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Researchers at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) have unveiled an innovative dual-laser nonlinear optical microscope platform, developed by Professor QU Jianan’s team from the Department of Electronics and Computer Engineering at HKUST.
This imaging system is designed to provide high-resolution live imaging capabilities for various cell types and structures within the complex environment of skeletal muscle. The technology aims to shed light on the intricate dynamics of muscle satellite cells (MuSCs) during the process of muscle regeneration, providing a breakthrough with far-reaching implications for the development of targeted therapeutic strategies for muscle-related disorders.
The process of skeletal muscle regeneration is a finely tuned orchestration that relies on the intricate collaboration between MuSCs and various cellular elements within the muscle microenvironment. When muscle injury occurs, myeloid cells migrate to the site of injury, and MuSCs are activated.
Previous research had hinted at the morphological heterogeneity of quiescent MuSCs within the muscle microenvironment. These cells were known to establish specialised cellular adhesions and spatial arrangements to maintain their quiescent state. However, the lack of appropriate live animal imaging technology had hindered the comprehensive analysis of MuSCs’ interactions with myeloid cells, leaving many questions unanswered.
In response to this scientific challenge, a collaborative effort between Prof. QU Jianan’s team from the Department of Electronics and Computer Engineering and Prof. WU Zhenguo’s team from the Division of Life Science at HKUST was initiated. While Prof. QU Jianan’s team leveraged their expertise to create the dual-laser multimodal non-linear optical microscope platform, Prof. WU Zhenguo’s team contributed their profound knowledge of muscle biology and regenerative processes, effectively merging cutting-edge technology with biological expertise.
The dual-laser nonlinear optical microscope is an engineering marvel that has unlocked new realms of understanding in muscle regeneration. This innovative technology provides researchers with the ability to delve into the microscopic world of live skeletal muscle, enabling the observation of cellular behaviour in real time. The interdisciplinary collaboration between these two teams has not only facilitated advanced imaging but has also fostered creative problem-solving by combining technical skills in advanced imaging technology with biological insights.
The research conducted using this platform has unveiled several groundbreaking findings. One of the most significant revelations challenges the conventional wisdom surrounding MuSC activation. Previously, it was widely believed that non-myogenic cells were the primary drivers of MuSC activation. However, the research shows that MuSCs themselves possess an inherent capacity to sense and respond to regenerative cues independently of external signals from non-myogenic cells. This discovery redefines our understanding of the cellular dynamics underlying muscle regeneration.
The study also delves into the role of myeloid cells, particularly macrophages, in regulating MuSC behaviour. While it was found that macrophages are not essential for the activation of MuSCs, they play a critical role in the proliferation and differentiation of MuSCs during muscle regeneration. When macrophages are reduced, cell division is impaired, and fibrosis increases during the regenerative process, underscoring their stage-dependent importance in facilitating efficient muscle regeneration.
Professor QU Jianan, who led the team responsible for the technological innovation stated that the study leverages advanced imaging techniques to comprehensively explore the intricate cellular interactions within muscle regeneration. It uncovers novel aspects of MuSC behavior, contributing to an enhanced understanding of the complex dynamics involved in the process of muscle regeneration. These insights hold significant potential for the development of targeted therapeutic strategies for muscle-related disorders.
Professor QU also acknowledges the essential role played by Prof. WU Zhenguo’s team. Their deep understanding of muscle biology and regenerative processes not only guided the study’s direction but also provided invaluable insights into designing and conducting experiments on live reporter mice. They also analysed the dynamics of MuSCs and their interactions with non-myogenic cells using molecular and cellular biology techniques.
Meanwhile, Professor WU stated that the collaboration observed in this study between the engineering and life science teams underscores the use of a multidisciplinary approach to delve into skeletal muscle regeneration. By amalgamating their technical prowess in advanced imaging technology with their profound biological expertise, the teams successfully gained a comprehensive grasp of the intricate cellular interactions inherent in the process. This interdisciplinary synergy not only encouraged innovative problem-solving but also streamlined the development of novel methodologies and approaches.
OpenGov Asia reported earlier that an innovative microscope developed by a research team at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) is poised to revolutionise the field of cancer surgery. This cutting-edge microscope, powered by artificial intelligence, has the potential to transform the way surgeons detect and remove cancerous tissue during operations, thereby sparing patients from the distressing prospect of secondary surgeries.
