A Multi-enzyme Protocol Improves Total Proteome Coverage in Extracellular Matrix.

Extracellular matrix (ECM) from decellularized mammalian tissues has been used in many therapeutic applications. The tissue-specific composition of the ECM is critically associated with therapeutic performance. However, ECM translation needs to be improved because of the complex composition and limited understanding of ECM repairing mechanisms due partly to incomplete proteomic interrogation of ECM samples.

Towards a standardized multi-tissue decellularization protocol for the derivation of extracellular matrix materials.

The goal of tissue decellularization is to efficiently remove unwanted cellular components, such as DNA and cellular debris, while retaining the complex structural and molecular milieu within the extracellular matrix (ECM). Decellularization protocols to date are centered on customized tissue-specific and lab-specific protocols that involve consecutive manual steps which results in variable and protocol-specific ECM material. The differences that result from the inconsistent protocols between decellularized ECMs affect consistency across batches, limit comparisons between results obtained from different laboratories, and could limit the transferability of the material for consistent laboratory or clinical use.

Monitoring decellularization via absorbance spectroscopy during the derivation of extracellular matrix scaffolds.

Extracellular matrix (ECM) is a complex structure composed of bioactive molecules representative of the local tissue microenvironment. Decellularized ECM biomaterials harness these biomolecules for regenerative medicine applications. One potential therapeutic application is the use of vocal fold (VF) specific ECM to restore the VFs after injury.

Extracellular Matrix Hydrogels Promote Expression of Muscle-Tendon Junction Proteins.

Muscle and tendon injuries are prevalent and range from minor sprains and strains to traumatic, debilitating injuries. However, the interactions between these tissues during injury and recovery remain unclear. Three-dimensional tissue models that incorporate both tissues and a physiologically relevant junction between muscle and tendon may help understand how the two tissues interact.

Fast Automated Approach for the Derivation of Acellular Extracellular Matrix Scaffolds from Porcine Soft Tissues.

Decellularized extracellular matrix (ECM) scaffolds derived from tissues and organs are complex biomaterials used in clinical and research applications. A number of decellularization protocols have been described for ECM biomaterials derivation, each adapted to a particular tissue and use, restricting comparisons among materials. One of the major sources of variability in ECM products comes from the tissue source and animal age.

Porcine Vocal Fold Lamina Propria-Derived Biomaterials Modulate TGF-β1-Mediated Fibroblast Activation in Vitro.

The vocal fold lamina propria (VFLP), one of the outermost layers of the vocal fold (VF), is composed of tissue-specific extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins and is highly susceptible to injury. Various biomaterials have been clinically tested to treat voice disorders (e.g.

Transcriptome-targeted analysis of human peripheral blood-derived macrophages when cultured on biomaterial meshes.

Surgical meshes are commonly used to repair defects and support soft tissues. Macrophages (Mφs) are critical cells in the wound healing process and are involved in the host response upon foreign biomaterials. There are various commercially available permanent and absorbable meshes used by surgeons for surgical interventions.

Dermal Extracellular Matrix-Derived Hydrogels as an Substrate to Study Mast Cell Maturation.

Mast cells (MCs) are pro-inflammatory tissue-resident immune cells that play a key role in inflammation. MCs circulate in peripheral blood as progenitors and undergo terminal differentiation in the tissue microenvironment where they can remain for many years. This maturation results in tissue- and species-specific MC phenotypes, culminating in significant variability in response to environmental stimuli.

Correction: Hydrophobicity of Antifungal β-Peptides Is Associated with Their Cytotoxic Effect on In Vitro Human Colon Caco-2 and Liver HepG2 Cells.

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.

Magneto-responsive liquid crystalline elastomer nanocomposites as potential candidates for dynamic cell culture substrates.

Recently, liquid crystalline elastomers (LCEs) have been proposed as active substrates for cell culture due to their potential to attach and orient cells, and impose dynamic mechanical signals through the application of external stimuli. In this report, the preparation of anisotropic and oriented nematic magnetic-sensitized LCEs with iron oxide nanoparticles, and the evaluation of the effect of particle addition at low concentrations on the resultant structural, thermal, thermo-mechanical, and mechanical properties is presented. Phase transformations produced by heating in alternating magnetic fields were investigated in LCEs in contact with air, water, and a common liquid cell culture medium was also evaluated.

Hydrophobicity of Antifungal β-Peptides Is Associated with Their Cytotoxic Effect on In Vitro Human Colon Caco-2 and Liver HepG2 Cells.

The widespread distribution of fungal infections, with their high morbidity and mortality rate, is a global public health problem. The increase in the population of immunocompromised patients combined with the selectivity of currents treatments and the emergence of drug-resistant fungal strains are among the most imperative reasons to develop novel antifungal formulations. Antimicrobial β-peptides are peptidomimetics of natural antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), which have been proposed as developmental platforms to enhance the AMPs selectivity and biostability.

Synthetic antimicrobial β-peptide in dual-treatment with fluconazole or ketoconazole enhances the in vitro inhibition of planktonic and biofilm Candida albicans.

Fungal infections are a pressing concern for human health worldwide, particularly for immunocompromised individuals. Current challenges such as the elevated toxicity of common antifungal drugs and the emerging resistance towards these could be overcome by multidrug therapy. Natural antimicrobial peptides, AMPs, in combination with other antifungal agents are a promising avenue to address the prevailing challenges.