Unlocking the potential of collagen modulation for biomaterials in human health

Los Angeles CA (SPX) Dec 09, 2024
New research into the adaptable tissues of brittle stars has revealed critical insights that could inspire innovative collagen-based biomaterials for human health applications. Scientists at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte's Center for Computational Intelligence to Predict Health and Environmental Risks (CIPHER), alongside Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, have identified key genetic components that regulate mutable collagenous tissue (MCT).

The study, led by Denis Jacob Machado, assistant professor at UNC Charlotte, and Vladimir Mashanov, staff scientist at Wake Forest, used RNA sequencing and advanced transmission electron microscopy to pinpoint 16 genes linked to tissue pliability. "We're uncovering the precise instructions that DNA sends to the cell," Jacob Machado explained, likening the process to decoding commands from a ship captain to its crew.

These discoveries, published in BMC Genomics under the title "Unveiling putative modulators of mutable collagenous tissue in the brittle star Ophiomastix wendtii: an RNA-Seq analysis," represent a significant step toward creating smart biomaterials capable of revolutionizing tissue regeneration and wound healing.

Advancing Regenerative Medicine

Brittle stars, relatives of sea stars and sand dollars, possess unique adaptive capabilities, including detaching body parts to escape predators. This ability stems from their mutable collagenous tissues, which can dramatically alter strength and flexibility. The researchers isolated juxtaligamental cells (JLCs), which play a pivotal role in these transformations, to explore the genetic underpinnings of these changes.

Through comparative tissue analyses, the team determined how gene expression within JLC-rich areas contributes to MCT modulation. Their work identified molecular mechanisms that could potentially be replicated in human biomedical applications, such as creating surgical glues or dynamic stents.

Toward a Transformative Biomaterial

The findings form the basis for a provisional patent on a dynamic collagen matrix, which could adjust its pliability as needed. Jacob Machado envisions applications ranging from rapid-response military medical treatments to innovative "gelatinous origami" stents. Future studies aim to use techniques like in situ hybridization and RNA interference to refine the role of these genes, paving the way for dynamic collagen-based biomaterials.

"This collagen matrix can change its pliability to become as soft or rigid as we want," Jacob Machado said, describing its potential to revolutionize biomedical tools. The next phase of research will explore how silencing certain genes affects MCT behavior, offering further insights into its regenerative potential.

Bridging Fundamental Biology and Medicine

The team's multidisciplinary approach integrates advanced bioinformatics, molecular biology, and creative experimental designs to unravel the complexities of brittle star biology. Their study highlights the potential of under-researched species, or "non-model organisms," to inspire innovations in regenerative medicine.

"Our research puts science on an accelerated path to understanding cellular tissue regeneration," the researchers noted. Future work will focus on leveraging this understanding to engineer novel collagen-based biomaterials with tunable mechanical properties for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.

This groundbreaking study underscores the possibilities for applying nature's design principles to advance human health.

Research Report:Unveiling putative modulators of mutable collagenous tissue in the brittle star Ophiomastix wendtii: an RNA-Seq analysis