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Dhimmar B, Modi U, Parihar SS, Makwana P, Boldrini CL, Vasita R. Fabrication of micropatterned PCL-collagen nanofibrous scaffold for cellular confinement induced early osteogenesis. BIOMATERIALS ADVANCES 2024; 164:213991. [PMID: 39146607 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioadv.2024.213991] [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: 04/23/2024] [Revised: 07/06/2024] [Accepted: 08/05/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024]
Abstract
The intricate interaction of the scaffold's architecture/geometry and with the cells is essential for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Cells sense their surrounding dynamic cues such as biophysical, biomechanical, and biochemical, and respond to them differently. Numerous studies have recently explored and reported the effect of contact guidance by culturing various types of cells on different types of micropatterned substrates such as microgrooves, geometric (square and triangle) micropattern, microstrips, micropatterned nanofibers. Amongst all of these micropatterned polymeric substrates; electrospun nanofibers have been regarded as a suitable substrate as it mimics the native ECM architectures. Therefore, in the present study; stencil-assisted electrospun Grid-lined micropatterned PCL-Collagen nanofibers (GLMPCnfs) were fabricated and its influence on the alignment and differentiation of pre-osteoblast cells (MC3T3-E1) was investigated. The randomly orientated Non-patterned PCL-Collagen nanofibers (NPPCnfs) were used as control. The patterns were characterized for their geometrical features such as area and thickness of deposition using surface profiler and scanning electron microscopy. A 61 % decrease in the overall area of GLMPCnfs as compared to the stencil area demonstrated the potential of electrofocusing phenomenon in the process of patterning electrospun nanofibers into various micron-scale structures. The MC3T3-E1 cells were confined and aligned in the direction of GLMPCnfs as confirmed by a high cellular aspect ratio (AR = 5.41), lower cellular shape index (CSI = 0.243), and cytoskeletal reorganization assessed through the F-actin filament immunocytochemistry (ICC) imaging. The aligned cells along the GLMPCnfs exhibited elevated alkaline phosphatase activity and enhanced mineralization. Furthermore, the gene expression profiling revealed upregulation of key osteogenic markers, such as ALP, OCN, OPN, COL1A1, and osteocyte markers DMP1, and SOST. Consequently, the research highlights the impact of GLMPCnfs on the cellular behaviour that results to the pre-osteoblast differentiation and the potential for stimulant-free early osteogenesis. These results offer an extensive understanding and mechanistic insight into how scaffold topography can be modified to influence cellular responses for effective bone regeneration strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bindiya Dhimmar
- Biomaterials & Biomimetics Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Gujarat, Gandhinagar 382030, Gujarat, India
| | - Unnati Modi
- Biomaterials & Biomimetics Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Gujarat, Gandhinagar 382030, Gujarat, India
| | - Shayan Singh Parihar
- Biomaterials & Biomimetics Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Gujarat, Gandhinagar 382030, Gujarat, India
| | - Pooja Makwana
- Biomaterials & Biomimetics Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Gujarat, Gandhinagar 382030, Gujarat, India
| | - Chiara Liliana Boldrini
- Department of Materials Science and Solar Energy Research Center MIBSOLAR University of Milano-Biococca, and INSTM Milano-Biococca Research Unit Via Cozzi 55, I-20125 Milano, Italy
| | - Rajesh Vasita
- Biomaterials & Biomimetics Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Gujarat, Gandhinagar 382030, Gujarat, India; Terasaki Institute of Biomedical Innovation, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
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2
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Marciuš T, Deftu AF, Vuka I, Braeken D, Sapunar D. Electrophysiological properties of dorsal root ganglion neurons cultured on 3D silicon micro-pillar substrates. J Neurosci Methods 2024; 407:110143. [PMID: 38670536 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneumeth.2024.110143] [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: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Silicon-based micro-pillar substrates (MPS), as three-dimensional cell culture platforms with vertically aligned micro-patterned scaffolding structures, are known to facilitate high-quality growth and morphology of dorsal root ganglion (DRG) sensory neurons, promote neurite outgrowth and enhance neurite alignment. However, the electrophysiological aspects of DRG neurons cultured on silicon MPSs have not been thoroughly investigated, which is of greatest importance to ensure that such substrates do not disrupt neuronal homeostasis and function before their widespread adoption in diverse biomedical applications. NEW METHOD We conducted whole-cell patch-clamp recordings to explore the electrophysiological properties of DRG neurons cultured on MPS arrays, utilizing a custom-made upright patch-clamp setup. RESULTS Our findings revealed that DRG neurons exhibited similar electrophysiological responses on patterned MPS samples when compared to the control planar glass surfaces. Notably, there were no significant differences observed in the action potential parameters or firing patterns of action potentials between neurons grown on either substrate. COMPARISON WITH EXISTING METHODS In the current study we for the first time confirmed that successful electrophysiological recordings can be obtained from the cells grown on MPS. CONCLUSION Our results imply that, despite the potential alterations caused by the cumulative trauma of tissue harvest and cell dissociation, essential functional cell properties of DRG neurons appear to be relatively maintained on MPS surfaces. Therefore, vertically aligned silicon MPSs could be considered as a potentially effective three-dimensional system for supporting a controlled cellular environment in culture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tihana Marciuš
- Laboratory for Pain Research, University of Split School of Medicine, Split 21000, Croatia
| | - Alexandru-Florian Deftu
- Pain Center, Department of Anesthesiology, Lausanne University Hospital and Department of Fundamental Neurosciences, University of Lausanne, Lausanne 1011, Switzerland
| | - Ivana Vuka
- Technology Transfer Office, Department of Science and Innovation, University of Split, Split 21000, Croatia
| | - Dries Braeken
- Life Sciences Technologies, Imec, Leuven 3001, Belgium
| | - Damir Sapunar
- Laboratory for Pain Research, University of Split School of Medicine, Split 21000, Croatia.
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3
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Sharifi M, Kamalabadi-Farahani M, Salehi M, Ebrahimi-Barough S, Alizadeh M. Recent advances in enhances peripheral nerve orientation: the synergy of micro or nano patterns with therapeutic tactics. J Nanobiotechnology 2024; 22:194. [PMID: 38643117 PMCID: PMC11031871 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-024-02475-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Several studies suggest that topographical patterns influence nerve cell fate. Efforts have been made to improve nerve cell functionality through this approach, focusing on therapeutic strategies that enhance nerve cell function and support structures. However, inadequate nerve cell orientation can impede long-term efficiency, affecting nerve tissue repair. Therefore, enhancing neurites/axons directional growth and cell orientation is crucial for better therapeutic outcomes, reducing nerve coiling, and ensuring accurate nerve fiber connections. Conflicting results exist regarding the effects of micro- or nano-patterns on nerve cell migration, directional growth, immunogenic response, and angiogenesis, complicating their clinical use. Nevertheless, advances in lithography, electrospinning, casting, and molding techniques to intentionally control the fate and neuronal cells orientation are being explored to rapidly and sustainably improve nerve tissue efficiency. It appears that this can be accomplished by combining micro- and nano-patterns with nanomaterials, biological gradients, and electrical stimulation. Despite promising outcomes, the unclear mechanism of action, the presence of growth cones in various directions, and the restriction of outcomes to morphological and functional nerve cell markers have presented challenges in utilizing this method. This review seeks to clarify how micro- or nano-patterns affect nerve cell morphology and function, highlighting the potential benefits of cell orientation, especially in combined approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Majid Sharifi
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran.
- Department of Tissue Engineering, School of Medicine, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran.
| | | | - Majid Salehi
- Department of Tissue Engineering, School of Medicine, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran
| | - Somayeh Ebrahimi-Barough
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Sciences, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Morteza Alizadeh
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Biomaterials, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
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4
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Mateus JC, Sousa MM, Burrone J, Aguiar P. Beyond a Transmission Cable-New Technologies to Reveal the Richness in Axonal Electrophysiology. J Neurosci 2024; 44:e1446232023. [PMID: 38479812 PMCID: PMC10941245 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1446-23.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
The axon is a neuronal structure capable of processing, encoding, and transmitting information. This assessment contrasts with a limiting, but deeply rooted, perspective where the axon functions solely as a transmission cable of somatodendritic activity, sending signals in the form of stereotypical action potentials. This perspective arose, at least partially, because of the technical difficulties in probing axons: their extreme length-to-diameter ratio and intricate growth paths preclude the study of their dynamics through traditional techniques. Recent findings are challenging this view and revealing a much larger repertoire of axonal computations. Axons display complex signaling processes and structure-function relationships, which can be modulated via diverse activity-dependent mechanisms. Additionally, axons can exhibit patterns of activity that are dramatically different from those of their corresponding soma. Not surprisingly, many of these recent discoveries have been driven by novel technology developments, which allow for in vitro axon electrophysiology with unprecedented spatiotemporal resolution and signal-to-noise ratio. In this review, we outline the state-of-the-art in vitro toolset for axonal electrophysiology and summarize the recent discoveries in axon function it has enabled. We also review the increasing repertoire of microtechnologies for controlling axon guidance which, in combination with the available cutting-edge electrophysiology and imaging approaches, have the potential for more controlled and high-throughput in vitro studies. We anticipate that a larger adoption of these new technologies by the neuroscience community will drive a new era of experimental opportunities in the study of axon physiology and consequently, neuronal function.
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Affiliation(s)
- J C Mateus
- i3S- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - M M Sousa
- i3S- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - J Burrone
- MRC Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London SE1 1UL, United Kingdom
- Centre for Developmental Neurobiology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London SE1 1UL, United Kingdom
| | - P Aguiar
- i3S- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
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Bianchi M, Guzzo S, Lunghi A, Greco P, Pisciotta A, Murgia M, Carnevale G, Fadiga L, Biscarini F. Synergy of Nanotopography and Electrical Conductivity of PEDOT/PSS for Enhanced Neuronal Development. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2023; 15:59224-59235. [PMID: 38091494 PMCID: PMC10755694 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c15278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023]
Abstract
Biomaterials able to promote neuronal development and neurite outgrowth are highly desired in neural tissue engineering for the repair of damaged or disrupted neural tissue and restoring the axonal connection. For this purpose, the use of either electroactive or micro- and nanostructured materials has been separately investigated. Here, the use of a nanomodulated conductive poly(3,4-ethylendioxithiophene) poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT/PSS) substrate that exhibits instructive topographical and electrical cues at the same time was investigated for the first time. In particular, thin films featuring grooves with sizes comparable with those of neuronal neurites (NanoPEDOT) were fabricated by electrochemical polymerization of PEDOT/PSS on a nanomodulated polycarbonate template. The ability of NanoPEDOT to support neuronal development and direct neurite outgrowth was demonstrated by assessing cell viability and proliferation, expression of neuronal markers, average neurite length, and direction of neuroblastoma N2A cells induced to differentiate on this novel support. In addition to the beneficial effect of the nanogrooved topography, a 30% increase was shown in the average length of neurites when differentiating cells were subjected to an electrical stimulation of a few microamperes for 6 h. The results reported here suggest a favorable effect on the neuronal development of the synergistic combination of nanotopography and electrical stimulation, supporting the use of NanoPEDOT in neural tissue engineering to promote physical and functional reconnection of impaired neural networks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Bianchi
- Department
of Life Sciences, Università degli
Studi di Modena e Reggio Emilia, 44125 Modena, Italy
- Center
for Translational Neurophysiology of Speech and Communication, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Sonia Guzzo
- Center
for Translational Neurophysiology of Speech and Communication, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Section
of Physiology, Università di Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Alice Lunghi
- Center
for Translational Neurophysiology of Speech and Communication, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Section
of Physiology, Università di Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Pierpaolo Greco
- Section
of Physiology, Università di Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Alessandra Pisciotta
- Department
of Surgery, Medicine, Dentistry and Morphological Sciences with Interest
in Transplant, Oncology and Regenerative Medicine, Università di Modena e Reggio Emilia, 44125 Modena, Italy
| | - Mauro Murgia
- Center
for Translational Neurophysiology of Speech and Communication, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Istituto
per lo Studio dei Materiali Nanostrutturati (ISMN-CNR), 40129 Bologna, Italy
| | - Gianluca Carnevale
- Department
of Surgery, Medicine, Dentistry and Morphological Sciences with Interest
in Transplant, Oncology and Regenerative Medicine, Università di Modena e Reggio Emilia, 44125 Modena, Italy
| | - Luciano Fadiga
- Center
for Translational Neurophysiology of Speech and Communication, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Section
of Physiology, Università di Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Fabio Biscarini
- Department
of Life Sciences, Università degli
Studi di Modena e Reggio Emilia, 44125 Modena, Italy
- Center
for Translational Neurophysiology of Speech and Communication, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
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6
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Villard C. Spatial confinement: A spur for axonal growth. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2023; 140:54-62. [PMID: 35927121 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2022.07.006] [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: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 07/16/2022] [Accepted: 07/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
The concept of spatial confinement is the basis of cell positioning and guidance in in vitro studies. In vivo, it reflects many situations faced during embryonic development. In vitro, spatial confinement of neurons is achieved using different technological approaches: adhesive patterning, topographical structuring, microfluidics and the use of hydrogels. The notion of chemical or physical frontiers is particularly central to the behaviors of growth cones and neuronal processes under confinement. They encompass phenomena of cell spreading, boundary crossing, and path finding on surfaces with different adhesive properties. However, the most universal phenomenon related to confinement, regardless of how it is implemented, is the acceleration of neuronal growth. Overall, a bi-directional causal link emerges between the shape of the growth cone and neuronal elongation dynamics, both in vivo and in vitro. The sensing of adhesion discontinuities by filopodia and the subsequent spatial redistribution and size adaptation of these actin-rich filaments seem critical for the growth rate in conditions in which adhesive contacts and actin-associated clutching forces dominate. On the other hand, the involvement of microtubules, specifically demonstrated in 3D hydrogel environments and leading to ameboid-like locomotion, could be relevant in a wider range of growth situations. This review brings together a literature collected in distinct scientific fields such as development, mechanobiology and bioengineering that highlight the consequences of confinement and raise new questions at different cellular scales. Its ambition is to stimulate new research that could lead to a better understanding of what gives neurons their ability to establish and regulate their exceptional size.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Villard
- Laboratoire Interdisciplinaire des Energies de Demain (LIED), Université Paris Cité, UMR 8236 CNRS, F-75013 Paris, France.
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7
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Ghazal M, Scholaert C, Dumortier C, Lefebvre C, Barois N, Janel S, Tarhan MC, Colin M, Buée L, Halliez S, Pecqueur S, Coffinier Y, Alibart F, Yger P. Precision of neuronal localization in 2D cell cultures by using high-performance electropolymerized microelectrode arrays correlated with optical imaging. Biomed Phys Eng Express 2023; 9. [PMID: 36745905 DOI: 10.1088/2057-1976/acb93e] [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: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Recently, the development of electronic devices to extracellularly record the simultaneous electrical activities of numerous neurons has been blooming, opening new possibilities to interface and decode neuronal activity. In this work, we tested how the use of EDOT electropolymerization to tune post-fabrication materials could optimize the cell/electrode interface of such devices. Our results showed an improved signal-to-noise ratio, better biocompatibility, and a higher number of neurons detected in comparison with gold electrodes. Then, using such enhanced recordings with 2D neuronal cultures combined with fluorescent optical imaging, we checked the extent to which the positions of the recorded neurons could be estimated solely via their extracellular signatures. Our results showed that assuming neurons behave as monopoles, positions could be estimated with a precision of approximately tens of micrometers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahdi Ghazal
- Institut d'Électronique, Microélectronique et Nanotechnologie (IEMN), CNRS, UMR 8520, F-59652 Villeneuve d'Ascq, France
| | - Corentin Scholaert
- Institut d'Électronique, Microélectronique et Nanotechnologie (IEMN), CNRS, UMR 8520, F-59652 Villeneuve d'Ascq, France
| | - Corentin Dumortier
- Lille Neurosciences & Cognition (lilNCog)-U1172 (INSERM, Lille), Univ Lille, CHU Lille 59045 Lille, France
| | - Camille Lefebvre
- Lille Neurosciences & Cognition (lilNCog)-U1172 (INSERM, Lille), Univ Lille, CHU Lille 59045 Lille, France
| | - Nicolas Barois
- Univ. Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur Lille, U1019 - UMR 9017 - CIIL - Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Sebastien Janel
- Univ. Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur Lille, U1019 - UMR 9017 - CIIL - Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Mehmet Cagatay Tarhan
- Institut d'Électronique, Microélectronique et Nanotechnologie (IEMN), CNRS, UMR 8520, F-59652 Villeneuve d'Ascq, France
| | - Morvane Colin
- Lille Neurosciences & Cognition (lilNCog)-U1172 (INSERM, Lille), Univ Lille, CHU Lille 59045 Lille, France
| | - Luc Buée
- Lille Neurosciences & Cognition (lilNCog)-U1172 (INSERM, Lille), Univ Lille, CHU Lille 59045 Lille, France
| | - Sophie Halliez
- Lille Neurosciences & Cognition (lilNCog)-U1172 (INSERM, Lille), Univ Lille, CHU Lille 59045 Lille, France
| | - Sebastien Pecqueur
- Institut d'Électronique, Microélectronique et Nanotechnologie (IEMN), CNRS, UMR 8520, F-59652 Villeneuve d'Ascq, France
| | - Yannick Coffinier
- Institut d'Électronique, Microélectronique et Nanotechnologie (IEMN), CNRS, UMR 8520, F-59652 Villeneuve d'Ascq, France
| | - Fabien Alibart
- Institut d'Électronique, Microélectronique et Nanotechnologie (IEMN), CNRS, UMR 8520, F-59652 Villeneuve d'Ascq, France
- Laboratoire Nanotechnologies & Nanosystèmes (LN2), CNRS, Université de Sherbrooke, J1X0A5, Sherbrooke, Canada
| | - Pierre Yger
- Lille Neurosciences & Cognition (lilNCog)-U1172 (INSERM, Lille), Univ Lille, CHU Lille 59045 Lille, France
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, F-75012 Paris, France
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8
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Directionality quantification of in vitro grown dorsal root ganglion neurites using Fast Fourier Transform. J Neurosci Methods 2023; 386:109796. [PMID: 36652975 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneumeth.2023.109796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The directionality analysis of the neurite outgrowths is an important methodology in neuroscience, especially in determining the behavior of neurons grown on silicon substrates. NEW METHOD Here we aimed to describe the methodology for quantification of the directionality of neurites based on the Fast Fourier Transform (FFT). We performed an image analysis case study that incorporates several software solutions and provides a rapid and precise technique to determine the directionality of neurites. In order to elicit aligned or unaligned neurite growth patterns, we used adult and newborn dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons grown on silicon micro-pillar substrates (MPS) with different pillar widths and spacing. RESULTS Compared to the control glass surfaces the neonatal and adult N52 and IB4 DRG neurites exhibited regular growth patterns more pronounced in the MPS regions with s narrow pillar spacing range. The neurites were preferentially oriented along three directional axes at 30°, 90°, and 150°. CONCLUSION The proposed methodology showed that FFT analysis is a reliable and easily reproducible method that can be successfully used to test growth patterns of DRG neurites grown on different substrates by considering the direction and angle of the neurites as well as the size of the soma.
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Fan S, Qi L, Li J, Liu S, Li R, Zhan T, Li X, Wu D, Lau P, Qiu B, Bi G, Ding W. Accelerating Neurite Growth and Directing Neuronal Connections Constrained by 3D Porous Microtubes. NANO LETTERS 2022; 22:8991-8999. [PMID: 36327196 DOI: 10.1021/acs.nanolett.2c03232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Investigation of neural growth and connection is crucial in the field of neural tissue engineering. Here, using a femtosecond laser direct writing (fs-DLW) technique, we propose a directionally aligned porous microtube array as a culture system for accelerating the growth of neurons and directing the connection of neurites. These microtubes exhibited an unprecedented guidance effect toward the outgrowth of primary embryonic rat hippocampal neurons, with a wrap resembling the myelin sheaths of neurons. The speed of neurite growth inside these microtubes was significantly faster than that outside these microtubes. We also achieved selective/directing connection of neural networks inside the magnetic microtubes via precise microtube delivery to a gap between two neural clusters. This work not only proposes a powerful microtube platform for accelerated growth of neurons but also offers a new idea for constructing biological neural circuits by arranging the size, location, and pattern of microtubes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengying Fan
- Department of Electronic Engineering and Information Science, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
- Department of Oncology, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230001, China
| | - Lei Qi
- Institute of Artificial Intelligence, Hefei Comprehensive National Science Center, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Jiawen Li
- Key Laboratory of Precision Scientific Instrumentation of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, CAS Key Laboratory of Mechanical Behavior and Design of Materials, Department of Precision Machinery and Precision Instrumentation, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Shunli Liu
- Key Laboratory of Precision Scientific Instrumentation of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, CAS Key Laboratory of Mechanical Behavior and Design of Materials, Department of Precision Machinery and Precision Instrumentation, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Rui Li
- Key Laboratory of Precision Scientific Instrumentation of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, CAS Key Laboratory of Mechanical Behavior and Design of Materials, Department of Precision Machinery and Precision Instrumentation, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Tongzhou Zhan
- Key Laboratory of Precision Scientific Instrumentation of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, CAS Key Laboratory of Mechanical Behavior and Design of Materials, Department of Precision Machinery and Precision Instrumentation, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Xiaowei Li
- CAS Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Disease, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Dong Wu
- Key Laboratory of Precision Scientific Instrumentation of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, CAS Key Laboratory of Mechanical Behavior and Design of Materials, Department of Precision Machinery and Precision Instrumentation, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Pakming Lau
- Institute of Artificial Intelligence, Hefei Comprehensive National Science Center, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
- CAS Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Disease, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Bensheng Qiu
- Department of Electronic Engineering and Information Science, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Guoqiang Bi
- CAS Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Disease, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Weiping Ding
- Department of Oncology, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230001, China
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Mariano A, Bovio CL, Criscuolo V, Santoro F. Bioinspired micro- and nano-structured neural interfaces. NANOTECHNOLOGY 2022; 33:492501. [PMID: 35947922 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6528/ac8881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The development of a functional nervous system requires neurons to interact with and promptly respond to a wealth of biochemical, mechanical and topographical cues found in the neural extracellular matrix (ECM). Among these, ECM topographical cues have been found to strongly influence neuronal function and behavior. Here, we discuss how the blueprint of the architectural organization of the brain ECM has been tremendously useful as a source of inspiration to design biomimetic substrates to enhance neural interfaces and dictate neuronal behavior at the cell-material interface. In particular, we focus on different strategies to recapitulate cell-ECM and cell-cell interactions. In order to mimic cell-ECM interactions, we introduce roughness as a first approach to provide informative topographical biomimetic cues to neurons. We then examine 3D scaffolds and hydrogels, as softer 3D platforms for neural interfaces. Moreover, we will discuss how anisotropic features such as grooves and fibers, recapitulating both ECM fibrils and axonal tracts, may provide recognizable paths and tracks that neuron can follow as they develop and establish functional connections. Finally, we show how isotropic topographical cues, recapitulating shapes, and geometries of filopodia- and mushroom-like dendritic spines, have been instrumental to better reproduce neuron-neuron interactions for applications in bioelectronics and neural repair strategies. The high complexity of the brain architecture makes the quest for the fabrication of create more biologically relevant biomimetic architectures in continuous and fast development. Here, we discuss how recent advancements in two-photon polymerization and remotely reconfigurable dynamic interfaces are paving the way towards to a new class of smart biointerfaces forin vitroapplications spanning from neural tissue engineering as well as neural repair strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Mariano
- Tissue Electronics, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, I-80125 Naples, Italy
| | - Claudia Latte Bovio
- Tissue Electronics, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, I-80125 Naples, Italy
- Dipartimento di Chimica, Materiali e Produzione Industriale, Università di Napoli Federico II, I-80125, Naples, Italy
| | - Valeria Criscuolo
- Faculty of Electrical Engineering and IT, RWTH Aachen, D-52074, Germany
| | - Francesca Santoro
- Tissue Electronics, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, I-80125 Naples, Italy
- Faculty of Electrical Engineering and IT, RWTH Aachen, D-52074, Germany
- Institute for Biological Information Processing-Bioelectronics, Forschungszentrum Juelich, D-52428, Germany
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11
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McNaughton R, Huo Y, Li G, Ioschpe ADV, Yan L, Man HY, Zhang X. Regulatory Effects of Gradient Microtopographies on Synapse Formation and Neurite Growth in Hippocampal Neurons. JOURNAL OF MICROMECHANICS AND MICROENGINEERING : STRUCTURES, DEVICES, AND SYSTEMS 2022; 32:075005. [PMID: 35814808 PMCID: PMC9262107 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6439/ac73d7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Among approaches aiming toward functional nervous system restoration, those implementing microfabrication techniques allow the manufacture of platforms with distinct geometry where neurons can develop and be guided to form patterned connections in vitro. The interplay between neuronal development and the microenvironment, shaped by the physical limitations, remains largely unknown. Therefore, it is crucial to have an efficient way to quantify neuronal morphological changes induced by physical or contact guidance of the microenvironment. In this study, we first devise and assess a method to prepare anisotropic, gradient poly(dimethylsiloxane) micro-ridge/groove arrays featuring variable local pattern width. We then demonstrate the ability of this single substrate to simultaneously profile the morphologcial and synaptic connectivity changes of primary cultured hippocampal neurons reacting to variable physical conditons, throughout neurodevelopment, in vitro. The gradient microtopography enhanced adhesion within microgrooves, increasing soma density with decreasing pattern width. Decreasing pattern width also reduced dendritic arborization and increased preferential axon growth. Finally, decreasing pattern geometry inhibited presynaptic puncta architecture. Collectively, a method to examine structural development and connectivity in response to physical stimuli is established, and potentially provides insight into microfabricated geometries which promote neural regeneration and repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan McNaughton
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Yuda Huo
- Department of Biology, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Guicai Li
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Lei Yan
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Heng-Ye Man
- Department of Biology, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
- Center for Systems Neuroscience, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Xin Zhang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
- Photonics Center, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
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12
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Urrutia-Cabrera D, Hsiang-Chi Liou R, Lin J, Shi Y, Liu K, Hung SSC, Hewitt AW, Wang PY, Ching-Bong Wong R. Combinatorial Approach of Binary Colloidal Crystals and CRISPR Activation to Improve Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell Differentiation into Neurons. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2022; 14:8669-8679. [PMID: 35166105 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.1c17975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Conventional methods of neuronal differentiation in human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are tedious and complicated, involving multistage protocols with complex cocktails of growth factors and small molecules. Artificial extracellular matrices with a defined surface topography and chemistry represent a promising venue to improve neuronal differentiation in vitro. In the present study, we test the impact of a type of colloidal self-assembled patterns (cSAPs) called binary colloidal crystals (BCCs) on neuronal differentiation. We developed a CRISPR activation (CRISPRa) iPSC platform that constitutively expresses the dCas9-VPR system, which allows robust activation of the proneural transcription factor NEUROD1 to rapidly induce neuronal differentiation within 7 days. We show that the combinatorial use of BCCs can further improve this neuronal differentiation system. In particular, our results indicate that fine tuning of silica (Si) and polystyrene (PS) particle size is critical to generate specific topographies to improve neuronal differentiation and branching. BCCs with 5 μm silica and 100 nm carboxylated PS (PSC) have the most prominent effect on increasing neurite outgrowth and more complex ramification, while BCCs with 2 μm Si and 65 nm PSC particles are better at promoting neuronal enrichment. These results indicate that biophysical cues can support rapid differentiation and improve neuronal maturation. In summary, our combinatorial approach of CRISPRa and BCCs provides a robust and rapid pipeline for the in vitro production of human neurons. Specific BCCs can be adapted to the late stages of neuronal differentiation protocols to improve neuronal maturation, which has important implications in tissue engineering, in vitro biological studies, and disease modeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Urrutia-Cabrera
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, East Melbourne 3002, Australia
- Ophthalmology, Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Parkville 3010, Australia
| | - Roxanne Hsiang-Chi Liou
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, East Melbourne 3002, Australia
- Ophthalmology, Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Parkville 3010, Australia
| | - Jiao Lin
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Biomimetic Materials and Cellular Immunomodulation, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 510810, China
| | - Yue Shi
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Biomimetic Materials and Cellular Immunomodulation, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 510810, China
| | - Kun Liu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Biomimetic Materials and Cellular Immunomodulation, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 510810, China
| | - Sandy S C Hung
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, East Melbourne 3002, Australia
- Ophthalmology, Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Parkville 3010, Australia
| | - Alex W Hewitt
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, East Melbourne 3002, Australia
- Ophthalmology, Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Parkville 3010, Australia
| | - Peng-Yuan Wang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Biomimetic Materials and Cellular Immunomodulation, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 510810, China
- Oujiang Laboratory, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325016, China
| | - Raymond Ching-Bong Wong
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, East Melbourne 3002, Australia
- Ophthalmology, Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Parkville 3010, Australia
- Shenzhen Eye Hospital, Shenzhen University School of Medicine, Shenzhen 510810, China
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13
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Carthew J, Taylor JBJ, Garcia-Cruz MR, Kiaie N, Voelcker NH, Cadarso VJ, Frith JE. The Bumpy Road to Stem Cell Therapies: Rational Design of Surface Topographies to Dictate Stem Cell Mechanotransduction and Fate. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2022; 14:23066-23101. [PMID: 35192344 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.1c22109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Cells sense and respond to a variety of physical cues from their surrounding microenvironment, and these are interpreted through mechanotransductive processes to inform their behavior. These mechanisms have particular relevance to stem cells, where control of stem cell proliferation, potency, and differentiation is key to their successful application in regenerative medicine. It is increasingly recognized that surface micro- and nanotopographies influence stem cell behavior and may represent a powerful tool with which to direct the morphology and fate of stem cells. Current progress toward this goal has been driven by combined advances in fabrication technologies and cell biology. Here, the capacity to generate precisely defined micro- and nanoscale topographies has facilitated the studies that provide knowledge of the mechanotransducive processes that govern the cellular response as well as knowledge of the specific features that can drive cells toward a defined differentiation outcome. However, the path forward is not fully defined, and the "bumpy road" that lays ahead must be crossed before the full potential of these approaches can be fully exploited. This review focuses on the challenges and opportunities in applying micro- and nanotopographies to dictate stem cell fate for regenerative medicine. Here, key techniques used to produce topographic features are reviewed, such as photolithography, block copolymer lithography, electron beam lithography, nanoimprint lithography, soft lithography, scanning probe lithography, colloidal lithography, electrospinning, and surface roughening, alongside their advantages and disadvantages. The biological impacts of surface topographies are then discussed, including the current understanding of the mechanotransductive mechanisms by which these cues are interpreted by the cells, as well as the specific effects of surface topographies on cell differentiation and fate. Finally, considerations in translating these technologies and their future prospects are evaluated.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Carthew
- Materials Science and Engineering, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Jason B J Taylor
- Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Maria R Garcia-Cruz
- Materials Science and Engineering, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Nasim Kiaie
- Materials Science and Engineering, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Nicolas H Voelcker
- Materials Science and Engineering, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
- Melbourne Centre for Nanofabrication, Victorian Node of the Australian National Fabrication Facility, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
- Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, 381 Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
- ARC Centre for Cell and Tissue Engineering Technologies, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
- CSIRO Manufacturing, Bayview Avenue, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - Victor J Cadarso
- Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
- Centre to Impact Antimicrobial Resistance, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Jessica E Frith
- Materials Science and Engineering, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
- ARC Centre for Cell and Tissue Engineering Technologies, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
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14
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Roy A, Zhang W, Jahed Z, Tsai CT, Cui B, Moerner WE. Exploring Cell Surface-Nanopillar Interactions with 3D Super-Resolution Microscopy. ACS NANO 2022; 16:192-210. [PMID: 34582687 PMCID: PMC8830212 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.1c05313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Plasma membrane topography has been shown to strongly influence the behavior of many cellular processes such as clathrin-mediated endocytosis, actin rearrangements, and others. Recent studies have used three-dimensional (3D) nanostructures such as nanopillars to imprint well-defined membrane curvatures (the "nano-bio interface"). In these studies, proteins and their interactions were probed by two-dimensional fluorescence microscopy. However, the low resolution and limited axial detail of such methods are not optimal to determine the relative spatial position and distribution of proteins along a 100 nm-diameter object, which is below the optical diffraction limit. Here, we introduce a general method to explore the nanoscale distribution of proteins at the nano-bio interface with 10-20 nm precision using 3D single-molecule super-resolution (SR) localization microscopy. This is achieved by combining a silicone-oil immersion objective and 3D double-helix point spread function microscopy. We carefully adjust the objective to minimize spherical aberrations between quartz nanopillars and the cell. To validate the 3D SR method, we imaged the 3D shape of surface-labeled nanopillars and compared the results with electron microscopy measurements. Turning to transmembrane-anchored labels in cells, the high quality 3D SR reconstructions reveal the membrane tightly wrapping around the nanopillars. Interestingly, the cytoplasmic protein AP-2 involved in clathrin-mediated endocytosis accumulates along the nanopillar above a specific threshold of 1/R (the reciprocal of the radius) membrane curvature. Finally, we observe that AP-2 and actin preferentially accumulate at positive Gaussian curvature near the pillar caps. Our results establish a general method to investigate the nanoscale distribution of proteins at the nano-bio interface using 3D SR microscopy.
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15
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Sala MR, Skalli O, Sabri F. Optimal structural and physical properties of aerogels for promoting robust neurite extension in vitro. MATERIALS SCIENCE & ENGINEERING. C, MATERIALS FOR BIOLOGICAL APPLICATIONS 2022; 135:112682. [DOI: 10.1016/j.msec.2022.112682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2021] [Revised: 01/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
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16
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Vedaraman S, Perez‐Tirado A, Haraszti T, Gerardo‐Nava J, Nishiguchi A, De Laporte L. Anisometric Microstructures to Determine Minimal Critical Physical Cues Required for Neurite Alignment. Adv Healthc Mater 2021; 10:e2100874. [PMID: 34197054 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202100874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Revised: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
In nerve regeneration, scaffolds play an important role in providing an artificial extracellular matrix with architectural, mechanical, and biochemical cues to bridge the site of injury. Directed nerve growth is a crucial aspect of nerve repair, often introduced by engineered scaffolds imparting linear tracks. The influence of physical cues, determined by well-defined architectures, has been mainly studied for implantable scaffolds and is usually limited to continuous guiding features. In this report, the potential of short anisometric microelements in inducing aligned neurite extension, their dimensions, and the role of vertical and horizontal distances between them, is investigated. This provides crucial information to create efficient injectable 3D materials with discontinuous, in situ magnetically oriented microstructures, like the Anisogel. By designing and fabricating periodic, anisometric, discreet guidance cues in a high-throughput 2D in vitro platform using two-photon lithography techniques, the authors are able to decipher the minimal guidance cues required for directed nerve growth along the major axis of the microelements. These features determine whether axons grow unidirectionally or cross paths via the open spaces between the elements, which is vital for the design of injectable Anisogels for enhanced nerve repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sitara Vedaraman
- DWI‐Leibniz Institute for Interactive Materials Forckenbeckstrasse 50 Aachen 52074 Germany
- Institute for Technical and Macromolecular Chemistry RWTH Aachen Worringerweg 1–2 Aachen 52074 Germany
| | - Amaury Perez‐Tirado
- DWI‐Leibniz Institute for Interactive Materials Forckenbeckstrasse 50 Aachen 52074 Germany
| | - Tamas Haraszti
- DWI‐Leibniz Institute for Interactive Materials Forckenbeckstrasse 50 Aachen 52074 Germany
- Institute for Technical and Macromolecular Chemistry RWTH Aachen Worringerweg 1–2 Aachen 52074 Germany
| | - Jose Gerardo‐Nava
- DWI‐Leibniz Institute for Interactive Materials Forckenbeckstrasse 50 Aachen 52074 Germany
| | - Akihiro Nishiguchi
- Biomaterials Field Research Center for Functional Materials National Institute for Materials Science Tsukuba 305‐0044 Japan
| | - Laura De Laporte
- DWI‐Leibniz Institute for Interactive Materials Forckenbeckstrasse 50 Aachen 52074 Germany
- Institute for Technical and Macromolecular Chemistry RWTH Aachen Worringerweg 1–2 Aachen 52074 Germany
- Institute of Applied Medical Engineering Department of Advanced Materials for Biomedicine RWTH University Forckenbeckstraße 55 Aachen 52074 Germany
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17
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Raj V, Jagadish C, Gautam V. Understanding, engineering, and modulating the growth of neural networks: An interdisciplinary approach. BIOPHYSICS REVIEWS 2021; 2:021303. [PMID: 38505122 PMCID: PMC10903502 DOI: 10.1063/5.0043014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
A deeper understanding of the brain and its function remains one of the most significant scientific challenges. It not only is required to find cures for a plethora of brain-related diseases and injuries but also opens up possibilities for achieving technological wonders, such as brain-machine interface and highly energy-efficient computing devices. Central to the brain's function is its basic functioning unit (i.e., the neuron). There has been a tremendous effort to understand the underlying mechanisms of neuronal growth on both biochemical and biophysical levels. In the past decade, this increased understanding has led to the possibility of controlling and modulating neuronal growth in vitro through external chemical and physical methods. We provide a detailed overview of the most fundamental aspects of neuronal growth and discuss how researchers are using interdisciplinary ideas to engineer neuronal networks in vitro. We first discuss the biochemical and biophysical mechanisms of neuronal growth as we stress the fact that the biochemical or biophysical processes during neuronal growth are not independent of each other but, rather, are complementary. Next, we discuss how utilizing these fundamental mechanisms can enable control over neuronal growth for advanced neuroengineering and biomedical applications. At the end of this review, we discuss some of the open questions and our perspectives on the challenges and possibilities related to controlling and engineering the growth of neuronal networks, specifically in relation to the materials, substrates, model systems, modulation techniques, data science, and artificial intelligence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vidur Raj
- Department of Electronic Materials Engineering, Research School of Physics, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory 2601, Australia
| | | | - Vini Gautam
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia
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18
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Leclech C, Barakat AI. Is there a universal mechanism of cell alignment in response to substrate topography? Cytoskeleton (Hoboken) 2021; 78:284-292. [PMID: 33843154 DOI: 10.1002/cm.21661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Revised: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Cell alignment and elongation in the direction of anisotropic and aligned topographies are key manifestations of cellular contact guidance and are observed in many cell types. Whether this observation occurs through a universal mechanism remains to be established. In this Views article, we begin by presenting the most widely accepted model of topography-driven cell alignment which posits that anisotropic topographies impose lateral constraints on the growth of focal adhesions and actin stress fibers, thereby driving anisotropic force generation and cellular elongation and alignment. We then discuss particular scenarios where alternative or complementary mechanisms of cell alignment appear to be at play. These include the cases of specific cell types such as amoeboid-like cells and neurons as well as certain topography sizes. Finally, we review the role of the actin cytoskeleton in modulating topography-driven cell alignment and underscore the need for elucidating the role that other cytoskeletal elements play. We close by identifying key open questions the responses to which will significantly enhance our understanding of the role of cellular contact guidance in health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire Leclech
- LadHyX, CNRS, Ecole Polytechnique, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, Palaiseau, France
| | - Abdul I Barakat
- LadHyX, CNRS, Ecole Polytechnique, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, Palaiseau, France
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19
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Khan H, Beck C, Kunze A. Multi-curvature micropatterns unveil distinct calcium and mitochondrial dynamics in neuronal networks. LAB ON A CHIP 2021; 21:1164-1174. [PMID: 33543185 PMCID: PMC7990709 DOI: 10.1039/d0lc01205j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Tangential curvatures are a key geometric feature of tissue folds in the human cerebral cortex. In the brain, these smoother and firmer bends are called gyri and sulci and form distinctive curved tissue patterns imposing a mechanical stimulus on neuronal networks. This stimulus is hypothesized to be essential for proper brain cell function but lacks in most standard neuronal cell assays. A variety of soft lithographic micropatterning techniques can be used to integrate round geometries in cell assays. Most microfabricated patterns, however, focus only on a small set of defined curvatures. In contrast, curvatures in the brain span a wide physical range, leaving it unknown which precise role distinct curvatures may play on neuronal cell signaling. Here we report a hydrogel-based multi-curvature design consisting of over twenty bands of distinct parallel curvature ranges to precisely engineer neuronal networks' growth and signaling under patterns of arcs. Monitoring calcium and mitochondrial dynamics in primary rodent neurons grown over two weeks in the multi-curvature patterns, we found that static calcium signaling was locally attenuated under higher curvatures (k > 0.01 μm-1). In contrast, to randomize growth, transient calcium signaling showed higher synchronicity when neurons formed networks in confined multi-curvature patterns. Additionally, we found that mitochondria showed lower motility under high curvatures (k > 0.01 μm-1) than under lower curvatures (k < 0.01 μm-1). Our results demonstrate how sensitive neuronal cell function may be linked and controlled through specific curved geometric features. Furthermore, the hydrogel-based multi-curvature design possesses high compatibility with various surfaces, allowing a flexible integration of geometric features into next-generation neuro devices, cell assays, tissue engineering, and implants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hammad Khan
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Montana State University, Bozeman, Montana 59717, USA.
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20
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Fendler C, Harberts J, Rafeldt L, Loers G, Zierold R, Blick RH. Neurite guidance and neuro-caging on steps and grooves in 2.5 dimensions. NANOSCALE ADVANCES 2020; 2:5192-5200. [PMID: 36132017 PMCID: PMC9417336 DOI: 10.1039/d0na00549e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2020] [Accepted: 07/14/2020] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Directed guidance of neurites is a pre-requisite for tailor-made designs of interfaces between cells and semiconducting components. Grayscale lithography, reactive ion etching, and ultraviolet nanoimprint lithography are potent semiconductor industry-compatible techniques for a cost- and time-effective fabrication of modulated surfaces. In this work, neurite outgrowth of murine cerebellar neurons on 2.5D pathways produced with these methods is studied. Structures of micron-sized steps and grooves serve as cell culture platforms. The effects of contact guidance through topography and chemical guidance through selective poly-d-lysine coating on these platforms are analyzed. As a consequence, the herein presented fabrication approach can be utilized to cultivate and to study low-density neuronal networks in 2.5D configuration with a high degree of order.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cornelius Fendler
- Center for Hybrid Nanostructures (CHyN), Universität Hamburg 22761 Hamburg Germany
| | - Jann Harberts
- Center for Hybrid Nanostructures (CHyN), Universität Hamburg 22761 Hamburg Germany
| | - Lars Rafeldt
- Center for Hybrid Nanostructures (CHyN), Universität Hamburg 22761 Hamburg Germany
| | - Gabriele Loers
- Center for Molecular Neurobiology Hamburg (ZMNH), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE) Hamburg 20251 Germany
| | - Robert Zierold
- Center for Hybrid Nanostructures (CHyN), Universität Hamburg 22761 Hamburg Germany
| | - Robert H Blick
- Center for Hybrid Nanostructures (CHyN), Universität Hamburg 22761 Hamburg Germany
- Material Science and Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison Madison Wisconsin 53706 USA
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21
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Leclech C, Villard C. Cellular and Subcellular Contact Guidance on Microfabricated Substrates. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2020; 8:551505. [PMID: 33195116 PMCID: PMC7642591 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2020.551505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Topography of the extracellular environment is now recognized as a major biophysical regulator of cell behavior and function. The study of the influence of patterned substrates on cells, named contact guidance, has greatly benefited from the development of micro and nano-fabrication techniques, allowing the emergence of increasingly diverse and elaborate engineered platforms. The purpose of this review is to provide a comprehensive view of the process of contact guidance from cellular to subcellular scales. We first classify and illustrate the large diversity of topographies reported in the literature by focusing on generic cellular responses to diverse topographical cues. Subsequently, and in a complementary fashion, we adopt the opposite approach and highlight cell type-specific responses to classically used topographies (arrays of pillars or grooves). Finally, we discuss recent advances on the key subcellular and molecular players involved in topographical sensing. Throughout the review, we focus particularly on neuronal cells, whose unique morphology and behavior have inspired a large body of studies in the field of topographical sensing and revealed fascinating cellular mechanisms. We conclude by using the current understanding of the cell-topography interactions at different scales as a springboard for identifying future challenges in the field of contact guidance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire Leclech
- Hydrodynamics Laboratory, CNRS UMR 7646, Ecole Polytechnique, Palaiseau, France
| | - Catherine Villard
- Physico-Chimie Curie, CNRS UMR 168, Université PSL, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
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22
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Yasodharababu M, Nair AK. A Multiscale Model to Predict Neuronal Cell Deformation with Varying Extracellular Matrix Stiffness and Topography. Cell Mol Bioeng 2020; 13:229-245. [PMID: 32426060 PMCID: PMC7225237 DOI: 10.1007/s12195-020-00615-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2019] [Accepted: 04/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Neuronal cells are sensitive to mechanical properties of extracellular matrix (ECM) such as stiffness and topography. Cells contract and exert a force on ECM to detect the microenvironment, which activates the signaling pathway to influence the cell functions such as differentiation, migration, and proliferation. There are numerous transmembrane proteins that transmit signals; however, integrin and neural cellular adhesion molecules (NCAM) play an important role in sensing the ECM mechanical properties. Mechanotransduction of cell-ECM is the key to understand the influence of ECM stiffness and topography; therefore, in this study, we develop a multiscale computational model to investigate these properties. METHODS This model couples the molecular behavior of integrin and NCAM to microscale interactions of neuronal cell and the ECM. We analyze the atomistic/molecular behavior of integrin and NCAM due to mechanical stimuli using steered molecular dynamics. The microscale properties of the neuronal cell and the ECM are simulated using non-linear finite element analysis by applying cell contractility. RESULTS We predict that by increasing the ECM stiffness, a neuronal cell exerts greater stress on the ECM. However, this stress reaches a saturation value for a threshold stiffness of ECM, and the saturation value is affected by the ECM thickness, topography, and clustering of integrin and NCAMs. Further, the ECM topography leads to asymmetric stress and deformation in the neuronal cell. Predicted stress distribution in neuronal cell and ECM are consistent with experimental results from the literature. CONCLUSION The multiscale computational model will guide in selecting the optimal ECM stiffness and topography range for in vitro studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohan Yasodharababu
- Multiscale Materials Modeling Lab, Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR USA
| | - Arun K. Nair
- Multiscale Materials Modeling Lab, Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR USA
- Institute for Nanoscience and Engineering, University of Arkansas, 731 W. Dickson Street, Fayetteville, AR USA
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23
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Seo J, Youn W, Choi JY, Cho H, Choi H, Lanara C, Stratakis E, Choi IS. Neuro-taxis: Neuronal movement in gradients of chemical and physical environments. Dev Neurobiol 2020; 80:361-377. [PMID: 32304173 DOI: 10.1002/dneu.22749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2019] [Accepted: 04/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Environmental chemical and physical cues dynamically interact with migrating neurons and sprouting axons, and in particular, the gradients of environmental cues are regarded as one of the factors intimately involved in the neuronal movement. Since a growth cone was first described by Cajal, more than one century ago, chemical gradients have been suggested as one of the mechanisms by which the neurons determine proper paths and destinations. However, the gradients of physical cues, such as stiffness and topography, which also interact constantly with the neurons and their axons as a component of the extracellular environments, have rarely been noted regarding the guidance of neurons, despite their gradually increasingly reported influences in the case of nonneuronal-cell migration. In this review, we discuss chemical (i.e., chemo- and hapto-) and physical (i.e., duro-) taxis phenomena on the movement of neurons including axonal elongation. In addition, we suggest topotaxis, the most recently proposed physical-taxis phenomenon, as another potential mechanism in the neuronal movement, based on the reports of neuronal recognition of and responses to nanotopography.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Wongu Youn
- Department of Chemistry, KAIST, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Ji Yu Choi
- Department of Chemistry, KAIST, Daejeon, Korea
| | | | | | - Christina Lanara
- Institute of Electronic Structure and Laser (IESL), Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas (FORTH), Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Emmanuel Stratakis
- Institute of Electronic Structure and Laser (IESL), Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas (FORTH), Heraklion, Crete, Greece.,Physics Department, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Insung S Choi
- Department of Chemistry, KAIST, Daejeon, Korea.,Department of Bio and Brain Engineering, KAIST, Daejeon, Korea
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24
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Harberts J, Haferkamp U, Haugg S, Fendler C, Lam D, Zierold R, Pless O, Blick RH. Interfacing human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived neurons with designed nanowire arrays as a future platform for medical applications. Biomater Sci 2020; 8:2434-2446. [DOI: 10.1039/d0bm00182a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Nanostructured substrates such as nanowire arrays form a powerful tool for building next-generation medical devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jann Harberts
- Center for Hybrid Nanostructures
- Universität Hamburg
- 22761 Hamburg
- Germany
| | | | - Stefanie Haugg
- Center for Hybrid Nanostructures
- Universität Hamburg
- 22761 Hamburg
- Germany
| | - Cornelius Fendler
- Center for Hybrid Nanostructures
- Universität Hamburg
- 22761 Hamburg
- Germany
| | - Dennis Lam
- Fraunhofer IME ScreeningPort
- 22525 Hamburg
- Germany
| | - Robert Zierold
- Center for Hybrid Nanostructures
- Universität Hamburg
- 22761 Hamburg
- Germany
| | - Ole Pless
- Fraunhofer IME ScreeningPort
- 22525 Hamburg
- Germany
| | - Robert H. Blick
- Center for Hybrid Nanostructures
- Universität Hamburg
- 22761 Hamburg
- Germany
- Material Science and Engineering
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25
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Abstract
AbstractPrimary brain cells cultured on flat surfaces, i.e., in a two-dimensional fashion, have a long history of use as an experimental model system in neuroscience research. However, it is questionable to which extent these cultured brain cells resemble their in vivo counterparts. Mainly, it has been claimed that the non-oxidative glucose metabolism reflected by lactate production is unphysiologically high. Furthermore, it is known that culturing in 2D alters the phenotype of cells. Here we present diphenylalanine peptide nanowires (PNWs) as a culturing substrate for primary neocortical neurons from mice. The topology of the PNWs leads to neuronal cultures developing in 2.5D environment and hence improved culturing conditions. We investigate the effect of different concentrations of PNWs and different cell densities of neurons on the culturing conditions. The neocortical neurons were examined through scanning electron microscopy in order to study the effect of PNW concentrations and neuron densities on the structural appearance of the cells. Then employing the optimal combination of neuron density and PNW concentration, the neurons were evaluated functionally and metabolically by comparison with neocortical neurons standard culturing methods in 2D. Specifically, we tested neuronal viability, capacity for vesicular release of neurotransmitter GABA, as well as oxidative and non-oxidative glucose metabolism. It was evident that neurons cultured on PNWs exhibited increased viability combined with an increased capacity for neurotransmitter release and a lower fraction of non-oxidative metabolism than neurons cultured in 2D. Hence, neocortical neurons cultured in 2.5D on PNWs appear to be healthier and less glycolytic than neurons cultured in 2D.
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26
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Basso JMV, Yurchenko I, Wiens MR, Staii C. Neuron dynamics on directional surfaces. SOFT MATTER 2019; 15:9931-9941. [PMID: 31764921 DOI: 10.1039/c9sm01769k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Geometrical features play a very important role in neuronal growth and the formation of functional connections between neuronal cells. Here, we analyze the dynamics of axonal growth for neuronal cells cultured on micro-patterned polydimethylsiloxane surfaces. We utilize fluorescence microscopy to image axons, quantify their dynamics, and demonstrate that periodic geometrical patterns impart strong directional bias to neuronal growth. We quantify axonal alignment and present a general stochastic approach that quantitatively describes the dynamics of the growth cones. Neuronal growth is described by a general phenomenological model, based on a simple automatic controller with a closed-loop feedback system. We demonstrate that axonal alignment on these substrates is determined by the surface geometry, and it is quantified by the deterministic part of the stochastic (Langevin and Fokker-Planck) equations. We also show that the axonal alignment with the surface patterns is greatly suppressed by the neuron treatment with Blebbistatin, a chemical compound that inhibits the activity of myosin II. These results give new insight into the role played by the molecular motors and external geometrical cues in guiding axonal growth, and could lead to novel approaches for bioengineering neuronal regeneration platforms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joao Marcos Vensi Basso
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Center for Nanoscopic Physics, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts 02155, USA.
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27
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Radotić V, Bedalov A, Drviš P, Braeken D, Kovačić D. Guided growth with aligned neurites in adult spiral ganglion neurons cultured in vitro on silicon micro-pillar substrates. J Neural Eng 2019; 16:066037. [PMID: 31189144 DOI: 10.1088/1741-2552/ab2968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Assessment of the relationship between the topographical organization of silicon micro-pillar surfaces (MPS) on guidance and neural alignment of adult spiral ganglion neurons (SGN) and use of the otosurgical approach as an alternative for the extraction and isolation of SGNs from adult guinea pigs. APPROACH SGNs from adult guinea pigs were isolated using conventional and otosurgical approach for in vitro cell culturing on MPS of various micro-pillar widths (1-5.6 µm) and spacing (0.6-15 µm). Cell cultures were compared morphologically with neuronal cultures on control glass coverslips. MAIN RESULTS We found enhanced SGN in vitro cultures in MPS areas with small and intermediate inter-pillar spacing (from 0.6 µm to 3.2 µm) as well as in MPS areas with wider pillars (from 1.8 µm to 4 µm) compared to MPS flat zones and control glass coverslips. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images highlighted how neurites of SGNs follow straight lines by growing on top and between micro-pillars. Only micro-pillars with small and intermediate pillar spacings favor neurite alignment along preferred angles (30°, 90°, and 150°), while pillars with wider spacing produced less aligned neurites. We found propensity of adult SGNs grown on MPSs to attain more bipolar and multipolar morphologies. Additionally, we observed reduced interaction between neuronal and glial cells compared to control glass coverslips. Finally, we found that the otosurgical approach was more beneficial for SGN survival on glass coverslips and MPS flat surfaces than the conventional method. SIGNIFICANCE MPS with specific architecture supports the guided growth of adult SGNs in vitro and controls adult SGN development and behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viktorija Radotić
- Faculty of Science, Department of Physics, Laboratory for Biophysics and Medical Neuroelectronics, University of Split, R.Boškovića 33, HR-21000 Split, Croatia. The Center of Research Excellence for Science and Technology Integrating Mediterranean region (STIM), University of Split, Poljička 35, HR-21000 Split, Croatia
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28
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Goto T, Kasai N, Filip R, Sumitomo K, Nakashima H. Observation of intracellular protein localization area in a single neuron using gold nanoparticles with a scanning electron microscope. Micron 2019; 126:102740. [DOI: 10.1016/j.micron.2019.102740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2019] [Revised: 08/26/2019] [Accepted: 08/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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29
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Tullii G, Giona F, Lodola F, Bonfadini S, Bossio C, Varo S, Desii A, Criante L, Sala C, Pasini M, Verpelli C, Galeotti F, Antognazza MR. High-Aspect-Ratio Semiconducting Polymer Pillars for 3D Cell Cultures. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2019; 11:28125-28137. [PMID: 31356041 PMCID: PMC6943816 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.9b08822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2019] [Accepted: 07/16/2019] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Hybrid interfaces between living cells and nano/microstructured scaffolds have huge application potential in biotechnology, spanning from regenerative medicine and stem cell therapies to localized drug delivery and from biosensing and tissue engineering to neural computing. However, 3D architectures based on semiconducting polymers, endowed with responsivity to visible light, have never been considered. Here, we apply for the first time a push-coating technique to realize high aspect ratio polymeric pillars, based on polythiophene, showing optimal biocompatibility and allowing for the realization of soft, 3D cell cultures of both primary neurons and cell line models. HEK-293 cells cultured on top of polymer pillars display a remarkable change in the cell morphology and a sizable enhancement of the membrane capacitance due to the cell membrane thinning in correspondence to the pillars' top surface, without negatively affecting cell proliferation. Electrophysiology properties and synapse number of primary neurons are also very well preserved. In perspective, high aspect ratio semiconducting polymer pillars may find interesting applications as soft, photoactive elements for cell activity sensing and modulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriele Tullii
- Center
for Nano Science and Technology@PoliMi, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, via Pascoli 70/3, 20133 Milano, Italy
- Department
of Physics, Politecnico di Milano, Piazza L. Da Vinci 32, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | | | - Francesco Lodola
- Center
for Nano Science and Technology@PoliMi, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, via Pascoli 70/3, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Silvio Bonfadini
- Center
for Nano Science and Technology@PoliMi, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, via Pascoli 70/3, 20133 Milano, Italy
- Department
of Physics, Politecnico di Milano, Piazza L. Da Vinci 32, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Caterina Bossio
- Center
for Nano Science and Technology@PoliMi, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, via Pascoli 70/3, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Simone Varo
- Center
for Nano Science and Technology@PoliMi, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, via Pascoli 70/3, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Andrea Desii
- Center
for Nano Science and Technology@PoliMi, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, via Pascoli 70/3, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Luigino Criante
- Center
for Nano Science and Technology@PoliMi, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, via Pascoli 70/3, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Carlo Sala
- CNR Neuroscience
Institute, Milan 20129, Italy
| | - Mariacecilia Pasini
- Istituto
per lo Studio delle Macromolecole, Consiglio
Nazionale delle Ricerche (ISMAC-CNR), Via Bassini 15, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | | | - Francesco Galeotti
- Istituto
per lo Studio delle Macromolecole, Consiglio
Nazionale delle Ricerche (ISMAC-CNR), Via Bassini 15, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Maria Rosa Antognazza
- Center
for Nano Science and Technology@PoliMi, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, via Pascoli 70/3, 20133 Milano, Italy
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30
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Ayad NME, Kaushik S, Weaver VM. Tissue mechanics, an important regulator of development and disease. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2019; 374:20180215. [PMID: 31431174 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2018.0215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
A growing body of work describes how physical forces in and around cells affect their growth, proliferation, migration, function and differentiation into specialized types. How cells receive and respond biochemically to mechanical signals is a process termed mechanotransduction. Disease may arise if a disruption occurs within this mechanism of sensing and interpreting mechanics. Cancer, cardiovascular diseases and developmental defects, such as during the process of neural tube formation, are linked to changes in cell and tissue mechanics. A breakdown in normal tissue and cellular forces activates mechanosignalling pathways that affect their function and can promote disease progression. The recent advent of high-resolution techniques enables quantitative measurements of mechanical properties of the cell and its extracellular matrix, providing insight into how mechanotransduction is regulated. In this review, we will address the standard methods and new technologies available to properly measure mechanical properties, highlighting the challenges and limitations of probing different length-scales. We will focus on the unique environment present throughout the development and maintenance of the central nervous system and discuss cases where disease, such as brain cancer, arises in response to changes in the mechanical properties of the microenvironment that disrupt homeostasis. This article is part of a discussion meeting issue 'Forces in cancer: interdisciplinary approaches in tumour mechanobiology'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia M E Ayad
- Center for Bioengineering and Tissue Regeneration, Department of Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.,UC Berkeley-UCSF Graduate Program in Bioengineering, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Shelly Kaushik
- Center for Bioengineering and Tissue Regeneration, Department of Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Valerie M Weaver
- Center for Bioengineering and Tissue Regeneration, Department of Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.,Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.,UCSF Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.,Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.,Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
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31
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Yurchenko I, Vensi Basso JM, Syrotenko VS, Staii C. Anomalous diffusion for neuronal growth on surfaces with controlled geometries. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0216181. [PMID: 31059532 PMCID: PMC6502317 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0216181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2019] [Accepted: 04/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Geometrical cues are known to play a very important role in neuronal growth and the formation of neuronal networks. Here, we present a detailed analysis of axonal growth and dynamics for neuronal cells cultured on patterned polydimethylsiloxane surfaces. We use fluorescence microscopy to image neurons, quantify their dynamics, and demonstrate that the substrate geometrical patterns cause strong directional alignment of axons. We quantify axonal growth and report a general stochastic approach that quantitatively describes the motion of growth cones. The growth cone dynamics is described by Langevin and Fokker-Planck equations with both deterministic and stochastic contributions. We show that the deterministic terms contain both the angular and speed dependence of axonal growth, and that these two contributions can be separated. Growth alignment is determined by surface geometry, and it is quantified by the deterministic part of the Langevin equation. We combine experimental data with theoretical analysis to measure the key parameters of the growth cone motion: speed and angular distributions, correlation functions, diffusion coefficients, characteristics speeds and damping coefficients. We demonstrate that axonal dynamics displays a cross-over from Brownian motion (Ornstein-Uhlenbeck process) at earlier times to anomalous dynamics (superdiffusion) at later times. The superdiffusive regime is characterized by non-Gaussian speed distributions and power law dependence of the axonal mean square length and the velocity correlation functions. These results demonstrate the importance of geometrical cues in guiding axonal growth, and could lead to new methods for bioengineering novel substrates for controlling neuronal growth and regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilya Yurchenko
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Center for Nanoscopic Physics, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Joao Marcos Vensi Basso
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Center for Nanoscopic Physics, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Vladyslav Serhiiovych Syrotenko
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Center for Nanoscopic Physics, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Cristian Staii
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Center for Nanoscopic Physics, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts, United States of America
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32
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Vensi Basso JM, Yurchenko I, Simon M, Rizzo DJ, Staii C. Role of geometrical cues in neuronal growth. Phys Rev E 2019; 99:022408. [PMID: 30934335 DOI: 10.1103/physreve.99.022408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2018] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Geometrical cues play an essential role in neuronal growth. Here, we quantify axonal growth on surfaces with controlled geometries and report a general stochastic approach that quantitatively describes the motion of growth cones. We show that axons display a strong directional alignment on micropatterned surfaces when the periodicity of the patterns matches the dimension of the growth cone. The growth cone dynamics on surfaces with uniform geometry is described by a linear Langevin equation with both deterministic and stochastic contributions. In contrast, axonal growth on surfaces with periodic patterns is characterized by a system of two generalized Langevin equations with both linear and quadratic velocity dependence and stochastic noise. We combine experimental data with theoretical analysis to measure the key parameters of the growth cone motion: angular distributions, correlation functions, diffusion coefficients, characteristics speeds, and damping coefficients. We demonstrate that axonal dynamics displays a crossover from an Ornstein-Uhlenbeck process to a nonlinear stochastic regime when the geometrical periodicity of the pattern approaches the linear dimension of the growth cone. Growth alignment is determined by surface geometry, which is fully quantified by the deterministic part of the Langevin equation. These results provide insight into the role of curvature sensing proteins and their interactions with geometrical cues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joao Marcos Vensi Basso
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Center for Nanoscopic Physics, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts 02155, USA
| | - Ilya Yurchenko
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Center for Nanoscopic Physics, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts 02155, USA
| | - Marc Simon
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Center for Nanoscopic Physics, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts 02155, USA
| | - Daniel J Rizzo
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Center for Nanoscopic Physics, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts 02155, USA
| | - Cristian Staii
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Center for Nanoscopic Physics, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts 02155, USA
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33
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Mateus JC, Lopes CDF, Cerquido M, Leitão L, Leitão D, Cardoso S, Ventura J, Aguiar P. Improved in vitro electrophysiology using 3D-structured microelectrode arrays with a micro-mushrooms islets architecture capable of promoting topotaxis. J Neural Eng 2019; 16:036012. [PMID: 30818300 DOI: 10.1088/1741-2552/ab0b86] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- José C Mateus
- INEB-Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, R. Alfredo Allen, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal. i3S-Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, R. Alfredo Allen, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal. Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar (ICBAS), Universidade do Porto, R. Jorge de Viterbo Ferreira, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
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34
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Li G, Chen S, Zeng M, Kong Y, Zhao F, Zhang L, Yang Y. Hierarchically aligned gradient collagen micropatterns for rapidly screening Schwann cells behavior. Colloids Surf B Biointerfaces 2019; 176:341-351. [PMID: 30654241 DOI: 10.1016/j.colsurfb.2019.01.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2018] [Revised: 12/25/2018] [Accepted: 01/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
To penetrate the effect of protein gradient micropattern on peripheral nerve regeneration, the hierarchically aligned gradient collagen micropattern was prepared by micromoulding method and the influence on Schwann cells growth behavior was studied. The morphology, wettability, stability and component variation of the micropatterns were firstly characterized. Then, Schwann cells were cultured and the related mechanism was penetrated. The results showed that the gradient collagen micropattern could be well fabricated. The surface wettability varied with the change of collagen concentration, and the prepared gradient micropattern showed a good stability after PBS immersion for 15 days. The results of Schwann cells culture and morphological index analysis displayed that the prepared gradient collagen micropatten could well regulate the orientation growth of Schwann cells, while a much better cell alignment growth was obtained on the gradient micropattern with higher collagen concentration and wider pattern size. PCR and WB showed that the micropattern structure could effectively up-regulate the key specific genes for axon regeneration and myelination process. Overall, the study provides a systematic and facile method for understanding the effect of various sized micropatterns on cell behavior, which may have a great significance for the development of artificial implants for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guicai Li
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Nantong University, 226001, Nantong, PR China; Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, 226001, Nantong, PR China.
| | - Shiyu Chen
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Nantong University, 226001, Nantong, PR China; Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, 226001, Nantong, PR China
| | - Ming Zeng
- School of Biology Science, Nantong University, 226019, Nantong, PR China
| | - Yan Kong
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Nantong University, 226001, Nantong, PR China; Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, 226001, Nantong, PR China
| | - Fei Zhao
- School of Biology Science, Nantong University, 226019, Nantong, PR China
| | - Luzhong Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Nantong University, 226001, Nantong, PR China; Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, 226001, Nantong, PR China.
| | - Yumin Yang
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Nantong University, 226001, Nantong, PR China; Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, 226001, Nantong, PR China.
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35
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36
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Huang Y, Ho CT, Lin Y, Lee C, Ho S, Li M, Hwang E. Nanoimprinted Anisotropic Topography Preferentially Guides Axons and Enhances Nerve Regeneration. Macromol Biosci 2018; 18:e1800335. [DOI: 10.1002/mabi.201800335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Yun‐An Huang
- Department of Biological Science and TechnologyNational Chiao Tung University Hsinchu 300 Taiwan
| | - Chris T. Ho
- Department of Biological Science and TechnologyNational Chiao Tung University Hsinchu 300 Taiwan
- Institute of Molecular Medicine and BioengineeringNational Chiao Tung University Hsinchu 300 Taiwan
| | - Yu‐Hsuan Lin
- Institute of Molecular Medicine and BioengineeringNational Chiao Tung University Hsinchu 300 Taiwan
| | - Chen‐Ju Lee
- Department of Biological Science and TechnologyNational Chiao Tung University Hsinchu 300 Taiwan
| | - Szu‐Mo Ho
- Institute of Molecular Medicine and BioengineeringNational Chiao Tung University Hsinchu 300 Taiwan
| | - Ming‐Chia Li
- Department of Biological Science and TechnologyNational Chiao Tung University Hsinchu 300 Taiwan
- Center for Intelligent Drug Systems and Smart Bio‐devices (IDS2B)National Chiao Tung University Hsinchu 300 Taiwan
| | - Eric Hwang
- Department of Biological Science and TechnologyNational Chiao Tung University Hsinchu 300 Taiwan
- Institute of Molecular Medicine and BioengineeringNational Chiao Tung University Hsinchu 300 Taiwan
- Institute of Bioinformatics and Systems BiologyNational Chiao Tung University Hsinchu 300 Taiwan
- Center for Intelligent Drug Systems and Smart Bio‐devices (IDS2B)National Chiao Tung University Hsinchu 300 Taiwan
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37
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Cangellaris OV, Corbin EA, Froeter P, Michaels JA, Li X, Gillette MU. Aligning Synthetic Hippocampal Neural Circuits via Self-Rolled-Up Silicon Nitride Microtube Arrays. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2018; 10:35705-35714. [PMID: 30251826 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.8b10233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Directing neurons to form predetermined circuits with the intention of treating neurological disorders and neurodegenerative diseases is a fundamental goal and current challenge in neuroengineering. Until recently, only neuronal aggregates were studied and characterized in culture, which can limit information gathered to populations of cells. In this study, we use a substrate constructed of arrays of strain-induced self-rolled-up membrane 3D architectures. This results in changes in the neuronal architecture and altered growth dynamics of neurites. Hippocampal neurons from postnatal rats were cultured at low confluency (∼250 cells mm-2) on an array of transparent rolled-up microtubes (μ-tubes; 4-5 μm diameter) of varying topographical arrangements. Neurite growth on the μ-tubes was characterized and compared to controls in order to establish a baseline for alignment imposed by the topography. Compared to control substrates, neurites are significantly more aligned toward the 0° reference on the μ-tube array. Pitch (20-60 and 100 μm) and μ-tube length (30-80 μm) of array elements were also varied to investigate their impact on neurite alignment. We found that alignment was improved by the gradient pitch arrangement and with longer μ-tubes. Application of this technology will enhance the ability to construct intentional neural circuits through array design and manipulation of individual neurons and can be adapted to address challenges in neural repair, reinnervation, and neuroregeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia V Cangellaris
- Department of Bioengineering , University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign , Urbana , Illinois 61801 , United States
- Medical Scholars Program , University of Illinois College of Medicine at Urbana-Champaign , Urbana , Illinois 61801 , United States
| | - Elise A Corbin
- Department of Bioengineering , University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign , Urbana , Illinois 61801 , United States
- Cardiovascular Institute, Perelman School of Medicine , University of Pennsylvania , Philadelphia , Pennsylvania 19104 , United States
| | | | | | | | - Martha U Gillette
- Department of Bioengineering , University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign , Urbana , Illinois 61801 , United States
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38
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Seo J, Kim J, Joo S, Choi JY, Kang K, Cho WK, Choi IS. Nanotopography-Promoted Formation of Axon Collateral Branches of Hippocampal Neurons. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2018; 14:e1801763. [PMID: 30028572 DOI: 10.1002/smll.201801763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2018] [Revised: 06/23/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Axon collateral branches, as a key structural motif of neurons, allow neurons to integrate information from highly interconnected, divergent networks by establishing terminal boutons. Although physical cues are generally known to have a comprehensive range of effects on neuronal development, their involvement in axonal branching remains elusive. Herein, it is demonstrated that the nanopillar arrays significantly increase the number of axon collateral branches and also promote their growth. Immunostaining and biochemical analyses indicate that the physical interactions between the nanopillars and the neurons give rise to lateral filopodia at the axon shaft via cytoskeletal changes, leading to the formation of axonal branches. This report, demonstrates that nanotopography regulates axonal branching, and provides a guideline for the design of sophisticated neuron-based devices and scaffolds for neuro-engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeongyeon Seo
- Department of Chemistry, Center for Cell-Encapsulation Research, KAIST, Daejeon, 34141, South Korea
| | - Juan Kim
- Department of Chemistry, Center for Cell-Encapsulation Research, KAIST, Daejeon, 34141, South Korea
| | - Sunghoon Joo
- Department of Chemistry, Center for Cell-Encapsulation Research, KAIST, Daejeon, 34141, South Korea
| | - Ji Yu Choi
- Department of Chemistry, Center for Cell-Encapsulation Research, KAIST, Daejeon, 34141, South Korea
| | - Kyungtae Kang
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Kyung Hee University, Yongin, Gyeonggi, 17104, South Korea
| | - Woo Kyung Cho
- Department of Chemistry, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 34134, South Korea
| | - Insung S Choi
- Department of Chemistry, Center for Cell-Encapsulation Research, KAIST, Daejeon, 34141, South Korea
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Sequential Application of Discrete Topographical Patterns Enhances Derivation of Functional Mesencephalic Dopaminergic Neurons from Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells. Sci Rep 2018; 8:9567. [PMID: 29934644 PMCID: PMC6014983 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-27653-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2017] [Accepted: 06/04/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Parkinson’s Disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder attributed to death of mesencephalic dopaminergic (DA) neurons. Pluripotent stem cells have great potential in the study for this late-onset disease, but acquirement of cells that are robust in quantity and quality is still technically demanding. Biophysical cues have been shown to direct stem cell fate, but the effect of different topographies in the lineage commitment and subsequent maturation stages of cells have been less examined. Using human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), we applied topographical patterns sequentially during differentiation stages and examined their ability to influence derivation yield and functionality of regionalized subtype-specific DA neurons. Gratings showed higher yield of DA neurons and may be beneficial for initial lineage commitment. Cells derived on pillars in the terminal differentiation stage have increased neuronal complexity, and were more capable of firing repetitive action potentials, showing that pillars yielded better network formation and functionality. Our topography platform can be applied to patient-derived iPSCs as well, and that cells harbouring LRRK2 mutation were more functionally mature when optimal topographies were applied sequentially. This will hopefully accelerate development of robust cell models that will provide novel insights into discovering new therapeutic approaches for Parkinson’s Disease.
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40
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Radotić V, Braeken D, Drviš P, Mattotti M, Kovačić D. Advantageous environment of micro-patterned, high-density complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor electrode array for spiral ganglion neurons cultured in vitro. Sci Rep 2018; 8:7446. [PMID: 29748613 PMCID: PMC5945660 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-25814-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2017] [Accepted: 04/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
This study investigated micro-patterned, high-density complementary metal–oxide–semiconductor (CMOS) electrode array to be used as biologically permissive environment for organization, guidance and electrical stimulation of spiral ganglion neurons (SGN). SGNs extracted and isolated from cochleae of P5-P7 rat pups and adult guinea pigs were cultured 1, 4 and 7 days in vitro on glass coverslips (control) and CMOS electrode array. The cultures were analyzed visually and immunohistochemically for SGN presence, outgrowth, neurite alignment, neurite length, neurite asymmetry as well as the contact of a neuronal soma and neurites with the micro-electrodes. Our findings indicate that topographical environment of CMOS chip with micro-patterned pillars enhanced growth, survival, morphology, neural orientation and alignment of SGNs in vitro compared to control. Smaller spacing (0.8–1.6 µm) between protruding pillars on CMOS led SGNs to develop structured and guided neurites oriented along three topographical axes separated by 60°. We found morphological basis for positioning of the micro-electrodes on the chip that was appropriate for direct contact of SGNs with them. This configuration allowed CMOS electrode array to electrically stimulate the SGN whose responses were observed with live Fluo 4 calcium imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viktorija Radotić
- Laboratory for Biophysics and Medical Neuroelectronics, Department of Physics, University of Split, Faculty of Science, R.Boškovića 33, HR-21000, Split, Croatia.,The Center of Research Excellence for Science and Technology Integrating Mediterranean region (STIM), University of Split, Poljička 35, HR-21000, Split, Croatia.,Speech and Hearing Research Laboratory, University of Split, School of Medicine, Šoltanska 2, HR-21000, Split, Croatia
| | - Dries Braeken
- Cell and Tissue Technologies group, Life Science Technologies department, Imec, Kapeldreef 75, B-3001, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Petar Drviš
- University Hospital Centre Split, Department of Otorhinolaryngology & Head and Neck Surgery, Spinčićeva 1, HR-21000, Split, Croatia
| | - Marta Mattotti
- Speech and Hearing Research Laboratory, University of Split, School of Medicine, Šoltanska 2, HR-21000, Split, Croatia
| | - Damir Kovačić
- Laboratory for Biophysics and Medical Neuroelectronics, Department of Physics, University of Split, Faculty of Science, R.Boškovića 33, HR-21000, Split, Croatia. .,The Center of Research Excellence for Science and Technology Integrating Mediterranean region (STIM), University of Split, Poljička 35, HR-21000, Split, Croatia. .,Speech and Hearing Research Laboratory, University of Split, School of Medicine, Šoltanska 2, HR-21000, Split, Croatia.
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41
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Belu A, Yilmaz M, Neumann E, Offenhäusser A, Demirel G, Mayer D. Asymmetric, nano-textured surfaces influence neuron viability and polarity. J Biomed Mater Res A 2018; 106:1634-1645. [PMID: 29427541 DOI: 10.1002/jbm.a.36363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2017] [Revised: 01/09/2018] [Accepted: 02/01/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Three dimensional, nanostructured surfaces have attracted considerable attention in biomedical research since they have proven to represent a powerful platform to influence cell fate. In particular, nanorods and nanopillars possess great potential for the control of cell adhesion and differentiation, gene and biomolecule delivery, optical and electrical stimulation and recording, as well as cell patterning. Here, we investigate the influence of asymmetric poly(dichloro-p-xylene) (PPX) columnar films on the adhesion and maturation of cortical neurons. We show that nanostructured films with dense, inclined polymer columns can support viable primary neuronal culture. The cell-nanostructure interface is characterized showing a minimal cell penetration but strong adhesion on the surface. Moreover, we quantify the influence of the nano-textured surface on the neural development (soma size, neuritogenesis, and polarity) in comparison to a planar PPX sample. We demonstrate that the nanostructures facilitates an enhancement in neurite branching as well as elongation of axons and growth cones. Furthermore, we show for the first time that the asymmetric orientation of polymeric nanocolumns strongly influences the initiation direction of the axon formation. These results evidence that 3D nano-topographies can significantly change neural development and can be used to engineer axon elongation. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 106A: 1634-1645, 2018.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreea Belu
- Institute of Complex Systems, ICS-8, Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH, Jülich, 52425, Germany.,JARA-SOFT, Jülich, 52425, Germany
| | - Mehmet Yilmaz
- Bio-inspired Materials Research Laboratory (BIMREL), Gazi University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Elmar Neumann
- Institute of Complex Systems, ICS-8, Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH, Jülich, 52425, Germany.,JARA-SOFT, Jülich, 52425, Germany
| | - Andreas Offenhäusser
- Institute of Complex Systems, ICS-8, Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH, Jülich, 52425, Germany.,JARA-SOFT, Jülich, 52425, Germany
| | - Gokhan Demirel
- Bio-inspired Materials Research Laboratory (BIMREL), Gazi University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Dirk Mayer
- Institute of Complex Systems, ICS-8, Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH, Jülich, 52425, Germany.,JARA-SOFT, Jülich, 52425, Germany
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42
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Barata D, Provaggi E, van Blitterswijk C, Habibovic P. Development of a microfluidic platform integrating high-resolution microstructured biomaterials to study cell-material interactions. LAB ON A CHIP 2017; 17:4134-4147. [PMID: 29114689 DOI: 10.1039/c7lc00802c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Microfluidic screening platforms offer new possibilities for performing in vitro cell-based assays with higher throughput and in a setting that has the potential to closely mimic the physiological microenvironment. Integrating functional biomaterials into such platforms is a promising approach to obtain a deeper insight into the interactions occurring at the cell-material interface. The success of such an approach is, however, largely dependent on the ability to miniaturize the biomaterials as well as on the choice of the assay used to study the cell-material interactions. In this work, we developed a microfluidic device, the main component of which is made of a widely used biocompatible polymer, polylactic acid (PLA). This device enabled cell culture under different fluidic regimes, including perfusion and diffusion. Through a combination of photolithography, two-photon polymerization and hot embossing, it was possible to microstructure the surface of the cell culture chamber of the device with highly defined geometrical features. Furthermore, using pyramids with different heights and wall microtopographies as an example, adhesion, morphology and distribution of human MG63 osteosarcoma cells were studied. The results showed that both the height of the topographical features and the microstructural properties of their walls affected cell spreading and distribution. This proof-of-concept study shows that the platform developed here is a useful tool for studying interactions between cells and clinically relevant biomaterials under controlled fluidic regimes.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Barata
- Department of Tissue Regeneration, MIRA Institute for Biomedical Technology and Technical Medicine, University of Twente, Enschede, Overijssel, The Netherlands
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43
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Microelectrode array-induced neuronal alignment directs neurite outgrowth: analysis using a fast Fourier transform (FFT). EUROPEAN BIOPHYSICS JOURNAL: EBJ 2017; 46:719-727. [PMID: 29075798 DOI: 10.1007/s00249-017-1263-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2017] [Revised: 09/24/2017] [Accepted: 10/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Many studies have shown that the topography of the substrate on which neurons are cultured can promote neuronal adhesion and guide neurite outgrowth in the same direction as the underlying topography. To investigate this effect, isotropic substrate-complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) chips were used as one example of microelectrode arrays (MEAs) for directing neurite growth of spiral ganglion neurons. Neurons were isolated from 5 to 7-day-old rat pups, cultured 1 day in vitro (DIV) and 4 DIV, and then fixed with 4% paraformaldehyde. For analysis of neurite alignment and orientation, fast Fourier transformation (FFT) was used. Results revealed that on the micro-patterned surface of a CMOS chip, neurons orient their neurites along three directional axes at 30, 90, and 150° and that neurites aligned in straight lines between adjacent pillars and mostly followed a single direction while occasionally branching perpendicularly. We conclude that the CMOS substrate guides neurites towards electrodes by means of their structured pillar organization and can produce electrical stimulation of aligned neurons as well as monitoring their neural activities once neurites are in the vicinity of electrodes. These findings are of particular interest for neural tissue engineering with the ultimate goal of developing a new generation of MEA essential for improved electrical stimulation of auditory neurons.
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Marcus M, Baranes K, Park M, Choi IS, Kang K, Shefi O. Interactions of Neurons with Physical Environments. Adv Healthc Mater 2017. [PMID: 28640544 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.201700267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Nerve growth strongly relies on multiple chemical and physical signals throughout development and regeneration. Currently, a cure for injured neuronal tissue is an unmet need. Recent advances in fabrication technologies and materials led to the development of synthetic interfaces for neurons. Such engineered platforms that come in 2D and 3D forms can mimic the native extracellular environment and create a deeper understanding of neuronal growth mechanisms, and ultimately advance the development of potential therapies for neuronal regeneration. This progress report aims to present a comprehensive discussion of this field, focusing on physical feature design and fabrication with additional information about considerations of chemical modifications. We review studies of platforms generated with a range of topographies, from micro-scale features down to topographical elements at the nanoscale that demonstrate effective interactions with neuronal cells. Fabrication methods are discussed as well as their biological outcomes. This report highlights the interplay between neuronal systems and the important roles played by topography on neuronal differentiation, outgrowth, and development. The influence of substrate structures on different neuronal cells and parameters including cell fate, outgrowth, intracellular remodeling, gene expression and activity is discussed. Matching these effects to specific needs may lead to the emergence of clinical solutions for patients suffering from neuronal injuries or brain-machine interface (BMI) applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Marcus
- Faculty of Engineering and Bar-Ilan Institute for Nanotechnology and Advanced Materials; Bar-Ilan University; Ramat-Gan 5290002 Israel
| | - Koby Baranes
- Faculty of Engineering and Bar-Ilan Institute for Nanotechnology and Advanced Materials; Bar-Ilan University; Ramat-Gan 5290002 Israel
| | - Matthew Park
- Center for Cell-Encapsulation Research; Department of Chemistry; KAIST; Daejeon 34141 Korea
| | - Insung S. Choi
- Center for Cell-Encapsulation Research; Department of Chemistry; KAIST; Daejeon 34141 Korea
| | - Kyungtae Kang
- Department of Applied Chemistry; Kyung Hee University; Yongin Gyeonggi 17104 Korea
| | - Orit Shefi
- Faculty of Engineering and Bar-Ilan Institute for Nanotechnology and Advanced Materials; Bar-Ilan University; Ramat-Gan 5290002 Israel
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45
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Simitzi C, Ranella A, Stratakis E. Controlling the morphology and outgrowth of nerve and neuroglial cells: The effect of surface topography. Acta Biomater 2017; 51:21-52. [PMID: 28069509 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2017.01.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 133] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2016] [Revised: 12/23/2016] [Accepted: 01/05/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Unlike other tissue types, like epithelial tissue, which consist of cells with a much more homogeneous structure and function, the nervous tissue spans in a complex multilayer environment whose topographical features display a large spectrum of morphologies and size scales. Traditional cell cultures, which are based on two-dimensional cell-adhesive culture dishes or coverslips, are lacking topographical cues and mainly simulate the biochemical microenvironment of the cells. With the emergence of micro- and nano-fabrication techniques new types of cell culture platforms are developed, where the effect of various topographical cues on cellular morphology, proliferation and differentiation can be studied. Different approaches (regarding the material, fabrication technique, topographical characteristics, etc.) have been implemented. The present review paper aims at reviewing the existing body of literature on the use of artificial micro- and nano-topographical features to control neuronal and neuroglial cells' morphology, outgrowth and neural network topology. The cell responses-from phenomenology to investigation of the underlying mechanisms- on the different topographies, including both deterministic and random ones, are summarized. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE There is increasing evidence that physical cues, such as topography, can have a significant impact on the neural cell functions. With the aid of micro-and nanofabrication techniques, new types of cell culture platforms are developed and the effect of surface topography on the cells has been studied. The present review article aims at reviewing the existing body of literature reporting on the use of various topographies to study and control the morphology and functions of cells from nervous tissue, i.e. the neuronal and the neuroglial cells. The cell responses-from phenomenology to investigation of the underlying mechanisms- on the different topographies, including both deterministic and random ones, are summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Simitzi
- Institute of Electronic Structure and Laser (IESL), Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas (FORTH), Heraklion 71003, Greece
| | - A Ranella
- Institute of Electronic Structure and Laser (IESL), Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas (FORTH), Heraklion 71003, Greece
| | - E Stratakis
- Institute of Electronic Structure and Laser (IESL), Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas (FORTH), Heraklion 71003, Greece.
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46
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Mennens SFB, van den Dries K, Cambi A. Role for Mechanotransduction in Macrophage and Dendritic Cell Immunobiology. Results Probl Cell Differ 2017; 62:209-242. [PMID: 28455711 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-54090-0_9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Tissue homeostasis is not only controlled by biochemical signals but also through mechanical forces that act on cells. Yet, while it has long been known that biochemical signals have profound effects on cell biology, the importance of mechanical forces has only been recognized much more recently. The types of mechanical stress that cells experience include stretch, compression, and shear stress, which are mainly induced by the extracellular matrix, cell-cell contacts, and fluid flow. Importantly, macroscale tissue deformation through stretch or compression also affects cellular function.Immune cells such as macrophages and dendritic cells are present in almost all peripheral tissues, and monocytes populate the vasculature throughout the body. These cells are unique in the sense that they are subject to a large variety of different mechanical environments, and it is therefore not surprising that key immune effector functions are altered by mechanical stimuli. In this chapter, we describe the different types of mechanical signals that cells encounter within the body and review the current knowledge on the role of mechanical signals in regulating macrophage, monocyte, and dendritic cell function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Svenja F B Mennens
- Department of Cell Biology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 26-28, 6525 GA, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Koen van den Dries
- Department of Cell Biology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 26-28, 6525 GA, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Alessandra Cambi
- Department of Cell Biology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 26-28, 6525 GA, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
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47
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Repić T, Madirazza K, Bektur E, Sapunar D. Characterization of dorsal root ganglion neurons cultured on silicon micro-pillar substrates. Sci Rep 2016; 6:39560. [PMID: 28008963 PMCID: PMC5180168 DOI: 10.1038/srep39560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2016] [Accepted: 11/23/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Our study focuses on characterization of dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons cultured on silicon micro-pillar substrates (MPS) with the ultimate goal of designing micro-electrode arrays (MEAs) for successful electrophysiological recordings of DRG neurons. Adult and neonatal DRG neurons were cultured on MPS and glass coverslips for 7 days in vitro. DRG neuronal distribution and morphometric analysis, including neurite alignment and length, was performed on MPS areas with different pillar width and spacing. We showed that MPS provide an environment for growth of adult and neonatal DRG neurons as permissive as control glass surfaces. Neonatal DRG neurons were present on MPS areas with narrow pillar spacing, while adult neurons preferred wider pillar spacing. Compared to the control glass surfaces the neonatal and adult DRG neurons in regions with narrow pillar spacing range developed a smaller number of longer neurites. In the same area, neurites were preferentially oriented along three directional axes at 30°, 90° and 150°. MPS architecture influenced growth directionality of all main DRG neuronal subtypes. We can conclude that specific micro-pillar substrate topography affects the morphology of DRG neurons. This knowledge can enable development of MEAs with precisely defined physical features for various neuroscience applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tihana Repić
- Laboratory for Pain Research, School of Medicine, University of Split, Croatia
| | - Katarina Madirazza
- Speech and Hearing Research Laboratory, School of Medicine, University of Split, Croatia
| | - Ezgi Bektur
- Histology and Embryology Department, School of Medicine, Eskisehir Osmangazi University, Turkey
| | - Damir Sapunar
- Laboratory for Pain Research, School of Medicine, University of Split, Croatia
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Park M, Oh E, Seo J, Kim MH, Cho H, Choi JY, Lee H, Choi IS. Control over Neurite Directionality and Neurite Elongation on Anisotropic Micropillar Arrays. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2016; 12:1148-52. [PMID: 26395860 DOI: 10.1002/smll.201501896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2015] [Revised: 08/10/2015] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Control over neurite orientation in primary hippocampal neurons is achieved by using interrupted, anisotropic micropillar arrays as a cell culture platform. Both neurite orientation and neurite length are controlled by a function of interpillar distance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Park
- Center for Cell-Encapsulation Research, Department of Chemistry, KAIST, Daejeon, 305-701, South Korea
| | - Eunkyul Oh
- Department of Chemistry, College of Natural Science, Hanyang University, Seoul, 133-791, South Korea
| | - Jeongyeon Seo
- Center for Cell-Encapsulation Research, Department of Chemistry, KAIST, Daejeon, 305-701, South Korea
| | - Mi-Hee Kim
- Center for Cell-Encapsulation Research, Department of Chemistry, KAIST, Daejeon, 305-701, South Korea
| | - Hyeoncheol Cho
- Center for Cell-Encapsulation Research, Department of Chemistry, KAIST, Daejeon, 305-701, South Korea
| | - Ji Yu Choi
- Center for Cell-Encapsulation Research, Department of Chemistry, KAIST, Daejeon, 305-701, South Korea
| | - Haiwon Lee
- Department of Chemistry, College of Natural Science, Hanyang University, Seoul, 133-791, South Korea
- Institute of Nano Science and Technology, Hanyang University, Seoul, 133-791, South Korea
| | - Insung S Choi
- Center for Cell-Encapsulation Research, Department of Chemistry, KAIST, Daejeon, 305-701, South Korea
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KASAI N, LU R, FILIP R, GOTO T, TANAKA A, SUMITOMO K. Neuronal Growth on a-Si and Au Nanopillars. ELECTROCHEMISTRY 2016. [DOI: 10.5796/electrochemistry.84.296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Nahoko KASAI
- NTT Basic Research Laboratories, NTT Corporation
| | - Rick LU
- NTT Basic Research Laboratories, NTT Corporation
| | - Roxana FILIP
- NTT Basic Research Laboratories, NTT Corporation
| | | | - Aya TANAKA
- NTT Basic Research Laboratories, NTT Corporation
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50
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Kilinc D, Blasiak A, Lee GU. Microtechnologies for studying the role of mechanics in axon growth and guidance. Front Cell Neurosci 2015; 9:282. [PMID: 26283918 PMCID: PMC4515553 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2015.00282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2015] [Accepted: 07/10/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The guidance of axons to their proper targets is not only a crucial event in neurodevelopment, but also a potential therapeutic target for neural repair. Axon guidance is mediated by various chemo- and haptotactic cues, as well as the mechanical interactions between the cytoskeleton and the extracellular matrix (ECM). Axonal growth cones, dynamic ends of growing axons, convert external stimuli to biochemical signals, which, in turn, are translated into behavior, e.g., turning or retraction, via cytoskeleton-matrix linkages. Despite the inherent mechanical nature of the problem, the role of mechanics in axon guidance is poorly understood. Recent years has witnessed the application of a range of microtechnologies in neurobiology, from microfluidic circuits to single molecule force spectroscopy. In this mini-review, we describe microtechnologies geared towards dissecting the mechanical aspects of axon guidance, divided into three categories: controlling the growth cone microenvironment, stimulating growth cones with externally applied forces, and measuring forces exerted by the growth cones. A particular emphasis is given to those studies that combine multiple techniques, as dictated by the complexity of the problem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devrim Kilinc
- Bionanosciences Group, School of Chemisty and Chemical Biology, University College Dublin Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Agata Blasiak
- Bionanosciences Group, School of Chemisty and Chemical Biology, University College Dublin Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Gil U Lee
- Bionanosciences Group, School of Chemisty and Chemical Biology, University College Dublin Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
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