Review
Endocrinology & Metabolism
Molly Monsour, Cesar Borlongan
Summary: Stroke pathology and treatments usually focus on the brain, but inflammation in peripheral organs also plays a significant role. This review discusses the robust inflammatory response in peripheral organs to stroke and innovative stroke therapies that target peripheral inflammation.
JOURNAL OF CEREBRAL BLOOD FLOW AND METABOLISM
(2023)
Review
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Roisin Lynch, Ed C. Lavelle
Summary: Biocompatible and biodegradable biomaterials are widely used in regenerative medicine. Inflammation, though initially essential for wound healing, can have negative effects if prolonged. Therefore, careful consideration should be given to the choice of biomaterials to minimize inflammation.
BIOCHEMICAL PHARMACOLOGY
(2022)
Review
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Faranak Mankavi, Rana Ibrahim, Hongjun Wang
Summary: This article summarizes the recent advances in nerve guidance conduits (NGCs) for peripheral nerve regeneration and repair, including biomaterial innovations, structural design, advanced fabrication technologies, and cellular responses to biomimetic cues.
Article
Engineering, Biomedical
Hao Yang, Liu Song, Bingxue Sun, Di Chu, Leilei Yang, Meng Li, Huan Li, Yun Dai, Zhuo Yu, Jianfeng Guo
Summary: The study confirmed the potential of paeoniflorin (PF) for transitioning macrophages and developed a high molecular weight hyaluronic acid (HA) hydrogel that significantly promoted cutaneous healing in experimental diabetic mice, showing promising clinical translation potential.
MATERIALS TODAY BIO
(2021)
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Andrea Lavorato, Stefania Raimondo, Marina Boido, Luisa Muratori, Giorgia Durante, Fabio Cofano, Francesca Vincitorio, Salvatore Petrone, Paolo Titolo, Fulvio Tartara, Alessandro Vercelli, Diego Garbossa
Summary: The study discusses the features and applications of different types of mesenchymal stem cells in peripheral nerve regeneration after nerve injury. ADSCs are considered the most suitable MSCs for recovery from peripheral nerve lesions due to their excellent support and stimulation of axonal growth, remarkable paracrine activity, differentiation potential, low immunogenicity, and high survival rate.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2021)
Review
Cell Biology
Ruiqin Feng, Peixun Zhang
Summary: This review summarizes the role of macrophages in peripheral nerve regeneration. M1 macrophages play a crucial role in axonal regeneration, contrary to the traditional M1/M2 model that considers M1 macrophages as inhibitors of regeneration. The coordination of both macrophage phenotypes may have a positive impact on peripheral nerve repair.
HISTOLOGY AND HISTOPATHOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Biomedical
Steven Vermeulen, Zeinab Tahmasebi Birgani, Pamela Habibovic
Summary: Embryogenic developmental processes involve a tightly controlled regulation between mechanical forces and biochemical cues. Understanding the pathways that govern bone regeneration is crucial for the development of effective regenerative therapies. However, current biochemical stimuli are often insufficient due to the lack of an appropriate mechanical environment. Therefore, further research on biomaterials and their effects on bone regeneration pathways is needed to inspire the development of more effective therapies.
Review
Engineering, Biomedical
Rebecca D. Bierman-Duquette, Gevick Safarians, Joyce Huang, Bushra Rajput, Jessica Y. Chen, Ze Zhong Wang, Stephanie K. Seidlits
Summary: Conductive biomaterials play a crucial role in engineering neural tissues by directing NS/PC maturation into functional neuronal networks through electrical stimulation. Developing biocompatible, biodegradable, and conductive biomaterials is expected to benefit stem cell therapies, CNS tissue repair, and CNS pathology modeling. Technological advancements, such as incorporating microenvironmental cues and electrical functionalities, are key to creating engineered tissues with integrated physiological and electrical functionalities.
ADVANCED HEALTHCARE MATERIALS
(2022)
Review
Engineering, Biomedical
Jinchun Ye, Chang Xie, Canlong Wang, Jiayun Huang, Zi Yin, Boon Chin Heng, Xiao Chen, Weiliang Shen
Summary: Studies have shown that active modulation of immune cells, particularly macrophages, via biomaterials is an effective way to control immune response, promote tissue regeneration, and facilitate biomaterial integration.
BIOACTIVE MATERIALS
(2021)
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Chi Feng, Lan Deng, Yuan-Yuan Yong, Jian-Ming Wu, Da-Lian Qin, Lu Yu, Xiao-Gang Zhou, An-Guo Wu
Summary: The spinal cord and brain are vital to the central nervous system (CNS), but spinal cord injury (SCI) caused by external forces is challenging to treat and results in loss of motor, sensory, and autonomic functions. The incidence of SCI is increasing globally, emphasizing the urgent need for treatments. Various approaches, such as surgery, drug therapy, stem cell transplantation, regenerative medicine, and rehabilitation therapy, have been developed. Among them, biomaterials using tissue engineering and bioscaffolds show promise for transporting cells or drugs to injured sites. However, clinical evidence for the treatment of SCI with biomaterials remains limited. This review provides inspiration and guidance for future studies and applications of biomaterials in SCI treatment.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2023)
Review
Anatomy & Morphology
Giancarlo Tejeda, Andrew J. Ciciriello, Courtney M. Dumont
Summary: Stem cell therapies have the potential to repair and regenerate tissue in the central nervous system. However, low transplant survival remains a major obstacle. The use of biomaterials can significantly improve the survival of transplanted stem cells by providing protection and controlling the cytotoxic injury environment.
CELLS TISSUES ORGANS
(2023)
Review
Cardiac & Cardiovascular Systems
Guido Grassi, Giuseppe Mancia, Murray Esler
Summary: The overdrive of the sympathetic nervous system in heart failure has been reported for over half a century. Recent advancements in methodological approaches have provided a better understanding of various aspects of neuroadrenergic alterations, including regional differences, the role of the central nervous system, and the involvement of reflex mechanisms. Additionally, the impact of sympathetic activation on cardiovascular organs and potential therapeutic interventions have been highlighted.
CARDIOVASCULAR RESEARCH
(2022)
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Guzel Rafikova, Svetlana Piatnitskaia, Elena Shapovalova, Svyatoslav Chugunov, Victor Kireev, Daria Ialiukhova, Azat Bilyalov, Valentin Pavlov, Julia Kzhyshkowska
Summary: The immuno-compatibility of ceramic implants, which depends on the interaction with immune cells, is still insufficiently understood and requires intensive experimental research. This review summarizes the state of the art in ceramic implants, including their mechanical properties, chemical modifications, surface structures, and shapes. The gaps in knowledge are identified, and the possibilities for further research using advanced quantitative technologies are outlined.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2023)
Review
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Izeia Lukin, Itsasne Erezuma, Lidia Maeso, Jon Zarate, Martin Federico Desimone, Taleb H. Al-Tel, Alireza Dolatshahi-Pirouz, Gorka Orive
Summary: Tissue engineering has become a viable medical alternative in response to the increasing lifespan of society. This review focuses on gelatin, a widely used biomaterial in tissue engineering, and discusses ongoing concerns and the latest developments in this field. Advancements in technology, such as 3D bioprinting and gelatin functionalization, have allowed for better replication of native tissue in gelatin-based systems. This breakthrough has implications for both the manufacturing process, making it more practical and cost-effective, and the future use of gelatin in disease detection and diagnosis rather than treatment.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Huifeng Wang, Samantha Huddleston, Jian Yang, Guillermo A. Ameer
Summary: Regenerative medicine aims to restore tissue and organ function, but faces barriers such as the lack of proregenerative biomaterials, a complex regulatory process, and user adoption challenges. Biodegradable polymers, although important in regenerative medicine, have limitations in their mechanical and degradation properties. Despite these limitations, a small number of biodegradable polymers have dominated the market for the past 50 years.
ADVANCED MATERIALS
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Alan J. Hibbitts, Zuzana Koci, Simone Kneafsey, Amos Matsiko, Leyla Zilic, Adrian Dervan, Paige Hinton, Gang Chen, Brenton Cavanagh, Jennifer K. Dowling, Claire E. McCoy, Conor T. Buckley, Simon J. Archibald, Fergal J. O'Brien
Summary: By using a multi-factorial approach, researchers have optimized a biomaterial NGC to address the challenges of long-distance injuries, inflammation, and poor vascularization in axonal repair. The functionalized NGCs showed significant improvements in inflammation, neurogenesis, and angiogenesis in experiments. In a rat nerve defect model, the functionalized NGCs demonstrated comparable axonal density and angiogenesis to autografts, highlighting their potential in clinical applications.
Review
Rheumatology
Tom Hodgkinson, Domhnall C. Kelly, Caroline M. Curtin, Fergal J. O'Brien
Summary: Mechanical stimuli play fundamental roles in cartilage health and osteoarthritis, with chondrocytes sensing their physical environment and activating complex signaling pathways to regulate OA pathology. Understanding specific mechanosignalling mechanisms in cartilage has therapeutic potential and can be combined with smart biomaterials and drug delivery systems for future OA treatment advancements.
NATURE REVIEWS RHEUMATOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Biomedical
Ian Woods, Cian O'Connor, Lisa Frugoli, Sean Kerr, Javier Gutierrez Gonzalez, Martyna Stasiewicz, Tara McGuire, Brenton Cavanagh, Alan Hibbitts, Adrian Dervan, Fergal J. O'Brien
Summary: The study found that Coll-IV/Fn mixture in scaffolds can promote axonal extension of neurons and induce morphological features of astrocytes. By using materials of different stiffness in the scaffold, astrocyte behavior can be regulated, and the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines can be stimulated.
ADVANCED HEALTHCARE MATERIALS
(2022)
Review
Engineering, Biomedical
Tom Hodgkinson, Isabel N. Amado, Fergal J. O'Brien, Oran D. Kennedy
Summary: This review discusses the multifaceted changes in the mechanobiological environment of skeletal joints and emphasizes the importance of tissue crosstalk in degenerative processes. The development of accurate and reproducible model systems for osteoarthritis research is essential. The review explores recent progress in understanding mechanosensory processes in healthy and osteoarthritic joints and the advancements in in vitro and ex vivo model systems.
APL BIOENGINEERING
(2022)
Review
Engineering, Biomedical
Maria G. Fernandes, Lucilia P. da Silva, Mariana T. Cerqueira, Rita Ibanez, Ciara M. Murphy, Rui L. Reis, Fergal J. O. Brien, Alexandra P. Marques
Summary: Scarring is a significant clinical issue that impacts many patients, causing functional, aesthetic, psychological, and social difficulties. Research has shown that mechanical forces play a crucial role in skin tissue repair and scar formation. Understanding how engineered biomaterials can modify mechanical stimuli and mechanotransduction signals in wound environments can lead to the reduction of scar tissue.
ACTA BIOMATERIALIA
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Biomedical
William A. Lackington, Dominic Gehweiler, Ensi Zhao, Ivan Zderic, Dirk Nehrbass, Stephan Zeiter, Arlyng Gonzalez-Vazquez, Fergal J. O'Brien, MartinJ. Stoddart, Keith Thompson
Summary: In this study, the therapeutic efficacy of a low dose of rhBMP-2 in a weight-bearing femoral fracture healing model was enhanced by the addition of interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra). The combination of IL-1Ra and rhBMP-2 resulted in significantly faster early bone formation and improved mechanical reliability compared to a low dose of rhBMP-2 alone. This study demonstrates the potential of IL-1Ra to enhance bone healing in combination with a low dose of rhBMP-2.
ACTA BIOMATERIALIA
(2022)
Review
Health Care Sciences & Services
Padraig Carroll, Adrian Dervan, Anthony Maher, Ciaran McCarthy, Ian Woods, Rachel Kavanagh, Cliff Beirne, Geoff Harte, Donal O'Flynn, Cian O'Connor, Tara McGuire, Liam M. Leahy, Javier Gutierrez Gonzalez, Martyna Stasiewicz, Jack Maughan, Pedro Jose Gouveia, Paul J. Murphy, John Quinlan, Sarah Casey, Alice Holton, Eimear Smith, Frank Moriarty, Fergal J. O'Brien, Michelle Flood
Summary: This scoping review aimed to identify and develop principles for Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) in preclinical research. Few examples of empirical PPI activity in preclinical research were found, but they may support future use of PPI in this context.
HEALTH EXPECTATIONS
(2022)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Paige V. Hinton, Katelyn J. Genoud, James O. Early, Fergal J. O'Brien, Oran D. Kennedy
Summary: Bone cells, including osteoblasts and chondrocytes, communicate with each other through interstitial fluid movement and fluid flow shear stresses. This study developed an in vitro bone-cartilage crosstalk system to examine the effect of fluid flow shear stresses on these cell types. The findings show that primary cells exhibit a more reliable and reproducible response to shear stresses, and different levels of shear stresses have varying effects on bone formation and degradation. Additionally, osteoblast-derived factors can induce catabolic changes in chondrocytes.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2022)
Article
Nanoscience & Nanotechnology
Matthew McGrath, Karolina Zimkowska, Katelyn J. Genoud, Jack Maughan, Javier Gutierrez Gonzalez, Shane Browne, Fergal J. O'Brien
Summary: A biomimetic, bilayered antimicrobial collagen-based scaffold was developed to deal with the etiology of diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs). The scaffold exhibited high structural stability, successfully inhibited the growth and infiltration of Staphylococcus aureus, and supported the proliferation of epidermal cells and vascularization. These results suggest that the bilayered scaffold is a promising candidate for enhancing diabetic wound healing.
ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES
(2023)
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Claudio Intini, Lia Blokpoel Ferreras, Sarah Casey, James E. Dixon, John P. Gleeson, Fergal J. O'Brien
Summary: A novel miR-activated scaffold was developed to enhance mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSC) chondrogenesis and cartilage repair through the delivery of an inhibitor to miR-221. The miR-activated scaffold successfully transfected human MSCs with the miR-221 cargo, promoting an improved cell-mediated chondrogenic response. This innovative scaffold shows promise in improving chondrogenesis and enhancing cartilage defect repair.
ADVANCED THERAPEUTICS
(2023)
Article
Nanoscience & Nanotechnology
Giuseppe A. Asaro, Matteo Solazzo, Meenakshi Suku, Dahnan Spurling, Katelyn Genoud, Javier Gutierrez Gonzalez, Fergal J. O' Brien, Valeria Nicolosi, Michael G. Monaghan
Summary: Electroconductive biohybrid platforms were created by blending collagen and 2D MXene, which showed high biocompatibility and enhanced cell proliferation and spreading. The platforms also limited bacterial attachment and proliferation. Culturing neonatal rat cardiomyocytes and human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes on the substrates demonstrated increased cell growth and cx43 expression when stimulated with an external electric field. This in vitro study convincingly shows the potential of the engineered conductive biohybrid platform for cardiac tissue regeneration.
NPJ 2D MATERIALS AND APPLICATIONS
(2023)
Review
Engineering, Biomedical
Tara K. Mcguire, Martyna Stasiewicz, Ian Woods, Adrian G. Dervan, Fergal J. O'Brien
Summary: Spinal cord injury is a devastating traumatic injury that often results in permanent loss of function. Gene therapy using nonviral nanoparticle vectors has the potential to improve spinal cord regeneration by targeting multiple aspects of the injury and enhancing specificity. Despite challenges, nanoparticle-mediated gene delivery holds great promise for the future of spinal cord injury treatment.
ADVANCED NANOBIOMED RESEARCH
(2023)
Review
Urology & Nephrology
Sorcha O'Meara, Eoghan M. Cunnane, Stefanie M. Croghan, Connor V. Cunnane, Michael T. Walsh, Fergal J. O'Brien, Niall F. Davis
Summary: The ureter is a complex structure with varying mechanical properties and morphology along its anatomical length. Understanding the mechanical forces and properties of the ureter is important for surgical outcomes and urine transport. Further studies on human ureteric tissue are needed to better understand these properties and the influence of forces on them.
NATURE REVIEWS UROLOGY
(2023)
Review
Materials Science, Biomaterials
Donagh G. O'Shea, Caroline M. Curtin, Fergal J. O'Brien
Summary: Articular cartilage in the human body plays a vital role in facilitating frictionless movement of synovial joints. However, its avascular and aneural nature limits its ability to self-repair when damaged. Current surgical treatment options lead to the formation of non-durable tissue, necessitating the need for a new solution. Recent advances in tissue engineering have aimed to recreate the microenvironment of native articular cartilage using biomaterial scaffolds, but the complexity of native tissue has proven to be a challenge. The advent of 3D printing has provided a potential solution by allowing the fabrication of biomimetic scaffolds that mimic the architecture and composition of articular cartilage.
BIOMATERIALS SCIENCE
(2022)
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Robert T. Brady, Fergal J. O'Brien, David A. Hoey
Summary: Bone is a dynamic organ that can adapt its structure through the release of soluble factors by osteocytes. The study investigated the role of composition and dimensionality in directing Sost expression in MLO-Y4 cells and found that culture in hydroxyapatite-containing collagen scaffolds enhanced Sost expression compared to traditional in vitro culture. The study also showed that the novel culture system responded to fluid flow stimulation. Overall, this study presents a novel culture system for the MLO-Y4 osteocyte cell line and provides valuable insights into Sost expression in bone cells.
BIOENGINEERING-BASEL
(2022)
