1
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Shaker MR, Slonchak A, Al-Mhanawi B, Morrison SD, Sng JDJ, Cooper-White J, Khromykh AA, Wolvetang EJ. Choroid plexus defects in Down syndrome brain organoids enhance neurotropism of SARS-CoV-2. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2024; 10:eadj4735. [PMID: 38838150 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adj4735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
Why individuals with Down syndrome (DS) are more susceptible to SARS-CoV-2-induced neuropathology remains elusive. Choroid plexus (ChP) plays critical roles in barrier function and immune response modulation and expresses the ACE2 receptor and the chromosome 21-encoded TMPRSS2 protease, suggesting its substantial role in establishing SARS-CoV-2 infection in the brain. To explore this, we established brain organoids from DS and isogenic euploid iPSC that consist of a core of functional cortical neurons surrounded by a functional ChP-like epithelium (ChPCOs). DS-ChPCOs recapitulated abnormal DS cortical development and revealed defects in ciliogenesis and epithelial cell polarity in ChP-like epithelium. We then demonstrated that the ChP-like epithelium facilitates infection and replication of SARS-CoV-2 in cortical neurons and that this is increased in DS. Inhibiting TMPRSS2 and furin activity reduced viral replication in DS-ChPCOs to euploid levels. This model enables dissection of the role of ChP in neurotropic virus infection and euploid forebrain development and permits screening of therapeutics for SARS-CoV-2-induced neuropathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed R Shaker
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
- UQ Centre in Stem Cell Engineering and Regenerative Engineering (UQ StemCARE), The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Andrii Slonchak
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Bahaa Al-Mhanawi
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Sean D Morrison
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Julian D J Sng
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Justin Cooper-White
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
- UQ Centre in Stem Cell Engineering and Regenerative Engineering (UQ StemCARE), The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
- School of Chemical Engineering, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Alexander A Khromykh
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
- GVN Centre of Excellence, Australian Infectious Diseases Research Centre, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Ernst J Wolvetang
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
- UQ Centre in Stem Cell Engineering and Regenerative Engineering (UQ StemCARE), The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
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2
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Zeldich E, Rajkumar S. Identity and Maturity of iPSC-Derived Oligodendrocytes in 2D and Organoid Systems. Cells 2024; 13:674. [PMID: 38667289 PMCID: PMC11049552 DOI: 10.3390/cells13080674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2024] [Revised: 04/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Oligodendrocytes originating in the brain and spinal cord as well as in the ventral and dorsal domains of the neural tube are transcriptomically and functionally distinct. These distinctions are also reflected in the ultrastructure of the produced myelin, and the susceptibility to myelin-related disorders, which highlights the significance of the choice of patterning protocols in the differentiation of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) into oligodendrocytes. Thus, our first goal was to survey the different approaches applied to the generation of iPSC-derived oligodendrocytes in 2D culture and in organoids, as well as reflect on how these approaches pertain to the regional and spatial fate of the generated oligodendrocyte progenitors and myelinating oligodendrocytes. This knowledge is increasingly important to disease modeling and future therapeutic strategies. Our second goal was to recap the recent advances in the development of oligodendrocyte-enriched organoids, as we explore their relevance to a regional specification alongside their duration, complexity, and maturation stages of oligodendrocytes and myelin biology. Finally, we discuss the shortcomings of the existing protocols and potential future explorations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ella Zeldich
- Department of Anatomy & Neurobiology, Boston University Chobanian and Avedesian School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
- Center for Systems Neuroscience, Boston University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Neurophotonics Center, Boston University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Sandeep Rajkumar
- Department of Anatomy & Neurobiology, Boston University Chobanian and Avedesian School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
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3
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Wallace JL, Pollen AA. Human neuronal maturation comes of age: cellular mechanisms and species differences. Nat Rev Neurosci 2024; 25:7-29. [PMID: 37996703 DOI: 10.1038/s41583-023-00760-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
The delayed and prolonged postmitotic maturation of human neurons, compared with neurons from other species, may contribute to human-specific cognitive abilities and neurological disorders. Here we review the mechanisms of neuronal maturation, applying lessons from model systems to understand the specific features of protracted human cortical maturation and species differences. We cover cell-intrinsic features of neuronal maturation, including transcriptional, epigenetic and metabolic mechanisms, as well as cell-extrinsic features, including the roles of activity and synapses, the actions of glial cells and the contribution of the extracellular matrix. We discuss evidence for species differences in biochemical reaction rates, the proposed existence of an epigenetic maturation clock and the contributions of both general and modular mechanisms to species-specific maturation timing. Finally, we suggest approaches to measure, improve and accelerate the maturation of human neurons in culture, examine crosstalk and interactions among these different aspects of maturation and propose conceptual models to guide future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenelle L Wallace
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
- Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Alex A Pollen
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
- Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
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4
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Al-Mhanawi B, Marti MB, Morrison SD, Gupta P, Alani M, Noakes PG, Wolvetang EJ, Shaker MR. Protocol for generating embedding-free brain organoids enriched with oligodendrocytes. STAR Protoc 2023; 4:102725. [PMID: 37976154 PMCID: PMC10692957 DOI: 10.1016/j.xpro.2023.102725] [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: 08/16/2023] [Revised: 10/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
In response to the scarcity of advanced in vitro models dedicated to human CNS white matter research, we present a protocol to generate neuroectoderm-derived embedding-free human brain organoids enriched with oligodendrocytes. We describe steps for neuroectoderm differentiation, development of neural spheroids, and their transferal to Matrigel. We then detail procedures for the development, maturation, and application of oligodendrocyte-enriched brain organoids. The presence of myelin-producing cells makes these organoids useful for studying human white matter diseases, such as leukodystrophy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bahaa Al-Mhanawi
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Marta Boira Marti
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Sean D Morrison
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Pallavi Gupta
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia; University of Queensland - IIT Delhi Academy of Research (UQIDAR), Hauz Khas, New Delhi 110016, India; Department of Biochemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi 110016, India
| | - Maath Alani
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Peter G Noakes
- Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia; School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Ernst J Wolvetang
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia.
| | - Mohammed R Shaker
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia.
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5
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Feng L, Chao J, Zhang M, Pacquing E, Hu W, Shi Y. Developing a human iPSC-derived three-dimensional myelin spheroid platform for modeling myelin diseases. iScience 2023; 26:108037. [PMID: 37867939 PMCID: PMC10589867 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.108037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Myelin defects cause a collection of myelin disorders in the brain. The lack of human models has limited us from better understanding pathological mechanisms of myelin diseases. While human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)-derived spheroids or organoids have been used to study brain development and disorders, it has been difficult to recapitulate mature myelination in these structures. Here, we have developed a method to generate three-dimensional (3D) myelin spheroids from hiPSCs in a robust and reproducible manner. Using this method, we generated myelin spheroids from patient iPSCs to model Canavan disease (CD), a demyelinating disorder. By using CD patient iPSC-derived myelin spheroids treated with N-acetyl-aspartate (NAA), we were able to recapitulate key pathological features of the disease and show that high-level NAA is sufficient to induce toxicity on myelin sheaths. Our study has established a 3D human cellular platform to model human myelin diseases for mechanistic studies and drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lizhao Feng
- Department of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, 1500 E. Duarte Road, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
- Oujiang Laboratory, Zhejiang Lab for Regenerative Medicine, Vision and Brain Health, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, China
| | - Jianfei Chao
- Department of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, 1500 E. Duarte Road, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Mingzi Zhang
- Department of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, 1500 E. Duarte Road, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Elizabeth Pacquing
- Department of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, 1500 E. Duarte Road, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Weidong Hu
- Department of Molecular Imaging and Therapy, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, 1500 E. Duarte Road, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Yanhong Shi
- Department of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, 1500 E. Duarte Road, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
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6
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Toh HSY, Choo XY, Sun AX. Midbrain organoids-development and applications in Parkinson's disease. OXFORD OPEN NEUROSCIENCE 2023; 2:kvad009. [PMID: 38596240 PMCID: PMC10913847 DOI: 10.1093/oons/kvad009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Human brain development is spatially and temporally complex. Insufficient access to human brain tissue and inadequacy of animal models has limited the study of brain development and neurodegenerative diseases. Recent advancements of brain organoid technology have created novel opportunities to model human-specific neurodevelopment and brain diseases. In this review, we discuss the use of brain organoids to model the midbrain and Parkinson's disease. We critically evaluate the extent of recapitulation of PD pathology by organoids and discuss areas of future development that may lead to the model to become a next-generation, personalized therapeutic strategy for PD and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hilary S Y Toh
- Neuroscience & Behavioural Disorders Programme, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore
| | - Xin Yi Choo
- Neuroscience & Behavioural Disorders Programme, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore
| | - Alfred Xuyang Sun
- Neuroscience & Behavioural Disorders Programme, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore
- National Neuroscience Institute, 11 Jln Tan Tock Seng, Singapore
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7
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Martinez-Curiel R, Jansson L, Tsupykov O, Avaliani N, Aretio-Medina C, Hidalgo I, Monni E, Bengzon J, Skibo G, Lindvall O, Kokaia Z, Palma-Tortosa S. Oligodendrocytes in human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cortical grafts remyelinate adult rat and human cortical neurons. Stem Cell Reports 2023; 18:1643-1656. [PMID: 37236198 PMCID: PMC10444570 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2023.04.010] [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: 12/25/2022] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuronal loss and axonal demyelination underlie long-term functional impairments in patients affected by brain disorders such as ischemic stroke. Stem cell-based approaches reconstructing and remyelinating brain neural circuitry, leading to recovery, are highly warranted. Here, we demonstrate the in vitro and in vivo production of myelinating oligodendrocytes from a human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived long-term neuroepithelial stem (lt-NES) cell line, which also gives rise to neurons with the capacity to integrate into stroke-injured, adult rat cortical networks. Most importantly, the generated oligodendrocytes survive and form myelin-ensheathing human axons in the host tissue after grafting onto adult human cortical organotypic cultures. This lt-NES cell line is the first human stem cell source that, after intracerebral delivery, can repair both injured neural circuitries and demyelinated axons. Our findings provide supportive evidence for the potential future use of human iPSC-derived cell lines to promote effective clinical recovery following brain injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raquel Martinez-Curiel
- Laboratory of Stem Cells and Restorative Neurology, Lund Stem Cell Center, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Linda Jansson
- Laboratory of Stem Cells and Restorative Neurology, Lund Stem Cell Center, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Oleg Tsupykov
- Department of Cytology, Bogomoletz Institute of Physiology; Institute of Genetic and Regenerative Medicine, Strazhesko National Scientific Center of Cardiology, Clinical and Regenerative Medicine, 01024 Kyiv, Ukraine
| | | | - Constanza Aretio-Medina
- Laboratory of Stem Cells and Restorative Neurology, Lund Stem Cell Center, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Isabel Hidalgo
- Division of Molecular Hematology, Wallenberg Center for Molecular Medicine, Lund Stem Cell Center, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Emanuela Monni
- Lund Stem Cell Center, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Johan Bengzon
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, University Hospital, 22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Galyna Skibo
- Department of Cytology, Bogomoletz Institute of Physiology; Institute of Genetic and Regenerative Medicine, Strazhesko National Scientific Center of Cardiology, Clinical and Regenerative Medicine, 01024 Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Olle Lindvall
- Laboratory of Stem Cells and Restorative Neurology, Lund Stem Cell Center, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - Zaal Kokaia
- Laboratory of Stem Cells and Restorative Neurology, Lund Stem Cell Center, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden.
| | - Sara Palma-Tortosa
- Laboratory of Stem Cells and Restorative Neurology, Lund Stem Cell Center, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden
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8
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Dedoni S, Scherma M, Camoglio C, Siddi C, Dazzi L, Puliga R, Frau J, Cocco E, Fadda P. An overall view of the most common experimental models for multiple sclerosis. Neurobiol Dis 2023:106230. [PMID: 37453561 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2023.106230] [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: 03/26/2023] [Revised: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a complex chronic disease with an unknown etiology. It is considered an inflammatory demyelinating and neurodegenerative disorder of the central nervous system (CNS) characterized, in most cases, by an unpredictable onset of relapse and remission phases. The disease generally starts in subjects under 40; it has a higher incidence in women and is described as a multifactorial disorder due to the interaction between genetic and environmental risk factors. Unfortunately, there is currently no definitive cure for MS. Still, therapies can modify the disease's natural history, reducing the relapse rate and slowing the progression of the disease or managing symptoms. The limited access to human CNS tissue slows down. It limits the progression of research on MS. This limit has been partially overcome over the years by developing various experimental models to study this disease. Animal models of autoimmune demyelination, such as experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) and viral and toxin or transgenic MS models, represent the most significant part of MS research approaches. These models have now been complemented by ex vivo studies, using organotypic brain slice cultures and in vitro, through induced Pluripotent Stem cells (iPSCs). We will discuss which clinical features of the disorders might be reproduced and investigated in vivo, ex vivo, and in vitro in models commonly used in MS research to understand the processes behind the neuropathological events occurring in the CNS of MS patients. The primary purpose of this review is to give the reader a global view of the main paradigms used in MS research, spacing from the classical animal models to transgenic mice and 2D and 3D cultures.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Dedoni
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Italy.
| | - M Scherma
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Italy.
| | - C Camoglio
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Italy.
| | - C Siddi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Italy
| | - L Dazzi
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Section of Neuroscience and Anthropology, University of Cagliari, Monserrato (Cagliari), Italy.
| | - R Puliga
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Section of Neuroscience and Anthropology, University of Cagliari, Monserrato (Cagliari), Italy.
| | - J Frau
- Regional Multiple Sclerosis Center, ASSL Cagliari, ATS Sardegna, Italy
| | - E Cocco
- Regional Multiple Sclerosis Center, ASSL Cagliari, ATS Sardegna, Italy; Department Medical Science and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Italy.
| | - P Fadda
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Italy; Neuroscience Institute, Section of Cagliari, National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Cagliari, Italy.
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9
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Yan YW, Qian ES, Woodard LE, Bejoy J. Neural lineage differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells: Advances in disease modeling. World J Stem Cells 2023; 15:530-547. [PMID: 37424945 PMCID: PMC10324500 DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v15.i6.530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Brain diseases affect 1 in 6 people worldwide. These diseases range from acute neurological conditions such as stroke to chronic neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease. Recent advancements in tissue-engineered brain disease models have overcome many of the different shortcomings associated with the various animal models, tissue culture models, and epidemiologic patient data that are commonly used to study brain disease. One innovative method by which to model human neurological disease is via the directed differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) to neural lineages including neurons, astrocytes, and oligodendrocytes. Three-dimensional models such as brain organoids have also been derived from hPSCs, offering more physiological relevance due to their incorporation of various cell types. As such, brain organoids can better model the pathophysiology of neural diseases observed in patients. In this review, we will emphasize recent developments in hPSC-based tissue culture models of neurological disorders and how they are being used to create neural disease models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan-Wei Yan
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, United States
| | - Eddie S Qian
- Nephrology and Hypertension, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, United States
| | - Lauren E Woodard
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, United States
- Department of Veterans Affairs, Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, Nashville, TN 37232, United States
- Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37232, United States
| | - Julie Bejoy
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, United States
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10
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Qiao R, Fu C, Forgham H, Javed I, Huang X, Zhu J, Whittaker AK, Davis TP. Magnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticles for Brain Imaging and Drug Delivery. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2023; 197:114822. [PMID: 37086918 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2023.114822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2023] [Indexed: 04/24/2023]
Abstract
Central nervous system (CNS) disorders affect as many as 1.5 billion people globally. The limited delivery of most imaging and therapeutic agents into the brain is a major challenge for treatment of CNS disorders. With the advent of nanotechnologies, controlled delivery of drugs with nanoparticles holds great promise in CNS disorders for overcoming the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and improving delivery efficacy. In recent years, magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (MIONPs) have stood out as a promising theranostic nanoplatform for brain imaging and drug delivery as they possess unique physical properties and biodegradable characteristics. In this review, we summarize the recent advances in MIONP-based platforms as imaging and drug delivery agents for brain diseases. We firstly introduce the methods of synthesis and surface functionalization of MIONPs with emphasis on the inclusion of biocompatible polymers that allow for the addition of tailored physicochemical properties. We then discuss the recent advances in in vivo imaging and drug delivery applications using MIONPs. Finally, we present a perspective on the remaining challenges and possible future directions for MIONP-based brain delivery systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruirui Qiao
- Australian Institute of Bioengineering & Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Changkui Fu
- Australian Institute of Bioengineering & Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Helen Forgham
- Australian Institute of Bioengineering & Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Ibrahim Javed
- Australian Institute of Bioengineering & Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Xumin Huang
- Australian Institute of Bioengineering & Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Jiayuan Zhu
- Australian Institute of Bioengineering & Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Andrew K Whittaker
- Australian Institute of Bioengineering & Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia.
| | - Thomas P Davis
- Australian Institute of Bioengineering & Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia.
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11
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Walters RO, Haigh CL. Organoids for modeling prion diseases. Cell Tissue Res 2023; 392:97-111. [PMID: 35088182 PMCID: PMC9329493 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-022-03589-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Human cerebral organoids are an exciting and novel model system emerging in the field of neurobiology. Cerebral organoids are spheres of self-organizing, neuronal lineage tissue that can be differentiated from human pluripotent stem cells and that present the possibility of on-demand human neuronal cultures that can be used for non-invasively investigating diseases affecting the brain. Compared with existing humanized cell models, they provide a more comprehensive replication of the human cerebral environment. The potential of the human cerebral organoid model is only just beginning to be elucidated, but initial studies have indicated that they could prove to be a valuable model for neurodegenerative diseases such as prion disease. The application of the cerebral organoid model to prion disease, what has been learned so far and the future potential of this model are discussed in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan O Walters
- Prion Cell Biology Unit, Laboratory of Persistent Viral Diseases, Rocky Mountain Laboratories, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, 903 South 4th Street, Hamilton, MT, 59840, USA
| | - Cathryn L Haigh
- Prion Cell Biology Unit, Laboratory of Persistent Viral Diseases, Rocky Mountain Laboratories, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, 903 South 4th Street, Hamilton, MT, 59840, USA.
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12
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Whitehouse C, Corbett N, Brownlees J. 3D models of neurodegeneration: implementation in drug discovery. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2023; 44:208-221. [PMID: 36822950 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2023.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Revised: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
A lack of in vitro models that robustly represent the complex cellular pathologies underlying neurodegeneration has resulted in a translational gap between in vitro and in vivo results, creating a bottleneck in the development of new therapeutics. In the past decade, new and complex 3D models of the brain have been published at an exponential rate. However, many novel 3D models of neurodegeneration overlook the validation and throughput requirements for implementation in drug discovery. This therefore represents a knowledge gap that could hinder the translation of these models to drug discovery efforts. We review the recent progress in the development of 3D models of neurodegeneration, examining model design benefits and validation techniques, and discuss opportunities and standards for 3D models of neurodegeneration to be implemented in drug discovery and development.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nicola Corbett
- MSD R&D Innovation Centre, 120 Moorgate, London EC2M 6UR, UK
| | - Janet Brownlees
- MSD R&D Innovation Centre, 120 Moorgate, London EC2M 6UR, UK
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13
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De Kleijn KMA, Zuure WA, Straasheijm KR, Martens MB, Avramut MC, Koning RI, Martens GJM. Human cortical spheroids with a high diversity of innately developing brain cell types. Stem Cell Res Ther 2023; 14:50. [PMID: 36959625 PMCID: PMC10035191 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-023-03261-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Three-dimensional (3D) human brain spheroids are instrumental to study central nervous system (CNS) development and (dys)function. Yet, in current brain spheroid models the limited variety of cell types hampers an integrated exploration of CNS (disease) mechanisms. METHODS Here we report a 5-month culture protocol that reproducibly generates H9 embryonic stem cell-derived human cortical spheroids (hCSs) with a large cell-type variety. RESULTS We established the presence of not only neuroectoderm-derived neural progenitor populations, mature excitatory and inhibitory neurons, astrocytes and oligodendrocyte (precursor) cells, but also mesoderm-derived microglia and endothelial cell populations in the hCSs via RNA-sequencing, qPCR, immunocytochemistry and transmission electron microscopy. Transcriptomic analysis revealed resemblance between the 5-months-old hCSs and dorsal frontal rather than inferior regions of human fetal brains of 19-26 weeks of gestational age. Pro-inflammatory stimulation of the generated hCSs induced a neuroinflammatory response, offering a proof-of-principle of the applicability of the spheroids. CONCLUSIONS Our protocol provides a 3D human brain cell model containing a wide variety of innately developing neuroectoderm- as well as mesoderm-derived cell types, furnishing a versatile platform for comprehensive examination of intercellular CNS communication and neurological disease mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kim M A De Kleijn
- Department of Molecular Animal Physiology, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Centre for Neuroscience, Faculty of Science, Radboud University, 6525GA, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
- NeuroDrug Research Ltd, 6525ED, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
| | - Wieteke A Zuure
- Department of Molecular Animal Physiology, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Centre for Neuroscience, Faculty of Science, Radboud University, 6525GA, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - M Cristina Avramut
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300RC, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Roman I Koning
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300RC, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Gerard J M Martens
- Department of Molecular Animal Physiology, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Centre for Neuroscience, Faculty of Science, Radboud University, 6525GA, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- NeuroDrug Research Ltd, 6525ED, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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14
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Daviaud N, Chen E, Edwards T, Sadiq SA. Cerebral organoids in primary progressive multiple sclerosis reveal stem cell and oligodendrocyte differentiation defect. Biol Open 2023; 12:286917. [PMID: 36744877 PMCID: PMC10040243 DOI: 10.1242/bio.059845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an auto-immune inflammatory disorder affecting the central nervous system. The cause of the disease is unknown but both genetic and environmental factors are implicated in the pathogenesis. We derived cerebral organoids from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) of healthy control subjects as well as from primary progressive MS (PPMS), secondary progressive MS (SPMS) and relapsing remitting MS (RRMS) patients to better understand the pathologic basis of the varied clinical phenotypic expressions of MS. In MS organoids, most notably in PPMS, we observed a decrease of proliferation marker Ki67 and a reduction of the SOX2+ stem cell pool associated with an increased expression of neuronal markers CTIP2 and TBR1 as well as a strong decrease of oligodendrocyte differentiation. This dysregulation of the stem cell pool is associated with a decreased expression of the cell cycle inhibitor p21. Our findings show that the genetic background of a patient can directly alter stem cell function, provides new insights on the innate cellular dysregulation in MS and identifies p21 pathway as a new potential target for therapeutic strategies in MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Daviaud
- Tisch Multiple Sclerosis Research Center of New York, 521 W. 57th St., 4th floor, New York, NY 10019, USA
| | - Eric Chen
- Tisch Multiple Sclerosis Research Center of New York, 521 W. 57th St., 4th floor, New York, NY 10019, USA
| | - Tara Edwards
- Tisch Multiple Sclerosis Research Center of New York, 521 W. 57th St., 4th floor, New York, NY 10019, USA
| | - Saud A Sadiq
- Tisch Multiple Sclerosis Research Center of New York, 521 W. 57th St., 4th floor, New York, NY 10019, USA
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15
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Dwivedi S, Choudhary P, Gupta A, Singh S. Therapeutical growth in oligodendroglial fate induction via transdifferentiation of stem cells for neuroregenerative therapy. Biochimie 2023; 211:35-56. [PMID: 36842627 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2023.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 02/27/2023]
Abstract
The merits of stem cell therapy and research are undisputed due to their widespread usage in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases and demyelinating disorders. Cell replacement therapy especially revolves around stem cells and their induction into different cell lineages both adult and progenitor - belonging to each germ layer, prior to transplantation or disease modeling studies. The nervous system is abundant in glial cells and among these are oligodendrocytes capable of myelinating new-born neurons and remyelination of axons with lost or damaged myelin sheath. But demyelinating diseases generate tremendous deficit between myelin loss and recovery. To compensate for this loss, analyze the defects in remyelination mechanisms as well as to trigger full recovery in such patients mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been induced to transdifferentiate into oligodendrocytes. But such experiments are riddled with problems like prolonged, tenuous and complicated protocols that stretch longer than the time taken for the spread of demyelination-associated after-effects. This review delves into such protocols and the combinations of different molecules and factors that have been recruited to derive bona fide oligodendrocytes from in vitro differentiation of embryonic stem cells (ESCs), induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and MSCs with special focus on MSC-derived oligodendrocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shrey Dwivedi
- Department of Applied Sciences, Indian Institute of Information Technology, Allahabad, U.P., India
| | - Princy Choudhary
- Department of Applied Sciences, Indian Institute of Information Technology, Allahabad, U.P., India
| | - Ayushi Gupta
- Department of Applied Sciences, Indian Institute of Information Technology, Allahabad, U.P., India
| | - Sangeeta Singh
- Department of Applied Sciences, Indian Institute of Information Technology, Allahabad, U.P., India.
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16
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Khamis ZI, Sarker DB, Xue Y, Al-Akkary N, James VD, Zeng C, Li Y, Sang QXA. Modeling Human Brain Tumors and the Microenvironment Using Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15041253. [PMID: 36831595 PMCID: PMC9954701 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15041253] [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: 01/26/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Brain cancer is a group of diverse and rapidly growing malignancies that originate in the central nervous system (CNS) and have a poor prognosis. The complexity of brain structure and function makes brain cancer modeling extremely difficult, limiting pathological studies and therapeutic developments. Advancements in human pluripotent stem cell technology have opened a window of opportunity for brain cancer modeling, providing a wealth of customizable methods to simulate the disease in vitro. This is achieved with the advent of genome editing and genetic engineering technologies that can simulate germline and somatic mutations found in human brain tumors. This review investigates induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-based approaches to model human brain cancer. The applications of iPSCs as renewable sources of individual brain cell types, brain organoids, blood-brain barrier (BBB), and brain tumor models are discussed. The brain tumor models reviewed are glioblastoma and medulloblastoma. The iPSC-derived isogenic cells and three-dimensional (3D) brain cancer organoids combined with patient-derived xenografts will enhance future compound screening and drug development for these deadly human brain cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahraa I. Khamis
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA
- Department of Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32310, USA
- High-Performance Materials Institute, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32310, USA
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology and Molecular Immunology, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences-I, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Drishty B. Sarker
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA
| | - Yu Xue
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA
| | - Nancy Al-Akkary
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology and Molecular Immunology, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences-I, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Viviana D. James
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA
| | - Changchun Zeng
- Department of Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32310, USA
- High-Performance Materials Institute, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32310, USA
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA
- Institute of Molecular Biophysics, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA
| | - Qing-Xiang Amy Sang
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA
- Institute of Molecular Biophysics, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-850-644-8683; Fax: +1-850-644-8281
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17
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Cuní-López C, Stewart R, White AR, Quek H. 3D in vitro modelling of human patient microglia: A focus on clinical translation and drug development in neurodegenerative diseases. J Neuroimmunol 2023; 375:578017. [PMID: 36657374 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2023.578017] [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: 11/03/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Microglia have an increasingly well-recognised role in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases, thereby becoming attractive therapeutic targets. However, the development of microglia-targeted therapeutics for neurodegeneration has had limited success. This stems partly from the lack of clinically relevant microglia model systems. To circumvent this translational gap, patient-derived microglial cell models established using conventional 2D in vitro techniques have emerged. Though promising, these models lack the microenvironment and multicellular interactions of the brain needed to maintain microglial homeostasis. In this review, we discuss the use of 3D in vitro platforms to improve microglia modelling and their potential benefits to fast-track drug development for neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Cuní-López
- Mental Health and Neuroscience, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane 4006, QLD, Australia; Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane 4006, QLD, Australia.
| | - Romal Stewart
- Mental Health and Neuroscience, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane 4006, QLD, Australia; UQ Centre for Clinical Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane 4006, QLD, Australia.
| | - Anthony R White
- Mental Health and Neuroscience, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane 4006, QLD, Australia; School of Biomedical Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane 4072, QLD, Australia.
| | - Hazel Quek
- Mental Health and Neuroscience, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane 4006, QLD, Australia; School of Biomedical Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane 4072, QLD, Australia; School of Biomedical Science, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane 4059, QLD, Australia.
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18
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McCaughey-Chapman A, Connor B. Cell reprogramming for oligodendrocytes: A review of protocols and their applications to disease modeling and cell-based remyelination therapies. J Neurosci Res 2023; 101:1000-1028. [PMID: 36749877 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.25173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
Oligodendrocytes are a type of glial cells that produce a lipid-rich membrane called myelin. Myelin assembles into a sheath and lines neuronal axons in the brain and spinal cord to insulate them. This not only increases the speed and efficiency of nerve signal transduction but also protects the axons from damage and degradation, which could trigger neuronal cell death. Demyelination, which is caused by a loss of myelin and oligodendrocytes, is a prominent feature of many neurological conditions, including Multiple sclerosis (MS), spinal cord injuries (SCI), and leukodystrophies. Demyelination is followed by a time of remyelination mediated by the recruitment of endogenous oligodendrocyte precursor cells, their migration to the injury site, and differentiation into myelin-producing oligodendrocytes. Unfortunately, endogenous remyelination is not sufficient to overcome demyelination, which explains why there are to date no regenerative-based treatments for MS, SCI, or leukodystrophies. To better understand the role of oligodendrocytes and develop cell-based remyelination therapies, human oligodendrocytes have been derived from somatic cells using cell reprogramming. This review will detail the different cell reprogramming methods that have been developed to generate human oligodendrocytes and their applications to disease modeling and cell-based remyelination therapies. Recent developments in the field have seen the derivation of brain organoids from pluripotent stem cells, and protocols have been devised to incorporate oligodendrocytes within the organoids, which will also be reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy McCaughey-Chapman
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, Centre for Brain Research, School of Medical Science, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Bronwen Connor
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, Centre for Brain Research, School of Medical Science, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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19
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Priyathilaka TT, Laaker CJ, Herbath M, Fabry Z, Sandor M. Modeling infectious diseases of the central nervous system with human brain organoids. Transl Res 2022; 250:18-35. [PMID: 35811019 PMCID: PMC11185418 DOI: 10.1016/j.trsl.2022.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Revised: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Bacteria, fungi, viruses, and protozoa are known to infect and induce diseases in the human central nervous system (CNS). Modeling the mechanisms of interaction between pathogens and the CNS microenvironment is essential to understand their pathophysiology and develop new treatments. Recent advancements in stem cell technologies have allowed for the creation of human brain organoids, which more closely resembles the human CNS microenvironment when compared to classical 2-dimensional (2D) cultures. Now researchers can utilize these systems to investigate and reinvestigate questions related to CNS infection in a human-derived brain organoid system. Here in this review, we highlight several infectious diseases which have been tested in human brain organoids and compare similarities in response to these pathogens across different investigations. We also provide a brief overview of some recent advancements which can further enrich this model to develop new and better therapies to treat brain infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thanthrige Thiunuwan Priyathilaka
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Collin James Laaker
- Neuroscience Training Program, University of Wisconsin Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Melinda Herbath
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Zsuzsanna Fabry
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Matyas Sandor
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin Madison, Madison, Wisconsin.
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20
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Cakir B, Kiral FR, Park IH. Advanced in vitro models: Microglia in action. Neuron 2022; 110:3444-3457. [PMID: 36327894 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2022.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Revised: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
In the central nervous system (CNS), microglia carry out multiple tasks related to brain development, maintenance of brain homeostasis, and function of the CNS. Recent advanced in vitro model systems allow us to perform more detailed and specific analyses of microglial functions in the CNS. The development of human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs)-based 2D and 3D cell culture methods, particularly advancements in brain organoid models, offers a better platform to dissect microglial function in various contexts. Despite the improvement of these methods, there are still definite restrictions. Understanding their drawbacks and benefits ensures their proper use. In this primer, we review current developments regarding in vitro microglial production and characterization and their use to address fundamental questions about microglial function in healthy and diseased states, and we discuss potential future improvements with a particular emphasis on brain organoid models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bilal Cakir
- Department of Genetics, Yale Stem Cell Center, Child Study Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA.
| | - Ferdi Ridvan Kiral
- Department of Genetics, Yale Stem Cell Center, Child Study Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - In-Hyun Park
- Department of Genetics, Yale Stem Cell Center, Child Study Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA.
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21
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Abstract
ABSTRACT
Deconstructing and then reconstructing developmental processes ex vivo is crucial to understanding how organs assemble and how physiology can be disrupted in disease. Human 3D stem cell-derived systems, such as organoids, have facilitated this pursuit; however, they often do not capture inter-tissue or inter-lineage cellular interactions that give rise to emergent tissue properties during development. Assembloids are self-organizing 3D cellular systems that result from the integration of multiple organoids or the combination of organoids with missing cell types or primary tissue explants. Here, we outline the concept and types of assembloids and present their applications for studying the nervous system and other tissues. We describe tools that are used to probe and manipulate assembloids and delineate current challenges and the potential for this new approach to interrogate development and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabina Kanton
- Stanford University 1 Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences , , Stanford, CA 94305, USA
- Stanford Brain Organogenesis Program, Wu Tsai Neuroscience Institute & Bio-X 2 , Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Sergiu P. Paşca
- Stanford University 1 Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences , , Stanford, CA 94305, USA
- Stanford Brain Organogenesis Program, Wu Tsai Neuroscience Institute & Bio-X 2 , Stanford, CA 94305, USA
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22
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Pranty AI, Shumka S, Adjaye J. Bilirubin-Induced Neurological Damage: Current and Emerging iPSC-Derived Brain Organoid Models. Cells 2022; 11:cells11172647. [PMID: 36078055 PMCID: PMC9454749 DOI: 10.3390/cells11172647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Revised: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Bilirubin-induced neurological damage (BIND) has been a subject of studies for decades, yet the molecular mechanisms at the core of this damage remain largely unknown. Throughout the years, many in vivo chronic bilirubin encephalopathy models, such as the Gunn rat and transgenic mice, have further elucidated the molecular basis of bilirubin neurotoxicity as well as the correlations between high levels of unconjugated bilirubin (UCB) and brain damage. Regardless of being invaluable, these models cannot accurately recapitulate the human brain and liver system; therefore, establishing a physiologically recapitulating in vitro model has become a prerequisite to unveil the breadth of complexities that accompany the detrimental effects of UCB on the liver and developing human brain. Stem-cell-derived 3D brain organoid models offer a promising platform as they bear more resemblance to the human brain system compared to existing models. This review provides an explicit picture of the current state of the art, advancements, and challenges faced by the various models as well as the possibilities of using stem-cell-derived 3D organoids as an efficient tool to be included in research, drug screening, and therapeutic strategies for future clinical applications.
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23
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Shaker MR, Kahtan A, Prasad R, Lee JH, Pietrogrande G, Leeson HC, Sun W, Wolvetang EJ, Slonchak A. Neural Epidermal Growth Factor-Like Like Protein 2 Is Expressed in Human Oligodendroglial Cell Types. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:803061. [PMID: 35265611 PMCID: PMC8899196 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.803061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Neural epidermal growth factor-like like 2 (NELL2) is a cytoplasmic and secreted glycosylated protein with six epidermal growth factor-like domains. In animal models, NELL2 is predominantly expressed in neural tissues where it regulates neuronal differentiation, polarization, and axon guidance, but little is known about the role of NELL2 in human brain development. In this study, we show that rostral neural stem cells (rNSC) derived from human-induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) exhibit particularly strong NELL2 expression and that NELL2 protein is enriched at the apical side of neural rosettes in hiPSC-derived brain organoids. Following differentiation of human rostral NSC into neurons, NELL2 remains robustly expressed but changes its subcellular localization from >20 small cytoplasmic foci in NSC to one–five large peri-nuclear puncta per neuron. Unexpectedly, we discovered that in human brain organoids, NELL2 is readily detectable in the oligodendroglia and that the number of NELL2 puncta increases as oligodendrocytes mature. Artificial intelligence-based machine learning further predicts a strong association of NELL2 with multiple human white matter diseases, suggesting that NELL2 may possess yet unexplored roles in regulating oligodendrogenesis and/or myelination during human cortical development and maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed R Shaker
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Amna Kahtan
- St Cloud Technical & Community College, St Cloud, MN, United States
| | - Renuka Prasad
- Department of Anatomy, Brain Korea 21 Plus Program for Biomedical Science, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Ju-Hyun Lee
- Department of Anatomy, Brain Korea 21 Plus Program for Biomedical Science, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Giovanni Pietrogrande
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Hannah C Leeson
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Woong Sun
- Department of Anatomy, Brain Korea 21 Plus Program for Biomedical Science, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Ernst J Wolvetang
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Andrii Slonchak
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
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24
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Hong YJ, Lee SB, Choi J, Yoon SH, Do JT. A Simple Method for Generating Cerebral Organoids from Human Pluripotent Stem Cells. Int J Stem Cells 2022; 15:95-103. [PMID: 35220295 PMCID: PMC8889334 DOI: 10.15283/ijsc21195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2021] [Revised: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Objectives In recent years, brain organoid technologies have been the most innovative advance in neural differentiation research. In line with this, we optimized a method to establish cerebral organoids from feeder-free cultured human pluripotent stem cells. In this study, we focused on the consistent and robust production of cerebral organoids comprising neural progenitor cells and neurons. We propose an optimal protocol for cerebral organoid generation that is applicable to both human embryonic stem cells and human induced pluripotent stem cells. Methods and Results We investigated formation of neuroepithelium, neural tube, and neural folding by observing the morphology of embryoid bodies at each stage during the cerebral organoid differentiation process. Furthermore, we characterized the cerebral organoids via immunocytochemical staining of sectioned organoid samples, which were prepared using a Cryostat and Vibratome. Finally, we established a routine method to generate early cerebral organoids comprising a cortical layer and a neural progenitor zone. Conclusions We developed an optimized methodology for the generation of cerebral organoids using hESCs and hiPSCs. Using this protocol, consistent and efficient cerebral organoids could be obtained from hiPSCs as well as hESCs. Further, the morphology of brain organoids could be analyzed through 2D monitoring via immunostaining and tissue sectioning, or through 3D monitoring by whole tissue staining after clarification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yean Ju Hong
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, KU Institute of Science and Technology, Konkuk University, Seoul, Korea
| | - So been Lee
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, KU Institute of Science and Technology, Konkuk University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Joonhyuk Choi
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, KU Institute of Science and Technology, Konkuk University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sang Hoon Yoon
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, KU Institute of Science and Technology, Konkuk University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jeong Tae Do
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, KU Institute of Science and Technology, Konkuk University, Seoul, Korea
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25
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Abstract
Three-dimensional cultures of human neural tissue/organlike structures in vitro can be achieved by mimicking the developmental processes occurring in vivo. Rapid progress in the field of neural organoids has fueled the hope (and hype) for improved understanding of brain development and functions, modeling of neural diseases, discovery of new drugs, and supply of surrogate sources of transplantation. In this short review, we summarize the state-of-the-art applications of this fascinating tool in various research fields and discuss the reality of the technique hoping that the current limitations will soon be overcome by the efforts of ingenious researchers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ju-Hyun Lee
- Department of Anatomy, Brain Korea 21 Plus Program for Biomedical Science, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul 02841, Korea
| | - Woong Sun
- Department of Anatomy, Brain Korea 21 Plus Program for Biomedical Science, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul 02841, Korea
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26
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Liu B, Zhang N, Yang J, Sun W, Zhang R, Zheng X, Wang Z, Siebert HC, Han J. Preparation, Characterization, Evaluation of Neuroprotective Effect, and Related Mechanisms of Phosphatidylserine Emulsion in 5- and 12-Week Old Mice. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2022; 70:1852-1864. [PMID: 35107277 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.1c07403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Phosphatidylserine (PS) improves learning and memory capacity. In this study, PS formulation was optimized by a response surface methodology. Moreover, we found that PS not only functions as a biologically active component in food preparations but also improves the emulsion's physical stability. Our results showed that the PS emulsions are characterized by a smaller particle size, higher ζ-potential (negative), higher viscosity, and lower surface tension and centrifugal stability constants than the emulsion without PS. Furthermore, we explored the neuroprotective effects of PS emulsion and its underlying mechanisms. Treatment with 2% (w/w) PS emulsion for three months enhanced spatial learning and memory in 5- and 12-week old mice in the Morris water maze test. Western-blotting analysis displayed that the 2% (w/w) PS emulsion treated group upregulated BDNF, TrkB, PSD95, mTOR, MBP, and ErbB4 expression in the hippocampus of 5- and 12-week old mice. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analysis revealed elevated Nrg-1 and ErbB4 mRNA expression in the 2% (w/w) PS emulsion treated groups, and high Nrg-1 and ErbB4 expression levels were associated with better myelination. In conclusion, we reported PS emulsions with high stability and high bioavailability. Meanwhile, 2% (w/w) PS emulsion enhances learning, memory, and myelination in mice by activating the BDNF/TrkB and Nrg-1/ErbB4 signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bingyi Liu
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical Research, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng 252059, China
| | - Ning Zhang
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical Research, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng 252059, China
- RI-B-NT - Research Institute of Bioinformatics and Nanotechnology, Schauenburgerstr.116, 24118 Kiel, Germany
| | - Junrong Yang
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical Research, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng 252059, China
| | - Wei Sun
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical Research, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng 252059, China
| | - Ruiyan Zhang
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical Research, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng 252059, China
- RI-B-NT - Research Institute of Bioinformatics and Nanotechnology, Schauenburgerstr.116, 24118 Kiel, Germany
| | - Xuexing Zheng
- Department of Virology, School of Public Health, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
| | - Zhengping Wang
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical Research, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng 252059, China
- Liaocheng High-Tech Biotechnology Co., Ltd., Liaocheng 252059, China
| | - Hans-Christian Siebert
- RI-B-NT - Research Institute of Bioinformatics and Nanotechnology, Schauenburgerstr.116, 24118 Kiel, Germany
| | - Jun Han
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical Research, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng 252059, China
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27
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Modeling and Targeting Neuroglial Interactions with Human Pluripotent Stem Cell Models. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23031684. [PMID: 35163606 PMCID: PMC8836094 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23031684] [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: 01/05/2022] [Revised: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Generation of relevant and robust models for neurological disorders is of main importance for both target identification and drug discovery. The non-cell autonomous effects of glial cells on neurons have been described in a broad range of neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental disorders, pointing to neuroglial interactions as novel alternative targets for therapeutics development. Interestingly, the recent breakthrough discovery of human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) has opened a new road for studying neurological and neurodevelopmental disorders “in a dish”. Here, we provide an overview of the generation and modeling of both neuronal and glial cells from human iPSCs and a brief synthesis of recent work investigating neuroglial interactions using hiPSCs in a pathophysiological context.
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28
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Hogberg HT, Smirnova L. The Future of 3D Brain Cultures in Developmental Neurotoxicity Testing. FRONTIERS IN TOXICOLOGY 2022; 4:808620. [PMID: 35295222 PMCID: PMC8915853 DOI: 10.3389/ftox.2022.808620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Human brain is undoubtedly the most complex organ in the body. Thus, it is difficult to develop adequate and at the same time human relevant test systems and models to cover the aspects of brain homeostasis and even more challenging to address brain development. Animal tests for Developmental Neurotoxicity (DNT) have been devised, but because of complex underlying mechanisms of neural development, and interspecies differences, there are many limitations of animal-based approaches. The high costs, high number of animals used per test and technical difficulties of these tests are prohibitive for routine DNT chemical screening. Therefore, many potential DNT chemicals remain unidentified. New approach methodologies (NAMs) are needed to change this. Experts in the field have recommended the use of a battery of human in vitro tests to be used for the initial prioritization of high-risk environmental chemicals for DNT testing. Microphysiological systems (MPS) of the brain mimic the in vivo counterpart in terms of cellular composition, recapitulation of regional architecture and functionality. These systems amendable to use in a DNT test battery with promising features such as (i) complexity, (ii) closer recapitulation of in vivo response and (iii) possibility to multiplex many assays in one test system, which can increase throughput and predictivity for human health. The resent progress in 3D brain MPS research, advantages, limitations and future perspectives are discussed in this review.
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29
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Borges AC, Broersen K, Leandro P, Fernandes TG. Engineering Organoids for in vitro Modeling of Phenylketonuria. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 14:787242. [PMID: 35082602 PMCID: PMC8784555 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2021.787242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Phenylketonuria is a recessive genetic disorder of amino-acid metabolism, where impaired phenylalanine hydroxylase function leads to the accumulation of neurotoxic phenylalanine levels in the brain. Severe cognitive and neuronal impairment are observed in untreated/late-diagnosed patients, and even early treated ones are not safe from life-long sequelae. Despite the wealth of knowledge acquired from available disease models, the chronic effect of Phenylketonuria in the brain is still poorly understood and the consequences to the aging brain remain an open question. Thus, there is the need for better predictive models, able to recapitulate specific mechanisms of this disease. Human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs), with their ability to differentiate and self-organize in multiple tissues, might provide a new exciting in vitro platform to model specific PKU-derived neuronal impairment. In this review, we gather what is known about the impact of phenylalanine in the brain of patients and highlight where hiPSC-derived organoids could contribute to the understanding of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice C. Borges
- Department of Bioengineering and iBB – Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory i4HB – Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Kerensa Broersen
- Department of Applied Stem Cell Technologies, Faculty of Science and Technology, Technical Medical Centre, University of Twente, Enschede, Netherlands
| | - Paula Leandro
- Faculty of Pharmacy, iMed.ULisboa - Research Institute for Medicines, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Tiago G. Fernandes
- Department of Bioengineering and iBB – Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory i4HB – Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- *Correspondence: Tiago G. Fernandes,
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30
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Lanciotti A, Brignone MS, Macioce P, Visentin S, Ambrosini E. Human iPSC-Derived Astrocytes: A Powerful Tool to Study Primary Astrocyte Dysfunction in the Pathogenesis of Rare Leukodystrophies. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 23:ijms23010274. [PMID: 35008700 PMCID: PMC8745131 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23010274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Revised: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes are very versatile cells, endowed with multitasking capacities to ensure brain homeostasis maintenance from brain development to adult life. It has become increasingly evident that astrocytes play a central role in many central nervous system pathologies, not only as regulators of defensive responses against brain insults but also as primary culprits of the disease onset and progression. This is particularly evident in some rare leukodystrophies (LDs) where white matter/myelin deterioration is due to primary astrocyte dysfunctions. Understanding the molecular defects causing these LDs may help clarify astrocyte contribution to myelin formation/maintenance and favor the identification of possible therapeutic targets for LDs and other CNS demyelinating diseases. To date, the pathogenic mechanisms of these LDs are poorly known due to the rarity of the pathological tissue and the failure of the animal models to fully recapitulate the human diseases. Thus, the development of human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSC) from patient fibroblasts and their differentiation into astrocytes is a promising approach to overcome these issues. In this review, we discuss the primary role of astrocytes in LD pathogenesis, the experimental models currently available and the advantages, future evolutions, perspectives, and limitations of hiPSC to study pathologies implying astrocyte dysfunctions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Lanciotti
- Department of Neuroscience, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00169 Rome, Italy; (A.L.); (M.S.B.); (P.M.)
| | - Maria Stefania Brignone
- Department of Neuroscience, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00169 Rome, Italy; (A.L.); (M.S.B.); (P.M.)
| | - Pompeo Macioce
- Department of Neuroscience, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00169 Rome, Italy; (A.L.); (M.S.B.); (P.M.)
| | - Sergio Visentin
- National Center for Research and Preclinical and Clinical Evaluation of Drugs, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00169 Rome, Italy;
| | - Elena Ambrosini
- Department of Neuroscience, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00169 Rome, Italy; (A.L.); (M.S.B.); (P.M.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-064-990-2037
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31
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Bhattacharya A, Choi WWY, Muffat J, Li Y. Modeling Developmental Brain Diseases Using Human Pluripotent Stem Cells-Derived Brain Organoids - Progress and Perspective. J Mol Biol 2021; 434:167386. [PMID: 34883115 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2021.167386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2021] [Revised: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Developmental brain diseases encompass a group of conditions resulting from genetic or environmental perturbations during early development. Despite the increased research attention in recent years following recognition of the prevalence of these diseases, there is still a significant lack of knowledge of their etiology and treatment options. The genetic and clinical heterogeneity of these diseases, in addition to the limitations of experimental animal models, contribute to this difficulty. In this regard, the advent of brain organoid technology has provided a new means to study the cause and progression of developmental brain diseases in vitro. Derived from human pluripotent stem cells, brain organoids have been shown to recapitulate key developmental milestones of the early human brain. Combined with technological advancements in genome editing, tissue engineering, electrophysiology, and multi-omics analysis, brain organoids have expanded the frontiers of human neurobiology, providing valuable insight into the cellular and molecular mechanisms of normal and pathological brain development. This review will summarize the current progress of applying brain organoids to model human developmental brain diseases and discuss the challenges that need to be overcome to further advance their utility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Afrin Bhattacharya
- Program in Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, The Hospital for Sick Children, 686 Bay Street, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada; The University of Toronto, Department of Molecular Genetics, 1 King's College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Wendy W Y Choi
- Program in Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, The Hospital for Sick Children, 686 Bay Street, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada; The University of Toronto, Department of Molecular Genetics, 1 King's College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada; Program in Genetics and Genome Biology, The Hospital for Sick Children, 686 Bay Street, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada
| | - Julien Muffat
- Program in Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, The Hospital for Sick Children, 686 Bay Street, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada; The University of Toronto, Department of Molecular Genetics, 1 King's College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada; Program in Neurosciences and Mental Health, The Hospital for Sick Children, 686 Bay Street, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada
| | - Yun Li
- Program in Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, The Hospital for Sick Children, 686 Bay Street, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada; The University of Toronto, Department of Molecular Genetics, 1 King's College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada.
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32
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Marangon D, Caporale N, Boccazzi M, Abbracchio MP, Testa G, Lecca D. Novel in vitro Experimental Approaches to Study Myelination and Remyelination in the Central Nervous System. Front Cell Neurosci 2021; 15:748849. [PMID: 34720882 PMCID: PMC8551863 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2021.748849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Myelin is the lipidic insulating structure enwrapping axons and allowing fast saltatory nerve conduction. In the central nervous system, myelin sheath is the result of the complex packaging of multilamellar extensions of oligodendrocyte (OL) membranes. Before reaching myelinating capabilities, OLs undergo a very precise program of differentiation and maturation that starts from OL precursor cells (OPCs). In the last 20 years, the biology of OPCs and their behavior under pathological conditions have been studied through several experimental models. When co-cultured with neurons, OPCs undergo terminal maturation and produce myelin tracts around axons, allowing to investigate myelination in response to exogenous stimuli in a very simple in vitro system. On the other hand, in vivo models more closely reproducing some of the features of human pathophysiology enabled to assess the consequences of demyelination and the molecular mechanisms of remyelination, and they are often used to validate the effect of pharmacological agents. However, they are very complex, and not suitable for large scale drug discovery screening. Recent advances in cell reprogramming, biophysics and bioengineering have allowed impressive improvements in the methodological approaches to study brain physiology and myelination. Rat and mouse OPCs can be replaced by human OPCs obtained by induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) derived from healthy or diseased individuals, thus offering unprecedented possibilities for personalized disease modeling and treatment. OPCs and neural cells can be also artificially assembled, using 3D-printed culture chambers and biomaterial scaffolds, which allow modeling cell-to-cell interactions in a highly controlled manner. Interestingly, scaffold stiffness can be adopted to reproduce the mechanosensory properties assumed by tissues in physiological or pathological conditions. Moreover, the recent development of iPSC-derived 3D brain cultures, called organoids, has made it possible to study key aspects of embryonic brain development, such as neuronal differentiation, maturation and network formation in temporal dynamics that are inaccessible to traditional in vitro cultures. Despite the huge potential of organoids, their application to myelination studies is still in its infancy. In this review, we shall summarize the novel most relevant experimental approaches and their implications for the identification of remyelinating agents for human diseases such as multiple sclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davide Marangon
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology of Purinergic Transmission, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Nicolò Caporale
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Human Technopole, Milan, Italy
| | - Marta Boccazzi
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology of Purinergic Transmission, Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Maria P. Abbracchio
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology of Purinergic Transmission, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Testa
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Human Technopole, Milan, Italy
| | - Davide Lecca
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology of Purinergic Transmission, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
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33
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Fernandes S, Klein D, Marchetto MC. Unraveling Human Brain Development and Evolution Using Organoid Models. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:737429. [PMID: 34692694 PMCID: PMC8529117 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.737429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain organoids are proving to be physiologically relevant models for studying human brain development in terms of temporal transcriptional signature recapitulation, dynamic cytoarchitectural development, and functional electrophysiological maturation. Several studies have employed brain organoid technologies to elucidate human-specific processes of brain development, gene expression, and cellular maturation by comparing human-derived brain organoids to those of non-human primates (NHPs). Brain organoids have been established from a variety of NHP pluripotent stem cell (PSC) lines and many protocols are now available for generating brain organoids capable of reproducibly representing specific brain region identities. Innumerous combinations of brain region specific organoids derived from different human and NHP PSCs, with CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing techniques and strategies to promote advanced stages of maturation, will successfully establish complex brain model systems for the accurate representation and elucidation of human brain development. Identified human-specific processes of brain development are likely vulnerable to dysregulation and could result in the identification of therapeutic targets or disease prevention strategies. Here, we discuss the potential of brain organoids to successfully model human-specific processes of brain development and explore current strategies for pinpointing these differences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Fernandes
- Laboratory of Genetics, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA, United States
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Davis Klein
- Laboratory of Genetics, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA, United States
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Maria C. Marchetto
- Laboratory of Genetics, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA, United States
- Department of Anthropology, Center for Academic Research and Training in Anthropogeny (CARTA), University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
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34
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Valori CF, Neumann M. Contribution of RNA/DNA Binding Protein Dysfunction in Oligodendrocytes in the Pathogenesis of the Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis/Frontotemporal Lobar Degeneration Spectrum Diseases. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:724891. [PMID: 34539339 PMCID: PMC8440855 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.724891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD) are two incurable neurodegenerative disorders, often considered as the extreme manifestations of a disease spectrum, as they share similar pathomechanisms. In support of this, pathological aggregation of the RNA/DNA binding proteins trans-activation response element DNA-binding protein 43 (TDP-43) or fused in sarcoma (FUS) is the pathological hallmark found in neurons and glial cells of subsets of patients affected by either condition (i.e., ALS/FTLD—TDP-43 or ALS/FTLD—FUS, respectively). Among glia, oligodendrocytes are the most abundant population, designated to ensheath the axons with myelin and to provide them with metabolic and trophic support. In this minireview, we recapitulate the neuropathological evidence for oligodendroglia impairment in ALS/FTLD. We then debate how TDP-43 and FUS target oligodendrocyte transcripts, thereby controlling their homeostatic abilities toward the axons. Finally, we discuss cellular and animal models aimed at investigating the functional consequences of manipulating TDP-43 and FUS in oligodendrocytes in vivo. Taken together, current data provide increasing evidence for an important role of TDP-43 and FUS-mediated oligodendroglia dysfunction in the pathogenesis of ALS/FTLD. Thus, targeting disrupted oligodendroglial functions may represent a new treatment approach for these conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara F Valori
- Molecular Neuropathology of Neurodegenerative Diseases, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Manuela Neumann
- Molecular Neuropathology of Neurodegenerative Diseases, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Tübingen, Germany.,Department of Neuropathology, University Hospital of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
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35
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Klotho inhibits neuronal senescence in human brain organoids. NPJ Aging Mech Dis 2021; 7:18. [PMID: 34341344 PMCID: PMC8329278 DOI: 10.1038/s41514-021-00070-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Aging is a major risk factor for many neurodegenerative diseases. Klotho (KL) is a glycosylated transmembrane protein that is expressed in the choroid plexus and neurons of the brain. KL exerts potent anti-aging effects on multiple cell types in the body but its role in human brain cells remains largely unclear. Here we show that human cortical neurons, derived from human pluripotent stem cells in 2D cultures or in cortical organoids, develop the typical hallmarks of senescent cells when maintained in vitro for prolonged periods of time, and that moderate upregulation or repression of endogenous KL expression in cortical organoids inhibits and accelerates senescence, respectively. We further demonstrate that KL expression alters the expression of senescence-associated genes including, extracellular matrix genes, and proteoglycans, and can act in a paracrine fashion to inhibit neuronal senescence. In summary, our results establish an important role for KL in the regulation of human neuronal senescence and offer new mechanistic insight into its role in human brain aging.
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