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RCCS bioreactor-based modelled microgravity induces significant changes on in vitro 3D neuroglial cell cultures
Caterina Morabito1, Nathalie Steimberg2, Giovanna Mazzoleni2
1Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, Unit of Functional Biotechnology, Aging Research Center (Ce.S.I.), "G. d'Annunzio" University of Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini 29, 66100 Chieti, Italy ; Interuniversity Institute of Myology, Italy.
Biomed Research International
|February 6, 2015
Summary
This study introduces a 3D neuro/glial cell model to explore microgravity effects on cell interactions. Microgravity culture enhanced cell differentiation and altered cell-cell communication in vitro.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cell Biology
- Space Biology
Background:
- Investigating microgravity's impact on the nervous system is crucial for astronaut health.
- Understanding cell-cell interactions is key to neural development and function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a 3D in vitro model using human neuro/glial cells.
- To assess the effects of modelled microgravity on cell morphology, function, and interactions.
- To analyze neuronal and glial cell responses in both monocultures and co-cultures.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a rotary cell-culture system (RCCS) bioreactor to simulate microgravity.
- Cultured glial-like GL15 and neuronal-like SH-SY5Y cells in 3D aggregates (monotypic and heterotypic).
- Analyzed cell survival, differentiation markers (GFAP, S100B, GAP43), and cell adhesion molecules (N-CAM, Cx43).
Main Results:
- Cell survival was maintained in 3D aggregates for up to 2 weeks.
- Modelled microgravity increased expression of differentiation markers in both cell types.
- Functional cell-cell interactions, indicated by N-CAM and Cx43, were modulated under microgravity.
Conclusions:
- The 3D neuro/glial cell model effectively simulates microgravity conditions for studying nervous system cells.
- This model provides a valuable tool for investigating molecular, biochemical, and morphological responses to microgravity.
- The findings highlight microgravity's influence on neural cell differentiation and intercellular communication.
