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Mungenast L, Züger F, Selvi J, Faia-Torres AB, Rühe J, Suter-Dick L, Gullo MR. Directional Submicrofiber Hydrogel Composite Scaffolds Supporting Neuron Differentiation and Enabling Neurite Alignment. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231911525. [PMID: 36232822 PMCID: PMC9569964 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231911525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Revised: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell cultures aiming at tissue regeneration benefit from scaffolds with physiologically relevant elastic moduli to optimally trigger cell attachment, proliferation and promote differentiation, guidance and tissue maturation. Complex scaffolds designed with guiding cues can mimic the anisotropic nature of neural tissues, such as spinal cord or brain, and recall the ability of human neural progenitor cells to differentiate and align. This work introduces a cost-efficient gelatin-based submicron patterned hydrogel–fiber composite with tuned stiffness, able to support cell attachment, differentiation and alignment of neurons derived from human progenitor cells. The enzymatically crosslinked gelatin-based hydrogels were generated with stiffnesses from 8 to 80 kPa, onto which poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) alignment cues were electrospun such that the fibers had a preferential alignment. The fiber–hydrogel composites with a modulus of about 20 kPa showed the strongest cell attachment and highest cell proliferation, rendering them an ideal differentiation support. Differentiated neurons aligned and bundled their neurites along the aligned PCL filaments, which is unique to this cell type on a fiber–hydrogel composite. This novel scaffold relies on robust and inexpensive technology and is suitable for neural tissue engineering where directional neuron alignment is required, such as in the spinal cord.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lena Mungenast
- Institute for Chemistry and Bioanalytics, University of Applied Sciences FHNW, Hofackerstrasse 30, 4132 Muttenz, Switzerland
- Correspondence: (L.M.); (M.R.G.)
| | - Fabian Züger
- Institute for Medical Engineering and Medical Informatics, University of Applied Sciences FHNW, Hofackerstrasse 30, 4132 Muttenz, Switzerland
| | - Jasmin Selvi
- Institute for Medical Engineering and Medical Informatics, University of Applied Sciences FHNW, Hofackerstrasse 30, 4132 Muttenz, Switzerland
| | - Ana Bela Faia-Torres
- Institute for Chemistry and Bioanalytics, University of Applied Sciences FHNW, Hofackerstrasse 30, 4132 Muttenz, Switzerland
| | - Jürgen Rühe
- Department of Microsystems Engineering, University of Freiburg–IMTEK, Georges-Koehler-Allee 103, 79110 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Laura Suter-Dick
- Institute for Chemistry and Bioanalytics, University of Applied Sciences FHNW, Hofackerstrasse 30, 4132 Muttenz, Switzerland
| | - Maurizio R. Gullo
- Institute for Medical Engineering and Medical Informatics, University of Applied Sciences FHNW, Hofackerstrasse 30, 4132 Muttenz, Switzerland
- Correspondence: (L.M.); (M.R.G.)
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Yao Y, Molotnikov A, Parkington H, Meagher L, Forsythe JS. Extrusion 3D bioprinting of functional self-supporting neural constructs using a photoclickable gelatin bioink. Biofabrication 2022; 14. [PMID: 35545019 DOI: 10.1088/1758-5090/ac6e87] [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: 02/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Many in vitro models of neural physiology utilize neuronal networks established on two-dimensional substrates. Despite the simplicity of these 2D neuronal networks, substrate stiffness may influence cell morphology, network interactions and how neurons communicate and function. With this perspective, 3D gel encapsulation is a powerful to recapitulating aspects of in vivo features, yet such an approach is often limited in terms of the level of resolution and feature size relevant for modelling aspects of brain architecture. Here, we report 3D bioplotting of rat primary cortical neural cells using a hydrogel system comprising gelatin norbornene (GelNB) and poly (ethylene glycol) dithiol (PEGdiSH). This bioink benefits from a rapid photo-click chemistry, yielding 8-layer crosshatch neural scaffolds and a filament width of 350 µm. The printability of this system depends on hydrogel concentration, printing temperature, extrusion pressure and speed. These parameters were studied via quantitative comparison between rheology and filament dimensions to determine the optimal printing conditions. Under optimal conditions, cell viability of bioprinted primary cortical neurons at day 1 (68 ± 2%) and at day 7 (68 ± 1%) were comparable to the 2D control group (72 ± 7%). The present study relates material rheology and filament dimensions to generate compliant free-standing neural constructs through bioplotting of low-concentration GelNB-PEGdiSH, which may provide a step forward to study 3D neuronal function and network formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Yao
- Materials Science and Engineering, Monash University, 20 Research Way, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, 3800, AUSTRALIA
| | - Andrey Molotnikov
- School of Engineering, RMIT University, City Campus, Melbourne, Victoria, 3001, AUSTRALIA
| | - Helena Parkington
- Department of Physiology, Monash University, Clayton Campus, Clayton, Victoria, 3800, AUSTRALIA
| | - Laurence Meagher
- Materials Science and Engineering, Monash University, 22/109 Alliance Lane, Clayton, Clayton, Victoria, 3800, AUSTRALIA
| | - John S Forsythe
- Materials Science Engineering, Monash University, 20 Research Way, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, 3800, AUSTRALIA
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Bang S, Lee S, Choi N, Kim HN. Emerging Brain-Pathophysiology-Mimetic Platforms for Studying Neurodegenerative Diseases: Brain Organoids and Brains-on-a-Chip. Adv Healthc Mater 2021; 10:e2002119. [PMID: 34028201 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202002119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Revised: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases are a group of disorders characterized by progressive degeneration of the structural and functional integrity of the central and peripheral nervous systems. Millions of people suffer from degenerative brain diseases worldwide, and the mortality continues to increase every year, causing a growing demand for knowledge of the underlying mechanisms and development of therapeutic targets. Conventional 2D-based cell culture platforms and animal models cannot fully recapitulate the pathophysiology, and this has limited the capability for estimating drug efficacy. Recently, engineered platforms, including brain organoids and brain-on-a-chip, have emerged. They mimic the physiology of brain tissue and reflect the fundamental pathophysiological signatures of neurodegenerative diseases, such as the accumulation of neurotoxic proteins, structural abnormalities, and functional loss. In this paper, recent advances in brain-mimetic platforms and their potential for modeling features of neurodegenerative diseases in vitro are reviewed. The development of a physiologically relevant model should help overcome unresolved neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seokyoung Bang
- Brain Science Institute Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) Seoul 02792 Republic of Korea
| | - Songhyun Lee
- Department of Medical Engineering Yonsei University College of Medicine Seoul 03722 Republic of Korea
| | - Nakwon Choi
- Brain Science Institute Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) Seoul 02792 Republic of Korea
- KU‐KIST Graduate School of Converging Science and Technology Korea University Seoul 02841 Republic of Korea
| | - Hong Nam Kim
- Brain Science Institute Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) Seoul 02792 Republic of Korea
- Division of Bio‐Medical Science & Technology KIST School Korea University of Science and Technology (UST) Seoul 02792 Republic of Korea
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Samadian H, Maleki H, Allahyari Z, Jaymand M. Natural polymers-based light-induced hydrogels: Promising biomaterials for biomedical applications. Coord Chem Rev 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ccr.2020.213432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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O'Grady BJ, Lippmann ES. Recent Advancements in Engineering Strategies for Manipulating Neural Stem Cell Behavior. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 1:41-47. [PMID: 33748772 DOI: 10.1007/s43152-020-00003-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of Review Stem cells are exquisitely sensitive to biophysical and biochemical cues within the native microenvironment. This review focuses on emerging strategies to manipulate neural cell behavior using these influences in three-dimensional (3D) culture systems. Recent Findings Traditional systems for neural cell differentiation typically produce heterogeneous populations with limited diversity rather than the complex, organized tissue structures observed in vivo. Advancements in developing engineering tools to direct neural cell fates can enable new applications in basic research, disease modeling, and regenerative medicine. Summary This review article highlights engineering strategies that facilitate controlled presentation of biophysical and biochemical cues to guide differentiation and impart desired phenotypes on neural cell populations. Specific highlighted examples include engineered biomaterials and microfluidic platforms for spatiotemporal control over the presentation of morphogen gradients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian J O'Grady
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Ethan S Lippmann
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
- Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
- Interdisciplinary Materials Science Program, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
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Antill-O'Brien N, Bourke J, O'Connell CD. Layer-By-Layer: The Case for 3D Bioprinting Neurons to Create Patient-Specific Epilepsy Models. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2019; 12:E3218. [PMID: 31581436 PMCID: PMC6804258 DOI: 10.3390/ma12193218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2019] [Revised: 09/26/2019] [Accepted: 09/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The ability to create three-dimensional (3D) models of brain tissue from patient-derived cells, would open new possibilities in studying the neuropathology of disorders such as epilepsy and schizophrenia. While organoid culture has provided impressive examples of patient-specific models, the generation of organised 3D structures remains a challenge. 3D bioprinting is a rapidly developing technology where living cells, encapsulated in suitable bioink matrices, are printed to form 3D structures. 3D bioprinting may provide the capability to organise neuronal populations in 3D, through layer-by-layer deposition, and thereby recapitulate the complexity of neural tissue. However, printing neuron cells raises particular challenges since the biomaterial environment must be of appropriate softness to allow for the neurite extension, properties which are anathema to building self-supporting 3D structures. Here, we review the topic of 3D bioprinting of neurons, including critical discussions of hardware and bio-ink formulation requirements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasha Antill-O'Brien
- BioFab3D, Aikenhead Centre for Medical Discovery, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Fitzroy, VIC 3065, Australia.
| | - Justin Bourke
- BioFab3D, Aikenhead Centre for Medical Discovery, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Fitzroy, VIC 3065, Australia.
- ARC Centre of Excellence for Electromaterials Science, Intelligent Polymer Research Institute, Innovation Campus, University of Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia.
- Department of Medicine, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, University of Melbourne, Fitzroy, VIC 3065, Australia.
| | - Cathal D O'Connell
- BioFab3D, Aikenhead Centre for Medical Discovery, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Fitzroy, VIC 3065, Australia.
- ARC Centre of Excellence for Electromaterials Science, Intelligent Polymer Research Institute, Innovation Campus, University of Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia.
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Li X, Sun Q, Li Q, Kawazoe N, Chen G. Functional Hydrogels With Tunable Structures and Properties for Tissue Engineering Applications. Front Chem 2018; 6:499. [PMID: 30406081 PMCID: PMC6204355 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2018.00499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 174] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2018] [Accepted: 10/01/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Tissue engineering (TE) has been used as an attractive and efficient process to restore the original tissue structures and functions through the combination of biodegradable scaffolds, seeded cells, and biological factors. As a unique type of scaffolds, hydrogels have been frequently used for TE because of their similar 3D structures to the native extracellular matrix (ECM), as well as their tunable biochemical and biophysical properties to control cell functions such as cell adhesion, migration, proliferation, and differentiation. Various types of hydrogels have been prepared from naturally derived biomaterials, synthetic polymers, or their combination, showing their promise in TE. This review summarizes the very recent progress of hydrogels used for TE applications. The strategies for tuning biophysical and biochemical properties, and structures of hydrogels are first introduced. Their influences on cell functions and promotive effects on tissue regeneration are then highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaomeng Li
- School of Mechanics and Engineering Science, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- National Center for International Joint Research of Micro-nano Moulding Technology, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Qingqing Sun
- Center for Functional Sensor and Actuator, National Institute for Materials Science, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Qian Li
- School of Mechanics and Engineering Science, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- National Center for International Joint Research of Micro-nano Moulding Technology, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Naoki Kawazoe
- Research Center for Functional Materials, National Institute for Materials Science, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Guoping Chen
- Research Center for Functional Materials, National Institute for Materials Science, Tsukuba, Japan
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