Article
Chemistry, Analytical
Anna A. Kim, Erica A. Castillo, Kerry Lane, Gabriela Torres, Orlando Chirikian, Robin E. Wilson, Sydney A. Lance, Gaspard Pardon, Beth L. Pruitt
Summary: This study presents a method to fabricate large-batch generation of microenvironment protein templates on glass chips, which increases efficiency and flexibility in subsequent steps. The approach successfully controlled the shapes of cardiomyocytes seeded on Matrigel-patterned hydrogels.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Yoon Ho Lee, Jee Yung Park, Peiran Niu, Hanjun Yang, Dewei Sun, Libai Huang, Jianguo Mei, Letian Dou
Summary: A facile one-step solution process for synthesizing 2D perovskite crystal arrays through meniscus-guided coating on patterned substrates is proposed. This method is further used for the synthesis of lateral heterostructure nanoplate arrays. Six different 2D perovskite nanoplate arrays, including epitaxial heterostructures, are successfully realized. Optical and crystallographic characterizations show the high optical performance and crystallinity of the nanoplates. Moreover, this method is utilized for preparing high-performance 2D perovskite nanoplate photosensor arrays. This strategy can guide the fundamental investigation of optical properties and the development of high-performance optoelectronics of perovskite materials.
Article
Biophysics
Jun'ya Tsutsumi, Anthony P. F. Turner, Wing Cheung Mak
Summary: A new GPS method for coupling biomolecules onto microelectrodes has been developed, enabling high-resolution protein self-patterning. This versatile method can be used for micropatterning various biomolecules such as enzymes, antibodies, and avidin-biotinylated proteins.
BIOSENSORS & BIOELECTRONICS
(2021)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Victor R. Mann, Francesca Manea, Nicholas J. Borys, Caroline M. Ajo-Franklin, Bruce E. Cohen
Summary: The controlled patterning of nanoparticles on bioassemblies allows for the synthesis of complex materials for various applications. By using orthogonal bioconjugation reactions, photonic materials were synthesized on crystalline 2D protein sheets, enabling the simultaneous and controlled conjugation of multiple types of nanoparticles. This specific, stable, and efficient conjugation method facilitates the exploration of interactions between pairs of nanoparticles for the engineering of protein-based photonic nanomaterials.
Article
Chemistry, Analytical
Xiaomin Wu, Ri Liu, Li Li, Fan Yang, Dongdong Liu, Lu Wang, Wentao Yu, Junyang Xu, Zhankun Weng, Litong Dong, Zuobin Wang
Summary: This paper investigates the effect of physically modified silicon nanostructures on single-cell patterning. It is found that physically modified grid silicon nanostructures can regulate the single-cell localization growth, and the rational design of substrate structures can maximize the single-cell localization ratio.
ANALYTICAL METHODS
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Md Maksudur Rahman, Chloe L. Tolbert, Partha Saha, Jeffrey M. Halpern, Caleb M. Hill
Summary: This study demonstrates the fabrication of ordered nanoparticle arrays using SECCM. By dynamically monitoring the currents flowing in an SECCM cell, the nucleation and growth of nanoparticles can be controlled, allowing for precise control over their size and location. This SECCM-based approach has great potential in surface modification and analysis.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Peter L. H. Newman, Queenie Yip, Pierre Osteil, Tim A. Anderson, Jane Q. J. Sun, Daryan Kempe, Mate Biro, Jae-Won Shin, Patrick P. L. Tam, Hala Zreiqat
Summary: Multicellular patterning in stem-cell-derived tissue models is often achieved through self-organizing activities triggered by external morphogenetic stimuli. However, these tissue models exhibit stochastic behavior, leading to limited reproducibility and non-physiological structures. To improve multicellular patterning, researchers have developed a method for creating complex tissue microenvironments with programmable mechano-chemical cues. These cues, including peptides, proteins, morphogens, and defined stiffness, spatially guide tissue patterning processes, such as mechanosensing and cell differentiation. By designing niches, the authors successfully engineered bone-fat assembly and germ layer tissues. Microstructured cell niches enable the spatial programming of tissue patterning processes, enhancing the organization and composition of engineered tissues.
Article
Biology
Xiaohang Cheng, Magdalena Bezanilla
Summary: By studying the role of SABRE in moss plants, it was found that SABRE plays a crucial role in cell growth and division processes, and the endoplasmic reticulum plays an important regulatory role in cell division.
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Yongjiu Yuan, Xin Li, Lan Jiang, Misheng Liang, Xueqiang Zhang, Shouyu Wu, Junrui Wu, Mengyao Tian, Yang Zhao, Liangti Qu
Summary: The authors have developed a maskless ultrafast fabrication method for producing micron-sized micro-supercapacitors. These micro-supercapacitors demonstrate high specific capacitance, voltage windows, energy density, and power density. They can be integrated with other micro devices and have potential for use in various applications.
NATURE COMMUNICATIONS
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Vineeta Sharma, Amit Manhas, Santosh Gupta, Madhu Dikshit, Kumaravelu Jagavelu, Rama Shanker Verma
Summary: Cell therapy is a promising approach for cardiac repair, but current delivery strategies have limitations. This study developed an engineered cardiogel patch (EBCP) using native decellularized cardiac extracellular matrix (ECM) and chitosan, enabling efficient regeneration of injured myocardium. The study also introduced a novel bio-adhesive for suture-free placement of EBCP on injured myocardium. The EBCP showed potential in promoting cell proliferation, adhesion, migration, and cardiomyogenic differentiation, and protecting cells in a myocardial infarction (MI) rat model. The epicardial implantation of EBCP loaded with MSCs improved cell retention and cardiac recovery in the rat model.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL MACROMOLECULES
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Analytical
Jiaying Ji, Xiang Ren, Pinar Zorlutuna
Summary: The interaction between cardiomyocytes and fibroblast cells can affect cardiac electrophysiology and contribute to cardiac diseases like arrhythmia. A custom-designed MEA device with micropatterning was used to study the electrical activity of rat cardiomyocyte-fibroblast co-cultures, showing that fibroblast bridges can synchronize separate cardiomyocyte clusters. This method allows for the examination of the coupling dynamics in cell networks and could provide insights into heart disease mechanisms.
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Tuerkan Bayrak, Amanda Martinez-Reyes, David Daniel Ruiz Arce, Jeffrey Kelling, Enrique C. Samano, Artur Erbe
Summary: A method based on directed molecular self-assembly was introduced to manufacture and electrically characterise C-shape gold nanowires, revealing hopping, thermionic, and tunneling transports indicating weakly coupled metallic segments along the wires.
SCIENTIFIC REPORTS
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Woosik Kim, Su-Kyung Kim, Sanghyun Jeon, Junhyuk Ahn, Byung Ku Jung, Sang Yeop Lee, Chanho Shin, Tae-Yeon Seong, Sohee Jeong, Ho Seong Jang, TSe Nga Ng, Soong Ju Oh
Summary: This study presents a solution-based patterning method for perovskite, overcoming the incompatibility with photolithography processes. The results show successful synthesis of CsPbBr3 and Cs4PbBr6 with excellent optoelectronic properties, and the fabrication of high-resolution photoconductor arrays and luminescent pattern arrays on various substrates. This research demonstrates the potential of perovskite in applications such as image sensors and displays.
ADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Biomedical
Chukwuma E. Nweke, Jan P. Stegemann
Summary: In this study, crosslinked gelatin microparticles were used as microcarriers for the culture of human mesenchymal stromal cells. The results showed that high cell density had an inhibitory effect on calcium deposition.
JOURNAL OF BIOMEDICAL MATERIALS RESEARCH PART B-APPLIED BIOMATERIALS
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Abdelrahman Abdelaal, Sylvain Blaize, Ali Issa, Safi Jradi
Summary: By utilizing two-photon polymerization, a nanometric polymer layer was obtained and single colloidal gold nanoparticles were selectively attracted. This method shows potential for the fabrication of single photon sources.
Article
Cell Biology
Piotr Sunderland, Justyna Augustyniak, Jacek Lenart, Leonora Buzanska, Luigi Carlessi, Domenico Delia, Ewa Sikora
MECHANISMS OF AGEING AND DEVELOPMENT
(2020)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Wioletta Lech, Anna Sarnowska, Zuzanna Kuczynska, Filip Dabrowski, Anna Figiel-Dabrowska, Krystyna Domanska-Janik, Leonora Buzanska, Marzena Zychowicz
SCIENTIFIC REPORTS
(2020)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Lyubomira Veleva, Peter Hahner, Andrii Dubinko, Tymofii Khvan, Dmitry Terentyev, Ana Ruiz-Moreno
Summary: This study investigates the effects of pre-straining on the mechanical properties of iron through nanoindentation, revealing increased pile-up formation and discrepancies between hardness measurements and tensile test results. The presence of carbon interstitial impurities at 125 degrees C is found to affect the strain hardening behavior and nano-hardness results.
Review
Developmental Biology
Michal Liput, Chiara Magliaro, Zuzanna Kuczynska, Valery Zayat, Arti Ahluwalia, Leonora Buzanska
Summary: Mitochondria play a crucial role in neurogenesis, but their specific involvement in human embryonic neurodevelopment and pathology remains unclear. Human-induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cerebral organoids offer a promising model system for studying these processes, allowing for pharmacological and genetic manipulations not feasible in humans. Further advancements in technology and imaging tools can help deepen our understanding of mitochondrial function and its impact on disease processes.
DEVELOPMENTAL NEUROBIOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Cell Biology
Ewelina Tomecka, Wioletta Lech, Marzena Zychowicz, Anna Sarnowska, Magdalena Murzyn, Tomasz Oldak, Krystyna Domanska-Janik, Leonora Buzanska, Natalia Rozwadowska
Summary: The study found that 5% oxygen concentration had beneficial effects on the proliferation, clonogenicity, and senescence of hWJ-MSCs, while not influencing cell morphology, immunophenotype, or neuroprotective effect. The potential for differentiation into adipocytes, osteocytes, and chondrocytes was comparable under both oxygen conditions, with enhanced neuronal differentiation seen under atmospheric oxygen conditions. Mitochondrial respiration was more important for the cells regardless of oxygen conditions, suggesting that hWJ-MSCs can be effectively cultured under both oxygen conditions, but 5% oxygen level may provide a more balanced environment.
Article
Biophysics
Alexandra Besleaga, Aurelia Apetrei, Lucel Sirghi
Summary: This study investigates the interaction between antimicrobial peptides and biomimetic membranes using atomic force microscopy. The results show that negatively charged membranes have a stronger adsorption capacity for the peptides, while neutral membranes exhibit mechanical resistance to peptide penetration.
EUROPEAN BIOPHYSICS JOURNAL WITH BIOPHYSICS LETTERS
(2022)
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Dinko Mitrecic, Valentina Hribljan, Denis Jagecic, Jasmina Isakovic, Federica Lamberto, Alex Horanszky, Melinda Zana, Gabor Foldes, Barbara Zavan, Augustas Pivoriunas, Salvador Martinez, Letizia Mazzini, Lidija Radenovic, Jelena Milasin, Juan Carlos Chachques, Leonora Buzanska, Min Suk Song, Andras Dinnyes
Summary: The success of in vitro cell cultivation has opened up new opportunities for medical research, particularly in the development of tissue-specific cultures and the transplantation of standardized cells for tissue regeneration. However, regenerative neurology and cardiology face different obstacles due to the unique needs of different cell types. In this review, European experts in neurology and cardiology discuss the hurdles and potential strategies for accelerating the development of these fields.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2022)
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Sabina Teodoroff-Onesim, Alexandra Besleaga, Lucel Sirghi
Summary: The fabrication of smooth OTS molecular films on silicon substrates relies on the crucial role played by the amount of water on the substrate surface, with excessive water leading to the formation of 3D OTS aggregates. AFM investigations indicate the presence of liquid-expanded and liquid-condensed domains within the OTS molecular films. Annealing of the OTS films promotes film dehydration, enhances hydrophobicity, and diminishes nanoscopic adhesion and friction forces between silicon AFM tips and film surface.
Article
Cell Biology
Zuzanna Kuczynska, Erkan Metin, Michal Liput, Leonora Buzanska
Summary: PGC-1 alpha is a transcriptional coactivator involved in mitochondrial biogenesis and has diverse functions in different cell types of the central nervous system, playing crucial roles in neurodegenerative disorders and cellular activities related to CNS function.
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Andrea Garcia-Junceda, Luca Puricelli, Andrea Valsesia, Francois Rossi, Pascal Colpo, Ana Ruiz-Moreno
Summary: A methodology to miniaturize mechanical tests of metal alloys based on membrane deformation was developed in this investigation. This method requires small amounts of material for testing, making it particularly suitable for irradiated structural nuclear materials. The micro-punch testing methodology combines the advantages of facilitating the interpretation of the mechanical response and the high-throughput microspecimen fabrication.
Review
Cell Biology
Marta Kot, Pawan Kumar Neglur, Anna Pietraszewska, Leonora Buzanska
Summary: This article explores the interaction between neurogenesis and Wnt signaling, as well as the potential of using antidepressants and mesenchymal stem cells to overcome debilitating symptoms caused by age, diseases, or environmental factors. It also discusses the limitations of translating research from animal models to humans and the technical challenges associated with MSCs and their cellular products as potential therapeutic solutions.
Article
Cell Biology
Justyna Augustyniak, Hanna Kozlowska, Leonora Buzanska
Summary: In this study, the vulnerability of human pluripotent stem cell derived embryoid bodies (EBs) to chronic exposure to low doses of MeHgCl was investigated under atmospheric (21% O-2) and physioxia (5% O-2) conditions. Significant differences in gene expression related to DNA repair and mitophagy were observed between the two oxygen conditions in untreated EBs. Chronic exposure to MeHgCl disrupted the development of EBs under both oxygen conditions, but only the EBs exposed to MeHgCl at 21% O-2 showed downregulation of mtDNA copy number, increased oxidative DNA damage, and disturbances in certain gene expressions. Physioxia conditions protected EBs genome integrity and their further differentiation.
Article
Cell Biology
Valery Zayat, Zuzanna Kuczynska, Michal Liput, Erkan Metin, Sylwia Rzonca-Niewczas, Marta Smyk, Tomasz Mazurczak, Alicja Goszczanska-Ciuchta, Pawel Leszczynski, Dorota Hoffman-Zacharska, Leonora Buzanska
Summary: Dravet syndrome is a rare neurodevelopmental disorder associated with a high risk of SUDEP, mainly caused by mutations in the SCN1A gene. Researchers generated iPSC lines from fibroblasts of three individuals with distinct SCN1A mutations and used them to establish ventral forebrain organoids, providing a resource for studying the pathology of DRVT and screening drugs.
Article
Physics, Applied
Garbiela Tifui, Marius Dobromir, Lucel Sirghi
Summary: PDMS surface was treated with low-pressure discharge plasma in pure argon for different durations, and the effect on surface stiffness and adhesion energy to the indenter surface was investigated. The results showed an increase in Young's modulus and a slight increase in work of adhesion. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis revealed a decrease in carbon content and an increase in oxygen content, suggesting the formation of new cross-linking bonds between PDMS molecules.
PLASMA PROCESSES AND POLYMERS
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Yiping Yin, Zhe Wang, Hua Zou
Summary: This study presents a novel method for preparing dimpled polymer-silica nanocomposite particles using interfacial swelling-based seeded polymerization. The optimized conditions allow for a relatively high percentage of dimpled particles to be achieved.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Brenden D. Hoehn, Elizabeth A. Kellstedt, Marc A. Hillmyer
Summary: Porous materials with nanometer-scale pores have important applications as nanoporous membranes. In this study, ABA triblock copolymers were used as precursors to produce nanoporous polymeric membranes (NPMs) in thin film form by degrading the end blocks. Polycyclooctene (PCOE) NPMs with tunable pore sizes were successfully prepared using solvent casting technique. Oxygen plasma etching was employed to improve the surface porosity and hydrophilicity of the membranes. This study provides a straightforward method to produce tough NPMs with high porosity and hydrophilic surface properties.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Vladislav S. Petrovskii, Stepan I. Zholudev, Igor I. Potemkin
Summary: This article investigates the behavior of linear and ring polypeptide chains in aqueous solution and explores the properties of the complexes formed by these chains with oppositely charged surfactants. The results demonstrate that the complexes of linear supercharged unfolded polypeptides and the corresponding surfactants exhibit impressive adhesive properties.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Merve Cevik, Serkan Dikici
Summary: Cardiovascular diseases are a leading cause of death globally, and vascular grafts are a promising treatment option. This study focuses on tissue-engineered vascular grafts (TEVGs) using decellularized parsley stems as a potential biomaterial. The decellularized parsley stems showed suitable properties for TEVGs, providing a suitable environment for human endothelial cells to form a pseudo endothelium. This study showcases the potential of using parsley stems for TEVGs.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Gustavo A. Vasquez-Montoya, Tadej Emersic, Noe Atzin, Antonio Tavera-Vazquez, Ali Mozaffari, Rui Zhang, Orlando Guzman, Alexey Snezhko, Paul F. Nealey, Juan J. de Pablo
Summary: The optical properties of liquid crystals are typically controlled by electric fields. In this study, we investigate the effects of microfluidic flows and acoustic fields on the molecular orientation and optical response of nematic liquid crystals. We identify several previously unknown structures and explain them through calculations and simulations. These findings hold promise for the development of new systems combining sound, flow, and confinement.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Xinjun Wu, Xin Guan, Shushu Chen, Jiangpeng Jia, Chongyi Chen, Jiawei Zhang, Chuanzhuang Zhao
Summary: This research presents a novel shape memory hydrogel with a remodelable permanent shape and programmable cold-induced shape recovery behavior. The hydrogel is prepared using specific treatment methods to achieve shape fixation by heating and shape recovery by cooling. Additionally, deformable devices can be obtained by assembling hydrogel blocks with different concentrations.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Rebecca Hengsbach, Gerhard Fink, Ulrich Simon
Summary: This study examines the properties of DNA functionalized pNipmam microgels and pure pNipmam microgels at different concentrations of sodium chloride and in PBS solutions using temperature dependent H-1-NMR measurements. The results show that DNA modification affects the volume phase transition temperature and the addition of salt and PBS further enhances this effect.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Ningyi Li, Junhong Li, Lijingting Qing, Shicheng Ma, Yao Li, Baohui Li
Summary: This paper investigates the self-assembly behavior of colloids with competing interactions under spherical confinement and finds that different ordered structures can be formed under different sized spherical confinements. Moreover, more perforated structures are formed in smaller spheres.
