A 3D Hydrogel Model to Assess Endothelial Cell-macrophage Interactions in Simulated Microgravity (OR-DRPD-SRI2019)

OR-DRPD-SRI2019: A 3D Hydrogel Model to Assess Endothelial Cell-macrophage Interactions in Simulated Microgravity

The proposal contained herein seeks to examine the effect of simulated microgravity on important cell-cell interactions that govern vascular health. The interest lies in endothelial cell (EC) and macrophage cell interactions. The investigators are proposing to first understand how microgravity effects the macrophage and EC function or pro-healing capabilities. Next, the study team plans to develop a 3D tissue regeneration model in which macrophages and ECs are co-cultured in a hydrogel matrix. Utilizing this model, the team will assess how microgravity influenced macrophage-EC interactions in 3D. The investigators will assess EC tubule volume (or blood vessel development), macrophage spreading and the interactions with endothelial tubule sprouts. This model will serve as a critical foundation for future grant opportunities as it allows the assessment of tissue regeneration and vascular health in a 3D tissue microenvironment

While some knowledge has been gained with regards to macrophage alterations during space travel, most of this work has been limited to macrophage cell lines and has not considered how the effects of microgravity alter macrophages' ability to stimulate tissue repair and regeneration. Specifically, how the macrophage secretion profile and/or interaction with endothelial cells is altered during microgravity culture. Given the extensive data showing the consequence of simulated microgravity to alter endothelial cells, and the mounting evidence that simulated microgravity affects macrophage cells, the investigators hypothesize that microgravity alters the functional response of macrophages in close association with endothelial cells. To test this hypothesis, the study team has established 2 specific aims:

Specific Aim 1: Assess the effect of simulated microgravity on endothelial and macrophage pro-healing states.

Specific Aim 2: Assess the effect of simulated microgravity on the pro-healing states of 3-dimensional co-cultured macrophages and endothelial cells.

Completion of the above described aims will lay a strong foundation of knowledge about the impact of simulated microgravity in important cell-cell interactions involved in tissue regeneration and healing

Inclusion Criteria:

• Self-reported healthy individuals
• Willingness to have 50mls of whole blood collected

Exclusion Criteria:

• Unwillingness to have blood used in microgravity study