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Erofeev A, Antifeev I, Vinokurov E, Bezprozvanny I, Vlasova O. An Open-Source Wireless Electrophysiology System for In Vivo Neuronal Activity Recording in the Rodent Brain: 2.0. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 23:9735. [PMID: 38139581 PMCID: PMC10747880 DOI: 10.3390/s23249735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
Current trends in neurobiological research focus on analyzing complex interactions within brain structures. To conduct relevant experiments, it is often essential to employ animals with unhampered mobility and utilize electrophysiological equipment capable of wirelessly transmitting data. In prior research, we introduced an open-source wireless electrophysiology system to surmount these challenges. Nonetheless, this prototype exhibited several limitations, such as a hefty weight for the wireless module, redundant system components, a diminished sampling rate, and limited battery longevity. In this study, we unveil an enhanced version of the open-source wireless electrophysiology system, tailored for in vivo monitoring of neural activity in rodent brains. This new system has been successfully tested in real-time recordings of in vivo neural activity. Consequently, our development offers researchers a cost-effective and proficient tool for studying complex brain functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Erofeev
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurodegeneration, Graduate School of Biomedical Systems and Technologies, Institute of Biomedical Systems and Biotechnology, Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, 195251 Saint Petersburg, Russia; (I.A.); (E.V.); (I.B.)
| | - Ivan Antifeev
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurodegeneration, Graduate School of Biomedical Systems and Technologies, Institute of Biomedical Systems and Biotechnology, Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, 195251 Saint Petersburg, Russia; (I.A.); (E.V.); (I.B.)
- Laboratory of Methods and Instruments for Genetic and Immunoassay Analysis, Institute for Analytical Instrumentation Russian Academy of Sciences, 198095 Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Egor Vinokurov
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurodegeneration, Graduate School of Biomedical Systems and Technologies, Institute of Biomedical Systems and Biotechnology, Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, 195251 Saint Petersburg, Russia; (I.A.); (E.V.); (I.B.)
| | - Ilya Bezprozvanny
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurodegeneration, Graduate School of Biomedical Systems and Technologies, Institute of Biomedical Systems and Biotechnology, Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, 195251 Saint Petersburg, Russia; (I.A.); (E.V.); (I.B.)
- Department of Physiology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Olga Vlasova
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurodegeneration, Graduate School of Biomedical Systems and Technologies, Institute of Biomedical Systems and Biotechnology, Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, 195251 Saint Petersburg, Russia; (I.A.); (E.V.); (I.B.)
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2
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Lee D, Yang K, Xie J. Advances in Nerve Injury Models on a Chip. Adv Biol (Weinh) 2023; 7:e2200227. [PMID: 36709421 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.202200227] [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: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Regeneration and functional recovery of the damaged nerve are challenging due to the need for effective therapeutic drugs, biomaterials, and approaches. The poor outcome of the treatment of nerve injury stems from the incomplete understanding of axonal biology and interactions between neurons and the surrounding environment, such as glial cells and extracellular matrix. Microfluidic devices, in combination with various injury techniques, have been applied to test biological hypotheses in nerve injury and nerve regeneration. The microfluidic devices provide multiple advantages over the in vitro cell culture on a petri dish and in vivo animal models because a specific part of the neuronal environment can be manipulated using physical and chemical interventions. In addition, single-cell behavior and interactions between neurons and glial cells can be visualized and quantified on microfluidic platforms. In this article, current in vitro nerve injury models on a chip that mimics in vivo axonal injuries and the regeneration process of axons are summarized. The microfluidic-based nerve injury models could enhance the understanding of the physiological and pathophysiological mechanisms of nerve tissues and simultaneously serve as powerful drug and biomaterial screening platforms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donghee Lee
- Department of Surgery-Transplant and Mary and Dick Holland Regenerative Medicine Program, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
| | - Kai Yang
- Department of Surgery-Plastic Surgery, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
| | - Jingwei Xie
- Department of Surgery-Transplant and Mary and Dick Holland Regenerative Medicine Program, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Nebraska Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, 68588, USA
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3
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Xu S, Liu Y, Yang Y, Zhang K, Liang W, Xu Z, Wu Y, Luo J, Zhuang C, Cai X. Recent Progress and Perspectives on Neural Chip Platforms Integrating PDMS-Based Microfluidic Devices and Microelectrode Arrays. MICROMACHINES 2023; 14:709. [PMID: 37420942 DOI: 10.3390/mi14040709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023]
Abstract
Recent years have witnessed a spurt of progress in the application of the encoding and decoding of neural activities to drug screening, diseases diagnosis, and brain-computer interactions. To overcome the constraints of the complexity of the brain and the ethical considerations of in vivo research, neural chip platforms integrating microfluidic devices and microelectrode arrays have been raised, which can not only customize growth paths for neurons in vitro but also monitor and modulate the specialized neural networks grown on chips. Therefore, this article reviews the developmental history of chip platforms integrating microfluidic devices and microelectrode arrays. First, we review the design and application of advanced microelectrode arrays and microfluidic devices. After, we introduce the fabrication process of neural chip platforms. Finally, we highlight the recent progress on this type of chip platform as a research tool in the field of brain science and neuroscience, focusing on neuropharmacology, neurological diseases, and simplified brain models. This is a detailed and comprehensive review of neural chip platforms. This work aims to fulfill the following three goals: (1) summarize the latest design patterns and fabrication schemes of such platforms, providing a reference for the development of other new platforms; (2) generalize several important applications of chip platforms in the field of neurology, which will attract the attention of scientists in the field; and (3) propose the developmental direction of neural chip platforms integrating microfluidic devices and microelectrode arrays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shihong Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer Technology, Aerospace Information Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
- School of Electronic, Electrical and Communication Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yaoyao Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer Technology, Aerospace Information Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
- School of Electronic, Electrical and Communication Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yan Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer Technology, Aerospace Information Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
- School of Electronic, Electrical and Communication Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Kui Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer Technology, Aerospace Information Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
- School of Electronic, Electrical and Communication Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Wei Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer Technology, Aerospace Information Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
- School of Electronic, Electrical and Communication Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Zhaojie Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer Technology, Aerospace Information Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
- School of Electronic, Electrical and Communication Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yirong Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer Technology, Aerospace Information Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
- School of Electronic, Electrical and Communication Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Jinping Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer Technology, Aerospace Information Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
- School of Electronic, Electrical and Communication Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Chengyu Zhuang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Rujing Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Xinxia Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer Technology, Aerospace Information Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
- School of Electronic, Electrical and Communication Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
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4
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Sabaté Del Río J, Ro J, Yoon H, Park TE, Cho YK. Integrated technologies for continuous monitoring of organs-on-chips: Current challenges and potential solutions. Biosens Bioelectron 2023; 224:115057. [PMID: 36640548 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2022.115057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Organs-on-chips (OoCs) are biomimetic in vitro systems based on microfluidic cell cultures that recapitulate the in vivo physicochemical microenvironments and the physiologies and key functional units of specific human organs. These systems are versatile and can be customized to investigate organ-specific physiology, pathology, or pharmacology. They are more physiologically relevant than traditional two-dimensional cultures, can potentially replace the animal models or reduce the use of these models, and represent a unique opportunity for the development of personalized medicine when combined with human induced pluripotent stem cells. Continuous monitoring of important quality parameters of OoCs via a label-free, non-destructive, reliable, high-throughput, and multiplex method is critical for assessing the conditions of these systems and generating relevant analytical data; moreover, elaboration of quality predictive models is required for clinical trials of OoCs. Presently, these analytical data are obtained by manual or automatic sampling and analyzed using single-point, off-chip traditional methods. In this review, we describe recent efforts to integrate biosensing technologies into OoCs for monitoring the physiologies, functions, and physicochemical microenvironments of OoCs. Furthermore, we present potential alternative solutions to current challenges and future directions for the application of artificial intelligence in the development of OoCs and cyber-physical systems. These "smart" OoCs can learn and make autonomous decisions for process optimization, self-regulation, and data analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Sabaté Del Río
- Center for Soft and Living Matter, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Ulsan, 44919, Republic of Korea
| | - Jooyoung Ro
- Center for Soft and Living Matter, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Ulsan, 44919, Republic of Korea; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), Ulsan, 44919, Republic of Korea
| | - Heejeong Yoon
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), Ulsan, 44919, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae-Eun Park
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), Ulsan, 44919, Republic of Korea.
| | - Yoon-Kyoung Cho
- Center for Soft and Living Matter, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Ulsan, 44919, Republic of Korea; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), Ulsan, 44919, Republic of Korea.
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5
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Andolfi A, Arnaldi P, Lisa DD, Pepe S, Frega M, Fassio A, Lagazzo A, Martinoia S, Pastorino L. A micropatterned thermoplasmonic substrate for neuromodulation of in vitro neuronal networks. Acta Biomater 2023; 158:281-291. [PMID: 36563774 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2022.12.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Understanding how the spatial organization of a neural network affects its activity represents a leading issue in neuroscience. Thanks to their accessibility and easy handling, in vitro studies remain an essential tool to investigate the relationship between the structure and function of a neuronal network. Among all the patterning techniques, ink-jet printing acquired great interest thanks to its direct-write approach, which allows the patterned substrate realization without mold, leading to a considerable saving of both cost and time. However, the inks commonly used give the possibility to control only the structure of a neuronal network, leaving aside the functional aspect. In this work, we synthesize a photosensitive ink combining the rheological and bioadhesive properties of chitosan with the plasmonic properties of gold nanorods, obtaining an ink able to control both the spatial organization of a two-dimensional neuronal network and its activity through photothermal effect. After the ink characterization, we demonstrate that it is possible to print, with high precision, different geometries on a microelectrode array. In this way, it is possible obtaining a patterned device to control the structure of a neuronal network, to record its activity and to modulate it via photothermal effect. Finally, to our knowledge, we report the first evidence of photothermal inhibition of human neurons activity. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Patterned cell cultures remain the most efficient and simple tool for linking structural and functional studies, especially in the neuronal field. Ink-jet printing is the technique with which it is possible to realize patterned structures in the fastest, simple, versatile and low-cost way. However, the inks currently used permit the control only of the neuronal network structure but do not allow the control-modulation of the network activity. In this study, we realize and characterize a photosensitive bioink with which it is possible to drive both the structure and the activity of a neuronal network. Moreover, we report the first evidence of activity inhibition by the photothermal effect on human neurons as far as we know.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Andolfi
- Department of Informatics, Bioengineering, Robotics and Systems Engineering (DIBRIS), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.
| | - Pietro Arnaldi
- Department of Informatics, Bioengineering, Robotics and Systems Engineering (DIBRIS), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.
| | - Donatella Di Lisa
- Department of Informatics, Bioengineering, Robotics and Systems Engineering (DIBRIS), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.
| | - Sara Pepe
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.
| | - Monica Frega
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, University of Twente, Enschede, the Netherlands.
| | - Anna Fassio
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.
| | - Alberto Lagazzo
- Department of Civil, Chemical and Environmental Engineering (DICCA), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.
| | - Sergio Martinoia
- Department of Informatics, Bioengineering, Robotics and Systems Engineering (DIBRIS), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.
| | - Laura Pastorino
- Department of Informatics, Bioengineering, Robotics and Systems Engineering (DIBRIS), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.
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6
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Cortelli G, Grob L, Patruno L, Cramer T, Mayer D, Fraboni B, Wolfrum B, de Miranda S. Determination of Stiffness and the Elastic Modulus of 3D-Printed Micropillars with Atomic Force Microscopy-Force Spectroscopy. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2023; 15:7602-7609. [PMID: 36706051 PMCID: PMC9923676 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c21921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Nowadays, many applications in diverse fields are taking advantage of micropillars such as optics, tribology, biology, and biomedical engineering. Among them, one of the most attractive is three-dimensional microelectrode arrays for in vivo and in vitro studies, such as cellular recording, biosensors, and drug delivery. Depending on the application, the micropillar's optimal mechanical response ranges from soft to stiff. For long-term implantable devices, a mechanical mismatch between the micropillars and the biological tissue must be avoided. For drug delivery patches, micropillars must penetrate the skin without breaking or bending. The accurate mechanical characterization of the micropillar is pivotal in the fabrication and optimization of such devices, as it determines whether the device will fail or not. In this work, we demonstrate an experimental method based only on atomic force microscopy-force spectroscopy that allows us to measure the stiffness of a micropillar and the elastic modulus of its constituent material. We test our method with four different types of 3D inkjet-printed micropillars: silver micropillars sintered at 100 and 150 °C and polyacrylate microstructures with and without a metallic coating. The estimated elastic moduli are found to be comparable with the corresponding bulk values. Furthermore, our findings show that neither the sintering temperature nor the presence of a thin metal coating plays a major role in defining the mechanical properties of the micropillar.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgio Cortelli
- Department
of Civil, Chemical, Environmental and Materials Engineering, University of Bologna, Viale del Risorgimento 2, 40136 Bologna, Italy
| | - Leroy Grob
- Neuroelectronics,
Munich Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Electrical
Engineering, Technical University of Munich, 85748 Garching, Germany
| | - Luca Patruno
- Department
of Civil, Chemical, Environmental and Materials Engineering, University of Bologna, Viale del Risorgimento 2, 40136 Bologna, Italy
| | - Tobias Cramer
- Department
of Physics and Astronomy, University of
Bologna, Viale Berti
Pichat 6/2, 40127 Bologna, Italy
| | - Dirk Mayer
- Institute
of Biological Information Processing (IBI-3), Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH, 52425 Jülich, Germany
| | - Beatrice Fraboni
- Department
of Physics and Astronomy, University of
Bologna, Viale Berti
Pichat 6/2, 40127 Bologna, Italy
| | - Bernhard Wolfrum
- Neuroelectronics,
Munich Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Electrical
Engineering, Technical University of Munich, 85748 Garching, Germany
| | - Stefano de Miranda
- Department
of Civil, Chemical, Environmental and Materials Engineering, University of Bologna, Viale del Risorgimento 2, 40136 Bologna, Italy
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7
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Han S, Bang S, Kim HN, Choi N, Kim SH. Modulating and monitoring the functionality of corticostriatal circuits using an electrostimulable microfluidic device. Mol Brain 2023; 16:13. [PMID: 36670465 PMCID: PMC9863144 DOI: 10.1186/s13041-023-01007-z] [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: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The central nervous system is organized into different neural circuits, each with particular functions and properties. Studying neural circuits is essential to understanding brain function and neuronal diseases. Microfluidic systems are widely used for reconstructing and studying neural circuits but still need improvement to allow modulation and monitoring of the physiological properties of circuits. In this study, we constructed an improved microfluidic device that supports the electrical modulation of neural circuits and proper reassembly. We demonstrated that our microfluidic device provides a platform for electrically modulating and monitoring the physiological function of neural circuits with genetic indicators for synaptic functionality in corticostriatal (CStr) circuits. In particular, our microfluidic device measures activity-driven Ca2+ dynamics using Ca2+ indicators (synaptophysin-GCaMP6f and Fluo5F-AM), as well as activity-driven synaptic transmission and retrieval using vGlut-pHluorin. Overall, our findings indicate that the improved microfluidic platform described here is an invaluable tool for studying the physiological properties of specific neural circuits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sukmin Han
- grid.289247.20000 0001 2171 7818Department of Neuroscience, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, 02447 Republic of Korea
| | - Seokyoung Bang
- grid.35541.360000000121053345Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, 02792 Republic of Korea
| | - Hong Nam Kim
- grid.35541.360000000121053345Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, 02792 Republic of Korea
| | - Nakwon Choi
- grid.35541.360000000121053345Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, 02792 Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Hyun Kim
- grid.289247.20000 0001 2171 7818Department of Neuroscience, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, 02447 Republic of Korea ,grid.289247.20000 0001 2171 7818Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, 02447 Republic of Korea ,grid.289247.20000 0001 2171 7818Medical Research Center for Bioreaction to Reactive Oxygen Species and Biomedical Science Institute, School of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, 02447 South Korea
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8
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Zhang J, Yang H, Wu J, Zhang D, Wang Y, Zhai J. Recent progresses in novel in vitro models of primary neurons: A biomaterial perspective. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:953031. [PMID: 36061442 PMCID: PMC9428288 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.953031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Central nervous system (CNS) diseases have been a growing threat to the health of humanity, emphasizing the urgent need of exploring the pathogenesis and therapeutic approaches of various CNS diseases. Primary neurons are directly obtained from animals or humans, which have wide applications including disease modeling, mechanism exploration and drug development. However, traditional two-dimensional (2D) monoculture cannot resemble the native microenvironment of CNS. With the increasing understanding of the complexity of the CNS and the remarkable development of novel biomaterials, in vitro models have experienced great innovation from 2D monoculture toward three-dimensional (3D) multicellular culture. The scope of this review includes the progress of various in vitro models of primary neurons in recent years to provide a holistic view of the modalities and applications of primary neuron models and how they have been connected with the revolution of biofabrication techniques. Special attention has been paid to the interaction between primary neurons and biomaterials. First, a brief introduction on the history of CNS modeling and primary neuron culture was conducted. Next, detailed progress in novel in vitro models were discussed ranging from 2D culture, ex vivo model, spheroid, scaffold-based model, 3D bioprinting model, and microfluidic chip. Modalities, applications, advantages, and limitations of the aforementioned models were described separately. Finally, we explored future prospects, providing new insights into how basic science research methodologies have advanced our understanding of the CNS, and highlighted some future directions of primary neuron culture in the next few decades.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiangang Zhang
- Department of Liver Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Huiyu Yang
- Departments of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jiaming Wu
- Departments of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Dingyue Zhang
- Department of Liver Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yu Wang
- Departments of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jiliang Zhai
- Departments of Orthopedics Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Jiliang Zhai,
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9
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Miny L, Maisonneuve BGC, Quadrio I, Honegger T. Modeling Neurodegenerative Diseases Using In Vitro Compartmentalized Microfluidic Devices. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:919646. [PMID: 35813998 PMCID: PMC9263267 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.919646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The human brain is a complex organ composed of many different types of cells interconnected to create an organized system able to efficiently process information. Dysregulation of this delicately balanced system can lead to the development of neurological disorders, such as neurodegenerative diseases (NDD). To investigate the functionality of human brain physiology and pathophysiology, the scientific community has been generated various research models, from genetically modified animals to two- and three-dimensional cell culture for several decades. These models have, however, certain limitations that impede the precise study of pathophysiological features of neurodegeneration, thus hindering therapeutical research and drug development. Compartmentalized microfluidic devices provide in vitro minimalistic environments to accurately reproduce neural circuits allowing the characterization of the human central nervous system. Brain-on-chip (BoC) is allowing our capability to improve neurodegeneration models on the molecular and cellular mechanism aspects behind the progression of these troubles. This review aims to summarize and discuss the latest advancements of microfluidic models for the investigations of common neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise Miny
- NETRI, Lyon, France
- BIORAN Team, Lyon Neuroscience Research Center, CNRS UMR 5292, INSERM U1028, Lyon 1 University, Bron, France
| | | | - Isabelle Quadrio
- BIORAN Team, Lyon Neuroscience Research Center, CNRS UMR 5292, INSERM U1028, Lyon 1 University, Bron, France
- Laboratory of Neurobiology and Neurogenetics, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Lyon University Hospital, Bron, France
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10
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A modular, reversible sealing, and reusable microfluidic device for drug screening. Anal Chim Acta 2021; 1185:339068. [PMID: 34711311 DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2021.339068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Revised: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Preclinical tests for evaluating potential drug candidates using conventional protocols can be exhaustive and high-cost processes. Microfluidic technologies that can speed up this process and allow fast screening of drugs are promising alternatives. This work presents the design, concept, and operational conditions of a simple, modular, and reversible sealing microdevice useful for drug screening. This microdevice allows for the operation of 4 parallel simultaneous conditions and can also generate a diffusive concentration gradient in sextuplicates. We used laminated polydimethylsiloxane (PDMSLAM) and glass as building materials as proof of concept. The PDMSLAM parts can be reused since they can be easily sterilized. We cultured MCF-7 (Michigan Cancer Foundation-7) breast cancer cells. Cells were exposed to a doxorubicin diffusive concentration gradient for 3 h. They were monitored by automated microscopy, and after data processing, it was possible to determine cell viability as a function of doxorubicin concentration. The reversible sealing enabled the recovery of the tested cells and image acquisition. Therefore, this microdevice is a promising tool for drug screening that allows assessing the cellular behavior in dynamic conditions and the recovery of cells for afterward processing and imaging.
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11
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Tao Y, Hu B, Ma Z, Li H, Du E, Wang G, Xing B, Ma J, Song Z. Intravitreous delivery of melatonin affects the retinal neuron survival and visual signal transmission: in vivo and ex vivo study. Drug Deliv 2021; 27:1386-1396. [PMID: 33016801 PMCID: PMC7580852 DOI: 10.1080/10717544.2020.1818882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Intravitreal delivery can maximize the intensity of therapeutic agents and extend their residence time within ocular tissue. Melatonin is a lipophilic molecule that crosses freely biological barriers and cell membranes. This study intends to investigate the effects of intravitreally delivered melatonin on mouse retina. The visual function of administered mice is assessed by electrophysiological and behavior examinations three weeks after intravitreal delivery. Moreover, multi-electrode array (MEA) was used to assess the electrical activities of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). We found that intravitreal delivery of high dosage melatonin (400-500 µg/kg) destroyed the retinal architecture and impaired the visual function of mice. Conversely, the melatonin administration at low dose (100-300 µg/kg) did not have any significant effects on the photoreceptor survival or visual function. As shown in the MEA recording, the photoreceptors activity of the central region was more severely disturbed by the high dose melatonin. A pronounced augment of the spontaneous firing frequency was recorded in these mice received high dosage melatonin, indicating that intravitreal delivery of high dosage melatonin would affect the electrical activity of RGCs. Immunostaining assay showed that the vitality of cone photoreceptor was impaired by high dose melatonin. These findings suggest that intravitreal melatonin is not always beneficial for ocular tissues, especially when it is administered at high dosage. These data add new perspectives to current knowledge about melatonin delivery at the ocular level. Further therapeutic strategies should take into consideration of these risks that caused by delivery approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ye Tao
- Department of Ophthalmology, People's hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, PR China.,Department of physiology and neuroscience, Basic college of medicine, Zhengzhou University Zhengzhou, PR China
| | - Bang Hu
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Zhao Ma
- Department of Neurosurgery, Central Hospital of Wuhan, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wu Han, PR China
| | - Haijun Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, People's hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, PR China.,Department of physiology and neuroscience, Basic college of medicine, Zhengzhou University Zhengzhou, PR China
| | - Enming Du
- Department of Ophthalmology, People's hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, PR China.,Department of physiology and neuroscience, Basic college of medicine, Zhengzhou University Zhengzhou, PR China
| | - Gang Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, People's hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, PR China.,Department of physiology and neuroscience, Basic college of medicine, Zhengzhou University Zhengzhou, PR China
| | - Biao Xing
- Department of Neurosurgery, Central Hospital of Wuhan, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wu Han, PR China
| | - Jie Ma
- Department of Neurosurgery, Central Hospital of Wuhan, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wu Han, PR China
| | - Zongming Song
- Department of Ophthalmology, People's hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, PR China.,Department of physiology and neuroscience, Basic college of medicine, Zhengzhou University Zhengzhou, PR China
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12
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Xu D, Mo J, Xie X, Hu N. In-Cell Nanoelectronics: Opening the Door to Intracellular Electrophysiology. NANO-MICRO LETTERS 2021; 13:127. [PMID: 34138366 PMCID: PMC8124030 DOI: 10.1007/s40820-021-00655-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Establishing a reliable electrophysiological recording platform is crucial for cardiology and neuroscience research. Noninvasive and label-free planar multitransistors and multielectrode arrays are conducive to perform the large-scale cellular electrical activity recordings, but the signal attenuation limits these extracellular devices to record subthreshold activities. In recent decade, in-cell nanoelectronics have been rapidly developed to open the door to intracellular electrophysiology. With the unique three-dimensional nanotopography and advanced penetration strategies, high-throughput and high-fidelity action potential like signal recordings is expected to be realized. This review summarizes in-cell nanoelectronics from versatile nano-biointerfaces, penetration strategies, active/passive nanodevices, systematically analyses the applications in electrogenic cells and especially evaluates the influence of nanodevices on the high-quality intracellular electrophysiological signals. Further, the opportunities, challenges and broad prospects of in-cell nanoelectronics are prospected, expecting to promote the development of in-cell electrophysiological platforms to meet the demand of theoretical investigation and clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongxin Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Materials and Technologies, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Display Material and Technology, School of Electronics and Information Technology, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, People's Republic of China
| | - Jingshan Mo
- State Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Materials and Technologies, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Display Material and Technology, School of Electronics and Information Technology, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, People's Republic of China
| | - Xi Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Materials and Technologies, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Display Material and Technology, School of Electronics and Information Technology, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, People's Republic of China
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, People's Republic of China
| | - Ning Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Materials and Technologies, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Display Material and Technology, School of Electronics and Information Technology, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, People's Republic of China.
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200050, People's Republic of China.
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13
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De Vitis E, La Pesa V, Gervaso F, Romano A, Quattrini A, Gigli G, Moroni L, Polini A. A microfabricated multi-compartment device for neuron and Schwann cell differentiation. Sci Rep 2021; 11:7019. [PMID: 33782434 PMCID: PMC8007719 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-86300-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding the complex communication between different cell populations and their interaction with the microenvironment in the central and peripheral nervous systems is fundamental in neuroscience research. The development of appropriate in vitro approaches and tools, able to selectively analyze and/or probe specific cells and cell portions (e.g., axons and cell bodies in neurons), driving their differentiation into specific cell phenotypes, has become therefore crucial in this direction. Here we report a multi-compartment microfluidic device where up to three different cell populations can be cultured in a fluidically independent circuit. The device allows cell migration across the compartments and their differentiation. We showed that an accurate choice of the device geometrical features and cell culture parameters allows to (1) maximize cell adhesion and proliferation of neuron-like human cells (SH-SY5Y cells), (2) control the inter-compartment cell migration of neuron and Schwann cells, (3) perform long-term cell culture studies in which both SH-SY5Y cells and primary rat Schwann cells can be differentiated towards specific phenotypes. These results can lead to a plethora of in vitro co-culture studies in the neuroscience research field, where tuning and investigating cell-cell and cell-microenvironment interactions are essential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleonora De Vitis
- CNR NANOTEC - Institute of Nanotechnology, Campus Ecotekne, via Monteroni, 73100, Lecce, Italy
- Dipartimento di Matematica e Fisica E. de Giorgi, Università Del Salento, Campus Ecotekne, via Monteroni, 73100, Lecce, Italy
| | - Velia La Pesa
- Division of Neuroscience, Institute of Experimental Neurology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesca Gervaso
- CNR NANOTEC - Institute of Nanotechnology, Campus Ecotekne, via Monteroni, 73100, Lecce, Italy.
| | - Alessandro Romano
- Division of Neuroscience, Institute of Experimental Neurology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Angelo Quattrini
- Division of Neuroscience, Institute of Experimental Neurology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Gigli
- CNR NANOTEC - Institute of Nanotechnology, Campus Ecotekne, via Monteroni, 73100, Lecce, Italy
- Dipartimento di Matematica e Fisica E. de Giorgi, Università Del Salento, Campus Ecotekne, via Monteroni, 73100, Lecce, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Moroni
- CNR NANOTEC - Institute of Nanotechnology, Campus Ecotekne, via Monteroni, 73100, Lecce, Italy
- Complex Tissue Regeneration, Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 40, Maastricht, 6229 ER, The Netherlands
| | - Alessandro Polini
- CNR NANOTEC - Institute of Nanotechnology, Campus Ecotekne, via Monteroni, 73100, Lecce, Italy.
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14
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Forro C, Caron D, Angotzi GN, Gallo V, Berdondini L, Santoro F, Palazzolo G, Panuccio G. Electrophysiology Read-Out Tools for Brain-on-Chip Biotechnology. MICROMACHINES 2021; 12:124. [PMID: 33498905 PMCID: PMC7912435 DOI: 10.3390/mi12020124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Revised: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Brain-on-Chip (BoC) biotechnology is emerging as a promising tool for biomedical and pharmaceutical research applied to the neurosciences. At the convergence between lab-on-chip and cell biology, BoC couples in vitro three-dimensional brain-like systems to an engineered microfluidics platform designed to provide an in vivo-like extrinsic microenvironment with the aim of replicating tissue- or organ-level physiological functions. BoC therefore offers the advantage of an in vitro reproduction of brain structures that is more faithful to the native correlate than what is obtained with conventional cell culture techniques. As brain function ultimately results in the generation of electrical signals, electrophysiology techniques are paramount for studying brain activity in health and disease. However, as BoC is still in its infancy, the availability of combined BoC-electrophysiology platforms is still limited. Here, we summarize the available biological substrates for BoC, starting with a historical perspective. We then describe the available tools enabling BoC electrophysiology studies, detailing their fabrication process and technical features, along with their advantages and limitations. We discuss the current and future applications of BoC electrophysiology, also expanding to complementary approaches. We conclude with an evaluation of the potential translational applications and prospective technology developments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Csaba Forro
- Tissue Electronics, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Largo Barsanti e Matteucci, 53-80125 Naples, Italy; (C.F.); (F.S.)
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Davide Caron
- Enhanced Regenerative Medicine, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Morego, 30-16163 Genova, Italy; (D.C.); (V.G.)
| | - Gian Nicola Angotzi
- Microtechnology for Neuroelectronics, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Morego, 30-16163 Genova, Italy; (G.N.A.); (L.B.)
| | - Vincenzo Gallo
- Enhanced Regenerative Medicine, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Morego, 30-16163 Genova, Italy; (D.C.); (V.G.)
| | - Luca Berdondini
- Microtechnology for Neuroelectronics, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Morego, 30-16163 Genova, Italy; (G.N.A.); (L.B.)
| | - Francesca Santoro
- Tissue Electronics, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Largo Barsanti e Matteucci, 53-80125 Naples, Italy; (C.F.); (F.S.)
| | - Gemma Palazzolo
- Enhanced Regenerative Medicine, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Morego, 30-16163 Genova, Italy; (D.C.); (V.G.)
| | - Gabriella Panuccio
- Enhanced Regenerative Medicine, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Morego, 30-16163 Genova, Italy; (D.C.); (V.G.)
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15
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Yazdian Kashani S, Afzalian A, Shirinichi F, Keshavarz Moraveji M. Microfluidics for core-shell drug carrier particles - a review. RSC Adv 2020; 11:229-249. [PMID: 35423057 PMCID: PMC8691093 DOI: 10.1039/d0ra08607j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Core-shell drug-carrier particles are known for their unique features. Due to the combination of superior properties not exhibited by the individual components, core-shell particles have gained a lot of interest. The structures could integrate core and shell characteristics and properties. These particles were designed for controlled drug release in the desired location. Therefore, the side effects would be minimized. So, these particles' advantages have led to the introduction of new methods and ideas for their fabrication. In the past few years, the generation of drug carrier core-shell particles in microfluidic chips has attracted much attention. This method makes it possible to produce particles at nanometer and micrometer levels of the same shape and size; it usually costs less than other methods. The other advantages of using microfluidic techniques compared to conventional bulk methods are integration capability, reproducibility, and higher efficiency. These advantages have created a positive outlook on this approach. This review gives an overview of the various fluidic concepts that are used to generate microparticles or nanoparticles. Also, an overview of traditional and more recent microfluidic devices and their design and structure for the generation of core-shell particles is given. The unique benefits of the microfluidic technique for core-shell drug carrier particle generation are demonstrated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sepideh Yazdian Kashani
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Amirkabir University of Technology (Tehran Polytechnic) 1591634311 Tehran Iran +98 21 64543182
| | - Amir Afzalian
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Amirkabir University of Technology (Tehran Polytechnic) 1591634311 Tehran Iran +98 21 64543182
| | - Farbod Shirinichi
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Amirkabir University of Technology (Tehran Polytechnic) 1591634311 Tehran Iran +98 21 64543182
| | - Mostafa Keshavarz Moraveji
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Amirkabir University of Technology (Tehran Polytechnic) 1591634311 Tehran Iran +98 21 64543182
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