Cell stretching devices integrated with live cell imaging: a powerful approach to study how cells react to mechanical cues.

Mechanical stimuli have multiple effects on cell behavior, affecting a number of cellular processes including orientation, proliferation or apoptosis, migration and invasion, the production of extracellular matrix proteins, the activation and translocation of transcription factors, the expression of different genes such as those involved in inflammation and the reprogramming of cell fate. The recent development of cell stretching devices has paved the way for the study of cell reactions to stretching stimuli, reproducing physiological situations that are experienced by cells in many tissues and related to functions such as breathing, heart beating and digestion. In this work, we review the highly-relevant contributions cell stretching devices can provide in the field of mechanobiology.

Deer antler stem cell niche: An interesting perspective.

In recent years, there has been considerable exploration into methods aimed at enhancing the regenerative capacity of transplanted and/or tissue-resident cells. Biomaterials, in particular, have garnered significant interest for their potential to serve as natural scaffolds for cells. In this editorial, we provide commentary on the study by Wang , in a recently published issue of , which investigates the use of a decellularized xenogeneic extracellular matrix (ECM) derived from antler stem cells for repairing osteochondral defects in rat knee joints.

Mechanobiology: A landscape for reinterpreting stem cell heterogeneity and regenerative potential in diseased tissues.

Mechanical forces play a fundamental role in cellular dynamics from the molecular level to the establishment of complex heterogeneity in somatic and stem cells. Here, we highlight the role of cytoskeletal mechanics and extracellular matrix in generating mechanical forces merging into oscillatory synchronized patterns. We discuss how cellular mechanosensing/-transduction can be modulated by mechanical forces to control tissue metabolism and set the basis for nonpharmacologic tissue rescue.

Quality Control Platform for the Standardization of a Regenerative Medicine Product.

Adipose tissue is an attractive source of stem cells due to its wide availability. They contribute to the stromal vascular fraction (SVF), which is composed of pre-adipocytes, tissue-progenitors, and pericytes, among others. Because its direct use in medical applications is increasing worldwide, new quality control systems are required.

Cell Responsiveness to Physical Energies: Paving the Way to Decipher a Morphogenetic Code.

We discuss emerging views on the complexity of signals controlling the onset of biological shapes and functions, from the nanoarchitectonics arising from supramolecular interactions, to the cellular/multicellular tissue level, and up to the unfolding of complex anatomy. We highlight the fundamental role of physical forces in cellular decisions, stressing the intriguing similarities in early morphogenesis, tissue regeneration, and oncogenic drift. Compelling evidence is presented, showing that biological patterns are strongly embedded in the vibrational nature of the physical energies that permeate the entire universe.

A Tailored Lipid Supplement Restored Membrane Fatty Acid Composition and Ameliorates In Vitro Biological Features of Human Amniotic Epithelial Cells.

Cell culture conditions influence several biological and biochemical features of stem cells (SCs), including the membrane lipid profile, thus limiting the use of SCs for cell therapy approaches. The present study aims to investigate whether the in vitro culture may alter the membrane fatty acid signature of human Amniotic Epithelial Cells (hAECs). The analysis of the membrane fatty acid composition of hAECs cultured in basal medium showed a loss in polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), in particular in omega-6 (ω-6) content, compared to freshly isolated hAECs.

Protective effects of exosomes derived from lyophilized porcine liver against acetaminophen damage on HepG2 cells.

Background: Recently, extracellular vesicles have come to the fore following their emerging role in cell communication, thanks to their ability to reach cells into the human body without dissipating their cargo, transferring biological active molecules, such as proteins, nucleic acids, lipids, etc. They appear as a promising tool in medicine, because of their capability to modulate cellular response in recipient cells. Moreover, a considerable number of publications suggests that exosome uptake is selective but not specific, and it can cross species and cell-type boundaries.

Unveiling the morphogenetic code: A new path at the intersection of physical energies and chemical signaling.

In this editorial, we discuss the remarkable role of physical energies in the control of cell signaling networks and in the specification of the architectural plan of both somatic and stem cells. In particular, we focus on the biological relevance of bioelectricity in the pattern control that orchestrates both developmental and regenerative pathways. To this end, the narrative starts from the dawn of the first studies on animal electricity, reconsidering the pioneer work of Harold Saxton Burr in the light of the current achievements.

Intracrine Endorphinergic Systems in Modulation of Myocardial Differentiation.

A wide variety of peptides not only interact with the cell surface, but govern complex signaling from inside the cell. This has been referred to as an "intracrine" action, and the orchestrating molecules as "intracrines". Here, we review the intracrine action of dynorphin B, a bioactive end-product of the gene, on nuclear opioid receptors and nuclear protein kinase C signaling to stimulate the transcription of a gene program of cardiogenesis.

Physical energies to the rescue of damaged tissues.

Rhythmic oscillatory patterns sustain cellular dynamics, driving the concerted action of regulatory molecules, microtubules, and molecular motors. We describe cellular microtubules as oscillators capable of synchronization and swarming, generating mechanical and electric patterns that impact biomolecular recognition. We consider the biological relevance of seeing the inside of cells populated by a network of molecules that behave as bioelectronic circuits and chromophores.

Characterization of the Tissue and Stromal Cell Components of Micro-Superficial Enhanced Fluid Fat Injection (Micro-SEFFI) for Facial Aging Treatment.

Background: New microfat preparations provide material suitable for use as a regenerative filler for different facial areas. To support the development of new robust techniques for regenerative purposes, the cellular content of the sample should be considered.

Objectives: To evaluate the stromal vascular fraction (SVF) cell components of micro-superficial enhanced fluid fat injection (SEFFI) samples via a technique to harvest re-injectable tissue with minimum manipulation.

Restoring In Vivo-Like Membrane Lipidomics Promotes Exosome Trophic Behavior from Human Placental Mesenchymal Stromal/Stem Cells.

Human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) are an effective tool in regenerative medicine notably for their intrinsic plentiful paracrine activity rather than differentiating properties. The hMSC secretome includes a wide spectrum of regulatory and trophic factors, encompassing several naked molecules as well as different kinds of extracellular vesicles (EVs). Among EVs, exosomes represent an intriguing population, able to shuttle proteins, transcription factors, and genetic materials, with a relevant role in cell-to-cell communication, modulating biological responses in recipient cells.

Folic Acid and Homocysteine in Chronic Kidney Disease and Cardiovascular Disease Progression: Which Comes First?

Background: Hyperhomocysteinemia (Hhcy) occurs in about 85% of chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients because of impaired renal metabolism and reduced renal excretion. Folic acid (FA), the synthetic form of vitamin B, is critical in the conversion of homocysteine (Hcy) to methionine. If there is not enough intake of FA, there is not enough conversion, and Hcy levels are raised.

Restored in vivo-like membrane lipidomics positively influence in vitro features of cultured mesenchymal stromal/stem cells derived from human placenta.

Background: The study of lipid metabolism in stem cell physiology has recently raised great interest. The role of lipids goes beyond the mere structural involvement in assembling extra- and intra-cellular compartments. Nevertheless, we are still far from understanding the impact of membrane lipidomics in stemness maintenance and differentiation patterns.