Exploiting Heparan Sulfate Proteoglycans in Human Neurogenesis-Controlling Lineage Specification and Fate

Heparan sulfate proteoglycans: Mediators of cellular and molecular Alzheimer's disease pathogenic factors via tunnelling nanotubes?

Neurological disorders impact around one billion individuals globally (15 % approx.), with significant implications for disability and mortality with their impact in Australia currently amounts to 6.8 million deaths annually. Heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs) are complex extracellular molecules implicated in promoting Tau fibril formation resulting in Tau tangles, a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease (AD). HSPG-Tau protein interactions contribute to various AD stages via aggregation, toxicity, and clearance, largely via interactions with the glypican 1 and syndecan 3 core proteins. The tunnelling nanotubes (TNTs) pathway is emerging as a facilitator of intercellular molecule transport, including Tau and Amyloid β proteins, across extensive distances. While current TNT-associated evidence primarily stems from cancer models, their role in Tau propagation and its effects on recipient cells remain unclear. This review explores the interplay of TNTs, HSPGs, and AD-related factors and proposes that HSPGs influence TNT formation in neurodegenerative conditions such as AD.

Exploring the properties and potential of the neural extracellular matrix for next-generation regenerative therapies

The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a dynamic and complex network of proteins and molecules that surrounds cells and tissues in the nervous system and orchestrates a myriad of biological functions. This review carefully examines the diverse interactions between cells and the ECM, as well as the transformative chemical and physical changes that the ECM undergoes during neural development, aging, and disease. These transformations play a pivotal role in shaping tissue morphogenesis and neural activity, thereby influencing the functionality of the central nervous system (CNS). In our comprehensive review, we describe the diverse behaviors of the CNS ECM in different physiological and pathological scenarios and explore the unique properties that make ECM-based strategies attractive for CNS repair and regeneration. Addressing the challenges of scalability, variability, and integration with host tissues, we review how advanced natural, synthetic, and combinatorial matrix approaches enhance biocompatibility, mechanical properties, and functional recovery. Overall, this review highlights the potential of decellularized ECM as a powerful tool for CNS modeling and regenerative purposes and sets the stage for future research in this exciting field. This article is categorized under: Implantable Materials and Surgical Technologies > Nanotechnology in Tissue Repair and Replacement Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Nanomedicine for Neurological Disease Implantable Materials and Surgical Technologies > Nanomaterials and Implants.

Exploring Heparan Sulfate Proteoglycans as Mediators of Human Mesenchymal Stem Cell Neurogenesis

Alzheimer's disease (AD) and traumatic brain injury (TBI) are major public health issues worldwide, with over 38 million people living with AD and approximately 48 million people (27-69 million) experiencing TBI annually. Neurodegenerative conditions are characterised by the accumulation of neurotoxic amyloid beta (Aβ) and microtubule-associated protein Tau (Tau) with current treatments focused on managing symptoms rather than addressing the underlying cause. Heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs) are a diverse family of macromolecules that interact with various proteins and ligands and promote neurogenesis, a process where new neural cells are formed from stem cells. The syndecan (SDC) and glypican (GPC) HSPGs have been implicated in AD pathogenesis, acting as drivers of disease, as well as potential therapeutic targets. Human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) provide an attractive therapeutic option for studying and potentially treating neurodegenerative diseases due to their relative ease of isolation and subsequent extensive in vitro expansive potential. Understanding how HSPGs regulate protein aggregation, a key feature of neurodegenerative disorders, is essential to unravelling the underlying disease processes of AD and TBI, as well as any link between these two neurological disorders. Further research may validate HSPG, specifically SDCs or GPCs, use as neurodegenerative disease targets, either via driving hMSC stem cell therapy or direct targeting.

Identification of the growth cone as a probe and driver of neuronal migration in the injured brain

Axonal growth cones mediate axonal guidance and growth regulation. We show that migrating neurons in mice possess a growth cone at the tip of their leading process, similar to that of axons, in terms of the cytoskeletal dynamics and functional responsivity through protein tyrosine phosphatase receptor type sigma (PTPσ). Migrating-neuron growth cones respond to chondroitin sulfate (CS) through PTPσ and collapse, which leads to inhibition of neuronal migration. In the presence of CS, the growth cones can revert to their extended morphology when their leading filopodia interact with heparan sulfate (HS), thus re-enabling neuronal migration. Implantation of an HS-containing biomaterial in the CS-rich injured cortex promotes the extension of the growth cone and improve the migration and regeneration of neurons, thereby enabling functional recovery. Thus, the growth cone of migrating neurons is responsive to extracellular environments and acts as a primary regulator of neuronal migration.

Hippo cell signaling and HS-proteoglycans regulate tissue form and function, age-dependent maturation, extracellular matrix remodeling, and repair

This review examined how Hippo cell signaling and heparan sulfate (HS)-proteoglycans (HSPGs) regulate tissue form and function. Despite being a nonweight-bearing tissue, the brain is regulated by Hippo mechanoresponsive cell signaling pathways during embryonic development. HS-proteoglycans interact with growth factors, morphogens, and extracellular matrix components to regulate development and pathology. Pikachurin and Eyes shut (Eys) interact with dystroglycan to stabilize the photoreceptor axoneme primary cilium and ribbon synapse facilitating phototransduction and neurotransduction with bipolar retinal neuronal networks in ocular vision, the primary human sense. Another HSPG, Neurexin interacts with structural and adaptor proteins to stabilize synapses and ensure specificity of neural interactions, and aids in synaptic potentiation and plasticity in neurotransduction. HSPGs also stabilize the blood-brain barrier and motor neuron basal structures in the neuromuscular junction. Agrin and perlecan localize acetylcholinesterase and its receptors in the neuromuscular junction essential for neuromuscular control. The primary cilium is a mechanosensory hub on neurons, utilized by YES associated protein (YAP)-transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ) Hippo, Hh, Wnt, transforming growth factor (TGF)-β/bone matrix protein (BMP) receptor tyrosine kinase cell signaling. Members of the glypican HSPG proteoglycan family interact with Smoothened and Patched G-protein coupled receptors on the cilium to regulate Hh and Wnt signaling during neuronal development. Control of glycosyl sulfotransferases and endogenous protease expression by Hippo TAZ YAP represents a mechanism whereby the fine structure of HS-proteoglycans can be potentially modulated spatiotemporally to regulate tissue morphogenesis in a similar manner to how Hippo signaling controls sialyltransferase expression and mediation of cell-cell recognition, dysfunctional sialic acid expression is a feature of many tumors.

Application of mesenchymal stem cells in regenerative medicine: A new approach in modern medical science

Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) are non-hematopoietic and multipotent stem cells, which have been considered in regenerative medicine. These cells are easily separated from different sources, such as bone marrow (BM), umbilical cord (UC), adipose tissue (AT), and etc. MSCs have the differentiation capability into chondrocytes, osteocytes, and adipocytes; This differentiation potential along with the paracrine properties have made them a key choice for tissue repair. MSCs also have various advantages over other stem cells, which is why they have been extensively studied in recent years. The effectiveness of MSCs-based therapies depend on several factors, including differentiation status at the time of use, concentration per injection, delivery method, the used vehicle, and the nature and extent of the damage. Although, MSCs have emerged promising sources for regenerative medicine, there are potential risks regarding their safety in their clinical use, including tumorigenesis, lack of availability, aging, and sensitivity to toxic environments. In this study, we aimed to discuss how MSCs may be useful in treating defects and diseases. To this aim, we will review recent advances of MSCs action mechanisms in regenerative medicine, as well as the most recent clinical trials. We will also have a brief overview of MSCs resources, differences between their sources, culture conditions, extraction methods, and clinical application of MSCs in various fields of regenerative medicine.

A facile method to generate cerebral organoids from human pluripotent stem cells

Human cerebral organoids (COs) are self-organizing three-dimensional (3D) neural structures that provide a human-specific platform to study the cellular and molecular processes that underlie different neurological events. The first step of CO generation from human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) is neural induction, which is an in vitro simulation of neural ectoderm development. Several signaling pathways cooperate during neural ectoderm development and in vitro differentiation of hPSCs toward neural cell lineages is also affected by them. In this study, we considered some of the known sources of these variable signaling cues arising from cell culture media components and sought to modulate their effects by applying a comprehensive combination of small molecules and growth factors for CO generation. Histological analysis demonstrated that these COs recapitulate the neural progenitor zone and early cortical layer organization, containing different types of neuronal and glial cells which was in accordance with single-nucleus transcriptome profiling results. Moreover, patch clamp and intracellular Ca2+ dynamic studies demonstrated that the COs behave as a functional neural network. Thus, this method serves as a facile protocol for generating hPSC-derived COs that faithfully mimic the features of their in vivo counterparts in the developing human brain. See also Figure 1(Fig. 1).

Designing ECM-inspired supramolecular scaffolds by utilizing the interactions between a minimalistic neuroactive peptide and heparin

Short bioactive peptide-based supramolecular hydrogels are emerging as interesting candidates for developing scaffolds for tissue engineering applications. However, proteins and peptides represent only a single class of molecules present in the native ECM, thus, recapitulating the complete ECM microenvironment via only peptide-based biomaterials is extremely challenging. In this direction, complex multicomponent-based biomaterials have started gaining importance for achieving the biofunctional complexity and structural hierarchy of the native ECM. Sugar-peptide complexes can be explored in this direction as they provide essential biological signaling required for cellular growth and survival in vivo. In this direction, we explored the fabrication of an advanced scaffold by employing heparin and short bioactive peptide interactions at the molecular level. Interestingly, the addition of heparin into the peptide has significantly modulated the supramolecular organization, nanofibrous morphology and the mechanical properties of the scaffold. Additionally, the combined hydrogels demonstrated superior biocompatibility as compared to the peptide counterpart at certain ratios. These newly developed scaffolds were also observed to be stable under 3-D cell culture conditions and supported cellular adhesion and proliferation. Most importantly, the inflammatory response was also minimized in the case of combined hydrogels as compared to heparin. We expect that this approach of using simple non-covalent interactions between the ECM-inspired small molecules to fabricate biomaterials with improved mechanical and biological properties could advance the current knowledge on designing ECM mimetic biomaterials. Such an attempt would create a novel, adaptable and simplistic bottom-up strategy for the invention of new and more complex biomaterials of ECM origin with advanced functions.

A phase I/II study on intracerebroventricular tralesinidase alfa in patients with Sanfilippo syndrome type B

BackgroundSanfilippo type B is a mucopolysaccharidosis (MPS) with a major neuronopathic component characterized by heparan sulfate (HS) accumulation due to mutations in the NAGLU gene encoding alfa-N-acetyl-glucosaminidase. Enzyme replacement therapy for neuronopathic MPS requires efficient enzyme delivery throughout the brain in order to normalize HS levels, prevent brain atrophy, and potentially delay cognitive decline.MethodsIn this phase I/II open-label study, patients with MPS type IIIB (n = 22) were treated with tralesinidase alfa administered i.c.v. The patients were monitored for drug exposure; total HS and HS nonreducing end (HS-NRE) levels in both cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and plasma; anti-drug antibody response; brain, spleen, and liver volumes as measured by MRI; and cognitive development as measured by age-equivalent (AEq) scores.ResultsIn the Part 1 dose escalation (30, 100, and 300 mg) phase, a 300 mg dose of tralesinidase alfa was necessary to achieve normalization of HS and HS-NRE levels in the CSF and plasma. In Part 2, 300 mg tralesinidase alfa sustained HS and HS-NRE normalization in the CSF and stabilized cortical gray matter volume (CGMV) over 48 weeks of treatment. Resolution of hepatomegaly and a reduction in spleen volume were observed in most patients. Significant correlations were also established between the change in cognitive AEq score and plasma drug exposure, plasma HS-NRE levels, and CGMV.ConclusionAdministration of tralesinidase alfa i.c.v. effectively normalized HS and HS-NRE levels as a prerequisite for clinical efficacy. Peripheral drug exposure data suggest a role for the glymphatic system in altering tralesinidase alfa efficacy.Trial registrationClinicaltrials.gov NCT02754076.FUNDINGBioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc. and Allievex Corporation.

Mimicking the neural stem cell niche: An engineer’s view of cell: material interactions

Neural stem cells have attracted attention in recent years to treat neurodegeneration. There are two neurogenic regions in the brain where neural stem cells reside, one of which is called the subventricular zone (SVZ). The SVZ niche is a complicated microenvironment providing cues to regulate self-renewal and differentiation while maintaining the neural stem cell’s pool. Many scientists have spent years understanding the cellular and structural characteristics of the SVZ niche, both in homeostasis and pathological conditions. On the other hand, engineers focus primarily on designing platforms using the knowledge they acquire to understand the effect of individual factors on neural stem cell fate decisions. This review provides a general overview of what we know about the components of the SVZ niche, including the residing cells, extracellular matrix (ECM), growth factors, their interactions, and SVZ niche changes during aging and neurodegenerative diseases. Furthermore, an overview will be given on the biomaterials used to mimic neurogenic niche microenvironments and the design considerations applied to add bioactivity while meeting the structural requirements. Finally, it will discuss the potential gaps in mimicking the microenvironment.

Synthetic Heparan Sulfate Hydrogels Regulate Neurotrophic Factor Signaling and Neuronal Network Activity

Three-dimensional (3D) synthetic heparan sulfate (HS) constructs possess promising attributes for neural tissue engineering applications. However, their sulfation-dependent ability to facilitate molecular recognition and cell signaling has not yet been investigated. We hypothesized that fully sulfated synthetic HS constructs (bearing compound 1) that are functionalized with neural adhesion peptides will enhance fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF2) binding and complexation with FGF receptor-1 (FGFR1) to promote the proliferation and neuronal differentiation of human neural stem cells (hNSCs) when compared to constructs with unsulfated controls (bearing compound 2). We tested this hypothesis in vitro using 2D and 3D substrates consisting of different combinations of HS tetrasaccharides (compounds 3 and 4) and an engineered integrin-binding chimeric peptide (CP), which were assembled using strain-promoted alkyne-azide cycloaddition (SPAAC) chemistry. Results indicated that the adhesion of hNSCs increased significantly when cultured on 2D glass substrates functionalized with chimeric peptide. hNSCs encapsulated in 1-CP hydrogels and cultured in media containing the mitogen FGF2 exhibited significantly higher neuronal differentiation when compared to hNSCs in 2-CP hydrogels. These observations were corroborated by Western blot analysis, which indicated the enhanced binding and retention of both FGF2 and FGFR1 by 1 as well as downstream phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERK1/2) and enhanced proliferation of hNSCs. Lastly, calcium activity imaging revealed that both 1 and 2 hydrogels supported the neuronal growth and activity of pre-differentiated human prefrontal cortex neurons. Collectively, these results demonstrate that synthetic HS hydrogels can be tailored to regulate growth factor signaling and neuronal fate and activity.

Fractone Stem Cell Niche Components Provide Intuitive Clues in the Design of New Therapeutic Procedures/Biomatrices for Neural Repair

The aim of this study was to illustrate recent developments in neural repair utilizing hyaluronan as a carrier of olfactory bulb stem cells and in new bioscaffolds to promote neural repair. Hyaluronan interacts with brain hyalectan proteoglycans in protective structures around neurons in perineuronal nets, which also have roles in the synaptic plasticity and development of neuronal cognitive properties. Specialist stem cell niches termed fractones located in the sub-ventricular and sub-granular regions of the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus migrate to the olfactory bulb, which acts as a reserve of neuroprogenitor cells in the adult brain. The extracellular matrix associated with the fractone stem cell niche contains hyaluronan, perlecan and laminin α5, which regulate the quiescent recycling of stem cells and also provide a means of escaping to undergo the proliferation and differentiation to a pluripotent migratory progenitor cell type that can participate in repair processes in neural tissues. Significant improvement in the repair of spinal cord injury and brain trauma has been reported using this approach. FGF-2 sequestered by perlecan in the neuroprogenitor niche environment aids in these processes. Therapeutic procedures have been developed using olfactory ensheathing stem cells and hyaluronan as a carrier to promote neural repair processes. Now that recombinant perlecan domain I and domain V are available, strategies may also be expected in the near future using these to further promote neural repair strategies.

Engineering Tissues of the Central Nervous System: Interfacing Conductive Biomaterials with Neural Stem/Progenitor Cells

Conductive biomaterials provide an important control for engineering neural tissues, where electrical stimulation can potentially direct neural stem/progenitor cell (NS/PC) maturation into functional neuronal networks. It is anticipated that stem cell-based therapies to repair damaged central nervous system (CNS) tissues and ex vivo, "tissue chip" models of the CNS and its pathologies will each benefit from the development of biocompatible, biodegradable, and conductive biomaterials. Here, technological advances in conductive biomaterials are reviewed over the past two decades that may facilitate the development of engineered tissues with integrated physiological and electrical functionalities. First, one briefly introduces NS/PCs of the CNS. Then, the significance of incorporating microenvironmental cues, to which NS/PCs are naturally programmed to respond, into biomaterial scaffolds is discussed with a focus on electrical cues. Next, practical design considerations for conductive biomaterials are discussed followed by a review of studies evaluating how conductive biomaterials can be engineered to control NS/PC behavior by mimicking specific functionalities in the CNS microenvironment. Finally, steps researchers can take to move NS/PC-interfacing, conductive materials closer to clinical translation are discussed.

Paradoxical effects of osteoprotegerin on vascular function: inhibiting inflammation while promoting oxidative stress?

Osteoprotegerin (OPG), also known as osteoclastogenesis inhibitory factor or tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily member 11B, is well known as a modulator of bone remodeling. The contribution of OPG to cardiovascular disease (CVD) has been suggested, but its molecular mechanism is complex and remains unclear. In the present study, Alves-Lopes et al. (Clin. Sci. (Lond.) (2021) 135(20): https://doi.org/10.1042/CS20210643) reported the critical role of syndecan-1 (SDC-1, also known as CD138), a surface protein part of the endothelial glycocalyx, in OPG-induced vascular dysfunction. The authors found that in endothelial cells (ECs), through SDC-1, OPG increased eNOS Thr495 phosphorylation, thereby inhibiting eNOS activity. Furthermore, the OPG-SDC-1 interaction increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production through NOX1/4 activation. Both the reduced eNOS activity and induced ROS production inhibited NO production and impaired EC function. In vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), the OPG-SDC-1 interaction increased ROS production through NOX1/4 activation, subsequently increased MLC phosphorylation-mediated Rho kinase-MYPT1 regulation, leading to increased vascular contraction. Ultilizing wire myography and mechanistic studies, the authors nicely provide the evidence that SDC-1 plays a crucial role in OPG-induced vascular dysfunction. As we mentioned above, the molecular mechanism and roles of OPG in cardiovascular system are complex and somewhat confusing. In this commentary, we briefly summarize the OPG-mediated signaling pathways in cardiovascular system.

The Role of the Extracellular Matrix in Neural Progenitor Cell Proliferation and Cortical Folding During Human Neocortex Development

Extracellular matrix (ECM) has long been known to regulate many aspects of neural development in many different species. However, the role of the ECM in the development of the human neocortex is not yet fully understood. In this review we discuss the role of the ECM in human neocortex development and the different model systems that can be used to investigate this. In particular, we will focus on how the ECM regulates human neural stem and progenitor cell proliferation and differentiation, how the ECM regulates the architecture of the developing human neocortex and the effect of mutations in ECM and ECM-associated genes in neurodevelopmental disorders.

Optimal Extracellular Matrix Niches for Neurogenesis: Identifying Glycosaminoglycan Chain Composition in the Subventricular Neurogenic Zone

In the adult mammalian brain, new neurons are generated in a restricted region called the neurogenic niche, which refers to the specific regulatory microenvironment of neural stem cells (NSCs). Among the constituents of neurogenic niches, the extracellular matrix (ECM) has emerged as a key player in NSC maintenance, proliferation, and differentiation. In particular, heparan sulfate (HS) proteoglycans are capable of regulating various growth factor signaling pathways that influence neurogenesis. In this review, we summarize our current understanding of the ECM niche in the adult subventricular zone (SVZ), with a special focus on basement membrane (BM)-like structures called fractones, and discuss how fractones, particularly their composition of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), may influence neurogenesis.

Glypican 4 Regulates Aβ Internalization in Neural Stem Cells Partly via Low-Density Lipoprotein Receptor-Related Protein 1

Neural stem cell (NSC) damage has been reported in patients with Alzheimer’s disease. Intracellular Aβ plays a vital role in NSC damage. Heparan sulfate proteoglycans are potent mediators of Aβ enrichment in the brain. We hypothesized the heparan sulfate proteoglycan glypican 4 (Gpc4) regulates Aβ internalization by NSCs. We evaluated Gpc4 expression in NSCs from P0–P2 generations using immunofluorescence. Adenovirus and lentivirus were used to regulate Gpc4 expression in NSCs and APP/PS1 mice, respectively. Co-immunoprecipitation was used to determine the relationship between Gpc4, Aβ, and low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1 (LRP1). Intracellular Aβ concentrations were detected using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and immunofluorescence. The role of Gpc4/LRP1 on toxic/physical Aβ-induced effects was evaluated using the JC-1 kit, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUPT nick end labeling, and western blotting. Gpc4 was stably expressed in NSCs, neurons, and astrocytes. Gpc4 was upregulated by Aβ in NSCs and regulated Aβ internalization. Gpc4 attenuation reduced Aβ uptake; Gpc4 overexpression increased Aβ uptake. Gpc4 regulated Aβ internalization through LRP1 and contributed to Aβ internalization and toxic/physical concentrations of Aβ-induced mitochondrial membrane potential and cell apoptosis, partly via LRP1. Therefore, Gpc4 is a key regulator of Aβ enrichment in NSCs. Inhibiting Gpc4 rescued the Aβ-induced toxic effect and attenuated the nontoxic Aβ enrichment into intracellular toxic concentrations. Gpc4 contributed to Aβ internalization and toxic/physical concentrations of Aβ-induced mitochondrial membrane potential damage and cell apoptosis, partly via LRP1. These findings suggest a potential role of Gpc4 in treating Alzheimer’s disease at an early stage, by targeting NSCs.

The Hippocampal Vulnerability to Herpes Simplex Virus Type I Infection: Relevance to Alzheimer's Disease and Memory Impairment

Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) as a possible infectious etiology in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) has been proposed since the 1980s. The accumulating research thus far continues to support the association and a possible causal role of HSV-1 in the development of AD. HSV-1 has been shown to induce neuropathological and behavioral changes of AD, such as amyloid-beta accumulation, tau hyperphosphorylation, as well as memory and learning impairments in experimental settings. However, a neuroanatomical standpoint of HSV-1 tropism in the brain has not been emphasized in detail. In this review, we propose that the hippocampal vulnerability to HSV-1 infection plays a part in the development of AD and amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI). Henceforth, this review draws on human studies to bridge HSV-1 to hippocampal-related brain disorders, namely AD and aMCI/MCI. Next, experimental models and clinical observations supporting the neurotropism or predilection of HSV-1 to infect the hippocampus are examined. Following this, factors and mechanisms predisposing the hippocampus to HSV-1 infection are discussed. In brief, the hippocampus has high levels of viral cellular receptors, neural stem or progenitor cells (NSCs/NPCs), glucocorticoid receptors (GRs) and amyloid precursor protein (APP) that support HSV-1 infectivity, as well as inadequate antiviral immunity against HSV-1. Currently, the established diseases HSV-1 causes are mucocutaneous lesions and encephalitis; however, this review revises that HSV-1 may also induce and/or contribute to hippocampal-related brain disorders, especially AD and aMCI/MCI.

Expression and Role of Heparan Sulfated Proteoglycans in Pancreatic Cancer

Pancreatic cancer is a lethal condition with poor outcomes and an increasing incidence. The unfavourable prognosis is due to the lack of early symptoms and consequent late diagnosis. An effective method for the early diagnosis of pancreatic cancer is therefore sought by many researchers in the field. Heparan sulfated proteoglycan-related genes are often expressed differently in tumors than in normal tissues. Alteration of the tumor microenvironment is correlated with the ability of heparan sulfated proteoglycans to bind cytokines and growth factors and eventually to influence tumor progression. Here we discuss the importance of glypicans, syndecans, perlecan and extracellular matrix modifying enzymes, such as heparanases and sulfatases, as potential diagnostics in pancreatic cancer. We also ran an analysis on a multidimensional cancer genomics database for heparan sulfated proteoglycan-related genes, and report altered expression of some of them.

Heparan Sulfate Proteoglycans in Viral Infection and Treatment: A Special Focus on SARS-CoV-2

Heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs) encompass a group of glycoproteins composed of unbranched negatively charged heparan sulfate (HS) chains covalently attached to a core protein. The complex HSPG biosynthetic machinery generates an extraordinary structural variety of HS chains that enable them to bind a plethora of ligands, including growth factors, morphogens, cytokines, chemokines, enzymes, matrix proteins, and bacterial and viral pathogens. These interactions translate into key regulatory activity of HSPGs on a wide range of cellular processes such as receptor activation and signaling, cytoskeleton assembly, extracellular matrix remodeling, endocytosis, cell-cell crosstalk, and others. Due to their ubiquitous expression within tissues and their large functional repertoire, HSPGs are involved in many physiopathological processes; thus, they have emerged as valuable targets for the therapy of many human diseases. Among their functions, HSPGs assist many viruses in invading host cells at various steps of their life cycle. Viruses utilize HSPGs for the attachment to the host cell, internalization, intracellular trafficking, egress, and spread. Recently, HSPG involvement in the pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2 infection has been established. Here, we summarize the current knowledge on the molecular mechanisms underlying HSPG/SARS-CoV-2 interaction and downstream effects, and we provide an overview of the HSPG-based therapeutic strategies that could be used to combat such a fearsome virus.

Three-Dimensional Human Neural Stem Cell Models to Mimic Heparan Sulfate Proteoglycans and the Neural Niche

Heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs) are a diverse family of polysaccharides, consisting of a core protein with glycosaminoglycan (GAG) side chains attached. The heterogeneous GAG side-chain carbohydrates consist of repeating disaccharides, with each side chain possessing a specific sulfation pattern. It is the variable sulfation pattern that allows HSPGs to interact with numerous ligands including growth factors, cytokines, chemokines, morphogens, extracellular matrix (ECM) glycoproteins, collagens, enzymes, and lipases. HSPGs are classified according to their localization within an individual cell, and include the membrane bound syndecans (SDCs) and glypicans (GPCs), with perlecan, agrin, and type-XVIII collagen secreted into the ECM. The stem cell niche is defined as the environment that circumscribes stem cells when they are in their naïve state, and includes the ECM, which provides a complex contribution to various biological processes during development and throughout life. These contributions include facilitating cell adhesion, proliferation, migration, differentiation, specification, and cell survival. In contrast, HSPGs play an anticoagulant role in thrombosis through being present on the luminal surface of cells, while also playing roles in the stimulation and inhibition of angiogenesis, highlighting their varied and systemic roles in cellular control. To fully understand the complexities of cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions, three-dimensional (3D) models such as hydrogels offer researchers exciting opportunities, such as controllable 3D in vitro environments, that more readily mimic the in vivo/in situ microenvironment. This review examines our current knowledge of HSPGs in the stem cell niche, human stem cell models, and their role in the development of 3D models that mimic the in vivo neural ECM.

Alterations in the Expression of the Genes Responsible for the Synthesis of Heparan Sulfate in Brains With Alzheimer Disease

The saccharide chains of heparan sulfate appear to be involved in several aspects Alzheimer disease (AD) pathogenesis. Their structural complexity is due to the expression of different isoenzymes. We studied the differential transcription of heparan sulfate chain biosynthesis in AD brains, analyzing different brain regions in patients with different extents of AD pathology. The transcriptomic study was performed by RT-PCR using samples of amygdala, anterior hippocampus, posterior hippocampus, claustrum, calcarine fissure, globus pallidus and cerebellum from patients with mild, moderate, or severe AD, as well as healthy individuals. Certain heparan sulfate epitopes were also detected by immunohistochemistry. Several genes, across all stages of heparan sulfate synthesis, showed altered transcription in different brain regions of AD patients. The numbers of alterations were greater in in moderate versus mild AD patients. In severe patients, there were fewer alterations in genes related to early stages of biosynthesis, and overexpression of genes involved in late stages. The alterations correlated with progressive brain atrophy, although alterations were more common in the cerebellum. Detection of some heparan sulfate epitopes by immunohistochemistry was consistent with previous studies. In conclusion, transcriptional alterations in the biosynthetic genes of heparan sulfate depend on the brain region and the degree of AD pathology.

Characterization of Glycosaminoglycan Disaccharide Composition in Astrocyte Primary Cultures and the Cortex of Neonatal Rats

Astrocytes are major producers of the extracellular matrix (ECM), which is involved in the plasticity of the developing brain. In utero alcohol exposure alters neuronal plasticity. Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) are a family of polysaccharides present in the extracellular space; chondroitin sulfate (CS)- and heparan sulfate (HS)-GAGs are covalently bound to core proteins to form proteoglycans (PGs). Hyaluronic acid (HA)-GAGs are not bound to core proteins. In this study we investigated the contribution of astrocytes to CS-, HS-, and HA-GAG production by comparing the makeup of these GAGs in cortical astrocyte cultures and the neonatal rat cortex. We also explored alterations induced by ethanol in GAG and core protein levels in astrocytes. Finally, we investigated the relative expression in astrocytes of CS-PGs of the lectican family of proteins, major components of the brain ECM, in vivo using translating ribosome affinity purification (TRAP) (in Aldh1l1-EGFP-Rpl10a mice. Cortical astrocytes produce low levels of HA and show low expression of genes involved in HA biosynthesis compared to the whole developing cortex. Astrocytes have high levels of chondroitin-0-sulfate (C0S)-GAGs (possibly because of a higher sulfatase enzyme expression) and HS-GAGs. Ethanol upregulates C4S-GAGs as well as brain-specific lecticans neurocan and brevican, which are highly enriched in astrocytes of the developing cortex in vivo. These results begin to elucidate the role of astrocytes in the biosynthesis of CS- HS- and HA-GAGs, and suggest that ethanol-induced alterations of neuronal development may be in part mediated by increased astrocyte GAG levels and neurocan and brevican expression.

Enhanced differentiation of human induced pluripotent stem cells toward the midbrain dopaminergic neuron lineage through GLYPICAN-4 downregulation

Enhancing the differentiation potential of human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSC) into disease‐relevant cell types is instrumental for their widespread application in medicine. Here, we show that hiPSCs downregulated for the signaling modulator GLYPICAN‐4 (GPC4) acquire a new biological state characterized by increased hiPSC differentiation capabilities toward ventral midbrain dopaminergic (VMDA) neuron progenitors. This biological trait emerges both in vitro, upon exposing cells to VMDA neuronal differentiation signals, and in vivo, even when transplanting hiPSCs at the extreme conditions of floor‐plate stage in rat brains. Moreover, it is compatible with the overall neuronal maturation process toward acquisition of substantia nigra neuron identity. HiPSCs with downregulated GPC4 also retain self‐renewal and pluripotency in stemness conditions, in vitro, while losing tumorigenesis in vivo as assessed by flank xenografts. In conclusion, our results highlight GPC4 downregulation as a powerful approach to enhance generation of VMDA neurons. Outcomes may contribute to establish hiPSC lines suitable for translational applications.

Heparan Sulfate Proteoglycans: Key Mediators of Stem Cell Function

Heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs) are an evolutionarily ancient subclass of glycoproteins with exquisite structural complexity. They are ubiquitously expressed across tissues and have been found to exert a multitude of effects on cell behavior and the surrounding microenvironment. Evidence has shown that heterogeneity in HSPG composition is crucial to its functions as an essential scaffolding component in the extracellular matrix as well as a vital cell surface signaling co-receptor. Here, we provide an overview of the significance of HSPGs as essential regulators of stem cell function. We discuss the various roles of HSPGs in distinct stem cell types during key physiological events, from development through to tissue homeostasis and regeneration. The contribution of aberrant HSPG production to altered stem cell properties and dysregulated cellular homeostasis characteristic of cancer is also reviewed. Finally, we consider approaches to better understand and exploit the multifaceted functions of HSPGs in influencing stem cell characteristics for cell therapy and associated culture expansion strategies.

Roadmap for Stroke: Challenging the Role of the Neuronal Extracellular Matrix

Stroke is a major challenge in modern medicine and understanding the role of the neuronal extracellular matrix (NECM) in its pathophysiology is fundamental for promoting brain repair. Currently, stroke research is focused on the neurovascular unit (NVU). Impairment of the NVU leads to neuronal loss through post-ischemic and reperfusion injuries, as well as coagulatory and inflammatory processes. The ictal core is produced in a few minutes by the high metabolic demand of the central nervous system. Uncontrolled or prolonged inflammatory response is characterized by leukocyte infiltration of the injured site that is limited by astroglial reaction. The metabolic failure reshapes the NECM through matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and novel deposition of structural proteins continues within months of the acute event. These maladaptive reparative processes are responsible for the neurological clinical phenotype. In this review, we aim to provide a systems biology approach to stroke pathophysiology, relating the injury to the NVU with the pervasive metabolic failure, inflammatory response and modifications of the NECM. The available data will be used to build a protein–protein interaction (PPI) map starting with 38 proteins involved in stroke pathophysiology, taking into account the timeline of damage and the co-expression scores of their RNA patterns The application of the proposed network could lead to a more accurate design of translational experiments aiming at improving both the therapy and the rehabilitation processes.

Tempora: Cell trajectory inference using time-series single-cell RNA sequencing data

Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) can map cell types, states and transitions during dynamic biological processes such as tissue development and regeneration. Many trajectory inference methods have been developed to order cells by their progression through a dynamic process. However, when time series data is available, most of these methods do not consider the available time information when ordering cells and are instead designed to work only on a single scRNA-seq data snapshot. We present Tempora, a novel cell trajectory inference method that orders cells using time information from time-series scRNA-seq data. In performance comparison tests, Tempora inferred known developmental lineages from three diverse tissue development time series data sets, beating state of the art methods in accuracy and speed. Tempora works at the level of cell clusters (types) and uses biological pathway information to help identify cell type relationships. This approach increases gene expression signal from single cells, processing speed, and interpretability of the inferred trajectory. Our results demonstrate the utility of a combination of time and pathway information to supervise trajectory inference for scRNA-seq based analysis.

Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) enables an unparalleled ability to map the heterogeneity of dynamic multicellular processes, such as tissue development, tumor growth, wound response and repair, and inflammation. Multiple methods have been developed to order cells along a pseudotime axis that represents a trajectory through such processes using the concept that cells that are closely related in a lineage will have similar transcriptomes. However, time series experiments provide another useful information source to order cells, from earlier to later time point. By introducing a novel use of biological pathway prior information, our Tempora algorithm improves the accuracy and speed of cell trajectory inference from time-series scRNA-seq data as measured by reconstructing known developmental trajectories from three diverse data sets. By analyzing scRNA-seq data at the cluster (cell type) level instead of at the single-cell level and by using known pathway information, Tempora amplifies gene expression signals from one cell using similar cells in a cluster and similar genes within a pathway. This approach also reduces computational time and resources needed to analyze large data sets because it works with a relatively small number of clusters instead of a potentially large number of cells. Finally, it eases interpretation, via operating on a relatively small number of clusters which usually represent known cell types, as well as by identifying time-dependent pathways. Tempora is useful for finding novel insights in dynamic processes.

Heparan Sulfate Proteoglycan Signaling in Tumor Microenvironment

In the last few decades, heparan sulfate (HS) proteoglycans (HSPGs) have been an intriguing subject of study for their complex structural characteristics, their finely regulated biosynthetic machinery, and the wide range of functions they perform in living organisms from development to adulthood. From these studies, key roles of HSPGs in tumor initiation and progression have emerged, so that they are currently being explored as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for cancers. The multifaceted nature of HSPG structure/activity translates in their capacity to act either as inhibitors or promoters of tumor growth and invasion depending on the tumor type. Deregulation of HSPGs resulting in malignancy may be due to either their abnormal expression levels or changes in their structure and functions as a result of the altered activity of their biosynthetic or remodeling enzymes. Indeed, in the tumor microenvironment, HSPGs undergo structural alterations, through the shedding of proteoglycan ectodomain from the cell surface or the fragmentation and/or desulfation of HS chains, affecting HSPG function with significant impact on the molecular interactions between cancer cells and their microenvironment, and tumor cell behavior. Here, we overview the structural and functional features of HSPGs and their signaling in the tumor environment which contributes to tumorigenesis and cancer progression.

Cell-extrinsic requirement for sulfate in regulating hippocampal neurogenesis

Sulfate is a key anion required for a range of physiological functions within the brain. These include sulfonation of extracellular proteoglycans to facilitate local growth factor binding and to regulate the shape of morphogen gradients during development. We have previously shown that mice lacking one allele of the sulfate transporter Slc13a4 exhibit reduced sulfate transport into the brain, deficits in social behaviour, reduced performance in learning and memory tasks, and abnormal neurogenesis within the ventricular/subventricular zone lining the lateral ventricles. However, whether these mice have deficits in hippocampal neurogenesis was not addressed. Here, we demonstrate that adult Slc13a4+/- mice have increased neurogenesis within the subgranular zone (SGZ) of the hippocampal dentate gyrus, with elevated numbers of neural progenitor cells and intermediate progenitors. In contrast, by 12 months of age there were reduced numbers of neural stem cells in the SGZ of heterozygous mice. Importantly, we did not observe any changes in proliferation when we isolated and cultured progenitors in vitro in neurosphere assays, suggestive of a cell-extrinsic requirement for sulfate in regulating hippocampal neurogenesis. Collectively, these data demonstrate a requirement for sulfate transport during postnatal brain development to ensure normal adult hippocampal neurogenesis.

Hyaluronic Acid and Regenerative Medicine: New Insights into the Stroke Therapy

Stroke is known as one of the very important public health problems that are related to societal burden and tremendous economic losses. It has been shown that there are few therapeutic approaches for the treatment of this disease. In this regard, the present therapeutic platforms aim to obtain neuroprotection, reperfusion, and neuro recovery. Among these therapies, regenerative medicine-based therapies have appeared as new ways of stroke therapy. Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a new candidate, which could be applied as a regenerative medicine-based therapy in the treatment of stroke. HA is a glycosaminoglycan composed of disaccharide repeating elements (N-acetyl-Dglucosamine and D-glucuronic acid). Multiple lines of evidence demonstrated that HA has critical roles in normal tissues. It can be a key player in different physiological and pathophysiological conditions such as water homeostasis, multiple drug resistance, inflammatory processes, tumorigenesis, angiogenesis, and changed viscoelasticity of the extracellular matrix. HA has very important physicochemical properties i.e., availability of reactive functional groups and its solubility, which make it a biocompatible material for application in regenerative medicine. Given that HAbased bioscaffolds and biomaterials do not induce inflammation or allergies and are hydrophilic, they are used as soft tissue fillers and injectable dermal fillers. Several studies indicated that HA could be employed as a new therapeutic candidate in the treatment of stroke. These studies documented that HA and HA-based therapies exert their pharmacological effects via affecting stroke-related processes. Herein, we summarized the role of the extracellular matrix in stroke pathogenesis. Moreover, we highlighted the HA-based therapies for the treatment of stroke.

Heparan sulfate maintains adult midgut homeostasis in Drosophila

Tissue homeostasis is controlled by the differentiated progeny of residential progenitors (stem cells). Adult stem cells constantly adjust their proliferation/differentiation rates to respond to tissue damage and stresses. However, how differentiated cells maintain tissue homeostasis remains unclear. Here, we find that heparan sulfate (HS), a class of glycosaminoglycan (GAG) chains, protects differentiated cells from loss to maintain intestinal homeostasis. HS depletion in enterocytes (ECs) leads to intestinal homeostasis disruption, with accumulation of intestinal stem cell (ISC)-like cells and mis-differentiated progeny. HS-deficient ECs are prone to cell death/stress and induced cytokine and epidermal growth factor (EGF) expression, which, in turn, promote ISC proliferation and differentiation. Interestingly, HS depletion in ECs results in the inactivation of decapentaplegic (Dpp) signaling. Moreover, ectopic Dpp signaling completely rescued the defects caused by HS depletion. Together, our data demonstrate that HS is required for Dpp signal activation in ECs, thereby protecting ECs from ablation to maintain midgut homeostasis. Our data shed light into the regulatory mechanisms of how differentiated cells contribute to tissue homeostasis maintenance.

The Extracellular Matrix and Biocompatible Materials in Glioblastoma Treatment

During cancer genesis, the extracellular matrix (ECM) in the human brain undergoes important transformations, starting to resemble embryonic brain cell milieu with a much denser structure. However, the stiffness of the tumor ECM does not preclude cancer cells from migration. The importance of the ECM role in normal brain tissue as well as in tumor homeostasis has engaged much effort in trials to implement ECM as a target and an instrument in the treatment of brain cancers. This review provides a detailed analysis of both experimental and applied approaches in combined therapy for gliomas in adults. In general, matrix materials for glioma treatment should have properties facilitating the simplest delivery into the body. Hence, to deliver an artificial implant directly into the operation cavity it should be packed into a gel form, while for bloodstream injections matrix needs to be in the form of polymer micelles, nanoparticles, etc. Furthermore, the delivered material should mimic biomechanical properties of the native tissue, support vital functions, and slow down or stop the proliferation of surrounding cells for a prolonged period. The authors propose a two-step approach aimed, on the one hand, at elimination of remaining cancer cells and on the other hand, at restoring normal brain tissue. Thereby, the first bioartificial matrix to be applied should have relatively low elastic modulus should be loaded with anticancer drugs, while the second material with a higher elastic modulus for neurite outgrowth support should contain specific factors stimulating neuroregeneration.

Heparan sulfate negatively regulates intestinal stem cell proliferation in Drosophila adult midgut

Tissue homeostasis is maintained by differentiated progeny of residential stem cells. Both extrinsic signals and intrinsic factors play critical roles in the proliferation and differentiation of adult intestinal stem cells (ISCs). However, how extrinsic signals are transduced into ISCs still remains unclear. Here, we find that heparan sulfate (HS), a class of glycosaminoglycan (GAG) chains, negatively regulates progenitor proliferation and differentiation to maintain midgut homeostasis under physiological conditions. Interestingly, HS depletion in progenitors results in inactivation of Decapentaplegic (Dpp) signaling. Dpp signal inactivation in progenitors resembles HS-deficient intestines. Ectopic Dpp signaling completely rescued the defects caused by HS depletion. Taken together, these data demonstrate that HS is required for Dpp signaling to maintain midgut homeostasis. Our results provide insight into the regulatory mechanisms of how extrinsic signals are transduced into stem cells to regulate their proliferation and differentiation.

Fully Synthetic Heparan Sulfate-Based Neural Tissue Construct That Maintains the Undifferentiated State of Neural Stem Cells

Heparin and heparan sulfate (HS) are attractive components for constructing biomaterials due to their ability to recruit and regulate the activity of growth factors. The structural and functional heterogeneity of naturally derived heparin and HS is, however, an impediment for the preparation of biomaterials for regenerative medicine. To address this problem, we have prepared hydrogels modified by well-defined synthetic HS-derived disaccharides. Human induced pluripotent cell-derived neural stem cells (HIP-NSCs) encapsulated in a polyethylene glycol-based hydrogel modified by a pendent HS disaccharide that is a known ligand for fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2) exhibited a significant increase in proliferation and self-renewal. This observation is important because evidence is emerging that undifferentiated stems cells can yield significant therapeutic benefits via their paracrine signaling mechanisms. Our data indicate that the HS disaccharide protects FGF-2, which has a very short biological half-live, from degradation. It is anticipated that, by careful selection of a synthetic HS oligosaccharide, it will be possible to control retention and release of specific growth factor, which in turn will provide control over cell fate.

Heparan sulfate proteoglycans: The sweet side of development turns sour in mucopolysaccharidoses

Heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs) are complex carbohydrate-modified proteins ubiquitously expressed on cell surfaces, extracellular matrix and basement membrane of mammalian tissues. Beside to serve as structural constituents, they regulate multiple cellular activities. A critical involvement of HSPGs in development has been established, and perturbations of HSPG-dependent pathways are associated with many human diseases. Recent evidence suggest a role of HSPGs in the pathogenesis of mucopolysaccharidoses (MPSs) where the accumulation of undigested HS results in the loss of cellular functions, tissue damage and organ dysfunctions accounting for clinical manifestations which include central nervous system (CNS) involvement, degenerative joint disease and reduced bone growth. Current therapies are not curative but only ameliorate the disease symptoms. Here, we highlight the link between HSPG functions in the development of CNS and musculoskeletal structures and the etiology of some MPS phenotypes, suggesting that HSPGs may represent potential targets for the therapy of such incurable diseases.

Hapln2 in Neurological Diseases and Its Potential as Therapeutic Target

Hyaluronan and proteoglycan link protein 2 (Hapln2) is important for the binding of chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans to hyaluronan. Hapln2 deficiency leads to the abnormal expression of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins and dysfunctional neuronal conductivity, demonstrating the vital role of Hapln2 in these processes. Studies have revealed that Hapln2 promotes the aggregation of α-synuclein, thereby contributing to neurodegeneration in Parkinson’s disease (PD), and it was recently suggested to be in intracellular neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs). Additionally, the expression levels of Hapln2 showed lower in the anterior temporal lobes of individuals with schizophrenia than those of healthy subjects. Together, these studies implicate the involvement of Hapln2 in the pathological processes of neurological diseases. A better understanding of the function of Hapln2 in the central nervous system (CNS) will provide new insights into the molecular mechanisms of these diseases and help to establish promising therapeutic strategies. Herein, we review the recent progress in defining the role of Hapln2 in brain physiology and pathology.

Heparan Sulfate as a Therapeutic Target in Tauopathies: Insights From Zebrafish

Microtubule-associated protein tau (MAPT) hyperphosphorylation and aggregation, are two hallmarks of a family of neurodegenerative disorders collectively referred to as tauopathies. In many tauopathies, including Alzheimer's disease (AD), progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) and Pick's disease, tau aggregates are found associated with highly sulfated polysaccharides known as heparan sulfates (HSs). In AD, amyloid beta (Aβ) peptide aggregates associated with HS are also characteristic of disease. Heparin, an HS analog, promotes misfolding, hyperphosphorylation and aggregation of tau protein in vitro. HS also provides cell surface receptors for attachment and uptake of tau seeds, enabling their propagation. These findings point to HS-tau interactions as potential therapeutic targets in tauopathies. The zebrafish genome contains genes paralogous to MAPT, genes orthologous to HS biosynthetic and chain modifier enzymes, and other genes implicated in AD. The nervous system in the zebrafish bears anatomical and chemical similarities to that in humans. These homologies, together with numerous technical advantages, make zebrafish a valuable model for investigating basic mechanisms in tauopathies and identifying therapeutic targets. Here, we comprehensively review current knowledge on the role of HSs in tau pathology and HS-targeting therapeutic approaches. We also discuss novel insights from zebrafish suggesting a role for HS 3-O-sulfated motifs in tau pathology and establishing HS antagonists as potential preventive agents or therapies for tauopathies.

Role of immune responses for extracellular matrix remodeling in the ischemic brain

Neuroinflammation is one of the key components contributing to the devastating outcome of ischemic stroke. Starting with stroke onset, inflammatory processes contribute both to cell damage and tissue remodeling. The early release of alarmins triggers the upregulation of multiple proinflammatory cytokines, resulting in the compromised integrity of the blood–brain barrier. From this moment on, the infiltration of peripheral immune cells, reactive gliosis and extracellular matrix (ECM) alterations become intricately intertwined and act as one unit during the tissue remodeling. While the mechanisms of leukocyte and glia activation are amply reviewed, the field of ECM modification remains as yet under explored. In this review, we focus on the interplay between neuroinflammatory cascades and ECM in the ischemic brain. By summarizing the currently available evidence obtained by in vitro research, animal experimentation and human studies, we aim to propose a new direction for the future investigation of stroke recovery.

Differential Effects of Heparin and Hyaluronic Acid on Neural Patterning of Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells

A lack of well-established animal models that can efficiently represent human brain pathology has led to the development of human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)-derived brain tissues. Brain organoids have enhanced our ability to understand the developing human brain and brain disorders (e.g., Schizophrenia, microcephaly), but the organoids still do not accurately recapitulate the anatomical organization of the human brain. Therefore, it is important to evaluate and optimize induction and signaling factors in order to engineer the next generation of brain organoids. In this study, the impact of hyaluronic acid (HA), a major brain extracellular matrix (ECM) component that interacts with cells through ligand-binding receptors, on the patterning of brain organoids from hiPSCs was evaluated. To mediate HA- binding capacity of signaling molecules, heparin was added in addition to HA or conjugated to HA to form hydrogels (with two different moduli). The neural cortical spheroids derived from hiPSCs were treated with either HA or heparin plus HA (Hep- HA) and were analyzed for ECM impacts on neural patterning. The results indicate that Hep-HA has a caudalizing effect on hiPSC-derived neural spheroids, in particular for stiff Hep-HA hydrogels. Wnt and Hippo/Yes-associated protein (YAP) signaling was modulated (using Wnt inhibitor IWP4 or actin disruption agent Cytochalasin D respectively) to understand the underlying mechanism. IWP4 and cytochalasin D promote forebrain identity. The results from this study should enhance the understanding of influence of biomimetic ECM factors for brain organoid generation.

Conventional Anti-glioblastoma Chemotherapy Affects Proteoglycan Composition of Brain Extracellular Matrix in Rat Experimental Model in vivo

Temozolomide (TMZ) is a conventional chemotherapy drug for adjuvant treatment of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), often accompanied by dexamethasone (DXM) to prevent brain oedema and alleviate clinical side effects. Here, we aimed to investigate an ability of the drugs to affect normal brain tissue in terms of proteoglycan (PG) composition/content in experimental rat model in vivo. Age- and brain zone-specific transcriptional patterns of PGs were demonstrated for 8, 60, and 120 days old rats, and syndecan-1, glypican-1, decorin, biglycan, and lumican were identified as the most expressed PGs. DXM treatment affected both PG core proteins expression (mainly syndecan-1, glypican-1, decorin, biglycan, lumican, versican, brevican, and NG2) and heparan sulphate (HS)/chondroitin sulphate (CS) content in organotypic brain slice culture ex vivo and experimental animals in vivo in a dose-dependent manner. TMZ treatment did not result in the significant changes in PG core proteins expression both in normal rat brain hippocampus and cortex in vivo (although generics did), but demonstrated significant effects onto polysaccharide HS/CS content in the brain tissue. The effects were age- and brain zone-specific and similar with the age-related PGs expression changes in rat brain. Combination of TMZ with DXM resulted in the most profound deterioration in PGs composition and content in the brain tissue both at core protein and glycosaminoglycan levels. Taken together, the obtained results demonstrate that conventional anti-glioblastoma therapy affects proteoglycan structure and composition in normal brain tissue, potentially resulting in deterioration of brain extracellular matrix and formation of the favourable tumorigenic niche for the expansion of the residual glioma cells. During the TMZ chemotherapy, dose and regimen of DXM treatment matter, and repetitive low DXM doses seem to be more sparing treatment compared with high DXM dose(s), which should be avoided where possible, especially in combination with TMZ.