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Bloise N, Giannaccari M, Guagliano G, Peluso E, Restivo E, Strada S, Volpini C, Petrini P, Visai L. Growing Role of 3D In Vitro Cell Cultures in the Study of Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms: Short Focus on Breast Cancer, Endometriosis, Liver and Infectious Diseases. Cells 2024; 13:1054. [PMID: 38920683 PMCID: PMC11201503 DOI: 10.3390/cells13121054] [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: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Over the past decade, the development of three-dimensional (3D) models has increased exponentially, facilitating the unravelling of fundamental and essential cellular mechanisms by which cells communicate with each other, assemble into tissues and organs and respond to biochemical and biophysical stimuli under both physiological and pathological conditions. This section presents a concise overview of the most recent updates on the significant contribution of different types of 3D cell cultures including spheroids, organoids and organ-on-chip and bio-printed tissues in advancing our understanding of cellular and molecular mechanisms. The case studies presented include the 3D cultures of breast cancer (BC), endometriosis, the liver microenvironment and infections. In BC, the establishment of 3D culture models has permitted the visualization of the role of cancer-associated fibroblasts in the delivery of exosomes, as well as the significance of the physical properties of the extracellular matrix in promoting cell proliferation and invasion. This approach has also become a valuable tool in gaining insight into general and specific mechanisms of drug resistance. Given the considerable heterogeneity of endometriosis, 3D models offer a more accurate representation of the in vivo microenvironment, thereby facilitating the identification and translation of novel targeted therapeutic strategies. The advantages provided by 3D models of the hepatic environment, in conjunction with the high throughput characterizing various platforms, have enabled the elucidation of complex molecular mechanisms underlying various threatening hepatic diseases. A limited number of 3D models for gut and skin infections have been developed. However, a more profound comprehension of the spatial and temporal interactions between microbes, the host and their environment may facilitate the advancement of in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo disease models. Additionally, it may pave the way for the development of novel therapeutic approaches in diverse research fields. The interested reader will also find concluding remarks on the challenges and prospects of using 3D cell cultures for discovering cellular and molecular mechanisms in the research areas covered in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nora Bloise
- Molecular Medicine Department (DMM), Centre for Health Technologies (CHT), Unità di Ricerca (UdR) INSTM, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (M.G.); (E.P.); (E.R.); (S.S.); (C.V.)
- UOR6 Nanotechnology Laboratory, Department of Prevention and Rehabilitation in Occupational Medicine and Specialty Medicine, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Via Maugeri 4, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- Interuniversity Center for the Promotion of the 3Rs Principles in Teaching and Research (Centro 3R), Operative Unit (OU) of University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Marialaura Giannaccari
- Molecular Medicine Department (DMM), Centre for Health Technologies (CHT), Unità di Ricerca (UdR) INSTM, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (M.G.); (E.P.); (E.R.); (S.S.); (C.V.)
| | - Giuseppe Guagliano
- Department of Chemistry, Materials, and Chemical Engineering “G. Natta”, Politecnico di Milano, P.zza L. Da Vinci 32, 20133 Milan, Italy; (G.G.); (P.P.)
| | - Emanuela Peluso
- Molecular Medicine Department (DMM), Centre for Health Technologies (CHT), Unità di Ricerca (UdR) INSTM, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (M.G.); (E.P.); (E.R.); (S.S.); (C.V.)
| | - Elisa Restivo
- Molecular Medicine Department (DMM), Centre for Health Technologies (CHT), Unità di Ricerca (UdR) INSTM, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (M.G.); (E.P.); (E.R.); (S.S.); (C.V.)
| | - Silvia Strada
- Molecular Medicine Department (DMM), Centre for Health Technologies (CHT), Unità di Ricerca (UdR) INSTM, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (M.G.); (E.P.); (E.R.); (S.S.); (C.V.)
- UOR6 Nanotechnology Laboratory, Department of Prevention and Rehabilitation in Occupational Medicine and Specialty Medicine, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Via Maugeri 4, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Cristina Volpini
- Molecular Medicine Department (DMM), Centre for Health Technologies (CHT), Unità di Ricerca (UdR) INSTM, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (M.G.); (E.P.); (E.R.); (S.S.); (C.V.)
- UOR6 Nanotechnology Laboratory, Department of Prevention and Rehabilitation in Occupational Medicine and Specialty Medicine, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Via Maugeri 4, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Paola Petrini
- Department of Chemistry, Materials, and Chemical Engineering “G. Natta”, Politecnico di Milano, P.zza L. Da Vinci 32, 20133 Milan, Italy; (G.G.); (P.P.)
- Interuniversity Center for the Promotion of the 3Rs Principles in Teaching and Research (Centro 3R), Operative Unit (OU) of Politecnico di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Livia Visai
- Molecular Medicine Department (DMM), Centre for Health Technologies (CHT), Unità di Ricerca (UdR) INSTM, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (M.G.); (E.P.); (E.R.); (S.S.); (C.V.)
- UOR6 Nanotechnology Laboratory, Department of Prevention and Rehabilitation in Occupational Medicine and Specialty Medicine, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Via Maugeri 4, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- Interuniversity Center for the Promotion of the 3Rs Principles in Teaching and Research (Centro 3R), Operative Unit (OU) of University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
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Wang H, Wen L, Jiang F, Ren P, Yang Y, Song S, Yang Z, Wang Y. A comprehensive review of advances in hepatocyte microencapsulation: selecting materials and preserving cell viability. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1385022. [PMID: 38694507 PMCID: PMC11061843 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1385022] [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] [Received: 02/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Liver failure represents a critical medical condition with a traditionally grim prognosis, where treatment options have been notably limited. Historically, liver transplantation has stood as the sole definitive cure, yet the stark disparity between the limited availability of liver donations and the high demand for such organs has significantly hampered its feasibility. This discrepancy has necessitated the exploration of hepatocyte transplantation as a temporary, supportive intervention. In light of this, our review delves into the burgeoning field of hepatocyte transplantation, with a focus on the latest advancements in maintaining hepatocyte function, co-microencapsulation techniques, xenogeneic hepatocyte transplantation, and the selection of materials for microencapsulation. Our examination of hepatocyte microencapsulation research highlights that, to date, most studies have been conducted in vitro or using liver failure mouse models, with a notable paucity of experiments on larger mammals. The functionality of microencapsulated hepatocytes is primarily inferred through indirect measures such as urea and albumin production and the rate of ammonia clearance. Furthermore, research on the mechanisms underlying hepatocyte co-microencapsulation remains limited, and the practicality of xenogeneic hepatocyte transplantation requires further validation. The potential of hepatocyte microencapsulation extends beyond the current scope of application, suggesting a promising horizon for liver failure treatment modalities. Innovations in encapsulation materials and techniques aim to enhance cell viability and function, indicating a need for comprehensive studies that bridge the gap between small-scale laboratory success and clinical applicability. Moreover, the integration of bioengineering and regenerative medicine offers novel pathways to refine hepatocyte transplantation, potentially overcoming the challenges of immune rejection and ensuring the long-term functionality of transplanted cells. In conclusion, while hepatocyte microencapsulation and transplantation herald a new era in liver failure therapy, significant strides must be made to translate these experimental approaches into viable clinical solutions. Future research should aim to expand the experimental models to include larger mammals, thereby providing a clearer understanding of the clinical potential of these therapies. Additionally, a deeper exploration into the mechanisms of cell survival and function within microcapsules, alongside the development of innovative encapsulation materials, will be critical in advancing the field and offering new hope to patients with liver failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hailian Wang
- Clinical Immunology Translational Medicine Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Center of Organ Transplantation, Sichuan Academy of Medical Science and Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Lebin Wen
- Department of Thyroid, Sichuan Second Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Fengdi Jiang
- School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Pengyu Ren
- School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Yixin Yang
- Department of Clinical Medicine, The First Clinical Medical College of Norman Bethune University of Medical Sciences, Jilin, China
| | - Siyuan Song
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Zhengteng Yang
- Department of Pharmacy, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, China
| | - Yi Wang
- Clinical Immunology Translational Medicine Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences and Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
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Takeuchi K, Yasuhiko O. Non-invasive Visualization and Characterization of Bile Canaliculus Formation Using Refractive Index Tomography. Biol Pharm Bull 2024; 47:1163-1171. [PMID: 38880624 DOI: 10.1248/bpb.b24-00066] [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] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
The vital role of bile canaliculus (BC) in liver function is closely related to its morphology. Electron microscopy has contributed to understanding BC morphology; however, its invasiveness limits its use in living specimens. Here, we report non-invasive characterization of BC formation using refractive index (RI) tomography. First, we investigated and characterized the RI distribution of BCs in two-dimensional (2D) cultured HepG2 cells. BCs were identified based on their distinct morphology and functionality, as confirmed using a fluorescence-labeled bile acid analog. The RI distribution of BCs exhibited three common features: (1) luminal spaces with a low RI between adjacent hepatocytes; (2) luminal spaces surrounded by a membranous structure with a high RI; and (3) multiple microvillus structures with a high RI within the lumen. Second, we demonstrated the characterization of BC structures in a three-dimensional (3D) culture model, which is more relevant to the in vivo environment but more difficult to evaluate than 2D cultures. Various BC structures were identified inside HepG2 spheroids with the three features of RI distribution. Third, we conducted comparative analyses and found that the BC lumina of spheroids had higher circularity and lower RI standard deviation than 2D cultures. We also addressed comparison of BC and intracellular lumen-like structures within a HepG2 spheroid, and found that the BC lumina had higher RI and longer perimeter than intracellular lumen-like structures. Our demonstration of the non-destructive, label-free visualization and quantitative characterization of living BC structures will be a basis for various hepatological and pharmaceutical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kozo Takeuchi
- Central Research Laboratory, Hamamatsu Photonics K.K
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Mansouri M, Imes WD, Roberts OS, Leipzig ND. Fabrication of oxygen-carrying microparticles functionalized with liver ECM-proteins to improve phenotypic three-dimensional in vitro liver assembly, function, and responses. Biotechnol Bioeng 2023; 120:3025-3038. [PMID: 37269469 DOI: 10.1002/bit.28456] [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: 01/12/2023] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Oxygen and extracellular matrix (ECM)-derived biopolymers play vital roles in regulating many cellular functions in both the healthy and diseased liver. This study highlights the significance of synergistically tuning the internal microenvironment of three-dimensional (3D) cell aggregates composed of hepatocyte-like cells from the HepG2 human hepatocellular carcinoma cell line and hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) from the LX-2 cell line to enhance oxygen availability and phenotypic ECM ligand presentation for promoting the native metabolic functions of the human liver. First, fluorinated (PFC) chitosan microparticles (MPs) were generated with a microfluidic chip, then their oxygen transport properties were studied using a custom ruthenium-based oxygen sensing approach. Next, to allow for integrin engagements the surfaces of these MPs were functionalized using liver ECM proteins including fibronectin, laminin-111, laminin-511, and laminin-521, then they were used to assemble composite spheriods along with HepG2 cells and HSCs. After in vitro culture, liver-specific functions and cell adhesion patterns were compared between groups and cells showed enhanced liver phenotypic responses to laminin-511 and 521 as evidenced via enhanced E-cadherin and vinculin expression, as well as albumin and urea secretion. Furthermore, hepatocytes and HSCs exhibited more pronounced phenotypic arrangements when cocultured with laminin-511 and 521 modified MPs providing clear evidence that specific ECM proteins have distinctive roles in the phenotypic regulation of liver cells in engineering 3D spheroids. This study advances efforts to create more physiologically relevant organ models allowing for well-defined conditions and phenotypic cell signaling which together improve the relevance of 3D spheroid and organoid models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona Mansouri
- Department of Chemical, Biomolecular, and Corrosion Engineering, The University of Akron, Akron, Ohio, USA
| | - William D Imes
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Akron, Akron, Ohio, USA
| | - Owen S Roberts
- College of Engineering and Polymer Science, The University of Akron, Akron, Ohio, USA
| | - Nic D Leipzig
- Department of Chemical, Biomolecular, and Corrosion Engineering, The University of Akron, Akron, Ohio, USA
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Yun C, Kim SH, Jung YS. Current Research Trends in the Application of In Vitro Three-Dimensional Models of Liver Cells. Pharmaceutics 2022; 15:pharmaceutics15010054. [PMID: 36678683 PMCID: PMC9866911 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15010054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 12/18/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The liver produces and stores various nutrients that are necessary for the body and serves as a chemical plant, metabolizing carbohydrates, fats, hormones, vitamins, and minerals. It is also a vital organ for detoxifying drugs and exogenous harmful substances. Culturing liver cells in vitro under three-dimensional (3D) conditions is considered a primary mechanism for liver tissue engineering. The 3D cell culture system is designed to allow cells to interact in an artificially created environment and has the advantage of mimicking the physiological characteristics of cells in vivo. This system facilitates contact between the cells and the extracellular matrix. Several technically different approaches have been proposed, including bioreactors, chips, and plate-based systems in fluid or static media composed of chemically diverse materials. Compared to conventional two-dimensional monolayer culture in vitro models, the ability to predict the function of the tissues, including the drug metabolism and chemical toxicity, has been enhanced by developing three-dimensional liver culture models. This review discussed the methodology of 3D cell cultures and summarized the advantages of an in vitro liver platform using 3D culture technology.
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Xie Y, Kollampally SCR, Jorgensen M, Zhang X. Alginate microfibers as therapeutic delivery scaffolds and tissue mimics. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2022; 247:2103-2118. [PMID: 36000165 PMCID: PMC9837301 DOI: 10.1177/15353702221112905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Alginate, a naturally occurring polysaccharide, has been widely used in cell encapsulation, 3D culture, cell therapy, tissue engineering, and regenerative medicine. Alginate's frequent use comes from its biocompatibility and ability to easily form hydrogel in a variety of forms (e.g. microcapsules, microfibers, and porous scaffolds), which can provide immunoprotection for cell therapy and mimic the extracellular matrix for tissue engineering. During the past 15 years, alginate hydrogel microfibers have attracted more and more attention due to its continuous thin tubular structures (diameter or shell thickness ⩽ 200 µm), high-density cell growth, high handleability and retrievability, and scalability. This review article provides a concise overview of alginate and its resultant hydrogel microfibers for the purpose of promoting multidisciplinary, collaborative, and convergent research in the field. It starts with a historical review of alginate as biomaterials and provides basics about alginate structure, properties, and mechanisms of hydrogel formation, followed by current challenges in effective cell delivery and functional tissue engineering. In particular, this work discusses how alginate microfiber technology could provide solutions to unmet needs with a focus on the current state of the art of alginate microfiber technology and its applications in 3D cell culture, cell delivery, and tissue engineering. At last, we discuss future directions in the perspective of alginate-based advanced technology development in biology and medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yubing Xie
- College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, Albany, NY 12203, USA
| | | | - Matthew Jorgensen
- College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, Albany, NY 12203, USA
| | - Xulang Zhang
- College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, Albany, NY 12203, USA
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Rojek K, Ćwiklińska M, Kuczak J, Guzowski J. Microfluidic Formulation of Topological Hydrogels for Microtissue Engineering. Chem Rev 2022; 122:16839-16909. [PMID: 36108106 PMCID: PMC9706502 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.1c00798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Microfluidics has recently emerged as a powerful tool in generation of submillimeter-sized cell aggregates capable of performing tissue-specific functions, so-called microtissues, for applications in drug testing, regenerative medicine, and cell therapies. In this work, we review the most recent advances in the field, with particular focus on the formulation of cell-encapsulating microgels of small "dimensionalities": "0D" (particles), "1D" (fibers), "2D" (sheets), etc., and with nontrivial internal topologies, typically consisting of multiple compartments loaded with different types of cells and/or biopolymers. Such structures, which we refer to as topological hydrogels or topological microgels (examples including core-shell or Janus microbeads and microfibers, hollow or porous microstructures, or granular hydrogels) can be precisely tailored with high reproducibility and throughput by using microfluidics and used to provide controlled "initial conditions" for cell proliferation and maturation into functional tissue-like microstructures. Microfluidic methods of formulation of topological biomaterials have enabled significant progress in engineering of miniature tissues and organs, such as pancreas, liver, muscle, bone, heart, neural tissue, or vasculature, as well as in fabrication of tailored microenvironments for stem-cell expansion and differentiation, or in cancer modeling, including generation of vascularized tumors for personalized drug testing. We review the available microfluidic fabrication methods by exploiting various cross-linking mechanisms and various routes toward compartmentalization and critically discuss the available tissue-specific applications. Finally, we list the remaining challenges such as simplification of the microfluidic workflow for its widespread use in biomedical research, bench-to-bedside transition including production upscaling, further in vivo validation, generation of more precise organ-like models, as well as incorporation of induced pluripotent stem cells as a step toward clinical applications.
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Xie X, Zhou X, Liu T, Zhong Z, Zhou Q, Iqbal W, Xie Q, Wei C, Zhang X, Chang TMS, Sun P. Direct Differentiation of Human Embryonic Stem Cells to 3D Functional Hepatocyte-like Cells in Alginate Microencapsulation Sphere. Cells 2022; 11:3134. [PMID: 36231094 PMCID: PMC9562699 DOI: 10.3390/cells11193134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Revised: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The lack of a stable source of hepatocytes is one of major limitations in hepatocyte transplantation and clinical applications of a bioartificial liver. Human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) with a high degree of self-renewal and totipotency are a potentially limitless source of a variety of cell lineages, including hepatocytes. Many techniques have been developed for effective differentiation of hESCs into functional hepatocyte-like cells. However, the application of hESC-derived hepatocyte-like cells (hESC-Heps) in the clinic has been constrained by the low yield of fully differentiated cells, small-scale culture, difficulties in harvesting, and immunologic graft rejection. To resolve these shortcomings, we developed a novel 3D differentiation system involving alginate-microencapsulated spheres to improve current hepatic differentiation, providing ready-to-use hESC-Heps. METHODS In this study, we used alginate microencapsulation technology to differentiate human embryonic stem cells into hepatocyte-like cells (hESC-Heps). Hepatic markers of hESC-Heps were examined by qPCR and Western blotting, and hepatic functions of hESC-Heps were evaluated by indocyanine-green uptake and release, and ammonia removal. RESULTS The maturity and hepatic functions of the hESC-Heps derived from this 3D system were better than those derived from 2D culture. Hepatocyte-enriched genes, such as HNF4α, AFP, and ALB, were expressed at higher levels in 3D hESC-Heps than in 2D hESC-Heps. 3D hESC-Heps could metabolize indocyanine green and had better capacity to scavenge ammonia. In addition, the 3D sodium alginate hydrogel microspheres could block viral entry into the microspheres, and thus protect hESC-Heps in 3D microspheres from viral infection. CONCLUSION We developed a novel 3D differentiation system for differentiating hESCs into hepatocyte-like cells by using alginate microcapsules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoling Xie
- Stem Cell Research Center, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
- Guangdong Chaozhou Health Vocational College, Chaozhou 521000, China
- The Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
| | - Xiaoling Zhou
- Stem Cell Research Center, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
- The Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
| | - Tingdang Liu
- Stem Cell Research Center, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
- The Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
| | - Zhiqian Zhong
- Stem Cell Research Center, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
- The Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
| | - Qi Zhou
- Stem Cell Research Center, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
- The Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
| | - Waqas Iqbal
- Stem Cell Research Center, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
- The Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
| | - Qingdong Xie
- Stem Cell Research Center, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
- The Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
| | - Chiju Wei
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology, Institute of Marine Sciences, Shantou University, Shantou 515063, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- Laboratory of Molecular Cardiology, First Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
| | - Thomas Ming Swi Chang
- Artificial Cells & Organs Research Centre, Departments of Physiology, Medicine & Biomedical Engineering, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3G 1Y6, Canada
| | - Pingnan Sun
- Stem Cell Research Center, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
- The Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
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In vitro proliferation and long-term preservation of functional primary rat hepatocytes in cell fibers. Sci Rep 2022; 12:8813. [PMID: 35614100 PMCID: PMC9133069 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-12679-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary hepatocytes are essential cellular resources for drug screening and medical transplantation. While culture systems have already succeeded in reconstituting the biomimetic microenvironment of primary hepatocytes, acquiring additional capabilities to handle them easily as well as to expand them remains unmet needs. This paper describes a culture system for primary rat hepatocytes, based on cell fiber technology, that brings scalability and handleability. Cell fibers are cell-laden core–shell hydrogel microfibers; in the core regions, cells are embedded in extracellular matrix proteins, cultured three-dimensionally, and exposed to soluble growth factors in the culture medium via the hydrogel shells. By encapsulating primary rat hepatocytes within cell fibers, we first demonstrated their proliferation while maintaining their viability and their hepatic specific functions for up to thirty days of subsequent culture. We then demonstrated the efficiency of proliferating primary rat hepatocytes in cell fibers not only as cell-based sensors to detect drugs that damage hepatic functions and hepatocellular processes but also as transplants to improve the plasma albumin concentrations of congenital analbuminemia. Our culture system could therefore be included in innovative strategies and promising developments in applying primary hepatocytes to both pharmaceutical and medical fields.
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Blaszkiewicz J, Duncan SA. Advancements in Disease Modeling and Drug Discovery Using iPSC-Derived Hepatocyte-like Cells. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:573. [PMID: 35456379 PMCID: PMC9030659 DOI: 10.3390/genes13040573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Serving as the metabolic hub of the human body, the liver is a vital organ that performs a variety of important physiological functions. Although known for its regenerative potential, it remains vulnerable to a variety of diseases. Despite decades of research, liver disease remains a leading cause of mortality in the United States with a multibillion-dollar-per-year economic burden. Prior research with model systems, such as primary hepatocytes and murine models, has provided many important discoveries. However, progress has been impaired by numerous obstacles associated with these models. In recent years, induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-based systems have emerged as advantageous platforms for studying liver disease. Benefits, including preserved differentiation and physiological function, amenability to genetic manipulation via tools such as CRISPR/Cas9, and availability for high-throughput screening, make these systems increasingly attractive for both mechanistic studies of disease and the identification of novel therapeutics. Although limitations exist, recent studies have made progress in ameliorating these issues. In this review, we discuss recent advancements in iPSC-based models of liver disease, including improvements in model system construction as well as the use of high-throughput screens for genetic studies and drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Stephen A. Duncan
- Department of Regenerative Medicine and Cell Biology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA;
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Hwang JJ, Choi J, Rim YA, Nam Y, Ju JH. Application of Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells for Disease Modeling and 3D Model Construction: Focus on Osteoarthritis. Cells 2021; 10:cells10113032. [PMID: 34831254 PMCID: PMC8622662 DOI: 10.3390/cells10113032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Revised: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Since their discovery in 2006, induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) have shown promising potential, specifically because of their accessibility and plasticity. Hence, the clinical applicability of iPSCs was investigated in various fields of research. However, only a few iPSC studies pertaining to osteoarthritis (OA) have been performed so far, despite the high prevalence rate of degenerative joint disease. In this review, we discuss some of the most recent applications of iPSCs in disease modeling and the construction of 3D models in various fields, specifically focusing on osteoarthritis and OA-related conditions. Notably, we comprehensively reviewed the successful results of iPSC-derived disease models in recapitulating OA phenotypes for both OA and early-onset OA to encompass their broad etiology. Moreover, the latest publications with protocols that have used iPSCs to construct 3D models in recapitulating various conditions, particularly the OA environment, were further discussed. With the overall optimistic results seen in both fields, iPSCs are expected to be more widely used for OA disease modeling and 3D model construction, which could further expand OA drug screening, risk assessment, and therapeutic capabilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joel Jihwan Hwang
- College of Public Health and Social Justice, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO 63103, USA;
| | - Jinhyeok Choi
- YiPSCELL, Inc., 39 Banpo-daero, Seocho-gu, Seoul 06579, Korea; (J.C.); (Y.N.)
| | - Yeri Alice Rim
- Catholic iPSC Research Center, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Korea;
| | - Yoojun Nam
- YiPSCELL, Inc., 39 Banpo-daero, Seocho-gu, Seoul 06579, Korea; (J.C.); (Y.N.)
| | - Ji Hyeon Ju
- YiPSCELL, Inc., 39 Banpo-daero, Seocho-gu, Seoul 06579, Korea; (J.C.); (Y.N.)
- Catholic iPSC Research Center, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Korea;
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Institute of Medical Science, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital, Seoul 06591, Korea
- Correspondence:
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12
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Parisi C, Qin K, Fernandes FM. Colonization versus encapsulation in cell-laden materials design: porosity and process biocompatibility determine cellularization pathways. PHILOSOPHICAL TRANSACTIONS. SERIES A, MATHEMATICAL, PHYSICAL, AND ENGINEERING SCIENCES 2021; 379:20200344. [PMID: 34334019 DOI: 10.1098/rsta.2020.0344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/28/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Seeding materials with living cells has been-and still is-one of the most promising approaches to reproduce the complexity and the functionality of living matter. The strategies to associate living cells with materials are limited to cell encapsulation and colonization, however, the requirements for these two approaches have been seldom discussed systematically. Here we propose a simple two-dimensional map based on materials' pore size and the cytocompatibility of their fabrication process to draw, for the first time, a guide to building cellularized materials. We believe this approach may serve as a straightforward guideline to design new, more relevant materials, able to seize the complexity and the function of biological materials. This article is part of the theme issue 'Bio-derived and bioinspired sustainable advanced materials for emerging technologies (part 1)'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cleo Parisi
- Laboratoire de Chimie de la Matière Condensée de Paris, Sorbonne Université, UMR7574, 4 Place Jussieu, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Kankan Qin
- Laboratoire de Chimie de la Matière Condensée de Paris, Sorbonne Université, UMR7574, 4 Place Jussieu, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Francisco M Fernandes
- Laboratoire de Chimie de la Matière Condensée de Paris, Sorbonne Université, UMR7574, 4 Place Jussieu, 75005 Paris, France
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13
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Abbas M, Moradi F, Hu W, Regudo KL, Osborne M, Pettipas J, Atallah DS, Hachem R, Ott-Peron N, Stuart JA. Vertebrate cell culture as an experimental approach – limitations and solutions. Comp Biochem Physiol B Biochem Mol Biol 2021; 254:110570. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpb.2021.110570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Jorgensen M, Gibbons A, Sui K, Carpenter R, Zhang X, Xie Y. Predictable fabrication of pre-made alginate hydrogel microtubes for stem cell aggregation using needle-in-needle devices. Biofabrication 2021; 13:035043. [PMID: 33930885 DOI: 10.1088/1758-5090/abfd7b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Alginate hydrogels in microtubular structures have great potential to advance three-dimensional (3D) culture, organoid formation, tissue engineering, and cell therapy. To address the need of fabricating consistent, stable hydrogel microtubes for efficient large organoid generation in a simple and quick manner, we have designed needle-in-needle devices to fabricate alginate hydrogel microtubes without any dead volume of the cell-alginate mixture and demonstrated the feasibility of injecting and culturing embryoid bodies in these pre-made hydrogel microtubes. We further used a reverse engineering approach to find out the optimal flow rates and alginate concentration for fabricating pre-made hydrogel microtubes with desired diameter using particular sets of needle-in-needle devices. We established the relationship of the alginate flow rate with diameter and wall thickness of the microtube using mathematic modeling. It offers a way to determine the flow rate for making microtubes with the desired dimension. Additionally, we evaluated the effect of CaCl2concentration on the diameter as well as stem cell viability. At last, we demonstrated the capacity of fabricating hydrogel microtubes of varying diameters using three sets of needle-in-needle devices and evaluated stem cell growth in these hydrogel microtubes. It provides a new avenue to accessible, repeatable, scalable, and easy to use pre-made 'off-the-shelf' hydrogel microtubes for 3D cell culture including, but not limiting to stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Jorgensen
- College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 257 Fuller Road, Albany, NY 12203, United States of America
| | - Ashley Gibbons
- College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 257 Fuller Road, Albany, NY 12203, United States of America
| | - Kevin Sui
- College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 257 Fuller Road, Albany, NY 12203, United States of America
| | - Rebecca Carpenter
- College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 257 Fuller Road, Albany, NY 12203, United States of America
| | - Xulang Zhang
- College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 257 Fuller Road, Albany, NY 12203, United States of America
| | - Yubing Xie
- College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, 257 Fuller Road, Albany, NY 12203, United States of America
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Thompson WL, Takebe T. Human liver model systems in a dish. Dev Growth Differ 2021; 63:47-58. [PMID: 33423319 DOI: 10.1111/dgd.12708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2020] [Revised: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The human adult liver has a multi-cellular structure consisting of large lobes subdivided into lobules containing portal triads and hepatic cords lined by specialized blood vessels. Vital hepatic functions include filtering blood, metabolizing drugs, and production of bile and blood plasma proteins like albumin, among many other functions, which are generally dependent on the location or zone in which the hepatocyte resides in the liver. Due to the liver's intricate structure, there are many challenges to design differentiation protocols to generate more mature functional hepatocytes from human stem cells and maintain the long-term viability and functionality of primary hepatocytes. To this end, recent advancements in three-dimensional (3D) stem cell culture have accelerated the generation of a human miniature liver system, also known as liver organoids, with polarized epithelial cells, supportive cell types and extra-cellular matrix deposition by translating knowledge gained in studies of animal organogenesis and regeneration. To facilitate the efforts to study human development and disease using in vitro hepatic models, a thorough understanding of state-of-art protocols and underlying rationales is essential. Here, we review rapidly evolving 3D liver models, mainly focusing on organoid models differentiated from human cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wendy L Thompson
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition, Developmental Biology, Center for Stem Cell and Organoid Medicine (CuSTOM), Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Takanori Takebe
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition, Developmental Biology, Center for Stem Cell and Organoid Medicine (CuSTOM), Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA.,Institute of Research, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan.,Communication Design Center, Advanced Medical Research Center, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan
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