Background: Biocompatible materials-topography could be used for the construction of scaffolds allowing the three-dimensional (3D) organization of human stem cells into functional tissue-like structures with a defined architecture. Methods: Structural characterization of an alumina-based substrate was performed through XRD, Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and wettability measurements. Biocompatibility of the substrate was assessed by measuring the proliferation and differentiation of human neural precursor stem cells (NPCs). Results: α-Al2O3 is a ceramic material with crystallite size of 40 nm; its surface consists of aggregates in the range of 8–22 μm which forms a rough surface in the microscale with 1–8 μm cavities. The non-calcined material has a surface area of 5.5 m2/gr and pore size distribution of 20 nm, which is eliminated in the calcined structure. Thus, the pore network on the surface and the body of the ceramic becomes more water proof, as indicated by wettability measurements. The alumina-based substrate supported the proliferation of human NPCs and their differentiation into functional neurons. Conclusions: Our work indicates the potential use of alumina for the construction of 3D engineered biosystems utilizing human neurons. Such systems may be useful for diagnostic purposes, drug testing, or biotechnological applications.
The field of nanomedicine is steadily growing and several nanomedicines are currently approved for clinical use with even more in the pipeline. Yet, while the use of nanotechnology to improve targeted drug delivery to the lungs has received some attention, the use of nanoparticles for inhalation drug delivery has not yet resulted in successful translation to market as compared to intravenous drug delivery. The reasons behind the lack of inhaled nanomedicines approved for clinical use or under preclinical development are unclear, but challenges related to safety are likely to contribute. Although inhalation toxicology studies often begin using animal models, there has been an increase in the development and use of in vitro air-liquid interface (ALI) exposure systems for toxicity testing of engineered nanoparticle aerosols, which will be useful for rapid testing of candidate substances and formulations. This chapter describes an ALI cell exposure assay for measuring toxicological effects, specifically cell viability and oxidative stress, resulting from exposure to aerosols containing nanoparticles.
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