PRL-1 overexpressed placenta-derived mesenchymal stem cells suppress adipogenesis in Graves' ophthalmopathy through SREBP2/HMGCR pathway

Background

Graves’ ophthalmopathy (GO) is a disorder, in which orbital connective tissues get in inflammation and increase in volume. Stimulants such as thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), insulin-like growth factor 1(IGF-1), IL-1, interferon γ, and platelet-derived growth factor cause differentiation into adipocytes of orbital fibroblasts (OFs) in the orbital fat and extraocular muscles. Human placental mesenchymal stem cells (hPMSCs) are known to have immune modulation effects on disease pathogenesis. Some reports suggest that hPMSCs can elicit therapeutic effects, but to date, research on this has been insufficient. In this study, we constructed PRL-1 overexpressed hPMSCs (hPMSCs^PRL-1) in an attempt to enhance the suppressive function of adipogenesis in GO animal models.

Methods

In order to investigate the anti-adipogenic effects, primary OFs were incubated with differentiation medium for 10 days. After co-culturing with hPMSCs^PRL-1, the characteristics of the OFs were analyzed using Nile red stain and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. We then examined the in vivo regulatory effectiveness of hPMSCs^PRL-1 in a GO mouse model that immunized by leg muscle electroporation of pTriEx1.1Neo-hTSHR A-subunit plasmid. Human PMSCs^PRL-1 injection was performed in left orbit. We also analyzed the anti-adipogenic effects of hPMSCs^PRL-1 in the GO model.

Results

We found that hPMSCs^PRL-1 inhibited adipogenic activation factors, specifically PPARγ, C/EBPα, FABP4, SREBP2, and HMGCR, by 75.1%, 50%, 79.6%, 81.8%, and 87%, respectively, compared with naïve hPMSCs in adipogenesis-induced primary OFs from GO. Moreover, hPMSCs^PRL-1 more effectively inhibited adipogenic factors ADIPONECTIN and HMGCR by 53.2% and 31.7%, respectively, than hPMSCs, compared with 15.8% and 29.8% using steroids in the orbital fat of the GO animal model.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that hPMSCs^PRL-1 would restore inflammation and adipogenesis of GO model and demonstrate that they could be applied as a novel treatment for GO patients.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13287-021-02337-2.

Smoking effect on peripapillary and macular microvascular structure in inactive Graves' ophthalmopathy

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the smoking effect on peripapillary and macular microvascular structure in patients with inactive Graves' ophthalmopathy (GO) and to compare these structures with those of healthy control subjects.

METHODS

A total of 34 healthy participants (control group), 22 inactive GO patients with smoking (smoker group) and 19 inactive GO patients with non-smoking (non-smoker group) were recruited in this prospective study. After detailed ophthalmological examination, vessel densities (VD) of the superficial capillary plexus (SCP), deep capillary plexus (DCP), retinal peripapillary capillary (RPC) and foveal avascular zone (FAZ) area, and acircularity index (AI) of the FAZ were analysed with optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) for each eye.

RESULTS

Vessel density in the total peripapillary; superior and inferior sectors of RPC were significantly lower in inactive GO patients with smoking (p < 0.05 for all sectors) compared to control group. Besides, the FAZ AI was significantly higher in smoker and non-smoker inactive GO groups compared to healthy subjects (p = 0.0001, p = 0.0001, respectively). No significant difference was found in the FAZ area, and all SCP, DCP macular measurements between groups (p > 0.05 for all).

CONCLUSION

OCTA findings of lower peripapillary VD in the smoker group show smoking effect on the optic disc head microvasculature in inactive GO patients. These results could reflect early subclinical optic disc vasculature damage in smoker inactive GO subjects.

Low- vs. high-dose radiotherapy in Graves' ophthalmopathy: a retrospective comparison of long-term results

Purpose

Radiotherapy represents an effective treatment option in Graves’ ophthalmopathy (GO), leading to palliation of clinical symptoms. However, there are only a limited number of trials comparing the effectiveness of low- vs. high-dose radiotherapy.

Methods

We analyzed 127 patients treated with radiotherapy for stage 3/4 GO (NOSPECS classification). Patients were treated with single doses of 2.0 Gy (cumulative dose 20 Gy) until 2007, afterwards a single dose of 0.8 Gy (cumulative dose 4.8 Gy) was applied. With a median follow-up-time of 9.0 years, the treatment efficacy (overall improvement, sense of eye pressure, lid edema, ocular motility, exophthalmos, subjective vision, and diplopia) and adverse effects were analyzed by a standardized survey.

Results

Overall, 63.8% described improvement of symptoms after radiotherapy. No significant differences in overall treatment response and improvement of main outcome measures between low- or high-dose radiotherapy treatments are detectable, while low-dose radiotherapy leads significantly more often to retreatment (13.1% vs. 1.7%, p = 0.016). The main independent predictor of treatment response is the presence of lid edema (odds ratio, OR, 3.53; p = 0.006).

Conclusion

At long-term follow-up, the majority of patients reported palliation of symptoms with limited adverse effects, suggesting clinical effectiveness of radiotherapy for amelioration of GO symptoms independent of low- or high-dose radiotherapy.

Thyroid Eye Disease, Teprotumumab, and Hearing Loss: An Evolving Role for Otolaryngologists

Teprotumumab is a human monoclonal antibody and IGF-1R (insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor) inhibitor approved for treatment of thyroid eye disease in adults. Recent clinical trials have demonstrated side effects, notably hearing loss, in the treatment cohort as compared with the placebo cohort. These unexpected otologic side effects may be understood through a mechanistic understanding of IGF-1 (insulin-like growth factor 1). As otolaryngologists who historically play a significant role in the multidisciplinary treatment of thyroid disease and its associated complications, we should be aware of and monitor the otologic side effects of teprotumumab. Clinicians who prescribe teprotumumab should strongly consider monitoring patients' hearing with an audiologist and otolaryngologist.

JNK and p38 Inhibitors Prevent Transforming Growth Factor-β1-Induced Myofibroblast Transdifferentiation in Human Graves' Orbital Fibroblasts

Transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1)-induced myofibroblast transdifferentiation from orbital fibroblasts is known to dominate tissue remodeling and fibrosis in Graves’ ophthalmopathy (GO). However, the signaling pathways through which TGF-β1 activates Graves’ orbital fibroblasts remain unclear. This study investigated the role of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway in TGF-β1-induced myofibroblast transdifferentiation in human Graves’ orbital fibroblasts. The MAPK pathway was assessed by measuring the phosphorylation of p38, c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), and extracellular-signal-regulated kinase (ERK) by Western blots. The expression of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), and fibronectin representing fibrogenesis was estimated. The activities of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) responsible for extracellular matrix (ECM) metabolism were analyzed. Specific pharmacologic kinase inhibitors were used to confirm the involvement of the MAPK pathway. After treatment with TGF-β1, the phosphorylation levels of p38 and JNK, but not ERK, were increased. CTGF, α-SMA, and fibronectin, as well as TIMP-1 and TIMP-3, were upregulated, whereas the activities of MMP-2/-9 were inhibited. The effects of TGF-β1 on the expression of these factors were eliminated by p38 and JNK inhibitors. The results suggested that TGF-β1 could induce myofibroblast transdifferentiation in human Graves’ orbital fibroblasts through the p38 and JNK pathways.

Onset of Marine-Lenhart syndrome and Graves' ophthalmopathy in a female patient treated with alemtuzumab for multiple sclerosis

BACKGROUND

Immune checkpoint blockade therapy may lead to thyroid dysfunction in 3-7% of treated patients. Alemtuzumab is a CD52 inhibitor leading to thyroid dysfunction in approximately 40% of patients. A female patient was affected by multiple sclerosis (MS) and subclinical hyperthyroidism due to an autonomously functioning thyroid nodule (AFTN). After alemtuzumab treatment, she developed aggressive clinical hyperthyroidism consistent with Marine-Lenhart syndrome.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 36-year-old woman presented in July 2019 with symptoms of hyperthyroidism and eye complaints. Three years earlier, she was diagnosed with MS. Subclinical hyperthyroidism was diagnosed in April 2017. Thyroid scintigraphy showed an intranodular distribution of ^99mTc-pertechnatate consisting of an AFTN in the right lobe of the thyroid. In June 2018, because of the MS, she was treated with alemtuzumab. In November 2018, she was started on methimazole treatment because of the symptoms of hyperthyroidism. In December 2018, thyroid function was normal under methimazole treatment. In June 2019, the patient received a second round of alemtuzumab administration. One month later, she developed symptoms of hyperthyroidism. These symptoms were accompanied by diplopia. Blood tests showed severe hyperthyroidism. Thyroid scintigraphy showed a diffuse distribution of ^99mTc-pertechnatate and the presence of a "cool" area in the right lobe of the thyroid, confirmed by ultrasonography. The nodule was diagnosed as a low-risk indeterminate lesion.

CONCLUSION

We present a case of Graves' disease with active, moderate-to-severe Graves' ophthalmopathy in a patient with pre-existing AFTN presenting with a coexisting, rare case of Marine-Lenhart syndrome associated with immune reconstitution after alemtuzumab treatment.

Correlation between serum anti-TSH receptor autoantibodies (TRAbs) and the clinical feature of Graves' orbitopathy

BACKGROUND

Graves' orbitopathy (GO) is the most common extrathyroidal manifestation of Graves' disease (GD). Several studies support the involvement of TSH receptor autoantibodies (TRAbs) in the pathogenesis of GO, and a correlation between GO features and TRAbs has been reported, but not confirmed by all studies. Thus, we conducted a cross-sectional investigation to determine whether there is a correlation between TRAbs and the clinical features of GO in an initial phase of the eye disease.

METHODS

Ninety consecutive patients with untreated GO (67 women and 23 men, age 48.9 ± 12.6 years) were included. Patients who had received treatments other than anti-thyroid drugs for hyperthyroidism or lubricants for GO were excluded. All patients underwent an endocrinological and ophthalmological evaluation, the latter including exophthalmometry, measurement of eyelid width, clinical activity score (CAS), visual acuity, assessment of diplopia, and NOSPECS score. TRAb levels were measured by a third-generation competitive immunoassay.

RESULTS

There was a statistically significant, direct correlation between serum TRAb levels and CAS by linear regression analysis (R = 0.278, P = 0.007). The correlation was confirmed by a multiple regression analysis (R = 0.285; P = 0.006) including age and FT3 levels, which also correlated with CAS. There were no relationships between TRAbs and exophthalmometry, eyelid aperture, degree of diplopia, visual acuity, and NOSPECS score.

CONCLUSIONS

The levels of TRAb in subjects with a recent-onset, untreated GO are directly correlated with the clinical activity of the disease, confirming a possible role of these antibodies in the pathogenesis of GO.

Tear-Derived Exosome Proteins Are Increased in Patients with Thyroid Eye Disease

Exosomes contain proteins, lipids, RNA, and DNA that mediate intercellular signaling. Exosomes can contribute to the pathological processes of various diseases, although their roles in ocular diseases are unclear. We aimed to isolate exosomes from tear fluids (TF) of patients with Thyroid eye disease (TED) and analyze the exosomal proteins. TFs were collected from eight patients with TED and eight control subjects. The number of TF exosomes were measured using nanoparticle-tracking analysis. The expression of specific proteins in the purified exosome pellets were analyzed using a Proteome Profiler Array Kit. Cultured normal orbital fibroblasts were incubated with TF exosomes from patients with TED and control subjects, and changes in inflammatory cytokine levels were compared. TF exosomes from TED patients showed more exosomes than the control subjects. The expression levels of exosomal proteins vitamin D-binding (VDB) protein, C-reactive protein (CRP), chitinase 3-like 1 (CHI3L1), matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), and vascular adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) were significantly increased in patients with TED, compared to those of controls. Orbital fibroblasts exposed to TF exosomes from patients with TED showed significantly higher levels of interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) production than those treated with control TF exosomes. Specific proteins showed higher expression in exosomes from TED patients, implying that they may play keys roles in TED pathogenesis.

Emerging Insights Into the Role of Epigenetics and Gut Microbiome in the Pathogenesis of Graves' Ophthalmopathy

Graves' Ophthalmopathy (GO) is an organ-specific autoimmune disease that is often characterized by infiltration of orbital tissues and is considered as the most common extra-thyroid manifestation of Graves' disease (GD). Although genetic susceptibility has been found to be critical for the phenotype of GO, the associated risk alleles in a single gene are generally insufficient to cause the disease. Accruing evidence has shown that epigenetic disorders can act as the potentially missing link between genetic risk and clinically significant disease development. Abnormal epigenetic modifications can lead to pro-inflammatory cascades and activation of orbital fibroblasts (OFs) by promoting the various inflammatory response pathways and regulating the diverse signaling molecules that are involved in the fibrogenesis and adipogenesis, thereby leading to the significant expansion of orbital tissues, fibrosis and inflammation infiltration. Additionally, emerging evidence has shown that the gut microbiome can possibly drive the pathogenesis of GO by influencing the secretion of Thyrotropin receptor antibody (TRAb) and T-helper 17 (Th17)/regulatory T cells (Treg) imbalance. This paper describes the latest epigenetic research evidence and progress made in comprehending the mechanisms of GO development, such as DNA methylation, histone modification, non-coding RNAs, and the gut microbiome.

Cytokines as Targets of Novel Therapies for Graves' Ophthalmopathy

Graves' disease (GD) is an organ-specific autoimmune disorder of the thyroid, which is characterized by circulating TSH-receptor (TSH-R) stimulating antibodies (TSAb), leading to hyperthyroidism. Graves' ophthalmopathy (GO) is one of GD extra-thyroidal manifestations associated with the presence of TSAb, and insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor (IGF-1R) autoantibodies, that interact with orbital fibroblasts. Cytokines are elevated in autoimmune (i.e., IL-18, IL-6) and non-autoimmune hyperthyroidism (i.e., TNF-α, IL-8, IL-6), and this could be associated with the chronic effects of thyroid hormone increase. A prevalent Th1-immune response (not related to the hyperthyroidism per se, but to the autoimmune process) is reported in the immune-pathogenesis of GD and GO; Th1-chemokines (CXCL9, CXCL10, CXCL11) and the (C-X-C)R3 receptor are crucial in this process. In patients with active GO, corticosteroids, or intravenous immunoglobulins, decrease inflammation and orbital congestion, and are considered first-line therapies. The more deepened understanding of GO pathophysiology has led to different immune-modulant treatments. Cytokines, TSH-R, and IGF-1R (on the surface of B and T lymphocytes, and fibroblasts), and chemokines implicated in the autoimmune process, are possible targets of novel therapies. Drugs that target cytokines (etanercept, tocilizumab, infliximab, adalimumab) have been tested in GO, with encouraging results. The chimeric monoclonal antibody directed against CD20, RTX, reduces B lymphocytes, cytokines and the released autoantibodies. A multicenter, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-masked trial has investigated the human monoclonal blocking antibody directed against IGF-1R, teprotumumab, reporting its effectiveness in GO. In conclusion, large, controlled and randomized studies are needed to evaluate new possible targeted therapies for GO.

Application of Magnetic Resonance Imaging in the Evaluation of Disease Activity in Graves' Ophthalmopathy

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate magnetic resonance imaging parameters, T2 signal intensity ratios (SIRs), and normalized apparent diffusion coefficients (n-ADC) of the extraocular muscles (EOMs) in the identification of different stages of Graves' ophthalmopathy (GO) and to find out the correlation of T2-SIRs and n-ADC values with disease changes after anti-inflammatory treatment.

METHODS

Altogether, 43 patients (86 orbits) were enrolled and classified into "active" or "inactive" stages by clinical activity score (CAS). Twenty-three (53.5%) patients received anti-inflammatory treatment and underwent a follow-up evaluation. Fifteen age- and gender-matched control participants (30 orbits) were included. T2-SIRs and n-ADC values of EOMs were calculated among GO and healthy controls and were correlated with CAS. Changes in these parameters were also evaluated before and after anti-inflammatory treatment.

RESULTS

Mean T2-SIRs and n-ADC values were both significantly higher in GO patients than in controls and higher in active GO than in inactive GO. In the inactive stage, n-ADC values of inferior rectus muscles were still higher than those in healthy controls. Both T2-SIRs and n-ADC values decreased after intravenous steroid pulse therapy. The cutoff value of pretreatment n-ADC was 1.780 to detect stages with specificity of 93.7% and sensitivity of 48.3% (P = .035).

CONCLUSION

T2-SIRs and n-ADC values are valuable magnetic resonance imaging indicators of the inflammatory activity in GO by detecting involvement of EOMs. They are also ideal tools to monitor the efficacy of anti-inflammatory treatment in patients with active stage GO. n-ADC values, when combined with CAS, can be promising predictive factors in the detection of stages of diseases.

Risk Factors of Thyroid Eye Disease

OBJECTIVE

To examine risk factors that might be associated with thyroid eye disease (TED) in patients with Graves' disease (GD), which may guide physicians in the prevention and management of TED.

METHODS

Medline and Embase were searched for articles discussing risk factors of TED. Comparisons were made between GD patients with and without TED, and between active and inactive TED GD patients. Weighted mean differences (WMDs) and odds ratios (ORs) were determined for continuous and dichotomous outcomes, respectively. Results were pooled with random effects using the DerSimonian and Laird model.

RESULTS

Fifty-six articles were included in the analysis. Smoking, inclusive of current and previous smoking status, was a significant risk factor for TED (OR: 2.401; CI: 1.958-2.945; P < .001). Statistical significance was found upon meta-regression between male sex and the odds of smoking and TED (β = 1.195; SE = 0.436; P = .013). Other risk factors were also examined, and patients with TED were significantly older than those without TED (WMD: 1.350; CI: 0.328-2.372; P = .010). While both age (WMD: 5.546; CI: 3.075-8.017; P < .001) and male sex (OR: 1.819; CI: 1.178-2.808; P = .007) were found to be significant risk factors for active TED patients compared to inactive TED patients, no statistical significance was found for family history, thyroid status, cholesterol levels, or body mass index.

CONCLUSION

Factors such as smoking, sex, and age predispose GD patients to TED, and TED patients to active TED. A targeted approach in the management of GD and TED is required to reduce the modifiable risk factor of smoking.

Rare concurrent ocular myasthenia gravis and Graves' ophthalmopathy in a man with Poland syndrome: a case report

BACKGROUND

Ocular myasthenia gravis and Graves' ophthalmopathy are autoimmune diseases that are mediated by membrane receptors and share many identical clinical processes. Poland syndrome is a rare congenital deformity characterized by defects of the ipsilateral hand and the chest wall, and it is usually associated with hypoplasia of ipsilateral pectoral muscles and homolateral breast. However, to the best of our knowledge, the co-occurrence of these diseases has never been reported. In this study, we present a man with Poland syndrome who was diagnosed with Graves' ophthalmopathy and ocular myasthenia gravis in succession.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 43-year-old man presented with bilateral upper eyelid ptosis, bilateral eye protrusion, bilateral eye movement disorder and malformation of the right hand. Asymmetrical malformation of the chest wall and ipsilateral hand deformity were shown as Poland syndrome. He was diagnosed with ocular myasthenia gravis and Graves' ophthalmopathy on the basis of clinical manifestations and laboratory examinations, including bilateral exophthalmos and progressive asymmetrical ophthalmoparesis without pupillary dysfunction, positive autoantibody tests, repetitive nerve stimulation tests, and computed tomography scans. Treatments with pyridostigmine bromide, thymectomy, and prednisone led to partial clinical improvement. After 13 months of follow-up, the symptoms of drooping eyelids were partially improved, but the eyeball protrusion and right hand deformity remained unchanged.

CONCLUSIONS

We report the first case of co-occurrence of ocular myasthenia gravis, Graves' ophthalmopathy, and Poland syndrome. Genetic predisposition and immune dysregulation might be the pathogenesis of the association.

Sight-Threatening Graves' Ophthalmopathy during the Third Trimester of Pregnancy: A Case Report

Dysthyroid optic neuropathy is a severe manifestation of Graves' ophthalmopathy that can result in permanent vision loss. We report a 37-year-old pregnant woman with Graves' ophthalmopathy which was deteriorated to dysthyroid optic neuropathy in the third trimester of pregnancy. Diplopia, bilateral eye lid retraction, lid edema and proptosis were observed in the 29th week of gestation. Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) level was decreased with a normal level of free triiodothyronine (FT3) and an upper normal level of free thyroxine (FT4). Anti-TSH receptor antibodies (16.2 IU/L, reference range < 2.0 IU/L) and thyroid stimulating antibody (4,443%, reference range < 120%) were positive. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) demonstrated a significant enlargement of the extraocular muscles with a high signal intensity on T2-weighted image. She was diagnosed as Graves' ophthalmopathy and subclinical hyperthyroidism, and followed without treatment. In the 34th week of gestation, the symptom of color vision abnormality appeared, suggesting dysthyroid optic neuropathy. She delivered a female infant during the 36th week of gestation. Four days after delivery, she had a spontaneous orbital pain. MRI showed that the extraocular muscles were more enlarged than the findings in the 29th week of gestation. FT3 and FT4 levels were mildly elevated. Dysthyroid optic neuropathy was diagnosed. She was treated with methylprednisolone pulse therapy and retrobulbar injections of betamethasone valerate, and the ocular symptoms improved. The present case shows that the glucocorticoid therapy performed one week after delivery is effective against Graves' ophthalmopathy which was deteriorated to dysthyroid optic neuropathy during the third trimester of pregnancy.

Putative protective role of autoantibodies against the insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor in Graves' Disease: results of a pilot study

BACKGROUND

The insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor (IGF-1R) is a key element in the pathogenesis of Graves' Orbitopathy (GO), but the role of IGF-1R autoantibodies (IGF-1RAbs) has not been established.

METHODS

We designed a cross-sectional investigation to measure IGF-1RAbs in patients with Graves' disease (GD), with or without GO, who underwent radioiodine therapy followed by glucocorticoids (GC). Twenty-nine patients were included, 15 of which with GO. Patients were evaluated at baseline and three and 6 months after radioiodine. The primary objective was the prevalence of positive tests for IGF-1RAbs. The secondary objectives were: (1) IGF-1RAbs concentrations and their variations; (2) relationship between IGF-1RAbs and the features of GO; (3) relationship between IGF-1RAbs and anti-thyroid autoantibodies.

RESULTS

IGF-1RAbs above the cut-off value were found only in one patient with GD without GO. IGF-1RAb levels were greater in patients with GD without GO, at baseline (P < 0.0001), and after three (P < 0.0001) and six (P = 0.0001) months. No correlations were observed between IGF-1RAbs and the features of GO, nor between IGF-1RAbs and anti-thyroglobulin or anti-thyroperoxidase autoantibodies. There was an inverse correlation between anti-TSH receptor autoantibodies (TRAbs) and IGF-1RAb levels in GD patients with GO at 6 months (P = 0.03).

CONCLUSIONS

IGF-1RAbs appear to be greater in patients with GD without GO compared with those with GO, suggesting a putative protective role of IGF-1RAbs on the development of GO, in line with the beneficial effects of Teprotumumab on GO. The inverse correlation between IGF-1RAbs and TRAbs 6 months after radioiodine may reflect antigen spreading and/or GC treatment.

Trends in Treatment of Active, Moderate-to-Severe Thyroid Eye Disease in the United States

Introduction

Limited data exist on US referral/management patterns for moderate-to-severe thyroid eye disease (TED), a disabling condition.

Methods

US ophthalmologists and endocrinologists experienced in treating TED provided medical record data of moderate-to-severe TED patients and information on referral/treatment practices. Data on signs/symptoms, medical/surgical treatments, treatment response, and referral history were collected. Moderate and severe cases were stratified to interrogate treatment/practice differences.

Results

A total of 181 physicians provided data on 714 patients (49.4 ± 13.6 years old, 65% women, 14% severe disease). Reporting physicians diagnosed 55% of patients themselves and solely managed 37% of cases, with similar referral/comanagement patterns between moderate and severe cases. Topical therapies included lubricating (79%) and glucocorticoid (39%) eye drops. Systemic therapies included oral glucocorticoids (36%), IV glucocorticoids (15%), and rituximab and/or tocilizumab (12%). Few patients underwent orbital radiation (4%) or surgical intervention (4%). IV glucocorticoids (33% vs. 12%), biologics (26% vs. 10%), orbital radiation (11% vs. 3%), and ocular surgery (12% vs. 3%) were used more often in severe versus moderate cases (all P < 0.001). However, severe disease was less responsive to therapy (very responsive to therapy: 28% vs. 49%, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Participating physicians were primarily responsible for just over one-half of TED diagnoses, but solely treated <40% of patients. Severe TED was treated more often with surgery and systemic immunologic therapies than moderate disease, but was less likely to respond to treatment. These results reinforce that moderate-to-severe TED is difficult to treat with an unmet medical need in the United States.

Proteomics Screening of Differentially Expressed Cytokines in Tears of Patients with Graves' Ophthalmopathy

BACKGROUND

The current study aimed at exploring the cytokine profile in the tears of patients with Graves' ophthalmopathy (GO).

METHODS

Tears were sampled from the eyes of 7 patients with active GO and 7 healthy volunteers using filter paper. Then the levels of up to 34 cytokines in the tears of each subject were detected using high-throughput protein microarray technology in line with the introduction.

RESULTS

The results of cytokine protein microarray screening showed that 10 proteins, namely, CD40, CD40 Ligand, GITR, IL-12p70, IL-1 beta, IL-2, IL-21, IL-6, MIP-3 alpha and TRANCE, were overexpressed (with fold change >1.20) and 3 proteins, namely, GM-CSF, IL-1 sRI and IL-13 were downregulated (with fold change < 0.83) in GO patients. In addition, the protein levels of CD40 and CD40 ligand (CD40L) were significantly different between GO patients and healthy controls (P=0.028 and 0.011, respectively). Further Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses of differently expressed proteins showed that these proteins were involved in biological functions including biological processes (positive regulation of cytokine production, JAK-STAT cascade and leukocyte proliferation), molecular functions (cytokine and growth factor receptors binding and cytokine activity), and other important pathways (cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction, JAK-STAT signaling pathway, IL-17 signaling pathway, NF-kappa B signaling pathway, Th17 cell differentiation, and intestinal immune network for IgA production), all of which might be involved in the pathology of GO.

CONCLUSION

Our cytokine protein microarray analysis indicated that several proteins were differentially expressed in GO patients, which provides potential targets for GO prevention.

Clinical Features of Graves' Ophthalmopathy and Impact of Enalapril on the Course of Mild Graves' Ophthalmopathy: A Pilot Study

BACKGROUND

Inflammation, oxidative stress, and adipogenesis are associated with Graves' ophthalmopathy (GO) progression.

OBJECTIVE

We conducted a pilot study to investigate the effect of Enalapril on patients with mild ophthalmopathy.

METHOD

Based on the comprehensive eye examination, 12 patients with mild ophthalmopathy were selected from referred Graves' patients and treated with Enalapril (5 mg daily) for 6 months. Clinical and ophthalmological examination [IOP (Intraocular Pressure), vision, Margin reflex distance and exophthalmia measurement, CAS (clinical activity score) and VISA [V (vision); I (inflammation/ congestion); S (strabismus/motility restriction); and A (appearance/exposure] score assessment) was performed at the beginning, 3 months and 6 months of the study period. Quality of life was also evaluated using a standard questionnaire.

RESULTS

Mean exophthalmia at the first visit was 18.75 ± 2.39, 3 months later 18.53 ± 2.39 and 6 months later was 17.92 ± 2.31, respectively. Mean CAS was 0.71 ± 0.82 (first visit), 0.57 ± 0.54 (3 months) and 0.14 ± 0.36 (6 months), respectively. Mean Margin reflex distance was 9.09 ± 4.36 (first visit) and 9.60 ± 4.40 (6 months), respectively. There were significant differences in the case of exophthalmia (P=0.002), CAS (P=0.006), and Margin reflex distance (P=0.029) between the first visit and 6 months after treatment. The difference between the score of quality of life in patients with GO after 6 months of follow up was statistically significant (P = 0.006).

CONCLUSION

Our results showed that Enalapril treatment could ameliorate the clinical course of GO according to the ophthalmologic examinations and subjective parameters of disease progression. However, further studies should be performed to determine the efficacy of Enalapril in Graves' ophthalmopathy treatment.

Thyroid and Eye: Where They Meet in Clinical Practice

OBJECTIVE

Thyroid Hormones (TH) are essential for normal growth, development and continued optimal function of most of the body organs including the eye. TH signaling plays a central role in the regulation of retinal development and maturation. Deficiency in TH during fetal and early postnatal development impairs growth of the eye and proliferation of all retinal cell types. The present article reviews the most important topics of the different derangements in thyroid function and structure and its relation with eye diseases.

METHODS

A literature search strategy was conducted for all English-language literature.

RESULTS

From a clinical practice viewpoint, it should be mentioned that both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism are accompanied by ocular diseases i.e. thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy, diabetic retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration. Although the orbit and globe are not common sites for metastatic thyroid cancers, orbital metastasis may be the primary clinical manifestation of thyroid carcinoma. Finally, some medications as amiodarone may be accompanied by both thyroid dysfunction and adverse ocular events.

CONCLUSION

Thyroid disorders and eye diseases are interrelated through several mechanisms thus, awareness of this relation has a great impact on early diagnosis and treatment.

Physician-Perceived Impact of Thyroid Eye Disease on Patient Quality of Life in the United States

Introduction

Thyroid eye disease (TED) is an autoimmune disease that causes retro-orbital inflammation and subsequent proptosis, corneal exposure, strabismus, and variable vision changes. European studies have shown that TED can severely impact quality of life (QOL), but little is known about the QOL of patients with TED in the USA. Given that patient QOL influences TED severity classifications and subsequent treatment, understanding physician-perceived patient QOL is extremely important.

Methods

This retrospective chart review (conducted in 2018) examined QOL in US patients with moderate-to-severe TED, as reported by treating physicians who regularly manage patients with TED (≥ 5 patients in prior 12 months). The physicians graded patients’ overall QOL (7-point Likert scale; 1 = “not at all impaired”, 7 = “extremely impaired”), assessing mental health, vision changes, and ocular structural signs/symptoms. Patient demographics and clinical findings were examined to understand the impact of disease presentation on physician-perceived QOL.

Results

Medical record data of 714 US patients with moderate-to-severe TED were provided by 181 physicians (73 endocrinologists, 108 ophthalmologists). Patients had a mean age of 49.4 (standard deviation [SD] 13.6) years, and 102 cases (14%) were severe. Anxiety and/or depression was reported in 36% of patients (an increase from the 18.9% prevalence reported for the USA in 2017 by the US National Institute of Mental Health; P < 0.001). The mean physician-reported QOL impact score was 4.1 (SD 1.5). Furthermore, 62 and 89% of patients with moderate and severe TED, respectively, had a high physician-perceived QOL impact (≥ 4). The higher QOL impact group had significantly higher rates of pain symptoms, visual disturbances (including diplopia), and orbito-facial structural changes. Higher disease activity and severity were associated with lower physician-perceived QOL.

Conclusion

Patients’ QOL, as evaluated by US physicians, is highly impacted by the activity and severity of TED. Additionally, mental health issues were more frequently reported by patients with TED than in the general US population. Ocular pain, strabismus, and diplopia appear to be main drivers of physician-perceived QOL impairment in this sample of US patients with TED.

Little is known on how thyroid eye disease (TED) affects patient quality of life (QOL) in the USA. Patient QOL can affect how TED is treated; consequently, it is important to understand how physicians perceive QOL in patients with TED. We evaluated 714 patients, as reported by physicians, with this rare condition to better understand QOL in US patients with TED. The medical records of 612 patients with moderate TED and 102 patients with severe TED were examined. QOL impact was rated from 1 to 7, with 1 being “not at all impaired” and 7 being “extremely impaired.” Overall QOL, as assessed by treating physicians, is heavily impacted by both moderate and severe TED in US patients, with these patients also reported to have a higher frequency of mental health diagnoses than reported in the general US adult population. Higher levels of inflammation on and around the eye and more severe disease led to a higher QOL impairment. More specifically, pain, visual disturbances (including double vision), and changes to the face and tissues around the eye all negatively affected QOL.

Functionally enhanced placenta-derived mesenchymal stem cells inhibit adipogenesis in orbital fibroblasts with Graves' ophthalmopathy

BACKGROUND

Placenta-derived mesenchymal stem cells (PD-MSCs) have unique immunomodulatory properties. Phosphatase of regenerating liver-1 (PRL-1) regulates the self-renewal ability of stem cells and promotes proliferation. Graves' ophthalmopathy (GO) is an autoimmune inflammatory disease of the orbit and is characterized by increased orbital levels of adipose tissue. Here, we evaluated the therapeutic mechanism for regulation of adipogenesis by PRL-1-overexpressing PD-MSCs (PD-MSCs^PRL-1, PRL-1+) in orbital fibroblast (OF) with GO patients.

METHODS

PD-MSCs isolated from human placenta were transfected with the PRL-1 gene using nonviral transfection method. Primary OFs were isolated from orbital adipose tissue specimens from GO patients. After maturation as adipogenic differentiation, normal and GO-derived OFs were cocultured with naïve and PD-MSCs^PRL-1. We analyzed the protein levels of adipogenesis markers and their signaling pathways in OFs from GO patients.

RESULTS

The characteristics of PD-MSCs^PRL-1 were similar to those of naïve cells. OFs from GO patients induced adipocyte differentiation and had significantly decreased a lipid accumulation after coculture with PD-MSCs^PRL-1 compared to naïve cells. The mRNA and protein expression of adipogenic markers was decreased in PD-MSCs^PRL-1. Insulin-like growth factor-binding proteins (IGFBPs) secreting PD-MSCs^PRL-1 downregulated the phosphorylated PI3K/AKT/mTOR expression in OFs from GO patients. Interestingly, IGFBP2, - 4, - 6, and - 7 expression in PD-MSCs^PRL-1, which was mediated by integrin alpha 4 (ITGA4) and beta 7 (ITGB7), was higher than that in naïve cells and upregulated phosphorylated FAK downstream factor.

CONCLUSION

In summary, IGFBPs secreting PD-MSC^PRL-1 inhibit adipogenesis in OFs from GO patients by upregulating phosphorylated FAK and downregulating PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway. The functional enhancement of PD-MSCs by nonviral gene modification provides a novel therapeutic strategy for the treatment of degenerative diseases.

Treatment of Graves' ophthalmopathy

Graves' ophthalmopathy is an inflammatory disease with primary involvement of the extraocular muscles and the orbit. It encompasses the most common extra-thyroid manifestation in patients with Graves-Basedow disease. The underlying cause is molecular mimicry with the TSH receptor in ocular fibroblasts, leading to an immuno-mediated pathogenesis. Glucocorticoids at high doses are the cornerstone in moderate-severe cases. However, some patients are corticorresistant or intolerant. In recent years, therapeutic novelties have been described in terms of the dosage of the immunosuppressive treatments used, as well as the emergence of biological therapy in this field. The objective of this review is to update the treatment of Graves' ophthalmopathy, as well as to present alternative options in patients resistant or intolerant to glucocorticoids.

Treatment with Intravenous Methylprednisolone in Patients with Graves' Orbitopathy Significantly Affects Adrenal Function: Assessment of Serum, Salivary Cortisol and Serum Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate

Treatment of active, moderate-to-severe Graves’ orbitopathy (GO) is the administration of intravenous methylprednisolone (IVMP). IVMP may be followed by additional therapy with oral prednisone. The aim of this study was to analyze the impact of IVMP on adrenal function by evaluation of serum, salivary cortisol and serum dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S). Fourteen patients received IVMP treatment (cumulative dose of 4.5 g in 12 weekly infusions) followed by oral prednisone (for three months). All patients showed normal adrenal function before the 12th IVMP pulse and one patient was diagnosed with secondary adrenal insufficiency (AI) after prednisone treatment. DHEA-S was significantly lower before the 12th IVMP pulse and after oral prednisone (p = 0.015 and p = 0.00002, respectively) in comparison to evaluation before therapy. DHEA-S levels were below the reference range in one and three patients before the 12th IVMP pulse and after prednisone therapy, respectively. We observed decreased serum (p = 0.05) and salivary (p = 0.011) cortisol levels after oral prednisone therapy in comparison to evaluation before therapy. Treatment with IVMP in a cumulative dose of 4.5 g affects adrenal function, causing more severe impairment of DHEA-S secretion than that of cortisol but does not cause secondary AI. Additional therapy with oral glucocorticoids after IVMP can cause secondary AI.

Prevalence of thyroid eye disease in Graves' disease: A meta-analysis and systematic review

OBJECTIVE

Thyroid eye disease (TED) is a debilitating condition that frequently manifests in patients suffering from Graves' disease (GD). This study aims to analyse the prevalence of TED among GD patients, with a focus on geographical region-specific rates.

METHODS

Medline and Embase were searched for articles examining TED prevalence on April 2020, and articles were retrieved and sieved. Statistical analysis was performed after Freeman-Tukey double arcsine transformation. Thereafter, results were pooled with random effects by DerSimonian and Laird model.

RESULTS

Fifty-seven articles involving 26,804 patients were included in the review. The overall pooled prevalence of TED was 40% (CI: 0.32 to 0.48) and by continent was 38% (CI: 0.31 to 0.46) for Europe, 44% (CI: 0.32 to 0.56) for Asia, 27% (CI: 0.06 to 0.56) for North America and 58% (CI: 0.55 to 0.61) for Oceania. The prevalence of TED in Southeast Asia was 35% (CI: 0.24 to 0.47) and Middle East 48% (CI: 0.19 to 0.78). Subgroup analysis showed regions with predominantly Caucasians (37%; CI: 0.28 to 0.46) had a lower prevalence of TED compared to Asians (45%; CI: 0.33 to 0.58). The pooled prevalence of lid retraction was 57% (CI: 0.39 to 0.74), proptosis 57% (CI: 0.48 to 0.65), diplopia 36% (CI: 0.24 to 0.48) and ocular hypertension 13% (CI: 0.06 to 0.19).

CONCLUSION

A substantial proportion of patients with GD have TED and often manifest as lid retraction, proptosis and diplopia. Early detection through active screening might help to mitigate the progression of TED and its associated complications.

Anti-IL-6 Receptor Tocilizumab in Refractory Graves' Orbitopathy: National Multicenter Observational Study of 48 Patients

Graves' orbitopathy (GO) is the most common extrathyroidal manifestation of Graves' disease (GD). Our aim was to assess the efficacy and safety of Tocilizumab (TCZ) in GO refractory to conventional therapy. This was an open-label multicenter study of glucocorticoid-resistant GO treated with TCZ. The main outcomes were the best-corrected visual acuity (BVCA), Clinical Activity Score (CAS) and intraocular pressure (IOP). These outcome variables were assessed at baseline, 1st, 3rd, 6th and 12th month after TCZ therapy onset. The severity of GO was assessed according to the European Group on Graves' Orbitopathy (EUGOGO). We studied 48 (38 women and 10 men) patients (95 eyes); mean age ± standard deviation 51 ± 11.8 years. Before TCZ and besides oral glucocorticoids, they had received IV methylprednisolone (n = 43), or selenium (n = 11). GO disease was moderate (n =29) or severe (n = 19) and dysthyroid optic neuropathy (DON) (n = 7). TCZ was used in monotherapy (n = 45) or combined (n = 3) at a dose of 8 mg/kg IV every four weeks (n = 43) or 162 mg/s.c. every week (n = 5). TCZ yielded a significant improvement in all of the main outcomes at the 1st month that was maintained at one year. Comparing the baseline with data at 1 year all of the variables improved; BCVA (0.78 ± 0.25 vs. 0.9 ± 0.16; p = 0.0001), CAS (4.64 ± 1.5 vs. 1.05 ± 1.27; p = 0.0001) and intraocular pressure (IOP) (19.05 ± 4.1 vs. 16.73 ± 3.4 mmHg; p = 0.007). After a mean follow-up of 16.1 ± 2.1 months, low disease activity (CAS ≤ 3), was achieved in 88 eyes (92.6%) and TCZ was withdrawn in 29 cases due to low disease activity (n = 25) or inefficacy (n = 4). No serious adverse events were observed. In conclusion, TCZ is a useful and safe therapeutic option in refractory GO treatment.