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Wale M, Bekele A, Yihune M. Composition and seasonality of rodent diet in Chimit Kola, Blue Nile Gorge, Ethiopia. Heliyon 2024; 10:e28416. [PMID: 38590873 PMCID: PMC10999918 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e28416] [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: 01/18/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
A study on the composition and seasonality of rodent diet was carried out during 2020-2022 years in Chimit Kola to determine the type, relative proportion and seasonality of food items consumed. A total of 166 stomach contents that belong to six rodent species (Mastomys awashensis, Acomys louisae, Arvicanthis raffertyi, Lophuromys simensis, Gerbilliscus sp. and Lemniscomys macculus) were investigated. Parametric and non-parametric analyses of variance were used to test the difference. Leaves and stems, seeds, invertebrates, fruits and unidentified food matters were the food items identified in the stomach contents of rodents. There was a significant variation in food items consumed among rodent species. Arvicanthis raffertyi and L. macculus consumed more leaves and stems whereas L. simensis, A. louisae and Gerbilliscus sp. mostly fed on invertebrates. Mastomys awashensis consumed relatively more seeds (30%) than any other rodent species (ranging from 14 to 28%). Acomys louisae, L. simensis and Gerbilliscus sp. consumed more leaves and stems during the dry season and invertebrates during the wet season. Similarly, A. raffertyi consumed more leaves and stems during the wet season and seeds during the dry season. However, the diet of M. awashensis and L. macculus and some food items (fruits and unidentified food matters) of most rodent species were similar between seasons. Mastomys awashensis significantly consumed a higher proportion of seeds in the fallowland (44%) than in other habitats (ranging from 19 to 31%). Similarly, A. louisae and L. macculus consumed a significantly higher proportion of invertebrates in bushland (53%) and riverine forests (48%) than in other habitats (ranging from 16 to 47%), respectively. The present finding concluded that these rodent species are diet generalists, feeding on a variety of available resources depending on seasons and habitats. The study documents the diet composition of these rodent species for the first time. Thus, the management and conservation of these rodents should be in consideration of their feeding habits and factors that influence their diets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengistu Wale
- Ethiopian Biodiversity Institute, P. O. Box 30726, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Afework Bekele
- Department of Zoological Sciences, Addis Ababa University, P. O. Box 1176, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Mesele Yihune
- Department of Zoological Sciences, Addis Ababa University, P. O. Box 1176, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Dill MN, Tabatabaei M, Kamat M, Basso KB, Moore E, Simmons CS. Generation and characterization of two immortalized dermal fibroblast cell lines from the spiny mouse (Acomys). PLoS One 2023; 18:e0280169. [PMID: 37418364 PMCID: PMC10328323 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0280169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The spiny mouse (Acomys) is gaining popularity as a research organism due to its phenomenal regenerative capabilities. Acomys recovers from injuries to several organs without fibrosis. For example, Acomys heals full thickness skin injuries with rapid re-epithelialization of the wound and regeneration of hair follicles, sebaceous glands, erector pili muscles, adipocytes, and dermis without scarring. Understanding mechanisms of Acomys regeneration may uncover potential therapeutics for wound healing in humans. However, access to Acomys colonies is limited and primary fibroblasts can only be maintained in culture for a limited time. To address these obstacles, we generated immortalized Acomys dermal fibroblast cell lines using two methods: transfection with the SV40 large T antigen and spontaneous immortalization. The two cell lines (AcoSV40 and AcoSI-1) maintained the morphological and functional characteristics of primary Acomys fibroblasts, including maintenance of key fibroblast markers and ECM deposition. The availability of these cells will lower the barrier to working with Acomys as a model research organism, increasing the pace at which new discoveries to promote regeneration in humans can be made.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele N. Dill
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Mohammad Tabatabaei
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Manasi Kamat
- Department of Chemistry, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Kari B. Basso
- Department of Chemistry, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Erika Moore
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Chelsey S. Simmons
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
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3
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Okamura DM, Nguyen ED, Collins SJ, Yoon K, Gere JB, Weiser-Evans MCM, Beier DR, Majesky MW. Mammalian organ regeneration in spiny mice. J Muscle Res Cell Motil 2023; 44:39-52. [PMID: 36131170 DOI: 10.1007/s10974-022-09631-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Fibrosis-driven solid organ failure is a major world-wide health burden with few therapeutic options. Spiny mice (genus: Acomys) are terrestrial mammals that regenerate severe skin wounds without fibrotic scars to evade predators. Recent studies have shown that spiny mice also regenerate acute ischemic and traumatic injuries to kidney, heart, spinal cord, and skeletal muscle. A common feature of this evolved wound healing response is a lack of formation of fibrotic scar tissue that degrades organ function, inhibits regeneration, and leads to organ failure. Complex tissue regeneration is an extremely rare property among mammalian species. In this article, we discuss the evidence that Acomys represents an emerging model organism that offers a unique opportunity for the biomedical community to investigate and clinically translate molecular mechanisms of scarless wound healing and regeneration of organ function in a mammalian species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daryl M Okamura
- Center for Developmental Biology & Regenerative Medicine, Seattle Children's Research Institute, 1900 Ninth Avenue, M/S C9S-5, Seattle, WA, 98101, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
| | - Elizabeth D Nguyen
- Center for Developmental Biology & Regenerative Medicine, Seattle Children's Research Institute, 1900 Ninth Avenue, M/S C9S-5, Seattle, WA, 98101, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
| | - Sarah J Collins
- Center for Developmental Biology & Regenerative Medicine, Seattle Children's Research Institute, 1900 Ninth Avenue, M/S C9S-5, Seattle, WA, 98101, USA
| | - Kevin Yoon
- Center for Developmental Biology & Regenerative Medicine, Seattle Children's Research Institute, 1900 Ninth Avenue, M/S C9S-5, Seattle, WA, 98101, USA
| | - Joshua B Gere
- Center for Developmental Biology & Regenerative Medicine, Seattle Children's Research Institute, 1900 Ninth Avenue, M/S C9S-5, Seattle, WA, 98101, USA
| | - Mary C M Weiser-Evans
- Department of Medicine, Division of Renal Diseases & Hypertension, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - David R Beier
- Center for Developmental Biology & Regenerative Medicine, Seattle Children's Research Institute, 1900 Ninth Avenue, M/S C9S-5, Seattle, WA, 98101, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
| | - Mark W Majesky
- Center for Developmental Biology & Regenerative Medicine, Seattle Children's Research Institute, 1900 Ninth Avenue, M/S C9S-5, Seattle, WA, 98101, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA.
- Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA.
- Institute for Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA.
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Comparative analysis of Acomys cahirinus and Mus musculus responses to genotoxicity, oxidative stress, and inflammation. Sci Rep 2023; 13:3989. [PMID: 36894692 PMCID: PMC9998436 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-31143-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The Egyptian spiny mouse, Acomys cahirinus, is a recently described model organism for regeneration studies. It has surprising powers of regeneration with relatively fast repairing mechanisms and reduced inflammation form compared to other mammals. Although several studies have documented the exceptional capabilities of Acomys to regenerate different tissues after injury, its response to different cellular and genetic stresses is not yet investigated. Therefore, the current study aimed to investigate Acomys abilities to resist genotoxicity, oxidative stress and inflammation induced by acute and subacute treatments with lead acetate. Responses of Acomys were compared with those of the lab mouse (Mus musculus), which displays signatures of the "typical" mammalian response to various stressors. Cellular and genetic stresses were induced by using acute and subacute doses of Lead acetate (400 mg/kg and 50 mg/kg for 5 days, respectively). The assessment of genotoxicity was carried out by using comet assay, while oxidative stress was evaluated by measuring the biomarkers; MDA, GSH and antioxidant enzymes CAT and SOD. Moreover, inflammation was assessed by analyzing the expression of some inflammatory-regeneration-related genes: CXCL1, IL1-β, and Notch 2 and immunohistochemical staining of TNF-α protein in brain tissue, in addition to histopathological examination of brain, liver, and kidneys. The obtained results revealed a unique resistance potency of Acomys to genotoxicity, oxidative stress, and inflammation in certain tissues in comparison to Mus. Altogether, the results revealed an adaptive and protective response to cellular and genetic stresses in Acomys.
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Chan KM, Thurlow NA, Maden M, Allen KD. African Spiny Mice ( Acomys) Exhibit Mild Osteoarthritis Following Meniscal Injury. Cartilage 2023; 14:94-105. [PMID: 36802989 PMCID: PMC10076895 DOI: 10.1177/19476035221149146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/23/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Hyaline cartilage has limited innate healing abilities and hyaline cartilage loss is a hallmark of osteoarthritis (OA). Animal models can provide important insights into cartilage regeneration potential. One such animal model, the African spiny mouse (Acomys), is capable of regenerating skin, skeletal muscle, and elastic cartilage. This study aims to evaluate whether these regenerative abilities protect Acomys with meniscal injury from OA-related joint damage and behaviors indicative of joint pain and dysfunction. DESIGN Acomys received destabilization of the medial meniscus (DMM) surgery (n = 11) or a skin incision (n = 10). Gait testing occurred at 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12 weeks after surgery. At endpoint, joints were processed for histology to assess cartilage damage. RESULTS Following joint injury, Acomys with DMM surgery altered their walking patterns by increasing the percent stance time on the contralateral limb relative to the operated limb, thereby reducing the amount of time the injured limb must bear weight on its own throughout the gait cycle. Histological grading indicated evidence of OA-related joint damage in Acomys with DMM surgery; these changes were primarily driven by loss of structural integrity in the hyaline cartilage. CONCLUSIONS Acomys developed gait compensations, and the hyaline cartilage in Acomys is not fully protected from OA-related joint damage following meniscal injury, although this damage was less severe than that historically found in C57BL/6 mice with an identical injury. Thus, Acomys do not appear to be completely protected from OA-related changes, despite the ability to regenerate other wounded tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiara M Chan
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Nat A Thurlow
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Malcolm Maden
- Department of Biology & UF Genetics Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Kyle D Allen
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
- Department of Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
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6
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Gaire J, Supper V, Montgomery D, Simmons CS. Spiny mice (Acomys) cells fail to engraft in NOD scid gamma. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0286000. [PMID: 37205673 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0286000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Immune cells and stromal cells regulate wound healing and regeneration through complex activation patterns with spatiotemporal variation. The scarless regeneration of Spiny mice (Acomys species) is no exception; differential activation of immune and stromal cell populations seems to play a role in its remarkable regenerative capacity. To elucidate the role and interplay of Acomys immune cells in mammalian regeneration, we sought to create Acomys-Mus chimeras by transplanting bone marrow (BM) from Acomys into NOD Scid Gamma (NSG), a severely immunodeficient mouse line often used in creating humanized mice. Here, we report that Acomys BM cells fail to reconstitute and differentiate when transferred to irradiated NSG adults and neonates. In addition, we did not detect the presence of donor cells nor observe the onset of Graft versus Host Disease (GvHD)-like pathology, even after transplanting Acomys splenocytes in Acomys-Mus chimeras suggesting early graft failure. Overall, these results demonstrate the adoptive transfer of Acomys BM alone is not sufficient to establish Acomys hematopoietic system in NSG mouse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janak Gaire
- Department of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Valentina Supper
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Darrice Montgomery
- Department of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Chelsey S Simmons
- Department of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
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Surface and Structural Studies of Age-Related Changes in Dental Enamel: An Animal Model. MATERIALS 2022; 15:ma15113993. [PMID: 35683290 PMCID: PMC9182525 DOI: 10.3390/ma15113993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
In the animal kingdom, continuously erupting incisors provided an attractive model for studying the enamel matrix and mineral composition of teeth during development. Enamel, the hardest mineral tissue in the vertebrates, is a tissue sensitive to external conditions, reflecting various disturbances in its structure. The developing dental enamel was monitored in a series of incisor samples extending the first four weeks of postnatal life in the spiny mouse. The age-dependent changes in enamel surface morphology in the micrometre and nanometre-scale and a qualitative assessment of its mechanical features were examined by applying scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). At the same time, structural studies using XRD and vibrational spectroscopy made it possible to assess crystallinity and carbonate content in enamel mineral composition. Finally, a model for predicting the maturation based on chemical composition and structural factors was constructed using artificial neural networks (ANNs). The research presented here can extend the existing knowledge by proposing a pattern of enamel development that could be used as a comparative material in environmental, nutritional, and pharmaceutical research.
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8
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Reawakening GDNF's regenerative past in mice and humans. Regen Ther 2022; 20:78-85. [PMID: 35509264 PMCID: PMC9043678 DOI: 10.1016/j.reth.2022.03.008] [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: 02/16/2022] [Revised: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The ability of an animal to regenerate lost tissue and body parts has obviously life-saving implications. Understanding how this ability became restricted or active in specific animal lineages will help us understand our own regeneration. According to phylogenic analysis, the glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) signaling pathway, but not other family members, is conserved in axolotls, a salamander with remarkable regenerative capacity. Furthermore, comparing the pro-regenerative Spiny mouse to its less regenerative descendant, the House mouse, revealed that the GDNF signaling pathway, but not other family members, was induced in regenerating Spiny mice. According to GDNF receptor expression analysis, GDNF may promote hair follicle neogenesis – an important feature of skin regeneration – by determining the fate of dermal fibroblasts as part of new hair follicles. These findings support the idea that GDNF treatment will promote skin regeneration in humans by demonstrating the GDNF signaling pathway's ancestral and cellular nature. In pro-regenerative axolotls, the GDNF-GFR□1 signaling system is conserved. In pro-regenerative Spiny mice, the GDNF-GFR□1 signaling system is activated. In mice, GDNF targets upper-regeneration-competent dermal fibroblasts. GDNF-GFR□1 activation may promote skin regeneration in mice and humans.
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Vitorino M, Simão S, Moreira JB, Nogueira‐Rodrigues J, Silva J, Lourenço AS, Fernandes V, Sousa MM, Tiscornia G, Araújo IM. Coronal brain atlas in stereotaxic coordinates of the African spiny mouse,
Acomys cahirinus. J Comp Neurol 2022; 530:2215-2237. [DOI: 10.1002/cne.25329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Revised: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Marta Vitorino
- Centre for Biomedical Research (CBMR) University of Algarve Faro Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences University of Algarve Faro Portugal
- Center for Marine Sciences (CCMAR) University of Algarve Faro Portugal
| | - Sónia Simão
- Centre for Biomedical Research (CBMR) University of Algarve Faro Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences University of Algarve Faro Portugal
- Algarve Biomedical Center Research Institute (ABC‐RI) University of Algarve Faro Portugal
| | - João B. Moreira
- Centre for Biomedical Research (CBMR) University of Algarve Faro Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences University of Algarve Faro Portugal
| | - Joana Nogueira‐Rodrigues
- Nerve Regeneration Group Instituto de Biologia Molecular e Celular (IBMC) Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S) University of Porto Porto Portugal
- Graduate Program in Molecular and Cell Biology Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar (ICBAS) University of Porto Porto Portugal
| | - Joana Silva
- Centre for Biomedical Research (CBMR) University of Algarve Faro Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences University of Algarve Faro Portugal
| | - Ana Sofia Lourenço
- Centre for Biomedical Research (CBMR) University of Algarve Faro Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences University of Algarve Faro Portugal
| | - Vítor Fernandes
- Centre for Biomedical Research (CBMR) University of Algarve Faro Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences University of Algarve Faro Portugal
- Algarve Biomedical Center Research Institute (ABC‐RI) University of Algarve Faro Portugal
| | - Monica M. Sousa
- Nerve Regeneration Group Instituto de Biologia Molecular e Celular (IBMC) Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S) University of Porto Porto Portugal
| | - Gustavo Tiscornia
- Centre for Biomedical Research (CBMR) University of Algarve Faro Portugal
- Center for Marine Sciences (CCMAR) University of Algarve Faro Portugal
- Clínica Eugin Barcelona Spain
| | - Inês M. Araújo
- Centre for Biomedical Research (CBMR) University of Algarve Faro Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences University of Algarve Faro Portugal
- Algarve Biomedical Center Research Institute (ABC‐RI) University of Algarve Faro Portugal
- Champalimaud Research Program Lisbon Portugal
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Vishlaghi N, Rieger S, McGaughey V, Lisse TS. GDNF neurotrophic factor signaling determines the fate of dermal fibroblasts in wound-induced hair neogenesis and skin regeneration. Exp Dermatol 2022; 31:577-581. [PMID: 35020233 PMCID: PMC9306530 DOI: 10.1111/exd.14526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 01/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
We propose that GDNF, a glial cell line‐derived neurotrophic factor, can promote hair follicle neogenesis and skin regeneration after wounding by directing the fate of dermal fibroblasts. Our hypothesis is largely based on detailed GDNF and receptor analysis during skin regenerative stages, as well as the induction of GDNF receptors after wounding between the pro‐regenerative spiny mouse (genus Acomys) and its less‐regenerative descendant, the house mouse (Mus musculus). To characterize the GDNF‐target cells, we will conduct a series of lineage‐tracing experiments in conjunction with single‐cell RNA and assay for transposase‐accessible chromatin sequencing experiments. The heterogenetic dynamics of skin regeneration have yet to be fully defined, and this research will help to advance the fields of regenerative medicine and biology. Finally, we believe that stimulating the GDNF signalling pathway in fibroblasts from less‐regenerative animals, such as humans, will promote skin regeneration, morphogenesis and scarless wound healing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neda Vishlaghi
- University of Miami, Biology Department, 1301 Memorial Drive, Cox Science Center, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | - Sandra Rieger
- University of Miami, Biology Department, 1301 Memorial Drive, Cox Science Center, Coral Gables, FL, USA.,Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Vanessa McGaughey
- University of Miami, Biology Department, 1301 Memorial Drive, Cox Science Center, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | - Thomas S Lisse
- University of Miami, Biology Department, 1301 Memorial Drive, Cox Science Center, Coral Gables, FL, USA.,Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
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11
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Okamura DM, Nguyen ED, Beier DR, Majesky MW. Wound healing and regeneration in spiny mice (Acomys cahirinus). Curr Top Dev Biol 2022; 148:139-164. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.ctdb.2022.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Femoral µCT Analysis, Mechanical Testing and Immunolocalization of Bone Proteins in β-Hydroxy β-Methylbutyrate (HMB) Supplemented Spiny Mouse in a Model of Pregnancy and Lactation-Associated Osteoporosis. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10214808. [PMID: 34768327 PMCID: PMC8584851 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10214808] [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: 09/15/2021] [Revised: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
A metabolite of leucine, ß-hydroxy-ß-methylbutyrate (HMB), used as a dietary supplement effects muscle tissue gain and bone tissue quality. Since there are no studies on the effects of HMB during pregnancy yet, the aim of the current study was to determine the effects of HMB supplementation during pregnancy on osteoporotic bone quality postpartum and post-lactation using spiny mice (Acomys cahirinus) as the animal models. The six-month-old dams were divided into four groups: pregnant and lactating controls, and pregnant and lactating HMB-treated (during the second trimester of pregnancy) females. The intensity of the immunoreaction of osteocalcin (OC), osteoprotegerin (OPG), bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP-2), tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases 2 (TIMP-2), matrix metalloproteinase 8 and 13 (MMP-8 and MMP-13) and proteins involved in bone turnover, was measured in femoral trabecular and compact bone, as well as in the hyaline and epiphyseal cartilage of the femora. The analysis of the trabecular bone microarchitecture showed that the administration of HMB to pregnant females, by influencing the proteins responsible for bone cell activity and collagen remodeling, can provide protection from bone loss. Based on the results of the current study it can be assumed that HMB administration to pregnant females has a more positive impact on trabecular than compact bone.
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β-Hydroxy-β-Methylbutyrate (HMB) Supplementation Prevents Bone Loss during Pregnancy-Novel Evidence from a Spiny Mouse ( Acomys cahirinus) Model. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22063047. [PMID: 33802646 PMCID: PMC8002460 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22063047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Revised: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to determine the effects of ß-hydroxy-ß-methylbutyrate (HMB) supplementation during pregnancy on postpartum bone tissue quality by assessing changes in trabecular and compact bone as well as in hyaline and epiphyseal cartilage. The experiment was carried out on adult 6-month-old female spiny mice (Acomys cahirinus) divided into three groups: pregnant control (PregCont), pregnant HMB-treated (supplemented with 0.02 g/kg b.w of HMB during the second trimester of pregnancy, PregHMB), and non-pregnant females (NonPreg). Cross-sectional area and cortical index of the femoral mid-shaft, stiffness, and Young modulus were significantly greater in the PregHMB group. Whole-bone mineral density was similar in all groups, and HMB supplementation increased trabecular number. Growth plate cartilage was the thinnest, while the articular cartilage was the thickest in the PregHMB group. HMB supplementation increased the content of proteoglycans in the articular cartilage and the percentage of immature collagen content in metaphyseal trabeculae and compact bone. In summary, dietary HMB supplementation during the second trimester of pregnancy intensifies bone metabolic processes and prevents bone loss during pregnancy.
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14
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Gaire J, Varholick JA, Rana S, Sunshine MD, Doré S, Barbazuk WB, Fuller DD, Maden M, Simmons CS. Spiny mouse (Acomys): an emerging research organism for regenerative medicine with applications beyond the skin. NPJ Regen Med 2021; 6:1. [PMID: 33397999 PMCID: PMC7782534 DOI: 10.1038/s41536-020-00111-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2020] [Accepted: 11/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The spiny mouse (Acomys species) has emerged as an exciting research organism due to its remarkable ability to undergo scarless regeneration of skin wounds and ear punches. Excitingly, Acomys species demonstrate scar-free healing in a wide-range of tissues beyond the skin. In this perspective article, we discuss published findings from a variety of tissues to highlight how this emerging research organism could shed light on numerous clinically relevant human diseases. We also discuss the challenges of working with this emerging research organism and suggest strategies for future Acomys-inspired research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janak Gaire
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, 32611, USA
| | - Justin A Varholick
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of Florida, Gainesville, 32611, USA
| | - Sabhya Rana
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, 32611, USA
| | - Michael D Sunshine
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, 32611, USA
| | - Sylvain Doré
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Florida, Gainesville, 32611, USA
| | - W Brad Barbazuk
- Department of Biology and UF Genetics Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, 32611, USA
| | - David D Fuller
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, 32611, USA.,McKnight Brain Institute and Center for Breathing Research and Therapeutics, University of Florida, Gainesville, 32611, USA
| | - Malcolm Maden
- Department of Biology and UF Genetics Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, 32611, USA
| | - Chelsey S Simmons
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, 32611, USA. .,J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, 32611, USA.
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15
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Stoica AE, Grumezescu AM, Hermenean AO, Andronescu E, Vasile BS. Scar-Free Healing: Current Concepts and Future Perspectives. NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2020; 10:E2179. [PMID: 33142891 PMCID: PMC7693882 DOI: 10.3390/nano10112179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Revised: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Every year, millions of people develop scars due to skin injuries after trauma, surgery, or skin burns. From the beginning of wound healing development, scar hyperplasia, and prolonged healing time in wound healing have been severe problems. Based on the difference between adult and fetal wound healing processes, many promising therapies have been developed to decrease scar formation in skin wounds. Currently, there is no good or reliable therapy to cure or prevent scar formation. This work briefly reviews the engineering methods of scarless wound healing, focusing on regenerative biomaterials and different cytokines, growth factors, and extracellular components in regenerative wound healing to minimize skin damage cell types, and scar formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Elena Stoica
- Department of Science and Engineering of Oxide Materials and Nanomaterials, Faculty of Applied Chemistry and Materials Science, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 1–7 Gheorghe Polizu Street, 011061 Bucharest, Romania; (A.E.S.); (A.M.G.); (E.A.)
- National Research Center for Micro and Nanomaterials, Faculty of Applied Chemistry and Materials Science, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 060042 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Alexandru Mihai Grumezescu
- Department of Science and Engineering of Oxide Materials and Nanomaterials, Faculty of Applied Chemistry and Materials Science, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 1–7 Gheorghe Polizu Street, 011061 Bucharest, Romania; (A.E.S.); (A.M.G.); (E.A.)
| | - Anca Oana Hermenean
- Institute of Life Sciences, Vasile Goldiş Western University of Arad, 310025 Arad, Romania;
| | - Ecaterina Andronescu
- Department of Science and Engineering of Oxide Materials and Nanomaterials, Faculty of Applied Chemistry and Materials Science, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 1–7 Gheorghe Polizu Street, 011061 Bucharest, Romania; (A.E.S.); (A.M.G.); (E.A.)
| | - Bogdan Stefan Vasile
- Department of Science and Engineering of Oxide Materials and Nanomaterials, Faculty of Applied Chemistry and Materials Science, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 1–7 Gheorghe Polizu Street, 011061 Bucharest, Romania; (A.E.S.); (A.M.G.); (E.A.)
- National Research Center for Micro and Nanomaterials, Faculty of Applied Chemistry and Materials Science, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 060042 Bucharest, Romania
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16
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Abstract
The spiny mouse, Acomys spp., is a recently described model organism for regeneration studies. For a mammal, it displays surprising powers of regeneration because it does not fibrose (i.e. scar) in response to tissue injury as most other mammals, including humans, do. In this Primer article, we review these regenerative abilities, highlighting the phylogenetic position of the spiny mouse relative to other rodents. We also briefly describe the Acomys tissues that have been used for regeneration studies and the common features of their regeneration compared with the typical mammalian response. Finally, we discuss the contribution that Acomys has made in understanding the general principles of regeneration and elaborate hypotheses as to why this mammal is successful at regenerating.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malcolm Maden
- Department of Biology & UF Genetics Institute, University of Florida, PO Box 118525, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Justin A Varholick
- Department of Biology & UF Genetics Institute, University of Florida, PO Box 118525, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
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17
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Streeter KA, Sunshine MD, Brant JO, Sandoval AGW, Maden M, Fuller DD. Molecular and histologic outcomes following spinal cord injury in spiny mice, Acomys cahirinus. J Comp Neurol 2019; 528:1535-1547. [PMID: 31820438 DOI: 10.1002/cne.24836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2019] [Revised: 11/27/2019] [Accepted: 11/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The spiny mouse (Acomys cahirinus) appears to be unique among mammals by showing little scarring or fibrosis after skin or muscle injury, but the Acomys response to spinal cord injury (SCI) is unknown. We tested the hypothesis that Acomys would have molecular and immunohistochemical evidence of reduced spinal inflammation and fibrosis following SCI as compared to C57BL/6 mice (Mus), which similar to all mammals studied to date exhibits spinal scarring following SCI. Initial experiments used two pathway-focused RT-PCR gene arrays ("wound healing" and "neurogenesis") to evaluate tissue samples from the C2-C6 spinal cord 3 days after a C3/C4 hemi-crush injury (C3Hc). Based on the gene array results, specific genes were selected for RT-qPCR evaluation using species-specific primers. The results supported our hypothesis by showing increased inflammation and fibrosis related gene expression (Serpine 1, Plau, and Timp1) in Mus as compared to Acomys (p < .05). RT-qPCR also showed enhanced stem cell and axonal guidance related gene expression (Bmp2, GDNF, and Shh) in Acomys compared to Mus (p < .05). Immunohistochemical evaluation of the spinal lesion at 4 weeks postinjury indicated less collagen IV immunostaining in Acomys (p < .05). Glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and ionized calcium binding adaptor molecule 1(IBA1) immunostaining indicated morphological differences in the appearance of astrocytes and macrophages/microglia in Acomys. Collectively, the molecular and histologic results support the hypothesis that Acomys has reduced spinal inflammation and fibrosis following SCI. We suggest that Acomys may be a useful comparative model to study adaptive responses to SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristi A Streeter
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida.,McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida.,Center for Respiratory Research and Rehabilitation, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Michael D Sunshine
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida.,McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida.,Center for Respiratory Research and Rehabilitation, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Jason O Brant
- Department of Biology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | | | - Malcolm Maden
- Department of Biology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - David D Fuller
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida.,McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida.,Center for Respiratory Research and Rehabilitation, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
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