A versatile multiplexed assay to quantify intracellular ROS and cell viability in 3D on-a-chip models

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) have different properties and biological functions. They contribute to cell signaling and, in excessive amounts, to oxidative stress (OS). Although ROS is pivotal in a wide number of physiological systems and pathophysiological processes, direct quantification in vivo is quite challenging and mainly limited to in vitro studies. Even though advanced in vitro cell culture techniques, like on-a-chip culture, have overcome the lack of crucial in vivo -like physiological aspects in 2D culture, the majority of in vitro ROS quantification studies are generally performed in 2D. Here we report the development, application, and vali-dation of a multiplexed assay to quantify ROS and cell viability in organ-on-a-chip models. The assay utilizes three dyes to stain live cells for ROS, dead cells, and DNA. Confocal images were analyzed to quantify ROS probes and determine the number of nuclei and dead cells. We found that, in contrast to what has been reported with 2D cell culture, on-a-chip models are more prone to scavenge ROS rather than accumulate them. The assay is sensitive enough to distinguish between different phenotypes of endothelial cells (ECs) based on the level of OS to detect higher level in tumor than normal cells. Our results indicate that the use of physiologically relevant models and this assay could help unravelling the mechanisms behind OS and ROS accumulation. A further step could be taken in data analysis by implementing AI in the pipeline to also analyze images for morphological changes to have an even broader view of OS mechanism.

Automated summary

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) play important roles in cell signaling and oxidative stress. However, quantifying ROS directly in vivo is challenging, and most studies are conducted in vitro. This study developed a multiplexed assay to quantify ROS and cell viability in organ-on-a-chip models. The results showed that organ-on-a-chip models are more efficient in scavenging ROS compared to 2D cell culture. Additionally, the assay could differentiate different cell phenotypes based on oxidative stress level and detect higher levels in tumor cells. This study helps unravel the mechanisms behind oxidative stress and ROS accumulation.