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Milanović Ž, Antonijević M, Avdović E, Simić V, Milošević M, Dolićanin Z, Kojić M, Marković Z. In silico evaluation of pharmacokinetic parameters, delivery, distribution and anticoagulative effects of new 4,7-dihydroxycoumarin derivative. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2024; 42:8343-8358. [PMID: 37545173 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2023.2245071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
In this study, pharmacological profiling and investigation of the anticoagulant activity of the newly synthesized coumarin derivative: (E)-3-(1-((4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)amino)ethylidene)-2,4-dioxochroman-7-yl acetate (L) were performed. The obtained results were compared with the parameters obtained for Warfarin (WF), which is a standard good oral anticoagulant. The estimated high binding affinity of L toward plasma proteins (PPS% value is > 90%) justifies the investigation of binding affinity and comparative analysis of L and WF to Human Serum Albumin (HSA) using the spectrofluorimetric method (296, 303 and 310 K) as well as molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations. Compound L shows a very good binding affinity especially to the active site of WF (the active site I -subdomain IIA), quenching HSA fluorescence by a static process. Also, the finite element smeared model (Kojic Transport Model, KTM), which includes blood vessels and tissue, was implemented to compute the convective-diffusion transport of L and WF within the liver. Finally, compound L shows a high degree of inhibitory activity toward the VKOR receptor comparable to the inhibitory activity of WF. Stabilization and limited flexibility of amino acid residues in the active site of the VKOR after binding of L and WF indicates a very good inhibitory potential of compound L. The high affinity of the L for the VKOR enzyme (Vitamin K antagonist), as well as the structural similarity to commercial anticoagulants (WF), provide a basis for further studies and potential application in the treatment of venous thrombosis, pulmonary embolism and ischemic heart disease.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Žiko Milanović
- Institute for Information Technologies, University of Kragujevac, Kragujevac, Serbia
| | - Marko Antonijević
- Institute for Information Technologies, University of Kragujevac, Kragujevac, Serbia
| | - Edina Avdović
- Institute for Information Technologies, University of Kragujevac, Kragujevac, Serbia
| | - Vladimir Simić
- Institute for Information Technologies, University of Kragujevac, Kragujevac, Serbia
| | - Miljan Milošević
- Institute for Information Technologies, University of Kragujevac, Kragujevac, Serbia
- Bioengineering Research and Development Center (BioIRC), Kragujevac, Serbia
- Faculty of Information Technology, Belgrade Metropolitan University, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Zana Dolićanin
- Department of Natural Science and Mathematics, State University of Novi Pazar, Novi Pazar, Serbia
| | - Miloš Kojić
- Bioengineering Research and Development Center (BioIRC), Kragujevac, Serbia
- Serbian Academy of Sciences and Arts, Belgrade, Serbia
- Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Zoran Marković
- Institute for Information Technologies, University of Kragujevac, Kragujevac, Serbia
- Department of Natural Science and Mathematics, State University of Novi Pazar, Novi Pazar, Serbia
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An J, Sugita N, Shinshi T. Microbubble detection on ultrasound imaging by utilizing phase patterned waves. Phys Med Biol 2024; 69:135003. [PMID: 38843808 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6560/ad5511] [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: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
Objective.Super-resolution ultrasonography offers the advantage of visualization of intricate microvasculature, which is crucial for disease diagnosis. Mapping of microvessels is possible by localizing microbubbles (MBs) that act as contrast agents and tracking their location. However, there are limitations such as the low detectability of MBs and the utilization of a diluted concentration of MBs, leading to the extension of the acquisition time. We aim to enhance the detectability of MBs to reduce the acquisition time of acoustic data necessary for mapping the microvessels.Approach.We propose utilizing phase patterned waves (PPWs) characterized by spatially patterned phase distributions in the incident beam to achieve this. In contrast to conventional ultrasound irradiation methods, this irradiation method alters bubble interactions, enhancing the oscillation response of MBs and generating more significant scattered waves from specific MBs. This enhances the detectability of MBs, thereby enabling the detection of MBs that were undetectable by the conventional method. The objective is to maximize the overall detection of bubbles by utilizing ultrasound imaging with additional PPWs, including the conventional method. In this paper, we apply PPWs to ultrasound imaging simulations considering bubble-bubble interactions to elucidate the characteristics of PPWs and demonstrate their efficacy by employing PPWs on MBs fixed in a phantom by the experiment.Main results.By utilizing two types of PPWs in addition to the conventional ultrasound irradiation method, we confirmed the detection of up to 93.3% more MBs compared to those detected using the conventional method alone.Significance.Ultrasound imaging using additional PPWs made it possible to increase the number of detected MBs, which is expected to improve the efficiency of bubble detection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junseok An
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tokyo Institute of Technology, 4259 Nagatsuta-cho, Midori-ku, Yokohama 226-8501, Japan
| | - Naohiro Sugita
- Laboratory for Future Interdisciplinary Research of Science and Technology (FIRST), Institute of Innovative Research (IIR), Tokyo Institute of Technology, 4259 Nagatsuta-cho, Midori-ku, Yokohama 226-8501, Japan
| | - Tadahiko Shinshi
- Laboratory for Future Interdisciplinary Research of Science and Technology (FIRST), Institute of Innovative Research (IIR), Tokyo Institute of Technology, 4259 Nagatsuta-cho, Midori-ku, Yokohama 226-8501, Japan
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Nwokoye PN, Abilez OJ. Bioengineering methods for vascularizing organoids. CELL REPORTS METHODS 2024; 4:100779. [PMID: 38759654 PMCID: PMC11228284 DOI: 10.1016/j.crmeth.2024.100779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024]
Abstract
Organoids, self-organizing three-dimensional (3D) structures derived from stem cells, offer unique advantages for studying organ development, modeling diseases, and screening potential therapeutics. However, their translational potential and ability to mimic complex in vivo functions are often hindered by the lack of an integrated vascular network. To address this critical limitation, bioengineering strategies are rapidly advancing to enable efficient vascularization of organoids. These methods encompass co-culturing organoids with various vascular cell types, co-culturing lineage-specific organoids with vascular organoids, co-differentiating stem cells into organ-specific and vascular lineages, using organoid-on-a-chip technology to integrate perfusable vasculature within organoids, and using 3D bioprinting to also create perfusable organoids. This review explores the field of organoid vascularization, examining the biological principles that inform bioengineering approaches. Additionally, this review envisions how the converging disciplines of stem cell biology, biomaterials, and advanced fabrication technologies will propel the creation of increasingly sophisticated organoid models, ultimately accelerating biomedical discoveries and innovations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter N Nwokoye
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Oscar J Abilez
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Division of Pediatric CT Surgery, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Maternal and Child Health Research Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Bio-X Program, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
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Nwokoye PN, Abilez OJ. Blood vessels in a dish: the evolution, challenges, and potential of vascularized tissues and organoids. Front Cardiovasc Med 2024; 11:1336910. [PMID: 38938652 PMCID: PMC11210405 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2024.1336910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Vascular pathologies are prevalent in a broad spectrum of diseases, necessitating a deeper understanding of vascular biology, particularly in overcoming the oxygen and nutrient diffusion limit in tissue constructs. The evolution of vascularized tissues signifies a convergence of multiple scientific disciplines, encompassing the differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) into vascular cells, the development of advanced three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting techniques, and the refinement of bioinks. These technologies are instrumental in creating intricate vascular networks essential for tissue viability, especially in thick, complex constructs. This review provides broad perspectives on the past, current state, and advancements in key areas, including the differentiation of hPSCs into specific vascular lineages, the potential and challenges of 3D bioprinting methods, and the role of innovative bioinks mimicking the native extracellular matrix. We also explore the integration of biophysical cues in vascularized tissues in vitro, highlighting their importance in stimulating vessel maturation and functionality. In this review, we aim to synthesize these diverse yet interconnected domains, offering a broad, multidisciplinary perspective on tissue vascularization. Advancements in this field will help address the global organ shortage and transform patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter N. Nwokoye
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Oscar J. Abilez
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States
- Division of Pediatric CT Surgery, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States
- Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States
- Maternal and Child Health Research Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States
- Bio-X Program, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States
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Schneider B, Kopf KW, Mason E, Dawson M, Coronado Escobar D, Majka SM. Microcomputed tomography visualization and quantitation of the pulmonary arterial microvascular tree in mouse models of chronic lung disease. Pulm Circ 2023; 13:e12279. [PMID: 37645586 PMCID: PMC10461042 DOI: 10.1002/pul2.12279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary vascular dysfunction is characterized by remodeling and loss of microvessels in the lung and is a major manifestation of chronic lung diseases (CLD). In murine models of CLD, the small arterioles and capillaries are the first and most prevalent vessels that are affected by pruning and remodeling. Thus, visualization of the pulmonary arterial vasculature in three dimensions is essential to define pruning and remodeling both temporally and spatially and its role in the pathogenesis of CLD, aging, and tissue repair. To this end, we have developed a novel method to visualize and quantitate the murine pulmonary arterial circulation using microcomputed tomography (µCT) imaging. Using this perfusion technique, we can quantitate microvessels to approximately 6 µM in diameter. We hypothesize that bleomycin-induced injury would have a significant impact on the arterial vascular structure. As proof of principle, we demonstrated that as a result of bleomycin-induced injury at peak fibrosis, significant alterations in arterial vessel structure were visible in the three-dimensional models as well as quantification. Thus, we have successfully developed a perfusion methodology and complementary analysis techniques, which allows for the reconstruction, visualization, and quantitation of the mouse pulmonary arterial microvasculature in three-dimensions. This tool will further support the examination and understanding of angiogenesis during the development of CLD as well as repair following injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben Schneider
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care & Sleep MedicineNational Jewish HealthDenverColoradoUSA
| | - Katrina W. Kopf
- Biological Resource CenterNational Jewish HealthDenverColoradoUSA
| | - Emma Mason
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care & Sleep MedicineNational Jewish HealthDenverColoradoUSA
| | - Maggie Dawson
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care & Sleep MedicineNational Jewish HealthDenverColoradoUSA
| | | | - Susan M. Majka
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care & Sleep MedicineNational Jewish HealthDenverColoradoUSA
- Gates Center for Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell BiologyUniversity of ColoradoAuroraColoradoUSA
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Nurrachman AS, Azhari A, Epsilawati L, Pramanik F. Temporal Pattern of micro-CT Angiography Vascular Parameters and VEGF mRNA Expression in Fracture Healing: a Radiograph and Molecular Comparison. Eur J Dent 2023. [PMID: 36716788 DOI: 10.1055/s-0042-1757466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Angiogenesis plays an important role in fracture healing with vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) as the main protein involved. Micro-computed tomography (CT) angiography may be used to analyze this revascularization with several parameters such as number of branches, total volume, and diameter. This systematic review is aimed to assess available studies on the temporal pattern of vascular imaging on micro-CT angiographs, especially in terms of the number of branches, total volume, and diameter as well as the temporal pattern of VEGF mRNA expression as the molecular comparison during bone fracture healing. This review was conducted according to the PRISMA guidelines. Electronic database searches were performed using PubMed, ProQuest, ScienceDirect, EBSCOhost, Taylor & Francis Online, and hand searching. The search strategy and keywords were adjusted to each database using the Boolean operators and other available limit functions to identify most relevant articles based on our inclusion and exclusion criteria. Screening and filtration were done in several stages by removing the duplicates and analyzing each title, abstract, and full-text in all included entries. Data extraction was done for syntheses to summarize the temporal pattern of each parameter. A total of 28 articles were eligible and met all criteria, 11 articles were synthesized in its angiograph's analysis, 16 articles were synthesized in its VEGF mRNA expression analysis, and 1 article had both parameters analyzed. The overall temporal pattern of both three micro-CT angiographic parameters and VEGF mRNA expression was in line qualitatively. The number of branches, total volume, and diameter of the blood vessels in micro-CT angiography showed an exponential rise at week 2 and decline at week 3 of fracture healing, with the VEGF mRNA expression concurrently showing a consistent pattern in the phase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aga Satria Nurrachman
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology, Faculty of Dental Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia
| | - Azhari Azhari
- Department of Dentomaxillofacial Radiology, Faculty of Dentistry, Padjadjaran University, Bandung, West Java, Indonesia
| | - Lusi Epsilawati
- Department of Dentomaxillofacial Radiology, Faculty of Dentistry, Padjadjaran University, Bandung, West Java, Indonesia
| | - Farina Pramanik
- Department of Dentomaxillofacial Radiology, Faculty of Dentistry, Padjadjaran University, Bandung, West Java, Indonesia
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McCall JR, Santibanez F, Belgharbi H, Pinton GF, Dayton PA. Non-invasive transcranial volumetric ultrasound localization microscopy of the rat brain with continuous, high volume-rate acquisition. Theranostics 2023; 13:1235-1246. [PMID: 36923540 PMCID: PMC10008741 DOI: 10.7150/thno.79189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Rationale: Structure and function of the microvasculature provides critical information about disease state, can be used to identify local regions of pathology, and has been shown to be an indicator of response to therapy. Improved methods of assessing the microvasculature with non-invasive imaging modalities such as ultrasound will have an impact in biomedical theranostics. Ultrasound localization microscopy (ULM) is a new technology which allows processing of ultrasound data for visualization of microvasculature at a resolution better than allowed by acoustic diffraction with traditional ultrasound systems. Previous application of this modality in brain imaging has required the use of invasive procedures, such as a craniotomy, skull-thinning, or scalp removal, all of which are not feasible for the purpose of longitudinal studies. Methods: The impact of ultrasound localization microscopy is expanded using a 1024 channel matrix array ultrasonic transducer, four synchronized programmable ultrasound systems with customized high-performance hardware and software, and high-performance GPUs for processing. The potential of the imaging hardware and processing approaches are demonstrated in-vivo. Results: Our unique implementation allows asynchronous acquisition and data transfer for uninterrupted data collection at an ultra-high fixed frame rate. Using these methods, the vasculature was imaged using 100,000 volumes continuously at a volume acquisition rate of 500 volumes per second. With ULM, we achieved a resolution of 31 µm, which is a resolution improvement on conventional ultrasound imaging by nearly a factor of ten, in 3-D. This was accomplished while imaging through the intact skull with no scalp removal, which demonstrates the utility of this method for longitudinal studies. Conclusions: The results demonstrate new capabilities to rapidly image and analyze complex vascular networks in 3-D volume space for structural and functional imaging in disease assessment, targeted therapeutic delivery, monitoring response to therapy, and other theranostic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob R McCall
- The Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, UNC Chapel Hill and NC State University.,Electrical and Computer Engineering, NC State University
| | - Francisco Santibanez
- The Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, UNC Chapel Hill and NC State University
| | - Hatim Belgharbi
- The Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, UNC Chapel Hill and NC State University
| | - Gianmarco F Pinton
- The Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, UNC Chapel Hill and NC State University
| | - Paul A Dayton
- The Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, UNC Chapel Hill and NC State University
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Farto-Vaamonde X, Diaz-Gomez L, Parga A, Otero A, Concheiro A, Alvarez-Lorenzo C. Perimeter and carvacrol-loading regulate angiogenesis and biofilm growth in 3D printed PLA scaffolds. J Control Release 2022; 352:776-792. [PMID: 36336096 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2022.10.060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Revised: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Carvacrol is a natural low-cost compound derived from oregano which presents anti-bacterial properties against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. In this work, carvacrol-loaded PLA scaffolds were fabricated by 3D printing as platforms to support bone tissue regeneration while preventing biofilm development. Scaffolds were printed with or without a perimeter (lateral wall) mimicking the cortical structure of bone tissue to further evaluate if the lateral interconnectivity could affect the biological or antimicrobial properties of the scaffolds. Carvacrol incorporation was performed by loading either the PLA filament prior to 3D printing or the already printed PLA scaffold. The loading method determined carvacrol localization in the scaffolds and its release profile. Biphasic profiles were recorded in all cases, but scaffolds loaded post-printed released carvacrol much faster, with 50-80% released in the first day, compared to those containing carvacrol in PLA filament before printing which sustained the release for several weeks. The presence or absence of the perimeter did not affect the release rate, but total amount released. Tissue integration and vascularization of carvacrol-loaded scaffolds were evaluated in a chorioallantoic membrane model (CAM) using a novel quantitative micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) analysis approach. The obtained results confirmed the CAM tissue ingrowth and new vessel formation within the porous structure of the scaffolds after 7 days of incubation, without leading to hemorrhagic or cytotoxic effects. The absence of lateral wall facilitated lateral integration of the scaffolds in the host tissue, although increased the anisotropy of the mechanical properties. Scaffolds loaded with carvacrol post-printing showed antibiofilm activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa as observed in a decrease in CFU counting after biofilm detachment, changes in metabolic heat measured by calorimetry, and increased contact killing efficiency. In summary, this work demonstrated the feasibility of tuning carvacrol release rate and the amount released from PLA scaffolds to achieve antibiofilm protection without altering angiogenesis, which was mostly dependent on the perimeter density of the scaffolds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xián Farto-Vaamonde
- Departamento de Farmacología, Farmacia y Tecnología Farmacéutica, I+D Farma Group (GI-1645), Facultad de Farmacia, Instituto de Materiales (iMATUS), and Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Luis Diaz-Gomez
- Departamento de Farmacología, Farmacia y Tecnología Farmacéutica, I+D Farma Group (GI-1645), Facultad de Farmacia, Instituto de Materiales (iMATUS), and Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Ana Parga
- Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Facultad de Biología, Edificio CiBUS, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Ana Otero
- Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Facultad de Biología, Edificio CiBUS, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Angel Concheiro
- Departamento de Farmacología, Farmacia y Tecnología Farmacéutica, I+D Farma Group (GI-1645), Facultad de Farmacia, Instituto de Materiales (iMATUS), and Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Carmen Alvarez-Lorenzo
- Departamento de Farmacología, Farmacia y Tecnología Farmacéutica, I+D Farma Group (GI-1645), Facultad de Farmacia, Instituto de Materiales (iMATUS), and Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain.
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Popova E, Tkachev S, Reshetov I, Timashev P, Ulasov I. Imaging Hallmarks of Sarcoma Progression Via X-ray Computed Tomography: Beholding the Flower of Evil. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14205112. [PMID: 36291896 PMCID: PMC9600487 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14205112] [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: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Sarcomas represent the largest group of rare solid tumors that arise from mesenchymal stem cells and are a leading cause of cancer death in individuals younger than 20 years of age. There is an immediate need for the development of an algorithm for the early accurate diagnosis of sarcomas due to the high rate of diagnostic inaccuracy, which reaches up to 30%. X-ray computed tomography is a non-invasive imaging technique used to obtain detailed internal images of the human or animal body in clinical practice and preclinical studies. We summarized the main imaging features of soft tissue and bone sarcomas, and noted the development of new molecular markers to reach tumor type-specific imaging. Also, we demonstrated the possibility of the use X-ray computed microtomography for non-destructive 3D visualization of sarcoma progression in preclinical studies. Finding correlations between X-ray computed tomography modalities and the results of the histopathological specimen examination may significantly increase the accuracy of diagnostics, which leads to the initiation of appropriate management in a timely manner and, consequently, to improved outcomes. Abstract Sarcomas are a leading cause of cancer death in individuals younger than 20 years of age and represent the largest group of rare solid tumors. To date, more than 100 morphological subtypes of sarcomas have been described, among which epidemiology, clinical features, management, and prognosis differ significantly. Delays and errors in the diagnosis of sarcomas limit the number of effective therapeutic modalities and catastrophically worsen the prognosis. Therefore, the development of an algorithm for the early accurate diagnosis of sarcomas seems to be as important as the development of novel therapeutic advances. This literature review aims to summarize the results of recent investigations regarding the imaging of sarcoma progression based on the use of X-ray computed tomography (CT) in preclinical studies and in current clinical practice through the lens of cancer hallmarks. We attempted to summarize the main CT imaging features of soft-tissue and bone sarcomas. We noted the development of new molecular markers with high specificity to antibodies and chemokines, which are expressed in particular sarcoma subtypes to reach tumor type-specific imaging. We demonstrate the possibility of the use of X-ray computed microtomography (micro-CT) for non-destructive 3D visualization of solid tumors by increasing the visibility of soft tissues with X-ray scattering agents. Based on the results of recent studies, we hypothesize that micro-CT enables the visualization of neovascularization and stroma formation in sarcomas at high-resolution in vivo and ex vivo, including the novel techniques of whole-block and whole-tissue imaging. Finding correlations between CT, PET/CT, and micro-CT imaging features, the results of the histopathological specimen examination and clinical outcomes may significantly increase the accuracy of soft-tissue and bone tumor diagnostics, which leads to the initiation of appropriate histotype-specific management in a timely manner and, consequently, to improved outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Popova
- World-Class Research Centre “Digital Biodesign and Personalized Healthcare”, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - Sergey Tkachev
- World-Class Research Centre “Digital Biodesign and Personalized Healthcare”, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - Igor Reshetov
- University Clinical Hospital No. 1, I. M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation (Sechenov University), 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - Peter Timashev
- World-Class Research Centre “Digital Biodesign and Personalized Healthcare”, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - Ilya Ulasov
- Group of Experimental Biotherapy and Diagnostic, Institute for Regenerative Medicine, World-Class Research Centre “Digital Biodesign and Personalized Healthcare”, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), 119991 Moscow, Russia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +7-901-797-5406
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El-Gendy SAA, Kamal BM, Alsafy MAM. 3D render volume CT reconstruction of the bones and arteries of the hind digit of the dromedary camel (Camelus dromedarius). BMC ZOOL 2022; 7:49. [PMID: 37170168 PMCID: PMC10127028 DOI: 10.1186/s40850-022-00151-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
The 3D computed tomography produces detailed images of the digit bones in addition to the angiograph render volume 3D of the CT shows the relation between the arteries, bones, and tissues of the digit. Therefore, the present study used those imaging techniques to provide a complete description of the digit bones and arteries’ origin, distribution, and course and their relations with surrounding structures in the Dromedary Camel. Which would serve as a guide for surgeons and students in distinguishing normal digit structures. The study used eight hind limbs of four adult camels of both sexes (two males and two females), aged 9–15 years (Mean ± SD, 11.80 ± 2.59 years). The samples were injected with latex with lead oxide were undergone 3D render volume CT (128-slice multi-detector CT scanning protocol) and angiography x-rays.
Results
The blood vessels and correlated structures such as bones, tendons, and ligaments were examined using 3D CT in all directions, which was easier to view than angiography and dissected specimens. The arterial supply to the camel’s hind foot was the A. digitalis plantaris communis III. The angiography render volume 3D of CT explained the blood supply of the bones and joints of digital regions and showed a good visualization of the many digit arteries. The metatarsals, the phalanges, and the sesamoid bones were visualized. A. plantaris medialis superficialis, A. digitalis plantaris communis III, A. digitalis plantaris communis II and IV, A. interdigitalis, rami articularis medialis and lateralis to the fetlock joint, ramus medialis and ramus lateralis of the A. digitalis plantaris communis III, A. digitalis plantaris propriae III et IV abaxialis, A. digitalis plantaris propriae III et IV axialis, Ramus phalangis axialis and abaxialis of the first phalanx, Ramus phalangis axialis and abaxialis of the second and third phalanges, and A. metatarsae plantaris III were visualized. The study discovered new blood vessel sources in dromedary camels, such as the ramus articularis to the fetlock and the ramus plantaris phalangis abaxialis proximalis and distalis of the first phalanx.
Conclusions
The digital circulation angiography investigates the circulatory pattern of the camel hind digit, which can assist clinicians in diagnosing digit region affections. 3D CT explained improved visualization of bones and arteries, including many small branches in relation to surrounding structures, in some views better than others.
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Wang X, Chan V, Corridon PR. Decellularized blood vessel development: Current state-of-the-art and future directions. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:951644. [PMID: 36003539 PMCID: PMC9394443 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.951644] [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: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Vascular diseases contribute to intensive and irreversible damage, and current treatments include medications, rehabilitation, and surgical interventions. Often, these diseases require some form of vascular replacement therapy (VRT) to help patients overcome life-threatening conditions and traumatic injuries annually. Current VRTs rely on harvesting blood vessels from various regions of the body like the arms, legs, chest, and abdomen. However, these procedures also produce further complications like donor site morbidity. Such common comorbidities may lead to substantial pain, infections, decreased function, and additional reconstructive or cosmetic surgeries. Vascular tissue engineering technology promises to reduce or eliminate these issues, and the existing state-of-the-art approach is based on synthetic or natural polymer tubes aiming to mimic various types of blood vessel. Burgeoning decellularization techniques are considered as the most viable tissue engineering strategy to fill these gaps. This review discusses various approaches and the mechanisms behind decellularization techniques and outlines a simplified model for a replacement vascular unit. The current state-of-the-art method used to create decellularized vessel segments is identified. Also, perspectives on future directions to engineer small- (inner diameter >1 mm and <6 mm) to large-caliber (inner diameter >6 mm) vessel substitutes are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyu Wang
- Biomedical Engineering and Healthcare Engineering Innovation Center, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Immunology and Physiology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Vincent Chan
- Biomedical Engineering and Healthcare Engineering Innovation Center, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Peter R Corridon
- Department of Immunology and Physiology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Center for Biotechnology, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
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12
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O’Connor C, Brady E, Zheng Y, Moore E, Stevens KR. Engineering the multiscale complexity of vascular networks. NATURE REVIEWS. MATERIALS 2022; 7:702-716. [PMID: 35669037 PMCID: PMC9154041 DOI: 10.1038/s41578-022-00447-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
The survival of vertebrate organisms depends on highly regulated delivery of oxygen and nutrients through vascular networks that pervade nearly all tissues in the body. Dysregulation of these vascular networks is implicated in many common human diseases such as hypertension, coronary artery disease, diabetes and cancer. Therefore, engineers have sought to create vascular networks within engineered tissues for applications such as regenerative therapies, human disease modelling and pharmacological testing. Yet engineering vascular networks has historically remained difficult, owing to both incomplete understanding of vascular structure and technical limitations for vascular fabrication. This Review highlights the materials advances that have enabled transformative progress in vascular engineering by ushering in new tools for both visualizing and building vasculature. New methods such as bioprinting, organoids and microfluidic systems are discussed, which have enabled the fabrication of 3D vascular topologies at a cellular scale with lumen perfusion. These approaches to vascular engineering are categorized into technology-driven and nature-driven approaches. Finally, the remaining knowledge gaps, emerging frontiers and opportunities for this field are highlighted, including the steps required to replicate the multiscale complexity of vascular networks found in nature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colleen O’Connor
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA USA
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Seattle, WA USA
| | - Eileen Brady
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Seattle, WA USA
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA USA
| | - Ying Zheng
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA USA
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Seattle, WA USA
- Center for Cardiovascular Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA USA
| | - Erika Moore
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL USA
| | - Kelly R. Stevens
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA USA
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Seattle, WA USA
- Center for Cardiovascular Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA USA
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA USA
- Brotman Baty Institute, Seattle, WA USA
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13
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Dong LB, Wei YZ, Lan GP, Chen JT, Xu JJ, Qin J, An L, Tan HS, Huang YP. High resolution imaging and quantification of the nailfold microvasculature using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) and capillaroscopy: a preliminary study in healthy subjects. Quant Imaging Med Surg 2022; 12:1844-1858. [PMID: 35284284 PMCID: PMC8899956 DOI: 10.21037/qims-21-672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A wide range of diseases, such as systemic sclerosis, can be diagnosed by imaging the nailfold microcirculation, which is conventionally performed using capillaroscopy. This study applied optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) as a novel high resolution imaging method for the qualitative and quantitative assessment of the nailfold microvasculature, and compared OCTA imaging with capillaroscopy. METHODS For qualitative assessment, high resolution OCTA imaging was used to achieve images that contained a wide field of view of the nailfold microvasculature through mosaic scanning. OCTA imaging was also used to observe the characteristic changes in the microvasculature under external compression of the upper arm. For quantitative evaluation, the capillary density and the capillary diameter of the nailfold microvasculature were assessed with both OCTA and capillaroscopy by repeated measurements over 2 days in 13 normal subjects. The results were analyzed using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). RESULTS OCTA imaging showed the typical nailfold microvasculature pattern, part of which was not directly seen with the capillaroscopy. OCTA imaging revealed significant changes in the nailfold microvasculature when a large external pressure was applied via arm compression, but no significant changes were observed using capillaroscopy. The capillary density measured by OCTA and capillaroscopy was 6.8±1.5 and 7.0±1.2 loops/mm, respectively, which was not significantly different (P=0.51). However, the capillary diameter measured by OCTA was significantly larger than that measured using capillaroscopy (19.1±2.5 vs. 13.3±2.3 µm, P<0.001). The capillary diameter measurements using OCTA and capillaroscopy were highly reproducible (ICC =0.926 and 0.973, respectively). While the capillary diameter measured with OCTA was significantly larger, it was rather consistent with the diameter measured using capillaroscopy (ICC =0.705). CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrated that OCTA is a potentially viable and reproducible tool for the imaging and quantification of the capillaries in the nailfold microvasculature. The results of this study provide a solid basis for future applications of OCTA in qualitative and quantitative assessment of nailfold microcirculation in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Bin Dong
- School of Mechatronic Engineering and Automation, Foshan University, Foshan, China
| | - Ying-Zhao Wei
- School of Mechatronic Engineering and Automation, Foshan University, Foshan, China
| | - Gong-Pu Lan
- School of Physics and Optoelectronic Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, China
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory for Intelligent Micro-Nano Optoelectronic Technology, Foshan University, Foshan, China
- Innovation and Entrepreneurship Teams Project of Guangdong Pearl River Talents Program, Guangdong Weiren Meditech Co., Ltd., Foshan, China
| | - Jia-Tao Chen
- School of Mechatronic Engineering and Automation, Foshan University, Foshan, China
| | - Jing-Jiang Xu
- School of Physics and Optoelectronic Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, China
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory for Intelligent Micro-Nano Optoelectronic Technology, Foshan University, Foshan, China
- Innovation and Entrepreneurship Teams Project of Guangdong Pearl River Talents Program, Guangdong Weiren Meditech Co., Ltd., Foshan, China
| | - Jia Qin
- School of Physics and Optoelectronic Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, China
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory for Intelligent Micro-Nano Optoelectronic Technology, Foshan University, Foshan, China
- Innovation and Entrepreneurship Teams Project of Guangdong Pearl River Talents Program, Guangdong Weiren Meditech Co., Ltd., Foshan, China
| | - Lin An
- School of Physics and Optoelectronic Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, China
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory for Intelligent Micro-Nano Optoelectronic Technology, Foshan University, Foshan, China
- Innovation and Entrepreneurship Teams Project of Guangdong Pearl River Talents Program, Guangdong Weiren Meditech Co., Ltd., Foshan, China
| | - Hai-Shu Tan
- School of Physics and Optoelectronic Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, China
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory for Intelligent Micro-Nano Optoelectronic Technology, Foshan University, Foshan, China
| | - Yan-Ping Huang
- School of Physics and Optoelectronic Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, China
- Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory for Intelligent Micro-Nano Optoelectronic Technology, Foshan University, Foshan, China
- Innovation and Entrepreneurship Teams Project of Guangdong Pearl River Talents Program, Guangdong Weiren Meditech Co., Ltd., Foshan, China
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14
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Kader M, Weyer C, Avila A, Stealey S, Sell S, Zustiak SP, Buckner S, McBride-Gagyi S, Jelliss PA. Synthesis and Characterization of BaSO4-CaCO3-Alginate Nanocomposite Materials as Contrast Agents for Fine Vascular Imaging. ACS MATERIALS AU 2022; 2:260-268. [PMID: 36855388 PMCID: PMC9888639 DOI: 10.1021/acsmaterialsau.1c00070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Microcomputed tomography is an important technique for distinguishing the vascular network from tissues with similar X-ray attenuation. Here, we describe a composite of barium sulfate (BaSO4) nanoparticles, calcium carbonate (CaCO3) nanoparticles, and alginate that provides improved performance over microscale BaSO4 particles, which are currently used clinically as X-ray contrast agents. BaSO4 and CaCO3 nanoparticles were synthesized using a polyol method with tetraethylene glycol as solvent and capping agent. The nanoparticles show good colloidal stability in aqueous solutions. A deliverable nanocomposite gel contrast agent was produced by encapsulation of the BaSO4 and CaCO3 nanoparticles in an alginate gel matrix. The gelation time was controlled by addition of d-(+)-gluconic acid δ-lactone, which controls the rate of dissolution of the CaCO3 nanoparticles that produce Ca2+ which cross-links the gel. Rapid cross-linking of the gel by Ba2+ was minimized by producing BaSO4 nanoparticles with an excess of surface sulfate. The resulting BaSO4-CaCO3 nanoparticle alginate gel mechanical properties were characterized, including the gel storage modulus, peak stress and elastic modulus, and radiodensity. The resulting nanocomposite has good viscosity control and good final gel stiffness. The nanocomposite has gelation times between 30 and 35 min, adequate for full body perfusion. This is the first nanoscale composite of a radiopaque metal salt to be developed in combination with an alginate hydrogel and designed for medical perfusion and vascular imaging applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad
S. Kader
- Department
of Chemistry, Saint Louis University, 3501 Laclede Avenue, St. Louis, Missouri 63103, United States
| | - Conner Weyer
- Department
of Chemistry, Saint Louis University, 3501 Laclede Avenue, St. Louis, Missouri 63103, United States
| | - Abigail Avila
- Department
of Biomedical Engineering, Parks College of Engineering, Aviation
and Technology, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, Missouri 63103, United States
| | - Samuel Stealey
- Department
of Biomedical Engineering, Parks College of Engineering, Aviation
and Technology, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, Missouri 63103, United States
| | - Scott Sell
- Department
of Biomedical Engineering, Parks College of Engineering, Aviation
and Technology, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, Missouri 63103, United States
| | - Silviya P. Zustiak
- Department
of Biomedical Engineering, Parks College of Engineering, Aviation
and Technology, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, Missouri 63103, United States
| | - Steven Buckner
- Department
of Chemistry, Saint Louis University, 3501 Laclede Avenue, St. Louis, Missouri 63103, United States,
| | - Sara McBride-Gagyi
- Department
of Orthopaedic Surgery, Saint Louis University
School of Medicine, 1402
South Grand, St. Louis, Missouri 63110, United States,
| | - Paul A. Jelliss
- Department
of Chemistry, Saint Louis University, 3501 Laclede Avenue, St. Louis, Missouri 63103, United States,
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15
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Redenski I, Guo S, Machour M, Szklanny A, Landau S, Egozi D, Gabet Y, Levenberg S. Microcomputed Tomography-Based Analysis of Neovascularization within Bioengineered Vascularized Tissues. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2022; 8:232-241. [PMID: 34905338 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.1c01401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
In the field of tissue engineering, evaluating newly formed vascular networks is considered a fundamental step in deciphering the processes underlying tissue development. Several common modalities exist to study vessel network formation and function. However, a proper methodology that allows through three-dimensional visualization of neovessels in a reproducible manner is required. Here, we describe in-depth exploration, visualization, and analysis of vessels within newly formed tissues by utilizing a contrast agent perfusion protocol and high-resolution microcomputed tomography. Bioengineered constructs consisting of porous, biocompatible, and biodegradable scaffolds are loaded with cocultures of adipose-derived microvascular endothelial cells (HAMECs) and dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) and implanted in a rat femoral bundle model. After 14 days of in vivo maturation, we performed the optimized perfusion protocol to allow host penetrating vascular visualization and assessment within neotissues. Following high-resolution microCT scanning of DPSC:HAMEC explants, we performed the volumetric and spatial analysis of neovasculature. Eventually, the process was repeated with a previously published coculture system for prevascularization based on adipose-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) and HAMECs. Overall, our approach allows a comprehensive understanding of vessel organization during engraftment and development of neotissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Idan Redenski
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Technion─Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 3200003, Israel
| | - Shaowei Guo
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Technion─Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 3200003, Israel
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515000, China
| | - Majd Machour
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Technion─Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 3200003, Israel
| | - Ariel Szklanny
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Technion─Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 3200003, Israel
| | - Shira Landau
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Technion─Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 3200003, Israel
| | - Dana Egozi
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Kaplan Hospital, Rehovot and the Hebrew University, Jerusalem 9190401, Israel
| | - Yankel Gabet
- Department of Anatomy and Anthropology, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv 6997801, Israel
| | - Shulamit Levenberg
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Technion─Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 3200003, Israel
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16
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Gama Sosa MA, De Gasperi R, Pryor D, Perez Garcia GS, Perez GM, Abutarboush R, Kawoos U, Hogg S, Ache B, Janssen WG, Sowa A, Tetreault T, Cook DG, Tappan SJ, Gandy S, Hof PR, Ahlers ST, Elder GA. Low-level blast exposure induces chronic vascular remodeling, perivascular astrocytic degeneration and vascular-associated neuroinflammation. Acta Neuropathol Commun 2021; 9:167. [PMID: 34654480 PMCID: PMC8518227 DOI: 10.1186/s40478-021-01269-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Cerebral vascular injury as a consequence of blast-induced traumatic brain injury is primarily the result of blast wave-induced mechanical disruptions within the neurovascular unit. In rodent models of blast-induced traumatic brain injury, chronic vascular degenerative processes are associated with the development of an age-dependent post-traumatic stress disorder-like phenotype. To investigate the evolution of blast-induced chronic vascular degenerative changes, Long-Evans rats were blast-exposed (3 × 74.5 kPa) and their brains analyzed at different times post-exposure by X-ray microcomputed tomography, immunohistochemistry and electron microscopy. On microcomputed tomography scans, regional cerebral vascular attenuation or occlusion was observed as early as 48 h post-blast, and cerebral vascular disorganization was visible at 6 weeks and more accentuated at 13 months post-blast. Progression of the late-onset pathology was characterized by detachment of the endothelial and smooth muscle cellular elements from the neuropil due to degeneration and loss of arteriolar perivascular astrocytes. Development of this pathology was associated with vascular remodeling and neuroinflammation as increased levels of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-2 and MMP-9), collagen type IV loss, and microglial activation were observed in the affected vasculature. Blast-induced chronic alterations within the neurovascular unit should affect cerebral blood circulation, glymphatic flow and intramural periarterial drainage, all of which may contribute to development of the blast-induced behavioral phenotype. Our results also identify astrocytic degeneration as a potential target for the development of therapies to treat blast-induced brain injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel A Gama Sosa
- General Medical Research Service, James J. Peters Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 130 West Kingsbridge Road, Bronx, NY, 10468, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, One Gustave Levy Place, New York, NY, 10029, USA.
- Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA.
| | - Rita De Gasperi
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, One Gustave Levy Place, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Research and Development Service, James J. Peters Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 130 West Kingsbridge Road, Bronx, NY, 10468, USA
| | - Dylan Pryor
- Research and Development Service, James J. Peters Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 130 West Kingsbridge Road, Bronx, NY, 10468, USA
| | - Georgina S Perez Garcia
- Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Research and Development Service, James J. Peters Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 130 West Kingsbridge Road, Bronx, NY, 10468, USA
- Department of Neurology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, One Gustave Levy Place, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Gissel M Perez
- Research and Development Service, James J. Peters Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 130 West Kingsbridge Road, Bronx, NY, 10468, USA
| | - Rania Abutarboush
- Department of Neurotrauma, Operational and Undersea Medicine Directorate, Naval Medical Research Center, 503 Robert Grant Avenue, Silver Spring, MD, 20910, USA
- The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine Inc, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Usmah Kawoos
- Department of Neurotrauma, Operational and Undersea Medicine Directorate, Naval Medical Research Center, 503 Robert Grant Avenue, Silver Spring, MD, 20910, USA
- The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine Inc, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Seth Hogg
- Micro Photonics, Inc, 1550 Pond Road, Suite 110, Allentown, PA, 18104, USA
| | - Benjamin Ache
- Micro Photonics, Inc, 1550 Pond Road, Suite 110, Allentown, PA, 18104, USA
| | - William G Janssen
- Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Allison Sowa
- Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | | | - David G Cook
- Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, 1660 S Columbian Way, Seattle, WA, 98108, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, 1959 NE Pacific St, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
| | - Susan J Tappan
- MBF Bioscience LLC, 185 Allen Brook Lane, Williston, VT, 05495, USA
| | - Sam Gandy
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, One Gustave Levy Place, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Research and Development Service, James J. Peters Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 130 West Kingsbridge Road, Bronx, NY, 10468, USA
- Department of Neurology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, One Gustave Levy Place, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Mount Sinai Alzheimer's Disease Research Center and the Ronald M. Loeb Center for Alzheimer's Disease, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- NFL Neurological Care Center, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Patrick R Hof
- Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Mount Sinai Alzheimer's Disease Research Center and the Ronald M. Loeb Center for Alzheimer's Disease, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Department of Geriatrics and Palliative Care, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Stephen T Ahlers
- Department of Neurotrauma, Operational and Undersea Medicine Directorate, Naval Medical Research Center, 503 Robert Grant Avenue, Silver Spring, MD, 20910, USA
| | - Gregory A Elder
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, One Gustave Levy Place, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Department of Neurology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, One Gustave Levy Place, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Mount Sinai Alzheimer's Disease Research Center and the Ronald M. Loeb Center for Alzheimer's Disease, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Neurology Service, James J. Peters Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 130 West Kingsbridge Road, Bronx, NY, 10468, USA
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17
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Wälchli T, Bisschop J, Miettinen A, Ulmann-Schuler A, Hintermüller C, Meyer EP, Krucker T, Wälchli R, Monnier PP, Carmeliet P, Vogel J, Stampanoni M. Hierarchical imaging and computational analysis of three-dimensional vascular network architecture in the entire postnatal and adult mouse brain. Nat Protoc 2021; 16:4564-4610. [PMID: 34480130 DOI: 10.1038/s41596-021-00587-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2020] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The formation of new blood vessels and the establishment of vascular networks are crucial during brain development, in the adult healthy brain, as well as in various diseases of the central nervous system. Here, we describe a step-by-step protocol for our recently developed method that enables hierarchical imaging and computational analysis of vascular networks in postnatal and adult mouse brains. The different stages of the procedure include resin-based vascular corrosion casting, scanning electron microscopy, synchrotron radiation and desktop microcomputed tomography imaging, and computational network analysis. Combining these methods enables detailed visualization and quantification of the 3D brain vasculature. Network features such as vascular volume fraction, branch point density, vessel diameter, length, tortuosity and directionality as well as extravascular distance can be obtained at any developmental stage from the early postnatal to the adult brain. This approach can be used to provide a detailed morphological atlas of the entire mouse brain vasculature at both the postnatal and the adult stage of development. Our protocol allows the characterization of brain vascular networks separately for capillaries and noncapillaries. The entire protocol, from mouse perfusion to vessel network analysis, takes ~10 d.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Wälchli
- Group of CNS Angiogenesis and Neurovascular Link, Neuroscience Center Zurich, and Division of Neurosurgery, University and University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
- Division of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
- Group Brain Vasculature and Perivascular Niche, Division of Experimental and Translational Neuroscience, Krembil Brain Institute, Krembil Research Institute, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, Toronto Western Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Jeroen Bisschop
- Group of CNS Angiogenesis and Neurovascular Link, Neuroscience Center Zurich, and Division of Neurosurgery, University and University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Division of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Group Brain Vasculature and Perivascular Niche, Division of Experimental and Translational Neuroscience, Krembil Brain Institute, Krembil Research Institute, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, Toronto Western Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Arttu Miettinen
- Swiss Light Source, Paul Scherrer Institute, Villigen, Switzerland
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering, University and ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Department of Physics, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | | | | | - Eric P Meyer
- Institute of Molecular Life Sciences, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Krucker
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research Inc, Emeryville, CA, USA
| | - Regula Wälchli
- Department of Dermatology, Pediatric Skin Center, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Philippe P Monnier
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Krembil Research Institute, Vision Division, Krembil Discovery Tower, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Peter Carmeliet
- Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, VIB Center for Cancer Biology, VIB, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Johannes Vogel
- Institute of Veterinary Physiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Marco Stampanoni
- Swiss Light Source, Paul Scherrer Institute, Villigen, Switzerland
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering, University and ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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18
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Comparison of Vascular Morphometry in Jawbones and Long Bones: Micro-CT Study in a Rat Model Treated with Zoledronic Acid. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 2021:6651318. [PMID: 34055992 PMCID: PMC8133839 DOI: 10.1155/2021/6651318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2020] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The study was aimed at investigating the effect of zoledronic acid on vascular morphometry in jawbones and long bones on a rat model. Twenty-four skeletal mature Sprague-Dawley female rats were administered oncologic dose of zoledronic acid (ZA) or normal saline for 4 weeks and then subjected to tooth extraction on the mandible and maxilla and a bone defect creation on the femur. After the surgical procedures, ZA or saline treatment was continued until sacrifice at week 2, week 4, and week 8 postoperatively. Vascular perfusion with MICROFIL was performed on all the animals. Micro-CT analysis demonstrated a tendency of decreased vessel density and vessel number in ZA-treated groups but no statistical difference. In conclusion, the neovessel formation is suppressed but not significantly by ZA treatment, indicating that angiogenesis inhibition may contribute to the development of MRONJ but does not play a key role.
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19
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Kolesová H, Olejníčková V, Kvasilová A, Gregorovičová M, Sedmera D. Tissue clearing and imaging methods for cardiovascular development. iScience 2021; 24:102387. [PMID: 33981974 PMCID: PMC8086021 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2021.102387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Tissue imaging in 3D using visible light is limited and various clearing techniques were developed to increase imaging depth, but none provides universal solution for all tissues at all developmental stages. In this review, we focus on different tissue clearing methods for 3D imaging of heart and vasculature, based on chemical composition (solvent-based, simple immersion, hyperhydration, and hydrogel embedding techniques). We discuss in detail compatibility of various tissue clearing techniques with visualization methods: fluorescence preservation, immunohistochemistry, nuclear staining, and fluorescent dyes vascular perfusion. We also discuss myocardium visualization using autofluorescence, tissue shrinking, and expansion. Then we overview imaging methods used to study cardiovascular system and live imaging. We discuss heart and vessels segmentation methods and image analysis. The review covers the whole process of cardiovascular system 3D imaging, starting from tissue clearing and its compatibility with various visualization methods to the types of imaging methods and resulting image analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hana Kolesová
- Institute of Anatomy, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
- Institute of Physiology, Czech Academy of Science, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Veronika Olejníčková
- Institute of Anatomy, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
- Institute of Physiology, Czech Academy of Science, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Alena Kvasilová
- Institute of Anatomy, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Martina Gregorovičová
- Institute of Anatomy, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
- Institute of Physiology, Czech Academy of Science, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - David Sedmera
- Institute of Anatomy, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
- Institute of Physiology, Czech Academy of Science, Prague, Czech Republic
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20
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Honeycutt SE, O'Brien LL. Injection of Evans blue dye to fluorescently label and image intact vasculature. Biotechniques 2021; 70:181-185. [PMID: 33337254 PMCID: PMC7983036 DOI: 10.2144/btn-2020-0152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Blood vessels perform critical functions in both health and disease. Understanding how vessels form, pattern and respond to damage is essential. However, labeling and imaging the vasculature to ascertain these properties can be difficult and time-consuming. Here, the authors present a novel methodology for rapidly and efficiently labeling whole vascular networks in vivo by exploiting the fluorescent properties of Evans blue. By combining the labeling with fluorescence microscopy, this method enables visualization of whole tissue vasculature for a fraction of the time and cost compared with traditional methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel E Honeycutt
- Department of Cell Biology & Physiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Lori L O'Brien
- Department of Cell Biology & Physiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- UNC Kidney Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
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21
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Czeibert K, Sommese A, Petneházy Ö, Csörgő T, Kubinyi E. Digital Endocasting in Comparative Canine Brain Morphology. Front Vet Sci 2020; 7:565315. [PMID: 33134351 PMCID: PMC7572857 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2020.565315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Computed tomography (CT) is one of the most useful techniques for digitizing bone structures and making endocranial models from the neurocranium. The resulting digital endocasts reflect the morphology of the brain and the associated structures. Our first aim was to document the methodology behind creating detailed digital endocasts of canine skulls. We created digital endocasts of the skulls of 24 different dog breeds and 4 wild canids for visualization and teaching purposes. We used CT scanning with 0.323 mm × 0.322 mm × 0.6 mm resolution. The imaging data were segmented with 3D Slicer software and refined with Autodesk Meshmixer. Images were visualized in 3D Slicer and surface models were converted to 3D PDFs to provide easier interactive access, and 3D prints were also generated for visualization purposes. Our second aim was to analyze how skull length and width relate to the surface areas of the prepiriform rhinencephalic, prefrontal, and non-prefrontal cerebral convexity areas of the endocasts. The rhinencephalic area ratio decreased with a larger skull index. Our results open the possibility to analyze the relationship between the skull and brain morphology, and to link certain features to behavior, and cognition in dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kálmán Czeibert
- Department of Ethology, Institute of Biology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Andrea Sommese
- Department of Ethology, Institute of Biology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Örs Petneházy
- University of Kaposvár, Kaposvár, Hungary.,Medicopus Nonprofit Ltd., Kaposvár, Hungary
| | - Tibor Csörgő
- Department of Anatomy, Cell and Developmental Biology, Institute of Biology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Enikő Kubinyi
- Department of Ethology, Institute of Biology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
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22
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Ngo MT, Harley BAC. Angiogenic biomaterials to promote therapeutic regeneration and investigate disease progression. Biomaterials 2020; 255:120207. [PMID: 32569868 PMCID: PMC7396313 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2020.120207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Revised: 06/08/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The vasculature is a key component of the tissue microenvironment. Traditionally known for its role in providing nutrients and oxygen to surrounding cells, the vasculature is now also acknowledged to provide signaling cues that influence biological outcomes in regeneration and disease. These cues come from the cells that comprise vasculature, as well as the dynamic biophysical and biochemical properties of the surrounding extracellular matrix that accompany vascular development and remodeling. In this review, we illustrate the larger role of the vasculature in the context of regenerative biology and cancer progression. We describe cellular, biophysical, biochemical, and metabolic components of vascularized microenvironments. Moreover, we provide an overview of multidimensional angiogenic biomaterials that have been developed to promote therapeutic vascularization and regeneration, as well as to mimic elements of vascularized microenvironments as a means to uncover mechanisms by which vasculature influences cancer progression and therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mai T Ngo
- Dept. Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
| | - Brendan A C Harley
- Dept. Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA; Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA; Cancer Center at Illinois, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA.
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23
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Song D, Shujaat S, Zhao R, Huang Y, Shaheen E, Van Dessel J, Orhan K, Vande Velde G, Coropciuc R, Pauwels R, Politis C, Jacobs R. In vivo quantification of mandibular bone remodeling and vascular changes in a Wistar rat model: A novel HR-MRI and micro-CT fusion technique. Imaging Sci Dent 2020; 50:199-208. [PMID: 33005577 PMCID: PMC7506089 DOI: 10.5624/isd.2020.50.3.199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Revised: 06/07/2020] [Accepted: 06/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose This study was performed to introduce an in vivo hybrid multimodality technique involving the coregistration of micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) and high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging (HR-MRI) to concomitantly visualize and quantify mineralization and vascularization at follow-up in a rat model. Materials and Methods Three adult female rats were randomly assigned as test subjects, with 1 rat serving as a control subject. For 20 weeks, the test rats received a weekly intravenous injection of 30 µg/kg zoledronic acid, and the control rat was administered a similar dose of normal saline. Bilateral extraction of the lower first and second molars was performed after 10 weeks. All rats were scanned once every 4 weeks with both micro-CT and HR-MRI. Micro-CT and HR-MRI images were registered and fused in the same 3-dimensional region to quantify blood flow velocity and trabecular bone thickness at T0 (baseline), T4 (4 weeks), T8 (8 weeks), T12 (12 weeks), T16 (16 weeks), and T20 (20 weeks). Histological assessment was the gold standard with which the findings were compared. Results The histomorphometric images at T20 aligned with the HR-MRI findings, with both test and control rats demonstrating reduced trabecular bone vasculature and blood vessel density. The micro-CT findings were also consistent with the histomorphometric changes, which revealed that the test rats had thicker trabecular bone and smaller marrow spaces than the control rat. Conclusion The combination of micro-CT and HR-MRI may be considered a powerful non-invasive novel technique for the longitudinal quantification of localized mineralization and vascularization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dandan Song
- OMFS IMPATH Research Group, Department of Imaging and Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, KU Leuven and Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sohaib Shujaat
- OMFS IMPATH Research Group, Department of Imaging and Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, KU Leuven and Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ruiting Zhao
- OMFS IMPATH Research Group, Department of Imaging and Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, KU Leuven and Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Yan Huang
- OMFS IMPATH Research Group, Department of Imaging and Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, KU Leuven and Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Eman Shaheen
- OMFS IMPATH Research Group, Department of Imaging and Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, KU Leuven and Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jeroen Van Dessel
- OMFS IMPATH Research Group, Department of Imaging and Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, KU Leuven and Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Kaan Orhan
- OMFS IMPATH Research Group, Department of Imaging and Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, KU Leuven and Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Dentomaxillofacial Radiology, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Ankara, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Greetje Vande Velde
- Biomedical MRI, Department of Imaging and Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ruxandra Coropciuc
- OMFS IMPATH Research Group, Department of Imaging and Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, KU Leuven and Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ruben Pauwels
- OMFS IMPATH Research Group, Department of Imaging and Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, KU Leuven and Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Radiology, Faculty of Dentistry, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Aarhus Institute of Advanced Studies, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Constantinus Politis
- OMFS IMPATH Research Group, Department of Imaging and Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, KU Leuven and Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Reinhilde Jacobs
- OMFS IMPATH Research Group, Department of Imaging and Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, KU Leuven and Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Dental Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
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24
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Carlisle P, Marrs J, Gaviria L, Silliman DT, Decker JF, Brown Baer P, Guda T. Quantifying Vascular Changes Surrounding Bone Regeneration in a Porcine Mandibular Defect Using Computed Tomography. Tissue Eng Part C Methods 2020; 25:721-731. [PMID: 31850839 DOI: 10.1089/ten.tec.2019.0205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Angiogenesis is a critical process essential for optimal bone healing. Several in vitro and in vivo systems have been previously used to elucidate some of the mechanisms involved in the process of angiogenesis, and at the same time, to test potential therapeutic agents and bioactive factors that play important roles in neovascularization. Computed tomography (CT) is a noninvasive imaging technique that has recently allowed investigators to obtain a diverse range of high-resolution, three-dimensional characterization of structures, such as bone formation within bony defects. Unfortunately, to date, angiogenesis evaluation relies primarily on histology, or ex vivo imaging and few studies have utilized CT to qualitatively and quantitatively study the vascular response during bone repair. In the current study a clinical CT-based technique was used to evaluate the effects of rhBMP-2 eluting graft treatment on soft tissue vascular architecture surrounding a large segmental bone defect model in the minipig mandible. The objective of this study was to demonstrate the efficacy of contrast-enhanced, clinical 64-slice CT technology in extracting quantitative metrics of vascular architecture over a 12-week period. The results of this study show that the presence of rhBMP-2 had a positive effect on vessel volume from 4 to 12 weeks, which was explained by a concurrent increase in vessel number, which was also significantly higher at 4 weeks for the rhBMP-2 treatment. More importantly, analysis of vessel architecture showed no changes throughout the duration of the study, indicating therapeutic safety. This study validates CT analysis as a relevant imaging method for quantitative and qualitative analysis of morphological characteristics of vascular tissue around a bone healing site. Also important, the study shows that CT technology can be used in large animal models and potentially be translated into clinical models for the development of improved methods to evaluate tissue healing and vascular adaptation processes over the course of therapy. This methodology has demonstrated sensitivity to tracking spatial and temporal changes in vascularization and has the potential to be applied to studying changes in other high-contrast tissues as well. Impact Statement Tissue engineering solutions depend on the surrounding tissue response to support regeneration. The inflammatory environment and surrounding vascular supply are critical to determining if therapies will survive, engraftment occurs, and native physiology is restored. This study for the first time evaluates the blood vessel network changes in surrounding soft tissue to a bone defect site in a large animal model, using clinically available computed tomography tools and model changes in vessel number, size, and architecture. While this study focuses on rhBMP2 delivery impacting surrounding vasculature, this validated method can be extended to studying the vascular network changes in other tissues as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Carlisle
- Dental Trauma and Research Detachment, United States Army Institute of Surgical Research, Fort Sam Houston, San Antonio, Texas.,Prytime Medical Devices, Inc., Boerne, Texas
| | - Jeffrey Marrs
- Dental Trauma and Research Detachment, United States Army Institute of Surgical Research, Fort Sam Houston, San Antonio, Texas.,School of Dentistry, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Laura Gaviria
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Texas at San Antonio, Texas
| | - David T Silliman
- Dental Trauma and Research Detachment, United States Army Institute of Surgical Research, Fort Sam Houston, San Antonio, Texas
| | - John F Decker
- Dental Trauma and Research Detachment, United States Army Institute of Surgical Research, Fort Sam Houston, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Pamela Brown Baer
- Dental Trauma and Research Detachment, United States Army Institute of Surgical Research, Fort Sam Houston, San Antonio, Texas.,Clinical Operations and New Product Commercialization, GenCure, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Teja Guda
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Texas at San Antonio, Texas
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25
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Peters J, Vest L, Schuelke M, Zustiak SP, Hall AF, McBride-Gagyi S. MicroCT vascular network analysis program: Development, validation, and comparison to manufacturer software. J Orthop Res 2020; 38:1340-1350. [PMID: 31840849 PMCID: PMC7790441 DOI: 10.1002/jor.24568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2019] [Revised: 10/18/2019] [Accepted: 11/30/2019] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The dependence on angiogenesis for bone repair makes accurate measuring of vascular networks of great importance to orthopedic researchers. A three-dimensional imaging modality like microcomputed tomography (µCT) would better capture these networks than histology. There are commercially available programs to analyze vessel networks in three dimensions, but these may be too costly for laboratories. Alternatively, µCT trabecular software could be used but may not be appropriate. The goal of this project was to develop a vascular network analysis protocol based on freely or commonly available software and compare its performance to that of a µCT trabecular analysis software. The protocol developed, called vascular network analysis or VNA, relies on two modules in Fiji ImageJ and a custom MATLAB program. We validated the software and compared it to a µCT trabecular analysis program (MicroCT) using in silico models of increasing complexity and differing homogeneity. In general, VNA outcomes were significantly different from true values, but most were within an acceptable percent error (<10%). VNA and MicroCT performed almost identically for volume but significantly differently for average vessel diameter. For the homogenous models, the average diameters differed only slightly but were starkly different for the heterogeneous models. In the most heterogeneous system, the MicroCT software overestimated average diameter by about 650% from true. VNA was within 1% of true for the same model. In conclusion, we have developed a program to analyze vascular networks from MicroCT scans which is easily accessible, insensitive to network homogeneity, and of higher accuracy compared to a µCT trabecular analysis software.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Peters
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, Missouri,Biomedical Engineering, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Luke Vest
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, Missouri,Biomedical Engineering, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Matthew Schuelke
- Office of the Vice President of Research, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO
| | | | - Andrew F. Hall
- Biomedical Engineering, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Sarah McBride-Gagyi
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, Missouri
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26
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Brun F, Di Trapani V, Albers J, Sacco P, Dreossi D, Brombal L, Rigon L, Longo R, Mittone A, Dullin C, Bravin A, Delogu P. Single-shot K-edge subtraction x-ray discrete computed tomography with a polychromatic source and the Pixie-III detector. Phys Med Biol 2020; 65:055016. [PMID: 31995530 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6560/ab7105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
K-edge subtraction (KES) imaging is a technique able to map a specific element such as e.g. a contrast agent within the tissues, by exploiting the sharp rise of its absorption coefficient at the K-edge energy. Whereas mainly explored at synchrotron radiation sources, the energy discrimination properties of modern x-ray photon counting detectors (XPCDs) pave the way for an implementation of single-shot KES imaging with conventional polychromatic sources. In this work we present an x-ray CT imaging system based on the innovative Pixie-III detector and discrete reconstruction. The results reported here show that a reliable automatic localization of Barium (above a certain concentration) is possible with a few dozens of tomographic projections for a volume having an axial slice of 512 [Formula: see text] 512 pixels. The final application is a routine high-fidelity 3D mapping of a specific element ready for further morphological quantification by means of x-ray CT with potential promising applications in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Brun
- Department of Engineering and Architecture, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy. National Institute for Nuclear Physics (INFN), Trieste Division, Italy
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27
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Liu X, Wang Y, Tang M, Liu Y, Hu L, Gu Y. Three-dimensional visualization of coronary microvasculature in rats with myocardial infarction. Microvasc Res 2020; 130:103990. [PMID: 32088162 DOI: 10.1016/j.mvr.2020.103990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2019] [Revised: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 02/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Assessment of the coronary microcirculation remains challenging. OBJECTIVE we explored the feasibility of evaluating the coronary microvasculature in rats with myocardial infarction (MI) using a three-dimensional visualization technique. METHODS Animals were divided into the sham operation group (S), MI 45 min group (M45), and MI 180 min group (M180). Opened microvessels were labelled with the fluorescent dye DiI (1, 1'-dioctadecyl-3, 3, 3'3'-tetramethylindo carbocyanine perchlorate) using a heart perfusion method. The microvascular distribution and opening status were observed under laser scanning confocal microscopy, which was adjusted to facilitate evaluation of subjects around 6 to 20 μm. RESULTS Microvascular vessels (6-20 μm) were successfully labelled by DiI. Intact and clear three-dimensional microvascular structures were observed in myocardium of sham rats and remote non-infarct myocardial tissue of MI rats, while there was almost no microvascular structure in the infarct area of the M45 group, and only a small amount of microvascular visualization was visualized in the infarct area of the M180 group. The microvascular area and microvascular density in M45 group and M180 group in the infarct border zone were significantly lower than corresponding area in S group. CONCLUSION Three-dimensional visualization of opened coronary microvascular vessels is feasible in DiI-labelled myocardium in this rat MI model. This novel technique might be useful for defining the underlying mechanisms of coronary microvascular diseases and observe the efficacy of various therapy strategies on coronary microvessels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaogang Liu
- Department of Cardiology, Wuhan Fourth Hospital, Puai Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430033, China
| | - Yuting Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Wuhan Fourth Hospital, Puai Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430033, China
| | - Mingliang Tang
- College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, China
| | - Yufeng Liu
- Department of Cardiology, Wuhan Fourth Hospital, Puai Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430033, China
| | - Liqun Hu
- Department of Cardiology, Wuhan Fourth Hospital, Puai Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430033, China
| | - Ye Gu
- Department of Cardiology, Wuhan Fourth Hospital, Puai Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430033, China.
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28
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Castro PT, Aranda OL, Alves HDL, Lopes RT, Werner H, Araujo Júnior E. Fallopian tube vascularization observed by microfocus computed tomography. Radiol Bras 2020; 53:36-37. [PMID: 32313335 PMCID: PMC7159048 DOI: 10.1590/0100-3984.2018.0120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Osvaldo Luiz Aranda
- Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Hospital Universitário Severino Sombra, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Edward Araujo Júnior
- Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Brazil; Universidade Municipal de São Caetano do Sul, Brazil
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29
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Kojic M, Milosevic M, Simic V, Milicevic B, Geroski V, Nizzero S, Ziemys A, Filipovic N, Ferrari M. Smeared Multiscale Finite Element Models for Mass Transport and Electrophysiology Coupled to Muscle Mechanics. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2020; 7:381. [PMID: 31921800 PMCID: PMC6914730 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2019.00381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2019] [Accepted: 11/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Mass transport represents the most fundamental process in living organisms. It includes delivery of nutrients, oxygen, drugs, and other substances from the vascular system to tissue and transport of waste and other products from cells back to vascular and lymphatic network and organs. Furthermore, movement is achieved by mechanical forces generated by muscles in coordination with the nervous system. The signals coming from the brain, which have the character of electrical waves, produce activation within muscle cells. Therefore, from a physics perspective, there exist a number of physical fields within the body, such as velocities of transport, pressures, concentrations of substances, and electrical potential, which is directly coupled to biochemical processes of transforming the chemical into mechanical energy and further internal forces for motion. The overall problems of mass transport and electrophysiology coupled to mechanics can be investigated theoretically by developing appropriate computational models. Due to the enormous complexity of the biological system, it would be almost impossible to establish a detailed computational model for the physical fields related to mass transport, electrophysiology, and coupled fields. To make computational models feasible for applications, we here summarize a concept of smeared physical fields, with coupling among them, and muscle mechanics, which includes dependence on the electrical potential. Accuracy of the smeared computational models, also with coupling to muscle mechanics, is illustrated with simple example, while their applicability is demonstrated on a liver model with tumors present. The last example shows that the introduced methodology is applicable to large biological systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milos Kojic
- Department of Nanomedicine, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX, United States.,Bioengineering Research and Development Center BioIRC Kragujevac, Kragujevac, Serbia.,Serbian Academy of Sciences and Arts, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Miljan Milosevic
- Bioengineering Research and Development Center BioIRC Kragujevac, Kragujevac, Serbia.,Faculty of Information Technologies, Belgrade Metropolitan University, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Vladimir Simic
- Bioengineering Research and Development Center BioIRC Kragujevac, Kragujevac, Serbia
| | - Bogdan Milicevic
- Bioengineering Research and Development Center BioIRC Kragujevac, Kragujevac, Serbia
| | - Vladimir Geroski
- Bioengineering Research and Development Center BioIRC Kragujevac, Kragujevac, Serbia
| | - Sara Nizzero
- Department of Nanomedicine, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX, United States.,Applied Physics Graduate Program, Rice University, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Arturas Ziemys
- Department of Nanomedicine, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Nenad Filipovic
- Faculty for Engineering Sciences, University of Kragujevac, Kragujevac, Serbia
| | - Mauro Ferrari
- Department of Nanomedicine, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX, United States
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30
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Le NA, Kuo W, Müller B, Kurtcuoglu V, Spingler B. Crosslinkable polymeric contrast agent for high-resolution X-ray imaging of the vascular system. Chem Commun (Camb) 2020; 56:5885-5888. [DOI: 10.1039/c9cc09883f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
A contrast agent for X-ray micro computed tomography (μCT), called XlinCA, that combines reliable perfusion and permanent retention and contrast properties, was developed for ex vivo imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ngoc An Le
- Department of Chemistry
- University of Zurich
- 8057 Zurich
- Switzerland
| | - Willy Kuo
- Institute of Physiology
- University of Zurich
- 8057 Zurich
- Switzerland
- National Centre of Competence in Research
| | - Bert Müller
- Biomaterials Science Center
- Department of Biomedical Engineering
- University of Basel
- 4123 Allschwil
- Switzerland
| | - Vartan Kurtcuoglu
- Institute of Physiology
- University of Zurich
- 8057 Zurich
- Switzerland
- National Centre of Competence in Research
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31
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Saffari TM, Mathot F, Bishop AT, Shin AY. New methods for objective angiogenesis evaluation of rat nerves using microcomputed tomography scanning and conventional photography. Microsurgery 2019; 40:370-376. [PMID: 31758730 DOI: 10.1002/micr.30537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2019] [Revised: 10/01/2019] [Accepted: 11/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Nerve regeneration involves multiple processes, which enhance blood supply that can be promoted by growth factors. Currently, tools are lacking to visualize the vascularization patterns in transplanted nerves in vivo. The purpose of this study was to describe three-dimensional visualization of the vascular system in the rat sciatic nerve and to quantify angiogenesis of nerve reconstruction. MATERIALS AND METHODS In 12 Lewis rats (weighing 250-300 g), 10 mm sciatic nerve gaps were repaired with ipsilateral reversed autologous nerve grafts. At 12 and 16 weeks of sacrifice, Microfil® contrast compound was injected in the aorta. Nerve autografts (N = 12) and contralateral untreated nerves (N = 12) were harvested and cleared while preserving the vasculature. The amount of vascularization was measured by quantifying the vascular surface area using conventional photography (two-dimensional) and the vascular volume was calculated with microcomputed tomography (three-dimensional). For each measurement, a vessel/nerve area ratio was calculated and expressed in percentages (vessel%). RESULTS The vascular volume measured 3.53 ± 0.43% in autografts and 4.83 ± 0.45% vessels in controls at 12 weeks and 4.95 ± 0.44% and 6.19 ± 0.29% vessels at 16 weeks, respectively. The vascular surface area measured 25.04 ± 2.77% in autografts and 26.87 ± 2.13% vessels in controls at 12 weeks, and 28.11 ± 3.47% and 33.71 ± 2.60% vessels at 16 weeks, respectively. The correlation between both methods was statistically significant (p = .049). CONCLUSIONS Both methods are considered to successfully reflect the degree of vascularization. Application of this technique could be used to visualize and objectively quantify angiogenesis of the transplanted nerve graft. Moreover, this simple method is easily reproducible and could be extrapolated to any other desired target organ ex vivo in small animals to investigate the vascular network.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiam M Saffari
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota.,Department of Plastic-, Reconstructive- and Hand Surgery, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Femke Mathot
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Allen T Bishop
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Alexander Y Shin
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
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Deng Y, Rowe KJ, Chaudhary KR, Yang A, Mei SHJ, Stewart DJ. Optimizing imaging of the rat pulmonary microvasculature by micro-computed tomography. Pulm Circ 2019; 9:2045894019883613. [PMID: 31700608 PMCID: PMC6823983 DOI: 10.1177/2045894019883613] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2019] [Accepted: 09/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) is used in pre-clinical research to generate high-resolution three-dimensional (3D) images of organs and tissues. When combined with intravascular contrast agents, micro-CT can provide 3D visualization and quantification of vascular networks in many different organs. However, the lungs present a particular challenge for contrast perfusion due to the complexity and fragile nature of the lung microcirculation. The protocol described here has been optimized to achieve consistent lung perfusion of the microvasculature to vessels < 20 microns in both normal and pulmonary arterial hypertension rats. High-resolution 3D micro-CT imaging can be used to better visualize changes in 3D architecture of the lung microcirculation in pulmonary vascular disease and to assess the impact of therapeutic strategies on microvascular structure in animal models of pulmonary arterial hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yupu Deng
- Regenerative Medicine Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Katelynn J Rowe
- Regenerative Medicine Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Ketul R Chaudhary
- Regenerative Medicine Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada.,Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Anli Yang
- Regenerative Medicine Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Shirley H J Mei
- Regenerative Medicine Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Duncan J Stewart
- Regenerative Medicine Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada.,Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada.,Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
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Shi S, Zhang H, Yin X, Wang Z, Tang B, Luo Y, Ding H, Chen Z, Cao Y, Wang T, Xiao B, Zhang M. 3D digital anatomic angioarchitecture of the mouse brain using synchrotron-radiation-based propagation phase-contrast imaging. JOURNAL OF SYNCHROTRON RADIATION 2019; 26:1742-1750. [PMID: 31490166 DOI: 10.1107/s160057751900674x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2018] [Accepted: 05/10/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Thorough investigation of the three-dimensional (3D) configuration of the vasculature of mouse brain remains technologically difficult because of its complex anatomical structure. In this study, a systematic analysis is developed to visualize the 3D angioarchitecture of mouse brain at ultrahigh resolution using synchrotron-radiation-based propagation phase-contrast imaging. This method provides detailed restoration of the intricate brain microvascular network in a precise 3D manner. In addition to depicting the delicate 3D arrangements of the vascular network, 3D virtual micro-endoscopy is also innovatively performed to visualize randomly a selected vessel within the brain for both external 3D micro-imaging and endoscopic visualization of any targeted microvessels, which improves the understanding of the intrinsic properties of the mouse brain angioarchitecture. Based on these data, hierarchical visualization has been established and a systematic assessment on the 3D configuration of the mouse brain microvascular network has been achieved at high resolution which will aid in advancing the understanding of the role of vasculature in the perspective of structure and function in depth. This holds great promise for wider application in various models of neurovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shupeng Shi
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, Hunan 410008, People's Republic of China
| | - Haoran Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, Hunan 410008, People's Republic of China
| | - Xianzhen Yin
- Center for Drug Delivery System, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhuolu Wang
- Department of Breast Surgery, Hunan Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Changsha, Hunan 410008, People's Republic of China
| | - Bin Tang
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, Hunan 410008, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuebei Luo
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, Hunan 410008, People's Republic of China
| | - Hui Ding
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, Hunan 410008, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhuohui Chen
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, Hunan 410008, People's Republic of China
| | - Yong Cao
- Department of Spine Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, People's Republic of China
| | - Tiantian Wang
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, Hunan 410008, People's Republic of China
| | - Bo Xiao
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, Hunan 410008, People's Republic of China
| | - Mengqi Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, Hunan 410008, People's Republic of China
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Visser NJ, Rezaie ES, Friedrich PF, Kotsougiani D, Shin AY, Bishop AT. Effects of Surgical Angiogenesis on Segmental Bone Reconstruction With Cryopreserved Massive-Structural Allografts in a Porcine Tibia Model. J Orthop Res 2019; 37:1698-1708. [PMID: 31042307 PMCID: PMC6824922 DOI: 10.1002/jor.24318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2018] [Accepted: 04/12/2019] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Cryopreserved bone allografts (CBA) used to reconstruct segmental bone defects provide immediate structural stability, but are vulnerable to infection, non-union and late stress fracture as the majority of the allograft remains largely avascular. We sought to improve the bone vascularity and bone formation of CBAs by surgical angiogenesis with an implanted arteriovenous (AV) bundle, using a porcine tibial defect model. Cryopreserved tibial bone allografts were transplanted in swine leukocyte antigen (SLA) mismatched Yucatan minipigs to reconstruct a 3.5 cm segmental tibial defect. A cranial tibial AV-bundle was placed within its intramedullary canal to induce angiogenesis. The AV bundle was patent in eight pigs and ligated in a control group of eight pigs. At 20 weeks neo-angiogenesis was evaluated by micro-angiography. Bone formation was measured by quantitative histomorphometry and micro-computed tomography. Seven of eight AV-bundles in the revascularized group were patent. One had thrombosed due to allograft displacement. Total vascular volume was higher in the revascularized allografts compared to the ligated group (p = 0.015). Revascularized allografts had increased levels of bone formation on the allograft endosteal surface compared to the ligated control group (p = 0.05). Surgical angiogenesis of porcine tibial CBAs by intramedullary implantation of an AV-bundle creates an enhanced autogenous neoangiogenic circulation and accelerates active bone formation on allograft endosteal surfaces. © 2019 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 37:1698-1708, 2019.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noortje J Visser
- Microvascular Research Laboratory, Department of Orthopedic
Surgery, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, Minnesota 55905, USA
| | - Elisa S Rezaie
- Microvascular Research Laboratory, Department of Orthopedic
Surgery, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, Minnesota 55905, USA
| | - Patricia F Friedrich
- Microvascular Research Laboratory, Department of Orthopedic
Surgery, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, Minnesota 55905, USA
| | - Dimitra Kotsougiani
- Microvascular Research Laboratory, Department of Orthopedic
Surgery, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, Minnesota 55905, USA,Department of Hand-, Plastic- and Reconstructive Surgery,
-Burn Center-, BG Trauma Center Ludwigshafen, Department of Plastic Surgery,
University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Alexander Y Shin
- Microvascular Research Laboratory, Department of Orthopedic
Surgery, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, Minnesota 55905, USA
| | - Allen T Bishop
- Microvascular Research Laboratory, Department of Orthopedic
Surgery, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, Minnesota 55905, USA
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Vigne J, Thackeray J, Essers J, Makowski M, Varasteh Z, Curaj A, Karlas A, Canet-Soulas E, Mulder W, Kiessling F, Schäfers M, Botnar R, Wildgruber M, Hyafil F. Current and Emerging Preclinical Approaches for Imaging-Based Characterization of Atherosclerosis. Mol Imaging Biol 2019; 20:869-887. [PMID: 30250990 DOI: 10.1007/s11307-018-1264-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Atherosclerotic plaques can remain quiescent for years, but become life threatening upon rupture or disruption, initiating clot formation in the vessel lumen and causing acute myocardial infarction and ischemic stroke. Whether and how a plaque ruptures is determined by its macroscopic structure and microscopic composition. Rupture-prone plaques usually consist of a thin fibrous cap with few smooth muscle cells, a large lipid core, a dense infiltrate of inflammatory cells, and neovessels. Such lesions, termed high-risk plaques, can remain asymptomatic until the thrombotic event. Various imaging technologies currently allow visualization of morphological and biological characteristics of high-risk atherosclerotic plaques. Conventional protocols are often complex and lack specificity for high-risk plaque. Conversely, new imaging approaches are emerging which may overcome these limitations. Validation of these novel imaging techniques in preclinical models of atherosclerosis is essential for effective translational to clinical practice. Imaging the vessel wall, as well as its biological milieu in small animal models, is challenging because the vessel wall is a small structure that undergoes continuous movements imposed by the cardiac cycle as it is adjacent to circulating blood. The focus of this paper is to provide a state-of-the-art review on techniques currently available for preclinical imaging of atherosclerosis in small animal models and to discuss the advantages and limitations of each approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Vigne
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Bichat University Hospital, AP-HP; INSERM, U-1148, DHU FIRE, University Diderot, Paris, France
| | - James Thackeray
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Jeroen Essers
- Departments of Vascular Surgery, Molecular Genetics, Radiation Oncology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marcus Makowski
- Department of Radiology, Charité-University Medicine Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Zoreh Varasteh
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Adelina Curaj
- Institute for Molecular Cardiovascular Research (IMCAR), Institute for Experimental Molecular Imaging (ExMI), University Hospital Aachen, RWTH, Aachen, Germany
| | - Angelos Karlas
- Institute for Biological and Medical Imaging, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Oberschleissheim, Germany
| | - Emmanuel Canet-Soulas
- Laboratoire CarMeN, INSERM U-1060, Lyon/Hospices Civils Lyon, IHU OPERA Cardioprotection, Université de Lyon, Bron, France
| | - Willem Mulder
- Translational and Molecular Imaging Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Mount Sinai, New York, USA
| | - Fabian Kiessling
- Institute for Experimental Molecular Imaging (ExMI), University Hospital Aachen, RWTH, Aachen, Germany
| | - Michael Schäfers
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, European Institute for Molecular Imaging (EIMI), Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - René Botnar
- School of Biomedical Engineering and Imaging Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Moritz Wildgruber
- Translational Research Imaging Center, Institut für Klinische Radiologie, Universitätsklinikum Münster, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Fabien Hyafil
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Bichat University Hospital, AP-HP; INSERM, U-1148, DHU FIRE, University Diderot, Paris, France. .,Département de Médecine Nucléaire, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Bichat, 46 rue Henri Huchard, 75018, Paris, France.
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Vigneshwaran V, Sands GB, LeGrice IJ, Smaill BH, Smith NP. Reconstruction of coronary circulation networks: A review of methods. Microcirculation 2019; 26:e12542. [DOI: 10.1111/micc.12542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2018] [Revised: 01/25/2019] [Accepted: 02/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Vibujithan Vigneshwaran
- Auckland Bioengineering Institute University of Auckland Auckland New Zealand
- Faculty of Engineering University of Auckland Auckland New Zealand
| | - Gregory B. Sands
- Auckland Bioengineering Institute University of Auckland Auckland New Zealand
| | - Ian J. LeGrice
- Department of Physiology University of Auckland Auckland New Zealand
| | - Bruce H. Smaill
- Auckland Bioengineering Institute University of Auckland Auckland New Zealand
| | - Nicolas P. Smith
- Auckland Bioengineering Institute University of Auckland Auckland New Zealand
- Faculty of Engineering University of Auckland Auckland New Zealand
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37
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Biomedical Imaging: Principles, Technologies, Clinical Aspects, Contrast Agents, Limitations and Future Trends in Nanomedicines. Pharm Res 2019; 36:78. [PMID: 30945009 DOI: 10.1007/s11095-019-2608-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2018] [Accepted: 03/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
This review article presents the state-of-the-art in the major imaging modalities supplying relevant information on patient health by real-time monitoring to establish an accurate diagnosis and potential treatment plan. We draw a comprehensive comparison between all imagers and ultimately end with our focus on two main types of scanners: X-ray CT and MRI scanners. Numerous types of imaging probes for both imaging techniques are described, as well as reviewing their strengths and limitations, thereby showing the current need for the development of new diagnostic contrast agents (CAs). The role of nanoparticles in the design of CAs is then extensively detailed, reviewed and discussed. We show how nanoparticulate agents should be promising alternatives to molecular ones and how they are already paving new routes in the field of nanomedicine.
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38
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López-Guimet J, Peña-Pérez L, Bradley RS, García-Canadilla P, Disney C, Geng H, Bodey AJ, Withers PJ, Bijnens B, Sherratt MJ, Egea G. MicroCT imaging reveals differential 3D micro-scale remodelling of the murine aorta in ageing and Marfan syndrome. Am J Cancer Res 2018; 8:6038-6052. [PMID: 30613281 PMCID: PMC6299435 DOI: 10.7150/thno.26598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2018] [Accepted: 09/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Aortic wall remodelling is a key feature of both ageing and genetic connective tissue diseases, which are associated with vasculopathies such as Marfan syndrome (MFS). Although the aorta is a 3D structure, little attention has been paid to volumetric assessment, primarily due to the limitations of conventional imaging techniques. Phase-contrast microCT is an emerging imaging technique, which is able to resolve the 3D micro-scale structure of large samples without the need for staining or sectioning. Methods: Here, we have used synchrotron-based phase-contrast microCT to image aortae of wild type (WT) and MFS Fbn1C1039G/+ mice aged 3, 6 and 9 months old (n=5). We have also developed a new computational approach to automatically measure key histological parameters. Results: This analysis revealed that WT mice undergo age-dependent aortic remodelling characterised by increases in ascending aorta diameter, tunica media thickness and cross-sectional area. The MFS aortic wall was subject to comparable remodelling, but the magnitudes of the changes were significantly exacerbated, particularly in 9 month-old MFS mice with ascending aorta wall dilations. Moreover, this morphological remodelling in MFS aorta included internal elastic lamina surface breaks that extended throughout the MFS ascending aorta and were already evident in animals who had not yet developed aneurysms. Conclusions: Our 3D microCT study of the sub-micron wall structure of whole, intact aorta reveals that histological remodelling of the tunica media in MFS could be viewed as an accelerated ageing process, and that phase-contrast microCT combined with computational image analysis allows the visualisation and quantification of 3D morphological remodelling in large volumes of unstained vascular tissues.
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Troendle EP, Khan A, Searson PC, Ulmschneider MB. Predicting drug delivery efficiency into tumor tissues through molecular simulation of transport in complex vascular networks. J Control Release 2018; 292:221-234. [PMID: 30415016 PMCID: PMC10131895 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2018.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2017] [Revised: 11/07/2018] [Accepted: 11/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Efficient delivery of anticancer drugs into tumor tissues at maximally effective and minimally toxic concentrations is vital for therapeutic success. At present, no method exists that can predict the spatial and temporal distribution of drugs into a target tissue after administration of a specific dose. This prevents accurate estimation of optimal dosage regimens for cancer therapy. Here we present a new method that predicts quantitatively the time-dependent spatial distribution of drugs in tumor tissues at sub-micrometer resolution. This is achieved by modeling the diffusive flow of individual drug molecules through the three-dimensional network of blood-vessels that vascularize the tumor, and into surrounding tissues, using molecular mechanics techniques. By evaluating delivery into tumors supplied by a series of blood-vessel networks with varying degrees of complexity, we show that the optimal dose depends critically on the precise vascular structure. Finally, we apply our method to calculate the optimal dosage of the cancer drug doxil into a section of a mouse ovarian tumor, and demonstrate the enhanced delivery of liposomally administered doxorubicin when compared to free doxorubicin. Comparison with experimental data and a multiple-compartment model show that the model accurately recapitulates known pharmacokinetics and drug-load predictions. In addition, it provides, for the first time, a detailed picture of the spatial dependence of drug uptake into tissues surrounding tumor vasculatures. This approach is fundamentally different to current continuum models, and reveals that the target tumor vascular topology is as important for therapeutic success as the transport properties of the drug delivery platform itself. This sets the stage for revisiting drug dosage calculations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evan P Troendle
- Department of Chemistry, King's College London, London, UK; Institute for NanoBioTechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA; Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Ayesha Khan
- University of Exeter Medical School, Exeter, UK
| | - Peter C Searson
- Institute for NanoBioTechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA; Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Martin B Ulmschneider
- Department of Chemistry, King's College London, London, UK; University of Exeter Medical School, Exeter, UK; Institute for NanoBioTechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA; Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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40
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Ayala-Domínguez L, Brandan ME. Quantification of tumor angiogenesis with contrast-enhanced x-ray imaging in preclinical studies: a review. Biomed Phys Eng Express 2018; 4. [DOI: 10.1088/2057-1976/aadc2d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2018] [Accepted: 08/22/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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Faight E, Verdelis K, Ahearn JM, Shields KJ. 3D MicroCT spatial and temporal characterization of thoracic aorta perivascular adipose tissue and plaque volumes in the ApoE-/- mouse model. Adipocyte 2018; 7:156-165. [PMID: 29956579 DOI: 10.1080/21623945.2018.1493900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT) influences vascular function and pathology. We present a protocol using micro-computed tomography (microCT), a novel imaging technique typically used for hard biological tissue, to characterize the temporal and spatial development of aorta PVAT and luminal plaque soft tissue. Apolipoprotein E deficient (ApoE) and C57Bl/6J (control) mice were fed a high fat western diet up to 30 weeks. 3D microCT reconstructions were used to quantify: 1) vascular wall volume, a surrogate measure of remodeling, was greater in ApoE, 2) aorta PVAT volume was reduced in ApoE, 3) plaque volumes increased over time in ApoE, 4) plaque development co-localized with luminal ostia, origins of branching arteries, which traveled through areas of greatest PVAT volume, 5) qualitatively, the same arteries showed evidence of increased tortuosity in ApoE. This study reflects the potential of microCT analyses to assess vascular wall, PVAT and arterial trajectory modifications in relevant animal models. Abbreviations: PVAT: perivascular adipose tissue; ApoE: apolipoprotein E deficient mouse strain; Control: C57Bl/6J mouse strain; PTA: 0.3% phosphotungstic acid; microCT: micro-computed tomography; CV: cardiovascular; CVD: cardiovascular disease; IQR: interquartile range; PPARγ: peroxisome proliferator activated receptor - gamma; VV: vasa vasorum; 3D: three dimensional.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin Faight
- Lupus Center of Excellence, Autoimmunity Institute, Department of Medicine, Allegheny Health Network, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Kostas Verdelis
- Division of Endodontics at the Department of Restorative Dentistry and Comprehensive Care and the Department of Oral Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Joseph M. Ahearn
- Lupus Center of Excellence, Autoimmunity Institute, Department of Medicine, Allegheny Health Network, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Kelly J. Shields
- Lupus Center of Excellence, Autoimmunity Institute, Department of Medicine, Allegheny Health Network, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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Correlative Detection of Isolated Single and Multi-Cellular Calcifications in the Internal Elastic Lamina of Human Coronary Artery Samples. Sci Rep 2018; 8:10978. [PMID: 30030502 PMCID: PMC6054664 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-29379-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2018] [Accepted: 06/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Histopathology protocols often require sectioning and processing of numerous microscopy slides to survey a sample. Trade-offs between workload and sampling density means that small features can be missed. Aiming to reduce the workload of routine histology protocols and the concern over missed pathology in skipped sections, we developed a prototype x-ray tomographic scanner dedicated to rapid scouting and identification of regions of interest in pathology specimens, thereby allowing targeted histopathology analysis to replace blanket searches. In coronary artery samples of a deceased HIV patient, the scanner, called Tomopath, obtained depth-resolved cross-sectional images at 15 µm resolution in a 15-minute scan, which guided the subsequent histological sectioning and microscopy. When compared to a commercial tabletop micro-CT scanner, the prototype provided several-fold contrast-to-noise ratio in 1/11th the scan time. Correlated tomographic and histological images revealed two types of micro calcifications: scattered loose calcifications typically found in atherosclerotic lesions; isolated focal calcifications in one or several cells in the internal elastic lamina and occasionally in the tunica media, which we speculate were the initiation of medial calcification linked to kidney disease, but rarely detected at this early stage due to their similarity to particle contaminants introduced during histological processing, if not for the evidence from the tomography scan prior to sectioning. Thus, in addition to its utility as a scouting tool, in this study it provided complementary information to histological microscopy. Overall, the prototype scanner represents a step toward a dedicated scouting and complementary imaging tool for routine use in pathology labs.
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Bayat M, Fatemi M, Alizad A. Background Removal and Vessel Filtering of Noncontrast Ultrasound Images of Microvasculature. IEEE Trans Biomed Eng 2018; 66:831-842. [PMID: 30040621 DOI: 10.1109/tbme.2018.2858205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Recent advances in ultrasound Doppler imaging have made it possible to visualize small vessels with diameters near the imaging resolution limits using spatiotemporal singular value thresholding of long ensembles of ultrasound data. However, vessel images derived based on this method present severe intensity variations and additional background noise that limits visibility and subsequent processing such as centerline extraction and morphological analysis. The goal of this paper is to devise a method to enhance vessel-background separation directly on the power Doppler images by exploiting blood echo-noise independence. METHOD We present a two-step algorithm to mitigate these adverse effects when using singular value thresholding for obtaining gross vasculature images. Our method comprises a morphological-based filtering for removing global and local background signals and a multiscale Hessian-based vessel enhancement filtering to further improve the vascular structures. We applied our method for in vivo imaging of the microvasculature of kidney in one healthy subject, liver in five healthy subjects, thyroid nodules in five patients, and breast tumors in five patients. RESULTS Singular value thresholding, top-hat filtering, and Hessian-based vessel enhancement filtering each provided an average peak-to-side level gain of 1.11, 18.55, and 2.26 dB, respectively, resulting in an overall gain of 21.92 dB when compared to the conventional power Doppler imaging using infinite impulse response filtering. CONCLUSION Singular value thresholding combined with morphological and Hessian-based vessel enhancement filtering provides a powerful tool for visualization of the deep-seated small vessels using long ultrasound echo ensembles without requiring any type of contrast enhancing agents. SIGNIFICANCE This method provides a fast and cost-effective modality for in vivo assessment of the microvasculature suitable for both clinical and preclinical applications.
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Kolesová H, Bartoš M, Hsieh WC, Olejníčková V, Sedmera D. Novel approaches to study coronary vasculature development in mice. Dev Dyn 2018; 247:1018-1027. [DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.24637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2018] [Revised: 05/04/2018] [Accepted: 05/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Hana Kolesová
- Institute of Anatomy, First Faculty of Medicine; Charles University in Prague; Czech Republic
- Institute of Physiology; Czech Academy of Sciences; Prague Czech Republic
| | - Martin Bartoš
- Institute of Anatomy, First Faculty of Medicine; Charles University in Prague; Czech Republic
- Institute of Dental Medicine, First Faculty of Medicine; Charles University in Prague; Czech Republic
| | - Wan Chin Hsieh
- Institute of Anatomy, First Faculty of Medicine; Charles University in Prague; Czech Republic
| | - Veronika Olejníčková
- Institute of Anatomy, First Faculty of Medicine; Charles University in Prague; Czech Republic
- Institute of Physiology; Czech Academy of Sciences; Prague Czech Republic
| | - David Sedmera
- Institute of Anatomy, First Faculty of Medicine; Charles University in Prague; Czech Republic
- Institute of Physiology; Czech Academy of Sciences; Prague Czech Republic
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Khan Z, Ngo JP, Le B, Evans RG, Pearson JT, Gardiner BS, Smith DW. Three-dimensional morphometric analysis of the renal vasculature. Am J Physiol Renal Physiol 2018; 314:F715-F725. [DOI: 10.1152/ajprenal.00339.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Vascular topology and morphology are critical in the regulation of blood flow and the transport of small solutes, including oxygen, carbon dioxide, nitric oxide, and hydrogen sulfide. Renal vascular morphology is particularly challenging, since many arterial walls are partially wrapped by the walls of veins. In the absence of a precise characterization of three-dimensional branching vascular geometry, accurate computational modeling of the intrarenal transport of small diffusible molecules is impossible. An enormous manual effort was required to achieve a relatively precise characterization of rat renal vascular geometry, highlighting the need for an automated method for analysis of branched vasculature morphology to allow characterization of the renal vascular geometry of other species, including humans. We present a semisupervised method for three-dimensional morphometric analysis of renal vasculature images generated by computed tomography. We derive quantitative vascular attributes important to mass transport between arteries, veins, and the renal tissue and present methods for their computation for a three-dimensional vascular geometry. To validate the algorithm, we compare automated vascular estimates with subjective manual measurements for a portion of rabbit kidney. Although increased image resolution can improve outcomes, our results demonstrate that the method can quantify the morphological characteristics of artery-vein pairs, comparing favorably with manual measurements. Similar to the rat, we show that rabbit artery-vein pairs become less intimate along the course of the renal vasculature, but the total wrapped mass transfer coefficient increases and then decreases. This new method will facilitate new quantitative physiological models describing the transport of small molecules within the kidney.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zohaib Khan
- School of Information Technology and Mathematical Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Jennifer P. Ngo
- Cardiovascular Disease Program, Biosciences Discovery Institute and Department of Physiology, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Bianca Le
- Cardiovascular Disease Program, Biosciences Discovery Institute and Department of Physiology, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Roger G. Evans
- Cardiovascular Disease Program, Biosciences Discovery Institute and Department of Physiology, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - James T. Pearson
- Cardiovascular Disease Program, Biosciences Discovery Institute and Department of Physiology, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Cardiac Physiology, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center Research Institute, Osaka, Japan
| | - Bruce S. Gardiner
- School of Engineering and Information Technology, Murdoch University, Perth, Australia
| | - David W. Smith
- Faculty of Engineering and Mathematical Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
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Arima Y, Hokimoto S, Tabata N, Nakagawa O, Oshima A, Matsumoto Y, Sato T, Mukunoki T, Otani J, Ishii M, Uchikawa M, Yamamoto E, Izumiya Y, Kaikita K, Ogawa H, Nishiyama K, Tsujita K. Evaluation of Collateral Source Characteristics With 3-Dimensional Analysis Using Micro-X-Ray Computed Tomography. J Am Heart Assoc 2018; 7:JAHA.117.007800. [PMID: 29572323 PMCID: PMC5907550 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.117.007800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Collateral arteries provide an alternative blood supply and protect tissues from ischemic damage in patients with peripheral artery disease. However, the mechanism of collateral artery development is difficult to validate. METHODS AND RESULTS Collateral arteries were visualized using micro-x-ray computed tomography. Developmental characteristics were assessed using confocal microscopy. We conducted a single-center, retrospective, observational study and assessed the dilatation of collateral arteries on ischemic sides. We quantified the vascular volume in both ischemic and nonischemic legs. A prominent increase in vascular volume was observed in the ischemic leg using a murine hind-limb ischemia model. We also performed qualitative assessment and confirmed that the inferior gluteal artery functioned as a major collateral source. Serial analysis of murine hind-limb vessel development revealed that the inferior gluteal artery was a remnant of the ischial artery, which emerged as a representative vessel on the dorsal side during hind-limb organogenesis. We retrospectively analyzed consecutive patients who were admitted for the diagnosis or treatment of peripheral artery disease. The diameter of the inferior gluteal artery on the ischemic side showed significant dilatation compared with that on the nonischemic side. CONCLUSIONS Our findings indicate that an embryonic remnant artery can become a collateral source under ischemic conditions. Flow enhancement in the inferior gluteal artery might become a novel therapeutic approach for patients with peripheral artery disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuichiro Arima
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan .,X-Earth Center, Faculty of Engineering, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan.,International Research Center for Medical Sciences, Kumamoto, Japan.,Department of Molecular Physiology, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Research Center Research Institute, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Seiji Hokimoto
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan.,X-Earth Center, Faculty of Engineering, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan.,Kyushu University of Nursing and Social Welfare, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Noriaki Tabata
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Osamu Nakagawa
- Department of Molecular Physiology, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Research Center Research Institute, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Asahi Oshima
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Yosuke Matsumoto
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Takahiro Sato
- X-Earth Center, Faculty of Engineering, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Toshifumi Mukunoki
- X-Earth Center, Faculty of Engineering, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Jun Otani
- X-Earth Center, Faculty of Engineering, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Masanobu Ishii
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Michie Uchikawa
- International Research Center for Medical Sciences, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Eiichiro Yamamoto
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Izumiya
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Koichi Kaikita
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Hisao Ogawa
- National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Research Center Research Institute, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Koichi Nishiyama
- International Research Center for Medical Sciences, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Kenichi Tsujita
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
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Erbium-Based Perfusion Contrast Agent for Small-Animal Microvessel Imaging. CONTRAST MEDIA & MOLECULAR IMAGING 2017; 2017:7368384. [PMID: 29270099 PMCID: PMC5705880 DOI: 10.1155/2017/7368384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2017] [Revised: 09/11/2017] [Accepted: 10/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) facilitates the visualization and quantification of contrast-enhanced microvessels within intact tissue specimens, but conventional preclinical vascular contrast agents may be inadequate near dense tissue (such as bone). Typical lead-based contrast agents do not exhibit optimal X-ray absorption properties when used with X-ray tube potentials below 90 kilo-electron volts (keV). We have developed a high-atomic number lanthanide (erbium) contrast agent, with a K-edge at 57.5 keV. This approach optimizes X-ray absorption in the output spectral band of conventional microfocal spot X-ray tubes. Erbium oxide nanoparticles (nominal diameter < 50 nm) suspended in a two-part silicone elastomer produce a perfusable fluid with viscosity of 19.2 mPa-s. Ultrasonic cavitation was used to reduce aggregate sizes to <70 nm. Postmortem intact mice were perfused to investigate the efficacy of contrast agent. The observed vessel contrast was >4000 Hounsfield units, and perfusion of vessels < 10 μm in diameter was demonstrated in kidney glomeruli. The described new contrast agent facilitated the visualization and quantification of vessel density and microarchitecture, even adjacent to dense bone. Erbium's K-edge makes this contrast agent ideally suited for both single- and dual-energy micro-CT, expanding potential preclinical research applications in models of musculoskeletal, oncological, cardiovascular, and neurovascular diseases.
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Zeller-Plumhoff B, Roose T, Clough GF, Schneider P. Image-based modelling of skeletal muscle oxygenation. J R Soc Interface 2017; 14:rsif.2016.0992. [PMID: 28202595 DOI: 10.1098/rsif.2016.0992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2016] [Accepted: 01/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The supply of oxygen in sufficient quantity is vital for the correct functioning of all organs in the human body, in particular for skeletal muscle during exercise. Disease is often associated with both an inhibition of the microvascular supply capability and is thought to relate to changes in the structure of blood vessel networks. Different methods exist to investigate the influence of the microvascular structure on tissue oxygenation, varying over a range of application areas, i.e. biological in vivo and in vitro experiments, imaging and mathematical modelling. Ideally, all of these methods should be combined within the same framework in order to fully understand the processes involved. This review discusses the mathematical models of skeletal muscle oxygenation currently available that are based upon images taken of the muscle microvasculature in vivo and ex vivo Imaging systems suitable for capturing the blood vessel networks are discussed and respective contrasting methods presented. The review further informs the association between anatomical characteristics in health and disease. With this review we give the reader a tool to understand and establish the workflow of developing an image-based model of skeletal muscle oxygenation. Finally, we give an outlook for improvements needed for measurements and imaging techniques to adequately investigate the microvascular capability for oxygen exchange.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Zeller-Plumhoff
- Helmholtz-Zentrum für Material- und Küstenforschung, Geesthacht, Germany .,Bioengineering Research Group, Faculty of Engineering and the Environment, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - T Roose
- Bioengineering Research Group, Faculty of Engineering and the Environment, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - G F Clough
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - P Schneider
- Bioengineering Research Group, Faculty of Engineering and the Environment, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
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Kojic M, Milosevic M, Simic V, Koay E, Fleming J, Nizzero S, Kojic N, Ziemys A, Ferrari M. A composite smeared finite element for mass transport in capillary systems and biological tissue. COMPUTER METHODS IN APPLIED MECHANICS AND ENGINEERING 2017; 324:413-437. [PMID: 29200531 PMCID: PMC5703437 DOI: 10.1016/j.cma.2017.06.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
One of the key processes in living organisms is mass transport occurring from blood vessels to tissues for supplying tissues with oxygen, nutrients, drugs, immune cells, and - in the reverse direction - transport of waste products of cell metabolism to blood vessels. The mass exchange from blood vessels to tissue and vice versa occurs through blood vessel walls. This vital process has been investigated experimentally over centuries, and also in the last decades by the use of computational methods. Due to geometrical and functional complexity and heterogeneity of capillary systems, it is however not feasible to model in silico individual capillaries (including transport through the walls and coupling to tissue) within whole organ models. Hence, there is a need for simplified and robust computational models that address mass transport in capillary-tissue systems. We here introduce a smeared modeling concept for gradient-driven mass transport and formulate a new composite smeared finite element (CSFE). The transport from capillary system is first smeared to continuous mass sources within tissue, under the assumption of uniform concentration within capillaries. Here, the fundamental relation between capillary surface area and volumetric fraction is derived as the basis for modeling transport through capillary walls. Further, we formulate the CSFE which relies on the transformation of the one-dimensional (1D) constitutive relations (for transport within capillaries) into the continuum form expressed by Darcy's and diffusion tensors. The introduced CSFE is composed of two volumetric parts - capillary and tissue domains, and has four nodal degrees of freedom (DOF): pressure and concentration for each of the two domains. The domains are coupled by connectivity elements at each node. The fictitious connectivity elements take into account the surface area of capillary walls which belongs to each node, as well as the wall material properties (permeability and partitioning). The overall FE model contains geometrical and material characteristics of the entire capillary-tissue system, with physiologically measurable parameters assigned to each FE node within the model. The smeared concept is implemented into our implicit-iterative FE scheme and into FE package PAK. The first three examples illustrate accuracy of the CSFE element, while the liver and pancreas models demonstrate robustness of the introduced methodology and its applicability to real physiological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Kojic
- Houston Methodist Research Institute, The Department of Nanomedicine, 6670 Bertner Ave., R7-117, Houston, TX 77030
- Bioengineering Research and Development Center BioIRC Kragujevac, Prvoslava Stojanovica 6, 3400 Kragujevac, Serbia
- Serbian Academy of Sciences and Arts, Knez Mihailova 35, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
- Corresponding author: Milos Kojic, Houston Methodist Research Institute, The Department of Nanomedicine, 6670 Bertner Ave., R7-117, Houston, TX 77030, , phone: 713 441 7355; fax: 713 441 7438
| | - M. Milosevic
- Bioengineering Research and Development Center BioIRC Kragujevac, Prvoslava Stojanovica 6, 3400 Kragujevac, Serbia
| | - V. Simic
- Bioengineering Research and Development Center BioIRC Kragujevac, Prvoslava Stojanovica 6, 3400 Kragujevac, Serbia
| | - E.J. Koay
- Department of Radiation Oncology, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030
| | - J.B. Fleming
- Department of Surgical Oncology, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030
| | - S. Nizzero
- Houston Methodist Research Institute, The Department of Nanomedicine, 6670 Bertner Ave., R7-117, Houston, TX 77030
- Applied Physics Graduate Program, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005
| | - N. Kojic
- Center for Engineering in Medicine and Surgical Services, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114
| | - A. Ziemys
- Houston Methodist Research Institute, The Department of Nanomedicine, 6670 Bertner Ave., R7-117, Houston, TX 77030
| | - M. Ferrari
- Houston Methodist Research Institute, The Department of Nanomedicine, 6670 Bertner Ave., R7-117, Houston, TX 77030
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50
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Faight EM, Verdelis K, Zourelias L, Chong R, Benza RL, Shields KJ. MicroCT analysis of vascular morphometry: a comparison of right lung lobes in the SUGEN/hypoxic rat model of pulmonary arterial hypertension. Pulm Circ 2017; 7:522-530. [PMID: 28597764 PMCID: PMC5467946 DOI: 10.1177/2045893217709001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a rare disease characterized by significant vascular remodeling within the lung. Clinical computed tomography (CT) scans are routinely used to aid in PAH diagnosis. Animal models, including the Sugen-hypoxic rat model (SU/hyp), of PAH closely mimic human PAH development. We have previously used micro-computed tomography (microCT) to find extensive right lung vascular remodeling in the SU/hyp. We hypothesized that the individual right lung lobes may not contribute equally to overall lung vascular remodeling. Sprague-Dawley rats were subjected to a subcutaneous injection of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor blocker (Sugen 5416) and subsequently exposed to chronic hypoxic conditions (10% O2) for three weeks. Following perfusion of the lung vasculature with an opaque resin (Microfil), the right lung lobes were microCT-imaged with a 10-µm voxel resolution and 3D morphometry analysis was performed separately on each lobe. As expected, we found a significantly lower ratio of vascular volume to total lobe volume in the SU/hyp compared with the control, but only in the distal lobes (inferior: 0.23 [0.21–0.30] versus 0.35 [0.27–0.43], P = 0.02; accessory: 0.27 [0.25–0.33] versus 0.37 [0.29–0.43], P = 0.06). Overall, we observed significantly fewer continuous blood vessels and reduced vascular density while having greater vascular lumen diameters in the distal lobes of both groups (P < 0.05). In addition, the vascular separation within the SU/hyp lobes and the vascular surface area to volume ratio were significantly greater in the SU/hyp lobes compared with controls (P < 0.03). Results for the examined parameters support the overall extensive vascular remodeling in the SU/hyp model and suggest this may be lobe-dependent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin M Faight
- 1 Lupus Center of Excellence - Autoimmunity Institute, Department of Medicine, Allegheny Health Network, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Kostas Verdelis
- 2 Division of Endodontics at the Department of Restorative Dentistry and Comprehensive Care and the Department of Oral Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Lee Zourelias
- 3 Cardiovascular Institute, Department of Medicine, Allegheny Health Network, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Rong Chong
- 2 Division of Endodontics at the Department of Restorative Dentistry and Comprehensive Care and the Department of Oral Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Raymond L Benza
- 3 Cardiovascular Institute, Department of Medicine, Allegheny Health Network, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Kelly J Shields
- 1 Lupus Center of Excellence - Autoimmunity Institute, Department of Medicine, Allegheny Health Network, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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