1
|
Wang W, Liu Y, Huang X, Liang F, Luo H, Mao Z, Shi J, Wang L, Peng J, Chen Y. Diffusion-based culture and real-time impedance monitoring of tumor spheroids in hydrogel microwells of a suspended membrane under microfluidic conditions. Talanta 2024; 278:126473. [PMID: 38950503 DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2024.126473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2024] [Revised: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024]
Abstract
Tumor spheroids are widely studied for in vitro modeling of tumor growth and responses to anticancer drugs. However, current methods are mostly limited to static and perfusion-based cultures, which can be improved by more accurately mimicking pathological conditions. Here, we developed a diffusion-based dynamic culture system for tumor spheroids studies using a thin membrane of hydrogel microwells and a microfluidic device. This allows for effective exchange of nutrients and metabolites between the tumors and the culture medium flowing underneath, resulting in uniform tumor spheroids. To monitor the growth and drug response of the spheroids in real-time, we performed spectroscopic analyses of the system's impedance, demonstrating a close correlation between the tumor size and the resistance and capacitance of the system. Our results also indicate an enhanced drug effect on the tumor spheroids in the presence of a low AC electric field, suggesting a weakening mechanism of the spheroids induced by external perturbation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Wang
- École Normale Supérieure-PSL Research University, Département de Chimie, Sorbonne Universités-UPMC Univ Paris 06, CNRS, UMR 8640, PASTEUR, 24, rue Lhomond, 75005, Paris, France
| | - Yuanhui Liu
- École Normale Supérieure-PSL Research University, Département de Chimie, Sorbonne Universités-UPMC Univ Paris 06, CNRS, UMR 8640, PASTEUR, 24, rue Lhomond, 75005, Paris, France; Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei, China; Cancer Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei, China
| | - Xiaochen Huang
- École Normale Supérieure-PSL Research University, Département de Chimie, Sorbonne Universités-UPMC Univ Paris 06, CNRS, UMR 8640, PASTEUR, 24, rue Lhomond, 75005, Paris, France
| | - Feng Liang
- École Normale Supérieure-PSL Research University, Département de Chimie, Sorbonne Universités-UPMC Univ Paris 06, CNRS, UMR 8640, PASTEUR, 24, rue Lhomond, 75005, Paris, France
| | - Haoyue Luo
- École Normale Supérieure-PSL Research University, Département de Chimie, Sorbonne Universités-UPMC Univ Paris 06, CNRS, UMR 8640, PASTEUR, 24, rue Lhomond, 75005, Paris, France
| | - Zheng Mao
- École Normale Supérieure-PSL Research University, Département de Chimie, Sorbonne Universités-UPMC Univ Paris 06, CNRS, UMR 8640, PASTEUR, 24, rue Lhomond, 75005, Paris, France
| | - Jian Shi
- MesoBioTech, 231 Rue Saint-Honoré, 75001, Paris, France
| | - Li Wang
- MesoBioTech, 231 Rue Saint-Honoré, 75001, Paris, France
| | - Juan Peng
- École Normale Supérieure-PSL Research University, Département de Chimie, Sorbonne Universités-UPMC Univ Paris 06, CNRS, UMR 8640, PASTEUR, 24, rue Lhomond, 75005, Paris, France.
| | - Yong Chen
- École Normale Supérieure-PSL Research University, Département de Chimie, Sorbonne Universités-UPMC Univ Paris 06, CNRS, UMR 8640, PASTEUR, 24, rue Lhomond, 75005, Paris, France.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Dinić J, Jovanović Stojanov S, Dragoj M, Grozdanić M, Podolski-Renić A, Pešić M. Cancer Patient-Derived Cell-Based Models: Applications and Challenges in Functional Precision Medicine. Life (Basel) 2024; 14:1142. [PMID: 39337925 PMCID: PMC11433531 DOI: 10.3390/life14091142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2024] [Revised: 08/22/2024] [Accepted: 09/07/2024] [Indexed: 09/30/2024] Open
Abstract
The field of oncology has witnessed remarkable progress in personalized cancer therapy. Functional precision medicine has emerged as a promising avenue for achieving superior treatment outcomes by integrating omics profiling and sensitivity testing of patient-derived cancer cells. This review paper provides an in-depth analysis of the evolution of cancer-directed drugs, resistance mechanisms, and the role of functional precision medicine platforms in revolutionizing individualized treatment strategies. Using two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) cell cultures, patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models, and advanced functional assays has significantly improved our understanding of tumor behavior and drug response. This progress will lead to identifying more effective treatments for more patients. Considering the limited eligibility of patients based on a genome-targeted approach for receiving targeted therapy, functional precision medicine provides unprecedented opportunities for customizing medical interventions according to individual patient traits and individual drug responses. This review delineates the current landscape, explores limitations, and presents future perspectives to inspire ongoing advancements in functional precision medicine for personalized cancer therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Milica Pešić
- Department of Neurobiology, Institute for Biological Research “Siniša Stanković”—National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Bulevar Despota Stefana 142, 11108 Belgrade, Serbia; (J.D.); (S.J.S.); (M.D.); (M.G.); (A.P.-R.)
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Jeibouei S, Monfared AK, Hojat A, Aref AR, Shams F, Dolati M, Moradi A, Hosseini M, Javadi SM, Ajoudanian M, Molavi Z, Moghaddam M, Mohammadi F, Nuoroozi G, Naeimi SK, Shahani M, Zali H, Akbari ME, Mostafavi E. Human-derived Tumor-On-Chip model to study the heterogeneity of breast cancer tissue. BIOMATERIALS ADVANCES 2024; 162:213915. [PMID: 38878646 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioadv.2024.213915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2023] [Revised: 05/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024]
Abstract
One of the leading causes that complicate the treatment of some malignancies, including breast cancer, is tumor heterogeneity. In addition to inter-heterogeneity and intra-heterogeneity of tumors that reflect the differences between cancer cell characteristics, heterogeneity in the tumor microenvironment plays a critical role in tumor progression and could be considered an overlooked and a proper target for the effective selection of therapeutic approaches. Due to the difficulty of completely capturing tumor heterogeneity in conventional detection methods, Tumor-on-Chip (TOC) devices with culturing patient-derived spheroids could be an appropriate alternative. In this research, human-derived spheroids from breast cancer individuals were cultured for 6 days in microfluidic devices. To compare TOC data with conventional detection methods, immunohistochemistry (IHC) and ITRAQ data were employed, and various protein expressions were validated using the transcriptomic databases. The behavior of the spheroids in the collagen matrix and the cell viability were monitored over 6 days of culture. IHC and immunocytochemistry (ICC) results revealed that inter and intra-heterogeneity of tumor spheroids are associated with HER2/ER expression. HER2 expression levels revealed a more important biomarker associated with invasion in the 3D culturing of spheroids. The expression levels of CD163 (as a marker for Ma2 macrophages) and CD44 (a marker for cancer stem cells (CSCs)) were also evaluated. Interestingly, the levels of M2a macrophages and CSCs were higher in triple-negative specimens and samples that showed higher migration and invasion. Cell density and extracellular matrix (ECM) stiffness were also important factors affecting the migration and invasion of the spheroids through the matrix. Among these, rigid ECM revealed a more crucial role than cell density. To sum up, these research findings demonstrated that human-derived spheroids from breast cancer specimens in microfluidic devices provide a dynamic condition for predicting tumor heterogeneity in patients, which can help move the field forward for better and more accurate therapeutic strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shabnam Jeibouei
- Cancer Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 19839-63113, Iran; Virginia Seafood Agricultural Research and Extension Center, Virginia Tech, Hampton, VA 23669, USA
| | - Arefeh Khazraie Monfared
- William Harvey Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ali Hojat
- Cancer Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 19839-63113, Iran
| | - Amir Reza Aref
- Department of surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Vitro Vision, DeepkinetiX Inc, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Forough Shams
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mandana Dolati
- Cancer Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 19839-63113, Iran
| | - Afshin Moradi
- Cancer Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 19839-63113, Iran
| | - Masoumeh Hosseini
- Cancer Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 19839-63113, Iran
| | - Seyed Mohammadreza Javadi
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, Besat Hospital, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan 65178-38636, Iran
| | - Mohammad Ajoudanian
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Molavi
- Proteomics Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Science, Tehran 19839-63113, Iran
| | - Maryam Moghaddam
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Sciences, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 19839-63113, Iran
| | - Farzaneh Mohammadi
- Cancer Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 19839-63113, Iran
| | - Ghader Nuoroozi
- Men's Health and Reproductive Health Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sahar Khakpour Naeimi
- Islamic Azad University, Central Tehran Branch, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Department of Biology, Tehran 63537-11489, Iran
| | - Minoo Shahani
- Cancer Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 19839-63113, Iran
| | - Hakimeh Zali
- Cancer Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 19839-63113, Iran; Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Sciences, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 19839-63113, Iran.
| | - Mohammad Esmaeil Akbari
- Cancer Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 19839-63113, Iran.
| | - Ebrahim Mostafavi
- Stanford Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Luo X, Gong Y, Gong Z, Fan K, Suo T, Liu H, Ni X, Ni X, Abudureyimu M, Liu H. Liver and bile duct organoids and tumoroids. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 178:117104. [PMID: 39024834 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.117104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 06/23/2024] [Accepted: 07/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Organoids refer to 3D cultures established to recapitulate histology, pathology, architecture, and genetic traits of various organs and tissues in the body, thereby replacing 2D cell cultures, xenograft, and animal models. Organoids form a 3D in vitro mimic of original tissues like the liver and are derived from embryonic or adult tissue stem cells. Liver and bile duct tumor organoids, also called, tumoroids capture genetic diversity, cellular, and pathophysiological properties of original tumors. Moreover, co-culture techniques along with genetic modulation of organoids allow for using tumoroids in liver and bile duct cancer research and drug screening/testing. Therefore, tumoroids are promising platforms for studying liver and bile duct cancer, which paves the way for the new era of personalized therapies. In the current review, we aimed to discuss liver and bile duct organoids with special emphasis on tumoroids and their applications, advantages, and shortcomings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xuanming Luo
- Department of Biliary Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, China; Biliary Tract Disease Center of Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, China; Cancer Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, China; Biliary Tract Disease Institute, Fudan University, China; Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Biliary Tract Minimal Invasive Surgery and Materials, China; Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Xuhui Central Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuda Gong
- Department of Biliary Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, China; Biliary Tract Disease Center of Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, China; Cancer Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, China; Biliary Tract Disease Institute, Fudan University, China; Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Biliary Tract Minimal Invasive Surgery and Materials, China
| | - Zijun Gong
- Department of Biliary Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, China; Biliary Tract Disease Center of Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, China; Cancer Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, China; Biliary Tract Disease Institute, Fudan University, China; Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Biliary Tract Minimal Invasive Surgery and Materials, China
| | - Kun Fan
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Xuhui Central Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Tao Suo
- Department of Biliary Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, China; Biliary Tract Disease Center of Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, China; Cancer Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, China; Biliary Tract Disease Institute, Fudan University, China; Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Biliary Tract Minimal Invasive Surgery and Materials, China
| | - Han Liu
- Department of Biliary Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, China; Biliary Tract Disease Center of Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, China; Cancer Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, China; Biliary Tract Disease Institute, Fudan University, China; Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Biliary Tract Minimal Invasive Surgery and Materials, China
| | - Xiaoling Ni
- Department of Biliary Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, China; Biliary Tract Disease Center of Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, China; Cancer Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, China; Biliary Tract Disease Institute, Fudan University, China; Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Biliary Tract Minimal Invasive Surgery and Materials, China
| | - Xiaojian Ni
- Department of Biliary Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, China; Biliary Tract Disease Center of Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, China; Cancer Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, China; Biliary Tract Disease Institute, Fudan University, China; Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Biliary Tract Minimal Invasive Surgery and Materials, China
| | - Miyesaier Abudureyimu
- Cardiovascular Department, Shanghai Xuhui Central Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Houbao Liu
- Department of Biliary Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, China; Biliary Tract Disease Center of Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, China; Cancer Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, China; Biliary Tract Disease Institute, Fudan University, China; Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Biliary Tract Minimal Invasive Surgery and Materials, China; Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Xuhui Central Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Lampejo AO, Lightsey SE, Gomes MC, Nguyen CM, Siemann DW, Sharma B, Murfee WL. A Novel Ex Vivo Tumor Spheroid-Tissue Model for Investigating Microvascular Remodeling and Lymphatic Blood Vessel Plasticity. Ann Biomed Eng 2024; 52:2457-2472. [PMID: 38796670 DOI: 10.1007/s10439-024-03535-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/28/2024]
Abstract
Biomimetic tumor microenvironment models bridge the gap between in vitro and in vivo systems and serve as a useful way to address the modeling challenge of how to recreate the cell and system complexity associated with real tissues. Our laboratory has developed an ex vivo rat mesentery culture model, which allows for simultaneous investigation of blood and lymphatic microvascular network remodeling in an intact tissue environment. Given that angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis are key contributors to the progression of cancer, the objective of this study was to combine tissue and tumor spheroid culture methods to establish a novel ex vivo tumor spheroid-tissue model by verifying its use for evaluating the effects of cancer cell behavior on the local microvascular environment. H1299 or A549 tumor spheroids were formed via hanging drop culture and seeded onto rat mesenteric tissues harvested from adult male Wistar rats. Tissues with transplanted spheroids were cultured in serum-free media for 3 to 5 days. PECAM, NG2, CD11b, and αSMA labeling identified endothelial cells, pericytes, immune cells, and smooth muscle cells, respectively. Time-lapse imaging confirmed cancer cell type specific migration. In addition to increasing PECAM positive capillary sprouting and LYVE-1 positive endothelial cell extensions indicative of lymphangiogenesis, tumor spheroid presence induced the formation of lymphatic/blood vessel connections and the formation of hybrid, mosaic vessels that were characterized by discontinuous LYVE-1 labeling. The results support the application of a novel tumor spheroid microenvironment model for investigating cancer cell-microvascular interactions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arinola O Lampejo
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
- University of Florida Health Cancer Center, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Suzanne E Lightsey
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Maria C Gomes
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Christian M Nguyen
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Dietmar W Siemann
- University of Florida Health Cancer Center, Gainesville, FL, USA
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Florida, University of Florida Health, Gainesville, USA
| | - Blanka Sharma
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
- University of Florida Health Cancer Center, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Walter L Murfee
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.
- University of Florida Health Cancer Center, Gainesville, FL, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
de Roode KE, Hashemi K, Verdurmen WPR, Brock R. Tumor-On-A-Chip Models for Predicting In Vivo Nanoparticle Behavior. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2402311. [PMID: 38700060 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202402311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024]
Abstract
Nanosized drug formulations are broadly explored for the improvement of cancer therapy. Prediction of in vivo nanoparticle (NP) behavior, however, is challenging, given the complexity of the tumor and its microenvironment. Microfluidic tumor-on-a-chip models are gaining popularity for the in vitro testing of nanoparticle targeting under conditions that simulate the 3D tumor (microenvironment). In this review, following a description of the tumor microenvironment (TME), the state of the art regarding tumor-on-a-chip models for investigating nanoparticle delivery to solid tumors is summarized. The models are classified based on the degree of compartmentalization (single/multi-compartment) and cell composition (tumor only/tumor microenvironment). The physiological relevance of the models is critically evaluated. Overall, microfluidic tumor-on-a-chip models greatly improve the simulation of the TME in comparison to 2D tissue cultures and static 3D spheroid models and contribute to the understanding of nanoparticle behavior. Interestingly, two interrelated aspects have received little attention so far which are the presence and potential impact of a protein corona as well as nanoparticle uptake through phagocytosing cells. A better understanding of their relevance for the predictive capacity of tumor-on-a-chip systems and development of best practices will be a next step for the further refinement of advanced in vitro tumor models.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kim E de Roode
- Department of Medical BioSciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein 28, Nijmegen, 6525 GA, The Netherlands
| | - Khadijeh Hashemi
- Department of Medical BioSciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein 28, Nijmegen, 6525 GA, The Netherlands
| | - Wouter P R Verdurmen
- Department of Medical BioSciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein 28, Nijmegen, 6525 GA, The Netherlands
| | - Roland Brock
- Department of Medical BioSciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein 28, Nijmegen, 6525 GA, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, College of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Arabian Gulf University, Manama, 329, Bahrain
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Gallegos-Martínez S, Choy-Buentello D, Pérez-Álvarez KA, Lara-Mayorga IM, Aceves-Colin AE, Zhang YS, Trujillo-de Santiago G, Álvarez MM. A 3D-printed tumor-on-chip: user-friendly platform for the culture of breast cancer spheroids and the evaluation of anti-cancer drugs. Biofabrication 2024; 16:045010. [PMID: 38866003 DOI: 10.1088/1758-5090/ad5765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
Tumor-on-chips (ToCs) are useful platforms for studying the physiology of tumors and evaluating the efficacy and toxicity of anti-cancer drugs. However, the design and fabrication of a ToC system is not a trivial venture. We introduce a user-friendly, flexible, 3D-printed microfluidic device that can be used to culture cancer cells or cancer-derived spheroids embedded in hydrogels under well-controlled environments. The system consists of two lateral flow compartments (left and right sides), each with two inlets and two outlets to deliver cell culture media as continuous liquid streams. The central compartment was designed to host a hydrogel in which cells and microtissues can be confined and cultured. We performed tracer experiments with colored inks and 40 kDa fluorescein isothiocyanate dextran to characterize the transport/mixing performances of the system. We also cultured homotypic (MCF7) and heterotypic (MCF7-BJ) spheroids embedded in gelatin methacryloyl hydrogels to illustrate the use of this microfluidic device in sustaining long-term micro-tissue culture experiments. We further demonstrated the use of this platform in anticancer drug testing by continuous perfusion of doxorubicin, a commonly used anti-cancer drug for breast cancer. In these experiments, we evaluated drug transport, viability, glucose consumption, cell death (apoptosis), and cytotoxicity. In summary, we introduce a robust and friendly ToC system capable of recapitulating relevant aspects of the tumor microenvironment for the study of cancer physiology, anti-cancer drug transport, efficacy, and safety. We anticipate that this flexible 3D-printed microfluidic device may facilitate cancer research and the development and screening of strategies for personalized medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Salvador Gallegos-Martínez
- Centro de Biotecnología-FEMSA, Tecnológico de Monterrey, Campus Monterrey, CP 64849 Monterrey, Nuevo León, Mexico
- Departamento de Mecatrónica e Ingeniería Eléctrica, Escuela de Ingeniería y Ciencias, Tecnológico de Monterrey, Monterrey, Nuevo León, CP 64849, Mexico
- Division of Engineering in Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA 02139, United States of America
| | - David Choy-Buentello
- Centro de Biotecnología-FEMSA, Tecnológico de Monterrey, Campus Monterrey, CP 64849 Monterrey, Nuevo León, Mexico
| | - Kristen Aideé Pérez-Álvarez
- Centro de Biotecnología-FEMSA, Tecnológico de Monterrey, Campus Monterrey, CP 64849 Monterrey, Nuevo León, Mexico
| | | | | | - Yu Shrike Zhang
- Division of Engineering in Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA 02139, United States of America
| | - Grissel Trujillo-de Santiago
- Centro de Biotecnología-FEMSA, Tecnológico de Monterrey, Campus Monterrey, CP 64849 Monterrey, Nuevo León, Mexico
- Departamento de Mecatrónica e Ingeniería Eléctrica, Escuela de Ingeniería y Ciencias, Tecnológico de Monterrey, Monterrey, Nuevo León, CP 64849, Mexico
| | - Mario Moisés Álvarez
- Centro de Biotecnología-FEMSA, Tecnológico de Monterrey, Campus Monterrey, CP 64849 Monterrey, Nuevo León, Mexico
- Departamento de Mecatrónica e Ingeniería Eléctrica, Escuela de Ingeniería y Ciencias, Tecnológico de Monterrey, Monterrey, Nuevo León, CP 64849, Mexico
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Rahman MA, Apu EH, Rakib-Uz-Zaman SM, Chakraborti S, Bhajan SK, Taleb SA, Shaikh MH, Jalouli M, Harrath AH, Kim B. Exploring Importance and Regulation of Autophagy in Cancer Stem Cells and Stem Cell-Based Therapies. Cells 2024; 13:958. [PMID: 38891090 PMCID: PMC11171866 DOI: 10.3390/cells13110958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2024] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Autophagy is a globally conserved cellular activity that plays a critical role in maintaining cellular homeostasis through the breakdown and recycling of cellular constituents. In recent years, there has been much emphasis given to its complex role in cancer stem cells (CSCs) and stem cell treatment. This study examines the molecular processes that support autophagy and how it is regulated in the context of CSCs and stem cell treatment. Although autophagy plays a dual role in the management of CSCs, affecting their removal as well as their maintenance, the intricate interaction between the several signaling channels that control cellular survival and death as part of the molecular mechanism of autophagy has not been well elucidated. Given that CSCs have a role in the development, progression, and resistance to treatment of tumors, it is imperative to comprehend their biological activities. CSCs are important for cancer biology because they also show a tissue regeneration model that helps with organoid regeneration. In other words, the manipulation of autophagy is a viable therapeutic approach in the treatment of cancer and stem cell therapy. Both synthetic and natural substances that target autophagy pathways have demonstrated promise in improving stem cell-based therapies and eliminating CSCs. Nevertheless, there are difficulties associated with the limitations of autophagy in CSC regulation, including resistance mechanisms and off-target effects. Thus, the regulation of autophagy offers a versatile strategy for focusing on CSCs and enhancing the results of stem cell therapy. Therefore, understanding the complex interactions between autophagy and CSC biology would be essential for creating therapeutic treatments that work in both regenerative medicine and cancer treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Md Ataur Rahman
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Global Biotechnology and Biomedical Research Network (GBBRN), Department of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Islamic University, Kushtia 7003, Bangladesh
| | - Ehsanul Hoque Apu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Dental Medicine, Lincoln Memorial University, Knoxville, TN 37923, USA;
- DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine, Lincoln Memorial University, Harrogate, TN 37752, USA
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - S. M Rakib-Uz-Zaman
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716, USA; (S.M.R.-U.-Z.); (S.C.)
- Biotechnology Program, Department of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, School of Data and Sciences, BRAC University, Dhaka 1212, Bangladesh
| | - Somdeepa Chakraborti
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716, USA; (S.M.R.-U.-Z.); (S.C.)
| | - Sujay Kumar Bhajan
- Department of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Science & Technology University, Gopalganj 8100, Bangladesh;
| | - Shakila Afroz Taleb
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06510, USA;
| | - Mushfiq H. Shaikh
- Department of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery, Western University, London, ON N6A 4V2, Canada;
| | - Maroua Jalouli
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh 11623, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Abdel Halim Harrath
- Zoology Department, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Bonglee Kim
- Department of Pathology, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, 1-5 Hoegidong, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
- Korean Medicine-Based Drug Repositioning Cancer Research Center, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Taroncher M, Gonzalez-Suarez AM, Gwon K, Romero S, Reyes-Figueroa AD, Rodríguez-Carrasco Y, Ruiz MJ, Stybayeva G, Revzin A, de Hoyos-Vega JM. Using Microfluidic Hepatic Spheroid Cultures to Assess Liver Toxicity of T-2 Mycotoxin. Cells 2024; 13:900. [PMID: 38891032 PMCID: PMC11172061 DOI: 10.3390/cells13110900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
The Fusarium fungi is found in cereals and feedstuffs and may produce mycotoxins, which are secondary metabolites, such as the T-2 toxin (T-2). In this work, we explored the hepatotoxicity of T-2 using microfluidic 3D hepatic cultures. The objectives were: (i) exploring the benefits of microfluidic 3D cultures compared to conventional 3D cultures available commercially (Aggrewell plates), (ii) establishing 3D co-cultures of hepatic cells (HepG2) and stellate cells (LX2) and assessing T-2 exposure in this model, (iii) characterizing the induction of metabolizing enzymes, and (iv) evaluating inflammatory markers upon T-2 exposure in microfluidic hepatic cultures. Our results demonstrated that, in comparison to commercial (large-volume) 3D cultures, spheroids formed faster and were more functional in microfluidic devices. The viability and hepatic function decreased with increasing T-2 concentrations in both monoculture and co-cultures. The RT-PCR analysis revealed that exposure to T-2 upregulates the expression of multiple Phase I and Phase II hepatic enzymes. In addition, several pro- and anti-inflammatory proteins were increased in co-cultures after exposure to T-2.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mercedes Taroncher
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55901, USA; (M.T.); (A.M.G.-S.); (G.S.)
- Research Group in Alternative Methods for Determining Toxics Effects and Risk Assessment of Contaminants and Mixtures (RiskTox), Laboratory of Food Chemistry and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Valencia, Av. Vicent Andrés Estellés s/n, 46100 Valencia, Spain; (Y.R.-C.); (M.-J.R.)
| | - Alan M. Gonzalez-Suarez
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55901, USA; (M.T.); (A.M.G.-S.); (G.S.)
| | - Kihak Gwon
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55901, USA; (M.T.); (A.M.G.-S.); (G.S.)
| | - Samuel Romero
- Centro de Investigación en Matemáticas Unidad Monterrey, Apodaca 66628, NL, Mexico (A.D.R.-F.)
| | - Angel D. Reyes-Figueroa
- Centro de Investigación en Matemáticas Unidad Monterrey, Apodaca 66628, NL, Mexico (A.D.R.-F.)
- Consejo Nacional de Humanidades, Ciencias y Tecnologías, Ciudad de Mexico 03940, Mexico
| | - Yelko Rodríguez-Carrasco
- Research Group in Alternative Methods for Determining Toxics Effects and Risk Assessment of Contaminants and Mixtures (RiskTox), Laboratory of Food Chemistry and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Valencia, Av. Vicent Andrés Estellés s/n, 46100 Valencia, Spain; (Y.R.-C.); (M.-J.R.)
| | - María-José Ruiz
- Research Group in Alternative Methods for Determining Toxics Effects and Risk Assessment of Contaminants and Mixtures (RiskTox), Laboratory of Food Chemistry and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Valencia, Av. Vicent Andrés Estellés s/n, 46100 Valencia, Spain; (Y.R.-C.); (M.-J.R.)
| | - Gulnaz Stybayeva
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55901, USA; (M.T.); (A.M.G.-S.); (G.S.)
| | - Alexander Revzin
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55901, USA; (M.T.); (A.M.G.-S.); (G.S.)
| | - Jose M. de Hoyos-Vega
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55901, USA; (M.T.); (A.M.G.-S.); (G.S.)
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Dianzani C, Bozza A, Bordano V, Cangemi L, Ferraris C, Foglietta F, Monge C, Gallicchio M, Pizzimenti S, Marini E, Muntoni E, Valsania MC, Battaglia L. Cell Membrane Fragment-Wrapped Parenteral Nanoemulsions: A New Drug Delivery Tool to Target Gliomas. Cells 2024; 13:641. [PMID: 38607080 PMCID: PMC11011487 DOI: 10.3390/cells13070641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Poor prognosis in high-grade gliomas is mainly due to fatal relapse after surgical resection in the absence of efficient chemotherapy, which is severely hampered by the blood-brain barrier. However, the leaky blood-brain-tumour barrier forms upon tumour growth and vascularization, allowing targeted nanocarrier-mediated drug delivery. The homotypic targeting ability of cell-membrane fragments obtained from cancer cells means that these fragments can be exploited to this aim. In this experimental work, injectable nanoemulsions, which have a long history of safe clinic usage, have been wrapped in glioma-cell membrane fragments via co-extrusion to give targeted, homogeneously sized, sterile formulations. These systems were then loaded with three different chemotherapeutics, in the form of hydrophobic ion pairs that can be released into the target site thanks to interactions with physiological components. The numerous assays performed in two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) cell models demonstrate that the proposed approach is a versatile drug-delivery platform with chemo-tactic properties towards glioma cells, with adhesive interactions between the target cell and the cell membrane fragments most likely being responsible for the effect. This approach's promising translational perspectives towards personalized nanomedicine mean that further in vivo studies are foreseen for the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Dianzani
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Turin, via Pietro Giuria 9, 10124 Turin, Italy; (C.D.); (A.B.); (V.B.); (L.C.); (C.F.); (F.F.); (C.M.); (M.G.); (E.M.); (E.M.)
| | - Annalisa Bozza
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Turin, via Pietro Giuria 9, 10124 Turin, Italy; (C.D.); (A.B.); (V.B.); (L.C.); (C.F.); (F.F.); (C.M.); (M.G.); (E.M.); (E.M.)
| | - Valentina Bordano
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Turin, via Pietro Giuria 9, 10124 Turin, Italy; (C.D.); (A.B.); (V.B.); (L.C.); (C.F.); (F.F.); (C.M.); (M.G.); (E.M.); (E.M.)
| | - Luigi Cangemi
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Turin, via Pietro Giuria 9, 10124 Turin, Italy; (C.D.); (A.B.); (V.B.); (L.C.); (C.F.); (F.F.); (C.M.); (M.G.); (E.M.); (E.M.)
| | - Chiara Ferraris
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Turin, via Pietro Giuria 9, 10124 Turin, Italy; (C.D.); (A.B.); (V.B.); (L.C.); (C.F.); (F.F.); (C.M.); (M.G.); (E.M.); (E.M.)
| | - Federica Foglietta
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Turin, via Pietro Giuria 9, 10124 Turin, Italy; (C.D.); (A.B.); (V.B.); (L.C.); (C.F.); (F.F.); (C.M.); (M.G.); (E.M.); (E.M.)
| | - Chiara Monge
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Turin, via Pietro Giuria 9, 10124 Turin, Italy; (C.D.); (A.B.); (V.B.); (L.C.); (C.F.); (F.F.); (C.M.); (M.G.); (E.M.); (E.M.)
| | - Margherita Gallicchio
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Turin, via Pietro Giuria 9, 10124 Turin, Italy; (C.D.); (A.B.); (V.B.); (L.C.); (C.F.); (F.F.); (C.M.); (M.G.); (E.M.); (E.M.)
| | - Stefania Pizzimenti
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, Corso Raffaello 30, 10124 Turin, Italy;
| | - Elisabetta Marini
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Turin, via Pietro Giuria 9, 10124 Turin, Italy; (C.D.); (A.B.); (V.B.); (L.C.); (C.F.); (F.F.); (C.M.); (M.G.); (E.M.); (E.M.)
| | - Elisabetta Muntoni
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Turin, via Pietro Giuria 9, 10124 Turin, Italy; (C.D.); (A.B.); (V.B.); (L.C.); (C.F.); (F.F.); (C.M.); (M.G.); (E.M.); (E.M.)
| | - Maria Carmen Valsania
- Department of Chemistry, University of Turin, Via Quarello 15/a, 10135 Turin, Italy;
- Nanostructured Interfaces and Surfaces (NIS) Interdepartmental Centre, University of Turin, 10124 Turin, Italy
| | - Luigi Battaglia
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Turin, via Pietro Giuria 9, 10124 Turin, Italy; (C.D.); (A.B.); (V.B.); (L.C.); (C.F.); (F.F.); (C.M.); (M.G.); (E.M.); (E.M.)
- Nanostructured Interfaces and Surfaces (NIS) Interdepartmental Centre, University of Turin, 10124 Turin, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Tostado CP, Da Ong LX, Heng JJW, Miccolis C, Chia S, Seow JJW, Toh Y, DasGupta R. An AI-assisted integrated, scalable, single-cell phenomic-transcriptomic platform to elucidate intratumor heterogeneity against immune response. Bioeng Transl Med 2024; 9:e10628. [PMID: 38435825 PMCID: PMC10905538 DOI: 10.1002/btm2.10628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
We present a novel framework combining single-cell phenotypic data with single-cell transcriptomic analysis to identify factors underpinning heterogeneity in antitumor immune response. We developed a pairwise, tumor-immune discretized interaction assay between natural killer (NK-92MI) cells and patient-derived head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) cell lines on a microfluidic cell-trapping platform. Furthermore we generated a deep-learning computer vision algorithm that is capable of automating the acquisition and analysis of a large, live-cell imaging data set (>1 million) of paired tumor-immune interactions spanning a time course of 24 h across multiple HNSCC lines (n = 10). Finally, we combined the response data measured by Kaplan-Meier survival analysis against NK-mediated killing with downstream single-cell transcriptomic analysis to interrogate molecular signatures associated with NK-effector response. As proof-of-concept for the proposed framework, we efficiently identified MHC class I-driven cytotoxic resistance as a key mechanism for immune evasion in nonresponders, while enhanced expression of cell adhesion molecules was found to be correlated with sensitivity against NK-mediated cytotoxicity. We conclude that this integrated, data-driven phenotypic approach holds tremendous promise in advancing the rapid identification of new mechanisms and therapeutic targets related to immune evasion and response.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher P. Tostado
- Genome Institute of Singapore, Laboratory of Precision Oncology and Cancer EvolutionSingaporeSingapore
- Institute for Health Innovation and Technology (iHealthtech), National University of SingaporeSingaporeSingapore
| | - Lucas Xian Da Ong
- Institute for Health Innovation and Technology (iHealthtech), National University of SingaporeSingaporeSingapore
| | - Joel Jia Wei Heng
- Genome Institute of Singapore, Laboratory of Precision Oncology and Cancer EvolutionSingaporeSingapore
| | - Carlo Miccolis
- Genome Institute of Singapore, Laboratory of Precision Oncology and Cancer EvolutionSingaporeSingapore
| | - Shumei Chia
- Genome Institute of Singapore, Laboratory of Precision Oncology and Cancer EvolutionSingaporeSingapore
| | - Justine Jia Wen Seow
- Genome Institute of Singapore, Laboratory of Precision Oncology and Cancer EvolutionSingaporeSingapore
| | - Yi‐Chin Toh
- Institute for Health Innovation and Technology (iHealthtech), National University of SingaporeSingaporeSingapore
- School of Mechanical, Medical and Process EngineeringQueensland University of TechnologyBrisbaneAustralia
- Centre for Biomedical TechnologiesQueensland University of TechnologyBrisbaneAustralia
| | - Ramanuj DasGupta
- Genome Institute of Singapore, Laboratory of Precision Oncology and Cancer EvolutionSingaporeSingapore
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Bayona C, Alza L, Ranđelović T, Sallán MC, Visa A, Cantí C, Ochoa I, Oliván S, Herreros J. Tetralol derivative NNC-55-0396 targets hypoxic cells in the glioblastoma microenvironment: an organ-on-chip approach. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:127. [PMID: 38341408 PMCID: PMC10858941 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06492-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is a highly malignant brain tumour characterised by limited treatment options and poor prognosis. The tumour microenvironment, particularly the central hypoxic region of the tumour, is known to play a pivotal role in GBM progression. Cells within this region adapt to hypoxia by stabilising transcription factor HIF1-α, which promotes cell proliferation, dedifferentiation and chemoresistance. In this study we sought to examine the effects of NNC-55-0396, a tetralol compound which overactivates the unfolded protein response inducing apoptosis, using the organ-on-chip technology. We identified an increased sensitivity of the hypoxic core of the chip to NNC, which correlates with decreasing levels of HIF1-α in vitro. Moreover, NNC blocks the macroautophagic process that is unleashed by hypoxia as revealed by increased levels of autophagosomal constituent LC3-II and autophagy chaperone p62/SQSTM1. The specific effects of NNC in the hypoxic microenvironment unveil additional anti-cancer abilities of this compound and further support investigations on its use in combined therapies against GBM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Clara Bayona
- Tissue Microenvironment (TME) Lab, Institute for Health Research Aragón (IIS Aragón), Aragón Institute of Engineering Research (I3A), University of Zaragoza, 50018, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Lía Alza
- Calcium Cell Signaling, IRBLleida, University of Lleida, Rovira Roure 80, 25198, Lleida, Spain
| | - Teodora Ranđelović
- Tissue Microenvironment (TME) Lab, Institute for Health Research Aragón (IIS Aragón), Aragón Institute of Engineering Research (I3A), University of Zaragoza, 50018, Zaragoza, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 50018, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Marta C Sallán
- Calcium Cell Signaling, IRBLleida, University of Lleida, Rovira Roure 80, 25198, Lleida, Spain
- Centre for Haemato-Oncology, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, Charterhouse Square, London, EC1M 6BQ, UK
| | - Anna Visa
- Calcium Cell Signaling, IRBLleida, University of Lleida, Rovira Roure 80, 25198, Lleida, Spain
| | - Carles Cantí
- Calcium Cell Signaling, IRBLleida, University of Lleida, Rovira Roure 80, 25198, Lleida, Spain
| | - Ignacio Ochoa
- Tissue Microenvironment (TME) Lab, Institute for Health Research Aragón (IIS Aragón), Aragón Institute of Engineering Research (I3A), University of Zaragoza, 50018, Zaragoza, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 50018, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Sara Oliván
- Tissue Microenvironment (TME) Lab, Institute for Health Research Aragón (IIS Aragón), Aragón Institute of Engineering Research (I3A), University of Zaragoza, 50018, Zaragoza, Spain.
| | - Judit Herreros
- Calcium Cell Signaling, IRBLleida, University of Lleida, Rovira Roure 80, 25198, Lleida, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Rassomakhina NV, Ryazanova AY, Likhov AR, Bruskin SA, Maloshenok LG, Zherdeva VV. Tumor Organoids: The Era of Personalized Medicine. BIOCHEMISTRY. BIOKHIMIIA 2024; 89:S127-S147. [PMID: 38621748 DOI: 10.1134/s0006297924140086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
The strategies of future medicine are aimed to modernize and integrate quality approaches including early molecular-genetic profiling, identification of new therapeutic targets and adapting design for clinical trials, personalized drug screening (PDS) to help predict and individualize patient treatment regimens. In the past decade, organoid models have emerged as an innovative in vitro platform with the potential to realize the concept of patient-centered medicine. Organoids are spatially restricted three-dimensional clusters of cells ex vivo that self-organize into complex functional structures through genetically programmed determination, which is crucial for reconstructing the architecture of the primary tissue and organs. Currently, there are several strategies to create three-dimensional (3D) tumor systems using (i) surgically resected patient tissue (PDTOs, patient-derived tumor organoids) or (ii) single tumor cells circulating in the patient's blood. Successful application of 3D tumor models obtained by co-culturing autologous tumor organoids (PDTOs) and peripheral blood lymphocytes have been demonstrated in a number of studies. Such models simulate a 3D tumor architecture in vivo and contain all cell types characteristic of this tissue, including immune system cells and stem cells. Components of the tumor microenvironment, such as fibroblasts and immune system cells, affect tumor growth and its drug resistance. In this review, we analyzed the evolution of tumor models from two-dimensional (2D) cell cultures and laboratory animals to 3D tissue-specific tumor organoids, their significance in identifying mechanisms of antitumor response and drug resistance, and use of these models in drug screening and development of precision methods in cancer treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natalia V Rassomakhina
- Bach Institute of Biochemistry, Federal Research Center of Biotechnology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119071, Russia
| | - Alexandra Yu Ryazanova
- Bach Institute of Biochemistry, Federal Research Center of Biotechnology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119071, Russia
| | - Astemir R Likhov
- Bach Institute of Biochemistry, Federal Research Center of Biotechnology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119071, Russia
| | - Sergey A Bruskin
- Bach Institute of Biochemistry, Federal Research Center of Biotechnology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119071, Russia
- Vavilov Institute of General Genetics, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119991, Russia
| | - Liliya G Maloshenok
- Bach Institute of Biochemistry, Federal Research Center of Biotechnology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119071, Russia
- Vavilov Institute of General Genetics, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119991, Russia
| | - Victoria V Zherdeva
- Bach Institute of Biochemistry, Federal Research Center of Biotechnology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119071, Russia.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Liu Y, Liu R, Liu H, Lyu T, Chen K, Jin K, Tian Y. Breast tumor-on-chip: from the tumor microenvironment to medical applications. Analyst 2023; 148:5822-5842. [PMID: 37850340 DOI: 10.1039/d3an01295f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2023]
Abstract
With the development of microfluidic technology, tumor-on-chip models have gradually become a new tool for the study of breast cancer because they can simulate more key factors of the tumor microenvironment compared with traditional models in vitro. Here, we review up-to-date advancements in breast tumor-on-chip models. We summarize and analyze the breast tumor microenvironment (TME), preclinical breast cancer models for TME simulation, fabrication methods of tumor-on-chip models, tumor-on-chip models for TME reconstruction, and applications of breast tumor-on-chip models and provide a perspective on breast tumor-on-chip models. This review will contribute to the construction and design of microenvironments for breast tumor-on-chip models, even the development of the pharmaceutical field, personalized/precision therapy, and clinical medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yiying Liu
- College of Medicine and Biological Information Engineering, Northeastern University, Shenyang 110169, China.
- Foshan Graduate School of Innovation, Northeastern University, Foshan, 528300, China
| | - Ruonan Liu
- College of Medicine and Biological Information Engineering, Northeastern University, Shenyang 110169, China.
| | - He Liu
- College of Medicine and Biological Information Engineering, Northeastern University, Shenyang 110169, China.
| | - Tong Lyu
- College of Medicine and Biological Information Engineering, Northeastern University, Shenyang 110169, China.
| | - Kun Chen
- College of Medicine and Biological Information Engineering, Northeastern University, Shenyang 110169, China.
| | - Kaiming Jin
- College of Medicine and Biological Information Engineering, Northeastern University, Shenyang 110169, China.
| | - Ye Tian
- College of Medicine and Biological Information Engineering, Northeastern University, Shenyang 110169, China.
- Foshan Graduate School of Innovation, Northeastern University, Foshan, 528300, China
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Kheiri S, Chen Z, Yakavets I, Rakhshani F, Young EWK, Kumacheva E. Integrating spheroid-on-a-chip with tubeless rocker platform: A high-throughput biological screening platform. Biotechnol J 2023; 18:e2200621. [PMID: 37436706 DOI: 10.1002/biot.202200621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023]
Abstract
Spheroid-on-a-chip platforms are emerging as promising in vitro models that enable screening of the efficacy of biologically active ingredients. Generally, the supply of liquids to spheroids occurs in the steady flow mode with the use of syringe pumps; however, the utilization of tubing and connections, especially for multiplexing and high-throughput screening applications, makes spheroid-on-a-chip platforms labor- and cost-intensive. Gravity-induced flow using rocker platforms overcomes these challenges. Here, a robust gravity-driven technique was developed to culture arrays of cancer cell spheroids and dermal fibroblast spheroids in a high-throughput manner using a rocker platform. The efficiency of the developed rocker-based platform was benchmarked to syringe pumps for generating multicellular spheroids and their use for screening biologically active ingredients. Cell viability, internal spheroid structure as well as the effect of vitamin C on spheroids' protein synthesis was studied. The rocker-based platform not only offers comparable or enhanced performance in terms of cell viability, spheroids formation, and protein production by dermal fibroblast spheroids but also, from a practical perspective, offers a smaller footprint, requires a lower cost, and offers an easier method for handling. These results support the application of rocker-based microfluidic spheroid-on-a-chip platforms for in vitro screening in a high-throughput manner with industrial scaling-up opportunities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sina Kheiri
- Department of Mechanical & Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Zhengkun Chen
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ilya Yakavets
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Faeze Rakhshani
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Edmond W K Young
- Department of Mechanical & Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Eugenia Kumacheva
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Bouquerel C, Dubrova A, Hofer I, Phan DTT, Bernheim M, Ladaigue S, Cavaniol C, Maddalo D, Cabel L, Mechta-Grigoriou F, Wilhelm C, Zalcman G, Parrini MC, Descroix S. Bridging the gap between tumor-on-chip and clinics: a systematic review of 15 years of studies. LAB ON A CHIP 2023; 23:3906-3935. [PMID: 37592893 DOI: 10.1039/d3lc00531c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/19/2023]
Abstract
Over the past 15 years, the field of oncology research has witnessed significant progress in the development of new cell culture models, such as tumor-on-chip (ToC) systems. In this comprehensive overview, we present a multidisciplinary perspective by bringing together physicists, biologists, clinicians, and experts from pharmaceutical companies to highlight the current state of ToC research, its unique features, and the challenges it faces. To offer readers a clear and quantitative understanding of the ToC field, we conducted an extensive systematic analysis of more than 300 publications related to ToC from 2005 to 2022. ToC offer key advantages over other in vitro models by enabling precise control over various parameters. These parameters include the properties of the extracellular matrix, mechanical forces exerted on cells, the physico-chemical environment, cell composition, and the architecture of the tumor microenvironment. Such fine control allows ToC to closely replicate the complex microenvironment and interactions within tumors, facilitating the study of cancer progression and therapeutic responses in a highly representative manner. Importantly, by incorporating patient-derived cells or tumor xenografts, ToC models have demonstrated promising results in terms of clinical validation. We also examined the potential of ToC for pharmaceutical industries in which ToC adoption is expected to occur gradually. Looking ahead, given the high failure rate of clinical trials and the increasing emphasis on the 3Rs principles (replacement, reduction, refinement of animal experimentation), ToC models hold immense potential for cancer research. In the next decade, data generated from ToC models could potentially be employed for discovering new therapeutic targets, contributing to regulatory purposes, refining preclinical drug testing and reducing reliance on animal models.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Bouquerel
- Macromolécules et Microsystèmes en Biologie et Médecine, UMR 168, Institut Curie, Institut Pierre Gilles de Gennes, 6 rue Jean Calvin, 75005, Paris, France
- Stress and Cancer Laboratory, Inserm, U830, Institut Curie, PSL Research University, 26 rue d'Ulm, 75005, Paris, France
- Fluigent, 67 avenue de Fontainebleau, 94270, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Anastasiia Dubrova
- Macromolécules et Microsystèmes en Biologie et Médecine, UMR 168, Institut Curie, Institut Pierre Gilles de Gennes, 6 rue Jean Calvin, 75005, Paris, France
| | - Isabella Hofer
- Stress and Cancer Laboratory, Inserm, U830, Institut Curie, PSL Research University, 26 rue d'Ulm, 75005, Paris, France
| | - Duc T T Phan
- Biomedicine Design, Pfizer Inc., San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Moencopi Bernheim
- Macromolécules et Microsystèmes en Biologie et Médecine, UMR 168, Institut Curie, Institut Pierre Gilles de Gennes, 6 rue Jean Calvin, 75005, Paris, France
| | - Ségolène Ladaigue
- Stress and Cancer Laboratory, Inserm, U830, Institut Curie, PSL Research University, 26 rue d'Ulm, 75005, Paris, France
| | - Charles Cavaniol
- Macromolécules et Microsystèmes en Biologie et Médecine, UMR 168, Institut Curie, Institut Pierre Gilles de Gennes, 6 rue Jean Calvin, 75005, Paris, France
| | - Danilo Maddalo
- Department of Translational Oncology, Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Luc Cabel
- Institut Curie, Department of Medical Oncology, 26 rue d'Ulm, 75005, Paris, France
| | - Fatima Mechta-Grigoriou
- Stress and Cancer Laboratory, Inserm, U830, Institut Curie, PSL Research University, 26 rue d'Ulm, 75005, Paris, France
| | - Claire Wilhelm
- Macromolécules et Microsystèmes en Biologie et Médecine, UMR 168, Institut Curie, Institut Pierre Gilles de Gennes, 6 rue Jean Calvin, 75005, Paris, France
| | - Gérard Zalcman
- Stress and Cancer Laboratory, Inserm, U830, Institut Curie, PSL Research University, 26 rue d'Ulm, 75005, Paris, France
- Université Paris Cité, Thoracic Oncology Department, INSERM CIC1425, Bichat Hospital, Cancer Institute AP-HP. Nord, Paris, France.
| | - Maria Carla Parrini
- Stress and Cancer Laboratory, Inserm, U830, Institut Curie, PSL Research University, 26 rue d'Ulm, 75005, Paris, France
| | - Stéphanie Descroix
- Macromolécules et Microsystèmes en Biologie et Médecine, UMR 168, Institut Curie, Institut Pierre Gilles de Gennes, 6 rue Jean Calvin, 75005, Paris, France
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Gil JF, Moura CS, Silverio V, Gonçalves G, Santos HA. Cancer Models on Chip: Paving the Way to Large-Scale Trial Applications. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023; 35:e2300692. [PMID: 37103886 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202300692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Cancer kills millions of individuals every year all over the world (Global Cancer Observatory). The physiological and biomechanical processes underlying the tumor are still poorly understood, hindering researchers from creating new, effective therapies. Inconsistent results of preclinical research, in vivo testing, and clinical trials decrease drug approval rates. 3D tumor-on-a-chip (ToC) models integrate biomaterials, tissue engineering, fabrication of microarchitectures, and sensory and actuation systems in a single device, enabling reliable studies in fundamental oncology and pharmacology. This review includes a critical discussion about their ability to reproduce the tumor microenvironment (TME), the advantages and drawbacks of existing tumor models and architectures, major components and fabrication techniques. The focus is on current materials and micro/nanofabrication techniques used to manufacture reliable and reproducible microfluidic ToC models for large-scale trial applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- João Ferreira Gil
- Centre for Rapid and Sustainable Product Development, Polytechnic of Leiria, Marinha Grande, 2430-028, Portugal
- INESC Microsistemas e Nanotecnologias (INESC MN), Rua Alves Redol 9, Lisbon, 1000-029, Portugal
- TEMA, Mechanical Engineering Department, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, 3810-193, Portugal
| | - Carla Sofia Moura
- Centre for Rapid and Sustainable Product Development, Polytechnic of Leiria, Marinha Grande, 2430-028, Portugal
- Polytechnic Institute of Coimbra, Applied Research Institute, Coimbra, 3045-093, Portugal
| | - Vania Silverio
- INESC Microsistemas e Nanotecnologias (INESC MN), Rua Alves Redol 9, Lisbon, 1000-029, Portugal
- Department of Physics, Instituto Superior Técnico, Lisbon, 1049-001, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory Institute for Health and Bioeconomy - i4HB, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Gil Gonçalves
- TEMA, Mechanical Engineering Department, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, 3810-193, Portugal
- Intelligent Systems Associate Laboratory (LASI), Aveiro, 3810-193, Portugal
| | - Hélder A Santos
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, 9713 AV, The Netherlands
- W.J. Korf Institute for Biomedical Engineering and Materials Science, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, 9713 AV, The Netherlands
- Drug Research Program, Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, 00014, Finland
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Fan D, Cao Y, Cao M, Wang Y, Cao Y, Gong T. Nanomedicine in cancer therapy. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:293. [PMID: 37544972 PMCID: PMC10404590 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01536-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 90.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer remains a highly lethal disease in the world. Currently, either conventional cancer therapies or modern immunotherapies are non-tumor-targeted therapeutic approaches that cannot accurately distinguish malignant cells from healthy ones, giving rise to multiple undesired side effects. Recent advances in nanotechnology, accompanied by our growing understanding of cancer biology and nano-bio interactions, have led to the development of a series of nanocarriers, which aim to improve the therapeutic efficacy while reducing off-target toxicity of the encapsulated anticancer agents through tumor tissue-, cell-, or organelle-specific targeting. However, the vast majority of nanocarriers do not possess hierarchical targeting capability, and their therapeutic indices are often compromised by either poor tumor accumulation, inefficient cellular internalization, or inaccurate subcellular localization. This Review outlines current and prospective strategies in the design of tumor tissue-, cell-, and organelle-targeted cancer nanomedicines, and highlights the latest progress in hierarchical targeting technologies that can dynamically integrate these three different stages of static tumor targeting to maximize therapeutic outcomes. Finally, we briefly discuss the current challenges and future opportunities for the clinical translation of cancer nanomedicines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dahua Fan
- Shunde Women and Children's Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Foshan, 528300, China.
- Department of Neurology, Institute of Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518035, China.
| | - Yongkai Cao
- Department of Neurology, Institute of Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518035, China
| | - Meiqun Cao
- Department of Neurology, Institute of Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518035, China
| | - Yajun Wang
- Shunde Women and Children's Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Foshan, 528300, China
| | | | - Tao Gong
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610064, China.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Liu H, Wang X. Esophageal organoids: applications and future prospects. J Mol Med (Berl) 2023; 101:931-945. [PMID: 37380866 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-023-02340-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
Organoids have been developed in the last decade as a new research tool to simulate organ cell biology and disease. Compared to traditional 2D cell lines and animal models, experimental data based on esophageal organoids are more reliable. In recent years, esophageal organoids derived from multiple cell sources have been established, and relatively mature culture protocols have been developed. Esophageal inflammation and cancer are two directions of esophageal organoid modeling, and organoid models of esophageal adenocarcinoma, esophageal squamous cell carcinoma, and eosinophilic esophagitis have been established. The properties of esophageal organoids, which mimic the real esophagus, contribute to research in drug screening and regenerative medicine. The combination of organoids with other technologies, such as organ chips and xenografts, can complement the deficiencies of organoids and create entirely new research models that are more advantageous for cancer research. In this review, we will summarize the development of tumor and non-tumor esophageal organoids, the current application of esophageal organoids in disease modeling, regenerative medicine, and drug screening. We will also discuss the future prospects of esophageal organoids.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hongyuan Liu
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Xianli Wang
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Public Health, Shanghai, 200025, China.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Zhang YS, Alvarez MM, Trujillo-de Santiago G. Placing biofabrication into the context of human disease modeling. Biofabrication 2023; 15. [PMID: 37191315 DOI: 10.1088/1758-5090/acd27b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
The field of biofabrication has seen tremendous advances in the past decade. More recently, the emerging role of biofabrication in allowing faithful generation of models of human tissues in their healthy and diseased states has been demonstrated and has rapidly expanded. These biomimetic models are potentially widely applicable in a range of research and translational areas including but not limited to fundamental biology studies as well as screening of chemical compounds, such as therapeutic agents. The United States Food and Drug Administration Modernization Act 2.0, which now no longer requires animal tests before approving human drug trials, will likely further boost the field in the years to come. This Special Issue, with a collection of 11 excellent research articles, thus focuses on showcasing the latest developments of biofabrication towards human disease modeling, spanning from 3D (bo)printing to organ-on-a-chip as well as their integration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu Shrike Zhang
- Division of Engineering in Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA 02139, United States of America
| | - Mario Moisés Alvarez
- Centro de Biotecnología-FEMSA, Tecnologico de Monterrey, Monterrey, NL 64849, México
- Departamento de Ingeniería Mecatrónica y Eléctrica, Escuela de Ingeniería y Ciencias, Tecnologico de Monterrey, Monterrey, NL 64849, México
| | - Grissel Trujillo-de Santiago
- Centro de Biotecnología-FEMSA, Tecnologico de Monterrey, Monterrey, NL 64849, México
- Departamento de Ingeniería Mecatrónica y Eléctrica, Escuela de Ingeniería y Ciencias, Tecnologico de Monterrey, Monterrey, NL 64849, México
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Sánchez-Salazar MG, Crespo-López Oliver R, Ramos-Meizoso S, Jerezano-Flores VS, Gallegos-Martínez S, Bolívar-Monsalve EJ, Ceballos-González CF, Trujillo-de Santiago G, Álvarez MM. 3D-Printed Tumor-on-Chip for the Culture of Colorectal Cancer Microspheres: Mass Transport Characterization and Anti-Cancer Drug Assays. Bioengineering (Basel) 2023; 10:554. [PMID: 37237624 PMCID: PMC10215397 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering10050554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor-on-chips have become an effective resource in cancer research. However, their widespread use remains limited due to issues related to their practicality in fabrication and use. To address some of these limitations, we introduce a 3D-printed chip, which is large enough to host ~1 cm3 of tissue and fosters well-mixed conditions in the liquid niche, while still enabling the formation of the concentration profiles that occur in real tissues due to diffusive transport. We compared the mass transport performance in its rhomboidal culture chamber when empty, when filled with GelMA/alginate hydrogel microbeads, or when occupied with a monolithic piece of hydrogel with a central channel, allowing communication between the inlet and outlet. We show that our chip filled with hydrogel microspheres in the culture chamber promotes adequate mixing and enhanced distribution of culture media. In proof-of-concept pharmacological assays, we biofabricated hydrogel microspheres containing embedded Caco2 cells, which developed into microtumors. Microtumors cultured in the device developed throughout the 10-day culture showing >75% of viability. Microtumors subjected to 5-fluorouracil treatment displayed <20% cell survival and lower VEGF-A and E-cadherin expression than untreated controls. Overall, our tumor-on-chip device proved suitable for studying cancer biology and performing drug response assays.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mónica Gabriela Sánchez-Salazar
- Centro de Biotecnología-FEMSA, Tecnológico de Monterrey, Campus Monterrey, Monterrey 64849, Mexico; (M.G.S.-S.); (S.G.-M.)
- Departamento de Mecatrónica e Ingeniería Eléctrica, Escuela de Ingeniería y Ciencias, Tecnológico de Monterrey, Monterrey 64849, Mexico
| | - Regina Crespo-López Oliver
- Centro de Biotecnología-FEMSA, Tecnológico de Monterrey, Campus Monterrey, Monterrey 64849, Mexico; (M.G.S.-S.); (S.G.-M.)
- Departamento de Mecatrónica e Ingeniería Eléctrica, Escuela de Ingeniería y Ciencias, Tecnológico de Monterrey, Monterrey 64849, Mexico
| | - Sofía Ramos-Meizoso
- Centro de Biotecnología-FEMSA, Tecnológico de Monterrey, Campus Monterrey, Monterrey 64849, Mexico; (M.G.S.-S.); (S.G.-M.)
- Departamento de Mecatrónica e Ingeniería Eléctrica, Escuela de Ingeniería y Ciencias, Tecnológico de Monterrey, Monterrey 64849, Mexico
| | - Valeri Sofía Jerezano-Flores
- Centro de Biotecnología-FEMSA, Tecnológico de Monterrey, Campus Monterrey, Monterrey 64849, Mexico; (M.G.S.-S.); (S.G.-M.)
- Departamento de Mecatrónica e Ingeniería Eléctrica, Escuela de Ingeniería y Ciencias, Tecnológico de Monterrey, Monterrey 64849, Mexico
| | - Salvador Gallegos-Martínez
- Centro de Biotecnología-FEMSA, Tecnológico de Monterrey, Campus Monterrey, Monterrey 64849, Mexico; (M.G.S.-S.); (S.G.-M.)
- Departamento de Mecatrónica e Ingeniería Eléctrica, Escuela de Ingeniería y Ciencias, Tecnológico de Monterrey, Monterrey 64849, Mexico
| | - Edna Johana Bolívar-Monsalve
- Centro de Biotecnología-FEMSA, Tecnológico de Monterrey, Campus Monterrey, Monterrey 64849, Mexico; (M.G.S.-S.); (S.G.-M.)
- Departamento de Mecatrónica e Ingeniería Eléctrica, Escuela de Ingeniería y Ciencias, Tecnológico de Monterrey, Monterrey 64849, Mexico
| | - Carlos Fernando Ceballos-González
- Centro de Biotecnología-FEMSA, Tecnológico de Monterrey, Campus Monterrey, Monterrey 64849, Mexico; (M.G.S.-S.); (S.G.-M.)
- Departamento de Mecatrónica e Ingeniería Eléctrica, Escuela de Ingeniería y Ciencias, Tecnológico de Monterrey, Monterrey 64849, Mexico
| | - Grissel Trujillo-de Santiago
- Centro de Biotecnología-FEMSA, Tecnológico de Monterrey, Campus Monterrey, Monterrey 64849, Mexico; (M.G.S.-S.); (S.G.-M.)
- Departamento de Mecatrónica e Ingeniería Eléctrica, Escuela de Ingeniería y Ciencias, Tecnológico de Monterrey, Monterrey 64849, Mexico
| | - Mario Moisés Álvarez
- Centro de Biotecnología-FEMSA, Tecnológico de Monterrey, Campus Monterrey, Monterrey 64849, Mexico; (M.G.S.-S.); (S.G.-M.)
- Departamento de Mecatrónica e Ingeniería Eléctrica, Escuela de Ingeniería y Ciencias, Tecnológico de Monterrey, Monterrey 64849, Mexico
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Flores-Torres S, Jiang T, Kort-Mascort J, Yang Y, Peza-Chavez O, Pal S, Mainolfi A, Pardo LA, Ferri L, Bertos N, Sangwan V, Kinsella JM. Constructing 3D In Vitro Models of Heterocellular Solid Tumors and Stromal Tissues Using Extrusion-Based Bioprinting. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2023; 9:542-561. [PMID: 36598339 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.2c00998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Malignant tumor tissues exhibit inter- and intratumoral heterogeneities, aberrant development, dynamic stromal composition, diverse tissue phenotypes, and cell populations growing within localized mechanical stresses in hypoxic conditions. Experimental tumor models employing engineered systems that isolate and study these complex variables using in vitro techniques are under development as complementary methods to preclinical in vivo models. Here, advances in extrusion bioprinting as an enabling technology to recreate the three-dimensional tumor milieu and its complex heterogeneous characteristics are reviewed. Extrusion bioprinting allows for the deposition of multiple materials, or selected cell types and concentrations, into models based upon physiological features of the tumor. This affords the creation of complex samples with representative extracellular or stromal compositions that replicate the biology of patient tissue. Biomaterial engineering of printable materials that replicate specific features of the tumor microenvironment offer experimental reproducibility, throughput, and physiological relevance compared to animal models. In this review, we describe the potential of extrusion-based bioprinting to recreate the tumor microenvironment within in vitro models.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Tao Jiang
- Department of Intelligent Machinery and Instrument, College of Intelligence Science and Technology, National University of Defense Technology Changsha, Hunan 410073, China
| | | | - Yun Yang
- Department of Intelligent Machinery and Instrument, College of Intelligence Science and Technology, National University of Defense Technology Changsha, Hunan 410073, China
| | - Omar Peza-Chavez
- Department of Bioengineering, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 0G4, Canada
| | - Sanjima Pal
- Department of Surgery, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3G 2M1, Canada
| | - Alisia Mainolfi
- Department of Bioengineering, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 0G4, Canada
| | - Lucas Antonio Pardo
- Department of Bioengineering, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 0G4, Canada
| | - Lorenzo Ferri
- Department of Surgery, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3G 2M1, Canada.,Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3G 2M1, Canada
| | - Nicholas Bertos
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre (RI-MUHC), Montreal, Quebec H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Veena Sangwan
- Department of Surgery, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3G 2M1, Canada
| | - Joseph M Kinsella
- Department of Bioengineering, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 0G4, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Sztankovics D, Moldvai D, Petővári G, Gelencsér R, Krencz I, Raffay R, Dankó T, Sebestyén A. 3D bioprinting and the revolution in experimental cancer model systems-A review of developing new models and experiences with in vitro 3D bioprinted breast cancer tissue-mimetic structures. Pathol Oncol Res 2023; 29:1610996. [PMID: 36843955 PMCID: PMC9946983 DOI: 10.3389/pore.2023.1610996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
Growing evidence propagates those alternative technologies (relevant human cell-based-e.g., organ-on-chips or biofabricated models-or artificial intelligence-combined technologies) that could help in vitro test and predict human response and toxicity in medical research more accurately. In vitro disease model developments have great efforts to create and serve the need of reducing and replacing animal experiments and establishing human cell-based in vitro test systems for research use, innovations, and drug tests. We need human cell-based test systems for disease models and experimental cancer research; therefore, in vitro three-dimensional (3D) models have a renaissance, and the rediscovery and development of these technologies are growing ever faster. This recent paper summarises the early history of cell biology/cellular pathology, cell-, tissue culturing, and cancer research models. In addition, we highlight the results of the increasing use of 3D model systems and the 3D bioprinted/biofabricated model developments. Moreover, we present our newly established 3D bioprinted luminal B type breast cancer model system, and the advantages of in vitro 3D models, especially the bioprinted ones. Based on our results and the reviewed developments of in vitro breast cancer models, the heterogeneity and the real in vivo situation of cancer tissues can be represented better by using 3D bioprinted, biofabricated models. However, standardising the 3D bioprinting methods is necessary for future applications in different high-throughput drug tests and patient-derived tumour models. Applying these standardised new models can lead to the point that cancer drug developments will be more successful, efficient, and consequently cost-effective in the near future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Anna Sebestyén
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Mason J, Öhlund D. Key aspects for conception and construction of co-culture models of tumor-stroma interactions. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1150764. [PMID: 37091337 PMCID: PMC10119418 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1150764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment is crucial in the initiation and progression of cancers. The interplay between cancer cells and the surrounding stroma shapes the tumor biology and dictates the response to cancer therapies. Consequently, a better understanding of the interactions between cancer cells and different components of the tumor microenvironment will drive progress in developing novel, effective, treatment strategies. Co-cultures can be used to study various aspects of these interactions in detail. This includes studies of paracrine relationships between cancer cells and stromal cells such as fibroblasts, endothelial cells, and immune cells, as well as the influence of physical and mechanical interactions with the extracellular matrix of the tumor microenvironment. The development of novel co-culture models to study the tumor microenvironment has progressed rapidly over recent years. Many of these models have already been shown to be powerful tools for further understanding of the pathophysiological role of the stroma and provide mechanistic insights into tumor-stromal interactions. Here we give a structured overview of different co-culture models that have been established to study tumor-stromal interactions and what we have learnt from these models. We also introduce a set of guidelines for generating and reporting co-culture experiments to facilitate experimental robustness and reproducibility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- James Mason
- Department of Radiation Sciences, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
- Wallenberg Centre for Molecular Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Daniel Öhlund
- Department of Radiation Sciences, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
- Wallenberg Centre for Molecular Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
- *Correspondence: Daniel Öhlund,
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
David KI, Ravikumar TS, Sethuraman S, Krishnan UM. Investigations of an organic-inorganic nanotheranostic hybrid for pancreatic cancer therapy using cancer-in-a-dish and in vivomodels. Biomed Mater 2022; 18. [PMID: 36270604 DOI: 10.1088/1748-605x/ac9cb2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The incidence of highly aggressive pancreatic cancer is increasing across the globe and is projected to increase to 18.6% by 2050. The mortality rate for this form of cancer is very high and the 5 y relative survival rate is only about 9%-10%. The 3D pancreatic cancer microenvironment exerts a major influence on the poor survival rate. A key factor is the prevention of the penetration of the chemotherapeutic drugs in the three-dimensional (3D) microenvironment leading to the development of chemoresistance which is a major contributor to the survival rates. Hence,in vitrostudies using 3D cultures represent a better approach to understand the effect of therapeutic formulations on the cancer cells when compared to conventional 2D cultures. In the present study, we have explored three different conditions for the development of a 3D pancreatic tumour spheroid model from MiaPaCa-2 and PanC1 cells cultured for 10 days using Matrigel matrix. This optimized spheroid model was employed to evaluate a multi-functional nanotheranostic system fabricated using chitosan nanoparticles co-encapsulated with the chemotherapeutic agent gemcitabine and gold-capped iron oxide nanoparticles for multimodal imaging. The effect of the single and multiple-dose regimens of the theranostic system on the viability of 3D spheroids formed from the two pancreatic cancer cell lines was studied. It was observed that the 3D tumour spheroids cultured for 10 days exhibited resistance towards free gemcitabine drug, unlike the 2D culture. The administration of the multifunctional nanotheranostic system on alternate days effectively reduced the cancer cell viability after five doses to about 20% when compared with other groups. The repeated doses of the nanotheranostic system were found to be more effective than the single dose. Cell line-based differences in internalization of the carrier was also reflected in their response to the nanocarrier with PanC1 showing better sensitivity to the treatment.In vivostudies revealed that the combination of gemcitabine and magnetic field induced hypothermia produced superior regression in cancer when compared with the chemotherapeutic agent alone by a combination of activating the pro-apoptotic pathway and heat-induced necrosis. Our results reveal that this multi-functional system holds promise to overcome the current challenges to treat pancreatic cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karolyn Infanta David
- Centre for Nanotechnology and Advanced Biomaterials, SASTRA Deemed University, Thanjavur, TamilNadu 613401, India.,School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed University, Thanjavur, TamilNadu 613401, India
| | - T S Ravikumar
- Formerly at Sri Venkateswara Institute of Medical Sciences (SVIMS) Tirupati 517507, India
| | - Swaminathan Sethuraman
- Centre for Nanotechnology and Advanced Biomaterials, SASTRA Deemed University, Thanjavur, TamilNadu 613401, India.,School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed University, Thanjavur, TamilNadu 613401, India
| | - Uma Maheswari Krishnan
- Centre for Nanotechnology and Advanced Biomaterials, SASTRA Deemed University, Thanjavur, TamilNadu 613401, India.,School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed University, Thanjavur, TamilNadu 613401, India.,School of Arts, Sciences, Humanities and Education, SASTRA Deemed University, Thanjavur, TamilNadu 613401, India
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Budhwani KI, Patel ZH, Guenter RE, Charania AA. A hitchhiker's guide to cancer models. Trends Biotechnol 2022; 40:1361-1373. [PMID: 35534320 PMCID: PMC9588514 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2022.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Revised: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Cancer is a complex and uniquely personal disease. More than 1.7 million people in the United States are diagnosed with cancer every year. As the burden of cancer grows, so does the need for new, more effective therapeutics and for predictive tools to identify optimal, personalized treatment options for every patient. Cancer models that recapitulate various aspects of the disease are fundamental to making advances along the continuum of cancer treatment from benchside discoveries to bedside delivery. In this review, we use a thought experiment as a vehicle to arrive at four broad categories of cancer models and explore the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats for each category in advancing our understanding of the disease and improving treatment strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karim I Budhwani
- CerFlux, Inc., Birmingham, AL, USA; Department of Radiation Oncology, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Birmingham, AL, USA; Department of Physics, Coe College, Cedar Rapids, IA, USA.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Can 3D bioprinting solve the mystery of senescence in cancer therapy? Ageing Res Rev 2022; 81:101732. [PMID: 36100069 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2022.101732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Revised: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Tumor dormancy leading to cancer relapse is still a poorly understood mechanism. Several cell states such as quiescence and diapause can explain the persistence of tumor cells in a dormant state, but the potential role of tumor cell senescence has been met with hesitance given the historical understanding of the senescent growth arrest as irreversible. However, recent evidence has suggested that senescence might contribute to dormancy and relapse, although its exact role is not fully developed. This limited understanding is largely due to the paucity of reliable study models. The current 2D cell modeling is overly simplistic and lacks the appropriate representation of the interactions between tumor cells (senescent or non-senescent) and the other cell types within the tumor microenvironment (TME), as well as with the extracellular matrix (ECM). 3D cell culture models, including 3D bioprinting techniques, offer a promising approach to better recapitulate the native cancer microenvironment and would significantly improve our understanding of cancer biology and cellular response to treatment, particularly Therapy-Induced Senescence (TIS), and its contribution to tumor dormancy and cancer recurrence. Fabricating a novel 3D bioprinted model offers excellent opportunities to investigate both the role of TIS in tumor dormancy and the utility of senolytics (drugs that selectively eliminate senescent cells) in targeting dormant cancer cells and mitigating the risk for resurgence. In this review, we discuss literature on the possible contribution of TIS in tumor dormancy, provide examples on the current 3D models of senescence, and propose a novel 3D model to investigate the ultimate role of TIS in mediating overall response to therapy.
Collapse
|
28
|
Microfluidic Technologies in Tumour Metabolism. Int J Pharm 2022; 629:122370. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2022.122370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Revised: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
|
29
|
Chen Y, Xue Y, Xu L, Li W, Chen Y, Zheng S, Dai R, Liu J. Recapitulation of dynamic nanoparticle transport around tumors using a triangular multi-chamber tumor-on-a-chip. LAB ON A CHIP 2022; 22:4191-4204. [PMID: 36172838 DOI: 10.1039/d2lc00631f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
3D tumor models are emerging as valuable tools for drug screening and nanoparticle based personalized cancer treatments. The main challenges in building microfluidic chip-based 3D tumor models currently include the development of bioinks with high bioactivity and the reproduction of the key tumor extracellular matrix (ECM) with heterogeneous tumor microenvironments. In this study, we designed a triangular multi-chamber tumor-on-a-chip (TM-CTC) platform, which consisted of three circular chambers at the vertices of a triangle connected by three rectangular chambers; it significantly improved the culture efficiency of 3D tumor tissues. MCF-7 tumor cells were cultured in a 3D ECM and then dynamically perfused for 7 days of culture to obtain abundant tumor spheroids with uniform size (100 ± 4.1 μm). The biological features of the 3D tumor tissue including epithelial transformation (EMT), hypoxia and proliferation activities were reproduced in the triangular multi-chamber tumor-on-a-chip (TM-CTC) platform. The permeability results of NPs confirmed that the ECM exhibited a significant barrier effect on the transportation of NPs when compared with free drugs, indicating that the ECM barrier should be considered as one of the key factors of drug delivery carrier development. In addition, this TM-CTC model provided a suitable platform for constructing a complex heterogeneous tumor microenvironment with multiple cells (MCF-7, HUVEC and MRC-5) involved, which was beneficial for exploring the dynamic interaction between tumor cells and other cells in the tumor microenvironment. The above results suggest that this TM-CTC model can simulate the dynamic transportation of NPs around 3D tumor tissues, and thus provide a reliable platform for NP evaluation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- You Chen
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangming District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518107, China.
| | - Yifan Xue
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangming District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518107, China.
| | - Langtao Xu
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangming District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518107, China.
| | - Weilin Li
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangming District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518107, China.
| | - Yiling Chen
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangming District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518107, China.
| | - Shunan Zheng
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangming District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518107, China.
| | - Rui Dai
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangming District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518107, China.
| | - Jie Liu
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangming District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518107, China.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
van der Merwe L, Svitina H, Willers C, Wrzesinski K, Gouws C. A novel NCI-H69V small cell lung cancer functional mini-tumor model for future treatment screening applications. Biotechnol Prog 2022; 38:e3253. [PMID: 35362670 PMCID: PMC10909478 DOI: 10.1002/btpr.3253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Revised: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is aggressive and despite multiple clinical trials, its standard of care is unchanged for the past three decades. In vitro cancer models are crucial in chemotherapy development, and three-dimensional (3D) models aim to bridge the gap between two-dimensional (2D) flat cultures and in vivo testing. Functional 3D spheroids can better represent the in vivo situation and tumor characteristics than 2D models. An NCI-H69V SCLC mini-tumor model was developed in a clinostat-based rotating bioreactor system. Spheroid growth and viability were characterized for 30 days, and the ideal experimental window with mature and metabolically stable spheroids was determined. Application of the model for anticancer treatment screening was validated with the standard chemotherapeutic drug irinotecan, for an exposure period of 72 h. The following parameters were measured: soluble protein content, planar surface area measurements, intracellular adenosine triphosphate and extracellular adenylate kinase levels, and glucose consumption. Histological morphology of the spheroids was observed. The established model proved viable and stable, while treatment with irinotecan caused a decrease in cell growth, viability, and glucose consumption demonstrating reactivity of the model to chemotherapy. Therefore, this NCI-H69V SCLC functional spheroid model could be used for future anticancer compound screening.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liezaan van der Merwe
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences (Pharmacen™)North‐West UniversityPotchefstroomSouth Africa
| | - Hanna Svitina
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences (Pharmacen™)North‐West UniversityPotchefstroomSouth Africa
- Laboratory of Biosynthesis of Nucleic Acids, Department of Functional GenomicsInstitute of Molecular Biology and Genetics of NASUKyivUkraine
| | - Clarissa Willers
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences (Pharmacen™)North‐West UniversityPotchefstroomSouth Africa
| | - Krzysztof Wrzesinski
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences (Pharmacen™)North‐West UniversityPotchefstroomSouth Africa
- CelVivo ApSBlommenslystDenmark
| | - Chrisna Gouws
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences (Pharmacen™)North‐West UniversityPotchefstroomSouth Africa
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Regmi S, Poudel C, Adhikari R, Luo KQ. Applications of Microfluidics and Organ-on-a-Chip in Cancer Research. BIOSENSORS 2022; 12:bios12070459. [PMID: 35884262 PMCID: PMC9313151 DOI: 10.3390/bios12070459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2022] [Revised: 06/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Taking the life of nearly 10 million people annually, cancer has become one of the major causes of mortality worldwide and a hot topic for researchers to find innovative approaches to demystify the disease and drug development. Having its root lying in microelectronics, microfluidics seems to hold great potential to explore our limited knowledge in the field of oncology. It offers numerous advantages such as a low sample volume, minimal cost, parallelization, and portability and has been advanced in the field of molecular biology and chemical synthesis. The platform has been proved to be valuable in cancer research, especially for diagnostics and prognosis purposes and has been successfully employed in recent years. Organ-on-a-chip, a biomimetic microfluidic platform, simulating the complexity of a human organ, has emerged as a breakthrough in cancer research as it provides a dynamic platform to simulate tumor growth and progression in a chip. This paper aims at giving an overview of microfluidics and organ-on-a-chip technology incorporating their historical development, physics of fluid flow and application in oncology. The current applications of microfluidics and organ-on-a-chip in the field of cancer research have been copiously discussed integrating the major application areas such as the isolation of CTCs, studying the cancer cell phenotype as well as metastasis, replicating TME in organ-on-a-chip and drug development. This technology’s significance and limitations are also addressed, giving readers a comprehensive picture of the ability of the microfluidic platform to advance the field of oncology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sagar Regmi
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA;
- Department of Physics, Kathmandu University, Dhulikhel 45200, Nepal;
- Research Centre for Applied Science and Technology (RECAST), Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal;
- Nepal Academy of Science and Technology (NAST), Khumaltar, Lalitpur 44700, Nepal
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China
| | - Chetan Poudel
- Department of Physics, Kathmandu University, Dhulikhel 45200, Nepal;
| | - Rameshwar Adhikari
- Research Centre for Applied Science and Technology (RECAST), Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal;
| | - Kathy Qian Luo
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China
- Ministry of Education Frontiers Science Center for Precision Oncology, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Nieto D, Jiménez G, Moroni L, López-Ruiz E, Gálvez-Martín P, Marchal JA. Biofabrication approaches and regulatory framework of metastatic tumor-on-a-chip models for precision oncology. Med Res Rev 2022; 42:1978-2001. [PMID: 35707911 PMCID: PMC9545141 DOI: 10.1002/med.21914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Revised: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The complexity of the tumor microenvironment (TME) together with the development of the metastatic process are the main reasons for the failure of conventional anticancer treatment. In recent years, there is an increasing need to advance toward advanced in vitro models of cancer mimicking TME and simulating metastasis to understand the associated mechanisms that are still unknown, and to be able to develop personalized therapy. In this review, the commonly used alternatives and latest advances in biofabrication of tumor‐on‐chips, which allow the generation of the most sophisticated and optimized models for recapitulating the tumor process, are presented. In addition, the advances that have allowed these new models in the area of metastasis, cancer stem cells, and angiogenesis are summarized, as well as the recent integration of multiorgan‐on‐a‐chip systems to recapitulate natural metastasis and pharmacological screening against it. We also analyze, for the first time in the literature, the normative and regulatory framework in which these models could potentially be found, as well as the requirements and processes that must be fulfilled to be commercially implemented as in vitro study model. Moreover, we are focused on the possible regulatory pathways for their clinical application in precision medicine and decision making through the generation of personalized models with patient samples. In conclusion, this review highlights the synergistic combination of three‐dimensional bioprinting systems with the novel tumor/metastasis/multiorgan‐on‐a‐chip systems to generate models for both basic research and clinical applications to have devices useful for personalized oncology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Nieto
- Complex Tissue Regeneration Department, MERLN Institute for Technology Inspired Regenerative Medicine, University of Maastricht, Universiteitssingel, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,Center for Biomedical Research (CIBM)/Biopathology and Regenerative Medicine Institute (IBIMER), University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Gema Jiménez
- Center for Biomedical Research (CIBM)/Biopathology and Regenerative Medicine Institute (IBIMER), University of Granada, Granada, Spain.,Department of Human Anatomy and Embryology, University of Granada, Granada, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, University Hospitals of Granada- University of Granada, Granada, Spain.,Excellence Research Unit "Modeling Nature" (MNat), University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Lorenzo Moroni
- Complex Tissue Regeneration Department, MERLN Institute for Technology Inspired Regenerative Medicine, University of Maastricht, Universiteitssingel, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Elena López-Ruiz
- Center for Biomedical Research (CIBM)/Biopathology and Regenerative Medicine Institute (IBIMER), University of Granada, Granada, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, University Hospitals of Granada- University of Granada, Granada, Spain.,Excellence Research Unit "Modeling Nature" (MNat), University of Granada, Granada, Spain.,Department of Health Sciences, University of Jaén, Jaén, Spain
| | | | - Juan Antonio Marchal
- Center for Biomedical Research (CIBM)/Biopathology and Regenerative Medicine Institute (IBIMER), University of Granada, Granada, Spain.,Department of Human Anatomy and Embryology, University of Granada, Granada, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, University Hospitals of Granada- University of Granada, Granada, Spain.,Excellence Research Unit "Modeling Nature" (MNat), University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Ayuso JM, Virumbrales-Muñoz M, Lang JM, Beebe DJ. A role for microfluidic systems in precision medicine. Nat Commun 2022; 13:3086. [PMID: 35654785 PMCID: PMC9163169 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-30384-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Precision oncology continues to challenge the "one-size-fits-all" dogma. Under the precision oncology banner, cancer patients are screened for molecular tumor alterations that predict treatment response, ideally leading to optimal treatments. Functional assays that directly evaluate treatment efficacy on the patient's cells offer an alternative and complementary tool to improve the accuracy of precision oncology. Unfortunately, traditional Petri dish-based assays overlook much tumor complexity, limiting their potential as predictive functional biomarkers. Here, we review past applications of microfluidic systems for precision medicine and discuss the present and potential future role of functional microfluidic assays as treatment predictors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jose M Ayuso
- Department of Dermatology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
- The University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - María Virumbrales-Muñoz
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
- The University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Joshua M Lang
- The University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - David J Beebe
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA.
- The University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA.
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Three-Dimensional (3D) Printing in Cancer Therapy and Diagnostics: Current Status and Future Perspectives. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15060678. [PMID: 35745597 PMCID: PMC9229198 DOI: 10.3390/ph15060678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2022] [Revised: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Three-dimensional (3D) printing is a technique where the products are printed layer-by-layer via a series of cross-sectional slices with the exact deposition of different cell types and biomaterials based on computer-aided design software. Three-dimensional printing can be divided into several approaches, such as extrusion-based printing, laser-induced forward transfer-based printing systems, and so on. Bio-ink is a crucial tool necessary for the fabrication of the 3D construct of living tissue in order to mimic the native tissue/cells using 3D printing technology. The formation of 3D software helps in the development of novel drug delivery systems with drug screening potential, as well as 3D constructs of tumor models. Additionally, several complex structures of inner tissues like stroma and channels of different sizes are printed through 3D printing techniques. Three-dimensional printing technology could also be used to develop therapy training simulators for educational purposes so that learners can practice complex surgical procedures. The fabrication of implantable medical devices using 3D printing technology with less risk of infections is receiving increased attention recently. A Cancer-on-a-chip is a microfluidic device that recreates tumor physiology and allows for a continuous supply of nutrients or therapeutic compounds. In this review, based on the recent literature, we have discussed various printing methods for 3D printing and types of bio-inks, and provided information on how 3D printing plays a crucial role in cancer management.
Collapse
|
35
|
Galateanu B, Hudita A, Biru EI, Iovu H, Zaharia C, Simsensohn E, Costache M, Petca RC, Jinga V. Applications of Polymers for Organ-on-Chip Technology in Urology. Polymers (Basel) 2022; 14:1668. [PMID: 35566836 PMCID: PMC9105302 DOI: 10.3390/polym14091668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2022] [Revised: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Organ-on-chips (OOCs) are microfluidic devices used for creating physiological organ biomimetic systems. OOC technology brings numerous advantages in the current landscape of preclinical models, capable of recapitulating the multicellular assemblage, tissue-tissue interaction, and replicating numerous human pathologies. Moreover, in cancer research, OOCs emulate the 3D hierarchical complexity of in vivo tumors and mimic the tumor microenvironment, being a practical cost-efficient solution for tumor-growth investigation and anticancer drug screening. OOCs are compact and easy-to-use microphysiological functional units that recapitulate the native function and the mechanical strain that the cells experience in the human bodies, allowing the development of a wide range of applications such as disease modeling or even the development of diagnostic devices. In this context, the current work aims to review the scientific literature in the field of microfluidic devices designed for urology applications in terms of OOC fabrication (principles of manufacture and materials used), development of kidney-on-chip models for drug-toxicity screening and kidney tumors modeling, bladder-on-chip models for urinary tract infections and bladder cancer modeling and prostate-on-chip models for prostate cancer modeling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bianca Galateanu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Bucharest, 91-95 Splaiul Independentei Street, 050095 Bucharest, Romania; (B.G.); (M.C.)
| | - Ariana Hudita
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Bucharest, 91-95 Splaiul Independentei Street, 050095 Bucharest, Romania; (B.G.); (M.C.)
| | - Elena Iuliana Biru
- Advanced Polymer Materials Group, Department of Bioresources and Polymer Science, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 1-7 Gh. Polizu Street, 011061 Bucharest, Romania; (H.I.); (C.Z.)
| | - Horia Iovu
- Advanced Polymer Materials Group, Department of Bioresources and Polymer Science, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 1-7 Gh. Polizu Street, 011061 Bucharest, Romania; (H.I.); (C.Z.)
- Academy of Romanian Scientists, Ilfov Street, 50044 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Catalin Zaharia
- Advanced Polymer Materials Group, Department of Bioresources and Polymer Science, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 1-7 Gh. Polizu Street, 011061 Bucharest, Romania; (H.I.); (C.Z.)
| | - Eliza Simsensohn
- “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Bucharest, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (E.S.); (R.-C.P.); (V.J.)
| | - Marieta Costache
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Bucharest, 91-95 Splaiul Independentei Street, 050095 Bucharest, Romania; (B.G.); (M.C.)
| | - Razvan-Cosmin Petca
- “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Bucharest, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (E.S.); (R.-C.P.); (V.J.)
| | - Viorel Jinga
- “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Bucharest, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (E.S.); (R.-C.P.); (V.J.)
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Clark J, Fotopoulou C, Cunnea P, Krell J. Novel Ex Vivo Models of Epithelial Ovarian Cancer: The Future of Biomarker and Therapeutic Research. Front Oncol 2022; 12:837233. [PMID: 35402223 PMCID: PMC8990887 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.837233] [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: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is a heterogenous disease associated with variations in presentation, pathology and prognosis. Advanced EOC is typified by frequent relapse and a historical 5-year survival of less than 30% despite improvements in surgical and systemic treatment. The advent of next generation sequencing has led to notable advances in the field of personalised medicine for many cancer types. Success in achieving cure in advanced EOC has however been limited, although significant prolongation of survival has been demonstrated. Development of novel research platforms is therefore necessary to address the rapidly advancing field of early diagnostics and therapeutics, whilst also acknowledging the significant tumour heterogeneity associated with EOC. Within available tumour models, patient-derived organoids (PDO) and explant tumour slices have demonstrated particular promise as novel ex vivo systems to model different cancer types including ovarian cancer. PDOs are organ specific 3D tumour cultures that can accurately represent the histology and genomics of their native tumour, as well as offer the possibility as models for pharmaceutical drug testing platforms, offering timing advantages and potential use as prospective personalised models to guide clinical decision-making. Such applications could maximise the benefit of drug treatments to patients on an individual level whilst minimising use of less effective, yet toxic, therapies. PDOs are likely to play a greater role in both academic research and drug development in the future and have the potential to revolutionise future patient treatment and clinical trial pathways. Similarly, ex vivo tumour slices or explants have also shown recent renewed promise in their ability to provide a fast, specific, platform for drug testing that accurately represents in vivo tumour response. Tumour explants retain tissue architecture, and thus incorporate the majority of tumour microenvironment making them an attractive method to re-capitulate in vivo conditions, again with significant timing and personalisation of treatment advantages for patients. This review will discuss the current treatment landscape and research models for EOC, their development and new advances towards the discovery of novel biomarkers or combinational therapeutic strategies to increase treatment options for women with ovarian cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- James Clark
- Division of Cancer, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Christina Fotopoulou
- Division of Cancer, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom.,West London Gynaecological Cancer Centre, Imperial College NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Paula Cunnea
- Division of Cancer, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jonathan Krell
- Division of Cancer, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
|
38
|
Gallegos-Martínez S, Lara-Mayorga IM, Samandari M, Mendoza-Buenrostro C, Flores-Garza BG, Reyes-Cortés L, Segoviano-Ramírez JC, Zhang YS, Trujillo de Santiago G, Alvarez MM. Culture of cancer spheroids and evaluation of anti-cancer drugs in 3D-printed miniaturized continuous stirred tank reactors (mCSTR). Biofabrication 2022; 14. [PMID: 35344936 DOI: 10.1088/1758-5090/ac61a4] [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: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Cancer continues to be a leading cause of mortality in modern societies; therefore, improved and more reliable in vitro cancer models are needed to expedite fundamental research and anti-cancer drug development. Here, we describe the use of a miniaturized continuous stirred tank reactor (mCSTR) to first fabricate and mature cancer spheroids (i.e, derived from MCF7 cells, DU145 cells, and a mix of MCF7 cells and fibroblasts), and then to conduct anti-cancer drug assays under continuous perfusion. This 3 mL mCSTR features an off-center agitation system that enables homogeneous chaotic laminar mixing at low speeds to support cell aggregation. We incubated cell suspensions for 3 days in ultra-low-adherence (ULA) plates to allow formation of discoid cell aggregates (~600 µm in diameter). These cell aggregates were then transferred into mCSTRs and continuously fed with culture medium. We characterized the spheroid morphology and the expression of relevant tumor biomarkers at different maturation times for up to 4 weeks. The spheroids progressively increased in size during the first 5 to 6 days of culture to reach a steady diameter between 600 and 800 µm. In proof-of-principle experiments, we demonstrated the use of this mCSTR in anti-cancer drug testing. Three drugs commonly used in breast cancer treatment (doxorubicin, docetaxel, and paclitaxel) were probed at different concentrations in MCF7 derived spheroids. In these experiments, we evaluated cell viability, glucose consumption, spheroid morphology, lactate dehydrogenase activity, and the expression of genes associated with drug resistance (ABCB1 and ABCC1) and anti-apoptosis (Bcl2). We envision the use of this agitated system as a tumor-on-a-chip platform to expedite efficacy and safety testing of novel anti-cancer drugs and possibly in personalized medicine applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Salvador Gallegos-Martínez
- Centro de Biotecnología-FEMSA, Tecnologico de Monterrey, Ave. Eugenio Garza Sada 2501 sur, Col. Tecnológico, Monterrey, Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, 64849, MEXICO
| | - Itzel Montserrat Lara-Mayorga
- Centro de Biotecnología-FEMSA, Tecnologico de Monterrey, Ave. Eugenio Garza Sada 2501 sur, Col. Tecnológico, Monterrey, Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, 64849, MEXICO
| | - Mohamadmahdi Samandari
- University of Connecticut Health Center, 263 Farmington Avenue, Farmington, Connecticut, 06032-1941, UNITED STATES
| | - Christian Mendoza-Buenrostro
- Centro de Innovación en Diseño y Tecnología, Tecnologico de Monterrey, Ave. Eugenio Garza Sada 2501 sur, Monterrey, Nuevo León, 64849, MEXICO
| | - Brenda Giselle Flores-Garza
- Centro de Biotecnología-FEMSA, Tecnologico de Monterrey, Ave. Eugenio Garza Sada 2501 sur, Col. Tecnológico, Monterrey, Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, 64849, MEXICO
| | - Luisa Reyes-Cortés
- Centro de Biotecnología-FEMSA, Tecnologico de Monterrey, Ave. Eugenio Garza Sada 2501 sur, Col. Tecnológico, Monterrey, Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, 64849, MEXICO
| | - Juan Carlos Segoviano-Ramírez
- Centro de Investigación y Desarrollo en Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon, Dr. José Eleuterio González (Gonzalitos), Mitras Centro, San Nicolas de los Garza, Nuevo Leon, 64460, MEXICO
| | - Yu Shrike Zhang
- Harvard Medical School, 65 Landsdowne Street, Boston, Massachusetts, 02115, UNITED STATES
| | - Grissel Trujillo de Santiago
- Centro de Biotecnología-FEMSA, Tecnologico de Monterrey, Ave. Eugenio Garza Sada 2501 sur, Col. Tecnológico, Monterrey, Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, 64849, MEXICO
| | - Mario Moisés Alvarez
- Centro de Biotecnología-FEMSA, Tecnologico de Monterrey, Ave. Eugenio Garza Sada 2501 sur, Col. Tecnológico, Monterrey, Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, 64849, MEXICO
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Imparato G, Urciuolo F, Netti PA. Organ on Chip Technology to Model Cancer Growth and Metastasis. Bioengineering (Basel) 2022; 9:28. [PMID: 35049737 PMCID: PMC8772984 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering9010028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Revised: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Organ on chip (OOC) has emerged as a major technological breakthrough and distinct model system revolutionizing biomedical research and drug discovery by recapitulating the crucial structural and functional complexity of human organs in vitro. OOC are rapidly emerging as powerful tools for oncology research. Indeed, Cancer on chip (COC) can ideally reproduce certain key aspects of the tumor microenvironment (TME), such as biochemical gradients and niche factors, dynamic cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions, and complex tissue structures composed of tumor and stromal cells. Here, we review the state of the art in COC models with a focus on the microphysiological systems that host multicellular 3D tissue engineering models and can help elucidate the complex biology of TME and cancer growth and progression. Finally, some examples of microengineered tumor models integrated with multi-organ microdevices to study disease progression in different tissues will be presented.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giorgia Imparato
- Center for Advanced Biomaterials for HealthCare@CRIB, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Largo Barsanti e Matteucci 53, 80125 Naples, Italy; (F.U.); (P.A.N.)
| | - Francesco Urciuolo
- Center for Advanced Biomaterials for HealthCare@CRIB, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Largo Barsanti e Matteucci 53, 80125 Naples, Italy; (F.U.); (P.A.N.)
- Department of Chemical, Materials and Industrial Production (DICMAPI), Interdisciplinary Research Centre on Biomaterials (CRIB), University of Naples Federico II, P.leTecchio 80, 80125 Naples, Italy
| | - Paolo Antonio Netti
- Center for Advanced Biomaterials for HealthCare@CRIB, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Largo Barsanti e Matteucci 53, 80125 Naples, Italy; (F.U.); (P.A.N.)
- Department of Chemical, Materials and Industrial Production (DICMAPI), Interdisciplinary Research Centre on Biomaterials (CRIB), University of Naples Federico II, P.leTecchio 80, 80125 Naples, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Rezaeeyazdi M, Colombani T, Eggermont LJ, Bencherif SA. Engineering hyaluronic acid-based cryogels for CD44-mediated breast tumor reconstruction. Mater Today Bio 2022; 13:100207. [PMID: 35198956 PMCID: PMC8844817 DOI: 10.1016/j.mtbio.2022.100207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2021] [Revised: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is a major health concern worldwide and is the leading cause of cancer-related death among American women. Traditional therapies, such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy, are usually ineffective. Furthermore, cancer recurrence following targeted therapy often results from acquired drug resistance. Therefore, more realistic tumor models than monolayer cell culture for drug screening and discovery in an in vitro setting would facilitate the development of new therapeutic strategies. Toward this goal, we first developed a simple, rapid, low-cost, and high-throughput method for generating uniform multi-cellular tumor spheroids (MCTS) with controllable size. Next, biomimetic cryogel scaffolds fabricated from hyaluronic acid (HA) were utilized as a platform to reconstruct breast tumor microtissues with aspects of the complex tumor microenvironment in three dimensions. Finally, we investigated the interactions between the HA-based cryogels and CD44-positive breast tumor cells, individually or as MCTS. We found that incorporating the adhesive RGD peptide in cryogels led to the formation of a monolayer of tumor cells on the polymer walls, whereas MCTS cultured on RGD-free HA cryogels resulted in the growth of large and dense microtumors, more similar to native tumor masses. As a result, the MCTS-laden HA cryogel system induced a highly aggressive and chemotherapy drug-resistant tumor model. RGD-free HA-based cryogels represent an effective starting point for designing tumor models for preclinical research, therapeutic drug screening, and early cancer diagnosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Thibault Colombani
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Loek J. Eggermont
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Sidi A. Bencherif
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
- Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Ayvaz I, Sunay D, Sariyar E, Erdal E, Karagonlar ZF. Three-Dimensional Cell Culture Models of Hepatocellular Carcinoma - a Review. J Gastrointest Cancer 2021; 52:1294-1308. [PMID: 34927218 DOI: 10.1007/s12029-021-00772-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Three-dimensional (3D) cell culture studies are becoming extremely common because of their capability to mimic tumor architecture, such as cell-cell and cell-ECM interactions, more efficiently than 2D monolayer systems. These interactions have important roles in defining the tumor cell behaviors, such as proliferation, differentiation, and most importantly, tumor drug response. OBJECTIVE This review aims to provide an overview of the methods for 3D tumor spheroid formation to model human tumors, specifically concentrated on studies using hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells. METHOD We obtained information from previously published articles. In this review, there is discussion of the scaffold and non-scaffold-based approaches, including hanging drop, bioreactors and 3D bioprinting. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION The mimicking of the tumor microenvironment (TME) as tumor spheroids could provide a valuable platform for studying tumor biology. Multicellular tumor spheroids are self-assembled cultures of mixed cells (tumor and stromal cells) organized in a 3D arrangement. These spheroids closely mimic the main features of human solid tumors, such as structural organization, central hypoxia, and overall oxygen and nutrient gradients. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common liver malignancy, and most difficult to overcome because of its drug resistance and tumor heterogeneity. In order to mimic this highly heterogeneous environment, 3D cell culture systems are needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Irmak Ayvaz
- Genetics and Bioengineering Department, Izmir University of Economics, Izmir, 35330, Turkey
| | - Dilara Sunay
- Genetics and Bioengineering Department, Izmir University of Economics, Izmir, 35330, Turkey
| | - Ece Sariyar
- Genetics and Bioengineering Department, Izmir University of Economics, Izmir, 35330, Turkey
| | - Esra Erdal
- Department of Medical Biology and Genetics, FacultyofMedicine, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir, 35340, Turkey.,Izmir Biomedicine and Genome Center, Izmir, 35340, Turkey
| | | |
Collapse
|
42
|
Law AMK, Rodriguez de la Fuente L, Grundy TJ, Fang G, Valdes-Mora F, Gallego-Ortega D. Advancements in 3D Cell Culture Systems for Personalizing Anti-Cancer Therapies. Front Oncol 2021; 11:782766. [PMID: 34917509 PMCID: PMC8669727 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.782766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Over 90% of potential anti-cancer drug candidates results in translational failures in clinical trials. The main reason for this failure can be attributed to the non-accurate pre-clinical models that are being currently used for drug development and in personalised therapies. To ensure that the assessment of drug efficacy and their mechanism of action have clinical translatability, the complexity of the tumor microenvironment needs to be properly modelled. 3D culture models are emerging as a powerful research tool that recapitulates in vivo characteristics. Technological advancements in this field show promising application in improving drug discovery, pre-clinical validation, and precision medicine. In this review, we discuss the significance of the tumor microenvironment and its impact on therapy success, the current developments of 3D culture, and the opportunities that advancements that in vitro technologies can provide to improve cancer therapeutics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew M K Law
- Tumour Development Group, The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Darlinghurst, NSW, Australia.,St. Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, Randwick, NSW, Australia
| | - Laura Rodriguez de la Fuente
- Tumour Development Group, The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Darlinghurst, NSW, Australia.,St. Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, Randwick, NSW, Australia.,Cancer Epigenetic Biology and Therapeutics Lab, Children's Cancer Institute, Randwick, NSW, Australia
| | - Thomas J Grundy
- Life Sciences, Inventia Life Science Pty Ltd, Alexandria, NSW, Australia
| | - Guocheng Fang
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and IT, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, Australia
| | - Fatima Valdes-Mora
- Cancer Epigenetic Biology and Therapeutics Lab, Children's Cancer Institute, Randwick, NSW, Australia.,School of Women's and Children's Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, Randwick, NSW, Australia
| | - David Gallego-Ortega
- Tumour Development Group, The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Darlinghurst, NSW, Australia.,St. Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, Randwick, NSW, Australia.,School of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and IT, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Mendoza-Martinez AK, Loessner D, Mata A, Azevedo HS. Modeling the Tumor Microenvironment of Ovarian Cancer: The Application of Self-Assembling Biomaterials. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:5745. [PMID: 34830897 PMCID: PMC8616551 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13225745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Revised: 11/07/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Ovarian cancer (OvCa) is one of the leading causes of gynecologic malignancies. Despite treatment with surgery and chemotherapy, OvCa disseminates and recurs frequently, reducing the survival rate for patients. There is an urgent need to develop more effective treatment options for women diagnosed with OvCa. The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a key driver of disease progression, metastasis and resistance to treatment. For this reason, 3D models have been designed to represent this specific niche and allow more realistic cell behaviors compared to conventional 2D approaches. In particular, self-assembling peptides represent a promising biomaterial platform to study tumor biology. They form nanofiber networks that resemble the architecture of the extracellular matrix and can be designed to display mechanical properties and biochemical motifs representative of the TME. In this review, we highlight the properties and benefits of emerging 3D platforms used to model the ovarian TME. We also outline the challenges associated with using these 3D systems and provide suggestions for future studies and developments. We conclude that our understanding of OvCa and advances in materials science will progress the engineering of novel 3D approaches, which will enable the development of more effective therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana Karen Mendoza-Martinez
- School of Engineering and Materials Science, Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Road, London E1 4NS, UK;
- Institute of Bioengineering, Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Road, London E1 4NS, UK
| | - Daniela Loessner
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3800, Australia;
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3800, Australia
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3800, Australia
- Max Bergmann Center of Biomaterials Dresden, Leibniz Institute of Polymer Research Dresden e.V., 01069 Dresden, Germany
| | - Alvaro Mata
- School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK;
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK
- Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Helena S. Azevedo
- School of Engineering and Materials Science, Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Road, London E1 4NS, UK;
- Institute of Bioengineering, Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Road, London E1 4NS, UK
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Nii T. Strategies Using Gelatin Microparticles for Regenerative Therapy and Drug Screening Applications. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26226795. [PMID: 34833885 PMCID: PMC8617939 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26226795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Revised: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Gelatin, a denatured form of collagen, is an attractive biomaterial for biotechnology. In particular, gelatin particles have been noted due to their attractive properties as drug carriers. The drug release from gelatin particles can be easily controlled by the crosslinking degree of gelatin molecule, responding to the purpose of the research. The gelatin particles capable of drug release are effective in wound healing, drug screening models. For example, a sustained release of growth factors for tissue regeneration at the injured sites can heal a wound. In the case of the drug screening model, a tissue-like model composed of cells with high activity by the sustained release of drug or growth factor provides reliable results of drug effects. Gelatin particles are effective in drug delivery and the culture of spheroids or cell sheets because the particles prevent hypoxia-derived cell death. This review introduces recent research on gelatin microparticles-based strategies for regenerative therapy and drug screening models.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Teruki Nii
- Graduate School of Systems Life Sciences, Kyushu University, 744 Motooka, Nishi-ku, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan;
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Faculty of Engineering, Kyushu University, 744 Motooka, Nishi-ku, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Dogan E, Kisim A, Bati-Ayaz G, Kubicek GJ, Pesen-Okvur D, Miri AK. Cancer Stem Cells in Tumor Modeling: Challenges and Future Directions. ADVANCED NANOBIOMED RESEARCH 2021; 1:2100017. [PMID: 34927168 PMCID: PMC8680587 DOI: 10.1002/anbr.202100017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Microfluidic tumors-on-chips models have revolutionized anticancer therapeutic research by creating an ideal microenvironment for cancer cells. The tumor microenvironment (TME) includes various cell types and cancer stem cells (CSCs), which are postulated to regulate the growth, invasion, and migratory behavior of tumor cells. In this review, the biological niches of the TME and cancer cell behavior focusing on the behavior of CSCs are summarized. Conventional cancer models such as three-dimensional cultures and organoid models are reviewed. Opportunities for the incorporation of CSCs with tumors-on-chips are then discussed for creating tumor invasion models. Such models will represent a paradigm shift in the cancer community by allowing oncologists and clinicians to predict better which cancer patients will benefit from chemotherapy treatments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elvan Dogan
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Rowan University, Glassboro, NJ 08028
| | - Asli Kisim
- Department of Molecular Biology & Genetics, Izmir Institute of Technology, Gulbahce Kampusu, Urla, Izmir, 35430, Turkey
| | - Gizem Bati-Ayaz
- Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Izmir Institute of Technology, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Gregory J. Kubicek
- Department of Radiation Oncology, MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper, 2 Cooper Plaza, Camden, NJ 08103
| | - Devrim Pesen-Okvur
- Department of Molecular Biology & Genetics, Izmir Institute of Technology, Gulbahce Kampusu, Urla, Izmir, 35430, Turkey; Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Izmir Institute of Technology, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Amir K. Miri
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Rowan University, Glassboro, NJ 08028; School of Medical Engineering, Science, and Health, Rowan University, Camden, NJ 08103
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Akgönüllü S, Bakhshpour M, Pişkin AK, Denizli A. Microfluidic Systems for Cancer Diagnosis and Applications. MICROMACHINES 2021; 12:mi12111349. [PMID: 34832761 PMCID: PMC8619454 DOI: 10.3390/mi12111349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Revised: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Microfluidic devices have led to novel biological advances through the improvement of micro systems that can mimic and measure. Microsystems easily handle sub-microliter volumes, obviously with guidance presumably through laminated fluid flows. Microfluidic systems have production methods that do not need expert engineering, away from a centralized laboratory, and can implement basic and point of care analysis, and this has attracted attention to their widespread dissemination and adaptation to specific biological issues. The general use of microfluidic tools in clinical settings can be seen in pregnancy tests and diabetic control, but recently microfluidic platforms have become a key novel technology for cancer diagnostics. Cancer is a heterogeneous group of diseases that needs a multimodal paradigm to diagnose, manage, and treat. Using advanced technologies can enable this, providing better diagnosis and treatment for cancer patients. Microfluidic tools have evolved as a promising tool in the field of cancer such as detection of a single cancer cell, liquid biopsy, drug screening modeling angiogenesis, and metastasis detection. This review summarizes the need for the low-abundant blood and serum cancer diagnosis with microfluidic tools and the progress that has been followed to develop integrated microfluidic platforms for this application in the last few years.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Semra Akgönüllü
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Hacettepe University, Ankara 06800, Turkey; (S.A.); (M.B.)
| | - Monireh Bakhshpour
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Hacettepe University, Ankara 06800, Turkey; (S.A.); (M.B.)
| | - Ayşe Kevser Pişkin
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Lokman Hekim University, Ankara 06230, Turkey;
| | - Adil Denizli
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Hacettepe University, Ankara 06800, Turkey; (S.A.); (M.B.)
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Giordano F, Lenna S, Rampado R, Brozovich A, Hirase T, Tognon MG, Martini F, Agostini M, Yustein JT, Taraballi F. Nanodelivery Systems Face Challenges and Limitations in Bone Diseases Management. ADVANCED THERAPEUTICS 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/adtp.202100152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Federica Giordano
- Center for Musculoskeletal Regeneration Houston Methodist Academic Institute, Houston Methodist 6670 Bertner Ave Houston TX 77030 USA
- Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Houston Methodist Hospital Houston Methodist, 6565 Fannin Street Houston TX 77030 USA
| | - Stefania Lenna
- Center for Musculoskeletal Regeneration Houston Methodist Academic Institute, Houston Methodist 6670 Bertner Ave Houston TX 77030 USA
- Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Houston Methodist Hospital Houston Methodist, 6565 Fannin Street Houston TX 77030 USA
| | - Riccardo Rampado
- Center for Musculoskeletal Regeneration Houston Methodist Academic Institute, Houston Methodist 6670 Bertner Ave Houston TX 77030 USA
- Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Houston Methodist Hospital Houston Methodist, 6565 Fannin Street Houston TX 77030 USA
- First Surgical Clinic Section, Department of Surgical Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, University of Padua Padua 35124 Italy
- Nano‐Inspired Biomedicine Laboratory Institute of Pediatric Research—Città della Speranza Padua Italy
| | - Ava Brozovich
- Center for Musculoskeletal Regeneration Houston Methodist Academic Institute, Houston Methodist 6670 Bertner Ave Houston TX 77030 USA
- Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Houston Methodist Hospital Houston Methodist, 6565 Fannin Street Houston TX 77030 USA
- Texas A&M College of Medicine 8447 Highway 47 Bryan TX 77807 USA
| | - Takashi Hirase
- Center for Musculoskeletal Regeneration Houston Methodist Academic Institute, Houston Methodist 6670 Bertner Ave Houston TX 77030 USA
- Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Houston Methodist Hospital Houston Methodist, 6565 Fannin Street Houston TX 77030 USA
| | - Mauro G. Tognon
- Section of Experimental Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine University of Ferrara Ferrara Italy
| | - Fernanda Martini
- Section of Experimental Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine University of Ferrara Ferrara Italy
| | - Marco Agostini
- First Surgical Clinic Section, Department of Surgical Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, University of Padua Padua 35124 Italy
- Nano‐Inspired Biomedicine Laboratory Institute of Pediatric Research—Città della Speranza Padua Italy
| | - Jason T. Yustein
- Texas Children's Cancer and Hematology Centers and The Faris D. Virani Ewing Sarcoma Center Baylor College of Medicine Houston TX 77030 USA
| | - Francesca Taraballi
- Center for Musculoskeletal Regeneration Houston Methodist Academic Institute, Houston Methodist 6670 Bertner Ave Houston TX 77030 USA
- Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Houston Methodist Hospital Houston Methodist, 6565 Fannin Street Houston TX 77030 USA
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Rasouli R, Tabrizian M. Rapid Formation of Multicellular Spheroids in Boundary-Driven Acoustic Microstreams. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2021; 17:e2101931. [PMID: 34418307 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202101931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Revised: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
3D cell spheroid culture has emerged as a more faithful recreation of cell growth environment compared to conventional 2D culture, as it can maintain tissue structures, physicochemical characteristics, and cell phenotypes. The majority of current spheroid formation methods are limited to a physical agglomeration of the desired cell type, and then relying on cell capacity to secrete extracellular matrix to form coherent spheroids. Hence, apart from being time-consuming, their success in leading to functional spheroid formation is also cell-type dependent. In this study, a boundary-driven acoustic microstreaming tool is presented that can simultaneously congregate cells and generate sturdy cell clusters through incorporating a bioadhesive such as collagen for rapid production of spheroids. The optimized mixture of type I collagen (0.42 mg mL-1 ) and methylcellulose (0.4% w/v ) accelerates the coagulation of cell-matrix as fast as 10 s while avoiding their adhesion to the device, and thereby offering easy spheroid retrieval. The versatility of the platform is shown for the production of MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 spheroids, multicellular spheroids, and composite spheroids made of cells and microparticles. The ability to produce densely packed spheroids embedded within a biomimetic extracellular matrix component, along with rapid formation and easy collection of spheroids render the proposed device a step in technology development required to realize potentials of 3D constructs such as building blocks for the emerging field of bottom-up tissue engineering.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Reza Rasouli
- Biomedical Engineering Department, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Maryam Tabrizian
- Biomedical Engineering Department, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, H3A 2B4, Canada
- Faculty of Dentistry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, H3A 1G1, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Osuna de la Peña D, Trabulo SMD, Collin E, Liu Y, Sharma S, Tatari M, Behrens D, Erkan M, Lawlor RT, Scarpa A, Heeschen C, Mata A, Loessner D. Bioengineered 3D models of human pancreatic cancer recapitulate in vivo tumour biology. Nat Commun 2021; 12:5623. [PMID: 34561461 PMCID: PMC8463670 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-25921-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Patient-derived in vivo models of human cancer have become a reality, yet their turnaround time is inadequate for clinical applications. Therefore, tailored ex vivo models that faithfully recapitulate in vivo tumour biology are urgently needed. These may especially benefit the management of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), where therapy failure has been ascribed to its high cancer stem cell (CSC) content and high density of stromal cells and extracellular matrix (ECM). To date, these features are only partially reproduced ex vivo using organoid and sphere cultures. We have now developed a more comprehensive and highly tuneable ex vivo model of PDAC based on the 3D co-assembly of peptide amphiphiles (PAs) with custom ECM components (PA-ECM). These cultures maintain patient-specific transcriptional profiles and exhibit CSC functionality, including strong in vivo tumourigenicity. User-defined modification of the system enables control over niche-dependent phenotypes such as epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and matrix deposition. Indeed, proteomic analysis of these cultures reveals improved matrisome recapitulation compared to organoids. Most importantly, patient-specific in vivo drug responses are better reproduced in self-assembled cultures than in other models. These findings support the use of tuneable self-assembling platforms in cancer research and pave the way for future precision medicine approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David Osuna de la Peña
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
- Institute of Bioengineering, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
- Lungs for Living Research Centre, UCL Respiratory, University College London, London, UK
| | | | - Estelle Collin
- Institute of Bioengineering, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Ying Liu
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
- Institute of Bioengineering, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Shreya Sharma
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
- Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, University of London, London, UK
| | - Marianthi Tatari
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Diana Behrens
- EPO - Experimental Pharmacology and Oncology GmbH, Berlin, Germany
| | - Mert Erkan
- Department of Surgery, Koç University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
- Koç University Translational Research Center - KUTTAM, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Rita T Lawlor
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Section of Pathology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
- ARC-Net, Applied Research on Cancer Centre, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Aldo Scarpa
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Section of Pathology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
- ARC-Net, Applied Research on Cancer Centre, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Christopher Heeschen
- Center for Single-Cell Omics, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
- Laboratory of Pancreatic Cancer Heterogeneity, Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, Candiolo, Turin, Italy.
| | - Alvaro Mata
- Institute of Bioengineering, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK.
- School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK.
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK.
- Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK.
| | - Daniela Loessner
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK.
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Carvalho V, Rodrigues RO, Lima RA, Teixeira S. Computational Simulations in Advanced Microfluidic Devices: A Review. MICROMACHINES 2021; 12:mi12101149. [PMID: 34683199 PMCID: PMC8539624 DOI: 10.3390/mi12101149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Revised: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Numerical simulations have revolutionized research in several engineering areas by contributing to the understanding and improvement of several processes, being biomedical engineering one of them. Due to their potential, computational tools have gained visibility and have been increasingly used by several research groups as a supporting tool for the development of preclinical platforms as they allow studying, in a more detailed and faster way, phenomena that are difficult to study experimentally due to the complexity of biological processes present in these models—namely, heat transfer, shear stresses, diffusion processes, velocity fields, etc. There are several contributions already in the literature, and significant advances have been made in this field of research. This review provides the most recent progress in numerical studies on advanced microfluidic devices, such as organ-on-a-chip (OoC) devices, and how these studies can be helpful in enhancing our insight into the physical processes involved and in developing more effective OoC platforms. In general, it has been noticed that in some cases, the numerical studies performed have limitations that need to be improved, and in the majority of the studies, it is extremely difficult to replicate the data due to the lack of detail around the simulations carried out.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Violeta Carvalho
- MEtRICs, Campus de Azurém, University of Minho, 4800-058 Guimarães, Portugal;
- ALGORITMI, Campus de Azurém, University of Minho, 4800-058 Guimarães, Portugal;
- Correspondence:
| | - Raquel O. Rodrigues
- Center for MicroElectromechanical Systems (CMEMS-UMinho), Campus de Azurém, University of Minho, 4800-058 Guimarães, Portugal;
| | - Rui A. Lima
- MEtRICs, Campus de Azurém, University of Minho, 4800-058 Guimarães, Portugal;
- CEFT, R. Dr. Roberto Frias, Faculty of Engineering of the University of Porto (FEUP), 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
| | - Senhorinha Teixeira
- ALGORITMI, Campus de Azurém, University of Minho, 4800-058 Guimarães, Portugal;
| |
Collapse
|