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Pigareva Y, Gladkov A, Kolpakov V, Kazantsev VB, Mukhina I, Pimashkin A. The Profile of Network Spontaneous Activity and Functional Organization Interplay in Hierarchically Connected Modular Neural Networks In Vitro. MICROMACHINES 2024; 15:732. [PMID: 38930702 PMCID: PMC11205292 DOI: 10.3390/mi15060732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Modern microtechnology methods are widely used to create neural networks on a chip with a connection architecture demonstrating properties of modularity and hierarchy similar to brain networks. Such in vitro networks serve as a valuable model for studying the interplay of functional architecture within modules, their activity, and the effectiveness of inter-module interaction. In this study, we use a two-chamber microfluidic platform to investigate functional connectivity and global activity in hierarchically connected modular neural networks. We found that the strength of functional connections within the module and the profile of network spontaneous activity determine the effectiveness of inter-modular interaction and integration activity in the network. The direction of intermodular activity propagation configures the different densities of inhibitory synapses in the network. The developed microfluidic platform holds the potential to explore function-structure relationships and efficient information processing in two- or multilayer neural networks, in both healthy and pathological states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yana Pigareva
- Neurotechnology Department, Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, Nizhny Novgorod 603950, Russia
- Central Research Laboratory, Cell Technology Department, Privolzhsky Research Medical University, Nizhny Novgorod 603005, Russia
| | - Arseniy Gladkov
- Neurotechnology Department, Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, Nizhny Novgorod 603950, Russia
- Central Research Laboratory, Cell Technology Department, Privolzhsky Research Medical University, Nizhny Novgorod 603005, Russia
| | - Vladimir Kolpakov
- Neurotechnology Department, Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, Nizhny Novgorod 603950, Russia
- Central Research Laboratory, Cell Technology Department, Privolzhsky Research Medical University, Nizhny Novgorod 603005, Russia
| | - Victor B. Kazantsev
- Neurotechnology Department, Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, Nizhny Novgorod 603950, Russia
- Central Research Laboratory, Cell Technology Department, Privolzhsky Research Medical University, Nizhny Novgorod 603005, Russia
| | - Irina Mukhina
- Neurotechnology Department, Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, Nizhny Novgorod 603950, Russia
- Central Research Laboratory, Cell Technology Department, Privolzhsky Research Medical University, Nizhny Novgorod 603005, Russia
| | - Alexey Pimashkin
- Neurotechnology Department, Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, Nizhny Novgorod 603950, Russia
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2
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Rajeswari J, Jagannath M. Brain connectivity analysis based classification of obstructive sleep apnea using electroencephalogram signals. Sci Rep 2024; 14:5561. [PMID: 38448538 PMCID: PMC10917737 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-56384-9] [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: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a disorder which blocks the upper airway during sleep. The severity of OSA will lead heart attack, stroke and end of life. This proposed study explored the classification of OSA and healthy subjects using brain connectivity analysis from electroencephalogram (EEG) signals. Institute of System and Robotics-University of Coimbra (ISRUC) database were used for acquiring 50 EEG signals using 4 channels and noise removal has been accomplished by 50 Hz notch filter. The Institute of System and Robotics-University of Coimbra (ISRUC) database contained 50 EEG signals, with four channels, and a 50 Hz notch filter was applied to remove noise. Wavelet packet decomposition method was performing the segregation of EEG signals into five bands; Gamma (γ), beta (β), alpha (α), theta (θ) and delta (δ). A total of 4 electrode positions were used for the brain connectivity analysis for each EEG band. Pearson correlation method was effectively used for measuring the correlation between healthy and OSA subjects. The nodes and edges were highlighted the connection between brain and subjects. The highest correlation was achieved in delta band of OSA subjects which starts from 0.7331 to 0.9172 respectively. For healthy subjects, the positive correlation achieved was 0.6995. The delta band has been correlated well with brain when compared other bands. It has been noted that the positive correlation well associated with brain in OSA subjects, which classifies OSA from healthy subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Rajeswari
- Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering, Agni College of Technology, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - M Jagannath
- School of Electronics Engineering, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT) Chennai, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.
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3
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Zhao C, Wang Z, Tang X, Qin J, Jiang Z. Recent advances in sensor-integrated brain-on-a-chip devices for real-time brain monitoring. Colloids Surf B Biointerfaces 2023; 229:113431. [PMID: 37473652 DOI: 10.1016/j.colsurfb.2023.113431] [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: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 06/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
Brain science has remained in the global spotlight as an important field of scientific and technological discovery. Numerous in vitro and in vivo animal studies have been performed to understand the pathological processes involved in brain diseases and develop strategies for their diagnosis and treatment. However, owing to species differences between animals and humans, several drugs have shown high rates of treatment failure in clinical settings, hindering the development of diagnostic and treatment modalities for brain diseases. In this scenario, microfluidic brain-on-a-chip (BOC) devices, which allow the direct use of human tissues for experiments, have emerged as novel tools for effectively avoiding species differences and performing screening for new drugs. Although microfluidic BOC technology has achieved significant progress in recent years, monitoring slight changes in neurochemicals, neurotransmitters, and environmental states in the brain has remained challenging owing to the brain's complex environment. Hence, the integration of BOC with new sensors that have high sensitivity and high selectivity is urgently required for the real-time dynamic monitoring of BOC parameters. As sensor-based technologies for BOC have not been summarized, here, we review the principle, fabrication process, and application-based classification of sensor-integrated BOC, and then summarize the opportunities and challenges for their development. Generally, sensor-integrated BOC enables real-time monitoring and dynamic analysis, accurately measuring minute changes in the brain and thus enabling the realization of in vivo brain analysis and drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Zhao
- School of Medical Technology, School of Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Zihao Wang
- School of Medical Technology, School of Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Xiaoying Tang
- School of Medical Technology, School of Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China.
| | - Jieling Qin
- School of Medical Technology, School of Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China; Tongji University Cancer Center, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China.
| | - Zhenqi Jiang
- School of Medical Technology, School of Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China.
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4
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Feitor JF, Brazaca LC, Lima AM, Ferreira VG, Kassab G, Bagnato VS, Carrilho E, Cardoso DR. Organ-on-a-Chip for Drug Screening: A Bright Future for Sustainability? A Critical Review. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2023; 9:2220-2234. [PMID: 37014814 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.2c01454] [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: 04/05/2023]
Abstract
Globalization has raised concerns about spreading diseases and emphasized the need for quick and efficient methods for drug screening. Established drug efficacy and toxicity approaches have proven obsolete, with a high failure rate in clinical trials. Organ-on-a-chip has emerged as an essential alternative to outdated techniques, precisely simulating important characteristics of organs and predicting drug pharmacokinetics more ethically and efficiently. Although promising, most organ-on-a-chip devices are still manufactured using principles and materials from the micromachining industry. The abusive use of plastic for traditional drug screening methods and device production should be considered when substituting technologies so that the compensation for the generation of plastic waste can be projected. This critical review outlines recent advances for organ-on-a-chip in the industry and estimates the possibility of scaling up its production. Moreover, it analyzes trends in organ-on-a-chip publications and provides suggestions for a more sustainable future for organ-on-a-chip research and production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jéssica F Feitor
- Instituto de Química de São Carlos, Universidade de São Paulo, 13566-590 São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Laís C Brazaca
- Instituto de Química de São Carlos, Universidade de São Paulo, 13566-590 São Carlos, SP, Brazil
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, 02138 Massachusetts, United States
| | - Amanda M Lima
- Instituto de Química de São Carlos, Universidade de São Paulo, 13566-590 São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Vinícius G Ferreira
- Instituto de Química de São Carlos, Universidade de São Paulo, 13566-590 São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Giulia Kassab
- Instituto de Física de São Carlos, Universidade de São Paulo, 13566-590 São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Vanderlei S Bagnato
- Instituto de Física de São Carlos, Universidade de São Paulo, 13566-590 São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Emanuel Carrilho
- Instituto de Química de São Carlos, Universidade de São Paulo, 13566-590 São Carlos, SP, Brazil
- Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia de Bioanalítica-INCTBio, 13083-970 Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Daniel R Cardoso
- Instituto de Química de São Carlos, Universidade de São Paulo, 13566-590 São Carlos, SP, Brazil
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Pigareva Y, Gladkov A, Kolpakov V, Bukatin A, Li S, Kazantsev VB, Mukhina I, Pimashkin A. Microfluidic Bi-Layer Platform to Study Functional Interaction between Co-Cultured Neural Networks with Unidirectional Synaptic Connectivity. MICROMACHINES 2023; 14:835. [PMID: 37421068 DOI: 10.3390/mi14040835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023]
Abstract
The complex synaptic connectivity architecture of neuronal networks underlies cognition and brain function. However, studying the spiking activity propagation and processing in heterogeneous networks in vivo poses significant challenges. In this study, we present a novel two-layer PDMS chip that facilitates the culturing and examination of the functional interaction of two interconnected neural networks. We utilized cultures of hippocampal neurons grown in a two-chamber microfluidic chip combined with a microelectrode array. The asymmetric configuration of the microchannels between the chambers ensured the growth of axons predominantly in one direction from the Source chamber to the Target chamber, forming two neuronal networks with unidirectional synaptic connectivity. We showed that the local application of tetrodotoxin (TTX) to the Source network did not alter the spiking rate in the Target network. The results indicate that stable network activity in the Target network was maintained for at least 1-3 h after TTX application, demonstrating the feasibility of local chemical activity modulation and the influence of electrical activity from one network on the other. Additionally, suppression of synaptic activity in the Source network by the application of CPP and CNQX reorganized spatio-temporal characteristics of spontaneous and stimulus-evoked spiking activity in the Target network. The proposed methodology and results provide a more in-depth examination of the network-level functional interaction between neural circuits with heterogeneous synaptic connectivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yana Pigareva
- Neurotechnology Department, Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, Nizhny Novgorod 603950, Russia
- Central Research Laboratory, Cell Technology Department, Privolzhsky Research Medical University, Nizhny Novgorod 603005, Russia
| | - Arseniy Gladkov
- Neurotechnology Department, Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, Nizhny Novgorod 603950, Russia
- Central Research Laboratory, Cell Technology Department, Privolzhsky Research Medical University, Nizhny Novgorod 603005, Russia
| | - Vladimir Kolpakov
- Neurotechnology Department, Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, Nizhny Novgorod 603950, Russia
- Central Research Laboratory, Cell Technology Department, Privolzhsky Research Medical University, Nizhny Novgorod 603005, Russia
| | - Anton Bukatin
- Department of Nanobiotechnology, Alferov Saint-Petersburg National Research Academic University of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Saint Petersburg 194021, Russia
- Institute for Analytical Instrumentation of the RAS, Saint Petersburg 198095, Russia
| | - Sergei Li
- Neurotechnology Department, Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, Nizhny Novgorod 603950, Russia
| | - Victor B Kazantsev
- Neurotechnology Department, Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, Nizhny Novgorod 603950, Russia
- Central Research Laboratory, Cell Technology Department, Privolzhsky Research Medical University, Nizhny Novgorod 603005, Russia
| | - Irina Mukhina
- Neurotechnology Department, Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, Nizhny Novgorod 603950, Russia
- Central Research Laboratory, Cell Technology Department, Privolzhsky Research Medical University, Nizhny Novgorod 603005, Russia
| | - Alexey Pimashkin
- Neurotechnology Department, Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, Nizhny Novgorod 603950, Russia
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6
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Biosensor integrated brain-on-a-chip platforms: Progress and prospects in clinical translation. Biosens Bioelectron 2023; 225:115100. [PMID: 36709589 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2023.115100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2022] [Revised: 01/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Because of the brain's complexity, developing effective treatments for neurological disorders is a formidable challenge. Research efforts to this end are advancing as in vitro systems have reached the point that they can imitate critical components of the brain's structure and function. Brain-on-a-chip (BoC) was first used for microfluidics-based systems with small synthetic tissues but has expanded recently to include in vitro simulation of the central nervous system (CNS). Defining the system's qualifying parameters may improve the BoC for the next generation of in vitro platforms. These parameters show how well a given platform solves the problems unique to in vitro CNS modeling (like recreating the brain's microenvironment and including essential parts like the blood-brain barrier (BBB)) and how much more value it offers than traditional cell culture systems. This review provides an overview of the practical concerns of creating and deploying BoC systems and elaborates on how these technologies might be used. Not only how advanced biosensing technologies could be integrated with BoC system but also how novel approaches will automate assays and improve point-of-care (PoC) diagnostics and accurate quantitative analyses are discussed. Key challenges providing opportunities for clinical translation of BoC in neurodegenerative disorders are also addressed.
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7
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Goshi N, Kim H, Girardi G, Gardner A, Seker E. Electrophysiological Activity of Primary Cortical Neuron-Glia Mixed Cultures. Cells 2023; 12:cells12050821. [PMID: 36899957 PMCID: PMC10001406 DOI: 10.3390/cells12050821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Revised: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuroinflammation plays a central role in many neurological disorders, ranging from traumatic brain injuries to neurodegeneration. Electrophysiological activity is an essential measure of neuronal function, which is influenced by neuroinflammation. In order to study neuroinflammation and its electrophysiological fingerprints, there is a need for in vitro models that accurately capture the in vivo phenomena. In this study, we employed a new tri-culture of primary rat neurons, astrocytes, and microglia in combination with extracellular electrophysiological recording techniques using multiple electrode arrays (MEAs) to determine the effect of microglia on neural function and the response to neuroinflammatory stimuli. Specifically, we established the tri-culture and its corresponding neuron-astrocyte co-culture (lacking microglia) counterpart on custom MEAs and monitored their electrophysiological activity for 21 days to assess culture maturation and network formation. As a complementary assessment, we quantified synaptic puncta and averaged spike waveforms to determine the difference in excitatory to inhibitory neuron ratio (E/I ratio) of the neurons. The results demonstrate that the microglia in the tri-culture do not disrupt neural network formation and stability and may be a better representation of the in vivo rat cortex due to its more similar E/I ratio as compared to more traditional isolated neuron and neuron-astrocyte co-cultures. In addition, only the tri-culture displayed a significant decrease in both the number of active channels and spike frequency following pro-inflammatory lipopolysaccharide exposure, highlighting the critical role of microglia in capturing electrophysiological manifestations of a representative neuroinflammatory insult. We expect the demonstrated technology to assist in studying various brain disease mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noah Goshi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California—Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Hyehyun Kim
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California—Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Gregory Girardi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California—Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Alexander Gardner
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California—Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Erkin Seker
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California—Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA
- Correspondence:
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8
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Montalà-Flaquer M, López-León CF, Tornero D, Houben AM, Fardet T, Monceau P, Bottani S, Soriano J. Rich dynamics and functional organization on topographically designed neuronal networks in vitro. iScience 2022; 25:105680. [PMID: 36567712 PMCID: PMC9768383 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.105680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Revised: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuronal cultures are a prominent experimental tool to understand complex functional organization in neuronal assemblies. However, neurons grown on flat surfaces exhibit a strongly coherent bursting behavior with limited functionality. To approach the functional richness of naturally formed neuronal circuits, here we studied neuronal networks grown on polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) topographical patterns shaped as either parallel tracks or square valleys. We followed the evolution of spontaneous activity in these cultures along 20 days in vitro using fluorescence calcium imaging. The networks were characterized by rich spatiotemporal activity patterns that comprised from small regions of the culture to its whole extent. Effective connectivity analysis revealed the emergence of spatially compact functional modules that were associated with both the underpinned topographical features and predominant spatiotemporal activity fronts. Our results show the capacity of spatial constraints to mold activity and functional organization, bringing new opportunities to comprehend the structure-function relationship in living neuronal circuits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Montalà-Flaquer
- Departament de Física de la Matèria Condensada, Universitat de Barcelona, E-08028 Barcelona, Spain,Universitat de Barcelona Institute of Complex Systems (UBICS), E-08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Clara F. López-León
- Departament de Física de la Matèria Condensada, Universitat de Barcelona, E-08028 Barcelona, Spain,Universitat de Barcelona Institute of Complex Systems (UBICS), E-08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Daniel Tornero
- Laboratory of Neural Stem Cells and Brain Damage, Institute of Neurosciences, University of Barcelona, E-08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Akke Mats Houben
- Departament de Física de la Matèria Condensada, Universitat de Barcelona, E-08028 Barcelona, Spain,Universitat de Barcelona Institute of Complex Systems (UBICS), E-08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Tanguy Fardet
- Laboratoire Matière et Systèmes Complexes, Université de Paris, UMR 7057 CNRS, Paris, France,University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany,Max Planck Institute for Biological Cybernetics, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Pascal Monceau
- Laboratoire Matière et Systèmes Complexes, Université de Paris, UMR 7057 CNRS, Paris, France
| | - Samuel Bottani
- Laboratoire Matière et Systèmes Complexes, Université de Paris, UMR 7057 CNRS, Paris, France
| | - Jordi Soriano
- Departament de Física de la Matèria Condensada, Universitat de Barcelona, E-08028 Barcelona, Spain,Universitat de Barcelona Institute of Complex Systems (UBICS), E-08028 Barcelona, Spain,Corresponding author
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9
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Chiappalone M, Cota VR, Carè M, Di Florio M, Beaubois R, Buccelli S, Barban F, Brofiga M, Averna A, Bonacini F, Guggenmos DJ, Bornat Y, Massobrio P, Bonifazi P, Levi T. Neuromorphic-Based Neuroprostheses for Brain Rewiring: State-of-the-Art and Perspectives in Neuroengineering. Brain Sci 2022; 12:1578. [PMID: 36421904 PMCID: PMC9688667 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12111578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuroprostheses are neuroengineering devices that have an interface with the nervous system and supplement or substitute functionality in people with disabilities. In the collective imagination, neuroprostheses are mostly used to restore sensory or motor capabilities, but in recent years, new devices directly acting at the brain level have been proposed. In order to design the next-generation of neuroprosthetic devices for brain repair, we foresee the increasing exploitation of closed-loop systems enabled with neuromorphic elements due to their intrinsic energy efficiency, their capability to perform real-time data processing, and of mimicking neurobiological computation for an improved synergy between the technological and biological counterparts. In this manuscript, after providing definitions of key concepts, we reviewed the first exploitation of a real-time hardware neuromorphic prosthesis to restore the bidirectional communication between two neuronal populations in vitro. Starting from that 'case-study', we provide perspectives on the technological improvements for real-time interfacing and processing of neural signals and their potential usage for novel in vitro and in vivo experimental designs. The development of innovative neuroprosthetics for translational purposes is also presented and discussed. In our understanding, the pursuit of neuromorphic-based closed-loop neuroprostheses may spur the development of novel powerful technologies, such as 'brain-prostheses', capable of rewiring and/or substituting the injured nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michela Chiappalone
- Department of Informatics, Bioengineering, Robotics System Engineering (DIBRIS), University of Genova, 16145 Genova, Italy
- Rehab Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 16163 Genova, Italy
| | - Vinicius R. Cota
- Rehab Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 16163 Genova, Italy
| | - Marta Carè
- Department of Informatics, Bioengineering, Robotics System Engineering (DIBRIS), University of Genova, 16145 Genova, Italy
- Rehab Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 16163 Genova, Italy
| | - Mattia Di Florio
- Department of Informatics, Bioengineering, Robotics System Engineering (DIBRIS), University of Genova, 16145 Genova, Italy
| | - Romain Beaubois
- IMS Laboratory, CNRS UMR 5218, University of Bordeaux, 33405 Talence, France
| | - Stefano Buccelli
- Rehab Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 16163 Genova, Italy
| | - Federico Barban
- Department of Informatics, Bioengineering, Robotics System Engineering (DIBRIS), University of Genova, 16145 Genova, Italy
- Rehab Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 16163 Genova, Italy
| | - Martina Brofiga
- Department of Informatics, Bioengineering, Robotics System Engineering (DIBRIS), University of Genova, 16145 Genova, Italy
| | - Alberto Averna
- Department of Neurology, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Francesco Bonacini
- Department of Informatics, Bioengineering, Robotics System Engineering (DIBRIS), University of Genova, 16145 Genova, Italy
| | - David J. Guggenmos
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66103, USA
- Landon Center on Aging, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66103, USA
| | - Yannick Bornat
- IMS Laboratory, CNRS UMR 5218, University of Bordeaux, 33405 Talence, France
| | - Paolo Massobrio
- Department of Informatics, Bioengineering, Robotics System Engineering (DIBRIS), University of Genova, 16145 Genova, Italy
- National Institute for Nuclear Physics (INFN), 16146 Genova, Italy
| | - Paolo Bonifazi
- IKERBASQUE, The Basque Fundation, 48009 Bilbao, Spain
- Biocruces Health Research Institute, 48903 Barakaldo, Spain
| | - Timothée Levi
- IMS Laboratory, CNRS UMR 5218, University of Bordeaux, 33405 Talence, France
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10
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Zommiti M, Connil N, Tahrioui A, Groboillot A, Barbey C, Konto-Ghiorghi Y, Lesouhaitier O, Chevalier S, Feuilloley MGJ. Organs-on-Chips Platforms Are Everywhere: A Zoom on Biomedical Investigation. Bioengineering (Basel) 2022; 9:646. [PMID: 36354557 PMCID: PMC9687856 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering9110646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 08/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the decades, conventional in vitro culture systems and animal models have been used to study physiology, nutrient or drug metabolisms including mechanical and physiopathological aspects. However, there is an urgent need for Integrated Testing Strategies (ITS) and more sophisticated platforms and devices to approach the real complexity of human physiology and provide reliable extrapolations for clinical investigations and personalized medicine. Organ-on-a-chip (OOC), also known as a microphysiological system, is a state-of-the-art microfluidic cell culture technology that sums up cells or tissue-to-tissue interfaces, fluid flows, mechanical cues, and organ-level physiology, and it has been developed to fill the gap between in vitro experimental models and human pathophysiology. The wide range of OOC platforms involves the miniaturization of cell culture systems and enables a variety of novel experimental techniques. These range from modeling the independent effects of biophysical forces on cells to screening novel drugs in multi-organ microphysiological systems, all within microscale devices. As in living biosystems, the development of vascular structure is the salient feature common to almost all organ-on-a-chip platforms. Herein, we provide a snapshot of this fast-evolving sophisticated technology. We will review cutting-edge developments and advances in the OOC realm, discussing current applications in the biomedical field with a detailed description of how this technology has enabled the reconstruction of complex multi-scale and multifunctional matrices and platforms (at the cellular and tissular levels) leading to an acute understanding of the physiopathological features of human ailments and infections in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Zommiti
- Research Unit Bacterial Communication and Anti-infectious Strategies (CBSA, UR4312), University of Rouen Normandie, 27000 Evreux, France
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Marc G. J. Feuilloley
- Research Unit Bacterial Communication and Anti-infectious Strategies (CBSA, UR4312), University of Rouen Normandie, 27000 Evreux, France
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11
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Abend A, Steele C, Schmidt S, Frank R, Jahnke HG, Zink M. Neuronal and glial cell co-culture organization and impedance spectroscopy on nanocolumnar TiN films for lab-on-a-chip devices. Biomater Sci 2022; 10:5719-5730. [PMID: 36039696 DOI: 10.1039/d2bm01066f] [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: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Lab-on-a-chip devices, such as multielectrode arrays (MEAs), offer great advantages to study function and behavior of biological cells, such as neurons, outside the complex tissue structure. Nevertheless, in vitro systems can only succeed if they represent realistic conditions such as cell organization as similarly found in tissues. In our study, we employ a co-culture system of neuron-like (SH-SY5Y) and glial-like (U-87 MG) cells with various neuron-glial ratios to model different brain regions with different cellular compositions in vitro. We find that cell behavior in terms of cellular organization, as well as proliferation, depends on neuron-glial cell ratio, as well as the underlying substrate material. In fact, nanocolumnar titanium nitride (TiN nano), which exhibits improved electric properties for neural recording on MEA, shows improved biocompatible features compared to indium tin oxide (ITO). Moreover, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy experiments allow us to monitor cellular processes label-free in real-time over several days with multielectrode arrays. Additionally, electrochemical impedance experiments reveal superiority of TiN with nanocolumnar surface modification in comparison with ITO. TiN nano exhibits enhanced relative cell signals and improved signal-to-noise ratio, especially for smaller electrode sizes, which makes nanocolumnar TiN a promising candidate for research on neural recording and stimulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Abend
- Research Group Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Peter Debye Institute for Soft Matter Physics, Leipzig University, 04103 Leipzig, Germany.
| | - Chelsie Steele
- Research Group Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Peter Debye Institute for Soft Matter Physics, Leipzig University, 04103 Leipzig, Germany.
| | - Sabine Schmidt
- Centre for Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Molecular Biological-Biochemical Processing Technology, Leipzig University, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Ronny Frank
- Centre for Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Molecular Biological-Biochemical Processing Technology, Leipzig University, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Heinz-Georg Jahnke
- Centre for Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Molecular Biological-Biochemical Processing Technology, Leipzig University, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Mareike Zink
- Research Group Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Peter Debye Institute for Soft Matter Physics, Leipzig University, 04103 Leipzig, Germany.
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12
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Lee JH, Jang EH, Kim SA. Brain Region and Sex-specific Changes in Mitochondrial Biogenesis Induced by Acute Trimethyltin Exposure. CLINICAL PSYCHOPHARMACOLOGY AND NEUROSCIENCE 2022; 20:474-481. [PMID: 35879031 PMCID: PMC9329116 DOI: 10.9758/cpn.2022.20.3.474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Revised: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Objective In this study, we investigated sex- and region-specific effects of acute trimethyltin (TMT) exposure on mitochondrial biogenesis. Methods We treated TMT to primary neuronal cultures and 4-week-old male and female mice. We measured the mitochondrial DNA copy numbers using the quantitative polymerase chain reaction method. We also measured mitochondrial biogenesis related genes (sirtuin-1, estrogen-related receptor alpha, cytochrome C oxidase subunit IV) by western blotting. Results The mitochondrial DNA copy number increased in the primary hippocampal neuron; however, it decreased in the primary cortical neuron. The mitochondrial copy number increased in the hippocampus and decreased in the cortex in the TMT treated female mice, though the mitochondrial copy number increased in both cortex and hippocampus in the TMT treated male mice. TMT treatment increased sirtuin-1 expression in the male hippocampus but did not in the female brain. In the female brain, estrogen-related receptor alpha expression decreased in the cortex though there is no significant change in the male brain. The protein level of mitochondrial protein, cytochrome C oxidase subunit IV, increased in both cortex and hippocampus after TMT injection in male mice brain, but not in female mice brain. Conclusion Our data suggest that acute TMT exposure induces distinct sex-specific metabolic characteristics in the brain before significant sexual maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jung Ho Lee
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Eulji University, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Eun Hye Jang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Eulji University, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Soon Ae Kim
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Eulji University, Daejeon, Korea
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13
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Callegari F, Brofiga M, Poggio F, Massobrio P. Stimulus-Evoked Activity Modulation of In Vitro Engineered Cortical and Hippocampal Networks. MICROMACHINES 2022; 13:mi13081212. [PMID: 36014137 PMCID: PMC9413227 DOI: 10.3390/mi13081212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The delivery of electrical stimuli is crucial to shape the electrophysiological activity of neuronal populations and to appreciate the response of the different brain circuits involved. In the present work, we used dissociated cortical and hippocampal networks coupled to Micro-Electrode Arrays (MEAs) to investigate the features of their evoked response when a low-frequency (0.2 Hz) electrical stimulation protocol is delivered. In particular, cortical and hippocampal neurons were topologically organized to recreate interconnected sub-populations with a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) mask, which guaranteed the segregation of the cell bodies and the connections among the sub-regions through microchannels. We found that cortical assemblies were more reactive than hippocampal ones. Despite both configurations exhibiting a fast (<35 ms) response, this did not uniformly distribute over the MEA in the hippocampal networks. Moreover, the propagation of the stimuli-evoked activity within the networks showed a late (35−500 ms) response only in the cortical assemblies. The achieved results suggest the importance of the neuronal target when electrical stimulation experiments are performed. Not all neuronal types display the same response, and in light of transferring stimulation protocols to in vivo applications, it becomes fundamental to design realistic in vitro brain-on-a-chip devices to investigate the dynamical properties of complex neuronal circuits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Callegari
- Department of Informatics, Bioengineering, Robotics and Systems Engineering (DIBRIS), University of Genova, 16145 Genova, Italy; (F.C.); (M.B.); (F.P.)
| | - Martina Brofiga
- Department of Informatics, Bioengineering, Robotics and Systems Engineering (DIBRIS), University of Genova, 16145 Genova, Italy; (F.C.); (M.B.); (F.P.)
- ScreenNeuroPharm s.r.l., 18038 Sanremo, Italy
| | - Fabio Poggio
- Department of Informatics, Bioengineering, Robotics and Systems Engineering (DIBRIS), University of Genova, 16145 Genova, Italy; (F.C.); (M.B.); (F.P.)
| | - Paolo Massobrio
- Department of Informatics, Bioengineering, Robotics and Systems Engineering (DIBRIS), University of Genova, 16145 Genova, Italy; (F.C.); (M.B.); (F.P.)
- National Institute for Nuclear Physics (INFN), 16146 Genova, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-010-335-2761
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14
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Singh VK, Seed TM. Acute radiation syndrome drug discovery using organ-on-chip platforms. Expert Opin Drug Discov 2022; 17:865-878. [PMID: 35838021 DOI: 10.1080/17460441.2022.2099833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION : The high attrition rate during drug development remains a challenge that costs a significant amount of time and money. Improving the probabilities of success during the early stages of radiation medical countermeasure (MCM) development for approval by the United States Food and Drug Administration (US FDA) following the Animal Rule will reduce this burden. For optimal development of MCMs, we need suitable and efficient radiation injury models with high biological relevance for evaluating drug efficacy as well as biomarker discovery and validation. AREA COVERED This article focuses on new technologies involving various organs-on-chip platforms. Of late, there have been rapid development of these technologies, especially in terms of mimicking both normal and abnormal physiological conditions. Here, we suggest possible applications of these novel systems for the discovery and development of radiation MCMs for the acute radiation syndrome (ARS). We offer preliminary information on the utility of one such system for MCM research and discovery for the ARS condition. EXPERT OPINION : Each organ-on-a-chip system has its own strengths and shortcomings. As such, the system selected for MCM discovery, development, and regulatory approval should be carefully considered and optimized to the fullest extent in order to augment successful drug testing and the minimization of attrition rates of candidate agents. The recent encouraging progress with organ-on-a-chip technology will likely lead to additional radiation MCMs for ARS approved by the US FDA. The acceptance of organ-on-a-chip technology may be a promising step toward improving the success rate of pharmaceuticals in MCM development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vijay K Singh
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Therapeutics, F. Edward Hébert School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA.,Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Thomas M Seed
- Tech Micro Services, 4417 Maple Avenue, Bethesda, MD, USA
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15
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Megarity D, Vroman R, Kriek M, Downey P, Bushell TJ, Zagnoni M. A modular microfluidic platform to enable complex and customisable in vitro models for neuroscience. LAB ON A CHIP 2022; 22:1989-2000. [PMID: 35466333 DOI: 10.1039/d2lc00115b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Disorders of the central nervous system (CNS) represent a global health challenge and an increased understanding of the CNS in both physiological and pathophysiological states is essential to tackle the problem. Modelling CNS conditions is difficult, as traditional in vitro models fail to recapitulate precise microenvironments and animal models of complex disease often have limited translational validity. Microfluidic and organ-on-chip technologies offer an opportunity to develop more physiologically relevant and complex in vitro models of the CNS. They can be developed to allow precise cellular patterning and enhanced experimental capabilities to study neuronal function and dysfunction. To improve ease-of-use of the technology and create new opportunities for novel in vitro studies, we introduce a modular platform consisting of multiple, individual microfluidic units that can be combined in several configurations to create bespoke culture environments. Here, we report proof-of-concept experiments creating complex in vitro models and performing functional analysis of neuronal activity across modular interfaces. This platform technology presents an opportunity to increase our understanding of CNS disease mechanisms and ultimately aid the development of novel therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Megarity
- Centre for Doctoral Training in Medical Devices and Health Technologies, Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, G4 0NW, UK
| | - R Vroman
- Centre for Microsystems and Photonics, Department of Electronic and Electrical Engineering, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, G1 1XW, UK.
| | | | - P Downey
- UCB Biopharma, Chemin du Foriest, 1420 Braine-l'Alleud, Belgium
| | - T J Bushell
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, G4 0RE, UK
| | - M Zagnoni
- Centre for Microsystems and Photonics, Department of Electronic and Electrical Engineering, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, G1 1XW, UK.
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16
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Amirifar L, Shamloo A, Nasiri R, de Barros NR, Wang ZZ, Unluturk BD, Libanori A, Ievglevskyi O, Diltemiz SE, Sances S, Balasingham I, Seidlits SK, Ashammakhi N. Brain-on-a-chip: Recent advances in design and techniques for microfluidic models of the brain in health and disease. Biomaterials 2022; 285:121531. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2022.121531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Revised: 04/10/2022] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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17
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Brofiga M, Massobrio P. Brain-on-a-Chip: Dream or Reality? Front Neurosci 2022; 16:837623. [PMID: 35310088 PMCID: PMC8924512 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.837623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Martina Brofiga
- Department of Informatics, Bioengineering, Robotics, Systems Engineering (DIBRIS), University of Genova, Genova, Italy
- ScreenNeuroPharm, Sanremo, Italy
| | - Paolo Massobrio
- Department of Informatics, Bioengineering, Robotics, Systems Engineering (DIBRIS), University of Genova, Genova, Italy
- National Institute for Nuclear Physics (INFN), Genova, Italy
- *Correspondence: Paolo Massobrio
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18
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Francistiová L, Vörös K, Lovász Z, Dinnyés A, Kobolák J. Detection and Functional Evaluation of the P2X7 Receptor in hiPSC Derived Neurons and Microglia-Like Cells. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 14:793769. [PMID: 35095416 PMCID: PMC8791009 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2021.793769] [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] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
A large body of evidence suggests the involvement of the ATP-gated purinergic receptor P2X7 (P2X7R) in neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease. While it is well-described to be present and functional on microglia cells contributing to inflammatory responses, some reports suggest a neuronal expression of the receptor as well. Here, we present experimental results showing P2X7 receptors to be expressed on human hiPSC-derived microglia-like cells, hiPSC-derived neuronal progenitors and hiPSC-derived matured neuronal cells. By applying cell surface protein detection assays, we show that P2X7R is not localized on the cell membrane, despite being detected in neuronal cells and thus may not be available for directly mediating neurotoxicity. On hiPSC-derived microglia-like cells, a clear membranous expression was detected. Additionally, we have not observed differences in P2X7R functions between control and familial Alzheimer's disease patient-derived neuronal cells. Functional assays employing a P2X7R antagonist JNJ 47965567 confirm these findings by showing P2X7R-dependent modulation of microglia-like cells viability upon treatment with P2X7R agonists ATP and BzATP, while the same effect was absent from neuronal cells. Since the majority of P2X7R research was done on rodent models, our work on human hiPSC-derived cells presents a valuable contribution to the field, extending the work on animal models to the human cellular system and toward clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Francistiová
- Biotalentum Ltd., Gödöllő, Hungary
- Department of Physiology and Animal Health, Institute of Physiology and Animal Health, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Gödöllő, Hungary
| | - Kinga Vörös
- Biotalentum Ltd., Gödöllő, Hungary
- Department of Physiology and Animal Health, Institute of Physiology and Animal Health, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Gödöllő, Hungary
| | | | - András Dinnyés
- Biotalentum Ltd., Gödöllő, Hungary
- Department of Physiology and Animal Health, Institute of Physiology and Animal Health, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Gödöllő, Hungary
- HCEMM-USZ Stem Cell Research Group, Hungarian Centre of Excellence for Molecular Medicine, Szeged, Hungary
- Department of Cell Biology and Molecular Medicine, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
- College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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19
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Functional Characterization of Human Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Models of the Brain with Microelectrode Arrays. Cells 2021; 11:cells11010106. [PMID: 35011667 PMCID: PMC8750870 DOI: 10.3390/cells11010106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Human pluripotent stem cell (hPSC)-derived neuron cultures have emerged as models of electrical activity in the human brain. Microelectrode arrays (MEAs) measure changes in the extracellular electric potential of cell cultures or tissues and enable the recording of neuronal network activity. MEAs have been applied to both human subjects and hPSC-derived brain models. Here, we review the literature on the functional characterization of hPSC-derived two- and three-dimensional brain models with MEAs and examine their network function in physiological and pathological contexts. We also summarize MEA results from the human brain and compare them to the literature on MEA recordings of hPSC-derived brain models. MEA recordings have shown network activity in two-dimensional hPSC-derived brain models that is comparable to the human brain and revealed pathology-associated changes in disease models. Three-dimensional hPSC-derived models such as brain organoids possess a more relevant microenvironment, tissue architecture and potential for modeling the network activity with more complexity than two-dimensional models. hPSC-derived brain models recapitulate many aspects of network function in the human brain and provide valid disease models, but certain advancements in differentiation methods, bioengineering and available MEA technology are needed for these approaches to reach their full potential.
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20
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Zhang N, Zhu L, Ouyang Q, Yue S, Huang Y, Qu S, Li R, Qiao Y, Xu M, He F, Zhao B, Wei L, Wu X, Zhang P. Visualizing the Potential Impairment of Polymyxin B to Central Nervous System Through MR Susceptibility-Weighted Imaging. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:784864. [PMID: 34925041 PMCID: PMC8675099 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.784864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Polymyxin B (PMB) exert bactericidal effects on the cell wall of Gram-negative bacteria, leading to changes in the permeability of the cytoplasmic membrane and resulting in cell death, which is sensitive to the multi-resistant Gram-negative bacteria. However, the severe toxicity and adverse side effects largely hamper the clinical application of PMB. Although the molecular pathology of PMB neurotoxicity has been adequately studied at the cellular and molecular level. However, the impact of PMB on the physiological states of central nervous system in vivo may be quite different from that in vitro, which need to be further studied. Therefore, in the current study, the biocompatible ultra-uniform Fe3O4 nanoparticles were employed for noninvasively in vivo visualizing the potential impairment of PMB to the central nervous system. Systematic studies clearly reveal that the prepared Fe3O4 nanoparticles can serve as an appropriate magnetic resonance contrast agent with high transverse relaxivity and outstanding biosafety, which thus enables the following in vivo susceptibility-weighted imaging (SWI) studies on the PMB-treated mice models. As a result, it is first found that the blood-brain barrier (BBB) of mice may be impaired by successive PMB administration, displaying by the discrete punctate SWI signals distributed asymmetrically across brain regions in brain parenchyma. This result may pave a noninvasive approach for in-depth studies of PMB medication strategy, monitoring the BBB changes during PMB treatment, and even assessing the risk after PMB successive medication in multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacterial infected patients from the perspective of medical imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ni Zhang
- Department of Psychiatry, and Department of Nuclear Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Lichong Zhu
- College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Qiuhong Ouyang
- Department of Psychiatry, and Department of Nuclear Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Saisai Yue
- College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Yichun Huang
- College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Shuang Qu
- College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Runwei Li
- College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Yuanyuan Qiao
- College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Man Xu
- College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Fangfei He
- College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Bin Zhao
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Forensic Toxicology, School of Forensic Medicine, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Lai Wei
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Forensic Toxicology, School of Forensic Medicine, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Xiaoai Wu
- Department of Psychiatry, and Department of Nuclear Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Xiaoai Wu, ; Peisen Zhang,
| | - Peisen Zhang
- College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, China
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, School of Medicine, Guangzhou First People’s Hospital, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Xiaoai Wu, ; Peisen Zhang,
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21
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Tajeddin A, Mustafaoglu N. Design and Fabrication of Organ-on-Chips: Promises and Challenges. MICROMACHINES 2021; 12:1443. [PMID: 34945293 PMCID: PMC8707724 DOI: 10.3390/mi12121443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2021] [Revised: 11/14/2021] [Accepted: 11/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The advent of the miniaturization approach has influenced the research trends in almost all disciplines. Bioengineering is one of the fields benefiting from the new possibilities of microfabrication techniques, especially in cell and tissue culture, disease modeling, and drug discovery. The limitations of existing 2D cell culture techniques, the high time and cost requirements, and the considerable failure rates have led to the idea of 3D cell culture environments capable of providing physiologically relevant tissue functions in vitro. Organ-on-chips are microfluidic devices used in this context as a potential alternative to in vivo animal testing to reduce the cost and time required for drug evaluation. This emerging technology contributes significantly to the development of various research areas, including, but not limited to, tissue engineering and drug discovery. However, it also brings many challenges. Further development of the technology requires interdisciplinary studies as some problems are associated with the materials and their manufacturing techniques. Therefore, in this paper, organ-on-chip technologies are presented, focusing on the design and fabrication requirements. Then, state-of-the-art materials and microfabrication techniques are described in detail to show their advantages and also their limitations. A comparison and identification of gaps for current use and further studies are therefore the subject of the final discussion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alireza Tajeddin
- Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Sabanci University, Tuzla 34596, Istanbul, Turkey;
| | - Nur Mustafaoglu
- Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Sabanci University, Tuzla 34596, Istanbul, Turkey;
- Nanotechnology Research and Application Center (SUNUM), Sabanci University, Tuzla 34596, Istanbul, Turkey
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22
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Brofiga M, Pisano M, Tedesco M, Boccaccio A, Massobrio P. Functional Inhibitory Connections Modulate the Electrophysiological Activity Patterns of Cortical-Hippocampal Ensembles. Cereb Cortex 2021; 32:1866-1881. [PMID: 34535794 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhab318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The brain is a complex organ composed of billions of neurons connected through excitatory and inhibitory synapses. Its structure reveals a modular topological organization, where neurons are arranged in interconnected assemblies. The generated patterns of electrophysiological activity are shaped by two main factors: network heterogeneity and the topological properties of the underlying connectivity that strongly push the dynamics toward different brain-states. In this work, we exploited an innovative polymeric structure coupled to Micro-Electrode Arrays (MEAs) to recreate in vitro heterogeneous interconnected (modular) neuronal networks made up of cortical and hippocampal neurons. We investigated the propagation of spike sequences between the two interconnected subpopulations during the networks' development, correlating functional and structural connectivity to dynamics. The simultaneous presence of two neuronal types shaped the features of the functional connections (excitation vs. inhibition), orchestrating the emerging patterns of electrophysiological activity. In particular, we found that hippocampal neurons mostly project inhibitory connections toward the cortical counterpart modulating the temporal scale of the population events (network bursts). In contrast, cortical neurons establish a larger amount of intrapopulation connections. Moreover, we proved topological properties such as small-worldness, degree distribution, and modularity of neuronal assemblies were favored by the physical environment where networks developed and matured.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Brofiga
- Department of Informatics, Bioengineering, Robotics, Systems Engineering (DIBRIS), University of Genova, Genova, 16145, Italy
| | - Marietta Pisano
- Department of Informatics, Bioengineering, Robotics, Systems Engineering (DIBRIS), University of Genova, Genova, 16145, Italy
| | | | - Anna Boccaccio
- Institute of Biophysics (IBF), National Research Council (CNR), Genova, 16149, Italy
| | - Paolo Massobrio
- Department of Informatics, Bioengineering, Robotics, Systems Engineering (DIBRIS), University of Genova, Genova, 16145, Italy.,National Institute for Nuclear Physics (INFN), Genova, 16146, Italy
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23
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Bang S, Hwang KS, Jeong S, Cho IJ, Choi N, Kim J, Kim HN. Engineered neural circuits for modeling brain physiology and neuropathology. Acta Biomater 2021; 132:379-400. [PMID: 34157452 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2021.06.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Revised: 05/16/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The neural circuits of the central nervous system are the regulatory pathways for feeling, motion control, learning, and memory, and their dysfunction is closely related to various neurodegenerative diseases. Despite the growing demand for the unraveling of the physiology and functional connectivity of the neural circuits, their fundamental investigation is hampered because of the inability to access the components of neural circuits and the complex microenvironment. As an alternative approach, in vitro human neural circuits show principles of in vivo human neuronal circuit function. They allow access to the cellular compartment and permit real-time monitoring of neural circuits. In this review, we summarize recent advances in reconstituted in vitro neural circuits using engineering techniques. To this end, we provide an overview of the fabrication techniques and methods for stimulation and measurement of in vitro neural circuits. Subsequently, representative examples of in vitro neural circuits are reviewed with a particular focus on the recapitulation of structures and functions observed in vivo, and we summarize their application in the study of various brain diseases. We believe that the in vitro neural circuits can help neuroscience and the neuropharmacology. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Despite the growing demand to unravel the physiology and functional connectivity of the neural circuits, the studies on the in vivo neural circuits are frequently limited due to the poor accessibility. Furthermore, single neuron-based analysis has an inherent limitation in that it does not reflect the full spectrum of the neural circuit physiology. As an alternative approach, in vitro engineered neural circuit models have arisen because they can recapitulate the structural and functional characteristics of in vivo neural circuits. These in vitro neural circuits allow the mimicking of dysregulation of the neural circuits, including neurodegenerative diseases and traumatic brain injury. Emerging in vitro engineered neural circuits will provide a better understanding of the (patho-)physiology of neural circuits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seokyoung Bang
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyeong Seob Hwang
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea; School of Mechanical Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Sohyeon Jeong
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea; Division of Bio-Medical Science & Technology, KIST School, Korea University of Science and Technology (UST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Il-Joo Cho
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea; Division of Bio-Medical Science & Technology, KIST School, Korea University of Science and Technology (UST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea; School of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea; Yonsei-KIST Convergence Research Institute, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Nakwon Choi
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea; Division of Bio-Medical Science & Technology, KIST School, Korea University of Science and Technology (UST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea; KU-KIST Graduate School of Converging Science and Technology, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jongbaeg Kim
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea.
| | - Hong Nam Kim
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea; Division of Bio-Medical Science & Technology, KIST School, Korea University of Science and Technology (UST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea.
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Vakilna YS, Tang WC, Wheeler BC, Brewer GJ. The Flow of Axonal Information Among Hippocampal Subregions: 1. Feed-Forward and Feedback Network Spatial Dynamics Underpinning Emergent Information Processing. Front Neural Circuits 2021; 15:660837. [PMID: 34512275 PMCID: PMC8430040 DOI: 10.3389/fncir.2021.660837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The tri-synaptic pathway in the mammalian hippocampus enables cognitive learning and memory. Despite decades of reports on anatomy and physiology, the functional architecture of the hippocampal network remains poorly understood in terms of the dynamics of axonal information transfer between subregions. Information inputs largely flow from the entorhinal cortex (EC) to the dentate gyrus (DG), and then are processed further in the CA3 and CA1 before returning to the EC. Here, we reconstructed elements of the rat hippocampus in a novel device over an electrode array that allowed for monitoring the directionality of individual axons between the subregions. The direction of spike propagation was determined by the transmission delay of the axons recorded between two electrodes in microfluidic tunnels. The majority of axons from the EC to the DG operated in the feed-forward direction, with other regions developing unexpectedly large proportions of feedback axons to balance excitation. Spike timing in axons between each region followed single exponential log-log distributions over two orders of magnitude from 0.01 to 1 s, indicating that conventional descriptors of mean firing rates are misleading assumptions. Most of the spiking occurred in bursts that required two exponentials to fit the distribution of inter-burst intervals. This suggested the presence of up-states and down-states in every region, with the least up-states in the DG to CA3 feed-forward axons and the CA3 subregion. The peaks of the log-normal distributions of intra-burst spike rates were similar in axons between regions with modes around 95 Hz distributed over an order of magnitude. Burst durations were also log-normally distributed around a peak of 88 ms over two orders of magnitude. Despite the diversity of these spike distributions, spike rates from individual axons were often linearly correlated to subregions. These linear relationships enabled the generation of structural connectivity graphs, not possible previously without the directional flow of axonal information. The rich axonal spike dynamics between subregions of the hippocampus reveal both constraints and broad emergent dynamics of hippocampal architecture. Knowledge of this network architecture may enable more efficient computational artificial intelligence (AI) networks, neuromorphic hardware, and stimulation and decoding from cognitive implants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yash S Vakilna
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - William C Tang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Bruce C Wheeler
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Gregory J Brewer
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States.,Center for Neuroscience of Learning and Memory, Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders (MIND) Institute, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
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25
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Maoz BM. Brain-on-a-Chip: Characterizing the next generation of advanced in vitro platforms for modeling the central nervous system. APL Bioeng 2021; 5:030902. [PMID: 34368601 PMCID: PMC8325567 DOI: 10.1063/5.0055812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The complexity of the human brain creates significant, almost insurmountable challenges for neurological drug development. Advanced in vitro platforms are increasingly enabling researchers to overcome these challenges, by mimicking key features of the brain's composition and functionality. Many of these platforms are called "Brains-on-a-Chip"-a term that was originally used to refer to microfluidics-based systems containing miniature engineered tissues, but that has since expanded to describe a vast range of in vitro central nervous system (CNS) modeling approaches. This Perspective seeks to refine the definition of a Brain-on-a-Chip for the next generation of in vitro platforms, identifying criteria that determine which systems should qualify. These criteria reflect the extent to which a given platform overcomes the challenges unique to in vitro CNS modeling (e.g., recapitulation of the brain's microenvironment; inclusion of critical subunits, such as the blood-brain barrier) and thereby provides meaningful added value over conventional cell culture systems. The paper further outlines practical considerations for the development and implementation of Brain-on-a-Chip platforms and concludes with a vision for where these technologies may be heading.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben M. Maoz
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed:
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26
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Brofiga M, Pisano M, Raiteri R, Massobrio P. On the road to the brain-on-a-chip: a review on strategies, methods, and applications. J Neural Eng 2021; 18. [PMID: 34280903 DOI: 10.1088/1741-2552/ac15e4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
The brain is the most complex organ of our body. Such a complexity spans from the single-cell morphology up to the intricate connections that hundreds of thousands of neurons establish to create dense neuronal networks. All these components are involved in the genesis of the rich patterns of electrophysiological activity that characterize the brain. Over the years, researchers coming from different disciplines developedin vitrosimplified experimental models to investigate in a more controllable and observable way how neuronal ensembles generate peculiar firing rhythms, code external stimulations, or respond to chemical drugs. Nowadays, suchin vitromodels are namedbrain-on-a-chippointing out the relevance of the technological counterpart as artificial tool to interact with the brain: multi-electrode arrays are well-used devices to record and stimulate large-scale developing neuronal networks originated from dissociated cultures, brain slices, up to brain organoids. In this review, we will discuss the state of the art of the brain-on-a-chip, highlighting which structural and biological features a realisticin vitrobrain should embed (and how to achieve them). In particular, we identified two topological features, namely modular and three-dimensional connectivity, and a biological one (heterogeneity) that takes into account the huge number of neuronal types existing in the brain. At the end of this travel, we will show how 'far' we are from the goal and how interconnected-brain-regions-on-a-chip is the most appropriate wording to indicate the current state of the art.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Brofiga
- Department of Informatics, Bioengineering, Robotics, and Systems Engineering (DIBRIS), University of Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Marietta Pisano
- Department of Informatics, Bioengineering, Robotics, and Systems Engineering (DIBRIS), University of Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Roberto Raiteri
- Department of Informatics, Bioengineering, Robotics, and Systems Engineering (DIBRIS), University of Genova, Genova, Italy.,CNR- Institute of Biophysics, Genova, Italy
| | - Paolo Massobrio
- Department of Informatics, Bioengineering, Robotics, and Systems Engineering (DIBRIS), University of Genova, Genova, Italy.,National Institute for Nuclear Physics (INFN), Genova, Italy
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Brofiga M, Pisano M, Callegari F, Massobrio P. Exploring the Contribution of Thalamic and Hippocampal Input on Cortical Dynamics in a Brain-on-a-Chip Model. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021. [DOI: 10.1109/tmrb.2021.3072234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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28
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Rothbauer M, Bachmann BE, Eilenberger C, Kratz SR, Spitz S, Höll G, Ertl P. A Decade of Organs-on-a-Chip Emulating Human Physiology at the Microscale: A Critical Status Report on Progress in Toxicology and Pharmacology. MICROMACHINES 2021; 12:470. [PMID: 33919242 PMCID: PMC8143089 DOI: 10.3390/mi12050470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Organ-on-a-chip technology has the potential to accelerate pharmaceutical drug development, improve the clinical translation of basic research, and provide personalized intervention strategies. In the last decade, big pharma has engaged in many academic research cooperations to develop organ-on-a-chip systems for future drug discoveries. Although most organ-on-a-chip systems present proof-of-concept studies, miniaturized organ systems still need to demonstrate translational relevance and predictive power in clinical and pharmaceutical settings. This review explores whether microfluidic technology succeeded in paving the way for developing physiologically relevant human in vitro models for pharmacology and toxicology in biomedical research within the last decade. Individual organ-on-a-chip systems are discussed, focusing on relevant applications and highlighting their ability to tackle current challenges in pharmacological research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Rothbauer
- Faculty of Technical Chemistry, Institute of Applied Synthetic Chemistry and Institute of Chemical Technologies and Analytics, Vienna University of Technology, Getreidemarkt 9/163-164, 1060 Vienna, Austria; (B.E.M.B.); (C.E.); (S.R.A.K.); (S.S.); (G.H.)
- Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration, 1200 Vienna, Austria
- Karl Chiari Lab for Orthopaedic Biology, Department of Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Währinger Gürtel 18-22, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Barbara E.M. Bachmann
- Faculty of Technical Chemistry, Institute of Applied Synthetic Chemistry and Institute of Chemical Technologies and Analytics, Vienna University of Technology, Getreidemarkt 9/163-164, 1060 Vienna, Austria; (B.E.M.B.); (C.E.); (S.R.A.K.); (S.S.); (G.H.)
- Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration, 1200 Vienna, Austria
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Experimental and Clinical Traumatology, Allgemeine Unfallversicherungsanstalt (AUVA) Research Centre, Donaueschingenstraße 13, 1200 Vienna, Austria
| | - Christoph Eilenberger
- Faculty of Technical Chemistry, Institute of Applied Synthetic Chemistry and Institute of Chemical Technologies and Analytics, Vienna University of Technology, Getreidemarkt 9/163-164, 1060 Vienna, Austria; (B.E.M.B.); (C.E.); (S.R.A.K.); (S.S.); (G.H.)
- Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration, 1200 Vienna, Austria
| | - Sebastian R.A. Kratz
- Faculty of Technical Chemistry, Institute of Applied Synthetic Chemistry and Institute of Chemical Technologies and Analytics, Vienna University of Technology, Getreidemarkt 9/163-164, 1060 Vienna, Austria; (B.E.M.B.); (C.E.); (S.R.A.K.); (S.S.); (G.H.)
- Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration, 1200 Vienna, Austria
- Drug Delivery and 3R-Models Group, Buchmann Institute for Molecular Life Sciences & Institute for Pharmaceutical Technology, Goethe University Frankfurt Am Main, 60438 Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Sarah Spitz
- Faculty of Technical Chemistry, Institute of Applied Synthetic Chemistry and Institute of Chemical Technologies and Analytics, Vienna University of Technology, Getreidemarkt 9/163-164, 1060 Vienna, Austria; (B.E.M.B.); (C.E.); (S.R.A.K.); (S.S.); (G.H.)
- Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration, 1200 Vienna, Austria
| | - Gregor Höll
- Faculty of Technical Chemistry, Institute of Applied Synthetic Chemistry and Institute of Chemical Technologies and Analytics, Vienna University of Technology, Getreidemarkt 9/163-164, 1060 Vienna, Austria; (B.E.M.B.); (C.E.); (S.R.A.K.); (S.S.); (G.H.)
- Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration, 1200 Vienna, Austria
| | - Peter Ertl
- Faculty of Technical Chemistry, Institute of Applied Synthetic Chemistry and Institute of Chemical Technologies and Analytics, Vienna University of Technology, Getreidemarkt 9/163-164, 1060 Vienna, Austria; (B.E.M.B.); (C.E.); (S.R.A.K.); (S.S.); (G.H.)
- Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration, 1200 Vienna, Austria
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Holloway PM, Willaime-Morawek S, Siow R, Barber M, Owens RM, Sharma AD, Rowan W, Hill E, Zagnoni M. Advances in microfluidic in vitro systems for neurological disease modeling. J Neurosci Res 2021; 99:1276-1307. [PMID: 33583054 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.24794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Revised: 11/21/2020] [Accepted: 12/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Neurological disorders are the leading cause of disability and the second largest cause of death worldwide. Despite significant research efforts, neurology remains one of the most failure-prone areas of drug development. The complexity of the human brain, boundaries to examining the brain directly in vivo, and the significant evolutionary gap between animal models and humans, all serve to hamper translational success. Recent advances in microfluidic in vitro models have provided new opportunities to study human cells with enhanced physiological relevance. The ability to precisely micro-engineer cell-scale architecture, tailoring form and function, has allowed for detailed dissection of cell biology using microphysiological systems (MPS) of varying complexities from single cell systems to "Organ-on-chip" models. Simplified neuronal networks have allowed for unique insights into neuronal transport and neurogenesis, while more complex 3D heterotypic cellular models such as neurovascular unit mimetics and "Organ-on-chip" systems have enabled new understanding of metabolic coupling and blood-brain barrier transport. These systems are now being developed beyond MPS toward disease specific micro-pathophysiological systems, moving from "Organ-on-chip" to "Disease-on-chip." This review gives an outline of current state of the art in microfluidic technologies for neurological disease research, discussing the challenges and limitations while highlighting the benefits and potential of integrating technologies. We provide examples of where such toolsets have enabled novel insights and how these technologies may empower future investigation into neurological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul M Holloway
- Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | | | - Richard Siow
- King's British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, School of Cardiovascular Medicine & Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Melissa Barber
- King's British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, School of Cardiovascular Medicine & Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Róisín M Owens
- Department Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Anup D Sharma
- New Orleans BioInnovation Center, AxoSim Inc., New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Wendy Rowan
- Novel Human Genetics Research Unit, GSK R&D, Stevenage, UK
| | - Eric Hill
- School of Life and Health sciences, Aston University, Birmingham, UK
| | - Michele Zagnoni
- Electronic and Electrical Engineering, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK
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30
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Forro C, Caron D, Angotzi GN, Gallo V, Berdondini L, Santoro F, Palazzolo G, Panuccio G. Electrophysiology Read-Out Tools for Brain-on-Chip Biotechnology. MICROMACHINES 2021; 12:124. [PMID: 33498905 PMCID: PMC7912435 DOI: 10.3390/mi12020124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Revised: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Brain-on-Chip (BoC) biotechnology is emerging as a promising tool for biomedical and pharmaceutical research applied to the neurosciences. At the convergence between lab-on-chip and cell biology, BoC couples in vitro three-dimensional brain-like systems to an engineered microfluidics platform designed to provide an in vivo-like extrinsic microenvironment with the aim of replicating tissue- or organ-level physiological functions. BoC therefore offers the advantage of an in vitro reproduction of brain structures that is more faithful to the native correlate than what is obtained with conventional cell culture techniques. As brain function ultimately results in the generation of electrical signals, electrophysiology techniques are paramount for studying brain activity in health and disease. However, as BoC is still in its infancy, the availability of combined BoC-electrophysiology platforms is still limited. Here, we summarize the available biological substrates for BoC, starting with a historical perspective. We then describe the available tools enabling BoC electrophysiology studies, detailing their fabrication process and technical features, along with their advantages and limitations. We discuss the current and future applications of BoC electrophysiology, also expanding to complementary approaches. We conclude with an evaluation of the potential translational applications and prospective technology developments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Csaba Forro
- Tissue Electronics, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Largo Barsanti e Matteucci, 53-80125 Naples, Italy; (C.F.); (F.S.)
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Davide Caron
- Enhanced Regenerative Medicine, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Morego, 30-16163 Genova, Italy; (D.C.); (V.G.)
| | - Gian Nicola Angotzi
- Microtechnology for Neuroelectronics, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Morego, 30-16163 Genova, Italy; (G.N.A.); (L.B.)
| | - Vincenzo Gallo
- Enhanced Regenerative Medicine, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Morego, 30-16163 Genova, Italy; (D.C.); (V.G.)
| | - Luca Berdondini
- Microtechnology for Neuroelectronics, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Morego, 30-16163 Genova, Italy; (G.N.A.); (L.B.)
| | - Francesca Santoro
- Tissue Electronics, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Largo Barsanti e Matteucci, 53-80125 Naples, Italy; (C.F.); (F.S.)
| | - Gemma Palazzolo
- Enhanced Regenerative Medicine, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Morego, 30-16163 Genova, Italy; (D.C.); (V.G.)
| | - Gabriella Panuccio
- Enhanced Regenerative Medicine, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Morego, 30-16163 Genova, Italy; (D.C.); (V.G.)
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31
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Ndyabawe K, Cipriano M, Zhao W, Haidekker M, Yao K, Mao L, Kisaalita WS. Brain-on-a-Chip Device for Modeling Multiregional Networks. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2020; 7:350-359. [PMID: 33320530 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.0c00895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Animal models are frequently used in drug discovery because they represent a mammalian in vivo model system, they are the closest approximation to the human brain, and experimentation in humans is not ethical. Working with postmortem human brain samples is challenging and developing human in vitro systems, which mimic the in vivo human brain, has been challenging. However, the use of animal models in drug discovery for human neurological diseases is currently under scrutiny because data from animal models has come with variations due to genetic differences. Evidence from the literature suggests that techniques to reconstruct multiple neurotransmission projections, which characterize neurological disease circuits in humans, in vitro, have not been demonstrated. This paper presents a multicompartment microdevice for patterning neurospheres and specification of neural stem cell fate toward networks of multiple neuronal phenotypes. We validated our design by specification of human neural stem cells to dopaminergic and GABAergic neurons in different compartments of the device, simultaneously. The neurospheres formed unrestricted robust neuronal circuits between arrays of neurospheres in all compartments of the device. Such a device design may provide a basis for formation of multineurotransmission circuits to model functional connectivity between specific human brain regions, in vitro, using human-derived neural stem cells. This work finds relevance in neurological disease modeling and drug screening using human cell-based assays and may provide the impetus for shifting from animal-based models.
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Nikolakopoulou P, Rauti R, Voulgaris D, Shlomy I, Maoz BM, Herland A. Recent progress in translational engineered in vitro models of the central nervous system. Brain 2020; 143:3181-3213. [PMID: 33020798 PMCID: PMC7719033 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awaa268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2019] [Revised: 06/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The complexity of the human brain poses a substantial challenge for the development of models of the CNS. Current animal models lack many essential human characteristics (in addition to raising operational challenges and ethical concerns), and conventional in vitro models, in turn, are limited in their capacity to provide information regarding many functional and systemic responses. Indeed, these challenges may underlie the notoriously low success rates of CNS drug development efforts. During the past 5 years, there has been a leap in the complexity and functionality of in vitro systems of the CNS, which have the potential to overcome many of the limitations of traditional model systems. The availability of human-derived induced pluripotent stem cell technology has further increased the translational potential of these systems. Yet, the adoption of state-of-the-art in vitro platforms within the CNS research community is limited. This may be attributable to the high costs or the immaturity of the systems. Nevertheless, the costs of fabrication have decreased, and there are tremendous ongoing efforts to improve the quality of cell differentiation. Herein, we aim to raise awareness of the capabilities and accessibility of advanced in vitro CNS technologies. We provide an overview of some of the main recent developments (since 2015) in in vitro CNS models. In particular, we focus on engineered in vitro models based on cell culture systems combined with microfluidic platforms (e.g. 'organ-on-a-chip' systems). We delve into the fundamental principles underlying these systems and review several applications of these platforms for the study of the CNS in health and disease. Our discussion further addresses the challenges that hinder the implementation of advanced in vitro platforms in personalized medicine or in large-scale industrial settings, and outlines the existing differentiation protocols and industrial cell sources. We conclude by providing practical guidelines for laboratories that are considering adopting organ-on-a-chip technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Polyxeni Nikolakopoulou
- AIMES, Center for the Advancement of Integrated Medical and Engineering Sciences, Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Rossana Rauti
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Dimitrios Voulgaris
- Division of Micro and Nanosystems, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Iftach Shlomy
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Ben M Maoz
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- The Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Anna Herland
- AIMES, Center for the Advancement of Integrated Medical and Engineering Sciences, Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
- Division of Micro and Nanosystems, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
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Pelkonen A, Mzezewa R, Sukki L, Ryynänen T, Kreutzer J, Hyvärinen T, Vinogradov A, Aarnos L, Lekkala J, Kallio P, Narkilahti S. A modular brain-on-a-chip for modelling epileptic seizures with functionally connected human neuronal networks. Biosens Bioelectron 2020; 168:112553. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2020.112553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2020] [Revised: 08/01/2020] [Accepted: 08/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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Brofiga M, Pisano M, Tedesco M, Raiteri R, Massobrio P. Three-dimensionality shapes the dynamics of cortical interconnected to hippocampal networks. J Neural Eng 2020; 17:056044. [DOI: 10.1088/1741-2552/abc023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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Li H, Cheng F, Li W, Cao X, Wang Z, Wang M, Robledo-Lara JA, Liao J, Chávez-Madero C, Hassan S, Xie J, Trujillo-de Santiago G, Álvarez MM, He J, Zhang YS. Expanding sacrificially printed microfluidic channel-embedded paper devices for construction of volumetric tissue models in vitro. Biofabrication 2020; 12:045027. [PMID: 32945271 DOI: 10.1088/1758-5090/abb11e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
We report a method for expanding microchannel-embedded paper devices using a precisely controlled gas-foaming technique for the generation of volumetric tissue models in vitro. We successfully fabricated hollow, perfusable microchannel patterns contained in a densely entangled network of bacterial cellulose nanofibrils using matrix-assisted sacrificial three-dimensional printing, and demonstrated the maintenance of their structural integrity after gas-foaming-enabled expansion in an aqueous solution of NaBH4. The resulting expanded microchannel-embedded paper devices showed multilayered laminar structures with controllable thicknesses as a function of both NaBH4 concentration and expansion time. With expansion, the thickness and porosity of the bacterial cellulose network were significantly increased. As such, cellular infiltration was promoted comparing to as-prepared, non-expanded devices. This simple technique enables the generation of truly volumetric, cost-effective human-based tissue models, such as vascularized tumor models, for potential applications in preclinical drug screening and personalized therapeutic selection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongbin Li
- Division of Engineering in Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA 02139, United States of America. College of Light Industry and Textile, Qiqihar University, Qiqihar, Heilongjiang 161000, People's Republic of China. MIIT Key Laboratory of Critical Materials Technology for New Energy Conversion and Storage, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150001, People's Republic of China
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Bae M, Yi HG, Jang J, Cho DW. Microphysiological Systems for Neurodegenerative Diseases in Central Nervous System. MICROMACHINES 2020; 11:E855. [PMID: 32947879 PMCID: PMC7570039 DOI: 10.3390/mi11090855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2020] [Revised: 09/13/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases are among the most severe problems in aging societies. Various conventional experimental models, including 2D and animal models, have been used to investigate the pathogenesis of (and therapeutic mechanisms for) neurodegenerative diseases. However, the physiological gap between humans and the current models remains a hurdle to determining the complexity of an irreversible dysfunction in a neurodegenerative disease. Therefore, preclinical research requires advanced experimental models, i.e., those more physiologically relevant to the native nervous system, to bridge the gap between preclinical stages and patients. The neural microphysiological system (neural MPS) has emerged as an approach to summarizing the anatomical, biochemical, and pathological physiology of the nervous system for investigation of neurodegenerative diseases. This review introduces the components (such as cells and materials) and fabrication methods for designing a neural MPS. Moreover, the review discusses future perspectives for improving the physiological relevance to native neural systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mihyeon Bae
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), 77 Chungam-ro, Nam-gu, Pohang 37673, Korea;
| | - Hee-Gyeong Yi
- Department of Rural and Biosystems Engineering, College of Agricultural Sciences, Chonnam National University, 77 Yongbong-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61186, Korea
| | - Jinah Jang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), 77 Chungam-ro, Nam-gu, Pohang 37673, Korea;
- Department of Creative IT Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), 77 Chungam-ro, Nam-gu, Pohang 37673, Korea
- Institute of Convergence Science, Yonsei University, 50 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03722, Korea
| | - Dong-Woo Cho
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), 77 Chungam-ro, Nam-gu, Pohang 37673, Korea;
- Institute of Convergence Science, Yonsei University, 50 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03722, Korea
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Kajtez J, Buchmann S, Vasudevan S, Birtele M, Rocchetti S, Pless CJ, Heiskanen A, Barker RA, Martínez‐Serrano A, Parmar M, Lind JU, Emnéus J. 3D-Printed Soft Lithography for Complex Compartmentalized Microfluidic Neural Devices. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2020; 7:2001150. [PMID: 32832365 PMCID: PMC7435242 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202001150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Revised: 05/16/2020] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Compartmentalized microfluidic platforms are an invaluable tool in neuroscience research. However, harnessing the full potential of this technology remains hindered by the lack of a simple fabrication approach for the creation of intricate device architectures with high-aspect ratio features. Here, a hybrid additive manufacturing approach is presented for the fabrication of open-well compartmentalized neural devices that provides larger freedom of device design, removes the need for manual postprocessing, and allows an increase in the biocompatibility of the system. Suitability of the method for multimaterial integration allows to tailor the device architecture for the long-term maintenance of healthy human stem-cell derived neurons and astrocytes, spanning at least 40 days. Leveraging fast-prototyping capabilities at both micro and macroscale, a proof-of-principle human in vitro model of the nigrostriatal pathway is created. By presenting a route for novel materials and unique architectures in microfluidic systems, the method provides new possibilities in biological research beyond neuroscience applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janko Kajtez
- Department of Experimental Medical SciencesWallenberg Neuroscience CenterDivision of Neurobiology and Lund Stem Cell CenterBMC A11Lund UniversityLundS‐22184Sweden
| | - Sebastian Buchmann
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine (DTU Bioengineering)Technical University of DenmarkProduktionstorvet, Building 423Lyngby2800 Kgs.Denmark
| | - Shashank Vasudevan
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine (DTU Bioengineering)Technical University of DenmarkProduktionstorvet, Building 423Lyngby2800 Kgs.Denmark
| | - Marcella Birtele
- Department of Experimental Medical SciencesWallenberg Neuroscience CenterDivision of Neurobiology and Lund Stem Cell CenterBMC A11Lund UniversityLundS‐22184Sweden
| | - Stefano Rocchetti
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine (DTU Bioengineering)Technical University of DenmarkProduktionstorvet, Building 423Lyngby2800 Kgs.Denmark
| | - Christian Jonathan Pless
- Department of Healthcare Technology (DTU Health Tech)Technical University of DenmarkProduktionstorvet, Building 423Lyngby2800 Kgs.Denmark
| | - Arto Heiskanen
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine (DTU Bioengineering)Technical University of DenmarkProduktionstorvet, Building 423Lyngby2800 Kgs.Denmark
| | - Roger A. Barker
- John van Geest Centre for Brain Repair & Department of NeurologyDepartment of Clinical Neurosciences and WT‐MRC Cambridge Stem Cell InstituteUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeCB2 1TNUK
| | - Alberto Martínez‐Serrano
- Department of Molecular BiologyUniversidad Autónoma de Madridand Department of Molecular NeuropathologyCenter of Molecular Biology Severo Ochoa (UAM‐CSIC)Nicolás Cabrera 1Madrid28049Spain
| | - Malin Parmar
- Department of Experimental Medical SciencesWallenberg Neuroscience CenterDivision of Neurobiology and Lund Stem Cell CenterBMC A11Lund UniversityLundS‐22184Sweden
| | - Johan Ulrik Lind
- Department of Healthcare Technology (DTU Health Tech)Technical University of DenmarkProduktionstorvet, Building 423Lyngby2800 Kgs.Denmark
| | - Jenny Emnéus
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine (DTU Bioengineering)Technical University of DenmarkProduktionstorvet, Building 423Lyngby2800 Kgs.Denmark
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Rothbauer M, Ertl P. Emerging Biosensor Trends in Organ-on-a-Chip. ADVANCES IN BIOCHEMICAL ENGINEERING/BIOTECHNOLOGY 2020; 179:343-354. [PMID: 32712679 DOI: 10.1007/10_2020_129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Organ-on-a-chip technology is ideally suited to cultivate and analyze 2D/3D cell cultures, organoids, and other tissue analogues in vitro, because these microphysiological systems have been shown to generate architectures, structural organization, and functions that closely resemble their respective human tissues and organs. Although great efforts have been undertaken to demonstrate organotypic cell behavior, proper cell-to-cell communication, and tissue interactions in recent years, the integration of biosensing strategies into organ-on-a-chip platforms is still in its infancy. While a multitude of micro-, nano-, and biosensors are well established and could be easily adapted for organ-on-a-chip models, to date only a handful of analytical approaches (aside from microscopical techniques) have been combined with organ-on-a-chip technology. This chapter aims to summarize current efforts and survey the progress that has been made in integrating analytical techniques that are being implemented for organ-, multi-organ-, and body-on-a-chip systems based on electrochemical and optical sensors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Rothbauer
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery, Karl Chiari Lab for Orthopedic Biology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Faculty of Technical Chemistry, Vienna University of Technology, Vienna, Austria
| | - Peter Ertl
- Faculty of Technical Chemistry, Vienna University of Technology, Vienna, Austria.
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Enright HA, Lam D, Sebastian A, Sales AP, Cadena J, Hum NR, Osburn JJ, Peters SKG, Petkus B, Soscia DA, Kulp KS, Loots GG, Wheeler EK, Fischer NO. Functional and transcriptional characterization of complex neuronal co-cultures. Sci Rep 2020; 10:11007. [PMID: 32620908 PMCID: PMC7335084 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-67691-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2019] [Accepted: 06/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain-on-a-chip systems are designed to simulate brain activity using traditional in vitro cell culture on an engineered platform. It is a noninvasive tool to screen new drugs, evaluate toxicants, and elucidate disease mechanisms. However, successful recapitulation of brain function on these systems is dependent on the complexity of the cell culture. In this study, we increased cellular complexity of traditional (simple) neuronal cultures by co-culturing with astrocytes and oligodendrocyte precursor cells (complex culture). We evaluated and compared neuronal activity (e.g., network formation and maturation), cellular composition in long-term culture, and the transcriptome of the two cultures. Compared to simple cultures, neurons from complex co-cultures exhibited earlier synapse and network development and maturation, which was supported by localized synaptophysin expression, up-regulation of genes involved in mature neuronal processes, and synchronized neural network activity. Also, mature oligodendrocytes and reactive astrocytes were only detected in complex cultures upon transcriptomic analysis of age-matched cultures. Functionally, the GABA antagonist bicuculline had a greater influence on bursting activity in complex versus simple cultures. Collectively, the cellular complexity of brain-on-a-chip systems intrinsically develops cell type-specific phenotypes relevant to the brain while accelerating the maturation of neuronal networks, important features underdeveloped in traditional cultures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather A Enright
- Physical and Life Sciences Directorate, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA, USA.
| | - Doris Lam
- Physical and Life Sciences Directorate, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA, USA
| | - Aimy Sebastian
- Physical and Life Sciences Directorate, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA, USA
| | - Ana Paula Sales
- Engineering Directorate, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA, USA
| | - Jose Cadena
- Engineering Directorate, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA, USA
| | - Nicholas R Hum
- Physical and Life Sciences Directorate, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA, USA.,University of California, Merced, School of Natural Sciences, Merced, CA, USA
| | - Joanne J Osburn
- Physical and Life Sciences Directorate, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA, USA
| | - Sandra K G Peters
- Physical and Life Sciences Directorate, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA, USA
| | - Bryan Petkus
- Physical and Life Sciences Directorate, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA, USA
| | - David A Soscia
- Engineering Directorate, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA, USA
| | - Kristen S Kulp
- Physical and Life Sciences Directorate, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA, USA
| | - Gabriela G Loots
- Physical and Life Sciences Directorate, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA, USA.,University of California, Merced, School of Natural Sciences, Merced, CA, USA
| | - Elizabeth K Wheeler
- Engineering Directorate, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA, USA
| | - Nicholas O Fischer
- Physical and Life Sciences Directorate, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA, USA.
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Azizipour N, Avazpour R, Rosenzweig DH, Sawan M, Ajji A. Evolution of Biochip Technology: A Review from Lab-on-a-Chip to Organ-on-a-Chip. MICROMACHINES 2020; 11:E599. [PMID: 32570945 PMCID: PMC7345732 DOI: 10.3390/mi11060599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2020] [Revised: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Following the advancements in microfluidics and lab-on-a-chip (LOC) technologies, a novel biomedical application for microfluidic based devices has emerged in recent years and microengineered cell culture platforms have been created. These micro-devices, known as organ-on-a-chip (OOC) platforms mimic the in vivo like microenvironment of living organs and offer more physiologically relevant in vitro models of human organs. Consequently, the concept of OOC has gained great attention from researchers in the field worldwide to offer powerful tools for biomedical researches including disease modeling, drug development, etc. This review highlights the background of biochip development. Herein, we focus on applications of LOC devices as a versatile tool for POC applications. We also review current progress in OOC platforms towards body-on-a-chip, and we provide concluding remarks and future perspectives for OOC platforms for POC applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neda Azizipour
- Institut de Génie Biomédical, Polytechnique Montréal, Montreal, QC H3C 3A7, Canada;
| | - Rahi Avazpour
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Polytechnique Montréal, Montreal, QC H3C 3A7, Canada;
| | - Derek H. Rosenzweig
- Department of Surgery, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3G 1A4, Canada;
- Injury, Repair and Recovery Program, Research Institute of McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC H3H 2R9, Canada
| | - Mohamad Sawan
- Polystim Neurotech Laboratory, Electrical Engineering Department, Polytechnique Montreal, QC H3T 1J4, Canada
- CenBRAIN Laboratory, School of Engineering, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Abdellah Ajji
- Institut de Génie Biomédical, Polytechnique Montréal, Montreal, QC H3C 3A7, Canada;
- NSERC-Industry Chair, CREPEC, Chemical Engineering Department, Polytechnique Montreal, Montreal, QC H3C 3A7, Canada
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Nichols K, Koppes R, Koppes A. Recent advancements in microphysiological systems for neural development and disease. CURRENT OPINION IN BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cobme.2020.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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42
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Liu X, Zhong S, Yan L, Zhao H, Wang Y, Hu Y, Jia Y. Correlations Among mRNA Expression Levels of ATP7A, Serum Ceruloplasmin Levels, and Neuronal Metabolism in Unmedicated Major Depressive Disorder. Int J Neuropsychopharmacol 2020; 23:642-652. [PMID: 32427278 PMCID: PMC7727471 DOI: 10.1093/ijnp/pyaa038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2020] [Revised: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 05/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous studies have found that elevated copper levels induce oxidation, which correlates with the occurrence of major depressive disorder (MDD). However, the mechanism of abnormal cerebral metabolism of MDD patients remains ambiguous. The main function of the enzyme ATPase copper-transporting alpha (ATP7A) is to transport copper across the membrane to retain copper homeostasis, which is closely associated with the onset of mental disorders and cognitive impairment. However, less is known regarding the association of ATP7A expression in MDD patients. METHODS A total of 31 MDD patients and 21 healthy controls were recruited in the present study. Proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy was used to assess the concentration levels of N-acetylaspartate, choline (Cho), and creatine (Cr) in brain regions of interest, including prefrontal white matter (PWM), anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), thalamus, lentiform nucleus, and cerebellum. The mRNA expression levels of ATP7A were measured using polymerase chain reaction (SYBR Green method). The correlations between mRNA expression levels of ATP7A and/or ceruloplasmin levels and neuronal biochemical metabolite ratio in the brain regions of interest were evaluated. RESULTS The decline in the mRNA expression levels of ATP7A and the increase in ceruloplasmin levels exhibited a significant correlation in MDD patients. In addition, negative correlations were noted between the decline in mRNA expression levels of ATP7A and the increased Cho/Cr ratios of the left PWM, right PWM, and right ACC in MDD patients. A positive correlation between elevated ceruloplasmin levels and increased Cho/Cr ratio of the left PWM was noted in MDD patients. CONCLUSIONS The findings suggested that the decline in the mRNA expression levels of ATP7A and the elevated ceruloplasmin levels induced oxidation that led to the disturbance of neuronal metabolism in the brain, which played important roles in the pathophysiology of MDD. The decline in the mRNA expression levels of ATP7A and the elevated ceruloplasmin levels affected neuronal membrane metabolic impairment in the left PWM, right PWM, and right ACC of MDD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuanjun Liu
- Department of Neurology, First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China,Correspondence: Yanbin Jia, PhD, 613 West Huangpu Avenue Tianhe District, First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510630, China ()
| | - Shuming Zhong
- Department of Psychiatry, First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lan Yan
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hui Zhao
- Department of Psychiatry, First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ying Wang
- Medical Imaging Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yilei Hu
- Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yanbin Jia
- Department of Psychiatry, First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
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43
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Mijanović O, Branković A, Borovjagin AV, Butnaru DV, Bezrukov EA, Sukhanov RB, Shpichka A, Timashev P, Ulasov I. Battling Neurodegenerative Diseases with Adeno-Associated Virus-Based Approaches. Viruses 2020; 12:v12040460. [PMID: 32325732 PMCID: PMC7232215 DOI: 10.3390/v12040460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Revised: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/15/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) are most commonly found in adults and remain essentially incurable. Gene therapy using AAV vectors is a rapidly-growing field of experimental medicine that holds promise for the treatment of NDDs. To date, effective delivery of a therapeutic gene into target cells via AAV has been a major obstacle in the field. Ideally, transgenes should be delivered into the target cells specifically and efficiently, while promiscuous or off-target gene delivery should be minimized to avoid toxicity. In the pursuit of an ideal vehicle for NDD gene therapy, a broad variety of vector systems have been explored. Here we specifically outline the advantages of adeno-associated virus (AAV)-based vector systems for NDD therapy application. In contrast to many reviews on NDDs that can be found in the literature, this review is rather focused on AAV vector selection and their testing in experimental and preclinical NDD models. Preclinical and in vitro data reveal the strong potential of AAV for NDD-related diagnostics and therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olja Mijanović
- Group of Experimental Biotherapy and Diagnostics, Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow 119991, Russia;
| | - Ana Branković
- Department of Forensics, University of Criminal Investigation and Police Studies, Belgrade 11000, Serbia;
| | - Anton V. Borovjagin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA;
| | - Denis V. Butnaru
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow 119991, Russia; (D.V.B.); (A.S.); (P.T.)
| | - Evgeny A. Bezrukov
- Institute for Uronephrology and Reproductive Health, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow 119991, Russia; (E.A.B.); (R.B.S.)
| | - Roman B. Sukhanov
- Institute for Uronephrology and Reproductive Health, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow 119991, Russia; (E.A.B.); (R.B.S.)
| | - Anastasia Shpichka
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow 119991, Russia; (D.V.B.); (A.S.); (P.T.)
| | - Peter Timashev
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow 119991, Russia; (D.V.B.); (A.S.); (P.T.)
- Institute of Photonic Technologies, Research Center “Crystallography and Photonics”, Russian Academy of Sciences, Troitsk, Moscow 142190, Russia
- Department of Polymers and Composites, N.N. Semenov Institute of Chemical Physics, Moscow 119991, Russia
- Chemistry Department, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow 119991, Russia
| | - Ilya Ulasov
- Group of Experimental Biotherapy and Diagnostics, Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow 119991, Russia;
- Correspondence:
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44
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Soscia DA, Lam D, Tooker AC, Enright HA, Triplett M, Karande P, Peters SKG, Sales AP, Wheeler EK, Fischer NO. A flexible 3-dimensional microelectrode array for in vitro brain models. LAB ON A CHIP 2020; 20:901-911. [PMID: 31976505 DOI: 10.1039/c9lc01148j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Three-dimensional (3D) in vitro models have become increasingly popular as systems to study cell-cell and cell-ECM interactions dependent on the spatial, mechanical, and chemical cues within the environment of the tissue, which is limited in traditional two-dimensional (2D) models. Although electrophysiological recordings of neuronal action potentials through 2D microelectrode arrays (MEAs) are a common and trusted method of evaluating neuronal function, network communication, and response to chemicals and biologicals, there are currently limited options for measuring electrophysiological activity from many locations simultaneously throughout a 3D network of neurons in vitro. Here, we have developed a thin-film, 3D flexible microelectrode array (3DMEA) that non-invasively interrogates a 3D culture of neurons and can accommodate 256 channels of recording or stimulation. Importantly, the 3DMEA is straightforward to fabricate and integrates with standard commercially available electrophysiology hardware. Polyimide probe arrays were microfabricated on glass substrates and mechanically actuated to collectively lift the arrays into a vertical position, relying solely on plastic deformation of their base hinge regions to maintain vertical alignment. Human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)-derived neurons and astrocytes were entrapped in a collagen-based hydrogel and seeded onto the 3DMEA, enabling growth of suspended cells in the matrix and the formation and maturation of a neural network around the 3DMEA probes. The 3DMEA supported the growth of functional neurons in 3D with action potential spike and burst activity recorded over 45 days in vitro. This platform is an important step in facilitating noninvasive electrophysiological characterization of 3D networks of electroactive cells in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- David A Soscia
- Engineering Directorate, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, 7000 East Ave, Livermore, CA 94550, USA
| | - Doris Lam
- Physical and Life Sciences Directorate, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, 7000 East Ave, Livermore, CA 94550, USA.
| | - Angela C Tooker
- Engineering Directorate, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, 7000 East Ave, Livermore, CA 94550, USA
| | - Heather A Enright
- Physical and Life Sciences Directorate, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, 7000 East Ave, Livermore, CA 94550, USA.
| | - Michael Triplett
- Engineering Directorate, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, 7000 East Ave, Livermore, CA 94550, USA
| | - Piyush Karande
- Engineering Directorate, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, 7000 East Ave, Livermore, CA 94550, USA
| | - Sandra K G Peters
- Physical and Life Sciences Directorate, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, 7000 East Ave, Livermore, CA 94550, USA.
| | - Ana Paula Sales
- Engineering Directorate, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, 7000 East Ave, Livermore, CA 94550, USA
| | - Elizabeth K Wheeler
- Engineering Directorate, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, 7000 East Ave, Livermore, CA 94550, USA
| | - Nicholas O Fischer
- Physical and Life Sciences Directorate, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, 7000 East Ave, Livermore, CA 94550, USA.
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45
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Lobov SA, Mikhaylov AN, Shamshin M, Makarov VA, Kazantsev VB. Spatial Properties of STDP in a Self-Learning Spiking Neural Network Enable Controlling a Mobile Robot. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:88. [PMID: 32174804 PMCID: PMC7054464 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.00088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2019] [Accepted: 01/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Development of spiking neural networks (SNNs) controlling mobile robots is one of the modern challenges in computational neuroscience and artificial intelligence. Such networks, being replicas of biological ones, are expected to have a higher computational potential than traditional artificial neural networks (ANNs). The critical problem is in the design of robust learning algorithms aimed at building a “living computer” based on SNNs. Here, we propose a simple SNN equipped with a Hebbian rule in the form of spike-timing-dependent plasticity (STDP). The SNN implements associative learning by exploiting the spatial properties of STDP. We show that a LEGO robot controlled by the SNN can exhibit classical and operant conditioning. Competition of spike-conducting pathways in the SNN plays a fundamental role in establishing associations of neural connections. It replaces the irrelevant associations by new ones in response to a change in stimuli. Thus, the robot gets the ability to relearn when the environment changes. The proposed SNN and the stimulation protocol can be further enhanced and tested in developing neuronal cultures, and also admit the use of memristive devices for hardware implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergey A Lobov
- Neurotechnology Department, Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, Nizhny Novgorod, Russia.,Neuroscience and Cognitive Technology Laboratory, Center for Technologies in Robotics and Mechatronics Components, Innopolis University, Innopolis, Russia
| | - Alexey N Mikhaylov
- Neurotechnology Department, Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
| | - Maxim Shamshin
- Neurotechnology Department, Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
| | - Valeri A Makarov
- Neurotechnology Department, Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, Nizhny Novgorod, Russia.,Instituto de Matemática Interdisciplinar, Facultad de Ciencias Matemáticas, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Victor B Kazantsev
- Neurotechnology Department, Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, Nizhny Novgorod, Russia.,Neuroscience and Cognitive Technology Laboratory, Center for Technologies in Robotics and Mechatronics Components, Innopolis University, Innopolis, Russia
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Miccoli B, Braeken D, Li YCE. Brain-on-a-chip Devices for Drug Screening and Disease Modeling Applications. Curr Pharm Des 2019; 24:5419-5436. [PMID: 30806304 DOI: 10.2174/1381612825666190220161254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2018] [Accepted: 02/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative disorders are related to the progressive functional loss of the brain, often connected to emotional and physical disability and, ultimately, to death. These disorders, strongly connected to the aging process, are becoming increasingly more relevant due to the increase of life expectancy. Current pharmaceutical treatments poorly tackle these diseases, mainly acting only on their symptomology. One of the main reasons of this is the current drug development process, which is not only expensive and time-consuming but, also, still strongly relies on animal models at the preclinical stage. Organ-on-a-chip platforms have the potential to strongly impact and improve the drug screening process by recreating in vitro the functionality of human organs. Patient-derived neurons from different regions of the brain can be directly grown and differentiated on a brain-on-a-chip device where the disease development, progression and pharmacological treatments can be studied and monitored in real time. The model reliability is strongly improved by using human-derived cells, more relevant than animal models for pharmacological screening and disease monitoring. The selected cells will be then capable of proliferating and organizing themselves in the in vivo environment thanks to the device architecture, materials selection and bio-chemical functionalization. In this review, we start by presenting the fundamental strategies adopted for brain-on-a-chip devices fabrication including e.g., photolithography, micromachining and 3D printing technology. Then, we discuss the state-of-theart of brain-on-a-chip platforms including their role in the study of the functional architecture of the brain e.g., blood-brain barrier, or of the most diffuse neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. At last, the current limitations and future perspectives of this approach for the development of new drugs and neurodegenerative diseases modeling will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatrice Miccoli
- Imec, Department of Life Sciences and Imaging, 3001 Heverlee, Belgium.,Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Dries Braeken
- Imec, Department of Life Sciences and Imaging, 3001 Heverlee, Belgium
| | - Yi-Chen Ethan Li
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Feng Chia University, Taichung City, Taiwan
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Wan H, Gu C, Gan Y, Wei X, Zhu K, Hu N, Wang P. Sensor-free and Sensor-based Heart-on-a-chip Platform: A Review of Design and Applications. Curr Pharm Des 2019; 24:5375-5385. [PMID: 30734671 DOI: 10.2174/1381612825666190207170004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2018] [Accepted: 02/02/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Drug efficacy and toxicity are key factors of drug development. Conventional 2D cell models or animal models have their limitations for the efficacy or toxicity assessment in preclinical assays, which induce the failure of candidate drugs or withdrawal of approved drugs. Human organs-on-chips (OOCs) emerged to present human-specific properties based on their 3D bioinspired structures and functions in the recent decade. In this review, the basic definition and superiority of OOCs will be introduced. Moreover, a specific OOC, heart-on-achip (HOC) will be focused. We introduce HOC modeling in the sensor-free and sensor-based way and illustrate the advantages of sensor-based HOC in detail by taking examples of recent studies. We provide a new perspective on the integration of HOC technology and biosensing to develop a new sensor-based HOC platform.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Wan
- Biosensor National Special Laboratory, Key Laboratory for Biomedical Engineering of Education Ministry, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China.,State Key Laboratory of Transducer Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200050, China
| | - Chenlei Gu
- Biosensor National Special Laboratory, Key Laboratory for Biomedical Engineering of Education Ministry, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China.,State Key Laboratory of Transducer Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200050, China
| | - Ying Gan
- Biosensor National Special Laboratory, Key Laboratory for Biomedical Engineering of Education Ministry, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
| | - Xinwei Wei
- Biosensor National Special Laboratory, Key Laboratory for Biomedical Engineering of Education Ministry, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China.,State Key Laboratory of Transducer Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200050, China
| | - Kai Zhu
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.,Shanghai Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Ning Hu
- Biosensor National Special Laboratory, Key Laboratory for Biomedical Engineering of Education Ministry, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China.,State Key Laboratory of Transducer Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200050, China
| | - Ping Wang
- Biosensor National Special Laboratory, Key Laboratory for Biomedical Engineering of Education Ministry, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China.,State Key Laboratory of Transducer Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200050, China
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48
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Beyrent E, Gomez G. Oxidative stress differentially induces tau dissociation from neuronal microtubules in neurites of neurons cultured from different regions of the embryonic Gallus domesticus brain. J Neurosci Res 2019; 98:734-747. [PMID: 31621106 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.24541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2019] [Revised: 10/01/2019] [Accepted: 10/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Abnormal phosphorylation of microtubule-associated proteins such as tau has been shown to play a role in neurodegenerative disorders. It is hypothesized that oxidative stress-induced aggregates of hyperphosphorylated tau could lead to the microtubule network degradation commonly associated with neurodegeneration. We investigated whether oxidative stress induced tau hyperphosphorylation and focused on neurite degradation using cultured neurons isolated from the embryonic chick brain as a model system. Cells were isolated from the cerebrum, cerebellum, and tectum of 14-day-old chicks, grown separately in culture, and treated with tert-Butyl hydroperoxide (to simulate oxidative stress) for 48 hr. Relative expression and localization of tau or phospho-tau and β-tubulin III in neurites were determined using quantitative immunocytochemistry and confocal microscopy. In untreated cells, tau was tightly colocalized with β-tubulin III. Increasing levels of oxidative stress induced an increase in overall tau expression in neurites of cerebral and tectal but not the cerebellar neurons, coupled with a decrease in phospho-tau expression in tectal but not the cerebral or cerebellar neurons. In addition, oxidative stress induced the degeneration of the distal ends of the neurites and redistribution of phospho-tau toward the neuronal soma in the cerebral but not the tectal and cerebellar neurons. These results suggest that oxidative stress induces changes in tau protein that precede cytoskeletal degradation and neurite retraction. Additionally, there is a differential susceptibility of neuronal subpopulations to oxidative stress, which may offer potential avenues for investigation of the cellular mechanisms underlying the differential manifestations of neurodegenerative disorders in different regions of the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika Beyrent
- Biology Department, University of Scranton, Scranton, PA, USA
| | - George Gomez
- Biology Department, University of Scranton, Scranton, PA, USA
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49
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Bubnys A, Kandel H, Kao LM, Pfaff D, Tabansky I. Hindbrain V2a Neurons Pattern Rhythmic Activity of Motor Neurons in a Reticulospinal Coculture. Front Neurosci 2019; 13:1077. [PMID: 31680817 PMCID: PMC6811747 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2019.01077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2019] [Accepted: 09/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
As the capacity to isolate distinct neuronal cell types has advanced over the past several decades, new two- and three-dimensional in vitro models of the interactions between different brain regions have expanded our understanding of human neurobiology and the origins of disease. These cultures develop distinctive patterns of activity, but the extent that these patterns are determined by the molecular identity of individual cell types versus the specific pattern of network connectivity is unclear. To address the question of how individual cell types interact in vitro, we developed a simplified culture using two excitatory neuronal subtypes known to participate in the in vivo reticulospinal circuit: HB9+ spinal motor neurons and Chx10+ hindbrain V2a neurons. Here, we report the emergence of cell type-specific patterns of activity in culture; on their own, Chx10+ neurons developed regular, synchronized bursts of activity that recruited neurons across the entire culture, whereas HB9+ neuron activity consisted of an irregular pattern. When these two subtypes were cocultured, HB9+ neurons developed synchronized network bursts that were precisely correlated with Chx10+ neuron activity, thereby recreating an aspect of Chx10+ neurons' role in driving motor activity. These bursts were dependent on AMPA receptors. Our results demonstrate that the molecular classification of the neurons comprising in vitro networks is a crucial determinant of their activity. It is therefore possible to improve both the reproducibility and the applicability of in vitro neurobiological and disease models by carefully controlling the constituent mixtures of neuronal subtypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adele Bubnys
- Laboratory of Neurobiology and Behavior, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Hagar Kandel
- Laboratory of Neurobiology and Behavior, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Lee Ming Kao
- Laboratory of Neurobiology and Behavior, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Donald Pfaff
- Laboratory of Neurobiology and Behavior, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Inna Tabansky
- Laboratory of Neurobiology and Behavior, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, United States
- Feinstein Institute for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY, United States
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50
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Bang S, Jeong S, Choi N, Kim HN. Brain-on-a-chip: A history of development and future perspective. BIOMICROFLUIDICS 2019; 13:051301. [PMID: 31616534 PMCID: PMC6783295 DOI: 10.1063/1.5120555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2019] [Accepted: 09/25/2019] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Since the advent of organ-on-a-chip, many researchers have tried to mimic the physiology of human tissue on an engineered platform. In the case of brain tissue, structural connections and cell-cell interactions are important factors for brain function. The recent development of brain-on-a-chip is an effort to mimic those structural and functional aspects of brain tissue within a miniaturized engineered platform. From this perspective, we provide an overview of trace of brain-on-a-chip development, especially in terms of complexity and high-content/high-throughput screening capabilities, and future perspectives on more in vivo-like brain-on-a-chip development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seokyoung Bang
- Center for BioMicrosystems, Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, South Korea
| | | | - Nakwon Choi
- Authors to whom correspondence should be addressed:, Telephone: +82-2-958-5617 and , Telephone: +82-2-958-6742
| | - Hong Nam Kim
- Authors to whom correspondence should be addressed:, Telephone: +82-2-958-5617 and , Telephone: +82-2-958-6742
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