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Yan C, Gu J, Yin S, Wu H, Lei X, Geng F, Zhang N, Wu X. Design and preparation of naringenin loaded functional biomimetic nano-drug delivery system for Alzheimer's disease. J Drug Target 2024; 32:80-92. [PMID: 38044844 DOI: 10.1080/1061186x.2023.2290453] [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: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
Efficient brain drug delivery has been a challenge in the treatment of Alzheimer's Disease and other brain disorders as blood-brain barrier (BBB) impedes most drugs to reach brain. To overcome this obstacle, we developed a novel TGN decorated erythrocyte membrane-coated poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticle (TRNNs). The nanoparticle significantly boosted the penetration (7.3 times) in a U-118MG and HCMEC/D3 cell co-culture BBB model in vitro. Living image was performed to assess the TRNNs distribution in vivo. The fluorescence intensity in the isolated brain of TRDNs-treated mice was about 8 times that of the DNs-treated. In the novel object recognition test, the mice after administration of TRDNs showed higher recognition index (0.414 ± 0.016) than the model group (0.275 ± 0.019). A significant increase in the number of dendritic spines from TRNNs administrated mice hippocampi neurons was observed after Golgi stain. This improvement of neurons was also confirmed by the significant high expression of PSD95 protein level in hippocampi. We measured the OD values of Aβ25-35 induced PC12 cells that pre-treatment with different nanoparticles and concluded that TRNNs had a robust neuroprotection effect. Above all, functional biomimetic nanoparticles could increase the accumulation of naringenin into brain, thereby enable the drug to exert greater therapeutic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang Yan
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Normal University, Harbin, China
| | - Jinlian Gu
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Normal University, Harbin, China
| | - Shun Yin
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Normal University, Harbin, China
| | - Hao Wu
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Normal University, Harbin, China
| | - Xia Lei
- Jiangsu MC Clinical Innovation Center of Degenerative Bone & Joint Disease, Wuxi TCM Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Wuxi, China
| | - Fang Geng
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Normal University, Harbin, China
| | - Ning Zhang
- Jiangsu MC Clinical Innovation Center of Degenerative Bone & Joint Disease, Wuxi TCM Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Wuxi, China
- College of Pharmacy, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Xiaodan Wu
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Normal University, Harbin, China
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Zhang Y, Mu BR, Ran Z, Zhu T, Huang X, Yang X, Wang DM, Ma QH, Lu MH. Pericytes in Alzheimer's disease: Key players and therapeutic targets. Exp Neurol 2024; 379:114825. [PMID: 38777251 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2024.114825] [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: 02/22/2024] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a devastating neurodegenerative disorder that leads to progressive cognitive decline and neuropathological changes. Pericytes, which are vessel mural cells on the basement membrane of capillaries, play a crucial role in regulating cerebrovascular functions and maintaining neurovascular unit integrity. Emerging research substantiates the involvement of pericytes in AD. This review provides a comprehensive overview of pericytes, including their structure, origin, and markers and various functions within the central nervous system. Emphatically, the review explores the intricate mechanisms through which pericytes contribute to AD, including their interactions with amyloid beta and apolipoprotein E, as well as various signaling pathways. The review also highlights potential for targeted pericyte therapy for AD, with a focus on stem cell therapy and drug treatments. Future research directions include the classification of pericyte subtypes, studies related to aging, and the role of pericytes in exosome-related mechanisms in AD pathology. In conclusion, this review consolidates current knowledge on the pivotal roles of pericytes in AD and their potential as therapeutic targets, providing valuable insights for future research and clinical interventions aimed at addressing the impact of AD on patients' lives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Sichuan-Chongqing Co-construction for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, College of Medical Technology, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Ben-Rong Mu
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Sichuan-Chongqing Co-construction for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, College of Medical Technology, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Zhao Ran
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Sichuan-Chongqing Co-construction for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, College of Medical Technology, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Tao Zhu
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Sichuan-Chongqing Co-construction for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, College of Medical Technology, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Xin Huang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases, Institute of Neuroscience, Soochow University, Suzhou 215021, China
| | - Xiong Yang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Sichuan-Chongqing Co-construction for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, College of Medical Technology, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Dong-Mei Wang
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Quan-Hong Ma
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases, Institute of Neuroscience, Soochow University, Suzhou 215021, China.
| | - Mei-Hong Lu
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Sichuan-Chongqing Co-construction for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, College of Medical Technology, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China.
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Royse MK, Fowler M, Mai AK, He Y, Durante MR, Buist N, Procopio A, Xu J, Veiseh O. Development of a 3D printed perfusable in vitro blood-brain barrier model for use as a scalable screening tool. Biomater Sci 2024; 12:4363-4375. [PMID: 39023223 DOI: 10.1039/d4bm00663a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
Despite recent technological advances in drug discovery, the success rate for neurotherapeutics remains alarmingly low compared to treatments for other areas of the body. One of the biggest challenges for delivering therapeutics to the central nervous system (CNS) is the presence of the blood-brain barrier (BBB). In vitro blood-brain barrier models with high predictability are essential to aid in designing parameters for new therapeutics, assess their ability to cross the BBB, and investigate therapeutic strategies that can be employed to enhance transport. Here, we demonstrate the development of a 3D printable hydrogel blood-brain barrier model that mimics the cellular composition and structure of the blood-brain barrier with human brain endothelial cells lining the surface, pericytes in direct contact with the endothelial cells on the abluminal side of the endothelium, and astrocytes in the surrounding printed bulk matrix. We introduce a simple, static printed hemi-cylinder model to determine design parameters such as media selection, co-culture ratios, and cell incorporation timing in a resource-conservative and high-throughput manner. Presence of cellular adhesion junction, VE-Cadherin, efflux transporters, P-glycoprotein (P-gp) and Breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP), and receptor-mediated transporters, Transferrin receptor (TfR) and low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1 (LRP1) were confirmed via immunostaining demonstrating the ability of this model for screening in therapeutic strategies that rely on these transport systems. Design parameters determined in the hemi-cylinder model were translated to a more complex, perfusable vessel model to demonstrate its utility for determining barrier function and assessing permeability to model therapeutic compounds. This 3D-printed blood-brain barrier model represents one of the first uses of projection stereolithography to fabricate a perfusable blood-brain barrier model, enabling the patterning of complex vessel geometries and precise arrangement of cell populations. This model demonstrates potential as a new platform to investigate the delivery of neurotherapeutic compounds and drug delivery strategies through the blood-brain barrier, providing a useful in vitro screening tool in central nervous system drug discovery and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madison K Royse
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, 6100 Main St., Houston, TX 77005, USA.
| | - Martha Fowler
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, 6100 Main St., Houston, TX 77005, USA.
| | - A Kristen Mai
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, 6100 Main St., Houston, TX 77005, USA.
| | - Yufang He
- Division of Technology, Infrastructure, Operations & Experience, Merck & Co., Inc. Rahway, NJ 07065, USA
| | - Marc R Durante
- Division of Technology, Infrastructure, Operations & Experience, Merck & Co., Inc. Rahway, NJ 07065, USA
| | - Nicole Buist
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences & Clinical Supply, Merck & Co., Inc. Rahway, NJ 07065, USA.
| | - Adam Procopio
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences & Clinical Supply, Merck & Co., Inc. Rahway, NJ 07065, USA.
| | - Jun Xu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences & Clinical Supply, Merck & Co., Inc. Rahway, NJ 07065, USA.
| | - Omid Veiseh
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, 6100 Main St., Houston, TX 77005, USA.
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Zhao N, Pessell AF, Zhu N, Searson PC. Tissue-Engineered Microvessels: A Review of Current Engineering Strategies and Applications. Adv Healthc Mater 2024; 13:e2303419. [PMID: 38686434 PMCID: PMC11338730 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202303419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Microvessels, including arterioles, capillaries, and venules, play an important role in regulating blood flow, enabling nutrient and waste exchange, and facilitating immune surveillance. Due to their important roles in maintaining normal function in human tissues, a substantial effort has been devoted to developing tissue-engineered models to study endothelium-related biology and pathology. Various engineering strategies have been developed to recapitulate the structural, cellular, and molecular hallmarks of native human microvessels in vitro. In this review, recent progress in engineering approaches, key components, and culture platforms for tissue-engineered human microvessel models is summarized. Then, tissue-specific models, and the major applications of tissue-engineered microvessels in development, disease modeling, drug screening and delivery, and vascularization in tissue engineering, are reviewed. Finally, future research directions for the field are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Zhao
- Institute for Nanobiotechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
| | - Alexander F Pessell
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
| | - Ninghao Zhu
- Institute for Nanobiotechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
| | - Peter C Searson
- Institute for Nanobiotechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
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Pramotton FM, Spitz S, Kamm RD. Challenges and Future Perspectives in Modeling Neurodegenerative Diseases Using Organ-on-a-Chip Technology. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2403892. [PMID: 38922799 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202403892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2024] [Revised: 06/01/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) affect more than 50 million people worldwide, posing a significant global health challenge as well as a high socioeconomic burden. With aging constituting one of the main risk factors for some NDDs such as Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD), this societal toll is expected to rise considering the predicted increase in the aging population as well as the limited progress in the development of effective therapeutics. To address the high failure rates in clinical trials, legislative changes permitting the use of alternatives to traditional pre-clinical in vivo models are implemented. In this regard, microphysiological systems (MPS) such as organ-on-a-chip (OoC) platforms constitute a promising tool, due to their ability to mimic complex and human-specific tissue niches in vitro. This review summarizes the current progress in modeling NDDs using OoC technology and discusses five critical aspects still insufficiently addressed in OoC models to date. Taking these aspects into consideration in the future MPS will advance the modeling of NDDs in vitro and increase their translational value in the clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Michela Pramotton
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Sarah Spitz
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Roger D Kamm
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
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Mulay AR, Hwang J, Kim DH. Microphysiological Blood-Brain Barrier Systems for Disease Modeling and Drug Development. Adv Healthc Mater 2024; 13:e2303180. [PMID: 38430211 PMCID: PMC11338747 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202303180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a highly controlled microenvironment that regulates the interactions between cerebral blood and brain tissue. Due to its selectivity, many therapeutics targeting various neurological disorders are not able to penetrate into brain tissue. Pre-clinical studies using animals and other in vitro platforms have not shown the ability to fully replicate the human BBB leading to the failure of a majority of therapeutics in clinical trials. However, recent innovations in vitro and ex vivo modeling called organs-on-chips have shown the potential to create more accurate disease models for improved drug development. These microfluidic platforms induce physiological stressors on cultured cells and are able to generate more physiologically accurate BBBs compared to previous in vitro models. In this review, different approaches to create BBBs-on-chips are explored alongside their application in modeling various neurological disorders and potential therapeutic efficacy. Additionally, organs-on-chips use in BBB drug delivery studies is discussed, and advances in linking brain organs-on-chips onto multiorgan platforms to mimic organ crosstalk are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atharva R. Mulay
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218
| | - Jihyun Hwang
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21218
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205
| | - Deok-Ho Kim
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205
- Center for Microphysiological Systems, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218
- Institute for NanoBioTechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, 21218
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Berjaoui C, Kachouh C, Joumaa S, Hussein Ghayyad M, Abate Bekele B, Ajirenike R, Al Maaz Z, Awde S, Wojtara M, Nazir A, Uwishema O. Neuroinflammation-on-a-chip for multiple sclerosis research: a narrative review. Ann Med Surg (Lond) 2024; 86:4053-4059. [PMID: 38989179 PMCID: PMC11230822 DOI: 10.1097/ms9.0000000000002231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory condition that impacts the central nervous system. It is distinguished by processes like demyelination, gliosis, neuro-axonal harm, and inflammation. The prevailing theory suggests that MS originates from an immune response directed against the body's own antigens within the central nervous system. Aim The main aim of this research paper "Neuroinflammation-on-a-Chip" for studying multiple sclerosis is to enhance our comprehension of MS development, demonstrate the application of cutting-edge technology, and potentially provide valuable insights for therapeutic approaches. Methods The available literature for this Narrative Review was searched on various bibliographic databases, PubMed, NCBI, and many other medical references using an individually verified, prespecified approach. Studies regarding the significance of MS and its neuroinflammatory pathogenesis in addition to the development and optimization of neuroinflammatory-on-a-chip and the advancement in innovations in this field have been reviewed in this research for a better understanding of "Neuroinflammation-on-a-chip for multiple sclerosis". The level of evidence of the included studies was considered as per the Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine recommendations. Results Several studies have indicated that the brain-chip model closely mimics cortical brain tissue compared to commonly used conventional cell culture methods like the Transwell culture system. Additionally, these studies have clearly demonstrated that further research using brain chips has the potential to enhance our understanding of the molecular mechanisms and roles of blood-brain barrier (BBB) transporters in both normal and disease conditions. Conclusion Understanding neuroinflammation processes remains essential to establish new MS treatments approaches. The utilization of brain chips promises to advance our understanding of the molecular processes involving BBB transporters, both in normal and diseased states. Further research needs to be addressed in order to enhance the performance and understanding of neuroinflammation on a chip, hence aiming to provide more effective treatments for all CNS diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christin Berjaoui
- Oli Health Magazine Organization, Research, and Education, Kigali, Rwanda
- Faculty of Medicine, Beirut Arab University
| | - Charbel Kachouh
- Oli Health Magazine Organization, Research, and Education, Kigali, Rwanda
- Faculty of Medicine, Saint-Joseph University
| | - Safaa Joumaa
- Oli Health Magazine Organization, Research, and Education, Kigali, Rwanda
- Faculty of Medical Science, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Mohammad Hussein Ghayyad
- Oli Health Magazine Organization, Research, and Education, Kigali, Rwanda
- Faculty of Medicine, Beirut Arab University
| | - Bisrat Abate Bekele
- Oli Health Magazine Organization, Research, and Education, Kigali, Rwanda
- College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Rita Ajirenike
- Oli Health Magazine Organization, Research, and Education, Kigali, Rwanda
- Department of Internal Medicine, Rivers State University Teaching Hospital, Rivers State, Nigeria
| | - Zeina Al Maaz
- Oli Health Magazine Organization, Research, and Education, Kigali, Rwanda
- Faculty of Medicine, Beirut Arab University
| | - Sara Awde
- Oli Health Magazine Organization, Research, and Education, Kigali, Rwanda
- Faculty of Medicine, Beirut Arab University
| | - Magda Wojtara
- Oli Health Magazine Organization, Research, and Education, Kigali, Rwanda
- University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Abubakar Nazir
- Oli Health Magazine Organization, Research, and Education, Kigali, Rwanda
- Department of Medicine, King Edward Medical University, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Olivier Uwishema
- Oli Health Magazine Organization, Research, and Education, Kigali, Rwanda
- Clinton Global Initiative University, New York, NY, USA
- Faculty of Medicine, Karadeniz Technical University, Trabzon, Turkey
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Ugodnikov A, Persson H, Simmons CA. Bridging barriers: advances and challenges in modeling biological barriers and measuring barrier integrity in organ-on-chip systems. LAB ON A CHIP 2024; 24:3199-3225. [PMID: 38689569 DOI: 10.1039/d3lc01027a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Biological barriers such as the blood-brain barrier, skin, and intestinal mucosal barrier play key roles in homeostasis, disease physiology, and drug delivery - as such, it is important to create representative in vitro models to improve understanding of barrier biology and serve as tools for therapeutic development. Microfluidic cell culture and organ-on-a-chip (OOC) systems enable barrier modelling with greater physiological fidelity than conventional platforms by mimicking key environmental aspects such as fluid shear, accurate microscale dimensions, mechanical cues, extracellular matrix, and geometrically defined co-culture. As the prevalence of barrier-on-chip models increases, so does the importance of tools that can accurately assess barrier integrity and function without disturbing the carefully engineered microenvironment. In this review, we first provide a background on biological barriers and the physiological features that are emulated through in vitro barrier models. Then, we outline molecular permeability and electrical sensing barrier integrity assessment methods, and the related challenges specific to barrier-on-chip implementation. Finally, we discuss future directions in the field, as well important priorities to consider such as fabrication costs, standardization, and bridging gaps between disciplines and stakeholders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alisa Ugodnikov
- Translational Biology & Engineering Program, Ted Rogers Centre for Heart Research, Toronto, ON M5G 1M1, Canada.
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3G9, Canada
| | - Henrik Persson
- Translational Biology & Engineering Program, Ted Rogers Centre for Heart Research, Toronto, ON M5G 1M1, Canada.
| | - Craig A Simmons
- Translational Biology & Engineering Program, Ted Rogers Centre for Heart Research, Toronto, ON M5G 1M1, Canada.
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3G9, Canada
- Department of Mechanical & Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3G8, Canada
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Rogal J, Zamproni LN, Nikolakopoulou P, Ygberg S, Wedell A, Wredenberg A, Herland A. Human In Vitro Models of Neuroenergetics and Neurometabolic Disturbances: Current Advances and Clinical Perspectives. Stem Cells Transl Med 2024; 13:505-514. [PMID: 38588471 PMCID: PMC11165162 DOI: 10.1093/stcltm/szae021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Neurological conditions conquer the world; they are the leading cause of disability and the second leading cause of death worldwide, and they appear all around the world in every age group, gender, nationality, and socioeconomic class. Despite the growing evidence of an immense impact of perturbations in neuroenergetics on overall brain function, only little is known about the underlying mechanisms. Especially human insights are sparse, owing to a shortage of physiologically relevant model systems. With this perspective, we aim to explore the key steps and considerations involved in developing an advanced human in vitro model for studying neuroenergetics. We discuss biological and technological strategies to meet the requirements of a predictive model, aiming at providing a guide and inspiration for future in vitro models of neuroenergetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Rogal
- Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, 17177 Stockholm, Sweden
- Division of Nanobiotechnology, Department of Protein Science, School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology at Science for Life Laboratory, 17165 Solna, Sweden
- Center for the Advancement of Integrated Medical and Engineering Sciences (AIMES), Karolinska Institute and KTH Royal Institute of Technology, 17177 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Laura Nicoleti Zamproni
- Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, 17177 Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Biochemistry, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo 04039-032, Brazil
| | - Polyxeni Nikolakopoulou
- Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, 17177 Stockholm, Sweden
- Center for the Advancement of Integrated Medical and Engineering Sciences (AIMES), Karolinska Institute and KTH Royal Institute of Technology, 17177 Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Sofia Ygberg
- Centre for Inherited Metabolic Diseases, Karolinska University Hospital, 17177 Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institute, 17177 Stockholm, Sweden
- Neuropediatric Unit, Karolinska University Hospital, 17177 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anna Wedell
- Centre for Inherited Metabolic Diseases, Karolinska University Hospital, 17177 Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institute, 17177 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anna Wredenberg
- Centre for Inherited Metabolic Diseases, Karolinska University Hospital, 17177 Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institute, 17177 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anna Herland
- Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, 17177 Stockholm, Sweden
- Division of Nanobiotechnology, Department of Protein Science, School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology at Science for Life Laboratory, 17165 Solna, Sweden
- Center for the Advancement of Integrated Medical and Engineering Sciences (AIMES), Karolinska Institute and KTH Royal Institute of Technology, 17177 Stockholm, Sweden
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10
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Yan Y, Cho AN. Human Brain In Vitro Model for Pathogen Infection-Related Neurodegeneration Study. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6522. [PMID: 38928228 PMCID: PMC11204318 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25126522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2024] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Recent advancements in stem cell biology and tissue engineering have revolutionized the field of neurodegeneration research by enabling the development of sophisticated in vitro human brain models. These models, including 2D monolayer cultures, 3D organoids, organ-on-chips, and bioengineered 3D tissue models, aim to recapitulate the cellular diversity, structural organization, and functional properties of the native human brain. This review highlights how these in vitro brain models have been used to investigate the effects of various pathogens, including viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites infection, particularly in the human brain cand their subsequent impacts on neurodegenerative diseases. Traditional studies have demonstrated the susceptibility of different 2D brain cell types to infection, elucidated the mechanisms underlying pathogen-induced neuroinflammation, and identified potential therapeutic targets. Therefore, current methodological improvement brought the technology of 3D models to overcome the challenges of 2D cells, such as the limited cellular diversity, incomplete microenvironment, and lack of morphological structures by highlighting the need for further technological advancements. This review underscored the significance of in vitro human brain cell from 2D monolayer to bioengineered 3D tissue model for elucidating the intricate dynamics for pathogen infection modeling. These in vitro human brain cell enabled researchers to unravel human specific mechanisms underlying various pathogen infections such as SARS-CoV-2 to alter blood-brain-barrier function and Toxoplasma gondii impacting neural cell morphology and its function. Ultimately, these in vitro human brain models hold promise as personalized platforms for development of drug compound, gene therapy, and vaccine. Overall, we discussed the recent progress in in vitro human brain models, their applications in studying pathogen infection-related neurodegeneration, and future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuwei Yan
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, The University of Sydney, Darlington, NSW 2008, Australia;
- The University of Sydney Nano Institute (Sydney Nano), The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2050, Australia
| | - Ann-Na Cho
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, The University of Sydney, Darlington, NSW 2008, Australia;
- The University of Sydney Nano Institute (Sydney Nano), The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2050, Australia
- Charles Perkins Centre, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia
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11
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Ohbuchi M, Shibuta M, Tetsuka K, Sasaki-Iwaoka H, Oishi M, Shimizu F, Nagasaka Y. Modeling of Blood-Brain Barrier (BBB) Dysfunction and Immune Cell Migration Using Human BBB-on-a-Chip for Drug Discovery Research. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6496. [PMID: 38928202 PMCID: PMC11204321 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25126496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2024] [Revised: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Blood-brain barrier (BBB) dysfunction is a key feature in neuroimmunological and neurodegenerative diseases. In this study, we developed a microfluidic human BBB-on-a-chip to model barrier dysfunction and immune cell migration using immortalized TY10 brain endothelial cells, pericytes, and astrocytes. It was found that immortalized TY10 brain endothelial cells developed a microvascular structure under flow. Pericytes were localized on the basal side surrounding the TY10 microvascular structure, showing an in vivo-like structure. Barrier integrity increased under co-culture with pericytes. In addition, both ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) and anti-Claudin-5 (CLDN5) neutralizing antibody caused a decrease in the transendothelial electrical resistance (TEER). EDTA caused the leakage of 20 kDa dextran, suggesting different effects on the BBB based on the mechanism of action, whereas anti-CLDN5 antibody did not cause leakage. In the tri-culture model, human T cells migrated through endothelial vessels towards basal C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 12 (CXCL12). The live-imaging analysis confirmed the extravasation of fluorescence-labelled T cells in a CXCL12-concentration- and time-dependent manner. Our BBB model had an in vivo-like structure and successfully represented barrier dysfunction and transendothelial T cell migration. In addition, our study suggests that the inhibition of CLDN5 attenuates the BBB in humans. This platform has various potential uses in relation to the BBB in both drug discovery research and in elucidating the mechanisms of central nervous system diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masato Ohbuchi
- Applied Research & Operations, Astellas Pharma Inc., Tsukuba 305-8585, Ibaraki, Japan; (M.S.); (K.T.); (H.S.-I.); (M.O.); (Y.N.)
| | - Mayu Shibuta
- Applied Research & Operations, Astellas Pharma Inc., Tsukuba 305-8585, Ibaraki, Japan; (M.S.); (K.T.); (H.S.-I.); (M.O.); (Y.N.)
| | - Kazuhiro Tetsuka
- Applied Research & Operations, Astellas Pharma Inc., Tsukuba 305-8585, Ibaraki, Japan; (M.S.); (K.T.); (H.S.-I.); (M.O.); (Y.N.)
| | - Haruna Sasaki-Iwaoka
- Applied Research & Operations, Astellas Pharma Inc., Tsukuba 305-8585, Ibaraki, Japan; (M.S.); (K.T.); (H.S.-I.); (M.O.); (Y.N.)
| | - Masayo Oishi
- Applied Research & Operations, Astellas Pharma Inc., Tsukuba 305-8585, Ibaraki, Japan; (M.S.); (K.T.); (H.S.-I.); (M.O.); (Y.N.)
| | - Fumitaka Shimizu
- Department of Neurology and Clinical Neuroscience, Graduate School of Medicine, Yamaguchi University, Ube 755-8505, Yamaguchi, Japan;
| | - Yasuhisa Nagasaka
- Applied Research & Operations, Astellas Pharma Inc., Tsukuba 305-8585, Ibaraki, Japan; (M.S.); (K.T.); (H.S.-I.); (M.O.); (Y.N.)
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12
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Pandya VA, Patani R. The role of glial cells in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2024; 176:381-450. [PMID: 38802179 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2024.04.005] [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: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) has traditionally been considered a neuron-centric disease. This view is now outdated, with increasing recognition of cell autonomous and non-cell autonomous contributions of central and peripheral nervous system glia to ALS pathomechanisms. With glial research rapidly accelerating, we comprehensively interrogate the roles of astrocytes, microglia, oligodendrocytes, ependymal cells, Schwann cells and satellite glia in nervous system physiology and ALS-associated pathology. Moreover, we highlight the inter-glial, glial-neuronal and inter-system polylogue which constitutes the healthy nervous system and destabilises in disease. We also propose classification based on function for complex glial reactive phenotypes and discuss the pre-requisite for integrative modelling to advance translation. Given the paucity of life-enhancing therapies currently available for ALS patients, we discuss the promising potential of harnessing glia in driving ALS therapeutic discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virenkumar A Pandya
- University College London Medical School, London, United Kingdom; The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom.
| | - Rickie Patani
- The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom; Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, University College London Queen Square Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, United Kingdom.
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13
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Asimakidou E, Tan JKS, Zeng J, Lo CH. Blood-Brain Barrier-Targeting Nanoparticles: Biomaterial Properties and Biomedical Applications in Translational Neuroscience. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:612. [PMID: 38794182 PMCID: PMC11123901 DOI: 10.3390/ph17050612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2024] [Revised: 05/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Overcoming the blood-brain barrier (BBB) remains a significant hurdle in effective drug delivery to the brain. While the BBB serves as a crucial protective barrier, it poses challenges in delivering therapeutic agents to their intended targets within the brain parenchyma. To enhance drug delivery for the treatment of neurological diseases, several delivery technologies to circumvent the BBB have been developed in the last few years. Among them, nanoparticles (NPs) are one of the most versatile and promising tools. Here, we summarize the characteristics of NPs that facilitate BBB penetration, including their size, shape, chemical composition, surface charge, and importantly, their conjugation with various biological or synthetic molecules such as glucose, transferrin, insulin, polyethylene glycol, peptides, and aptamers. Additionally, we discuss the coating of NPs with surfactants. A comprehensive overview of the common in vitro and in vivo models of the BBB for NP penetration studies is also provided. The discussion extends to discussing BBB impairment under pathological conditions and leveraging BBB alterations under pathological conditions to enhance drug delivery. Emphasizing the need for future studies to uncover the inherent therapeutic properties of NPs, the review advocates for their role beyond delivery systems and calls for efforts translating NPs to the clinic as therapeutics. Overall, NPs stand out as a highly promising therapeutic strategy for precise BBB targeting and drug delivery in neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evridiki Asimakidou
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK;
| | - Justin Kok Soon Tan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117575, Singapore;
- The N.1 Institute for Health, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117456, Singapore
| | - Jialiu Zeng
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 308232, Singapore
| | - Chih Hung Lo
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 308232, Singapore
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14
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Kantawala B, Shariff S, Ramadan N, Fawaz V, Hassan Y, Mugisha N, Yenkoyan K, Nazir A, Uwishema O. Revolutionizing neurotherapeutics: blood-brain barrier-on-a-chip technologies for precise drug delivery. Ann Med Surg (Lond) 2024; 86:2794-2804. [PMID: 38694300 PMCID: PMC11060226 DOI: 10.1097/ms9.0000000000001887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a critical neurovascular unit regulating substances' passage from the bloodstream to the brain. Its selective permeability poses significant challenges in drug delivery for neurological disorders. Conventional methods often fail due to the BBB's complex structure. Aim The study aims to shed light on their pivotal role in revolutionizing neurotherapeutics and explores the transformative potential of BBB-on-a-Chip technologies in drug delivery research to comprehensively review BBB-on-a-chip technologies, focusing on their design, and substantiate advantages over traditional models. Methods A detailed analysis of existing literature and experimental data pertaining to BBB-on-a-Chip technologies was conducted. Various models, their physiological relevance, and innovative design considerations were examined through databases like Scopus, EbscoHost, PubMed Central, and Medline. Case studies demonstrating enhanced drug transport through BBB-on-a-Chip models were also reviewed, highlighting their potential impact on neurological disorders. Results BBB-on-a-Chip models offer a revolutionary approach, accurately replicating BBB properties. These microphysiological systems enable high-throughput screening, real-time monitoring of drug transport, and precise localization of drugs. Case studies demonstrate their efficacy in enhancing drug penetration, offering potential therapies for diseases like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's. Conclusion BBB-on-a-Chip models represent a transformative milestone in drug delivery research. Their ability to replicate BBB complexities, offer real-time monitoring, and enhance drug transport holds immense promise for neurological disorders. Continuous research and development are imperative to unlock BBB-on-a-Chip models' full potential, ushering in a new era of targeted, efficient, and safer drug therapies for challenging neurological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Burhan Kantawala
- Oli Health Magazine Organization, Research and Education
- Neuroscience Laboratory, Cobrain Centre
| | - Sanobar Shariff
- Oli Health Magazine Organization, Research and Education
- Neuroscience Laboratory, Cobrain Centre
| | - Nagham Ramadan
- Oli Health Magazine Organization, Research and Education
- Faculty of Medicine
| | - Violette Fawaz
- Oli Health Magazine Organization, Research and Education
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Beirut Arab University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Youmna Hassan
- Oli Health Magazine Organization, Research and Education
- Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, Ahfad University for Women, Omdurman, Sudan
| | - Nadine Mugisha
- Oli Health Magazine Organization, Research and Education
- Faculty of Global Surgery, University of Global Health Equity, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Konstantin Yenkoyan
- Neuroscience Laboratory, Cobrain Centre
- Department of Biochemistry, Yerevan State Medical University named after Mkhitar Heratsi, Yerevan, Armenia
| | - Abubakar Nazir
- Oli Health Magazine Organization, Research and Education
- Department of Medicine, King Edward Medical University, Lahore, Pakistan
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15
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Yakovlev EV, Simkin IV, Shirokova AA, Kolotieva NA, Novikova SV, Nasyrov AD, Denisenko IR, Gursky KD, Shishkov IN, Narzaeva DE, Salmina AB, Yurchenko SO, Kryuchkov NP. Machine learning approach for recognition and morphological analysis of isolated astrocytes in phase contrast microscopy. Sci Rep 2024; 14:9846. [PMID: 38684715 PMCID: PMC11059356 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-59773-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes are glycolytically active cells in the central nervous system playing a crucial role in various brain processes from homeostasis to neurotransmission. Astrocytes possess a complex branched morphology, frequently examined by fluorescent microscopy. However, staining and fixation may impact the properties of astrocytes, thereby affecting the accuracy of the experimental data of astrocytes dynamics and morphology. On the other hand, phase contrast microscopy can be used to study astrocytes morphology without affecting them, but the post-processing of the resulting low-contrast images is challenging. The main result of this work is a novel approach for recognition and morphological analysis of unstained astrocytes based on machine-learning recognition of microscopic images. We conducted a series of experiments involving the cultivation of isolated astrocytes from the rat brain cortex followed by microscopy. Using the proposed approach, we tracked the temporal evolution of the average total length of branches, branching, and area per astrocyte in our experiments. We believe that the proposed approach and the obtained experimental data will be of interest and benefit to the scientific communities in cell biology, biophysics, and machine learning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Egor V Yakovlev
- Scientific-Educational Centre "Soft matter and physics of fluids", Bauman Moscow State Technical University, 2nd Baumanskaya Street 5, Moscow, 105005, Russia.
| | - Ivan V Simkin
- Scientific-Educational Centre "Soft matter and physics of fluids", Bauman Moscow State Technical University, 2nd Baumanskaya Street 5, Moscow, 105005, Russia
| | - Anastasiya A Shirokova
- Scientific-Educational Centre "Soft matter and physics of fluids", Bauman Moscow State Technical University, 2nd Baumanskaya Street 5, Moscow, 105005, Russia
| | - Nataliya A Kolotieva
- Scientific-Educational Centre "Soft matter and physics of fluids", Bauman Moscow State Technical University, 2nd Baumanskaya Street 5, Moscow, 105005, Russia
- Research Center of Neurology, 80 Volokolamskoye Shosse, Moscow, 125367, Russia
| | - Svetlana V Novikova
- Scientific-Educational Centre "Soft matter and physics of fluids", Bauman Moscow State Technical University, 2nd Baumanskaya Street 5, Moscow, 105005, Russia
- Research Center of Neurology, 80 Volokolamskoye Shosse, Moscow, 125367, Russia
| | - Artur D Nasyrov
- Scientific-Educational Centre "Soft matter and physics of fluids", Bauman Moscow State Technical University, 2nd Baumanskaya Street 5, Moscow, 105005, Russia
| | - Ilya R Denisenko
- Scientific-Educational Centre "Soft matter and physics of fluids", Bauman Moscow State Technical University, 2nd Baumanskaya Street 5, Moscow, 105005, Russia
| | - Konstantin D Gursky
- Scientific-Educational Centre "Soft matter and physics of fluids", Bauman Moscow State Technical University, 2nd Baumanskaya Street 5, Moscow, 105005, Russia
| | - Ivan N Shishkov
- Scientific-Educational Centre "Soft matter and physics of fluids", Bauman Moscow State Technical University, 2nd Baumanskaya Street 5, Moscow, 105005, Russia
| | - Diana E Narzaeva
- Scientific-Educational Centre "Soft matter and physics of fluids", Bauman Moscow State Technical University, 2nd Baumanskaya Street 5, Moscow, 105005, Russia
- Research Center of Neurology, 80 Volokolamskoye Shosse, Moscow, 125367, Russia
| | - Alla B Salmina
- Scientific-Educational Centre "Soft matter and physics of fluids", Bauman Moscow State Technical University, 2nd Baumanskaya Street 5, Moscow, 105005, Russia
- Research Center of Neurology, 80 Volokolamskoye Shosse, Moscow, 125367, Russia
| | - Stanislav O Yurchenko
- Scientific-Educational Centre "Soft matter and physics of fluids", Bauman Moscow State Technical University, 2nd Baumanskaya Street 5, Moscow, 105005, Russia
| | - Nikita P Kryuchkov
- Scientific-Educational Centre "Soft matter and physics of fluids", Bauman Moscow State Technical University, 2nd Baumanskaya Street 5, Moscow, 105005, Russia.
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16
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Zhao Y, Lv X, Chen Y, Zhang C, Zhou D, Deng Y. Neuroinflammatory response on a newly combinatorial cell-cell interaction chip. Biomater Sci 2024; 12:2096-2107. [PMID: 38441146 DOI: 10.1039/d4bm00125g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
Neuroinflammation is a common feature in various neurological disorders. Understanding neuroinflammation and neuro-immune interactions is of significant importance. However, the intercellular interactions in the inflammatory model are intricate. Microfluidic chips, with their complex micrometer-scale structures and real-time observation capabilities, offer unique advantages in tackling these complexities compared to other techniques. In this study, microfluidic chip technology was used to construct a microarray physical barrier structure with 15 μm spacing, providing well-defined cell growth areas and clearly delineated interaction channels. Moreover, an innovative hydrophilic treatment process on the glass surface facilitated long-term co-culture of cells. The developed neuroinflammation model on the chip revealed that SH-SY5Y cytotoxicity was predominantly influenced by co-cultured THP-1 cells. The co-culture model fostered complex interactions that may exacerbate cytotoxicity, including irregular morphological changes of cells, cell viability reduction, THP-1 cell migration, and the release of inflammatory factors. The integration of the combinatorial cell-cell interaction chip not only offers a clear imaging detection platform but also provides diverse data on cell migration distance, migration direction, and migration angle. Furthermore, the designed ample space for cell culture, along with microscale channels with fluid characteristics, allow for the study of inflammatory factor distribution patterns on the chip, offering vital theoretical data on biological relevance that conventional experiments cannot achieve. The fabricated user-friendly, reusable, and durable co-culture chip serves as a valuable in vitro tool, providing an intuitive platform for gaining insights into the complex mechanisms underlying neuroinflammation and other interacting models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yimeng Zhao
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Separation and Analysis in Biomedicine and Pharmaceuticals, School of Medical Technology, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China.
| | - Xuefei Lv
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Separation and Analysis in Biomedicine and Pharmaceuticals, School of Medical Technology, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China.
| | - Yu Chen
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Separation and Analysis in Biomedicine and Pharmaceuticals, School of Medical Technology, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China.
| | - Chen Zhang
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Separation and Analysis in Biomedicine and Pharmaceuticals, School of Medical Technology, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China.
| | - Di Zhou
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Separation and Analysis in Biomedicine and Pharmaceuticals, School of Medical Technology, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China.
| | - Yulin Deng
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Separation and Analysis in Biomedicine and Pharmaceuticals, School of Medical Technology, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China.
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17
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Konopka J, Żuchowska A, Jastrzębska E. Vascularized tumor-on-chip microplatforms for the studies of neovasculature as hope for more effective cancer treatments. Biosens Bioelectron 2024; 249:115986. [PMID: 38194813 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2023.115986] [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: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
Angiogenesis is the development of new blood vessels from pre-existing vasculature. Multiple factors control its course. Disorders of the distribution of angiogenic agents are responsible for development of solid tumors and its metastases. Understanding of the molecular interactions regulating pathological angiogenesis will allow for development of more effective, even personalized treatment. A simulation of angiogenesis under microflow conditions is a promising alternative to previous studies conducted on animals and on 2D cell cultures. In this review, we summarize what has been discovered so far in the field of vascularized tumor-on-a-chip platforms. For this purpose, we describe different vascularization techniques used in microfluidics, present various attempts to induce angiogenesis-on-a-chip and report some approaches to recapitulate vascularized tumor microenvironment under microflow conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Konopka
- Warsaw University of Technology, Faculty of Chemistry, Medical Biotechnology, 00-664, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Żuchowska
- Warsaw University of Technology, Faculty of Chemistry, Medical Biotechnology, 00-664, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Elżbieta Jastrzębska
- Warsaw University of Technology, Faculty of Chemistry, Medical Biotechnology, 00-664, Warsaw, Poland.
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18
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Walocha R, Kim M, Wong-Ng J, Gobaa S, Sauvonnet N. Organoids and organ-on-chip technology for investigating host-microorganism interactions. Microbes Infect 2024:105319. [PMID: 38447861 DOI: 10.1016/j.micinf.2024.105319] [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: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
Recent advances in organoid and organ-on-chip (OoC) technologies offer an unprecedented level of tissue mimicry. These models can recapitulate the diversity of cellular composition, 3D organization, and mechanical stimulation. These approaches are intensively used to understand complex diseases. This review focuses on the latest advances in this field to study host-microorganism interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Remigiusz Walocha
- Tissue Homeostasis Group, Biomaterials and Microfluidics Core Facility, Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France; Biomaterials and Microfluidics Core Facility, Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - MinHee Kim
- Biomaterials and Microfluidics Core Facility, Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Jérôme Wong-Ng
- Biomaterials and Microfluidics Core Facility, Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Samy Gobaa
- Biomaterials and Microfluidics Core Facility, Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Nathalie Sauvonnet
- Tissue Homeostasis Group, Biomaterials and Microfluidics Core Facility, Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France; Biomaterials and Microfluidics Core Facility, Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France.
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19
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Park S, Laskow TC, Chen J, Guha P, Dawn B, Kim D. Microphysiological systems for human aging research. Aging Cell 2024; 23:e14070. [PMID: 38180277 PMCID: PMC10928588 DOI: 10.1111/acel.14070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Recent advances in microphysiological systems (MPS), also known as organs-on-a-chip (OoC), enable the recapitulation of more complex organ and tissue functions on a smaller scale in vitro. MPS therefore provide the potential to better understand human diseases and physiology. To date, numerous MPS platforms have been developed for various tissues and organs, including the heart, liver, kidney, blood vessels, muscle, and adipose tissue. However, only a few studies have explored using MPS platforms to unravel the effects of aging on human physiology and the pathogenesis of age-related diseases. Age is one of the risk factors for many diseases, and enormous interest has been devoted to aging research. As such, a human MPS aging model could provide a more predictive tool to understand the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying human aging and age-related diseases. These models can also be used to evaluate preclinical drugs for age-related diseases and translate them into clinical settings. Here, we provide a review on the application of MPS in aging research. First, we offer an overview of the molecular, cellular, and physiological changes with age in several tissues or organs. Next, we discuss previous aging models and the current state of MPS for studying human aging and age-related conditions. Lastly, we address the limitations of current MPS and present future directions on the potential of MPS platforms for human aging research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seungman Park
- Department of Mechanical EngineeringUniversity of Nevada, Las VegasLas VegasNevadaUSA
| | - Thomas C. Laskow
- Department of MedicineJohns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Jingchun Chen
- Nevada Institute of Personalized MedicineUniversity of Nevada, Las VegasLas VegasNevadaUSA
| | - Prasun Guha
- Nevada Institute of Personalized MedicineUniversity of Nevada, Las VegasLas VegasNevadaUSA
- School of Life SciencesUniversity of Nevada, Las VegasLas VegasNevadaUSA
| | - Buddhadeb Dawn
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kirk Kerkorian School of MedicineUniversity of Nevada, Las VegasLas VegasNevadaUSA
| | - Deok‐Ho Kim
- Department of MedicineJohns Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreMarylandUSA
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringJohns Hopkins UniversityBaltimoreMarylandUSA
- Center for Microphysiological SystemsJohns Hopkins UniversityBaltimoreMarylandUSA
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20
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Deli MA, Porkoláb G, Kincses A, Mészáros M, Szecskó A, Kocsis AE, Vigh JP, Valkai S, Veszelka S, Walter FR, Dér A. Lab-on-a-chip models of the blood-brain barrier: evolution, problems, perspectives. LAB ON A CHIP 2024; 24:1030-1063. [PMID: 38353254 DOI: 10.1039/d3lc00996c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
A great progress has been made in the development and use of lab-on-a-chip devices to model and study the blood-brain barrier (BBB) in the last decade. We present the main types of BBB-on-chip models and their use for the investigation of BBB physiology, drug and nanoparticle transport, toxicology and pathology. The selection of the appropriate cell types to be integrated into BBB-on-chip devices is discussed, as this greatly impacts the physiological relevance and translatability of findings. We identify knowledge gaps, neglected engineering and cell biological aspects and point out problems and contradictions in the literature of BBB-on-chip models, and suggest areas for further studies to progress this highly interdisciplinary field. BBB-on-chip models have an exceptional potential as predictive tools and alternatives of animal experiments in basic and preclinical research. To exploit the full potential of this technique expertise from materials science, bioengineering as well as stem cell and vascular/BBB biology is necessary. There is a need for better integration of these diverse disciplines that can only be achieved by setting clear parameters for characterizing both the chip and the BBB model parts technically and functionally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mária A Deli
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Institute of Biophysics, Szeged, Hungary.
| | - Gergő Porkoláb
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Institute of Biophysics, Szeged, Hungary.
- Doctoral School of Biology, University of Szeged, Hungary
| | - András Kincses
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Institute of Biophysics, Szeged, Hungary.
| | - Mária Mészáros
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Institute of Biophysics, Szeged, Hungary.
| | - Anikó Szecskó
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Institute of Biophysics, Szeged, Hungary.
- Doctoral School of Biology, University of Szeged, Hungary
| | - Anna E Kocsis
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Institute of Biophysics, Szeged, Hungary.
| | - Judit P Vigh
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Institute of Biophysics, Szeged, Hungary.
- Doctoral School of Biology, University of Szeged, Hungary
| | - Sándor Valkai
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Institute of Biophysics, Szeged, Hungary.
| | - Szilvia Veszelka
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Institute of Biophysics, Szeged, Hungary.
| | - Fruzsina R Walter
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Institute of Biophysics, Szeged, Hungary.
| | - András Dér
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Institute of Biophysics, Szeged, Hungary.
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21
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Bensalel J, Gallego-Delgado J. Exploring adjunctive therapies for cerebral malaria. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2024; 14:1347486. [PMID: 38410724 PMCID: PMC10895034 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2024.1347486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Cerebral malaria (CM) is one of the most severe complications of malaria infection characterized by coma and neurological effects. Despite standardized treatment of malaria infection with artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACT), the mortality rate is still high, and it primarily affects pediatric patients. ACT reduces parasitemia but fails to adequately target the pathogenic mechanisms underlying CM, including blood-brain-barrier (BBB) disruption, endothelial activation/dysfunction, and hyperinflammation. The need for adjunctive therapies to specifically treat this form of severe malaria is critical as hundreds of thousands of people continue to die each year from this disease. Here we present a summary of some potential promising therapeutic targets and treatments for CM, as well as some that have been tested and deemed ineffective or, in some cases, even deleterious. Further exploration into these therapeutic agents is warranted to assess the effectiveness of these potential treatments for CM patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna Bensalel
- Ph.D. Program in Biology, The Graduate Center, The City University of New York, New York, NY, United States
- Department of Biological Sciences, Lehman College, City University of New York, New York, NY, United States
| | - Julio Gallego-Delgado
- Ph.D. Program in Biology, The Graduate Center, The City University of New York, New York, NY, United States
- Department of Biological Sciences, Lehman College, City University of New York, New York, NY, United States
- Ph.D. Program in Biochemistry, The Graduate Center, The City University of New York, New York, NY, United States
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22
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Milani SZ, Rezabakhsh A, Karimipour M, Salimi L, Mardi N, Narmi MT, Sadeghsoltani F, Valioglu F, Rahbarghazi R. Role of autophagy in angiogenic potential of vascular pericytes. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1347857. [PMID: 38380339 PMCID: PMC10877016 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1347857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
The vasculature system is composed of a multiplicity of juxtaposed cells to generate a functional biological barrier between the blood and tissues. On the luminal surface of blood vessels, endothelial cells (ECs) are in close contact with circulating cells while supporting basal lamina and pericytes wrap the abluminal surface. Thus, the reciprocal interaction of pericytes with ECs is a vital element in the physiological activity of the vascular system. Several reports have indicated that the occurrence of pericyte dysfunction under ischemic and degenerative conditions results in varied micro and macro-vascular complications. Emerging evidence points to the fact that autophagy, a conserved self-digestive cell machinery, can regulate the activity of several cells like pericytes in response to various stresses and pathological conditions. Here, we aim to highlight the role of autophagic response in pericyte activity and angiogenesis potential following different pathological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soheil Zamen Milani
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Aysa Rezabakhsh
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Karimipour
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Leila Salimi
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Narges Mardi
- Biotechnology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | | | - Ferzane Valioglu
- Technology Development Zones Management CO., Sakarya University, Sakarya, Türkiye
| | - Reza Rahbarghazi
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Applied Cellular Sciences, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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23
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Phillips TA, Marcotti S, Cox S, Parsons M. Imaging actin organisation and dynamics in 3D. J Cell Sci 2024; 137:jcs261389. [PMID: 38236161 PMCID: PMC10906668 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.261389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
The actin cytoskeleton plays a critical role in cell architecture and the control of fundamental processes including cell division, migration and survival. The dynamics and organisation of F-actin have been widely studied in a breadth of cell types on classical two-dimensional (2D) surfaces. Recent advances in optical microscopy have enabled interrogation of these cytoskeletal networks in cells within three-dimensional (3D) scaffolds, tissues and in vivo. Emerging studies indicate that the dimensionality experienced by cells has a profound impact on the structure and function of the cytoskeleton, with cells in 3D environments exhibiting cytoskeletal arrangements that differ to cells in 2D environments. However, the addition of a third (and fourth, with time) dimension leads to challenges in sample preparation, imaging and analysis, necessitating additional considerations to achieve the required signal-to-noise ratio and spatial and temporal resolution. Here, we summarise the current tools for imaging actin in a 3D context and highlight examples of the importance of this in understanding cytoskeletal biology and the challenges and opportunities in this domain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas A. Phillips
- Randall Centre for Cell and Molecular Biophysics, King's College London, New Hunts House, Guys Campus, London SE1 1UL, UK
| | - Stefania Marcotti
- Randall Centre for Cell and Molecular Biophysics, King's College London, New Hunts House, Guys Campus, London SE1 1UL, UK
- Microscopy Innovation Centre, King's College London, Guys Campus, London SE1 1UL, UK
| | - Susan Cox
- Randall Centre for Cell and Molecular Biophysics, King's College London, New Hunts House, Guys Campus, London SE1 1UL, UK
| | - Maddy Parsons
- Randall Centre for Cell and Molecular Biophysics, King's College London, New Hunts House, Guys Campus, London SE1 1UL, UK
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24
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Badawi AH, Mohamad NA, Stanslas J, Kirby BP, Neela VK, Ramasamy R, Basri H. In Vitro Blood-Brain Barrier Models for Neuroinfectious Diseases: A Narrative Review. Curr Neuropharmacol 2024; 22:1344-1373. [PMID: 38073104 PMCID: PMC11092920 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x22666231207114346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a complex, dynamic, and adaptable barrier between the peripheral blood system and the central nervous system. While this barrier protects the brain and spinal cord from inflammation and infection, it prevents most drugs from reaching the brain tissue. With the expanding interest in the pathophysiology of BBB, the development of in vitro BBB models has dramatically evolved. However, due to the lack of a standard model, a range of experimental protocols, BBB-phenotype markers, and permeability flux markers was utilized to construct in vitro BBB models. Several neuroinfectious diseases are associated with BBB dysfunction. To conduct neuroinfectious disease research effectively, there stems a need to design representative in vitro human BBB models that mimic the BBB's functional and molecular properties. The highest necessity is for an in vitro standardised BBB model that accurately represents all the complexities of an intact brain barrier. Thus, this in-depth review aims to describe the optimization and validation parameters for building BBB models and to discuss previous research on neuroinfectious diseases that have utilized in vitro BBB models. The findings in this review may serve as a basis for more efficient optimisation, validation, and maintenance of a structurally- and functionally intact BBB model, particularly for future studies on neuroinfectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad Hussein Badawi
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Nur Afiqah Mohamad
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
- Centre for Foundation Studies, Lincoln University College, 47301, Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Johnson Stanslas
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Brian Patrick Kirby
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Vasantha Kumari Neela
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Rajesh Ramasamy
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Hamidon Basri
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
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25
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Middelkamp HHT, Weener HJ, Gensheimer T, Vermeul K, de Heus LE, Albers HJ, van den Berg A, van der Meer AD. Embedded macrophages induce intravascular coagulation in 3D blood vessel-on-chip. Biomed Microdevices 2023; 26:2. [PMID: 38085384 PMCID: PMC10716057 DOI: 10.1007/s10544-023-00684-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
Macrophages are innate immune cells that prevent infections and help in wound healing and vascular inflammation. While these cells are natural helper cells, they also contribute to chronic diseases, e.g., by infiltrating the endothelial layer in early atherosclerosis and by promoting vascular inflammation. There is a crosstalk between inflammatory pathways and key players in thrombosis, such as platelets and endothelial cells - a phenomenon known as 'thromboinflammation'. The role of the embedded macrophages in thromboinflammation in the context of vascular disease is incompletely understood. Blood vessels-on-chips, which are microfluidic vascular cell culture models, have been used extensively to study aspects of vascular disease, like permeability, immune cell adhesion and thrombosis. Blood perfusion assays in blood vessel-on-chip models benefit from multiple unique aspects of the models, such as control of microvessel structure and well-defined flow patterns, as well as the ability to perform live imaging. However, due to their simplified nature, blood vessels-on-chip models have not yet been used to capture the complex cellular crosstalk that is important in thromboinflammation. Using induced pluripotent stem cell-derived endothelial cells and polarized THP-1 monocytes, we have developed and systematically set up a 3D blood vessel-on-chip with embedded (lipid-laden) macrophages, which is created using sequential cell seeding in viscous finger patterned collagen hydrogels. We have set up a human whole blood perfusion assay for these 3D blood vessels-on-chip. An increased deposition of fibrin in the blood vessel-on-chip models containing lipid-laden macrophages was observed. We anticipate the future use of this advanced vascular in vitro model in drug development for early atherosclerosis or aspects of other vascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- H H T Middelkamp
- BIOS lab-on-a-chip group, University of Twente, Enschede, the Netherlands.
| | - H J Weener
- Applied Stem Cell Technologies, University of Twente, Enschede, the Netherlands
| | - T Gensheimer
- Applied Stem Cell Technologies, University of Twente, Enschede, the Netherlands
| | - K Vermeul
- Applied Stem Cell Technologies, University of Twente, Enschede, the Netherlands
| | - L E de Heus
- Applied Stem Cell Technologies, University of Twente, Enschede, the Netherlands
| | - H J Albers
- BIOS lab-on-a-chip group, University of Twente, Enschede, the Netherlands
| | - A van den Berg
- BIOS lab-on-a-chip group, University of Twente, Enschede, the Netherlands
| | - A D van der Meer
- Applied Stem Cell Technologies, University of Twente, Enschede, the Netherlands
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26
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Wang Z, Zhang Y, Li Z, Wang H, Li N, Deng Y. Microfluidic Brain-on-a-Chip: From Key Technology to System Integration and Application. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2023; 19:e2304427. [PMID: 37653590 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202304427] [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: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
As an ideal in vitro model, brain-on-chip (BoC) is an important tool to comprehensively elucidate brain characteristics. However, the in vitro model for the definition scope of BoC has not been universally recognized. In this review, BoC is divided into brain cells-on-a- chip, brain slices-on-a-chip, and brain organoids-on-a-chip according to the type of culture on the chip. Although these three microfluidic BoCs are constructed in different ways, they all use microfluidic chips as carrier tools. This method can better meet the needs of maintaining high culture activity on a chip for a long time. Moreover, BoC has successfully integrated cell biology, the biological material platform technology of microenvironment on a chip, manufacturing technology, online detection technology on a chip, and so on, enabling the chip to present structural diversity and high compatibility to meet different experimental needs and expand the scope of applications. Here, the relevant core technologies, challenges, and future development trends of BoC are summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaohe Wang
- School of Medical Technology, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Yongqian Zhang
- School of Medical Technology, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Zhe Li
- School of Medical Technology, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Hao Wang
- School of Medical Technology, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Nuomin Li
- School of Medical Technology, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Yulin Deng
- School of Medical Technology, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, 100081, China
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27
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Wevers NR, De Vries HE. Microfluidic models of the neurovascular unit: a translational view. Fluids Barriers CNS 2023; 20:86. [PMID: 38008744 PMCID: PMC10680291 DOI: 10.1186/s12987-023-00490-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The vasculature of the brain consists of specialized endothelial cells that form a blood-brain barrier (BBB). This barrier, in conjunction with supporting cell types, forms the neurovascular unit (NVU). The NVU restricts the passage of certain substances from the bloodstream while selectively permitting essential nutrients and molecules to enter the brain. This protective role is crucial for optimal brain function, but presents a significant obstacle in treating neurological conditions, necessitating chemical modifications or advanced drug delivery methods for most drugs to cross the NVU. A deeper understanding of NVU in health and disease will aid in the identification of new therapeutic targets and drug delivery strategies for improved treatment of neurological disorders.To achieve this goal, we need models that reflect the human BBB and NVU in health and disease. Although animal models of the brain's vasculature have proven valuable, they are often of limited translational relevance due to interspecies differences or inability to faithfully mimic human disease conditions. For this reason, human in vitro models are essential to improve our understanding of the brain's vasculature under healthy and diseased conditions. This review delves into the advancements in in vitro modeling of the BBB and NVU, with a particular focus on microfluidic models. After providing a historical overview of the field, we shift our focus to recent developments, offering insights into the latest achievements and their associated constraints. We briefly examine the importance of chip materials and methods to facilitate fluid flow, emphasizing their critical roles in achieving the necessary throughput for the integration of microfluidic models into routine experimentation. Subsequently, we highlight the recent strides made in enhancing the biological complexity of microfluidic NVU models and propose recommendations for elevating the biological relevance of future iterations.Importantly, the NVU is an intricate structure and it is improbable that any model will fully encompass all its aspects. Fit-for-purpose models offer a valuable compromise between physiological relevance and ease-of-use and hold the future of NVU modeling: as simple as possible, as complex as needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nienke R Wevers
- MIMETAS BV, De Limes 7, Oegstgeest, 2342 DH, The Netherlands.
| | - Helga E De Vries
- Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience - Neuroinfection and Neuroinflammation, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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28
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Kwee BJ, Li X, Nguyen XX, Campagna C, Lam J, Sung KE. Modeling immunity in microphysiological systems. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2023; 248:2001-2019. [PMID: 38166397 PMCID: PMC10800123 DOI: 10.1177/15353702231215897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2024] Open
Abstract
There is a need for better predictive models of the human immune system to evaluate safety and efficacy of immunomodulatory drugs and biologics for successful product development and regulatory approvals. Current in vitro models, which are often tested in two-dimensional (2D) tissue culture polystyrene, and preclinical animal models fail to fully recapitulate the function and physiology of the human immune system. Microphysiological systems (MPSs) that can model key microenvironment cues of the human immune system, as well as of specific organs and tissues, may be able to recapitulate specific features of the in vivo inflammatory response. This minireview provides an overview of MPS for modeling lymphatic tissues, immunity at tissue interfaces, inflammatory diseases, and the inflammatory tumor microenvironment in vitro and ex vivo. Broadly, these systems have utility in modeling how certain immunotherapies function in vivo, how dysfunctional immune responses can propagate diseases, and how our immune system can combat pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian J Kwee
- Cellular and Tissue Therapy Branch, Office of Therapeutic Products, Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MD 20993, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19711, USA
| | - Xiaoqing Li
- Cellular and Tissue Therapy Branch, Office of Therapeutic Products, Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MD 20993, USA
| | - Xinh-Xinh Nguyen
- Cellular and Tissue Therapy Branch, Office of Therapeutic Products, Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MD 20993, USA
| | - Courtney Campagna
- Cellular and Tissue Therapy Branch, Office of Therapeutic Products, Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MD 20993, USA
- Regenerative Bioscience Center, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Johnny Lam
- Cellular and Tissue Therapy Branch, Office of Therapeutic Products, Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MD 20993, USA
| | - Kyung E Sung
- Cellular and Tissue Therapy Branch, Office of Therapeutic Products, Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MD 20993, USA
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29
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Cuartas-Vélez C, Middelkamp HHT, van der Meer AD, van den Berg A, Bosschaart N. Tracking the dynamics of thrombus formation in a blood vessel-on-chip with visible-light optical coherence tomography. BIOMEDICAL OPTICS EXPRESS 2023; 14:5642-5655. [PMID: 38021142 PMCID: PMC10659801 DOI: 10.1364/boe.500434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Thrombus formation is a physiological response to damage in a blood vessel that relies on a complex interplay of platelets, coagulation factors, immune cells, and the vessel wall. The dynamics of thrombus formation are essential for a deeper understanding of many disease processes, like bleeding, wound healing, and thrombosis. However, monitoring thrombus formation is challenging due to the limited imaging options available to analyze flowing blood. In this work, we use a visible-light optical coherence tomography (vis-OCT) system to monitor the dynamic process of the formation of thrombi in a microfluidic blood vessel-on-chip (VoC) device. Inside the VoC, thrombi form in a channel lined with a monolayer of endothelial cells and perfused by human whole blood. We show that the correlation of the vis-OCT signal can be utilized as a marker for thrombus formation. By thresholding the correlation during thrombus formation, we track and quantify the growth of the thrombi over time. We validate our results with fluorescence microscopic imaging of fibrin and platelet markers at the end of the blood perfusion assay. In conclusion, we demonstrate that the correlation of the vis-OCT signal can be used to visualize both the spatial and temporal behavior of the thrombus formation in flowing human whole blood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Cuartas-Vélez
- Biomedical Photonic Imaging Group, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Heleen H. T. Middelkamp
- BIOS/Lab on a Chip, Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science, University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Andries D. van der Meer
- Applied Stem Cell Technologies, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Albert van den Berg
- BIOS/Lab on a Chip, Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science, University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Nienke Bosschaart
- Biomedical Photonic Imaging Group, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
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30
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Lau K, Porschen LT, Richter F, Gericke B. Microvascular blood-brain barrier alterations in isolated brain capillaries of mice over-expressing alpha-synuclein (Thy1-aSyn line 61). Neurobiol Dis 2023; 187:106298. [PMID: 37716515 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2023.106298] [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: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Dysfunction of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) is suggested to play a critical role in the pathological mechanisms of Parkinson's disease (PD). PD-related pathology such as alpha-synuclein accumulation and inflammatory processes potentially affect the integrity of the BBB early in disease progression, which in turn may alter the crosstalk of the central and peripheral immune response. Importantly, BBB dysfunction could also affect drug response in PD. Here we analyzed microvascular changes in isolated brain capillaries and brain sections on a cellular and molecular level during disease progression in an established PD mouse model that overexpresses human wild-type alpha-synuclein (Thy1-aSyn, line 61). BBB alterations observed in Thy1-aSyn mice included reduced vessel density, reduced aquaporin-4 coverage, reduced P-glycoprotein expression, increased low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1 expression, increased pS129-alpha-synuclein deposition, and increased adhesion protein and matrix metalloprotease expression together with alterations in tight junction proteins. Striatal capillaries presented with more dysregulated BBB integrity markers compared to cortical capillaries. These alterations of BBB integrity lead, however, not to an overt IgG leakage in brain parenchyma. Our data reveals intricate alterations in key proteins of BBB function together with histological evidence for altered structure of the brain vasculature. Thy1-aSyn mice represent a useful model to investigate therapeutic targeting of BBB alterations in synucleinopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristina Lau
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmacy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Bünteweg 17, 30559 Hannover, Germany; Center for Systems Neuroscience, Hannover, Germany.
| | - Lisa T Porschen
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmacy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Bünteweg 17, 30559 Hannover, Germany
| | - Franziska Richter
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmacy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Bünteweg 17, 30559 Hannover, Germany; Center for Systems Neuroscience, Hannover, Germany.
| | - Birthe Gericke
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmacy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Bünteweg 17, 30559 Hannover, Germany; Center for Systems Neuroscience, Hannover, Germany.
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31
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Chen SW, Blazeski A, Zhang S, Shelton SE, Offeddu GS, Kamm RD. Development of a perfusable, hierarchical microvasculature-on-a-chip model. LAB ON A CHIP 2023; 23:4552-4564. [PMID: 37771308 PMCID: PMC10563829 DOI: 10.1039/d3lc00512g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023]
Abstract
Several methods have been developed for generating 3D, in vitro, organ-on-chip models of human vasculature to study vascular function, transport, and tissue engineering. However, many of these existing models lack the hierarchical nature of the arterial-to-capillary-to-venous architecture that is key to capturing a more comprehensive view of the human microvasculature. Here, we present a perfusable, multi-compartmental model that recapitulates the three microvascular compartments to assess various physiological properties such as vessel permeability, vasoconstriction dynamics, and circulating cell arrest and extravasation. Viscous finger patterning and passive pumping create the larger arterial and venular lumens, while the smaller diameter capillary bed vessels are generated through self-assembly. These compartments anastomose and form a perfusable, hierarchical system that portrays the directionality of blood flow through the microvasculature. The addition of collagen channels reduces the apparent permeability of the central capillary region, likely by reducing leakage from the side channels, enabling more accurate measurements of vascular permeability-an important motivation for this study. Furthermore, the model permits modulation of fluid flow and shear stress conditions throughout the system by using hydrostatic pressure heads to apply pressure differentials across either the arteriole or the capillary. This is a pertinent system for modeling circulating tumor or T cell dissemination and extravasation. Circulating cells were found to arrest in areas conducive to physical trapping or areas with the least amount of shear stress, consistent with hemodynamic or mechanical theories of metastasis. Overall, this model captures more features of human microvascular beds and is capable of testing a broad variety of hypotheses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophia W Chen
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, USA
| | - Adriana Blazeski
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, USA
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, USA
| | - Shun Zhang
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, USA
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, USA
| | - Sarah E Shelton
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, USA
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, USA
| | - Giovanni S Offeddu
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, USA
| | - Roger D Kamm
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, USA
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, USA
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32
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Patil V, Bohara R, Krishna Kanala V, McMahon S, Pandit A. Models and approaches to comprehend and address glial inflammation following spinal cord injury. Drug Discov Today 2023; 28:103722. [PMID: 37482236 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2023.103722] [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: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) culminates in chronic inflammation and glial scar formation driven by the activation of microglia and astrocytes. Current anti-inflammatory strategies to treat glial activation associated with SCI have several limitations. Existing in vitro and ex vivo models studying molecular mechanisms associated with inflammation focus only on the acute phase. However, the progression of glial cell-derived inflammation over the acute-to-chronic phases has not been assessed. Understanding this progression will help establish a framework for evaluating therapeutic strategies. Additionally, new models could be useful as high-throughput screening (HTS) platforms. This review aims to highlight currently available models and future methods that could facilitate screening of novel therapeutics for SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vaibhav Patil
- CÚRAM, SFI Research Centre for Medical Devices, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Raghvendra Bohara
- CÚRAM, SFI Research Centre for Medical Devices, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Vijaya Krishna Kanala
- CÚRAM, SFI Research Centre for Medical Devices, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Siobhan McMahon
- Anatomy, School of Medicine, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Abhay Pandit
- CÚRAM, SFI Research Centre for Medical Devices, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland.
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33
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Nair AL, Groenendijk L, Overdevest R, Fowke TM, Annida R, Mocellin O, de Vries HE, Wevers NR. Human BBB-on-a-chip reveals barrier disruption, endothelial inflammation, and T cell migration under neuroinflammatory conditions. Front Mol Neurosci 2023; 16:1250123. [PMID: 37818458 PMCID: PMC10561300 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2023.1250123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a highly selective barrier that ensures a homeostatic environment for the central nervous system (CNS). BBB dysfunction, inflammation, and immune cell infiltration are hallmarks of many CNS disorders, including multiple sclerosis and stroke. Physiologically relevant human in vitro models of the BBB are essential to improve our understanding of its function in health and disease, identify novel drug targets, and assess potential new therapies. We present a BBB-on-a-chip model comprising human brain microvascular endothelial cells (HBMECs) cultured in a microfluidic platform that allows parallel culture of 40 chips. In each chip, a perfused HBMEC vessel was grown against an extracellular matrix gel in a membrane-free manner. BBBs-on-chips were exposed to varying concentrations of pro-inflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) and interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) to mimic inflammation. The effect of the inflammatory conditions was studied by assessing the BBBs-on-chips' barrier function, cell morphology, and expression of cell adhesion molecules. Primary human T cells were perfused through the lumen of the BBBs-on-chips to study T cell adhesion, extravasation, and migration. Under inflammatory conditions, the BBBs-on-chips showed decreased trans-endothelial electrical resistance (TEER), increased permeability to sodium fluorescein, and aberrant cell morphology in a concentration-dependent manner. Moreover, we observed increased expression of cell adhesion molecules and concomitant monocyte adhesion. T cells extravasated from the inflamed blood vessels and migrated towards a C-X-C Motif Chemokine Ligand 12 (CXCL12) gradient. T cell adhesion was significantly reduced and a trend towards decreased migration was observed in presence of Natalizumab, an antibody drug that blocks very late antigen-4 (VLA-4) and is used in the treatment of multiple sclerosis. In conclusion, we demonstrate a high-throughput microfluidic model of the human BBB that can be used to model neuroinflammation and assess anti-inflammatory and barrier-restoring interventions to fight neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arya Lekshmi Nair
- MIMETAS BV, Oegstgeest, Netherlands
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience – Neuroinfection and Neuroinflammation, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Helga E. de Vries
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Neuroscience – Neuroinfection and Neuroinflammation, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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Zhao C, Wang Z, Tang X, Qin J, Jiang Z. Recent advances in sensor-integrated brain-on-a-chip devices for real-time brain monitoring. Colloids Surf B Biointerfaces 2023; 229:113431. [PMID: 37473652 DOI: 10.1016/j.colsurfb.2023.113431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 06/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
Brain science has remained in the global spotlight as an important field of scientific and technological discovery. Numerous in vitro and in vivo animal studies have been performed to understand the pathological processes involved in brain diseases and develop strategies for their diagnosis and treatment. However, owing to species differences between animals and humans, several drugs have shown high rates of treatment failure in clinical settings, hindering the development of diagnostic and treatment modalities for brain diseases. In this scenario, microfluidic brain-on-a-chip (BOC) devices, which allow the direct use of human tissues for experiments, have emerged as novel tools for effectively avoiding species differences and performing screening for new drugs. Although microfluidic BOC technology has achieved significant progress in recent years, monitoring slight changes in neurochemicals, neurotransmitters, and environmental states in the brain has remained challenging owing to the brain's complex environment. Hence, the integration of BOC with new sensors that have high sensitivity and high selectivity is urgently required for the real-time dynamic monitoring of BOC parameters. As sensor-based technologies for BOC have not been summarized, here, we review the principle, fabrication process, and application-based classification of sensor-integrated BOC, and then summarize the opportunities and challenges for their development. Generally, sensor-integrated BOC enables real-time monitoring and dynamic analysis, accurately measuring minute changes in the brain and thus enabling the realization of in vivo brain analysis and drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Zhao
- School of Medical Technology, School of Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Zihao Wang
- School of Medical Technology, School of Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Xiaoying Tang
- School of Medical Technology, School of Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China.
| | - Jieling Qin
- School of Medical Technology, School of Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China; Tongji University Cancer Center, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China.
| | - Zhenqi Jiang
- School of Medical Technology, School of Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China.
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Abla KK, Mehanna MM. The battle of lipid-based nanocarriers against blood-brain barrier: a critical review. J Drug Target 2023; 31:832-857. [PMID: 37577919 DOI: 10.1080/1061186x.2023.2247583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
Central nervous system integrity is the state of brain functioning across sensory, cognitive, emotional-social behaviors, and motor domains, allowing a person to realise his full potential. Thus, brain disorders seriously affect patients' quality of life. Efficient drug delivery to treat brain disorders remains a crucial challenge due to numerous brain barriers, particularly the blood-brain barrier (BBB), which greatly impacts the ultimate drug therapeutic efficacy. Lately, nanocarrier technology has made huge progress in overcoming these barriers by improving drug solubility, ameliorating its retention, reducing its toxicity, and targeting the encapsulated agents to different brain tissues. The current review primarily offers an overview of the different components of BBB and the progress, strategies, and contemporary applications of the nanocarriers, specifically lipid-based nanocarriers (LBNs), in treating various brain disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kawthar K Abla
- Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology Research Lab, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beirut Arab University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Mohammed M Mehanna
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Industrial Pharmacy Department, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
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Corral-Nájera K, Chauhan G, Serna-Saldívar SO, Martínez-Chapa SO, Aeinehvand MM. Polymeric and biological membranes for organ-on-a-chip devices. MICROSYSTEMS & NANOENGINEERING 2023; 9:107. [PMID: 37649779 PMCID: PMC10462672 DOI: 10.1038/s41378-023-00579-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
Membranes are fundamental elements within organ-on-a-chip (OOC) platforms, as they provide adherent cells with support, allow nutrients (and other relevant molecules) to permeate/exchange through membrane pores, and enable the delivery of mechanical or chemical stimuli. Through OOC platforms, physiological processes can be studied in vitro, whereas OOC membranes broaden knowledge of how mechanical and chemical cues affect cells and organs. OOCs with membranes are in vitro microfluidic models that are used to replace animal testing for various applications, such as drug discovery and disease modeling. In this review, the relevance of OOCs with membranes is discussed as well as their scaffold and actuation roles, properties (physical and material), and fabrication methods in different organ models. The purpose was to aid readers with membrane selection for the development of OOCs with specific applications in the fields of mechanistic, pathological, and drug testing studies. Mechanical stimulation from liquid flow and cyclic strain, as well as their effects on the cell's increased physiological relevance (IPR), are described in the first section. The review also contains methods to fabricate synthetic and ECM (extracellular matrix) protein membranes, their characteristics (e.g., thickness and porosity, which can be adjusted depending on the application, as shown in the graphical abstract), and the biological materials used for their coatings. The discussion section joins and describes the roles of membranes for different research purposes and their advantages and challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kendra Corral-Nájera
- School of Engineering and Science, Tecnológico de Monterrey, Ave. Eugenio Garza Sada 2501, Monterrey, 64849 Mexico
| | - Gaurav Chauhan
- School of Engineering and Science, Tecnológico de Monterrey, Ave. Eugenio Garza Sada 2501, Monterrey, 64849 Mexico
| | - Sergio O. Serna-Saldívar
- School of Engineering and Science, Tecnológico de Monterrey, Ave. Eugenio Garza Sada 2501, Monterrey, 64849 Mexico
| | - Sergio O. Martínez-Chapa
- School of Engineering and Science, Tecnológico de Monterrey, Ave. Eugenio Garza Sada 2501, Monterrey, 64849 Mexico
| | - Mohammad Mahdi Aeinehvand
- School of Engineering and Science, Tecnológico de Monterrey, Ave. Eugenio Garza Sada 2501, Monterrey, 64849 Mexico
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Brandl S, Reindl M. Blood-Brain Barrier Breakdown in Neuroinflammation: Current In Vitro Models. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12699. [PMID: 37628879 PMCID: PMC10454051 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241612699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The blood-brain barrier, which is formed by tightly interconnected microvascular endothelial cells, separates the brain from the peripheral circulation. Together with other central nervous system-resident cell types, including pericytes and astrocytes, the blood-brain barrier forms the neurovascular unit. Upon neuroinflammation, this barrier becomes leaky, allowing molecules and cells to enter the brain and to potentially harm the tissue of the central nervous system. Despite the significance of animal models in research, they may not always adequately reflect human pathophysiology. Therefore, human models are needed. This review will provide an overview of the blood-brain barrier in terms of both health and disease. It will describe all key elements of the in vitro models and will explore how different compositions can be utilized to effectively model a variety of neuroinflammatory conditions. Furthermore, it will explore the existing types of models that are used in basic research to study the respective pathologies thus far.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Markus Reindl
- Clinical Department of Neurology, Medical University of Innsbruck, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria;
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Nagri S, Rice O, Chen Y. Nanomedicine strategies for central nervous system (CNS) diseases. FRONTIERS IN BIOMATERIALS SCIENCE 2023; 2:1215384. [PMID: 38938851 PMCID: PMC11210682 DOI: 10.3389/fbiom.2023.1215384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a crucial part of brain anatomy as it is a specialized, protective barrier that ensures proper nutrient transport to the brain, ultimately leading to regulating proper brain function. However, it presents a major challenge in delivering pharmaceuticals to treat central nervous system (CNS) diseases due to this selectivity. A variety of different vehicles have been designed to deliver drugs across this barrier to treat neurodegenerative diseases, greatly impacting the patient's quality of life. The two main types of vehicles used to cross the BBB are polymers and liposomes, which both encapsulate pharmaceuticals to allow them to transcytose the cells of the BBB. For Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, and glioblastoma brain cancer, there are a variety of different nanoparticle treatments in development that increase the bioavailability and targeting ability of existing drugs or new drug targets to decrease symptoms of these diseases. Through these systems, nanomedicine offers a new way to target specific tissues, especially for the CNS, and treat diseases without the systemic toxicity that often comes with medications used currently.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shreya Nagri
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States
| | - Olivia Rice
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States
| | - Yupeng Chen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States
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Yau A, Jogdand A, Chen Y. Blood-brain-barrier modeling with tissue chips for research applications in space and on Earth. FRONTIERS IN SPACE TECHNOLOGIES 2023; 4:1176943. [PMID: 38915909 PMCID: PMC11195916 DOI: 10.3389/frspt.2023.1176943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
Tissue chip technology has revolutionized biomedical applications and the medical science field for the past few decades. Currently, tissue chips are one of the most powerful research tools aiding in in vitro work to accurately predict the outcome of studies when compared to monolayer two-dimensional (2D) cell cultures. While 2D cell cultures held prominence for a long time, their lack of biomimicry has resulted in a transition to 3D cell cultures, including tissue chips technology, to overcome the discrepancies often seen in in vitro studies. Due to their wide range of applications, different organ systems have been studied over the years, one of which is the blood brain barrier (BBB) which is discussed in this review. The BBB is an incredible protective unit of the body, keeping out pathogens from entering the brain through vasculature. However, there are some microbes and certain diseases that disrupt the function of this barrier which can lead to detrimental outcomes. Over the past few years, various designs of the BBB have been proposed and modeled to study drug delivery and disease modeling on Earth. More recently, researchers have started to utilize tissue chips in space to study the effects of microgravity on human health. BBB tissue chips in space can be a tool to understand function mechanisms and therapeutics. This review addresses the limitations of monolayer cell culture which could be overcome with utilizing tissue chips technology. Current BBB models on Earth and how they are fabricated as well as what influences the BBB cell culture in tissue chips are discussed. Then, this article reviews how application of these technologies together with incorporating biosensors in space would be beneficial to help in predicting a more accurate physiological response in specific tissue or organ chips. Finally, the current platforms used in space and some solutions to overcome some shortcomings for future BBB tissue chip research are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Yupeng Chen
- Nanomedicine Lab, Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States
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Sharma A, Fernandes DC, Reis RL, Gołubczyk D, Neumann S, Lukomska B, Janowski M, Kortylewski M, Walczak P, Oliveira JM, Maciaczyk J. Cutting-edge advances in modeling the blood-brain barrier and tools for its reversible permeabilization for enhanced drug delivery into the brain. Cell Biosci 2023; 13:137. [PMID: 37501215 PMCID: PMC10373415 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-023-01079-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a sophisticated structure whose full functionality is required for maintaining the executive functions of the central nervous system (CNS). Tight control of transport across the barrier means that most drugs, particularly large size, which includes powerful biologicals, cannot reach their targets in the brain. Notwithstanding the remarkable advances in characterizing the cellular nature of the BBB and consequences of BBB dysfunction in pathology (brain metastasis, neurological diseases), it remains challenging to deliver drugs to the CNS. Herein, we outline the basic architecture and key molecular constituents of the BBB. In addition, we review the current status of approaches that are being explored to temporarily open the BBB in order to allow accumulation of therapeutics in the CNS. Undoubtedly, the major concern in field is whether it is possible to open the BBB in a meaningful way without causing negative consequences. In this context, we have also listed few other important key considerations that can improve our understanding about the dynamics of the BBB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amit Sharma
- Department of Stereotacitc and Functional Neurosurgery, University Hospital Bonn, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Diogo C Fernandes
- 3B's Research Group, I3Bs-Research Institute on Biomaterials, Biodegradables and Biomimetics, University of Minho, Headquarters of the European Institute of Excellence on Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, AvePark, Parque de Ciência e Tecnologia, Zona Industrial da Gandra, 4805-017, Barco, Guimarães, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4710-057, Braga, Portugal
| | - Rui L Reis
- 3B's Research Group, I3Bs-Research Institute on Biomaterials, Biodegradables and Biomimetics, University of Minho, Headquarters of the European Institute of Excellence on Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, AvePark, Parque de Ciência e Tecnologia, Zona Industrial da Gandra, 4805-017, Barco, Guimarães, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4710-057, Braga, Portugal
| | - Dominika Gołubczyk
- Ti-Com, Polish Limited Liability Company, 10-683, Olsztyn, Poland
- Center for Translational Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, 02-797, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Silke Neumann
- Department of Pathology, University of Otago, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand
| | - Barbara Lukomska
- NeuroRepair Department, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, 02-106, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Miroslaw Janowski
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Marcin Kortylewski
- Department of Immuno-Oncology, Beckman Research Institute at City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA, 91010, USA
| | - Piotr Walczak
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - J Miguel Oliveira
- 3B's Research Group, I3Bs-Research Institute on Biomaterials, Biodegradables and Biomimetics, University of Minho, Headquarters of the European Institute of Excellence on Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, AvePark, Parque de Ciência e Tecnologia, Zona Industrial da Gandra, 4805-017, Barco, Guimarães, Portugal.
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4710-057, Braga, Portugal.
| | - Jarek Maciaczyk
- Department of Stereotacitc and Functional Neurosurgery, University Hospital Bonn, 53127, Bonn, Germany.
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand.
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Singh S, Agrawal M, Vashist R, Patel RK, Sangave SD, Alexander A. Recent advancements on in vitro blood-brain barrier model: A reliable and efficient screening approach for preclinical and clinical investigation. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2023; 20:1839-1857. [PMID: 38100459 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2023.2295940] [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: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The efficiency of brain therapeutics is greatly hindered by the blood-brain barrier (BBB). BBB's protective function, selective permeability, and dynamic functionality maintain the harmony between the brain and peripheral region. Thus, the design of any novel drug carrier system requires the complete study and investigation of BBB permeability, efflux transport, and the effect of associated cellular and non-vascular unit trafficking on BBB penetrability. The in vitro BBB models offer a most promising, and reliable mode of initial investigation of BBB permeability and associated factors as strong evidence for further preclinical and clinical investigation. AREA COVERED This review work covers the structure and functions of BBB components and different types of in vitro BBB models along with factors affecting BBB model development and model selection criteria. EXPERT OPINION In vivo models assume to reciprocate the physiological environment to the maximum extent. However, the interspecies variability, NVUs trafficking, dynamic behavior of BBB, etc., lead to non-reproducible results. The in vitro models are comparatively less complex, and flexible, as per the study design, could generate substantial evidence and help identify suitable in vivo animal model selection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Snigdha Singh
- Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Guwahati, India
| | - Mukta Agrawal
- School of Pharmacy and Technology Management, Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies, Mahbubnagar, India
| | - Rajat Vashist
- Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Guwahati, India
| | - Rohit K Patel
- Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Guwahati, India
| | | | - Amit Alexander
- Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Guwahati, India
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Isosaari L, Vuorenpää H, Yrjänäinen A, Kapucu FE, Kelloniemi M, Pakarinen TK, Miettinen S, Narkilahti S. Simultaneous induction of vasculature and neuronal network formation on a chip reveals a dynamic interrelationship between cell types. Cell Commun Signal 2023; 21:132. [PMID: 37316873 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01159-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neuronal networks receive and deliver information to regulate bodily functions while the vascular network provides oxygen, nutrients, and signaling molecules to tissues. Neurovascular interactions are vital for both tissue development and maintaining homeostasis in adulthood; these two network systems align and reciprocally communicate with one another. Although communication between network systems has been acknowledged, the lack of relevant in vitro models has hindered research at the mechanistic level. For example, the current used in vitro neurovascular models are typically established to be short-term (≤ 7 days) culture models, and they miss the supporting vascular mural cells. METHODS In this study, we utilized human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) -derived neurons, fluorescence tagged human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), and either human bone marrow or adipose stem/stromal cells (BMSCs or ASCs) as the mural cell types to create a novel 3D neurovascular network-on-a-chip model. Collagen 1-fibrin matrix was used to establish long-term (≥ 14 days) 3D cell culture in a perfusable microphysiological environment. RESULTS Aprotinin-supplemented endothelial cell growth medium-2 (EGM-2) supported the simultaneous formation of neuronal networks, vascular structures, mural cell differentiation, and the stability of the 3D matrix. The formed neuronal and vascular networks were morphologically and functionally characterized. Neuronal networks supported vasculature formation based on direct cell contacts and by dramatically increasing the secretion of angiogenesis-related factors in multicultures in contrast to cocultures without neurons. Both utilized mural cell types supported the formation of neurovascular networks; however, the BMSCs seemed to boost neurovascular networks to greater extent. CONCLUSIONS Overall, our study provides a novel human neurovascular network model that is applicable for creating in vivo-like tissue models with intrinsic neurovascular interactions. The 3D neurovascular network model on chip forms an initial platform for the development of vascularized and innervated organ-on-chip and further body-on-chip concepts and offers the possibility for mechanistic studies on neurovascular communication both under healthy and in disease conditions. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lotta Isosaari
- NeuroGroup, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
- Adult Stem Cell Group, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
- Research, Development and Innovation Centre, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
| | - Hanna Vuorenpää
- Adult Stem Cell Group, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
- Research, Development and Innovation Centre, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
| | - Alma Yrjänäinen
- Adult Stem Cell Group, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
- Research, Development and Innovation Centre, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
| | - Fikret Emre Kapucu
- NeuroGroup, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Minna Kelloniemi
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
| | | | - Susanna Miettinen
- Adult Stem Cell Group, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
- Research, Development and Innovation Centre, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
| | - Susanna Narkilahti
- NeuroGroup, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland.
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Dufva M. A quantitative meta-analysis comparing cell models in perfused organ on a chip with static cell cultures. Sci Rep 2023; 13:8233. [PMID: 37217582 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-35043-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
As many consider organ on a chip for better in vitro models, it is timely to extract quantitative data from the literature to compare responses of cells under flow in chips to corresponding static incubations. Of 2828 screened articles, 464 articles described flow for cell culture and 146 contained correct controls and quantified data. Analysis of 1718 ratios between biomarkers measured in cells under flow and static cultures showed that the in all cell types, many biomarkers were unregulated by flow and only some specific biomarkers responded strongly to flow. Biomarkers in cells from the blood vessels walls, the intestine, tumours, pancreatic island, and the liver reacted most strongly to flow. Only 26 biomarkers were analysed in at least two different articles for a given cell type. Of these, the CYP3A4 activity in CaCo2 cells and PXR mRNA levels in hepatocytes were induced more than two-fold by flow. Furthermore, the reproducibility between articles was low as 52 of 95 articles did not show the same response to flow for a given biomarker. Flow showed overall very little improvements in 2D cultures but a slight improvement in 3D cultures suggesting that high density cell culture may benefit from flow. In conclusion, the gains of perfusion are relatively modest, larger gains are linked to specific biomarkers in certain cell types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Dufva
- Department of Health Technology, Technical University of Denmark, 2800, Kgs Lyngby, Denmark.
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Mármol I, Abizanda-Campo S, Ayuso JM, Ochoa I, Oliván S. Towards Novel Biomimetic In Vitro Models of the Blood-Brain Barrier for Drug Permeability Evaluation. Bioengineering (Basel) 2023; 10:bioengineering10050572. [PMID: 37237642 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering10050572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Current available animal and in vitro cell-based models for studying brain-related pathologies and drug evaluation face several limitations since they are unable to reproduce the unique architecture and physiology of the human blood-brain barrier. Because of that, promising preclinical drug candidates often fail in clinical trials due to their inability to penetrate the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Therefore, novel models that allow us to successfully predict drug permeability through the BBB would accelerate the implementation of much-needed therapies for glioblastoma, Alzheimer's disease, and further disorders. In line with this, organ-on-chip models of the BBB are an interesting alternative to traditional models. These microfluidic models provide the necessary support to recreate the architecture of the BBB and mimic the fluidic conditions of the cerebral microvasculature. Herein, the most recent advances in organ-on-chip models for the BBB are reviewed, focusing on their potential to provide robust and reliable data regarding drug candidate ability to reach the brain parenchyma. We point out recent achievements and challenges to overcome in order to advance in more biomimetic in vitro experimental models based on OOO technology. The minimum requirements that should be met to be considered biomimetic (cellular types, fluid flow, and tissular architecture), and consequently, a solid alternative to in vitro traditional models or animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inés Mármol
- Tissue Microenvironment (TME) Lab, Aragón Institute of Engineering Research (I3A), University of Zaragoza, 50018 Zaragoza, Spain
- Institute for Health Research Aragón (IIS Aragón), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Sara Abizanda-Campo
- Tissue Microenvironment (TME) Lab, Aragón Institute of Engineering Research (I3A), University of Zaragoza, 50018 Zaragoza, Spain
- Department of Dermatology, Department of Biomedical Engineering, and Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Jose M Ayuso
- Department of Dermatology, Department of Biomedical Engineering, and Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Ignacio Ochoa
- Tissue Microenvironment (TME) Lab, Aragón Institute of Engineering Research (I3A), University of Zaragoza, 50018 Zaragoza, Spain
- Institute for Health Research Aragón (IIS Aragón), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
- CIBER Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Sara Oliván
- Tissue Microenvironment (TME) Lab, Aragón Institute of Engineering Research (I3A), University of Zaragoza, 50018 Zaragoza, Spain
- Institute for Health Research Aragón (IIS Aragón), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
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45
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Mu X, Gerhard-Herman MD, Zhang YS. Building Blood Vessel Chips with Enhanced Physiological Relevance. ADVANCED MATERIALS TECHNOLOGIES 2023; 8:2201778. [PMID: 37693798 PMCID: PMC10489284 DOI: 10.1002/admt.202201778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
Blood vessel chips are bioengineered microdevices, consisting of biomaterials, human cells, and microstructures, which recapitulate essential vascular structure and physiology and allow a well-controlled microenvironment and spatial-temporal readouts. Blood vessel chips afford promising opportunities to understand molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying a range of vascular diseases. The physiological relevance is key to these blood vessel chips that rely on bioinspired strategies and bioengineering approaches to translate vascular physiology into artificial units. Here, we discuss several critical aspects of vascular physiology, including morphology, material composition, mechanical properties, flow dynamics, and mass transport, which provide essential guidelines and a valuable source of bioinspiration for the rational design of blood vessel chips. We also review state-of-art blood vessel chips that exhibit important physiological features of the vessel and reveal crucial insights into the biological processes and disease pathogenesis, including rare diseases, with notable implications for drug screening and clinical trials. We envision that the advances in biomaterials, biofabrication, and stem cells improve the physiological relevance of blood vessel chips, which, along with the close collaborations between clinicians and bioengineers, enable their widespread utility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Mu
- Division of Engineering in Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Roy J. Carver Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Marie Denise Gerhard-Herman
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Yu Shrike Zhang
- Division of Engineering in Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
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Biosensor integrated brain-on-a-chip platforms: Progress and prospects in clinical translation. Biosens Bioelectron 2023; 225:115100. [PMID: 36709589 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2023.115100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2022] [Revised: 01/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Because of the brain's complexity, developing effective treatments for neurological disorders is a formidable challenge. Research efforts to this end are advancing as in vitro systems have reached the point that they can imitate critical components of the brain's structure and function. Brain-on-a-chip (BoC) was first used for microfluidics-based systems with small synthetic tissues but has expanded recently to include in vitro simulation of the central nervous system (CNS). Defining the system's qualifying parameters may improve the BoC for the next generation of in vitro platforms. These parameters show how well a given platform solves the problems unique to in vitro CNS modeling (like recreating the brain's microenvironment and including essential parts like the blood-brain barrier (BBB)) and how much more value it offers than traditional cell culture systems. This review provides an overview of the practical concerns of creating and deploying BoC systems and elaborates on how these technologies might be used. Not only how advanced biosensing technologies could be integrated with BoC system but also how novel approaches will automate assays and improve point-of-care (PoC) diagnostics and accurate quantitative analyses are discussed. Key challenges providing opportunities for clinical translation of BoC in neurodegenerative disorders are also addressed.
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Pérez-López A, Isabel Torres-Suárez A, Martín-Sabroso C, Aparicio-Blanco J. An overview of in vitro 3D models of the blood-brain barrier as a tool to predict the in vivo permeability of nanomedicines. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2023; 196:114816. [PMID: 37003488 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2023.114816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
Abstract
The blood-brain barrier (BBB) prevents efficient drug delivery to the central nervous system. As a result, brain diseases remain one of the greatest unmet medical needs. Understanding the tridimensional structure of the BBB helps gain insight into the pathology of the BBB and contributes to the development of novel therapies for brain diseases. Therefore, 3D models with an ever-growing sophisticated complexity are being developed to closely mimic the human neurovascular unit. Among these 3D models, hydrogel-, spheroid- and organoid-based static BBB models have been developed, and so have microfluidic-based BBB-on-a-chip models. The different 3D preclinical models of the BBB, both in health and disease, are here reviewed, from their development to their application for permeability testing of nanomedicines across the BBB, discussing the advantages and disadvantages of each model. The validation with data from in vivo preclinical data is also discussed in those cases where provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre Pérez-López
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Food Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Isabel Torres-Suárez
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Food Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain; Institute of Industrial Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Cristina Martín-Sabroso
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Food Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain; Institute of Industrial Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan Aparicio-Blanco
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Food Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain; Institute of Industrial Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain.
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48
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Gonzales-Aloy E, Ahmed-Cox A, Tsoli M, Ziegler DS, Kavallaris M. From cells to organoids: The evolution of blood-brain barrier technology for modelling drug delivery in brain cancer. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2023; 196:114777. [PMID: 36931346 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2023.114777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023]
Abstract
Brain cancer remains the deadliest cancer. The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is impenetrable to most drugs and is a complex 3D network of multiple cell types including endothelial cells, astrocytes, and pericytes. In brain cancers, the BBB becomes disrupted during tumor progression and forms the blood-brain tumor barrier (BBTB). To advance therapeutic development, there is a critical need for physiologically relevant BBB in vitro models. 3D cell systems are emerging as valuable preclinical models to accelerate discoveries for diseases. Given the versatility and capability of 3D cell models, their potential for modelling the BBB and BBTB is reviewed. Technological advances of BBB models and challenges of in vitro modelling the BBTB, and application of these models as tools for assessing therapeutics and nano drug delivery, are discussed. Quantitative, in vitro BBB models that are predictive of effective brain cancer therapies will be invaluable for accelerating advancing new treatments to the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Estrella Gonzales-Aloy
- Children's Cancer Institute, Lowy Cancer Research Center, UNSW Sydney, NSW, Australia; Australian Center for NanoMedicine, UNSW Sydney, NSW, Australia; School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Aria Ahmed-Cox
- Children's Cancer Institute, Lowy Cancer Research Center, UNSW Sydney, NSW, Australia; Australian Center for NanoMedicine, UNSW Sydney, NSW, Australia; School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, NSW, Australia; Katharina Gaus Light Microscopy Facility, Mark Wainright Analytical Center, UNSW Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Maria Tsoli
- Children's Cancer Institute, Lowy Cancer Research Center, UNSW Sydney, NSW, Australia; School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - David S Ziegler
- Children's Cancer Institute, Lowy Cancer Research Center, UNSW Sydney, NSW, Australia; School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, NSW, Australia; Kids Cancer Center, Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick, NSW, Australia
| | - Maria Kavallaris
- Children's Cancer Institute, Lowy Cancer Research Center, UNSW Sydney, NSW, Australia; Australian Center for NanoMedicine, UNSW Sydney, NSW, Australia; School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, NSW, Australia; UNSW RNA Institute, UNSW Sydney, NSW, Australia.
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Sabaté Del Río J, Ro J, Yoon H, Park TE, Cho YK. Integrated technologies for continuous monitoring of organs-on-chips: Current challenges and potential solutions. Biosens Bioelectron 2023; 224:115057. [PMID: 36640548 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2022.115057] [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: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Organs-on-chips (OoCs) are biomimetic in vitro systems based on microfluidic cell cultures that recapitulate the in vivo physicochemical microenvironments and the physiologies and key functional units of specific human organs. These systems are versatile and can be customized to investigate organ-specific physiology, pathology, or pharmacology. They are more physiologically relevant than traditional two-dimensional cultures, can potentially replace the animal models or reduce the use of these models, and represent a unique opportunity for the development of personalized medicine when combined with human induced pluripotent stem cells. Continuous monitoring of important quality parameters of OoCs via a label-free, non-destructive, reliable, high-throughput, and multiplex method is critical for assessing the conditions of these systems and generating relevant analytical data; moreover, elaboration of quality predictive models is required for clinical trials of OoCs. Presently, these analytical data are obtained by manual or automatic sampling and analyzed using single-point, off-chip traditional methods. In this review, we describe recent efforts to integrate biosensing technologies into OoCs for monitoring the physiologies, functions, and physicochemical microenvironments of OoCs. Furthermore, we present potential alternative solutions to current challenges and future directions for the application of artificial intelligence in the development of OoCs and cyber-physical systems. These "smart" OoCs can learn and make autonomous decisions for process optimization, self-regulation, and data analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Sabaté Del Río
- Center for Soft and Living Matter, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Ulsan, 44919, Republic of Korea
| | - Jooyoung Ro
- Center for Soft and Living Matter, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Ulsan, 44919, Republic of Korea; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), Ulsan, 44919, Republic of Korea
| | - Heejeong Yoon
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), Ulsan, 44919, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae-Eun Park
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), Ulsan, 44919, Republic of Korea.
| | - Yoon-Kyoung Cho
- Center for Soft and Living Matter, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Ulsan, 44919, Republic of Korea; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), Ulsan, 44919, Republic of Korea.
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Yoon H, Seo JK, Park TE. Microphysiological system recapitulating the pathophysiology of adipose tissue in obesity. Acta Biomater 2023; 159:188-200. [PMID: 36724863 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2023.01.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2022] [Revised: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
A growing body of evidence has indicated that white adipose tissue (AT) remodeling is a major trigger for obesity-associated metabolic complications. However, the scarcity of translational models is an obstacle to the development of medicines that act on adipose restoration. Here, we describe a microphysiological system (MPS) that emulates the unique features of reprogrammed AT as a new in vitro tool for studying AT pathophysiology in obesity. The AT MPS contained mature adipocytes embedded in an extracellular matrix (ECM) hydrogel interfaced with AT microvascular endothelium, which was constantly perfused with fresh media. The unique biochemical signals due to the remodeled ECM in obesity were recapitulated using a decellularized AT ECM (AT dECM) hydrogel, which preserves the features of altered ECM composition in obesity. The mature adipocytes embedded in the AT dECM hydrogel maintained their function and morphology for a week without dedifferentiation. Using the AT MPS, we successfully modeled inflammation-induced AT microvascular dysfunction, the recruitment of immune cells due to the upregulation of cell adhesion molecules, and higher cancer cell adhesion as an indicator of metastasis, which are observed in obese individuals. The AT MPS may therefore represent a promising platform for understanding the dynamic cellular interplay in obesity-induced AT remodeling and validating the efficacy of drugs targeting AT in obesity. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: The lack of translational in vitro white adipose tissue (AT) models is one of the main obstacles for understanding the obesity-induced reprogramming and the development of medicines. We report herein the AT microphysiological system (MPS), which recapitulates obesity and normal conditions and yields cell- and AT dECM-derived signals, thereby allowing accurate comparative in vitro analyses. Using the AT MPS, we successfully modeled reprogrammed AT in obesity conditions, including inflammation-induced AT vascular dysfunction, the recruitment of immune cells, and higher cancer cell metastasis, which are observed in obese individuals. Our proposed adipose tissue model providing physiological relevance and complexity may therefore enhance the understanding of obesity-associated disorders and be used to investigate their underlying molecular mechanisms to develop pharmacologic treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heejeong Yoon
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Information and Biotechnology, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), Ulsan 44919, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong Kon Seo
- UNIST Central Research Facilities (UCRF), Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), Ulsan 44919, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae-Eun Park
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Information and Biotechnology, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), Ulsan 44919, Republic of Korea.
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