1
|
Pereira M, Pinto J, Arteaga B, Guerra A, Jorge RN, Monteiro FJ, Salgado CL. A Comprehensive Look at In Vitro Angiogenesis Image Analysis Software. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:17625. [PMID: 38139453 PMCID: PMC10743557 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242417625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
One of the complex challenges faced presently by tissue engineering (TE) is the development of vascularized constructs that accurately mimic the extracellular matrix (ECM) of native tissue in which they are inserted to promote vessel growth and, consequently, wound healing and tissue regeneration. TE technique is characterized by several stages, starting from the choice of cell culture and the more appropriate scaffold material that can adequately support and supply them with the necessary biological cues for microvessel development. The next step is to analyze the attained microvasculature, which is reliant on the available labeling and microscopy techniques to visualize the network, as well as metrics employed to characterize it. These are usually attained with the use of software, which has been cited in several works, although no clear standard procedure has been observed to promote the reproduction of the cell response analysis. The present review analyzes not only the various steps previously described in terms of the current standards for evaluation, but also surveys some of the available metrics and software used to quantify networks, along with the detection of analysis limitations and future improvements that could lead to considerable progress for angiogenesis evaluation and application in TE research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Pereira
- i3S—Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; (M.P.); (J.P.); (B.A.); (F.J.M.)
- INEB—Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Jéssica Pinto
- i3S—Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; (M.P.); (J.P.); (B.A.); (F.J.M.)
- INEB—Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Belén Arteaga
- i3S—Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; (M.P.); (J.P.); (B.A.); (F.J.M.)
- INEB—Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Granada, Parque Tecnológico de la Salud, Av. de la Investigación 11, 18016 Granada, Spain
| | - Ana Guerra
- INEGI—Instituto de Ciência e Inovação em Engenharia Mecânica e Engenharia Industrial, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal; (A.G.); (R.N.J.)
| | - Renato Natal Jorge
- INEGI—Instituto de Ciência e Inovação em Engenharia Mecânica e Engenharia Industrial, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal; (A.G.); (R.N.J.)
- LAETA—Laboratório Associado de Energia, Transportes e Aeronáutica, Universidade do Porto, 4200-165 Porto, Portugal
- FEUP—Faculdade de Engenharia, Departamento de Engenharia Metalúrgica e de Materiais, Universidade do Porto, 4200-165 Porto, Portugal
| | - Fernando Jorge Monteiro
- i3S—Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; (M.P.); (J.P.); (B.A.); (F.J.M.)
- INEB—Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- FEUP—Faculdade de Engenharia, Departamento de Engenharia Metalúrgica e de Materiais, Universidade do Porto, 4200-165 Porto, Portugal
- PCCC—Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal
| | - Christiane Laranjo Salgado
- i3S—Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; (M.P.); (J.P.); (B.A.); (F.J.M.)
- INEB—Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Wu L, Chen S, He B, Zhou G, Xu Y, Zhu G, Xie J, Deng L, Wen X, Li S, Xiao Z. Acetylglutamine facilitates motor recovery and alleviates neuropathic pain after brachial plexus root avulsion in rats. J Transl Med 2023; 21:563. [PMID: 37612586 PMCID: PMC10464467 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04399-7] [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: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/29/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Brachial plexus root avulsion (BPRA), a disabling peripheral nerve injury, induces substantial motoneuron death, motor axon degeneration and denervation of biceps muscles, leading to the loss of upper limb motor function. Acetylglutamine (N-acetyl-L-glutamine, NAG) has been proven to exert neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects on various disorders of the nervous system. Thus, the present study mainly focused on the influence of NAG on motor and sensory recovery after BPRA in rats and the underlying mechanisms. METHODS Male adult Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were subjected to BPRA and reimplantation surgery and subsequently treated with NAG or saline. Behavioral tests were conducted to evaluate motor function recovery and the mechanical pain threshold of the affected forelimb. The morphological appearance of the spinal cord, musculocutaneous nerve, and biceps brachii was assessed by histological staining. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT‒PCR) was used to measure the mRNA levels of remyelination and regeneration indicators in myocutaneous nerves. The protein levels of inflammatory and pyroptotic indicators in the spinal cord anterior horn were measured using Western blotting. RESULTS NAG significantly accelerated the recovery of motor function in the injured forelimbs, enhanced motoneuronal survival in the anterior horn of the spinal cord, inhibited the expression of proinflammatory cytokines and pyroptosis pathway factors, facilitated axonal remyelination in the myocutaneous nerve and alleviated atrophy of the biceps brachii. Additionally, NAG attenuated neuropathic pain following BPRA. CONCLUSION NAG promotes functional motor recovery and alleviates neuropathic pain by enhancing motoneuronal survival and axonal remyelination and inhibiting the pyroptosis pathway after BPRA in rats, laying the foundation for the use of NAG as a novel treatment for BPRA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lin Wu
- Department of Neurology, Multi-Omics Research Center for Brain Disorders, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hunan, 421001, Hengyang, China
- Clinical Research Center for Immune-Related Encephalopathy of Hunan Province (The First Affiliated Hospital), Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hunan, 421001, Hengyang, China
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hunan, 421000, Hengyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuangxi Chen
- Department of Neurology, Multi-Omics Research Center for Brain Disorders, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hunan, 421001, Hengyang, China
- Clinical Research Center for Immune-Related Encephalopathy of Hunan Province (The First Affiliated Hospital), Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hunan, 421001, Hengyang, China
| | - Bing He
- Department of Neurology, Multi-Omics Research Center for Brain Disorders, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hunan, 421001, Hengyang, China
- Clinical Research Center for Immune-Related Encephalopathy of Hunan Province (The First Affiliated Hospital), Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hunan, 421001, Hengyang, China
| | - Guijuan Zhou
- Department of Neurology, Multi-Omics Research Center for Brain Disorders, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hunan, 421001, Hengyang, China
- Clinical Research Center for Immune-Related Encephalopathy of Hunan Province (The First Affiliated Hospital), Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hunan, 421001, Hengyang, China
| | - Yan Xu
- Department of Neurology, Multi-Omics Research Center for Brain Disorders, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hunan, 421001, Hengyang, China
- Clinical Research Center for Immune-Related Encephalopathy of Hunan Province (The First Affiliated Hospital), Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hunan, 421001, Hengyang, China
| | - Guanghua Zhu
- Department of Neurology, Multi-Omics Research Center for Brain Disorders, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hunan, 421001, Hengyang, China
- Clinical Research Center for Immune-Related Encephalopathy of Hunan Province (The First Affiliated Hospital), Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hunan, 421001, Hengyang, China
| | - Juan Xie
- Department of Neurology, Multi-Omics Research Center for Brain Disorders, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hunan, 421001, Hengyang, China
- Clinical Research Center for Immune-Related Encephalopathy of Hunan Province (The First Affiliated Hospital), Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hunan, 421001, Hengyang, China
| | - Limin Deng
- Department of Neurology, Multi-Omics Research Center for Brain Disorders, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hunan, 421001, Hengyang, China
- Clinical Research Center for Immune-Related Encephalopathy of Hunan Province (The First Affiliated Hospital), Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hunan, 421001, Hengyang, China
| | - Xuanwei Wen
- Department of Neurology, Multi-Omics Research Center for Brain Disorders, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hunan, 421001, Hengyang, China
- Clinical Research Center for Immune-Related Encephalopathy of Hunan Province (The First Affiliated Hospital), Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hunan, 421001, Hengyang, China
| | - Sijing Li
- Department of Neurology, Multi-Omics Research Center for Brain Disorders, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hunan, 421001, Hengyang, China
- Clinical Research Center for Immune-Related Encephalopathy of Hunan Province (The First Affiliated Hospital), Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hunan, 421001, Hengyang, China
| | - Zijian Xiao
- Department of Neurology, Multi-Omics Research Center for Brain Disorders, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hunan, 421001, Hengyang, China.
- Clinical Research Center for Immune-Related Encephalopathy of Hunan Province (The First Affiliated Hospital), Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hunan, 421001, Hengyang, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Afrooghe A, Damavandi AR, Ahmadi E, Jafari RM, Dehpour AR. The current state of knowledge on how to improve skin flap survival: A review. J Plast Reconstr Aesthet Surg 2023; 82:48-57. [PMID: 37149909 DOI: 10.1016/j.bjps.2023.04.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
The incorporation of skin flaps in wound closure management with its cosmetic implications has appeared as a gleam of hope in providing desirable outcomes. Given the influence of extrinsic and intrinsic factors, skin flaps are prone to several complications, including ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI). Numerous attempts have been undertaken to enhance the survival rate of skin flaps entailing pre/post-conditioning with surgical and pharmacological modalities. Various cellular and molecular mechanisms are employed in these approaches in order to reduce inflammation, promote angiogenesis and blood perfusion, and induce apoptosis and autophagy. With the emerging role of multiple stem cell lineages and their ability to improve skin flap viability, these approaches are increasingly being used to develop even more translationally applicable methods. Therefore, this review aims at providing current evidence around pharmacological interventions for improving skin flap survival and discussing their underlying mechanism of action.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arya Afrooghe
- Experimental Medicine Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Elham Ahmadi
- School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Razieh Mohammad Jafari
- Experimental Medicine Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Ahmad Reza Dehpour
- Experimental Medicine Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Dolan CP, Clark AR, Motherwell JM, Janakiram NB, Valerio MS, Dearth CL, Goldman SM. The impact of bilateral injuries on the pathophysiology and functional outcomes of volumetric muscle loss. NPJ Regen Med 2022; 7:59. [PMID: 36243737 PMCID: PMC9569363 DOI: 10.1038/s41536-022-00255-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Volumetric muscle loss (VML)-defined as the irrecoverable loss of skeletal muscle tissue with associated persistent functional deficits-is among the most common and highly debilitating combat-related extremity injuries. This is particularly true in cases of severe polytrauma wherein multiple extremities may be involved as a result of high energy wounding mechanisms. As such, significant investment and effort has been made toward developing a clinically viable intervention capable of restoring the form and function of the affected musculature. While these investigations conducted to date have varied with respect to the species, breed, and sex of the chosen pre-clinical in-vivo model system, the majority of these studies have been performed in unilateral injury models, an aspect which may not fully exemplify the clinical representation of the multiply injured patient. Furthermore, while various components of the basal pathophysiology of VML (e.g., fibrosis and inflammation) have been investigated, relatively little effort has focused on how the pathophysiology and efficacy of pro-regenerative technologies is altered when there are multiple VML injuries. Thus, the purpose of this study was two-fold: (1) to investigate if/how the pathophysiology of unilateral VML injuries differs from bilateral VML injuries and (2) to interrogate the effect of bilateral VML injuries on the efficacy of a well-characterized regenerative therapy, minced muscle autograft (MMG). In contrast to our hypothesis, we show that bilateral VML injuries exhibit a similar systemic inflammatory response and improved muscle functional recovery, compared to unilateral injured animals. Furthermore, MMG treatment was found to only be effective at promoting an increase in functional outcomes in unilateral VML injuries. The findings presented herein add to the growing knowledge base of the pathophysiology of VML, and, importantly, reiterate the importance of comprehensively characterizing preclinical models which are utilized for early-stage screening of putative therapies as they can directly influence the translational research pipeline.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Connor P Dolan
- DoD-VA Extremity Trauma and Amputation Center of Excellence, Bethesda, MD, USA.,Department of Surgery, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences and Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Andrew R Clark
- DoD-VA Extremity Trauma and Amputation Center of Excellence, Bethesda, MD, USA.,Department of Surgery, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences and Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Jessica M Motherwell
- DoD-VA Extremity Trauma and Amputation Center of Excellence, Bethesda, MD, USA.,Department of Surgery, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences and Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Naveena B Janakiram
- DoD-VA Extremity Trauma and Amputation Center of Excellence, Bethesda, MD, USA.,Department of Surgery, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences and Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Michael S Valerio
- DoD-VA Extremity Trauma and Amputation Center of Excellence, Bethesda, MD, USA.,Department of Surgery, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences and Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Christopher L Dearth
- DoD-VA Extremity Trauma and Amputation Center of Excellence, Bethesda, MD, USA.,Department of Surgery, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences and Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Stephen M Goldman
- DoD-VA Extremity Trauma and Amputation Center of Excellence, Bethesda, MD, USA. .,Department of Surgery, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences and Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Di Francesco D, Bertani F, Fusaro L, Clemente N, Carton F, Talmon M, Fresu LG, Boccafoschi F. Regenerative Potential of A Bovine ECM-Derived Hydrogel for Biomedical Applications. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12091222. [PMID: 36139063 PMCID: PMC9496624 DOI: 10.3390/biom12091222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent advancements in regenerative medicine have enhanced the development of biomaterials as multi-functional dressings, capable of accelerating wound healing and addressing the challenge of chronic wounds. Hydrogels obtained from decellularized tissues have a complex composition, comparable to the native extracellular environment, showing highly interesting characteristics for wound healing applications. In this study, a bovine pericardium decellularized extracellular matrix (dECM) hydrogel was characterized in terms of macromolecules content, and its immunomodulatory, angiogenic and wound healing potential has been evaluated. The polarization profile of human monocytes-derived macrophages seeded on dECM hydrogel was assessed by RT-qPCR. Angiogenic markers expression has been evaluated by Western blot and antibody array on cell lysates derived from endothelial cells cultured on dECM hydrogel, and a murine in vivo model of hindlimb ischemia was used to evaluate the angiogenic potential. Fibroblast migration was assessed by a transwell migration assay, and an in vivo murine wound healing model treated with dECM hydrogels was also used. The results showed a complex composition, of which the major component is collagen type I. The dECM hydrogel is biocompatible, able to drive M2 phenotype polarization, stimulate the expression of angiogenic markers in vitro, and prevent loss of functionality in hindlimb ischemia model. Furthermore, it drives fibroblast migration and shows ability to facilitate wound closure in vivo, demonstrating its great potential for regenerative applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dalila Di Francesco
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale “A. Avogadro”, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Fabio Bertani
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale “A. Avogadro”, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | | | - Nausicaa Clemente
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale “A. Avogadro”, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Flavia Carton
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale “A. Avogadro”, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Maria Talmon
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale “A. Avogadro”, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Luigia Grazia Fresu
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale “A. Avogadro”, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Francesca Boccafoschi
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale “A. Avogadro”, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0321-660-556
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Olson LC, Redden JT, Gilliam L, Nguyen TM, Vossen JA, Cohen DJ, Schwartz Z, McClure MJ. Human Adipose-Derived Stromal Cells Delivered on Decellularized Muscle Improve Muscle Regeneration and Regulate RAGE and P38 MAPK. Bioengineering (Basel) 2022; 9:bioengineering9090426. [PMID: 36134970 PMCID: PMC9495328 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering9090426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Revised: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Volumetric muscle loss (VML) is the acute loss of muscle mass due to trauma. Such injuries occur primarily in the extremities and are debilitating, as there is no clinical treatment to restore muscle function. Pro-inflammatory advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) and the soluble receptor for advanced glycation end-products (RAGE) are known to increase in acute trauma patient’s serum and are correlated with increased injury severity. However, it is unclear whether AGEs and RAGE increase in muscle post-trauma. To test this, we used decellularized muscle matrix (DMM), a pro-myogenic, non-immunogenic extracellular matrix biomaterial derived from skeletal muscle. We delivered adipose-derived stromal cells (ASCs) and primary myoblasts to support myogenesis and immunomodulation (N = 8 rats/group). DMM non-seeded and seeded grafts were compared to empty defect and sham controls. Then, 56 days after surgery muscle force was assessed, histology characterized, and protein levels for AGEs, RAGE, p38 MAPK, and myosin heavy chains were measured. Overall, our data showed improved muscle regeneration in ASC-treated injury sites and a regulation of RAGE and p38 MAPK signaling, while myoblast-treated injuries resulted in minor improvements. Taken together, these results suggested that ASCs combined with DMM provides a pro-myogenic microenvironment with immunomodulatory capabilities and indicates further exploration of RAGE signaling in VML.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lucas C. Olson
- College of Engineering, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23284, USA
- Department of Gerontology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
| | - James T. Redden
- College of Engineering, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23284, USA
| | - LaStar Gilliam
- College of Engineering, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23284, USA
| | - Tri M. Nguyen
- College of Engineering, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23284, USA
| | - Josephina A. Vossen
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
| | - David J. Cohen
- College of Engineering, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23284, USA
| | - Zvi Schwartz
- College of Engineering, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23284, USA
- Department of Periodontics, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Michael J. McClure
- College of Engineering, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23284, USA
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-804-828-8337
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Eugenis I, Wu D, Rando TA. Cells, scaffolds, and bioactive factors: Engineering strategies for improving regeneration following volumetric muscle loss. Biomaterials 2021; 278:121173. [PMID: 34619561 PMCID: PMC8556323 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2021.121173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Revised: 08/01/2021] [Accepted: 08/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Severe traumatic skeletal muscle injuries, such as volumetric muscle loss (VML), result in the obliteration of large amounts of skeletal muscle and lead to permanent functional impairment. Current clinical treatments are limited in their capacity to regenerate damaged muscle and restore tissue function, promoting the need for novel muscle regeneration strategies. Advances in tissue engineering, including cell therapy, scaffold design, and bioactive factor delivery, are promising solutions for VML therapy. Herein, we review tissue engineering strategies for regeneration of skeletal muscle, development of vasculature and nerve within the damaged muscle, and achievements in immunomodulation following VML. In addition, we discuss the limitations of current state of the art technologies and perspectives of tissue-engineered bioconstructs for muscle regeneration and functional recovery following VML.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis Eugenis
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA; Center for Tissue Regeneration, Repair, and Restoration, Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Di Wu
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA; Center for Tissue Regeneration, Repair, and Restoration, Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Thomas A Rando
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA; Paul F. Glenn Center for the Biology of Aging, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA; Center for Tissue Regeneration, Repair, and Restoration, Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Zhang B, Su Y, Zhou J, Zheng Y, Zhu D. Toward a Better Regeneration through Implant-Mediated Immunomodulation: Harnessing the Immune Responses. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2021; 8:e2100446. [PMID: 34117732 PMCID: PMC8373114 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202100446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Revised: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Tissue repair/regeneration, after implantation or injury, involves comprehensive physiological processes wherein immune responses play a crucial role to enable tissue restoration, amidst the immune cells early-stage response to tissue damages. These cells break down extracellular matrix, clear debris, and secret cytokines to orchestrate regeneration. However, the immune response can also lead to abnormal tissue healing or scar formation if not well directed. This review first introduces the general immune response post injury, with focus on the major immune cells including neutrophils, macrophages, and T cells. Next, a variety of implant-mediated immunomodulation strategies to regulate immune response through physical, chemical, and biological cues are discussed. At last, various scaffold-facilitated regenerations of different tissue types, such as, bone, cartilage, blood vessel, and nerve system, by harnessing the immunomodulation are presented. Therefore, the most recent data in biomaterials and immunomodulation is presented here in a bid to shape expert perspectives, inspire researchers to go in new directions, and drive development of future strategies focusing on targeted, sequential, and dynamic immunomodulation elicited by implants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ben Zhang
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringStony Brook UniversityStony BrookNew York11794USA
| | - Yingchao Su
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringStony Brook UniversityStony BrookNew York11794USA
| | - Juncen Zhou
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringStony Brook UniversityStony BrookNew York11794USA
| | - Yufeng Zheng
- Department of Materials Science and EngineeringCollege of EngineeringPeking UniversityBeijing100871China
| | - Donghui Zhu
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringStony Brook UniversityStony BrookNew York11794USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Li Y, Jiang QL, Van der Merwe L, Lou DH, Lin C. Preclinical efficacy of stem cell therapy for skin flap: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Stem Cell Res Ther 2021; 12:28. [PMID: 33413598 PMCID: PMC7791712 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-020-02103-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background A skin flap is one of the most critical surgical techniques for the restoration of cutaneous defects. However, the distal necrosis of the skin flap severely restricts the clinical application of flap surgery. As there is no consensus on the treatment methods to prevent distal necrosis of skin flaps, more effective and feasible interventions to prevent skin flaps from necrosis are urgently needed. Stem therapy as a potential method to improve the survival rate of skin flaps is receiving increasing attention. Methods This review followed the recommendations from the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) statements. Twenty studies with 500 animals were included by searching Web of Science, EMBASE, PubMed, and Cochrane Library databases, up until October 8, 2020. Moreover, the references of the included articles were searched manually to obtain other studies. All analyses were conducted using Review Manager V.5.3 software. Results Meta-analysis of all 20 studies demonstrated stem cell treatment has significant effects on reducing necrosis of skin flap compared with the control group (SMD: 3.20, 95% CI 2.47 to 3.93). Besides, subgroup analysis showed differences in the efficacy of stem cells in improving the survival rate of skin flaps in areas of skin flap, cell type, transplant types, and method of administration of stem cells. The meta-analysis also showed that stem cell treatment had a significant effect on increasing blood vessel density (SMD: 2.96, 95% CI 2.21 to 3.72) and increasing the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF, SMD: 4.34, 95% CI 2.48 to 6.1). Conclusions The preclinical evidence of our systematic review indicate that stem cell-based therapy is effective for promoting early angiogenesis by up regulating VEGF and ultimately improving the survival rate of skin flap. In summary, small area skin flap, the administration method of intra-arterial injection, ASCs and MSCs, and xenogenic stem cells from humans showed more effective for the survival of animal skin flaps. In general, stem cell-based therapy may be a promising method to prevent skin flap necrosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Li
- Department of Burn, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Nan Bai Xiang, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325000, People's Republic of China
| | - Qi-Lin Jiang
- Department of Burn, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Nan Bai Xiang, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325000, People's Republic of China
| | - Leanne Van der Merwe
- School of International Studies, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325000, People's Republic of China
| | - Dong-Hao Lou
- Department of Burn, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Nan Bai Xiang, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325000, People's Republic of China
| | - Cai Lin
- Department of Burn, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Nan Bai Xiang, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325000, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Pre-Clinical Cell Therapeutic Approaches for Repair of Volumetric Muscle Loss. Bioengineering (Basel) 2020; 7:bioengineering7030097. [PMID: 32825213 PMCID: PMC7552602 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering7030097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Revised: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Extensive damage to skeletal muscle tissue due to volumetric muscle loss (VML) is beyond the inherent regenerative capacity of the body, and results in permanent functional debilitation. Current clinical treatments fail to fully restore native muscle function. Recently, cell-based therapies have emerged as a promising approach to promote skeletal muscle regeneration following injury and/or disease. Stem cell populations, such as muscle stem cells, mesenchymal stem cells and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), have shown a promising capacity for muscle differentiation. Support cells, such as endothelial cells, nerve cells or immune cells, play a pivotal role in providing paracrine signaling cues for myogenesis, along with modulating the processes of inflammation, angiogenesis and innervation. The efficacy of cell therapies relies on the provision of instructive microenvironmental cues and appropriate intercellular interactions. This review describes the recent developments of cell-based therapies for the treatment of VML, with a focus on preclinical testing and future trends in the field.
Collapse
|
11
|
Skeletal Muscle Tissue Engineering: Biomaterials-Based Strategies for the Treatment of Volumetric Muscle Loss. Bioengineering (Basel) 2020; 7:bioengineering7030085. [PMID: 32751847 PMCID: PMC7552659 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering7030085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2020] [Revised: 07/17/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Millions of Americans suffer from skeletal muscle injuries annually that can result in volumetric muscle loss (VML), where extensive musculoskeletal damage and tissue loss result in permanent functional deficits. In the case of small-scale injury skeletal muscle is capable of endogenous regeneration through activation of resident satellite cells (SCs). However, this is greatly reduced in VML injuries, which remove native biophysical and biochemical signaling cues and hinder the damaged tissue's ability to direct regeneration. The current clinical treatment for VML is autologous tissue transfer, but graft failure and scar tissue formation leave patients with limited functional recovery. Tissue engineering of instructive biomaterial scaffolds offers a promising approach for treating VML injuries. Herein, we review the strategic engineering of biophysical and biochemical cues in current scaffold designs that aid in restoring function to these preclinical VML injuries. We also discuss the successes and limitations of the three main biomaterial-based strategies to treat VML injuries: acellular scaffolds, cell-delivery scaffolds, and in vitro tissue engineered constructs. Finally, we examine several innovative approaches to enhancing the design of the next generation of engineered scaffolds to improve the functional regeneration of skeletal muscle following VML injuries.
Collapse
|
12
|
Zhang D, Yan K, Zhou J, Xu T, Xu M, Lin J, Bai J, Ge G, Hu D, Si W, Hao Y, Geng D. Myogenic differentiation of human amniotic mesenchymal cells and its tissue repair capacity on volumetric muscle loss. J Tissue Eng 2019; 10:2041731419887100. [PMID: 31762985 PMCID: PMC6851610 DOI: 10.1177/2041731419887100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2019] [Accepted: 10/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Stem cell-based tissue engineering therapy is the most promising method for treating volumetric muscle loss. Human amniotic mesenchymal cells possess characteristics similar to those of embryonic stem cells. In this study, we verified the stem cell characteristics of human amniotic mesenchymal cells by the flow cytometry analysis, and osteogenic and adipogenic differentiation. Through induction with the DNA demethylating agent 5-azacytidine, human amniotic mesenchymal cells can undergo myogenic differentiation and express skeletal muscle cell-specific markers such as desmin and MyoD. The Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway also plays an important role. After 5-azacytidine-induced human amniotic mesenchymal cells were implanted into rat tibialis anterior muscle with volumetric muscle loss, we observed increased angiogenesis and improved local tissue repair. We believe that human amniotic mesenchymal cells can serve as a potential source of cells for skeletal muscle tissue engineering.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Di Zhang
- Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Center, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Kai Yan
- Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Center, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Zhou
- Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Center, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Tianpeng Xu
- Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Center, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Menglei Xu
- Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Center, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiayi Lin
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiaxiang Bai
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Gaoran Ge
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Dan Hu
- Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Center, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Weibing Si
- Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Center, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuefeng Hao
- Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Center, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Dechun Geng
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Marcinczyk M, Dunn A, Haas G, Madsen J, Scheidt R, Patel K, Talovic M, Garg K. The Effect of Laminin-111 Hydrogels on Muscle Regeneration in a Murine Model of Injury. Tissue Eng Part A 2019; 25:1001-1012. [PMID: 30426851 PMCID: PMC9839345 DOI: 10.1089/ten.tea.2018.0200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
IMPACT STATEMENT Extremity injuries make up the most common survivable injuries in vehicular accidents and modern military conflicts. A majority of these injuries involve volumetric muscle loss (VML). The potential for donor site morbidity may limit the clinical use of autologous muscle grafts for VML injuries. Treatments that can improve the regeneration of functional muscle tissue are critically needed to improve limb salvage and reduce the rate of delayed amputations. The development of a laminin-111-enriched fibrin hydrogel will offer a potentially transformative and "off-the-shelf" clinically relevant therapy for functional skeletal muscle regeneration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Madison Marcinczyk
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Parks College of Engineering, Aviation, and Technology, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Andrew Dunn
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Parks College of Engineering, Aviation, and Technology, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Gabriel Haas
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Parks College of Engineering, Aviation, and Technology, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Josh Madsen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Parks College of Engineering, Aviation, and Technology, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Robert Scheidt
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Parks College of Engineering, Aviation, and Technology, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Krishna Patel
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Parks College of Engineering, Aviation, and Technology, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Muhamed Talovic
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Parks College of Engineering, Aviation, and Technology, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Koyal Garg
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Parks College of Engineering, Aviation, and Technology, St. Louis, Missouri.,Address correspondence to: Koyal Garg, PhD, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Parks College of Engineering, Aviation, and Technology, 3507 Lindell Boulevard, St. Louis, MO 63103
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Dunn A, Talovic M, Patel K, Patel A, Marcinczyk M, Garg K. Biomaterial and stem cell-based strategies for skeletal muscle regeneration. J Orthop Res 2019; 37:1246-1262. [PMID: 30604468 DOI: 10.1002/jor.24212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2018] [Accepted: 12/13/2018] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Adult skeletal muscle can regenerate effectively after mild physical or chemical insult. Muscle trauma or disease can overwhelm this innate capacity for regeneration and result in heightened inflammation and fibrotic tissue deposition resulting in loss of structure and function. Recent studies have focused on biomaterial and stem cell-based therapies to promote skeletal muscle regeneration following injury and disease. Many stem cell populations besides satellite cells are implicated in muscle regeneration. These stem cells include but are not limited to mesenchymal stem cells, adipose-derived stem cells, hematopoietic stem cells, pericytes, fibroadipogenic progenitors, side population cells, and CD133+ stem cells. However, several challenges associated with their isolation, availability, delivery, survival, engraftment, and differentiation have been reported in recent studies. While acellular scaffolds offer a relatively safe and potentially off-the-shelf solution to cell-based therapies, they are often unable to stimulate host cell migration and activity to a level that would result in clinically meaningful regeneration of traumatized muscle. Combining stem cells and biomaterials may offer a viable therapeutic strategy that may overcome the limitations associated with these therapies when they are used in isolation. In this article, we review the stem cell populations that can stimulate muscle regeneration in vitro and in vivo. We also discuss the regenerative potential of combination therapies that utilize both stem cell and biomaterials for the treatment of skeletal muscle injury and disease. © 2019 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 37:1246-1262, 2019.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Dunn
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Parks College of Engineering, Aviation, and Technology, Saint Louis University, Saint Louis, Missouri
| | - Muhamed Talovic
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Parks College of Engineering, Aviation, and Technology, Saint Louis University, Saint Louis, Missouri
| | - Krishna Patel
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Parks College of Engineering, Aviation, and Technology, Saint Louis University, Saint Louis, Missouri
| | - Anjali Patel
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Parks College of Engineering, Aviation, and Technology, Saint Louis University, Saint Louis, Missouri
| | - Madison Marcinczyk
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Parks College of Engineering, Aviation, and Technology, Saint Louis University, Saint Louis, Missouri
| | - Koyal Garg
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Parks College of Engineering, Aviation, and Technology, Saint Louis University, Saint Louis, Missouri
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Rojas-Rodriguez R, Lujan-Hernandez J, Min SY, DeSouza T, Teebagy P, Desai A, Tessier H, Slamin R, Siegel-Reamer L, Berg C, Baez A, Lalikos J, Corvera S. Generation of Functional Human Adipose Tissue in Mice from Primed Progenitor Cells. Tissue Eng Part A 2019; 25:842-854. [PMID: 30306830 PMCID: PMC6590775 DOI: 10.1089/ten.tea.2018.0067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Adipose tissue (AT) is used extensively in reconstructive and regenerative therapies, but transplanted fat often undergoes cell death, leading to inflammation, calcification, and requirement for further revision surgery. Previously, we have found that mesenchymal progenitor cells within human AT can proliferate in three-dimensional culture under proangiogenic conditions. These cells (primed ADipose progenitor cells, PADS) robustly differentiate into adipocytes in vitro (ad-PADS). The goal of this study is to determine whether ad-PADS can form structured AT in vivo, with potential for use in surgical applications. Grafts formed from ad-PADS were compared to grafts formed from AT obtained by liposuction after implantation into nude mice. Graft volume was measured by microcomputed tomography scanning, and the functionality of cells within the graft was assessed by quantifying circulating human adiponectin. The degree of graft vascularization by donor or host vessels and the content of human or mouse adipocytes within the graft were measured using species-specific endothelial and adipocyte-specific quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction probes, and histochemistry with mouse and human-specific lectins. Our results show that ad-PADS grafted subcutaneously into nude mice induce robust vascularization from the host, continue to increase in volume over time, express the human adipocyte marker PLIN1 at levels comparable to human AT, and secrete increasing amounts of human adiponectin into the mouse circulation. In contrast, grafts composed of AT fragments obtained by liposuction become less vascularized, develop regions of calcification and decreased content of PLIN1, and secrete lower amounts of adiponectin per unit volume. Enrichment of liposuction tissue with ad-PADS improves vascularization, indicating that ad-PADS may be proangiogenic. Mechanistically, ad-PADS express an extracellular matrix gene signature that includes elements previously associated with small vessel development (COL4A1). Thus, through the formation of a proangiogenic environment, ad-PADS can form functional AT with capacity for long-term survival, and can potentially be used to improve outcomes in reconstructive and regenerative medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Raziel Rojas-Rodriguez
- 1 Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts
| | - Jorge Lujan-Hernandez
- 2 Department of Surgery, University of Massachusetts Medical School and UMASS Memorial Medical Center, Worcester, Massachusetts
| | - So Yun Min
- 1 Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts
| | - Tiffany DeSouza
- 1 Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts
| | - Patrick Teebagy
- 2 Department of Surgery, University of Massachusetts Medical School and UMASS Memorial Medical Center, Worcester, Massachusetts
| | - Anand Desai
- 1 Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts
| | - Heather Tessier
- 2 Department of Surgery, University of Massachusetts Medical School and UMASS Memorial Medical Center, Worcester, Massachusetts
| | - Robert Slamin
- 2 Department of Surgery, University of Massachusetts Medical School and UMASS Memorial Medical Center, Worcester, Massachusetts
| | - Leah Siegel-Reamer
- 2 Department of Surgery, University of Massachusetts Medical School and UMASS Memorial Medical Center, Worcester, Massachusetts
| | - Cara Berg
- 1 Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts
| | - Angel Baez
- 2 Department of Surgery, University of Massachusetts Medical School and UMASS Memorial Medical Center, Worcester, Massachusetts
| | - Janice Lalikos
- 2 Department of Surgery, University of Massachusetts Medical School and UMASS Memorial Medical Center, Worcester, Massachusetts
| | - Silvia Corvera
- 1 Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Engineering Tissues without the Use of a Synthetic Scaffold: A Twenty-Year History of the Self-Assembly Method. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2018; 2018:5684679. [PMID: 29707571 PMCID: PMC5863296 DOI: 10.1155/2018/5684679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2017] [Revised: 01/29/2018] [Accepted: 02/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Twenty years ago, Dr. François A. Auger, the founder of the Laboratory of Experimental Organogenesis (LOEX), introduced the self-assembly technique. This innovative technique relies on the ability of dermal fibroblasts to produce and assemble their own extracellular matrix, differing from all other tissue-engineering techniques that use preformed synthetic scaffolds. Nevertheless, the use of the self-assembly technique was limited for a long time due to its main drawbacks: time and cost. Recent scientific breakthroughs have addressed these limitations. New protocol modifications that aim at increasing the rate of extracellular matrix formation have been proposed to reduce the production costs and laboratory handling time of engineered tissues. Moreover, the introduction of vascularization strategies in vitro permits the formation of capillary-like networks within reconstructed tissues. These optimization strategies enable the large-scale production of inexpensive native-like substitutes using the self-assembly technique. These substitutes can be used to reconstruct three-dimensional models free of exogenous materials for clinical and fundamental applications.
Collapse
|