- Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Agnes S Klar
- Tissue Biology Research Unit, Department of Surgery, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Wagistrasse 12, CH-8952, Zurich, Switzerland.
- Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
- University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
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2
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Bathrinarayanan PV, Hallam SM, Grover LM, Vigolo D, Simmons MJH. Microfluidics as a Powerful Tool to Investigate Microvascular Dysfunction in Trauma Conditions: A Review of the State-of-the-Art. Adv Biol (Weinh) 2024; 8:e2400037. [PMID: 39031943 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.202400037] [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: 01/21/2024] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/22/2024]
Abstract
Skeletal muscle trauma such as fracture or crush injury can result in a life-threatening condition called acute compartment syndrome (ACS), which involves elevated compartmental pressure within a closed osteo-fascial compartment, leading to collapse of the microvasculature and resulting in necrosis of the tissue due to ischemia. Diagnosis of ACS is complex and controversial due to the lack of standardized objective methods, which results in high rates of misdiagnosis/late diagnosis, leading to permanent neuro-muscular damage. ACS pathophysiology is poorly understood at a cellular level due to the lack of physiologically relevant models. In this context, microfluidics organ-on-chip systems (OOCs) provide an exciting opportunity to investigate the cellular mechanisms of microvascular dysfunction that leads to ACS. In this article, the state-of-the-art OOCs designs and strategies used to investigate microvasculature dysfunction mechanisms is reviewed. The differential effects of hemodynamic shear stress on endothelial cell characteristics such as morphology, permeability, and inflammation, all of which are altered during microvascular dysfunction is highlighted. The article then critically reviews the importance of microfluidics to investigate closely related microvascular pathologies that cause ACS. The article concludes by discussing potential biomarkers of ACS with a special emphasis on glycocalyx and providing a future perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Vasanthi Bathrinarayanan
- School of Chemical Engineering, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B152TT, UK
- Healthcare Technologies Institute, School of Chemical Engineering, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - S M Hallam
- School of Chemical Engineering, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B152TT, UK
| | - L M Grover
- School of Chemical Engineering, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B152TT, UK
- Healthcare Technologies Institute, School of Chemical Engineering, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - D Vigolo
- School of Chemical Engineering, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B152TT, UK
- The University of Sydney, School of Biomedical Engineering, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
- The University of Sydney Nano Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - M J H Simmons
- School of Chemical Engineering, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B152TT, UK
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Belenkovich M, Veksler R, Kreinin Y, Mekler T, Flores M, Sznitman J, Holinstat M, Korin N. Clot Accumulation in 3D Microfluidic Bifurcating Microvasculature Network. MICROMACHINES 2024; 15:988. [PMID: 39203639 PMCID: PMC11356079 DOI: 10.3390/mi15080988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2024] [Revised: 07/26/2024] [Accepted: 07/28/2024] [Indexed: 09/03/2024]
Abstract
The microvasculature, which makes up the majority of the cardiovascular system, plays a crucial role in the process of thrombosis, with the pathological formation of blood clots inside blood vessels. Since blood microflow conditions significantly influence platelet activation and thrombosis, accurately mimicking the structure of bifurcating microvascular networks and emulating local physiological blood flow conditions are valuable for understanding blood clot formation. In this work, we present an in vitro model for blood clotting in microvessels, focusing on 3D bifurcations that align with Murray's law, which guides vascular networks by maintaining a constant wall shear rate throughout. Using these models, we demonstrate that microvascular bifurcations act as sites facilitating thrombus formation compared to straight models. Additionally, by culturing endothelial cells on the luminal surfaces of the models, we show the potential of using our in vitro platforms to recapitulate the initial clotting in diseases involving endothelial dysfunction, such as Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura.
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Affiliation(s)
- Merav Belenkovich
- Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 32000, Israel; (M.B.); (Y.K.); (T.M.); (J.S.)
| | - Ruth Veksler
- Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 32000, Israel; (M.B.); (Y.K.); (T.M.); (J.S.)
| | - Yevgeniy Kreinin
- Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 32000, Israel; (M.B.); (Y.K.); (T.M.); (J.S.)
| | - Tirosh Mekler
- Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 32000, Israel; (M.B.); (Y.K.); (T.M.); (J.S.)
| | - Mariane Flores
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; (M.F.); (M.H.)
| | - Josué Sznitman
- Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 32000, Israel; (M.B.); (Y.K.); (T.M.); (J.S.)
| | - Michael Holinstat
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; (M.F.); (M.H.)
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Department of Surgery, Division of Vascular Surgery, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Netanel Korin
- Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 32000, Israel; (M.B.); (Y.K.); (T.M.); (J.S.)
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4
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Musick JO, Williams EK, Fibben KS, Zhang DY, Caruso C, Sakurai Y, Tran R, Kemp ML, Lam WA. Redefining hyperviscosity in acute leukemia: Potential implications for red cell transfusions in the microvasculature. Am J Hematol 2024; 99:1103-1107. [PMID: 38572662 DOI: 10.1002/ajh.27308] [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: 12/04/2023] [Revised: 03/02/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
Hyperleukocytosis is an emergency of acute leukemia leading to blood hyperviscosity, potentially resulting in life-threatening microvascular obstruction, or leukostasis. Due to the high number of red cells in the circulation, hematocrit/hemoglobin levels (Hct/Hgb) are major drivers of blood viscosity, but how Hct/Hgb mediates hyperviscosity in acute leukemia remains unknown. In vivo hemorheological studies are difficult to conduct and interpret due to issues related to visualizing and manipulating the microvasculature. To that end, a multi-vessel microfluidic device recapitulating the size-scale and geometry of the microvasculature was designed to investigate how Hct/Hgb interacts with acute leukemia to induce "in vitro" leukostasis. Using patient samples and cell lines, the degree of leukostasis was different among leukemia immunophenotypes with respect to white blood cell (WBC) count and Hct/Hgb. Among lymphoid immunophenotypes, severe anemia is protective against in vitro leukostasis and Hct/Hgb thresholds became apparent above which in vitro leukostasis significantly increased, to a greater extent with B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) versus T-cell ALL. In vitro leukostasis in acute myeloid leukemia was primarily driven by WBC with little interaction with Hct/Hgb. This sets the stage for prospective clinical studies assessing how red cell transfusion may affect leukostasis risk in immunophenotypically different acute leukemia patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie O Musick
- Department of Pediatrics, Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Evelyn K Williams
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Kirby S Fibben
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Dan Y Zhang
- George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Christina Caruso
- Department of Pediatrics, Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Yumiko Sakurai
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Reginald Tran
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Melissa L Kemp
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Wilbur A Lam
- Department of Pediatrics, Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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Yu T, Yang Q, Peng B, Gu Z, Zhu D. Vascularized organoid-on-a-chip: design, imaging, and analysis. Angiogenesis 2024; 27:147-172. [PMID: 38409567 DOI: 10.1007/s10456-024-09905-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
Vascularized organoid-on-a-chip (VOoC) models achieve substance exchange in deep layers of organoids and provide a more physiologically relevant system in vitro. Common designs for VOoC primarily involve two categories: self-assembly of endothelial cells (ECs) to form microvessels and pre-patterned vessel lumens, both of which include the hydrogel region for EC growth and allow for controlled fluid perfusion on the chip. Characterizing the vasculature of VOoC often relies on high-resolution microscopic imaging. However, the high scattering of turbid tissues can limit optical imaging depth. To overcome this limitation, tissue optical clearing (TOC) techniques have emerged, allowing for 3D visualization of VOoC in conjunction with optical imaging techniques. The acquisition of large-scale imaging data, coupled with high-resolution imaging in whole-mount preparations, necessitates the development of highly efficient analysis methods. In this review, we provide an overview of the chip designs and culturing strategies employed for VOoC, as well as the applicable optical imaging and TOC methods. Furthermore, we summarize the vascular analysis techniques employed in VOoC, including deep learning. Finally, we discuss the existing challenges in VOoC and vascular analysis methods and provide an outlook for future development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Yu
- Britton Chance Center for Biomedical Photonics - MoE Key Laboratory for Biomedical Photonics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430074, China
- Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics - Advanced Biomedical Imaging Facility, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430074, China
| | - Qihang Yang
- Britton Chance Center for Biomedical Photonics - MoE Key Laboratory for Biomedical Photonics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430074, China
- Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics - Advanced Biomedical Imaging Facility, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430074, China
| | - Bo Peng
- Frontiers Science Center for Flexible Electronics, Xi'an Institute of Flexible Electronics (IFE) and Xi'an Institute of Biomedical Materials & Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, Shanxi, 710072, China
| | - Zhongze Gu
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210096, China
- Institute of Biomaterials and Medical Devices, Southeast University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215163, China
| | - Dan Zhu
- Britton Chance Center for Biomedical Photonics - MoE Key Laboratory for Biomedical Photonics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430074, China.
- Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics - Advanced Biomedical Imaging Facility, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430074, China.
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6
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Dong H, Lin J, Tao Y, Jia Y, Sun L, Li WJ, Sun H. AI-enhanced biomedical micro/nanorobots in microfluidics. LAB ON A CHIP 2024; 24:1419-1440. [PMID: 38174821 DOI: 10.1039/d3lc00909b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Human beings encompass sophisticated microcirculation and microenvironments, incorporating a broad spectrum of microfluidic systems that adopt fundamental roles in orchestrating physiological mechanisms. In vitro recapitulation of human microenvironments based on lab-on-a-chip technology represents a critical paradigm to better understand the intricate mechanisms. Moreover, the advent of micro/nanorobotics provides brand new perspectives and dynamic tools for elucidating the complex process in microfluidics. Currently, artificial intelligence (AI) has endowed micro/nanorobots (MNRs) with unprecedented benefits, such as material synthesis, optimal design, fabrication, and swarm behavior. Using advanced AI algorithms, the motion control, environment perception, and swarm intelligence of MNRs in microfluidics are significantly enhanced. This emerging interdisciplinary research trend holds great potential to propel biomedical research to the forefront and make valuable contributions to human health. Herein, we initially introduce the AI algorithms integral to the development of MNRs. We briefly revisit the components, designs, and fabrication techniques adopted by robots in microfluidics with an emphasis on the application of AI. Then, we review the latest research pertinent to AI-enhanced MNRs, focusing on their motion control, sensing abilities, and intricate collective behavior in microfluidics. Furthermore, we spotlight biomedical domains that are already witnessing or will undergo game-changing evolution based on AI-enhanced MNRs. Finally, we identify the current challenges that hinder the practical use of the pioneering interdisciplinary technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Dong
- School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou, China.
- School of Mechatronics Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics and System, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
| | - Jiawen Lin
- School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou, China.
| | - Yihui Tao
- Department of Automation Control and System Engineering, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Yuan Jia
- Sino-German College of Intelligent Manufacturing, Shenzhen Technology University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Lining Sun
- School of Mechatronics Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics and System, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
| | - Wen Jung Li
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Hao Sun
- School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou, China.
- School of Mechatronics Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
- Research Center of Aerospace Mechanism and Control, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
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Hirth E, Cao W, Peltonen M, Kapetanovic E, Dietsche C, Svanberg S, Filippova M, Reddy S, Dittrich PS. Self-assembled and perfusable microvasculature-on-chip for modeling leukocyte trafficking. LAB ON A CHIP 2024; 24:292-304. [PMID: 38086670 PMCID: PMC10793075 DOI: 10.1039/d3lc00719g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
Leukocyte recruitment from blood to tissue is a process that occurs at the level of capillary vessels during both physiological and pathological conditions. This process is also relevant for evaluating novel adoptive cell therapies, in which the trafficking of therapeutic cells such as chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cells throughout the capillaries of solid tumors is important. Local variations in blood flow, mural cell concentration, and tissue stiffness contribute to the regulation of capillary vascular permeability and leukocyte trafficking throughout the capillary microvasculature. We developed a platform to mimic a biologically functional human arteriole-venule microcirculation system consisting of pericytes (PCs) and arterial and venous primary endothelial cells (ECs) embedded within a hydrogel, which self-assembles into a perfusable, heterogeneous microvasculature. Our device shows a preferential association of PCs with arterial ECs that drives the flow-dependent formation of microvasculature networks. We show that PCs stimulate basement membrane matrix synthesis, which affects both vessel diameter and permeability in a manner correlating with the ratio of ECs to PCs. Moreover, we demonstrate that hydrogel concentration can affect capillary morphology but has no observed effect on vascular permeability. The biological function of our capillary network was demonstrated using an inflammation model, where significantly higher expression of cytokines, chemokines, and adhesion molecules was observed after tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) treatment. Accordingly, T cell adherence and transendothelial migration were significantly increased in the immune-activated state. Taken together, our platform allows the generation of a perfusable microvasculature that recapitulates the structure and function of an in vivo capillary bed that can be used as a model for developing potential immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth Hirth
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, 4056, Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Wuji Cao
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, 4056, Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Marina Peltonen
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, 4056, Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Edo Kapetanovic
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, 4056, Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Claudius Dietsche
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, 4056, Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Sara Svanberg
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, 4056, Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Maria Filippova
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, 4031 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Sai Reddy
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, 4056, Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Petra S Dittrich
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, 4056, Basel, Switzerland.
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Yan J, Wu T, Zhang J, Gao Y, Wu JM, Wang S. Revolutionizing the female reproductive system research using microfluidic chip platform. J Nanobiotechnology 2023; 21:490. [PMID: 38111049 PMCID: PMC10729361 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-023-02258-7] [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: 08/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Comprehensively understanding the female reproductive system is crucial for safeguarding fertility and preventing diseases concerning women's health. With the capacity to simulate the intricate physio- and patho-conditions, and provide diagnostic platforms, microfluidic chips have fundamentally transformed the knowledge and management of female reproductive health, which will ultimately promote the development of more effective assisted reproductive technologies, treatments, and drug screening approaches. This review elucidates diverse microfluidic systems in mimicking the ovary, fallopian tube, uterus, placenta and cervix, and we delve into the culture of follicles and oocytes, gametes' manipulation, cryopreservation, and permeability especially. We investigate the role of microfluidics in endometriosis and hysteromyoma, and explore their applications in ovarian cancer, endometrial cancer and cervical cancer. At last, the current status of assisted reproductive technology and integrated microfluidic devices are introduced briefly. Through delineating the multifarious advantages and challenges of the microfluidic technology, we chart a definitive course for future research in the woman health field. As the microfluidic technology continues to evolve and advance, it holds great promise for revolutionizing the diagnosis and treatment of female reproductive health issues, thus propelling us into a future where we can ultimately optimize the overall wellbeing and health of women everywhere.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinfeng Yan
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1095, Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
- State Key Laboratory of Materials Processing and Die & Mould Technology, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
- Engineering Research Center of Ceramic Materials for Additive Manufacturing, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Tong Wu
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1095, Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Jinjin Zhang
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1095, Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Yueyue Gao
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1095, Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Jia-Min Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Materials Processing and Die & Mould Technology, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China.
- Engineering Research Center of Ceramic Materials for Additive Manufacturing, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, 430074, China.
| | - Shixuan Wang
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1095, Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China.
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Middelkamp HHT, Weener HJ, Gensheimer T, Vermeul K, de Heus LE, Albers HJ, van den Berg A, van der Meer AD. Embedded macrophages induce intravascular coagulation in 3D blood vessel-on-chip. Biomed Microdevices 2023; 26:2. [PMID: 38085384 PMCID: PMC10716057 DOI: 10.1007/s10544-023-00684-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
Macrophages are innate immune cells that prevent infections and help in wound healing and vascular inflammation. While these cells are natural helper cells, they also contribute to chronic diseases, e.g., by infiltrating the endothelial layer in early atherosclerosis and by promoting vascular inflammation. There is a crosstalk between inflammatory pathways and key players in thrombosis, such as platelets and endothelial cells - a phenomenon known as 'thromboinflammation'. The role of the embedded macrophages in thromboinflammation in the context of vascular disease is incompletely understood. Blood vessels-on-chips, which are microfluidic vascular cell culture models, have been used extensively to study aspects of vascular disease, like permeability, immune cell adhesion and thrombosis. Blood perfusion assays in blood vessel-on-chip models benefit from multiple unique aspects of the models, such as control of microvessel structure and well-defined flow patterns, as well as the ability to perform live imaging. However, due to their simplified nature, blood vessels-on-chip models have not yet been used to capture the complex cellular crosstalk that is important in thromboinflammation. Using induced pluripotent stem cell-derived endothelial cells and polarized THP-1 monocytes, we have developed and systematically set up a 3D blood vessel-on-chip with embedded (lipid-laden) macrophages, which is created using sequential cell seeding in viscous finger patterned collagen hydrogels. We have set up a human whole blood perfusion assay for these 3D blood vessels-on-chip. An increased deposition of fibrin in the blood vessel-on-chip models containing lipid-laden macrophages was observed. We anticipate the future use of this advanced vascular in vitro model in drug development for early atherosclerosis or aspects of other vascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- H H T Middelkamp
- BIOS lab-on-a-chip group, University of Twente, Enschede, the Netherlands.
| | - H J Weener
- Applied Stem Cell Technologies, University of Twente, Enschede, the Netherlands
| | - T Gensheimer
- Applied Stem Cell Technologies, University of Twente, Enschede, the Netherlands
| | - K Vermeul
- Applied Stem Cell Technologies, University of Twente, Enschede, the Netherlands
| | - L E de Heus
- Applied Stem Cell Technologies, University of Twente, Enschede, the Netherlands
| | - H J Albers
- BIOS lab-on-a-chip group, University of Twente, Enschede, the Netherlands
| | - A van den Berg
- BIOS lab-on-a-chip group, University of Twente, Enschede, the Netherlands
| | - A D van der Meer
- Applied Stem Cell Technologies, University of Twente, Enschede, the Netherlands
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10
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Shakeri A, Wang Y, Zhao Y, Landau S, Perera K, Lee J, Radisic M. Engineering Organ-on-a-Chip Systems for Vascular Diseases. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2023; 43:2241-2255. [PMID: 37823265 PMCID: PMC10842627 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.123.318233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
Vascular diseases, such as atherosclerosis and thrombosis, are major causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Traditional in vitro models for studying vascular diseases have limitations, as they do not fully recapitulate the complexity of the in vivo microenvironment. Organ-on-a-chip systems have emerged as a promising approach for modeling vascular diseases by incorporating multiple cell types, mechanical and biochemical cues, and fluid flow in a microscale platform. This review provides an overview of recent advancements in engineering organ-on-a-chip systems for modeling vascular diseases, including the use of microfluidic channels, ECM (extracellular matrix) scaffolds, and patient-specific cells. We also discuss the limitations and future perspectives of organ-on-a-chip for modeling vascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amid Shakeri
- Institute of Biomaterials Engineering; University of Toronto; Toronto; Ontario, M5S 3G9; Canada
- Toronto General Research Institute, Toronto; Ontario, M5G 2C4; Canada
| | - Ying Wang
- Institute of Biomaterials Engineering; University of Toronto; Toronto; Ontario, M5S 3G9; Canada
- Toronto General Research Institute, Toronto; Ontario, M5G 2C4; Canada
| | - Yimu Zhao
- Institute of Biomaterials Engineering; University of Toronto; Toronto; Ontario, M5S 3G9; Canada
- Toronto General Research Institute, Toronto; Ontario, M5G 2C4; Canada
| | - Shira Landau
- Institute of Biomaterials Engineering; University of Toronto; Toronto; Ontario, M5S 3G9; Canada
- Toronto General Research Institute, Toronto; Ontario, M5G 2C4; Canada
| | - Kevin Perera
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jonguk Lee
- Institute of Biomaterials Engineering; University of Toronto; Toronto; Ontario, M5S 3G9; Canada
- KITE - Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
| | - Milica Radisic
- Institute of Biomaterials Engineering; University of Toronto; Toronto; Ontario, M5S 3G9; Canada
- Toronto General Research Institute, Toronto; Ontario, M5G 2C4; Canada
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry; University of Toronto; Toronto; Ontario, M5S 3E5; Canada
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11
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Cuartas-Vélez C, Middelkamp HHT, van der Meer AD, van den Berg A, Bosschaart N. Tracking the dynamics of thrombus formation in a blood vessel-on-chip with visible-light optical coherence tomography. BIOMEDICAL OPTICS EXPRESS 2023; 14:5642-5655. [PMID: 38021142 PMCID: PMC10659801 DOI: 10.1364/boe.500434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Thrombus formation is a physiological response to damage in a blood vessel that relies on a complex interplay of platelets, coagulation factors, immune cells, and the vessel wall. The dynamics of thrombus formation are essential for a deeper understanding of many disease processes, like bleeding, wound healing, and thrombosis. However, monitoring thrombus formation is challenging due to the limited imaging options available to analyze flowing blood. In this work, we use a visible-light optical coherence tomography (vis-OCT) system to monitor the dynamic process of the formation of thrombi in a microfluidic blood vessel-on-chip (VoC) device. Inside the VoC, thrombi form in a channel lined with a monolayer of endothelial cells and perfused by human whole blood. We show that the correlation of the vis-OCT signal can be utilized as a marker for thrombus formation. By thresholding the correlation during thrombus formation, we track and quantify the growth of the thrombi over time. We validate our results with fluorescence microscopic imaging of fibrin and platelet markers at the end of the blood perfusion assay. In conclusion, we demonstrate that the correlation of the vis-OCT signal can be used to visualize both the spatial and temporal behavior of the thrombus formation in flowing human whole blood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Cuartas-Vélez
- Biomedical Photonic Imaging Group, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Heleen H. T. Middelkamp
- BIOS/Lab on a Chip, Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science, University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Andries D. van der Meer
- Applied Stem Cell Technologies, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Albert van den Berg
- BIOS/Lab on a Chip, Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science, University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Nienke Bosschaart
- Biomedical Photonic Imaging Group, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
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12
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Ejma-Multański A, Wajda A, Paradowska-Gorycka A. Cell Cultures as a Versatile Tool in the Research and Treatment of Autoimmune Connective Tissue Diseases. Cells 2023; 12:2489. [PMID: 37887333 PMCID: PMC10605903 DOI: 10.3390/cells12202489] [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: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Cell cultures are an important part of the research and treatment of autoimmune connective tissue diseases. By culturing the various cell types involved in ACTDs, researchers are able to broaden the knowledge about these diseases that, in the near future, may lead to finding cures. Fibroblast cultures and chondrocyte cultures allow scientists to study the behavior, physiology and intracellular interactions of these cells. This helps in understanding the underlying mechanisms of ACTDs, including inflammation, immune dysregulation and tissue damage. Through the analysis of gene expression patterns, surface proteins and cytokine profiles in peripheral blood mononuclear cell cultures and endothelial cell cultures researchers can identify potential biomarkers that can help in diagnosing, monitoring disease activity and predicting patient's response to treatment. Moreover, cell culturing of mesenchymal stem cells and skin modelling in ACTD research and treatment help to evaluate the effects of potential drugs or therapeutics on specific cell types relevant to the disease. Culturing cells in 3D allows us to assess safety, efficacy and the mechanisms of action, thereby aiding in the screening of potential drug candidates and the development of novel therapies. Nowadays, personalized medicine is increasingly mentioned as a future way of dealing with complex diseases such as ACTD. By culturing cells from individual patients and studying patient-specific cells, researchers can gain insights into the unique characteristics of the patient's disease, identify personalized treatment targets, and develop tailored therapeutic strategies for better outcomes. Cell culturing can help in the evaluation of the effects of these therapies on patient-specific cell populations, as well as in predicting overall treatment response. By analyzing changes in response or behavior of patient-derived cells to a treatment, researchers can assess the response effectiveness to specific therapies, thus enabling more informed treatment decisions. This literature review was created as a form of guidance for researchers and clinicians, and it was written with the use of the NCBI database.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Ejma-Multański
- Department of Molecular Biology, National Institute of Geriatrics, Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, 02-637 Warsaw, Poland; (A.W.); (A.P.-G.)
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13
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Oshinowo O, Azer SS, Lin J, Lam WA. Why platelet mechanotransduction matters for hemostasis and thrombosis. J Thromb Haemost 2023; 21:2339-2353. [PMID: 37331517 PMCID: PMC10529432 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtha.2023.06.010] [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: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
Mechanotransduction is the ability of cells to "feel" or sense their mechanical microenvironment and integrate and convert these physical stimuli into adaptive biochemical cellular responses. This phenomenon is vital for the physiology of numerous nucleated cell types to affect their various cellular processes. As the main drivers of hemostasis and clot retraction, platelets also possess this ability to sense the dynamic mechanical microenvironments of circulation and convert those signals into biological responses integral to clot formation. Like other cell types, platelets leverage their "hands" or receptors/integrins to mechanotransduce important signals in responding to vascular injury to achieve hemostasis. The clinical relevance of cellular mechanics and mechanotransduction is imperative as pathologic alterations or aberrant mechanotransduction in platelets has been shown to lead to bleeding and thrombosis. As such, the aim of this review is to provide an overview of the most recent research related to platelet mechanotransduction, from platelet generation to platelet activation, within the hemodynamic environment and clot contraction at the site of vascular injury, thereby covering the entire "life cycle" of platelets. Additionally, we describe the key mechanoreceptors in platelets and discuss the new biophysical techniques that have enabled the field to understand how platelets sense and respond to their mechanical microenvironment via those receptors. Finally, the clinical significance and importance of continued exploration of platelet mechanotransduction have been discussed as the key to better understanding of both thrombotic and bleeding disorders lies in a more complete mechanistic understanding of platelet function by way of mechanotransduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oluwamayokun Oshinowo
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA; The Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Emory University and Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Children's Healthcare of Atlanta Inc, Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Sally S Azer
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA; The Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Emory University and Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Children's Healthcare of Atlanta Inc, Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Jessica Lin
- The Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Emory University and Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Wilbur A Lam
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA; The Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Emory University and Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Children's Healthcare of Atlanta Inc, Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.
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14
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Fay ME, Oshinowo O, Iffrig E, Fibben KS, Caruso C, Hansen S, Musick JO, Valdez JM, Azer SS, Mannino RG, Choi H, Zhang DY, Williams EK, Evans EN, Kanne CK, Kemp ML, Sheehan VA, Carden MA, Bennett CM, Wood DK, Lam WA. iCLOTS: open-source, artificial intelligence-enabled software for analyses of blood cells in microfluidic and microscopy-based assays. Nat Commun 2023; 14:5022. [PMID: 37596311 PMCID: PMC10439163 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-40522-4] [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: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023] Open
Abstract
While microscopy-based cellular assays, including microfluidics, have significantly advanced over the last several decades, there has not been concurrent development of widely-accessible techniques to analyze time-dependent microscopy data incorporating phenomena such as fluid flow and dynamic cell adhesion. As such, experimentalists typically rely on error-prone and time-consuming manual analysis, resulting in lost resolution and missed opportunities for innovative metrics. We present a user-adaptable toolkit packaged into the open-source, standalone Interactive Cellular assay Labeled Observation and Tracking Software (iCLOTS). We benchmark cell adhesion, single-cell tracking, velocity profile, and multiscale microfluidic-centric applications with blood samples, the prototypical biofluid specimen. Moreover, machine learning algorithms characterize previously imperceptible data groupings from numerical outputs. Free to download/use, iCLOTS addresses a need for a field stymied by a lack of analytical tools for innovative, physiologically-relevant assays of any design, democratizing use of well-validated algorithms for all end-user biomedical researchers who would benefit from advanced computational methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meredith E Fay
- The Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology & Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Aflac Cancer Center and Blood Disorders Service of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Parker H. Petit Institute of Bioengineering and Bioscience, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Institute for Electronics and Nanotechnology, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Oluwamayokun Oshinowo
- The Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology & Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Aflac Cancer Center and Blood Disorders Service of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Parker H. Petit Institute of Bioengineering and Bioscience, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Institute for Electronics and Nanotechnology, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Elizabeth Iffrig
- The Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology & Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Kirby S Fibben
- The Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology & Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Aflac Cancer Center and Blood Disorders Service of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Parker H. Petit Institute of Bioengineering and Bioscience, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Institute for Electronics and Nanotechnology, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Christina Caruso
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Aflac Cancer Center and Blood Disorders Service of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Scott Hansen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Jamie O Musick
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Aflac Cancer Center and Blood Disorders Service of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - José M Valdez
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Sally S Azer
- The Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology & Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Aflac Cancer Center and Blood Disorders Service of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Institute for Electronics and Nanotechnology, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Robert G Mannino
- The Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology & Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Aflac Cancer Center and Blood Disorders Service of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Parker H. Petit Institute of Bioengineering and Bioscience, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Institute for Electronics and Nanotechnology, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Hyoann Choi
- The Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology & Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Aflac Cancer Center and Blood Disorders Service of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Parker H. Petit Institute of Bioengineering and Bioscience, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Institute for Electronics and Nanotechnology, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Dan Y Zhang
- Parker H. Petit Institute of Bioengineering and Bioscience, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
- The George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Evelyn K Williams
- The Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology & Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Aflac Cancer Center and Blood Disorders Service of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Parker H. Petit Institute of Bioengineering and Bioscience, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Institute for Electronics and Nanotechnology, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Erica N Evans
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Aflac Cancer Center and Blood Disorders Service of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Celeste K Kanne
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Aflac Cancer Center and Blood Disorders Service of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Melissa L Kemp
- The Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology & Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Parker H. Petit Institute of Bioengineering and Bioscience, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Vivien A Sheehan
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Aflac Cancer Center and Blood Disorders Service of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Marcus A Carden
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Carolyn M Bennett
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Aflac Cancer Center and Blood Disorders Service of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - David K Wood
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Wilbur A Lam
- The Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology & Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Aflac Cancer Center and Blood Disorders Service of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA.
- Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA.
- Parker H. Petit Institute of Bioengineering and Bioscience, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA.
- Institute for Electronics and Nanotechnology, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA.
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15
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Otumala AE, Hellen DJ, Luna CA, Delgado P, Dissanayaka A, Ugwumadu C, Oshinowo O, Islam MM, Shen L, Karpen SJ, Myers DR. Opportunities and considerations for studying liver disease with microphysiological systems on a chip. LAB ON A CHIP 2023; 23:2877-2898. [PMID: 37282629 DOI: 10.1039/d2lc00940d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Advances in microsystem engineering have enabled the development of highly controlled models of the liver that better recapitulate the unique in vivo biological conditions. In just a few short years, substantial progress has been made in creating complex mono- and multi-cellular models that mimic key metabolic, structural, and oxygen gradients crucial for liver function. Here we review: 1) the state-of-the-art in liver-centric microphysiological systems and 2) the array of liver diseases and pressing biological and therapeutic challenges which could be investigated with these systems. The engineering community has unique opportunities to innovate with new liver-on-a-chip devices and partner with biomedical researchers to usher in a new era of understanding of the molecular and cellular contributors to liver diseases and identify and test rational therapeutic modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adiya E Otumala
- The Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology & Emory University, 1760 Haygood Dr, Suite E-160, Rm E-156, Atlanta, GA, 30332, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Aflac Cancer Center and Blood Disorders Service of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Dominick J Hellen
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Emory University School of Medicine, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - C Alessandra Luna
- The Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology & Emory University, 1760 Haygood Dr, Suite E-160, Rm E-156, Atlanta, GA, 30332, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Aflac Cancer Center and Blood Disorders Service of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Priscilla Delgado
- The Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology & Emory University, 1760 Haygood Dr, Suite E-160, Rm E-156, Atlanta, GA, 30332, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Aflac Cancer Center and Blood Disorders Service of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Anjana Dissanayaka
- The Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology & Emory University, 1760 Haygood Dr, Suite E-160, Rm E-156, Atlanta, GA, 30332, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Aflac Cancer Center and Blood Disorders Service of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Chidozie Ugwumadu
- The Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology & Emory University, 1760 Haygood Dr, Suite E-160, Rm E-156, Atlanta, GA, 30332, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Aflac Cancer Center and Blood Disorders Service of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Oluwamayokun Oshinowo
- The Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology & Emory University, 1760 Haygood Dr, Suite E-160, Rm E-156, Atlanta, GA, 30332, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Aflac Cancer Center and Blood Disorders Service of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Md Mydul Islam
- The Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology & Emory University, 1760 Haygood Dr, Suite E-160, Rm E-156, Atlanta, GA, 30332, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Aflac Cancer Center and Blood Disorders Service of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Luyao Shen
- The Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology & Emory University, 1760 Haygood Dr, Suite E-160, Rm E-156, Atlanta, GA, 30332, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Aflac Cancer Center and Blood Disorders Service of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Saul J Karpen
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Emory University School of Medicine, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - David R Myers
- The Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology & Emory University, 1760 Haygood Dr, Suite E-160, Rm E-156, Atlanta, GA, 30332, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Aflac Cancer Center and Blood Disorders Service of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
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16
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Yao Q, Jiang K, Lin F, Zhu T, Khan NH, Jiang E. Pathophysiological Association of Alzheimer's Disease and Hypertension: A Clinical Concern for Elderly Population. Clin Interv Aging 2023; 18:713-728. [PMID: 37181536 PMCID: PMC10167960 DOI: 10.2147/cia.s400527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD), the most common cause of dementia and the fifth leading cause of death in the adult population has a complex pathophysiological link with hypertension (HTN). A growing volume of published literature on a parallel elevation of blood pressure (BP), amyloid plaques, and neurofibrillary tangles formation in post-middle of human brain cells has developed new, widely accepting foundations on this association. In particular, HTN in elderly life mediates cerebral blood flow dysfunction, neuronal dysfunction, and significant decline in cognitive impairment, primarily in the late-life populace, governing the onset of AD. Thus, HTN is an established risk factor for AD. Considering the impact of AD, 1.89 million deaths annually, and the failure of palliative therapies to cure AD, the scientific research community is looking to adopt integrated approaches to target early modified risk factors like HTN to reduce AD burden. The current review highlights the significance and impact of HTN-based prevention in lowering the AD burden in the elderly by providing a comprehensive overview of the physiological relationship between AD and HTN with an in-detail explanation of the role and applications of pathological biomarkers in this clinical association. The review will gain worth in presenting new insights and providing inclusive discussion on the correlation between HTN and cognitive impairment. It will increase across a wider scientific audience to expand understanding of this pathophysiological association.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qianqian Yao
- Institute of Nursing and Health, Henan University, Kaifeng, People’s Republic of China
| | - Kexin Jiang
- Institute of Nursing and Health, Henan University, Kaifeng, People’s Republic of China
| | - Fei Lin
- School of Medicine, Shangqiu Institute of Technology, Shangqiu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Tao Zhu
- Department of Geriatrics, Kaifeng Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Kaifeng, People’s Republic of China
| | - Nazeer Hussain Khan
- Institute of Nursing and Health, Henan University, Kaifeng, People’s Republic of China
- Henan International Joint Laboratory for Nuclear Protein Regulation, Henan University, Kaifeng, People’s Republic of China
| | - Enshe Jiang
- Institute of Nursing and Health, Henan University, Kaifeng, People’s Republic of China
- Henan International Joint Laboratory for Nuclear Protein Regulation, Henan University, Kaifeng, People’s Republic of China
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17
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Konopka J, Kołodziejek D, Flont M, Żuchowska A, Jastrzębska E, Brzózka Z. Exploring Endothelial Expansion on a Chip. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 22:9414. [PMID: 36502120 PMCID: PMC9741423 DOI: 10.3390/s22239414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Angiogenesis is the development of new blood vessels from the existing vasculature. Its malfunction leads to the development of cancers and cardiovascular diseases qualified by the WHO as a leading cause of death worldwide. A better understanding of mechanisms regulating physiological and pathological angiogenesis will potentially contribute to developing more effective treatments for those urgent issues. Therefore, the main goal of the following study was to design and manufacture an angiogenesis-on-a-chip microplatform, including cylindrical microvessels created by Viscous Finger Patterning (VFP) technique and seeded with HUVECs. While optimizing the VFP procedure, we have observed that lumen's diameter decreases with a diminution of the droplet's volume. The influence of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) with a concentration of 5, 25, 50, and 100 ng/mL on the migration of HUVECs was assessed. VEGF's solution with concentrations varying from 5 to 50 ng/mL reveals high angiogenic potential. The spatial arrangement of cells and their morphology were visualized by fluorescence and confocal microscopy. Migration of HUVECs toward loaded angiogenic stimuli has been initiated after overnight incubation. This research is the basis for developing more complex vascularized multi-organ-on-a-chip microsystems that could potentially be used for drug screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Konopka
- Faculty of Chemistry, Warsaw University of Technology, 00-661 Warszawa, Poland
| | - Dominik Kołodziejek
- Faculty of Chemistry, Warsaw University of Technology, 00-661 Warszawa, Poland
| | - Magdalena Flont
- Centre for Advanced Materials and Technologies CEZAMAT, Warsaw University of Technology, 02-822 Warszawa, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Żuchowska
- Faculty of Chemistry, Warsaw University of Technology, 00-661 Warszawa, Poland
| | - Elżbieta Jastrzębska
- Faculty of Chemistry, Warsaw University of Technology, 00-661 Warszawa, Poland
- Centre for Advanced Materials and Technologies CEZAMAT, Warsaw University of Technology, 02-822 Warszawa, Poland
| | - Zbigniew Brzózka
- Faculty of Chemistry, Warsaw University of Technology, 00-661 Warszawa, Poland
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Deng P, Zhao M, Zhang X, Qin J. A Transwell-Based Vascularized Model to Investigate the Effect of Interstitial Flow on Vasculogenesis. Bioengineering (Basel) 2022; 9:668. [PMID: 36354579 PMCID: PMC9687519 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering9110668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2022] [Revised: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/30/2022] [Indexed: 09/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Interstitial flow plays a significant role in vascular system development, mainly including angiogenesis and vasculogenesis. However, compared to angiogenesis, the effect of interstitial flow on vasculogenesis is less explored. Current in vitro models for investigating the effect of interstitial flow on vasculogenesis heavily rely on microfluidic chips, which require microfluidic expertise and facilities, and may not be accessible to biological labs. Here, we proposed a facile approach to building perfusable vascular networks through the self-assembly of endothelial cells in a modified transwell format and investigated the effect of interstitial flow on vasculogenesis. We found that the effect of interstitial flow on vasculogenesis was closely related to the existence of VEGF and fibroblasts in the developed model: (1) In the presence of fibroblasts, interstitial flow (within the range of 0.1-0.6 μm/s) facilitated the perfusability of the engineered vasculatures. Additional VEGF in the culture medium further worked synergically with interstitial flow to develop longer, wider, denser, and more perfusable vasculatures than static counterparts; (2) In the absence of fibroblasts, vasculatures underwent severe regression within 7 days under static conditions. However, interstitial flow greatly inhibited vessel regression and enhanced vascular perfusability and morphogenesis without the need for additional VEGF. These results revealed that the effect of interstitial flow might vary depending on the existence of VEGF and fibroblasts, and would provide some guidelines for constructing in vitro self-assembled vasculatures. The established transwell-based vascularized model provides a simple method to build perfusable vasculatures and could also be utilized for creating functional tissues in regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengwei Deng
- Division of Biotechnology, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian 116023, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Mengqian Zhao
- Division of Biotechnology, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian 116023, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Xu Zhang
- Division of Biotechnology, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian 116023, China
| | - Jianhua Qin
- Division of Biotechnology, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian 116023, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
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19
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Musick JO, Fibben KS, Lam WA. Hyperviscosity syndromes; hemorheology for physicians and the use of microfluidic devices. Curr Opin Hematol 2022; 29:290-296. [PMID: 35916537 PMCID: PMC9547821 DOI: 10.1097/moh.0000000000000735] [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: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Hyperviscosity syndromes can lead to significant morbidity and mortality. Existing methods to measure microcirculatory rheology are not readily available and limited in relevance and accuracy at this level. In this review, we review selected hyperviscosity syndromes and the advancement of their knowledge using microfluidic platforms. RECENT FINDINGS Viscosity changes drastically at the microvascular level as the physical properties of the cells themselves become the major determinants of resistance to blood flow. Current, outdated viscosity measurements only quantify whole blood or serum. Changes in blood composition, cell number, or the physical properties themselves lead to increased blood viscosity. Given the significant morbidity and mortality from hyperviscosity syndromes, new biophysical tools are needed and being developed to study microvascular biophysical and hemodynamic conditions at this microvascular level to help predict those at risk and guide therapeutic treatment. SUMMARY The use of 'lab-on-a-chip' technology continues to rise to relevance with point of care, personalized testing and medicine as customizable microfluidic platforms enable independent control of many in vivo factors and are a powerful tool to study microcirculatory hemorheology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie O. Musick
- Department of Pediatrics, Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center of Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, USA
| | - Kirby S. Fibben
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia 30332, USA
| | - Wilbur A. Lam
- Department of Pediatrics, Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center of Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, USA
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia 30332, USA
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20
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Man Y, An R, Monchamp K, Sekyonda Z, Kucukal E, Federici C, Wulftange WJ, Goreke U, Bode A, Sheehan VA, Gurkan UA. OcclusionChip: A functional microcapillary occlusion assay complementary to ektacytometry for detection of small-fraction red blood cells with abnormal deformability. Front Physiol 2022; 13:954106. [PMID: 36091387 PMCID: PMC9452903 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.954106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Red blood cell (RBC) deformability is a valuable hemorheological biomarker that can be used to assess the clinical status and response to therapy of individuals with sickle cell disease (SCD). RBC deformability has been measured by ektacytometry for decades, which uses shear or osmolar stress. However, ektacytometry is a population based measurement that does not detect small-fractions of abnormal RBCs. A single cell-based, functional RBC deformability assay would complement ektacytometry and provide additional information. Here, we tested the relative merits of the OcclusionChip, which measures RBC deformability by microcapillary occlusion, and ektacytometry. We tested samples containing glutaraldehyde-stiffened RBCs for up to 1% volume fraction; ektacytometry detected no significant change in Elongation Index (EI), while the OcclusionChip showed significant differences in Occlusion Index (OI). OcclusionChip detected a significant increase in OI in RBCs from an individual with sickle cell trait (SCT) and from a subject with SCD who received allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT), as the sample was taken from normoxic (pO2:159 mmHg) to physiologic hypoxic (pO2:45 mmHg) conditions. Oxygen gradient ektacytometry detected no difference in EI for SCT or HSCT. These results suggest that the single cell-based OcclusionChip enables detection of sickle hemoglobin (HbS)-related RBC abnormalities in SCT and SCD, particularly when the HbS level is low. We conclude that the OcclusionChip is complementary to the population based ektacytometry assays, and providing additional sensitivity and capacity to detect modest abnormalities in red cell function or small populations of abnormal red cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuncheng Man
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Ran An
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Karamoja Monchamp
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Zoe Sekyonda
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Erdem Kucukal
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Chiara Federici
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - William J. Wulftange
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Utku Goreke
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Allison Bode
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Vivien A. Sheehan
- Aflac Cancer & Blood Disorders Center Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Umut A. Gurkan
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States
- *Correspondence: Umut A. Gurkan,
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21
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Limongi T, Guzzi F, Parrotta E, Candeloro P, Scalise S, Lucchino V, Gentile F, Tirinato L, Coluccio ML, Torre B, Allione M, Marini M, Susa F, Fabrizio ED, Cuda G, Perozziello G. Microfluidics for 3D Cell and Tissue Cultures: Microfabricative and Ethical Aspects Updates. Cells 2022; 11:1699. [PMID: 35626736 PMCID: PMC9139493 DOI: 10.3390/cells11101699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Revised: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
The necessity to improve in vitro cell screening assays is becoming ever more important. Pharmaceutical companies, research laboratories and hospitals require technologies that help to speed up conventional screening and therapeutic procedures to produce more data in a short time in a realistic and reliable manner. The design of new solutions for test biomaterials and active molecules is one of the urgent problems of preclinical screening and the limited correlation between in vitro and in vivo data remains one of the major issues. The establishment of the most suitable in vitro model provides reduction in times, costs and, last but not least, in the number of animal experiments as recommended by the 3Rs (replace, reduce, refine) ethical guiding principles for testing involving animals. Although two-dimensional (2D) traditional cell screening assays are generally cheap and practical to manage, they have strong limitations, as cells, within the transition from the three-dimensional (3D) in vivo to the 2D in vitro growth conditions, do not properly mimic the real morphologies and physiology of their native tissues. In the study of human pathologies, especially, animal experiments provide data closer to what happens in the target organ or apparatus, but they imply slow and costly procedures and they generally do not fully accomplish the 3Rs recommendations, i.e., the amount of laboratory animals and the stress that they undergo must be minimized. Microfluidic devices seem to offer different advantages in relation to the mentioned issues. This review aims to describe the critical issues connected with the conventional cells culture and screening procedures, showing what happens in the in vivo physiological micro and nano environment also from a physical point of view. During the discussion, some microfluidic tools and their components are described to explain how these devices can circumvent the actual limitations described in the introduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tania Limongi
- Department of Applied Science and Technology, Politecnico di Torino, Corso Duca degli Abruzzi 24, 10129 Turin, Italy; (T.L.); (B.T.); (M.A.); (M.M.); (F.S.); (E.D.F.)
| | - Francesco Guzzi
- Nanotechnology Research Centre, BioNEM Laboratory, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (F.G.); (P.C.); (F.G.); (L.T.); (M.L.C.)
| | - Elvira Parrotta
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy;
| | - Patrizio Candeloro
- Nanotechnology Research Centre, BioNEM Laboratory, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (F.G.); (P.C.); (F.G.); (L.T.); (M.L.C.)
| | - Stefania Scalise
- Research Centre for Advanced Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University Magna Graecia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (S.S.); (V.L.); (G.C.)
| | - Valeria Lucchino
- Research Centre for Advanced Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University Magna Graecia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (S.S.); (V.L.); (G.C.)
| | - Francesco Gentile
- Nanotechnology Research Centre, BioNEM Laboratory, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (F.G.); (P.C.); (F.G.); (L.T.); (M.L.C.)
| | - Luca Tirinato
- Nanotechnology Research Centre, BioNEM Laboratory, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (F.G.); (P.C.); (F.G.); (L.T.); (M.L.C.)
| | - Maria Laura Coluccio
- Nanotechnology Research Centre, BioNEM Laboratory, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (F.G.); (P.C.); (F.G.); (L.T.); (M.L.C.)
| | - Bruno Torre
- Department of Applied Science and Technology, Politecnico di Torino, Corso Duca degli Abruzzi 24, 10129 Turin, Italy; (T.L.); (B.T.); (M.A.); (M.M.); (F.S.); (E.D.F.)
| | - Marco Allione
- Department of Applied Science and Technology, Politecnico di Torino, Corso Duca degli Abruzzi 24, 10129 Turin, Italy; (T.L.); (B.T.); (M.A.); (M.M.); (F.S.); (E.D.F.)
| | - Monica Marini
- Department of Applied Science and Technology, Politecnico di Torino, Corso Duca degli Abruzzi 24, 10129 Turin, Italy; (T.L.); (B.T.); (M.A.); (M.M.); (F.S.); (E.D.F.)
| | - Francesca Susa
- Department of Applied Science and Technology, Politecnico di Torino, Corso Duca degli Abruzzi 24, 10129 Turin, Italy; (T.L.); (B.T.); (M.A.); (M.M.); (F.S.); (E.D.F.)
| | - Enzo Di Fabrizio
- Department of Applied Science and Technology, Politecnico di Torino, Corso Duca degli Abruzzi 24, 10129 Turin, Italy; (T.L.); (B.T.); (M.A.); (M.M.); (F.S.); (E.D.F.)
| | - Giovanni Cuda
- Research Centre for Advanced Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University Magna Graecia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (S.S.); (V.L.); (G.C.)
| | - Gerardo Perozziello
- Nanotechnology Research Centre, BioNEM Laboratory, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (F.G.); (P.C.); (F.G.); (L.T.); (M.L.C.)
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22
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Quantitative Monitoring of Dynamic Blood Flows Using Coflowing Laminar Streams in a Sensorless Approach. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/app11167260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Determination of blood viscosity requires consistent measurement of blood flow rates, which leads to measurement errors and presents several issues when there are continuous changes in hematocrit changes. Instead of blood viscosity, a coflowing channel as a pressure sensor is adopted to quantify the dynamic flow of blood. Information on blood (i.e., hematocrit, flow rate, and viscosity) is not provided in advance. Using a discrete circuit model for the coflowing streams, the analytical expressions for four properties (i.e., pressure, shear stress, and two types of work) are then derived to quantify the flow of the test fluid. The analytical expressions are validated through numerical simulations. To demonstrate the method, the four properties are obtained using the present method by varying the flow patterns (i.e., constant flow rate or sinusoidal flow rate) as well as test fluids (i.e., glycerin solutions and blood). Thereafter, the present method is applied to quantify the dynamic flows of RBC aggregation-enhanced blood with a peristaltic pump, where any information regarding the blood is not specific. The experimental results indicate that the present method can quantify dynamic blood flow consistently, where hematocrit changes continuously over time.
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