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Merkel MFR, Svensson RB, Jakobsen JR, Mackey AL, Schjerling P, Herzog RB, Magnusson SP, Konradsen L, Krogsgaard MR, Kjær M, Johannsen FE. Widespread Vascularization and Correlation of Glycosaminoglycan Accumulation to Tendon Pain in Human Plantar Fascia Tendinopathy. Am J Sports Med 2024; 52:1834-1844. [PMID: 38708721 DOI: 10.1177/03635465241246262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Plantar fasciitis is a painful tendinous condition (tendinopathy) with a high prevalence in athletes. While a healthy tendon has limited blood flow, ultrasound has indicated elevated blood flow in tendinopathy, but it is unknown if this is related to a de facto increase in the tendon vasculature. Likewise, an accumulation of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) is observed in tendinopathy, but its relationship to clinical pain is unknown. PURPOSE To explore to what extent vascularization, inflammation, and fat infiltration were present in patients with plantar fasciitis and if they were related to clinical symptoms. STUDY DESIGN Descriptive laboratory study. METHODS Biopsy specimens from tendinopathic plantar fascia tissue were obtained per-operatively from both the primary site of tendon pain and tissue swelling ("proximal") and a region that appeared macroscopically healthy at 1 to 2 cm away from the primary site ("distal") in 22 patients. Biopsy specimens were examined with immunofluorescence for markers of blood vessels, tissue cell density, fat infiltration, and macrophage level. In addition, pain during the first step in the morning (registered during an earlier study) was correlated with the content of collagen and GAGs in tissue. RESULTS High vascularization (and cellularity) was present in both the proximal (0.89%) and the distal (0.96%) plantar fascia samples, whereas inconsistent but not significantly different fat infiltration and macrophage levels were observed. The collagen content was similar in the 2 plantar fascia regions, whereas the GAG content was higher in the proximal region (3.2% in proximal and 2.8% in distal; P = .027). The GAG content in the proximal region was positively correlated with the subjective morning pain score in the patients with tendinopathy (n = 17). CONCLUSION In patients with plantar fasciitis, marked tissue vascularization was present in both the painful focal region and a neighboring nonsymptomatic area. In contrast, the accumulation of hydrophilic GAGs was greater in the symptomatic region and was positively correlated with increased clinical pain levels in daily life. CLINICAL RELEVANCE The accumulation of GAGs in tissue rather than the extent of vascularization appears to be linked with the clinical degree of pain symptoms of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Max F R Merkel
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Institute of Sports Medicine Copenhagen, Copenhagen University Hospital-Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Center for Healthy Aging, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Rene B Svensson
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Institute of Sports Medicine Copenhagen, Copenhagen University Hospital-Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Center for Healthy Aging, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jens R Jakobsen
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Institute of Sports Medicine Copenhagen, Copenhagen University Hospital-Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Section for Sports Traumatology, Copenhagen University Hospital-Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Abigail L Mackey
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Institute of Sports Medicine Copenhagen, Copenhagen University Hospital-Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Center for Healthy Aging, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Peter Schjerling
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Institute of Sports Medicine Copenhagen, Copenhagen University Hospital-Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Center for Healthy Aging, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Robert B Herzog
- Department of Physical and Occupational Therapy, Copenhagen University Hospital-Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - S Peter Magnusson
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Institute of Sports Medicine Copenhagen, Copenhagen University Hospital-Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Center for Healthy Aging, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Physical and Occupational Therapy, Copenhagen University Hospital-Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lars Konradsen
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Section for Sports Traumatology, Copenhagen University Hospital-Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Michael R Krogsgaard
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Section for Sports Traumatology, Copenhagen University Hospital-Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Michael Kjær
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Institute of Sports Medicine Copenhagen, Copenhagen University Hospital-Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Center for Healthy Aging, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Finn E Johannsen
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Institute of Sports Medicine Copenhagen, Copenhagen University Hospital-Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark
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He S, Liu R, Luo Q, Song G. Tensile Overload Injures Human Alveolar Epithelial Cells through YAP/F-Actin/MAPK Signaling. Biomedicines 2023; 11:1833. [PMID: 37509472 PMCID: PMC10376431 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11071833] [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: 05/14/2023] [Revised: 06/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Explosion shockwaves can generate overloaded mechanical forces and induce lung injuries. However, the mechanism of lung injuries caused by tensile overload is still unclear. METHODS Flow cytometry was used to detect the apoptosis of human alveolar epithelial cells (BEAS-2B) induced by tensile overload, and cell proliferation was detected using 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EdU). Immunofluorescence and Western blot analysis were used to identify the tensile overload on the actin cytoskeleton, proteins related to the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signal pathway, and the Yes-associated protein (YAP). RESULTS Tensile overload reduced BEAS-2B cell proliferation and increased apoptosis. In terms of the mechanism, we found that tensile overload led to the depolymerization of the actin cytoskeleton, the activation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and extracellular-signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2), and the upregulation of YAP expression. Jasplakinolide (Jasp) treatment promoted the polymerization of the actin cytoskeleton and reduced the phosphorylation of tension-overload-activated JNK and ERK1/2 and the apoptosis of BEAS-2B cells. Moreover, the inhibition of the JNK and ERK1/2 signaling pathways, as well as the expression of YAP, also reduced apoptosis caused by tensile overload. CONCLUSION Our study establishes the role of the YAP/F-actin/MAPK axis in tensile-induced BEAS-2B cell injury and proposes new strategies for the treatment and repair of future lung injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shan He
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400030, China
| | - Ruihan Liu
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400030, China
| | - Qing Luo
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400030, China
| | - Guanbin Song
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400030, China
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Grannemann C, Pabst A, Honert A, Schieren J, Martin C, Hank S, Böll S, Bläsius K, Düsterhöft S, Jahr H, Merkel R, Leube R, Babendreyer A, Ludwig A. Mechanical activation of lung epithelial cells through the ion channel Piezo1 activates the metalloproteinases ADAM10 and ADAM17 and promotes growth factor and adhesion molecule release. BIOMATERIALS ADVANCES 2023; 152:213516. [PMID: 37348330 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioadv.2023.213516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Revised: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023]
Abstract
In the lung, pulmonary epithelial cells undergo mechanical stretching during ventilation. The associated cellular mechanoresponse is still poorly understood at the molecular level. Here, we demonstrate that activation of the mechanosensitive cation channel Piezo1 in a human epithelial cell line (H441) and in primary human lung epithelial cells induces the proteolytic activity of the metalloproteinases ADAM10 and ADAM17 at the plasma membrane. These ADAMs are known to convert cell surface expressed proteins into soluble and thereby play major roles in proliferation, barrier regulation and inflammation. We observed that chemical activation of Piezo1 promotes cleavage of substrates that are specific for either ADAM10 or ADAM17. Activation of Piezo1 also induced the synthesis and ADAM10/17-dependent release of the growth factor amphiregulin (AREG). In addition, junctional adhesion molecule A (JAM-A) was shed in an ADAM10/17-dependent manner resulting in a reduction of cell contacts. Stretching experiments combined with Piezo1 knockdown further demonstrated that mechanical activation promotes shedding via Piezo1. Most importantly, high pressure ventilation of murine lungs increased AREG and JAM-A release into the alveolar space, which was reduced by a Piezo1 inhibitor. Our study provides a novel link between stretch-induced Piezo1 activation and the activation of ADAM10 and ADAM17 in lung epithelium. This may help to understand acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) which is induced by ventilation stress and goes along with perturbed epithelial permeability and release of growth factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Grannemann
- Institute of Molecular Pharmacology, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Alessa Pabst
- Institute of Molecular Pharmacology, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Annika Honert
- Institute of Molecular Pharmacology, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Jana Schieren
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Anatomy, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Christian Martin
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Sophia Hank
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Svenja Böll
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Katharina Bläsius
- Institute of Molecular Pharmacology, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Stefan Düsterhöft
- Institute of Molecular Pharmacology, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Holger Jahr
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Rudolf Merkel
- Institute of Biological Information Processing 2, Mechanobiology, Research Centre Juelich, Juelich, Germany
| | - Rudolf Leube
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Anatomy, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Aaron Babendreyer
- Institute of Molecular Pharmacology, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany.
| | - Andreas Ludwig
- Institute of Molecular Pharmacology, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
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Fragoulis A, Tohidnezhad M, Kubo Y, Wruck CJ, Craveiro RB, Bock A, Wolf M, Pufe T, Jahr H, Suhr F. The Contribution of the Nrf2/ARE System to Mechanotransduction in Musculoskeletal and Periodontal Tissues. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24097722. [PMID: 37175428 PMCID: PMC10177782 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24097722] [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: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Mechanosensing plays an essential role in maintaining tissue functions. Across the human body, several tissues (i.e., striated muscles, bones, tendons, ligaments, as well as cartilage) require mechanical loading to exert their physiological functions. Contrary, mechanical unloading triggers pathological remodeling of these tissues and, consequently, human body dysfunctions. At the cellular level, both mechanical loading and unloading regulate a wide spectrum of cellular pathways. Among those, pathways regulated by oxidants such as reactive oxygen species (ROS) represent an essential node critically controlling tissue organization and function. Hence, a sensitive balance between the generation and elimination of oxidants keeps them within a physiological range. Here, the Nuclear Factor-E2-related factor 2/Antioxidant response element (Nrf2/ARE) system plays an essential role as it constitutes the major cellular regulation against exogenous and endogenous oxidative stresses. Dysregulations of this system advance, i.a., liver, neurodegenerative, and cancer diseases. Herein, we extend our comprehension of the Nrf2 system to the aforementioned mechanically sensitive tissues to explore its role in their physiology and pathology. We demonstrate the relevance of it for the tissues' functionality and highlight the imperative to further explore the Nrf2 system to understand the physiology and pathology of mechanically sensitive tissues in the context of redox biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Athanassios Fragoulis
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Anatomy, Uniklinik RWTH Aachen, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Mersedeh Tohidnezhad
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Anatomy, Uniklinik RWTH Aachen, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Yusuke Kubo
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Anatomy, Uniklinik RWTH Aachen, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Christoph Jan Wruck
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Anatomy, Uniklinik RWTH Aachen, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Rogerio Bastos Craveiro
- Department of Orthodontics, Dental Clinic, Uniklinik RWTH Aachen, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Anna Bock
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Uniklinik RWTH Aachen, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Michael Wolf
- Department of Orthodontics, Dental Clinic, Uniklinik RWTH Aachen, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Thomas Pufe
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Anatomy, Uniklinik RWTH Aachen, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Holger Jahr
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Anatomy, Uniklinik RWTH Aachen, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany
- Institute of Structural Mechanics and Lightweight Design, RWTH Aachen University, 52062 Aachen, Germany
| | - Frank Suhr
- Division of Molecular Exercise Physiology, Faculty of Life Sciences: Food, Nutrition and Health, University of Bayreuth, 95326 Kulmbach, Germany
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Wei B, Li Z, Lin Y, Hu X, Xu L, Wang S, Ji M, Lu J. BMP-2/TGF-β1 gene insertion into ligament-derived stem cells sheet promotes tendon-bone healing in a mouse. Biotechnol J 2023; 18:e2200470. [PMID: 36683552 DOI: 10.1002/biot.202200470] [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: 09/14/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2) and transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) reportedly induce the osteogenic and tenogenic differentiation of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL)-derived stem cells (LDSCs), respectively. However, few studies have investigated the effect of BMP-2/TGF-β1 on the differentiation of LDSC. We developed a BMP-2/TGF-β1 gene insertion into an LDSC cell sheet that promotes tendon-bone healing in a mouse ACL reconstruction (ACLR) model. CD34+ LDSCs were isolated from human ACL stump tissues, virally transduced to express BMP-2 or TGF-β1, and then embedded within cell sheets. All mice underwent ACLR using an autograft wrapped with a cell sheet and were randomly divided into three groups: BMP-2-, TGF-β1-, and BMP-2/TGF-β1-transduced. At 4 and 8 weeks, tendon-bone healing was evaluated by micro-CT, biomechanical test, and histological analysis. BMP-2 and TGF-β1 promoted the osteogenic and tenogenic differentiation of LDSC in vitro. BMP-2/TGF-β1-transduced LDSC sheet application contributed to early improvement in mean failure load and graft stiffness, accelerated maturation of the tendon-bone junction, and inhibited bone tunnel widening. Furthermore, reduced M1 macrophage infiltration and a higher M2 macrophage percentage were observed in the BMP-2/TGF-β1-transduced LDSC group. This work demonstrated that BMP-2 and TGF-β1 promoted CD34+ LDSCs osteogenic and tenogenic differentiation in vitro and in vivo, which accelerated the tendon-bone healing after ACLR using autografts wrapped with cell sheets in a mouse model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bing Wei
- School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China.,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery/Joint and Sports Medicine Center, Zhongda Hospital, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Zhuang Li
- School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China.,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery/Joint and Sports Medicine Center, Zhongda Hospital, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yucheng Lin
- School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China.,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery/Joint and Sports Medicine Center, Zhongda Hospital, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Xinyue Hu
- School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China.,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery/Joint and Sports Medicine Center, Zhongda Hospital, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Li Xu
- School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China.,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery/Joint and Sports Medicine Center, Zhongda Hospital, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Shanzheng Wang
- School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China.,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery/Joint and Sports Medicine Center, Zhongda Hospital, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Mingliang Ji
- School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China.,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery/Joint and Sports Medicine Center, Zhongda Hospital, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Jun Lu
- School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China.,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery/Joint and Sports Medicine Center, Zhongda Hospital, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
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Li Y, Liu X, Liu X, Peng Y, Zhu B, Guo S, Wang C, Wang D, Li S. Transforming growth factor-β signalling pathway in tendon healing. Growth Factors 2022; 40:98-107. [PMID: 35707986 DOI: 10.1080/08977194.2022.2082294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-β(TGF-β) plays an important but diverse role in tendon injuries, such as collagen synthesis, cell proliferation, cell differentiation, and cell adhesion, leading to tendon healing and tendon fibrosis. In the well-known canonical TGF-β signalling pathway, TGF-β activates Smad signalling through its two cell surface receptors, which leads to Smad-mediated transcriptional regulation and is also regulated by inhibitory Smads, forming a negative feedback regulatory pathway. In the context of the canonical TGF-β signalling mechanism mediated by Smad, the activated receptors also send signals through other signal transducers, which in the backdrop of TGF-β signaling are collectively known as non-Smad signalling pathways. Activated TGF-β binds to the receptor and acts through these signalling pathways. Understanding the mechanism of the TGF-β signalling pathway and its role in tendon repair is of great significance for targeting the TGF-β signalling pathway to accelerate tendon healing and reduce tendon fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujie Li
- Institute of Physical Education, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Xinyue Liu
- Institute of Physical Education, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Xueli Liu
- Institute of Physical Education, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Yuanqiu Peng
- Institute of Physical Education, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Bin Zhu
- Institute of Physical Education, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Sheng Guo
- Spinal Surgery Department, The Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Chenglong Wang
- Spinal Surgery Department, The Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Dingxuan Wang
- Institute of Physical Education, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Sen Li
- Institute of Physical Education, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
- Spinal Surgery Department, The Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
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Benage LG, Sweeney JD, Giers MB, Balasubramanian R. Dynamic Load Model Systems of Tendon Inflammation and Mechanobiology. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:896336. [PMID: 35910030 PMCID: PMC9335371 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.896336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Dynamic loading is a shared feature of tendon tissue homeostasis and pathology. Tendon cells have the inherent ability to sense mechanical loads that initiate molecular-level mechanotransduction pathways. While mature tendons require physiological mechanical loading in order to maintain and fine tune their extracellular matrix architecture, pathological loading initiates an inflammatory-mediated tissue repair pathway that may ultimately result in extracellular matrix dysregulation and tendon degeneration. The exact loading and inflammatory mechanisms involved in tendon healing and pathology is unclear although a precise understanding is imperative to improving therapeutic outcomes of tendon pathologies. Thus, various model systems have been designed to help elucidate the underlying mechanisms of tendon mechanobiology via mimicry of the in vivo tendon architecture and biomechanics. Recent development of model systems has focused on identifying mechanoresponses to various mechanical loading platforms. Less effort has been placed on identifying inflammatory pathways involved in tendon pathology etiology, though inflammation has been implicated in the onset of such chronic injuries. The focus of this work is to highlight the latest discoveries in tendon mechanobiology platforms and specifically identify the gaps for future work. An interdisciplinary approach is necessary to reveal the complex molecular interplay that leads to tendon pathologies and will ultimately identify potential regenerative therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay G. Benage
- School of Chemical, Biological and Environmental Engineering, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
| | - James D. Sweeney
- School of Chemical, Biological and Environmental Engineering, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
| | - Morgan B. Giers
- School of Chemical, Biological and Environmental Engineering, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
- *Correspondence: Morgan B. Giers,
| | - Ravi Balasubramanian
- School of Chemical, Biological and Environmental Engineering, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
- School of Mechanical, Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
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8
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Pentzold S, Wildemann B. Mechanical overload decreases tenogenic differentiation compared to physiological load in bioartificial tendons. J Biol Eng 2022; 16:5. [PMID: 35241113 PMCID: PMC8896085 DOI: 10.1186/s13036-022-00283-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Tenocytes as specialised fibroblasts and inherent cells of tendons require mechanical load for their homeostasis. However, how mechanical overload compared to physiological load impacts on the tenogenic differentiation potential of fibroblasts is largely unknown. Methods Three-dimensional bioartificial tendons (BATs) seeded with murine fibroblasts (cell line C3H10T1/2) were subjected to uniaxial sinusoidal elongation at either overload conditions (0–16%, Ø 8%) or physiological load (0–8%, Ø 4%). This regime was applied for 2 h a day at 0.1 Hz for 7 days. Controls were unloaded, but under static tension. Results Cell survival did not differ among overload, physiological load and control BATs. However, gene expression of tenogenic and extra-cellular matrix markers (Scx, Mkx, Tnmd, Col1a1 and Col3a1) was significantly decreased in overload versus physiological load and controls, respectively. In contrast, Mmp3 was significantly increased at overload compared to physiological load, and significantly decreased under physiological load compared to controls. Mkx and Tnmd were significantly increased in BATs subjected to physiological load compared to controls. Proinflammatory interleukin-6 showed increased protein levels comparing load (both over and physiological) versus unloaded controls. Alignment of the cytoskeleton in strain direction was decreased in overload compared to physiological load, while other parameters such as nuclear area, roundness or cell density were less affected. Conclusions Mechanical overload decreases tenogenic differentiation and increases ECM remodelling/inflammation in 3D-stimulated fibroblasts, whereas physiological load may induce opposite effects. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13036-022-00283-y.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Pentzold
- Experimental Trauma Surgery, Department of Trauma, Hand and Reconstructive Surgery, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Am Klinikum 1, 07747, Jena, Germany.
| | - Britt Wildemann
- Experimental Trauma Surgery, Department of Trauma, Hand and Reconstructive Surgery, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Am Klinikum 1, 07747, Jena, Germany
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Impact of Electrospun Piezoelectric Core-Shell PVDFhfp/PDMS Mesh on Tenogenic and Inflammatory Gene Expression in Human Adipose-Derived Stem Cells: Comparison of Static Cultivation with Uniaxial Cyclic Tensile Stretching. BIOENGINEERING (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 9:bioengineering9010021. [PMID: 35049730 PMCID: PMC8772741 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering9010021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Specific microenvironments can trigger stem cell tenogenic differentiation, such as specific substrates or dynamic cell cultivation. Electrospun meshes composed by core–shell fibers (random or aligned; PDMS core; piezoelectric PVDFhfp shell) were fabricated by coaxial electrospinning. Elastic modulus and residual strain were assessed. Human ASCs were seeded on such scaffolds either under static conditions for 1 week or with subsequent 10% dynamic stretching for 10,800 cycles (1 Hz, 3 h), assessing load elongation curves in a Bose® bioreactor system. Gene expression for tenogenic expression, extracellular matrix, remodeling, pro-fibrotic and inflammatory marker genes were assessed (PCR). For cell-seeded meshes, the E modulus increased from 14 ± 3.8 MPa to 31 ± 17 MPa within 3 h, which was not observed for cell-free meshes. Random fibers resulted in higher tenogenic commitment than aligned fibers. Dynamic cultivation significantly enhanced pro-inflammatory markers. Compared to ASCs in culture flasks, ASCs on random meshes under static cultivation showed a significant upregulation of Mohawk, Tenascin-C and Tenomodulin. The tenogenic commitment expressed by human ASCs in contact with random PVDFhfp/PDMS paves the way for using this novel highly elastic material as an implant to be wrapped around a lacerated tendon, envisioned as a functional anti-adhesion membrane.
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He Q, Lin J, Zhou F, Cai D, Yan Y, Shan Y, Zhang S, Li T, Yao X, Ouyang H. “Musical dish” efficiently induces osteogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells through music derived micro‐stretch with variable frequency. Bioeng Transl Med 2022; 7:e10291. [PMID: 35600662 PMCID: PMC9115692 DOI: 10.1002/btm2.10291] [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: 08/20/2021] [Revised: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Nonuniform microstretching (NUMS) naturally occurs in real bone tissues in vivo, but its profound effects have not been identified yet. In order to explore the biological effects of NUMS and static stretch (uniform stretch [US]) on cells, a new “musical dish” device was developed. Musical signal was used to provide NUMS to cells. More stress fibers, arranging along the long axis of cells, were formed throughout the cells under NUMS, compared with US and untreated control group, although cell morphology did not show any alteration. Whole transcriptome sequencing revealed enhanced osteogenic differentiation of cells after NUMS treatment. Cells in the NUMS group showed a higher expression of bone‐related genes, while genes related to stemness and other lineages were down‐regulated. Our results give insights into the biological effects of NUMS and US on stem cell osteogenic differentiation, suggesting beneficial effects of micromechanical stimulus for osteogenesis. The newly developed device provides a basis for the development of NUMS derived rehabilitation technology to promote bone healing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiulin He
- Dr. Li Dak Sum & Yip Yio Chin Center for Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, and Department of Orthopedic Surgery of the Second Affiliated Hospital Zhejiang University School of Medicine Hangzhou China
- Zhejiang University‐University of Edinburgh Institute, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, and Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang University School of Medicine Hangzhou China
| | - Junxin Lin
- Dr. Li Dak Sum & Yip Yio Chin Center for Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, and Department of Orthopedic Surgery of the Second Affiliated Hospital Zhejiang University School of Medicine Hangzhou China
- Zhejiang University‐University of Edinburgh Institute, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, and Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang University School of Medicine Hangzhou China
| | - Fanghao Zhou
- Center for X‐Mechanics, Department of Engineering Mechanics Zhejiang University Hangzhou China
| | - Dandan Cai
- Dr. Li Dak Sum & Yip Yio Chin Center for Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, and Department of Orthopedic Surgery of the Second Affiliated Hospital Zhejiang University School of Medicine Hangzhou China
- Zhejiang University‐University of Edinburgh Institute, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, and Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang University School of Medicine Hangzhou China
| | - Yiyang Yan
- Dr. Li Dak Sum & Yip Yio Chin Center for Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, and Department of Orthopedic Surgery of the Second Affiliated Hospital Zhejiang University School of Medicine Hangzhou China
- Zhejiang University‐University of Edinburgh Institute, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, and Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang University School of Medicine Hangzhou China
| | - Yejie Shan
- Center for X‐Mechanics, Department of Engineering Mechanics Zhejiang University Hangzhou China
| | - Shufang Zhang
- Dr. Li Dak Sum & Yip Yio Chin Center for Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, and Department of Orthopedic Surgery of the Second Affiliated Hospital Zhejiang University School of Medicine Hangzhou China
- Zhejiang University‐University of Edinburgh Institute, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, and Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang University School of Medicine Hangzhou China
- China Orthopedic Regenerative Medicine Group (CORMed) Hangzhou China
| | - Tiefeng Li
- Center for X‐Mechanics, Department of Engineering Mechanics Zhejiang University Hangzhou China
| | - Xudong Yao
- The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine Yiwu China
| | - Hongwei Ouyang
- Dr. Li Dak Sum & Yip Yio Chin Center for Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, and Department of Orthopedic Surgery of the Second Affiliated Hospital Zhejiang University School of Medicine Hangzhou China
- Department of Sports Medicine Zhejiang University School of Medicine Hangzhou China
- Zhejiang University‐University of Edinburgh Institute, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, and Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang University School of Medicine Hangzhou China
- China Orthopedic Regenerative Medicine Group (CORMed) Hangzhou China
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11
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Merkel MFR, Hellsten Y, Magnusson SP, Kjaer M. Tendon blood flow, angiogenesis, and tendinopathy pathogenesis. TRANSLATIONAL SPORTS MEDICINE 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/tsm2.280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Max Flemming Ravn Merkel
- Institute of Sports Medicine Department of Orthopedic Surgery Copenhagen University Hospital ‐ Bispebjerg‐Frederiksberg University of Copenhagen Copenhagen Denmark
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports University of Copenhagen Copenhagen Denmark
| | - Ylva Hellsten
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports University of Copenhagen Copenhagen Denmark
| | - Stig Peter Magnusson
- Institute of Sports Medicine Department of Orthopedic Surgery Copenhagen University Hospital ‐ Bispebjerg‐Frederiksberg University of Copenhagen Copenhagen Denmark
- Center for Healthy Aging Department of Clinical Medicine University of Copenhagen Copenhagen Denmark
| | - Michael Kjaer
- Institute of Sports Medicine Department of Orthopedic Surgery Copenhagen University Hospital ‐ Bispebjerg‐Frederiksberg University of Copenhagen Copenhagen Denmark
- Center for Healthy Aging Department of Clinical Medicine University of Copenhagen Copenhagen Denmark
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12
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Taguchi T, Zhang N, Angibeau D, Spivey KP, Lopez MJ. Evaluation of canine adipose-derived multipotent stromal cell differentiation to ligamentoblasts on tensioned collagen type I templates in a custom bioreactor culture system. Am J Vet Res 2021; 82:924-934. [PMID: 34669492 DOI: 10.2460/ajvr.82.11.924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate differentiation of canine adipose-derived multipotent stromal cells (ASCs) into ligamentoblasts on tensioned collagen type I (Col1) templates in a perfusion culture system. SAMPLES Infrapatellar fat pad ASCs from healthy stifle joints of 6 female mixed-breed dogs. PROCEDURES Third-passage ASCs (6 × 106 cells/template) were loaded onto suture-augmented Col1 templates under 15% static strain in perfusion bioreactors. Forty-eight ASC-Col1 constructs were incubated with ligamentogenic (ligamentogenic constructs; n = 24) or stromal medium (stromal constructs; 24) for up to 21 days. Specimens were collected from each construct after 2 hours (day 0) and 7, 14, and 21 days of culture. Cell number, viability, distribution, and morphology; construct collagen content; culture medium procollagen-I-N-terminal peptide concentration; and gene expression were compared between ligamentogenic and stromal constructs. RESULTS ASCs adhered to collagen fibers. Cell numbers increased from days 0 to 7 and days 14 to 21 for both construct types. Relative to stromal constructs, cell morphology and extracellular matrix were more mature and collagen content on day 21 and procollagen-I-N-terminal peptide concentration on days 7 and 21 were greater for ligamentogenic constructs. Ligamentogenic constructs had increased expression of the genes biglycan on day 7, decorin throughout the culture period, and Col1, tenomodulin, fibronectin, and tenascin-c on day 21; expression of Col1, tenomodulin, and tenascin-c increased between days 7 and 21. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Ligamentogenic medium was superior to stromal medium for differentiation of ASCs to ligamentoblasts on suture-augmented Col1 scaffolds. Customized ligament neotissue may augment treatment options for dogs with cranial cruciate ligament rupture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takashi Taguchi
- From the Laboratory for Equine and Comparative Orthopedic Research, Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803
| | - Nan Zhang
- From the Laboratory for Equine and Comparative Orthopedic Research, Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803
| | - Dominique Angibeau
- From the Laboratory for Equine and Comparative Orthopedic Research, Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803
| | - Kathryn P Spivey
- From the Laboratory for Equine and Comparative Orthopedic Research, Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803
| | - Mandi J Lopez
- From the Laboratory for Equine and Comparative Orthopedic Research, Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803
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13
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Gögele C, Hoffmann C, Konrad J, Merkel R, Schwarz S, Tohidnezhad M, Hoffmann B, Schulze-Tanzil GG. Cyclically stretched ACL fibroblasts emigrating from spheroids adapt their cytoskeleton and ligament-related expression profile. Cell Tissue Res 2021; 384:675-690. [PMID: 33835257 PMCID: PMC8211585 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-021-03416-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Mechanical stress of ligaments varies; hence, ligament fibroblasts must adapt their expression profile to novel mechanomilieus to ensure tissue resilience. Activation of the mechanoreceptors leads to a specific signal transduction, the so-called mechanotransduction. However, with regard to their natural three-dimensional (3D) microenvironment cell reaction to mechanical stimuli during emigrating from a 3D spheroid culture is still unclear. This study aims to provide a deeper understanding of the reaction profile of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL)-derived fibroblasts exposed to cyclic uniaxial strain in two-dimensional (2D) monolayer culture and during emigration from 3D spheroids with respect to cell survival, cell and cytoskeletal orientation, distribution, and expression profile. Monolayers and spheroids were cultured in crosslinked polydimethyl siloxane (PDMS) elastomeric chambers and uniaxially stretched (14% at 0.3 Hz) for 48 h. Cell vitality, their distribution, nuclear shape, stress fiber orientation, focal adhesions, proliferation, expression of ECM components such as sulfated glycosaminoglycans, collagen type I, decorin, tenascin C and cell-cell communication-related gap junctional connexin (CXN) 43, tendon-related markers Mohawk and tenomodulin (myodulin) were analyzed. In contrast to unstretched cells, stretched fibroblasts showed elongation of stress fibers, cell and cytoskeletal alignment perpendicular to strain direction, less rounded cell nuclei, increased numbers of focal adhesions, proliferation, amplified CXN43, and main ECM component expression in both cultures. The applied cyclic stretch protocol evoked an anabolic response and enhanced tendon-related marker expression in ACL-derived fibroblasts emigrating from 3D spheroids and seems also promising to support in future tissue formation in ACL scaffolds seeded in vitro with spheroids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clemens Gögele
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Paracelsus Medical University, Prof.-Ernst-Nathan Str. 1, 90419 Nuremberg and Salzburg, Nuremberg, Germany
- Department of Biosciences, Paris Lodron University Salzburg, Hellbrunnerstr. 34, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Christina Hoffmann
- Institute of Biological Information Processing: IBI-2, Forschungszentrum Jülich, 52425 Jülich, Germany
| | - Jens Konrad
- Institute of Biological Information Processing: IBI-2, Forschungszentrum Jülich, 52425 Jülich, Germany
| | - Rudolf Merkel
- Institute of Biological Information Processing: IBI-2, Forschungszentrum Jülich, 52425 Jülich, Germany
| | - Silke Schwarz
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Paracelsus Medical University, Prof.-Ernst-Nathan Str. 1, 90419 Nuremberg and Salzburg, Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Mersedeh Tohidnezhad
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, RWTH Aachen University, Wendlingweg 2, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Bernd Hoffmann
- Institute of Biological Information Processing: IBI-2, Forschungszentrum Jülich, 52425 Jülich, Germany
| | - Gundula Gesine Schulze-Tanzil
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Paracelsus Medical University, Prof.-Ernst-Nathan Str. 1, 90419 Nuremberg and Salzburg, Nuremberg, Germany
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14
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Meeremans M, Van de Walle GR, Van Vlierberghe S, De Schauwer C. The Lack of a Representative Tendinopathy Model Hampers Fundamental Mesenchymal Stem Cell Research. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:651164. [PMID: 34012963 PMCID: PMC8126669 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.651164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Overuse tendon injuries are a major cause of musculoskeletal morbidity in both human and equine athletes, due to the cumulative degenerative damage. These injuries present significant challenges as the healing process often results in the formation of inferior scar tissue. The poor success with conventional therapy supports the need to search for novel treatments to restore functionality and regenerate tissue as close to native tendon as possible. Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-based strategies represent promising therapeutic tools for tendon repair in both human and veterinary medicine. The translation of tissue engineering strategies from basic research findings, however, into clinical use has been hampered by the limited understanding of the multifaceted MSC mechanisms of action. In vitro models serve as important biological tools to study cell behavior, bypassing the confounding factors associated with in vivo experiments. Controllable and reproducible in vitro conditions should be provided to study the MSC healing mechanisms in tendon injuries. Unfortunately, no physiologically representative tendinopathy models exist to date. A major shortcoming of most currently available in vitro tendon models is the lack of extracellular tendon matrix and vascular supply. These models often make use of synthetic biomaterials, which do not reflect the natural tendon composition. Alternatively, decellularized tendon has been applied, but it is challenging to obtain reproducible results due to its variable composition, less efficient cell seeding approaches and lack of cell encapsulation and vascularization. The current review will overview pros and cons associated with the use of different biomaterials and technologies enabling scaffold production. In addition, the characteristics of the ideal, state-of-the-art tendinopathy model will be discussed. Briefly, a representative in vitro tendinopathy model should be vascularized and mimic the hierarchical structure of the tendon matrix with elongated cells being organized in a parallel fashion and subjected to uniaxial stretching. Incorporation of mechanical stimulation, preferably uniaxial stretching may be a key element in order to obtain appropriate matrix alignment and create a pathophysiological model. Together, a thorough discussion on the current status and future directions for tendon models will enhance fundamental MSC research, accelerating translation of MSC therapies for tendon injuries from bench to bedside.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marguerite Meeremans
- Comparative Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Gerlinde R Van de Walle
- Baker Institute for Animal Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States
| | - Sandra Van Vlierberghe
- Polymer Chemistry and Biomaterials Group, Centre of Macromolecular Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Catharina De Schauwer
- Comparative Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
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15
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Kah D, Winterl A, Přechová M, Schöler U, Schneider W, Friedrich O, Gregor M, Fabry B. A low-cost uniaxial cell stretcher for six parallel wells. HARDWAREX 2021; 9:e00162. [PMID: 35492050 PMCID: PMC9041267 DOI: 10.1016/j.ohx.2020.e00162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Revised: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Cells in the lungs, the heart, and numerous other organs, are constantly exposed to dynamic forces and deformations. To mimic these dynamic mechanical loading conditions and to study the resulting cellular responses such as morphological changes or the activation of biochemical signaling pathways, cells are typically seeded on flexible 2D substrates that are uniaxially or biaxially stretched. Here, we present an open-source cell stretcher built from parts of an Anet A8 3D printer. The cell stretcher is controlled by a fully programmable open-source software using GCode and Python. Up to six flexible optically clear substrates can be stretched simultaneously, allowing for comparative multi-batch biological studies including microscopic image analysis. The cell yield from the cell culture area of 4 cm2 per substrate is sufficient for Western-blot protein analysis. As a proof-of-concept, we study the activation of the Yes-associated protein (YAP) mechanotransduction pathway in response to increased cytoskeletal tension induced by uniaxial stretching of epithelial cells. Our data support the previously observed activation of the YAP transcription pathway by stretch-induced increase in cytoskeletal tension and demonstrate the suitability of the cell stretcher to study complex mechano-biological processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Delf Kah
- Biophysics Group, Department of Physics, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Germany
- Corresponding author.
| | - Alexander Winterl
- Biophysics Group, Department of Physics, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Magdalena Přechová
- Laboratory of Integrative Biology, Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Ulrike Schöler
- Institute of Medical Biotechnology, Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, FAU, Erlangen, Germany
- School in Advanced Optical Technologies, FAU, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Werner Schneider
- Biophysics Group, Department of Physics, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Oliver Friedrich
- Institute of Medical Biotechnology, Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, FAU, Erlangen, Germany
- School in Advanced Optical Technologies, FAU, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Martin Gregor
- Laboratory of Integrative Biology, Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Ben Fabry
- Biophysics Group, Department of Physics, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Germany
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16
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Saito R, Kajihara T, Takamura M, Tochigi H, Sato T, Ishihara O. High stretch cycling inhibits the morphological and biological decidual process in human endometrial stromal cells. Reprod Med Biol 2020; 19:378-384. [PMID: 33071640 PMCID: PMC7542020 DOI: 10.1002/rmb2.12341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2020] [Revised: 06/20/2020] [Accepted: 07/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Subendometrial myometrium exerts wave‐like activity throughout the menstrual cycle, and uterine peristalsis is markedly reduced during the implantation phase. We hypothesized that abnormal uterine peristalsis has an adverse effect on the endometrial decidualization process. We conducted an in vitro culture experiment to investigate the effect of cyclic stretch on the morphological and biological endometrial decidual process. Methods Primary human endometrial stromal cells (HESCs) were isolated from hysterectomy specimens and incubated with or without 8‐bromo‐cyclic adenosine monophosphate (8‐br‐cAMP) and medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) for 3 days. After decidualization, cultures were continued for 24 hours with or without cyclic stretch using a computer‐operated cell tension system. Results Cyclic stretch significantly repressed expression of decidual markers including insulin‐like growth factor‐binding protein 1 (IGFBP1), prolactin (PRL), forkhead box O1 (FOXO1), and WNT4 on decidualized HESCs. In addition, cyclic stretch of decidualized HESCs affected the decidual morphological phenotype to an elongated shape. The alternation of F‐actin localization in decidualized HESCs was not observed in response to cyclic stretch. Conclusions These data suggest that cyclic stretch inhibits the morphological and biological decidual process of HESCs. Our findings imply that uterine abnormal contractions during the implantation period impair endometrial decidualization and contribute to infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryohei Saito
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Saitama Medical University Iruma-gun Japan
| | - Takeshi Kajihara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Saitama Medical University Iruma-gun Japan
| | - Masashi Takamura
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Saitama Medical University Iruma-gun Japan
| | - Hideno Tochigi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Saitama Medical University Iruma-gun Japan
| | - Tsuyoshi Sato
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Saitama Medical University Iruma-gun Japan
| | - Osamu Ishihara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Saitama Medical University Iruma-gun Japan
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17
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Tohidnezhad M, Zander J, Slowik A, Kubo Y, Dursun G, Willenberg W, Zendedel A, Kweider N, Stoffel M, Pufe T. Impact of Uniaxial Stretching on Both Gliding and Traction Areas of Tendon Explants in a Novel Bioreactor. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21082925. [PMID: 32331279 PMCID: PMC7215532 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21082925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2019] [Revised: 04/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The effects of mechanical stress on cells and their extracellular matrix, especially in gliding sections of tendon, are still poorly understood. This study sought to compare the effects of uniaxial stretching on both gliding and traction areas in the same tendon. Flexor digitorum longus muscle tendons explanted from rats were subjected to stretching in a bioreactor for 6, 24, or 48 h, respectively, at 1 Hz and an amplitude of 2.5%. After stimulation, marker expression was quantified by histological and immunohistochemical staining in both gliding and traction areas. We observed a heightened intensity of scleraxis after 6 and 24 h of stimulation in both tendon types, though it had declined again 48 h after stimulation. We observed induced matrix metalloproteinase-1 and -13 protein expression in both tendon types. The bioreactor produced an increase in the mechanical structural strength of the tendon during the first half of the loading time and a decrease during the latter half. Uniaxial stretching of flexor tendon in our set-up can serve as an overloading model. A combination of mechanical and histological data allows us to improve the conditions for cultivating tendon tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mersedeh Tohidnezhad
- Anatomy and Cell Biology, Uniklinik RWTH Aachen University, Wendlingweg 2, 52074 Aachen, Germany; (J.Z.); (Y.K.); (N.K.); (T.P.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-241-80-89550; Fax: +49-241-80-82431
| | - Johanna Zander
- Anatomy and Cell Biology, Uniklinik RWTH Aachen University, Wendlingweg 2, 52074 Aachen, Germany; (J.Z.); (Y.K.); (N.K.); (T.P.)
| | - Alexander Slowik
- Institute of Neuroanatomy, Uniklinik RWTH Aachen University, Wendlingweg 2, 52074 Aachen, Germany; (A.S.); (A.Z.)
| | - Yusuke Kubo
- Anatomy and Cell Biology, Uniklinik RWTH Aachen University, Wendlingweg 2, 52074 Aachen, Germany; (J.Z.); (Y.K.); (N.K.); (T.P.)
| | - Gözde Dursun
- Institute of General Mechanics, RWTH Aachen University, Templergraben 64, 52056 Aachen, Germany; (G.D.); (W.W.); (M.S.)
| | - Wolfgang Willenberg
- Institute of General Mechanics, RWTH Aachen University, Templergraben 64, 52056 Aachen, Germany; (G.D.); (W.W.); (M.S.)
| | - Adib Zendedel
- Institute of Neuroanatomy, Uniklinik RWTH Aachen University, Wendlingweg 2, 52074 Aachen, Germany; (A.S.); (A.Z.)
| | - Nisreen Kweider
- Anatomy and Cell Biology, Uniklinik RWTH Aachen University, Wendlingweg 2, 52074 Aachen, Germany; (J.Z.); (Y.K.); (N.K.); (T.P.)
| | - Marcus Stoffel
- Institute of General Mechanics, RWTH Aachen University, Templergraben 64, 52056 Aachen, Germany; (G.D.); (W.W.); (M.S.)
| | - Thomas Pufe
- Anatomy and Cell Biology, Uniklinik RWTH Aachen University, Wendlingweg 2, 52074 Aachen, Germany; (J.Z.); (Y.K.); (N.K.); (T.P.)
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