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Brunel LG, Christakopoulos F, Kilian D, Cai B, Hull SM, Myung D, Heilshorn SC. Embedded 3D Bioprinting of Collagen Inks into Microgel Baths to Control Hydrogel Microstructure and Cell Spreading. Adv Healthc Mater 2024; 13:e2303325. [PMID: 38134346 PMCID: PMC11192865 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202303325] [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: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
Microextrusion-based 3D bioprinting into support baths has emerged as a promising technique to pattern soft biomaterials into complex, macroscopic structures. It is hypothesized that interactions between inks and support baths, which are often composed of granular microgels, can be modulated to control the microscopic structure within these macroscopic-printed constructs. Using printed collagen bioinks crosslinked either through physical self-assembly or bioorthogonal covalent chemistry, it is demonstrated that microscopic porosity is introduced into collagen inks printed into microgel support baths but not bulk gel support baths. The overall porosity is governed by the ratio between the ink's shear viscosity and the microgel support bath's zero-shear viscosity. By adjusting the flow rate during extrusion, the ink's shear viscosity is modulated, thus controlling the extent of microscopic porosity independent of the ink composition. For covalently crosslinked collagen, printing into support baths comprised of gelatin microgels (15-50 µm) results in large pores (≈40 µm) that allow human corneal mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) to readily spread, while control samples of cast collagen or collagen printed in non-granular support baths do not allow cell spreading. Taken together, these data demonstrate a new method to impart controlled microscale porosity into 3D printed hydrogels using granular microgel support baths.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia G. Brunel
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Fotis Christakopoulos
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - David Kilian
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Betty Cai
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Sarah M. Hull
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - David Myung
- Department of Ophthalmology, Byers Eye Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
- VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Sarah C. Heilshorn
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
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Brunel LG, Cai B, Hull SM, Han U, Wungcharoen T, Fernandes-Cunha GM, Seo YA, Johansson PK, Heilshorn SC, Myung D. In Situ UNIversal Orthogonal Network (UNION) Bioink Deposition for Direct Delivery of Corneal Stromal Stem Cells to Corneal Wounds. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.09.19.613997. [PMID: 39386574 PMCID: PMC11463654 DOI: 10.1101/2024.09.19.613997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/12/2024]
Abstract
The scarcity of human donor corneal graft tissue worldwide available for corneal transplantation necessitates the development of alternative therapeutic strategies for treating patients with corneal blindness. Corneal stromal stem cells (CSSCs) have the potential to address this global shortage by allowing a single donor cornea to treat multiple patients. To directly deliver CSSCs to corneal defects within an engineered biomatrix, we developed a UNIversal Orthogonal Network (UNION) collagen bioink that crosslinks in situ with a bioorthogonal, covalent chemistry. This cell-gel therapy is optically transparent, stable against contraction forces exerted by CSSCs, and permissive to the efficient growth of corneal epithelial cells. Furthermore, CSSCs remain viable within the UNION collagen gel precursor solution under standard storage and transportation conditions. This approach promoted corneal transparency and re-epithelialization in a rabbit anterior lamellar keratoplasty model, indicating that the UNION collagen bioink serves effectively as an in situ -forming, suture-free therapy for delivering CSSCs to corneal wounds. TEASER. Corneal stem cells are delivered within chemically crosslinked collagen as a transparent, regenerative biomaterial therapy.
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Brunel LG, Long CM, Christakopoulos F, Cai B, Johansson PK, Singhal D, Enejder A, Myung D, Heilshorn SC. Interpenetrating networks of fibrillar and amorphous collagen promote cell spreading and hydrogel stability. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.09.11.612534. [PMID: 39345483 PMCID: PMC11429934 DOI: 10.1101/2024.09.11.612534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/01/2024]
Abstract
Hydrogels composed of collagen, the most abundant protein in the human body, are widely used as scaffolds for tissue engineering due to their ability to support cellular activity. However, collagen hydrogels with encapsulated cells often experience bulk contraction due to cell-generated forces, and conventional strategies to mitigate this undesired deformation often compromise either the fibrillar microstructure or cytocompatibility of the collagen. To support the spreading of encapsulated cells while preserving the structural integrity of the gels, we present an interpenetrating network (IPN) of two distinct collagen networks with different crosslinking mechanisms and microstructures. First, a physically self-assembled collagen network preserves the fibrillar microstructure and enables the spreading of encapsulated human corneal mesenchymal stromal cells. Second, an amorphous collagen network covalently crosslinked with bioorthogonal chemistry fills the voids between fibrils and stabilizes the gel against cell-induced contraction. This collagen IPN balances the biofunctionality of natural collagen with the stability of covalently crosslinked, engineered polymers. Taken together, these data represent a new avenue for maintaining both the fiber-induced spreading of cells and the structural integrity of collagen hydrogels by leveraging an IPN of fibrillar and amorphous collagen networks. Statement of significance Collagen hydrogels are widely used as scaffolds for tissue engineering due to their support of cellular activity. However, collagen hydrogels often undergo undesired changes in size and shape due to cell-generated forces, and conventional strategies to mitigate this deformation typically compromise either the fibrillar microstructure or cytocompatibility of the collagen. In this study, we introduce an innovative interpenetrating network (IPN) that combines physically self-assembled, fibrillar collagen-ideal for promoting cell adhesion and spreading-with covalently crosslinked, amorphous collagen-ideal for enhancing bulk hydrogel stability. Our IPN design maintains the native fibrillar structure of collagen while significantly improving resistance against cell-induced contraction, providing a promising solution to enhance the performance and reliability of collagen hydrogels for tissue engineering applications. Graphical abstract
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Ismayilzada N, Tarar C, Dabbagh SR, Tokyay BK, Dilmani SA, Sokullu E, Abaci HE, Tasoglu S. Skin-on-a-chip technologies towards clinical translation and commercialization. Biofabrication 2024; 16:042001. [PMID: 38964314 DOI: 10.1088/1758-5090/ad5f55] [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: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024]
Abstract
Skin is the largest organ of the human body which plays a critical role in thermoregulation, metabolism (e.g. synthesis of vitamin D), and protection of other organs from environmental threats, such as infections, microorganisms, ultraviolet radiation, and physical damage. Even though skin diseases are considered to be less fatal, the ubiquity of skin diseases and irritation caused by them highlights the importance of skin studies. Furthermore, skin is a promising means for transdermal drug delivery, which requires a thorough understanding of human skin structure. Current animal andin vitrotwo/three-dimensional skin models provide a platform for disease studies and drug testing, whereas they face challenges in the complete recapitulation of the dynamic and complex structure of actual skin tissue. One of the most effective methods for testing pharmaceuticals and modeling skin diseases are skin-on-a-chip (SoC) platforms. SoC technologies provide a non-invasive approach for examining 3D skin layers and artificially creating disease models in order to develop diagnostic or therapeutic methods. In addition, SoC models enable dynamic perfusion of culture medium with nutrients and facilitate the continuous removal of cellular waste to further mimic thein vivocondition. Here, the article reviews the most recent advances in the design and applications of SoC platforms for disease modeling as well as the analysis of drugs and cosmetics. By examining the contributions of different patents to the physiological relevance of skin models, the review underscores the significant shift towards more ethical and efficient alternatives to animal testing. Furthermore, it explores the market dynamics ofin vitroskin models and organ-on-a-chip platforms, discussing the impact of legislative changes and market demand on the development and adoption of these advanced research tools. This article also identifies the existing obstacles that hinder the advancement of SoC platforms, proposing directions for future improvements, particularly focusing on the journey towards clinical adoption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nilufar Ismayilzada
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Koç University, Istanbul 34450, Turkey
| | - Ceren Tarar
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Koç University, Istanbul 34450, Turkey
| | | | - Begüm Kübra Tokyay
- Koç University Research Center for Translational Medicine, Koç University, Istanbul 34450, Turkey
| | - Sara Asghari Dilmani
- Koç University Research Center for Translational Medicine, Koç University, Istanbul 34450, Turkey
| | - Emel Sokullu
- School of Medicine, Koç University, Istanbul 34450, Turkey
| | - Hasan Erbil Abaci
- Department of Dermatology, Columbia University, New York City, NY, United States of America
| | - Savas Tasoglu
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Koç University, Istanbul 34450, Turkey
- Boğaziçi Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Boğaziçi University, Istanbul 34684, Turkey
- Koç University Research Center for Translational Medicine, Koç University, Istanbul 34450, Turkey
- Koç University Arçelik Research Center for Creative Industries (KUAR), Koç University, Istanbul 34450, Turkey
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Dos Santos PR, Kraus RB, da Silva Nascente P. Exploring the potential of bovine colostrum as a bioactive agent in human tissue regeneration: A comprehensive analysis of mechanisms of action and challenges to be overcome. Cell Biochem Funct 2024; 42:e4021. [PMID: 38682573 DOI: 10.1002/cbf.4021] [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: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
The study examines bovine colostrum as a potent source of bioactive compounds, particularly growth factors, for tissue regeneration in humans. While previous research has hinted at therapeutic benefits, a comprehensive understanding of its mechanisms remains elusive, necessitating further investigation. This review analyzes nine selected scientific articles on bovine colostrum's bioactive potential in tissue regeneration. In vitro studies highlight its positive impact on cell behavior, including reduced proliferation and induced differentiation. Notably, optimal concentrations and specific colostrum components, such as extracellular vesicles and insoluble milk fat, show more favorable outcomes. In vivo studies underscore bovine colostrum as a promising natural resource for wound healing, despite some studies failing to identify associated benefits. Further research is crucial to unravel the intricate mechanisms, grasp the full potential in regenerative medicine, and develop more effective wound healing therapies. This refined understanding will pave the way for harnessing the complete regenerative potential of bovine colostrum in clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rosana Basso Kraus
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas, Brazil
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McKinley JP, O'Connell GD. Review of state-of-the-art micro and macro-bioreactors for the intervertebral disc. J Biomech 2024; 165:111964. [PMID: 38412621 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2024.111964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
Lower back pain continues to be a global epidemic, limiting quality of life and ability to work, due in large part to symptomatic disc degeneration. Development of more effective and less invasive biological strategies are needed to treat disc degeneration. In vitro models such as macro- or micro-bioreactors or mechanically active organ-chips hold great promise in reducing the need for animal studies that may have limited clinical translatability, due to harsher and more complex mechanical loading environments in human discs than in most animal models. This review highlights the complex loading conditions of the disc in situ, evaluates state-of-the-art designs for applying such complex loads across multiple length scales, from macro-bioreactors that load whole discs to organ-chips that aim to replicate cellular or engineered tissue loading. Emphasis was placed on the rapidly evolving more customizable organ-chips, given their greater potential for studying the progression and treatment of symptomatic disc degeneration. Lastly, this review identifies new trends and challenges for using organ-chips to assess therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan P McKinley
- Berkeley BioMechanics Laboratory, Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of California, Berkeley 94720, CA, USA.
| | - Grace D O'Connell
- Berkeley BioMechanics Laboratory, Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of California, Berkeley 94720, CA, USA.
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Bhar B, Ranta P, Samudrala PK, Mandal BB. Omentum Extracellular Matrix-Silk Fibroin Hydroscaffold Promotes Wound Healing through Vascularization and Tissue Remodeling in the Diabetic Rat Model. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2024; 10:1090-1105. [PMID: 38275123 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.3c01877] [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: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
Nonhealing diabetic wounds are often associated with significant mortality and cause economic and clinical burdens to the healthcare system. Herein, a biomimetic hydroscaffold is developed using omentum tissue-derived decellularized-extracellular matrix (dECM) and silk fibroin (SF) proteins that associate the behavior of a collagenous fibrous scaffold and a hydrogel to reproduce all aspects of the provisional skin tissue matrix. The chemical cross-linker-free in situ gelation property of the two types of SF proteins from Bombyx mori and Antheraea assamensis ensures the adherence of dECM with surrounding tissue on the wound bed, circumventing further suturing. The physicochemical and mechanical properties of the composite hydroscaffold (SF-dECM) were thoroughly evaluated. The hydroscaffolds were found to support the growth and proliferation of human dermal fibroblasts and influence the angiogenic potential of endothelial cells under in vitro conditions. Furthermore, the healing efficacy of the composites was evaluated by generating full-thickness wounds on a streptozotocin-induced diabetic rat model. The presence of dECM components in the composite facilitated the rate of wound closure, granulation tissue formation, and re-epithelialization by providing intrinsic cues to advance the inflammatory stage and stimulating angiogenesis. Collectively, as an off-the-shelf wound dressing requiring only a single topical administration, the SF-dECM hydroscaffold is a promising, cost-effective dressing for the management of chronic diabetic wounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bibrita Bhar
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam 781039, India
| | - Priyanka Ranta
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical and Educational Research Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam 781101, India
| | - Pavan Kumar Samudrala
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical and Educational Research Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam 781101, India
| | - Biman B Mandal
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam 781039, India
- Centre for Nanotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam 781039, India
- Jyoti and Bhupat Mehta School of Health Sciences and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, Assam 781039, India
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8
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Huang JY, Wong TY, Tu TY, Tang MJ, Lin HH, Hsueh YY. Assessment of Tilapia Skin Collagen for Biomedical Research Applications in Comparison with Mammalian Collagen. Molecules 2024; 29:402. [PMID: 38257315 PMCID: PMC10819363 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29020402] [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: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Collagen is an important material for biomedical research, but using mammalian tissue-derived collagen carries the risk of zoonotic disease transmission. Marine organisms, such as farmed tilapia, have emerged as a safe alternative source of collagen for biomedical research. However, the tilapia collagen products for biomedical research are rare, and their biological functions remain largely unexamined. In this study, we characterized a commercial tilapia skin collagen using SDS-PAGE and fibril formation assays and evaluated its effects on skin fibroblast adhesion, proliferation, and migration, comparing it with commercial collagen from rat tails, porcine skin, and bovine skin. The results showed that tilapia skin collagen is a type I collagen, similar to rat tail collagen, and has a faster fibril formation rate and better-promoting effects on cell migration than porcine and bovine skin collagen. We also confirmed its application in a 3D culture for kidney cells' spherical cyst formation, fibroblast-induced gel contraction, and tumor spheroid interfacial invasion. Furthermore, we demonstrated that the freeze-dried tilapia skin collagen scaffold improved wound closure in a mouse excisional wound model, similar to commercial porcine or bovine collagen wound dressings. In conclusion, tilapia skin collagen is an ideal biomaterial for biomedical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jyun-Yuan Huang
- International Center for Wound Repair and Regeneration, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan City 701, Taiwan; (J.-Y.H.); (T.-Y.W.); (T.-Y.T.); (M.-J.T.)
| | - Tzyy-Yue Wong
- International Center for Wound Repair and Regeneration, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan City 701, Taiwan; (J.-Y.H.); (T.-Y.W.); (T.-Y.T.); (M.-J.T.)
| | - Ting-Yuan Tu
- International Center for Wound Repair and Regeneration, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan City 701, Taiwan; (J.-Y.H.); (T.-Y.W.); (T.-Y.T.); (M.-J.T.)
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan City 701, Taiwan
- Medical Device Innovation Center, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan City 701, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Jer Tang
- International Center for Wound Repair and Regeneration, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan City 701, Taiwan; (J.-Y.H.); (T.-Y.W.); (T.-Y.T.); (M.-J.T.)
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan City 701, Taiwan
| | - Hsi-Hui Lin
- International Center for Wound Repair and Regeneration, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan City 701, Taiwan; (J.-Y.H.); (T.-Y.W.); (T.-Y.T.); (M.-J.T.)
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan City 701, Taiwan
| | - Yuan-Yu Hsueh
- International Center for Wound Repair and Regeneration, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan City 701, Taiwan; (J.-Y.H.); (T.-Y.W.); (T.-Y.T.); (M.-J.T.)
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan City 701, Taiwan
- Center of Cell Therapy, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan City 701, Taiwan
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Wei SY, Chen PY, Hsieh CC, Chen YS, Chen TH, Yu YS, Tsai MC, Xie RH, Chen GY, Yin GC, Melero-Martin JM, Chen YC. Engineering large and geometrically controlled vascularized nerve tissue in collagen hydrogels to restore large-sized volumetric muscle loss. Biomaterials 2023; 303:122402. [PMID: 37988898 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2023.122402] [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: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
Developing scalable vascularized and innervated tissue is a critical challenge for the successful clinical application of tissue-engineered constructs. Collagen hydrogels are extensively utilized in cell-mediated vascular network formation because of their naturally excellent biological properties. However, the substantial increase in hydrogel contraction induced by populated cells limits their long-term use. Previous studies attempted to mitigate this issue by concentrating collagen pre-polymer solutions or synthesizing covalently crosslinked collagen hydrogels. However, these methods only partially reduce hydrogel contraction while hindering blood vessel formation within the hydrogels. To address this challenge, we introduced additional support in the form of a supportive spacer to counteract the contraction forces of populated cells and prevent hydrogel contraction. This approach was found to promote cell spreading, resist hydrogel contraction, control hydrogel/tissue geometry, and even facilitate the engineering of functional blood vessels and host nerve growth in just one week. Subsequently, implanting these engineered tissues into muscle defect sites resulted in timely anastomosis with the host vasculature, leading to enhanced myogenesis, increased muscle innervation, and the restoration of injured muscle functionality. Overall, this innovative strategy expands the applicability of collagen hydrogels in fabricating large vascularized nerve tissue constructs for repairing volumetric muscle loss (∼63 %) and restoring muscle function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shih-Yen Wei
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, National Tsing-Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Po-Yu Chen
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, National Tsing-Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Chang Hsieh
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, National Tsing-Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Shan Chen
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, National Tsing-Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Tzu-Hsuan Chen
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, PA, USA
| | - Yu-Shan Yu
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, National Tsing-Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Min-Chun Tsai
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, National Tsing-Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Ren-Hao Xie
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, College of Electrical and Computer Engineering, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu, Taiwan; Institute of Biomedical Engineering, College of Electrical and Computer Engineering, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Guan-Yu Chen
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, College of Electrical and Computer Engineering, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu, Taiwan; Institute of Biomedical Engineering, College of Electrical and Computer Engineering, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu, Taiwan; Department of Biological Science and Technology, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu, Taiwan; Center for Intelligent Drug Systems and Smart Bio-devices (IDS2B), National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Gung-Chian Yin
- National Synchrotron Radiation Research Center, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Juan M Melero-Martin
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Ying-Chieh Chen
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, National Tsing-Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan.
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de Rijk SR, Boys AJ, Roberts IV, Jiang C, Garcia C, Owens RM, Bance M. Tissue-Engineered Cochlear Fibrosis Model Links Complex Impedance to Fibrosis Formation for Cochlear Implant Patients. Adv Healthc Mater 2023; 12:e2300732. [PMID: 37310792 PMCID: PMC11468547 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202300732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Revised: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Cochlear implants are a life-changing technology for those with severe sensorineural hearing loss, partially restoring hearing through direct electrical stimulation of the auditory nerve. However, they are known to elicit an immune response resulting in fibrotic tissue formation in the cochlea that is linked to residual hearing loss and suboptimal outcomes. Intracochlear fibrosis is difficult to track without postmortem histology, and no specific electrical marker for fibrosis exists. In this study, a tissue-engineered model of cochlear fibrosis is developed following implant placement to examine the electrical characteristics associated with fibrotic tissue formation around electrodes. The model is characterized using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and an increase in the resistance and a decrease in capacitance of the tissue using a representative circuit are found. This result informs a new marker of fibrosis progression over time that is extractable from voltage waveform responses, which can be directly measured in cochlear implant patients. This marker is tested in a small sample size of recently implanted cochlear implant patients, showing a significant increase over two postoperative timepoints. Using this system, complex impedance is demonstrated as a marker of fibrosis progression that is directly measurable from cochlear implants to enable real-time tracking of fibrosis formation in patients, creating opportunities for earlier treatment intervention to improve cochlear implant efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone R. de Rijk
- Cambridge Hearing GroupCambridgeCB2 8AFUK
- Department of Clinical NeurosciencesUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeCB2 3 EBUK
| | - Alexander J. Boys
- Cambridge Hearing GroupCambridgeCB2 8AFUK
- Department of Chemical Engineering and BiotechnologyUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeCB3 0ASUK
| | - Iwan V. Roberts
- Cambridge Hearing GroupCambridgeCB2 8AFUK
- Department of Clinical NeurosciencesUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeCB2 3 EBUK
| | - Chen Jiang
- Cambridge Hearing GroupCambridgeCB2 8AFUK
- Department of Clinical NeurosciencesUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeCB2 3 EBUK
- Department of Electronic EngineeringTsinghua UniversityBeijing100190P. R. China
| | - Charlotte Garcia
- Cambridge Hearing GroupCambridgeCB2 8AFUK
- Medical Research Council Cognition and Brain Sciences UnitUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeCB2 7EFUK
| | - Róisín M. Owens
- Cambridge Hearing GroupCambridgeCB2 8AFUK
- Department of Chemical Engineering and BiotechnologyUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeCB3 0ASUK
| | - Manohar Bance
- Cambridge Hearing GroupCambridgeCB2 8AFUK
- Department of Clinical NeurosciencesUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeCB2 3 EBUK
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Dabaghi M, Carpio MB, Saraei N, Moran-Mirabal JM, Kolb MR, Hirota JA. A roadmap for developing and engineering in vitro pulmonary fibrosis models. BIOPHYSICS REVIEWS 2023; 4:021302. [PMID: 38510343 PMCID: PMC10903385 DOI: 10.1063/5.0134177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a severe form of pulmonary fibrosis. IPF is a fatal disease with no cure and is challenging to diagnose. Unfortunately, due to the elusive etiology of IPF and a late diagnosis, there are no cures for IPF. Two FDA-approved drugs for IPF, nintedanib and pirfenidone, slow the progression of the disease, yet fail to cure or reverse it. Furthermore, most animal models have been unable to completely recapitulate the physiology of human IPF, resulting in the failure of many drug candidates in preclinical studies. In the last few decades, the development of new IPF drugs focused on changes at the cellular level, as it was believed that the cells were the main players in IPF development and progression. However, recent studies have shed light on the critical role of the extracellular matrix (ECM) in IPF development, where the ECM communicates with cells and initiates a positive feedback loop to promote fibrotic processes. Stemming from this shift in the understanding of fibrosis, there is a need to develop in vitro model systems that mimic the human lung microenvironment to better understand how biochemical and biomechanical cues drive fibrotic processes in IPF. However, current in vitro cell culture platforms, which may include substrates with different stiffness or natural hydrogels, have shortcomings in recapitulating the complexity of fibrosis. This review aims to draw a roadmap for developing advanced in vitro pulmonary fibrosis models, which can be leveraged to understand better different mechanisms involved in IPF and develop drug candidates with improved efficacy. We begin with a brief overview defining pulmonary fibrosis and highlight the importance of ECM components in the disease progression. We focus on fibroblasts and myofibroblasts in the context of ECM biology and fibrotic processes, as most conventional advanced in vitro models of pulmonary fibrosis use these cell types. We transition to discussing the parameters of the 3D microenvironment that are relevant in pulmonary fibrosis progression. Finally, the review ends by summarizing the state of the art in the field and future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammadhossein Dabaghi
- Firestone Institute for Respiratory Health—Division of Respirology, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton, 50 Charlton Avenue East, Hamilton, Ontario L8N 4A6, Canada
| | - Mabel Barreiro Carpio
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, McMaster University, Arthur N. Bourns Science Building, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, Ontario L8S 4M1, Canada
| | - Neda Saraei
- School of Biomedical Engineering, McMaster University, Engineering Technology Building, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, Ontario L8S 4K1, Canada
| | | | - Martin R. Kolb
- Firestone Institute for Respiratory Health—Division of Respirology, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton, 50 Charlton Avenue East, Hamilton, Ontario L8N 4A6, Canada
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High-Performance Polarization Microscopy Reveals Structural Remodeling in Rat Calcaneal Tendons Cultivated In Vitro. Cells 2023; 12:cells12040566. [PMID: 36831234 PMCID: PMC9953949 DOI: 10.3390/cells12040566] [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: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 01/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Collagenous tissues exhibit anisotropic optical properties such as birefringence and linear dichroism (LD) as a result of their structurally oriented supraorganization from the nanometer level to the collagen bundle scale. Changes in macromolecular order and in aggregational states can be evaluated in tendon collagen bundles using polarization microscopy. Because there are no reports on the status of the macromolecular organization in tendon explants, the objective of this work was to evaluate the birefringence and LD characteristics of collagen bundles in rat calcaneal tendons cultivated in vitro on substrates that differ in their mechanical stiffness (plastic vs. glass) while accompanying the expected occurrence of cell migration from these structures. Tendon explants from adult male Wistar rats were cultivated for 8 and 12 days on borosilicate glass coverslips (n = 3) and on nonpyrogenic polystyrene plastic dishes (n = 4) and were compared with tendons not cultivated in vitro (n = 3). Birefringence was investigated in unstained tendon sections using high-performance polarization microscopy and image analysis. LD was studied under polarized light in tendon sections stained with the dichroic dyes Ponceau SS and toluidine blue at pH 4.0 to evaluate the orientation of proteins and acid glycosaminoglycans (GAG) macromolecules, respectively. Structural remodeling characterized by the reduction in the macromolecular orientation, aggregation and alignment of collagen bundles, based on decreased average gray values concerned with birefringence intensity, LD and morphological changes, was detected especially in the tendon explants cultivated on the plastic substrate. These changes may have facilitated cell migration from the lateral regions of the explants to the substrates, an event that was observed earlier and more intensely upon tissue cultivation on the plastic substrate. The axial alignment of the migrating cells relative to the explant, which occurred with increased cultivation times, may be due to the mechanosensitive nature of the tenocytes. Collagen fibers possibly played a role as a signal source to cells, a hypothesis that requires further investigation, including studies on the dynamics of cell membrane receptors and cytoskeletal organization, and collagen shearing electrical properties.
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13
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Ferreira DA, Conde JP, Rothbauer M, Ertl P, Granja PL, Oliveira C. Bioinspired human stomach-on-a-chip with in vivo like function and architecture. LAB ON A CHIP 2023; 23:495-510. [PMID: 36620939 DOI: 10.1039/d2lc01132h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The lack of biomimetic in vitro models capable of reproducing the complex architecture and the dynamic environment of the gastric mucosa, delay the development of diagnostic and therapeutic tools. Recent advances in microengineering made possible the fabrication of bioinspired microdevices capable of replicating the physiological properties of an organ, inside a microfluidics chip. Herein, a bioinspired stomach-on-a-chip (SoC) device is described, supporting peristalsis-like motion and reconstituting organ-level epithelial architecture and function. The device simulates the upper epithelial interface, representing the three innermost layers of the gastric mucosa, namely the epithelial barrier, the basement membrane and the lamina propria. The dynamic environment imparted by mechanical actuation of the flexible on-chip cell culture substrate, was the main driver in the development of epithelial polarization and differentiation traits characteristic of the native gastric mucosa, and allowed partial recapitulation of gastric barrier function. These traits were not affected by the addition of a mesenchymal population to the system, which was able to remodel the surrounding extracellular matrix, nor by the potential epithelial-mesenchymal cross-talk. The engineered platform highlights the importance of addressing the mechanical microenvironment of the native organ, to potentiate an organ-level response of the artificial tissue. The proposed SoC represents an appealing tool in personalized medicine, with bio-relevance for the study of gastric diseases and an alternative to current animal models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel A Ferreira
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal.
- INEB - Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- ICBAS - Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Rua Jorge de Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - João P Conde
- Department of Bioengineering, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Rovisco Pais, 1, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal
- Instituto de Engenharia de Sistemas e Computadores - Microsistemas e Nanotecnologia (INESC MN), Rua Alves Redol, 9, 1000-029 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Mario Rothbauer
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery, Karl Chiari Lab for Orthopaedic Biology, Orthopedic Microsystems, Medical University of Vienna, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090 Vienna, Austria
- Institute of Applied Synthetic Chemistry, Cell Chip Group, Vienna University of Technology (TUW), Getreidmarkt, 9/163, 1060 Vienna, Austria
| | - Peter Ertl
- Faculty of Technical Chemistry, Vienna University of Technology (TUW), Getreidemarkt 9, 1060 Vienna, Austria
| | - Pedro L Granja
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal.
- INEB - Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Carla Oliveira
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal.
- Ipatimup - Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal.
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Alameda Prof. Hernâni Monteiro, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
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14
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Holter JC, Chang CW, Avendano A, Garg AA, Verma AK, Charan M, Ahirwar DK, Ganju RK, Song JW. Fibroblast-derived CXCL12 increases vascular permeability in a 3-D microfluidic model independent of extracellular matrix contractility. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:888431. [PMID: 36118583 PMCID: PMC9478647 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.888431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) play an active role in remodeling the local tumor stroma to support tumor initiation, growth, invasion, metastasis, and therapeutic resistance. The CAF-secreted chemokine, CXCL12, has been directly implicated in the tumorigenic progression of carcinomas, including breast cancer. Using a 3-D in vitro microfluidic-based microtissue model, we demonstrate that stromal CXCL12 secreted by CAFs has a potent effect on increasing the vascular permeability of local blood microvessel analogues through paracrine signaling. Moreover, genetic deletion of fibroblast-specific CXCL12 significantly reduced vessel permeability compared to CXCL12 secreting CAFs within the recapitulated tumor microenvironment (TME). We suspected that fibroblast-mediated extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling and contraction indirectly accounted for this change in vessel permeability. To this end, we investigated the autocrine effects of CXCL12 on fibroblast contractility and determined that antagonistic blocking of CXCL12 did not have a substantial effect on ECM contraction. Our findings indicate that fibroblast-secreted CXCL12 has a significant role in promoting a leakier endothelium hospitable to angiogenesis and tumor cell intravasation; however, autocrine CXCL12 is not the primary upstream trigger of CAF contractility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob C. Holter
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Chia-Wen Chang
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Alex Avendano
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Ayush A. Garg
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Ajeet K. Verma
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Manish Charan
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Dinesh K. Ahirwar
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
- Department of Bioscience and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Jodhpur, RJ, India
| | - Ramesh K. Ganju
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Jonathan W. Song
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
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15
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Salg GA, Blaeser A, Gerhardus JS, Hackert T, Kenngott HG. Vascularization in Bioartificial Parenchymal Tissue: Bioink and Bioprinting Strategies. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23158589. [PMID: 35955720 PMCID: PMC9369172 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23158589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Among advanced therapy medicinal products, tissue-engineered products have the potential to address the current critical shortage of donor organs and provide future alternative options in organ replacement therapy. The clinically available tissue-engineered products comprise bradytrophic tissue such as skin, cornea, and cartilage. A sufficient macro- and microvascular network to support the viability and function of effector cells has been identified as one of the main challenges in developing bioartificial parenchymal tissue. Three-dimensional bioprinting is an emerging technology that might overcome this challenge by precise spatial bioink deposition for the generation of a predefined architecture. Bioinks are printing substrates that may contain cells, matrix compounds, and signaling molecules within support materials such as hydrogels. Bioinks can provide cues to promote vascularization, including proangiogenic signaling molecules and cocultured cells. Both of these strategies are reported to enhance vascularization. We review pre-, intra-, and postprinting strategies such as bioink composition, bioprinting platforms, and material deposition strategies for building vascularized tissue. In addition, bioconvergence approaches such as computer simulation and artificial intelligence can support current experimental designs. Imaging-derived vascular trees can serve as blueprints. While acknowledging that a lack of structured evidence inhibits further meta-analysis, this review discusses an end-to-end process for the fabrication of vascularized, parenchymal tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Alexander Salg
- Department of General-, Visceral-, and Transplantation Surgery, University Hospital Heidelberg, D-69120 Heidelberg, Germany;
- Correspondence: (G.A.S.); (H.G.K.); Tel.: +49-6221-56310306 (G.A.S.); +49-6221-5636611 (H.G.K.)
| | - Andreas Blaeser
- Institute for BioMedical Printing Technology, Technical University Darmstadt, D-64289 Darmstadt, Germany; (A.B.); (J.S.G.)
- Center for Synthetic Biology, Technical University Darmstadt, D-64289 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Jamina Sofie Gerhardus
- Institute for BioMedical Printing Technology, Technical University Darmstadt, D-64289 Darmstadt, Germany; (A.B.); (J.S.G.)
| | - Thilo Hackert
- Department of General-, Visceral-, and Transplantation Surgery, University Hospital Heidelberg, D-69120 Heidelberg, Germany;
| | - Hannes Goetz Kenngott
- Department of General-, Visceral-, and Transplantation Surgery, University Hospital Heidelberg, D-69120 Heidelberg, Germany;
- Correspondence: (G.A.S.); (H.G.K.); Tel.: +49-6221-56310306 (G.A.S.); +49-6221-5636611 (H.G.K.)
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16
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Nikhalashree S, George R, Shantha B, Vijaya L, Sulochana KN, Coral K. Anti-glaucoma medications lowered decorin and altered profibrotic proteins in human tenon's fibroblasts. Exp Eye Res 2022; 224:109199. [PMID: 35878659 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2022.109199] [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: 11/29/2021] [Revised: 06/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Long term exposure to anti-glaucoma medications (AGMs) leads to an increase in extracellular matrix (ECM) accumulation in primary glaucoma patients. This study aims to evaluate the effect of topical AGMs in primary human tenon's fibroblasts (HTFs) and analyze the expression of profibrotic and anti-fibrotic proteins. Primary HTFs were cultured from patients undergoing cataract (control) and trabeculectomy. The different types of AGMs in single/multiple combinations (BB, PG, AA, CAI, CH, combinations of 3- PG + AA + CAI, 4A- BB + PG + AA + CAI, 4B- BB + PG + CAI + CH and 5- BB + PG + AA + CAI + CH) on chronic exposure were tested for cell viability using MTT assay and morphological alterations. Profibrotic proteins mainly SPARC, LOXL2, COL1A1 and anti-fibrotic DCN were analyzed in treated HTFs using q-PCR and ELISA. Sirius red staining and collagen gel contraction (CGC) assay were performed to assess collagen synthesis and the contractility of HTFs, respectively. Except for AA and CH, the other AGMs at a higher concentration were found to decrease the cell viability of HTFs. The morphology of HTFs were altered on exposure to BB, CH and AA; Profibrotic proteins i.e., SPARC, LOXL2 and COL1A1 were significantly increased (p < 0.05) on exposure to a combination of AGMs with TGF-β1, whereas the anti-fibrotic DCN expression was significantly lowered (p < 0.05) in single/multiple AGM exposure. Sirius red staining showed increased collagen synthesis with combinations of AGMs with TGF-β1. Meanwhile, HTFs showed increased collagen gel contraction with TGF-β1, CAI and CH. This study reveals that altered profibrotic proteins, with significantly lowered DCN on chronic exposure of AGMs in HTFs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sampath Nikhalashree
- R.S. Mehta Jain Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, KBIRVO Block, Vision Research Foundation, Sankara Nethralaya, Chennai, India; School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed-to-be University, Thanjavur, India
| | - Ronnie George
- Smt Jadhavbai Nathmal Singhvee Glaucoma Services, Medical Research Foundation, Sankara Nethralaya, Chennai, India
| | - Balekudaru Shantha
- Smt Jadhavbai Nathmal Singhvee Glaucoma Services, Medical Research Foundation, Sankara Nethralaya, Chennai, India
| | - Lingam Vijaya
- Smt Jadhavbai Nathmal Singhvee Glaucoma Services, Medical Research Foundation, Sankara Nethralaya, Chennai, India
| | | | - Karunakaran Coral
- R.S. Mehta Jain Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, KBIRVO Block, Vision Research Foundation, Sankara Nethralaya, Chennai, India.
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17
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Phang SJ, Basak S, Teh HX, Packirisamy G, Fauzi MB, Kuppusamy UR, Neo YP, Looi ML. Advancements in Extracellular Matrix-Based Biomaterials and Biofabrication of 3D Organotypic Skin Models. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2022; 8:3220-3241. [PMID: 35861577 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.2c00342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Over the last decades, three-dimensional (3D) organotypic skin models have received enormous attention as alternative models to in vivo animal models and in vitro two-dimensional assays. To date, most organotypic skin models have an epidermal layer of keratinocytes and a dermal layer of fibroblasts embedded in an extracellular matrix (ECM)-based biomaterial. The ECM provides mechanical support and biochemical signals to the cells. Without advancements in ECM-based biomaterials and biofabrication technologies, it would have been impossible to create organotypic skin models that mimic native human skin. In this review, the use of ECM-based biomaterials in the reconstruction of skin models, as well as the study of complete ECM-based biomaterials, such as fibroblasts-derived ECM and decellularized ECM as a better biomaterial, will be highlighted. We also discuss the benefits and drawbacks of several biofabrication processes used in the fabrication of ECM-based biomaterials, such as conventional static culture, electrospinning, 3D bioprinting, and skin-on-a-chip. Advancements and future possibilities in modifying ECM-based biomaterials to recreate disease-like skin models will also be highlighted, given the importance of organotypic skin models in disease modeling. Overall, this review provides an overview of the present variety of ECM-based biomaterials and biofabrication technologies available. An enhanced organotypic skin model is expected to be produced in the near future by combining knowledge from previous experiences and current research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shou Jin Phang
- Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Soumyadeep Basak
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee-247 667, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Huey Xhin Teh
- Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Gopinath Packirisamy
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee-247 667, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Mh Busra Fauzi
- Centre for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 56000 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Umah Rani Kuppusamy
- Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Yun Ping Neo
- School of Biosciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Taylor's University, 47500 Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Mee Lee Looi
- Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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18
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Koskinen Holm C, Qu C. Engineering a 3D In Vitro Model of Human Gingival Tissue Equivalent with Genipin/Cytochalasin D. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23137401. [PMID: 35806407 PMCID: PMC9266888 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23137401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Although three-dimensional (3D) co-culture of gingival keratinocytes and fibroblasts-populated collagen gel can mimic 3D structure of in vivo tissue, the uncontrolled contraction of collagen gel restricts its application in clinical and experimental practices. We here established a stable 3D gingival tissue equivalent (GTE) using hTERT-immortalized gingival fibroblasts (hGFBs)-populated collagen gel directly crosslinked with genipin/cytochalasin D and seeding hTERT-immortalized gingival keratinocytes (TIGKs) on the upper surface for a 2-week air–liquid interface co-culture. MTT assay was used to measure the cell viability of GTEs. GTE size was monitored following culture period, and the contraction was analyzed. Immunohistochemical assay was used to analyze GTE structure. qRT-PCR was conducted to examine the mRNA expression of keratinocyte-specific genes. Fifty µM genipin (G50) or combination (G + C) of G50 and 100 nM cytochalasin D significantly inhibited GTE contraction. Additionally, a higher cell viability appeared in GTEs crosslinked with G50 or G + C. GTEs crosslinked with genipin/cytochalasin D showed a distinct multilayered stratified epithelium that expressed keratinocyte-specific genes similar to native gingiva. Collagen directly crosslinked with G50 or G + C significantly reduced GTE contraction without damaging the epithelium. In summary, the TIGKs and hGFBs can successfully form organotypic multilayered cultures, which can be a valuable tool in the research regarding periodontal disease as well as oral mucosa disease. We conclude that genipin is a promising crosslinker with the ability to reduce collagen contraction while maintaining normal cell function in collagen-based oral tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia Koskinen Holm
- Department of Odontology, Umeå University, 90185 Umeå, Sweden
- Wallenberg Center for Molecular Medicine, Umeå University, 90187 Umeå, Sweden
- Correspondence: (C.K.H.); (C.Q.)
| | - Chengjuan Qu
- Department of Odontology, Umeå University, 90185 Umeå, Sweden
- Wallenberg Center for Molecular Medicine, Umeå University, 90187 Umeå, Sweden
- Correspondence: (C.K.H.); (C.Q.)
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19
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Zhang Q, Wang P, Fang X, Lin F, Fang J, Xiong C. Collagen gel contraction assays: From modelling wound healing to quantifying cellular interactions with three-dimensional extracellular matrices. Eur J Cell Biol 2022; 101:151253. [PMID: 35785635 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejcb.2022.151253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2021] [Revised: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cells respond to and actively remodel the extracellular matrix (ECM). The dynamic and bidirectional interaction between cells and ECM, especially their mechanical interactions, has been found to play an essential role in triggering a series of complex biochemical and biomechanical signal pathways and in regulating cellular functions and behaviours. The collagen gel contraction assay (CGCA) is a widely used method to investigate cell-ECM interactions in 3D environments and provides a mechanically associated readout reflecting 3D cellular contractility. In this review, we summarize various versions of CGCA, with an emphasis on recent high-throughput and low-consumption CGCA techniques. More importantly, we focus on the technique of force monitoring during the contraction of collagen gel, which provides a quantitative characterization of the overall forces generated by all the resident cells in the collagen hydrogel. Accordingly, we present recent biological applications of the CGCA, which have expanded from the initial wound healing model to other studies concerning cell-ECM interactions, including fibrosis, cancer, tissue repair and the preparation of biomimetic microtissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Zhang
- Department of Mechanics and Engineering Science, College of Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Pudi Wang
- Department of Mechanics and Engineering Science, College of Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Xu Fang
- Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Feng Lin
- Wenzhou Institute, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wenzhou 325000, China
| | - Jing Fang
- Department of Mechanics and Engineering Science, College of Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China; Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Chunyang Xiong
- Department of Mechanics and Engineering Science, College of Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China; Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China; Wenzhou Institute, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wenzhou 325000, China.
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20
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Kumari J, Wagener FADTG, Kouwer PHJ. Novel Synthetic Polymer-Based 3D Contraction Assay: A Versatile Preclinical Research Platform for Fibrosis. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2022; 14:19212-19225. [PMID: 35468292 PMCID: PMC9073832 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c02549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
The driving factors causing fibrosis and scar formation include fibroblast differentiation into myofibroblasts and hampered myofibroblast apoptosis, which ultimately results in collagen accumulation and tissue contraction. Currently, only very few drugs are available for fibrosis treatment, and there is an urgent demand for new pharmaceutical products. High-throughput in vitro fibrosis models are necessary to develop such drugs. In this study, we developed such a novel model based on synthetic polyisocyanide (PIC-RGD) hydrogels. The model not only measures contraction but also allows for subsequent molecular and cellular analysis. Fibroblasts were seeded in small (10 μL) PIC-RGD gels in the absence or presence of TGFβ1, the latter to induce myofibroblast differentiation. The contraction model clearly differentiates fibroblasts and myofibroblasts. Besides a stronger contraction, we also observed α-smooth muscle actin (αSMA) production and higher collagen deposition for the latter. The results were supported by mRNA expression experiments of αSMA, Col1α1, P53, and Ki67. As proof of principle, the effects of FDA-approved antifibrotic drugs nintedanib and pirfenidone were tested in our newly developed fibrosis model. Both drugs clearly reduce myofibroblast-induced contraction. Moreover, both drugs significantly decrease myofibroblast viability. Our low-volume synthetic PIC-RGD hydrogel platform is an attractive tool for high-throughput in vitro antifibrotic drug screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jyoti Kumari
- Institute
for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department
of Dentistry - Orthodontics and Craniofacial Biology, Radboud University Medical Centre, 6525 EX Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Frank A. D. T. G. Wagener
- Department
of Dentistry - Orthodontics and Craniofacial Biology, Radboud University Medical Centre, 6525 EX Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- (F.A.D.T.G.W.)
| | - Paul H. J. Kouwer
- Institute
for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- (P.H.J.K.)
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21
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Molladavoodi S, DeWitte‐Orr SJ, Gregory DE. An in vitro 3D annulus fibrosus cell culture model with type I collagen: An examination of cell-matrix interactions. JOR Spine 2022; 5:e1193. [PMID: 35386752 PMCID: PMC8966884 DOI: 10.1002/jsp2.1193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Disorders of the intervertebral disc (IVD) are widely known to result in low back pain; one of the most common debilitating conditions worldwide. As a multifaceted condition, both inflammatory environment and mechanical factors can play a crucial role in IVD damage, and in particular, in the annulus fibrosus (AF), the highly collagenous outer ring of the IVD. As a result, a better understanding of how cells from the IVD, and specifically the AF, interact and respond to their environment is imperative. Goal The goal of this study is to use collagen type I as an in vitro three-dimensional extracellular matrix for AF cells of IVD and briefly examine both the cellular and mechanical effect of exposure to an inflammatory stimulant. Methods We utilized type I collagen as a 3D in vitro model material for culturing AF cells of Sprague Dawley rat tail IVDs. Results We showed that the cultured cells are viable and metabolically active; these cells also induced a distinct and significant contraction on their collagen matrix. Furthermore, to demonstrate potential versatility of our model our model and its versatility, we used lipopolysaccharide (LPS), as a known inflammatory stimulant in IVDs, to manipulate the cells and their interaction. LPS treatment resulted in detectable changes to the contraction cells induced on the collagen matrix and affected the mechanical properties of these constructs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Molladavoodi
- Department of Kinesiology and Physical EducationWilfrid Laurier UniversityWaterlooOntarioCanada
| | - Stephanie J. DeWitte‐Orr
- Department of Health SciencesWilfrid Laurier UniversityWaterlooOntarioCanada
- Department of BiologyWilfrid Laurier UniversityWaterlooOntarioCanada
| | - Diane E. Gregory
- Department of Kinesiology and Physical EducationWilfrid Laurier UniversityWaterlooOntarioCanada
- Department of Health SciencesWilfrid Laurier UniversityWaterlooOntarioCanada
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22
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Tobe Y, Homma J, Sakaguchi K, Sekine H, Iwasaki K, Shimizu T. Perfusable vascular tree like construction in 3D cell-dense tissues using artificial vascular bed. Microvasc Res 2022; 141:104321. [PMID: 35032535 DOI: 10.1016/j.mvr.2022.104321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Revised: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Perfusable vascular structures in cell-dense tissues are essential for fabricating functional three-dimensional (3D) tissues in vitro. However, it is challenging to introduce functional vascular networks observable as vascular tree, finely spaced at intervals of tens of micrometers as in living tissues, into a 3D cell-dense tissue. Herein, we propose a method for introducing numerous vascular networks that can be perfused with blood into 3D tissues constructed by cell sheet engineering. We devise an artificial vascular bed using a hydrogel that is barely deformed by cells, enabling perfusion of the culture medium directly beneath the cell sheets. Triple-layered cell sheets with an endothelial cell network prepared by fibroblast co-culture are transplanted onto the vascular bed and subjected to perfusion culture. We demonstrate that numerous vascular networks are formed with luminal structures in the cell sheets and can be perfused with India ink or blood after a five-day perfusion culture. Histological analysis also demonstrates that perfusable vascular structures are constructed at least 100 μm intervals uniformly and densely within the tissues. The results suggest that our perfusion culture method enhances vascularization within the 3D cell-dense tissues and enables the introduction of functional vasculature macroscopically observable as vascular tree in vitro. In conclusion, this technology can be used to fabricate functional tissues and organs for regenerative therapies and in vitro experimental models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusuke Tobe
- Department of Modern Mechanical Engineering, Waseda University, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan; Institute of Advanced Biomedical Engineering and Science, TWIns, Tokyo Women's Medical University, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Jun Homma
- Institute of Advanced Biomedical Engineering and Science, TWIns, Tokyo Women's Medical University, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Katsuhisa Sakaguchi
- Institute of Advanced Biomedical Engineering and Science, TWIns, Tokyo Women's Medical University, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan; Department of Integrative Bioscience and Biomedical Engineering, Graduate School of Advanced Science and Engineering, TWIns, Waseda University, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Hidekazu Sekine
- Institute of Advanced Biomedical Engineering and Science, TWIns, Tokyo Women's Medical University, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Kiyotaka Iwasaki
- Department of Modern Mechanical Engineering, Waseda University, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Shimizu
- Institute of Advanced Biomedical Engineering and Science, TWIns, Tokyo Women's Medical University, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan
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23
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Shaping collagen for engineering hard tissues: Towards a printomics approach. Acta Biomater 2021; 131:41-61. [PMID: 34192571 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2021.06.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Revised: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Hard tissue engineering has evolved over the past decades, with multiple approaches being explored and developed. Despite the rapid development and success of advanced 3D cell culture, 3D printing technologies and material developments, a gold standard approach to engineering and regenerating hard tissue substitutes such as bone, dentin and cementum, has not yet been realised. One such strategy that differs from conventional regenerative medicine approach of other tissues, is the in vitro mineralisation of collagen templates in the absence of cells. Collagen is the most abundant protein within the human body and forms the basis of all hard tissues. Once mineralised, collagen provides important support and protection to humans, for example in the case of bone tissue. Multiple in vitro fabrication strategies and mineralisation approaches have been developed and their success in facilitating mineral deposition on collagen to achieve bone-like scaffolds evaluated. Critical to the success of such fabrication and biomineralisation approaches is the collagen template, and its chemical composition, organisation, and density. The key factors that influence such properties are the collagen processing and fabrication techniques utilised to create the template, and the mineralisation strategy employed to deposit mineral on and throughout the templates. However, despite its importance, relatively little attention has been placed on these two critical factors. Here, we critically examine the processing, fabrication and mineralisation strategies that have been used to mineralise collagen templates, and offer insights and perspectives on the most promising strategies for creating mineralised collagen scaffolds. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: In this review, we highlight the critical need to fabricate collagen templates with advanced processing techniques, in a manner that achieves biomimicry of the hierarchical collagen structure, prior to utilising in vitro mineralisation strategies. To this end, we focus on the initial collagen that is selected, the extraction techniques used and the native fibril forming potential retained to create reconstituted collagen scaffolds. This review synthesises current best practises in material sourcing, processing, mineralisation strategies and fabrication techniques, and offers insights into how these can best be exploited in future studies to successfully mineralise collagen templates.
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Pao SI, Lin LT, Chen YH, Chen CL, Chen JT. Repression of Smad4 by MicroRNA-1285 moderates TGF-β-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition in proliferative vitreoretinopathy. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0254873. [PMID: 34383767 PMCID: PMC8360606 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0254873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to assess whether microRNA (miR)-1285 can suppress the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in retinal pigment epithelial cells. Expression of miR-1285 was evaluated using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). The features of EMT were assessed using Western blotting, immunocytochemical staining, scratch wound healing tests, modified Boyden chamber assay, and collagen gel contraction assay. A rabbit model of proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) was used for in vivo testing, which involved the induction of PVR by injection of transfected ARPE cells into the vitreous chamber. Luciferase reporter assay was performed to identify the putative target of miR-1285. The expression of miR-1285 was downregulated in ARPE-19 cells treated with transforming growth factor (TGF)-β. Overexpression of miR-1285 led to upregulation of zonula occludens-1, downregulation of α-smooth muscle actin and vimentin, cell migration and cell contractility-all EMT features-in the TGF-β2-treated ARPE-19 cells. The reporter assay indicated that the 3' untranslated region of Smad4 was the direct target of miR1285. PVR progression was alleviated in the miR-1285 transfected rabbits. In conclusion, overexpression of miR-1285 attenuates TGF-β2-induced EMT in a rabbit model of PVR, and the effect of miR-1285 in PVR is dependent on Smad4. Further research is warranted to develop a feasible therapeutic approach for the prevention and treatment of PVR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu-I Pao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Le-Tien Lin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tri-Service General Hospital Songshan Branch, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Yi-Hao Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Ching-Long Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Jiann-Torng Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
- * E-mail:
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Claudio-Rizo JA, Escobedo-Estrada N, Carrillo-Cortes SL, Cabrera-Munguía DA, Flores-Guía TE, Becerra-Rodriguez JJ. Highly absorbent hydrogels comprised from interpenetrated networks of alginate-polyurethane for biomedical applications. JOURNAL OF MATERIALS SCIENCE. MATERIALS IN MEDICINE 2021; 32:70. [PMID: 34117933 PMCID: PMC8197714 DOI: 10.1007/s10856-021-06544-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2020] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Developing new approaches to improve the swelling, degradation rate, and mechanical properties of alginate hydrogels without compromising their biocompatibility for biomedical applications represents a potential area of research. In this work, the generation of interpenetrated networks (IPN) comprised from alginate-polyurethane in an aqueous medium is proposed to design hydrogels with tailored properties for biomedical applications. Aqueous polyurethane (PU) dispersions can crosslink and interpenetrate alginate chains, forming amide bonds that allow the structure and water absorption capacity of these novel hydrogels to be regulated. In this sense, this work focuses on studying the relation of the PU concentration on the properties of these hydrogels. The results indicate that the crosslinking of the alginate with PU generates IPN hydrogels with a crystalline structure characterized by a homogeneous smooth surface with high capacity to absorb water, tailoring the degradation rate, thermal decomposition, and storage module, not altering the native biocompatibility of alginate, providing character to inhibit the growth of E. coli and increasing also its hemocompatibility. The IPN hydrogels that include 20 wt.% of PU exhibit a reticulation index of 46 ± 4%, swelling capacity of 545 ± 13% at 7 days of incubation at physiological pH, resistance to both acidic and neutral hydrolytic degradation, mechanical improvement of 91 ± 1%, and no cytotoxicity for monocytes and fibroblasts growing for up to 72 h of incubation. These results indicate that these novel hydrogels can be used for successful biomedical applications in the design of wound healing dressings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesús A Claudio-Rizo
- Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Autónoma de Coahuila, Ing. J. Cárdenas Valdez S/N, República, 25280, Saltillo, Coahuila, México.
| | - Nallely Escobedo-Estrada
- Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Autónoma de Coahuila, Ing. J. Cárdenas Valdez S/N, República, 25280, Saltillo, Coahuila, México
| | - Sara L Carrillo-Cortes
- Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Autónoma de Coahuila, Ing. J. Cárdenas Valdez S/N, República, 25280, Saltillo, Coahuila, México
| | - Denis A Cabrera-Munguía
- Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Autónoma de Coahuila, Ing. J. Cárdenas Valdez S/N, República, 25280, Saltillo, Coahuila, México
| | - Tirso E Flores-Guía
- Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Autónoma de Coahuila, Ing. J. Cárdenas Valdez S/N, República, 25280, Saltillo, Coahuila, México
| | - Juan J Becerra-Rodriguez
- Universidad Politécnica de Pénjamo, Carretera Irapuato - La Piedad Km 44, Pénjamo, 36921, Guanajuato, México
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Asthmatic Eosinophils Promote Contractility and Migration of Airway Smooth Muscle Cells and Pulmonary Fibroblasts In Vitro. Cells 2021; 10:cells10061389. [PMID: 34199925 PMCID: PMC8229663 DOI: 10.3390/cells10061389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Enhanced contractility and migration of airway smooth muscle cells (ASMC) and pulmonary fibroblasts (PF) are part of airway remodeling in asthma. Eosinophils are the central inflammatory cells that participate in airway inflammation. However, the role of asthmatic eosinophils in ASMC and PF contractility, migration, and differentiation to contractile phenotype has not yet been precisely described. A total of 38 individuals were included in this study: 13 steroid-free non-severe allergic asthma (AA) patients, 11 severe non-allergic eosinophilic asthma (SNEA) patients, and 14 healthy subjects (HS). For AA patients and HS groups, a bronchial allergen challenge with D. pteronyssinus was performed. Individual combined cell cultures were prepared from isolated peripheral blood eosinophils and immortalized ASMC or commercial PF cell lines separately. The migration of ASMC and PF was evaluated using wound healing assay and contractility using collagen gel assay. Gene expression of contractile apparatus proteins, COL1A1, COL5A1, and FN, in ASMC and PF was evaluated using qRT-PCR. We found that contractility and migration of ASMC and PF significantly increased after incubation with asthmatic eosinophils compared to HS eosinophils, p < 0.05, and SNEA eosinophils demonstrated the highest effect on contractility of ASMC and migration of both cell lines, p < 0.05. AA and SNEA eosinophils significantly increased gene expression of contractile apparatus proteins, COL1A1 and FN, in both cell lines, p < 0.05. Furthermore, the allergen-activated AA eosinophils significantly increased the contractility of ASMC, and migration and gene expression in ASMC and PF, p < 0.05. Thus, asthmatic eosinophils change ASMC and PF behavior by increasing their contractility and migration, contributing to airway remodeling.
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Neutrally charged self-assembling peptide hydrogel recapitulates in vitro mechanisms of breast cancer progression. MATERIALS SCIENCE & ENGINEERING. C, MATERIALS FOR BIOLOGICAL APPLICATIONS 2021; 127:112200. [PMID: 34225853 DOI: 10.1016/j.msec.2021.112200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Revised: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Self-assembling peptide hydrogels (SAPH) are a popular biomaterial due to their biocompatibility with a wide range of cell types, synthetic design, structural properties that provide a more accurate 3D microenvironment, and potential for cell- and/or drug-delivery system. Mimicking solid tumors in vitro using hydrogels is one method of testing anti-cancer drug efficacy and observing cancerous cell-ECM interactions within a 3D system. In this study, a SAPH, PeptiGel®Alpha1, was used to model in vitro the 3D breast tumor microenvironment. PeptiGel®Alpha1 is composed of entangled nanofibers with consistent diameter and mechanical properties similar to breast cancer that more accurately mimic the stiffness of breast tumor tissue than Matrigel® or collagen type I. PeptiGel®Alpha1 supported the viability and growth of the breast cancer cell lines MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 and recapitulated key features of solid tumors such as hypoxia and invasion. MCF-7 cells in the hydrogels formed large spheroids resembling acini, while MDA-MB-231 remained dispersed. When treated with tamoxifen, PeptiGel®Alpha1 acted as a barrier, providing drug penetration geometry similar to that in vivo, providing better prediction of the drug effect. Finally, it was observed that MCF-7 cells engulfed the peptide matrix after 14 days, highlighting a potential use in drug delivery. PeptiGel®Alpha1 is a suitable platform for in vitro modeling of breast cancer.
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Yamanishi C, Parigoris E, Takayama S. Kinetic Analysis of Label-Free Microscale Collagen Gel Contraction Using Machine Learning-Aided Image Analysis. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2020; 8:582602. [PMID: 33072731 PMCID: PMC7537788 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2020.582602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary fibrosis is a deadly lung disease, wherein normal lung tissue is progressively replaced with fibrotic scar tissue. An aspect of this process can be recreated in vitro by embedding fibroblasts into a collagen matrix and providing a fibrotic stimulus. This work expands upon a previously described method to print microscale cell-laden collagen gels and combines it with live cell imaging and automated image analysis to enable high-throughput analysis of the kinetics of cell-mediated contraction of this collagen matrix. The image analysis method utilizes a plugin for FIJI, built around Waikato Environment for Knowledge Analysis (WEKA) Segmentation. After cross-validation of this automated image analysis with manual shape tracing, the assay was applied to primary human lung fibroblasts including cells isolated from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis patients. In the absence of any exogenous stimuli, the analysis showed significantly faster and more extensive contraction of the diseased cells compared to the healthy ones. Upon stimulation with transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1), fibroblasts from the healthy donor showed significantly more contraction throughout the observation period while differences in the response of diseased cells was subtle and could only be detected during a smaller window of time. Finally, dose-response curves for the inhibition of collagen gel contraction were determined for 3 small molecules including the only 2 FDA-approved drugs for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cameron Yamanishi
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, United States.,The Parker H. Petit Institute of Bioengineering and Bioscience, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Eric Parigoris
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, United States.,The Parker H. Petit Institute of Bioengineering and Bioscience, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Shuichi Takayama
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, United States.,The Parker H. Petit Institute of Bioengineering and Bioscience, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, United States
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Targeted apoptosis of myofibroblasts by elesclomol inhibits hypertrophic scar formation. EBioMedicine 2020; 54:102715. [PMID: 32251998 PMCID: PMC7132150 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2020.102715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Revised: 02/27/2020] [Accepted: 02/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Hypertrophic scar (HS) is characterized by the increased proliferation and decreased apoptosis of myofibroblasts. Myofibroblasts, the main effector cells for dermal fibrosis, develop from normal fibroblasts. Thus, the stimulation of myofibroblast apoptosis is a possible treatment for HS. We aimed to explore that whether over-activated myofibroblasts can be targeted for apoptosis by anticancer drug elesclomol. Methods 4′,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole staining, flow cytometry, western blotting, collagen gel contraction and immunofluorescence assays were applied to demonstrate the proapoptotic effect of elesclomol in scar derived myofibroblasts and TGF-β1 induced myofibroblasts. The therapeutic potential of elesclomol was investigated by establishing rabbit ear hypertrophic scar models. Findings Both 4′,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole staining and flow cytometry indicated that elesclomol targets myofibroblasts in vitro. Collagen gel contraction assay showed that elesclomol inhibited myofibroblast contractility. Flow cytometry and western blot analysis revealed that elesclomol resulted in excessive intracellular levels of reactive oxygen species(ROS), and caspase-3 and cytochrome c proteins. Moreover, compared with the control group, the elesclomol group had a significantly lower scar elevation index in vivo. Immunofluorescence assays for TUNEL and α-smooth muscle actin indicated that elesclomol treatment increased the number of apoptotic myofibroblasts. Interpretation The above results indicate that elesclomol exerted a significant inhibitory effect on HS formation via targeted myofibroblast apoptosis associated with increased oxidative stress. Thus, elesclomol is a promising candidate drug for the treatment of myofibroblast-related diseases such as HS.
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