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Wang S, Tong S, Jin X, Li N, Dang P, Sui Y, Liu Y, Wang D. Single-cell RNA sequencing analysis of the retina under acute high intraocular pressure. Neural Regen Res 2024; 19:2522-2531. [PMID: 38526288 PMCID: PMC11090430 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.389363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202419110-00032/figure1/v/2024-03-08T184507Z/r/image-tiff High intraocular pressure causes retinal ganglion cell injury in primary and secondary glaucoma diseases, yet the molecular landscape characteristics of retinal cells under high intraocular pressure remain unknown. Rat models of acute hypertension ocular pressure were established by injection of cross-linked hyaluronic acid hydrogel (Healaflow®). Single-cell RNA sequencing was then used to describe the cellular composition and molecular profile of the retina following high intraocular pressure. Our results identified a total of 12 cell types, namely retinal pigment epithelial cells, rod-photoreceptor cells, bipolar cells, Müller cells, microglia, cone-photoreceptor cells, retinal ganglion cells, endothelial cells, retinal progenitor cells, oligodendrocytes, pericytes, and fibroblasts. The single-cell RNA sequencing analysis of the retina under acute high intraocular pressure revealed obvious changes in the proportions of various retinal cells, with ganglion cells decreased by 23%. Hematoxylin and eosin staining and TUNEL staining confirmed the damage to retinal ganglion cells under high intraocular pressure. We extracted data from retinal ganglion cells and analyzed the retinal ganglion cell cluster with the most distinct expression. We found upregulation of the B3gat2 gene, which is associated with neuronal migration and adhesion, and downregulation of the Tsc22d gene, which participates in inhibition of inflammation. This study is the first to reveal molecular changes and intercellular interactions in the retina under high intraocular pressure. These data contribute to understanding of the molecular mechanism of retinal injury induced by high intraocular pressure and will benefit the development of novel therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaojun Wang
- Division of Ophthalmology, The Third Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Siti Tong
- Division of Ophthalmology, The Third Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xin Jin
- Division of Ophthalmology, The Third Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Na Li
- Division of Ophthalmology, The Third Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Pingxiu Dang
- Division of Ophthalmology, The Third Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yang Sui
- Division of Ophthalmology, The Third Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Ying Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Beijing Rehabilitation Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Dajiang Wang
- Division of Ophthalmology, The Third Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
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Del Pozo-Valero M, Almoallem B, Dueñas Rey A, Mahieu Q, Van Heetvelde M, Jeddawi L, Bauwens M, De Baere E. Autozygome-guided exome-first study in a consanguineous cohort with early-onset retinal disease uncovers an isolated RIMS2 phenotype and a retina-enriched RIMS2 isoform. Clin Genet 2024; 106:127-139. [PMID: 38468396 DOI: 10.1111/cge.14517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
Leber congenital amaurosis (LCA) and early-onset retinal degeneration (EORD) are inherited retinal diseases (IRD) characterized by early-onset vision impairment. Herein, we studied 15 Saudi families by whole exome sequencing (WES) and run-of-homozygosity (ROH) detection via AutoMap in 12/15 consanguineous families. This revealed (likely) pathogenic variants in 11/15 families (73%). A potential founder variant was found in RPGRIP1. Homozygous pathogenic variants were identified in known IRD genes (ATF6, CRB1, CABP4, RDH12, RIMS2, RPGRIP1, SPATA7). We established genotype-driven clinical reclassifications for ATF6, CABP4, and RIMS2. Specifically, we observed isolated IRD in the individual with the novel RIMS2 variant, and we found a retina-enriched RIMS2 isoform conserved but not annotated in mouse. The latter illustrates potential different phenotypic consequences of pathogenic variants depending on the particular tissue/cell-type specific isoforms they affect. Lastly, a compound heterozygous genotype in GUCY2D in one non-consanguineous family was demonstrated, and homozygous variants in novel candidate genes ATG2B and RUFY3 were found in the two remaining consanguineous families. Reporting these genes will allow to validate them in other IRD cohorts. Finally, the missing heritability of the two unsolved IRD cases may be attributed to variants in non-coding regions or structural variants that remained undetected, warranting future WGS studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Del Pozo-Valero
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Center for Medical Genetics, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Basamat Almoallem
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, King Saud University (KSU), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Ophthalmology, King Saud University Medical City (KSUMC), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Alfredo Dueñas Rey
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Center for Medical Genetics, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Quinten Mahieu
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Center for Medical Genetics, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Mattias Van Heetvelde
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Center for Medical Genetics, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Laila Jeddawi
- Pediatric Ophthalmology Division, Dr. Sulaiman AL Habib Medical Group, AL Khobar, Saudi Arabia
| | - Miriam Bauwens
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Center for Medical Genetics, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Elfride De Baere
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Center for Medical Genetics, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
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Zhang Y, Lu SM, Zhuang JJ, Liang LG. Advances in gut-brain organ chips. Cell Prolif 2024:e13724. [PMID: 39086147 DOI: 10.1111/cpr.13724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2024] [Revised: 07/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
The brain and gut are sensory organs responsible for sensing, transmitting, integrating, and responding to signals from the internal and external environment. In-depth analysis of brain-gut axis interactions is important for human health and disease prevention. Current research on the brain-gut axis primarily relies on animal models. However, animal models make it difficult to study disease mechanisms due to inherent species differences, and the reproducibility of experiments is poor because of individual animal variations, which leads to a significant limitation of real-time sensory responses. Organ-on-a-chip platforms provide an innovative approach for disease treatment and personalized research by replicating brain and gut ecosystems in vitro. This enables a precise understanding of their biological functions and physiological responses. In this article, we examine the history and most current developments in brain, gut, and gut-brain chips. The importance of these systems for understanding pathophysiology and developing new drugs is emphasized throughout the review. This article also addresses future directions and present issues with the advancement and application of gut-brain-on-a-chip technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Clinical Cancer Pharmacology and Toxicology Research of Zhejiang Province, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Westlake University, Hangzhou, China
- Department of Pharmacy, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Westlake University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Si-Ming Lu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Clinical In Vitro Diagnostic Techniques, Hangzhou, China
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jian-Jian Zhuang
- Key Laboratory of Clinical Cancer Pharmacology and Toxicology Research of Zhejiang Province, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Westlake University, Hangzhou, China
- Department of Pharmacy, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Westlake University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Li-Guo Liang
- Centre for Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
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Ranard KM, Appel B. Creation of a novel zebrafish model with low DHA status to study the role of maternal nutrition during neurodevelopment. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.07.30.605803. [PMID: 39131270 PMCID: PMC11312534 DOI: 10.1101/2024.07.30.605803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/13/2024]
Abstract
Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), a dietary omega-3 fatty acid, is a major building block of brain cell membranes. Offspring rely on maternal DHA transfer to meet their neurodevelopmental needs, but DHA sources are lacking in the American diet. Low DHA status is linked to altered immune responses, white matter defects, impaired vision, and an increased risk of psychiatric disorders during development. However, the underlying cellular mechanisms involved are largely unknown, and advancements in the field have been limited by the existing tools and animal models. Zebrafish are an excellent model for studying neurodevelopmental mechanisms. Embryos undergo rapid external development and are optically transparent, enabling direct observation of individual cells and dynamic cell-cell interactions in a way that is not possible in rodents. Here, we create a novel DHA-deficient zebrafish model by 1) disrupting elovl2, a key gene in the DHA biosynthesis pathway, via CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing, and 2) feeding mothers a DHA-deficient diet. We show that low DHA status during development is associated with a small eye morphological phenotype and demonstrate that even the morphologically normal siblings exhibit dysregulated gene pathways related to vision and stress response. Future work using our zebrafish model could reveal the cellular and molecular mechanisms by which low DHA status leads to neurodevelopmental abnormalities and provide insight into maternal nutritional strategies that optimize infant brain health.
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Hu X, Chen J, Dai W, Xiao Y, Chen X, Chen Z, Zhang S, Hu Y. PHLDA1-PRDM1 mediates the effect of lentiviral vectors on fate-determination of human retinal progenitor cells. Cell Mol Life Sci 2024; 81:305. [PMID: 39012348 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-024-05279-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 03/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 07/17/2024]
Abstract
Lentiviral vectors have markedly enhanced gene therapy efficiency in treating congenital diseases, but their long-term safety remains controversial. Most gene therapies for congenital eye diseases need to be carried out at early ages, yet the assessment of related risks to ocular development posed by lentiviral vectors is challenging. Utilizing single-cell transcriptomic profiling on human retinal organoids, this study explored the impact of lentiviral vectors on the retinal development and found that lentiviral vectors can cause retinal precursor cells to shift toward photoreceptor fate through the up-regulation of key fate-determining genes such as PRDM1. Further investigation demonstrated that the intron and intergenic region of PRDM1 was bound by PHLDA1, which was also up-regulated by lentiviral vectors exposure. Importantly, knockdown of PHLDA1 successfully suppressed the lentivirus-induced differentiation bias of photoreceptor cells. The findings also suggest that while lentiviral vectors may disrupt the fate determination of retinal precursor cells, posing risks in early-stage retinal gene therapy, these risks could potentially be reduced by inhibiting the PHLDA1-PRDM1 axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xing Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jia Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wangxuan Dai
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuhua Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xu Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zheyao Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shuyao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Youjin Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China.
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China.
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Bock M, Hong SJ, Zhang S, Yu Y, Lee S, Shin H, Choi BH, Han I. Morphogenetic Designs, and Disease Models in Central Nervous System Organoids. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:7750. [PMID: 39062993 PMCID: PMC11276855 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25147750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2024] [Revised: 07/11/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Since the emergence of the first cerebral organoid (CO) in 2013, advancements have transformed central nervous system (CNS) research. Initial efforts focused on studying the morphogenesis of COs and creating reproducible models. Numerous methodologies have been proposed, enabling the design of the brain organoid to represent specific regions and spinal cord structures. CNS organoids now facilitate the study of a wide range of CNS diseases, from infections to tumors, which were previously difficult to investigate. We summarize the major advancements in CNS organoids, concerning morphogenetic designs and disease models. We examine the development of fabrication procedures and how these advancements have enabled the generation of region-specific brain organoids and spinal cord models. We highlight the application of these organoids in studying various CNS diseases, demonstrating the versatility and potential of organoid models in advancing our understanding of complex conditions. We discuss the current challenges in the field, including issues related to reproducibility, scalability, and the accurate recapitulation of the in vivo environment. We provide an outlook on prospective studies and future directions. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the state-of-the-art CNS organoid research, highlighting key developments, current challenges, and prospects in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minsung Bock
- Department of Neurosurgery, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University, Seongnam-si 13496, Republic of Korea; (M.B.); (S.Z.); (Y.Y.); (S.L.); (H.S.)
| | - Sung Jun Hong
- Research Competency Milestones Program, School of Medicine, CHA University, Seongnam-si 13488, Republic of Korea;
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, CHA University, Seongnam-si 13496, Republic of Korea
| | - Songzi Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University, Seongnam-si 13496, Republic of Korea; (M.B.); (S.Z.); (Y.Y.); (S.L.); (H.S.)
| | - Yerin Yu
- Department of Neurosurgery, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University, Seongnam-si 13496, Republic of Korea; (M.B.); (S.Z.); (Y.Y.); (S.L.); (H.S.)
| | - Somin Lee
- Department of Neurosurgery, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University, Seongnam-si 13496, Republic of Korea; (M.B.); (S.Z.); (Y.Y.); (S.L.); (H.S.)
| | - Haeeun Shin
- Department of Neurosurgery, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University, Seongnam-si 13496, Republic of Korea; (M.B.); (S.Z.); (Y.Y.); (S.L.); (H.S.)
| | - Byung Hyune Choi
- Department of Biomedical Science, Inha University College of Medicine, Incheon 22212, Republic of Korea;
| | - Inbo Han
- Department of Neurosurgery, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University, Seongnam-si 13496, Republic of Korea; (M.B.); (S.Z.); (Y.Y.); (S.L.); (H.S.)
- Advanced Regenerative Medicine Research Center, CHA Future Medicine Research Institute, Seongnam-si 13488, Republic of Korea
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7
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Choi J, Joisher HNV, Gill HK, Lin L, Cepko C. Characterization of the development of the high-acuity area of the chick retina. Dev Biol 2024; 511:39-52. [PMID: 38548147 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2024.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2022] [Revised: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
The fovea is a small region within the central retina that is responsible for our high acuity daylight vision. Chickens also have a high acuity area (HAA), and are one of the few species that enables studies of the mechanisms of HAA development, due to accessible embryonic tissue and methods to readily perturb gene expression. To enable such studies, we characterized the development of the chick HAA using single molecule fluorescent in situ hybridization (smFISH), along with more classical methods. We found that Fgf8 provides a molecular marker for the HAA throughout development and into adult stages, allowing studies of the cellular composition of this area over time. The radial dimension of the ganglion cell layer (GCL) was seen to be the greatest at the HAA throughout development, beginning during the period of neurogenesis, suggesting that genesis, rather than cell death, creates a higher level of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) in this area. In contrast, the HAA acquired its characteristic high density of cone photoreceptors post-hatching, which is well after the period of neurogenesis. We also confirmed that rod photoreceptors are not present in the HAA. Analyses of cell death in the developing photoreceptor layer, where rods would reside, did not show apoptotic cells, suggesting that lack of genesis, rather than death, created the "rod-free zone" (RFZ). Quantification of each cone photoreceptor subtype showed an ordered mosaic of most cone subtypes. The changes in cellular densities and cell subtypes between the developing and mature HAA provide some answers to the overarching strategy used by the retina to create this area and provide a framework for future studies of the mechanisms underlying its formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiho Choi
- Department of Genetics, Blavatnik Institute, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, USA
| | - Heer N V Joisher
- Department of Genetics, Blavatnik Institute, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, USA
| | | | - Lucas Lin
- Department of Genetics, Blavatnik Institute, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, USA
| | - Constance Cepko
- Department of Genetics, Blavatnik Institute, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, USA.
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Zhang Y, Yan S, Mei Z, Zhang H, Ding C, Zhang S, Wei S. Exploring the Cocktail Factor Approach to Generate Salivary Gland Progenitors through Co-Culture Techniques. Tissue Eng Regen Med 2024; 21:749-759. [PMID: 38466363 PMCID: PMC11187051 DOI: 10.1007/s13770-024-00632-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The derivation of salivary gland (SG) progenitors from pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) presents significant potential for developmental biology and regenerative medicine. However, the existing protocols for inducing SG include limited factors, making it challenging to mimic the in vivo microenvironment of embryonic SGs. METHODS We reported a cocktail factor approach to promote the differentiation of mouse embryonic stem cell (mESC)-derived oral epithelium (OE) into SG progenitors through a three-dimensional co-culture method. Upon confirming that the embryonic SG can promote the differentiation of mESC-derived OE, we performed RNA sequence analysis to identify factors involved in the differentiation of SG progenitors. RESULTS Our findings highlight several efficient pathways related to SG development, with frequent appearances of four factors: IFN-γ, TGF-β2, EGF, and IGF-1. The combined treatment using these cocktail factors increased the expression of key SG progenitor markers, including Sox9, Sox10, Krt5, and Krt14. However, absence of any one of these cocktail factors did not facilitate differentiation. Notably, aggregates treated with the cocktail factor formed SG epithelial-like structures and pre-bud-like structures on the surface. CONCLUSION In conclusion, this study offers a novel approach to developing a differentiation protocol that closely mimics the in vivo microenvironment of embryonic SGs. This provides a foundation for generating PSC-derived organoids with near-physiological cell behaviors and structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifei Zhang
- Central Laboratory and Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery School and Hospital of Stomatology, Peking University, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Shuang Yan
- Central Laboratory and Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery School and Hospital of Stomatology, Peking University, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Zi Mei
- Central Laboratory and Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery School and Hospital of Stomatology, Peking University, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - He Zhang
- Central Laboratory and Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery School and Hospital of Stomatology, Peking University, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Chong Ding
- Central Laboratory and Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery School and Hospital of Stomatology, Peking University, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Siqi Zhang
- Central Laboratory and Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery School and Hospital of Stomatology, Peking University, Beijing, 100081, China.
| | - Shicheng Wei
- Central Laboratory and Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery School and Hospital of Stomatology, Peking University, Beijing, 100081, China.
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China.
- Laboratory of Biomaterials and Regenerative Medicine, Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China.
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Campos RC, Matsunaga K, Reid MW, Fernandez GE, Stepanian K, Bharathan SP, Li M, Thornton ME, Grubbs BH, Nagiel A. Non-canonical Wnt pathway expression in the developing mouse and human retina. Exp Eye Res 2024; 244:109947. [PMID: 38815793 PMCID: PMC11179970 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2024.109947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 05/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
The non-canonical Wnt pathway is an evolutionarily conserved pathway essential for tissue patterning and development across species and tissues. In mammals, this pathway plays a role in neuronal migration, dendritogenesis, axon growth, and synapse formation. However, its role in development and synaptogenesis of the human retina remains less established. In order to address this knowledge gap, we analyzed publicly available single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNAseq) datasets for mouse retina, human retina, and human retinal organoids over multiple developmental time points during outer retinal maturation. We identified ligands, receptors, and mediator genes with a putative role in retinal development, including those with novel or species-specific expression, and validated this expression using fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). By quantifying outer nuclear layer (ONL) versus inner nuclear layer (INL) expression, we provide evidence for the differential expression of certain non-canonical Wnt signaling components in the developing mouse and human retina during outer plexiform layer (OPL) development. Importantly, we identified distinct expression patterns of mouse and human FZD3 and WNT10A, as well as previously undescribed expression, such as for mouse Wnt2b in Chat+ starburst amacrine cells. Human retinal organoids largely recapitulated the human non-canonical Wnt pathway expression. Together, this work provides the basis for further study of non-canonical Wnt signaling in mouse and human retinal development and synaptogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosanna C Campos
- The Vision Center, Department of Surgery, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Department of Development, Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Kate Matsunaga
- Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA
| | - Mark W Reid
- The Vision Center, Department of Surgery, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - G Esteban Fernandez
- The Saban Research Institute, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Kayla Stepanian
- The Vision Center, Department of Surgery, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Sumitha P Bharathan
- The Vision Center, Department of Surgery, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA; The Saban Research Institute, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Meng Li
- USC Libraries Bioinformatics Services, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Matthew E Thornton
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine Division, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Brendan H Grubbs
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine Division, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Aaron Nagiel
- The Vision Center, Department of Surgery, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA; The Saban Research Institute, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Roski Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
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10
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Chambers CZ, Soo GL, Engel AL, Glass IA, Frassetto A, Martini PGV, Cherry TJ. Lipid Nanoparticle-Mediated Delivery of mRNA Into the Mouse and Human Retina and Other Ocular Tissues. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2024; 13:7. [PMID: 38980261 PMCID: PMC11235142 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.13.7.7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) show promise in their ability to introduce mRNA to drive protein expression in specific cell types of the mammalian eye. Here, we examined the ability of mRNA encapsulated in LNPs with two distinct formulations to drive gene expression in mouse and human retina and other ocular tissues. Methods We introduced mRNA-carrying LNPs into two biological systems. Intravitreal injections were tested to deliver LNPs into the mouse eye. Human retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and retinal explants were used to assess mRNA expression in human tissue. We analyzed specificity of expression using histology, immunofluorescence, and imaging. Results In mice, mRNAs encoding GFP and ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) were specifically expressed by Müller glia and RPE. Acute inflammatory changes measured by microglia distribution (Iba-1) or interleukin-6 (IL-6) expression were not observed 6 hours post-injection. Human RPE also expressed high levels of GFP. Human retinal explants expressed GFP in cells with apical and basal processes consistent with Müller glia and in perivascular cells consistent with macrophages. Conclusions We demonstrated the ability to reliably transfect subpopulations of retinal cells in mouse eye tissues in vivo and in human ocular tissues. Of significance, intravitreal injections were sufficient to transfect the RPE in mice. To our knowledge, we demonstrate delivery of mRNA using LNPs in human ocular tissues for the first time. Translational Relevance Ocular gene-replacement therapies using non-viral vector methods are a promising alternative to adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors. Our studies show that mRNA LNP delivery can be used to transfect retinal cells in both mouse and human tissues without inducing significant inflammation. This methodology could be used to transfect retinal cell lines, tissue explants, mice, or potentially as gene-replacement therapy in a clinical setting in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheri Z. Chambers
- Center for Developmental Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Gillian L. Soo
- Center for Developmental Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Abbi L. Engel
- Center for Developmental Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Ian A. Glass
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Genetic Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - the Birth Defects Research Laboratory (BDRL)
- Center for Developmental Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Genetic Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Moderna, Inc., Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Biological Structure, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Brotman Baty Institute for Precision Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | | | - Timothy J. Cherry
- Center for Developmental Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Genetic Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Biological Structure, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Brotman Baty Institute for Precision Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
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11
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Seah I, Goh D, Banerjee A, Su X. Modeling inherited retinal diseases using human induced pluripotent stem cell derived photoreceptor cells and retinal pigment epithelial cells. Front Med (Lausanne) 2024; 11:1328474. [PMID: 39011458 PMCID: PMC11246861 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2024.1328474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Since the discovery of induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) technology, there have been many attempts to create cellular models of inherited retinal diseases (IRDs) for investigation of pathogenic processes to facilitate target discovery and validation activities. Consistency remains key in determining the utility of these findings. Despite the importance of consistency, quality control metrics are still not widely used. In this review, a toolkit for harnessing iPSC technology to generate photoreceptor, retinal pigment epithelial cell, and organoid disease models is provided. Considerations while developing iPSC-derived IRD models such as iPSC origin, reprogramming methods, quality control metrics, control strategies, and differentiation protocols are discussed. Various iPSC IRD models are dissected and the scientific hurdles of iPSC-based disease modeling are discussed to provide an overview of current methods and future directions in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivan Seah
- Translational Retinal Research Laboratory, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Ophthalmology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Debbie Goh
- Department of Ophthalmology, National University Hospital (NUH), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Animesh Banerjee
- Translational Retinal Research Laboratory, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Xinyi Su
- Translational Retinal Research Laboratory, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Ophthalmology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Ophthalmology, National University Hospital (NUH), Singapore, Singapore
- Singapore Eye Research Institute (SERI), Singapore, Singapore
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12
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Zenk F, Fleck JS, Jansen SMJ, Kashanian B, Eisinger B, Santel M, Dupré JS, Camp JG, Treutlein B. Single-cell epigenomic reconstruction of developmental trajectories from pluripotency in human neural organoid systems. Nat Neurosci 2024; 27:1376-1386. [PMID: 38914828 PMCID: PMC11239525 DOI: 10.1038/s41593-024-01652-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
Cell fate progression of pluripotent progenitors is strictly regulated, resulting in high human cell diversity. Epigenetic modifications also orchestrate cell fate restriction. Unveiling the epigenetic mechanisms underlying human cell diversity has been difficult. In this study, we use human brain and retina organoid models and present single-cell profiling of H3K27ac, H3K27me3 and H3K4me3 histone modifications from progenitor to differentiated neural fates to reconstruct the epigenomic trajectories regulating cell identity acquisition. We capture transitions from pluripotency through neuroepithelium to retinal and brain region and cell type specification. Switching of repressive and activating epigenetic modifications can precede and predict cell fate decisions at each stage, providing a temporal census of gene regulatory elements and transcription factors. Removing H3K27me3 at the neuroectoderm stage disrupts fate restriction, resulting in aberrant cell identity acquisition. Our single-cell epigenome-wide map of human neural organoid development serves as a blueprint to explore human cell fate determination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fides Zenk
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zürich, Basel, Switzerland.
- Brain Mind Institute, School of Life Sciences EPFL, Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Jonas Simon Fleck
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zürich, Basel, Switzerland
- Institute of Human Biology (IHB), Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Bijan Kashanian
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zürich, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Benedikt Eisinger
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zürich, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Małgorzata Santel
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zürich, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jean-Samuel Dupré
- Institute of Human Biology (IHB), Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - J Gray Camp
- Institute of Human Biology (IHB), Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Barbara Treutlein
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zürich, Basel, Switzerland.
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13
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Luo Z, Shah S, Tanasa B, Chang KC, Goldberg JL. Gene regulatory roles of growth and differentiation factors in retinal development. iScience 2024; 27:110100. [PMID: 38947520 PMCID: PMC11214324 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.110100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 04/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Retinal ganglion cell (RGC) differentiation is tightly controlled by extrinsic and intrinsic factors. Growth and differentiation factor 15 (GDF-15) promotes RGC differentiation, opposite to GDF-11 which inhibits RGC differentiation, both in the mouse retina and in human stem cells. To deepen our understanding of how these two closely related molecules confer opposing effects on retinal development, here we assess the transcriptional profiles of mouse retinal progenitors exposed to exogenous GDF-11 or -15. We find a dichotomous effect of GDF-15 on RGC differentiation, decreasing RGCs expressing residual pro-proliferative genes and increasing RGCs expressing non-proliferative genes, suggestive of greater RGC maturation. Furthermore, GDF-11 promoted the differentiation of photoreceptors and amacrine cells. These data enhance our understanding of the mechanisms underlying the differentiation of RGCs and photoreceptors from retinal progenitors and suggest new approaches to the optimization of protocols for the differentiation of these cell types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziming Luo
- Spencer Center for Vision Research, Byers Eye Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA 94304, USA
| | - Sahil Shah
- Spencer Center for Vision Research, Byers Eye Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA 94304, USA
| | - Bogdan Tanasa
- Spencer Center for Vision Research, Byers Eye Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA 94304, USA
| | - Kun-Che Chang
- Spencer Center for Vision Research, Byers Eye Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA 94304, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15219, USA
| | - Jeffrey L. Goldberg
- Spencer Center for Vision Research, Byers Eye Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA 94304, USA
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14
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Lee S, Chung WG, Jeong H, Cui G, Kim E, Lim JA, Seo H, Kwon YW, Byeon SH, Lee J, Park JU. Electrophysiological Analysis of Retinal Organoid Development Using 3D Microelectrodes of Liquid Metals. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024:e2404428. [PMID: 38896876 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202404428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2024] [Revised: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
Despite of the substantial potential of human-derived retinal organoids, the degeneration of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) during maturation limits their utility in assessing the functionality of later-born retinal cell subtypes. Additionally, conventional analyses primarily rely on fluorescent emissions, which limits the detection of actual cell functionality while risking damage to the 3D cytoarchitecture of organoids. Here, an electrophysiological analysis is presented to monitor RGC development in early to mid-stage retinal organoids, and compare distinct features with fully-mature mouse retina. This approach utilizes high-resolution 3D printing of liquid-metal microelectrodes, enabling precise targeting of specific inner retinal layers within organoids. The adaptable distribution and softness of these microelectrodes facilitate the spatiotemporal recording of inner retinal signals. This study not only demonstrates the functional properties of RGCs in retinal organoid development but also provides insights into their synaptic connectivity, reminiscent of fetal native retinas. Further comparison with fully-mature mouse retina in vivo verifies the organoid features, highlighting the potential of early-stage retinal organoids in biomedical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanghoon Lee
- Department of Materials Science & Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
- Center for Nanomedicine, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
- Graduate Program of Nano Biomedical Engineering (NanoBME), Advanced Science Institute, Yonsei University, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Won Gi Chung
- Department of Materials Science & Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
- Center for Nanomedicine, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
- Graduate Program of Nano Biomedical Engineering (NanoBME), Advanced Science Institute, Yonsei University, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Han Jeong
- Institute of Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology, Severance Eye Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
- Brain Korea 21 Project for Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Gang Cui
- Institute of Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology, Severance Eye Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Enji Kim
- Department of Materials Science & Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
- Center for Nanomedicine, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
- Graduate Program of Nano Biomedical Engineering (NanoBME), Advanced Science Institute, Yonsei University, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong Ah Lim
- Institute of Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology, Severance Eye Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Hunkyu Seo
- Department of Materials Science & Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
- Center for Nanomedicine, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
- Graduate Program of Nano Biomedical Engineering (NanoBME), Advanced Science Institute, Yonsei University, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong Won Kwon
- Department of Materials Science & Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
- Center for Nanomedicine, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
- Graduate Program of Nano Biomedical Engineering (NanoBME), Advanced Science Institute, Yonsei University, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Suk Ho Byeon
- Institute of Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology, Severance Eye Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
- Brain Korea 21 Project for Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Junwon Lee
- Institute of Vision Research, Department of Ophthalmology, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 06273, Republic of Korea
| | - Jang-Ung Park
- Department of Materials Science & Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
- Center for Nanomedicine, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
- Graduate Program of Nano Biomedical Engineering (NanoBME), Advanced Science Institute, Yonsei University, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
- Department of Neurosurgery, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
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15
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Eintracht J, Owen N, Harding P, Moosajee M. Disruption of common ocular developmental pathways in patient-derived optic vesicle models of microphthalmia. Stem Cell Reports 2024; 19:839-858. [PMID: 38821055 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2024.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Genetic perturbations influencing early eye development can result in microphthalmia, anophthalmia, and coloboma (MAC). Over 100 genes are associated with MAC, but little is known about common disease mechanisms. In this study, we generated induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived optic vesicles (OVs) from two unrelated microphthalmia patients and healthy controls. At day 20, 35, and 50, microphthalmia patient OV diameters were significantly smaller, recapitulating the "small eye" phenotype. RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) analysis revealed upregulation of apoptosis-initiating and extracellular matrix (ECM) genes at day 20 and 35. Western blot and immunohistochemistry revealed increased expression of lumican, nidogen, and collagen type IV, suggesting ECM overproduction. Increased apoptosis was observed in microphthalmia OVs with reduced phospho-histone 3 (pH3+) cells confirming decreased cell proliferation at day 35. Pharmacological inhibition of caspase-8 activity with Z-IETD-FMK decreased apoptosis in one patient model, highlighting a potential therapeutic approach. These data reveal shared pathophysiological mechanisms contributing to a microphthalmia phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Mariya Moosajee
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London EC1V 9EL, UK; Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London EC1V 9EL, UK; Francis Crick Institute, London NW1 1AT, UK.
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16
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Xu Y, Tummala SR, Chen X, Vardi N. VDAC in Retinal Health and Disease. Biomolecules 2024; 14:654. [PMID: 38927058 PMCID: PMC11201675 DOI: 10.3390/biom14060654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2024] [Revised: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The retina, a tissue of the central nervous system, is vital for vision as its photoreceptors capture light and transform it into electrical signals, which are further processed before they are sent to the brain to be interpreted as images. The retina is unique in that it is continuously exposed to light and has the highest metabolic rate and demand for energy amongst all the tissues in the body. Consequently, the retina is very susceptible to oxidative stress. VDAC, a pore in the outer membrane of mitochondria, shuttles metabolites between mitochondria and the cytosol and normally protects cells from oxidative damage, but when a cell's integrity is greatly compromised it initiates cell death. There are three isoforms of VDAC, and existing evidence indicates that all three are expressed in the retina. However, their precise localization and function in each cell type is unknown. It appears that most retinal cells express substantial amounts of VDAC2 and VDAC3, presumably to protect them from oxidative stress. Photoreceptors express VDAC2, HK2, and PKM2-key proteins in the Warburg pathway that also protect these cells. Consistent with its role in initiating cell death, VDAC is overexpressed in the retinal degenerative diseases retinitis pigmentosa, age related macular degeneration (AMD), and glaucoma. Treatment with antioxidants or inhibiting VDAC oligomerization reduced its expression and improved cell survival. Thus, VDAC may be a promising therapeutic candidate for the treatment of these diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Xu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Non-Human Primate Research, Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Ministry of Education), Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; (Y.X.); (X.C.)
| | - Shanti R. Tummala
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA;
| | - Xiongmin Chen
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Non-Human Primate Research, Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Ministry of Education), Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; (Y.X.); (X.C.)
| | - Noga Vardi
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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17
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Stehle IF, Imventarza JA, Woerz F, Hoffmann F, Boldt K, Beyer T, Quinn PM, Ueffing M. Human CRB1 and CRB2 form homo- and heteromeric protein complexes in the retina. Life Sci Alliance 2024; 7:e202302440. [PMID: 38570189 PMCID: PMC10992996 DOI: 10.26508/lsa.202302440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Crumbs homolog 1 (CRB1) is one of the key genes linked to retinitis pigmentosa and Leber congenital amaurosis, which are characterized by a high clinical heterogeneity. The Crumbs family member CRB2 has a similar protein structure to CRB1, and in zebrafish, Crb2 has been shown to interact through the extracellular domain. Here, we show that CRB1 and CRB2 co-localize in the human retina and human iPSC-derived retinal organoids. In retina-specific pull-downs, CRB1 was enriched in CRB2 samples, supporting a CRB1-CRB2 interaction. Furthermore, novel interactors of the crumbs complex were identified, representing a retina-derived protein interaction network. Using co-immunoprecipitation, we further demonstrate that human canonical CRB1 interacts with CRB1 and CRB2, but not with CRB3, which lacks an extracellular domain. Next, we explored how missense mutations in the extracellular domain affect CRB1-CRB2 interactions. We observed no or a mild loss of CRB1-CRB2 interaction, when interrogating various CRB1 or CRB2 missense mutants in vitro. Taken together, our results show a stable interaction of human canonical CRB2 and CRB1 in the retina.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel F Stehle
- https://ror.org/03a1kwz48 Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Joel A Imventarza
- Department of Ophthalmology, Vagelos College of Physicians & Surgeons, Columbia University; New York, NY, USA
| | - Franziska Woerz
- https://ror.org/03a1kwz48 Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Felix Hoffmann
- https://ror.org/03a1kwz48 Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Karsten Boldt
- https://ror.org/03a1kwz48 Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Tina Beyer
- https://ror.org/03a1kwz48 Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Peter Mj Quinn
- Department of Ophthalmology, Vagelos College of Physicians & Surgeons, Columbia University; New York, NY, USA
| | - Marius Ueffing
- https://ror.org/03a1kwz48 Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
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18
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Han JH, Rodenburg K, Hayman T, Calzetti G, Kaminska K, Quinodoz M, Marra M, Wallerich S, Allon G, Nagy ZZ, Knézy K, Li Y, Chen R, Barboni MTS, Yang P, Pennesi ME, van den Born LI, Varsányi B, Szabó V, Sharon D, Banin E, Ben-Yosef T, Roosing S, Koenekoop RK, Rivolta C. Loss-of-function variants in UBAP1L cause autosomal recessive retinal degeneration. Genet Med 2024; 26:101106. [PMID: 38420906 DOI: 10.1016/j.gim.2024.101106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Inherited retinal diseases (IRDs) are a group of monogenic conditions that can lead to progressive blindness. Their missing heritability is still considerable, due in part to the presence of disease genes that await molecular identification. The purpose of this work was to identify novel genetic associations with IRDs. METHODS Patients underwent a comprehensive ophthalmological evaluation using standard-of-care tests, such as detailed retinal imaging (macular optical coherence tomography and short-wavelength fundus autofluorescence) and electrophysiological testing. Exome and genome sequencing, as well as computer-assisted data analysis were used for genotyping and detection of DNA variants. A minigene-driven splicing assay was performed to validate the deleterious effects of 1 of such variants. RESULTS We identified 8 unrelated families from Hungary, the United States, Israel, and The Netherlands with members presenting with a form of autosomal recessive and nonsyndromic retinal degeneration, predominantly described as rod-cone dystrophy but also including cases of cone/cone-rod dystrophy. Age of disease onset was very variable, with some patients experiencing first symptoms during their fourth decade of life or later. Myopia greater than 5 diopters was present in 5 of 7 cases with available refractive data, and retinal detachment was reported in 2 cases. All ascertained patients carried biallelic loss-of-function variants in UBAP1L (HGNC: 40028), a gene with unknown function and with homologies to UBAP1, encoding a protein involved in ubiquitin metabolism. One of these pathogenic variants, the intronic NM_001163692.2:c.910-7G>A substitution, was identified in 5 unrelated families. Minigene-driven splicing assays in HEK293T cells confirmed that this DNA change is responsible for the creation of a new acceptor splice site, resulting in aberrant splicing. CONCLUSION We identified UBAP1L as a novel IRD gene. Although its function is currently unknown, UBAP1L is almost exclusively expressed in photoreceptors and the retinal pigment epithelium, hence possibly explaining the link between pathogenic variants in this gene and an ocular phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji Hoon Han
- Institute of Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology Basel (IOB), Basel, Switzerland; Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Kim Rodenburg
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Tamar Hayman
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hadassah Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Giacomo Calzetti
- Institute of Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology Basel (IOB), Basel, Switzerland; Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Karolina Kaminska
- Institute of Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology Basel (IOB), Basel, Switzerland; Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Mathieu Quinodoz
- Institute of Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology Basel (IOB), Basel, Switzerland; Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland; Department of Genetics and Genome Biology, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Molly Marra
- Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR
| | - Sandrine Wallerich
- Institute of Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology Basel (IOB), Basel, Switzerland; Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Gilad Allon
- Department of Ophthalmology, Meir Medical Center, Kfar Saba, Israel
| | - Zoltán Z Nagy
- Department of Ophthalmology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Krisztina Knézy
- Department of Ophthalmology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Yumei Li
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Human Genome Sequencing Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
| | - Rui Chen
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Human Genome Sequencing Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
| | | | - Paul Yang
- Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR
| | - Mark E Pennesi
- Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR
| | | | - Balázs Varsányi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Viktória Szabó
- Department of Ophthalmology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Dror Sharon
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hadassah Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Eyal Banin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hadassah Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Tamar Ben-Yosef
- Ruth and Bruce Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Susanne Roosing
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Robert K Koenekoop
- Departments of Pediatric Surgery, Human Genetics and Ophthalmology, Montreal Children's Hospital, McGill University and McGill University Health Center Research Institute, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Carlo Rivolta
- Institute of Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology Basel (IOB), Basel, Switzerland; Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland; Department of Genetics and Genome Biology, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom.
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19
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Kawai K, Ho MT, Ueno Y, Abdo D, Xue C, Nonaka H, Nishida H, Honma Y, Wallace VA, Shoichet MS. Hyaluronan improves photoreceptor differentiation and maturation in human retinal organoids. Acta Biomater 2024; 181:117-132. [PMID: 38705224 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2024.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
Human stem cell-derived organoids enable both disease modeling and serve as a source of cells for transplantation. Human retinal organoids are particularly important as a source of human photoreceptors; however, the long differentiation period required and lack of vascularization in the organoid often results in a necrotic core and death of inner retinal cells before photoreceptors are fully mature. Manipulating the in vitro environment of differentiating retinal organoids through the incorporation of extracellular matrix components could influence retinal development. We investigated the addition of hyaluronan (HA), a component of the interphotoreceptor matrix, as an additive to promote long-term organoid survival and enhance retinal maturation. HA treatment had a significant reduction in the proportion of proliferating (Ki67+) cells and increase in the proportion of photoreceptors (CRX+), suggesting that HA accelerated photoreceptor commitment in vitro. HA significantly upregulated genes specific to photoreceptor maturation and outer segment development. Interestingly, prolonged HA-treatment significantly decreased the length of the brush border layer compared to those in control retinal organoids, where the photoreceptor outer segments reside; however, HA-treated organoids also had more mature outer segments with organized discs structures, as revealed by transmission electron microscopy. The brush border layer length was inversely proportional to the molar mass and viscosity of the hyaluronan added. This is the first study to investigate the role of exogenous HA, viscosity, and polymer molar mass on photoreceptor maturation, emphasizing the importance of material properties on organoid culture. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Retinal organoids are a powerful tool to study retinal development in vitro, though like many other organoid systems, can be highly variable. In this work, Shoichet and colleagues investigated the use of hyaluronan (HA), a native component of the interphotoreceptor matrix, to improve photoreceptor maturation in developing human retinal organoids. HA promoted human photoreceptor differentiation leading to mature outer segments with disc formation and more uniform and healthy retinal organoids. These findings highlight the importance of adding components native to the developing retina to generate more physiologically relevant photoreceptors for cell therapy and in vitro models to drive drug discovery and uncover novel disease mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kotoe Kawai
- Terrence Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Canada; Regenerative Medicine Research and Planning Division, Rohto Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., 6-5-4 Kunimidai, Kizugawa, Kyoto 619-0216, Japan
| | - Margaret T Ho
- Terrence Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Canada; Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Canada
| | - Yui Ueno
- Terrence Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Canada; Regenerative Medicine Research and Planning Division, Rohto Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., 6-5-4 Kunimidai, Kizugawa, Kyoto 619-0216, Japan; Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, University of Toronto, Canada
| | - Dhana Abdo
- Terrence Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Canada; Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Canada
| | - Chang Xue
- Terrence Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Canada; Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Canada
| | - Hidenori Nonaka
- Regenerative Medicine Research and Planning Division, Rohto Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., 6-5-4 Kunimidai, Kizugawa, Kyoto 619-0216, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Nishida
- Regenerative Medicine Research and Planning Division, Rohto Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., 6-5-4 Kunimidai, Kizugawa, Kyoto 619-0216, Japan
| | - Yoichi Honma
- Regenerative Medicine Research and Planning Division, Rohto Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., 6-5-4 Kunimidai, Kizugawa, Kyoto 619-0216, Japan
| | - Valerie A Wallace
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Canada; Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, University of Toronto, Canada
| | - Molly S Shoichet
- Terrence Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Canada; Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Canada; Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, University of Toronto, Canada; Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, Canada.
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20
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Liu W, Zhang C, Jiang F, Tan Y, Qin B. From theory to therapy: a bibliometric and visual study of stem cell advancements in age-related macular degeneration. Cytotherapy 2024; 26:616-631. [PMID: 38483361 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcyt.2024.02.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AIMS Human pluripotent stem cells, including embryonic stem cells and induced pluripotent stem cells, offer groundbreaking therapeutic potential for degenerative diseases and cellular repair. Despite their significance, a comprehensive bibliometric analysis in this field, particularly in relation to age-related macular degeneration (AMD), is yet to be conducted. This study aims to map the foundational and emerging areas in stem cell and AMD research through bibliometric analysis. METHODS This study analyzed articles and reviews on stem cells and AMD from 2000 to 2022, sourced from the Web of Science Core Collection. We used VOSviewer and CiteSpace for analysis and visualization of data pertaining to countries, institutions, authors, journals, references and key words. Statistical analyses were conducted using R language and Microsoft Excel 365. RESULTS In total, 539 publications were included, indicating an increase in global literature on stem cells and AMD from 2000 to 2022. The USA was the leading contributor, with 239 papers and the highest H-index, also the USA had the highest average citation rate per article (59.82). Notably, 50% of the top 10 institutions were from the USA, with the University of California system being the most productive. Key authors included Masayo Takahashi, Michiko Mandai, Dennis Clegg, Pete J. Coffey, Boris Stanzel, and Budd A. Tucker. Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science published the majority of relevant papers (n = 27). Key words like "clinical trial," "stem cell therapy," "retinal organoid," and "retinal progenitor cells" were predominant. CONCLUSIONS Research on stem cells and AMD has grown significantly, highlighting the need for increased global cooperation. Current research prioritizes the relationship between "ipsc," "induced pluripotent stem cell," "cell culture," and "human embryonic stem cell." As stem cell culture and safety have advanced, focus has shifted to prognosis and complications post-transplantation, signifying the movement of stem cell research from labs to clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Yao Tan
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China; Postdoctoral Station of Clinical Medicine, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha City, China.
| | - Bo Qin
- Shenzhen Aier Eye Hospital, Aier Eye Hospital, Jinan University, Shenzhen, China.
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21
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Wang N, Yang S, Gao Q, Jin X. Immersive teaching using virtual reality technology to improve ophthalmic surgical skills for medical postgraduate students. Postgrad Med 2024. [PMID: 38819302 DOI: 10.1080/00325481.2024.2363171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
Medical education is primarily based on practical schooling and the accumulation of experience and skills, which is important for the growth and development of young ophthalmic surgeons. However, present learning and refresher methods are constrained by several factors. Nevertheless, virtual reality (VR) technology has considerably contributed to medical training worldwide, providing convenient and practical auxiliary value for the selection of students' sub-majors. Moreover, it offers previously inaccessible surgical step training, scenario simulations, and immersive evaluation exams. This paper outlines the current applications of VR immersive teaching methods for ophthalmic surgery interns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning Wang
- Eye Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shuo Yang
- Eye Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qi Gao
- Eye Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiuming Jin
- Eye Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
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22
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Duan C, Ding C, Sun X, Mao S, Liang Y, Liu X, Ding X, Chen J, Tang S. Retinal organoids with X-linked retinoschisis RS1 (E72K) mutation exhibit a photoreceptor developmental delay and are rescued by gene augmentation therapy. Stem Cell Res Ther 2024; 15:152. [PMID: 38816767 PMCID: PMC11140964 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-024-03767-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND X-linked juvenile retinoschisis (XLRS) is an inherited disease caused by RS1 gene mutation, which leads to retinal splitting and visual impairment. The mechanism of RS1-associated retinal degeneration is not fully understood. Besides, animal models of XLRS have limitations in the study of XLRS. Here, we used human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)-derived retinal organoids (ROs) to investigate the disease mechanisms and potential treatments for XLRS. METHODS hiPSCs reprogrammed from peripheral blood mononuclear cells of two RS1 mutant (E72K) XLRS patients were differentiated into ROs. Subsequently, we explored whether RS1 mutation could affect RO development and explore the effectiveness of RS1 gene augmentation therapy. RESULTS ROs derived from RS1 (E72K) mutation hiPSCs exhibited a developmental delay in the photoreceptor, retinoschisin (RS1) deficiency, and altered spontaneous activity compared with control ROs. Furthermore, the delays in development were associated with decreased expression of rod-specific precursor markers (NRL) and photoreceptor-specific markers (RCVRN). Adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated gene augmentation with RS1 at the photoreceptor immature stage rescued the rod photoreceptor developmental delay in ROs with the RS1 (E72K) mutation. CONCLUSIONS The RS1 (E72K) mutation results in the photoreceptor development delay in ROs and can be partially rescued by the RS1 gene augmentation therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunwen Duan
- Aier School of Ophthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Aier Eye Institute, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | | | - Xihao Sun
- Aier Eye Institute, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Shengru Mao
- Aier Eye Institute, Changsha, Hunan, China
- The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | | | - Xinyu Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoyan Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiansu Chen
- Aier School of Ophthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
- Aier Eye Institute, Changsha, Hunan, China.
- Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine, Ministry of Education, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
| | - Shibo Tang
- Aier School of Ophthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
- Aier Eye Institute, Changsha, Hunan, China.
- Guangzhou Aier Eye Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
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23
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Na HJ, Kwon JE, Kim SH, Ahn J, Kwon OS, Chung KS. Human Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Retinal Organoids: A Viable Platform for Investigating the Efficacy of Adeno-Associated Virus Gene Therapy. Int J Stem Cells 2024; 17:204-211. [PMID: 38246658 PMCID: PMC11170113 DOI: 10.15283/ijsc23071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
With recent advances in adeno-associated virus (AAV)-based gene therapy, efficacy and toxicity screening have become essential for developing gene therapeutic drugs for retinal diseases. Retinal organoids from human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) offer a more accessible and reproducible human test platform for evaluating AAV-based gene therapy. In this study, hPSCs were differentiated into retinal organoids composed of various types of retinal cells. The transduction efficiencies of AAV2 and AAV8, which are widely used in clinical trials of inherited retinal diseases, were analyzed using retinal organoids. These results suggest that retinal organoids derived from hPSCs serve as suitable screening platforms owing to their diverse retinal cell types and similarity to the human retina. In summary, we propose an optimal stepwise protocol that includes the generation of retinal organoids and analysis of AAV transduction efficacy, providing a comprehensive approach for evaluating AAV-based gene therapy for retinal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyeon-Jin Na
- Stem Cell Convergence Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, Korea
- KRIBB School of Bioscience, Korea University of Science & Technology (UST), Daejeon, Korea
| | - Jae-Eun Kwon
- Stem Cell Convergence Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, Korea
- KRIBB School of Bioscience, Korea University of Science & Technology (UST), Daejeon, Korea
| | - Seung-Hyun Kim
- Stem Cell Convergence Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, Korea
| | - Jiwon Ahn
- Stem Cell Convergence Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, Korea
| | - Ok-Seon Kwon
- Stem Cell Convergence Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, Korea
- KRIBB School of Bioscience, Korea University of Science & Technology (UST), Daejeon, Korea
| | - Kyung-Sook Chung
- Stem Cell Convergence Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, Korea
- KRIBB School of Bioscience, Korea University of Science & Technology (UST), Daejeon, Korea
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24
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D'haene E, López-Soriano V, Martínez-García PM, Kalayanamontri S, Rey AD, Sousa-Ortega A, Naranjo S, Van de Sompele S, Vantomme L, Mahieu Q, Vergult S, Neto A, Gómez-Skarmeta JL, Martínez-Morales JR, Bauwens M, Tena JJ, De Baere E. Comparative 3D genome analysis between neural retina and retinal pigment epithelium reveals differential cis-regulatory interactions at retinal disease loci. Genome Biol 2024; 25:123. [PMID: 38760655 PMCID: PMC11100165 DOI: 10.1186/s13059-024-03250-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vision depends on the interplay between photoreceptor cells of the neural retina and the underlying retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). Most genes involved in inherited retinal diseases display specific spatiotemporal expression within these interconnected retinal components through the local recruitment of cis-regulatory elements (CREs) in 3D nuclear space. RESULTS To understand the role of differential chromatin architecture in establishing tissue-specific expression at inherited retinal disease loci, we mapped genome-wide chromatin interactions using in situ Hi-C and H3K4me3 HiChIP on neural retina and RPE/choroid from human adult donor eyes. We observed chromatin looping between active promoters and 32,425 and 8060 candidate CREs in the neural retina and RPE/choroid, respectively. A comparative 3D genome analysis between these two retinal tissues revealed that 56% of 290 known inherited retinal disease genes were marked by differential chromatin interactions. One of these was ABCA4, which is implicated in the most common autosomal recessive inherited retinal disease. We zoomed in on retina- and RPE-specific cis-regulatory interactions at the ABCA4 locus using high-resolution UMI-4C. Integration with bulk and single-cell epigenomic datasets and in vivo enhancer assays in zebrafish revealed tissue-specific CREs interacting with ABCA4. CONCLUSIONS Through comparative 3D genome mapping, based on genome-wide, promoter-centric, and locus-specific assays of human neural retina and RPE, we have shown that gene regulation at key inherited retinal disease loci is likely mediated by tissue-specific chromatin interactions. These findings do not only provide insight into tissue-specific regulatory landscapes at retinal disease loci, but also delineate the search space for non-coding genomic variation underlying unsolved inherited retinal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva D'haene
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.
- Center for Medical Genetics, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Víctor López-Soriano
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Center for Medical Genetics, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Pedro Manuel Martínez-García
- Centro Andaluz de Biología del Desarrollo, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas and Universidad Pablo de Olavide, Sevilla, Spain
| | - Soraya Kalayanamontri
- Centro Andaluz de Biología del Desarrollo, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas and Universidad Pablo de Olavide, Sevilla, Spain
| | - Alfredo Dueñas Rey
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Center for Medical Genetics, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Ana Sousa-Ortega
- Centro Andaluz de Biología del Desarrollo, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas and Universidad Pablo de Olavide, Sevilla, Spain
| | - Silvia Naranjo
- Centro Andaluz de Biología del Desarrollo, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas and Universidad Pablo de Olavide, Sevilla, Spain
| | - Stijn Van de Sompele
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Center for Medical Genetics, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Lies Vantomme
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Center for Medical Genetics, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Quinten Mahieu
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Center for Medical Genetics, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Sarah Vergult
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Center for Medical Genetics, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Ana Neto
- Centro Andaluz de Biología del Desarrollo, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas and Universidad Pablo de Olavide, Sevilla, Spain
| | - José Luis Gómez-Skarmeta
- Centro Andaluz de Biología del Desarrollo, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas and Universidad Pablo de Olavide, Sevilla, Spain
| | - Juan Ramón Martínez-Morales
- Centro Andaluz de Biología del Desarrollo, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas and Universidad Pablo de Olavide, Sevilla, Spain.
| | - Miriam Bauwens
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.
- Center for Medical Genetics, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Juan Jesús Tena
- Centro Andaluz de Biología del Desarrollo, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas and Universidad Pablo de Olavide, Sevilla, Spain.
| | - Elfride De Baere
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.
- Center for Medical Genetics, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium.
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25
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Wang J, Sun H, Mou L, Lu Y, Wu Z, Pu Z, Yang MM. Unveiling the molecular complexity of proliferative diabetic retinopathy through scRNA-seq, AlphaFold 2, and machine learning. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1382896. [PMID: 38800474 PMCID: PMC11116564 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1382896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR), a major cause of blindness, is characterized by complex pathogenesis. This study integrates single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), Non-negative Matrix Factorization (NMF), machine learning, and AlphaFold 2 methods to explore the molecular level of PDR. Methods We analyzed scRNA-seq data from PDR patients and healthy controls to identify distinct cellular subtypes and gene expression patterns. NMF was used to define specific transcriptional programs in PDR. The oxidative stress-related genes (ORGs) identified within Meta-Program 1 were utilized to construct a predictive model using twelve machine learning algorithms. Furthermore, we employed AlphaFold 2 for the prediction of protein structures, complementing this with molecular docking to validate the structural foundation of potential therapeutic targets. We also analyzed protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks and the interplay among key ORGs. Results Our scRNA-seq analysis revealed five major cell types and 14 subcell types in PDR patients, with significant differences in gene expression compared to those in controls. We identified three key meta-programs underscoring the role of microglia in the pathogenesis of PDR. Three critical ORGs (ALKBH1, PSIP1, and ATP13A2) were identified, with the best-performing predictive model demonstrating high accuracy (AUC of 0.989 in the training cohort and 0.833 in the validation cohort). Moreover, AlphaFold 2 predictions combined with molecular docking revealed that resveratrol has a strong affinity for ALKBH1, indicating its potential as a targeted therapeutic agent. PPI network analysis, revealed a complex network of interactions among the hub ORGs and other genes, suggesting a collective role in PDR pathogenesis. Conclusion This study provides insights into the cellular and molecular aspects of PDR, identifying potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets using advanced technological approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Wang
- Department of Endocrinology, Shenzhen People’s Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College of Jinan University; The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen, China
| | - Hongyan Sun
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shenzhen People’s Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University; The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen, China
| | - Lisha Mou
- Imaging Department, Shenzhen Institute of Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People’s Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- MetaLife Center, Shenzhen Institute of Translational Medicine, Guangdong, Shenzhen, China
| | - Ying Lu
- Imaging Department, Shenzhen Institute of Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People’s Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- MetaLife Center, Shenzhen Institute of Translational Medicine, Guangdong, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zijing Wu
- Imaging Department, Shenzhen Institute of Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People’s Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- MetaLife Center, Shenzhen Institute of Translational Medicine, Guangdong, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zuhui Pu
- Imaging Department, Shenzhen Institute of Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People’s Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- MetaLife Center, Shenzhen Institute of Translational Medicine, Guangdong, Shenzhen, China
| | - Ming-ming Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shenzhen People’s Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University; The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen, China
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26
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Becker S, L'Ecuyer Z, Jones BW, Zouache MA, McDonnell FS, Vinberg F. Modeling complex age-related eye disease. Prog Retin Eye Res 2024; 100:101247. [PMID: 38365085 PMCID: PMC11268458 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2024.101247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Abstract
Modeling complex eye diseases like age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and glaucoma poses significant challenges, since these conditions depend highly on age-related changes that occur over several decades, with many contributing factors remaining unknown. Although both diseases exhibit a relatively high heritability of >50%, a large proportion of individuals carrying AMD- or glaucoma-associated genetic risk variants will never develop these diseases. Furthermore, several environmental and lifestyle factors contribute to and modulate the pathogenesis and progression of AMD and glaucoma. Several strategies replicate the impact of genetic risk variants, pathobiological pathways and environmental and lifestyle factors in AMD and glaucoma in mice and other species. In this review we will primarily discuss the most commonly available mouse models, which have and will likely continue to improve our understanding of the pathobiology of age-related eye diseases. Uncertainties persist whether small animal models can truly recapitulate disease progression and vision loss in patients, raising doubts regarding their usefulness when testing novel gene or drug therapies. We will elaborate on concerns that relate to shorter lifespan, body size and allometries, lack of macula and a true lamina cribrosa, as well as absence and sequence disparities of certain genes and differences in their chromosomal location in mice. Since biological, rather than chronological, age likely predisposes an organism for both glaucoma and AMD, more rapidly aging organisms like small rodents may open up possibilities that will make research of these diseases more timely and financially feasible. On the other hand, due to the above-mentioned anatomical and physiological features, as well as pharmacokinetic and -dynamic differences small animal models are not ideal to study the natural progression of vision loss or the efficacy and safety of novel therapies. In this context, we will also discuss the advantages and pitfalls of alternative models that include larger species, such as non-human primates and rabbits, patient-derived retinal organoids, and human organ donor eyes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silke Becker
- John A. Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Zia L'Ecuyer
- John A. Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Bryan W Jones
- John A. Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Moussa A Zouache
- John A. Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Fiona S McDonnell
- John A. Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Biomedical Engineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Frans Vinberg
- John A. Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Biomedical Engineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
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27
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Wang B, Ganjee R, Khandaker I, Flohr K, He Y, Li G, Wesalo J, Sahel JA, da Silva S, Pi S. Deep learning based characterization of human organoids using optical coherence tomography. BIOMEDICAL OPTICS EXPRESS 2024; 15:3112-3127. [PMID: 38855657 PMCID: PMC11161340 DOI: 10.1364/boe.515781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
Organoids, derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs), are intricate three-dimensional in vitro structures that mimic many key aspects of the complex morphology and functions of in vivo organs such as the retina and heart. Traditional histological methods, while crucial, often fall short in analyzing these dynamic structures due to their inherently static and destructive nature. In this study, we leveraged the capabilities of optical coherence tomography (OCT) for rapid, non-invasive imaging of both retinal, cerebral, and cardiac organoids. Complementing this, we developed a sophisticated deep learning approach to automatically segment the organoid tissues and their internal structures, such as hollows and chambers. Utilizing this advanced imaging and analysis platform, we quantitatively assessed critical parameters, including size, area, volume, and cardiac beating, offering a comprehensive live characterization and classification of the organoids. These findings provide profound insights into the differentiation and developmental processes of organoids, positioning quantitative OCT imaging as a potentially transformative tool for future organoid research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bingjie Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Razieh Ganjee
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Irona Khandaker
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Keevon Flohr
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Yuanhang He
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
- School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Guang Li
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Joshua Wesalo
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - José-Alain Sahel
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Susana da Silva
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Shaohua Pi
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
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28
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Zhou G, Pang S, Li Y, Gao J. Progress in the generation of spinal cord organoids over the past decade and future perspectives. Neural Regen Res 2024; 19:1013-1019. [PMID: 37862203 PMCID: PMC10749595 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.385280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2023] [Revised: 06/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord organoids are three-dimensional tissues derived from stem cells that recapitulate the primary morphological and functional characteristics of the spinal cord in vivo. As emerging bioengineering methods have led to the optimization of cell culture protocols, spinal cord organoids technology has made remarkable advancements in the past decade. Our literature search found that current spinal cord organoids do not only dynamically simulate neural tube formation but also exhibit diverse cytoarchitecture along the dorsal-ventral and rostral-caudal axes. Moreover, fused organoids that integrate motor neurons and other regionally specific organoids exhibit intricate neural circuits that allows for functional assessment. These qualities make spinal cord organoids valuable tools for disease modeling, drug screening, and tissue regeneration. By utilizing this emergent technology, researchers have made significant progress in investigating the pathogenesis and potential therapeutic targets of spinal cord diseases. However, at present, spinal cord organoid technology remains in its infancy and has not been widely applied in translational medicine. Establishment of the next generation of spinal cord organoids will depend on good manufacturing practice standards and needs to focus on diverse cell phenotypes and electrophysiological functionality evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gang Zhou
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Siyuan Pang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yongning Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Department of International Medical Service, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jun Gao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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29
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Kurzawa-Akanbi M, Tzoumas N, Corral-Serrano JC, Guarascio R, Steel DH, Cheetham ME, Armstrong L, Lako M. Pluripotent stem cell-derived models of retinal disease: Elucidating pathogenesis, evaluating novel treatments, and estimating toxicity. Prog Retin Eye Res 2024; 100:101248. [PMID: 38369182 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2024.101248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Blindness poses a growing global challenge, with approximately 26% of cases attributed to degenerative retinal diseases. While gene therapy, optogenetic tools, photosensitive switches, and retinal prostheses offer hope for vision restoration, these high-cost therapies will benefit few patients. Understanding retinal diseases is therefore key to advance effective treatments, requiring in vitro models replicating pathology and allowing quantitative assessments for drug discovery. Pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) provide a unique solution given their limitless supply and ability to differentiate into light-responsive retinal tissues encompassing all cell types. This review focuses on the history and current state of photoreceptor and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cell generation from PSCs. We explore the applications of this technology in disease modelling, experimental therapy testing, biomarker identification, and toxicity studies. We consider challenges in scalability, standardisation, and reproducibility, and stress the importance of incorporating vasculature and immune cells into retinal organoids. We advocate for high-throughput automation in data acquisition and analyses and underscore the value of advanced micro-physiological systems that fully capture the interactions between the neural retina, RPE, and choriocapillaris.
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30
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Layer PG. In a century from agitated cells to human organoids. J Neurosci Methods 2024; 405:110083. [PMID: 38387805 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneumeth.2024.110083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
Reaching back more than a century, suspension cultures have provided major insights into processes of histogenesis; e.g., cell communication, distinction of self/nonself, cell sorting and cell adhesion. Besides studies on lower animals, the vertebrate retina served as excellent reaggregate model to analyze 3D reconstruction of a complex neural laminar tissue. Methodologically, keeping cells under suspension is essential to achieve tissue organisation in vitro; thereby, the environmental conditions direct the emergent histotypic particulars. Recent progress in regenerative medicine is based to a large extent on human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs), which are cultured under suspension. Following their genetically directed differentiation into various histologic 3D structures, organoids provide excellent multipurpose in vitro assay models, as well as tissues for repair transplantations. Historically, a nearly fully laminated retinal spheroid from avian embryos was achieved already in 1984, foreshadowing the potential of culturing stem cells under suspension for tissue reconstruction purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Gottlob Layer
- Technical University of Darmstadt, Developmental Biology & Neurogenetics, Schnittspahnstrasse 13, Darmstadt 64297, Germany.
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31
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Pazzin DB, Previato TTR, Budelon Gonçalves JI, Zanirati G, Xavier FAC, da Costa JC, Marinowic DR. Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells and Organoids in Advancing Neuropathology Research and Therapies. Cells 2024; 13:745. [PMID: 38727281 PMCID: PMC11083827 DOI: 10.3390/cells13090745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2024] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
This review delves into the groundbreaking impact of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and three-dimensional organoid models in propelling forward neuropathology research. With a focus on neurodegenerative diseases, neuromotor disorders, and related conditions, iPSCs provide a platform for personalized disease modeling, holding significant potential for regenerative therapy and drug discovery. The adaptability of iPSCs, along with associated methodologies, enables the generation of various types of neural cell differentiations and their integration into three-dimensional organoid models, effectively replicating complex tissue structures in vitro. Key advancements in organoid and iPSC generation protocols, alongside the careful selection of donor cell types, are emphasized as critical steps in harnessing these technologies to mitigate tumorigenic risks and other hurdles. Encouragingly, iPSCs show promising outcomes in regenerative therapies, as evidenced by their successful application in animal models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas Bottega Pazzin
- Brain Institute of Rio Grande do Sul (BraIns), Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre 90610-000, Brazil; (D.B.P.); (T.T.R.P.); (J.I.B.G.); (G.Z.); (F.A.C.X.); (J.C.d.C.)
- Graduate Program in Pediatrics and Child Health, School of Medicine, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre 90619-900, Brazil
| | - Thales Thor Ramos Previato
- Brain Institute of Rio Grande do Sul (BraIns), Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre 90610-000, Brazil; (D.B.P.); (T.T.R.P.); (J.I.B.G.); (G.Z.); (F.A.C.X.); (J.C.d.C.)
- Graduate Program in Biomedical Gerontology, School of Medicine, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre 90619-900, Brazil
| | - João Ismael Budelon Gonçalves
- Brain Institute of Rio Grande do Sul (BraIns), Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre 90610-000, Brazil; (D.B.P.); (T.T.R.P.); (J.I.B.G.); (G.Z.); (F.A.C.X.); (J.C.d.C.)
| | - Gabriele Zanirati
- Brain Institute of Rio Grande do Sul (BraIns), Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre 90610-000, Brazil; (D.B.P.); (T.T.R.P.); (J.I.B.G.); (G.Z.); (F.A.C.X.); (J.C.d.C.)
| | - Fernando Antonio Costa Xavier
- Brain Institute of Rio Grande do Sul (BraIns), Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre 90610-000, Brazil; (D.B.P.); (T.T.R.P.); (J.I.B.G.); (G.Z.); (F.A.C.X.); (J.C.d.C.)
| | - Jaderson Costa da Costa
- Brain Institute of Rio Grande do Sul (BraIns), Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre 90610-000, Brazil; (D.B.P.); (T.T.R.P.); (J.I.B.G.); (G.Z.); (F.A.C.X.); (J.C.d.C.)
| | - Daniel Rodrigo Marinowic
- Brain Institute of Rio Grande do Sul (BraIns), Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre 90610-000, Brazil; (D.B.P.); (T.T.R.P.); (J.I.B.G.); (G.Z.); (F.A.C.X.); (J.C.d.C.)
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Otsuka Y, Imamura K, Oishi A, Asakawa K, Kondo T, Nakai R, Suga M, Inoue I, Sagara Y, Tsukita K, Teranaka K, Nishimura Y, Watanabe A, Umeyama K, Okushima N, Mitani K, Nagashima H, Kawakami K, Muguruma K, Tsujikawa A, Inoue H. Phototoxicity avoidance is a potential therapeutic approach for retinal dystrophy caused by EYS dysfunction. JCI Insight 2024; 9:e174179. [PMID: 38646933 PMCID: PMC11141876 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.174179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Inherited retinal dystrophies (IRDs) are progressive diseases leading to vision loss. Mutation in the eyes shut homolog (EYS) gene is one of the most frequent causes of IRD. However, the mechanism of photoreceptor cell degeneration by mutant EYS has not been fully elucidated. Here, we generated retinal organoids from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) derived from patients with EYS-associated retinal dystrophy (EYS-RD). In photoreceptor cells of RD organoids, both EYS and G protein-coupled receptor kinase 7 (GRK7), one of the proteins handling phototoxicity, were not in the outer segment, where they are physiologically present. Furthermore, photoreceptor cells in RD organoids were vulnerable to light stimuli, and especially to blue light. Mislocalization of GRK7, which was also observed in eys-knockout zebrafish, was reversed by delivering control EYS into photoreceptor cells of RD organoids. These findings suggest that avoiding phototoxicity would be a potential therapeutic approach for EYS-RD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuki Otsuka
- iPSC-based Drug discovery and Development Team, RIKEN BioResource Research Center, Kyoto, Japan
- Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA), Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Keiko Imamura
- iPSC-based Drug discovery and Development Team, RIKEN BioResource Research Center, Kyoto, Japan
- Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA), Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
- RIKEN Center for Advanced Intelligence Project (AIP), Kyoto, Japan
| | - Akio Oishi
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Kazuhide Asakawa
- Division of Molecular and Developmental Biology, National Institute of Genetics, Mishima, Japan
| | - Takayuki Kondo
- iPSC-based Drug discovery and Development Team, RIKEN BioResource Research Center, Kyoto, Japan
- Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA), Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
- RIKEN Center for Advanced Intelligence Project (AIP), Kyoto, Japan
| | - Risako Nakai
- iPSC-based Drug discovery and Development Team, RIKEN BioResource Research Center, Kyoto, Japan
- Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA), Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Mika Suga
- iPSC-based Drug discovery and Development Team, RIKEN BioResource Research Center, Kyoto, Japan
- Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA), Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Ikuyo Inoue
- Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA), Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
- RIKEN Center for Advanced Intelligence Project (AIP), Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yukako Sagara
- iPSC-based Drug discovery and Development Team, RIKEN BioResource Research Center, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Kayoko Tsukita
- iPSC-based Drug discovery and Development Team, RIKEN BioResource Research Center, Kyoto, Japan
- Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA), Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Kaori Teranaka
- Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yu Nishimura
- Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Akira Watanabe
- Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Kazuhiro Umeyama
- Meiji University International Institute for Bio-Resource Research, Kawasaki, Japan
| | - Nanako Okushima
- Division of Systems Medicine and Gene Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, Saitama Medical University, Saitama, Japan
| | - Kohnosuke Mitani
- Division of Systems Medicine and Gene Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, Saitama Medical University, Saitama, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Nagashima
- Meiji University International Institute for Bio-Resource Research, Kawasaki, Japan
| | - Koichi Kawakami
- Division of Molecular and Developmental Biology, National Institute of Genetics, Mishima, Japan
| | - Keiko Muguruma
- Department of iPS Cell Applied Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Osaka, Japan
| | - Akitaka Tsujikawa
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Haruhisa Inoue
- iPSC-based Drug discovery and Development Team, RIKEN BioResource Research Center, Kyoto, Japan
- Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA), Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
- RIKEN Center for Advanced Intelligence Project (AIP), Kyoto, Japan
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Dorgau B, Collin J, Rozanska A, Boczonadi V, Moya-Molina M, Unsworth A, Hussain R, Coxhead J, Dhanaseelan T, Armstrong L, Queen R, Lako M. Deciphering the spatiotemporal transcriptional and chromatin accessibility of human retinal organoid development at the single-cell level. iScience 2024; 27:109397. [PMID: 38510120 PMCID: PMC10952046 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.109397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Molecular information on the early stages of human retinal development remains scarce due to limitations in obtaining early human eye samples. Pluripotent stem cell-derived retinal organoids (ROs) provide an unprecedented opportunity for studying early retinogenesis. Using a combination of single cell RNA-seq and spatial transcriptomics we present for the first-time a single cell spatiotemporal transcriptome of RO development. Our data demonstrate that ROs recapitulate key events of retinogenesis including optic vesicle/cup formation, presence of a putative ciliary margin zone, emergence of retinal progenitor cells and their orderly differentiation to retinal neurons. Combining the scRNA- with scATAC-seq data, we were able to reveal cell-type specific transcription factor binding motifs on accessible chromatin at each stage of organoid development, and to show that chromatin accessibility is highly correlated to the developing human retina, but with some differences in the temporal emergence and abundance of some of the retinal neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Birthe Dorgau
- Biosciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 3BZ, UK
| | - Joseph Collin
- Biosciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 3BZ, UK
| | - Agata Rozanska
- Biosciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 3BZ, UK
| | - Veronika Boczonadi
- Biosciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 3BZ, UK
| | - Marina Moya-Molina
- Biosciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 3BZ, UK
- Newcells Biotech, Newcastle upon Tyne NE4 5BX, UK
| | - Adrienne Unsworth
- Biosciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 3BZ, UK
| | - Rafiqul Hussain
- Biosciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 3BZ, UK
| | - Jonathan Coxhead
- Biosciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 3BZ, UK
| | - Tamil Dhanaseelan
- Biosciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 3BZ, UK
| | - Lyle Armstrong
- Biosciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 3BZ, UK
| | - Rachel Queen
- Biosciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 3BZ, UK
| | - Majlinda Lako
- Biosciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 3BZ, UK
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Lin X, Liu ZL, Zhang X, Wang W, Huang ZQ, Sun SN, Jin ZB. Modeling autosomal dominant retinitis pigmentosa by using patient-specific retinal organoids with a class-3 RHO mutation. Exp Eye Res 2024; 241:109856. [PMID: 38479725 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2024.109856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 03/03/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
Rhodopsin-mediated autosomal dominant retinitis pigmentosa (RHO-adRP) causes progressive vision loss and is potentially incurable, accounting for 25% of adRP cases. Studies on RHO-adRP mechanism were at large based on the biochemical and cellular properties, especially class-3. Nonetheless, the absence of an appropriate model for class-3 RHO-adRP has impeded comprehensive exploration. Here, induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) were generated from a healthy control and two sibling RP patients with the same point mutation, c.403C>T (p.R135W). The first three-dimensional (3D) retinal organoid model of a class-3 RHO point mutation from patient-derived iPSCs was generated. Significant defects were observed in rod photoreceptors in terms of localization, morphology, transcriptional profiling and single cell resolution, to better understand the human disease resulting from RHO mutations from a developmental perspective. This first human model of class-3 RHO-adRP provides a representation of patient's retina in vitro and displays features of RHO-adRP retinal organoids relevant for therapeutic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Lin
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Zhuo-Lin Liu
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Xiao Zhang
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Wen Wang
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Zhi-Qin Huang
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Shu-Ning Sun
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Zi-Bing Jin
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100730, China.
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Ho MT, Kawai K, Abdo D, Comanita L, Ortin-Martinez A, Ueno Y, Tsao E, Rastgar-Moghadam A, Xue C, Cui H, Wallace VA, Shoichet MS. Transplanted human photoreceptors transfer cytoplasmic material but not to the recipient mouse retina. Stem Cell Res Ther 2024; 15:79. [PMID: 38486269 PMCID: PMC10941468 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-024-03679-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The discovery of material transfer between transplanted and host mouse photoreceptors has expanded the possibilities for utilizing transplanted photoreceptors as potential vehicles for delivering therapeutic cargo. However, previous research has not directly explored the capacity for human photoreceptors to engage in material transfer, as human photoreceptor transplantation has primarily been investigated in rodent models of late-stage retinal disease, which lack host photoreceptors. METHODS In this study, we transplanted human stem-cell derived photoreceptors purified from human retinal organoids at different ontological ages (weeks 10, 14, or 20) into mouse models with intact photoreceptors and assessed transfer of human proteins and organelles to mouse photoreceptors. RESULTS Unexpectedly, regardless of donor age or mouse recipient background, human photoreceptors did not transfer material in the mouse retina, though a rare subset of donor cells (< 5%) integrated into the mouse photoreceptor cell layer. To investigate the possibility that a species barrier impeded transfer, we used a flow cytometric assay to examine material transfer in vitro. Interestingly, dissociated human photoreceptors transferred fluorescent protein with each other in vitro, yet no transfer was detected in co-cultures of human and mouse photoreceptors, suggesting that material transfer is species specific. CONCLUSIONS While xenograft models are not a tractable system to study material transfer of human photoreceptors, these findings demonstrate that human retinal organoid-derived photoreceptors are competent donors for material transfer and thus may be useful to treat retinal degenerative disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret T Ho
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Terrence Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, 160 College Street, Toronto, ON, M5S 3E2, Canada
- Donald K. Johnson Eye Institute, Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, 60 Leonard Ave, Toronto, ON, M5T 2S8, Canada
| | - Kotoe Kawai
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Regenerative Medicine Research and Planning Division, Rohto Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., 6-5-4 Kunimidai, Kizugawa, Kyoto, 619-0216, Japan
| | - Dhana Abdo
- Terrence Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, 160 College Street, Toronto, ON, M5S 3E2, Canada
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Lacrimioara Comanita
- Donald K. Johnson Eye Institute, Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, 60 Leonard Ave, Toronto, ON, M5T 2S8, Canada
| | - Arturo Ortin-Martinez
- Donald K. Johnson Eye Institute, Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, 60 Leonard Ave, Toronto, ON, M5T 2S8, Canada
| | - Yui Ueno
- Terrence Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, 160 College Street, Toronto, ON, M5S 3E2, Canada
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Regenerative Medicine Research and Planning Division, Rohto Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., 6-5-4 Kunimidai, Kizugawa, Kyoto, 619-0216, Japan
| | - Emily Tsao
- Terrence Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, 160 College Street, Toronto, ON, M5S 3E2, Canada
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Azam Rastgar-Moghadam
- Donald K. Johnson Eye Institute, Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, 60 Leonard Ave, Toronto, ON, M5T 2S8, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Chang Xue
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Terrence Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, 160 College Street, Toronto, ON, M5S 3E2, Canada
| | - Hong Cui
- Terrence Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, 160 College Street, Toronto, ON, M5S 3E2, Canada
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Valerie A Wallace
- Donald K. Johnson Eye Institute, Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, 60 Leonard Ave, Toronto, ON, M5T 2S8, Canada.
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
| | - Molly S Shoichet
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
- Terrence Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, 160 College Street, Toronto, ON, M5S 3E2, Canada.
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
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Sai H, Ollington B, Rezek FO, Chai N, Lane A, Georgiadis T, Bainbridge J, Michaelides M, Sacristan-Reviriego A, Perdigão PR, Leung A, van der Spuy J. Effective AAV-mediated gene replacement therapy in retinal organoids modeling AIPL1-associated LCA4. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2024; 35:102148. [PMID: 38439910 PMCID: PMC10910061 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2024.102148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024]
Abstract
Biallelic variations in the aryl hydrocarbon receptor interacting protein-like 1 (AIPL1) gene cause Leber congenital amaurosis subtype 4 (LCA4), an autosomal recessive early-onset severe retinal dystrophy that leads to the rapid degeneration of retinal photoreceptors and the severe impairment of sight within the first few years of life. Currently, there is no treatment or cure for AIPL1-associated LCA4. In this study, we investigated the potential of adeno-associated virus-mediated AIPL1 gene replacement therapy in two previously validated human retinal organoid (RO) models of LCA4. We report here that photoreceptor-specific AIPL1 gene replacement therapy, currently being tested in a first-in-human application, effectively rescued molecular features of AIPL1-associated LCA4 in these models. Notably, the loss of retinal phosphodiesterase 6 was rescued and elevated cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) levels were reduced following treatment. Transcriptomic analysis of untreated and AAV-transduced ROs revealed transcriptomic changes in response to elevated cGMP levels and viral infection, respectively. Overall, this study supports AIPL1 gene therapy as a promising therapeutic intervention for LCA4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hali Sai
- University College London Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Bethany Ollington
- University College London Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Farah O. Rezek
- University College London Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Niuzheng Chai
- University College London Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London EC1V 9EL, UK
| | | | | | - James Bainbridge
- University College London Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London EC1V 9EL, UK
- NIHR Moorfields Biomedical Research Centre, London EC1V 2PD, UK
| | - Michel Michaelides
- University College London Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London EC1V 9EL, UK
- NIHR Moorfields Biomedical Research Centre, London EC1V 2PD, UK
| | - Almudena Sacristan-Reviriego
- University College London Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London EC1V 9EL, UK
- Institute of Clinical Trials and Methodology, University College London, London WC1V 6LJ, UK
| | - Pedro R.L. Perdigão
- University College London Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London EC1V 9EL, UK
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Amy Leung
- University College London Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Jacqueline van der Spuy
- University College London Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London EC1V 9EL, UK
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37
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Lacin ME, Yildirim M. Applications of multiphoton microscopy in imaging cerebral and retinal organoids. Front Neurosci 2024; 18:1360482. [PMID: 38505776 PMCID: PMC10948410 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2024.1360482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Cerebral organoids, self-organizing structures with increased cellular diversity and longevity, have addressed shortcomings in mimicking human brain complexity and architecture. However, imaging intact organoids poses challenges due to size, cellular density, and light-scattering properties. Traditional one-photon microscopy faces limitations in resolution and contrast, especially for deep regions. Here, we first discuss the fundamentals of multiphoton microscopy (MPM) as a promising alternative, leveraging non-linear fluorophore excitation and longer wavelengths for improved imaging of live cerebral organoids. Then, we review recent applications of MPM in studying morphogenesis and differentiation, emphasizing its potential for overcoming limitations associated with other imaging techniques. Furthermore, our paper underscores the crucial role of cerebral organoids in providing insights into human-specific neurodevelopmental processes and neurological disorders, addressing the scarcity of human brain tissue for translational neuroscience. Ultimately, we envision using multimodal multiphoton microscopy for longitudinal imaging of intact cerebral organoids, propelling advancements in our understanding of neurodevelopment and related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Murat Yildirim
- Department of Neurosciences, Cleveland Clinic Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland, OH, United States
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38
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Du X, Butler AG, Chen HY. Cell-cell interaction in the pathogenesis of inherited retinal diseases. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1332944. [PMID: 38500685 PMCID: PMC10944940 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1332944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
The retina is part of the central nervous system specialized for vision. Inherited retinal diseases (IRD) are a group of clinically and genetically heterogenous disorders that lead to progressive vision impairment or blindness. Although each disorder is rare, IRD accumulatively cause blindness in up to 5.5 million individuals worldwide. Currently, the pathophysiological mechanisms of IRD are not fully understood and there are limited treatment options available. Most IRD are caused by degeneration of light-sensitive photoreceptors. Genetic mutations that abrogate the structure and/or function of photoreceptors lead to visual impairment followed by blindness caused by loss of photoreceptors. In healthy retina, photoreceptors structurally and functionally interact with retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and Müller glia (MG) to maintain retinal homeostasis. Multiple IRD with photoreceptor degeneration as a major phenotype are caused by mutations of RPE- and/or MG-associated genes. Recent studies also reveal compromised MG and RPE caused by mutations in ubiquitously expressed ciliary genes. Therefore, photoreceptor degeneration could be a direct consequence of gene mutations and/or could be secondary to the dysfunction of their interaction partners in the retina. This review summarizes the mechanisms of photoreceptor-RPE/MG interaction in supporting retinal functions and discusses how the disruption of these processes could lead to photoreceptor degeneration, with an aim to provide a unique perspective of IRD pathogenesis and treatment paradigm. We will first describe the biology of retina and IRD and then discuss the interaction between photoreceptors and MG/RPE as well as their implications in disease pathogenesis. Finally, we will summarize the recent advances in IRD therapeutics targeting MG and/or RPE.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Holly Y. Chen
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
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Spirig SE, Renner M. Toward Retinal Organoids in High-Throughput. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2024; 14:a041275. [PMID: 37217280 PMCID: PMC10910359 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a041275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Human retinal organoids recapitulate the cellular diversity, arrangement, gene expression, and functional aspects of the human retina. Protocols to generate human retinal organoids from pluripotent stem cells are typically labor intensive, include many manual handling steps, and the organoids need to be maintained for several months until they mature. To generate large numbers of human retinal organoids for therapy development and screening purposes, scaling up retinal organoid production, maintenance, and analysis is of utmost importance. In this review, we discuss strategies to increase the number of high-quality retinal organoids while reducing manual handling steps. We further review different approaches to analyze thousands of retinal organoids with currently available technologies and point to challenges that still await to be overcome both in culture and analysis of retinal organoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Erich Spirig
- Institute of Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Magdalena Renner
- Institute of Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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Zhu T, Li Y, Zhu L, Xu J, Feng Z, Chen H, Shi S, Liu C, Ou Q, Gao F, Zhang J, Jin C, Xu J, Li J, Zhang J, Bi Y, Xu GT, Wang J, Tian H, Lu L. GMFB/AKT/TGF-β3 in Müller cells mediated early retinal degeneration in a streptozotocin-induced rat diabetes model. Glia 2024; 72:504-528. [PMID: 37904673 DOI: 10.1002/glia.24486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/01/2023]
Abstract
Retinal degeneration, characterized by Müller cell gliosis and photoreceptor apoptosis, is considered an early event in diabetic retinopathy (DR). Our previous study proposed that GMFB may mediate diabetic retinal degeneration. This study identified GMFB as a sensitive and functional gliosis marker for DR. Compared to the wild type (WT) group, Gmfb knockout (KO) significantly improved visual function, attenuated gliosis, reduced the apoptosis of neurons, and decreased the mRNA levels of tumor necrosis factor α (Tnf-α) and interleukin-1β (Il-1β) in diabetic retinas. Tgf-β3 was enriched by hub genes using RNA sequencing in primary WT and KO Müller cells. Gmfb KO significantly upregulated the transforming growth factor (TGF)-β3 protein level via the AKT pathway. The protective effect of TGF-β3 in the vitreous resulted in significantly improved visual function and decreased the number of apoptotic cells in the diabetic retina. The protection of Gmfb KO in primary Müller cells against high glucose (HG)-induced photoreceptor apoptosis was partially counteracted by TGF-β3 antibody and administration of TGFBR1/2 inhibitors. Nuclear receptor subfamily 3 group C member 1 (NR3C1) binds to the promoter region of Gmfb and regulates Gmfb mRNA at the transcriptional level. NR3C1 was increased in the retinas of early diabetic rats but decreased in the retinas of late diabetic rats. N'-[(1E)-(3-Methoxyphenyl)Methylene]-3-Methyl-1H-Pyrazole-5-Carbohydrazide (DS-5) was identified as an inhibitor of GMFB, having a protective role in DR. We demonstrated that GMFB/AKT/TGF-β3 mediated early diabetic retinal degeneration in diabetic rats. This study provides a novel therapeutic strategy for treating retinal degeneration in patients with DR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong Zhu
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai Tongji Hospital, Laboratory of Clinical Visual Science of Tongji Eye Institute, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yingao Li
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai Tongji Hospital, Laboratory of Clinical Visual Science of Tongji Eye Institute, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Lilin Zhu
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai Tongji Hospital, Laboratory of Clinical Visual Science of Tongji Eye Institute, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jinyuan Xu
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai Tongji Hospital, Laboratory of Clinical Visual Science of Tongji Eye Institute, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zijun Feng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hao Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Si Shi
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai Tongji Hospital, Laboratory of Clinical Visual Science of Tongji Eye Institute, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Caiying Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai Tongji Hospital, Laboratory of Clinical Visual Science of Tongji Eye Institute, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Qingjian Ou
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai Tongji Hospital, Laboratory of Clinical Visual Science of Tongji Eye Institute, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Pharmacology, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Furong Gao
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai Tongji Hospital, Laboratory of Clinical Visual Science of Tongji Eye Institute, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jieping Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai Tongji Hospital, Laboratory of Clinical Visual Science of Tongji Eye Institute, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Pharmacology, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Caixia Jin
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai Tongji Hospital, Laboratory of Clinical Visual Science of Tongji Eye Institute, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jingying Xu
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai Tongji Hospital, Laboratory of Clinical Visual Science of Tongji Eye Institute, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiao Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jingfa Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai First People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanlong Bi
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai Tongji Hospital, Laboratory of Clinical Visual Science of Tongji Eye Institute, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Guo-Tong Xu
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai Tongji Hospital, Laboratory of Clinical Visual Science of Tongji Eye Institute, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Pharmacology, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Juan Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai Tongji Hospital, Laboratory of Clinical Visual Science of Tongji Eye Institute, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Human Genetics, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Haibin Tian
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai Tongji Hospital, Laboratory of Clinical Visual Science of Tongji Eye Institute, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Lixia Lu
- Department of Ophthalmology of Shanghai Tongji Hospital, Laboratory of Clinical Visual Science of Tongji Eye Institute, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Nonarath HJT, Simpson SL, Slobodianuk TL, Collery RF, Dinculescu A, Link BA. The USH3A causative gene clarin1 functions in Müller glia to maintain retinal photoreceptors. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.02.29.582878. [PMID: 38464015 PMCID: PMC10925332 DOI: 10.1101/2024.02.29.582878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
Mutations in CLRN1 cause Usher syndrome type IIIA (USH3A), an autosomal recessive disorder characterized by hearing and vision loss, and often accompanied by vestibular balance issues. The identity of the cell types responsible for the pathology and mechanisms leading to vision loss in USH3A remains elusive. To address this, we employed CRISPR/Cas9 technology to delete a large region in the coding and untranslated (UTR) region of zebrafish clrn1. Retina of clrn1 mutant larvae exhibited sensitivity to cell stress, along with age-dependent loss of function and degeneration in the photoreceptor layer. Investigation revealed disorganization in the outer retina in clrn1 mutants, including actin-based structures of the Müller glia and photoreceptor cells. To assess cell-specific contributions to USH3A pathology, we specifically re-expressed clrn1 in either Müller glia or photoreceptor cells. Müller glia re-expression of clrn1 prevented the elevated cell death observed in larval clrn1 mutant zebrafish exposed to high-intensity light. Notably, the degree of phenotypic rescue correlated with the level of Clrn1 re-expression. Surprisingly, high levels of Clrn1 expression enhanced cell death in both wild-type and clrn1 mutant animals. However, rod- or cone-specific Clrn1 re-expression did not rescue the extent of cell death. Taken together, our findings underscore three crucial insights. First, clrn1 mutant zebrafish exhibit key pathological features of USH3A; second, Clrn1 within Müller glia plays a pivotal role in photoreceptor maintenance, with its expression requiring controlled regulation; third, the reliance of photoreceptors on Müller glia suggests a structural support mechanism, possibly through direct interactions between Müller glia and photoreceptors mediated in part by Clrn1 protein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah J. T. Nonarath
- Department Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53226
| | - Samantha L. Simpson
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53226
| | - Tricia L. Slobodianuk
- Department Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53226
| | - Ross F. Collery
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53226
| | - Astra Dinculescu
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611
| | - Brian A. Link
- Department Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53226
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Zhang T, Qian C, Song M, Tang Y, Zhou Y, Dong G, Shen Q, Chen W, Wang A, Shen S, Zhao Y, Lu Y. Application Prospect of Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells in Organoids and Cell Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2680. [PMID: 38473926 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Since its inception, induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) technology has been hailed as a powerful tool for comprehending disease etiology and advancing drug screening across various domains. While earlier iPSC-based disease modeling and drug assessment primarily operated at the cellular level, recent years have witnessed a significant shift towards organoid-based investigations. Organoids derived from iPSCs offer distinct advantages, particularly in enabling the observation of disease progression and drug metabolism in an in vivo-like environment, surpassing the capabilities of iPSC-derived cells. Furthermore, iPSC-based cell therapy has emerged as a focal point of clinical interest. In this review, we provide an extensive overview of non-integrative reprogramming methods that have evolved since the inception of iPSC technology. We also deliver a comprehensive examination of iPSC-derived organoids, spanning the realms of the nervous system, cardiovascular system, and oncology, as well as systematically elucidate recent advancements in iPSC-related cell therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teng Zhang
- Jiangsu Joint International Research Laboratory of Chinese Medicine and Regenerative Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Cheng Qian
- Jiangsu Joint International Research Laboratory of Chinese Medicine and Regenerative Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Mengyao Song
- Jiangsu Joint International Research Laboratory of Chinese Medicine and Regenerative Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Yu Tang
- Jiangsu Joint International Research Laboratory of Chinese Medicine and Regenerative Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Yueke Zhou
- Jiangsu Joint International Research Laboratory of Chinese Medicine and Regenerative Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Guanglu Dong
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine & Holistic Integrative Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Qiuhong Shen
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine & Holistic Integrative Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Wenxing Chen
- Jiangsu Joint International Research Laboratory of Chinese Medicine and Regenerative Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Aiyun Wang
- Jiangsu Joint International Research Laboratory of Chinese Medicine and Regenerative Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Sanbing Shen
- Regenerative Medicine Institute, School of Medicine, University of Galway, H91 W2TY Galway, Ireland
| | - Yang Zhao
- Jiangsu Joint International Research Laboratory of Chinese Medicine and Regenerative Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine & Holistic Integrative Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Yin Lu
- Jiangsu Joint International Research Laboratory of Chinese Medicine and Regenerative Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
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Aleo SJ, Del Dotto V, Romagnoli M, Fiorini C, Capirossi G, Peron C, Maresca A, Caporali L, Capristo M, Tropeano CV, Zanna C, Ross-Cisneros FN, Sadun AA, Pignataro MG, Giordano C, Fasano C, Cavaliere A, Porcelli AM, Tioli G, Musiani F, Catania A, Lamperti C, Marzoli SB, De Negri A, Cascavilla ML, Battista M, Barboni P, Carbonelli M, Amore G, La Morgia C, Smirnov D, Vasilescu C, Farzeen A, Blickhaeuser B, Prokisch H, Priglinger C, Livonius B, Catarino CB, Klopstock T, Tiranti V, Carelli V, Ghelli AM. Genetic variants affecting NQO1 protein levels impact the efficacy of idebenone treatment in Leber hereditary optic neuropathy. Cell Rep Med 2024; 5:101383. [PMID: 38272025 PMCID: PMC10897523 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2023.101383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
Idebenone, the only approved treatment for Leber hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON), promotes recovery of visual function in up to 50% of patients, but we can neither predict nor understand the non-responders. Idebenone is reduced by the cytosolic NAD(P)H oxidoreductase I (NQO1) and directly shuttles electrons to respiratory complex III, bypassing complex I affected in LHON. We show here that two polymorphic variants drastically reduce NQO1 protein levels when homozygous or compound heterozygous. This hampers idebenone reduction. In its oxidized form, idebenone inhibits complex I, decreasing respiratory function in cells. By retrospectively analyzing a large cohort of idebenone-treated LHON patients, classified by their response to therapy, we show that patients with homozygous or compound heterozygous NQO1 variants have the poorest therapy response, particularly if carrying the m.3460G>A/MT-ND1 LHON mutation. These results suggest consideration of patient NQO1 genotype and mitochondrial DNA mutation in the context of idebenone therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena Jasmine Aleo
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Programma di Neurogenetica, Bologna, Italy; Departments of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Valentina Del Dotto
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Programma di Neurogenetica, Bologna, Italy; Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Martina Romagnoli
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Programma di Neurogenetica, Bologna, Italy
| | - Claudio Fiorini
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Programma di Neurogenetica, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giada Capirossi
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Programma di Neurogenetica, Bologna, Italy; Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Camille Peron
- Unit of Medical Genetics and Neurogenetics, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milano, Italy
| | - Alessandra Maresca
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Programma di Neurogenetica, Bologna, Italy
| | - Leonardo Caporali
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Programma di Neurogenetica, Bologna, Italy; Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Mariantonietta Capristo
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Programma di Neurogenetica, Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Claudia Zanna
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Alfredo A Sadun
- Doheny Eye Institute, Pasadena, CA, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Maria Gemma Pignataro
- Departments of Radiology, Oncology, and Pathology, Sapienza, University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Carla Giordano
- Departments of Radiology, Oncology, and Pathology, Sapienza, University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara Fasano
- Unit of Medical Genetics and Neurogenetics, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milano, Italy
| | - Andrea Cavaliere
- Unit of Medical Genetics and Neurogenetics, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milano, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Porcelli
- Departments of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Gaia Tioli
- Departments of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Francesco Musiani
- Departments of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Alessia Catania
- Unit of Medical Genetics and Neurogenetics, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milano, Italy
| | - Costanza Lamperti
- Unit of Medical Genetics and Neurogenetics, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milano, Italy
| | - Stefania Bianchi Marzoli
- Neuro-Ophthalmology Center and Ocular Electrophysiology Laboratory, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Capitanio Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | - Michele Carbonelli
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giulia Amore
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Chiara La Morgia
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Programma di Neurogenetica, Bologna, Italy; Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Dmitrii Smirnov
- Institute of Human Genetics, School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany; Institute of Neurogenomics, Computational Health Center, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Munich, Germany
| | - Catalina Vasilescu
- Institute of Human Genetics, School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany; Institute of Neurogenomics, Computational Health Center, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Munich, Germany
| | - Aiman Farzeen
- Institute of Human Genetics, School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany; Institute of Neurogenomics, Computational Health Center, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Munich, Germany
| | - Beryll Blickhaeuser
- Institute of Human Genetics, School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany; Institute of Neurogenomics, Computational Health Center, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Munich, Germany
| | - Holger Prokisch
- Institute of Human Genetics, School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany; Institute of Neurogenomics, Computational Health Center, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Munich, Germany
| | - Claudia Priglinger
- Department of Ophthalmology, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Bettina Livonius
- Department of Ophthalmology, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Claudia B Catarino
- Department of Neurology, Friedrich Baur Institute, LMU Klinikum, University Hospital of the Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Thomas Klopstock
- Department of Neurology, Friedrich Baur Institute, LMU Klinikum, University Hospital of the Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany; Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology (SyNergy), Munich, Germany; German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Munich, Germany
| | - Valeria Tiranti
- Unit of Medical Genetics and Neurogenetics, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milano, Italy
| | - Valerio Carelli
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Programma di Neurogenetica, Bologna, Italy; Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.
| | - Anna Maria Ghelli
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Programma di Neurogenetica, Bologna, Italy; Departments of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.
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Hrovatin K, Moinfar AA, Zappia L, Lapuerta AT, Lengerich B, Kellis M, Theis FJ. Integrating single-cell RNA-seq datasets with substantial batch effects. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.11.03.565463. [PMID: 37961672 PMCID: PMC10635119 DOI: 10.1101/2023.11.03.565463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
Integration of single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) datasets has become a standard part of the analysis, with conditional variational autoencoders (cVAE) being among the most popular approaches. Increasingly, researchers are asking to map cells across challenging cases such as cross-organs, species, or organoids and primary tissue, as well as different scRNA-seq protocols, including single-cell and single-nuclei. Current computational methods struggle to harmonize datasets with such substantial differences, driven by technical or biological variation. Here, we propose to address these challenges for the popular cVAE-based approaches by introducing and comparing a series of regularization constraints. The two commonly used strategies for increasing batch correction in cVAEs, that is Kullback-Leibler divergence (KL) regularization strength tuning and adversarial learning, suffer from substantial loss of biological information. Therefore, we adapt, implement, and assess alternative regularization strategies for cVAEs and investigate how they improve batch effect removal or better preserve biological variation, enabling us to propose an optimal cVAE-based integration strategy for complex systems. We show that using a VampPrior instead of the commonly used Gaussian prior not only improves the preservation of biological variation but also unexpectedly batch correction. Moreover, we show that our implementation of cycle-consistency loss leads to significantly better biological preservation than adversarial learning implemented in the previously proposed GLUE model. Additionally, we do not recommend relying only on the KL regularization strength tuning for increasing batch correction, as it removes both biological and batch information without discriminating between the two. Based on our findings, we propose a new model that combines VampPrior and cycle-consistency loss. We show that using it for datasets with substantial batch effects improves downstream interpretation of cell states and biological conditions. To ease the use of the newly proposed model, we make it available in the scvi-tools package as an external model named sysVI. Moreover, in the future, these regularization techniques could be added to other established cVAE-based models to improve the integration of datasets with substantial batch effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karin Hrovatin
- Institute of Computational Biology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany
- TUM School of Life Sciences Weihenstephan, Technical University of Munich, Freising, Germany
- Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Lab, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA
| | - Amir Ali Moinfar
- Institute of Computational Biology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany
- School of Computation, Information and Technology, Technical University of Munich, Garching, Germany
| | - Luke Zappia
- Institute of Computational Biology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany
- School of Computation, Information and Technology, Technical University of Munich, Garching, Germany
| | - Alejandro Tejada Lapuerta
- Institute of Computational Biology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany
- School of Computation, Information and Technology, Technical University of Munich, Garching, Germany
| | - Ben Lengerich
- Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Lab, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA
| | - Manolis Kellis
- Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Lab, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA
| | - Fabian J Theis
- Institute of Computational Biology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany
- TUM School of Life Sciences Weihenstephan, Technical University of Munich, Freising, Germany
- School of Computation, Information and Technology, Technical University of Munich, Garching, Germany
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45
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Zeng H, Mayberry JE, Wadkins D, Chen N, Summers DW, Kuehn MH. Loss of Sarm1 reduces retinal ganglion cell loss in chronic glaucoma. Acta Neuropathol Commun 2024; 12:23. [PMID: 38331947 PMCID: PMC10854189 DOI: 10.1186/s40478-024-01736-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness worldwide and vision loss in the disease results from the deterioration of retinal ganglion cells (RGC) and their axons. Metabolic dysfunction of RGC plays a significant role in the onset and progression of the disease in both human patients and rodent models, highlighting the need to better define the mechanisms regulating cellular energy metabolism in glaucoma. This study sought to determine if Sarm1, a gene involved in axonal degeneration and NAD+ metabolism, contributes to glaucomatous RGC loss in a mouse model with chronic elevated intraocular pressure (IOP). Our data demonstrate that after 16 weeks of elevated IOP, Sarm1 knockout (KO) mice retain significantly more RGC than control animals. Sarm1 KO mice also performed significantly better when compared to control mice during optomotor testing, indicating that visual function is preserved in this group. Our findings also indicate that Sarm1 KO mice display mild ocular developmental abnormalities, including reduced optic nerve axon diameter and lower visual acuity than controls. Finally, we present data to indicate that SARM1 expression in the optic nerve is most prominently associated with oligodendrocytes. Taken together, these data suggest that attenuating Sarm1 activity through gene therapy, pharmacologic inhibition, or NAD+ supplementation, may be a novel therapeutic approach for patients with glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huilan Zeng
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, People's Republic of China
| | - Jordan E Mayberry
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA
- Iowa City VA Center for the Prevention and Treatment of Visual Loss, Iowa City, IA, 52246, USA
| | - David Wadkins
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA
- Iowa City VA Center for the Prevention and Treatment of Visual Loss, Iowa City, IA, 52246, USA
| | - Nathan Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA
- Iowa City VA Center for the Prevention and Treatment of Visual Loss, Iowa City, IA, 52246, USA
| | - Daniel W Summers
- Department of Biology, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA
| | - Markus H Kuehn
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA.
- Iowa City VA Center for the Prevention and Treatment of Visual Loss, Iowa City, IA, 52246, USA.
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46
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Zhao H, Yan F. Retinal Organoids: A Next-Generation Platform for High-Throughput Drug Discovery. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2024; 20:495-508. [PMID: 38079086 PMCID: PMC10837228 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-023-10661-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
Retinal diseases are leading causes of blindness globally. Developing new drugs is of great significance for preventing vision loss. Current drug discovery relies mainly on two-dimensional in vitro models and animal models, but translation to human efficacy and safety is biased. In recent years, the emergence of retinal organoid technology platforms, utilizing three-dimensional microenvironments to better mimic retinal structure and function, has provided new platforms for exploring pathogenic mechanisms and drug screening. This review summarizes the latest advances in retinal organoid technology, emphasizing its application advantages in high-throughput drug screening, efficacy and toxicity evaluation, and translational medicine research. The review also prospects the combination of emerging technologies such as organ-on-a-chip, 3D bioprinting, single cell sequencing, gene editing with retinal organoid technology, which is expected to further optimize retinal organoid models and advance the diagnosis and treatment of retinal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongkun Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Yunnan Province, Yunnan Eye Institute, Affiliated Hospital of Yunnan University, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Fei Yan
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, Faculty of Basic Medicine School, Kunming Medical University, 1168 Yuhua Street, Chunrong West Road, Chenggong District, Kunming, Yunnan, 650500, China.
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47
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Pianigiani G, Roccio M. Inner Ear Organoids: Strengths and Limitations. J Assoc Res Otolaryngol 2024; 25:5-11. [PMID: 38334886 PMCID: PMC10907556 DOI: 10.1007/s10162-024-00929-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Inner ear organoids derived from differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells have recently gained momentum as tools to study inner ear development and developmental defects. An additional exciting aspect about this technology is represented by its translational potential, specifically, the use of organoids to validate therapeutics for hearing and balance restoration on human/patient-specific cells. This latter aspect will be briefly discussed here including opportunities and current limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Pianigiani
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health - I.R.C.C.S. "Burlo Garofolo", Trieste, Italy
| | - Marta Roccio
- Inner Ear Stem Cell Lab, Department Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University Hospital Zurich and University of Zurich, USZ Campus WAGI18, Wagistrasse 18, 8952, Schlieren, Switzerland.
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48
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Bauwens M, Celik E, Zur D, Lin S, Quinodoz M, Michaelides M, Webster AR, Van Den Broeck F, Leroy BP, Rizel L, Moye AR, Meunier A, Tran HV, Moulin AP, Mahieu Q, Van Heetvelde M, Arno G, Rivolta C, De Baere E, Ben-Yosef T. Mutations in SAMD7 cause autosomal-recessive macular dystrophy with or without cone dysfunction. Am J Hum Genet 2024; 111:393-402. [PMID: 38272031 PMCID: PMC10870129 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajhg.2024.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Sterile alpha motif domain containing 7 (SAMD7) is a component of the Polycomb repressive complex 1, which inhibits transcription of many genes, including those activated by the transcription factor Cone-Rod Homeobox (CRX). Here we report bi-allelic mutations in SAMD7 as a cause of autosomal-recessive macular dystrophy with or without cone dysfunction. Four of these mutations affect splicing, while another mutation is a missense variant that alters the repressive effect of SAMD7 on CRX-dependent promoter activity, as shown by in vitro assays. Immunostaining of human retinal sections revealed that SAMD7 is localized in the nuclei of both rods and cones, as well as in those of cells belonging to the inner nuclear layer. These results place SAMD7 as a gene crucial for human retinal function and demonstrate a significant difference in the role of SAMD7 between the human and the mouse retina.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Bauwens
- Center for Medical Genetics, Ghent University Hospital, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Elifnaz Celik
- Institute of Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology Basel (IOB), 4031 Basel, Switzerland; Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Basel, 4031 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Dinah Zur
- Ophthalmology Division, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv 6423906, Israel; Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel
| | - Siying Lin
- National Institute of Health Research Biomedical Research Centre at Moorfields Eye Hospital and the Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK; Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Mathieu Quinodoz
- Institute of Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology Basel (IOB), 4031 Basel, Switzerland; Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Basel, 4031 Basel, Switzerland; Department of Genetics and Genome Biology, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK
| | - Michel Michaelides
- National Institute of Health Research Biomedical Research Centre at Moorfields Eye Hospital and the Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK; Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Andrew R Webster
- National Institute of Health Research Biomedical Research Centre at Moorfields Eye Hospital and the Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK; Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Filip Van Den Broeck
- Center for Medical Genetics, Ghent University Hospital, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Department of Head & Skin, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Bart P Leroy
- Center for Medical Genetics, Ghent University Hospital, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Department of Head & Skin, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Department of Ophthalmology, Ghent University Hospital, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; The Division of Ophthalmology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Leah Rizel
- The Ruth & Bruce Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 31096, Israel
| | - Abigail R Moye
- Institute of Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology Basel (IOB), 4031 Basel, Switzerland; Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Basel, 4031 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Audrey Meunier
- Department of Ophthalmology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Saint-Pierre, 1000 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Hoai Viet Tran
- Jules-Gonin Eye Hospital, Fondation Asile des Aveugles, University of Lausanne, 1004 Lausanne, Switzerland; Centre for Gene Therapy and Regenerative Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Alexandre P Moulin
- Jules-Gonin Eye Hospital, Fondation Asile des Aveugles, University of Lausanne, 1004 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Quinten Mahieu
- Center for Medical Genetics, Ghent University Hospital, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Mattias Van Heetvelde
- Center for Medical Genetics, Ghent University Hospital, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Gavin Arno
- National Institute of Health Research Biomedical Research Centre at Moorfields Eye Hospital and the Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK; Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London EC1V 9EL, UK; North Thames Genomic Laboratory Hub, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London WC1N 3BH, UK
| | - Carlo Rivolta
- Institute of Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology Basel (IOB), 4031 Basel, Switzerland; Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Basel, 4031 Basel, Switzerland; Department of Genetics and Genome Biology, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK
| | - Elfride De Baere
- Center for Medical Genetics, Ghent University Hospital, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Tamar Ben-Yosef
- The Ruth & Bruce Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 31096, Israel.
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49
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Heredero Berzal A, Wagstaff EL, ten Asbroek ALMA, ten Brink JB, Bergen AA, Boon CJF. The Analysis of Embryoid Body Formation and Its Role in Retinal Organoid Development. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1444. [PMID: 38338722 PMCID: PMC10855324 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Within the last decade, a wide variety of protocols have emerged for the generation of retinal organoids. A subset of studies have compared protocols based on stem cell source, the physical features of the microenvironment, and both internal and external signals, all features that influence embryoid body and retinal organoid formation. Most of these comparisons have focused on the effect of signaling pathways on retinal organoid development. In this study, our aim is to understand whether starting cell conditions, specifically those involved in embryoid body formation, affect the development of retinal organoids in terms of differentiation capacity and reproducibility. To investigate this, we used the popular 3D floating culture method to generate retinal organoids from stem cells. This method starts with either small clumps of stem cells generated from larger clones (clumps protocol, CP) or with an aggregation of single cells (single cells protocol, SCP). Using histological analysis and gene-expression comparison, we found a retention of the pluripotency capacity on embryoid bodies generated through the SCP compared to the CP. Nonetheless, these early developmental differences seem not to impact the final retinal organoid formation, suggesting a potential compensatory mechanism during the neurosphere stage. This study not only facilitates an in-depth exploration of embryoid body development but also provides valuable insights for the selection of the most suitable protocol in order to study retinal development and to model inherited retinal disorders in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Heredero Berzal
- Department of Ophthalmology, Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC), University of Amsterdam (UvA), Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
- Department of Human Genetics, Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC), University of Amsterdam (UvA), Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (E.L.W.); (A.L.M.A.t.A.); (J.B.t.B.)
| | - Ellie L. Wagstaff
- Department of Human Genetics, Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC), University of Amsterdam (UvA), Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (E.L.W.); (A.L.M.A.t.A.); (J.B.t.B.)
| | - Anneloor L. M. A. ten Asbroek
- Department of Human Genetics, Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC), University of Amsterdam (UvA), Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (E.L.W.); (A.L.M.A.t.A.); (J.B.t.B.)
| | - Jacoline B. ten Brink
- Department of Human Genetics, Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC), University of Amsterdam (UvA), Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (E.L.W.); (A.L.M.A.t.A.); (J.B.t.B.)
| | - Arthur A. Bergen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC), University of Amsterdam (UvA), Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
- Department of Human Genetics, Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC), University of Amsterdam (UvA), Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (E.L.W.); (A.L.M.A.t.A.); (J.B.t.B.)
- Emma Center for Personalized Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC), University of Amsterdam (UvA), Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Camiel J. F. Boon
- Department of Ophthalmology, Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC), University of Amsterdam (UvA), Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), Leiden University, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
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50
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James E, Vielle A, Cusato K, Li H, Lee B, Parween S, Howell A, Johnson NR, Chial HJ, Potter H, Vergara MN. Human iPSC-derived retinal organoids develop robust Alzheimer's disease neuropathology. Front Cell Neurosci 2024; 18:1340448. [PMID: 38323188 PMCID: PMC10844524 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2024.1340448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD), characterized by memory loss and cognitive decline, affects nearly 50 million people worldwide. Amyloid beta (Aβ) plaques and intracellular neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) of phosphorylated Tau protein (pTau) are key histopathological features of the disease in the brain, and recent advances have also identified AD histopathology in the retina. Thus, the retina represents a central nervous system (CNS) tissue highly amenable to non-invasive diagnostic imaging that shows promise as a biomarker for early AD. Given the devastating effects of AD on patients, their families, and society, new treatment modalities that can significantly alter the disease course are urgently needed. In this study, we have developed and characterized a novel human retinal organoid (RO) model derived from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) from patients with familial AD due to mutations in the amyloid precursor protein gene (APP). Using immunofluorescence and histological staining, we evaluated the cellular composition and AD histopathological features of AD-ROs compared to control ROs from healthy individuals. We found that AD-ROs largely resemble their healthy control counterparts in cellular composition but display increased levels of Aβ and pTau. We also present proof of principle of an assay to quantify amyloid levels in whole ROs. This in vitro model of the human AD retina constitutes a new tool for drug screening, biomarker discovery, and pathophysiological studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ethan James
- CellSight Ocular Stem Cell and Regeneration Research Program, Sue Anschutz-Rodgers Eye Center, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Anne Vielle
- CellSight Ocular Stem Cell and Regeneration Research Program, Sue Anschutz-Rodgers Eye Center, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, United States
- Linda Crnic Institute for Down Syndrome, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Karen Cusato
- CellSight Ocular Stem Cell and Regeneration Research Program, Sue Anschutz-Rodgers Eye Center, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Helen Li
- CellSight Ocular Stem Cell and Regeneration Research Program, Sue Anschutz-Rodgers Eye Center, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Byoungin Lee
- CellSight Ocular Stem Cell and Regeneration Research Program, Sue Anschutz-Rodgers Eye Center, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Shama Parween
- CellSight Ocular Stem Cell and Regeneration Research Program, Sue Anschutz-Rodgers Eye Center, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Anna Howell
- CellSight Ocular Stem Cell and Regeneration Research Program, Sue Anschutz-Rodgers Eye Center, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Noah R. Johnson
- Linda Crnic Institute for Down Syndrome, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
- University of Colorado Alzheimer’s and Cognition Center, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
- Department of Neurology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Heidi J. Chial
- Linda Crnic Institute for Down Syndrome, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
- University of Colorado Alzheimer’s and Cognition Center, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
- Department of Neurology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Huntington Potter
- Linda Crnic Institute for Down Syndrome, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
- University of Colorado Alzheimer’s and Cognition Center, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
- Department of Neurology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - M. Natalia Vergara
- CellSight Ocular Stem Cell and Regeneration Research Program, Sue Anschutz-Rodgers Eye Center, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, United States
- Linda Crnic Institute for Down Syndrome, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
- University of Colorado Alzheimer’s and Cognition Center, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
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